ã€ŠThe Rise of Xueyueã€‹


 Chapter 1 Prayer Hall

    <h4>Chapter 1 Prayer Hall</h4>

    Warning: The following content contains abuse and might not be suitable for a younger audience.

    - - - - -

    Someone was going to die tonight.

    Thunder crackled in the distance as heavy rain poured from the gloomy grey clouds. Rivers nearly flooded the forests, as trees crashed to the ground, and crops were overturned.

    Chaos erupted everywhere that the eyes could see.

    Inside the enormous Bai Manor, a pale-faced youngdy hovered over a bleeding body. Not less than a minute ago, she had awakened from a fitful sleep. She couldn''t remember the events that ured before waking up in the tiny room of the servants'' corridor.

    "N-nanny¡­?" Xueyue breathed out in shock, her eyes trembling in disbelief.

    Lying in front of her was the unconscious body of the elder woman who took care of her father, Viscount Bai Sheng, since he was a mere child. A sharp hairpin was embedded through her chest, a pool of blood soaking the ground.

    "What happened here?" she said through shaking teeth. She frantically turned the woman over until the nanny was lying t on her back.

    "Oh my goodness," she muttered upon seeing the pale lips and ghastly white skin. The nanny had been dead for hours now. She reached for the hairpin, hoping to distinguish whose it belonged to. Who could''ve done this? What was she doing here? Questions swarmed her thoughts.

    Just then, the door mmed open without warning. Her head shot in that direction and to her horror, her entire family was there.

    "M-murderer!" Bai Tianai, the older sister wailed, pointing a shaking finger in Bai Xueyue''s direction.

    Bai Xueyue instantly understood this was another scheme set up by Bai Tianai. But this time, there would be no escape from it. She was doomed. Everything here was too obvious to ignore. She was afterall, hovering over the dead body, her hands too close to the murder weapon.

    "No, wait, Father, it wasn''t me¡ª"

    "Guards!" Viscount Bai Sheng snarled, his face marred with disgust and pure hatred. Instantly, servants swarmed the room, armed with spears and weapons.

    "Take this filthy scum and drag her to the Prayer Halls!"

    "Mother, please, it wasn''t me!" Bai Xueyue shrieked, right when guards grabbed both of her arms, forcing her into submission.

    Bai Xueyue knew the Viscount would never take her side, but there was a small possibility that his wife, Viscountess Mu Yihua would showpassion towards her daughter.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua was frozen by the door, her eyesrger than the full moon outside. Her attention darted from her pleading daughter to the dead body on the floor. One thing was for certain. Bai Xueyue was doomed. Regardless if she killed the Viscount''s nanny or not, there would be no way out of this punishment.

    - - - - -

    Deep within the Prayer Halls, a maiden was screaming for her life. Unfortunately, her cries were silenced by the disruptive storm outside.

    Even so, almost every guard outside of the Prayer Halls'' gates could hear the sickening sound of wooden paddles repeatedly striking a thin child. They did not flinch as her painful howls bounced off the walls.

    They were too used to this sound.

    Bai Xueyue''s face was covered with blood and bruises. Her bright-hazel eyes had lost its shimmer, her rosy lips were split open, and her cheeks were filled with cuts. Ugly purple bruises could be seen on her neck and each plea came out hoarse until she could barely speak.

    She was barely over sixteen and her life was already shing before her eyes.

    "P-please¡­" she sobbed, struggling against the weight holding her down. Through the corner of her hazy eyes, she saw the blurry figure of Zheng Leiyu, her childhood best friend. A man she had desperately fallen in love with only to be scorned by him.

    Like any man greedy for power and wealth, Zheng Leiyu decided to pursue the oldest daughter of the household, Xueyue''s older sister.

    Bai Tianai was the most beloved child in the Bai Household. So long as she desires something, she shall get it without qualms.

    Xueyue was skilled in archery, horseback riding, and sword fighting whilst possessing a face that easily swayed men into her bidding. She was supposed to be a sparrow that soared the skies, but she had trusted the wrong man and allowed her wings to be snipped off.

    "It wasn''t me!" Xueyue hoarsely cried out, but it sounded like the wheeze of an elderly woman.

    Zheng Leiyu glowered down at her as if she was a sinner who massacred his entire family. In reality, her only sin was loving him.

    When Xueyue saw how unresponsive he was, she decided to plead someone else. Viscount Bai Sheng sat in the corner of the cold, dark room of the Prayer Halls apanied by his wife.

    They were drinking tea without a care in the world, as if they were watching the Koi fishes swim in the pond on a warm, summer day.

    Viscount Bai Sheng glowered at Xueyue. His dark, chilly eyes were filled with disdain and hatred. His eyes showed no remorse at the horrific sight before him.

    If she wasn''t such a failure of a filial child, maybe he would''ve loved her a bit more. ''Stupid girl,'' he thought to himself. ''Useless brat,'' he added on.

    Bai Xueyue was not his blood-rted kin. She did, however, share the blood of Viscountess Mu Yihua. The unfortunate Viscountess Mu Yihua imed she was raped after running home one night.

    The perpetrator was never caught. A child was growing inside of her¡ªBai Xueyue. It was a miracle that the offspring even inherited the Bai surname, considering the fact that she was not Viscount Bai Sheng''s daughter.

    In Viscount Bai Sheng''s eyes, the least that Bai Xueyue could do was bring honor to the family. Instead, she was deemed a murderer.

    Viscount Bai Sheng swirled the teacup he had in his hand. "Do something about that obnoxious mouth," hemanded his men who exchanged nervous nces with each other.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua struggled to remain calm. Her nimble fingers painfully clenched the green ceramic in her hand. If one looked closely, they could see the tea was trembling.

    How could a mother sit through such a thing?

    Her eyes teared at the pitiful sight of her daughter, but she could do nothing but watch. She couldn''t speak up for Xueyue.

    She never could.

    Not without Viscount Bai Sheng holding the facts above her head: Xueyue was the unwanted product. Something to be shamed, but was saved by his generosity.

    Viscount Bai Sheng had convinced his wife that Xueyue was unworthy of everything.

    "I swear I woke up in the room and she was already lying there dead! I didn''t kill her!" Xueyue''s wretched cries pierced the hearts of the servants.

    Many of them found this scene unbearable. They prayed this would be over soon.

    "Tianai framed me!" Xueyue naively shouted, in hopes of convincing her father. But the mention of Bai Tianai significantly worsened Viscount Bai Sheng''s mood.

    He mmed his teacup onto the table beside him. The force was so strong, it caused a crack within the table.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua nearly jumped at the sudden force. Her head dropped to stare at her tea. "How dare you drag your sister into this!"

    The poor child.

    Xueyue was the spitting image of her unknown father. No one knew the man who touched the Viscountess, no one except for the woman herself.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua''s heart quivered. Her youngest daughter, indeed, was nothing like Bai Tianai. Their appearances were so vastly different, but that didn''t mean Xueyue was not beautiful.

    Dear heavens, Xueyue was gorgeous. Her w was that she was too naive to use it to her advantage. Had she yed her cards correctly, maybe she could''ve be the renowned Beauty of Hechen.

    Her inquisitive autumn hazels would''ve made her popr among schrs. Her naturally pink lips the color of peonies should''ve swayed even the worst of yers into bending their knees. Yet, none of these happened. They didn''t happen because she was too invested in a man who never loved her back.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua snapped back to reality when she heard her husband''s thundering voice.

    Despite the long years of marriage, she still shivered at his fearsome voice.

    She hadn''t realized that in her daydream, Viscount Bai Sheng had stormed towards Xueyue whose white clothes were torn and tainted with blood and false sins.

    "You are an unwanted brat!" Viscount Bai Sheng roared at Xueyue. He had a fresh cup of tea in his hand, and it was piping hot.

    Before anyone could react, he grabbed Xueyue''s dainty jawline.

    "Father¡ª" Before Xueyue could finish her sentence, Viscount Bai Sheng had forced the piping tea down her throat.

    A loud scream ripped through the silent air. Her cries were so bone-chilling, people flinched back.

    Xueyue tried to thrash in her father''s hold, but his grip was as strong as iron. More tears rolled down her eyes.

    At the disgusting sight of Xueyue, Viscount Bai Sheng threw her back onto the ground.

    Even the servants felt remorse for the poor girl. She was only sixteen years old! This punishment was too severe and harsh on such a frail and young girl!

    "Continue the beating," Viscount Bai Sheng said to his men who immediately nodded.

    The servants cringed when the men raised their paddles and continued the beating. They never expected the refined Viscount Bai to be so rough and heartless towards her. No one knew of the Bai Family''s secret about Xueyue.

    cing a gentle hand on her protruding stomach, Viscountess Mu Yihua wiped the sweat off her brows.

    Sensing his wife''s distress, Viscount Bai Sheng turned towards her with a soft smile.

    The superstitious signs indicated she was pregnant with a baby boy, and Viscount Bai Sheng would finally get an heir.

    "It''ll harm the baby if you listen and watch this scene any longer. I''ll end this now," Viscount Bai Sheng gently told his wife.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua panicked at his words. "Wait, my lord husband¡ª"

    "I''ve had enough of this. Finish her." Viscount Bai Sheng demanded.

    When the guards raised their wooden paddles, lightning shed in the distance. The sound of the sky immediately blended with the sound of a head bashed to the ground, and the sh of the lightning revealed a pool of blood on the ground.

    The pain was so excruciatingly painful, Xueyue didn''t even register what had happened to her. Her tear-filled eyes fluttered, and ck dots tainted her vision.

    In her blurry sight, she saw Viscount Bai Sheng guiding his pregnant wife out of the Prayer Halls.

    Thest thing Xueyue saw before cking out was the sight of Leiyu bending down to press a kiss onto Tianai''s lips.

    Hatred and a thirst for revenge grabbed Xueyue''s heart. Using herst breath of air, Xueyue vowed to seek revenge on the injustice that had fallen upon her.

 Chapter 2 Leave Her to Ro

    <h4>Chapter 2 Leave Her to Ro</h4>

    "Poor thing...She was beaten too severely." The old butler sighed at the battered sight of his Young Miss.

    The blood from her cracked skull had trailed from her forehead, down her eyelids. Her entire face was covered with dark, purple bruises. Her left arm and right leg were bent in a weird shape.

    "She suffered greatly before dying." One of the beaters gruffly spoke up. His voice wasced with tiredness from hitting the girl for so long, but his eyes were sharp and dark.

    He didn''t expect Viscount Bai to be so harsh on his own daughter. He thought he would only be cracking her skull with one hit. He never expected his Master to want the girl to die so painfully.

    "Let''s get her out of here before Masteres back." Another servant spoke up. His voice was shaky because it was his first night on the job. He didn''t expect his first day of work would be killing a beautiful girl.

    The butler watched the servants pick up the battered body of Xueyue and sighed. It was such a shame she had to die so young, but he knew it must be done.

    If words get out that Viscount Bai had ordered the death of his daughter, people would criticize him. But the people will judge him more for not properly raising the child. To discover a young childmitted murder right underneath his roof, would deal great damage to Viscount Bai''s reputation.

    In a stern and unremorseful voice, he told the servants, "Master Bai said to throw her deep into the forest where she''ll be left to rot."

    "Yes, sir." The men said in unison.

    They carried Xueyue''s body out of the Prayer Halls and walked into the forest. During the entire journey, they grumbled andined underneath their breath. It was storming heavily outside, and they were forced to lug her deep into the forest.

    "It''s so much work bringing her all the way in there. Let''s just leave her at the edge of the forest. I''m sure Viscount Bai wouldn''t mind." One of the men finally spoke up.

    The men exchanged thoughtful nces with each other. Almost everyone here shared the same idea as him. "Besides, it''s raining too heavily tonight. If we take her all the way to the center of the forest, we might get lost. The rain has knocked down some trees. The paths are blocked and muddy, so it''ll be hard to identify which is the right way back." Another man spoke up.

    After a few thoughtful seconds, the men all nodded. "Okay, let''s just drop her off at the edge of the forest. There will be animals roaming at night, so if nature doesn''t take her, the beasts will."

    And just like that, they all walked towards the edges of the forest. Climbing over an enormous tree that had fallen from the violent wind, they threw the Xueyue''s body onto the muddy ground. Rain poured on her face, washing away the dried blood.

    Even with the painful, purple marks on her face, Xueyue was still stunningly beautiful. Even though her skin was ghostly pale and her lips were blue, it wasn''t enough to diminish her beauty.

    "Hey, where are you going?!" One of the men shouted at the new worker who was walking back to Xueyue''s body.

    "It seems like I dropped something along the way. You guys head back first, I''ll go look for it!" The new worker shouted back.

    The men were all too drained and tired to care about the man. He was new to working here, so there wasn''t any close bond formed between him and the other workers.

    "Whatever, it''s not my problem." The workers grumbled to themselves. They continued the long trudge back to the Manor.

    Meanwhile, the new worker was quickly running in the direction of Xueyue''s body. Once he got there, he nced down at her battered face. "I don''t know what you did wrong...but I truly feel bad for you." He whispered to her.

    "I didn''t think I''d be the one to ce the finishing blow on you..." He said with a heavy heart. This was the first time he had ever killed someone...nevertheless, a child.

    The young man raised his head and sheltered his eyes from the heavy rain. He walked a few feet into the forest and picked out enormous lotus leafs. After picking up the leafs, he walked towards Xueyue''s unresponsive body.

    Draping the leafs over her body, he sheltered her from the rain. Because the leaves were so big and thick, it was enough to form three protectiveyers over Xueyue''s body.

    In a silent voice, he said, "Though this isn''t a proper burial, it''s the least I could do for you."

    After covering Xueyue''s body from head-to-toe with lotus leafs, he walked away from her and began the journey back to the Bai Manor.

    His mother always taught him to respect woman, and that no matter what a person has done, they always deserve a proper burial. He was always the obedient type, especially when it came to his mother''s words. He was a very clingy son that dearly loved his mother, so he always listened to her advice.

    The younger worker didn''t realize by cing the lotus leafs onto Xueyue''s body, he had unknowingly saved her from hypothermia.

 Chapter 3 An Unconscious Girl

    <h4>Chapter 3 An Unconscious Girl</h4>

    The next morning, the sun was overwhelming bright and warm. The skies were incredibly blue, and the clouds looked extra fluffy. It was as if the storm never happened and the sky was always this calm.

    But on the grounds, it was chaotic. There were branches everywhere and a lot of overturned crops and shops. Because Lanbei was such a prosperous city, the people worked very quickly. From the first hour that the sun had rised, the people immediately began to clean up their environment.

    But, only the servants and the lower ss people were working. The rich and wealthy stayed in their expansive Manors, enjoying their morning breakfast. It was the same in almost every family, except the outstanding Li family.

    Duke Li was preparing to step outside of his Manor after enjoying a quick breakfast. He was within his room, getting clothed by the servants.

    His cold gaze softened when it trailed to his glum wife. She was sitting by the window, and ncing out towards the distance. With her chin propped up by her arm, there was a sullen and gloomy look on her face.

    Duke Li sighed at the mncholic state of his wife. In a soft and gentle voice, he said, "My dear wife, it''s not good to cope yourself in your room..."

    After the servants finished dressing him, he strolled towards his wife. Immediately wrapping an arm around her frail shoulders, he provided her warmth.

    "Where are you going?" Her voice was hoarse and barely above a whisper. From crying all night long at the death of her daughter which urred a few weeks ago, her voice was bound to be broken.

    "The city is working very hard to clean up the streets. Our servants are also working very hard to clear the grounds of branches and knocked over trees. I''m going to check up on their progress." Duke Li said to his wife.

    She doesn''t look at him. instead, she continued to stare into the distance.

    Duke Li felt his heart clench painfully at the painful sight of his dazed wife. The two were extremely heartbroken when their daughter''s dead body was found in ake. Someone had murdered their precious daughter who was only seventeen years old when she died.

    Duke Li was slowly recovering, and he was doing it faster than his wife. Duchess Li was having an extremely hard time coping the death of her daughter. She had tenderly raised the child through her own hands.

    When most nobledies would pass their babies to a wet nurse or a nursemaid, Duchess Li didn''t. She kept her only daughter close to her. When the baby cried at night, she was the first to respond. When the baby had wet or dirtied itself, she was the one to change her clothes. When the baby was hungry, she had breastfed it herself.

    This was extremely rare for nobledies of outstanding families and rank, but she didn''t care. Duchess Li loved her daughter too much to let other woman handle her.

    Duchess Li gave birth to two sons a few years after she gave birth to her daughter. She had healthy twins, who were currently nine years old. But a mother could never get over the death of her precious daughter. No mother could ever get over such a tragic and unknown death.

    "I wille back very soon and then we can take a stroll in Lanbei. How does that sound?" Duke Li gently asked his wife. After a few unresponsive seconds, she slowly nodded her head.

    "After our sons finish their morning lessons, they will also be joining us." Duke Li added on. His lovely wife slowly nodded her head. At the mention of her sons, her eyes had lightened the slightest bit.

    Seeing her small responses pained Duke Li, but he had ran out of any other options of cheering her up. It seemed time would be the only way of healing her. Just when Duke Li bend down to press a soft kiss to his wife''s cheeks, the thumping sound of a servant racing through the halls could be heard.

    Duke Li stopped his kiss and raised his head towards the door. "Open it." He told the Eunuch waiting by the door. The Eunuch immediately nodded and slid the door open.

    An out of breath girl stood outside the door. She immediately bowed low at the sight of Duke and Duchess Li.

    "G-greetings-"

    "What is it?" Duke Li cut to the chase. His tone was calm, but had a slight touch of irritation. He hated being interrupted, especially when he was with his wife. But the matter must''ve been urgent for a servant to risk her life.

    "A-at the edge of the forest, behind a tree, the body of an unconscious girl was found." The servant stuttered out between pants for air.

    Duke Li raised a curious brow at her words. A girl was found at the edge of the forest? Why would a girl wander into the forest, especially when it was muddy and there was a storm the night before?

    "It was the edge near the Li Manor, so the matter couldn''t be ignored." The servant added on. She never dared to raise her head when she was addressing her Master. Instead, she kept it very low.

    Duke Li sighed at the news. "I will be back, my dear." He said to his wife. She didn''t say anything and continued to stare out the window. He cracked a dry smile and pressed a swift kiss to her cheeks.

    He walked towards the servant and followed her out the door.

    ''It''s going to be a tiring day ahead of us,'' Duke Li thought to himself and indeed, just as he had predicted, the day would be long and strenuous...

 Chapter 4 Li Minghua

    <h4>Chapter 4 Li Minghua</h4>

    Duke Li followed his servant towards the edge of the forest. With each passing step, he felt his heart suddenly go uneasy. He didn''t know why, but he suddenly felt antsy and nervous, as if something was wrong.

    He tried to brush the thoughts aside, but it woulde back to him every few seconds. He tried to focus on the steps of the servants who were guiding him to the spot that they mentioned.

    Just when he was caught in his daydream, the group had reached the spot that the female servant had pointed out. Surely enough, there was an enormous fallen tree blocking their path.

    Duke Li climbed over the tree and was surprised when he nearly stepped on top of an enormous object covered with leaves. At a closer nce, he saw the shape of a human body...more specifically, he saw the foot of a girl.

    Duke Li raised a brow. Why hadn''t the servant removed the leaves from the body? Duke Li sighed. It was probably because they were too scared to touch a lifeless body.

    When Duke Li bent down and walked closer to the girl, he felt the same uneasy gut-feelinge back. He frowned as he pushed the thoughts away.

    Duke Li breathed in and prepared himself for the sight he was about to see. But never in a million years would he think he''d ever witness the sight before him. When he pulled the leaves back, he felt his breath caught in his throat. His eyes went wide and his hands shook.

    A girl with her eyes closed, and blood staining her eyelids, pale blue lips, and ghostly white skin greets him. But that wasn''t the most startling thing about her. It was her stark resemnce to his daughter.

    The servants besides him gasped. A few covered their mouth in shock and everyone shared the same surprised expression. They had also seen the resemnce between the girl and their Young Miss.

    "M-M-Minghua?" He shakily breathed out the forbidden name of his daughter. He never dared to mention the name in front of his wife, in fear of breaking the woman further.

    ''N-no...this isn''t possible. She was dered dead. I watched her lifeless body being buried with my own eyes!'' Duke Li told himself.

    He felt as if he had gone insane. Was this an effect of painful remorse? Was his own eyes ying tricks on him?

    Duke Li raised his head and saw the surprised and shocked faces of his servants. He realized he wasn''t the only one who saw the striking simrity.

    "Master Li, the girl is still breathing!" A servant immediately called out. With shaky fingers, he pointed towards Xueyue''s chest. It was barely moving, but upon closer inspection, she was steadily and slowly breathing.

    Duke Li observed the dried blood path that began from her forehead down her face and then the bruises that covered her face. He didn''t know what happened to the girl, but one nce at her was enough for him to guess the girl must''ve done something wrong. To have been beaten to such a horrible extent, he couldn''t help but wonder what she had done.

    "Bring her back to the Manor and immediately call fourth the best doctor in town!" Duke Limanded his servants.

    At the stern voice of their Master, the servants immediately snapped out of their shock and got to work. A few servants ran towards the city of Lanbei to fetch the best doctor in town, and a few other servants carefully carried Xueyue back to the Li Manor.

    The entire time, Duke Li was nervously biting his nails. He didn''t know what he would tell his wife when she brought the girl back home, but he hoped she would have a good reaction towards the girl.

    The worst that could happen would be sending the unconscious girl out of the Li Manor...but the best reaction is that Duchess Li allows the girl to stay within the Li Manor. With how much the girl resembles their daughter, Li Minghua, he had hoped this girl would be able to cheer up his wife.

    He missed the cheerfulughter of his wife and the bright smile that seemed to light up her face. Ever since the tragic death of Li Minghua, his wife had rarely smiled. The only time she would smile would be in front of their sons, who were too young to understand the concept of death.

    ___________________

    Within the Eastern Wing of the Li Manor...

    "Doctor Yu, how is her condition?" Duke Li asked the fragile old man in front of him.

    Doctor Yu stood up after examining the poor girl. He had a sorrowful expression on his face and slowly shook his head. His cotton-white beard slightly moved with the head shake.

    "Her condition is horrible. She has broken bones on her left arm and right leg, but I was able to crack it into ce. She has suffered an incredible hit to the back of her head, which I''ve stitched up. I''ve done the best I can to heal this girl and only time will tell when she will wake up." Doctor Yu exined to Duke Li, just as he was beginning to pack away his materials.

    "Try to get a servant to trickle this down her throat three times a day. These are the bandages that would need to be changed every two days." Doctor Yu ced all of the medicine and bandages onto the polished wooden table besides him.

    "Based on her bruises and the strike towards the head, she was most likely severely beaten by someone. It''s a miracle she had survived such a heavy blow towards her head." Doctor Yumented when he shut his wooden basket of materials.

    "Luckily, someone has covered her body with thickyers of leaves. If she wasn''t covered, the heavy rain the night before would''ve given her hypothermia which would be fatal." Doctor Yu told Duke Li who was intently listening to the older man in front of him.

    Duke Li''s eyes trailed towards the girl''s cleaned face. The blood was washed off of her face and though there was some ugly bruises covering her soft features, it was evident she was a very beautiful girl...perhaps even prettier than his precious daughter.

    Seeing her unconscious state, he felt his stomach churn with uneasiness. In a soft mummer, Duke Li asked, "When will she wake up?"

    Doctor Yu hummed for a few seconds and ran a hand through his long, white beard. "From her current condition, I''m not sure what to say. But if she doesn''t wake up within one week, please fetch for me. I need to check on her future condition in order to see if the medicine is working or not." Doctor Yu told Duke Li who slowly nodded at the information.

    "If there''s nothing else, I will take my leave." The doctor said while picking up his basket of supplies.

    "Thank you, Doctor Yu. Have a good day." Duke Li bid the Doctor goodbye. A few Eunuchs guided the aging man out of the door.

    Duke Li breathed out a heavy sigh as his shoulders sagged. He walked towards the girl and gingerly sat down at the edge of the bed. After a few seconds of observing Xueyue''s features, he felt his heart painfully clench when he saw the simrity between the unconscious girl and his daughter, Li Minghua.

    Duke Li clenched his teeth and forced himself to walk out of the door. Strolling down the open-hallways that revealed the Manor''s expansive garden and enormous pond, Duke Li prepared himself to tell his wife the startling news.

 Chapter 5 Not Her

    <h4>Chapter 5 Not Her</h4>

    When Duke Li walked back to his room, he was surprised to see his wife wasn''t attached to the window like she usually was.

    "My dear-"

    "Is it true?" Duchess Li interrupted him with bright, wide-eyes. For the first time in a few weeks, Duke Li had finally seen a glimmer of light and hope within his wife''s lovely eyes.

    "Is what true?" Duke Li repeated his wife''s words.

    "You picked up a girl from the forest, and she resembles Minghua!" Duchess Li eximed with a very hopeful expression on his face.

    Duke Li was surprised that word had traveled so fast.

    He felt slight irritation and annoyance. He wanted to tell his wife the news himself. He didn''t want her to find out through the gossiping lips of the servants.

    Duke Li took a single nce at the bright expression on his lovely wife''s face before slowly nodding. It took this simple movement for her to immediately run out of the door. Completely abandoning the rules of proper etiquette, Duchess Li ran down the halls with the shawl of her hanfu flying in the air.

    "My dear, you shouldn''t run! What if you hurt yourself?!" Duke Li immediately chased after his stubborn wife.

    He was surprised at how fast she was running. Was she always this fast? Where did she get the stamina to run for so long?

    Duke Li immediately picked up his pace, but it was to no avail. His wife was already a couple steps ahead of him and she had already reached the room that Xueyue was residing in.

    Duchess Li surprised the servants guarding outside of the room, and the few servants tending to Xueyue''s unconscious body inside the room. Forgetting all forms of manners, Duchess Li mmed the door open.

    Her frantic eyes searched the room until it fell onto the unconscious girl in bed. With wobbly legs, Duchess Li walked towards the girl. When she saw the bandages wrapped around the girl''s forehead and arms, as well as the bruises that marred her face, Duchess Li gasped.

    She pressed her shaky hands to her agape lips and stared at the girl. Indeed, she resembled Li Minghua, but her mother intuition knew this wasn''t her precious daughter. Li Minghua was dead...Duchess Li had witnessed the burial with her own eyes.

    "This isn''t my Minghua." Duchess Li dered with a heartbroken voice.

    "Dear, how could you run off without me?" Duke Li breathed out.

    He walked into the room and ced a gentle hand on her shaking shoulders. "This isn''t my Minghua." Duchess Li repeated her words, but this time, she was ncing up at her husband.

    Duke Li had a grim expression on his face as he brushed a few strands of Duchess Li''s fallen hair.

    "I know she isn''t." He gently whispered to her. He was surprised to finally hear the name of his daughtere out of his wife''s lips, but he was able to mask the shock.

    "F-for a second, I thought my Minghua hade back to me." Duchess Li''s voice cracked when she got to thest few words of her sentence. Her shoulders shook, and she was beginning to sniffle.

    Sensing her breakdown, Duke Li immediately pulled his wife into a tight hug. The warm eyes he held for his wife immediately turned sharp and cold when he nced at the servants in the room.

    In a heavy andmanding voice, he said, "Leave us."

    The servants didn''t have to be told twice. The servants immediately bowed low and exited out of the room, shutting the door behind them. Soon, the room was filled with the broken sobs of a distraught mother.

    Duke Li''s hand tightened around his wife. He stared at the ceiling and also felt his heart being pulled apart.

    Duke Li gentlyforted his wife with soothing whispers and asional pats on her tiny back.

    He held his wife for the longest time and patiently waited for her tears to subdue.

    "I-I-I w-want h-her t-to stay." Duchess Li whispered into her husband chest.

    Duke Li felt his eyebrows pull together in confusion. He had heard his wife say something, but her voice was heavily muffled by his robes and he didn''t know what she said.

    He nced down at his wife. "What did you just say?" He asked Duchess Li who huped before speaking again.

    "I said I want the girl to stay." Duchess Li repeated herself, but this time, her voice was firmer.

    Duke Li was taken by surprise at her words. He was a very doting husband and was the kind to give his wife everything in the world. Unlike the other men of nobility who only married for political and financial gain, he had married Duchess Li for love. It just so happens Lady Luck was on his side, and she was an outstanding nobledy that was instantly approved by his family.

    He had never denied his wife any request, even when a few of it was extremely outrageous. But for the first time, he felt the word ''no,'' at the tip of his tongue.

    But he pushed the word down his throat and opted to say something else.

    "We don''t know if she has family out there-" He began to say, but the sharp words of his wife immediately cut him off.

    "Then we''ll wait for her to wake up. If she has a family out there, I-I want to get to know them." Duchess Li''s determined voice surprised her husband.

    She was always a soft and gentle woman who rarely raised her voice. She only sounded determined and stern when she truly wanted something. Duke Li internally sighed. He knew this request of hers would be extremely hard to reject because of her fierce determination.

    Duke Li sighed at his stubborn wife and gently patted her shoulders.

    "Doctor Yu is unsure when she will wake up. Until she does, I''ll have the servants ask around to see if any family is missing a daughter-"

    "No!" Duchess Li suddenly shrieked. Duke Li was once again startled by his wife''s brash voice.

    "Dear-"

    "You''re nning on sending her away!" Duchess Li screamed at him. Her docile eyes turned incredibly dark and angry.

    She pushed at Duke Li''s chest so roughly, he stumbled backwards from the force. Duke Li''s eyebrows shot up at her behavior.

    But before he could say anything, Duchess Li wrapped her thin arms around her shoulders in a manner of shielding herself. The pitiful and heart-wrenching position of his wife was beginning to hurt Duke Li''s head.

    Upon seeing the fear in her eyes and the way her lips were wobbling, Duke Li felt his heart being tightly squeezed.

    "You cannot be illogical." Duke Li said with a stern voice, as if he was a father reprimanding his children.

    "Imagine how the girl''s family would feel to know their daughter has suddenly disappeared?" Duke Li immediately regretted the words the minute it left his mouth.

    Duchess Li''s head shot up. Her blood-shot eyes red at her husband. When she opened her mouth to say something, Duke Li had already beat her to the chase.

    "I''ve already informed the servant to ask the families of Lanbei if they''re missing a daughter. As we speak, they''re already asking around." Duke Li stated the truth. He watched as Duchess Li''s face broke down.

    "I willpromise with you, my dear wife. Don''t look so crestfallen." Duke Li sighed as he walked closer to his wife. She immediately took a few steps back, refusing to let him touch her.

    "I was originally nning on having the search go on for three days. But I will call it off by the end of tomorrow. If no onees forward to im the girl, then we will speak to the girl ande to a conclusion." Duke Li slowly said.

    He watch Duchess Li''s expression morph from hatred to slow consideration.

    After a few seconds of thoughtful thinking, Duchess Li finally spoke up. "Y-you promise to end the search by the end of tomorrow?"

    Duke Li breathed out a heavy sigh of relief when he saw the anger diminish from his wife''s eyes.

    "I promise." He told his lovely wife who finally allowed him to touch her again.

    "Come, my dear. It''s already the afternoon and we haven''t had our lunch yet. Our sons have finished their lessons and will be waiting for us at the table." Duke Li guided his wife out of the door.

    He noticed she had finally calmed down. She was letting him hold her shoulders and together they walked down the hallways. And as they walked, Duke Li missed the fierce determination within his lovely wife''s eyes.

 Chapter 6 A Ghos

    <h4>Chapter 6 A Ghos</h4>

    Xueyue wasn''t sure how long she was trapped in a world of darkness. Everywhere she looked, she saw the boring sight of empty ckness.

    asionally, she would feel something touch her lips and then trickle down her throat. She could hear muffled noises in the background, but when she chased after it, the voices suddenly stopped talking.

    After a long time of walking in the darkness, Xueyue had finally saw a light at the end of her long path. With legs as fast as the wind, she ran towards the light. She was extremely happy at seeing something other than the boring world of ck.

    When Xueyue reached her hand into the light, she suddenly felt the light evade her vision. Painfully squeezing her eyes shut, Xueyue slowly peeled it open after a few fleeting seconds.

    Her vision was extremely blurry, and her head was beginning to ache. Xueyue turned her head to the left and then to the right in confusion.

    ''Where am I? She questioned herself.

    Xueyue noticed the soft and plush bed she was on. There was a heavy nket strung over her body and she seemed to be tucked into bed.

    Xueyue frowned. She tried to sit up from the bed, but cried out in pain instead. ncing down at her arms, her eyes went wide when she saw it was wrapped in bandages. Her left arm was severely sore, but it wasn''t excruciatingly painful.

    Slowly, but surely, Xueyue was able to sit up in bed. She noticed the bowl of water besides her bed stand.

    With one shaky hand, Xueyue reached for the enormous bowl of water. Because the bowl was on a table a few inches away from Xueyue, she didn''t see the towel floating in it.

    "Eeep!" Xueyue yelped when she nearly fell out of her bed. The bowl was too far for her hand to reach.

    The sudden sound in the chilly and empty room was enough to startle the guards stationed outside. The guards exchanged nervous nces with each other. Was it their imagination? Had they truly heard something from within the room?

    "D-do you think it''s a ghost?" Whispered a nervous and young soldier. He had stayed up the night before reading horror novels and the idea of encountering a ghost was frightening.

    The older guard rolled his eyes and smacked the young boy behind his head. "Of course not, you fool!" The older guard hissed at him.

    "S-sir, can you check for me-" Before the young guard finished his sentence, the older man had already strolled into the room.

    The sight he saw immediately dried his throat. Sitting in the bed was a child no more than the age of thirteen.

    He was only a guard, and though he was a high-ranking one, he had never seen who was in the room. His job was to protect and watch over the door, and he did just that. While he was mesmerized by the woman before him, his junior most certainty wasn''t.

    The young guard''s face went pale. I-i-it''s a g-ghost!

    The young guard''s first thought when he saw her messy long, and silky hair was the image painted by the horror novel he was reading.

    When the older guard had saw an innocent child seeking water, he saw the ghost of a child.

    With a bandage wrapped around the girl''s head, her hair covering half of her face, the signature white-nightgown, and the chilling moonlight falling upon her, the young guard thought he had encountered an evil spirit.

    When the child raised her head at the sound of the door being open, the young guard felt his heart drop all the way down to his stomach. Aiyaya, t-the ghost actually moved!

    "H-hello...?" Xueyue''s throat was extremely hoarse from days of not drinking water.

    The young guard felt his body stiffen at the voice. Goodness gracious, even her voice sounded frightening! ''Wuu wuu, I''m too young to die!'' The younger guard wailed inside his head.

    The older guard nced down at his junior and smacked him in the head again. "You fool! Fix that overly imaginative brain of yours!" The older guard hissed at him.

    "Because you''re too scared to stand here any longer, go and fetch a servant! Tell them the girl is awake-" Before the older guard even finished hismand, the younger guard had already sprinted down the halls.

    The older guard red at the retreating form of his junior. Out of all of the guards employed by Master Li, he just had to get the weakest of them all!

    The older guard grumbled underneath his breath. It seemed like Lady Luck didn''t shine on him...

    "U-uhm..." Xueyue''s hesitant and confused voice caught the guard''s attention.

    His eyes went wide, and he immediately knelled before the girl. He wasn''t sure of her status, but seeing how Duke and Duchess Li would always visit her, he knew she was someone of high importance.

    The older guard knew better than offending a person of higher rank than him. "This lowly servant apologizes for our disrespectful behavior!" The older guard immediately spoke up.

    Xueyue was taken by surprise. She nervously licked her cracked lips and ufortable fidgeted in her spot.

    She didn''t expect heavily armored men to busts into the room, nor an older man to drop to his knees and bend his head in respect to her.

    "I-it''s alright?" Xueyue hesitantly whispered.

    She winced at the horrible sound of her voice. It was so dry and broken from days of dehydration, her own voice sounded foreign to her.

    "Where am I?" Xueyue whispered again. It put a heavy strain on her throat to speak, and she knew it wouldn''t be wise to raise her voice higher than a soft whisper.

    She prayed the guard heard her. He was wearing a heavy metal helmet, and she thought it might be hard for him to hear.

    "Answering your question, you''re currently residing within Duke and Duchess Li''s Manor." The guard immediately responded. He slowly got up from his kneeling position and when he raised his head, his eyes went wide.

    Upon closer inspection, he noticed a startling familiarity to her. "L-Lady Minghua?" He breathed out in shock.

    Xueyue tilted her head in confusion. Lady Minghua? Who was that?

    The guard blinked and rubbed his eyes. When he fixed it, he nearly cursed out loud. He thought he had seen Minghua, but upon second nce, it wasn''t her.

    ''She''s dead.'' He inwardly repeated to himself.

    ''That''s right...she''s dead and buried seven feet deep into the ground.'' He thought to himself.

    Xueyue opened her mouth to ask another question when suddenly, her eyes grew wide and the realization came rolling in: she was at the famed Duke and Duchess Li''s house!

 Chapter 7 Gentle Touch

    <h4>Chapter 7 Gentle Touch</h4>

    Lost in thought, Xueyue didn''t hear the approaching footsteps down the hallways. The footsteps were loud and rapidly thumping upon the mahogany wood floorboards. Impatience eluded from the rushing woman whereas patience drifted from the sensible duke.

    Xueyue was caught off guard when an older woman pushed the door open without warning. She was out of breath, but very beautiful. From rushing out of bed, her hair wasn''t fixed in the usual manner.

    Duchess Li Qixing was the type of woman whose beauty ripened with age. Wrinkles were slightly prominent on her face, but could only be seen when she smiled. Her warm eyes were always soft with understanding. Every part of her shined with gentle affection, the same type of adoration that only a mother could give off.

    Nervously and awkwardly, Xueyue greeted the woman with a small, "Hello." Her voice was still hoarse.

    Upon hearing how hoarse the girl sounded, Duchess Li Qixing immediately waved her hand towards the guards to fetch her some water. The older guard bowed his head and excused himself to execute hermand.

    Duke Li Shenyang breathed in deeply as he reprimanded his wife yet again. "Sweetheart, what did I tell you about running?" She ignored his question yet again. This prompted him to stare at what she was staring at. He was surprised to see Xueyue sitting on her bed. It had been a week and a half since she was brought to the manor, but Doctor Yu had reported she was healing very well. He was, of course, happy by the news, but not as happy as his wife who was already ordering clothes and jewelry for this child. It was almost as if the duchess already foresaw the future oues.

    Now that the girl was awake, both the duke and duchess saw the girl wasn''t as simr to their daughter as they had initially believed. With her eyes open and more animated, she didn''t resemble Li Minghua as closely as they had hoped. Li Minghua had monolid eyes that curved into beautiful crescent moons when she smiled. The girl''s eyes were wide, naive, and filled with caution ¡ª almost like a tiny fawn [1] who didn''t understand how the world worked.

    Xueyue fidgeted under the intense gazes of the people in front of her. She was confused as to why she was here and not rotting away in the forest. "May I inquire if you''re the Duke and Duchess?"

    Her eyes surveyed the expensive exterior of her highly decorated room. Intricately carved wooden frames, exquisitely painted pirs of support, burgundy rugs made of gold and silk, this was a room customized for the rich and wealthy. The design of the room was something her parents dreamed of imitating in their own home, but could not. The viscount and viscountess were wealthy by all means, but it was in afortable nature that didn''t allow them to spend too ravishingly ¡ª unlike the duke and duchess whose wealth knew no limits.

    Duke Li Shenyang was suspicious of her knowledge. How did she know she was resting inside the house of the only Duke and Duchess of Hechen? He cleared his throat and replied, "You''re residing within the Li Manor. Indeed, we are the Duke and Duchess." He nced at his wife and saw she was too shaken to speak.

    Xueyue didn''t know how to respond to his words. Awkwardly and nervously, she bent her body in an attempt to bow and show respect. "I apologize. If I could move, I would''ve gotten onto the floor and¡ª"

    "Nonsense. You''re injured." Duchess Li Qixing frowned as she walked toward Xueyue. "Your right leg was severely injured. It hasn''t healed yet, but the doctor said you''re making good progress. Does it still hurt when you move it?"

    Xueyue raised her head and flinched when the duchess attempted to brush away some stray hairs from her face. "My arms and legs are a bit sore, but it doesn''t hurt as much. It''s itchy, but I think it''s healing."

    Duchess Li Qixing wanted to question Xueyue about the flinch she saw earlier, but she held her tongue. Patiently, she said, "Yes, that''s correct, but for safety measures, the doctor will be summoned again tomorrow morning."

    Xueyue slowly nodded her head and nced down at her fingers. She could wiggle it, but couldn''t sharply move her arms. She didn''t know how to react or behave around highly-ranked officials. The only thing she knew was to drop her head and never make eye contact.

    The room fell into an awkward silence, until the older guard finally came back with a pitcher of warm water. He passed it to Duchess Li Qixing with both hands, and she poured it into a ss cup before handing it to Xueyue who immediately thanked her.

    Xueyue drank the water and felt her shoulders sag with relief when the water washed away the dryness of her throat. She was so thirsty, she had drunk the entire cup of water in one gulp.

    "There, that should be better now," Duchess Li Qixing said with a small smile while refilling the cup and handing it back to the girl.

    Duchess Li Qixing gently sat down on the edge of the bed and brushed away a few strands of Xueyue''s bangs. Her side bangs were slightly messy and covering her eyes. When Duchess Li Qixing swept it away, it revealed the full glory of her eyes: so wide and frightened, it worried the duchess.

    Xueyue sat frozen on the bed with a stiff shoulder. She had never been touched so gently. In the Bai Manor, there was not a single person who treated her with pure adoration. The viscountess was never harsh to her, but she was also not very loving. The viscountess ensured she was fed and clothed, but that was the extent of her kindness.

    Duchess Li Qixing noticed the rigid expression on Xueyue''s face, and she immediately pulled her hands back. In an apologetic voice, she whispered, "Oh my, it seems I''ve frightened you."

    Xueyue blinked at her words and quickly shook her head to clear up the misunderstanding. "No no, it''spletely fine¡­ I was just surprised, that''s all." Now that Xueyue had finally quenched her thirsty throat, it was no longer rough and hoarse.

    Duchess Li Qixing was so awestruck by the girl in front of her. Her voice was as sweet as freshly harvested honey and soft as the gentle breeze on a hot summer day.

    "I didn''t properly introduce myself..." Xueyue trailed off, unsure of what else to say.

    Duchess Li Qixing blinked at her words and waited patiently for her to go on.

    "My name is B-...it''s Xueyue." Xueyue decided it was better to leave her surname out of the introduction. She wasn''t sure if the duke and duchess had heard about the royal decree at court. If they were truly the duke and duchess, it meant they were very, very close to the royal family. This meant they might''ve caught a whiff of the decree that sentenced the youngest Bai daughter to her treacherous death.

    Xueyue''s hand trembled at the memory of being framed and falsely used of murder. The nanny that raised her father was brutally stabbed to death. The only source of weapon found was the sharpened hairpin Xueyue always wore. Needless to say, her father made a judgment right on the spot and demanded for her to be punished. She knew she was framed by Bai Tianai. The reason was unclear to her, but she could make a few educated guesses as to why.

    "Xueyue is a very lovely name," Duchess Li Qixing said with a smile. It hid her curiosity and confusion. The name sounded a bit familiar, but where had she heard it before?

 Chapter 8 Mourn For You

    <h4>Chapter 8 Mourn For You</h4>

    Duke Li Shenyang stepped forward with his hands tucked behind his back. He stared at her bandaged head and arm. In a solemn and rigid voice, he asked, "You''re Viscount Bai''s youngest daughter, Bai Xueyue. Am I correct?" His keen eyes watched for the girl''s reaction. He was surprised when he didn''t see any fear in her eyes.

    "Yes, that is correct," she said with a slight edge in her tone. Her voice was cold, and her soft eyes became as rigid as stone.

    Although Duke Li Shenyang admired Xueyue''s truthfulness, a tiny part of him wished she denied the information. There was a conflicted expression on his face as he thought about Xueyue''splicated background.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s eyes wandered from the determined Xueyue to Duchess Li Qixing who seemed oblivious to the weight of Xueyue''s surname.

    Duchess Li Qixing was heavily involved in the women''s social circle, but she rarely batted an eye to government and political affairs.

    Duke Li Shenyang, however, was different. He held a very high title in court which forced him to memorize and learn about the affairs of the imperial courts.

    As he pondered the Bai surname, a sudden realization urred. Duke Li Shenyang remembered Viscount Bai requesting an imperial decree that would sentence a young girl to her death. Because the girl was only sixteen, there was a rift between Viscount Bai''s wishes and thews of Hechen.

    It''s unknown how Viscount Bai did it, but he eventually got the decree. However, there wasn''t the name of the child on the scroll, therefore, the imperial decree, technically, wasn''t sentencing Xueyue. it could''ve sentenced any child and Viscount Bai would get away with it.

    ''Interesting...Very interesting,'' Duke Li Shenyang thought to himself. He wondered what crimes the tiny girl in front of him could havemitted. She seemed rtively harmless due to her tiny and starved frame. Her eyes, so naive and ignorant, didn''t seem to be the type tomit crimes. He was curious about her, but didn''t want to interrogate the girl with the duchess present.

    Duke Li Shenyang stared at his wife for a brief moment. He saw her attachment towards Xueyue and the subtle way she cared for her. This was going to get messy...

    Although Xueyue doesn''t resemble Minghua when she''s conscious, Duchess Li Qixing was beginning to grow attached to Xueyue. Perhaps it was because she was a child with the same height and frame as Minghua, or perhaps it was because Duchess Li Qixing had personally taken care of the child, but she felt a sense offort within Xueyue. Whether this was a healthy feeling or not, none of the people in the room were willing to address it.

    "If you''refortable with sharing it, would you like to tell us what happened?" Duchess Li Qixing inquired. Her eyes were adoring and understanding. She was evidently fine with epting a "no" as her answer.

    Because Duke Li Shenyang was standing up, he didn''t see the broken expression on Xueyue''s face. But Duchess Li Qixing, who was sitting very close to Xueyue, clearly saw the pained expression. She felt her heart tightly squeezed at the sight of the girl. Xueyue seemed so young, barely above the age of sixteen, but it looked as if she had experienced an entire life of hardships.

    If only the duchess knew Xueyue had indeed suffered a life filled with nothing but painful events and memories.

    Xueyue slowly breathed in and out. She wanted to calm her mind and her heart before she spoke. Her illogical thinking and rash behavior had nearly got herself killed once. She was determined to not make the same foolish mistakes again. Stupidly speaking out of turn, naively blurting out the first thought that came to her mind and unwise outbursts, she realized how dumb she was back then.

    Xueyue finally realized why Bai Tianai was loved and doted on by everyone she came across. Sweet words, loving smiles, and always knowing the right words to speak, she was a very coy girl.

    When Xueyue raised her head, there was a glint of determination within her strong, hazel eyes.

    Duke Li Shenyang raised his brows in surprise when he suddenly thought of a man he was acquainted with. Their features were oddly simr and the thing they had most inmon was their piercing eyes.

    "I was in my previous condition because I was sentenced to death by beating by Viscount Bai." Xueyue''s statement horrified Duchess Li Qixing whose hand flew to cover her mouth. Her eyes painfully pricked with sympathy and began watering.

    Duke Li Shenyang was amused by her fearless confidence. He valued the trait of truthfulness more than anything in the world, and hearing Xueyue''s honest statement made him approve of her a little bit more.

    "As of now, he probably thinks I''m dead," Xueyue slowly said.

    Duchess Li Qixing sniffed into her handkerchief. She thought about the horrible life that this poor girl might''ve experienced.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression and reaction was very different from his wife. There was only a twinge of sadness within his eyes. He was very curious about Viscount Bai because he had heard interesting and dark rumors about how Xueyue was conceived.

    "Please don''t cry, Duchess Li." Xueyue gently rubbed Duchess Li Qixing''s shaking shoulders.

    "There must''ve been someone that dearly misses your presence¡ª"

    "No one will mourn for me¡­ No one will miss me even when I''m dead," Xueyue whispered, but everyone in the room had heard the pitiful statement.

 Chapter 9 Anything But Them

    <h4>Chapter 9 Anything But Them</h4>

    Duchess Li Qixing felt her heart ache in pain at Xueyue''s statement. ''How horrible!'' she thought to herself. If this was what she thought about her death, then how did she view herself...?

    Duke Li Shenyang pitied the tiny girl sitting on the bed. The more he stared at her, the weaker and helpless she seemed. Her shoulders were tiny, her arms were thin, and there was barely any meat on her. Her corbone was so evident, it looked as if you could bnce gold coins on top of it.

    Duke Li Shenyang saw Xueyue in a different light. To hear the truth from her mouth and not from the mouths of gossiping servants, he started to slowly but surely praise her a bit more. Instead of seeing a girl that slightly resembled his daughter, he saw a lonely and unwanted child that was desperately in need of love and attention.

    Duchess Li Qixing also shared the same thoughts as him. She wanted to shower Xueyue with the affections she could no longer give to her daughter...

    Duke Li Shenyang spoke up, "Do you have any grandparents or rtives that could take you in..." He stopped speaking upon noticing the horrified expression on Xueyue''s face. Her ghostly-white skin turned incredibly paler and she was breaking out in a nervous, cold sweat.

    "N-no! Anyone but them!" Xueyue rapidly shook her head in disbelief. She hugged her body at the very mention of "grandparents" and "rtives."

    "I''d rather kill myself than go back home..." Xueyue chillingly dered without hesitation. She shuddered at the thought of the monsters that dared to call themselves her aunt and uncle, grandpa and grandma.

    If her father hated her, then her rtives despised the very air Xueyue breathed. If her father''s beating and abuse were harsh, then her rtives'' were masters in the art of torture. The things that her grandparents had done to Xueyue were so incredibly harsh, it couldn''t be described by words.

    Duchess Li Qixing gasped at Xueyue''s statement and didn''t know what else to do but dearly hug the poor child.

    To experience such a loving gesture after sixteen years of never experiencing a parent''s love, Xueyue''s throat tightened. Her nose stung as her eyes moistened and blurred. Her lips trembled as sobs filled the room.

    Xueyue had never acquired the proper love from her mother, the viscountess. This sudden and overwhelming shower of love changed her in more ways than she had realized.

    "I-I only wanted to live a peaceful life..." Xueyue didn''t know what she was saying. It felt as if her heart was speaking instead of her tongue. "Was that so much to ask for? All I ever wanted was to make them proud. I-I never meant to--"

    "Shh, it''s okay." Duchess Li Qixing did not mind the small babbling, instead, she hugged Xueyue tighter.

    To experience such a kind gesture after sixteen years of never experiencing a parent''s love, Xueyue cried harder until her cheeks were moistened and stained with tears and she could no longer form sentences. She was too choked by sobs and hups to think about rambling on.

    Duke Li Shenyang was surprised by her tears, but seeing her violently cry like that, he knew the tears were real. Taking a few steps back, he decided to give them space. As he watched the pair, he felt a painful tug in his heart. He saw how much of a great mother Duchess Li Qixing truly was. Not that she wasn''t one, but this emotional scene made him further realize how much of a loving and amazing woman his wife was.

    "Don''t send me back to my rtives and grandparents, please..." Xueyue pleaded with her entire heart.

    Out of irrationality, Duchess Li Qixing said, "You will never be sent back to them. As long as you''re under my care and protection, I promise you will be safe and sound within the Li Manor." She was bewildered by the words that left her. Her mouth had spoken what her heart and brain was screaming for: She wanted to keep this frail girl within the Li Manor and never let her experience the unsaid hardships ever again.

    Duke Li Shenyang felt conflicted at his wife''s words. At first, he had thought it was only words offort, but then he saw the fierce stubbornness in her eyes and he knew she had meant every word she said. He stared at his wife for the longest time, watching her slowly soothe andfort the girl. His eyes then trailed to Xueyue who seemed rtively harmless. The entire time they talked, there wasn''t any sign of hidden motivations or intentions that could be detected by just looking into her eyes.

 Chapter 10 A Horrible Mother

    <h4>Chapter 10 A Horrible Mother</h4>

    Duchess Li Qixing nced down and breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing Xueyue had fallen asleep. She lifted the nket and delicately tucked Xueyue into bed. Xueyue was sound asleep and everyone could tell she was beyond exhausted. Her longshes were still brimmed with tears and her nose was bright pink from crying so hard.

    Duchess Li Qixing slowly released the breath she was holding in for a very long time. Her heart felt heavy at the thought of leaving the small girl alone. To throw her out into the streets meant she would rot in the cruel hands of society. She was only a young woman and it was evident she had experienced a life of hardships and abuse.

    Duke Li Shenyang watched his wife gingerly wipe the tears off of Xueyue''s dainty face. In a heavy and solemn voice, he said, "I know what you''re thinking and the answer is already no."

    Duchess Li Qixing raised her head and stared at her husband. She had already expected this response, but that didn''t stop her stubbornness. "Do I need your permission to keep this girl in a house we paid equal amounts over?" she said with a frown.

    Duke Li Shenyang felt his lips twitch with amusement. She was a smart one, that was for sure. "Because we paid an equal amount, we have toe to an equal agreement," he replied with mirth twinkling in his eyes.

    Duchess Li Qixing narrowed her eyes and thinned her lips. "The girl gets to stay," she dered, leaving no room for arguments.

    Duke Li Shenyang studied the fierce woman standing before him. In the twenty years that he had known her, she was always a docile and gentle woman who followed the rules of society: Men ruled over the house and the women stayed behind to take care of the children.

    Before the death of their daughter, Duchess Li Qixing was a calm and collected woman. But Duke Li Shenyang knew there was a hiddenyer of sass and passion beneath her gentle smiles and softened eyes. Perhaps it was because the death of her daughter made her realize something that Duke Li Shenyang didn''t, or perhaps it was because her stubbornness was beginning toe out, but the fighter within her was slowly making herself known.

    Duke Li Shenyang walked towards the right side of the room that was separated by a wide panel divider. He decided to sit down on the couch near the divider while immersing himself in his thoughts. He analyzed her with a fierce determination to make her bend to his wishes.

    Duchess Li Qixing raised her chin and glowered back at him. She recognized his expression. It was the same mask he was infamously known for in the imperial courts.

    Duke Li Shenyang was known as the "Iron Minister," because of his unrelenting and unflinching behavior that didn''t seem to budge from threats and bribes. As long as it involved the affairs of the imperial courts, nothing could get past his keen and hawk-like eyes.

    In a questioning and doubtful voice, he asked, "What will you tell her when she wakes up?"

    "I will offer her the choice to stay with me."

    "And if she rejects?"

    "I don''t see why she would."

    Duke Li Shenyangughed at his wife''s response, but theughter was cold and harsh. "A person will always have to prepare for the worst when they want the best," he mused.

    "There is no worst in this situation. She can stay here and flourish or rot at the hands of society. And we both know, she will choose the first option..." Duchess Li Qixing took a taunting step forward. Her hands were tucked in front of her in a very harmless manner.

    In a dignified voice, she continued, "We both saw her reaction. She has no one in this world that cares for her. She has experienced unimaginable things a child should never have to go through."

    A cold, dark smile spread on Duke Li Shenyang''s lips. The smile never reached his eyes.

    Duchess Li Qixing didn''t blink or flinch at the smile that would send most men cowering in their boots.

    Duke Li Shenyang stared at his wife and inquired, "And if she does decide to stay with us, what will the people say? What will your rtives, your parents, your long-term friends, and the people of society say about this issue?" He delivered the final blow and said, "Think about how this will affect your reputation."

    Suddenly, a smile bloomed upon Duchess Li Qixing''s face. Duke Li Shenyang was taken by surprise at her coy and humorless smile. A sense of uneasiness filled him. Since when was his lovely and docile wife capable of such a frightening smile and expression?

    "My dear husband, the people will not utter harmful words. They''re too fearful of their reputation to sit around and mindlessly gossip about me, the Duchess of Hechen. Everyone knows of my reputation, but they also know I do not tolerate malicious rumors." Duchess Li Qixing''s voice was so chilling and icy, he was almost amused by it, had he not shivered.

    He suddenly thought about the saying, "Hell hath no fury like a scorned mother."

    Duchess Li Qixing seized the opportunity and dered, "Xueyue will have the ''Li'' surname and the title as your niece who hase to stay and keep mepany." She knew she was taking a big risk by forcing her husband to pass his surname to her.

    "And why should she share my surname and not yours when you want to keep her more than me?" Duke Li Shenyang said with a scowl.

    "Because the people will talk less if she shares your household name. Wasn''t that your objective?" Duchess Li Qixing was right.

    If Xueyue shared the powerful "Li" surname, no one would dare bully orment about her. The people were terrified of the Li Family whose influence didn''t stop in the royal court. They had connections in the military, the trading ports, and anything a person could think of.

    Duke Li Shenyang decided to y devil''s advocate. "What if the people talk about her resemnce to Minghua and brand you as a horrible mother who is seeking for her daughter''s recement¡ª"

    Duchess Li Qixing interrupted him, "Besides our servants, no one has ever seen Minghua''s face. You kept her far away from society, because you feared her sleeves would be tainted by the scums of this world." Her eyes red at the horrendous memory of Minghua''s covered face.

    She remembered the rumors circting around Li Minghua. Because her face was always covered by a veil, the people thought she had some sort of illness or scar that made her look ugly, therefore Duke Li Shenyang was forced to have her cover it.

    But the truth waspletely different from the rumors.

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t want anyone to experience Minghua''s beauty. He didn''t want suitors to line up at his door and steal his daughter away. Duke Li Shenyang loved Li Minghua too much to allow any scummy man to marry her. He had kept her locked within the tall walls of the Li Manor. There was never a day she had seen or walked the outside world. For sixteen years, she remained hidden and locked away in the deepest wing of the Li Manor.

    Because Minghua died at an age that wasn''t suitable for a proper introduction to society, no one had ever seen her face. Aside from her high rank and title, there wasn''t anything special about her, thus, many nobles had lost interest in her.

    No one wanted to go against Duke Li Shenyang who always kept a tight leash on his daughter''s security.

    "I tried to keep her safe¡ª"

    "By having her face covered from sunrise to sunset was not keeping her safe!" Duchess Li Qixing hatefully scorned.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s eyes darkened at her crude words, but that did not stop her.

    "When she disappeared, no one even cared about her! No one could even give a proper description of her face so that she can be saved in our memories! Not a single painter was able to draw her urately! I don''t even have a picture to remember my daughter, OUR daughter, by!" Duchess Li Qixing didn''t mean for her voice to rise so high and her face to get red with angst, but the thought of her lovely daughter burning away in the manor broke her heart more than anything in this world.

    Duke Li Shenyang breathed in and out deeply at the harsh words of his wife. Pinching the spot between his brows, Duke Li Shenyang released a heavy sigh. In a tired voice, he dered, "The girl gets to stay."

 Chapter 11 Someone of Importance

    <h4>Chapter 11 Someone of Importance</h4>

    The next morning, the servants were bustling around as they quickly prepared a new room for Xueyue. It was bigger than the one she was currently staying in, and Duchess Li Qixing had ordered many essories, hanfus, and shoes for the girl.

    When Duchess Li Qixing had received word that Xueyue had woken up, she was the first to bring her a tray of food. She had gotten up extra early this morning to personally prepare light dishes suitable for a patient that had just awoken from a long sleep.

    "The servants could carry the trays," Duke Li Shenyang worriedly said to his wife.

    Duchess Li Qixing rolled her eyes at her overbearing husband. She was holding a silver tray that held one teacup, a pot of freshly brewed tea, and a bowl of vegetable porridge. "It''s only a tray of food, not a te filled with gold!" she retorted.

    Duchess Li Qixing loved her husband dearly, but sometimes he worried too much.

    The servants following closely behind them exchanged nervous nces. It was their job to take the workload off of their masters. They were supposed to carry the teapot, the water, and the tray. As the missus of the house, Duchess Li Qixing was supposed to live a life of extremefort. She had servants that waited on her beck and call. But here she was, stealing the job of a servant!

    "Be a dear and knock on the door for me." Duchess Li Qixing nudged her husband with her shoulder.

    Duke Li Shenyang grumbled something under his breath, but proceeded to follow his wife''s wishes.

    Knock, knock!

    Xueyue, who had been daydreaming, snapped back to reality. In a quiet and hesitant voice, she said, "Come in...?"

    Although Duke Li Shenyang was the one who knocked and opened the door, Duchess Li Qixing was the first one to enter the room. She was already five steps ahead of him and didn''t n on slowing down anytime soon. With an excited smile, Duchess Li Qixing said, "Sweet child, I''ve brought you breakfast!" She ced the silver tray onto the dining table.

    Xueyue felt overwhelmingly happy, so much that she struggled to form a proper sentence. "Thank you," she quietly said with a slight smile. It was the first time she had a meal so early. Back in the Bai Manor, the servants always served herst. The food would always consist of cold and unwanted dishes meant for servants.

    "There''s no need to thank me for doing the bare necessities." Duchess Li Qixing chuckled and said, "Come and enjoy your food!" She happily beckoned Xueyue forward.

    She didn''t expect Xueyue to be so polite. Daughters of wealthy families were usually spoiled rotten and rarely would they express any form of gratitude. There were a few smart ones that knew how to mask their bad temper with a thick mask of falsified innocence, but often, their masks were too thin and would crack easily.

    Even though Xueyue was bathed by a servant earlier and had brushed her teeth, she still felt self-conscious for some reason. She climbed out of the bed with the duchess''s help and then sat down in front of the table. ncing at the piping hot and delicious scented food, she asked herself, ''Can I really eat it...?''

    Duchess Li Qixing began to list the dishes she had made. "This is vegetable porridge cooked with carrots, mushrooms, and spinach! It is filled with nutrients for your malnourished body. In this teapot is ginseng tea brewed with goji berries and jujube. It can boost your immune system and energy." She excitedly sped her hands together and smiled encouragingly. Although she wasn''t showing it, the duchess was very nervous about Xueyue''s reaction. Will she like the food? Will she push it away? What if the porridge is too salty?

    Xueyue sat idly at the table. When she didn''t make any move of touching the porridge and tea, Duchess Li Qixing felt her heart drop. Duke Li Shenyang frowned. Was there something wrong?

    "U-uhm...You''re not going to eat?" Xueyue quietly asked.

    The couple blinked in surprise. Duke Li Shenyang pleasantly thought to himself, ''At least she was raised with manners.'' In a calm voice, he said, "We''ve already had our morning meal. You don''t have to worry about us. It''s best to enjoy the food when it''s warm." He nodded towards the spoon and finely-carved chopsticks.

    After the reassurance, Xueyue finally sat down. She nervously picked up the spoon and took the first bite of her porridge. Her eyes immediately widened at the amazing vors that bursted in her mouth. She had never tasted something so warm and delicious!

    Duchess Li Qixing watched in awe as Xueyue finished the bowl within seconds. She scraped the entire bowl clean and finished all of her tea. There was not a single food gone to waste!

    "How did it taste?" Duchess Li Qixing tried to keep her voice calm and without any excitement, but her tone sounded very eager for a good response.

    Xueyue happily grinned. "It''s the best dish I''ve ever had! I''ve never tasted something so warm, rich, and delicious!"

    Duchess Li Qixing was so overwhelmingly happy at thepliment, she nearly cried tears of happiness. None of her childrenplimented her cooking ¡ª most of them disliked it for their mellow and simple voring.

    Duke Li Shenyang and his children always preferred saltier and heavier dishes. Though they''d always eat the dishes Duchess Li prepared, they''d add their own vorings into it by adding more salt or soy sauce.

    Duchess Li Qixing tenderly grabbed Xueyue''s tiny hands. In a gentle and reassuring voice, she asked, "My dear, would you like to stay in the manor and enjoy warm meals every day?" She felt her heart race with anxiety while awaiting Xueyue''s response.

    "You mean I can stay here and work?" Xueyue was beyond excited at Duchess Li Qixing''s words.

    Taken by surprise at her words, Duchess Li Qixing awkwardly blinked a few times. She didn''t expect Xueyue to immediately think about working as a servant. ''What an odd thing to say for a girl her age...'' She tilted her head and thought to herself, ''This child has the blood of a viscount running through her veins. Why would she think about working?'' How bad could her life had been in the Bai Household for a legitimate daughter to desire the strenuous work of a maidservant?

    "You will not stay here as a servant. Your only task is to live happily and healthily," Duchess Li Qixing patiently exined.

    Xueyue tilted her head in confusion. "I-I don''t understand¡­?"

    "I would like to adopt you into our family," Duchess Li Qixing gently said.

    Xueyue felt her eyes grow wide with surprise. "But why me? I don''t have anything I can offer."

    Duchess Li Qixing ced a tender hand over Xueyue''s tiny hands. "You see, sweetheart, I used to have a daughter your age. She was as bright and wonderful as you, but I-I eventually lost her to an unfortunate ident..." She strained her smile. "I''m not a selfish woman. I don''t want a girl to rece her spot as my daughter, but nothing can ever rece thepany of a young girl." She paused and carefully thought about what she wanted to say next.

    "Please don''t misunderstand...I still love my daughter very much. I have two lovely sons who are a few years older than you, but nothing can fill the void of having a chance to cook for, dress, chat, and enjoy asional tea-times with a lovely girl..." Duchess Li Qixing tucked a few strands of hair behind her ears. "I suppose I''m rambling a bit too long."

    Xueyue immediately shook her head. "No, your exnation was the perfect length!"

    She realized Duchess Li Qixing seemed like the type to me herself for doing nothing wrong. Xueyue didn''t want to ce a heavy burden on a woman who has shown her so much kindness.

    "I suppose what I want to ask of you is if you''d like to be my adopted daughter and inherit the Li Family name?" Duchess Li Qixing softly asked Xueyue.

    Xueyue felt her eyes grow wider in surprise. Her voice seemed to be stuck in her throat and the emotions washed over her like a heavy tidal wave. ''Would I finally have someone to call Mother?'' she asked herself as her heart swelled with excitement.

    In fear of her rejection, Duchess Li Qixing hurriedly listed the benefits, "You can restart in life! After inheriting the Li surname, you can gain a new identity. I hate to brag, but our family is wealthy enough to allow you to enjoy a life free from hardships. You will have a better future with us than out in the streets." She nudged her husband who cleared his throat and finally spoke up.

    "My lovely wife states nothing but the truth. If you would allow us, we would happily ept you into our family." Duke Li Shenyang had a small smile on his face. Though the majority of his heart wanted to go against his own words, there was a small portion that was beginning to warm up to the idea of having Xueyue as their daughter...

    Xueyue breathed out slowly and breathed in deeply. With tear-filled eyes and voice crackly from holding back her emotions, she said, "It would be my greatest honor to ept your offer."

 Chapter 12 Not an Angel

    <h4>Chapter 12 Not an Angel</h4>

    The days leisurely went by and soon, a week had passed.

    Duchess Li Qixing had requested an imperial decree that would make Xueyue her legal daughter. Because Duchess Li Qixing had deep connections to the Imperial Pce, the decree came within three days and soon, Bai Xueyue inherited the Li Family name.

    She was officially Li Xueyue.

    Duke Li Shenyang made sure the entire ordeal was kept private. None of the nosy schrs or backstabbing ministers heard a single whisper of what happened.

    Each servant stayed loyal to their master because the majority of them were hand-picked by the duke and duchess, whereas the remainder were people that were offered a second chance at life. Many of the servants used to be orphans from the streets, the unwanted people of society, and the Lis gave them a ce to stay.

    Because the servants were always well-treated, always had a warm room to sleep in, were generously fed, clothed, and had a good wage, their loyalty was firm. None of them spoke about what happened in the past seven days, and none would dare to.

    However, Duke and Duchess Li''s greatest concern wasn''t the court''s reaction, but how their eldest sons Li Wenmin and Li Chenyang would react. They were eighteen, and it would be hard to force a new sibling onto them.

    If they disliked someone, it would be extremely hard to overturn their decision. Xueyue didn''t want to suddenly barge into their life and demand a spot as their sister. Instead, she wanted to slowly get to know them.

    When Duchess Li Qixing offered Xueyue a chance for a proper introduction, she had politely declined. She knew a forced introduction would not be a good start to their rtionship. She wanted to meet them naturally.

    But two days had passed and Xueyue hadn''t seen any of them. She knew they were always somewhere in the expansive manor. After asking a few hesitant servants, she finally discovered the twin''s favorite spot was the training grounds behind the Li Manor.

    The training grounds were an enormous open field behind the Li Manor. It had luscious green grass that seemed to stretch for miles on. The Li twins were often found in that area practicing their swords or horseback riding. Although none of the boys were that good with archery, there were still a few target posts present in the field.

    Stepping onto the open field, Xueyue was in the process of tying her long hair into a ponytail. The corner of her rosy lips tilted up when the spring breeze whirled past her, and yed with her hair. In a fitted training robe, she walked into the field with a bow and quiver in her hands.

    Archery was a sport she exceptionally excelled in. She didn''t know where and how she picked up on it, but eventually, it was the only thing she found happiness within. However, the glee was short-lived when the viscountess forbade Xueyue from attending her lessons. The viscountess had feared the sport would make her too masculine to appeal to a suitor. Eager to please her mother in any way she could, she dropped the sport along with martial arts, sword fighting, and horseback riding.

    At first, Xueyue was reluctant to practice other hobbies. But the viscountess had convinced Leiyu to convince Xueyue to pick up on things that were unsuitable for her. The naive little Xueyue believed in him more than anyone in the world. Thus, she forced her strong fingers to practice the zither until her fingers bleed. Her strengthened body was starved in order to be molded into a "perfect aristocratic daughter" who excelled in flower dances. Her fingers were constantly pricked by the embroidery that her hands were always covered with bandages. She did all of it to earn the viscountess and Leiyu''s affection. She never received any of it.

    Xueyue tried to push the unhappy thoughts away. The more she thought about them, the more her heart burned with vows of vengeance.

    Bending down, she plucked a chunk of grass. Rubbing her hands into it, she made sure her hands were dry. Letting the grass fall, Xueyue was able to analyze where the wind was blowing.

    In order for one to master the bow, one had to master the wind first.

    Since the wind blew west, she aligned her body for a suitable position. "Deep breaths..." she muttered to herself when she loaded the first arrow.

    From a distance, there were two boys intently watching Xueyue. They sat under a willow tree whose long branches were shades from the bright sun. As per Duke Li Shenyang''s strict instructions, the boys had been training since the early morning. Their lessons had gone deep into the afternoon, and their instructors just left a few minutes ago.

    "Chenyang, what do you think about the odds of her getting a bullseye?" Li Wenmin leaned against the tree bark and tilted his head towards his younger brother.

    Li Chenyang, the quieter and colder brother, stared at the girl. His dark eyes twirled with disapproval. "Thin frame, tiny arms, shaky posture, I doubt it," he quietly answered.

    Li Wenmin nodded his head in agreement, but felt a slight hint of doubt. She was, indeed, very frail, but her posture seemed wless. It was as if she had practiced this form many times before. "Mother decided to adopt her as our little sister."

    Chenyang felt his mood dampen. His eyes tore the girl apart and took in every detail about her.

    Long hair that was held up in a high ponytail, skin as translucent and pale as the rare white jade, hazel eyes fiercer than any girl he has seen, yet soft and delicate features of a porcin doll, he understood why his mother took a liking to the girl.

    She was breathtakingly beautiful at a young age, and with no doubt, her beauty would blossom as she aged. Duchess Li Qixing gained not only a daughter, but a suitable girl to marry off in case the Li Family needed more wealth.

    "The first night she came into our manor, I snuck into her room to catch a glimpse of her. With her eyes closed, she slightly resembled our Minghua. But now that she''s awake and her eyes are open, I don''t see the simrity anymore..." Li Wenmin''s voice trailed off, and he stopped talking when he saw the dark, gloomy look on Chenyang''s face.

    Li Chenyang quietly snarled, "Don''t talk about her." Speaking Li Minghua''s name was like a taboo. His parents might''ve seen the innocent angel within her, but he knew the truth. Li Minghua was no angel.

    Li Chenyang''s eyes never left Xueyue. She was readjusting the tightness of the strings. The more he watched her, the more he felt agitated. "She doesn''t belong here--"

    Xueyue had released the arrow. It released a light ''ping'' and flew into the air.

    Li Wenmin held his breath.

    THUD!

    Li Wenmin could not believe his eyes. The arrownded perfectly in the center of the farthest target. "No way..." he breathed out in shock.

    "That was a lucky shot," Chenyang grumbled.

    Xueyue loaded her second arrow. Now that she had her bowstring perfectly adjusted and the wind had slowed down, she would begin her performance.

    Closing her eyes and taking in a deep breath, Xueyue released her second arrow.

    THUD!

    Chenyang felt his throat tighten.

    The second arrow had not only struck the center, but it had split the first arrow in half.

    "Another lucky shot--" Chenyang''s voice died out when Xueyue released her third arrow. This time, it went through the second arrow.

    And then she loaded her fourth arrow, until all five arrows were used up.

    Li Wenmin and Li Chenyang could not believe their eyes. Every arrow had split the one before it and she was aiming for the farthest target.

 Chapter 13 Young Master

    <h4>Chapter 13 Young Master</h4>

    Li Wenmin decided it was better to approach Xueyue than watch her from a distance like some creeper. "I''m going to go and talk to her."

    He patted the grass and dirt off of his training pants and left before Li Chenyang could reply.

    Li Xueyue was too immersed in archery to notice the man walking towards her. She was startled when someone tapped her on her right shoulder. Turning around, a broad chest came into her view and she was not surprised to see one of the twins.

    The left side of his lips curled into a lopsided and friendly smile, "Hello, my name is Li Wenmin."

    Xueyue stared at the easygoing man in front of her. His features were soft to the eyes, and there was a childish glint in his eyes. He was quite the looker, but she was too unfazed by appearances. Zheng Leiyu was one of the most beautiful men she had ever seen, but his ugly heart outshone his beauty.

    "Li Wenmin, you bastard. Don''t run off without me," Li Chenyang snarled with his fingers curled into impatient fists.

    "If I''m a bastard, what does that make you? We were born at the same time," Li Wenmin scoffed.

    Xueyue was briefly taken by surprise to see that they looked nothing like each other and yet they were twins. They shared simr thick eyebrows and thin lips, but Li Chenyang eyes were considerably darker. There was a slight scar near his right brow and his cheeks were more hollowed. Because his jaw was clenched with anger, it was ticking and sharp.

    She had expected them to be identical and not fraternal twins. Upon closer inspection, she viewed Li Wenmin as the warm summer rays. Mirth danced in his eyes, sparkling with childish wonder. On the other hand, Li Chenyang was like the frigid winter wind. He behaved as if nothing in this world amused or entertained him.

    Li Wenmin was the first to notice the awkward tension. He cleared his throat and pped his hands to garner their attention. "You, my dear, must be Xueyue." He tapped his long finger on her button nose.

    Xueyue was unsure of what to call him. He was older than her, which meant she should show some respect, but they were technically supposed to be on familiar terms. With a worried heart that she might offend him by directly calling him by his name, she finally decided to settle with a more respectable way of addressing him, "You''ve guessed correctly¡­ Young Master Li."

    Li Wenmin blinked in surprise. He ruffled Xueyue''s hair, a friendly grin on his lips. "Drop the title, you can just call me Li Wenmin. Or even better, Wen-ge!" he mused.

    Xueyue tilted her head to the side. Was he always this nice?

    "And in return, I''ll call you Xiao Yue!" He giddily pped his hands.

    "This iceberg beside me is my younger brother, Li Chenyang. I''m sure Mother, and Father have talked to you about us?"

    Xueyue immediately noticed how chatty and bright Li Wenmin was. His hands would sometimes move animatedly when he talked, and he was extremely lively.

    "It''s a pleasure to meet both of you," she hesitantly responded.

    When Li Chenyang crossed his arms and raised a brow, she nervously nced at the floor.

    cing her right hand over her left and then shifting her hands to her right torso, Xueyue awkwardly curtsied.

    "Whatever," Li Chenyang muttered before walking back towards the tree.

    Xueyue felt her heart drop to her stomach. ''Did I offend him already?''

    "Don''t worry about my younger brother. He''s always this grumpy," Li Wenmin quickly said.

    "Did I offend him?" Xueyue quietly asked.

    Li Wenmin tilted his head to see Li Chenyang walking back towards the willow tree. He slung an arm around Xueyue''s shoulder and smiled. "Trust me, if you had offended him, he wouldn''t have left you unscathed."

    Li Chenyang proceeded to pull a book out of god knows where.

    "Let''s not worry about him." Li Wenmin guided Xueyue''s attention away from the willow tree. "Instead, let''s pay our attention to those arrows."

    Xueyue lifted her eyes to look at the arrows she had recently shot.

    He added on, "Will you teach me how to shoot like that?"

    Surprised by his request, Xueyue''s eyes flew towards him. ''He wanted me, a child, to teach him how to shoot an arrow?!'' Sure, she was skilled in archery, but she doubted the adequacy of her skills to be a teacher. "I''ve never taught someone how to shoot an arrow. I don''t think I''m eligible to teach you."

    "Well, you won''t know unless you try!"

    "Uhm...." Xueyue awkwardly trailed off. ''Why was he so bright and optimistic? Should I try and be optimistic as well?''

    Upon sensing her clear hesitation, Li Wenmin leaned closer to Xueyue. In a lowered voice, he whispered, "In return, I''ll tell you how to win Li Chenyang over."

    Xueyue''s eyes brightened at the opportunity before her. She didn''t want any unnecessary tension between her and Duchess Li''s sons. It would lead to unwanted problems and conflicts that would eventually drive her farther away from her goal...

    After thinking about it for a while, a small smile graced her lips.

    Li Wenmin noticed how amusing her eyes were. When she was happy, it was a deep shade of hazel, rich like mahogany. Her eyes seemed to be her best features and in a few years, he''d finally understand why.

    "Deal!" Xueyue happily said.

    Li Wenmin grinned as he struck a hand out for her to shake. "It''s a deal then." They shook their hands in cooperation.

 Chapter 14 Completely Erased

    <h4>Chapter 14 Completely Erased</h4>

    From a window with the perfect view of the open field, a man stood watching Xueyue and Wenmin practice archery. His eyes were guarded and it was hard to read his thoughts, but if one were to look closer, there was the ghost of a smile on his lips.

    Duke Li Shenyang watched Xueyue patiently teach Wenmin the tricks and skills of archery. Even though Wenmin was horrible at the sport and was performing very poorly, she never lost her temper. Instead, she continued to teach him through a series of encouragement.

    A soft knock rang throughout the room and the duke muttered a small response. A man dressed in ck carefully walked into the room and kneeled. His face was concealed by a clothed mask that hid the lower half of his features, revealing nothing but his lifeless eyes.

    "Ling, what did you find out about Xueyue?" Duke Li Shenyang solemnly asked without turning to face his henchman.

    Ling had been with the duke for as long as both men could remember. Ling''s father served the duke''s father, and as such, Ling only knew of the duke since he was young. Once upon a time, Ling had a name beyond a simple character, but he decided he was too unworthy of a longer name.

    Even though Duke Li Shenyang was not watching him, Ling maintained his kneeling position.

    "Her full name is Bai Xueyue. She was neglected since birth, because of the unfavorable circumstances surrounding it. The viscount is not her birth father. Rumors were specting that the viscountess was having an affair, but many of the workers swore she was raped. As a result, Xueyue was born."

    "Any mentions of the rapist''s name?" Duke Li Shenyang asked.

    "All traces and records of the man were erased. Viscount Bai made it look as if he never existed."

    Duke Li Shenyang hummed to himself. The viscount was a vicious man in court who was infamous for his concealed greed for more power. He would not be hindered by rumors or gossip. It did not surprise the duke that information about the rapist''s whereabouts was destroyed. The man was probably ughtered by the viscount.

    Duke Li Shenyang nced at Xueyue. Even in the far distance, he felt a sense of familiarity towards her. Where had he seen her before? He felt as if she resembled someone he knew, but couldn''t ce a finger on who it was.

    "Was the man murdered?"

    "If there was a murder, whereabouts of his burial are unknown. For his heinous crimes, it wouldn''t be a surprise if he was chopped up and fed to the pigs."

    Duke Li Shenyang thought about his servant''s words for a while before saying, "Find out more about her birth father. I don''t care what dirty methods you have to use."

    "Yes, sir," Ling immediately responded.

    "Now list the details of Xueyue''s life to me."

    "Not much is known about her. Aside from the servants of the Bai Manor and her guardians, no one knew about her. She was kept a secret from society, but there was evidence that Earl Zheng and his family were affiliated with her. She was acquainted with Young Master Zheng Leiyu, but they stopped being friends after he was announced to be engaged to Bai Tianai. The viscount and his wife kept Xueyue locked within the Bai Manor."

    It wasn''t rare for fathers to keep their daughters tucked away in their wealthy manors.

    Many parents didn''t want scandals to circle around their daughters. Most girls of noble families weren''t introduced to high society until they were of age. But mothers usually wanted their daughters to be well-acquainted with other girls to strengthen rtions. It would be hard to keep daughters from outstanding families hidden.

    Even Duke and Duchess Li struggled to keep Minghua away from society. Many people were curious about the only daughter of the outstanding and extremely wealthy Li Household. They wondered if she was as beautiful as her mother.

    Unbeknownst to Duke Li Shenyang, Li Minghua would asionally sneak out of the Li Manor to stroll and explore Hechen all alone. She was always disguised as a servant, thus not many paid any attention to her.

    Duke Li Shenyang turned back to the quiet Ling. "She was sentenced to death by beating. Go and investigate this detail further. Only return to me when you''ve collected a detailed report."

    "Yes, my lord." Ling nodded, cupped his fists, and excused himself. He left so quietly, his footsteps weren''t heard throughout the halls. None of the servants knew of his existence, and both men nned to keep it that way.

    "Look! Itnded on the target!" Wenmin''s loud shout brought Duke Li Shenyang''s attention back to the window. He watched as Xueyue gleefully pped her hands. After four missed shots, Wenmin''s fifth arrow finally struck the edge of their closet target post.

    The seriousness and chilliness left Duke Li Shenyang when he saw the bright expressions on both children''s faces. He was originally worried the twins and her wouldn''t get along, but was d to see their rtionship didn''t seem strained on the surface.

    Knowing his schedule was clear and empty, he spent the remainder of his afternoon watching the two practice archery. The more he watched their interaction, the more he began to see Xueyue in a positive light. Perhaps having her around wasn''t so bad after all...

 Chapter 15 First Kiss

    <h4>Chapter 15 First Kiss</h4>

    After a long day of practicing archery with Wenmin, then an awkward dinner, and one jasmine-scented bathter, Xueyue tiredly copsed onto her bed. During dinner, the duchess was very attentive. She would constantly ce food into Xueyue''s bowl of rice, but when Wenmin joined in to do the same, Li Chenyang abruptly stood up. The lively chatter died down after his sudden exit.

    Xueyue groaned into her pillow at the memory of Li Chenyang''s chilly face. ''What did I do wrong?'' she grumbled to herself. Not wanting to dwell on the issue any longer, she slid into her bed. Peacefully rxing her body and closing her eyes, she fell into a gruesome nightmare of an unforgivable beating filled with pleas, screams, and a man whose hand had roamed too close to her body...

    - - - - -

    "No¡­ stop, I-I didn''t do it!" Xueyue mumbled in her sleep, "Let go of me, who are you?!"

    Gasping for air, Xueyue abruptly sat up in her bed. She panted for air as her heart raced faster than a horse in an open field. She believed the gods were ying a very cruel trick on her. First, she experienced abuse for all of her life, and now she was forced to rey it every night? What kind of sick and twisted joke was this?

    "I need fresh air," she said to no one in particr. Climbing out of the bed, she grabbed a random shawl from the closet. It was made of the finest cotton and embroidery, but she was never the type to understand expensive articles of clothing. To her, they were all the same, including this shawl.

    Exchanging her indoor slippers for outdoor ones, Xueyue left her room and headed straight for the garden. It was a delightful sight that brought a sense of tranquility over her thumping heart. The overwhelming scent ofvender soothed her anxiety. Pushing open the creaky garden doors, she decided to head towards the gazebo in the center.

    With her fingertips brushing every flower she saw, she slowly headed towards her destination. Sitting on the cold, hard surface of the bench, her body curled into a small ball. Leaning her head onto one of the sturdy posts holding up the rooftop of the gazebo, she marveled at the night sky.

    Tonight, the sky was starless. Even the moon hid from her. The nk and gloomy canvas mirrored her conflicted emotions. Her eyes went out of focus when her mind wandered to the viscount. Not knowing a single thing about her stained birth, she questioned his cruelty and abuse. He always treated Tianai with the uttermost love and affection but spared none for Xueyue. Thinking about Tianai also led to thoughts about Zheng Leiyu¡­ the first man to break her heart. She thought about how gentle and kind he was to her, in a world where everyone seemed adamant on destroying her happiness.

    Zheng Leiyu adored her. There was even a time where he stole her first kiss. But naive little Xueyue didn''t understand the emotions within his eyes. She didn''t understand the lust and desires. When he tried to make a move on her, and she pushed him away, it was the first time he had evershed back at her. She remembered the night she discovered Leiyu and Tianai together.

    Wandering the dark halls, Xueyue was confused by the soft whimpering from the other side of the hallways. She acted upon her curiosity and had witnessed Leiyu and Tianai''s passionate bodies entangled in bed.

    Bai Tianai was a very wise girl, who was good with her words, unlike the silent and clumsy Xueyue. She had convinced the viscount to convince the Zheng of a unification. It did not take long for a marriage to be proposed.

    Xueyue thought about the docile and kind Leiyu. She realized how self-conscious of a man he was. Hecked any hint of talent in sports that she enjoyed. When she excelled in archery, horseback riding, and swords fighting, he excelled in poetry, writing, and literature. Anything he deemed "unsuitable for a woman", he''d forced her to stop practicing. Wanting to please the older boy who''s beauty was so blindingly radiant, she immediately obliged. The sparrow snipped off her wings to join the swan, and in the process, she drowned.

    "You''re crying."

    Xueyue''s heart skipped in terror at the unexpected voice behind her. She turned around and was puzzled to see Li Chenyang holding antern. Dressed in his night robes, his long hair was tied up by a single thread. There was a tired and disheveled expression on his face¡­ as if he had also experienced a nightmare.

    "I''m crying...?" Xueyue confusedly repeated his words while pressing a hand to her face. Her cheek was indeed stained with tears. She dropped her head and turned her body away from him. She didn''t want him to see her in such a weak state.

    "Here, use this," he muttered, thrusting a handkerchief in front of which she nced at with confusion. Her eyes trailed from the handkerchief to his frosty face.

    "Thank you..." Xueyue gratefully said while epting the handkerchief with both hands.

    Li Chenyang watched her wipe the tears away before turning his head away from her and strolling to the opposite side of the pavilion. He sat down on the cold bench and stared at her conflicted expression. He asked himself, ''Was I too harsh towards her during dinner?'' He thought about his mother''s lecture after she cornered him in his study. She had used him of being rude and mean.

    Li Chenyang had asked if it was because Xueyue hadined to the duchess to which she revealed Xueyue did not utter a single thing about him.

    Instead of crying to the duchess, Xueyue kept her mouth shut about the way the younger twin treated her.

    He was grateful for her silence. Even so, Duchess Li was quick with her thinking when she pinpointed his stand-offish behavior. The duchess knew her younger son treated girls harshly, but she had hoped he''d treat Xueyue with respect.

    In a very low and quiet voice, Li Chenyang hesitantly asked, "Were you crying because of me?"

    Xueyue lifted her head to stare at him in confusion. Tilting her head to the side, she had had a puzzled expression. "Huh?"

    Li Chenyang awkwardly cleared his throat. "Nevermind," he muttered.

    "I''m sorry, I didn''t hear you the first time."

    "Just forget what I said," Li Chenyang grumbled, crossing his arms.

    Quietly thinking to herself, a thought popped into Xueyue''s mind. She reassured, "If you asked why I was crying, don''t worry, it wasn''t because of you."

    Li Chenyang''s head snapped to her. For once, he didn''t know how to respond. Silently, he stared at her as she stared at the sky. He wondered why she wasn''t eager to pay attention to her appearance. Her hair was a mess and her shawl didn''t match her nightgown. Herck of awareness made her appear even more enthralling and he knew this would be a problem in the future. Once suitors caught sight of her, the Li Manor will be quite busy. He sighed. How tiring.

    The longer he looked at her, the more he disliked how little attention she paid towards him.

    Amongst the nobles, the twins were very popr. For Li Wenmin, it was his carefree smile, the twinkle in his eyes, and his flirtatious nature. For Li Chenyang, it was how silent and mysterious he was. He was always quiet and would rarely talk to people aside from his older brother and parents. Many mothers wanted their daughters to marry into the Li Family because of their good fortune and notably favorable reputation.

    Li Wenmin was the type of man who rarely got irritated. Even if he did, he''d always try his best to conceal it with a weing smile. Li Chenyang was the opposite with his brooding stare and disapproving frown. For odd reasons, many women didn''t mind his distant behavior. As a matter of fact, they seemed more drawn to him because of it.

    When Li Chenyang gave others the cold shoulders and disdained eyes, the girls would flock to him even more. He hated pestering and chatty women who cared too much for him ¡ª except the duchess. However, Xueyue was different¡­ it was like she didn''t care for him at all. She didn''t talk to him unless he talked to her first, and the thought bothered him. For him, the girls would always be the first to strike up a conversation, not the other way around...

    While Li Chenyang silently glowered to himself, Xueyue waspletely oblivious to the battle inside his head.

    Xueyue was too focused on her own battles.

    Hating how she wasn''t looking at him, or sparring him any of her time, Li Chenyang rattled his brain for something to say. He suddenly thought about the stupid nickname that Wenmin had told Xueyue to call him. Just when he opened his mouth, he closed it.

    He didn''t want to force her into saying things she didn''t want to.

    Li Chenyang was startled when Xueyue suddenly stood up. He watched her pat off the dust from her nightgown.

    "Where are you going?" he instantly asked when she headed towards the pavilion''s entrance. Not once had she nced at him, until he spoke to her.

    Xueyue turned around. In a confused voice, she said, "To my room...?"

    "Oh," he responded. "Good night." He nodded his head, almost as if he was satisfied by his own behavior.

    "Good night, Young Master Li," she softly whispered, before walking off.

    He frowned at her disappearing back. Just Young Master Li...? Not Chen-ge? Or even Li Chenyang? Suddenly, he was irked and he didn''t know why. ''I didn''t care about her before, why am I starting to care now?'' he grumbled inside of his head. He shook his head and sighed. Perhaps a good night''s sleep would make him more rational.

 Chapter 16 Never Forge

    <h4>Chapter 16 Never Forge</h4>

    The next day, a modest carriage stopped in front of the main entrance of the Li Manor. A regal man stepped out, apanied by men in ck. Their faces were covered and when the Li guards searched them, they found no weapons ¡ª however, there were definitely inklings that they did not need weapons to take down grown men.

    The man was dressed like a peasant. His robes were dirt brown and dirty, but the way he walked with his head held high and his hands tucked behind his back eluded a great air of elegance.

    The servants stared at him in confusion. Who was this strange beggar that was able to afford a carriage?

    But the butlers that took direct orders from the duke knew it was wiser to greet the man first.

    "Honorable guest, you have arrived," one of the butlers said with a friendly smile that never reached his eyes. "Please, allow me to guide the way¡ª"

    "I can find the duke myself." The man brushed past the butler and dumbfounded servants.

    Why was a man dressed in dirt-colored clothes and dusty shoes being treated like a respectable guest? To the in eye, there wasn''t anything special about him.

    "Honorable guest, Duke Li has entrusted me the task of guiding you to his study¡ª"

    "Hm, it seems the Li servants are ipetent and deaf. I already said, I didn''t need a guide," the manmented when the butler dared to talk back. He walked into the Li Manor surrounded by his men whose eyes scanned every inch of their surroundings.

    Everywhere he walked and turned, the servants would stop and stare. No one had bowed to him because of his dull colored clothes and dirty face. They wondered why a man like him was wandering the Li hallways. No one had the guts to ask him that as they were all too hesitant of the man''s guards.

    Upon noticing the confused nces and disrespectful servants, the man said to himself, "The duke needs to rece his servants." He strolled the expansive hallway with no particr sense of direction in mind. "Why must that fool have such confusing and decorative hallways? It must''ve been my sister''s idea," hemented.

    The hallways had a very open concept where you could see the beautiful garden and ponds that wrapped around the walkway. Interlocking wooden frames lined the top of the hallways and the half-fence was low, but extremely detailed. The structure of the house was designed by two master craftsmen who had spent two years working on the hallways. Because it would be one of the first things that a person noticed, Duke Li ensured the hallways were always in the best condition.

    The man walked without a care in the world until something caught his attention. From the corner of his eyes, he saw a swift movement and upon closer inspection, his brows rose. It was a young woman no more than the age of sixteen.

    Xueyue was feeding the Koi fishes in the gardens when she heard the shuffle of footsteps. She poured in thest drop of fish food and then stood up straighter. She was intrigued by the man in in,moner clothing. She saw his men and concluded he was not a simple beggar.

    Although she was unsure of his status, she still kept her manners at bay. Cupping her fists, then moving it to her lower right torso, she dipped her legs and performed a very graceful and beautiful bow.

    The man smiled at her. Out of everyone here, she was the first and only person to bow without fear and hesitation. She approached him and softly asked, "Sir, are you lost?"

    He tilted his head and examined her features. She looked so simr to a man he knew. Who was it? She was not dressed as a servant, thus, he knew she was not a random maid. There should be no other youngdy inside the house, except for Li Minghua and he knew of her unfortunate circumstances.

    The man said, "I am indeed a little lost. Will you guide me to the duke''s study?"

    Xueyue immediately nodded her head. "Of course." She approached the steps leading into the hallway. Quickly, she changed her outdoor shoes for her indoor ones. "Duke Li''s study is this way." She guided him in the opposite direction that he had nned on trekking down.

    After turning a few corners and ignoring the stares of curious servants, Xueyue and the man finally reached Duke Li''s study.

    "This is the duke''s study. If there''s nothing else that I can help you with, I will be excusing myself now." Xueyue bowed before turning to leave.

    He suddenly spoke up, "Child, I never got your name."

    Though he had a very warm and friendly face, Xueyue couldn''t help but feel cautious about him. He certainly seemed harmless, but there was a heavy strong air of authority around him.

    She turned around and smiled. "My name is Xueyue."

    "Just Xueyue...?" the man inquired. He wanted to know her surname and if she was of a suitable status for marriage. She seemed quite young, but the man had a grandson who was two years older than her. He had never met a child who didn''t judge a person by their appearance. Throughout the entire walk, she was very attentive and respectful. Such a girl would make a very filial daughter-inw.

    A gruff voice answered the man, "It''s Li Xueyue."

    The two turned around to see Duke Li standing outside of his door. He had a very nonchnt expression, but there was slight irritation in his eyes. "Don''t dwell at the door. Please,e in." He urged the man inside, but the man stood rooted to the ground.

    "That name...It sounds awfully familiar," the manmented, feeling amused.

    Xueyue tilted her head and stared at the man. Did she know him? Was he one of Viscount Bai''s friends? Her throat tightened at the idea.

    "She''s my distant niece," Duke Li answered, but his response dodged the man''sments.

    After an electrifying stare down between the duke and the man, thetter finally said, "Fine, fine. I''ll leave this issue alone."

    Duke Li let out a sigh he didn''t know he was holding. Just as the man was about to stroll into the study, he took a fleeting nce at Xueyue''s face.

    In a low mummer, the man said, "Xueyue. I will not forget that name."

 Chapter 17 Mooch Some Breakfast and Tea

    <h4>Chapter 17 Mooch Some Breakfast and Tea</h4>

    Xueyue stood there, puzzled by his words. Her eyebrows drew together as she stared at the closed wooden doors. She had never seen the man once in her life except for today and they''ve barely even talked for ten minutes, yet, he already seemed to like her. What a strange man...

    Suddenly, the sound of loud thumping rang throughout the wooden corridors. "Xiao Yue, I''m finally let out from hell¡ªoops, I meant sses!" Li Wenmin shouted from the other side of the hallway.

    Xueyue turned around to see an energetic Wenmin bounce his way towards her with a bright smile on his face. He held a sword in one hand and his helmet in the other. ''He must''ve finished sword practice,'' she thought to herself.

    "Let''s go and practice archery!" Without waiting for her reply, Li Wenmin took her by the wrist and dragged her down the halls and into the open field behind the manor. Wordlessly, she followed after him with a small smile.

    - - - - -

    Duke Li Shenyang''s study.

    "This tea seems¡­ quite interesting," the manmented after cing the teacup on the table.

    Duke Li Shenyang leaned back in his chair and chuckled in amusement. "Your sister made it," he said while leaning his cheek on his propped up arm.

    Although Duchess Wang Qixing was very capable of mastering any skill she decided to learn, making tea was her worst one yet.

    She was always curious about mixing different tea leaves, petals, and even herbs together. Her favorite part about the hobby was forcing her children and husband to sample her unique creation.

    There were multiple asions where they would get sick from the weird concoctions. In the end, she decided to only torture her husband with it.

    And today, Duchess Wang Qixing decided to mix dried rose petals, star anise, and a pinch of sea salt to "enhance the vor".

    "Because you came so unexpectedly, I couldn''t notify a servant beforehand to prepare a new batch of tea, Your Majesty," Duke Li Shenyang nonchntly lied. He simply wanted the Emperor to harmlessly suffer.

    The Emperor was known to be a scheming man whose hobby consisted of scouting concubines for his sons.

    Duke Li Shenyang realized if the Emperor was ever interested in a woman, it was often for the benefit of his sons.

    Duke Li Shenyang believed the Emperor''s interests in Xueyue was a disastrous thing. He did not want the naive young woman in a pce of conniving flowers.

    "Your tone implies you''re angered by me. Why is that?" the Emperor mused. He took another sip of the odd-tasting tea.

    Duke Li Shenyang sweetly smiled. "I beg your pardon, Your Majesty. This humble man does not understand what you''re trying to imply," Duke Li Shenyangzily said.

    If Duke Li Shenyang was a simple man, the Emperor would have ensured he suffered in prison for offending the Crown. Or even worse, a beheading without trial. No one dared to bluntly insult the royal family, especially the Great Emperor of Wuyi.

    "What did I say about the extravagant titles?"

    Duke Li Shenyang resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "I''m not going to call you brother-inw."

    The Emperorughed as he leaned back in his seat.

    "You should take off your disguise, it''s awful to look at," Duke Li Shenyang suggested. He disdainfully eyed the fake mustache, blotches of dirt make-up on his face, and random specks of age marks.

    The Emperor shrugged and said, "I like it. It makes me feel humble."

    "I''m honored by your presence, of course. But what did youe here for? I''m sure it''s not to mooch some tea and breakfast off of me," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    For the Emperor toe in person and without his advisers and ministers, was a very rare sight. The Imperial Court was hard to manage. If the situation wasn''t important, why would someone as pristine as the Emperor leave his throne?

    The Emperor kept his reason very brief and short, "We need you back in court."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s lips tilted downwards until it formed a scowl. Irritation shed on his face as his fingers curled into a tight fist. "Why do you need me?"

    The Emperor coldly smiled. "Do I need a reason to summon the Prime Minister back into court?"

    "You will need a good reason to summon a RETIRED Prime Minister back into court," Duke Li Shenyang retorted with a snarl. He hated the court life and the scheming ministers.

    The court life was vicious and horrendous. Behind that friendly mask, who exactly was a friend or foe?

    As the Prime Minister, Duke Li Shenyang was one of the most powerful men in the country. However, the job took a toll on his sanity. He had nearly lost his wife and children in the process of securing his position.

    Besides, it wasn''t like he needed the ie and prestige that came with the title. From the trade routes and ports that his family controlled, he was already very wealthy.

    "If the situation wasn''t dire, would the Emperore in person to summon you back into court?" the Emperor calmly responded with a strained smile and a pair of hostile eyes.

    Duke Li Shenyang was surprised to see the ferociousness in the Emperor''s eyes. They were long-term friends who had grown up together.

    When he saw how serious and humorless the Emperor was, he reluctantly asked, "How long will I be back in the Capital for?"

    "As long as I need you." The response was very curt and revealed no specific timing.

    Duke Li Shenyang could only guess he would be in court for a very long time. "I cannot be away from my wife, who is also your beloved sister, and my children for a very long time."

    He tried his hardest not to frown, but his lips dipped downwards anyways. He didn''t want to leave his wife and children behind. The minute he stepped foot in court, he''d never find the time of day to leave it.

    The Emperor raised a brow at his excuse. "You don''t have to be away from them. You have a house in the Capital that''s also very close to the pce."

    Duke Li Shenyang thought about the house that didn''t belong to him, but instead, to his lovely wife.

    The Empress Dowager had gifted the house to Duchess Wang Qixing when she got married, in hopes the two would remain in that house in the Capital for a very long time. But the couple had different ns in mind.

    They wanted a life far away from the Capital and Imperial Pce, which was why they moved to Hechen¡ªa city that was at least a week''s worth of travel from the Capital.

    "My beloved sister has already been informed of the change. I''m surprised she hasn''t consulted you," the Emperormented.

    Duke Li Shenyang frowned. He remembered a few days ago, his wife wanted to tell him something, but he was too busy tending to the paperwork and had brushed her off. He had an inkling he would regret itter, but he didn''t think it woulde true so soon.

    The Emperor added on, "When Minghua died, you''ve seen how she was. It was in this very ce that she had birthed and raised Minghua. Every living memory of Minghua is within this dreadful manor."

    He always had a very soft spot for the quiet Minghua who seemed so obedient and silent, he wondered if she even had a voice of her own.

    "Staying in this manor when it has only been a few weeks since the death of your daughter is not good for my sister. Everywhere she walks, she''s reminded of Minghua."

    Duke Li Shenyang tiredly sighed at the tant facts on hand. Before the arrival of Xueyue, his wife would refuse to leave their room because every corner she turned, she would remember the memories she had shared with Minghua.

    The garden that was newly rearranged, the hallways Minghua would sit and stare out from, the pavilion she''d sit and read from, every furniture and part of this house had painful memories of her. Staying in this house was beginning to slowly, but surely suffocate Duchess Wang Qixing.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew she didn''t want to be a burden and request for a change of residence which would require too much work. He felt foolish for thinking she could easily move on from Minghua''s death.

    Reluctantly, he asked, "What does my lovely wife have in mind?"

    The Emperor inwardly smiled. He had won this battle. "My beloved sister wants to move back to the Capital. Mother would also want to see her, it''s been years since she''sst seen her daughter."

    He watched Duke Li Shenyang''s expression shift from annoyance to reluctance and finally, eptance. "Fine, I will move back to the Capital."

 Chapter 18 The Weight of Gratitude

    <h4>Chapter 18 The Weight of Gratitude</h4>

    After the emperor had left, Duke Li Shenyang informed everyone of the n to move to the capital. Li Chenyang and Li Wenmin were reluctant to move, because of how long and tiring the journey would be. But after realizing their new home would have an even bigger field to practice and they could be closer to their doting grandparents that gave in to their every whim, the two packed faster than anyone in the house.

    Out of everyone, Xueyue was d to finally leave Hechen, a city filled with nothing but painful and dreadful memories. If she went to the capital, she would never run into Viscount Bai and his family.

    Thus, the move took two uneventful weeks to finish. The new house was significantly bigger than the house in Hechen. Xueyue didn''t think she was a quick learner until the duke pointed out how fast she memorized theyout of the new house whereas the servants still struggled.

    The entire family was enjoying breakfast in their new house when Duchess Li Qixing suddenly spoke up. "Xueyue, have you been to the capital before?" she asked while cing half a braised egg into Xueyue''s already full rice bowl.

    "No, I''m afraid not," Xueyue answered while cing a piece of tender fish onto Duchess Li Qixing''s te with a bright smile.

    "I see, then Wenmin or Chenyang can take you on a tour while the duke and I pay our respects to the Emperor and Empress of Wuyi." Duchess Li Qixing nodded her head to her sons to make them understand.

    "Sure! I''ll take Xiao Yue on a tour of the capital!" Li Wenmin excitedly responded while finishing his bowl of soup in one gulp. The servants were so used to his antics that they immediately stepped forward with another bowl and took the empty one.

    "Whatever," Li Chenyang replied. He casually deboned a fish and when no one was looking, he ced it into his mother''s bowl. He was pretending to not care, but in reality, he loved his mother more than anyone in the world.

    Duke Li Shenyang happily chuckled at the sight of his happy family and the lively atmosphere that seemed to surround the table. He wished it would remain this way forever.

    - - - - -

    "And this is the stall that sells my favorite red bean steamed buns!" Li Wenmin babbled. "This is the stall that sells Shenzhou''s famous honey rice cakes!" He pointed down an alleyway and said, "Oh and if you walk through this street, there will be a stand that sells tanghulu [1]! But if you don''t want something sweet, you can walk down this street and¡ª"

    "Li Wenmin, she gets it. You know every food stand in Wuyi," Li Chenyang sighed. "Besides, how can you even think about food after having such a big breakfast?"

    Li Wenmin sheepishly smiled and scratched the back of his head. "Is it a bad time to say I''m hungry for some snacks?"

    "You''re kidding," Li Chenyang deadpanned.

    "I wish I was," Li Wenmin grinned before grabbing Xueyue''s wrist as he began to drag her in the direction of the honey rice cake stand. Sheughed at his enthusiasm and allowed herself to be dragged away. It was hard to catch up to the pace of his long legs, but the boy was too excited to wait for her ¡ª not that she minded.

    Li Wenmin was practically bouncing on his feet when they arrived at the honey rice cake stand. He eagerly held up three fingers, "Three rice cake sticks."

    The vendor nodded and said, "Sir, that will be 30 copper coins or 3 silver coins."

    Li Wenmin didn''t bother counting his coins as he handed the man three gold coins.

    The stand owner''s eyes widened at how easily he handed out money.

    "Keep the change," Li Wenmin said with an easy-going smile.

    "T-thank you for your patronage!" The stand-owner nearly stumbled over his words. His hands could barely keep up with his excitement. Xueyue was also surprised by Li Wenmin''s generosity.

    A gold coin was worth 50 silver coins and a small bag of rice was only worth 10 copper coins. The stand-owner was a farmer who often came to the capital to sell his rice cakes in hopes of making more money. A small bag of rice could only feed a family of four for three days and through Li Wenmin''s enormous donation, the stand owner''s family could be full for a very long time!

    The stand-owner respectfully handed Li Wenmin the rice cakes and bowed deeply to the young boy in front of him.

    Li Wenmin grabbed the three sticks and handed one to Xueyue and the other to Li Chenyang before stuffing the remaining one in his mouth. Before Xueyue even took a bite, Li Wenmin was already leading her towards another store, but she nted her foot down. Quickly turning towards the stand-owner, she offered a quick, "Thank you!"

    Silence ensued, but Xueyue was too oblivious and engrossed in her food to realize what was happening. She happily chewed the soft and delicious treat that was just the right amount of sweetness.

    The stand-owner knew the three children in front of him came from a wealthy family, and they seemed to be siblings, but he did not expect them to be so courteous. Usually, sons and daughters of noble families were spoiled rotten and had no manners.

    The rich weren''t the type to say thank you to someone who was socially beneath them, since they saw no benefits in paying respects to the lower ranks.

    However, Xueyue was too naive to understand such a thing. She was too sheltered to have been spoiled by the rules of society. It takes less than a second of a person''s day to be polite and respectful.

    Li Wenmin, who had a soft spot for kind girls, couldn''t help but gently pat her head. Likewise, Li Chenyang seemed a little less grumpy than usual. The servants trailing after them were dumbfounded to see the tender expression on their young masters'' face, but wisely chose to notment.

 Chapter 19 Thats Enough

    <h4>Chapter 19 That''s Enough</h4>

    After buying more food than their hands and servants could carry, Li Wenmin finally took a break from his shopping spree. He had enough supplies of snacks tost a normal person for a week, but knowing him, he''d finish it by tomorrow morning. The trio found a nice little spot to sit down and enjoy their food. Well, it was mainly Xueyue and Li Chenyang enjoying their food while Li Wenmin gobbled it down faster than he could breathe.

    Xueyue swung her little legs and observed the townspeople while she ate. Her eyes wandered towards the standing servants and guards before turning back to the city center. Everyone, except the servants and the heavily armed guards, sat around the benches in the public pavilion of the capital. Her unupied handszily yed with the edges of the handkerchiefs she sat upon. The servants were worried they''d dirty their clothes if they sat on the bench as it was.

    Xueyue, Li Wenmin, and Li Chenyang had unknowingly garnered a lot of attention everywhere they went. Of course, the capital was always brimming with wealthy officials, but usually, it wasn''t in such arge crowd. There were at least three servants and five guards per child -- and those were only the visible ones.

    Li Wenmin had unknowingly gained a great reputation amongst the food vendors who eagerly waited for his patronage. Many of them wished for his visit because of how easily he handed out meaningful gold coins. And he was not the only Li to have earned the people''s respect. Many were watching Xueyue who always remembered to thank the vendors before leaving. It was also hard to miss such a looker. A beauty inside and out, such a thing was very, very rare.

    "Does the steamed bun taste good?" Li Wenmin asked Chenyang after he finished his own share.

    "It''s not bad," Li Chenyang grumbled as he took another bite.

    Xueyue noticed Li Wenmin''s eager stare andughed. "You can have mine if you want." She reached her hand towards a servant who immediately gave her the steamed bun.

    Li Wenmin''s entire face lit up faster than a kid epting a red envelope during lunar new year. "Really?!" he eximed, happily pping his hands.

    Xueyue pressed her lips together to resist anotherugh. Instead, she smiled and handed Li Wenmin the piping hot bun. "I''ve already had enough food tost me the entire day," she mused.

    Li Wenmin gasped in delight and bear-hugged her. "You''re the best, Yueyue!" he eximed before digging into the food.

    Xueyue watched Li Wenmin eat with an unbeknownst smile. She wondered just howrge his stomach had to be. Seriously, this boy never seemed to get full!

    Her eyes then trailed to Li Chenyang who seemed to be distracted by observing their surroundings. She followed his line of sight and took in the beautiful capital of Wuyi.

    It truly was one of the most beautiful cities in the entire country. It was so lively in a cheerful and amusing manner. There was always a pleasant scent of freshly made food while children ran in between the busy legs of pedestrians. There was a lovely pond in the center of the city with small bridges connecting to pavillions. On the outskirts of the capital, there was a scenic forest that concealed small waterfalls.

    The city was always bustling with people ranging from foreign merchants to local sellers, servants on errands,dies of middle-ss families mingling with their friends, mothers buying groceries, and children happily running around.

    To Xueyue who had never seen anything beyond the Bai Manor walls, this was a beautiful sight to witness. She unknowingly wore a small smile on her face while she watched the people walk by and perform their daily tasks.

    Although they were apanied by many heavily armed and trained guards, Li Chenyang still scanned the crowd for any threats. As his eyes trailed along the crowds, it eventually fell onto Xueyue. The more he stared at her, the more he felt conflicted.

    He had thought she was like mostdies of the wealthy society, spoiled and ungrateful. But today, as he watched her thank the merchants, he realized she was the opposite of that. Xueyue eluded an air of grace and humbleness that he was grateful for.

    Li Chenyang frowned when he saw how quiet she was. She didn''t speak unless she was spoken to, and her eyes would rarely make eye contact as she spoke. Her eyes were always cast downwards as if she was too scared to look at someone.

    Li Chenyang wondered about her past. The duke and duchess didn''t share any of her confidential information. He was originally reluctant to ept her into the household, but the more he interacted with her, the more he wanted to know about her.

    Xueyue didn''t realize the heavy stares upon her that wereing from all sorts of directions, nor did she pick up on a particr pair of eyes questioning her from a carriage window. She was too distracted by a small child in rags running through a busy crowd.

    "Someone grab that brat!" a man yelled, pointing his meaty fingers at the child who was running with a loaf of bread in his sickly thin hands. He rushed to grab the child. It was not a difficult task for the child''s legs were too short to get very far.

    Xueyue''s eyes widened when she saw someone trip the child who painfully tumbled onto the cement floor. The bread fell with him and another person identally stepped onto it. The starved child continued to reach for the dirty and squished bread that was obviously not edible anymore.

    Without realizing it, Xueyue had gotten onto her feet and ran past her guards and servants.

    Li Chenyang scowled, "Hey! Where are you going?!"

    Child thieves aren''t umon in the wealthy capital, especially with the war that separates men from their families. Many children were left orphaned by the current war that the emperor promised wasing to an end. The public thought that was the truth, but only a selected group of people knew the war was just beginning.

    Xueyue had experienced what it felt like to get beaten. She understood the brutal pain and the sensation of seeing your life sh before your eyes. She didn''t want such a young child to undergo the same experiences.

    The little boy cried out in pain when the man yanked him up by the hair. When the first smack echoed throughout the crowds, no one stepped forward. Not even a flinch came from the crowd. No one bothered to help the child, except another child.

    Xueyue was running faster than her legs could carry her and by the time she got there, the baker was ready to p the boy again. Her breathless voice sliced through the tension, "That''s enough!"

 Chapter 20 All You Have To Offer

    <h4>Chapter 20 All You Have To Offer</h4>

    The people whispered among themselves when Xueyue appeared.

    Dressed in an expensive outfit of the finest materials with beautiful hairpins adorning her hair, and a face so graceful, she was like a porcin doll imported from the West. She was a stark contrast to the child she was protecting. Thus, people began to question her presence: What could she gain from helping someone as worthless as a thief? Their eyes flickered to her beautiful face. If the foolish baker struck her face, it''d surely leave a nasty bruise.

    The burly man turned around in the direction of the authoritative voice that dared to tell him to stop. His eyes narrowed in irritation at the audacity of the young woman in front of him. She looked as harmless as a bunny. His eyes lingered on her intricate hairpins and elegant hanfu. Warning bells went off inside his head, but he acted like he was deaf to it.

    His anger and pride overpowered his fear of offending a wealthy family. His lips curled in disgust when he snarled, "Screw off, brat!"

    When she raised her head, revealing a terrifying pair of dark brown eyes, so sharp and dangerous, a shiver coursed through him.

    The little bunny had the eyes of a predator.

    He hesitated and averted his eyes to look at the murmuring spectators. Boosted by their presence with a delusion that they would side with him, he spewed, "Are you deaf, little girl?! I said screw off!" When she refused to move an inch, he felt his blood boil with anger.

    Xueyue nced at the child behind her. She saw that the light and hope had long fled his eyes, leaving behind a brooding abyss. Her throat tightened at how hauntingly hazy the child''s eyes were. It was clear to see he was forced to grow up and his innocence was snatched too early.

    Xueyue firmly cleared her throat. "How much was the bread? I''ll pay for it."

    Before leaving for the capital, Duchess Li had given Xueyue a hefty pouch filled with gold coins. She tried to deny the generous gift, but the duchess left no room for arguments. And it wasn''t long before Xueyue''s pocket was weighed down by the small bag.

    "Disrespectful brat! How dare you interrupt us¡ª"

    "I''ll buy all of the bread you have to offer," Xueyue''s chilling voice interjected. Her deadpanning words halted his rambling. When her razor-cold eyes pierced him, the man couldn''t help but take a step backward, as if uncertain of her.

    Were young women capable of such emotions?

    He carefully analyzed everything she wore, especially the essories that decorated her. That was when he finally realized the jewels leisurely worn by her was enough to buy him, his house, ancestral home, his store, and even his family!

    Xueyue, who had never worn anything expensive in her life, didn''t know the value of her clothes, thus, she behaved as if they were nothing. She walked the streets without a care in the world. Not once has she twirled her long hair or tilted her head just to make the dangling diamonds of her hairpins sway. She acted as if she was wearing simple cotton hanfus instead of the brightly colored and delicately decorated silk.

    Perhaps that''s why the people stopped and stared at her. There was something about her nonchnce and genuine smile that captured the people''s attention, in particr, a man who had been watching her ever since she stepped out of the Li carriage.

    "Disrespectful brat! How dare you interrupt me?! I''m thirty years your senior, show some respect!" he snarled at her. His words didn''t faze her.

    The people pitied the man because he had offended a young miss. It was so evident that it painful to watch. If the man was truly unlucky, he might''ve offended a princess, since the emperor had so many children. But then again, why would a princess walk around alone? Where were her guards and maidservants?

    Xueyue knew better than to fight a storm with a storm. There was no need to shout and throw a tantrum during an argument. Doing such a thing would ruin all credibility. She kept her voice calm and respectful when she said, "Unhand the child."

    Her eyes abruptly widened when he suddenly charged at her, reaching out to grab her.

    "Brat, I warned you!" His hands wove into her hair as he yanked her to the ground. No doubt, it was from the drunken experiences ofying a hand on his wife and children.

    The expensive hairpins ttered onto the floor and the people gasped. He was bold enough to raise a hand towards a noble''s daughter?!

    Xueyue winced at how hard the man was grabbing her by the hair. She struggled to reach for the small knife tucked inside the fabric wrapped around her waist. She had stolen that from the kitchen maids as a way of protecting herself. In Viscount Bai''s mansion, she used to do the same thing, even though nothing could protect her from the beatings.

    But the man moved faster than her. He swiftly raised his hand, ready to deliver an immense blow to her. She squeezed her eyes, bracing herself for the rough smack.

    But it never came.

    "Who dares to¡ª" the man''s voice died down.

    Xueyue opened her eyes slowly and saw a boy, older than her, grab the man''s wrist. With one hand, he was able to stop the hand of a man twice his size.

    The boy was dressed in fancy dark green robes with gold and silver embroidery. Every part of him screamed untouchable wealth, from the ruby-embezzled stick in his hair to the pointed shoes that curled upwards.

    The man released Xueyue and dropped to his knees. His forehead touched the ground in a deep bow. At the presence of the boy, the other onlookers immediately bowed.

    "Greetings to the Fourth Prince, Wang Longhe!"

 Chapter 21 Hes Royalty

    <h4>Chapter 21 He''s Royalty</h4>

    Xueyue felt her throat tighten at the outstanding title of the boy in front of her. At a closer look, he was quite handsome. Though he was still young, it was evident he would grow up to be quite the looker. He had the eyes of a sheltered boy who never understood the hardships of this world, but his grim smile said otherwise.

    "You''re causing quite amotion." Wang Longhe''s voice was smooth and gentle. Like her, he wasn''t fond of repelling anger with anger.

    Wang Longhe''s eyesnded on the trampled bread that the child was desperately clutching to his thin body. "All for a single loaf of bread," he mused. "How pathetic."

    Xueyue''s eyebrows raised at his crude words. "That''s so rude--" She stopped speaking when hezily flicked his wrist as one would swat a fly.

    Immediately, a pretty maidservant stepped forward with her head bowed. Using two hands, she handed Wang Longhe a gold, silk pouch. He picked up the pouch, turned it upside down and golden coins came raining down. Like the shimmering yellow leaves of autumn, the gold had caught the bright sunlight.

    The people exchanged nervous nces and no one dared to move.

    "They''re yours to keep." It took four simple words for civilized behavior to turn into barbaric chaos.

    "Back off, you filthy bugs! They''re mine!" the baker screamed as he rushed to pick up all of the gold coins.

    The people were pushing and tugging at each other as they tried to take all of the gold that they could snatch up. Bickering emerged and soon, it was a whirlwind of faded clothing and greedy hands.

    From the corner of her eyes, Xueyue saw the child also reach for a coin that was lying very close to him. His fingers grazed the gold before a foot roughly stomped on his fingers.

    "This is mine, you horrendous thief!" the baker screamed at the child and pushed him to the ground.

    Frightened and terrified of another beating, the child flinched back from the baker.

    "This is also mine!" the baker hissed, snatching away the torn and wrinkled loaf of bread.

    It was originally white, but after so many people stomping over it, the bread became grey and brown. The food was already garbage, yet, he still hindered the child from taking it.

    When the only noise that filled the area was the greedy shouts and voices of the people, Xueyue was the first to hear the hungry growl of the child''s stomach. Walking and pushing past the people, she stepped towards the child who immediately cowered back. The baker left her alone and went back to bicker over the fallen coins.

    Opening her own pouch of money, Xueyue took out the money. With a soft and gentle smile, she offered it to the child. "Here, this should be enough money tost you for a while," she said to the child who stared at the pile of money in her hands.

    The child''s hungry eyes moved from Xueyue''s outstretched hands and then to her kind, gentle smile. Suddenly, before anyone could blink, the money was already taken from her hands.

    Xueyue watched as the child scamper through the crowd, dodging hands and feet, and then disappeared into an alleyway. She squinted her eyes as the door opened to reveal a thin woman who quickly ushered the child into safety.

    Blowing out a sigh of relief, Xueyue was prepared to walk back to Chenyang and Wenmin. She turned around, but without warning, someone had roughly shoved her aside. She let out a tiny yelp, as her legs got caught between the long lengths of her hanfu. She stumbled and nearly fell onto the harsh floor. Instead, her back collided with a hard, but warm and sturdy chest.

    ncing up at her savior, Xueyue was surprised to see a very hostile Li Chenyang and Li Wenmin beside him who wore a dangerously dark expression on his face.

    Xueyue nervously swallowed. She thought the anger was directed towards her for running off. "I-I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to run off," she quietly whispered, but neither of them heard her.

    She raised her head and saw their stares were directed towards the fourth prince, Wang Longhe.

    Li Chenyang was the first to speak, his cold, somber voice broke the tension. "What are you doing here, Wang Longhe?"

    Xueyue felt her eyes widened at how bold Chenyang was.

    Wang Longhe was royalty!

    ''Wouldn''t they get in trouble for offending and rudely speaking to the imperial family? What if Chenyang and Wenmin were thrown into prison, or worse, beheaded?!''

    Xueyue panicked and grabbed Wenmin''s sleeves. He nced down at her and saw her wide and terrified expression. His face softened the slightest bit at how fearful she looked. "Don''t worry, Xiao Yue. We won''t get in trouble," he whispered towards her, lightly holding the hand that was gripping his sleeves.

    Xueyue nervously stood there, unsure of his words.

    The Li Family might be influential and powerful, but that didn''t mean they would be pardoned from an imperial decree!

    Poor little Xueyue didn''t know the connections that Duke and Duchess Li had to the Imperial Pce. She only feared for the life of her beloved friends.

 Chapter 22 Insignificant Bugs

    <h4>Chapter 22 Insignificant Bugs</h4>

    Li Wenmin gently patted Xueyue''s head in hopes of reassuring her. His cold gaze couldn''t help but melt into a warm puddle at the sight of her face. Did she have to look like a bunny when she was scared? Her doe-eyes were growing so wide, darting back and forth, it was beginning to amuse him.

    The mirth disappeared from Li Wenmin''s eyes when Wang Longhe opened his mouth to speak again.

    "This is the city that my father owns and rules over. Why can''t I be here?" Wang Longhe retorted, crossing his arms with a rxed smirk.

    When he noticed Li Wenmin was upied with a human-sized porcin doll, he couldn''t help his curious eyes from wandering to her. It trailed to her clothes and then her face. A low smile spread on his lips. Finally, he had leverage over them. Any young girl in this country could be chosen by him to be his wife, so long as she was from a reputable family.

    When Li Wenmin noticed the heavy gaze on Xueyue, he immediately tucked her behind him. Li Chenyang was quick on his feet, and soon, two bodies were blocking his view.

    Wang Longhe raised a brow at their protective behavior. It nearly amused him. He had never seen the twins so possessive over something. "Who''s the girl?" he provoked, tilting his head in false curiosity.

    "Why do you care?" Li Chenyang crossed his arm.

    Wang Longhe smirked. "What? A guy can''t admire a young woman''s beauty?" he taunted.

    Tilting his head, he said, "I''m royalty, I can do whatever I want. For example, taking the girl home and locking her within the Prayer Halls."

    Li Wenmin''s face turned deadly. "You dare¡ª"

    "Both of you are nothing but weaklings who can''t resist the invincible power of a royal decree." Wang Longhe leisurely shrugged. He behaved as if he hadn''t just offended two out of five of the Great Sons of Wuyi.

    Xueyue stiffened at the fourth prince''s words, her grip on Li Wenmin tightening. She frightfully asked herself, ''Was he really going to take me...?'' She shook the thoughts from her head. ''No no, I should trust Li Wenmin and Li Chenyang!''

    "You were born from such a lowly mother, I almost forgot you were royalty." Li Chenyang chuckled, clicking his tongue in amusement.

    Wang Longhe scowled.

    Xueyue gulped.

    Wang Longhe''s eyes darkened and he took a dangerous step closer. "Don''t test me, you bastard," he seethed, his eyes shing with anger.

    "Or else what?" Li Wenmin taunted, a wicked smile on his face. His hand itched for his sword, but Xueyue was behind him and he couldn''t afford to hurt her if she tried to grab for the weapon in an attempt to stop him.

    Li Wenmin and Li Chenyang might''ve created a human wall, but their stances were not imprable. Wang Longhe was still able to see Xueyue. At first, he was intrigued by her. She had instantly caught his attention when she stepped foot into the capital with the twins.

    His curiosity only grew after seeing her grateful exchanges with the food-sellers. When he saw her daunting spirit, he wanted to get to know her. One minute she was fierce, the next minute she was hiding behind her knights. It was very amusing to him, so much so, his eyes shed when she took a hesitant nce his way.

    "If you don''t want blood to shed this early in the afternoon, keep your eyes to yourself," Li Chenyang snarled, his hand reaching for the sword on his hips.

    Wang Longhe suddenlyughed. It echoed through the streets, filled with hatred and disgust. There was no warmth in hisughter, and that scared Xueyue. "It seems my predictions were indeed correct. You fools finally have a weakness."

    Li Wenmin unscathed his sword and instantly, the Li guards revealed their weapons. At the same time, Wang Longhe''s guards drew their swords.

    Not wanting blood to shed, Xueyue blindly reached for a sleeve to grab onto. She couldn''t afford to offend the imperial family any longer.

    ''What if the duke couldn''t protect his sons and they''re really sentenced to death?!''

    When Xueyue had thought she grabbed Li Wenmin, she was actually holding onto Li Chenyang.

    Li Chenyang was surprised to feel a light weight on his sleeves and when he nced down, he finally realized her pale expression.

    "W-we can''t offend the royal family¡ª"

    "The Li Family can afford to offend any family." His voice was gruff, but it was sincere and truthful.

    Xueyue felt her brows pull together in confusion. ''Was that even possible?'' she thought to herself.

    When Li Chenyang realized the high tension in the air and the people''s whisperings, he knew blood might really shed. This argument must end.

    If his mother was to find out about the brawl, he would be in for a long lecture. Neither boys wanted to relive the experience of their mother''s lecture that starts at sunrise and ends at sunset.

    Seizing the opportunity of Xueyue as a momentary distraction, Li Chenyang quietly told Li Wenmin, "We don''t have time to spare with insignificant bugs. They''ll never be able to match our pace."

    Xueyue quickly bobbed her head at Li Chenyang''s words. "Let''s go home, okay?" she urged them.

    "The famed Li twins are scared of a little bit of child y? You couldn''t even save your little sister from my clutches¡ª" Wang Longhe couldn''t finish his taunting when Li Wenmin''s sword flew dangerously close to his neck.

    It all happened within the blink of an eye, but Li Wenmin was standing in front of Wang Longhe, holding a sword to his throat. "Another word and I''ll cut you," he hissed, the metal sword gleaming in the sun.

 Chapter 23 Pay For His Sins

    <h4>Chapter 23 Pay For His Sins</h4>

    Xueyue''s eyes widened at Li Wenmin''s voice that was so rigid and cold, it sounded nothing like him. Was this the same puppy she knew before? Did puppies know how to bare their teeth and bite like wolves? Was Wenmin even a puppy to begin with?!

    None of the spectators dared to move. With so many weapons drawn, how could they? As their eyes jumped from one side to another, everyone realized the Li guards outnumbered the imperial guards. But who was the winning side? The imperial guards were trained by a dangerous and merciless Commander Wen whose strict discipline and actions earned him many fierce titles.

    "Do you know who you''re pointing a sword at, Lord Li Wenmin?!" one of the imperial guards spoke up, his voice rising an octave.

    Wang Longhe growled, "Have you lost your mind, you crazy bastard?!"

    Li Wenmin snarled, "You''re nothing but an insignificant fourth prince whose lowly title and sickly body will never allow you to seize the throne. The emperor wouldn''t care if you dropped dead right now. I''m only his nephew, but my life is already more worthy than yours," Wenmin spat out the words, each of them cutting Longhe more than his sword.

    Xueyue''s heart was beginning to rapidly pound in fear. Even if Wang Longhe was far from the title of a first prince, he was still royalty. To offend the Crown was to offend the entire country, and that could mean a death sentence.

    Xueyue, who didn''t know theplicated ties that the Lis had to the royal family, didn''t want their death to be so vain. She forced herself to turn her attention towards Li Chenyang whose murderous gaze never left Wang Longhe. She didn''t know why the boys harbored so much hatred for the fourth prince, but she didn''t want this sticky situation to get more out of hand.

    When Li Chenyang took a step forward, Xueyue wrapped her arms around his muscr one. His eyes flickered with surprise at the ko on his arm.

    "Chenyang, we have to go home," she whispered, her eyes shaking with each word.

    Upon seeing her expression, Chenyang''s gaze softened the slightest bit.

    "I-it''s getting dark out. Duchess Li might get worried if we don''t join her for lunch," Xueyue quickly added on. Her voice was trembling, and her heart was riddled up with anxiety.

    Li Chenyang paused to stare at her. He took in her expression and her hand that desperately clung onto his sleeve. She was careful to not touch him, and he knew it was because she thought he''d get angry at her for rashly touching him.

    Xueyue thought Chenyang would push her away, but instead, his free hand gently patted her head as one would to a pet.

    "Alright, let''s go home," he quietly answered her.

    Xueyue closed her eyes and breathed out a sigh in relief before unwinding her arms from him.

    Li Chenyang raised his head and said, "Wenmin, we''re going home. We shouldn''t waste our time on pests like him."

    If Wenmin heard his younger brother, he didn''t show any signs of it.

    Silently in his mind, Li Wenmin muttered, ''If I flick my wrist, this bastard will bleed to death¡­ if I flick my wrist, all of the sins he hasmitted might finally be forgiven and maybe Minghua will forgive me¡ª''

    "Wenmin, don''t make me repeat myself. We''re going home. NOW," Li Chenyang demanded. He didn''t like the aura around Li Wenmin. It distinctively reminded him of the night of the fire when Li Minghua''s body was nowhere to be found. The unseen rage and promise of death¡­

    ''Just the flick of my wrist...just the flick of my wrist,'' Wenmin chanted inside of his head. Anger and anguish washed over him, threatening to drown him to oblivion.

    When Li Wenmin refused to budge in his spot, Li Chenyang felt uneasy. He took a step closer to his older brother, but Xueyue was three steps ahead of him. She didn''t know the dangerous past that used to surround the bubbly Wenmin, but she knew he wasn''t his normal self.

    When she reached him, she firmly said, "It''s sundown. We have to go home."

    Li Wenmin blinked in confusion.

    "Duchess Li is waiting for us at home. The duke will be upied with court business tonight. Your mother will be lonely if we don''t return for lunch." Xueyue tugged his arm. "What are we waiting for? Let''s go home and have your favorite steam buns. I heard the cooks might prepare it for snacks."

    "Buns?" Li Wenmin deadpanned, his eyes filled with uncertainty.

    Xueyue nodded. "Your favorite steamed buns filled with warm, red bean paste. The chefs are preparing it as we speak. It''s best to go home and enjoy it while it''s nice and hot."

    Li Wenmin''s eyes flickered with recognition. He stared at her and she smiled in response. He decided she should smile less. Because he was not the only one affected by the serene and delicate expression on her face. He silently cried for his future¡­ he''d have to fend off so many suitors!

    "Okay, let''s go home and enjoy some steamed buns," he quietly said as if he hadn''t just eaten his way around the capital. He slipped the sword back into the sheath and ced a warm hand on her shoulder.

    Xueyue turned her back to the fourth prince as if she wasn''t even aware of his presence.

    Herck of reaction towards him only provoked Wang Longhe''s curiosity. He wanted to see her acknowledge him, or even spare him a nce as she approached the Li carriage. She didn''t.

    For the first time, there dared to be a girl that didn''t care about him¡­ interesting, very interesting.

    Wang Longhe''s curious eyes lingered on her disappearing form until the busy streets blurred and she was the only thing he saw. Her dainty back was frail and her shoulders were so delicate, he suddenly felt an urge to protect her. Even when she entered the carriage and was no longer visible to the eye, he continued to stare ahead.

 Chapter 24 Address the Emperor Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 24 Address the Emperor Yourself</h4>

    The carriage ride back to the Li Manor was awkward and quiet.

    Li Chenyang''s usual unhappy face was pulled into a dark scowl as he stared out the window the entire journey back home. Li Wenmin was also quiet while he stared out the other window.

    Wedged between two boys with dark clouds over their heads, Xueyue could only sit still and pray for peace.

    They survived the suffocating carriage ride back home and were ushered into the house and straight into the dining hall upon their arrival. The dining table was filled with delectable dishes that were a feast to the eyes but the mood was not as lively; they were shrouded in silence that''s broken only by the asional clinking of spoons.

    "How was your day out today?" Duchess Li Qixing tried to strike up a conversation, but only received in replies of "It''s okay" and "Meh".

    Her eyes bounced from the unresponsive twins and then to the quiet Xueyue who obediently ate her food in silence.

    Releasing a sigh, Duchess Li Qixing asked, "What happened?"

    "Nothing happened. What makes you think that?" Li Wenmin immediately responded, his voice a pitch too high.

    "Yeah, nothing happened. Right Xueyue?" Li Chenyang nudged the quiet girl beside him who nearly jumped at the unexpected push.

    "Uhm¡­" Xueyue cleared her throat, unsure of what to say. She didn''t want to lie to Duchess Li who was always so kind and patient with her. She also didn''t want to get the twins in trouble. Her eyes darted back and forth in nervousness.

    Fortunately, the duchess came to her saving grace. "Are you sure nothing happened? Because Wenmin usually rambles on during dinner and Chenyang is too picky to eat the lotus root." She gave all three children a scalthy nce that only mothers could muster.

    Sure, Li Chenyang and Li Wenmin were already eighteen years old and too mature for a scolding, but that never stopped the duchess. Be it sixteen or sixty-six, she would still reprimand them because they would always be little boys to her.

    "I can always ask the servants what happened, but I''d prefer to hear your side of the story first," Duchess Li Qixing pointed out.

    Her eyes scanned the nervous trio in front of her who seemed to find the dinner table very interesting. Neither boys wanted to make eye contact, and Xueyue was too busy staring at her bowl of rice to respond.

    Duchess Li Qixing tapped her finger onto the table, her hawk-eyes scanning the children in front of her. After a few seconds of silence, she said, "Well boys?"

    "We ran into that brat."

    "We ran into the fourth prince."

    The twins simultaneously responded.

    "Li Wenmin, you can''t call the fourth prince a brat!" Duchess Li Qixingchided and frowned. "He''s your cousin!" she reminded him. Exasperated, she thought to herself, ''Goodness gracious, I hope they didn''t call him that in person!''

    Li Wenmin spoke up, "He''s the imperial concubine''s son, not the son of the empress! Why should we call him our cousin when he''s not even Royal Aunt''s son¡ªow!" He groaned in pain when his mother twisted his earlobe.

    "Young man, I taught you better manners than this!" she reprimanded before tugging his ears again. "Please tell me, you boys didn''t offend him again?"

    Li Wenmin and Li Chenyang exchanged nces before both of them folded their arms in defiance.

    The duchess lost her patience. "Li Chenyang, Li Wenmin¡ª"

    "But Mom! The prince started it!" Li Wenmin pouted, his eyes growing wide. He behaved like a wounded puppy that was used of tearing the couches apart.

    "I don''t care who started it! You can''t just insult the fourth prince! Imperial Concubine Gu Feiying may be lenient, but when ites to her only son, she is as fierce as me!" Duchess Li Qixing exasperated with a frown as she began to ce side dishes into her children''s bowl ¡ª breaking all sorts of social rules. "Besides, how did you run into him in the first ce?"

    Li Chenyang looked away. Li Wenmin stared at the table, adamant on keeping his mouth shut. Xueyue awkwardly shifted in her seat.

    When she noticed the awkward silence, Duchess Li Qixing frowned again. "Well?" she pressed on, cing pieces of fish onto everyone''s tes.

    "It was my fault..." Xueyue quietly said.

    Duchess Li Qixing was surprised at the confession but kept her ears fully open.

    Xueyue exined the story of what happened. By the time she finished, the Duchess had a thoughtful expression on her face.

    Xueyue deliberately left out the insults that were thrown at the fourth prince. She didn''t want to get the boys in trouble.

    "I see...You were doing an act of kindness towards a child," Duchess Li Qixing hummed to herself. After a while of staring down the guilty children in front of her, she sighed.

    Neither of them wanted to reveal the truth or use one another. Their lips were sealed in a deep bond of trust and loyalty.

    Duchess Li didn''t know if she wanted tough or cry at the realization. "If the fourth prince does not consult this issue with the emperor, I will let it pass. But if he does and the emperor catches wind of this issue, you will have to address him yourself. Is that clear?" she finally relented.

    "Yes, Ma''am." Li Wenmin grinned, teasingly saluting his lovely mother. Li Chenyang muttered a lethargic "Okay" while Xueyue readily nodded her head. The three prayed that the next few days would be peaceful, but if only they knew, it would be the pr opposite of that.

 Chapter 25 Let Him Choke

    <h4>Chapter 25 Let Him Choke</h4>

    When Duke Li Shenyang returned home, none of the children mentioned what had happened in the capital. Duchess Li Qixing, however, informed her husband of the drama that went down. He was highly amused by the twin''s reaction and had reassured his wife that everything would be alright. Despite his reassurance, the Worrywart Duchess continued to fret about it. It didn''t take long for the night to pass and the sun to rise the next morning. After enjoying a hefty breakfast, the trio boarded therge family carriage and rode into the capital.

    "Where are we going?" Xueyue asked Li Wenmin when she watched the carriage ride past the capital and towards the outskirts of town.

    "Father discovered your skills in archery and wants us to buy you a horse to practice with. It wille in handy if you ever want topete in archery." Li Wenmin patted Xueyue''s dainty head, ruffling her hair in the process.

    Xueyue swatted at his annoying hand. The maidservants had spent the entire morning doing her hair and he was always ruining their hard work. Li Wenmin chuckled at her feeble attempts before soothing the hairpin back into ce.

    Xueyue thought about the idea of owning a horse. When she was younger, she used to own a small and inexpensive horse, but when Viscount Bai discovered her sweaty and covered in specks of dirt, he banned her from the sport, dering it was too "udylike". Despite his words, Bai Tianai was gifted with a prestigious horse bred for speed and races on her thirteenth birthday.

    Xueyue''s lips thinned in displeasure. She remembered asking her father for another horse, but he was furious, dering Tianai deserved the horse because she was so well-behaved. That week, Xueyue was locked in her room without food and water for three days. She was taunted by Bai Tianai''s frequentughter when thetter went horseback riding. When Xueyue persisted and pestered on, it was the first time she got beaten by Viscount Bai.

    Ever since that incident, Xueyue rarely voiced her desires. She was scared of approaching Duke and Duchess Li to ask them a favor¡­ What if she gets kicked out of the house for being so troublesome?

    "What type of horse do you want, Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin asked her.

    Li Chenyang stared out the window with a nonchnt expression. Everyone thought he was bored, but secretly, he had been watching Xueyue. He hated how much he noticed her silence. She had been with them for a few weeks now, but she rarely spoke first. The realization disturbed him to no avail.

    "Uhm...the least expensive one?" Xueyue hesitatingly said, even though it sounded like a question.

    Li Wenminughed, thinking it was a joke, but when she stared at him confusedly, he realized she was serious. His smile wavered. "Xiao Yue, Mother, and Father are very rich. They can buy you the most expensive horse that money could buy," he told her.

    "I don''t want to waste their money--"

    "Father instructed us to buy you the most expensive horse," Li Chenyang interrupted her. He turned towards her, a frown on his face. Usually, girls would want the best that money could buy. Why was she so different?

    "And we won''t settle for anything less than that." Li Wenmin grinned at the dumbfounded Xueyue.

    "Young Masters and Young Miss, we have arrived at the horse ring," the footman announced right on time.

    "Come on, let''s go!" Li Wenmin excitedly said. He climbed out of the carriage and Li Chenyang followed after him.

    Xueyue struggled to climb out of the carriage with her long hanfu. The maidservants came forward, but Li Chenyang brushed them aside.

    "Here," he grumbled, offering her a hand.

    Xueyue stared at his outstretched hand, her brows knitting together in confusion. She didn''t think he was the type of man to do such a thing.

    "What are you waiting for? Hurry up, my hand is tired," Li Chenyang muttered, avoiding her curious gaze.

    Xueyue gentlyughed and epted his hand. "Thank you," she gratefully said.

    "Whatever," he grunted, helping her off the carriage before swiftly leaving her behind.

    Xueyue couldn''t wipe the amused smile off of her face. Li Chenyang was so awkward with girls and it amused her to see him like that.

    He paused and nced back at her with an impatient scowl, "Well, are youing or not?"

    Xueyueughed again and instantly ran to catch up to the twins. She followed Li Chenyang''s quick-paced footsteps towards the excited Li Wenmin.

    - - - - -

    "Li Wenmin, be careful! You''re going to choke if you keep stuffing the buns into your mouth!" Xueyue reprimanded for the tenth time as he inhaled the salted yolk buns.

    "He''ll be fine. Let him choke," Li Chenyang mused while taking a slow bite from his bun. He ate the way a normal person should, whereas Li Wenmin was too busy wolfing down his portion too care about appearances.

    "You can have mine. There''s no need to rush!" Xueyue gestured towards the untouched bag beside her. She was too full from breakfast to even fathom eating more food.

    "Rweally?" His voice was muffled by the buns causing Xueyue tough. His cheeks were overly stuffed with food and he looked like a little hamster.

    "Yes, really. Now eat slowly," she mused, wiping the crumbs off of his face with a handkerchief.

    "You''re the best, Xiao Yue." He grinned, nudging her shoulders.

    Xueyue rolled her eyes. "You only say that because I offer you food," she said while he took the handkerchief from her hand.

    Li Wenminughed, but didn''t bother to deny the truth. After finishing the food, he finally said, "Alright, let''s go to the horse ring now." He began to walk in the opposite direction.

    "The horse ring is this way, you dimwit." Li Chenyang grabbed Li Wenmin by the back of his cor when he noticed Li Wenmin was walking towards another food stall.

    "Aw,e on!" Li Wenmin whined when he was dragged further and farther away from the rice cake vendor.

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes at the glutton beside him. "Mother wants us back for the afternoon meal. We''ve already had enough food for the day."

    "YOU had enough food, I didn''t!" Li Wenmin grumbled as he stomped towards the horse ring.

    Xueyue chuckled upon seeing Li Wenmin grumble and sulk to himself like a child. Sometimes she forgot he was older than her.

 Chapter 26 Heightened Hearing

    <h4>Chapter 26 Heightened Hearing</h4>

    The horse ring was located a few miles outside of the capital. It was an opennd with plenty of space for horses to roam around. Due to the port located near this space, there were also a lot of traveling merchants selling uniquely decorated pieces of essories and trinkets. The twins had expected Xueyue to head towards the stand, but she had grabbed their hands and guided them straight to the horse ring without another nce towards the vendors.

    "Xiao Yue, is there a special breed you want?" Li Wenmin asked, staring at the different variety of horses present.

    "I don''t have any preferences," Xueyue replied. Her eyes surveyed the horses of different colors, sizes, and breed but nothing seemed to catch her attention.

    Then Li Wenmin noticed the loud announcer and a crowd gathering at the center of the horse ring. "There seems to be a crowd over there, let''s check it out!" He dragged Xueyue and the reluctant Li Chenyang towards the noise.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, today we have a very rare catch! This is one of the finest and best horses we have ever caught in the past few years!" The announcer stepped to the side and grandly spread one arm open.

    What first greeted the people was the thundering sound of mighty hooves. In the distance, a ck shadow was quickly approaching. The people held their breaths in anticipation, as they awaited the entrance of the supposedly magnificent horse.

    With a speed that matched the wind, the horse quickly came forward. It had a beautiful midnight coat whose color resembled the bleak, night sky. Its hooves were covered in white, as if he was forever stepping in snow.

    But one thing that stood out was the horse''s sickly features. The horse was so skinny and malnourished, the rib cage was evident. The horse has thin, skinny legs that weren''t suitable for any type ofbor or work. When the horse identally ran into the fence holding it back, the peopleughed. Theirughter died down when they realized something.

    The horse had ssy, gray eyes like the clouds on a rainy day. It was blind.

    Was this some sort of joke? This was the magnificent horse that the announcer was bragging about? Many people scoffed.

    The announcer quickly addressed the situation, in fear of losing the big crowd. "Uh...this is the wrong horse." He awkwardlyughed.

    He turned around to harshly scold the stable boy close to him. "Bring that useless horse back into the stable and give it twenty whippings!" he whispered to the stable boy, so that they were the only ones who heard the conversation.

    The crowd and Xueyue werepletely oblivious to their exchange.

    "Y-yes sir," the stable boy said, reaching over to forcefully seize the blind horse.

    Xueyue''s lips thinned into a fine line when she noticed how roughly the stable boy was handling the horse. The blind horse jerked its head back at the harsh tugs of his reins. It bit at the stable boy''s hands, snapping and snarling.

    There was something startling about the horse and when Xueyue stepped closer for a better nce, she felt her heart drop. There were massive whip marks and signs of abuse.

    It was a neglected and unwanted horse that probably spent most of his life in confinement, never being able to experience the grass underneath its feet and the warm sunlight on its back.

    The stable boy was having a very hard job of pulling the horse back into the stables.

    It was toote. After being locked away in a dark, dirty, and disgusting stable for so long, this was the first time the horse has ever experienced the luscious, soft grass underneath his hooves. He didn''t want to go back to the dingy stable.

    The announcer noticed the curious nce from his crowd and quickly addressed the situation.

    "Don''t worry,dies and gentlemen. We have another fence to my left, where the actual champion wille out!" There was clear irritation on the announcer''s face, but he tried his best to smile.

    When he directed the people''s attention towards the star of the show, Xueyue was the only one to not shift her gaze. Instead, she kept it focused on the ck horse that was clearly struggling against the stable boy.

    "Wow, Yueyue look at that horse!" Li Wenmin loudly eximed when a white horse ran into the open field. The horse was beautiful with a brilliant coat that resembled the first snow of winter.

    "Do you want to own that horse?" Li Wenmin''s eyes never left the prestige white horse. He thought it would be perfect for Xueyue. A pure horse for a pure girl.

    "I would love to," Xueyue whispered, but her eyes weren''t on the white horse that everyone seemed to love. Instead, her eyes were on the blinded ck horse.

    "Perfect! I''ll tell the announcer my price!" Li Wenmin walked the first step towards the announcer, but Li Chenyang grabbed Li Wenmin and pulled him back.

    "She wants the other horse," Li Chenyang quietly said.

    Li Wenmin lifted his head in the direction that Xueyue was staring at.

    He frowned. That horse was blind, beaten, and useless. ''What could Xueyue do with such a useless horse? Was it because it was less expensive than the white one?'' he asked himself.

    "Xiao Yue, don''t worry. We have a lot of money, you don''t have to settle for a discount horse," Li Wenmin gently said.

    "I like the other horse," she firmly said. She saw the simrity between herself and the horse. They were both beaten into submission, but neither of them lost the fire in their eyes.

    "Are you sure...? That horse is blind, it won''t run well," Li Wenmin hesitantly asked her. He stared at Xueyue who didn''t even look at him. When she finally lifted her gaze back to him, her eyes were wide with longing.

    Li Wenmin felt his heart clench at her puppy-face. Could this girl get any cuter? At this moment, he knew, from the bottom of his heart, he would do anything to please this girl.

    "I will grow with this horse and in return, our loyalty towards each other will be solidified," Xueyue responded with her eyes glued to the ck horse.

    The edges of Li Chenyang''s lips tilted upwards. She was either incredibly stupid or naive, or both. "Loyalty might be important, but stealth and speed outweigh a simple rtionship."

    Xueyue slowly shook her head. "Without loyalty, stealth and speed will be useless. The horse can easily throw you off or never show you its best abilities because it does not trust you enough to do so," she quietly said, her words forever rooted in Li Chenyang''s heart.

    Li Wenmin sighed at her stubbornness. "Then we shall get this horse for this, Xiao Yue." He nodded towards one of his servants who instantly went towards the stable boy. The surprised stable boy quickly ran to the seller to tell him the good news. Not a minute had passed, before he returned with the price of the horse.

    The entire transaction went by quickly, almost too quickly. The seller was eager to get rid of the rebellious horse that''s without any use.

    When the stable boy was about to hand the horse to Xueyue, it was reluctant to move. "Come on, walk faster!" the stable boy urged, growing embarrassed at his pathetic attempts of controlling the horse.

    The horse neighed, stomped the ground, bit the leather reins, and nearly kicked the stable boy.

    When Xueyue saw the stable boy raise his whipping stick, she ran forward. "Don''t hurt my horse!" she reprimanded, cutting between the whip and the horse.

    The stable boy was startled at her presence and quickly pulled back the whip. He was thankful for his quick reflexes, or else he might''vemitted an offense he couldn''t afford.

    "Give me the reins, I''ll walk him myself." Xueyue frowned.

    "R-right away ma''am." The stable boy hastily passed the reins to her.

    The horse reared its head back and ferociously trampled the ground. Despite not being able to see anything, its hearing was perfectly fine.

    Xueyue noticed the horse might have sharpened its hearing from relying solely on its ears to survive.

    While Xueyue was busy observing the horse, Li Chenyang noticed something startling. "Xueyue, let go of the reins now!" he screamed just as the horse raised its front legs.

    "It''s going to charge!" But it was toote. Xueyue didn''t have the time to react before the horse jerked forward and ran with speed faster than thunder.

 Chapter 27 Crazy Girl

    <h4>Chapter 27 Crazy Girl</h4>

    Xueyue was startled when the horse suddenly kicked its front legs.

    Luckily, her reflexes were faster than the horse. The minute she realized her hands were still tangled within the leather reins, she immediately hopped on the horse seconds before it raced forward.

    "Woah!" she breathed out in shock when the horse lifted its legs and fluidly hopped over the fence. With the wind tugging on her hair and the force pushing her back, she had no choice but to obey the horse''s desire to run.

    "Damn it!" Li Chenyang cursed.

    He quickly ran to the closest horse he could grab and hopped on.

    "Li Chenyang, don''t just leave me here!" Li Wenmin whined, running to grab another horse.

    But before he could hop onto a horse to join the action, the stable boy immediately stopped him.

    "Sir, you need to pay for the other horse that your friend hopped onto!" the stable boy eximed.

    Li Wenmin groaned in annoyance. While he settled the price with the stable boy, Li Chenyang was trying to catch up to Xueyue''s midnight horse.

    "Slow down!" Xueyue yelped when the horse leaped over another hurdle. Soon, it ran towards the trading ports. She gasped when the horse began to head straight towards a fruit cart being pushed by an elderly woman.

    "No, don''t!" Xueyue shouted as she grabbed the reins and tried to tug the horse in the other direction. Her heart raced and broke at the idea of harming an innocent civilian.

    "Heiyue, please!" She didn''t know where the name came from, but it smoothly rolled out of her tongue.

    Suddenly the horse jerked its head. Seconds before it collided with the woman, it took a sharp turn in the direction of the port docks.

    Xueyue knew if the horse continued to run, it would go straight into the ocean. "Heiyue, listen to me. At this rate, you won''t be able to escape! You''re only running faster towards death''s door." She tried her best to keep her voice soft and coaxing, even though the horse couldn''t understand her.

    Xueyue saw the approaching docks just a few meters ahead. Her heart raced with fear. Winter had just ended and spring was starting, which meant the water would still be freezing cold.

    No horse or human couldst very long in the icy water. They could both die!

    "I know you don''t like to be roughly handled or forced into these ufortable reins, and I''m really sorry for what I''m about to do now!" Xueyue took a deep breath and roughly jerked the reins. It forced the horse to slow down, but that didn''t stop Heiyue from running.

    Sitting taller on the horse so that she was more in control, she yanked the horse backward again.

    Seconds before the horse ran over the port, it suddenly stopped.

    Xueyue breathed in and out as she tried to calm her heart.

    Releasing a snort, Heiyue stomped on the wooden deck. It creaked and rattled with the intense force.

    Xueyue bent down and lightly rubbed the horse''s neck. "I''m sorry, it must''ve hurt..." she quietly whispered as guilt settled into her.

    Xueyue gently massaged the horse''s face, hoping to soothe and ease the pain. She leaned closer to the horse. "Can you take me back to the horse ring?"

    The horse neighed and roughly stomped the wooden deck which sent a tremor through Xueyue''s heart.

    She sighed, knowing Heiyue was rejecting her request.

    "You won''t be sold again, I promise."

    The horse tilted its head to the side as if thinking about the idea of returning her.

    "I''ve already named you, I won''t let you go," Xueyue added on, gently running her hand through the horse''s mane.

    After careful consideration, the horse began to walk back to the ring. Xueyue smiled at hispliance.

    Suddenly, she became aware of the eyes that followed her. A few were admiring her for being able to ride a horse without the proper harnesses and the others were shocked that such a tiny girl could tame a horse three times her size.

    Which noble family''s daughter was this? To have a talented and skilled daughter with bright beauty, the family must''ve been blessed.

    "Xueyue!" Li Chenyang immediately caught up to her. His face was red from urging the horse to run so fast and there was a look of panic and fright on his face.

    He helped her off the horse and pulled her within arm''s length.

    Xueyue tilted her head in confusion when his eyes began to scrutinize every part of her body ¡ª as if he was searching for something.

    "I''m fine¡ª"

    "You crazy girl! How can you run off like that! Why didn''t you hop off?!" Li Chenyang began to scold, his voice rising higher and higher.

    He was beginning to garner the attention of a crowd.

    The young women were in awe at how handsome the boy was.

    "Do you understand you could''ve gotten hurt?! What if you fell into the ocean?" he continued to lecture Xueyue, his face growing dark with anger.

    "How am I supposed to exin to Li Wenmin if you drown? What will I tell Mother and Father?!" He stopped rambling when Xueyue suddenly hugged him.

    He stood frozen, his arms hanging limp on his sides.

    "I''m perfectly fine." Xueyue''s voice came out muffled in his robes.

    He pulled back until they were arm''s length. "You fool." He sighed in relief when he saw she didn''t have any visible wounds. Hesitantly, his hands reached out, paused on top of her head, before gently patting it in a fluid motion. "You can''t do this again."

    "I know."

    "Or else I''m going to bully you."

    "Pft, I know."

    "Or else I''m going to make you eat bitter melons."

    "Okay, Worry Worm." Xueyue obediently nodded her head.

    Li Chenyang lightly patted her head, suddenly feeling guilty for yelling at her. He didn''t know why he felt so worried to see her standing so close to the port. Perhaps it was because he has already lost a sister and didn''t want to lose another. Li Minghua wasn''t much of a sister to him, but nheless, they shared the same blood and that was enough for him to care about her.

 Chapter 28 Waving the White Flag

    <h4>Chapter 28 Waving the White g</h4>

    After paying for the horses that Chenyang and Xueyue took, Li Wenmin got onto his own horse and raced through the streets. When he saw a crowd gathered near the port, he immediately went there.

    "How can you guys just leave me?" he whined, hopping off of his horse and childishly stomping towards the two.

    "What you did was really dangerous, Xiao Yue." Li Wenmin held her arm and frowned, "You can''t do that again. Okay?"

    Li Wenmin never admitted it, but he was also very worried about her. He saw how fragile and awfully thin she was. It must''ve been easy for her to break a bone.

    "We have to go back home. We''ve skipped lunch and knowing our mother, she has already jumped to the conclusion that we were murdered," Li Chenyang mused.

    "Alright, let''s go back home before she frets any further." Li Wenmin nodded as he released Xueyue and turned her towards the direction of the carriage.

    "What about Heiyue?" Xueyue asked with a frown.

    "Heiyue? Who''s that?" Li Wenmin repeated, looking around his surroundings in confusion.

    Xueyue walked towards her horse and ced a gentle hand on its face. "My horse. His name is Heiyue." She nodded.

    Li Wenmin observed the blind horse with a frown. "Xiao Yue, I bought another horse for you. It''s the one that Chenyang rode." Li Wenmin pointed to the prized horse.

    The edge of Xueyue''s lips tilted downwards. It was the first time she had ever frowned in front of Li Wenmin. "I want Heiyue," she firmly said with her voice lighter than a feather.

    Li Chenyang stared at the troublemaker horse. He noticed the way the horse''s head was turned towards Xueyue and the way it seemed to cling close to her.

    "Let her keep the horse. If she wants a recement, we always have more horses at home for her to choose from." Li Chenyang sighed while handing the reins of the new horse to his servants.

    Li Wenmin crackled a dry smile after realizing he was outnumbered. "Fine, fine." He waved the white g before nodding towards the male servants. "Give them the reins. They''ll guide him home."

    Xueyue followed his gaze. "I want to ride this horse home."

    Li Wenmin raised his brow and crossed his arms, his muscles slightly bulging. "Absolutely not. The horse is blind, it won''t know how to take you home," he dered, his eyes burning with stubbornness.

    Xueyue shook her head and before anyone could say anything, she swiftly hopped onto the horse as if she had done it a hundred times before.

    "I''ve always watched the scenery whenever we ride in the carriage. I can go home by myself," she said and without waiting for their confirmation, she rode off.

    "Hey!" Li Wenmin yelled, clearly unhappy at being abandoned.

    "Li Chenyang!" he shouted, turning towards his younger brother who had already hopped onto the prized horse.

    A mischievous glint lit up Li Chenyang''s eyes. "Race you home, dimwit," he said and immediately rode after Xueyue.

    "Great! Everyone decides to abandon me," Li Wenmin scowled, kicking the dirt from the ground.

    He ran a hand through his bangs and sighed in defeat.

    A pretty maidservant came forward and bowed. "Young Master Li, the carriage is ready," she daintily said.

    When the crowd heard the surname, their eyes grew as wide as the full moon. They were the infamous Li twins?!

    The people knew the Li twins were exceedingly handsome and were one of the most sought-after bachelors of their era. Wealthy, good connections, well-built, and with no malicious rumors swirling around them, it was clear to see why so many mothers wanted them as their sons-inw.

    There was only one person in the entire country who could beat their reputation, but everyone knew it was impossible to obtain him.

    "If that''s one of the Li twins, who is that girl?" a woman asked her mother.

    The crowd instantly thought about the same question.

    "Perhaps their sister?" another voice responded.

    Duke and Duchess Li were famed for having hidden their daughter so well.

    To this day, no one had seen her face, learned of her death, and even her name.

 Chapter 29 A Woman in Gold

    <h4>Chapter 29 A Woman in Gold</h4>

    When Xueyue arrived at the main entrance of the Li Manor on top of a malnourished and blind horse, the household staff were bewildered and surprised. Above all, they didn''t expect to witness her tall and proud stature, as if she was made for that spot. It suited her well and it was the first time they had seen her with so much confidence.

    When one of the handmaids came forward with the stable boy, Xueyue brushed their help aside and glided off the horse with ease.

    Xueyue''s soft hands brushed against the horse''s mangled mane. He nudged his head closer to her palm. "This is Heiyue," she said to the stable boy. "Please handle him lightly and treat him very, very well. If he doesn''t want to walk or be brushed, leave him be. Don''t roughly grab his reins or whip him."

    The stable boy immediately nodded his head and took the rein that Xueyue offered him. "Under no circumstances may you hurt him. Is that clear?" she demanded.

    The stable boy gave her a curt nod. "Of course, Young Miss."

    "Will you guide me to the stables?"

    He blinked at her question before rapidly nodding again. He hadn''t expected her to go from firm to soft in a matter of seconds. "Right away, Young Miss." He took her in the direction of the stables, but never dared to step in front of her.

    Xueyue intently watched as the stable boy led Heiyue to a clean stall. It wasrge and had ample room for Heiyue to easily lie down and rest. She watched the stable boy''s every move when he fed and groomed Heiyue. The stable boy was gentle in his actions and fondly took care of the horse as if his life depended on it.

    Only then did Xueyue rx and decided to head towards the main house. Her group of quiet maidservants and hidden guards quietly followed her, but immediately paused in their steps when Xueyue stopped in front of the doorway.

    "Oh, I almost forgot." She turned to face the stable boy."Please let him roam the open fields if he wants to," she said with a smile.

    The stable boy''s eyes widened at her friendly smile, almost momentarily awestruck by it before Heiyue roughly nudged him on the back, as if demanding for him to reply. "O-of course, Young Miss."

    Xueyue''s smile brightened as her gaze turned to Heiyue who snorted and stomped the ground. "I''ll see youter, little one," she said to him, even though he didn''t understand her. She nced back onest time before striding off.

    By the time Xueyue had walked into the main house, Li Chenyang was already home, and grumbling to himself in the foyer. He didn''t like losing to a blind horse with thin legs. He knew he shouldn''t have let his guards down.

    His mind shed back to the memory of Heiyue racing towards the trading port. Heiyue was so nimble and swift, all Li Chenyang saw was a whir of ck.

    When Li Chenyang heard a smallmotion outside that signaled the arrival of a carriage, he thought it was Li Wenmin returning home. He was proven wrong when he headed outside and saw an extravagant carriage of the Imperial Family.

    His mood dipped when all of the Li servants came out. They lined the walkway and entrance, with their hands tucked in front of them. When the carriage door opened, all the servants bowed.

    A dainty maidservant from the imperial family stepped in front of the carriage door, went down on her knees and bowed her head to the ground, allowing herself to be a human step stool. One golden-pointed shoe stepped on the maidservant''s back, and the other leg followed when another maidservant walked forward to help the woman out of the carriage.

    Duchess Li tried to not strain her smile at how spoiled the Imperial Consort was. The era was progressing and not many people saw it was necessary to use a human as a stepping stool.

    "Greetings to Imperial Consort, Gu Feiying!" the servants chanted when they lowered themselves onto the floor in a grand and deep bow.

    Li Chenyang cursed under his breath. ''That fourth prince''s mouth sure tattle fast. He really cried to his mommy! What a baby.''

    Li Chenyang kept himself hidden behind a pir when the Duchess came out and stood in front of the main entrance to greet the guest.

    Duchess Li Qixing wore a graceful and warm smile. As always, she was dressed to perfection in a beautiful forest green hanfu. Her hair was intricately wrapped around hairpins with dangling gems, since it was thetest fashion.

    She had already anticipated Imperial Consort Gu Feiying''s arrival.

    "Imperial Consort Gu, it has been a while." Duchess Li bent her legs for a tiny curtsy out of respect, even though she didn''t have to. She was the emperor''s treasured younger sister, one that he had watched grow up. To him, she was more important than all of his consorts.

    Li Chenyang silently praised his mother''s unwavering spirit. His father was still in court dealing with the emperor. Duke Li Shenyang was very busy preparing for a war that might erupt between the Wuyi Empire and the Hanjian Empire.

    While Duke Li Shenyang was away, Duchess Li Qixing was the Master of the house. And she did her job perfectly.

    Imperial Consort Gu didn''t even spare the Duchess a nce as her eyes swept over the expansive and artfully decorated mansion. It was a sight to behold and evidently one of the best houses in the capital.

    The garden was neatly trimmed and not a single petal was out of ce. Her eyes shed with envy. This ce sure lived up to its expectations and price. The house was constructed by the best master craftsmen, analyzed by a Feng Shui master, and blessed by the highest monk of a renowned temple located in a remote forest.

    Imperial Consort Gu was too busy finding a w in the house to bother greeting the duchess, her sister-inw.

    Duchess Li Qixing, who was familiar with the woman''s bad temper, didn''t drop her smile. Instead, she maintained her raised chin with dignity.

    Voice like honey, and eyes like a fawn, Imperial Consort Gu Feiying spoke, "Ah, pardon my manners. I forgot to greet you." She gracefully fluttered her fan before giggling. "But then again, there is no need for formalities. We are, after all, sisters-inw."

    With beauty that no woman could match, a voluptuous body with bountiful assets, and a gaze so alluring and seductive, it was no wonder why the emperor married her.

    Her beauty came from being a pampered princess from another kingdom. She was young and married the emperor the minute her menstrual cycle started. From being a princess spoiled by her father, the imperial consort was haughty and ill-tempered. She wanted everything to go her way and it almost always does. She was currently the emperor''s favorite consort.

    Duchess Li Qixing''s face remained kind and gentle. She didn''t flinch at the subtle insult thrown at her.

    Imperial Consort Gu Feiying was poking at the fact that the Duchess had bowed when they were practically at the same rank. All they had to do was give out pleasant exchanges. She was purposely trying to embarrass the outstanding Duchess.

    But Duchess Li Qixing was already far too familiar with these types of women. Her older brother was the emperor, what was there to be afraid of? Would the man choose his blood-rted sister or a bed warmer?

    The answer was clear.

    "Of course, Mei-mei [1]. How could I ever forget?" Duchess Li Qixing walked forward, her smile wider and faker than before.

    Imperial Consort Gu''s smile became strained at the subtle jab that she was younger than the Duchess, thus, she was supposed to show respect towards the superior senior.

    "Come, let''s not stand outside. I know your body is very fragile, and I''m afraid you might catch a cold. I fear my beloved brother would fret over it." Duchess Li Qixing''s words seemed weing and kind to the naive ears of her servants, but the smarter maidservants knew this conversation was an exchange of insults.

    Beloved brother¡­ She was clearly pointing out how much the emperor doted on the Duchess ¡ª sometimes more than his consorts.

    The imperial consort let out a light chuckle and continued to fan herself. Her sleeves slipped a bit lower, revealing her decorated wrist and hand, filled with blinding jewelry. She was attempting to mock the humble Duchess who only wore special essories when she left the manor.

    The servants tried to not oogle and stare at it in awe, and a few of them were failing at masking their emotions.

    "Of course, Jie-jie [2]. I''ve yet to see your manor," Imperial Consort Gu Feiying grounded out, her voice never faltering when her eyes shone with bright animosity.

    Duchess Li Qixingughed and lightly patted the woman''s hand. "Come now, let me guide you on a tour. We can discuss the matter of your visit over tea."

    Her eyes met a pair of eyes far ahead in the house. She could tell it was her son. She nodded once and Li Chenyang instantly understood the message: Hide Li Xueyue at all costs.

 Chapter 30 Worry Worm Chenyang

    <h4>Chapter 30 Worry Worm Chenyang</h4>

    Li Chenyang walked into the manor by going through the hidden back entrance that none of the servants knew about. It was meant to be an escape passage if there was ever an ambush on the manor.

    Right now, when a war might brew between Wuyi and Hanjian, it was essential.

    Li Chenyang made a mental note to inform Li Wenmin and Xueyue of this secret passage.

    He picked up his pace and walked straight towards Xueyue''s room. Without warning or announcement from the guards outside, he abruptly stormed into the room.

    Startled by the intrusion, Xueyue turned from the vanity that she was seated in. One of her handmaidens was fixing her hair and cing silver hairpins into it.

    The servants bowed at his entrance. "Greetings to Second Young Master."

    He ignored them as his determined steps guided him towards Xueyue.

    "What''s wrong?" Xueyue asked upon noticing his stormy expression.

    "We''re going horseback riding," he coldly told her as he began to take out the fancy hairpins in her hair.

    Xueyue tilted her head in confusion. Horseback riding?

    "But why?" she softly asked, watching him pull out thest hairpin. They had just returned from a run. Wasn''t it lunchtime?

    When he pulled out thest hairpin, he was momentarily surprised by the silky locks of ck hair that cascaded down her back like a smooth waterfall. Messily, he held her hair up into a ponytail and cleared his throat. "Better to wear your hair up." He nodded to himself before cursing at himself. What the hell was he doing?

    Li Chenyang beckoned a maidservant forward. "Prepare her outfit for horseback riding."

    When he saw Xueyue begin to open her mouth, he pinched her cheeks.

    "Ow!" she grumbled, rubbing it.

    "Don''t ask any questions, just follow my lead," Li Chenyang scowled.

    Xueyue saw the irritation in Li Chenyang''s eyes and slowly nodded her head. She didn''t want to push her boundaries.

    She knew it was an emergency if Li Chenyang himself came to escort her out of the manor. So, she sat still and allowed her maidservant to pull her hair into a high ponytail. It didn''t take long for her to get dressed into a well-fitted robe suitable for horseback riding.

    - - - - -

    "Did you fasten your saddles? What about the reins? Make sure the peddle is situated perfectly so that you can climb on with ease. Did you wear gloves? The leather is not good for your hands." Li Chenyang nagged on and on when Xueyue climbed onto Heiyue.

    "Here, let me see if you did everything correctly," Li Chenyang worriedly said, as he guided his horse closer to her.

    A bubble ofughter came from Xueyue when she realized what an overthinker Li Chenyang was.

    She never expected the cold and stony man to be such a worry-worm.

    At the sound ofughter, he raised his head. "It''s not funny," he scowled.

    The corner of Xueyue''s lips curved upwards, and the smile reached her eyes. "Thank you, Chen-ge," she softly said.

    Li Chenyang''s head snapped up at the title. When he saw the beautiful smile, he felt an unfamiliar warmth spread through his chest. Was this how it felt to have a beloved little sister?

    "Chen-ge?" he quietly repeated, unsure if he heard correctly.

    Xueyue nodded. "It''s my nickname for you. Do you like it?" Because her tone was soft, and her words so innocent, Li Chenyang realized it was a genuine question.

    He nced at her hopeful expression, like a puppy waiting for her master''s approval.

    The corner of his lips tilted up in the smallest smile. He ruffled her hair. "It''s alright," hemented and kicked off his horse, leaving Xueyue with her mouth agape.

    It''s alright? IT''S ALRIGHT? Did she mishear? Did the cold and harsh Young Master finally approve of something she said and did?

    "Hey! Wait up!" Xueyue called after him, a bright smile on her face. She urged Heiyue forward.

    Heiyue was more than happy to finally gallop on the grass again. Giddily following the direction of Xueyue''s gentle guidance, Heiyue sprinted into the field.

    Although the horse couldn''t see, his heightened hearing was able to pick up the sound of Li Chenyang''s horse.

    Li Chenyang was surprised when he heard the sound of approaching hooves. He looked back and saw the steady shadow of a horse catching up to him with incredible speed.

    Not wanting to lose the race, Li Chenyang guided his horse to run faster.

    Xueyue chased after him as excitedughter left her mouth.

    Enjoying the refreshing wind that pulled at her hair, the warm sunlight on her skin, and the smell of nature, her bright eyes took in everything before her. This happy feeling and senses were all that she wanted.

    Having been locked away in the Bai Manor in the past, with nothing but the cold darkness as her surroundings, Xueyue never experienced the sun on her face.

    Befriending the rats and counting the dust particles, Xueyue had forgotten what it was like to feel the wind in her hair and the warmth on her skin.

    Lifting both hands into the air, Xueyue momentarily free-rode the horse. She took in everything nature had to offer with closed eyes and a serene expression. For once, she felt satisfied and happy. For once, she was freely allowed to eagerly anticipate the new life in front of her. She didn''t care that her path would be littered with obstacles and moments so sweet, it brought tears to her eyes. Her happiness waited ahead of her, but first, she had to undergo trials that would either break or make her.

 Chapter 31 Injured

    <h4>Chapter 31 Injured</h4>

    As Li Chenyang and Xueyue rode through the field, they noticed something strange.

    They had been riding for a while now and were bordering the walls of the Li Manor. Looking ahead, they noticed a lump of clothes near the pristine white wall. When they rode closer, the metallic stench of blood assaulted their nose.

    Li Chenyang''s eyes darkened at the familiar smell. Heiyue whined and took a couple of steps backward, warning Xueyue. She urged him forward, but the horse refused to let her witness the scene.

    When Xueyue gasped, Li Chenyang''s eyes snapped to what she was staring at. There were imprints of blood on the wall of a handprint slipping downwards. It was almost as if a person was leaning on the wall for support before slipping to the ground.

    Li Chenyang immediately stuck his arm out to prevent Xueyue from heading any closer.

    "Stay here, I''ll go check," Li Chenyang said, climbing off his horse and walking closer to the body. He heard the rustle of clothes behind him and by the time he turned around, Xueyue was already an arm''s length from him.

    Li Chenyang sighed, cing his hands on his hips like an overbearing mother. "You never listen do you?" he nagged, flicking her on the forehead. "It might be a sight too gruesome for eyes like yours," he added, pushing her back a bit.

    Xueyue tilted her head in confusion. ''Too gruesome for my eyes...?'' she thought to herself.

    Li Chenyang bent down and noticed that blood was trickling out of the body. His eyes lingered on the outstanding craftwork on the armor, sword, and helmet.

    "It''s a dead soldier," Li Chenyang concluded, not wanting anything to do with the injured man. "I''ll inform Father and he''ll have someone remove it."

    Li Chenyang honestly wanted the man gone as soon as possible. It was dangerous to have a soldier in the house, especially when you don''t know what rank and position he was in. For all he knew, this person could''ve been an enemy soldier from Hanjian, the enemy of Wuyi.

    Li Chenyang wasn''t Li Wenmin whose kind and gentle heart would be generous towards everyone he woulde across. He was more logical and tended to see the worst scenario in almost everything. Right now, he envisioned his entire family being ughtered or trialed for treason -- for housing an enemy soldier.

    "Come on, let''s go back." Li Chenyang began to walk off, but stopped when he realized Xueyue wasn''t following him. He turned to see Xueyue peering closer at the man.

    "Hey, step away from him. You might get your clothes dirty." Li Chenyang immediately walked back to her and ced a warm hand on her back to guide her towards the horse.

    Xueyue didn''t budge from her position. "He''s breathing." She pointed to his chest that was slowly but surely rising up and down.

    The man was a bloody mess. There was blood trickling down his forehead. His skin was hauntingly pale, and there was a big pool of blood around him. He was so close to knocking on death''s door.

    "Well, good for him," Li Chenyang dishearteningly said, not caring about this man''s condition.

    "We have to take him back to the house and patch him up," Xueyue said, eyeing the familiar symbol on the man''s chest te.

    Li Chenyang scowled. "We are not going to save him."

    "Why not?"

    "Because he''s a soldier and an injured one too. If he''s found dead within our house, it will damage our reputation."

    "But we have to save him."

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "No. We''ll have him dragged out of our property. The risk of trying to save him is too high. If he dies during our care, our reputation would be tainted."

    "He''s a soldier serving our country! We can''t leave him to die."

    "He can die. Just not inside of our house." He shook his head. "Besides, he might be an enemy soldier-- Hey! Don''t touch him. He''s dirty!" Li Chenyang yelled when Xueyue used her handkerchief to wipe away the dried blood on the symbol found on the man''s chest te.

    It revealed a dragon slithering around a sword and shield. Underneath the symbol was a carving that etched, "Wen."

    Xueyue tilted her head as she began to think of any names she knew that had ''Wen'' in them. Vaguely, she remembered something about a Commander. What was his name again?

    "Don''t you think his armor is too fancy to be an ordinary soldier? I think he could be a Commander," Xueyue breathed out, recognizing the symbol on the gs she saw in the Capital.

    Li Chenyang scowled and thought, ''Just great! Now we really have to save him.''

    "I saw a poster in the town that''s looking for a missing Commander. What was his name..." Xueyue trailed off, cing a finger to her chin and putting on a thinking face.

    After a few seconds, she finally remembered the poster. "Oh my god, I remember now! Wasn''t his name Wen Jinkai?"

    Li Chenyang''s entire body stiffened at the name.

    His face became slightly pale.

    His best friend was missing?

    Why didn''t the Wen Family inform the Li Family? His throat tightened when he thought back to a memory of a battered young boy, hollow eyes starved of love.

    "Let me see." Li Chenyang bent down and stared at the surname carved onto the armor te. His eyes shifted to the pale face with dried blood dripping down the head.

    Because it was too hard to identify the man with blood all over his face, he uncapped his jug of water and poured it over the soldier''s face.

    "Li Chenyang!" Xueyue gasped, hitting his arm. "How can you pour water like that on an injured person?!"

    "It really is that bastard..." Li Chenyang muttered when the blood was slightly washed away. He was too distracted to realize it was the first time Xueyue had raised her voice at him.

    Although Wen Jinkai''s face was still smeared red, it wasn''t enough to hide his appeal. Thick eyebrows, longshes, strong nose, and a sharp jawline that could cut through stone, he was the type of man that could force a person to take a second nce.

    Even with his eyes closed, Xueyue could tell he''d have the most piercing gaze.

    Xueyue was absolutely awestruck by him, blinking rapidly. She faintly recalled a time that Bai Tianai fawned over this unattainable man.

    Li Chenyang noticed her curious gaze and waved a hand in front of her face. "You can''t have him." He chuckled, tossing the helmet aside.

    Xueyue blushed before turning her head away from him. "I never said I did."

    Li Chenyangughed and patted her small head. "Well, we can''t leave this fool here anymore. We''ll ride back to the house and tell the servants to carry him back."

    He wanted to have someone keep watch of Jinkai while he rode back to the manor, but the only other person around was Xueyue. He would rather risk his own life than hers.

    What if Jinkai stood up and attacked her because he had mistaken her for an enemy? He couldn''t take that risk, and decided it was best to ride back together.

    Li Chenyang nned on helping Xueyue onto her horse, but he felt dumb when she fluidly got on by herself.

    Her hair blew in the wind, making her look majestic even though she was a small child. Where has he seen the same posture and face? It was so familiar...

    "Come on! We have to hurry." She didn''t wait for him before urging Heiyue forward and the horse galloped asmanded. Faster than the wind tugging at her hair, she urgently rode in the direction of the house, fully unaware that Wen Jinkai was slightly conscious and had heard the entire conversation go down.

 Chapter 32 Ancient Fox

    <h4>Chapter 32 Ancient Fox</h4>

    Duchess Li Qixing had just bid the Imperial Consort goodbye when she heard the servants greet Xueyue at the door behind the manor.

    The Duchess was relieved that Xueyue was distracted long enough for the Imperial Consort to leave. That is, until Xueyue dashed into the living room and was frantically calling forth a doctor and ordering a group of male servants to the field behind the house.

    Li Chenyang entered a minute after Xueyue and exined the situation to a surprised Duchess. Afterwards, Wen Jinkai was brought into their mansion and a doctor examined his condition.

    Xueyue was surprised to learn he was only eighteen years old, two years older than her. He was so well-built, with broad and muscr shoulders, she had mistaken him for a man.

    After the doctor had tended to the Commander''s wounds and prescribed him medicine, the Li Family was quick to notify the Wen Family.

    Through snippets and whispers, Xueyue was able to understand the situation at hand. Wen Jinkai was suddenly ambushed by an enemy army of 10,000 men when he was already weakened and injured from a previous attack. He only had one hundred men with him.

    At thest minute, Wen Jinkai had sacrificed himself to allow his men to run back to the base to call for enforcement. When he knew his men were far from the enemy soldiers, Wen Jinkai abruptly shed an enemy Captain down and seized the distraction as an opportunity to escape.

    It had been a week since this incident. When his body wasn''t found, people panicked and thought he had died.

    One day, after news had traveled that the legendary warrior had survived, the Wen Family immediately came to fetch their son.

    "Li Shenyang, I don''t know what I would do without your son and niece''s keen eyes," Duke Wen Xuan said.

    Both men were exchanging pleasantries over a cup of tea in Duke Li Shenyang''s study. Luckily for Duke Wen Xuan, it wasn''t one of Duchess Li Qixing''s "uniquely blended" teas.

    Duke Li Shenyang left out the part where his son wanted to abandon Wen Jinkai at first, thinking he was a simple soldier.

    "No need to thank me, old friend," he murmured, sipping the tea.

    Duke Li Shenyang instantly realized how fine and dandy Duke Wen Xuan appeared to be. Instead of having eyebags worrying over the disappearance of his eldest son, Duke Wen Xuan was glowing with health.

    "Where is that niece of yours? I heard she was the first to propose the idea of saving my son when Chenyang thought he was a simple soldier that should''ve been left for dead."

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled. "Why do I feel like the older you are, the better your ears have be," he mused, gesturing to the servants to bring Xueyue forward.

    Li Chenyang was already in the study room, quietly leaning against the bookshelf as he pretended to read a book. He had already greeted Duke Wen Xuan, what else did they want him to do?

    Duke Wen Xuan already knew of Chenyang''s quiet nature, so he didn''t press the young man any further.

    "I learned the antics from my second wife, who loves to hear thetest gossip." Duke Wen Xuan wasn''t offended about Chenyang''s previous belief because he knew it was his usual habits.

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow, "I should learn a thing or two from Duchess Wen then."

    At the mention of the second wife, he always found it bewildering how quickly the first wife was forgotten after her death, but never indulged in the thought. It was best to not probe.

    Just then, a servant knocked on the door of the public study where Duke Li always entertained his guests. He had a separate study for himself that was off-limits to almost everyone in the house, except his wife.

    "Come in," Duke Li Shenyang said while enjoying another sip of the tea. For some reasons, he missed his wife''s weird-tasting concoctions.

    Xueyue stepped into the room, and when she saw the guest, she politely curtsied.

    Duke Li Shenyang gestured for Xueyue to sit down on the vacant couch near him. When Xueyue sat down, Li Chenyang also sat down.

    Li Chenyang pretended to be tired from standing so long and never let his eyes stray from the book in his hand.

    ''What were these old geezers thinking by requesting Xueyue''s presence?'' he asked himself, not once realizing he hadn''t turned a page within the fifteen minutes he was reading the book.

    "Duke Wen here wanted to see the face of the girl who rescued his son." Duke Li Shenyang nodded to Duke Wen Xuan who gave Xueyue a polite smile.

    "When I heard of a girl, I didn''t expect her to be this young," Duke Wen mused, leaning his face on his propped up arm. He turned to her, "How old are you, child?"

    "I''m sixteen this year, Duke Wen," Xueyue neutrally responded.

    He pleasantly replied, "Sixteen this year? My third son is your age. My second son, my future heir, is also close to your age, he''s seventeen."

    Duke Wen scratched his chin with a face that was deep in thought. "Would you like to meet my sons? They''re quite handsome, a bit too energetic, but most young men are like that."

    Duke Wen Xuan wanted to have something that could strengthen the bond between the Lis and the Wens. A marriage would be ideal, especially when he nned to make his second son the heir. It was something his second wife wanted, despite his concubine''s protests. His one and only concubine wanted her only son to be the heir, but that was an impossible dream considering he was Duke Wen''s third son.

    Li Chenyang''s fingers tightened around his book. He didn''t miss the fact that though his best friend, Wen Jinkai, was the eldest son of Duke Wen Xuan, yet he wasn''t even considered the heir.

    "What did I say about this marriage nonsense, you senile fool." Duke Li Shenyang feigned reluctance, but his eyes shed with interest at the opportunity.

    "Well, Ancient Fox, there''s nothing wrong in early marriage talks. Saves both parties the trouble of having their heart broken," Duke Wen Xuan retorted, rolling his eyes.

    Xueyue raised her brows in surprise.

    They were talking so eloquently and formally just a moment ago, she didn''t expect the sudden shift of behavior and the exchange of insults. One nce at the amusement in their eyes, she knew this was amon urrence.

    ''It seems they''re friends¡­'' she realized.

    "Besides, my sons are not that bad, especially my youngest. My third son is quite the softy and enjoys the presence of capable women like Xueyue." Duke Wen Xuan smiled.

    Duke Li Shenyang distastefully pointed out, "He''s incredibly gullible and naive, despite his age. A boy like that won''t do Xueyue any good. If you want a match, I want the heir."

    When he saw Duke Wen Xuan''s raised brow, he added on, "Besides, my wife is quite attached to her. She''ll want the best for her niece."

    "All of my sons are the best of the bunch. Also, our house is very close to the Capital. I think Duchess Li Qixing can always visit whenever she wants if she''s that attached," Duke Wen Xuan coyly said.

    "I think not," Duke Li Shenyang deadpanned before taking a sip of the tea.

    His eyes trailed to Xueyue who was sharing the book with Chenyang. He knew his son was secretly eavesdropping and wasn''t even aware that Xueyue was holding the other half of his book.

    Chuckling to himself, he found it amusing that the twins were so protective of her¡­ Oddly enough, Li Chenyang was never like this with Li Minghua¡­ And the thought intrigued him more than it bothered him. Why exactly was Li Chenyang so closed off to Li Minghua?

    ''Is there something that I don''t know about?'' Duke Li Shenyang asked himself, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. He decided that after this talk, he''ll have Ling investigate the situation.

 Chapter 33 Underneath the Night Sky

    <h4>Chapter 33 Underneath the Night Sky</h4>

    "Xueyue." Li Wenmin stopped in front of the door with a frown. He had finally found her, but it was in the least expected ce that he had in mind. "What are you doing?"

    Xueyue raised her head and shifted her focus from the towel she was wringing dry. Seated beside the bed of Wen Jinkai, she was recing the towel that was originally on his head. Due to his injuries and his body''s slow healing, his immune system was weak and thus, he had developed a fever.

    "Changing the towel?" she responded, cing the cool towel on the forehead of the unconscious soldier. Next, she brought the nket higher up, making sure he was well-covered before standing up to close the window. She forced her gaze away from his well-fitted shirt that showed the form of his muscles. He was not overly burly, but had ample amount of biceps for her eyes to wander.

    "That''s a servant''s job," Li Wenmin told her, walking into the room. "Why are you so attached to this buffoon?"

    Xueyue paused before smiling, "He''s your friend and a guest. I don''t want him to get more sick."

    "I hope you''re not doing this because he''s good-looking, Xiao Yue." Li Wenmin sulked. "He''s ugly."

    Xueyue let out a smallugh, "I only want to help him."

    "You don''t have to."

    "But I want to," she deadpanned before heading towards the seat she previously sat on; however, Li Wenmin blocked her path.

    "Xiao Yue¡­"

    "Wen-ge," she mused, pausing in front of him.

    "Let''s practice archery."

    "We just practiced this morning."

    "Okay, lets spar."

    "But my martial arts aren''t as good as yours." Xueyueughed. "Are you trying to prevent me from seeing him?"

    "Seeing who?" Li Wenmin panicked, his eyes widening while he jumped to conclusions faster than a jealous girlfriend.

    "You''re dating someone?!" He grabbed her shoulder, "All men are scum! Don''t trust that man. Wait, who''s that man? Now now, Xiao Yue, don''t look at me like that. I just want to have a nice little talk with him, and maybe his heart can talk to my sword after--"

    "I was merely stating you''re blocking my view of him."

    "But I am the view," Li Wenmin said with scrunched brows. He seemed genuinely confused at her words.

    "If you''re the view, we''re all going to be blind," a voice spoke up behind them as both of them turned around to see Li Chenyang standing at the door. He had a distasteful expression on his face. Like Li Wenmin, he was also displeased to see Xueyue being so attentive towards the unconscious Wen Jinkai.

    "Chenyang, our Xiao Yue likes Jinkai."

    "He''s ugly," Chenyang scowled. "He doesn''t know how to treat people right. You shouldn''t like him.

    "I--"

    "I get it, he''s filthy rich from his conquests as amander. Yeah, the Emperor and Empress favors him, but still, that shouldn''t be why you like a man."

    "I don''t--"

    "Xiao Yue, he''s mean and cold. He won''t treat you well--"

    "I just want to treat him well! I don''t like him like that!" Xueyue interrupted them with a scowl. "Why do you jump to conclusions faster than a gossiping auntie?"

    Li Chenyang and Li Wenmin exchanged nces.

    Li Chenyang awkwardly cleared his throat when he realized what he had done. "Anyways, Mom is looking for you."

    "Oh." Xueyue blinked. "What for?"

    "Lunch."

    "But what about the medicine?" Xueyue pointed towards the porcin bowl sitting on the table with a questionable colored substance. "The doctor instructed that he has to drink it."

    "I''ll have a maidservant feed it to him. Nowe on, let''s leave." Li Chenyang quickly ushered her out of the door before she could say anything.

    When she opened her mouth, Li Wenmin began dragging her farther and farther from the room. When he nced back, his twin shared a knowing look: She must not fall in love with Wen Jinkai. A love between them would be devastatingly heartbreaking.

    - - - - -

    A few days had passed since Wen Jinkai was carried into the Li Manor. Because the journey back to the Wen Mansion would be strenuous and not good for the injured, it was decided that he should stay in the Li Manor until he was better. However, the twins knew the truth. Duke Wen Xuan despised his eldest son whose existence was a painful reminder that his beloved wife had died from excessive blood loss after she birthed Wen Jinkai.

    Day by day, Wen Jinkai was growing increasingly healthier.

    Xueyue was relieved by his rapid recovery. Even the doctor had pointed out he healed faster than the average man.

    From a distance, crickets chirped into the quiet night. Inside a decorated room meant for honored guests, the sound of nkets shuffling could be heard.

    A man with broad shoulders leaned on the headboard, as a low growl of stiffness left his mouth. Despite waking up from an unwanteda, his senses were very much heightened.

    In his seemingly endless cycle of sleep, he could hear the voices and conversations surrounding him. In particr, a soft voice with equally soft touches that rested upon his forehead. Gentle and careful, that voice was something he thought he conjured up, until he distinctly heard a name, "Xueyue."

    Wen Jinkai nced at the neatly wrapped bandages on his wound and touched the spot. He stared at the green herbal paste that blotted the white cotton but brushed it off as harmless. If the people who saved his life wanted to kill him after his identity was discovered, they would''ve done it a long time ago.

    Slipping out of bed, he ignored the pricking pain that followed him when he walked towards the door and pushed it open. Immediately, a harsh breeze circted the room. It lowered the temperature, but nothing was able to match the intensity of his icy gaze upon the realization that he was betrayed by his men.

    Wen Jinkai''s grip on the door tightened as fury coursed through him. A mole. There was a traitor amongst his trusted people. And he already had a suspicion of who it was.

    He forced his anger to subdue until the time was right. His zing eyes surveyed his surroundings and he realized he knew this ce. The Li Household. A roughughter left his mouth. How ironic. He was saved by a family who will grow to despise him when they learn of the truth.

    He made his way around the room, struggling between a proper walk with asional and barely noticeable limps. He searched for his armor and weapon. After a few minutes, he finally found it tucked underneath the bed.

    His expertly designed armor was cleaned and polished until it shinned and had zero remnants of blood. His eyes narrowed at the scent of freshly washed clothes. The Lis had gone through his belongings. He was d he traveled with only weapons and a signaling flute.

    He eyed his flute made from a rare white jade that grew deep in an icy cave whose dangerous and rocky paths made the material nearly impossible to acquire. Smoky wisps ran through the flute, leaving it a mellow blend of snow and ashes. It was his family heirloom, bestowed upon him by his grandfather who refused to give it to Duke Wen.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t know why but thinking of his grandfather made him think of his mysterious mentor who was introduced by the previous Wen Patriarch. His mentor was artfully skilled in archery and sword fighting, but always kept his identity hidden. Everything about him was unknown, except the fact that he possibly fostered a child from a woman who drugged him.

    Wen Jinkai realized he didn''t have time for sentiments. He went outside and wandered until he found himself within the edge of a forest. Lifting the flute to his lips, he softly blew into it as the unique material produced an interesting sound that was unrivaled to a simple instrument. He was told that the sound was very simr to weeping fallen angels -- whatever that meant.

    He was using the flute to signal his trusted men. The strong wind carried the sound deep, deep into the forest, its noise bing distorted, but those with distinctive ears waiting for the sound could hear it perfectly.

    Wen Jinkai knew he had to leave and do so immediately. It was not safe for him to wander in this house, especially when his enemies were actively seeking his whereabouts. He couldn''t risk injuring the people who saved his life¡­ especially "Xueyue" whose voice was like a fresh breath of spring.

    In hisa, he had heard so many voices, but her voice stood out to him. He didn''t understand why. Deep down, his heart understood perfectly why, but his stubborn brain refused to fathom the thought. Instead, he focused his emotions on the traitor. He had foolishly fallen into a trap set up by a spy in his army. And he already knew who it was.

 Chapter 34 Black Jade

    <h4>Chapter 34 ck Jade</h4>

    At the crack of dawn, when none of the servants were awake, Li Chenyang was the first to check up on Wen Jinkai. He was startled to see the empty bed and immediately, he ran through the hallways in search of him.

    "Annoying prick, where did you go?" he muttered under his breath. "How dare you vanish without a word of thanks!"

    Li Chenyang didn''t bother checking the small rooms within therge room. Hebed through the house and grew more and more irritated with each passing minute. Wen Jinkai was nowhere to be found.

    He was prepared to head back to his room until he nced around and realized he was in the Eastern Wing where Xueyue resided. Thinking it was best to tell her the news himself, he walked into her room without knocking. Once again, the guards outside were startled by his presence, but no one dared to stop the audacious Young Master.

    Li Chenyang walked towards her bed and expected a serene and peaceful face. Instead, it was the opposite.

    Thrashing and tossing in her sleep, Xueyue''s conscience heavily plummeted into another nightmare. It was the same dream of abuse, but this time it was one of her most daunting memories: Hearing the passionate sound of Leiyu and Tianai entangled in bed.

    "Xue...yue!" an unfamiliar voice called in her nightmare.

    "Xueyue!" the same voice called again, blurring the nightmare until she finally realized it was only a dream.

    "You have to wake up now. It''s urgent!" Li Chenyang shook her thrashing body. His panicked voice and powerful hands startled her to consciousness.

    "Hm¡­ What''s wrong?" Xueyue tiredly grumbled, running a hand through her tangled hair. She tried her hardest to force the memories away, but it always found a way to resurface in the worst manifestation possible.

    Her half-opened eyes slowly drifted to him. She was beyond exhausted after tossing and turningst night. She couldn''t fall asleep, but was lulled to bed by an odd sound of a flute. Thinking about it now, she decided it was probably a hallucination.

    Who would be ying the flute in the dead of the night?

    "That bastard ran off in the middle of the night," Li Chenyang scowled, angrily crossing his arms.

    Xueyue rolled around in her bed and stared up at him in confusion.

    Ran off in the middle of the night? Who did? Wenmin?

    "What do you mean?" She yawned, burying half of her face into the pillow.

    Li Chenyang didn''t mind her sleepy behavior that resembled a stretching puppy awakening from a slumber.

    Li Wenmin was the same when he was forcibly woken up.

    "I woke up to check on him a few minutes ago, and he disappeared! He had taken his robes and his belongings and left everything else that wasn''t his. The room was left in an almost untouched state."

    It finally clicked for Xueyue that the injured Commander had left the manor.

    Xueyue finally sat up in the bed. "But he''s still injured! Why would he just walk off?" she huffed, clutching her forehead in annoyance.

    "I don''t know," Li Chenyang hissed, running a hand through his hair.

    Xueyue noticed his obvious distress, so she climbed out of the bed. "Let''s go to his room, maybe we can find some clues," she said, while tucking her feet into her indoor slippers.

    Li Chenyang nodded and walked with her down the halls and into the room that Wen Jinkai was upying. Lo and behold, all of the Commander''s belongings were gone.

    Xueyue noticed the bed was neatly tucked, which meant Li Chenyang didn''t bother to search the bed.

    But then again, who would? It''s not like someone could hide within the nkets.

    When Li Chenyang began to pace back and forth in the room, biting his nails, and muttering to himself the possibilities, Xueyue noticed something strange.

    At the center of the nket, something was poking out. She decided to examine it.

    Li Chenyang hadn''t seen Wen Jinkai for years. He was looking forward to seeing his old friend but that brat actually disappeared in the middle of the night!

    Thest time they''ve seen each other was when Wen Jinkai decided to enroll in the Imperial Army. He was only twelve years old at that time, but despite his young age, he soared through the ranks until he became the finest Commander this country had ever seen. Within six years, his achievements never stopped piling.

    When he was thirteen, he made headlines by bing the youngest General to grace this country. At the age of fourteen, he led his first army into aplete annihtion of the enemy soldiers. At fifteen, he faced 100,000 men with just 10,000 men on his side. The people thought he''de out dead, but Wen Jinkai not only kept half of his men alive, but his army killed all of the enemy soldiers. When he was seventeen, he had presented the Emperor with seven out of fifteen heads of the enemy''s group of masterminds.

    Now that Wen Jinkai was eighteen, the people had extremely high hopes for him.

    Li Chenyang was so absorbed in his pacing, he wasn''t paying attention to Xueyue''s movements.

    Moving the nkets aside, Xueyue was shocked to see an object hidden underneath it. Sitting perfectly on the center of the bed was a solid ck jade pendant. Resting underneath it was a neatly folded note.

    Xueyue grabbed the note first. She slowly unfolded the paper and in an extremely neat ink writing, it said, ''This will keep you safe.''

    Picking up the ck jade pendant, she curiously examined it. It was darker than finely grounded ink. Icy to the touch, it was almost as if this jade was the mirror image of despair. She noticed a name carved onto the pendant, but was too naive to understand the meaning of this gift.

    Xueyue didn''t know the immense power the pendant possessed. She didn''t know it would forever and always keep her safe, no matter where she was. Be it jail or enemy lines, so long as she wore this pendant, she would be granted protection.

    Her finger ran over the cool jade, tracing over the name etched in white jade, ''Wen Jinkai.''

    She tilted her head at the strange ne. What did he mean that the jade would keep her safe?

    "Chen-ge, he left behind a pendant and a note," she called out, noticing him walking back and forth.

    At the sudden discovery, he immediately walked to her. "A note? Let me see," he said, picking up the note and pendant.

    After reading the five simple words, he scowled.

    That''s it?

    THAT''S IT?!

    After worrying for so long, thinking his friend was kidnapped in the middle of the night, he only wrote a five-word letter?

    ''And it wasn''t even addressed to me! Even when he was heavily injured, that man still has the time of day to woo a girl?!''

    "That bastard..." Li Chenyang muttered under his breath. He was too blinded by anger and annoyance to even realize the pendant he was holding was one of a kind. He thought it was just a normal gift and didn''t bother to inspect the pendant whose worth and significance was more valuable than the Kingdom itself.

 Chapter 35 Second and Third Prince of Wuyi

    <h4>Chapter 35 Second and Third Prince of Wuyi</h4>

    When leaves are carried by the wind and the brittle branch is lined with snow, then the first sprout of flowers, and the cycle repeats, two years effortlessly trickled by.

    Xueyue rode her well-trained horse, Heiyue, tall and proud as she returned back to the manor. As the trees outside of her window matured, so did she. Under the careful care and guidance of the Li Family, she became an ethereal beauty. A lone flower hidden deep in the manor, blooming only for those who deserved to see her allure.

    When she eased off Heiyue, the stable boy immediately came forward with a gentle bow. "Wee home, Young Miss."

    Xueyue lightly patted thebed mane of her spoiled horse. True to her predictions, the two years they had spent together was enough to form a loyal bond.

    Just like Xueyue, Heiyue had finely matured. He was a proud stallion built for stealth and speed. In the entire Capital, no one could ever outrun him. Of course¡­ it was simply because he hadn''t met his match in the form of another ck stallion belonging to a mysterious Commander whose name had left Xueyue''s mind.

    "As usual, please take proper care of Heiyue, but please feed him a bit more than usual. We ran for a very long time today," she said while fondly patting the horse''s majestic coat of ck, a color deeper than the hues of midnight.

    When Heiyue stomped the ground in protest and nudged closer to Xueyue, she quietlyughed and promised, "I''lle back tomorrow."

    Heiyue snorted in protest. "Such a spoiled horse," she mused to herself. "Perhaps I will visit you this evening with a little treat."

    Heiyue nudged her in agreement.

    With onest pat, Xueyue nodded towards the stable boy who guided the horse into its stall. Wandering the halls, she quietly hummed a melody to break the silence. Lately, the twins were always busy outside of the house.

    Afterpleting his studies and passing every test with flying colors, Li Chenyang had begun apanying Duke Li Shenyang into the Imperial Courts. He was training to be a Prime Minister and many Courtmen believed he was very qualified for the position.

    Like his father, Li Chenyang was an expert at wearing a mask of falsified kindness. He was as friendly as a sly fox waiting for the right moment to pounce.

    Li Wenmin, unsurprisingly, walked a different path than his brother. Swords over books, martial arts over instruments, he was built for the battlefield. He focused his time in the military and had been soaring high into the ranks.

    Because of their duties and work, the men were always out of the house.

    Duchess Li Qixing was lonely at the lessened presence of her sons, but her mncholy was forgotten every time Xueyue kept herpany.

    The servants always marveled at their loving rtionship, it was as if they were a real mother and daughter pair. Perhaps it was because Xueyue was always apanied by the Lis, but the young woman''s features seemed to have evolved to resemble the Duke more and more. It was said the genes in the Li family were always strong, so much so that it was always easy to distinguish them. The resemnce was very strange, but no one dared to spread rumors.

    When Xueyue walked into her room, the maidservants followed suit. Immediately, they began to tidy her appearance.

    She always found it odd that they didn''t talk to her even when she tried to strike a conversation. After two years of trying, she finally figured out they weren''t supposed to talk to her.

    A dainty knock echoed throughout the room...

    "Come in," Xueyue said as the maidservants began to undo her hair and simplistic clothing.

    A middle-aged maidservant walked into the room, her clothes more regal and fancier than the other handmaidens. She bowed.

    Xueyue instantly recognized her as the Head of the Maid-servants who personally served the Duchess.

    "Young Miss, the Madam is requesting your presence in her garden." When she lifted her head, she was satisfied with the efficiency of the maidservants.

    Xueyue''s hair was already styled into an elegant updo as silver hairpins beautifully dangled from it. Her well-fitted robes were switched with pastel-colored hanfu suitable for spring. Each gust of wind turned the softyers of the hanfu skirt into a different color.

    "Alright, let us head there instantly." She walked towards the Chrysanthemum Wing where Duchess Li was often found in the gardens tending to her flowers.

    "Duchess Li," Xueyue greeted, smiling when she saw the beautiful woman ncing out of the pavilion and down at the pond.

    "Sweetheart, you''re here." Duchess Li Qixing stood up as a soft smile adorned her lips.

    "I''m sorry I couldn''t apany you this morning, I was horseback riding with Heiyue. He''s very needy these days." Xueyue stepped into the pavilion that perfectly shaded them from the ring sun.

    Duchess Li grabbed Xueyue''s hands and sat her down. "It''spletely fine with me." She nced at the blooming multicolored hydrangeas near the pavilion. "The entire morning, I was upied with the flowers. They needed to be trimmed and pruned."

    Her hand gestured towards the pastry dishes in front of her. "I''ve had the chefs make your favorite rice cakes. Please have a taste," Duchess Li Qixing happily said.

    She loved watching Xueyue eat. It was as if the young woman didn''t have a care in the world. People might call it unruly, but the Duchess enjoyed a woman who didn''t take dainty bites and dere themselves full.

    Duchess Li Qixing chuckled when Xueyue picked up one piece, two piece, and soon, the entire te was cleared.

    She was beginning to be a glutton, just like Wenmin.

    It seemed Li Wenmin''s gluttonous antics had rubbed off on her.

    "I''m d you enjoyed it, I''ll have the chefs prepare it again," Duchess Li Qixing fondly said.

    "No, it''s fine. Don''t tell the chef, but I like your pastries a lot more." Xueyue sheepishly wiped her mouth with the handkerchief. She didn''t mean to gobble down the food, but after an entire day of horseback riding, she was really hungry.

    Duchess Li Qixing felt her chest swell with warmth. "Then I will be sure to prepare a delicious dessert after tonight''s dinner."

    Xueyue happily nodded before her eyes trailed to the rich purple envelope on the table. Her eyes lingered on the wax seal of the Imperial Family.

    Noticing her curious stare, Duchess Li Qixing followed it and smiled. "It''s an invitation to the Summer Tournament that noble and aristocratic sons and daughters attend. It''s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talented youths of your generation."

    Every two years, the Summer Banquet woulde along. It was often held in selective cities, and this time, it was held in Hechen because the mating season had just passed and the forest was brimming with prey. An additional bonus was the open fields on the outskirts of the prosperous city.

    Not to mention, Hechen had a full harvest of crops all season-round, which was perfect for a feast.

    "Xueyue, you''ve demonstrated excellent skills in archery, horseback riding, and sword fighting. If you''re interested in attending, I wouldn''t mind taking you there." Duchess Li Qixing wanted to show Xueyue off to the world.

    It amused the Duchess that Xueyue was so talented in sports useful for the military. Horseback riding over dancing, archery over art, sword fighting over embroidery, she really was a strange child.

    "Hm..." Xueyue weighed her options.

    The Summer Banquet was not only a ce to show off one''s skills, but it was also the perfect ce to find suitable wives or husbands.

    Many young women would enter thepetition to show off their talents in hopes of capturing the attention of noble families, or even better, the eyes of royalty.

    It was no secret that Princes from other Kingdoms and Empires would attend, and many of them didn''t have a fianc¨¦e.

    Rumors had it that the Second and Third Prince of Wuyi would also be present.

    "Will Chenyang and Wenmin participate in thepetitions?" Xueyue asked.

    Duchess Li nodded. "Yes, they''vepeted for a while now." Her eyes shed to the fond memories of the twins, but the happiness left as quick as it came.

    Li Minghua used to participate¡­ it had been two years since the death of her first daughter, but time did wonder on the wounds.

    The Duchess was slowly moving past the grieving stage towards the stage of eptance.

    "Then I would love to attend the Summer Banquet." Xueyue smiled, happy that the twins could tag along. She didn''t want to go alone and be a burden to the family ¨C even though she was never a burden to anyone.

    Duchess Li Qixing delightfully pped her hands. "Perfect, I''ll order you new sets of clothes and hairpins! It''s going to be so exciting!"

    Xueyueughed at her excitement and patiently listened while the Duchess rambled about the banquet.

 Chapter 36 Oblivion

    <h4>Chapter 36 Oblivion</h4>

    Li Manor, Hechen

    The journey to Hechen took a few days. While Li Chenyang and Li Wenmin were nonchnt over the idea of going back to their previous home, Xueyue was unbelievably nervous. Everyone had arrived safely within the manor in Hechen.

    For once, Xueyue began to pace in her room. She rubbed her chin, unaware of her actions paralleling Chenyang in the past. Now, it was her turn to overthink.

    ''What if I see Viscount Bai and his family?'' Her heart dropped at the idea as her face turned paper white. ''Will they recognize me? Will they capture me back?''

    Xueyue nced at her reflection in the vanity mirror and struggled to maintain her posture. She looked nothing like how she did two years ago. She was no longer that starved child hungry for love and food.

    ''So what if they recognize me?'' she boldly thought to herself, ''I''ll ruin them regardless.'' Her eyes shed with self-assurance. ''Yes. I''ll definitely get my vengeance against them.'' But the question was, how?

    "Yes, yes, you''re very pretty. Now can you stop staring at yourself in the mirror?" Li Chenyang''s amused voice startled Xueyue. He didn''t miss the ferocity in her eyes before it settled into its usual cidness.

    "Xiao Yue, you look pale. What''s wrong? Are you worried about something?" Li Wenmin asked, stepping into the room and plopping himself onto the couch with a te covered with cloth in one hand. Li Chenyang followed suit but instead of sitting down, he leaned by the frame of it.

    "I..." Xueyue didn''t know where to begin. If she revealed her n, what would they think of her? Would they think she was too petty for getting back at her own flesh and blood? A small voice in her head responded, ''But the Bais never treated you as their own.''

    "Are you nervous about thepetition?" Li Wenmin pressed on, his brows drawing together in concern. He didn''t like to see her light skin be even paler than usual.

    Xueyue paused, her eyes darting to Li Chenyang and then to the easy-going Li Wenmin. "A bit," she quietly responded. Guilt sunk into her when Li Chenyang raised a brow, almost as if he could see right through her.

    "You don''t have to be nervous, both I and Chenyang will be there." Li Wenmin patted the spot beside him and Xueyue sat down.

    Xueyue was grateful for Li Wenmin''s reassurance and gentle words.

    "Don''t tell Mother this, but I snuck some lotus seed mooncakes out of the kitchen. The chefs were testing a new recipe for next year''s lunar new year. Do you want some?" He grinned while unclothing the te. Even after four years, his usual antics didn''t change.

    At the sight of his bright expression over the idea of eating, Xueyue felt her worries wash away. Sheughed at his antics and instantly nodded her head.

    "You''re quite the glutton, aren''t you?" she teased, watching him ce the cake in his mouth.

    "And you''re the second glutton of the family." Li Wenmin tapped her nose, watching her pick up two.

    "Here, have some." She handed one to Li Chenyang because he was on the opposite side of the couch.

    "Wait, Xiao Yue, Chenyang doesn''t¡ª" Li Wenmin''s voice died off when Chenyang took the mooncake and ate it.

    Li Wenmin''s mouth fell open. ''Did he really just eat that?''

    Li Chenyang gave his brother the stink eye, warning him to not say anything.

    Meanwhile, Xueyue waspletely oblivious to their expressions and happily munched away on the food.

    Li Wenmin knew Li Chenyang despised lotus seeds with a passion, but thetter ate the mooncake without hesitation as if he hadn''t thrown a tantrum over it when he was four and vowed never to eat another in his life.

    Knowing it was best to not say anything, Li Wenmin continued to eat his mooncake in silence.

    - - - - -

    After chatting with her brothers the entire day, Xueyue had finally fallen asleep from all of the talking.

    Li Wenmin''s expression was soft when he saw her droopy eyes while she mumbled about something. He gently patted her head as her body leaned against his shoulders and soon, her eyes slipped close.

    "It seemed we tired her out too much," Li Wenmin mused, poking her soft and squishable cheek that resembled a freshly steamed white bun.

    "We''ve had a long journey back to Hechen. It''s not a surprise she''s tired," Li Chenyang responded as he crossed his arms.

    Li Wenmin effortlessly lifted Xueyue in a piggy-back style while he carried her to the bed. His brother lifted the heavy nket and took off her shoes.

    Li Wenmin eased Xueyue into the bed before tucking her in. With a final pat on her forehead, he approached the window and locked it tightly. Next, he beckoned a servant to stoke the fire.

    Once she was warm andfortable, the twins left her room and began approaching their wing of the house.

    "Why did you eat the lotus seed mooncake? Didn''t you dislike the taste?" Li Wenmin curiously asked with his hands bent behind his head.

    "I''m a grown adult now. I don''t have the time to be picky with my food." Li Chenyang rolled his eyes, crossing his arms.

    Li Wenmin tilted his head at his brother''s response before shrugging, "I still don''t like ck chicken soup."

    "That''s because you''re childish regardless of your age." Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. Sometimes he forgot Li Wenmin was the older one and not him.

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes and asked, "Are you excited for tomorrow''spetition?"

    "There''s nothing to be excited about it if we always win." Li Chenyang was honestly very bored with thepetition. There were not that many people whose skill was up to par with his. After so many years of mothers pestering him about their daughters, he was beginning to grow annoyed.

    "I heard that Xueyue ispeting in archery with her ck horse," Li Wenmin mused, remembering what his mother told him.

    "She was always so good at archery, I''m sure she''d blow herpetitors out of the water." Li Wenmin chuckled, remembering the first time they met.

    "I suppose I''ll sign up for archery this year," Li Chenyang suggested, which caused Li Wenmin to hit his shoulders.

    Li Wenmin scoffed, rolling his eyes again. "Do you want to suffer a humiliating loss to her? Because I''ll tease you about it for a very long time."

    Li Chenyang shrugged. "Who knows, maybe I''ll beat her?"

    "Or she''ll beat you to the ground." Li Wenmin rolled his eyes.

    "Besides, if you join, Mother will not be happy. It will be Xueyue''s first timepeting, don''t make it hard for her," Li Wenmin added on.

    Duchess Li Qixing would be horrified if Xueyue''s first introduction to the high society was a horrible loss in a respected sport. Not only would that be embarrassing, but it would leave a bad first impression.

    "Wouldn''t it be good if she embarrasses herself? That way, there won''t be annoying flies hovering over her," Li Chenyang muttered, his eyes staring ahead of him.

    Li Wenmin''s eyes grew wide. "You''re totally right! Why didn''t I think of that?!" Wenmin said, remembering that none of the noble sons had seen Xueyue before.

    His thoughts shed to the stable boy who could never tear his eyes from Xueyue whenever she would guide Heiyue in and out of the stable. Tilting his head, he thought back to Xueyue''s appearance.

    Her eyes were always so sharp, yet gentle and understanding. She rarely smiled for anyone else but the Lis, but when she did smile, it was enough to warm a person from head-to-toe.

    "Even the male servants sneak a peek at her," Li Wenmin mumbled.

    "Her oblivion to her own beauty only enhances it." Li Chenyang tiredly sighed, rubbing his face. "She''s eighteen now, but hasn''t been introduced to our circle. Despite that, there are whispers of suitors stepping forward. Just because she''s heavily acquainted with us."

    At his brother''s words, Li Wenmin firmly decided, "You''re right, you shouldpete in thepetition. Try to outshine her and steal the limelight, so no pests would notice our Xiao Yue."

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "I would''ve done it with or without your approval."

 Chapter 37 Guarded by Two

    <h4>Chapter 37 Guarded by Two</h4>

    Whispers spread like fire when a young woman stepped out of the enormous Li carriage apanied by the Capital''s infamous twins.

    "Goodness gracious, who is that?"

    "Did any nobleman have a daughter with that face?"

    Mothers discreetly chartered amongst themselves behind their spread fans. Their eyes never left therge carriage fit for ten people.

    Meanwhile, the daughters murmured amongst themselves with curiosity and a hint of menace. They weren''t sure if the young woman was a useful pawn or a knight that would prevent them from approaching the twins.

    "Let me help you down, Xiao Yue." Li Wenmin offered while resisting the urge to smile when he saw her eyeing the small steps ced in front of the carriage.

    "There are stairs for a reason," Li Chenyang pointed out, but nheless, offered her a hand. His brother rolled his eyes and a smug smirk surfaced when Xueyue politely declined his hand and walked down the carriage herself.

    "Thank you," she said, regardless.

    "Don''t thank people for not doing anything." Li Chenyang shook his head at her naivety before approaching his parents who had exited the carriage first. He was sulking that she had outgrown his help.

    Li Wenmin''s shoulder shook with containedughter, but it died down when he noticed how many pairs of eyes were stuck on Xueyue. She was too busy observing the colorful tents and beautiful decorations in the air to realize the stares.

    Li Wenmin inched closer to Xueyue and fastened the traditionally-knotted buttons of her shawl. He debated the idea of flinging the material to cover her face but knew she''d fling a punch his way if he did that. Throughout the two years, her feisty side was finally being revealed, slowly, but surely.

    He wasn''t sure if he shouldugh or cry at her antics.

    Duke Li Shenyang also noticed the probing stares centered on them. He cleared his throat and instantly, guards swarmed Xueyue. They surrounded her like a thick barrier, which prevented other people from catching another nce at her.

    "Stay close to us, child. If you''d like to wander off, do it with a guard," Duke Li Shenyang calmly told her, to which she immediately nodded.

    "Okay," she responded, shifting her eyes from the multicolored tassels hung in the air to the stern Duke who smiled slightly with approval.

    "Let''s head to our tents now," he said before turning to his wife with a warm smile. "It''s warm in there. I had the servants stroke the charcoal before we arrived here."

    Duchess Li Qixing nced at the heavily armed guards around Xueyue. She huffed, "I don''t think the guards are necessary. They''re preventing suitors from getting a good view of her."

    "Good."

    "Great."

    The twins simultaneously responded, much to their mother''s dismay. The Duchess opened her mouth to respond but was guided away by the Duke.

    Li Wenmin and Li Chenyang followed after them with nonchnce. It wasn''t evident, but they were standing guard for Xueyue ¨C further preventing her from being seen.

    Meanwhile, Xueyue waspletely oblivious to the heavy and curious gazes centered on her as she continued to curiously look around, but couldn''t see much because of her human barriers.

    As everyone watched them disappear into the distance, whispers arise again.

    "Do you think she''s Duke and Duchess Li''s famed daughter that was kept hidden for all these years?"

    An older woman slowly shook her head. "This young woman only resembles the Duke. there''s not a single trace of the Duchess in her face. Their daughter, Minghua, was rumored to bear a striking resemnce to both her parents, not just one."

    "Well, looks change when they get older," someone tried to argue, but was ignored by another excited mother.

    "Should we introduce our sons to Duchess Li and the young woman? They could produce such beautiful babies!"

    The same older woman from previously hummed. "That would be impossible. Have you seen her? It''d be a miracle if she didn''t have a fianc¨¦."

    Li Wenmin''s gaze hardened at the whispers that reached his ears. He frowned and tugged Xueyue closer to him even though she was already squashed between the twins.

    Together, they walked towards the navy tent that was located the closest to the Imperial Family''s golden tent that was lined with a velvet finish.

    All of the tents were lined up in a slightly curved formation, but they were very spread out so that every family could have decent privacy before heading to the tournament area to monitor their children.

    The closer the tents to the royal family, the wealthier and more powerful these families were. To the right of the Imperial Family''s golden tent was the Li Family and to the left of the golden tent was the Wen Family.

    When Xueyue walked closer to the tent, she finally heard the whispers. She noticed the curious and coy nces from multiple nobles that nced at her while they talked amongst themselves. When they noticed her stare, they smoothly nced away.

    "Why are they staring?"

    "Because they''re nosy and have nothing better to do with their lives. Ignore them," Li Chenyang instantly answered as he ushered her into the tent where warmth immediately enveloped her.

    Duke Li Shenyang and Duchess Li Qixing headed off to pay their respects to the Imperial Family first. Usually, the parents would approach with their children, but Duke Li didn''t want to draw any more unwanted attention to the children. Thus, they decided to have the children introduce themselvester.

    "Start the heater again. It''s not warm enough." Li Wenmin nodded to the servants within the expansive tent. Located inside of it was a furnace, a polished table, and multiple chairs enough for the entire Li Family.

    "This should warm you up faster." Wenmin doted on her by cing two big freshly steamed buns onto her hand.

    Xueyue stared at the buns and suddenly felt self-conscious.

    Wouldn''t she look udylike and improper if she ate like how she normally does, like a glutton? Most nobledies were expected to take food in small bites and eat very little. Yet, Xueyue sat there, like a lost bunny, with two giant buns in her hand.

    Hesitating under the heavy gazes of others on her, she took a small and reluctant nibble of the bun.

    Li Wenmin tilted his head towards the servants who immediately lowered the tent''s curtains.

    "Eat as you usually do, ignore the stares." Li Wenmin patted her head, grabbing a bun and stuffing it into his mouth to show her he didn''t care about their public image.

    Xueyue soon ate like how she usually would.

    Li Chenyang finally had a small smile as he watched her eat. She was back to normal and her shoulders were finally more rxed.

    "I''ll be right back." Li Chenyang nodded to Li Wenmin before walking out of the tent. The minute he did so, he garnered every woman''s attention.

    Li Chenyang headed to the archery fields to examine the posts and equipment. He was prepared to walk back, but then smelled the familiar scent of Tangyuan [1]. His gaze followed the scent and located a few servants walking around with a tray filled with bowls of warm, piping hot Tangyuan, heading towards every tent''s direction.

    Just when he approached the servant and grabbed a bowl, a group of girls approached him. His lips tilted down at the heavily scented perfumes that immediately wafted to his nose.

    "Greetings to Second Young Master Li." The "leader" of the group of girls, Ning Huabing stepped forward and presented an elegant bow.

    Ning Huabing lifted her head when Li Chenyang hummed. He was polite, but very closed off in the way he nced at her.

    Her friends apanying her exchanged excited nces with each other. Ning Huabing was the Beauty of Hechen, second to Bai Tianai.

    With luscious, silky hair, perky nose, and dewy eyes, she looked like the ideal damsel in distress that provoked the protective nature of men.

    On top of that, many mothers wanted her because she was always filial. Good at painting, embroidery, and the arts, she was a frequent winner in these fields in thepetition.

    As good as she was, Li Chenyang was annoyed with her father who purposely bragged about her, hoping he could strike up a marriage n.

    "I''d love to engage in pleasantries, but I''m quite busy. Have a good day, Miss Ning," Li Chenyang cooly responded as he turned his back to her. He was very mindful of his manners in public. It could affect his future position as the Prime Minister.

    "Ah, please wait¨C" Ning Huabing panicked, reaching out for him.

    Li Chenyang was prepared to ignore her, but he met his mother''s pressuring gaze. ''Entertain the girl, won''t you?'' was her message.

    He glowered to himself. He couldn''t disrespect the eldest daughter of the respectable Ning Family.

    "What is it?" Li Chenyang strained to maintain his tight-lipped smile.

    He wanted to go back to Xueyue and Wenmin, well, more the former than thetter. He cursed himself for reaching for the bowl of Tangyuan, when the servants could''ve just brought it to the tent by now. He felt as if they weren''t fast enough and that was why he took a bowl, but now, he regretted his decision.

    "I heard that you will bepeting in the archerypetition¡­"

    "Yes. What about it?"

    Ning Huabing shyly presented him a forest green and silver-colored thread with an ornament hanging from it. "I made this for you¡­ you can tie it around your waist as a sign of good luck."

    "I appreciate the thought, however, it''d be best if you present it to someone worthy." He decided to humor her while rejecting her at the same time. "Have a good day," he curtly said before storming off, leaving Ning Huabing stunned and pitifully ncing at the tassel.

    Li Chenyang angrily grumbled to himself. The Tangyuan soup was now cold.

 Chapter 38 Eligible Bachelor

    <h4>Chapter 38 Eligible Bachelor</h4>

    Li Wenmin came back just in time for the Duke and Duchess to drag all three children with them towards thergest tent. Leading up to it was a set of grand staircases that seemed never-ending.

    Xueyue nervously trailed behind the twins while she fiddled with her fingers. She kept her head down and focused on each step. She didn''t want to catch the unwanted attention of the Fourth Prince, even though he had been watching her the entire time since she emerged from the tent.

    "Greetings to His Royal Majesty, the benevolent Emperor of Wuyi. May your wealth be evesting and your health prosperous," the twins greeted in unison, cupping their hands before dipping into a bow.

    Xueyue gulped when she realized every pair of eyes from the Imperial Family was trained on her. She hadn''t bowed yet. Nervously, she scrambled into a curtsy, "Greetings to his royal majesty¨C"

    "I take it that you''ve been well, little girl." The Emperor''s strict face shifted into slight amusement when he saw her stiffened and then nced up at him with confusion.

    "Thank you for your concern, your majesty. I''ve been raised generously by the Duke and Duchess." Xueyue hoped her voice wasn''t wavering like her heart. She was confused by his attention towards her, almost as if he knew her. But she didn''t remember meeting him.

    "I can see that. You''ve be a great beauty."

    The Imperial Family resisted the urge to raise their brows in curiosity. The Emperor rarelyplimented people, nor did he treat them this kindly. Just who was this girl?

    "Indeed, she is very beautiful, dear Emperor," the Empress mused as she examined the girl from head to toe. "What is your name?"

    "Xueyue, your grace."

    "Just Xueyue?" The Empress raised a brow, ncing towards her sister-inw, Duchess Li Qixing.

    The Duke opened his mouth and was about to confirm the Empress''s words, but the Duchess interjected, "Her full name is Li Xueyue."

    "A Li?" The Empress curiously smiled, ncing at the Duke. Indeed, Xueyue resembled him, but there was something very different to her. She looked like the Duke, but not like how a daughter would look like her father.

    "How interesting," Imperial Consort Gu Feiying spoke up, her eyes taking in Xueyue''s features. "You look so much like¨C"

    "She resembles me, doesn''t she?" Duke Li Shenyang interjected, stepping in front of Xueyue.

    "Ah, yes. But you weren''t the person I had in mind." Consort Gu Feiying strained a smile upon being interrupted. She nced at the Emperor who didn''t seem to mind the issue.

    "What will you bepeting in, Xueyue?" the Emperor inquired, his eyes shifting to her hazel pair of eyes. He expected her to avert her gaze, but she maintained eye contact ¨C whether it was on purpose or not, he didn''t know.

    "Archery and sword fighting, your majesty."

    "What about the sports suitable for women?"

    Xueyue shook her head, "I''m not interested in them."

    The Emperor raised a brow before nodding towards the Duke. "You''ve raised an interesting girl."

    Xueyue tried to ignore the prating stare of a certain individual which could bore a hole into the side of her head. She knew who was intently staring at her.

    "Yes, I have. I''m proud of her." Duke Li Shenyang chuckled a bit.

    "As any father should." The Emperorughed, the sound rich and warm. "You''re excused."

    The Li Family bowed before heading down the stairs with Xueyue trailing close behind them.

    "I look forward to your performance," a voice suddenly spoke, causing the entire family to halt in their steps.

    Xueyue gulped before turning around and forced a smile. "Thank you, Fourth Prince Wang Longhe," she said, to which he smirked and nodded.

    Her face remained passive and neutral, despite the anxious storm brewing inside of her. He was one of the eligible bachelors of the country. Being the Prince, he could choose anyone he wanted from here. Including her. She shuddered at the idea as goosebumps crawled up her arms.

    The twins exchanged nces with each other. Disdain was evident in their eyes. They waited for Xueyue to catch up to them before Li Wenmin stood behind her and Li Chenyang stood on her side, blocking her from the Fourth Prince''s mocking stare.

    - - - - -

    "After all the families had greeted the Emperor and Empress, an announcement would be made and the tournament shallmence," Duchess Li Qixing said, smiling towards Xueyue who hadn''t stopped spacing out ever since she returned to the tent.

    "You look lovely in today''s outfit." Duchess Li Qixing chuckled, brushing a stray strand of hair behind Xueyue''s ears. She still had her baby hairs and it perfectly framed her face. She found it amusing when the hair behaved as if they had a mind of their own.

    "The maidservants told me you prepared the outfit yourself, it''s beautiful. Thank you." Xueyue brightly smiled.

    "Is it now? I shall have the seamstress make you more dresses then. It seems white and blue are very suitable colors for you. Theypliment yourplexion."

    Xueyue''s smile deepened. "You don''t have to. I still haven''t tried on the other ones you ordered for thispetition," she mused, not wanting to waste any more money.

    Duke Li Shenyang silently agreed with Xueyue. He was slightly d that she was not the type of woman who would extravagantly spend money on clothes and jewelry. Sure, the Li Family was rich and their wealth could sustain them for centuries toe, but it was best to not overly spend on useless items.

    Over the years, he had be quite fond of Xueyue, so much so that he had secretly spoiled her with all sorts of new equipment for her hobbies.

    Because he was frequently called to the Imperial Courts, the time spent with his wife had significantly shortened. The twins were always too busy with their exploits to apany their mother. However, Xueyue was always there to please and cheer up the Duchess.

    Xueyue''s presence was greatly weed to the Duke who had never seen a sad expression on Duchess Li''s face since Xueyue was brought to their home.

    Suddenly, the loud chatter from outside of the tent died down.

    The voices became hushed whispers and then utter silence when a powerful man oozing with authority stepped into the field. The people were left speechless by the sight of the handsome man dressed in extremely well-fitted robes that hugged his muscr form.

    Many women swooned when they caught a glimpse of his features. Was it even humanly possible to be so good-looking? Despite the dangerous and dark aura that seemed to surround the man, the women still felt drawn to him.

    Mothers pulled their daughters closer, maidservants tidied their Young Miss''s appearance, and immediately, all of the daughters looked more presentable than ever.

    "Oh my...What I would do to marry my daughter to him!"

    "I''ve never seen a man as alluring, but frighteningly cold as this man..."

    The chatter was nonstop and the women excitedly chattered among themselves.

    Xueyue was also curious as to what themotion was all about. Because the curtains were slightly open, she was able to see a man walking towards the stairs of the royal tent leading to the Emperor and Empress.

    The Emperor stood up from his throne, a proud and bright smile etched on his face.

    No one dared to move or make a single sound. It was so quiet and motionless on the packed open field, even the sound of wind passing could be heard.

    The expressionless man cupped his fist and bowed before the Emperor. He had a stance that practically screamed authority and wealth.

    "Greetings to the Emperor of Wuyi."

    That was it.

    There was nopliment or praise for the Emperor. The man kept his greeting simple and in. Had it been a regr person, he would surely have been tried for offending the Crown and a decree of beheading would be in motion.

    But when they saw the fond and adoring expression on the Emperor and Empress''s face, their suspicions disappeared. This man was dearly loved by the rulers of this country and that alone was enough for mothers to exchange looks with their daughters. They realized who exactly he was ¨C one of the most eligible bachelors of the nation.

 Chapter 39 Second Princess

    <h4>Chapter 39 Second Princess</h4>

    The Emperor observed the Commander in front of him with a stoic expression. It was almost as if he was searching for something. Then spontaneously, his serious expression broke into a smile as warm as the summer sun.

    "You may approach, Commander." He enjoyed calling him the title more than Wen Jinkai ever would. A Commander. A hero. He was someone treasured and praised by the entire nation. The Emperor was as proud as any fatherly figure would.

    Wen Jinkai wordlessly walked past the guards that lined the staircase. He strolled up the stairs with a confidence that no one could ever match.

    "You seem well," the Emperormented when Wen Jinkai was an arm''s reach from him.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t respond to thepliment, but the slight curl on the left side of his lips was enough to show that he had heard what the Emperor said.

    The Commander rarely smiled, nor would anyone catch a gentle expression on his face. Growing up on the battlefield and ying many men left and right without flinching, his soul was bleak and ck.

    Even though the Imperial Family doted on him, he rarely showed an expression of content on his face. It was the effect of being neglected during his childhood before the Empress graciously extended a helping hand towards him.

    "How was the battle near Yijing?" the Emperor asked. He actually didn''t care for the battle, he only wanted to hear the quiet Wen Jinkai speak more.

    "We won," Wen Jinkai curtly said. His voice was rough and deep, and one could hear the authority and dominance he exuded from uttering just two simple words.

    A slow smile spread on the Emperor''s face. "That is always pleasant to hear." He motioned for his advisor to step forward and the greying man immediately did so. A few whispers were passed before the advisor disappeared into the shadows with speed that didn''t match his age.

    Truthfully, the Emperor had already heard of the magnificent oues of the battle.

    The enemy soldiers were left brutally ughtered. No one stood a chance when the Commander strutted into battle with his fearsome horse. It didn''t take just brute strength to win the battle. Well-thought-out strategies were set in ce, as well as unpredictable battle formations.

    "My dear boy, you''ve yet toe and greet me," the Empress gently said.

    Even though her tone seemed to nitpick at him, the fond smile on her face said otherwise. Her mood had been incredibly low, but soared to the sky in his presence.

    Because Wen Jinkai grew up without his biological mother, the Empress had graciously taken on the role of raising him as her own son, and eventually, he found a good ce in her heart.

    He had stuck by the Empress''s side more than the Emperor''s, which made the former love and dote on him more than anyone ever could.

    Duke Wen Xuan showered all of his children with love, all except his eldest son. No one questioned his style of parenting, especially when they learned that Wen Jinkai''s birth resulted in the death of his beloved first wife. Rumor has it that he still hadn''t moved on from the death despite the two decades that had passed.

    The Empress took in Wen Jinkai and treated him like her own son. She was close friends with Wen Jinkai''s mother, thete Duchess Ye. She would never forget the image of a lonely boy standing beside a tree as he watched his family happily interacting with one another while he stood on the outside like an outcast.

    Wen Jinkai turned towards the Empress. His frigid expression slightly softened.

    "I was saving the best forst." He strolled towards the Empress, cupped his fists and bowed to her lower than he did to the Emperor.

    Had it been anyone else, the Emperor would''ve felt insulted and angered, but he wasn''t. Instead, he was slightly grateful towards Commander Wen Jinkai.

    All of the Imperial Consorts and Concubines were present today, and the Empress despised the sight of them. She always kept her emotions in check and had ruled over the harem with an iron fist, but it never absolved the deep hatred she felt in her soul. Her mood had soured this morning when she heard a rumor that the Emperor was going to enter into yet another marriage alliance.

    But after hearing Wen Jinkai''s words, the Empress''s mood was significantly lifted and a genuine smile graced her lips.

    "You''ve lost your baby face," the Empress gently said, cing a tender hand on his face.

    "I never had a baby face," he curtly said which prompted lightughter from the Emperor and Empress.

    "Of course not, dear child," the Empress said with a small smile that reached her eyes. They were filled with love and adoration for the Commander, so much so, that it was beginning to make her own sons very jealous.

    Their mother greatly doted on them, but anyone would feel jealous when their mother showered the same love on another who wasn''t even her biological son.

    "Uhm..." a light voice spoke up from the Empress''s right side.

    The Empress turned towards the small voice that sounded like the beautiful jingles of bells.

    It was her second daughter, the famed Second Princess of Wuyi. She was the Empress Dowager''s favorite granddaughter, and one could tell why.

    With beauty as delicate as the Peach Blossom trees, expressive and adoring eyes, she was the definition of perfection.

    "W-wee home, Jinkai," the Princess softly uttered, her face red with shyness. She gently gathered her hanfu and did a light bow for him. She nced up with a hopeful expression, her smile widening just for him.

 Chapter 40 Clingy

    <h4>Chapter 40 Clingy</h4>

    Wen Jinkai surprised the entire Royal Court and curious onlookers when he didn''t spare the Princess a nce. He acted as if he didn''t hear a word she said.

    He fixed his gaze on the Empress and no one else. He was the first to see past the Empress''s mask. It was clear as day to him that the Empress was sullen at the presence of Imperial Consort Gu Feiying who was sitting far too close to the Emperor than her rank would allow her to.

    Seeing his usual cold shoulder and behavior that didn''t seem to care for the beautiful flowers that always flocked around him, the Empress held back her sigh.

    She had hoped Princess Weichun''s gentle and soft allure would be enough to sway the great Commander Wen Jinkai. He obviously didn''t care for the young woman.

    "If there is nothing else, I will be returning to my tent." Wen Jinkai was beginning to feel irked by the desperate nces of the awestruck Princesses. Even the Princes were staring at him, but their gaze was a mixture of contempt and envy.

    When Wen Jinkai noticed that the Second Prince wasn''t present, he didn''t bother to ask why. He was good friends with the Second Prince, and if he wasn''t present, it only meant he was bedridden again.

    The Empress lightlyughed at the bluntness of Wen Jinkai.

    "Go back to your tent and rest. The battle must''ve taken a toll on you," the Empress said. She lightly patted his cheek one more time, a smile on her face.

    Her smile was so sweet and pure, the Princes couldn''t help but glower with envy. Howe their mother won''t look at them like that? Why does she smile so brightly for a son she didn''t give birth to?!

    Wen Jinkai turned towards the Emperor, nodded his head in acknowledgement and then walked towards the first step of the golden staircase. But he stopped for the briefest second and turned towards the Empress, as if he had forgotten something very important.

    "May your beauty be evesting and your health forever prosperous, Mother," he whispered. Before he could even see her tearful expression, he was already struting down the staircase with his head held high, shoulders back, and eyes scanning the crowd.

    Because his back was turned, he didn''t witness the adoring expression on the Empress''s face as she looked at him. It was one of the rare moments he addressed her in such an endearing term, and not the usual cold title as "Empress." The Empress could feel her shoulders lightly shake with emotion, and she had the happiest smile on her face.

    Xueyue, like many of the people watching the scene, saw the Empress''s bright smile. She slowly smiled in relief when she saw the loneliness and mncholy fade from the Empress''s eyes. It seemed the Empress''s mood was greatly lifted by whatever the man had said to her. Instantly, her opinion of the man improved.

    When Wen Jinkai reached the bottom of the stairs, he walked straight towards the Wen Family''s tent. Halfway there, something caught his attention. The Li twins.

    When he made eye contact with them, he nodded in acknowledgement. The twins also nodded in return but their postures were stiff. They stood ramrod straight in front of the tent, as if shielding something inside of it.

    "Who did you nod at?" Xueyue curiously asked.

    She had been watching the man since he appeared and saw how he exchanged greetings with the royal family with boldness that was unimaginable to the average person. But the minute the man turned to walk down the stairs, Chenyang and Wenmin had shifted their positions to stand guard at the entrance of their tent.

    Because the man was so far, she wasn''t able to catch his name. Nor did she recognize him.

    "An old acquaintance," Li Chenyang curtly said, turning around to face her.

    Curiously, she nced out of the tent curtains, but the man was long gone. Something else caught her eye, a group of women peering at the tent. Even from a distance, she could see their contorted faces that promised of mischievous schemes.

    Ning Huabing had watched Xueyue walk up the grand staircase to greet the Imperial Family. She had also seen the tiny interaction between the fourth Prince and her. Just who exactly was this girl?

    Ning Huabing''s friends took a hesitant nce at her.

    "Jie-Jie, don''t try to overthink the situation. That girl might just be a distant cousin¨C"

    "Li Chenyang doesn''t show care or affection towards any women, even if its a sister or cousin," Ning Huabing interrupted.

    "General Li Wenmin also seems smitten by her¡­" another woman pointed out, staring intently at the royal purple tent.

    "Does anyone know her name?" her friend asked.

    "I''ve never seen her before. She''s probably new to thesepetitions," a different girl added on.

    Ning Huabing pondered for a bit before saying, "Go and check thepetition boards for each section. See if there''s a girl with the surname ''Li''. We''ll be able to figure out if she''s their cousin or one of the twin''s fianc¨¦e."

    "And if she''s a fianc¨¦e?" someone piqued, as every pair of eyes shifted to the woman who approached them.

    "Ah, Bai Tianai, you came just in time." Ning Huabing smiled upon catching sight of their good friend.

    "That girl looks familiar," Bai Tianai said as she spread her fan and nced towards the purple tent. "Too bad I wasn''t able to catch a proper glimpse of her."

    "Yeah¡­ too bad indeed," Ning Huabing murmured before gesturing for her little minions to run off and check thepetition boards.

    - - - - -

    Xueyue wondered what these women were conversing between themselves. She had hid herself well-enough where only half her face was showing. Since these women were so far away, they wouldn''t be able to notice her.

    "Chenyang, people are staring at us," she deliberately said, her voice filled with feign worry.

    He approached her from behind and took a peek out of the tent. His gaze turned sharp when he saw Ning Huabing and Bai Tianai.

    "They''re pests," he said, whilst attempting to close the curtains, but she held tightly onto it.

    ncing up at him with an innocent smile, she chillingly asked, "Shouldn''t pests be squashed?"

    Li Chenyang stiffened at her blunt words. He stared into her hazel eyes, the color of steamed chestnuts. Was her eyes always this dark?

    Slowly, he uttered, "Perhaps so."

    She closed the curtains and headed towards her seat.

    "Are you going to cause mischief?" he asked.

    She paused and turned her head to him with a small smile and mused, "Maybe?"

    When Xueyue appeared in their lives, everyone thought she was a simple and naive child, but Li Chenyang saw something within her when they first met.

    A thirst for revenge or was it vengeance? There were times he would see her stare into the distance, twirling an arrow in her hand. When she practiced the sword, the dangerous expression on her face was not hard to miss.

    He let out a low chuckle that Xueyue didn''t hear. She was indeed a double-edged sword. Innocent features and docile smiles, the people didn''t know what Xueyue was capable of. Why else would she learn skills suitable for men and killing?

    She clearly had ulterior motives and Li Chenyang wanted to know what it was.

    In some sense, he realized she was a bit like Li Minghua, innocent but deadly. He only hoped Xueyue wouldn''t walk down the same dark path as the former.

    Subconsciously, he reached his hand out for her, so close to grabbing her head before she suddenly turned around and his palmsnded upon her temple and his fingers curled into a fist.

    She blinked in confusion before adoringly smiling up at him. Warmth spread in his chest when she tilted her head like a curious little bunny.

    "What''s wrong, Chen-ge?" she worriedly asked, her eyebrows creasing together.

    Li Chenyang''s fingers softly uncurled from clenching his fist. He gently stroked her soft hair.

    "Nothing," he responded, patting her head before approaching his seat.

    He pretended to not notice her curious stare. When her attention was diverted to one of the pastries that a handmaiden ced in front of her, he snuck a nce at her. She happily ate away, swinging her legs with glee.

    It was then he decided that he didn''t care if she was evil or mischievous. She could plot and scheme as she wished, so long as she remained true to him. An ally. That was what he wanted from her, nothing more, nothing less.

 Chapter 41 The Last Arrow

    <h4>Chapter 41 The Last Arrow</h4>

    Li Wenmin strolled into the tent after disappearing yet again. No one knew where he wandered off, but they didn''t mind. He nced at Xueyue''s te of pastries and stole one from her.

    Narrowly, he dodged the small kick aimed for his shin. Chuckling, he patted her head to which she scrunched her nose.

    "Now that all the greetings are done, thepetition will start soon. Archery will kick off thepetition, so get ready." Li Wenmin nodded towards the handmaidens who quickly stepped forward.

    "Follow them and they''ll help you change into your attire. Chenyang has already inspected the equipment and reserved one for you," he added while keeping a poker face on, as if he hadn''t hatched a secret n with his twin behind her back.

    Xueyue was rather perceptive and she eyed the suspicious-looking twins. Although their expressions were neutral and nothing seemed wrong, their eyes wouldn''t make contact with hers. She crossed her arms.

    "Is there something I should know?" she asked them, raising one brow.

    "No."

    "Of course not!"

    The twins instantaneously replied at the same time, causing the Duke to chuckle and Xueyue to frown.

    "What is it?"

    Just then, the sound of loud celebratory drums could be heard. The sound was heavy and strong, ringing throughout the enormous field.

    "That''s the signal drum for the people to get ready. You have less than ten minutes to change, so hurry." Li Chenyang pushed her in the direction of the handmaidens who quickly guided Xueyue out of the tent.

    Watching the retreating figure of Xueyue, the twins let out a sigh of relief. That was a very close call.

    - - - - -

    Xueyue grumbled to herself the entire time the handmaids changed her clothing. She was curious about what the twins were nning. She could only hope it wasn''t a n that would give her an unfair victory.

    The handmaids didn''t pay any attention to their Young Miss''s distraught expression. Instead, they quickly dressed her and were finished in less than ten minutes.

    Xueyue''s headpins were reced by two hand-weaved threads that pulled her hair up. Her thick shawl and spring hanfu were switched with body-hugging clothing, trousers, and boots that reached her knees.

    Xueyue stepped through the path leading to the archery field where she was handed a bow and quiver filled with purple-tip arrows. Carved into each individual arrow stick was the Li family name.

    Xueyue''s sullen mood immediately brightened when she saw a familiar ck horse being led her way. As usual, the stubborn horse rebelled against the person handling him. He gnawed and bit at the reins, roughly stomping the ground like a child.

    "Heiyue!" Xueyue chuckled, her voice instantly reaching the horse''s ears. Heiyue''s head jerked, his ears twitching in the direction he heard the voice from.

    Xueyue didn''t realize that by calling out the horse''s name loudly, she had garnered the attention of curious onlookers.

    As a matter of fact, the people had been staring at her ever since she walked out of the Li''s family tent.

    Just exactly who was that girl? Wasn''t Duke and Duchess Li''s daughter named Minghua? Did they conceive another daughter? Howe they''ve never heard of a Xueyue?

    Heiyue stopped struggling when he heard approaching footsteps. At the sight of the calm horse, the stable boy let his guard down. That proved to be an immediate mistake. In less than a second, Heiyue had kicked off his legs.

    Not wanting to be dragged by the swift horse, the stable boy quickly released the leather reins. Without anyone holding him back, Heiyue ran straight towards Xueyue.

    "Woah there, calm down." Xueyueughed when the horse was about to run past her. Heiyue paused a few steps away and trotted towards her, nudging into the air to which Xueyue giggled. He had misjudged their distance.

    He snorted in response and she gently patted his mane to which he nudged her hand, seeking for a treat. "Alright alright, here''s your sugar cube." She tossed the treat into his mouth.

    "You''re such a child," Xueyue mused when he happily munched the treat.

    "Now, be good okay? There are a lot of other horses today. You can''t be violent with any of them, okay?" Heiyue tilted his head. "Just follow my lead," she whispered before swiftly hopping onto the horse.

    The entire time she interacted with Heiyue, there were two pairs of eyes watching her.

    Wen Jinkai instantly recognized her voice the minute she proudly called out to her blind horse. His keen eyes were able to see the horse''s ssy eyes when everyone else was too focused on the horse''s muscr physique.

    Wen Jinkai tried to ignore her bewitching smile and bright eyes, the color of brown autumn leaves.

    Her voice was just as he hadst remembered, clear and soft. Like the lingering scent of Spring, she was a girl that he constantly thought about. It irked him that he didn''t get to see the face of his savior, but he knew he had to leave the household as soon as possible. He had an endless list of enemies and he wanted none of them to attack the family of the girl who saved his life.

    Xueyue bent down and whispered to Heiyue, "Now, there will be a lot of noises, but don''t fret. All you have to do is listen to my voice and everything will be alright."

    She didn''t know why, but every time she talked to Heiyue, it was as if this horse knew what she was saying. Perhaps it was because of their two long years together, or perhaps it was simply because the horse was too intelligent.

    She knew she had to always reassure him when he was around unfamiliar horses. She learned her lesson a year ago when Li Wenmin went horseback riding with her on a new horse and Heiyue nearly trampled the poor thing. He obviously didn''t like strangers.

    Xueyue adjusted her body and sat taller when a thundering sound was heard in the distance. The tournament drums began ying.

    Heiyue gave a startled jerk and neighed in displeasure, slightly stomping on the ground.

    "Shh, it''s alright," Xueyue whispered again, gently patting Heiyue''s mane.

    "Just listen to the sound of my voice and the birds in the sky." She ran her finger through the luxurious locks of his mane. To please the stubborn horse, she fed it another sugar cube.

    A loud voice spoke in the distance. "Thepetition willmence in 3... 2...1!"

    Just then, the first bird was thrown into the air. One after the other, cages were unlocked as birds soared the skies. tes and cloth balls were also tossed. The te was worth one point, the balls worth two, and the birds worth ten.

    Xueyue released her arrows so quickly, the people were startled with her precision. Each time she shot her arrow, a bird dropped dead.

    In her frenzy of wanting to win thepetition, she didn''t realize the people''s awestruck and bewildered expression. Nor did she see Li Chenyang on top of his horse,peting against her. He, too, only cared about the birds.

    Together, the Li siblings dominated the archery field. Arrows with the Li Family''s symbol flew left and right, never missing a target. It was a whirlwind of purple and blue-tip arrows piercing through birds and y tes.

    During thest thirty seconds of thepetition, a crazy bird was released from its cage. It soared high into the sky with erratic speed. It flew towards the sun, blinding anyone that dared to nce up. The final bird was worth a whopping fifty points.

    As Li Chenyang was closer to the bird he let his guard down. He thought his close distance would be more advantageous.

    He pulled back his arrow and steadied his aim. Patiently, he waited for the bird to be more visible.

    He sharply gasped when a whirl flew straight past his hand, grazing his skin. Without warning, the bird dropped dead. It was a clean and painless death.

    Li Chenyang''s head snapped backward. He breathed out in shock at the sight of Xueyue standing on top of her saddle. She utilized the trust between her and the horse to stand directly on the saddles. When standing, she was taller than Li Chenyang who was sitting on the horse.

    When the bird fell, the people cheered and pped, thinking it was Li Chenyang who shot it down.

 Chapter 42 A Wall

    <h4>Chapter 42 A Wall</h4>

    The cheers and ps died down when they realized that Li Chenyang''s arrow was still intact with his lowered bow.

    Their puzzled eyes followed Li Chenyang''s eyes until itnded on Xueyue who was preparing to sit back onto her saddle. That was, until a horrific event urred.

    An arrow flew straight towards her leg and before she could even dodge that, another flew towards her arm.

    Hearing the "woosh" sound of arrows flying in its direction, Heiyue panicked and tried to maneuver his body to avoid the arrows to put Xueyue out of harm''s way. The sharp and unexpected movement caused the poor girl to lose her footing. Everyone held their breaths as she slipped off her horse, yet no one dared to move ¡ª except the man rushing towards her when the first arrow whizzed through the air.

    Li Chenyang urged his horse to gallop as fast as he could to Xueyue but couldn''t get to her in time.

    Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut and braced herself for the painful fall, but it never came.

    Instead, her back collided with something hard and solid. Startled at the warmth that emitted from it, she opened her eyes and found herself looking into a pair of eyes as bleak as midnight.

    Completely awestruck by him, she could do nothing but stare right back. He was easily one of the most handsome men she had ever seen. His lips curled into a devious smirk upon seeing her gullible expression.

    Dangerous. Alluring. Bewitching. All rationality left her when she continued to stare deeply into his eyes, a void of ck that swallowed the light.

    "Are you alright, little one?" His voice was deep and husky, yet warm and inviting.

    "Xueyue!" Li Chenyang hopped off his horse. Without warning, he yanked her off of the man. Shoving her behind him, he glowered at her savior.

    Xueyue rapidly blinked when she returned to reality. "Chen-ge? What are you doing here?" Her lips dipped into a frown. Why was he in the archerypetition?

    "Jinkai, I''ve already warned you once." Li Chenyang''s dark voice surprised Xueyue.

    ''Warned him once? When? Did Chen-ge know this man?'' she asked herself. Her eyes widened, ''Wait. Did he just say Jinkai? As in... Wen Jinkai, the Commander she encountered two years ago?!''

    Curious at his condition now, Xueyue peered out from behind Li Chenyang''s back. He looked healthy and well.

    Her voice was caught in her throat when she inspected him closer. His brooding eyes that promised sinful nights were perfectly enhanced by his sharp jawline and broad nose. An air of mystery was wrapped around him. His devious smirk made him far too mysterious for her own good.

    When his eyes met hers, she tilted her head. Her eyes unknowingly widened with curiosity.

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes flickered with amusement.

    Li Chenyang scowled, "Are you even listening to me¡ª"

    "So what if you''ve warned me once?" he answered.

    Xueyue swallowed. Betraying his fearsome aura was a smooth, velvet voice that drew her closer to him.

    Chenyang blinked at his words before his confused face morphed into displeasure. "You son of a¡ª"

    "Chen-ge, what are you doing here? Shouldn''t you be inside the tent or on the sidelines watching?" she interrupted him in an attempt to change the subject.

    Last time she checked with the Duchess, neither of the twins have ever participated in archery. Both of them disliked this sport.

    Sensing unhappiness from her tone, Li Chenyang turned to face her. "That''s not important right now¡ª"

    "Were you trying to sabotage me?" She frowned, her eyes shing with irritation.

    Li Chenyang was surprised by her fierce expression. Since when did she learn to re? He had never seen her eyes dance with fire and annoyance, despite his nagging and aloof personality.

    "I would never try to sabotage you¡ª"

    "So you didn''t n on making me lose thispetition to look bad, right? You didn''t want to ruin my first entrance into society so that no suitors would pursue me. You wouldn''t do that to me, right?"

    No wonder why the twins looked so suspicious, they had nned on making her lose from the start!

    Li Chenyang''s silence and sullen expression were enough for Xueyue to know she was right.

    Her frown deepened.

    Suddenly, the drums went off, breaking the high tension. The heavy noise brought attention to the Eunuch who stood on a tall pedestal. He nced up from the unwoven scroll, "After counting the arrows, it was evident Li Xueyue has won this year''s archerypetition!" he loudly announced to the people.

    Not wanting to get on the Li Family''s bad side, the people were quick to cheer for Xueyue. Regardless of her identity, this Xueyue girl has the Li family name attached to her name!

    Li Chenyang was d for the distraction. He took a nce at Xueyue''s expression and was surprised to see the fire in her eyes had died down. Strangely, herplexion was ghastly-pale.

    "Xueyue, what''s wrong¡ª"

    "They''ve heard him..." she whispered, suddenly taking a fearful step backward.

    "Who heard him?" Li Chenyang worriedly asked, his brows drawing together in confusion.

    "I-I want to go back to the tent¡ª"

    "Li Xueyue, please step forward to be personally awarded by the Emperor and Empress for being the first winner of today''s archerypetition!" the Eunuch added on, his eyes focused on the girl surrounded by two handsome men.

    Li Chenyang frowned at the sight of herplexion that had be even paler, to the point of where she looked ghostly. He looked closer and saw the cold-sweat that broke out on her forehead.

    Xueyue turned towards Chenyang, her eyes suddenly wide with fright.

    "Xueyue¡ª" Before Li Chenyang could even say anything, Xueyue was already walking away from the ring. She didn''t look at where she was walking and instantly, she bumped into something hard again.

    ''Damn it!'' she cursed in her head. ''Why is there a wall here¡ª''

    "Are you alright?"

    For the third time, Xueyue made eye contact with the man that saved her. Wasn''t this the same man that spoke boldly to the Emperor earlier?

    "I''m fine..." she trailed off when she realized how many people were staring at her.

    She swallowed hard. They were all waiting for her to step forward to im her prize. Xueyue knew running away and dying the eptance would only cause more confusion.

    "Xueyue,e with me. I''ll walk you to the award table, you don''t have to be afraid of the crowd," Li Chenyang offered, noticing her fearful gaze towards the crowd.

    "Come on, let''s not dy time for the nextpetition to start. It''s alright, you have me beside you," he added on, not noticing distress in her eyes.

    There was a clear reason why she didn''t want to walk towards the award table. Because the table was directly in front of the Emperor and Empress who were seated atop an enormous raised tform for the people to see, everyone would be able to get a good view of Xueyue...

 Chapter 43 Completely Differen

    <h4>Chapter 43 Completely Differen</h4>

    Bai Tianai was curiously staring at the beautiful, yet oddly familiar woman that had just won the archerypetition.

    Before the Eunuch announced the woman''s name, Bai Tianai was thinking of bringing the woman into her social circle and befriending her. Everyone had seen the way the infamous Li twins protected this tiny woman. Doted on by Minister Li Chenyang and protected by General Li Wenmin, every young woman felt incredibly envious of the mysterious girl.

    Bai Tianai dug her fingers into her palm. ''She wasn''t even that pretty, why were they so enamored on her? What made this normal-faced girl so special?! What did she have that they didn''t?''

    There were multiple women here who were dolled up in utter perfection, many of whom believed they were prettier than the mysterious young woman . Yet, none of them received as much attention as her.

    They frowned at how much Li Chenyang was doting upon her. He was clearly worried about her condition, but she seemed too dazed to even hear his words.

    A handful of women didn''t understand why herplexion seemed so pale. Perhaps it was because she had finally realized the eyes that were watching her every move. Or because she wanted to make Li Chenyang worry and pamper over her more.

    On the opposite hand, the men didn''t share the same thoughts as a few women.

    Seeing her shy away from the crowd and attention made her adoring. However, she looked too fierce for their liking when she was shooting the arrow. They thought she was too deadly for a woman. She would be hard to tame. An uncontroble wife.

    Many of their egos were wounded when they saw how good she was at archery. What would happen to their reputation if their own wife bested them in a sport suitable for men?

    But that''s their loss and not Xueyue''s.

    Her phoenix wings were already sniped off once, she would never allow that to happen again. Her heart was prepared to never love a man that would dare to restrict her wings from spreading...

    "Did the Eunuch just say Xueyue?" Viscount Bai Sheng spoke up, his eyes scrutinizing the young woman in front of him. Aside from the simrity in names, he didn''t see any resemnce. This Xueyue in front of him was beautiful and nothing like the worthless brat from two years ago. Was this a simple coincidence?

    His eyes narrowed. If he remembered correctly, the little brat was also good at archery¡­

    "You must be mistaken," Viscountess Bai Yihua whispered. "Our Xueyue¡ª"

    "Your Xueyue. Not mine." He snarled in displeasure.

    Viscountess Bai Yihua blinked as her smile became strained. She nced at her fingers and murmured, "This Li Xueyue is too different from our Bai Xueyue. B-besides, she died from that beating, remember?"

    Slightly unconvinced, Viscount Bai Sheng stole another nce at the young woman standing in the archery ring.

    Instead of hollowed cheeks, lifeless eyes, and sickly appearance, this girl had full-cheeks, glistening hazel eyes, and a bright aura exuding from her.

    "Indeed, my wife, you''re right..." Viscount Bai Sheng trailed off.

    Li Xueyue was dressed in a well-fitted robe that was evidently crafted from hand-embroidered and one-in-the-world designs. With her posture and aura, everyone could tell she had a sheltered life filled with love.

    Indeed, this Li Xueyue was not Bai Xueyue. Besides, it would be impossible to see that brat again, she had already died two years ago!

    Viscountess Bai Yihua had a peaceful expression on her face, but she couldn''t help but wince on the inside. She was Bai Xueyue''s mother. Even if she did not love the child as much as she loved Bai Tianai, Xueyue was still her daughter. The mere mention of her daughter''s death could do nothing but bring guilt and remorse to the Viscountess.

    Bai Tianai felt her throat run dry at the sight of Li Xueyue. Two long years have passed and Xueyue might''ve matured, but she knew this Li Xueyue was the same Bai Xueyue, the same annoying sister that tried to outshine her...

    Zheng Leiyu noticed Bai Tianai''s intense stare. "Honey, what are you looking at?" he curiously asked.

    Lifting her eyes, she batted her longshes at him. "I was admiring that girl''s horse, it''s so lovely," she fluently lied.

    Zheng Leiyu raised a brow at her words. Because he was so distracted by Tianai''s little brother, Bai Yihao, he didn''t hear the Eunuch''s announcement of the woman''s name.

    Right when he directed his attention to Xueyue, Bai Tianai grabbed his hand and leaned her head onto his shoulders. Surprised at her sudden touch, Zheng Leiyu nced at her.

    His gaze softened at the tired expression on her face.

    Bai Tianai abruptly raised her head, her eyes widening. "I''m sorry, I know you don''t like it when I publicly¡ª"

    "No, it''s alright. Just close your eyes and sleep on me, but only for today," Zheng Leiyu softly said, gently stroking her cheeks.

    He disliked public disys of affection or intimacy. In his eyes, it made men look weak to be so wrapped up on a woman. He was, however, in a good mood today for some reason. Thus, he decided to wrap an arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer.

    Seeing him fully devote his attention to her, Bai Tianai hid her smile.

    As long as he didn''t focus his attention on Li Xueyue, she was content¡­

    When Bai Tianai wasn''t watching, Zheng Leiyu took a secretive look at the young woman.

    A tremor shook Zheng Leiyu''s soul when he finallyid eyes on the woman in the archery ring. Why did she look so much like the little girl he used to know? Why did she look so much like Bai Xueyue?!

 Chapter 44 Shed Rather Jump off A Cliff

    <h4>Chapter 44 She''d Rather Jump off A Cliff</h4>

    Seeing so many eyes on her, Xueyue knew she couldn''t dy the eptance of the prize any longer.

    She breathed in and said, "I-I''m alright, Chenyang. I should go up by myself. It won''t look good for you to apany me. The people might speak badly of you."

    Xueyue knew how women constantly flocked around him. If she walked up the tform with him in tow, they would think she was purposely unting her close rtionship with him.

    "They know you''re a Li, they won''t dare to speak badly of me or you," he said.

    He noticed the anxiety within her eyes. He frowned. ''Why is she worrying so much about me?'' he thought to himself.

    She was clearly not in the best state of mind, yet she worried about him more than she worried about herself.

    Li Chenyang''s fingers curled into a fist. He was going to ruin whoever tried to harm her.

    "It''s alright, really," Xueyue reassured him. She forced her fear down her throat and gave him her usual smile.

    Seeing her smile and the fear subduing in her eyes, Li Chenyang slowly nodded.

    Xueyue closed her eyes to take another deep breath. When she opened it, the fear was no longer evident.

    Raising her chin, she was prepared to walk straight onto the golden tform. But when she took her first step, someone firmly grabbed her wrist.

    Startled at the strong grip, she turned around only to see Wen Jinkai. Instantly, Xueyue pulled her hand back as if she had been burned by him.

    The man''s eyes flickered with surprise. He had never been rejected by a woman, but then again, he had rarely touched nor interacted with them.

    "Be careful, the first step is slippery," he told her, regardless of the fact that she stared at him like he was someone crazy.

    "I know. Thank you," she quietly said, and turned to walk off. She felt wary of him. ''He could get any woman his eyes set on, so why would he approach me? If he wasn''t interested in a Princess, why would he be interested in me?''

    Now that she thought about it, it was strange that he rushed to save her. Did he feel indebted to her? He didn''t have to.

    Clearing her thoughts of him, she decided to walk up the grand staircase. She could feel hundreds of pairs of eyes focused on her every step. It was unnerving, but she knew it would be best for her to stay calm.

    "Li Xueyue greets the benevolent Emperor and gracious Empress of Wuyi." Xueyue bent her body and bowed deeply to the Emperor.

    "Raise your head, child," the Emperor spoke up with a small smile. He would always remember the polite child that was the first to bow to him when he was dressed in peasant clothes.

    Li Xueyue slowly raised her head.

    "I''ve heard quite a lot about you," the Emperor thoughtfully said, lightly stroking his beard.

    Li Xueyue bit her tongue. She hoped her expression didn''t give anything away.

    "My sister speaks quite fondly of you." The Emperor noticed her anxiety simmer down.

    "She spoke of your profound skills in archery, horseback riding, and sword fighting. I usually don''t believe bragging women, but it seems she did not lie to me this time," the Emperor mused, growing amused at her profound expression.

    This young woman was so easy to read, her face was practically an open book. Now that he looked at up close, she had truly blossomed into a great beauty.

    No wonder Duke Li Shenyang severely refused every request of bringing Xueyue into the pce to meet the Princes...

    "Thank you, Your Majesty. But I''m afraid I''m not as skilled as you''ve highly praised," Xueyue humbly said, not admitting her skills.

    The Emperor smiled at her polite behavior. It seemed years of being spoiled hadn''t ruined her.

    "How old are you this year, Xueyue?" he asked her. She seemed quite young and he just happened to have two Princes in mind.

    "I''m turning eighteen this year," she said, confused at his question. When she felt a heavy stare bore a hole into the side and back of her head, she swallowed. She didn''t know who was staring from behind her, but she did know who was staring at her side.

    Fourth Prince Wang Longhe never tore his gaze away from her. He was watching her when shepeted and had continued watching her when she daintily climbed up the stairs. When he saw Xueyue had snuck a nce at him, he smirked and winked at her.

    Xueyue stiffened and immediately nced away from him. She didn''t know her quick reaction only intrigued the Fourth Prince.

    His smirk transitioned into a smile. ''How cute, she''s shy towards me. Hmm, she must''ve had a crush on me. That''s why she was so quick to look away.''

    "Eighteen is not a bad age to get married. The Fourth Prince is turning twenty this year," the Emperor spoke up, a light gleam in his eyes. He had heard his beloved Consort Gu Feiying had paid a visit to the Li Family to inquire about a certain Li Xueyue.

    At the Emperor''s words, Xueyue paled. Her eyes were no longer calm and collected. Married to the Fourth Prince? She''d rather jump off a cliff.

    The Empress was the first to notice her uneasy expression. She inwardly smiled.

    Did this girl not want to marry the Fourth Prince?

    It would be considered the highest honor to marry into the royal family. Why was Xueyue so reluctant to?

    "Dear Emperor, you''re scaring the child." The Empress came to Xueyue''s rescue. An enemy of her enemy was a friend.

    "Oh my, I didn''t mean to." Heughed, the sound warm and hearty. "Eighteen is the ripe age for marriage, don''t you think so?"

    The Empress knew it was unwise to go against his words. He was purposely testing her, daring her to step on egg shells.

    She smiled at him. "Indeed, eighteen is an ideal age for marriage. But Li Xueyue is a youngdy with immense potential. Marrying at a young age would hinder her growth."

    The women stared at the Empress in awe. She skillfully dodged his trap and didn''t say he was wrong, nor was he extremely right.

    The Emperor smiled at his intelligent wife. "Hmm, you are right. Eighteen is only for nobledies suitable for housekeeping."

    "Besides, we''re here to discuss her reward and not marriage. Don''t tease the poor girl too much." Seeing her husband finally relent to her, even if it was for a slightest bit, the Empress was slightly relieved.

    Xueyue felt grateful for the beautiful and regal woman in front of her. She would never forget this act of kindness.

    "Alright, my dear. I suppose we shouldn''t dy the otherpetitions any longer." The Emperor hummed, waving his hand to the Eunuchs.

    Two of them stepped forward, each holding one end of a long table filled with all sorts of prizes. They were wrapped individually in cloth and ced in boxes, so it was hard to see what type of gift was inside. It could''ve been a jeweled sword, priceless set of essories, a decree granting an outstanding title, and anything a person would die for.

 Chapter 45 A Wish

    <h4>Chapter 45 A Wish</h4>

    Xueyue stared at the boxes on the table in assorted colors, sizes, and decorations.

    Thergest and most extravagant box stood right in front of her¨C untouched and ready to be imed by her.

    Everyone held their breath when she reached for another box. Suddenly, her hand changed direction and picked up a modest box. It was simple and the royal purple reminded her of the Li family tent.

    The people snickered at her. How dumb was she to choose the ugliest and smallest box? Was she purposefully showing how humble she was? How foolish! When it came to these extravagant gifts, why not be greedy for once and choose thergest box?

    When Xueyue opened the box, she was surprised to see a slip of paper inside. Taking it out, a few whispered amongst themselves. She must''ve chosen a dud. She had lost her chance of receiving a priceless hairpin, morous pair of earrings, or eye-dropping ne.

    Xueyue unraveled the folded paper. She was surprised to see a writing: A wish.

    "Ah, it seems you''ve chosen the most expensive gift here." The Emperor''s eyes danced with amusement. Not only did this girl have a keen eye, but also a lucky hand. There were multiple humbly decorated boxes on the table and the one in her hand wasn''t the ugliest box present. She had chosen the safe route and chosen a middle-ground.

    The crowd whispered in confusion. How can a slip of paper be expensive?

    Xueyue stared at him, her eyes filled with conflict. The Emperor misunderstood her stare to be one filled with confusion.

    "This gift will grant you a single wish from the Royal Family. You can request for a royal title, kingdom,nd, unwavering wealth, a marriage certificate with one of the Princes, or anything else thates into mind. As long as it does not endanger or put the Empire or Royal Family at stake, the wish can be granted," The Emperor exined, the edge of his mouth slightly tilting up.

    Sharp gasps could be heard before a buzz of whispers whirled through the air. Just how lucky was this young woman?!

    Immediately, many noble families saw her as a desirable candidate for marriage. To be able to have a wish granted by the Royal Family, just imagine the fortune that they can request from them!

    Not liking the eyes that were trained onto every single one of her movements, Xueyue knew it was time to retreat to the Li Family''s tent.

    Cupping her fists, she bowed low to the Emperor. "Li Xueyue thanks His Majesty for this priceless gift, it will be dearly treasured." Her voice was firm and unwavering, nothing like the meek girl that her appearance seemed to scream.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue swiftly rushed to her tent after epting the gift. She could feel hundreds of eyes on her, judging every step and breath she took.

    The minute she walked into the tent, she blew out a sigh of relief. Lifting her gaze, she noticed the conflicted expression on Duke Li Shenyang''s face and the bright glimmer on Duchess Li Qixing''s face.

    "You shouldn''t have picked that gift."

    "I''m so happy you picked that gift!" The Duke and Duchess spoke at the same time.

    "Uh..." Xueyue stared at the different expressions on their faces.

    The Duchess seemed overly excited whereas the Duke seemed wary.

    Duke Li Shenyang said, "That gift has ced you in the center of attention. The people will purposely target you."

    "Target you for marriage!" Duchess Li Qixing eximed,pletely ignoring the unhappy expression on the Duke''s face.

    While Duchess Li Qixing was excited for the marriage proposals, Duke Li Shenyang wasn''t.

    If she has a long line of potential suitors, it would make his life too hard andplicated. He didn''t want anyone investigating Xueyue''s background and questioning her rtions to the Li Family.

    He was conflicted about his viewpoint of her.

    Was he supposed to view her as a distant niece? Or was he supposed to think of her as an adopted daughter?

    The twins cherished her too much for her to be a distant niece, and the Duchess was constantly happy around Xueyue. She had a good influence on her family. But what would happen if her true heritage was discovered?

    His eyes trailed to the Bai Family. Their expressions werepletely nonchnt as if they hadn''t just heard the name of their dead child.

    How could Viscountess Bai Yihua nonchntly sit there and fan herself? Did she not care for her own flesh and blood? What about Viscount Bai Sheng? Did he not care about the child he raised as his own?

    Duke Li Shenyang nearly scoffed at himself. Of course, Viscount Bai Sheng didn''t care, he was the one who ordered her to be beaten to death!

    Duke Li Shenyang pressed his lips together. Two years ago, after Duke Wen Xuan visited his study because of the injured Commander, Duke Li had Ling investigate Li Chenyang and Li Minghua''s rtionship.

    He was not surprised to hear they were always at each other''s throats so he brushed it off as typical sibling rivalries. There was nothing suspicious about them. Even so, he still felt as if something was off. He couldn''t pinpoint it. Was there something beyond the typical quarrel?

    "Xueyue, what do you think about marriage?" Duchess Li Qixing smiled at her, sping their hands together. She always loved the warmth that came from Xueyue''s hand. Because it was always in a loose fist, Xueyue''s hands were always warm.

    "Marriage? I haven''t thought about it," Xueyue hesitantly answered while warily eyeing the Duchess. ''I''m too young for marriage,'' she thought to herself.

    Besides, she didn''t think any man would like her. Who would like someone with no proper title, background, and backings?

    Xueyue nced at their hands. She remembered what Viscount Bai Sheng once told her. She was an unwanted child and of no value. Eventually, she took his words to heart.

    "And you shouldn''t think about it," Li Wenmin interjected when he walked into the tent. His voice was on edge and his lips were pulled down into an unhappy scowl. ''Marriage? I think not!''

    "Speaking of marriage, we have to discuss your suitable partners as well!" Duchess Li Qixing ignored her son''s gloomy expression as she began to look for a slip of paper.

    "But Mother!" Li Wenmin whined, childishly stomping his foot. "I don''t want to get married so young¡ª"

    "Nonsense! Right now is the best time for marriage. There are a lot of young and talented noble daughters here. Many of them have been eyeing you and your brother. For example, Baron Han''s daughter and..." Duchess Li Qixing rambled on and on making a list of all the daughters she had gotten acquainted with.

    While she rambled to Li Wenmin, Duke Li Shenyang was lost in his thoughts.

    Li Wenmin was trying his best to coax and calm his mother, while Xueyue quietly observed the scene before her. Seeing that no one was paying attention, she smiled at the perfect opportunity presented to her. As the mother and son bickered amongst themselves and the Duke spaced out, Xueyue snuck out of the tent.

 Chapter 46 Hairpin

    <h4>Chapter 46 Hairpin</h4>

    While the flower assembling tournament went on, a group of women was gathered at a secluded tent.

    "Damn it! That was not part of the n!" Bai Tianai scowled as she kicked the nearest chair. Her friends jumped back in shock while exchanging irked nces with each other.

    Bai Tianai was throwing a tantrum again.

    Ning Huabing nced at her nails and kept quiet. She wanted to head back to her tent but she knew she couldn''t disrespect Bai Tianai like that. She rolled her eyes when Bai Tianai mmed her hand on the table.

    "How did she dodge those arrows and magicallynd in the arms of Commander Wen Jinkai?! Why does he even care about her?!" she angrily hissed.

    One of the girls, Han Jieru, spoke up. "Tianai, please calm down," she said, despite feeling more nervous than Bai Tianai. After all, she was the one who shot those arrows.

    This is only the beginning of thepetition, there will still definitely be opportunities to¡ª"

    "No. There will be no more opportunities," a chilly, but feminine voice interrupted them from outside of the tent.

    Every pair of eyes snapped towards the entrance. When no one entered, the women exchanged curious nces with each other. The wind blew the curtains open slightly, but they weren''t able to see outside.

    "Well? What are you waiting for? Go look!" Bai Tianai ordered impatiently with a frown, gesturing for one of the girls to take a look outside.

    Ning Huabing sighed. She was so bored that she decided to stand up and investigate. She nced condescendingly at the useless girls.

    But Han Jieru beat her to the chase and flung the tent curtains open.

    Sharp gasps echoed and pure silence ensued. The airy tent suddenly felt suffocating. The breeze from previously felt ominously eerie.

    On the ground were a bunch of men knocked out cold. They were the guards that Ning Huabing assigned to protect the tent and keep out intruders. They didn''t have visible injuries that the eyes could tell. They were simply unconscious.

    "W-what''s going on?" Han Jieru spoke up as her eyes scanned the ground before her head whizzed around. The tent was in a very secluded spot in the back, almost invisible. How could anyone have spotted them? Moreover, who could''ve done this?

    Suddenly, something caught Bai Tianai''s attention. She instantly pointed out, "There''s a note and arrow on the ground."

    Han Jieru immediately nced down, her face paling. It was the arrow that Bai Tianai had ordered one of the girls to use. The family symbol was already scratched off the arrow before it was shot at Xueyue, yet oddly enough, the note had the family symbol of the Han Family.

    With shaky hands, Han Jieru picked up the note and arrow. "T-they know." She trembled, turning around to reveal the note.

    "What does it say?" Bai Tianai was too curious to care about Han Jieru''s frightened expression. It wasn''t like Bai Tianai even cared about the girl. She was just a pawn that needed to be sacrificed.

    Han Jieru gulped as she unfolded the paper. Her hand was quivering so hard, the arrow slipped out of her hand. She jumped when it thumped onto the ground. "The next time you lift a finger will be thest time you have hands."

    Bai Tianai pressed her lips together. "Using empty threats? How boring." She reassured, "Nothing is going to happen to us." Raising her chin in the air, she sneered, "We have the power of the Bai Family, Han Family, Ning Family, and so much more. Who''d dare to hurt us?"

    Ning Huabing bit her bottom lip. She wanted to go back to her tent. She didn''t want to harm Xueyue anymore. All she wanted to do was garner Li Chenyang''s attention. Bai Tianai had gone too far.

    The curtain blew again, and something caught Bai Tianai''s attention.

    "Wait. What''s that?" Bai Tianai narrowed her eyes when something glistened. She flicked her hand and motioned for Han Jieru to go check outside.

    "What''s what?"

    "There''s something on the ground beside the guard." Bai Tianai gestured towards the closest one to her.

    "They''re not dead are they?" Ning Huabing warily said. She didn''t feel like exining the situation as to why they were dead to her family.

    Han Jieru was beginning to grow annoyed by Bai Tianai''s bossing. ''If she''s so curious, why can''t she investigate herself?'' Nheless, she stomped towards the tent entrance. Surely enough, something wasying next to the guard.

    A single hairpin.

    Han Jieru picked it up in confusion, turning around to show Bai Tianai. "It''s a hairpin."

    Bai Tianai asked, "Whose does it belong to?"

    "Well, it can''t be one of ours. If it was dropped outside, one of the guards would''ve notified us." Ning Huabing frowned.

    "Which means¡­ The hairpin belonged to whoever delivered the note and arrow," Bai Tianai concluded, her face paling at the realization that a woman could do this to grown men. Only one woman came to mind.

    Bai Tianai resisted the urge tough at the events unfolding before her. She just needed a little bit more confirmation before her suspicions were proven correct.

    - - - - -

    Xueyue adjusted her appearance, straightening her top before briskly walking towards her tent as if nothing happened. She gritted her teeth when her fingers slightly quivered.

    It was her first time using her lessons against someone that wasn''t her sparring partner. She swallowed. Was it adrenaline kicking in? Or was she scared? She couldn''t pinpoint the exact reason as to why she quivered like a brittle leaf would during the beginning of winter.

    "You seem to be in a rush," someone spoke up from behind her, forcing her to halt in her footsteps.

    Pausing, she swiveled around, her lips threatening to tilt into a slight frown.

    "Why the hurry?" he asked her.

    Xueyue nced towards her left, then her right, and behind her, before picking up her pace.

    "Hey, I''m talking to you."

    She continued walking as if his words were a breeze that bristled past her.

    "Li Xueyue."

    She ground her teeth in irritation. ''I was hoping he was talking to himself.''

    Forcing her lips into a strained smile, she easily turned to face the Fourth Prince. Slowly, she curtsied. "Your¡­" she struggled for the proper word, "Grace."

    Wang Longhe''s lips twitched in amusement at her subtle jab. Luckily for her, he found her adorable. He liked toying with little animals, such as herself. "It seems you''re not deaf after all."

    ''It seems you''re still annoying,'' she thought to herself before standing straight. "I would love to stay and engage in small talk about the weather or the sky, but I''m afraid I must head back to my tent."

    "You received such a precious gift. I''ve yet to congratte you. There''s no need to rush back so quickly," he said with a slight smirk.

    From a distance, three pairs of eyes were sharply watching the scene unfold. One man, in particr, was already preparing to leave the tent, his face a mixture of curiosity and irritation.

    "There''s no need to congratte me. It''s but a simple wish," Xueyue replied in the most polite voice that she could muster. "If that is all, Your Grace, please excuse me¨C"

    "That is not all," he shamelessly said, raising a brow when her smile widened. He found it highly entertaining that the more frustrated she was, therger she smiled.

    "I, too, have a simple wish to request." He nodded towards her hands. They were neatly tucked in front of her, but at his gaze, they instantly fell to her sides.

    ''Why don''t you go win a tournament then,'' she snarkily thought to herself. Her smile slipped when she saw his serious expression.

    "You seem puzzled, let me inform you¨C"

    "There''s no need," she cut him off and raised her chin. "I do not need to be informed of your intentions, nor do I wish to hear it."

    "You''re so cold towards me today," Wang Longhe mused. "What happened to the scared little girl from two years ago? The one that likes to y the stupid hero, or perhaps damsel-in-distress."

    "I''m only being polite. If you have mistaken my respect for aloofness, I must apologize."

    "Don''t dodge the subject." He chuckled, stepping towards her while a man in the distance was swiftly heading their way.

    "You''re a Prince," she suddenly deadpanned. "Is that how you should behave?"

    Wang Longhe was momentarily caught off guard by her sharp jeer. He didn''t think she was capable of such a thing. She had a feisty tongue to her. He didn''t know if he wanted to force her to curb it or cut off her tongue. He wasn''t fond of loud and talkative women, especially sassy little things such as herself.

    "You''re ying with fire."

    Xueyue tilted her head before slowly closing the distance between them. In a soft voice, she uttered, "I hope it burns us both then."

    "You¨C"

    "Have a good day, Your Grace," she said before dipping into another curtsy and storming off. When the Prince''s guards blocked her path, she let out a quiet and aggravated sigh.

    "I did not excuse you yet," Wang Longhe warned her and it was then she realized he was right behind her.

    "No, but I have the right to excuse myself."

    "On what right?"

    "That a gentleman is harassing ady," she calmly retorted, shing him a sickeningly sweet smile. She surveyed her surroundings and noticed not many people were ncing their way. Well, it wasn''t like they could. The Prince''s guards had formed a human barrier the second he struck up a conversation.

    "Ady? Where?" He nced around, feigning bewilderment.

    "Why don''t I bring you a mirror?" she retorted over her shoulder.

    Completely caught off guard by her baffling words, Wang Longhe could do anything but stare at her when she roughly stomped on a guard''s foot. The guard twitched, but it was enough for her to shove past them.

    Wang Longhe scoffed as he watched her form disappear into the distance. Her hair boldly swayed with each haughty step she took. He wondered what gave her the confidence to do as she pleased. What made her change? Or had she always been like this?

 Chapter 47 Spinster

    <h4>Chapter 47 Spinster</h4>

    When Xueyue was just a few steps away from her tent, she was forced to halt again. Her eyes were trained on the cor of a broad chest. His well-fitted clothes did nothing to conceal the contours of his rippled muscles when he crossed his arms.

    "I apologize. I wasn''t able to intervene in time."

    "I''m not a damsel in distress. I don''t need saving." Xueyue raised a brow and added, "Besides, Commander, it''s not like you''ve sworn to protect me."

    Commander Wen Jinkai''s eyes widened a small fraction at her daring words. He had expected her to be shaken up from her encounter with the Fourth Prince, but to his surprise, she was fine and dandy. Not a single hair was out of ce, except for the absence of a hairpin.

    "Indeed, but it''s a gentleman''s duty to help¨C"

    "I didn''t need help, but I appreciate the thought." Xueyue smiled. "I can handle myself perfectly well, Commander."

    Wen Jinkai''s frigid eyes softened at her words. "I have no doubt of your capabilities."

    "Then why did you try to intervene?" The words slipped out of her mouth before she could help herself. She stiffened, her eyes widening. "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean it like that¨C"

    "It''s alright," he instantly said.

    Xueyue tried to ignore how smooth, but deep and masculine his voice was. It was gruff, but not in a bad way.

    "You''re a very capable woman, Xueyue," he said. "But there''s nothing wrong in relying on someone once in a while. Being too independent will only tire you out."

    "In this world, we can only rely on ourselves."

    "You don''t mean that," Wen Jinkai softly answered, taking a step towards her. He expected her to react timidly by taking a hesitant step backward like what he had witnessed during the archerypetition. Instead, she raised her chin defiantly, stood her ground and crossed her arms.

    "You''re too close to me, Commander."

    "Am I now?" He resisted the urge to smile at her slight frown. Her brows were crinkled, forming creases between them. "You''ve been hurt before," he whispered, his eyes trailing over her defensive stance.

    It was barely visible, but he could see it in her tense shoulders and tightening fingers. "Not everyone is out to hurt you," he murmured, taking another step forward.

    "One more step and I''ll stomp on your foot."

    "I''d prefer you stomp on it during dances, or perhaps," he closed the distance between them, standing dangerously close. "You can step on them to reach me."

    "Are you always this friendly with women?" Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She desperately wanted to take a step back and create some distance between them, but she didn''t want to lose this challenge.

    By now, there were secretive nces their way. Of course, there were no direct stares. There were, however, many people watching them from the corner of their eyes.

    "Why do you ask?"

    "It''s off-putting."

    "Is it?" he murmured, reaching out to tuck strands of loose hair behind her ears. Her entire body stiffened at his gentle touch. She hadn''t expected hisrge form to be capable of gentleness. She could feel her heart skip a beat when his fingers grazed the back of her ears. It was a soft touch that disappeared as fast as it came.

    Xueyue didn''t have enough time to recover from his actions when his body suddenly grew taut. His nonchnt stance straightened as he softly pushed her behind him.

    "Wang Longhe," his deadly voice was enough to immediately freeze the Fourth Prince in his footsteps. The air around them suddenly became suffocating.

    "Commander."

    Xueyue didn''t get a chance to peer back when she felt his firm squeeze on her upper arm.

    "Go," he quietly whispered.

    "I don''t need your help," she mumbled, attempting to turn around, but his vice grip was too strong for her to even move.

    "You don''t need it, but I''ll give it anyway."

    "Why?"

    "Because I care."

    Xueyue didn''t get to respond before she was lightly shoved again. She raised her head and her irked expression morphed into an awkward smile.

    "Chen-ge." She greeted before her eyes trailed to Li Wenmin. "Wen-ge."

    The twins did not look pleased to her. She couldn''t tell if they were more angered by her or the two brooding men before her.

    Li Wenmin tore his eyes away from Wen Jinkai''s shoulder to the rebellious youngdy in front of him. "Let''s head back to the tent, Xueyue."

    Xueyue gulped. No more Xiao Yue. He was truly angered.

    "Okay¡­" she trailed off, sneaking a final nce at the Commander before Li Chenyang stepped right behind her.

    "There''s nothing to look at," Li Chenyang scoffed before beckoning her to start following Li Wenmin.

    "You''ll hurt your eyes by looking at foul things," Li Wenmin curtly added on as he guided Xueyue into her tent.

    She wasn''t sure if he was referring to the Prince or the Commander. Surely, it was neither. Both men were handsome in their own, respectable manner.

    "Are you mad at me?" she suddenly asked, which caused all three of them to stop walking.

    Yes, they were mad, but not at her. They were more frustrated with themselves for not intervening in time. The only reason they didn''t rush out of the tent before was because their mother kept on holding them back.

    "We''ll discuss this in the tent," Li Chenyang said just as they reached the thick and heavy curtains.

    Instantly, a guard pulled it aside and they stepped through, only to be met with a fuming Duchess.

    Xueyue prepared herself for a lecture, but was surprised when Duchess Li Qixing stomped towards the twins.

    "You," she hissed, grabbing Li Wenmin''s ears and then Li Chenyang''s, "and you!" she scowled, "How could you intervene?"

    "Mother¨C"

    "No, don''t ''Mother'' me Wenmin!" she huffed. "How could you ruin Xueyue''s chances of finding a good suitor?"

    "She doesn''t need a good suitor! She needs to be a spinster." Li Wenmin pouted.

    "A spinster?!" Duchess Li Qixing shrilled, further twisting his ear. He yelped in pain as he attempted to wiggle out of her clutches.

    "Is that the face of a spinster?" she asked, pointing towards Xueyue''s bewildered expression.

    "Yes," Li Chenyang instantly replied, "I think¨Cow ow¡­" he groaned in annoyance when his mother began twisting his ears.

    "I don''t care what you boys think. You just ruined her chances to be with the Commander!"

    "Doesn''t seem like it," a new voice spoke up as every pair of eyes turned towards it.

    Duke Li Shenyang had taken a nce out of the tent before heading inside.

    "What do you mean?" Duchess Li Qixing asked. She turned to her husband with an intrigued expression.

    "Wait and find out," he heartily said. Everyone watched as hezily approached a chair, sat down, and gestured for a servant to pour him tea.

 Chapter 48 Theoretically

    <h4>Chapter 48 Theoretically</h4>

    In less than a minuteter, a guard stepped into the tent and deeply bowed.

    "I deeply apologize for this intrusion, my lord, mydy, but there is a gentleman out there demanding¡ªno, I mean, requesting for an audience." He visibly gulped and his hands were shaking. Whoever was out there must''ve been a force to be reckoned with.

    Every guard serving under the Li Family was expertly trained by the Imperial Military whose crude and merciless method was not one to be underestimated. The Imperial Family expected perfection from their army and thus, every single soldier worked to the bone to achieve the impossible. They were not perfect, but they were very close to it.

    For an Imperial guard to shake in his boots was a serious matter.

    Duke Li Shenyang, however, was amused by the events unfolding before him. Xueyue had only participated in one tournament, but it was already enough to cause quite a stir. He was beyond entertained by this.

    "Let the¡­ gentleman in." Duke Li Shenyang smiled into his teacup. He was subtly jabbing at Wen Jinkai with the hesitation in word choice.

    The guard nervously nced at the twins before hesitantly speaking up, "My lord, it is out of my ce to say this, but the gentleman¡ª"

    "Do your duties properly," a frigid voice entered the tent, its very sound was enough to freeze the guard''s heart.

    The poor guard loudly gulped as he raised his head, revealing his paling face. "Commander, I¡­" He couldn''t finish his sentence before feeling light-headed.

    Wen Jinkai had not spared the man a nce. His attention steered towards Xueyue quicker than he could look away. He was amused by her disapproving stare that seemed to question his presence in their tent. He honored her by staring directly into those inquisitive eyes. He half-expected her to look away or shy back, but she did the opposite. She stuck her tongue out at him before dodging behind one of the twins.

    Instead of being offended by her, he found it entertaining.

    "Good afternoon, Commander Wen." Duke Li Shenyang settled his teacup onto the side table next to him. "How may I help you?"

    Wen Jinkai tore his eyes from the spot that Xueyue stood. He cleared his throat, but found his attention diverting towards the corner of his eyes. Xueyue had stopped using one of the twins as her shield and was inching towards one of the chairs. She eloquently sat down and pretended that he wasn''t here.

    Duchess Li Qixing noticed Xueyue''s behavior and found it odd. Wasn''t the child conversing with him a few minutes ago? She watched as Xueyue disinterestedly yed with a pendant hanging from her waist. Not a secondter, the Commander''s eyes snapped towards the pendant, his eyes narrowing with displeasure. Was he bothered by her action?

    Wen Jinkai forced himself to look away from Xueyue and shifted his attention back to Duke Li Shenyang. He said, "I just wanted to congratte Li Xueyue on her victory."

    "Didn''t you have enough time to congratte her when you saved her from that fall?" Duke Li Shenyang asked in amusement.

    He didn''t miss Wen Jinkai''s obvious interest in Xueyue. However, he was not sure if he enjoyed having the Commander around her. He was not one of Duke Wen''s favorable heirs. But, the Commander was wealthy and reputable in his own way. His achievements were endless and so were his connections.

    It finally clicked to Duchess Li Qixing. Xueyue was ying hard to get. She nced at the young woman before thinking to herself, ''Xueyue IS hard to get.''

    "No, I didn''t," Wen Jinkai coldly responded, glowering at Li Chenyang.

    Li Chenyang stiffened under Wen Jinkai''s piercing stare. He understood how soldiers could fear this man. His re was no joke. It was enough for soldiers to abandon their honor and drop their swords on the battlefield.

    "Go congratte her and be on your merry way," Duke Li Sheyang mused whilst cackling inside of his head. It was so fun to poke the bear, especially when a certaindy was able to put a cor on this bear.

    Xueyue hummed to herself whilst she continued to twirl the pendant.

    Wen Jinkai''s gaze sharpened. ''Why wasn''t she wearing the pendant that I gave her? Did she not like it?'' He could have it made in a different design if she wanted it to. Perhaps ck didn''t suit her.

    "Congrattions," he curtly said in the most monotonous voice possible. She was obviously not expecting that as her head snapped up to him. He realized how round her eyes were, like a baby deer exploring a new environment.

    "Thank you, Commander," she replied in an equally t voice, but offered him a slight smile.

    He silently studied her and unknowingly took a step closer. He didn''t care about the shuffling of feet behind him or the brooding twins. She tilted her head the slightest bit, wondering what his next actions would be. He wondered if she was naturally this adorable or faking it.

    One look at her lively hazel eyes was enough for him to know she wasn''t doing it on purpose. She was just naturally that charming.

    "Commander?" she quietly said, immediately bringing him out of his daydream. He cleared his throat, ncing at the Duke and Duchess who nced at their surroundings as if they hadn''t seen a single thing.

    He liked that she wasn''t awkwardly avoiding his gaze. He was told it was often too intimidating and fierce. He was trying his best to mellow it for her, but he wasn''t sure if it was working or not.

    Xueyue wondered why he was intently staring at her, his incredulously dark eyes so bleak, she saw nothing but her reflection. His jaw ticked. He was upset by something. What was it?

    "That''s a lovely pendant you''re twirling."

    "Oh, the Duchess brought it for me¡­" she trailed off, finally understanding what he was implying. Before she could reply, he shifted his attention elsewhere.

    "Now that I''ve said what needed to be said, have a good day," he spoke and turned to the Duke and Duchess. "Duke Li Shenyang, Duchess Li Qixing." He nodded in greeting and approached the entrance of the tent before casting a knowing smirk towards the twins. "Li Chenyang. Li Wenmin."

    "Wait¡ª!" Xueyue eximed, abruptly getting out of her seat. She didn''t know why she panicked at his abrupt exit.

    The Commander pretended as if he didn''t hear her and continued strolling out of the tent.

    Li Wenmin scowled, crossing his arms. He came to Xueyue''s aid and loudly said, "That bastard dared to ignore¡ª"

    She whirled right past him, a blur of white and purple. He just blinked and she was already gone.

    Huh?

    He nced around, "Did she just run off after him?"

    "So much for ying hard to get." Duchess Li Qixing sighed, sitting down on her chair. "I should teach her how to y her cards better."

    "Mom, you can''t!" Li Wenmin gasped, "Are you trying to sell her off to the highest bidder?!"

    "My darling Xueyue is not livestock. As if I would do something so horrendous like that to her." Duchess Li Qixing fumed, cing an offended hand on her chest. "She''s too precious for me to even fathom selling her off to a loveless marriage."

    "Oh." Li Wenmin calmed down, straightening his shirt. "That''s good to hear¡ª"

    "But I will allow her to marry at any age she wants."

    "Maybe when she''s grandma''s age," Li Chenyang spoke up, referring to the Empress Dowager.

    "Well, if she falls in love at that age, then sure." Duchess Li Qixing fondly smiled at the spot that Xueyue vacated from. "Anything that makes her happy will make me happy."

    "I guess we''re finally on the same page," Duke Li Shenyang murmured, letting out a sigh of relief that he didn''t know he was holding in.

    "But then again..." Duchess Li Qixing shed her husband and sons a victorious smile. "She''s very close to falling in love at this young age." She nodded at the spot that Xueyue ran out from.

    "She can''t marry him." Li Chenyang frowned.

    "I''d kill him." Li Wenmin scowled.

    "He''s unsuitable for her." Duke Li Shenyang sighed.

    "What? Why?" Duchess Li Qixing scowled, cing her teacup onto the table beside her.

    Commander Wen Jinkai was a very reputable man known for his wits, strength, and influence. There was rarely an unfavorable gossip about him and he was never seen with a woman. In fact, he didn''t even have a fianc¨¦e when most men with his level of wealth and title would''ve already had a harem¡ªsimr to the one that Duke Wen Xuan had.

    It was a wonder why the Li twins didn''t have a fianc¨¦e as well, or multiple wives already. But those who truly understood the dynamics of the Li Family would understand why. They would only take one wife and look at no one else. It was what their father, Duke Li Shenyang, taught them since birth.

    One wife was enough. And if you had to fathom another partner, then you shouldn''t be married in the first ce. A person only has one heart, how can they give it away to more than one person?

    "I just don''t like the idea of Xueyue marrying a man who will often be away at war. She''ll be lonely at home," Duke Li Shenyang spoke for his sons who were struggling to find a proper excuse beyond the basic fact that they wanted to hog Xueyue''s attention longer.

    Xueyue always knew how to properly go along with the twins¡ªsomething that many have tried, but failed. It was mainly because her actions were natural and nowhere closed to being forced. She had a refreshing sense of authenticity that was hard to find nowadays.

    "Didn''t you say the war mighte to an end very soon?" Duchess Li Qixing raised a brow. "After that battle at Yijing, which by the way, was won by the Commander you despise, the enemies are ready to raise their white gs. They''re severely overstretched and under-resourced for more fighting. If they knew what''s for their own good, then they would surrender."

    "Now, that, sweetheart, is where you don''t understand us men. We''re prideful by nature and only until we are forced into a corner will we consider a surrender." Duke Li Shenyang shook his head.

    "There are current discussions of a treaty for now and a n to split the territory we''re fighting over in two, but the details have not been finalized yet."

    "But it''s happening isn''t it?"

    "Well yes¡ª"

    "Then that means there''s a possibility," Duchess Li Qixing smugly said. "Besides, I''m sure you saw how captivated the Commander was. I don''t think he''s the type to leave his wives at home."

    "Wife. Singr, not plural," Li Wenmin scowled. "I''d kill him if he takes another one."

    "What is with you and killing?" Duchess Li Qixing exasperated.

    "Theoretically, of course, Mother." Li Wenmin sheepishly grinned, but everyone in the tent knew, it was not theoretically.

 Chapter 49 A Lie

    <h4>Chapter 49 A Lie</h4>

    Commander Wen Jinkai suppressed the twitch of his lips that threatened to curl into a victorious smirk. He rested a hand on the hilt of his sword and continued walking as if he hadn''t heard the pleasant voice of Li Xueyue.

    "Commander," she breathed out, her voiceced with irritation.

    He turned a deaf ear to her words and continued strolling while examining his surroundings. His pleasant mood dimmed when he noticed something unsettling. The Fourth Prince was discussing something with the Emperor. His eyes narrowed. He''d have to investigate what the babbling fool was whispering.

    "You''re rude," Xueyue huffed when she caught up to Wen Jinkai and stood by his side.

    He tilted his head and nced down at her. She was so small, he couldn''t resist the urge to ce a gloved hand on the top of her head. If he wanted to, he could easily rest his chin on the crown of her head.

    She tensed, lifting up her head to stare at him. She found it so intriguing that he looked more guarded than Duke Li. She realized he had a slight cut on his right eyebrow, probably from a light scuffle. That''s weird, didn''t Li Chenyang also have a scar on his eyebrow? Did they use to get into fights when they were younger?

    "If I''m rude, what does that make you?"

    Xueyue resisted the urge to shiver at his husky voice. Velvety smooth but crisp like silk wrapped over a sword. "I don''t know what you''re talking about¨C" she gasped when he ced a hand on the small curve of her back and yanked her towards him. Her eyes widened and her hand instantly flew to his chest to create distance.

    "Commander!" she furiously said. "This is improper! Let go of me," she hissed, pushing at his chest. Like an unwavering mountain, he did not budge.

    "There are people watching. Who do you think you are?" she fumed, her hand balled into a fist. She lifted her knee but he had already anticipated what she would do. Using his powerful thigh, he instantly suppressed her knee. It caused her to lose her bnce but he instantly caught her with a mischievous smirk.

    "You must think you''re so smart with that move."

    "I''m going to scream bloody murder!" she hissed, her head craned towards the tent, wondering if any of the Li members saw her. She was more worried about the opinion of her family than the surrounding whispers that instantly arose from behind and around her. The people were beginning to gossip about her.

    "Why don''t you reserve that voice for night time," he teased, peering down at her. Her robes had shifted and it was revealing one of her assets, but he kept his eyes trained to her hazel ones. She was surprised by his words, but did not pardon his brutish treatment of her.

    "Unhand me you damn rogue," she grounded out.

    Wen Jinkai found her even more enthralling when she was frustrated. There was a glint in her eyes that he had never seen before. Her cute button nose was scrunched and her eyes were passionately set aze. He decided right then and there that he wanted her. Whether it was a mistress or a lover, he did not know.

    Without warning, he released her, causing her to gasp when she realized she was falling, but he caught her at thest minute, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes before he straightened her to her feet.

    "You, you¨C!" Xueyue was huffing and puffing now, a light blush spreading over her face. ''So maybe asking him to let me go was a bad idea,'' she thought to herself.

    "Youck proper etiquette," she deadpanned.

    "Is that the best insult you cane up with?" he heartily asked her while brushing stray strands of hair away from her face.

    Wen Jinkai felt guilty that he had messed up her hair, but he wondered how her hair would look unraveled in bed. The thought was enough for him to swallow and clear his throat. He didn''t know what the hell he was thinking, nor did he understand his feelings.

    "That was horrid of you and if you think that''s going to make me fall for you, you''re terribly mistaken," Xueyue snapped while struggling to calm her erratic heart as it skipped a beat when his gaze sharply turned to her. She felt her stomach churn ufortably when his lips twisted into a taunting smile.

    He quirked a brow, "Who said I was trying to make you fall in love with me?"

    "From your appearance," he breathed out, "I''d think you were trying to seduce me." He nced down at her disheveled robes that had parted a bit to reveal the dip of her chest. His eyes lingered on the corbone of her milky white skin, soft and beckoning for his touch.

    She stiffened and nced down, horrified by her appearance. She fumbled to close her robes but he chuckled and stole a hairpin from her hair, unraveling the lower half of her hair.

    "What are you doing?!" she harshly whispered, her entire body tensing when he brought her long hair over her shoulders until it properly covered her breast. Next, he properly arranged the cor of her robes until she was fully covered.

    She did nothing but blink and stare up at him. "I''m not going to thank you because you''re the one who messed it up in the first ce."

    He paused and bit down on his bottom lip, her eyes instantly following the action. He was resisting a smile, but when he saw the movement of her eyes, he stiffened.

    Her heart started racing at the sight of his inviting lips and she knew she had to look away. She needed to look away before both of them did something they''d regret.

    "What are you doing?" a cold voice piqued from beside them. Li Wenmin''s hand was already on the hilt of his sword.

    The Commander acted as if he didn''t hear him. He straightened his body and adjusted her hair for a final time. For a split second, he pulled her closer. She froze when he bent his head.

    He quietly growled, "Wear my pendant next time."

    And without another nce her way, he stormed off.

    Xueyue told herself that she shouldn''t look at him. It was the worst thing to do at a time like this.

    ''Don''t look. Don''t look. Don''t¨C'' Despite what she told herself, her eyes still wandered towards him. His shoulders were broad and muscr, tight against his well-fitted clothes. He was wide at the top but the muscles slimmed downwards into a refined waist.

    "Xueyue," a voice seethed beside her. Li Wenmin firmly grabbed her shoulders in an attempt to force her attention to him. "Did he do anything to you?"

    Xueyue''s eyes continued to wander in the direction that the Commander strolled away. He didn''t look back at her, but she saw his fingers tightly clench into a fist. He wanted to look, but he couldn''t.

    "Li Xueyue!" Li Wenmin eximed, slightly shaking her shoulders. Finally, she averted her gaze to him. He was furious. The vein on his forehead popped as his eyebrows scrunched together.

    "Did he hurt you? Did he take advantage of you?" Li Wenmin''s head snapped towards Wen Jinkai who was approaching therge staircase leading up to the royal family.

    "Did he?" he pressed on with a dangerous edge to his voice, but it didn''t undermine his concern towards her.

    Xueyue realized that Li Wenmin didn''t see the Commander abruptly grabbing her earlier. She struggled for a proper answer as she nervously licked her lips. For onest time, her eyes darted towards Wen Jinkai. He was nearly at the top of the stairs now as he bent his head to murmur something to the Emperor.

    And for the first time in her life, Xueyue lied to one of the twins. "No. He didn''t do anything."

 Chapter 50 Control

    <h4>Chapter 50 Control</h4>

    "You''re putting me in a predicament, Jinkai," the Emperor mused as he settled the teacup onto the tray held by a servant beside him. His cunning eyes shone with mirth as he watched Li Wenmin guide the young woman back into the tent.

    The Empress hid her frown behind her fan. "She''s stunning, isn''t she? Like the first flower of Spring." She had hoped Wen Jinkai would nce at the Second Princess, but he acted like she was air.

    What was wrong with him? The Second Princess was obviously more beautiful than Xueyue in every way possible. She was skilled in everything suitable for a young woman of her position, whether it was painting, guqin [1], singing, or dancing, she was perfect in every way.

    The Second Princess was a kind-hearted woman whose kindness never allowed her to harm others. She was a gentle soul and an ideal wife in every man''s eyes, but the only person she has ever set her eyes on acted like she didn''t exist.

    "She''s notpatible with you, my dear child," the Empress said, her eyes lingering on the Li family tent. "Her origin is unknown¨C"

    "I don''t care," Wen Jinkai snarled, the first time he raised his voice towards her. Her eyes widened in disbelief.

    "You can''t be unreasonable."

    "I can." Wen Jinkai coldly smiled. "I only want her. No one else."

    The Empress''s heart dropped to the pit of her stomach. She was in too much disbelief to fathom his bluntness. Her eyes instantly snapped to the Second Princess who sunk in her chair, her eyes focusing on the petal in her tea.

    "But¨C"

    "I believe the Commander has spoken." The Emperor chuckled, the sound rich and vibrant. He snuck a nce at his fourth son. "What shall be done with her?" he leaned his chin on a propped up arm, his eyes twinkling with deceitful mischief.

    The Emperor decided to tease the Commander with a cheerful smile. "She has captured the attention of two suitors. A Commander and a Prince. She is a disturbance that will disrupt the peaceful life of the royal court. Such a woman is better off dead than alive," he said nonchntly, as if talking about the good weather today.

    Wen Jinkai calmly settled his gaze on the Li family tent, a nonchnt expression on his face. "Go ahead." He shrugged.

    The Emperor raised a brow.

    "But I must warn you, Emperor." Wen Jinkai slowly cast his murderous gaze on the Emperor. His expression was so piercing and chilly, everyone involuntarily shivered. Goosebumps rose when he revealed a cold smile. "Your dynasty will end the same day her head rolls."

    "Audacious!" the Fourth Prince snarled, standing up so quickly, his chair toppled to the ground. He pointed a finger at the Commander, "You dare threaten¡­" He couldn''t utter a single more word when Wen Jinkai snapped his venomous stare towards him.

    Wang Longhe felt his life sh before his eyes as the air around him became suffocating. This man¡­ he was serious. He¡­ he would really kill the Emperor for a woman!

    "My boy, do you realize the meaning of your words?!" the Empress cried out, her eyes snapping towards her husband. "He doesn''t mean it, my lord husband, he doesn''t¨C"

    "He does." The Emperor''s smile widened, his eyes shing with unsaid emotions. Slowly, but surely, he began to p his hands. "Good! Good!" he chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief.

    "You never fail to amuse me!" the Emperor heartily replied, beckoning a Eunuch over. "Reward the Commander for his bravery."

    "I already have enough gold, silk, pearls, and other gifts tost me for generations toe. I only want one thing," Wen Jinkai softly snarled.

    "You can''t have her," the Emperor deadpanned.

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes snapped to the Emperor. The fury in his eyes was enough to burn the entire world to the ground. No one can stand in his way. If the Commander wants something, he shall get it. In every means possible, even if the world had to pay for his mistakes.

    "She''s mine," Wang Longhe snapped, glowering at Wen Jinkai. "You think Duke Li will give her to you? A man who is not even considered an heir!"

    "Sit down, Fourth Prince. You''re causing a ruckus," the Empress harshly scolded, her disapproving eyes snapping to Imperial Consort Gu Feiying. The message was clear: Control your son before I do.

    Wang Longhe scowled as he sat down, earning a harsh pinch from his mother. Not a secondter, he stood up again and attempted to approach the Emperor. "Father, you told me¨C"

    "I merely said Li Xueyue didn''t have any fianc¨¦," the Emperor calmly responded. "I didn''t promise her to you."

    "But¨C"

    "She''s the daughter of an outstanding aristocrat," the Emperor leisurely said, leaning back in his chair, even though he had a fuming Commander beside him. A Commander that would watch this world burn without blinking.

    Imperial Consort Gu Feiying''s eyes shed. The real question was, which aristocrat?

    "Her father works for us." Wang Longhe frowned. "Surely, Duke Li Shenyang would not disobey an Imperial Decree?"

    An ufortable silence fell over the Imperial Family. They all knew the Duke would burn that paper to the ground and ughter the messenger ¨C that is, if Wen Jinkai didn''t brutally kill the messenger with his own hands first.

    "You saw it for yourself. She does not want to be married off at a young age," the Empress finally spoke up, sighing in disappointment. "A girl like that is not destined to be a housewife."

    "She would make a miserable one too," Consort Gu Feiying piqued, fanning herself while she yanked her son back to his chair. "With herck of skills, how could she possibly entertain guests?"

    "That''s riching from you," Wen Jinkaizilymented, watching as Imperial Consort Gu''s face turned bright red. He sneered in disgust and nced away.

    "You¨C"

    "Enough." The Emperor sighed. "Someone has to put a cor on that courageous attitude of yours, Commander."

    "Perhaps a wife will teach you to be soft," the Empress said, ncing at the Second Princess, Weichun. "Someone with a gentle soul and a loving heart."

    "That''s incest," Wen Jinkai breezily said, turning towards the Empress with a cunning smile. "You raised me as your own, so I consider whatever Princess you''re referring to like my sister."

    "I¨C" The Empress was at a loss for words as she urgently turned to her husband.

    "If you truly want the girl," the Emperor began, his eyes bouncing from one son to the other. One was biological, the other was not. Unfortunately for the former, thetter mattered to him more than a whining Prince.

    To him, the Fourth Prince was a white tiger roaming the ground, whereas the Commander was a golden dragon ruling over the skies. Neither could cross paths, but both were lethal in their own right.

    "You''re going to have to capture her yourself."

    Wang Longhe scowled, "That is no easy feat."

    "dly," Wen Jinkai coldly responded before leaving as swiftly as he came.

    The Empress panicked as she turned to her husband. "You can''t possibly let our Jinkai marry that girl, my lord husband."

    "My beloved Empress, you understand him more than I do." The Emperor tiredly sighed. "Once his eyes are set on a conquest, he will stop at nothing to seed."

    He grimly said, "No one can ever tame him."

    "Not even a royal order?"

    "Especially not that." The Emperor sighed. "But a wife can."

    "What do you mean? He''s not the type of man who obeys his wife''s every whim."

    "Perhaps not," the Emperor vaguely replied as an image shed to his mind. There was a reason why the Commander had grabbed Xueyue in public, for everyone to witness. He was cing a possessive im on her. Shall anyone touch her, they''ll be missing a limb very soon.

    The Emperor knew better than everyone here that even if Xueyue was promised to another, the Commander will forcibly take her. He would utilize every means to have her, even if it was morally questionable.

    "He''s infatuated with her." The Empress frowned. "Infatuations do notst." She softly sighed. The Second Princess ced aforting hand over her mother''s. The Empress was referring to her rtionship with the Emperor.

    "We better hope it''s more than an infatuation." The Emperor hummed. "If we want to control the dragon, we have to control the thing closest to his heart."

    And it was then realization dawned onto the Empress like a violent wave washing over a rock. If they wanted to control the Commander, they had to control Xueyue.

 Chapter 51 Every Want and Need

    <h4>Chapter 51 Every Want and Need</h4>

    When Wen Jinkai strolled past the Li Family''s tent, a rough voice snarled, "You''re going to ruin her."

    Li Chenyang crossed his arms and stormed towards Wen Jinkai, his hand twitching to grab the Commander by his cor, but he didn''t dare to. He could lose a hand. That was how unpredictable the man was.

    "I will make her prosperous," Wen Jinkai replied, turning to the man he once called friend.

    "You¨C"

    "When she bes my wife, she will desire for nothing."

    "Shut up¨C"

    "She will be the wealthiest woman in the entire nation."

    Li Chenyang grounded his teeth. He knew he could not dispute it. Wen Jinkai was not the type of man who told lies. He was too honorable for that. "How is that even possible when you won''t inherit the title of a Duke?"

    "Does she want to be married to a Duke?" Wen Jinkai thoughtfully said, pondering the idea of exchanging his military title for a proper one. Would that make her happy?

    "Jinkai, please." Li Chenyang heavily sighed, "Not her. Anyone but her."

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes darkened. "Why?" he snarled, the air around them dipping at an rming speed.

    Li Chenyang tried to form a proper sentence, but he could not. He didn''t know why he didn''t want to give Xueyue away. She was just so precious to him that he couldn''t fathom the idea of her being in harm''s way.

    Wen Jinkai was a Commander with more enemies than a person could possibly count. She would not be safe with him. "She''s not suitable for your life choices. She needs to be properly cared for, sheltered, and loved."

    "As long as she marries me, she will want nothing. I will take care of her every want and need¨C"

    "Will you be able to love her? To hold her in your arms and reassure her that your heart beats only for her? That it even beats at fucking all?!"

    For once, Wen Jinkai did not know how to respond. He breathed in deeply through his nose and prayed for patience. Because he needed a whole lot of it right now. "Love is overrated. I will make up for that with more jewels she could ever dream, servants that wait on her every whim¨C"

    "Xueyue does not care for that. You should know. She walks in silk like they''re rags. Wealth and power mean nothing to her."

    "With what I give her, she will not need love."

    "Then you can''t have her. Absolutely not."

    Wen Jinkai took a dangerous step towards Li Chenyang. He growled, "And who''s going to stop me?"

    "Jinkai¨C"

    "Do not hide her from me. I''ll kidnap her if I have to¨C"

    "You will do no such thing," a firm voice spoke up as both pairs of eyes snapped towards it.

    Xueyue stood proudly at the entrance of the tent, a displeased expression on her face. "I will not enter a loveless marriage. You can kidnap me and bang your chest all you want, but I will never, ever allow you into my heart."

    Her eyes searched his face, searching for something beyond his rage. He was furious with her words. "If you can''t love me, then don''t marry me."

    Wen Jinkai could do nothing but stare at her in disbelief. Her eyes shed, warning him of her sincerity. She was dead serious and there was nothing he could do to change her mind. She could be kidnapped and locked away in his home, but he would only capture the shell of her. He wanted more than that. He wanted her heart, her soul, and everything there was to have.

    Why was he so infatuated with her? What made her so damn different from every woman he has evere across? Was it her dimpled-smile or those unwavering eyes of hers? No. It was beyond appearances. He just couldn''t pinpoint the exact reason why, but something told him he already knew the answer two years ago.

    Xueyue was taken back when his frigid eyes softened, almost painfully. She had expected him to unleash his wrath on her and dere she was going to be his regardless of what she said.

    "Very well," he muttered and just like that, he was gone.

    Xueyue''s eyes widened as needles spread through her chest. He left? Just like that¡­? With only two simple words, he was able to shake her core and foundation. Angrily, she glowered at the ground. He gave up so quickly that it made her wonder if she was too much of a challenge. If she was going to continue being this stubborn, who would marry her?

    No.

    She didn''t give a damn if her stubbornness will earn her no suitors. She''d rather be prideful and hold on to her dignity than let it slip out of her fingers just to wear a diamond cor in the form of a wedding ring.

    She had sliced off her sparrow wings once. She will not do it again.

    Li Chenyang approached her in an attempt tofort her but was stunned when she voluntarily raised her head, a fiercely determined glint in her eyes. She set back her shoulders and rxed her body.

    "Let''s head inside, Chen-ge."

    "Alright." Li Chenyang smiled whilst cing a guiding hand behind her shoulders, but he felt a pair of eyes watching them. When his head whirled in the direction, he was displeased upon realizing it wasing from the Imperial Family. The Fourth Prince to be exact.

    He had finally waved one pest away, only for another to emerge from the ground. Tch, bring it on. Xueyue must''ve shared the same thought, for she said, "I will never allow a ring to be a cor." She cast a disgusted stare up the grand staircase, directed towards the man who never tore his gaze from her.

    - - - - -

    "Xueyue, if you''d like, we can head home now. The martial arts and sword fighting tournament isn''t until tomorrow. It''s been a long day for you, sweet girl," Duchess Li Qixing said, her eyes worriedlynded upon the young woman.

    "That''s alright. I''d prefer to stay and watch." Xueyue smiled just as the drums went off in the distance. The signal of another tournament.

    "That must be the signal for the painting tournament," Duke Li Shenyang pointed out whilst casting a side nce towards her.

    Was she truly alright? He tried searching for any signs of distress on her face, perhaps concealed behind a mask of content. There was none. She was absolutely fine. It was as if she hadn''t just rejected one out of the five most eligible bachelors in the nation.

    "Painting?" she repeated, her eyes shining with excitement. "I''d love to watch."

    "Are you sure? You don''t have to push yourself, darling." Duchess Li Qixing''s brows knitted together as her hands warmly sped over Xueyue''s.

    She tilted her head, finally realizing the child''s hairstyle had changed. "Oh my, your hair. Shall I fix it for you?"

    "Oh. I almost forgot," she paused. Her hairpin. He didn''t give it back to her. She had lost two hairpins in the span of one day.

    A maidservant approached, ready to tidy up Xueyue''s appearance but the Duchess intervened.

    "Here, let me help you," Duchess Li Qixing happily said, realizing it was her first time styling Xueyue''s hair. She took out a hairpin from herplex hairstyle and in an instant, was able to skillfully twist the young woman''s hair back into a bun.

    "There you go, darling." Duchess Li Qixing smiled at her masterpiece. "Would you like a mirror?"

    "No, I trust you." Xueyue softly smiled, though it did not reach her eyes. "I''m sure it''s better than my previous style."

    Duchess Li Qixing''s smile deepened as she pulled Xueyue closer to her and fondly pinched the girl''s cheeks. "As women, we must never lower our head for a man that can''t lower their pride."

    Xueyue''s lips parted before a full smile brightened her face. "Of course."

    Duchess Li Qixing grinned and gently embraced Xueyue, "Always know your worth, darling." Her eyes glistened, "And remember, sweet child, ''no'' is always an eptable answer. Don''t ever let anyone take that right from you."

    "I understand¡­ Mother." Xueyue shyly said thest part, her word striking a chord within the Duchess who sniffled and tightly hugged her.

    "Oh, darling, I''ve always considered you as my daughter. Ever since the first time Iid my eyes on you."

    The Duke silently watched them from afar, not once making a noise. Deep down, though he would never admit it, he too, saw Xueyue as a daughter. She had sessfully woven into their heart and found afortable ce to stay.

 Chapter 52 Strange

    <h4>Chapter 52 Strange</h4>

    Xueyue wished she hadn''t agreed to watch the painting tournament. From a distance, she witnessed Bai Tianai being guided to a wooden tform. Colorful mats wereid on the polished wooden boards where a few low tables were evenly spread out across the tform. There was every tool imaginable for painting and everyone only had as much time as it takes for one incense stick to burnpletely.

    Xueyue could spot her sister from a mile away. Bai Tianai was being guided by Zheng Leiyu who hovered closely over her as he helped her onto the tform. He smiled at something she whispered to his ear. He was possessive of her, never once leaving her side until the drum signaled the beginning of the tournament.

    Xueyue knew where the Bai Family tent was set up. Because their daughter was performing, they had the best view of her, as well as the royal family.

    "Oh, darling, where are you going?" Duchess Li Qixing asked when Xueyue abruptly stood up.

    "To uhm, get some pastries."

    "The servants can grab some for you, if you''d like." Duchess Li Qixing gestured for a handmaiden to step forward but Xueyue instantly shook her head.

    There was a grand table set up filled with food ranging from treats to snacks. There were two guards stationed there to make sure that these foods do not end up in the hands of unintended people.

    "I liked a few of the pastries brought to usst time, but I don''t remember the names of them."

    "Oh. In that case, Li Wenmin should go with you." Duchess Li Qixing nodded towards one of the twins, but found his seat unupied. "Where did he go?"

    "He snuck off to the pastry table." Li Chenyang''s lips thinned. That glutton.

    "My children sure love to eat." Duke Li Shenyangughed, shaking his head.

    "Take a guard or two, Xueyue."

    "Since Li Wenmin is already there, I will be fine," Xueyue said with a small smile.

    "Alright then. Please don''t forget to drag your brother back before he clears the entire table," Duke Li Shenyang said matter-of-factly.

    "Of course." Xueyue nodded with a small smile before excusing herself from her seat. Everyone had left their tent to watch the painting tournament since it was the perfect opportunity to look for a talented wife.

    Xueyue approached the pastry table, but she knew she didn''te here to grab food. She just wanted something to distract her mind from the presence of Bai Tianai. She needed time to think and conjure a n to ruin that despicable family.

    She had a new life now. She could turn her back on the Bai Family and pretended they never existed. She wished she was mature enough to forget it all. The thing was, it''s impossible to forget all sixteen years of abuse when she had only lived for eighteen years.

    Xueyue painfully squeezed her eyes shut. She didn''t know how to destroy them. She didn''t know how to drag them through the mud because they were just so damn wless in the public''s eyes. What could she do?

    "Are you alright?" someone spoke up behind her.

    Xueyue forced herself to rx. She stered a smile on her face and turned around, "I''m alright¡­" her voice trailed off.

    Ning Huabing''s eyes widened, her gaze darting from the tournament towards Xueyue. Neither woman had expected to encounter each other. Ning Huabing''s eyes trailed to Xueyue''s hair and noticed something odd. The hairpins didn''t match her clothing. Of course, it could''ve been preference wise, but it just didn''t make sense to her.

    Ning Huabing didn''t know why, but her thoughts spiraled to the conversation her group had earlier in the tent. Han Jieru was so frightened by the unfold of events that she rushed back into her family tent for security.

    ''Hah, of course, she would panic. She shot an arrow at the daughter of a Duke.''

    "I-I saw that you fell off your horse. Are you injured?" Ning Huabing awkwardly touched the cor of her hanfu, nervously fiddling with her ne.

    Xueyue''s face instantly became guarded. "Thank you for your concern," she stiffly replied.

    "Oh uhm... no problem," Ning Huabing said, her gaze wandered to Bai Tianai who was still focused on her painting. She already had a fianc¨¦, but still joined the tournament.

    Ning Huabing knew exactly why Bai Tianai was participating. She wanted more power than she already possessed. Yes, the Zheng Family was wealthy, but Bai Tianai was ambitious to see how far she can soar the sky.

    "Your friend is very talented."

    "What?" Ning Huabing blinked. "O-oh right. Yes, Bai Tiani has been practicing for this tournament."

    "That''s so strange," Xueyue mused and tilted her head. "We all know this tournament is for showing off one''s skills, and it''s obvious that there''s a hidden motive behind her participation. I''m sure you''re aware of it, Miss Ning."

    Ning Huabing wrung her fingers together. She didn''t want to have this conversation. She wanted to run back to her tent, but for the sake of formality, she stayed.

    "Every young woman here knows of the hidden motive." Ning Huabing decided to make small talk with the stunning young woman in front of her. When her strings were properly pulled, perhaps, just perhaps, Xueyue could be her future sister-inw.

    "Doesn''t Miss Bai already have a fianc¨¦?" Xueyue tilted her head, cing a finger on her chin.

    Ning Huabing stiffened. "Well, yes she does but¨C"

    "Then why is she proudly showing off?"

    "Perhaps she just wanted to demonstrate her talent to the royal family. To thank them for hosting this tournament," Ning Huabing hurriedly rushed out.

    "Just the royal family?" Xueyue raised a brow, her lips tugging upwards.

    "J-just them," Ning Huabing muttered, touching her elbows.

    "Oh my, it seems I''ve made you ufortable." Xueyue smiled, stepping back. "I apologize."

    "No!" Ning Huabing shouted, surprising Xueyue. She cleared her throat and rified, "I meant... you didn''t make me ufortable at all."

    "Uhm, okay." Xueyue curtly nodded, even though her expression said otherwise. She watched as Ning Huabing''s face became dimmer and dimmer.

    "Why don''t we drop the small talk?" Xueyue finally said, her smile widening.

    "What?" Ning Huabing blinked in disbelief.

    "Would you like to join my side?" Xueyue promptly asked.

    "Your side¡­?" Ning Huabing scoffed, "What could I ever benefit from your side?"

    "And what can you benefit from Bai Tianai''s side?"

    Ning Huabing''s face became serious. "You knew."

    "Of course I knew." Xueyue lightlyughed, her eyes crinkling with amusement. From a distance, you''d think they were having a lovely discussion about thetest fashion trend.

    "Either you or Bai Tianai ordered the arrow to be shot at me. Of course, Han Jieru was the one who released it." She shrugged. "But that doesn''t change your involvement. Does it?"

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about¨C"

    "What did Bai Tianai promise you to get you to join her side?" Xueyue tilted her head, "Last time I checked, you''re the daughter of a Marquis. You don''t have to take orders from the Bai Family, yet you behaved like theirpdog. Why?"

    "Why should I tell you?" Ning Huabing demanded, scowling. Everyone had severely underestimated Xueyue as an opponent.

    "Because it''s more beneficial to join me."

    "As if."

    "You''re an intelligent woman, Ning Huabing. Why waste your potential?"

    "I¨C"

    "I know you didn''t mean to hurt me," Xueyue lied with a sympathetic expression on her face. "You were forcefully dragged into the mess."

    Ning Huabing bit her bottom lip, ncing down at her hands in shame. She didn''t know how to retort to Xueyue''s words. She was irked that she was dragged into this mess and wanted nothing to do with it. But what could she do? It wasn''t like she could turn back time.

 Chapter 53 Evidence

    <h4>Chapter 53 Evidence</h4>

    "I wonder what will happen to you if you''re caught with them," Xueyue said and pretended to ponder the idea. "You will be dragged through the mud and your reputation will be ruined."

    She took a step closer and whispered, "And then no one will marry you. Especially, not the son of a Duke, or a man destined to be a Prime Minister."

    Ning Huabing''s heart dropped to her stomach.

    Li Chenyang.

    "You will never be able to find evidence¨C"

    "I don''t need evidence," Xueyue interrupted, her eyes shed with contempt.

    "If our justice system was that fair, there wouldn''t be so many innocent lives lost. In this time and age, the words of an outstanding member of society often weigh more than the truth," Xueyue added on.

    Xueyue had experienced this first-hand. She would never forget the night she was left for dead or the events that took ce before it.

    "As if you''re an outstanding member¨C"

    "Of course, I''m not privileged enough to be one," Xueyue admitted and lightlyughed. "But the people who trust me are."

    "Did you like the present I delivered?" Xueyue smiled.

    Ning Huabing''s brows scrunched together before realization and horror dawned onto her. Her eyes widened. "T-that was you?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

    Xueyue simply widened her smile.

    Ning Huabing opened her mouth but immediately shut it when she saw someone approached Xueyue from behind. She visibly gulped but still managed a graceful bow and greeted, "General Li Wenmin."

    Xueyue''s eyes lit up as she turned around and enthusiastically called out, "Wen-ge! There you are!"

    "Hm?" Li Wenmin raised a brow, lifting a tiny pastry and cing it into his mouth. "Were you looking for me?"

    "I was tasked to bring you back." Xueyue chuckled and added, "Before you gobble up all of the food."

    Ning Huabing attentively watched the two and listened to their conversation, her eyes widening with each second.

    Li Wenminughed before pinching Xueyue''s cheeks. "My n was discovered that quickly?"

    Xueyue nodded.

    "I wondered who brought attention to my absence." Li Wenmin scrunched his nose before slinging an arm around Xueyue''s shoulders, squeezing it. "Could it be the messenger?"

    Xueyue sheepishly smiled and said, "I might''ve mentioned something about wanting to eat¡­"

    "Of course you did. You''re the second glutton in our family." Li Wenmin rolled his eyes before nodding towards Ning Huabing.

    "Who''s this?" Li Wenmin''s friendly smile became frigid. "Is she being an eyesore, Xiao Yue?"

    Xueyue turned to Ning Huabing and smiled meaningfully as if questioning her, ''Well, are you?'' with the way she was looking at her.

    Ning Huabing opened and closed her mouth. She was ced in a predicament. "I¡­ uhm, well¡­"

    "I was just wondering if Ning Huabing had seen who fired the arrows at me. I heard the arrows were fired near where she was seated, judging from the direction that it came from," Xueyue coyly said, ncing at Ning Huabing¨C¨Cwaiting for her to take the bait.

    "Oh?" Li Wenmin''s warm expression became dangerously dark. "Did you see anyone suspicious?"

    Ning Huabing tore her gaze from the terrifying General to Xueyue. Quivering like a leaf, she stuttered out, "N-no¡­"

    "Doesn''t seem like it," Li Wenmin snarled, taking a dangerous step towards her. His free hand reached for his sword.

    "I''m a friend of Xueyue," Ning Huabing blurted out, her eyes widening as she pleaded with Xueyue. ''Fine! I''ll join your side, okay?! So do something about him!''

    Xueyue smiled in satisfaction. "Don''t worry Wen-ge, I already asked if she had seen anyone. Unfortunately, she didn''t. Pity, isn''t it?"

    Li Wemin sighed in disappointment. "Pity indeed. I would''ve dly in whoever tried to harm you, Xiao Yue."

    Ning Huabing gulped. S-in?

    "I know," Xueyue gently said, looking at the ground, feeling a bit guilty that she had dragged the Li Family into her mess. "Thank you."

    Li Wenmin affectionately patted her head as one would with a pet. "Idiot. You don''t have to thank me, we''re family."

    Xueyue sheepishly smiled at the ground and said, "It was a force of habit."

    Li Wenmin softly nodded. "I know." He looked towards the tournament arena and observed that the painting tournament was about to end soon. "Let''s head back to our tent and sessfullyplete your mission," he teased, nudging her shoulder.

    Xueyue nced at Ning Huabing with a widened smile and said, "Have a good day, Miss Ning." Which practically tranted to, ''Don''t forget you changed sides.''

    "You too," Ning Huabing murmured. ''Of course, I won''t forget.''

    Ning Huabing swallowed upon realizing how quickly she switched alliances. Whether it was intentionally or not, she had dered her friendship to Li Wenmin. If she went back on her word, who knew what could happen?

    Ning Huabing watched them walk off, her eyes never missing his asional teasing and joking along the way. They had a very close rtionship¨Cone that would be too hard to break or tread upon.

    The drum rang in the distance, a signal that the painting tournament had ended.

    Ning Huabing shifted her attention to the tournament arena and felt her heart drop. Bai Tianai was staring directly at her with an undistinguishable expression on her face.

    ''How long had she been looking my way?'' Ning Huabing thought to herself, shivering at the chilly look on Bai Tianai''s expression. It was going to be a long day.

    - - - - -

    "You knew who shot the arrows at you, didn''t you?" Li Wenmin finally said when they were nearing their tent. He was leisurely strolling by her side with hands resting behind his head.

    "How did you know?" Xueyue asked. It was better to not beat around the bush with him.

    Li Wenmin had a habit of hiding his crafty habits behind an easygoing smile. It was difficult to read his mind. Sometimes, people were fooled into believing they were on the same side¨Cwhen, in reality, it was the pr opposite.

    "You disappear from the tent too often," Li Wenmin responded, turning to her with a displeased expression. "Xiao Yue, it''s dangerous to deal with this by yourself."

    "I know."

    "Then, why did you head into the forest without a guard?" He suddenly fumed, forcing her to stop walking. "Do you realize what could''ve happened to you?"

    "I had it handled."

    "Yes, you did, but what if you didn''t?"

    "Why dwell on the what-if''s? The end result matters most importantly," Xueyue countered.

    Li Wenmin sighed. "In the future, things might not rule in your favor. You''re very skilled, but you''re still a woman who can be easily overpowered."

    "That''s not true¨C"

    "The Commander easily overpowered your feeble attempts of escaping him."

    "You saw?!" Xueyue hissed with a morbidly embarrassed expression. Her cheeks were stained pink and she averted his gaze.

    "Depends."

    "Depends?" she repeated. "I thought you hated him."

    "I hate the fact that he''s a suitor." Li Wenmin stared into the distance where the Wen''s family tent stood tall and proud, unyielding to the sun or the wind. "But from a viewpoint of a General, Wen Jinkai is an excellent Commander. As a man, he''s not bad either. Well-rounded and impartial."

    Xueyue silently twirled the pendant that hung from her clothed waist-belt. Li Wenmin followed her small action.

    Li Wenmin''s face grew serious. "Two years ago, when the Commander left our house, I was told that he gave you a pendant.

    "Xiao Yue, do you still have it? It''s not hard to miss. Jade the color of night. With his name engraved into it."

    Xueyue struggled to give him a proper response. She didn''t know why Li Wenmin was asking about the pendant, now of all times.

    "Yes, I do."

    "Get rid of it. Immediately."

 Chapter 54 No One

    <h4>Chapter 54 No One</h4>

    "Wait. What?! Why?" Xueyue exasperated, her eyes widening. She couldn''t believe his words nor the resolution on his face.

    Li Wenmin''s fingers curled into a fist, his facade cracking by the second. "It''s dangerous for you to possess it."

    "He said it would keep me safe."

    "Do you understand the significance of a man giving away a pendant with his name?" Li Wenmin fired back before wincing at how harsh he sounded. He unraveled his fingers and attempted to pat her head, but she dodged his hand, her lips pressed into a line.

    "Xiao Yue, don''t be mad at me. I only want to keep you safe." Li Wenmin sighed, "I care about you, sometimes more than I care about¡ªoh, nevermind."

    Xueyue didn''t miss his hesitation. Who was he talking about?

    "What matters right now is that you hand the pendant over to me."

    "But why?"

    Suddenly, someone cut into the conversation. "No one goes around giving pendants with their family name and crest on it."

    Xueyue swiveled around to meet Duke Li Shenyang''s nonchnt expression. He had his hands folded behind his back while he studied her startled face.

    "I don''t understand," Xueyue blurted.

    "When a man gives something as precious as that away, it means he has already imed you as his woman," Duke Li Shenyang exined while suppressing a smile that was threatening to break out.

    Xueyue was dumbfounded by his words, her face as nk as a paper.

    What?

    Li Wenmin snarled, "If you possess that pendant, it means you are Commander''s woman. And no one gets to touch what belongs to Wen Jinkai."

    "But¡ª"

    "No buts. Where is it?" Li Wenmin demanded, holding out his hand. "You need to give it to me, Xiao Yue."

    Xueyue hesitated, her eyes clouded with uncertainty. Her brows crinkled, and she bit her bottom lip. She didn''t want to hand it over. She didn''t understand why she was so reluctant.

    "I...I¡­" Xueyue struggled to form a coherent sentence.

    Duke Li Shenyang ced aforting hand on her shoulder. "Think it over, Little One. You don''t have to hand it over today."

    "Dad!" Li Wenmin huffed, crossing his arms. "If she holds onto it, she''s acknowledging that caveman''s ims. You can''t possibly allow the Commander to marry her? She''s only eighteen!"

    "Now, now, Wenmin, curb your anger." Duke Li Shenyang briefly surveyed their surroundings.

    Li Wenmin instantly understood the message. There were too many onlookers. Fine. "Let''s head into the tent."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded and began heading inside. Li Wenmin followed suit but paused when he saw Xueyue was rooted to the ground.

    He attempted to ce a guiding hand on the small of her back, but she shied away from his touch. He tried again, but she dodged him with her eyes boring a hole through the ground.

    "Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin called, a slight frown appearing on his face. "What''s the matter? I will not hurt you."

    "No¡­ but you''re going to force me to hand it over." Xueyue''s voice was unbelievably tiny and timid. She had every means to reject his request, but couldn''t find herself doing so.

    She could easily manipte the conversation and maneuver her way out of his pressing ways, but she didn''t want to. She trusted Li Wenmin more than she trusted herself. He was her big brother and best friend.

    Guilt consumed her alive. He offered her so many things without wanting anything in return. He treated her like his little sister when he didn''t have to. Yet, here she was, denying his simple request.

    Xueyue couldn''t bring herself to raise her head. Her fingers yed with the pendant that the Duchess gave her. It was a two-toned oval-shaped jade with green jade on one side and cerulean jade on the other. It was a harmonious blend of the ocean and forest. Silver surrounded the sides before spelling out "Li Xueyue."

    "You overestimated me, Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin kindly told her. "No one can ever force you to do anything you don''t want to."

    "Not even Li Wenmin?"

    "Especially not Li Wenmin." He heartilyughed. "Silly girl, the day I can control you is the day it snows during summer."

    Li Xueyue finally raised her head. "Okay."

    "Good, now let''s head inside. The painting tournament has ended. There''s no need to stay out here."

    Li Xueyue nodded and headed inside with Li Wenmin right behind her. He stared at her tiny frame and wondered how in the world she was able to tame not only the Commander but a General and a Minister.

    He shook his head and decided to not think too much about an unanswerable question.

    "There you are, sweetie." Duchess Li Qixing brightly smiled. "The tournament had ended. That despicable Bai Family has won first ce."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. She''d never expected Duchess Li Qixing to use a word as strong and hateful as "despicable".

    When Duchess Li saw her befuddled expression, she winked and said, "I hold grudges."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. ''Was it the same grudge that I held?''

    "Of course, you do," Duke Li Shenyang drawled out. "This is a family filled with petty people."

    "Starting with the patriarch." Duchess Li Qixing chuckled, obviously knowing something that the children didn''t.

    There was a precise reason why Duke Li Shenyang had also left the tournament viewing mid-way. He was discussing something in private with the Emperor regarding the culprit that shot the arrows at Xueyue. They already had a suspect in mind, but how their punishment would be carried out was left to the royal family''s discretion¡ªunless Xueyue wanted a say in this matter.

    But no one knew of the warning that had already taken ce in the forest. A threat delivered and performed by a single girl.

    Li Xueyue understood the first step to ruining the Bai Family was to target who they cherished the most in this world, as any parent should¡ªBai Tianai. Once her minions were disposed of, she would have no one to lean on but Zheng Leiyu. That is, if their rtionship would be stable after this tournament.

    Sure, Bai Tianai could''ve only participated for the sake of demonstrating how amazing her skills were. Xueyue knew better than anyone else that Zheng Leiyu was a weak-minded man. Jealousy was his biggest w and once he realized the attention that Bai Tianai would be garnering, his reactions would be priceless.

    Li Xueyue smiled to herself. She could leave the downfall of Zheng Leiyu in the hands of Bai Tianai. After all, a scorned lover was always a vengeful lover.

 Chapter 55 Sibling Rivalry

    <h4>Chapter 55 Sibling Rivalry</h4>

    For the remainder of the day, Xueyue patiently and quietly watched the tournaments unfold. She pped at the proper time, smiled when needed to, and pretended to be engrossed at whatever she was watching. She was the perfect example of an audience member, but truthfully, she couldn''t wait for it to all end.

    She was well aware that there were eyes that never left her side, people heavily watching her, but looking away when she surveyed her surroundings. Bai Tianai hadn''t stopped staring, which meant she knew something.

    Xueyue doubted the legitimacy of Ning Huabing''s allegiance. After all, it was just a vow through words. Just like every empty promise. Nheless, Ning Huabing would be a useful ally¡ªif she was truly loyal.

    When lunch was served and the sky became a brilliant painting of red, orange, yellow, and dusk, the first day of the tournament came to a closure. There were six more days left and afterwards they would return to the Capital.

    "Tomorrow is your sword fighting and martial arts tournament. Are you ready for it?" Li Chenyang asked Xueyue when everyone was inside the spacious carriage. Even with five people seated, there was still room for more.

    "Yes. Are you also participating in it?" Xueyue lightly asked while jabbing him with her pointed eyes.

    Li Chenyang awkwardly chuckled. She was obviously referring to the archery tournament where he plotted to sabotage her small introduction to society. Speaking of which, when the tournament ended, there would be arge banquet held. There, Xueyue would truly be able to enter the circle of high society.

    After a deafening silence, he finally answered, "No."

    "Hm, is that so." Xueyue rested her head against the window, watching the forest shift beside her. "I guess Wen-ge will be participating then."

    Every pair of eyes trailed towards Li Wenmin who was enjoying some snacks he had snuck out of the tournament. He was midbite when Xueyue exposed him.

    "Ahaha¡­" he chortled before averting everyone''s stares.

    "I still haven''t scolded you twins properly for the stunt you pulled earlier." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed.

    "Think of it as this way, Mother," Li Chenyang began. "It would''ve been better if she lost to us than to a stranger. Don''t you think so? People will brush it off as some harmless sibling rivalry."

    "Yes, but you lost. How do you feel?" Duchess Wang Qixing raised a brow.

    ''Proud,'' he thought to himself. "I don''t mind it."

    "Of course you don''t," Duchess Wang Qixing scoffed. "So, what''s tomorrow''s scheme?" she hummed, turning to Li Wenmin. "You''re going to literally beat your sister in front of a crowd?"

    "Uh¡­" Li Wenmin''s smile became strained. "W-wouldn''t you prefer it if I was the one doing it?"

    That was obviously the wrong answer.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s expression became thunderous, her eyes aze. "Li Wenmin!" She began to question whether or not she had raised her sons properly. Sometimes, she would be so proud of them, but at times, so irritated. Being a mother was honestly, a very rewarding but exhausting task.

    "Don''t worry about it, Mom. Obviously, it''s going to be a female-onlypetition for both tournaments," Li Chenyang assured.

    "Not the sword-fighting one," Li Wenmin winced.

    "What?" Li Chenyang snapped. "I thought it was?"

    "The rules changed mainly because the sword-fighting women-only tournamentst time didn''t have enough participants," Li Wenmin spoke up, scratching the back of his neck.

    "Howe I didn''t know this?" Li Chenyang scowled.

    "I only found out after looking at all thepetition boards. Why else would I be wandering outside of the tent?" Li Wenmin raised a brow.

    "Then Xueyue is forfeiting. It''s too dangerous," Li Chenyang concluded, turning to Xueyue, "So you''re¡ª"

    "No, thanks." Xueyue smiled, "I''ll be fine."

    "As if!" Li Chenyang groaned. "Do you know that''s one of the most popr categories for men? You won''t stand a chance."

    Li Wenmin grinned and mmed his chest as he proudly dered, "Especially against me."

    Xueyue scoffed. "I train almost every day, you know."

    "I''ve trained since I was a baby!" Li Wenmin pointed out.

    "Really? I thought you were just ying with a sword," Duke Li Shenyang barked withughter, the warm sound filling the carriage.

    "Dad!" Li Wenmin cried out. "You''re killing my credibility!"

    "Ruining your wooden swords already killed it," Duke Li Shenyang retorted, rolling his eyes.

    "Pft, good luck, Wen-ge. You''ll need it." Xueyue giggled, squealing when he reached over to grab her.

    "Ladies,dies, settle down." Li Chenyang sighed.

    "Lady?!" Li Wenmin scowled. "Great, everyone likes to bully me in this family!" He angrily folded his arms.

    "Aw, Wen-ge, don''t get so riled up~"

    Li Wenmin acted like wind blew past his ears. He jutted his chin in the air and glowered out the window, wishing the trees outside would burn.

    "Ugh, thank god, he finally quieted down," Duchess Wang Qixing wistfully said.

    "Mooom!" Li Wenmin groaned. "Not you too!"

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes and focused on the beautiful scenery outside.

    Xueyue quietly smiled to herself, d that the direction of the conversation had diverted, which meant she could still participate in the tournaments.

    "Wait, I think I''m forgetting something," Li Wenmin spoke up, his brows crinkling.

    "Your dignity?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "Your brain?" Li Xueyue piqued.

    The two exchanged nces before letting out a quietughter much to Li Wenmin''s dismay.

    "Mom, they''re bullying me," Li Wenmin cried out, pointing using fingers at his siblings.

    "You''re too old for this, my son." Duchess Wang Qixing rolled her eyes but reached out to pinch his cheeks. He puffed it out and glowered at the floor.

    "Sometimes I forget I''m raising young adults and not bickering children." Duke Li Shenyang chuckled with a fond expression on his face. He enjoyed carefree moments like these the most. After the disappearance of Li Minghua and before Xueyue''s appearance, the twins often kept to themselves.

    "In my eyes, I''ll always see them as children," Duchess Wang Qixing said. Her eyes brimmed with unsaid love for the people inside the carriage.

    "So, dimwit, what did you forget?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "I don''t know¡­" Li Wenmin scratched his head. "I know it was important. Like really important."

    "It obviously can''t be his brain then," Li Chenyang snorted, earning a loudugh from Xueyue. "Sometimes I wish he would use his writing quill as well as a sword."

    "That''s it! Sword!" Li Wenmin gasped, pping his hands. "The mentor!"

    "Mentor?" Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow.

    "Yes, Mentor! There was a rumored legendary warrior that trained Commander Wen Jinkai to the status that he is now!" Li Wenmin eximed. "I heard he''sing to view the sword-fighting tournament to scout any potential candidates."

    "Why would he scout soldiers amongst aristocrats?" Li Chenyang frowned. "I guess the war needs more soldiers then."

    "We kind of do, but rumor has it that he''s searching for well-bodied women," Li Wenmin concluded.

    "Women?" Duchess Wang Qixing turned to her husband and asked, "Are they going to send aristocrats as...as bed¡ª"

    "No, darling, of course not. No one would be foolish enough toy a hand on daughters of noble men," Duke Li Shenyang reassured.

    "But, there will be someone there with that ability," Li Chenyang darkly responded. "I caught wind that the Emperor ns to send daughters from loyal families off to the enemy lines."

    "As in¡­ marriage alliances?" Duchess Wang Qixing''s face paled. She shakily grabbed Xueyue''s hand from beside her.

    "Hopefully," Li Chenyang scowled. "The problem is, we don''t know who they might be. So Xueyue, whatever you do, don''t bring attention to yourself. Is that clear?"

    "It doesn''t make sense. Why not send Princesses off to the enemy lines?" Duchess Wang Qixing tightly held onto Xueyue.

    "Two of our Princesses will be married off. The chosen candidates¡­ will be married to Generals and Commanders. Including the Princesses, a total of five will be sent off," Li Chenyang gravely said.

    "It was a decision I could not overrule." Duke Li Shenyang sighed, pinching his brow. There were many arguments that arose from this decision, but in the end, five lives were nothingpared to the hundreds of thousands that would be in during the war.

    "The Emperor made it clear there will be no nepotism. Meaning¡ª"

    "It applies to every woman present." Duchess Wang Qixing''s entire body tensed. "How does no one know of this?"

    "Only the Ministers do," Li Chenyang scowled. "The Emperor didn''t want word of this to get out. If it did, everyone would start behaving strangely."

    "T-then does that mean our Xueyue can be chosen¡ª"

    "Yes." Duke Li Shenyang quietly sighed, painfully closing his eyes.

    And just like that, Duchess Wang Qixing''s entire world shattered.

 Chapter 56 Damage the Emperors Reputation

    <h4>Chapter 56 Damage the Emperor''s Reputation</h4>

    After dinner, everyone retired to thefort of their bedroom¨C except Duke Li Shenyang who entered his private study.

    Duchess Li Qixing quietly sat in front of her vanity, her eyes clouded with a daydream. The head maidservant began to carefully take out the hairpins that made up the intricate hair design.

    "Mdy?" the head maidservant quietly spoke up with a worried expression on her aging face. "Is everything alright? You look very pale. Shall we have the chef boil a herb tonic?"

    "No, I''m fine, Jinxia." Duchess Li Qixing ran her finger over the sharp parts of her specialized hairpin. If needed, it could dangerously stab someone''s eyes. Xueyue''s hairpin was designed to be the same. A lethal weapon disguised as beautiful jewelry.

    "There''s just something upying my mind, that''s all," she sighed.

    "Then, would you like to usevender and eucalyptus oil tonight? To relieve stress," Jinxia said while running ab through the Duchess''s hair.

    "Yes, I''d like that," Duchess Li Qixing replied. She frowned to herself. Would Xueyue be able to experience the same luxury if she was a candidate? Fear wed her heart. No, no, no. It can''t be Xueyue.

    Duchess Li Qixing felt remorseful for being selfish enough to wish that crude fate on someone else. It was immoral of her, but what else could she do? Once the Emperor made up his mind, no one could change it.

    Just the image of Xueyue standing on enemy lines was enough to send the Duchess to tears. Such a wonderful and innocent little thing¡­ how could anyone fathom sending Xueyue to war? Of course, she wouldn''t join the battlefield, but every day her new life would be a strenuous battle. What type of husband would she have?

    What if Xueyue ended up with an abusive husband who didn''t understand "no" means no? What if Xueyue was belittled by her husband''s harem? What if she was starved? Or worse¡­ the marriage wasn''t a marriage at all and more than one man would touch Xueyue.

    Duchess Li Qixing''s thoughts spiraled down the rabbit hole of morbid things until she was as white as the full moon tonight. No... no... no. She began to tremble, her eyes shaking. Could the gods be so merciless? She had already lost one daughter. She didn''t want to lose another.

    She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn''t hear the Duke entering the bedroom and excusing Jinxia for now.

    "No!" she shrieked when a pair of hands settled on her shoulder and she was forced to turn around.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s eyes widened when he saw the crazed expression on the Duchess''s face. Anxiety and fear were prominent in her quivering eyes.

    "Darling, what happened?"

    "It can''t be Xueyue!" she cried out.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s face softened. He understood what terrified his wife. It was what terrified him and the twins as well.

    Starting from tomorrow, Xueyue was to be kept hidden at all costs. But how? She has already signed up for two of the most-watched tournaments. It would be reckless of them to withdraw from it. Her reputation would be ruined and people would always whisper of the woman who chickened out.

    "If the Emperor is willing to send off his daughters, he''d be willing to send off his nieces," Duke Li Shenyang said. He couldn''t promise his wife anything. He didn''t want tofort her with false hope.

    "Wouldn''t this damage the Emperor''s reputation?"

    "Thousands of sons will be saved from ughter at the expense of five daughters. Do you think anyone, except the family of those girls, will weep?" Duke Li Shenyang could do nothing but gently squeeze her shoulder.

    "Then what are we going to do?"

    "For now, we shouldn''t do anything. If we bring up the idea of exempting Xueyue, then it will only bring unwanted attention to her."

    "What if she''s selected? What shall we do then?" Duchess Li Qixing wept, "Is there truly nothing we can do?!"

    "I''m afraid not."

    Duchess Li Qixing''s eyes watered. She didn''t want to cry at such a crucial time, but couldn''t help herself.

    "Sweetheart, why are you so upset? The selection hasn''t been made yet and you''re reacting as if she''s already sent off."

    "I¡­ I just have a bad feeling about this."

    "That''s because your favorite hobby is overthinking." Duke Li Shenyangughed, attempting to lighten up the situation. "Perhaps a bath will liven you up." He didn''t wait for her response before calling in the head maidservant.

    Jinxia bowed deeply. "Milord, Mdy."

    "Prepare the bath," Duke Li Shenyang ordered and then excused himself.

    "Where are you going?" Duchess Li Qixing frowned.

    "To have a discussion with our sons. Fret not. All will be well," Duke Li Shenyang reassured her and exited out of the door.

    - - - - -

    The next morning.

    "Okay, Xueyue I need you to smear this on your face." Li Wenmin handed her purified dirt.

    "What?" She was bewildered by this idea.

    "Also, wear this rag." He handed her the dark brown clothing.

    "Are you trying to make her look like a beggar?" Li Chenyang retorted, rolling his eyes. "That''s only going to draw more attention to her."

    "Well, do you have better ideas?" Li Wenmin scowled, crossing his arms, "I''d like to see you conjure up something."

    "Dress normally. Not too eye-catching or in. Something that will make you blend into the crowd," Li Chenyang remarked, waving his hand for the maidservant to take away the rags that Li Wenmin gave her.

    Li Wenmin frowned. Okay. So maybe that was a better idea.

    "I''d hate to admit it and boost her already high ego, but you do realize that Xueyue doesn''t¡­ necessarily possess the ability to ''blend into the crowd'' right?" Li Wenmin sighed, gesturing to the porcin doll in front of the vanity.

    Her long, shiny hair was styled into a bun that resembled rose petals. The little butterfly hairpins only enhanced her youthful appearance. It was difficult to not notice her when everything she did brought attention to her.

    "That''s why she has to be kept inside the tent at all times unless it''s to participate in the tournament. She must remain hidden inside the tent," Li Chenyang said.

    He frowned when he saw the maidservant approaching Xueyue with the outeryer of her hanfu. "No. She''ll wear the light blue hanfu. Pink makes her more feminine and docile. It''ll attract attention."

    "I''m not attracted to femininity and timid appearances though," Li Wenmin said. "What if the Official that''s choosing the candidates wants someone stern-looking?"

    Li Chenyang scowled, "Can you stop contradicting me?"

    Li Wenmin scrunched his nose. "No."

    "Of course not" Li Chenyang scoffed. "Little boys always like to bicker."

    "We''re the same age!" Li Wenmin argued.

    "Really? It feels like I''m older by a couple more years," Li Chenyang retorted.

    "Also, your n of keeping her hidden is stupid," Li Wenmin huffed. "If she''s a new face in the crowd, then the Official will be keen to watch her."

    "Then what the hell should we do?" Li Chenyang groaned. "One thing always contradicts the other."

    "Maybe we should do nothing? Let nature take its course," Xueyue finally spoke up when the maidservantsid out her clothing.

    "Oh." Li Chenyang frowned. "Wouldn''t we feel useless? For not intervening."

    "We''d feel bad regardless," Li Wenmin said. "Let''s only intervene when it''s toote¨C"

    "There better not be ''toote'' moments." Li Chenyang sighed before standing up and dragging Li Wenmin with him. "We''ll see you when you''re properly dressed, Xueyue."

    She nodded andforted, "Try to not worry too much, Chen-ge."

    "Can''t. I inherited Mother''s favorite qualities," Li Chenyang mumbled.

    "It''s a double-edged sword."

    "Just like you." He chuckled before bidding her goodbye.

    "I''ll see youter, okay?" Li Wenmin said. "Don''t overthink it like our idiot brother. Nothing will ever happen to you."

    "Great, idiot, you just jinxed her," Li Chenyang scowled before grabbing Li Wenmin''s cor. "Let''s go."

    Finally, Li Wenmin sullenly left but not before peeking his head around her door and waving goodbye.

 Chapter 57 Tea

    <h4>Chapter 57 Tea</h4>

    "Are you sure you don''t want to forfeit from the tournaments? It doesn''t matter if people gossip about it," Li Wenmin solemnly said while sticking to her side as they approached their family''s tent. It was cleaned and a few pieces of furniture were added due to the colder weather. There were small gifts from prospective suitors, all neatly wrapped, stacked on the chairs.

    "If they gossip, they''ll be missing a tongue," a frigid voice snarled from behind them.

    Xueyue''s entire body stiffened at the familiarity of the man''s voice. Her fingers nervously reached for her pendant, fiddling with the small white tassel hanging from it.

    She didn''t realize it was a force of habit and that this man always made her feel unnerved.

    "Oh my, Commander Wen." Duchess Li Qixing hid her smile behind her long sleeves. She snuck a peek at Xueyue who hadn''t turned around to meet his fierce eyes.

    "What a pleasant surprise so early in the morning." Duchess Li Qixing''s smile grew wider when Xueyue kept her head forward, as if this country''s leading Commander wasn''t fixated by her. The entire time, he never tore his intense stare away from her. He was mesmerized by her and everyone could tell.

    "More like he ruined my morning," Li Chenyang grumbled under his breath and looked away when Commander Wen Jinkai threw him a scathing glower.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t know what brought him here. One minute he was handing his horse to the stable boy and the next, he spotted a "little fawn" that beckoned his attention.

    He had blinked and oddly enough, found himself behind Xueyue. What did he n to do now that he was here? She wouldn''t even look at him. Their conversation from the previous day swarmed his thoughts the entire night that he tossed and turned as sleep eluded him.

    "Commander, would you like to join us for morning tea? I made a special blend of tea today," Duchess Li Qixing warmly offered, cing a hand on his shoulder when he hadn''t looked away from Xueyue this whole time. Couldn''t he get any more obvious?

    "What do you think about that, Xueyue?" Duchess Li Qixing chuckled when Xueyue jumped at the mention of her name. Thetter slowly turned around, her eyes a bit wider than usual.

    Xueyue forced herself to not look at the Commander, but it was an incredibly arduous task. He had the type of face that''d always force others to steal another nce. From his sharp jaw to his frightsome eyes, there was so much to marvel about him. She feared she''d never look away if she snuck a single glimpse.

    "I¡­" Xueyue trailed off when her eyes automatically traveled to him and instantly, she was lost in the depths of his eyes. They were the color of starless skies, lost hope, and never-ending darkness. It was astoundingly beautiful, in the most chaotic manner. His chilly eyes thawed instantly for her, softening when she swallowed.

    "If that is what you wish, Mother, then I do not mind," Xueyue concluded, her lips drawing into a barely noticeable smile.

    Wen Jinkai slightly smiled, his fingers twitched to adjust the strands of hair that framed her eyes. Like the falling leaves of autumn, there was a sense of tranquility he felt from staring at it.

    His gaze traveled from her eyes to her face and then her hands that hadn''t stopped fiddling with her pendant. His eyes narrowed at it. Light blue and emerald green, it was beautiful, but above all, it had her name on it. Not his.

    Xueyue''s hand immediately covered the pendant and she cleared her throat, forcing him to look up. She didn''t back down from his seething glower. She knew he wanted her to wear his pendant. She jutted her chin in the air, challenging him and his authority.

    "Well, are we going to stand here forever or are we going to enter the tent?" Duke Li Shenyang chuckled, guiding his wife inside the tent, the twins following behind him.

    Xueyue didn''t register her father''s words until one of the twins grabbed her by the elbow and pulled her inside, all the while her eyes were locked on the Commander. He was standing close behind her and when he reached his fingers towards her chin, she turned her head away and began to move along.

    Her eyes widened when she felt a caress upon her waist. It disappeared as quickly as it came that she thought it was just her imagination. Then, it happened again: A gentle squeeze on her hips and then a tug. She registered his actions this time, but couldn''t question it, because immediately, the Duchess had spoken.

    "Oh my, that''s so strange. What happened to my special tea blend." Duchess Li Qixing frowned as she searched for a particr hand-painted tint box. When she couldn''t find it, she nced questioningly at the servants. One of them was supposed to have brought it with them.

    "I figured we''d have enough tea served. There''s no need to brew yours, darling." Duke Li Shenyang grinned when his wife scowled. He noticed the small gifts from prospective suitors and waved his hand for a servant to throw them away. Hmph, if they''d like to court Xueyue, at least have the guts to show themselves.

    "Do you dislike my specially blended teas?"

    ''I hate it. They taste like death and old-age,'' he thought to himself before denying with augh, "What? No... of course not!"

    "Great," Duchess Li Qixing said with a smile and pped her hands. "Then I hope you will finish the entire pot." She waved her head maidservant Jinxia over and the middle-aged woman procured a smaller box.

    "I figured you''d tell the servants to not bring it, so I had my head maidservant to do so." Duchess Li Qixing beckoned the servants to begin the setup.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s smile slipped as he cried on the inside. She was going to torture him with her worst concoction today.

    Duchess Li Qixing shrugged, "It''s such a bad idea that you informed them to not bring the first one. It was one of the special blends that you actually like."

    Duchess Li Qixing pretended to sigh. "Oh well, guess it''s time for you to try out one of my healthier tea." She faced him with a wicked grin. "The bitter and sour one."

    Duke Li Shenyang strained his face to smile just for her, "Let''s drink it together¡ª"

    "Oh, no, no. This one was specially made for you, to improve your health. You''ll be finishing the pot yourself."

    Just then, the Commander''s body tensed. He was observing the tent from the outside, standing on guard¡ªeven though he didn''t have to. It was a force of habit that he couldn''t break.

    Someone was watching him, from far away, and it wasn''t a friendly face.

 Chapter 58 All Nigh

    <h4>Chapter 58 All Nigh</h4>

    "Please excuse me," Wen Jinkai politely murmured and left the tent before anyone could properly respond. He ced what he took from Xueyue into his pocket. He walked past his family''s tent, a ce he only stepped into when necessary. He couldn''t even refer to the ce as a family tent aside from the surname they shared.

    If Duke Wen Xuan and his wives considered themselves as parents, then storms were light drizzles of rain. They were a joke of a parent to him, and as far as he was concerned, they were only his parents in name¨C¨Ceven if Wen Jinkai had half of his father''s genes.

    Wen Jinkai lightly stepped up the stairs leading to the royal family, as if he was made to easily tread it. People always found this climb to be intimidating. Because after all, everyone could see whoever was on it. And with the Imperial Family gazing down, it felt like they were being judged. Not that he cared about mindless gossips or useless opinions.

    "What are you doing here?" Wen Jinkai harshly snarled, his eyes narrowed at his mentor who had bowed his upperbody to talk to the Emperor who remained seated in his throne.

    "I always regret not teaching you manners." Duke Li Taojun shook his head in disappointment. "One hundred percent brute and zero percent gentleman."

    "Don''t make me repeat myself," Wen Jinkai calmly said, fixing hisposure.

    "Do I need a reason to appear in front of you?" Duke Li Taojunughed as he gave his mentee a rough p on the left shoulder. "You should be bowing to me, you rascal."

    "Jinkai, where were you?" the Empress worriedly said. "You didn''t apany us back to the Millenium Petal Manor."

    Wen Jinkai briefly nced at the silent Emperor and responded, "I had business to attend to."

    "What business took all night?" The Empress frowned, her eyes searching his body for any visible injuries. She noticed he had changed his clothes into striking ck robes with silver embroidery.

    "Never mind the business, all that matters is that he came back in one piece." The Emperor chuckled. He trailed his eyes away from the Li family tent. He had seen the small exchange between the Commander and Duke Li Shenyang''s family.

    "One piece?" the Empress gasped, her eyes widening in realization. The Commander was on a missionst night. What for, she had no clue.

    "You should properly greet your mentor, Jinkai. It''s impolite to pretend that he''s a stranger. He trained you for a good fraction of your childhood."

    Commander Wen Jinkai turned a deaf ear to the Emperor''s words, his eyesnded on the Second Princess. She immediately straightened at his attention, but by the time she tried to smile, he had looked away. She slumped pitifully in her chair, ying with the beautiful sleeves of her peach pink hanfu.

    "Never mind the rascal, he''d never learn respect even if it was beaten into him." Duke Li Taojun shook his head with a knowing smile. "I''m here on an important business."

    Commander Wen Jinkai silently nodded, his eyes lingered on the navy and purple tent of the Li family. He wanted to catch just one more glimpse of the only young woman who moved his heart. He was conflicted by her.

    One second he wanted her as a mistress, but the next, he wanted her as his main wife. He had grown up in an environment that justified having more than one wife, but he was always appalled by the idea. Despite his feelings, he knew it''d be beneficial to have more than one.

    His mind wandered to Xueyue. Would she ept the idea of her husband having more than one wife? He already knew the answer to his question. She respected herself too much to allow that.

    He could see it in the way she carried herself. She knew what she was doing, and every move was calcted. There was nothing idental about that woman, except for when she collided with him. He could see it in her widened eyes. She was always unsuspecting of him, so open and defenseless. Or was that on purpose as well?

    His lips thinned. Was it a facade? Or was she really that naive and simple?

    "... I''ve already spotted a potential one."

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes sharply snapped to Duke Li Taojun. Potential what?

    "Very well, jot down her name." The Emperor waved his hand, his eyes following the tent that Duke Li Taojun had set his attention on.

    "Unwed women is the requirement, but it''s alright if she''s promised to another. We can always break the engagement," the Emperor informed Duke Li Taojun who immediately nodded his head.

    "I suggest you pay closer attention to the tents closest to us," Imperial Consort Gu Feiying advised and fluttered her fan with a serene smile. One could never tell what she was scheming.

    "Ah yes, the Wen''s tent." Duke Li Taojun lightlyughed as he briefly nced at the beautiful woman.

    "S-sure," Imperial Consort Gu Feiying hesitated, her smile widened by a fraction but it never reached her kohl-rimmed eyes.

    She briefly turned her attention to her son who was spacing out and whispered something to him. His entire body tensed but before he could say anything, she shot him a look that silenced him.

    "I''m d you''re here for the sword fightingpetition," the Emperor said to Duke Li Taojun while sipping his tea. "There''s a handful of female candidates."

    "Oh?" Duke Li Taojun mused, "Females and swords? That''s quite a feat."

    "Both genders are allowed topete with each other," the Empress said with disapproval written all over her face. She struggled to mask her contempt for the new rules. "I''m worried about thedies. They''re going to struggle against the malepetitors."

    "What''s there to worry about? A woman is as capable as a man." Duke Li Taojun''s words could''ve been offensive, but it wasn''t. The Empress could see it within his gentle and understanding smile.

    "It''s just unfair." The Empress frowned.

    "Perhaps." Duke Li Taojun wistfully smiled. He wished there wasn''t so much prejudice against women and their strength. Then again, he was assigned to ruin the lives of three women today ¨C starting with the one the Emperor mentioned.

 Chapter 59 Interesting Turn of Events

    <h4>Chapter 59 Interesting Turn of Events</h4>

    "Ready?" Li Wenmin nervously asked, his brows knitted together. He watched as she tightened her robes and inspected her hair, turning her chin from left to right. He tapped his fingers on the table when the maidservant adjusted the knee-high boots, securing it properly.

    "Ready," Li Xueyue said with a small smile, her eyes twinkling and brimming with excitement.

    Li Wenmin sincerely wished she''d always be this carefree. He prayed the light would never flee her eyes and that she''d never be in a hopeless state.

    However, it was happy moments like these that terrified him the most. Sometimes, happy memories manifest into nightmares that haunt us forever.

    He had already lost one sister; he didn''t need to lose another.

    "I''m sure you already know the rules, but in the martial arts tournament, you win as long as you''ve scored the most points. The head is worth ten and the rest is worth one," Li Wenmin solemnly said. He ced both hands on her shoulder and shifted her body to examine every detail there was to examine about her.

    "Are you sure I can''t talk you out of this?" Li Wenmin nervously said while securing the string that held her bun together. He made sure it wouldn''te loose during a scoring high kick.

    "You''re beginning to behave like Chen-ge," Xueyue teased as she twisted and twirled for him.

    "We can''t help it. You bring out the worst in us." Li Wenmin sighed before abruptly pulling her into a hug. She rapidly blinked at the bear hug before smiling against his chest and patting his back.

    "I''ll be fine."

    "You better be," Li Wenmin warned and pulled back. "You remember how to block a head kick right?"

    "Of course."

    "Good." Li Wenmin sighed, "Or maybe you don''t have to worry."

    "What do you mean?"

    "The raffle, remember? Whoever pulls the shortest straw would be immediately sent to the finalist round," Li Wenmin exined and then frowned. "Didn''t you pay attention when the rules were announced?"

    "No¡­" Xueyue sheepishly said, inching back when he sent her a disapproving stare.

    "You need to listen to the rules next time, especially for sword fighting. I''m serious, Xiao Yue. Everyone pretends to be happy-go-lucky, but they''re ruthless."

    It seemed the tables had turned. He went from sleeping during lessons to lecturing her about the rules. She wondered if it''d snow tomorrow.

    "I''ll do my best to not space out when the sword fighting rules are announced," Li Xueyue firmly said, nodding her head to emphasize her point.

    Li Wenmin nodded and said, "You better."

    Loud and rhythmic thuds in the distance sounded the beginning of the martial art tournament.

    The two exchanged a brief nce at each other.

    "I''ll look forward to your victory." Li Wenmin grinned before giving her shoulders a final squeeze. "You''re going to do great."

    "I know." Li Xueyue winked before exiting the tent to join the rest of the females who lined up.

    Xueyue was disappointed to see how little females were joining the martial art tournament, but it wasn''t a surprise. Few people ced as much importance on this as they did for poetry or painting.

    Finally, something caught her attention. Ning Huabing. She hadn''t seen Xueyue''s entry and was engrossed in her daydream to notice anything. Ning Huabing bit her bottom lip and wrapped one hand on her elbow to calm her nerves.

    "Well, this is an interesting turn of events," Xueyue muttered to herself. She forced herself to look away and observe the arena. There were four mats set up in therge space, probably to speed up the tournament. There were a total of three rounds with the final being the finalist round.

    Xueyue was intrigued when an Eunuch confidently strolled towards them with an unsuspecting ck box. Identical wooden sticks poked out from the top of the box. It was the lottery draw that Li Wenmin was talking about.

    She watched as every girl took a stick out with mixtures of emotions. Everyone wanted the shorter draw because it would be advantageous to reserve stamina for the final sparring. The rounds were back to back with only five minute breaks in between.

    Ning Huabing''s eyes widened when she drew her stick but immediately concealed it with her body. Whether it was a good draw or the worst, Xueyue couldn''t tell.

    Only when Xueyue drew her stick did she realize how the tournament was going to work. On the other end of the wooden stick was the name of herpetitor. Wen Yaoqin. The Commander''s younger half-sister.

    If she had apetitor on the end of her stick then it meant she didn''t draw the shortest one. She wasn''t directly shipped to the finalist round, but someone definitely was.

    "You have a lucky hand, Miss Ning!" the Eunuch dered as tens of eyes shifted towards Ning Huabing who had the shortest stick.

    Ning Huabing forced herself to smile. She was actually looking forward to sparring with Xueyue¨C¨Cjust to see if she was the one who took down the guards outside of the tent.

    "Congrattions." The Eunuch nodded. He beckoned her towards the path that led up to a balcony that had the perfect view of the tournament.

    "Thank you," Ning Huabing muttered, turning her head back. When she saw Xueyue was directly staring at her, she immediately averted her gaze and searched the crowd for a familiar face. Instantly, Bai Tianai caught her eye.

    Bai Tianai nodded in approval with an entertained smile on her face. Slowly, her fingers moved, pointing at someone before her thumb jutted over her shoulders.

    ''Beat Li Xueyue to the ground.''

    Ning Huabing strained her smile and forced herself to inconspicuously nod. She needed to talk this alliance-ordeal out with Xueyue. She wasn''t sure how it was supposed to work.

    ''How interesting,'' Xueyue thought to herself when she caught the small exchange between Ning Huabing and Bai Tianai. She pondered if it would be a good idea to show her full capability or use only half of her strength. If she showed her skills here, Bai Tianai would instantly raise her guard, but if Xueyue forced herself to lose, then Bai Tianai would view her as an easy opponent.

    "Hmm¡­" Xueyue rubbed her chin, tilting her head while she weighed her options. It''s always nice to sneak attack the enemy, but it wouldn''t be satisfying. At times like this, she wished she wasn''t an indecisive over-thinker. Suddenly, her body jolted. Someone was carefully watching her. But who was it?

    She looked around, searching for the cause of her unsettling feelings. She noticed Wen Jinkai and the Fourth Prince was watching her. The twins, the Duke and Duchess Li were doing the same; their stares were a mixture of neutral and positive emotions.

    She shifted her gaze to Bai Tianai, but it wasn''t her. Someone else was analyzing her from head-to-toe. She felt uneasy as a shiver went down her spine. Her gut told her it was definitely unwanted attention. And little did she know, it wasing from the person that would seal her fate for the worst.

 Chapter 60 Jewels

    <h4>Chapter 60 Jewels</h4>

    "She''s ruthless." The Emperor chuckled when he saw Xueyue twist her body to drive a full-force kick into a poor woman''s head. Xueyue didn''t give Wen Yaoqin time to recover before she delivered swift side-kicks, one after the other, on both sides of thetter''s body in random blows.

    "Well, she''s in a household with two growing boys. I wouldn''t be surprised if one of my nephews taught her something," the Empress responded with a slight smile.

    Xueyue''s opponent didn''t stand a chance. When the opponent grabbed Xueyue''s leg, halting the kicks, she maneuvered her entire body into a high kick from the chin up, forcing Wen Yaoqin''s head to whip back.

    "At the least, she should be conserving her energy for the next two rounds toe," Imperial Consort Gu Feiyingmented while shooting her son a pointed look. ''Do you really want to marry a violent woman like that?''

    ''A thousand times yes,'' his eager face read. He was intently observing all of her calcted moves. She effortlessly kicked, blocked, blocked again, then kicked before resorting to an abrupt punch.

    "What do you think of her technique, Commander?" the Emperor purposely asked Wen Jinkai when Xueyue momentarily let her guard down and was striked on the side of her body.

    "Irrational." Wen Jinkai softly frowned, his brows crinkling. What was she doing? She could''ve easily blocked the kick, but allowed herself to be harmed. Was she pitying the opponent?

    His eyes slightly widened when Xueyue captured her opponent''s leg, smirking a bit before she yanked the woman forward. She was close to delivering a swift punch but the drums went off, signaling the end of the fight.

    The Fourth Prince''s smile widened. She had won the first round with flying colors. "Isn''t that your half-sister, Wen Yaoqin? From her lineage, I expected her to be more skilled," he said with a smirk and gave the Commander a side-eye.

    "Well, Duke Wen Xuan treasures his daughters as if they were jewels. He''s more lenient on their training." Duke Li Taojun exined, his eyes lingered on Li Xueyue. She was a Li? It was no wonder she resembled his brother, but there was something strange about her. He couldn''t quite put his finger on it.

    The Fourth Prince briefly nced at the Commander''s unreadable expression. If thetter was irked by the slight provocation, he didn''t show it.

    He said, "I''m sure he regrets letting herpete now. She''s made a fool out of herself, but I suppose the quality runs in the lineage."

    The Emperor sipped his tea and stole a glimpse of the unwavering Commander. How will the dragon react to the attack of a tiger?

    Commander Wen Jinkai leaned back in his chair beside the Crown Prince who had finally shown himself in the tournament. His travel time took longer than usual due to the Crown Princess''s pregnancy. The Commander''s seating arrangement was a position that everyone desired to obtain, yet none could touch.

    "Are you not going to respond?" Crown Prince Wang Qianghao slightly grinned when his friend took a leisure sip of the tea, his rough fingers swirling the cup.

    "It''s a waste of breath to respond to buzzing flies," Wen Jinkai calmly said with a nk expression.

    "Pft, I suppose you''re right." Wang Qianghao genuinelyughed while resting his chin on a propped up arm.

    Wang Longhe''s hand tightened on the arm rest, grounding his teeth. He wanted to retort but Consort Gu had ced a warning hand on top of his. Silence is a virtue. There was no need to respond to provocations, even if he started it first.

    The second round was starting. The first round with eight fighters had concluded with four victors who would proceed to the second round. The two victors from the second round would enter the semi-final round to fight for a spot in the finalist round. The emerging victor from the semi-final round would then face Ning Huabing who was shipped to the finalist round when she won the lottery draw.

    "Do you want to know what I overheard?" Wang Qianghao mused, leaning to the Commander. "You''ve set your heart on a woman. Is that true?"

    When the Commander didn''t respond, the Crown Prince huffed. "Don''t give me the cold shoulder for asking a few questions. You''re so stingy with your replies."

    Wen Jinkai turned a deaf ear to the whining Prince beside him. His eyes narrowed on Xueyue''s next opponent, Han Jieru, who happened to be his prime suspect for the arrow incident.

    Unknowingly, the temperature around them became chilly. His face became deathly calm at the memory of the incident. She was nearly injured and harmed. Someone had to pay for it. He would not leave this incident go without seeking retribution.

    "Oh, I know now!" Wang Qianghao excitedly grinned, his eyes shimmered. "It''s her, isn''t it? The one in light blue robes."

    The Empress resisted the urge to dejectedly sigh at her daft son. How could he not notice the aura of death eluding from the Commander? He was obviously upset about something. She was quite sure it wasn''t the Crown Prince''s yapping, but something else.

    "What an exquisite face¡­" Wang Qianghao''s eyes widened when he finally caught a full view of Li Xueyue.

    Their distance couldn''t mask her radiant beauty. She was absolutely stunning in every right. Laidback shoulders, raised chin, she held herself with the highest regard.

    "I rmend you to woo her as soon as possible. Such a mesmerizing woman is hard toe by¡­" Hemented.

    Wang Qianghao raised his hands in surrender when Wen Jinkai sent a vicious glower his way. "I was simply appreciating my future sister-inw''s appearance. Nothing more."

    Wang Qianghao tried to not inch towards his father, the Emperor. Even though he was used to Wen Jinkai''s aloof behavior, he always struggled to cope with thetter''s murderous aura. To anger the Commander was to knock on death''s door and be received by death with open arms.

    "Your jokes aren''t amusing, my dear son." The Empress slowly shook her head. "Sister-inw? That''s a peculiar title for a child."

    "Well, she''s one of the rare handful of women that stirred my beloved brother''s heart. Shouldn''t I prepare myself for the future title?" Wang Qianghao nudged the Commander for a response.

    Duke Li Taojun raised a brow at this. He turned to the Commander and asked, "Runt, you''re interested in Li Xueyue?"

    Wen Jinkai tore his gaze from Li Xueyue who narrowly dodged a kick flying towards her head. He was prepared to respond, but immediately halted when Han Jierunded a kick on Xueyue''s open-sides.

    Xueyue didn''t have time to recover when Han Jieru raised her leg for a jeopardizing hammer kick that would injure not only the head but the face.

    Wen Jinkai held his breath when she expertly dodged it and grabbed Han Jieru''s ankle to shove her to the ground. Just then, Han Jieru swept her leg and sent Li Xueyue straight to the ground.

    Li Xueyue tried to rise but Han Jieru had harshly kicked her in the stomach.

    "Xiao Jin?!" the Empress gasped when Wen Jinkai abruptly stood up from his seat. Her eyes widened in horror upon seeing the vicious expression on his face.

    "You can''t," she scolded, but he ignored her.

    "Where are you going?!" She frowned in disapproval when he nearly approached the staircase, only to be held back by Wang Qianghao.

    "Are you going to get fresh air? I could use some too, wait up!"

    Wen Jinkai shrugged off the Crown Prince''s grip, only to freeze. Li Xueyue finally stood back up, an indecipherable expression on her face. Without warning, she back-handed Han Jieru, the sound from the impact reverberated throughout the arena. Silence fell over them as everyone watched on with rapt attention.

    Li Xueyue struck her hands in a chopping motion directly towards Han Jieru''s throat. It was effective and Han Jieru bent over slightly, leaving the back of her neck wide open.

    Now that Han Jieru''s face was lowered, Xueyue had the perfect opportunity to kick her in the face. And she did so, without hesitation.

    If Han Jieru didn''t mind kicking someone who was already down, then she should''ve been prepared for the same treatment. But she wasn''t. She instantly covered her face with her hands and that gave Li Xueyue the perfect opportunity to strike her again.

    Li Xueyue was prepared to end the tournament, seeing as Han Jieru couldn''t continue to spar anymore.

    All of a sudden, Han Jieru charged at Xueyue with a wobbly punch. Xueyue easily caught the fist and punched Han Jieru hard in the stomach. An eye for an eye. Instantly, Han Jieru copsed onto the ground, unable to stand back up.

    Li Xueyue maintained her dignity when she stood still, analyzed the fallen Han Jieru, and then respectfully bowed. She had concluded the tournament of her own volition.

    Li Xueyue had the opportunity to kick Han Jieru when she was down, but she didn''t. She was above dirty fighting.

    Her crude sparring skills from before should''ve ruined the high society''s opinion of her, but at thest moment, she was able to recover from it.

    Quietly, the audience praised her ability to keep her emotions in check. She could''ve finished Han Jieru without remorse, but she didn''t. She understood her opponent was down. There was no need to beat down her opponent further with another soul-shattering blow.

 Chapter 61 The Studen

    <h4>Chapter 61 The Studen</h4>

    Wang Qianghao whistled. \"Now that is a fighter.\"

    The Commander didn''t know he was holding in a breath until he sighed in relief. He felt as if a boulder was lifted off of his sturdy shoulders. His heart finally started beating again. Even so, he couldn''t sit down. She was injured.

    \"You''re too rash.\" Duke Li Taojun frowned, disapproval written all over his face. He ced a hand on the Commander''s shoulder and said, \"What has gotten into you? This isn''t how you usually behave.\"

    Wen Jinkai shrugged off his mentor''s hand all the while watching Li Xueyue. She was tired, but still had two more rounds to go.

    \"You need to learn respect¨C\"

    \"Enough,\" Wen Jinkai snarled, moving past his mentor and sitting back down.

    Duke Li Taojun let out an exasperated sigh. He resembled a defeated father toozy to bother with his rebellious son. \"I should''ve beaten some respect into you when I had the chance. Now, I have an unyielding brat as a mentee.\"

    He nced at the frightsome sword hanging from Wen Jinkai''s waist. \"Ugh, what should I do? The runt is so aplished, I wish I can just smack¨C\"

    \"Stop monologuing.\" Wen Jinkai frowned, returning his attention to Li Xueyue who was taking a small break. She had barely finished drinking her water when the drums sounded, signaling the start of the next round. He frowned, deciding that next year''s tournaments would have longer breaks.

    \"You should be training, not leisurely sipping tea and watching this fight. Why are you watching it in the first ce?\" Duke Li Taojun turned his body to look at whatever captured the Commander''s attention.

    \"Some day, I''ll teach you a lesson for your insolence.\"

    \"The student has out mastered the teacher. Good luck with your lesson.\" Wen Jinkai revealed a menacing smirk.

    Duke Li Taojun stiffened at his words before slyly smiling. \"We''ll see about that.\" His gaze lingered on the tournament before he settled back onto his chair.

    True to his words, no one would be able to prepare for the cmity that would strike the Commander. A disaster that would turn his entire world upside down.

    - - - - -

    \"Duke Li Shenyang raised a capable child,\" the Emperormented when Xueyue came out victorious after the third round. She was slightly out of breath, but that could be easily adjusted. There was a short three minute break for her to retire back into her tent. Three victories back to back, she was a frightsome opponent.

    Even after analyzing her moves for three rounds, Wen Jinkai couldn''t pinpoint her fighting technique. She skillfully maneuvered between her kicks and her punches. Each move was executed wlessly.

    Her only problem was guarding. Sometimes she didn''t know how to recover from guarding a punch or kick. Right now, she''d be fine, but it was still very dangerous. If she was willing, he wouldn''t mind teaching her and hone her skills.

    \"I wasn''t aware my younger brother had another daughter,\" Duke Li Taojunmented with a cunning smile. Suspicion was tucked into his hazel eyes. He analyzed Li Xueyue again. She was certainly a Li. It was hard to not notice that based on her features.

    His eyes briefly widened. A stunning realization dawned on him when her face became more visible to him.

    Duke Li Taojun''s hand shook. His heart dropped to the pit of his stomach. No¡­

    \"None of us were aware until yesterday.\" The Emperor smiled, but it was hard to understand what he was thinking. He always masked his feelings through a jolly and friendly mask.

    He didn''t bother revealing the fact that he had stumbled into Li Xueyue two years ago and she was formally introduced as a distant niece. Now, she was dered their daughter. It was highly entertaining to him, thus, he decided to let the events unfold by themselves.

    \"Well, she clearly looks like a Li,\" Imperial Consort Gu Feiyingmented.

    She tilted her pretty little head and continued, \"As a matter of fact, Duke Li Taojun, she resembles you. Don''t you find that amusing?\"

    When the Duke didn''t answer, she continued, \"Well, she is your brother''s daughter, so I''m not surprised by this simrity. The only problem is¡­ she doesn''t look like Duchess Li Qixing. Such a pity.\"

    No one knew if she was intentional with her sniping words. She was evidently implying Li Xueyue could be an illegitimate daughter born out of wedlock. A disgrace to an honorable family name. If word of this spread like wildfire, Li Xueyue''s reputation would be burned to ashes.

    \"You should watch your tongue, Consort Gu,\" Commander Wen Jinkai seethed, his eyes set aze.

    The pitiful woman could do nothing but shrink back in her chair. He was two times her junior, but she couldn''t help but be submissive to him. There was something about his glower that promised her a merciless and slow death.

    Consort Gu Feiying dug her fingers into her palm as her gaze snapped to her husband, the Emperor. He gave her the cold-shoulder and focused his attention on the Empress by offering her a pastry before lovingly caressing her hand.

    \"I-I was simply giving my opinion.\"

    \"No one asked for it,\" Wen Jinkai deadpanned, his lips curled in disgust.

    \"I¨C\"

    \"Who gave you the right to speak out of turn?\" Wen Jinkai snapped.

    Instantly, her mouth mped shut. She felt her heart jump to her throat when his hand briefly touched the hilt of his sword. Her eyes widened when his fingers seemingly wrapped around it.

    \"How dare you speak to my mother in that tone?\" Wang Longhe scowled, \"You''ve crossed a line, Jinkai. She''s the Imperial Consort!\"

    \"She''s a second wife with no authority. Why should I lower myself for her?\" Wen Jinkai raised a brow, urging the Fourth Prince to provide a decent argument.

    When Wang Longhe struggled to retort, he snarled, \"You''re one to talk. You''re nothing but a discarded heir who killed his mother just to be birthed into this world. You should be ashamed of yourself!\"

    \"ENOUGH!\" the Empress hissed, her nostrils set aze. \"How audacious and insolent of you to insult the dead!\"

    \"I didn''t¨C\"

    \"And now you dare to talk back to me?\" The Empress threw Consort Gu Feiying a disgusted stare. \"Like mother, like son. Both of youck respect.\"

    Wang Longhe''s eyes widened in shock. He''d never expected or ever witnessed the Empress losing her temper. He knew she despised his mother, Consort Gu Feiying, but she had never scolded them in public like this before.

    The Emperor heaved a sigh. \"Why must you argue with a child?\" he said with a frown. \"I will not tolerate this ill-mannered bickering. If neither of you can function like an actual family, then get out of my sight.\"

    Wang Longhe struggled to maintain hisposure. He nced at his pale-stricken mother and scowled. She was publicly disrespected, yet the Emperor took that two-faced Empress''s side. He would not tolerate this.

    \"Fine,\" he snarled before standing up and storming off, to the horror of his mother.

 Chapter 62 Couldnt Care Less

    <h4>Chapter 62 Couldn''t Care Less</h4>

    .\"Finally some peace and quiet,\" Crown Prince Wang Qianghao sighed, rubbing his forehead. His parents turned to him with equally displeased frowns, but he smiled, showing he meant no harm. He was merely lightening the dreary atmosphere.

    \"Oh look, the finalist round is taking ce. Who do you think will win, Mother dearest?\" Wang Qianghao''s smile became a grin, just for the Empress.

    The Empress''s tense shoulders softened. Her sour expression improved. \"I suppose Marquis Ning''s daughter will have a higher chance of victory. She''s been resting the entire time Duke Li Shenyang''s daughter was sparring.\"

    \"True, true.\" Wang Qianghao thoughtfully nodded while turning to Commander Wen Jinkai. \"Jinjin, what do you think?\"

    Wen Jinkai casted the Crown Prince a disgusted re before returning his attention to thest round of the tournament that had just begun.

    \"Aw, does my nickname bother? Nevermind...\" Wang Qianghao trailed off when the air around them thinned. \"Heh, best to not tease the dragon,\" he said with an easygoing smile.

    Duke Li Taojun silently contemted what just happened. His eyes were narrowed in dissatisfaction. The Commander was riled up by the mere mention of a woman. It was pathetic because he behaved nothing like his brutal teachings taught the young man to be.

    \"Oh dear,\" the Empress murmured when Xueyue''s foot smashed against Ning Huabing''s side.

    Ning Huabing buckled in surprise, her eyes widening when Xueyue didn''t give her time to recover. Instantly, another kick flew towards her head, knocking her to the ground. She made the mistake of standing back up because Xueyue raised her left leg.

    Ning Huabing smirked, ready to block the predictable move, only to be caught off guard. Xueyue had lifted her left leg but actually used it as leverage to send a flying right kick.

    Ning Huabing''s life shed before her eyes as the kick connected with her jaw. Instantly, it sent her onto the floor yet again, gasping for air. Stars dotted her vision, but the victory was simply too sweet. She wanted it more than anything.

    \"Stay down,\" Li Xueyue whispered. \"You can''t fight in this condition.\"

    \"No, I-I can still fight¡­\" Ning Huabing groaned, struggling to stand. \"It''s going to be so embarrassing that I didn''t fight for three rounds and I still lost to you.\"

    \"I held back on you,\" Li Xueyue softly uttered when Ning Huabing stood back up. \"Now, I''m forced to.\"

    \"You talk too much,\" Ning Huabing snarled before mming her fist straight into Xueyue''s stomach. \"Wince more. Bai Tianai is watching.\" Then, she swung her foot directly into the side of Xueyue''s stomach.

    Li Xueyue grounded her teeth, infuriated. She didn''t have to fake her buckle or wince. Han Jieru had already left a nasty bruise on her stomach and Ning Huabing had punched the same spot.

    Ning Huabing softly apologized, \"I''m sorry, but I need to put up a good fight or else Bai Tianai is going to be suspicious of me. She knows I''m a good fighter.\"

    \"Fair point,\" Li Xueyue mused before adjusting her position. \"But you wasted a good opportunity to knock me down for good.\"

    Ning Huabing didn''t get to respond. In the next second, Xueyue twisted her entire body into a thunderous side-kick. Her entire weight was ced into this finishing blow. In an instant, Ning Huabing lost her bnce, slightly swaying before Xueyue swung again. This time, she had the upper hand. She grabbed Xueyue''s ankle and yanked her to the ground, stunning both of them.

    Ning Huabing whispered, \"I''m sorry for this,\" and raised her fist and mmed it down. Xueyue''s eyes widened in shock.

    However, just as Ning Huabing''s fist was a hair away from Xueyue''s face, the drums loudly banged in the distance, concluding the tournament.

    Ning Huabing forced herself to halt. She could''ve easily ruined Xueyue''s perfect features, but she didn''t. And Bai Tianai had seen that. Instantly, she rolled off of Xueyue and struggled to get to her feet.

    Xueyue felt her chest heave up and down with adrenaline. She felt her stomach clench in pain when she attempted to stand. She couldn''t. Everything was hurting beyond belief. She swallowed hard, attempting to use her hand to hoist herself up. Her arms shook and trembled at the attempt, the pain of guarding so much punches and kicks was finally settling in. Eventually, she copsed back down, her eyes straining to focus.

    \"It''s better to stay down,\" Ning Huabing whispered when she finally got to her feet. She peered down at Xueyue and waited for the Eunuch toe forward. He was rushing to them, ready to dere a winner.

    It was evident who had more points, but the real question was, could the victor stand up to im it? She couldn''t.

    It didn''t take long for darkness topletely shroud Xueyue''s vision and without warning, she cked out.

    Ning Huabing controlled her astonished expression. Her hands trembled with the realization that she had won. She was the victor. Her head snapped in Bai Tianai''s direction.

    Bai Tianai nodded in approval before shifting her face away. She returned her attention to her younger brother, a small toddler barely above the age of two. He was needy and everything she loathed. Because of his damn birth and gender, her inheritance was robbed.

    \"Miss Li, are you able to stand?\" A Eunuch sternly asked Li Xueyue whose eyes were shut. \"In a count of three, if you''re unable to stand, the victory will be handed to Ning Huabing.\"

    \"One¡­ two¨C\"

    \"Out of my way,\" a harsh voice snarled from behind them.

    Ning Huabing''s entire face paled upon seeing who it was. She cowered back when he stormed past her and shoved the Eunuch aside.

    \"C-Commander,\" was the only word that she managed to say.

    Wen Jinkai swiftly bent down and carefully lifted Xueyue. His face was eerily calm, but his eyes were violent and thunderous. His glower was piercingly vicious and struck fear in anyone bold enough to look him in the eye.

    Ning Huabing struggled to say something. Her voice dried up in her throat when she saw someone approaching in the distance. Her body quivered when she made the mistake of directly staring at the Commander. Instantly, she dropped her gaze to the floor. Her teeth chattered from how much she trembled.

    But to her surprise, someone stood in front of her. Whether it was to defend her from the Commander''s wrath or not, Ning Huabing was instantly gracious of whoever it was. When she raised her head, she felt her heart skip a beat. She let out an uneasy breath, her hands shaking when she covered her mouth.

    \"Put her down, this instant,\" Li Chenyang seethed, his fingers curled into a white fist. He dug his fingers so hard into his palms, it cut through his skin. \"What the hell are you doing, Jinkai? Do you realize the consequences of your actions?!\" he hissed.

    Wen Jinkai tightened his hold on Li Xueyue, his eyes darkening by the second.

    Li Chenyang was beyond pissed. Words couldn''t describe his rage. He abhorred the Commander to hell and back. He wanted to snatch his little sister back from the Commander''s clutch, but physically couldn''t. No one had the guts to touch the dragon''s treasure, not even Li Chenyang himself.

    \"God damn it, she''s my sister. Hand her to me, I''ll take care of her¨C\"

    Wen Jinkai held Li Xueyue closer to his body, \"Is this how you take care of her? By allowing her to participate in this abomination of a tournament?!\"

    Li Chenyang was stunned by the Commander''s words. He¡­ he actually cared for Xueyue¡­? \"I tried to talk her out of it¨Chey where are you going?!\"

    Wen Jinkai stormed past Li Chenyang and began heading towards the exit of the tournament before Li Chenyang roughly grabbed his shoulders. \"Listen here, you brute of a man, if you walk out of here, I''ll take that as a deration that you care for my sister. And if you care for her, that means you''re able to love her.\"

    Li Chenyang''s eyes shed and he warned, \"If you walk out of here with her, I expect you to confess your feelings to her and marry her.\"

    \"I don''t have feelings for her.\"

    \"And birds can''t fly!\" Li Chenyang growled. \"If you''re going to be a coward who can''t admit his feelings, then you don''t deserve to walk off with her.\"

    Wen Jinkai hesitated. He nced down at Xueyue, his frozen heart lurching at the sight of her. His thoughts shed back to the unconscious nights that he felt her presence close by his side. The gentle graze of her fingers against his forehead when she switched his towel. The alluring voice that demanded for him to be brought back to the manor.

    He spiraled back to her words, \"If you can''t love me, then don''t marry me.\" Bold, but adoring.

    \"Believe whatever you want. I couldn''t care less.\" Without another word, Wen Jinkai left with Xueyue nestledfortably in his arms.

 Chapter 63 Naive

    <h4>Chapter 63 Naive</h4>

    Li Xueyue stirred, groaning at how sore she felt. Everything was hurting, from her arms to her legs. If only she had stretched before and after the tournament. The tournament? Her eyes widened and abruptly, she sat up, her heart racing.

    ''Where am I?'' she panicked.

    Her eyes scanned the expansive room that was tastefully decorated in the most depressing colors possible.

    She blinked at the ck, white, silver, and grey decorations. From the coiling dragons on pirs to the polished ashwood table, she didn''t recognize this ce. And that terrified her.

    Thest thing she remembered was the light blue skies with puffs of clouds hovering above her. Memories of the tournament came flooding back. She vaguely remembered passing out and then that was it. What happened after that?

    Warily, she peered down, her shoulders sagging with relief upon seeing her clothes remained the same. The tightness of her waist belt felt the same as well, which meant her clothes weren''t forcibly changed. Her ears twitched when she heard the sound of approaching footsteps.

    Too worried about the oue of the tournament and uncertain about her current situation, she instantlyid back down and pretended to be asleep. Her heart loudly thudded when she felt a dark presence enter the room. Her stomach ufortably churned at the sound of approaching footsteps¡ªit was powerful and self-assured.

    Xueyue was waiting for the right moment to strike the approaching person and run. She hoped her body wouldn''t fidget involuntarily before she could sneak an attack. Her heart skipped when a familiar scent washed over her. Who was it?

    She almost screamed bloody murder when a ghost of a touchnded on her cheek. She was d she had shoved her hand under the nket, or else the person would''ve seen her twitching fingers.

    \"I know you''re awake.\"

    Her eyes snapped open in horror and disbelief. Peering down at her with a rough expression was Wen Jinkai. When their eyes met, his face softened.

    \"Did you know you snore in your sleep?\" he mused, sitting on the edge of the bed. She warily stared at him, her eyes filled with usation.

    Xueyue had a million things that she wanted to say. Majority of it were questions, but a small half were curse words. Her entire body tensed when he pressed his thumb on the skin between her brows. Gently, he soothed the lines that she didn''t know had formed.

    \"Rx,\" he softly told her. \"You''re safe with me.\"

    Li Xueyue roughly grabbed his hand, snarling, \"Take me back to my family. You had no right bringing me here.\"

    She expected his mood to dampen at her crude words and harsh actions. It didn''t. He nced at their touching hands and chuckled. \"This is the first time you voluntarily touched me.\"

    Instantly, she drew her hand back as if the touch burned her. In reality, a tingling sensation had shot down her spine. She forced herself to not shiver. She didn''t like it. She didn''t like her reaction to him. He didn''t love her. He didn''t care for her. He only wanted to disy her like a trophy from a proud conquest. She reminded herself of that thought over and over again, until itpletely consumed her mind.

    Wen Jinkai watched as the walls surfaced on all sides of her heart. The uncertainty in her eyes disappeared and they became guarded. \"If you build walls around yourself, you''ll block out light and hope.\"

    \"Hope will not keep me alive.\"

    \"Who told a lie and shattered you?\" he softly asked. \"Who broke you beyond repair?\"

    \"That''s none of your concern.\" Li Xueyue sat up in bed, pping his hand away when he attempted to brush the loose strands of her hair away from her eyes.

    \"Tell me, Little Fawn, what can I do to restore faith back to you? What can I do and say to make you smile?\" he slowly asked.

    Li Xueyue thought he was joking until she saw the sincerity on his rigid face. She wished she didn''t look at him. Did he understand how dangerously dashing he was? He could easily obtain any woman he wanted¡ªsomeone who wouldn''t put up as much of a fight as she did. Someone who could navigate his temper that changed at rming speeds.

    She felt her breath quicken. The Commander reminded her of Zheng Leiyu and that terrified her.

    \"Why me?\"

    \"What?\" Wen Jinkai asked in disbelief. Was she serious?

    \"Why are you like this? Why do youe and go as you please? Why did you take me here?\" Li Xueyue demanded, her eyes shed with warning. She wanted to go home. She didn''t want to be here. The more he stared at her like that, the more she wanted to flee.

    \"Stop it, stop looking at me like that!\"

    Wen Jinkai blinked in surprise. \"Like what?\"

    \"Like you actually care about me. It''s scaring me and¡ª\"

    \"Why does it scare you?\" he carefully asked, his eyes narrowed when her face paled. Just when he thought he had taken one brick off of her wall of defense, she built anotheryer to defend her heart.

    \"Have I ever hurt you?\" he suddenly asked.

    She was forced to shake her head. \"That doesn''t excuse your behavior.\"

    \"No, it doesn''t.\"

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. She was bewildered by his willingness to admit his mistakes. She wondered if he did that often.

    Wen Jinkai searched her face for the slightest hint of approval at his words. Slowly, he uttered, \"Truthfully, you confuse me. Why is that?\"

    \"Because you have psychological issues?\"

    He surprised himself when heughed. As in, he genuinelyughed.

    Li Xueyue wished she hadn''t heard hisughter. Hisugh sounded reassuringly warm. It was incredibly deep, yet rich and smooth. Her heart shook. When heughed, he was the most carefree man she had ever seen.

    She stiffened when he flickered her on the forehead, \"No, silly girl. That''s not it.\" A reassuring smile dangled from his lips, his eyes crinkling. He was devastatingly handsome in a way that no one could ever replicate.

    It was such a precious moment that she wanted to pocket it and treasure it for the rest of her life because she knew she would never witness it again. He was someone whom she should''ve stayed thousands of miles away from. Yet, she always found herself searching for him.

    Why was she so naive? Why was she so infatuated by him? He would not make her happy. She would be in a lonely and loveless marriage with him. He''d never be able to properly cherish her, so why was she so damn naive?

    Li Xueyue wanted to smack herself for being foolish. She was foolish to dream of a future with him. He couldn''t even respect her basic boundaries, yet here she was, falling a little bit more in love with a man that could never love her. A man that didn''t know how to love.

    She couldn''t trust him. She could never ce her fragile heart in his hands and expect him to cherish it. He wouldn''t know how to. Her untrusting heart would slip right through his fingers and he''d let it shatter into a thousand pieces.

    And nothing broke her more than the realization that she was broken beyond repair. That, regardless of which man came into her life and dered love for her, she''d never believe it.

 Chapter 64 Loving You

    <h4>Chapter 64 Loving You</h4>

    \"Why do you look so terrified?\" Wen Jinkai worriedly asked her. A variety of emotions shed across her face, at speeds he couldn''t register. Xueyue stared at her hands, her eyes quivering. He could see the light inside of her eyes dim like stars covered by clouds.

    \"Look at me,\" he softly said, lifting her chin up gently. He didn''t know he was capable of such gentleness until he met her. He had never amodated himself to anyone, ever. Yet, he sat before her, concerned about a woman who wanted nothing to do with him.

    \"What''s wrong?\"

    \"Please stop,\" she whispered, shaking her head. She tried to push his hand away but he firmly gripped her chin.

    \"Stop what?\"

    \"Whatever you''re doing.\" Xueyue''s eyes widened, revealing its depths.

    Wen Jinkai was mesmerized by her eyes. Her hazel eyes captured the shades of nature''s glory, ancient trees, wise and profound.

    He vaguely remembered seeing her eyes catch the sun, golden as honeb, but now, they were the darkest shade of brown, alluring and mysterious¡ªfilled with depth that he could not fathom. Why was there so much angst and apprehension within them? What was weighing her down? Who had harmed her?

    \"I''m merely trying to talk to you.\"

    \"Don''t. Don''t talk to me. Don''t look my way. Don''t touch me. Don''t act like you know me. I want you to pretend as if we''re strangers who never crossed paths with each other.\"

    \"Why?\" he seethed, dropping her chin.

    His fingers tightened into fists, his jaw ticked with indignation. He couldn''t fathom the fact that she wholeheartedly rejected him. It was unlike him to care about women, but the first time he did so, he was brutally denied by her.

    \"If you''re unable to love me, then don''t woo me. I don''t need unnecessary distractions in my life. I don''t care about your wealth, reputation, or title. I''m not a conquest that had to be shown to your peers. I don''t want to be one of the many flowers in your garden. I want to be the sole wife of the house, not one out of tens of women in a harem.\"

    Wen Jinkai blinked at her words.

    \"Loving you means hating myself,\" she whispered. \"Unlike you, I''m not afraid of falling in love. I''m afraid of being the only one that falls.\"

    \"Is that what you want, Little Fawn?\" he stood up to his full height, towering over her tiny form. He was an intimidating man whose ruthlessness knew no bounds.

    She could never escape his clutches. The only thing she could do was express her animosity for him and pray he''d leave on his own will. This type of man was borderline dangerous. Someone with the potential to im her against her will and keep her captive.

    \"Unconditional love? Devotion to you and only you?\"

    \"No.\" Xueyue shook her head. \"I want untouchable love. The kind that can''t be ruined by lies, gossip, and outside influences. A love that is deeply rooted in the heart, built upon a foundation of trust, a love that is sheltered byughter and strengthened by hardships.\"

    \"Does this selfish wish of mine scare you, Commander? Does it make you waver? Does it deter you? If you feel doubt and hesitation, even if it''s the slightest bit, then please, walk out of my life and never return.\"

    She frowned. \"Please set your eyes on another woman who would be d to have you. Who''d treasure the air you breathe, praise the floor you walk on, and happily smile amongst your other wives.\"

    Wen Jinkai was silent for the longest time. He did nothing but stare at her with that same nk expression of his. She couldn''t get past his defense. No one can. His eyes were guarded more than her heart.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he even had a heart in the first ce. He was so frigid to her, despite cing a possessive im on her. She didn''t want this type of man. He''d ruin her with a smile and never look back. He could easily recover, but she would never be able to.

    \"I''m sorry,\" he finally said. It was two simple words that shattered her hope for him.

    Instantly, she became apathetic. She threw the nkets off her and stood up. If he wouldn''t take her home, she''d find her own way back. She couldn''t fathom another second being in his presence, breathing the same air as him.

    She was prepared to walk out of this room and never look back at their brief encounter for the rest of her life. She was prepared to never see him again and if they would ever cross paths, she''d pretend to not know him. That was the best she could do to protect herself from him.

    \"Have a good day Commander.\" She brushed past him, but he abruptly grabbed her wrist. She couldn''t even fight back before he roughly tugged her to him. His arms were iron cages that held her pressed against him.

    \"I''m sorry,\" he said again, this time, with a dark edge to his voice. She stiffened, waiting for him to continue. \"Your words don''t deter me in the slightest bit. I''m sorry that your n to push me away failed, Li Xueyue. Whether or not you''re going to let me into your heart, I will make you mine. One way or another.\"

    Xueyue heard something she couldn''t fathom in him. She could hear it, the unmistakable sound of a racing heart. The only problem was, it wasn''t hers that was pounding uncontrobly. It was his. Powerful, intense, and erratic, he had unknowingly pressed her ear against his heart. His embrace was undeniably warm,forting, and everything she could ever ask for, but his words were heartbreaking and misleading.

    \"I''m sorry,\" he repeated in apassionate tone. She felt hisrge hands tenderly stroke the spot behind her neck whilst one formidable arm held her close.

    \"I''m incapable of love,\" he quietly told her, \"But I can promise you, Li Xueyue, I will take care of you until the end of time. You will yearn for nothing. You will be pampered and adored to the highest degree. Every maid, butler, servant, and soldiers under my watch will yield to your wishes.

    He breathed in deeply and caught a whiff of her sweet scent¡ªfaint jasmine flowers that intoxicated him. \"Love is a foolish thing. It blinds us from reality. What could I possibly do with it? Some are willing to die for it. Some are willing to sacrifice everything to achieve it. I''m far happier without it.\"

    \"Then you can be far happier without me,\" Li Xueyue dered before pushing him away. He instantly released her the same time she defiantly jutted her chin in the air.

    His eyes darkened. \"I suppose it''s time to bring you back home.\"

    \"That will be appreciated,\" she curtly said, storming out of his room, even if she didn''t know where she was going.

    The carriage ride to the tournament arena was a deafening silence. Neither party looked at each other during the entire ride. It was tense and suffocating in there, even with all of the windows opened. The only sound in the air was the sound of galloping hooves of the horses and the pitiful lull of two hearts longing for each other.

 Chapter 65 To Lose Another

    <h4>Chapter 65 To Lose Another</h4>

    \"I''m going to kill you,\" Li Wenmin snarled, unsheathing his sword the second Xueyue was whisked out of the carriage. \"What the hell did you do to my sister?!\" he demanded, storming towards Wen Jinkai who could instantly knock the sword from his hand.

    \"Do you realize what you''ve done?\" Li Wenmin seethed as he grabbed the unmoving Commander by the cor, yanking him close. \"You''ve sullied her reputation. Three hours alone with a man, unapanied by her maidservants. Do you understand the damage it could have on her future? The whispers have already begun, you bastard.\"

    \"I once respected you as a man and a Commander, but look at the mess you''ve created,\" he hissed and pointed to the golden staircase. \"You better fucking exin yourself to the Emperor.\"

    Li Xueyue was perplexed by the grim faces of Duke and Duchess Li. Duchess Li Qixing was distraught beyond words, her eyes moistened. She was on the verge of tears and the Duke couldn''t do anything about it.

    Duke Li Shenyang was pained by the sight of an unsuspecting Xueyue who didn''t know her future was ruined. It wasn''t the fact that she missed the sword-fighting tournament. It was what the Commander had done to her. He had sealed her fate for the worst.

    \"Oh, sweetheart,\" Duchess Li Qixing''s voice cracked. She reached for Xueyue and tightly embraced her.

    \"I''m so sorry¡­\" her tone was filled with remorse. \"I should''ve done something. I should''ve stopped the Commander, instead of allowing him anywhere near you.\"

    Duchess Li Qixing pulled back to examine Xueyue''s face, only for a pitiful sob to surface from her throat. She hugged Xueyue again. \"I never meant for this to happen. I shouldn''t have suggested this tournament to you. We should''ve stayed home. You would''ve been far safer at home than anywhere else.\"

    Li Chenyang silently brooded to himself, even though he wanted to murder the Commander on the spot. He loathed that man more than anything because he just destroyed Xueyue''s life. It wasn''t the first time Wen Jinkai ruined a daughter of Duke and Duchess Li.

    \"I-it''s going to be okay, everything will be fine.\" Duchess Li Qixing struggled to maintain herposure. She was on the verge of breaking down, her voice as brittle as a quivering leaf.

    \"Darling, you''re scaring her,\" Duke Lu Shenyang said while cing aforting hand on his wife. He had hoped it would calm her down, but it didn''t. She hugged Xueyue tighter.

    \"I don''t care what they think. I''m going to take her home,\" Duchess Li Qixing dered, her eyes burning with determination. She was nning to take Xueyue to a safe house where the clutches of the Imperial Family could never reach her.

    \"Don''t be irrational.\" Duke Li Shenyang frowned. \"We cannot¡ª\"

    \"I don''t care,\" Duchess Li Qixing argued. \"I''m not going to lose her to¡ª\"

    \"Li Xueyue?\" the Eunuch piqued.

    Duchess Li Qixing''s moistened eyes dried up. She forced herself to remain cid even though she was losing grip on her sanity. Her thoughts spiraled down to the day she lost Li Minghua to the fire. The day they dered her missing. The day ashes raised to the sky, disappearing without a trace. Her body was supposedly burnt to nothingness.

    She had already lost a daughter once. She would not allow herself to lose another.

    Li Chenyang''s calm and collected expression strengthened into neutrality. He didn''t faze at the sight of the Imperial guards who spread around the Li Family in an unbreakable formation. They were armed and ready to capture Xueyue.

    A Eunuch dressed in forest-green robes came forward with a thick and heavy scroll in his hands. He respectfully bowed before the esteemed Duke and Duchess Li.

    \"Greetings to our Honorable Prime Minister, the graceful Duchess Li Qixing.\"

    He turned to the twins and bowed and greeted, \"As well as, Minister Li Chenyang and General Li Wenmin.\"

    His eyes widened a fraction when he saw the Commander. He nearly dropped to his knees at the merciless glower piercing through his skull. Forcing himself to stick to protocols, he bowed to the Commander as well. \"Blessings to our esteemed Commander Wen Jinkai.\"

    \"Ie forth bearing splendid announcements, dered by the great Emperor and gracious Empress of our nation.\" The Eunuch flicked his wrist and the scroll fell open, revealing the unmistakable calligraphy and blood-red stamp of the Imperial Family attached.

    \"Li Xueyue, daughter of Duke Li Shenyang and Duchess Li Qixing has been bestowed a splendid opportunity to represent our nation''s good will with our bordering nation, Hanjian! At the first blush of dawn, she will be weed to Hanjian with open arms!\"

    \"Pleasee forward, Miss Li, you have been gifted with this momentous opportunity!\"

    His words were weing and dubious, but when he waved his hands, soldiers stepped forward. They were prepared to escort her to the Imperial Family, and should she try to run, they were given orders to capture her and drag her before the knees of the Emperor and Empress.

    One of the girls had already tried to run for her life but was already yanked to the golden staircase. She was shamed until she had practically begged to be married off, teary-face and all.

    Li Wenmin''s hand hovered over the hilt of his sword, a dangerous glint in his eyes. Which soldier was foolish enough to be the first one to step close to Xueyue? Who had the guts toy hands on his mei-mei?

    \"Don''t be shy now, Miss Li.\" The Eunuch revealed a bright smile, as he gestured to the onlooking crowd. Everyone was eager-faced and happily smiling for her, but deep down, they were all grateful that their daughters were not chosen to be married off in a foreignnd, forced to start a new life amongst enemies.

    \"See, everyone is waiting for you to perform the walk of honor.\" The Eunuch bent low and waved his hand to the ground, where a long, magnificent rug wasid out for Xueyue to step foot on. The brightest shade of red decorated with gold borders and designs.

    Silence fell upon them when Xueyue didn''t move. Neither did Duke Li Shenyang or his wife. He stood protectively in front of her, whilst Duchess Li Qixing firmly held Xueyue to her body.

    \"I understand you''re very nervous. That''s expected,\" the Eunuch said in a friendly and jolly tone. \"These kind soldiers will guide you.\"

    Instantly, the soldiers took menacing steps forward. They kept their eyes locked on the target, the beautiful woman in blue. They didn''t want to offend such a great household, but a mission was a mission. They would carry it out, even if it meant dying for the task. That was what they were ruthlessly trained for.

    \"I can tell you''re still hesitant. Well, fear not.\" The Eunuch nodded his head. That was the signal these soldiers needed to force their way through Duke Li Shenyang. A sharp gasp could be heard when the unmistakable sound of a sword unsheathing could be heard.

    \"Did I give amand to approach the Prime Minister?\" Li Wenmin coldly snarled, his eyes set aze. He was prepared to kill if needed.

    \"At attention!\" he growled, the sound stiffened the spines of the soldiers who exchanged nces amongst themselves.

    Li Wenmin was multiple ranks above normal Imperial soldiers, but these were not regr soldiers. They were actually part of the private army trained by a freightsome Commander who wanted the best for them. His methods were gruesome and strenuous, but in the end, produced excellent soldiers with an unwavering conscience to sacrifice it all for their country.

    Not wanting to offend the outstanding General, the soldiers swiftly turned to him, cupped their fist and dered, \"We cannotply with that order, General Li Wenmin. Please pardon our impudence.\"

    That was thest thing they said before moving to grab Li Xueyue.

 Chapter 66 Drop.

    <h4>Chapter 66 Drop.</h4>

    Li Xueyue took a daring step backwards, her eyes wide with unsaid emotions. Whether she was frightened or simply surprised, no one could tell.

    \"Miss Li, you mustn''t burden your family like this.\" The Eunuch bowed to the ground until his forehead hovered a hair away from the dirt.

    One of the soldiers slowly said to Li Wenmin, \"We apologize for our crude methods, but under the strict orders of the Emperor, we will have to escort Miss Li to His Benevolent Grace. If the Young Miss is unwilling, we''ll be forced to be unkind to thedy.\"

    Those were the Emperor''s personal guards, the cream of the crop. Soldiers trained since birth; they were stealthy, powerful, and unstoppable. In this world, they only obeyed themand of two people.

    When no one moved or responded, the soldiers bowed their heads. The leader of the group, a masked man, roughly pushed past Duke Li Shenyang and firmly reached over Duchess Li Qixing. His hand tightly gripped Li Xueyue''s wrist.

    A man clothed in ck stepped out of the shadows¡ªDuke Li Shenyang''s personal guard, Ling. He was prepared to take back the Young Miss but was halted.

    \"We apologize, Lady Li,\" the leader said and with one rough tug was able to yank Xueyue towards him. She nearly tripped but he instantly helped to stabilize her. That was until he heard a voice that nearly made him drop to his knees.

    \"At attention,\" an eerily cid voice sliced through the tense air. Nothing in this world was more astronomically dangerous and terrifying as thismand.

    Instantly, the soldiers obediently tucked their hands to their sides and bowed their head as low as it could get, until everyone was in perfect symmetry. Tense shoulders, grounded eyes, and open ears, they werepletely submissive.

    Every onlooker began to whisper amongst themselves. They hadn''t expected this reaction. Who would have the authority tomand the Emperor''s guards?

    \"Drop.\"

    The soldiers copsed onto their knees. Their eyes dted and a few of them gulped in fear. They were going to die today.

    \"Unsheath your swords and fall.\"

    Kill yourself. That was themand.

    And they were so loyal, they instantly followed the order.

    When their hands moved in unison to grab the hilt of their swords, a voice calmly said, \"That is enough. On your foot, right this instant.\"

    A few resisted the urge to gasp, but the majority did. One by one, the onlookers cupped their fists while the women curtsied, \"A thousand splendid blessings for the Emperor of prosperous Wuyi!\"

    The soldiers remained on their knees, for there is only one man in this world whose words outweighed the Emperor. It was none other than Commander Wen Jinkai himself.

    The Emperor sighed. \"What loyal men they are. Your wish is theirmand.\"

    Wen Jinkai''s face was murderous. A shadow passed over him, his jaw ticked and clenched. No one would leave from here alive if someone else dared toy a hand on his woman.

    \"What is the meaning of this, Commander?\" The Emperor wagged his fingers. \"These soldiers are not yours to kill.\"

    \"What are you waiting for? Fall,\" Wen Jinkai snarled. At his words, they pointed their swords to their throat.

    \"Stop. No one is going to perform an honorable death today,\" The Emperor instantly dered, waving his hand for his other guards to stop the kneeling soldiers. But no one dared to move.

    \"Theyid a hand on an unwillingdy.\"

    \"Oh?\" The Emperor chuckled. \"Is that your reason to kill ten of my prized guards? Since when were you a gentleman?\"

    The Emperor turned to Li Xueyue, his eyes lingered on her face. Indeed, she was a great beauty, one that could bring an empire to its knees. It was a pity that she possessed this face. He''d rather her utilize that beauty to ruin Hanjian, not Wuyi.

    \"All of this fussing for a simple woman?\" someonemented. Strutting into the tense atmosphere was Duke Li Taojun. \"Oh, my! Is that my dear younger brother?\" He barked a loudughter at the sight of Duke Li Shenyang.

    \"It''s been a while, Taojun. I''m surprised you''re standing here, instead of the red light district,\" Duke Li Shenyang responded with a smile. \"Last I saw you, you were begging our father to inherit a title.\"

    \"Heh, well, I got it didn''t I? I''m a Duke now. Of course, it wasn''t from him, since you so lovingly decided to rob that from me.\" Duke Li Taojun grinned, his eyes lingered on the woman whose future he had just ruined. His over-the-top happy expression darkened. Now that he had seen her up close, he was terrified at what he saw. Li Minghua¡­? He rapidly blinked and the vision instantly faded. No, that was not possible.

    Duke Li Taojun realized how small this world was. His eyes raked over Li Xueyue''s features, almost astonished by his discovery. How¡­ could this be? Impossible. Absolutely impossible. There was no way in hell she was standing in front of him. He must''ve had too much to drink.

    \"Well, your decision created a butterfly effect, Duke Li Taojun.\" The Emperor heartilyughed. \"I thought my fourth son would be the only one to protest, but I miscalcted the reaction of my dear Commander.\"

    \"Ah, yes!\" Duke Li Taojun forced himself to tear his eyes away from Li Xueyue, but it wandered back to her in disbelief. Did she realize the same thing as him? No, she didn''t. He could see it in her bewildered expression, so beautiful and docile, he was reminded of a woman he was forced to share the bed with.

    \"Now I remember why I chose her,\" he said, nodding in approval. \"She''s such a sight to behold, I was momentarily distracted.\" He shook his head, almost as if chiding himself. \"Her excellent demonstration today has caught my eye, and if it''s able to hook my attention, I can guarantee the same for Hanjian''s prized Generals. Who knows? If she''s lucky, maybe the great Commander of Hanjian will take an interest in her.\"

    \"Youngdy, you''re unsuitable for these men,\" Duke Li Taojun brazenly said, nodding towards the aristocratic sons who had gathered to watch them. \"They''re all gentlemens, that''s for sure, but you''re destined for more than that. Your skills put you leagues above the boring position of a harem. You need someone more free-spirited andpatible with you.\" He winked, \"What do you say? Would you rather bring honor to your family?\"

    \"She''ll dishonor us all if she goes,\" Duke Li Shenyang firmly said with a sly smile. \"And don''t worry, dear brother, I do not need your help. I''d never allow her to join a harem in the first ce.\"

    \"Well, I''m just saying¡ª\"

    \"No one asked for your opinion.\"

    \"Too bad,\" Duke Li Taojun wistfully said. \"The decision has been agreed upon. Li Xueyue is thest candidate heading straight to Hanjian, whether she likes it or not. And there is nothing in this world that can prevent it.\"

    Duke Li Taojun turned to Li Xueyue and forced himself to look only at the bridge of her nose. He couldn''t look at her. There was simply too much guilt weighing his heart down. Guilt from the realization over something that could save her, but decided to keep his mouth shut because of uncertainty.

    \"Youngdy, don''t make this harder than it already is. You''re burdening your family if you do not step forward.\" Duke Li Taojun gestured to the crowd who had not missed a single ounce of this drama. \"Everyone is watching. You have the people''s attention. Nothing you do or say will change the decision that''s already been made. So, please, don''t tarnish my brother''s reputation for your own good.\"

    If there was one thing that Li Xueyue feared, it was burdening the people that loved and cared for her. With great hesitation, she took a small step forward. Duchess Li Qixing instantly tried to grab her.

    In a hushed whisper, the Duchess said, \"No, you are not a burden to us. It''s okay. Stay.\"

    Li Xueyue nced at the Emperor and then the crowd. She forced herself to stop looking when her eyes nearlynded on the Bai Family. Even after two years, she would still feel the chills whenever she thought about them and a chill just went down her spine. She couldn''t help it.

    \"Sister-inw, you''re such a loving mother, but please, don''t stunt the bravery of your daughter,\" Duke Li Taojun said.

    The Emperor nced at Li Xueyue. \"Come forward, girl.\" He kept his gaze locked onto her, no one else. He feared he wouldn''t be able to look at his sister without feeling remorse settle into him.

    The Emperor had robbed a mother of a daughter, and that mother was his precious younger sister. A younger sister who married his best friend, the Prime Minister of Wuyi. How could he not feel crumbling guilt when he had just devastated both of them at the same time?

 Chapter 67 Little Lady

    <h4>Chapter 67 Little Lady</h4>

    Perhaps one day, the Emperor of Wuyi would experience the harsher end of the stick. Even though he couldn''t bring himself to look towards his precious sister, he could feel her vicious stare. Contempt. Hatred. Treachery. The intense emotions that coursed through her were filling her with too much negativity.

    The Emperor had told himself he would never perform nepotism¡ªit was unfair to everyone.

    He turned to face Li Xueyue and beckoned her to him. \"Won''t youe forward, littledy?\"

    Li Xueyue whispered something to the Duchess. Slowly, she pried Duchess Li Qixing''s hands off her wrists. Duchess Li Qixing tried hard to hold on, but Xueyue whispered something again. This time, angst filled the Duchess'' expression. Instantly, Duke Li Shenyang stood protectively in front of his wife, shielding her reaction from the prying eyes of the crowd.

    Li Xueyue stepped forward on her own ord. When people expected her to beg for mercy, she did the opposite of that. Gathering the sides of her clothing, she dipped into a graceful curtsy.

    \"Li Xueyue greets His Majesty.\"

    \"You should''ve greeted me a lot sooner, child.\"

    Li Xueyue kept her head bowed as she maintained her curtsy until he told her to rise.

    \"Do you understand why I bestowed this gift to you?\"

    Li Xueyue kept her eyes trained to the ground. A gift? It felt more like a curse. A death-sentence. \"No, I''m afraid not, Your Majesty.\"

    \"I believe you have the potential to flourish in Hanjian. My good friend, Duke Li Taojun was not lying when he said you''d wilt away in a harem.\"

    The Emperor gently lifted her chin, examining her face from left to right. From the cupid bow of her lips to the intensity of her shimmering eyes, everything about her was suitable for Hanjian who preferred delicate beauties with hidden potential. He nodded in satisfaction.

    The Emperor raised his head to examine Commander Wen Jinkai who was approaching them. Li Xueyue didn''t get to react when she felt a harsh tug on her wrist and instantly, her back collided with someone familiar. An arm was tightly wrapped around her waist, his fingers clenched her side.

    \"Li Xueyue will not be heading to Hanjian,\" Wen Jinkai peacefully uttered. His tone left no room for disagreement. \"She is promised to me.\"

    \"Oh?\" The Emperorughed. \"With what proof?\"

    Wen Jinkai lifted his other arm and something dangled from his finger. The jewelry swayed in the wind, the tassels fluttering. A unique blend of forest green and crystal blue jade captured the ray of the afternoon. Silver branches sprawled out a single name, \"Li Xueyue.\"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened as her hand patted her stomach. Her pendant was gone. For how long now? She suddenly recounted what had happened this morning. Earlier in the day, she had felt a small tugging sensation on her waist belt. Then, the Commander left.

    She dug her nails into his arms, hoping he''d release her. He didn''t even wince.

    Wen Jinkai slowly smiled. \"With the promised token of her pendant.\"

    A heavy silence fell over the crowd. The tension heightened. Then, randomly, a hum of whisper began, like the obnoxious buzzing of busy bees. First, theymented about how handsome the Commander was when he smiled. Second, they addressed the biggest concern of all: Li Xueyue was promised to him? How? When?

    Li Xueyue wished she could understand theplexity of the Commander''s thoughts. She wished she could read what was on his mind right now. Was he even thinking at all? First, he stole the pendant from her, and now he''s showing it off for everyone to see; it was akin to staking his im on her in front of everyone.

    \"This isedy gold.\" The Emperor chuckled, shaking his head.

    \"Did you give that to him, littledy? Or was it forcibly taken from you?\" His smile was weing and understanding, yet intimidation rolled off of him like violent waves.

    Li Xueyue understood what type of man the Emperor was. He couldn''tsh out on his people in public, well, he didn''t have to, because he could do it through quiet, passive-aggressive means. He was smiling now, but the wider his smile spread, the more contempt he felt.

    The Emperor had spent all of his life perfecting the art of benevolence that it wasn''t hard to fall for his performance. He was a wolf in sheep''s disguise¡ªsomeone who pretended to care but will turn a weakness into leverage.

    \"You don''t have to lie for my Commander''s sake.\" The Emperor mused, \"He imed you''re promised to him because of the pendant, but did he offer anything to you? Perhaps he promised you something that you couldn''t care less about?\"

    Li Xueyue was suspicious of the Emperor. He knew exactly what she was thinking. He had already predicted the type of promises Wen Jinkai would utter. She was slightly confused. How did the Emperor know she didn''t care for limitless wealth and outstanding titles?

    \"You''re a proud woman, Lady Li. Money can''t buy you. Gold doesn''t faze you. Servants bore you. A handsome husband means nothing to you. What you desire is beyond superficial things. Am I correct?\"

    Unfortunately, the Emperor hit the nail on the head. And the Commander knew this. His arm tightened over Xueyue, almost as if he knew he''d lose her. Almost as if he was certain she would disappear from his grasp. If he understood how easy it was to lose Xueyue, why couldn''t he cherish her when he had the chance? Why couldn''t he learn to change for her? But then again, he was such a great catch, why did he have to change just for her? Both of them were too stubborn to change for each other.

    \"Some flowers are destined to be the only one in the garden. That way, they bloom the prettiest of them all.\"

    Li Xueyue felt her lips part. The Emperor''s words reminded her of what she had told the Commander. She wanted to be the only flower in the garden, not one of a dozen.

    \"Indeed, Your Majesty. Your words are always profound and earnest.\" Li Xueyue smiled. \"Unfortunately, gardens are only beautiful because of the different flowers found within them. It''s a bore if there''s only one type.\"

    She bowed her head and continued, \"Your generous gift is appreciated from the bottom of my heart. In return, I would like to show you something.\"

    She struck out her hand, revealing a sole slip of paper. in, unfolded, with two words: ''A wish.''

    The Emperor''s smile deepened as his eyes crinkled. The tables had turned on him. \"I see. What is your wish?\"

    \"It is a simple one.\" Softly, but slowly, she revealed a serene smile. She was mist-like, beautiful and idle. \"I wish for my family''s happiness.\"

    The Emperor let out a burst of heartyughter, the pleasant noise airy and powerful. It was augh from his core. He couldn''t wipe the smile off his face now. \"Daughters are indeed the pirs of their family¡ªsupportive and useful.\"

    \"Without the pir, a house cannot stand.\" Li Xueyue smiled.

    \"And here I thought you had abandoned poetry for martial arts.\" The Emperor nodded approvingly. \"Very witty of you.\"

    He took a step towards her and the Commander clenched her to him, his eyes set aze. He would not allow anyone to touch what was his.

    \"Is that your wish?\"

    \"Yes.\"

    \"Are you sure?\" The Emperor''s gaze lingered on the Commander. He found it so amusing that Wen Jinkai didn''t realize he was the cause of this mess. If he hadn''t meddled in Xueyue''s life, she wouldn''t have been chosen as a candidate. Well, the Fourth Prince was also to me.

    \"You could use this wish to obtain things beyond your wildest expectations. Marriage to a Prince, more money than you can ever dream, an expensive house with hundreds of servants to wait upon you.\"

    \"You said so yourself, Your Majesty, these are things I do not care for. What is the purpose of marriage if I do not have my parents'' blessings? What is the use of money and houses if I cannot be with my family?\"

    \"You truly exceed my expectations every time I see you.\" The Emperor pped his hands. \"Very well then.\" he took the paper from her palm, ripped it and then grabbed Wen Jinkai''s free hand.

    \"For your thoughtful words, I will present you with another gift,\" the Emperor mused, cing the ripped paper in the Commander''s hand.

    \"Li Xueyue, the daughter of Duke Li Shenyang and Duchess Li Qixing, from this day forward, your title will be changed from Lady to third-rank Princess.\"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened.

    \"A man who weds a Princess can never wed another, for she is a treasured peony of this country.\" He flicked his long sleeves behind him and continued, \"A Princess can wed whoever she wishes, but no one can forcibly take her hand.\"

    Wen Jinkai could not force himself to be her husband. His im over her was automatically voided. Even if she was dragged and forced to her wedding, as long as she''s able to say she did not consent to the marriage, it would automatically end. And even if the Commander kidnapped her and married her against her will, it will not be a marriage recognized by the state. She would still be a free woman.

 Chapter 68 Please

    <h4>Chapter 68 Please</h4>

    Li Xueyue felt the intensity of the onlookers'' stares¡ªlike a thousand needles pricking into her skin. Worst of all, she knew Bai Tianai and her family were watching. They had caught a glimpse of the cards she possessed.

    Yet again, the Emperor had gifted her with something that looked like a blessing on the surface, when it was actually hell underneath it.

    She had an inkling suspicion that this was a ploy all along¡ªto get her to use that slip of paper. The Emperor couldn''t take back his words nor could he take back the prize. It would be detrimental for her to possess it.

    He was testing her again. The title of a third-rank Princess might seem like a dream to most women, but she knew her life from here on out would be paved with hardships.

    There would be more suitors than ever, desperate to get their hands on the title of a Prince. There would also be more women pretending to be her friend. It was a double-edged sword, something that she was.

    She won''t be able to stay safe and sound in the Li family house, but she would be prized like the nation''s flower¡ªa peony. She''d never be able to leave Wuyi, not unless there was a greater force that could guide her out.

    Nheless, she''d be untouchable by the likes of Bai Tianai. Her position could bring prosperity to the Li Family. It was a great honor for a youngdy to be bestowed with a title, even if it was third-rank.

    There were only two first-rank Princesses in the entire nation and the Crown Princess was one of them. The highest position that a woman of her lineage could dream of acquiring would be a second-rank Princess, but that felt like an impossible reach.

    If the Emperor of Wuyi had to give away two Princesses and three other candidates, then it meant the Emperor of Hanjian had to do the same. An eye for an eye until everyone is blind.

    Li Xueyue breathed in deeply through her nose.

    The Commander''s grip on her had tightened considerably. He would not let her go, but he had no authority to keep her.

    \"Please.\"

    Her eyes widened briefly when she heard the plea in his whisper, so quiet, she thought it was the wind ying tricks on her. She didn''t understand his actions. She would not allow him to weigh her down.

    \"Release me,\" she quietly said, her lips barely moving. There was a slight pause before he slowly did so.

    Yet again, Li Xueyue dipped herself into an elegant curtsy that many would try to copy, but none could mirror.

    \"Words can not describe my gratitude for this priceless gift, Your Majesty.\"

    \"Describe it through your actions.\" The Emperor hummed, stroking his shaven chin. He marveled at her perfect posture and deemed it a shame she wasn''t a candidate anymore. But she was more valuable to him close, than far away.

    Li Xueyue understood his message. Her action was to stay loyal to him, for he had just saved her from a life of despair. Rejecting the candidate position had ced her in a horrible position and the people would definitely drag her through the mud for this. However, he had saved her by giving the public something else to chew on¡ªA new third-rank Princess.

    \"I hope you will make your family the happiest it has ever been.\" The Emperor finally found the courage to nce at his sister. He had scorned her but soothed her on the same day.

    Nothing could erase her using stare. Duchess Li Qixing was furious by his actions and decisions.

    But as a Duchess, she could do nothing but hold her tongue. The only problem was, she wasn''t just a Duchess. She was his younger sister, someone that he watched grow up.

    Sheltered, loved, and adored, Duchess Li Qixing was one of the few siblings loyal to him for the rest of her life.

    She was a Wang, before she was a Li.

    The Duchess possessed cards beyond his wildest imagination. Starting with the Empress Dowager.

    \"It has been a tiring day for you, littledy. Or should I say, Princess Li Xueyue?\" He heartilyughed, but it sounded cold and strained. \"I hope you have a wonderful day with your family.\"

    \"Thank you, Your Majesty.\" Li Xueyue bowed her head as the Emperor stalked off, with a silent Duke Li Taojun beside him.

    Duke Li Taojun did not have the willpower to look at Li Xueyue in the eye. After all, he had almost ruined her life. Guilt threatened to consume him alive, but he held his head high and walked past her. What a small world they lived in¡­

    When the Emperor finally left, the Li Family was finally able to breathe normally. Duke Li Shenyang nodded to his wife before walking after the Emperor. He maintained a positive expression, hiding his indignation through smiles and zing eyes.

    Duchess Li Qixing rushed to her daughter, her body crashing into her.

    \"Oh sweet pea,\" she breathed out, her fingers shaking when it wrapped around Xueyue.

    \"You did very well today, I''m so proud of you.\" She held Xueyue close to her. She was terrified that Xueyue would disappear into thin air the same way Li Minghua had done so.

    Li Wenmin cleared his throat and stood protectively in front of his mother and younger sister. He shielded them from the prying stares of the public.

    Wen Jinkai stood a polite step back to give the mother and daughter some space to talk. His frigid starended on the nosy gossipers.

    \"What are you looking at?\" Wen Jinkai''s voice was taunting and firm. Instantly, everyone began to scatter and disperse.

    \"Something like this will never happen again.\" Duchess Li Qixing pulled back until she was at arm''s length from Xueyue. \"I will react better next time.\"

    \"You don''t have to worry, Mother. I''m alright.\" Li Xueyue genuinely smiled. She was grateful for everything that the Li Family had done for her. She couldn''t possibly fathom ming the Duchess or the Duke for the oue of events.

    \"I''ve been silent for too long.\" Duchess Li Qixing warmly caressed Xueyue''s shoulders. \"From now on, I will never hold my tongue. Emperor or not. He is my brother before he is a ruler. Just as he is a son before he is a leader.\"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head, but she was unable to fathom the events that would dramatically unfold in the uing days ahead.

 Chapter 69 Friend and Foe

    <h4>Chapter 69 Friend and Foe</h4>

    Li Xueyue thought the dangers of having a new title wouldn''te knocking on her door so quickly, but to her surprise, they came less than a week after the tournament ended.

    Ever since her new title was announced less than a week ago, invitations to soirees and banquet never stopped pouring in. Each day, a new stack of invitations was brought before Duchess Li Qixing and Li Xueyue. The first time, they were astonished, but by now, they''ve already turned a blind-eye to it.

    Duchess Li Qixing believed Li Xueyue should only attend the important ones, which was two out of every hundred that arrived at their doorsteps.

    This morning, she thought she was preparing for one of the usual parties, butter found out it was the opposite of that.

    The handmaidens had outdone themselves yet again. Her soft, white hanfu fluttered in the wind, the material shimmered from the tiny crystals sewed into the material. An airyyer of pearl pink was draped over the white hanfu, creating the perfect epitome of spring. Lc ribbons were tied around her tiny waist as flowers bloomed upon the bottom of her skirts.

    Li Xueyue had expected festive music or to be greeted by the sight of various aristocrats mingling, but instead, she found herself in front of a grand staircase. Under the sunlight, the wide steps were blindingly beautiful.

    It felt like the staircase led up to Heaven, except, it was guiding her closer to the Imperial Pce. Looming over her was a magnificent door so tall, she had to crane her head just to see the top frame where it ended.

    Li Xueyue turned to Duchess Li Qixing who warmly smiled at her. \"There is nothing to fret, darling,\" she said before presenting a polished marble b with the Li''s family name engraved on it. She showed it to the tens of guards that lined the walls of the entrance. It was a pass that would allow her to enter the Pce.

    Instantly, the pce guards bowed low and deep. A loud voice announced, \"Granting ess to Duchess Li Qixing and third-rank Princess Li Xueyue!\"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened when the door opened with steadiness and ease. She had expected it to creak and groan, but it opened silently and smoothly. The pce grounds left her speechless.

    What greeted her were therge rooftops of glistening gold and pirs of passion red. It was daunting to stand before the entrance where Eunuchs and servants lined the pathways, with ample guards to guarantee safety.

    When Duchess Li Qixing guided Li Xueyue inside, everyone bowed low. \"Wee home, first-rank Princess Wang Qixing and her daughter, third-rank Princess Li Xueyue.\"

    Li Xueyue resisted the urge to gasp upon hearing Duchess Li Qixing''s true ranking. She was one of the only two first-rank Princesses in this country.

    Before Duchess Li Qixing married the Duke and had children, she was the pampered Princess Wang, known for causing mischief. There were multiple times that her pranks had gotten her in trouble, but because she was the Emperor''s sole sister, he turned a blind eye to it each and every time.

    To the Duchess, this pce was her yground. She understood theyout of the pce like the back of her hand and it was evident in the way she carried herself with confidence and respect.

    \"Beautiful, isn''t it?\" Duchess Li Qixing mused. She took gentle steps with Li Xueyue apanying her by her side. Behind them were the pce Eunuchs and the Li Family''s maidservants.

    \"People used to tell me nothing was luckier than being born a Princess.\" Duchess Li Qixing chuckled to herself while she guided Li Xueyue to the throne room. \"I used to think the same thing.\"

    \"What made you change your mind?\" Li Xueyue curiously asked. She observed her surroundings, from the painted doors to the polished and meticulously cleaned hallways.

    Duchess Li Qixing lowered her voice so that only her daughter could hear her. \"Because each day here felt more suffocating than the next.\"

    Li Xueyue blinked before nodding. She imagined it must''ve been difficult to be looked upon as the picture of perfection. First-rank Princesses were expected to be role models for women of the nation, and their words meantw. But with great poweres great responsibilities.

    \"My devious pranks were my only escape from this ce,\" Duchess Li Qixing said when she fondly passed by a secluded spot where she had tricked one of the Pce Ministers.

    \"Every day, I was surrounded by Pce women and Imperial Concubines who fawned over every word that I said. But I had forgotten, they were my brother''s women, not mine.\" Duchess Li Qixing smiled when she passed by a familiar face, but didn''t stop for her. \"When so many peoplepliment you daily, we tend to think they''re our friends. In reality, they were foes.\"

    Duchess Li Qixing grasped Li Xueyue''s hands as she halted. \"The Pce is a dangerous ce for women. Even the prettiest flowers get trampled upon here. The more you bloom, the more you wilt.\"

    Do not marry the Fourth Prince.

    Li Xueyue understood Duchess Li Qixing''s intended meaning. The Pce life and all of its luxury might seem like a dream, but it was all a facade that covered up the horrendous scheming from wise ministers to intoxicating concubines.

    There were hundreds of concubines locked behind the pce walls and only the Emperor''s favorite apanied him. Consort Gu Feiying was one of them, not because she was simply his favorite woman, but because she was a Princess from a neighboring country.

    Once a woman enters the pce, it would be difficult for her to leave.

    ncing at Duchess Li Qixing''s serene smile, Li Xueyue couldn''t help but wonder what kind of strings Duke Li Shenyang had to pull to marry a first-rank Princess.

    With her position, Princess Wang Qixing must''ve had the opportunity to be a Crown Princess of another Empire, but she didn''t. She married a respected Duke. Granted, his position was highest on the social hierarchy directly below the tier of the Emperor and Empress.

    Perhaps that would be a story for another time¡­ And if only Li Xueyue knew that way before she was born, her life was already entwined with Duke and Duchess Li Qixing.

    \"You are a wise girl, my dear.\" Duchess Li Qixing''s smile deepened when Li Xueyue nodded.

    \"I hope you learn from my words and not through your actions.\" With that said, they proceeded walking to the throne room.

    Li Xueyue heard a bit of amotion behind her. She turned to look and noticed there was a man and a woman with different styles of clothing that didn''t match the trends in Wuyi. The clothing almost looked, foreignly designed?

    \"Who caught your eye?\" Duchess Li Qixing lightlyughed when Li Xueyue jumped.

    \"No one,\" Li Xueyue answered, a light blush stained her cheeks when she realized Duchess Li Qixing was already far ahead of her. Despite that, half of the servants stayed behind and waited with Xueyue.

    \"L-let''s head to the throne room,\" Li Xueyue mumbled, picking up her footsteps to hurriedly catch up to the Duchess. And little did she know, she had caught the attention of the crowd. They knew who she was, but she''d never know who they were.

 Chapter 70 To Hold a Grudge

    <h4>Chapter 70 To Hold a Grudge</h4>

    Inside the enormous audience room, the Emperor of Wuyi, Wang Fadong, sat on his throne while he watched his children with amusement. They bustled amongst themselves, painting the picture of a perfect family. Despite the loss of two Princesses, everyone went on with their lives as if those two women didn''t exist.

    Emperor Fadong had many children, but very few sons. He was fine with that, as long as he had a rightful heir and it was none other than Crown Prince Wang Qianghao.

    Head Ministers representing various departments were present, as they always were, except for their Prime Minister who was confined in his study, tackling the workload he had today. And in his study, Duke Li Shenyang was silently cursing the Emperor for the stack of paperwork. Both men knew Duchess Li Qixing would being today, yet he was forced to work like it was a regr day.

    \"There they are,\" Empress Huiyun spoke up just as the Eunuch stationed by the door straightened his back.

    \"Announcing the weed entrance of Duchess Li Qixing and Princess Li Xueyue!\"

    The Princesses who did not apany the Emperor to the tournament stopped chattering amongst themselves. Even the Ministers who were making small talks paused. They were waiting for someone to step through the door.

    It was not everyday that a regrdy was awarded a title as astounding as third-rank Princess. Not even the Emperor''s birth daughters had the privilege. The majority of them were fourth or fifth-ranked with only a small handful of third-ranked and an even smaller poption of second-ranked.

    Silence ensued when an unfamiliar woman stepped into the room. Her silky hair was dark like starless midnight. Drawn on the center of her forehead was a blooming flower that highlighted her peculiar eyes, round and the color of chestnuts. Her long earrings gently grazed her shoulders, highlighting her slim neck bare of essories.

    There was an air of tranquility around her that settled troubled hearts. And when her painted lips slowly lifted into a smile, softening her sharp eyes, breaths hitched.

    Duchess Li Qixing slightly bent her head in greeting. \"Good afternoon, Your Majesty, Your Grace.\"

    Next, was the unfamiliar woman''s turn. Every pair of eyes, except for the Emperor and Duchess, scrutinized her actions.

    \"Li Xueyue greets His Majesty, the sun of our Empire, and Her Grace, the gentle moon,\" she softly uttered while dipping into a curtsy.

    Emperor Fadong nodded in satisfaction. \"You may rise.\"

    Empress Dowager Liuxing smiled at the sight of her precious daughter. Lovely as always. \"Come closer, Qiqi.\"

    Duchess Li Qixing gently guided Li Xueyue with her. \"It has been a while, Mother.\"

    \"My dear daughter.\" The Empress Dowager''s rigid face softened. She stood up and instantly, her maidservants flocked to her side for guidance and support that she brushed off. \"Let us have a discussion in my parlor.\"

    Duchess Li Qixing gently squeezed Li Xueyue''s hand.

    Empress Dowager Liuxing noticed the small exchange but kept quiet until her eyes narrowed a bit. \"Li Xueyue, was it?\"

    Li Xueyue lifted her gaze, slightly awestruck by the regal woman that she had forgotten to avert her eyes¡ªit was the proper protocol.

    The Empress Dowager raised a brow. This youngdy was as bold and courageous as she had heard.

    \"What a lovely smile you have.\" Xueyue reminded the Empress Dowager of someone, but she couldn''t ce a finger on who. Indeed, she resembled Duke Li Shenyang, but something felt strange.

    \"I would like a moment alone with my daughter,\" the Empress Dowager said to the Emperor, even though it sounded more like amand.

    Emperor Fadong nodded his head. He did not mind the absence of his younger sister. Truthfully, it would be better if she was not standing in front of him. Even from afar, he could see her rage had not simmered down. She was the type to hold a grudge and he was to me.

    \"If anything happens,\" Duchess Li Qixing quietly said to Li Xueyue, \"Ask to be excused. I will have a servant drag my husband here. Fret not, dear child.\"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head.

    Duchess Li Qixing shed her a smile and left with the Empress Dowager. She snuck a nce at the Emperor whose stare followed her until she was gone.

    \"Littledy, do you know why I called you here?\" Emperor Fadong said with an unreadable smile.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. \"I''m afraid not.\"

    \"Pity, I expected you to be smarter than that,\" Emperor Fadong teased before gesturing to a group of women standing beside the golden staircase. They were rmingly beautiful without a single w on their face.

    \"These are the candidates sent from Hanjian. Lovely, aren''t they?\"

    Li Xueyue blinked.

    \"Which one stands out the most?\" Emperor Fadong asked, his eyes sparkling with yfulness. \"Oh, but please be careful when you choose, you don''t want to offend a Princess or two, do you?\"

    Li Xueyue coyly smiled which surprised the Emperor. \"Every woman is beautiful in their own right.\"

    \"Why didn''t you pick one that stands out the most?\"

    \"Is it possible to choose between priceless diamonds, rubies, sapphires, pearls, and emeralds?\"

    Everyone held their breath at her question while they warily nced at the Emperor who had not stopped smiling ever since Li Xueyue walked in.

    The Emperor slowly pped his hands and grinned. He nodded at a Eunuch and instantly, two men approached Xueyue with arge tray lined with velvet.

    On top of the tray were two sets of nes, matching earrings, priceless jewels, gold, silver, and rolls of silk.

    \"A gift for your words.\"

    Li Xueyue''s expression remained the same as when she had walked in, empty and calm. Her smile neither widened nor did she frown at the sight of the extravagant gifts. There was simply no change in her expression. No one could get past her walls.

    \"I''m afraid I cannot ept these gifts.\"

    \"Oh? Why not?\"

    \"Words are just words.\"

    \"But some of them can soothe the ears, especially when it''s clogged. And yours, littledy, have always entertained me.\"

    Li Xueyue did not respond. She simply bowed her head.

    The Emperor let out a disappointed sigh and waved his hand. He wanted to test the limit of her supposed indifference. He wanted to see how far she was willing to conceal human greed that was present in everyone he had evere across.

    \"Very well, then,\" he said. \"Send these to the Li Family.\"

    Li Xueyue''s body jolted and her eyes widened. She resisted the urge to argue with the Emperor.

    He keenly watched all of her movements, waiting for her to lose herposure. He knew she didn''t like these grand gifts, but the more she hated it, the more he wanted to burden her. She was a very unique girl that he rarely encountered.

    \"Would you like to know why I asked you to choose from these gems?\" the Emperor asked.

    Li Xueyue did not respond. She held her tongue and waited for him to continue.

    \"Do you know what is happening to the candidates that are representing Hanjian?\"

    \"They''re bringing honor to their families.\"

    The Emperor heartilyughed to himself. She reminded him of Wen Jinkai. Subtle with their lethal jabs. She was throwing Duke Li Taojun''s words back at him.

    \"Yes, they are. In particr, one of my daughters is marrying a Prince and the other has wed an outstanding General. You understand what I''m saying, don''t you?\"

    Li Xueyue nodded her head.

    \"Then can you predict who these Hanjian''s candidates are marrying?\"

    She nodded again.

    \"Perfect.\" The Emperor''s eyes shed and his smile widened. For some reason, it reminded Xueyue of a cheshire cat up to no good.

    \"From one of these women, I''d like you to pick a suitable candidate.\"

    \"For who?\"

    The Emperor grinned. \"Commander Wen Jinkai.\"

 Chapter 71 For the Sake of Our Country

    <h4>Chapter 71 For the Sake of Our Country</h4>

    What?

    Li Xueyue felt her smile slip into a straight line, the light in her eyes darkened. She opened and closed her mouth, struggling to form a proper answer. Her eyes swept past the beautiful women standing at the foot of the staircase. They were all so gorgeous that the very spot they stood seemed ethereal.

    Pain pricked her chest, spreading far and wide until she was practically numb. Her heart slowly built up rhythm as something wed at it, squeezing the fragile thing in its grasp.

    Her world nearly spiraled out of control, but she forced herself to remain calm. ''Why should I be affected by whom the Commander marries?'' she asked herself.

    ''Because you care about him,'' the little angel on her shoulder whispered.

    ''Bah, he doesn''t care about you,'' the devil on the other side of her shoulder retorted, rolling her eyes.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes lingered on a woman in particr who held herself with more ss than everyone else. She was stunning and she knew it. Her confidence made her stand out the most, in the fiercest and most blinding manner.

    \"The chosen candidate will be the Commander''s first wife. Wouldn''t it be better if he chooses himself?\" Li Xueyue finally said while forcing her stare back to the Emperor who peered down at her with a devious smirk.

    \"What if I told you that the Commander specifically requested me to ask you to choose a bride for him?\"

    Li Xueyue blinked, her fingers slowly curling into a fist under her long sleeves. She swallowed and forced herself to remain logical.

    Was the Emperor testing her? Or was he lying? Did Commander Wen Jinkai really requested something like this?

    Li Xueyue smiled. \"What a strange thing to request.\"

    \"Do you want to know what else is peculiar? Up untilst week, you were supposedly promised to him. Now you''re not,\" Empress Huiyun finally spoke up. Her face was filled with patience and understanding, but Xueyue didn''t know if it was sincere or not.

    \"A wife would stabilize our Commander''s life. It will keep him grounded, don''t you agree?\" Empress Huiyun asked.

    Grounded?

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. Indeed, a wife who could yield to the Commander''s wishes and lifestyle would be suitable and beneficial for him. He''d like that; a submissive little thing who''d be satisfied by materialistic gifts.

    She would not be that type of wife for him. She''d argue to hell and back for her freedom. Obedience was not something she''d willingly give to her husband.

    \"Yes, it will.\" Li Xueyue nodded even though everything in her wanted to scream \"no.\"

    She was forcing her aching heart to stay quiet. Yielding to her heart''s desire had ruined her life once, she didn''t need it to happen again. She didn''t understand her own feelings. She didn''t understand why it hurt her so much to answer these questions.

    \"It seems you''re unwilling to select a wife for him.\" Empress Huiyun softly sighed, shaking her head in disapproval.

    \"It would be unfair to the Commander if someone else selected his wife for him,\" Li Xueyue said.

    Li Xueyue was purposely rting everything back to the Commander''s well-being, but at the expense of her own interest. She didn''t want to choose for him. She didn''t know why.

    The Emperor smiled in satisfaction at her words. She was very tactful in the way she spoke. He supposed he had misjudged her for having a weak character. She was intelligent and would stand a chance of surviving in the royal harem if she were to wed the Fourth Prince.

    Fourth Prince Wang Longhe hadn''t stopped asking about her for the past week, even though he ran the risk of never taking a wife other than Xueyue. But he did not seem to mind, and that was the most intriguing part.

    A Commander who''d never yield to her and a Prince who was willing to wed only once in his lifetime.

    \"We should stop trifling with our Commander''s life,\" Emperor Fadong wistfully said, his eyes twinkled when he grinned.

    Li Xueyue didn''t sigh in relief at his words. It was too early to let her guard down. There must be something else if he let the discussion end so quickly.

    Empress Huiyun clearly didn''t think the same. Her head snapped to her husband in disbelief. He was not sticking to the n, but he simply shrugged in response and gave her a pointed look that said, ''We shouldn''t meddle in his life yet.''

    \"Why don''t we move to the real topic of discussion today?\" Emperor Fadong pressed his fingers together. He leaned forward to get a better look at the defiant Li Xueyue and opened his mouth, ready to speak, until someone interrupted him.

    A Eunuch spoke, \"My lord, you can''t enter like this¡ª\"

    \"Your Majesty,\" Duke Li Shenyang greeted and bravely strolled in with his hands behind his back in a leisure stance. \"I have urgent news to report.\"

    \"Such perfect timing.\" The Emperor grinned and continued, \"But this isn''t like you, Duke. You usually follow protocol.\"

    \"Well, the news can''t wait.\"

    \"I''m sure it can.\"

    \"No. It can''t.\" Duke Li Shenyang''s gaze darkened. He had stopped in front of his daughter, shielding her from the calctive stares of the royal family.

    Li Xueyue blinked. If the Duke was here, then that meant a servant must''ve ran off in search of him. Had the situation escted to the point where she needed his help? She wasn''t aware. Nheless, she was grateful for this intrusion.

    Emperor Fadong heaved an excessively loud sigh before finally rising from his throne. \"You always like to ruin my fun.\"

    Duke Li Shenyang smiled and said, \"For the sake of our country, I do not mind.\"

    \"I''m sure you don''t,\" Emperor Fadong grumbled under his breath before turning to the Empress. \"We''ll continue this matter after I''ve dealt with this issue.\"

    He turned to Li Xueyue and suggested, \"Why don''t you take a stroll in the gardens?\"

    Duke Li Shenyang instantly shook his head. \"I''m afraid my daughter has to return home.\"

    \"What for?\"

    \"Her lessons are starting soon.\"

    What lessons? Li Xueyue asked herself, but kept her face nk. When the Emperor raised a brow, she automatically nodded her head.

    The Emperor let out another loud sigh. \"Very well.\"

    The Empress smiled and said, \"I guess we''ll see you tomorrow, Lady Li.\"

    Damn it. Duke Li Shenyang pressed his lips together to prevent himself from scowling out of irritation. What was so important that Li Xueyue had to be present in two consecutive days? He supposed it''s better to deal with this problem today.

    \"On second thought, why don''t you take a stroll in the Chrysanthemum Gardens?\" Duke Li Shenyang turned to Xueyue. In a quiet voice, he whispered, \"Try to wander off until you find the Duchess. She''s there with the Dowager.\"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head.

    \"What about the lessons?\" Emperor Fadong haughtily asked, his eyes shing with satisfaction.

    \"It''ll have to wait.\" Duke Li Shenyang slyly smiled.

    \"Splendid,\" the Emperor remarked as he exited the throne room with Duke Li Shenyang at his side. Once they were out of earshot, he fired, \"Did my sister send for you?\"

    \"My wife is here?\" Duke Li Shenyang feigned ignorance.

    \"Pft.\" Emperor Fadongughed, \"Always the strategist aren''t you?\"

    Duke Li Shenyang kept his mouth shut. As they turned a corner, he felt a gnawing feeling in his stomach. Something didn''t feel quite right, but he didn''t know what. Little did he know, he had guided Xueyue right into the Emperor''s trap.

 Chapter 72 Indecently Dressed

    <h4>Chapter 72 Indecently Dressed</h4>

    Li Xueyue wandered the hallways in search of the Chrysanthemum Gardens. She found it interesting that the Empress and Emperor trusted her to get there herself. The Empress didn''t provide her with a guide, but she gave specific directions. The only problem was, Xueyue had a horrible sense of direction. Thus, she found herself lost.

    \"Maybe I went the wrong way,\" she concluded upon realizing all of the open hallways surrounding her had doors. They were beautifully designed, simr to the ones back in the Li Manor. She found it interesting that there were guards stationed beside the doors. Maybe there were important people inside?

    She sighed and decided to retract her footsteps. She turned her head and her handmaidens bowed their heads. They rarely spoke to her unless necessary. Sometimes, it felt lonely¡­

    \"Do you know the way back?\" Li Xueyue asked them but they slowly shook their heads.

    \"We''re afraid not, mydy. We apologize for our ipetence,\" one of them said.

    Li Xueyue softly sighed again before crossing her arms. Amongst her handmaidens, none of them were guards. This should''ve felt odd, but apparently, the Emperor never allowed guards from other families into the pce. Even if it was the Lis. She remembered they were waiting down the grand staircase with an antsy expression, but the Duchess didn''t seem to mind¡ªwhich wasn''t a surprise since she had grown up in this familiar environment.

    \"Would you like us to ask the guards, mydy?\"

    \"That''d be lovely.\" Li Xueyue nodded while she approached one of the guards near the door.

    \"Wait, mydy, that''s our job¡ª\"

    \"Is¡ª\"

    Li Xueyue jumped when the door flung open. Her eyes widened as her head tilted up. She felt the wind knocked out of her body at the sight of him. He was handsome in ways that she couldn''t even describe it. It was impossible to not notice how good-looking he was, tall and proportionally muscr. Dark hair, honey-tannedplexion, sharply angled jaw, he was attractive in all of the right ways. When all of his features were ced together, he was strikingly appealing far beyond the conventional ways.

    \"There you are.\" His voice was deep and husky, but pleasing on the ears. It was gentle and soothing to the soul, so much so, that she blinked in shock. What had just happened?\"

    His eyes searched her face before slightly nodding. \"I was waiting forever.\" Without warning, he grabbed her by the wrist and dragged her into his room.

    She stiffened at his touch¡ªfirm and self-assured, but loose and considerate.

    \"What are you doing?\" she scowled, attempting to yank her arm back but it was toote and he had shut the doors behind him. She didn''t realize it, but the guards had suddenly blocked the entrance outside.

    \"What do you mean?\" he asked, dragging her behind a ck folding screen with white branches.

    \"This is improper!\"

    The man raised his dark brow and agreed, \"I know.\" He gestured to his indecently dressed body.

    Her face was set aze when she realized he was in nothing but an especially thin robe that waszily tied together, revealing his firm chest that rippled and clenched when he rolled his shoulders.

    \"Dress me.\"

    \"What?\" Li Xueyue hissed, yanking her hand back to which he narrowed his gaze. She felt a shiver crawl down her spine. He was even more appealing when he was aggravated.

    \"What? You can''t perform the basic duties?\"

    \"Basic duties?\" she repeated, her brows drawing together. \"Do you know¡ª\"

    \"Know where the clothes are? Yeah, right there.\" He nodded to the ck robes draped over a chair.

    \"I''m not going to dress you.\"

    He bit his bottom lip to prevent a smile from breaking out. \"What kind of wife will you be if you can''t even dress a man?\"

    Li Xueyue fumbled for a response as warmth spread over her face. Misunderstanding his words, she retorted, \"As if anyone would marry you.\"

    \"That''s riching from you,\" he scoffed, rolling his dark eyes. \"We don''t have all day, hurry now.\" He jutted his chin to the ck robes while crossing his arms.

    Li Xueyue tried to prevent her eyes from wandering, but it needlessly did and she had seen the clench of his biceps. \"You''re crazy.\"

    \"At least I''m not useless.\" The edge of his lip quirked into a taunting smirk, his eyes shed with amusement when she gawked at him. She was obviously not used to this type of treatment. He wondered if she knew how smitten he was by her. Smitten and stricken.

    To say she was beautiful was an understatement and perhaps it was because she was disarmingly unaware of her allure which added to her charm. Somehow, her imperfections made her perfect. There was a sense of boldness within her that he appreciated, yet he felt like she was concealing herself; that, deep down, she was timid and soft.

    \"Useless?\" she echoed in disbelief. \"You can''t even dress yourself!\"

    \"I can, but I prefer not to,\" he mused, his eyes twinkled with mischief.

    Li Xueyue fumed on the inside. First, she was caught off guard by his appeal, then she was kidnapped into his room, and now he was pressuring her into performing an audacious task.

    \"I''m not dressing you.\"

    \"Oh, Sunshine, do I pity you.\" He let out a sigh that aggravated her to no avail. He was purposely getting on her nerves just to see how she''ll react. And right now, she was living up to each and every one of his expectations.

    \"No man will wed you.\"

    \"Excuse me?!\"

    \"You can''t be excused yet, unfortunately.\"

    \"What gives you the right to excuse me?\" Li Xueyue scoffed, rolling her eyes.

    She stepped past the separating screen, but hetched his hand around her wrist and yanked her backwards. She stumbled and collided with something warm and hard¡ªhis chest. Instantly, her body tensed. Without warning, she tried to stomp on his foot in hopes that he''d release her but her attempts failed and he easily moved his foot away.

    She felt her heart betray her as it pounded on her chest when something tightened around her waist¡ªhis arm, burly and powerful.

    \"What are you doing? Let me go!\"

    \"Why don''t you make me?\" He yfully hummed, his fingers twirling with the ribbons that held up her waist belt.

    \"Do you know who I am?!\" she snarled, attempting to back kick his shin but he expertly dodged her, wagging a finger in front of her face.

    \"Such a violent little thing you are.\" He boldlyughed. It was recklessly warm in the way sunlight and fire was, tender and intense. She didn''t realize her stomach had fluttered until she felt her heart pounce against her ribcage.

    Her eyes widened further when she felt himfortably rest his chin on top of her head. \"As expected.\"

    \"What?\" Li Xueyue blinked just as a loudmotion could be heard outside¡ªher handmaidens. She smiled victoriously. He was screwed.

    \"Do you want to know who I am?\"

    She could feel the powerful rumble of his chest when he spoke. She felt herself swallowing visibly, not because she was scared of him, but because it was such a strange sensation. She didn''t know if she enjoyed it or hated it.

    \"I could care less.\"

    Heughed again, this time, unrestrained and teasing. His chest shook, shaking her along the way. The arm wrapped around her waist tightened, \"It should be ''I couldn''t care less.''\"

    \"No it''s not!\"

    \"Yes, it is.\"

    \"No.\"

    \"Yes.\"

    \"No.\"

    \"Yes.\"

    \"Grow up!\" she fumed, finally realizing he was right.

    \"You''re the one arguing with me,\" he said before shrugging. When he abruptly pinched her cheek, she pped his hand away, earning another chuckle from him. She wished her heart wouldn''t skip a beat as it just did.

    Suddenly, the door mmed open.

    Xueyue jumped and finally realized theirpromising position. Luckily for her and her reputation, they were hidden behind a screen. He instantly released her and in record time, slipped on his clothes with ease. His fingers expertly tied everything in ce. His sleek clothes hugged his form perfectly and it was then she realized the circr brooch attached to his chest. The crest of Hanjian.

 Chapter 73 Is There a Problem?

    <h4>Chapter 73 Is There a Problem?</h4>

    Li Xueyue felt blood drain from her face. She was in too much disbelief to register how good-looking he was in his well-defined and sharp robes. ''Great, just great. You''re ogling the man who kidnapped you into his room. Way too go, idiot!'' she chided herself.

    The man fixed his appearance, ran a hand through his hair and winked at her. She faked a gag which caused him to pinch her cheek again. She attempted to swat at him, but he had walked out of the ck and white screen.

    \"What a lovely intrusion.\" His tone was pleasant, but the dissatisfied glower on his face was not.

    \"Lovely indeed.\" Emperor Fadong chuckled. He took a step inside and examined the Commander''srge guest room. Four rooms had been joined into a gigantic one suitable for every need that a person could have.

    \"I was simply passing by when I heard a ruckus outside. Your handmaidens were making a scene.\"

    ''My handmaidens?'' The man resisted a smile that threatened to break out on his face. Her handmaidens were as feisty as her.

    \"I apologize then.\"

    \"No offense taken.\" Emperor Fadong''s gaze lingered on the ck screen for a brief moment before looking away. \"Now that you''re properly dressed, why don''t you join your friends in the throne room? The candidates are there.\"

    The man curtly said, \"I''ll be there soon.\"

    Emperor Fadong slowly nodded with an inconspicuous smile. He took another step into the room, seemingly curious about theyout. The man tensed but kept his smile weing.

    \"Is there a problem?\"

    \"Yes, I''m looking for a young woman dressed in the colors of spring. You wouldn''t happen to know where she snuck off?\"

    The man''s gaze sharpened. What a sneaky bastard this Emperor was. He knew she was deliberately delivered to him, whether it was through misguided directions or simply getting lost. And now, the Emperor was ying coy just to tease her reputation. If this was Hanjian, he would''ve demanded for the Emperor to leave, but he was a guest and that would be considered rude. Well, not as rude as a man willing to tarnish a woman''s reputation.

    \"Why would a woman be hiding in my room?\" He broke the tension byughing, though it was cold and humorless.

    Li Xueyue shivered at the intensity of hisugh. It was different from his previous one. Bitter and icy, she wondered if this was the real him.

    \"Funny that you asked,\" Emperor Fadong said and raised a hairpin, twirling it as the dangling peach blossom spun into a mesmerizing pattern. \"I found this hairpin near the entrance. It suits the theme of spring, don''t you think so?\"

    At the mention of a hairpin, Li Xueyue''s hands flew to her hair and sure enough, she felt a spot on her hair that had loosen. It was her hairpin.

    \"I noticed the youngdy was wearing it when I peered down at her from my throne.\"

    The man struck his hand out, \"Hmm, would you let me see it?\"

    Emperor Fadong ced the hairpin on the man''s outstretched hands. Instantly, the man closed his hands around it and with brute strength, crushed the hairpin into two pieces before destroying the flower and center piece. He didn''t care about the metal digging into his palm or the blood that threatened to drop.

    \"Oh dear,\" the man feigned surprise. \"It''s quite brittle.\"

    Emperor Fadong''s smile became strained, his eyes sharpened with irritation. He did not like losing at his own game. \"What is the meaning of this, Commander Yu Zhen?

    \"I was testing the quality of the hairpin. Because it easily broke, I conclude this belongs to one of my maidservants.\"

    \"You''re destroying the evidence.\"

    \"What evidence?\" Commander Yu Zhen raised a brow. A crafty smile sat on his lips.

    Emperor Fadong narrowed his gaze in dissatisfaction. Of course this man was a Commander. He was sharp and had great situational awareness. Perhaps he shouldn''t have weed him into the Pce.

    The Emperor thought he could make a fool out of the finest Commander that Hanjian had ever witnessed. This man would go down in history books for many to marvel at.

    Emperor Fadong reluctantly yielded when he said, \"That is destruction of property.\"

    \"Is it?\" Commander Yu Zhen shook his head. \"It''s merely a hairpin. When I identify which maidservant it belongs to, I will have a servant rece it.\"

    His smile deepened when a slight sneer made its way to the Emperor''s lips. The Emperor had lost.

    \"If that is all, Emperor,\" Commander Yu Zhen spat out the word like it was poison, \"I''d like some peace and quiet before I finish dressing.\"

    \"Oh? You''re dressing yourself? That''s quite unheard of.\"

    \"Yes, men in Hanjian are raised to perform the basic tasks. We don''t like being pampered fools who can''t raise a finger.\"

    A vein on the Emperor''s forehead ticked. He was struggling to maintain hisposure in front of this daunting and fearless man. It irked him to no avail that he could noty a hand on Commander Yu Zhen who was the symbol of the two kingdoms'' peace alliance.

    \"I expect you to be in the throne room as promptly as possible. I don''t want to keep your friends waiting.\"

    \"They don''t mind.\" Commander Yu Zhen chuckled. \"But for your sake, I''ll be there soon.\"

    Emperor Fadong''s eyes narrowed into slits. He regretted siding with this man in the beginning of their day. Originally, he had nned to mock the Commander that a woman was in his room. It would be impolite for such an outstanding man to be fooling around on foreign soil. It would embarrass Hanjian who''d be forced to turn their backs on the Commander. Unfortunately for the Emperor, his n miserably failed.

    Where was that Li Xueyue? He had instructed the Empress to give directions leading straight to this part of the Pce.

    Emperor Fadong sneered at himself and strutted out of the room, mming the door behind him like a child.

    Commander Yu Zhen''s tense body loosened when the despicable man had left. He had only set foot in Wuyi because of the candidate that rejected her position.

    Rumor had it, she was supposed to be his wife, but at thest minute, she had reportedly escaped the situation. He was, of course, offended and amused that someone had rejected the great position as the sole wife of a Commander.

    In Hanjian, it was less popr to have more than two wives, but it was even more customary to only wed one. He was disgusted by the idea of sharing his heart with more than one person. What''s the point of marrying a woman if he would cheat on her with another?

    \"Are you going to hide behind there forever, Princess?\"

    Li Xueyue stiffened at the title. ''Did he know who I was the whole time?!''

 Chapter 74 Better Things To Do

    <h4>Chapter 74 Better Things To Do</h4>

    Li Xueyue stomped out and stared at him with contempt. \"If you could dress yourself the entire time, why burden me?\"

    \"Why not?\" he slowly grinned, finding her highly amusing.

    \"Don''t you have better things to do, Commander?\" she spat out thest part, crossing her arms in front of her.

    \"Things to do?\" Commander Yu Zhen nced at her and suggestively wiggled his brows. He watched in amusement as confusion clouded her features before realization settled in.

    \"You''re¡ª\"

    \"Handsome?\" he teased whilst taking a step towards her. She took two steps back, her eyes wandering around the room for an escape n.

    \"You''re shameless andck proper etiquette.\"

    \"Aw, Princess, I''m offended,\" he teased and ced a chaste hand on his chest with a wounded expression.

    He continued crossing her boundary lines, until she found herself sandwiched between him and a horribly ced desk. The bottom of her back touched it just as his arms caged her into ce.

    She sucked in a breath while glowering at him.

    Li Xueyue told herself to look away from him, that this was exactly the reaction he wanted from her. She could smell him, a refreshing blend of pinecones and subtle hints of spice with a tinge of sweetness.

    His scent shrouded her, warm and beckoning while his voice dropped a seductive octave.

    \"Why don''t you teach me the proper etiquette?\" he gently murmured, his rough fingers gently brushed the loose strands of hair away from her face.

    Her shoulders went rigid when he bent low.

    Sultry, husky, and beckoning, he uttered, \"While I teach you the proper etiquette in bed.\"

    She swallowed when his lips brushed against her ear. His fingers teasingly grazed her face, his touches feather-soft. Everywhere that he touched tingled with heat until her face was a bit warm.

    Commander Yu Zhen thought he had sessfully captured her attention when she leaned towards him, almost as if she was entranced like he had hoped so. His lips curled into a knowing smile. She was puddy in his hands¡ªf*ck!

    He choked, bending over, heaving for air. She had just kneed him in a ce that should never be kicked. His fingers tightly clenched the desk beside her while he struggled to maintain his confident posture.

    \"Oops,\" she shrugged, lightlyughing when she easily dodged his grabbing hands.

    Painstakingly, he turned his head quick enough to see her walking backward.

    yfully, she tucked her hands behind her and winked. \"I hope to never see you again, Commander.\"

    She innocently batted her eyes at him before skipping out of the room, pleasantly humming to herself.

    Commander Yu Zhen let out a bark ofughter, running a hand through his hair, tightening his fingers.

    He had been yed by a woman as harmless as a fly. It''s a shame that she''ll see him again, sooner than she would have hoped for. Afterall, she was the only reason why he came to Wuyi.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue wished she knew where she was going. She had confidently stormed out of that man''s room, but was lost, yet again. She refused to admit that.

    Li Xueyue had turned enough hallways and corners to understand it would be difficult to retrace her steps.

    Finally, Li Xueyue stopped walking and observed her surroundings. This ce was different from the rest of the pce, almost eerily silent and deste except for the asional plops in the pond.

    \"Mydy, shall we ask a guard for directions?\" one of her maidservants hesitantly asked. Her eyes nervously darted the empty and dark hallways. She found it daunting that there was practically no one in this hallway, except for them.

    There were as little guards present as there were people.

    \"Do you remember the way back?\" Li Xueyue sighed, turning around to face her servant.

    The maidservant instantly bowed her head and wrung her fingers together. \"I''m sorry, mydy¡­ U-unfortunately this servant does not know¡­\"

    Li Xueyue nodded her head while searching the vicinity. It was peculiar that there was a ce in the pce that was not heavily guarded. It was as if this wing was unimportant.

    She curiously wandered to a door and tried to open it, but it was locked. Perhaps this was a storage ce? It didn''t make sense. Storage ces should be highly guarded.

    \"Well, I suppose¡­\" her voice trailed off when she saw a shadow in the distance.

    Someone was here.

    Eagerly, Li Xueyue picked up her skirts so that she wouldn''t trip and began racing in the direction of the shadow.

    She roughly collided with a firm chest, earning a loud, \"Ow!\" from her.

    Rigid hands tightly gripped her upper arms, steadying her before she fell.

    When Li Xueyue raised her head, she was met with the menacing frown of Wen Jinkai.

    \"What are you doing here?\" he harshly asked, stepping forward while she took steps back.

    \"I''m lost.\"

    ''What was he doing here as well?'' Li Xueyue asked herself. Uncertainty crossed her chest when the words of the Emperor echoed back to her. ''Choose a candidate for Commander Wen Jinkai.''

    Her gaze dropped to his hands,rge and calloused, holding her tightly. Abruptly, she yanked her arms back, his eyes widened by her rough actions. He didn''t release her until he was certain she would not fall. When she was bnced on her feet, he reluctantly let go.

    \"You got lost? In the Second Prince''s Pce?\" Wen Jinkai asked her, doubt weighing heavily on his tone.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her gaze. He was using her of lying. \"Yes. Why else would I be here? I didn''t even know it was the Second Prince''s Pce. What are YOU doing here in the first ce?\"

    Wen Jinkai silently stared at her. \"Where are you supposed to be?\"

    He ignored her question. So she was right. He was in the pce to meet the candidates. Even so, she was confused that Wen Jinkai knew this was the Second Prince''s pce. Were they friends?

    \"Why do you care?\" Li Xueyue stubbornly crossed her arms, wincing a bit when she heard how bratty her words sounded.

    \"I''ve said it before,\" Wen Jinkai quietly murmured, \"I''ll always care about you.\" He reached out to touch her face but she flicked his hand away.

    \"You don''t get that right.\"

    \"What right? The ability to touch you?\" he teased, his lips lightly quirked.

    Li Xueyue struggled to identify her words. She averted her eyes to anywhere but his stormy ones. He was as handsome as he was fierce. Her heart weighed heavily on her chest. She told herself that she should not affiliate herself with Commander Wen anymore. He wanted a harem. She didn''t.

    \"I''m leaving,\" she huffed and frowned, turning her back to him and walked steps ahead, almost as if she was waiting for him to react and chase after her.

    ''I''m such a fool,'' she thought to herself when he remained rooted in his spot.

    \"Wait.\"

    She hated herself for instantly freezing as if roots had sprouted from the ground to hold her in ce.

    \"Take my guard with you. Tell him where you want to go and he''ll guide you there.\"

    Li Xueyue turned her head in time to see a man clothed in ck drop down from the ceiling. She expected him tond heavily, but he barely made a sound when his foot touched the floor. He pressed a hand to his chest and respectfully bowed.

    \"Thank you,\" Li Xueyue curtly said in the most detached way possible.

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes narrowed, his fingers curling into fists. She told herself that she did not care about his anger. Why should she? It''s not like he liked her or anything. Holding her chin high, she sauntered off with his guard following closely behind her.

    \"Where would you like to head to, Princess?\" the guard politely asked her.

    Li Xueyue pondered for a second before deciding, \"Take me to the Throne Room.\" She had business to discuss with the Emperor.

 Chapter 75 Leading Strategis

    <h4>Chapter 75 Leading Strategis</h4>

    Commander Yu Zhen silently leaned against a pir in the hallway. He had crossed his arms and closed his eyes whilst listening to his peers converse amongst themselves.

    \"Why are we here again?\" his close friend, Hu Dengxiao,zily asked while twirling a small de in his hand. He turned to his Commander who remained quiet and aloof¡ªas if he had fallen asleep.

    \"Idiot, did you really forget why?\" a woman sighed, resting her shoulders upon Hu Dengxiao''s arm. \"I can''t believe you''re our country''s leading strategist when you have such a bad memory.\"

    Hu Dengxiao rolled his eyes and said, \"You''re just jealous that you lost to me in the fightst time.\"

    \"Only because I pitied you,\" the woman, Lu Tianbi, retorted.

    \"If it helps, I was purposely trying to lose as well, so you can win, but who would''ve guessed I still won?\" Hu Dengxiao grinned down at her when she roughly jammed her elbow into his side.

    \"You piss me off,\" she scoffed.

    \"Likewise.\" Hu Dengxiao snorted. He directed his gaze to his Commander again and sighed. This man was purposely ignoring them.

    Of course, he was. They bickered like little children instead of behaving like the formidable people they were.

    \"So, who are we waiting for?\" he asked.

    \"Why would we wait for someone here?\" Lu Tianbi frowned while examining the extravagant hallways. To her, Hanjian''s Pce was superior to everything here, but that was because she was too loyal to her country.

    \"True.\" Hu Dengxiao slowly nodded. \"But why else would Yu Zhen pose like he''s getting ready for a painting?\"

    He scrunched his nose. \"It gets me so irked that all he has to do is lean here and the sun will shine on him, even though I''m standing in the same position as him.\"

    Lu Tianbi scoffed, \"Let our pampered Prince be.\"

    \"Hey, what if he''s actually asleep?\" Hu Dengxiao chortled, a mischievous smile appeared on his face. He stuck out a finger, slowly inching it closer to his Commander who possessed the ability to instantly detect when something wasing his way.

    When Yu Zhen didn''t react, Hu Dengxiao''s smile deepened. He jabbed his finger into his Commander''s shoulder, and watched as the man slowly leaned downwards, almost as if he was deep asleep.

    At thest minute, Yu Zhen swiftly smacked his second-inmand upside the head, startling Hu Dengxiao who immediately cried out, \"Abuse!\"

    \"How can you do this to me, Zhenzhen?\" Hu Dengxiao wailed, faking a sob.

    Commander Yu Zhen sneered in disgust at the intimate and unbearably sweet nickname. \"Who the hell is Zhenzhen?\"

    \"You, silly!\" Hu Dengxiao ced his hands together, batting hisshes like one of Yu Zhen''s admirers would do. \"Do you like it¡ªow!\" He groaned when his Commander delivered another hit on the head.

    \"If you keep on hitting me, I might lose brain cells!\"

    \"As if you had any in the first ce,\" Lu Tianbi scoffed, rolling her eyes. She straightened when she saw someone approached from a distance. A woman to be exact.

    \"Oh ho~\" Lu Tianbi smirked. \"Let me guess, we were waiting for her? The candidate that talked her way out of Hanjian.\"

    Commander Yu Zhen''s aggravated expression instantly lessened when he saw her. A slow smirk formed on his face when he saw her bold steps. She walked like she owned this ce. It was humorous to witness someone as confident as her could be easily baffled by suggestive words.

    \"Oooh~\" Hu Dengxiao ced a hand over his eyes to examine the woman.

    \"Isn''t she the reason we''re here in the first ce? To catch a glimpse of this courageousdy who offended our dear Commander.\" He snickered to himself when Yu Zhen''s face darkened.

    \"She did not offend me.\"

    \"Yes, she did. Your ego and pride were mortally wounded.\" Hu Dengxiao mockinglyughed. \"I heard the Emperor mentioned to the candidates there was a possibility that they''d marry the most ''outstanding Commander of Hanjian,'' whoever he is.\" He feigned stupidity, shrugging at thest part.

    \"And she still rejected the candidate position. Amusing isn''t it?\" Hu Dengxiao nudged Yu Zhen who strongly shoved him.

    \"You talk too much. Someone should sew your mouth shut in your sleep,\" Commander Yu Zhen lightly said.

    \"Is that a threat? Tiantian, our Commander is threatening us! We should report that to the higher-ups,\" Hu Dengxiao whined, shaking his shoulders when Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes.

    \"I''ll carry out that threat for him if you don''t stop shaking your shoulders like a brat.\"

    Instantly, he stopped and pouted. \"Grunch.\"

    \"What?\" she hissed as he batted hisshes at her.

    \"I said you''re gorgeous.\"

    She scoffed at his words and turned her face away from him, hiding the light blush that spread on her face. He was one of the rare men in this world who''dpliment her. Few men liked a woman who could overpower them in every \"masculine\" sport.

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted in surprise when she saw Commander Yu Zhen surrounded by his peers. She didn''t expect to run into him here, but then again, he was supposed to meet the Emperor in his throne room. Did their audience with each other finish already?

    \"Good day, Princess.\" Commander Yu Zhen didn''t bother straightening up. He continued to lean against the pir, one leg crossed over the other. Lazily, he observed her features, their eyes shed.

    She pressed her lips together as their first encounter evidently shed in her mind.

    He knew she was probably recalling their encounter earlier. He could see it in the way her cheeks turned the lightest shade of pink to the point where it was barely noticeable. Her skin was as pale as jade harvested from the peak of a snow mountain.

    \"Have we met before?\" she feigned ignorance, tilting her pretty little head.

    Commander Yu Zhen''s teasing smirk deepened. He gave her a pointed stare, as if asking her, ''Do you want me to specify where our first impression took ce?''

    She narrowed her eyes, almost saying, ''You wouldn''t dare.''

    ''Oh but I would,'' he winked.

    When she attempted to brush past him, he spoke up, \"I''m sure we have, Princess. Remember? In¡ª\"

    \"Oh right, I remember now,\" Li Xueyue interrupted him with an aggravated scowl. \"In the garden.\"

    \"Garden?\" Hu Dengxiao confusedly repeated, turning to his Commander. \"You were in a garden?\"

    Commander Yu Zhen tilted his head, \"Hmm, was I?\"

    Li Xueyue shot him a dirty look and insisted, \"Yes, you were. Remember?\"

    The Commander slightly smiled at her threatening tone. No one had ever used that kind of voice on him for a while now. He was the uncontroble sword of Hanjian. A flick of his wrist and a head easily rolled. Who''d dare to threaten him?

    \"Hmmm, do I remember?\" Yu Zhen ced a contemting finger on his chin. \"I could''ve sworn, I had mistaken you¡­\"

    \"Mistaken me for a simpledy.\" Li Xueyue nervouslyughed when his peers nced at them in confusion.

    \"Yes, I remember now.\" Commander Yu Zhen revealed a friendly smile, his eyes curving into crescent moons. \"We met in my¡ª\"

    She pounced on him and covered his mouth with her hands. Both of their eyes widened in disbelief. She thought they would''ve toppled over, but his tense body held them in ce. Specifically, hisrge hands had grabbed her waist and properly held her so they wouldn''t fall backward.

    His eyes glistened with mischief while hers widened.

    She seethed, \"We. Met. In. The. Garden. Remember?\"

    Yu Zhen realized how lovely her eyes were. Under the fierce sunlight, the fire in her eyes burned brighter and stronger. It was also the lovely color of fertile Earth, rich and deep, but filled with life.

    Her eyes seemed to growrger with more panic that settled within her. She hadn''t realized their intimate position yet. Nor did she realize howpromising it looked for her. She was leaning on him, her lower body pressed against his for support.

    Li Xueyue felt his smile deepen while he slowly nodded. She didn''t trust he would keep his mouth shut about their encounter, but what could she do?

    She jumped when she felt something soft peck her hand. He had kissed her. On the hand. Nheless, he had kissed her. She drew her hands back, but he grabbed her wrist, his long finger gently stroking the top of her hand.

    \"Are all the women in Wuyi this bold?\" he teased her and took her by absolute surprise when he gently kissed the tip of her pointing finger. He hadpletely baffled her.

    \"Are all the men in Hanjian this shameless?\" she retorted, narrowing her eyes.

    Slowly, a mesmerizing grin made its way to his face, revealing his pearly white teeth. \"Only when a woman equally shamelesses along.\" He nced down and it was then she realized how jeopardizing their position was.

    But before either of them could react, an astoundingly rigid voice snarled, \"What is going on?\"

    Commander Wen Jinkai had witnessed everything.

 Chapter 76 Foul Things

    <h4>Chapter 76 Foul Things</h4>

    Commander Wen Jinkai was livid. His eyes were menacing and bleak, his fingers curled into a paling fist. His eyes snapped to the hands loosely wrapped around his woman''s waist.

    Was Xueyue even considered his woman when he was so indecisive with her? He could hardly tell, but his possessiveness answered with a determined ''She''s mine.''

    Li Xueyue unknowingly tensed at Wen Jinkai''s enraged expression.

    Commander Yu Zhen must''ve mistaken her reaction for fear because his hands tightened around her waist, his thumbs gently rubbing her sides as if he wasforting her.

    Li Xueyue was confused by his reaction and attempted to fix their promiscuous position, but he held her firmly in ce.

    \"Release her,\" Wen Jinkai''s voice was as calm as a flowing river.

    \"Hmmm,\" Commander Yu Zhen pretended to contemte his response. Without warning, he flexed his arms and yanked her flushed against him. The side of her face was pressed against his chest.

    \"I don''t think so,\" he wrapped his arms around her waist, crossing his hands on her lower back. It was almost as if he was protective of her.

    Li Xueyue could hear the steady beat of his heart. Rhythmic and regr. Comforting in ways she couldn''tprehend. He was not afraid of Wen Jinkai.

    \"Release her.\" Wen Jinkai''s face was passive and neutral as he uttered, \"Or else you''ll be missing both of your hands.\"

    \"Why don''t you make me?\" Commander Yu Zhen lightlyughed, enjoying this man''s threats.

    When Wen Jinkai took a step closer, Hu Dengxiao drew his sword and Lu Tianbi readied her dagger. They might''ve not looked like it, but both of them were trained since birth to be lethal killers.

    Li Xueyue attempted to create distance between herself and Yu Zhen, but he gently urged her to stay, squeezing her waist with his hand. Large and warm, he shifted it behind her head, almost as if he was telling her, ''It''s okay. You''re safe.''

    ''Did he think I was afraid of Wen Jinkai¡­?'' she curiously asked herself, her suspicion confirmed when he caressed the back of her head in a soothing manner.

    \"What a rowdy man you are.\" Yu Zhen hummed, resting his chin on the top of the Princess''s head. He liked the fact that she did not overly essorize herself, or else her hairpins could''ve pricked him.

    Wen Jinkai''s gaze darkened, darting from Xueyue to the mysterious man in front of him. He debated the chances of her getting hurt if he forcibly yanked her out of the man''s arms.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t understand why he was so infuriated by the sight of them together. It almost reminded him of what had happened two years ago on that windy night, with breezes strong enough to stoke a fire.

    \"Xueyue.\" Wen Jinkai decided he would not risk her safety for the sake of his pride. \"The walls have ears. Come here.\"

    Li Xueyue understood his message, but the problem was, she could not break free from Commander Yu Zhen''s hands.

    He might''ve seemed easygoing and affable, but his grip was no joke. His stance was carefree andidback, but his hands were strong. It was determined to keep her safe, even though Wen Jinkai would never hurt her¡ªor so she believed.

    \"Now,\" he demanded when she didn''t budge.

    Her eyes slightly widened in disbelief at hismanding tone. Who did he think he was?!

    \"Lovely ears should not hear foul things,\" Yu Zhen lightlymented while he shifted the hand from behind of her head to her free ear, covering it. Her other ear was pressed against his chest, where he had unintentionally allowed her to listen to his tranquil heartbeats.

    No other woman hade as close to him as she had done. He didn''t realize how calming it was to have someone nestled in his arms.

    \"Xueyue¡ª\"

    \"She can''t hear you.\" Yu Zhen rolled his eyes when Wen Jinkai''s face darkened considerably, a dangerous shadow covered his eyes.

    \"Do you think you''re intimidating me?\" He chortled.

    Wen Jinkai decided he would not care if she was a bit harmed if it meant he could have her back. He stormed to them, prepared to unsheathe his sword if needed.

    Li Xueyue surprised both men when she finally spoke up, \"Unhand me.\"

    Yu Zhen peered down at her, his eyes clouded with worry. At the same time, she nced up at him with certainty. Upon seeing herck of fear, he released her.

    Li Xueyue took steps back from both men, straightened her clothes, and softly frowned. She turned to Yu Zhen and chided, \"That was¡ª\"

    \"Improper. Ill-mannered. Lack of etiquette?\" he teased, grinning to himself. \"I never said I was a gentleman, Sunshine.\"

    Sunshine?

    Her gaze narrowed and corrected, \"It''s Princess to you.\"

    He saluted her with two fingers, \"Okay¡­ Sunshine.\"

    \"Your nicknames for me are corny.\"

    \"That''s because I''m the cream of the crop.\"

    \"The crop must''ve soured.\"

    \"Why won''t you have a taste and we''ll decide afterwards?\" Commander Yu Zhen teased with a triumphant grin when she was stunned speechless.

    Wen Jinkai had enough of this trifling man. He reached for his woman, but she side-stepped his hand and frowned.

    \"I don''t belong to you, Wen Jinkai. You had no right to demand from me to go to you.\" Li Xueyue''s brows wrung together.

    Commander Yu Zhen lifted an amused brow. So this man was none other than the infamous Commander Wen Jinkai who had defeated the Hanjian troops in Yijing.

    Yu Zhen quietly wished he was the one fighting in Yijing. That way, he could''ve tested what kind of fighter Wen Jinkai was. Unfortunately for Wuyi, Commander Yu Zhen was stationed to fight elsewhere: The bordering city of the Capital. He had effortlessly won, and if the Emperor of Hanjian allowed him to continue his conquest, Yu Zhen could''ve stormed the city and tried to take the Capital. Once the Capital was captured, Wuyi would be forced to surrender.

    The problem was, both of the Empire''s best fighters were at each other''s bordering cities, and both of them had victoriouslypleted their mission.

    If a peace treaty weren''t signed and candidates of goodwill weren''t gifted, then the war would''vemenced. It was impossible to predict the extent of bloodshed or which side would be dered victors¡ªthe risk was not worth it.

    Wen Jinkai''s biting stare shifted from disbelief to frosty and cold. He glowered at her like she was a stranger.

    \"I was merely worried about your reputation. First, you were involved with me and now another.\"

    \"What are you implying?\" Li Xueyue''s frown deepened.

    Wen Jinkai instantly regretted his words when he saw how deeply offended she was.

    He walked closer to her and exined, \"Xueyue, you know I didn''t mean it like that.\"

    \"No, I''m sure you did,\" Li Xueyue scowled, infuriated that he would think of her as an easy woman. Each step he took forward, she took two backwards.

    \"Don''t try to grab me as you please, Commander,\" she warned and narrowed her eyes. \"I''m not yours to touch.\"

    Wen Jinkai was instantly offended by her words. What did she think his intent towards her was? To be friends? To be pen pals? How could she be so dense?

    \"I thought we''ve already established our rtionship.\"

    \"We did,\" she grounded out. \"But when you couldn''t promise me something beyond materialism and forcibly dered to the crowd a promise I did not agree to, you established what kind of man you are.\"

    Wen Jinkai''s face instantly softened. He was not ready. Why wouldn''t she understand that? He was not ready to open his heart because he did not understand the meaning or purpose of love. Why was she so fixated on that? It wasn''t like love could feed her, shelter her, and keep her safe and sound.

    \"Xueyue.\"

    \"I have ces to be, Commander,\" she emphasized his distant title. Jutting her chin to the side, she stormed off with her servants in tow.

    He watched as she approached the announcer before sauntering into the throne room. Releasing a disgruntled sigh, he decided to chase after her but was beat to the chase when a man whirled past him.

    Competitive by nature, Wen Jinkai instantly began heading in the direction of the throne room where only one man would leave victorious whereas the other would be baffled to no return.

 Chapter 77 What More Do You Wan

    <h4>Chapter 77 What More Do You Wan</h4>

    \"Well, there you are, Little Lady.\" Emperor Fadong raised his head from his propped up arm. He was originally discussing something with his Empress, until Li Xueyue walked into the throne room without waiting for a Eunuch to announce her presence.

    She curtsied for him and was pardoned.

    \"What happened to you? Apparently you weren''t in the Chrysanthemum Garden. Which room did you wander off to?\" he teased with a sly smile on his face that irked Duke Li Shenyang. Meanwhile, Duke Li Taojun was pretending as if he had never seen Li Xueyue in his life¡ªeven though he was close to ruining her peaceful life half a week ago.

    Li Xueyue faked a smallugh. \"Your Majesty, you jest.\"

    She smiled and exined, \"I merely got lost on my way there.\"

    \"Really now?\"

    \"Yes.\" Li Xueyue nodded.

    Technically, she was not lying. She did get lost twice, but that was half the truth. She had an inkling that the Emperor had colluded with the Empress to misdirect her. But how could she go against this scheming Emperor? He was a man she would never dream of harming.

    Speaking of harming, her thoughts went back to Bai Tianai. Her eyes briefly widened when she surveyed her surroundings in search of a familiar face¡ªthe Viscount. Was he here? There could be a possibility of that since he often visited the Capital. She ignored her urges to sigh in relief upon seeing he was not around. She did not need him to ruin her ns.

    \"Hmm¡­\" Emperor Fadong hummed to himself. \"Well I suppose¡­\" he trailed off when Commander Yu Zhen strolled in, cing his palm up to halt the Eunuch who was about to announce his presence.

    Not a secondter, Commander Wen Jinkai strutted in too, both men were a formidable force when standing side to side. Though their steps were stealthy and silent, their heavy presence was enough to alert Li Xueyue that they were behind her.

    \"Well, well...\" Emperor Fadong''s gaze bounced from the youngdy to the two men. \"What do we have here?\"

    \"What an interesting time that all three of you are present,\" hemented, tilting his head when Wen Jinkai sent a scalthing re to the smiling Yu Zhen. Both of their personalities were pr opposites of each other, like day and night.

    \"But it''s a great opportunity for me to introduce you to my ns.\" Emperor Fadong sped his hands together, briefly ncing at Duke Li Shenyang.

    The \"urgent news\" they had to deal with previously turned out to be not so urgent afterall. It was merely misced papers that the Duke coincidentally found after forcing the Emperor to search.

    \"I''m sure you''re aware of the candidate exchange, Wen Jinkai.\" Emperor Fadong started off, gesturing to the youngdies who had yet to be pardoned into their rooms or assigned a rightful husband.

    \"Aren''t they lovely?\" he nodded to a specific one that stood out from the rest. She was pretty in the conventional ways that a Princess should be. There were virtually no ws to her on the surface and she carried herself humbly.

    \"I''m sure you''re acquainted with her, Yu Zhen.\"

    Commander Yu Zhen pressed his lips into a thin line. Of course he knew who that woman was. He was the one who had to deliver her here while she sobbed the entire journey until she discovered she had the potential to marry better in Wuyi than Hanjian.

    The fate of a Princess was to be pampered and then married off for political benefit. That was the price they had to pay to grow up in luxury.

    \"Fifth Princess, Xia Zhixu, daughter of the Emperor of Hanjian and his first wife.\"

    Wen Jinkai pressed his lips together. What did this boring introduction have to do with him? He simply followed Yu Zhen here, but did not know why.

    \"You should smile, Jinkai.\" Emperor Fadong boldlyughed, the sound bounced off of the walls.

    \"She will be your first wife.\"

    If Wen Jinkai was excited or disgusted by the news, he did not show it. Like an iceberg, he kept his features under control. His eyes lingered on Li Xueyue and he had noticed she didn''t seem fazed by this news. Did she already know about it? That he was going to walk out of the Pce with a new wife?

    \"What do you think?\" Emperor Fadong grinned, \"If you marry her, you will be a Prince.\"

    \"What''s the purpose of such a meaningless title?\" Wen Jinkai slightly frowned, not realizing that he had just insulted Xueyue. What was the purpose of a Princess? At the end of the day, there were all humans. Some were just luckier than the others.

    \"She''s beautiful, gentle, and kind. What more do you want from her?\"

    ''I want her to be Xueyue.'' Wen Jinkai, of course, would never admit that truth himself. His brows knitted together, his eyes snapped to her as he waited for her to react. Say something. Do something.

    He had already dered his interest in her. Would she do the same? Was she bold enough to publicly dere her attraction to him? Or was her big talk about love just a show?

    \"I will decide who I wed. I do not need meddling from outside influences,\" Wen Jinkai deadpanned. \"Even if she''s the most beautiful woman in the world, I do not care.\"

    \"It''s always beneficial to have a lover at home, don''t you think so? It''s lonely if you''re by yourself.\" Emperor Fadong stroked his chin meaningfully.

    He remarked, \"The war ising to an end because the negotiations were sessful. Your presence on the battlefield is not as required anymore. You''ll have more free time.\"

    Wen Jinkai raised a brow. \"I can just use my free time to train more soldiers.\"

    \"You''re young and healthy. Why waste your youth?\"

    \"It''s my duty to look over this country,\" Wen Jinkai deadpanned, his eyes wandering to Li Xueyue. He was waiting for her to speak up. Waiting for her to protest. Waiting for her to at least move her body. But she did none of that. She simply stood there, turning a deaf ear to everything.

    Did she not care about him? He grinded his teeth at the thought. Why was she so impatient for an answer from him then? He did not realize he wasn''t the only one staring at her. Everyone was watching her, waiting for her to say something.

    \"Well, I can''t argue with that.\" Emperor Fadong sighed.

    \"It has been so long since you entertained yourself with a woman. How long has it been? Four years now? Since¡ª\" he paused, ncing at Duke Li Shenyang. \"Oh, nevermind.\"

    Empress Huiyun struggled to not scowl at the near slip-up. He can''t know. He absolutely could not know about the truth. It was something that she swore she would bring to her grave.

 Chapter 78 Help in Succeeding

    <h4>Chapter 78 Help in Seeding</h4>

    Empress Huiyun stiffened when she felt the pressing stares behind her. The irritating Fourth Prince was watching each and every one of her moves as if he could read her thoughts.

    Duke Li Shenyang tore his curious stare from her when she cleared her throat. She lowered her head to examine her fingers and the faux nails, sharp like a lioness''s ws. The same ws that dug into pure flesh, watching it bleed to the ground before allowing the elements to take them.

    She found it amusing that she was surrounded by people who all loved someone who''d never loved them back. That girl, so heartless and cunning¡­ she reaped what she sowed.

    Empress Huiyun only came back to reality when her husband spoke up again. She had loved the Emperor ever since sheid eyes on him when he was a Crown Prince and she was a newly titled Crown Princess. He was so majestic then. What happened? She could see the wrinkles were more prominent on his face, the bags under his eyes, and the way his lids droop early at night. He was growing old. Or sick. She couldn''t care less.

    \"Little Lady,\" Emperor Fadong began, \"I know you''ve talked your way out of the candidate selection, but words of your brave actions have traveled far and wide.\"

    His eyesnded on Yu Zhen. \"This here is Commander Yu Zhen, a Prince by blood, and one of the leading men of Hanjian. He has expressed interest in the intelligent and skilled woman who talked her way into bing a third-ranked Princess.\"

    Li Xueyue''s brows knitted together. Commander Yu Zhen came here for her? Then¡­ Her eyes widened. Was their entire interaction in his room orchestrated by the Emperor and Empress? Was everything a well-nned and timed scheme?

    She was grateful for her long sleeves that hid her fingers tightening into a fist. She dug her nails into her palm until crescent moons formed. The Imperial Family was so keen on sending her to Hanjian, one way or another. But why? What made her so important that they had to get rid of her as soon as possible?

    It was a shame the me was not on her, but the people interested in her. She couldn''t prevent someone else''s feelings towards her, nor could she control it. Despite that, the royal family still took prejudice against her.

    Noticing her wary expression, the Empress smiled. \"Don''t worry, youngdy, he''s not here to wed you, but there''s always a possibility he''d court you. There''s nothing wrong in bing acquainted with another powerful man.\"

    Wen Jinkai stiffened at the Empress''s words. He red her down, his eyes piercing daggers through her. He didn''t expect her to betray him like that.

    Yu Zhen, on the other hand, raised a brow. The Empress was too bold with her suggestion. The least she could''ve done was make her motives less apparent.

    Men who make history rarely make good husbands.

    Li Xueyue nced at the Emperor of Wuyi, a man who''d surely go down in history books. Then her gaze wandered to the smiling Empress, youthful and morous, but pitiful and lonely.

    Li Xueyue wondered how it feels to y god. To have the ability to determine someone else''s life. How nice it must''ve been to roll a die before birth. Imagine the awe and happiness of a person when they''ve rolled the ultimate number that determined their position in life. If one had the ability to alter another person''s life, why not alter it for the good of humanity? Why meddle at all?

    Empress Huiyun''s smile widened as she continued, \"Of course, it won''t be an arranged marriage like the other candidates in Hanjian are currently experiencing, but wouldn''t it be nice if you were to wed him? Hanjian is known for taking no more than two wives.\"

    ''Wouldn''t you like that?'' Li Xueyue bitterly thought to herself.

    \"What do you think, Xueyue?\" Emperor Fadong asked when he saw her nk expression. For a brief moment there, he thought he saw contempt dance in her eyes before it was quickly reced by appreciation.

    \"I''m grateful that you thought about me with good will enough to wee another country''s Commander here.\" Li Xueyue graciously smiled. \"But I must apologize for not appreciating this gift.\"

    She bowed her head and carefully said, \"I''ve only turned eighteen for a few months. It''s just as you saidst week, at the tournament, Your Grace. I am too young to wed.\"

    Empress Huiyun''s smile slipped. She disliked people who used her own words against her. How she wished she could wrap her sharp nails around Li Xueyue''s fleshy throat, the same way she had done so in the past to another unfortunate girl who thought too highly of herself.

    \"''You''re not getting any younger, darling. Contemting marriage is a normal thing to do for youngdies of your age and status.\"

    \"Please forgive my bluntness, but what is your n for me, Your Grace?\"

    Empress Huiyun blinked. She had never met a woman like Li Xueyue who spoke so freely. Her face turned a dark shade of red, infuriated that this little girl, years her junior, had the audacity to talk back to her.

    \"How rude of you.\"

    Li Xueyue blinked, shrinking back, her eyes wandered to the floor. She was careful of her performance. It was better to pretend to be remorseful and apologetic, even if she didn''t feel like it. If the Empress liked to scheme against her, then Xueyue would scheme in her own ways.

    Empress Huiyun was even more offended by Li Xueyue''s reaction. Did this girl think she was some saint? Some innocent thing that needed protection? Did she think this n of hers would work? For some reason, Li Xueyue''s innocuous reaction reminded the Empress of Gu Feiying''s confused expression.

    \"Little girls should not talk back.\"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together, her brows crinkled. She was the perfect embodiment of an apologetic and frightful youngdy, just like how she nned it to be.

    \"Here I am presenting you with another opportunity to achieve greatness in life, but you''re disrespecting me and¡ª\"

    \"Empress,\" Duke Li Shenyang said with a dark edge to his voice. He was barely holding back his anger.

    \"It is the duty of a father to reprimand his daughter. Please forgive my failure at such a task.\" His words were calm and objective. Controlled and tamed was his exterior, but enraged and irked was his interior.

    \"But I must speak out of turn that it''s my duty alone. The Duchess and I do not wee outside interference.\"

    Nothing was more shameful than reprimanding someone in front of an entire crowd. The Empress should know herself that the reputation of little girls was easy to create but even easier to destroy.

    Empress Huiyun struggled to remain calm while she glowered daggers into Xueyue.

    Empress Huiyin opened her mouth to retort, but Duke Li Shenyang tilted his head in warning. ''Do not cross me,'' was his sole message.

    She nearlyughed. What a foolish man. Did he not realize she had crossed his boundary line before? That she had the ability to destroy what he held dear, and she would not hesitate to do it again?

    \"I am merely advising Xueyue.\" Empress Huiyun smiled. \"I am forgiving, but there are not many higher-ups as kind as I am. If I was as cruel as you paint me to be, she would''ve lost a tongue for her improper words.

    \"Yet here she stands, unharmed and untouched. I would even offer her another opportunity to seed.\"

    Duke Li Shenyang smiled and said sarcastically, \"She does not need help to seed. She can do that on her own. It''s more meaningful that way, don''t you think so?\"

    Empress Huiyun''s fingers curled into a fist. She loathed the Duke, loathed the way he cared so much about his family. His family that was supposed to be hers, had he not fallen for the wrong Princess.

 Chapter 79 Precious Niece

    <h4>Chapter 79 Precious Niece</h4>

    \"My dear Empress, there is no need to waste your breath scolding little girls.\" Emperor Fadong shook his head whilst heaving a sigh. \"Let us move on to the important topic of discussion.\"

    \"There will be no more discussions about the life of Li Xueyue,\" an authoritative voice spoke from the right side of the throne room. Every pair of eyes shifted to the Empress Dowager who held her head high. Apanying her was Duchess Li Qixing who had a supportive hand under the Empress Dowager''s elbows.

    Emperor Fadong slightlyughed. \"Mother, we were merely joking.\"

    \"Your jokes are terrible,\" Empress Dowager Meichun deadpanned. \"A human life is not something to joke about.\"

    \"Every life is precious.\" She nced at Li Xueyue with a mixture of uncertainty and hesitation. This girl''s rash and outstanding behavior will one day lead her down the same painful path that Li Minghua once walked down.

    \"Leave the girl be.\"

    Empress Huiyun''s lips thinned into a tight smile. She could do nothing but nod for the Empress Dowager who was as ancient as a tree, but with roots deep in the Pce. Irreceable and influential, she was the ideal ally but a fearful enemy.

    Li Xueyue kept her head down to mask her wed performance. She was not offended by the Empress''s reprimanding words, nor did she feel guilty for speaking out of turn.

    Commander Yu Zhen, who stood the closest to her, was the first to realize she was faking shame all along. She didn''t even seem bothered. His lips twitched as he found her highly entertaining.

    He wondered how many more faces she had. So far, he had seen enough to be interested by her words and actions. She knew how to y her cards right, but not well enough to survive on her own.

    \"If we leave her be, then how will she prosper?\" Emperor Fadong ced a tender hand over his chest. \"She''s my precious ''niece.'' As her uncle, I have to watch over her.\"

    \"She has gotten this far on her own. I believe she can survive.\" Empress Dowager raised her brows. \"Since when were you a caring uncle?\"

    Duchess Li Qixing tried her hardest to not sneer at her brother. Where was he when Li Minghua''s body could not be found? Where was he when Li Minghua faced hardships at home? Where was he when Li Minghua was introduced to the Imperial Family and then torn down by them? Where was he when Li Minghua needed his protection in the Pce?

    He was on his throne, toying with the lives of his people out of boredom. Everyone was a chess piece in his cruel game and he was the useless King who could only move one step.

    \"I''ve always been caring.\"

    \"I''m sure you have.\" Empress Dowager''s voice was strained with doubt while she scrutinized her son. There were moments in time she regretted cing him on his throne, but he was her eldest and every mother wanted to see their first-born seed in life. Even if blood had to be shed along the way and after it. Blood of rtives, kin, and maybe a granddaughter or two.

    Emperor Fadong dramatically sighed. \"Since my mother never takes hermands back,\" he turned to Li Xueyue, \"I will stop helping you.\"

    Helping? Was that another word for harming? Li Xueyue bowed her head and said, \"I appreciate all that you''ve done for me.\"

    Empress Huiyun scoffed under her breath. This girl reminded her of Li Minghua more and more. A wretched girl she was.

    Duke Li Taojun''s brows wrung together in worry. His eyes trailed from her feeble shoulders to her thin frame; small and easily breakable. He believed she was a girl who needed someone to rely on, someone strong to shield her from the dangers of this world.

    He had hoped she would find herself someone like that in Hanjian. A dependable man like a General or a Commander who''s used to keep their people safe. His decision to send her to Hanjian might''ve been influenced by her impact on the Fourth Prince and Wen Jinkai, but it was also affected by his fear of what would happen to her.

    Li Xueyue resembled a woman he''d like to never think about. A woman that was forced to wed a man a decade older than her as the only means of escape.

    \"One day you will regret not epting my proposal, littledy.\" Emperor Fadong''s eyes lingered on Yu Zhen who had not stopped staring at Li Xueyue the entire time she tried to be invisible. \"But I am a generous man. Apologies are always weed in my court.\"

    Just like a murder decree was weed? Li Xueyue bit down on her tongue. She had so many questions to ask, but they shall be saved for another time. Her provocations towards the Bai Family had barely begun.

    Li Xueyue understood the Emperor''s words perfectly. If she wanted his help from now on, she''d have to beg and grovel at his feet. She''d have to be one of his chess pieces, seemingly leading her to victory, only to have her disposed afterwards.

    Li Xueyue curtsied for him, waiting for her to be excused.

    \"That reminds me, littledy. Princesses are supposed to live in the Pces.\" Emperor Fadong inwardly grinned. How would she reject his demands now?

    Would she ask for her position to be taken back and risk the benefits that came with her rank? What would the public deem her? Nothing was more toxic than the opinions of the upper-ss. They would surely tear her to pieces and ruin what''s left of her.

    Li Xueyue inwardly groaned. When will she ever have a break from this scheming man? Didn''t he have better things to do than trifle with her life? What did she do to deserve his unwanted attention?

    \"Of course, the rule doesn''t apply if the Princess is wed off.\"

    \"I thought Your Majesty will not offer Li Xueyue any guidance unless it''s begged for?\" Duke Li Shenyang instantly sniped. \"If Your Majesty goes back on your own word, how will the people treat you seriously?\"

    Emperor Fadong snarled on the inside. Sometimes he wished he did not have such an intelligent Prime Minister who saw the ws in every promise and solution. ws. That was all that he saw. Never perfection. A man who knew how to separate emotions and business, unlike the Emperor who chased for momentary distractions.

    \"I was merely referring to the rules.\"

    Duke Li Shenyang grinned, \"If you''ve thought of the rules for the sake of Li Xueyue, then it means you''ve wanted to be her saving grace yet again. That is quite alright with me, but this bias will not go unnoticed today, Your Majesty.\"

    Duke Li Shenyang peered down at the ministers who had not spoken a single word ever since Li Xueyue walked into the throne room. \"Everyone is watching you, Your Majesty. Some mightment this is favoritism.\"

    The Emperor retorted, \"You''re well aware that you''re using me of favoritism over your own daughter? The people will think you''ve influenced my decision. After all, you''re my advisor.\"

    \"Your Majesty, when I offer advice, I''ve always kept our nation''s goodwill in mind.\" Duke Li Shenyang cruelly smiled. \"Your Majesty, have I ever acted on my interest?\"

    \"To protect your family, you have,\" Emperor Fadong snarled.

    \"Every man''s duty is to protect their family. You''ve done the same, Your Majesty. Does that mean you''ve acted on your own interest as a ruler?\"

    A hasty and displeased shadow crossed over Emperor Fadong''s face. Suddenly, this game was no longer fun to him. He had lost interest for now. \"You''ve grown guts to freely talk to me now?\"

    Duke Li Shenyang slowly bowed and countered, \"Your Majesty, have I ever dishonored you by addressing you without a proper title throughout this entire conversation? As the Prime Minister, you''ve assigned me the duty to advise you. I''m merely performing my duties as you''ve instructed me to.\"

    Emperor Fadong''s hand twitched to m onto something. He had brought a fox into his house. A wise and greatpanion, but a deceitful and crafty man.

    \"Very well,\" he scowled.

    \"This will be a discussion for another day.\" Emperor Fadong waved his hands, \"You''re excused, Li Xueyue.\"

    Li Xueyue instantly rose from her curtsy as she took slow steps backwards, careful to not disrespect the Emperor by showing her back. Only when she was within a safe zone did she rush out of the throne room as if a demon chased her. And she might as well have been chased by one because Wen Jinkai stalked after her the second she left.

 Chapter 80 Promised

    <h4>Chapter 80 Promised</h4>

    \"Neither of you were pardoned,\" Emperor Fadong dered, forcing both men to halt from their chase.

    Yu Zhen utilized all of his willpower to not roll his eyes. To him, the Emperor of Wuyi was a joke. What type of ruler had the time to scheme for entertainment when he had a country to worry about? What made him so carefree and rxed? Unless¡­ there was someone ruling from behind a curtain.

    \"It seems the littledy''s line of suitors has increased.\" Emperor Fadong chuckled when Yu Zhen did not turn around. The Emperor smirked to himself when he saw Yu Zhen''s finger twitch in irritation. Someone had to teach this Commander that he was on enemy soil, not his home. His behavior might be excusable in Hanjian, but it was not epted in Wuyi.

    \"Oh, but don''t worry, Commander Yu Zhen. Xueyue has not been promised to another yet. As a matter of fact¡­\" Emperor Fadong briefly nced at Wen Jinkai''s taut body, \"She can''t be promised unless it''s her own will.\"

    \"Oh?\" Yu Zhen turned around and mused, \"Do tell.\"

    Wen Jinkai snarled, \"She has been promised to me.\"

    \"Did she say that?\" Yu Zhen teased, tossing Wen Jinkai a smirk. \"It didn''t seem that way.\"

    \"She''s a stubborn one.\" Wen Jinkai shrugged. \"She has my pendant and I have hers.\"

    In this lifetime, only one pendant was allowed to possess a person''s full name. Once exchanged, it could not be taken back unless it was broken.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. \"So?\" He sighed, \"Why do you guys ce so much value on pendants when they''re merely essories to decorate the waist?\"

    Emperor Fadong frowned in displeasure. How did Commander Yu Zhen have the audacity to question the tradition of a kingdom in front of the ruler himself? \"Does Hanjian not value tradition?\"

    \"Hanjian does not have meaningless traditions such as a binding pendant. There are too many ws in it. What if it gets forcibly stolen from the person? What shall happen then?\" Yu Zhen''s words were harsh, but his chilling smile was harsher. On the surface, he was known to be warm, friendly, and weing. In reality, he had more demons than one could possibly count. A lethal man who hides his malice behind aforting smile.

    Wen Jinkai found this type of man to be the most dangerous. He''d kill with a smile and pretend the person fell on their sword. A worthy opponent on the battlefield, but the same can''t be said of him as a suitor. He was someone who could easily trick the hearts of women. Maniptive by nature.

    Wen Jinkai knew it was best to keep Li Xueyue away from him. He did not want her to get hurt from facades. It was just a pity that he had understood what type of man Yu Zhen was, not what kind of lover he''d be.

    \"Well, thedy can always dere it was stolen.\"

    \"Who mentioned anything about ady?\" Yu Zhen sniped, \"I find it so humorous, Emperor, that you have the time of day to meddle with an innocent life.\"

    Empress Huiyun mmed her hand on the armrest of her throne. \"You brazen¡ª\"

    \"Careful now, Empress. You wouldn''t want your temper to show.\" Yu Zhen''s smile widened.

    Had he hit a sore spot in the royal family? How could Wuyi function so well with them as leaders? Who was the person ruling behind the curtain? The person closest to the Emperor¡­

    \"If we will have meaningless discussions about marriage and not peace alliances, please pardon me. I have better things to do.\" Yu Zhen dipped in a slight bow and left without waiting for the Emperor and Empress to speak.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s eyes narrowed on Yu Zhen, disliking the man''s reckless, but impactful words. Yu Zhen''s previous statements were close to hitting home, for what he said was very true.

    The Duke did not need someone to meddle in his business and duties. Yu Zhen seemed like someone who would find great pleasure in flipping over stones that should remain unturned.

    Seething to himself at the behavior of the Emperor today, Duke Li Shenyang decided it was time to have a thorough discussion with his good friend. Specifically, a discussion behind a thick curtain where no one would hear their bickering and disagreements.

    - - - - -

    \"Seriously, does he have nothing better to do?\" Yu Zhen muttered to himself whilst walking side-by-side with Hu Dengxiao and Lu Tianbi who were far from happy. It aggravated them that they were not allowed into the throne room to join the discussion. If they had entered, they would surely roast the Emperor to ashes with their remarks.

    Hu Dengxiao spoke up, \"Don''t you find it odd that Wuyi was originally struggling up until two years ago? Originally, everything was in shambles, but then they came back stronger than ever.\"

    He pondered it a bit before continuing, \"Better taxes, better leadership, better agriculture, and everything became well-managed. It was as if there was a change in leadership.\"

    Sighing to herself, Lu Tianbi added on, \"How is this country even flourishing with that man as the ruler?\"

    Lu Tianbi frowned while rolling her thumb on a gold coin. \"I''ve never seen an outside influence so keen on ruining the life of a woman. Poor girl. What did she do to incur their wrath?\"

    Both Hu Dengxiao and Lu Tianbi had lingered close enough to the throne room to eavesdrop on the conversation, but they couldn''t put the pieces together to form a full puzzle.

    \"The Emperor mentioned something about a long line of suitors,\" Hu Dengxiaomented while cing both hands behind his head in a leisure walk. \"Maybe that has something to do with it? A woman who knows her worth is a dangerous one.\"

    \"She has a strong backing,\" Yu Zhen thoughtfully said. \"It''d be impossible to bring her down directly¡­ which had prompted the royal family to do it through different means.\"

    \"Interesting¡­\" Lu Tianbi hummed. \"But doesn''t her surname remind you of someone?\"

    Hu Dengxiao''s brows crinkled. He came to a screeching halt. \"Now that you mention it, she does. What was her name again?\"

    \"Li Xueyue,\" Yu Zhen muttered, sighing to himself. Even her name was adoring.

    \"A Li?\" Hu Dengxiao scratched the back of his head. He was sure he had heard that surname before. Where was it?

    \"They''ve been around since the establishment of the current dynasty,\" Yu Zhen said. \"They''re an old tree.\"

    \"Ancient trees have stronger roots,\" Lu Tianbi added on. \"Roots that are stemmed deeply are harder to remove.\"

    \"Indeed.\" Yu Zhen smiled to himself, finally arriving at a theory. \"We''ll discuss this more in private. Don''t report back to my father just yet.\"

    \"I didn''t n on reporting back to our Emperor so quickly.\" Hu Dengxiao shrugged. \"Besides, he''d prefer the words of his son a lot more than ours.\"

    Yu Zhen scoffed to himself. When had the Emperor of Hanjian ever treated him like a son? He knew he could not me his father who had too many sons to count. \"Perhaps.\"

    \"Are you going to continue pursuing her?\" Lu Tianbi asked. \"She will be useful.\"

    \"You know I never use women.\" Yu Zhen frowned in displeasure. \"I''d never use her.\"

    \"Why?\"

    \"That''s for you to find out and me to know.\" Yu Zhen chuckled, shaking his head. In the corner of his eyes, he saw something that caught his attention. Smiling to himself, he instantly began heading towards that direction whilst abandoning his peers to converse amongst themselves.

 Chapter 81 A Little Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 81 A Little Trouble</h4>

    Li Xueyue was eager to go home and soak in a bath with scented oils that would calm her nerves. She had enough of the royal family for now. It was tiring to be in their presence and even more exhausting to talk in circles with them.

    She let out a quiet sigh. Why were they so keen on meddling in her life? Didn''t they have better things to do?

    Li Xueyue watched as her maidservants prepared the stepping stool for the tall carriage. Usually, a handmaiden or one of the twins would offer her a helping hand up the carriage, but Duchess Wang Qixing didn''t bring any of them along.

    The guards were not permitted to touch them, not that they''d dare to. Thus, stepping stools were always brought in advance. Usually, closed-carriages like theirs were built with a stepping pedal, but Duchess Wang Qixing said it ruins the aesthetic of the well-crafted ride.

    "Having a little trouble there?"

    Li Xueyue examined the flowy ribbons tied around her. She tightened a few of them and sighed to herself when they flew as they pleased.

    "Are you ignoring me?"

    She hummed a quiet song to herself, lightly swaying to the gentle breeze thatbed through her hair and grabbed her pastel ribbons. It was such a shame that a great afternoon was ruined when she spent it with the royal family.

    The wind was calm and soothing against the beating sun. Suddenly, a stronger force tugged at the ribbons that held her hanfu closed. Onest tug and her waist belt would slip off. She gasped when her ribbons were harshly tugged again, her hands instantly flew to her waist.

    "You brute!" she hissed, turning around to be met with his smiling face.

    "It wasn''t my fault." He showed her his fist. She noticed a metal ring resting on his middle finger made of white gold with a glistening emeraldfortably nested in the center. The workmanship was excellent¡ªperfect metalwork that made the ring look fierce yet regal at the same time.

    "Your ribbons were caught on my ring." Yu Zhen''s smile widened when she red at him.

    "Liar."

    "Why else would I tug at the ribbons?"

    "Because youck morals."

    "Just like how Ick etiquette?"

    "Yes."

    Yu Zhen softly chuckled at her words. When will she stop stabbing him with words like knives? Did she realize how adorably feisty she was? It was in the way her eyes were set aze and how each word she uttered added more fuel to it. Under the magnificent sun, nothing shone brighter than her.

    "What''s so funny?"

    "Your face," he deadpanned, earning a sharp gasp from her. She jabbed him in the chest, but when he didn''t budge, she dusted her hands.

    "What are you doing?" he asked.

    "Dusting off whatever germ I contracted from you."

    "That''s the wrong usage of the word ''contracted''," Yu Zhen snorted. "Besides, I should be the one cleaning myself. Who knows where your hands have been."

    He one-upped her by dramatically taking out his handkerchief and flicking it open.

    "Water," he said, and one of his peers who had finally caught up to him, unbottled the cap and poured water onto the handkerchief.

    To Li Xueyue''s aggravation, he cleaned his chest, not caring that there was now a wet spot. He struggled to maintain his calmposure when she crossed her arms, rolled her eyes, and scoffed.

    "Was that necessary¡ª" He sharply held up a hand to halt herint.

    Turning towards Hu Dengxiao, Yu Zhen instructed, "I rmend you to wear a glove and then burn it."

    Hu Dengxiao rapidly blinked, turning from the woman to his Commander. Awkwardly and hesitantly, he slipped on his gloves.

    Yu Zhen was simply joking, but his idiot strategist took it farther by shrieking when the handkerchief was abruptly tossed in his direction.

    "Ew!" Hu Dengxiao jumped in disgust.

    "Dengxiao¡ª"

    "It has your germs on it, Commander," Hu Dengxiao bitterly said, which caused Yu Zhen to pause.

    What did this fool just say?

    "Pft!" Li Xueyue finallyughed, her eyes turning into little crescent moons.

    She had unknowingly increased the heartbeat of Yu Zhen who was awestruck by the unfamiliar sound. He had never heard herugh before, but then again, he hardly knew her.

    "That''s what you get for being a fool." Li Xueyue stuck out her tongue a bit and turned to face the stepping stool. She was prepared to walk up alone but found herself an aid by her side.

    She paused when he offered her a hand. Skeptically, she peered at his hand, examining it. He wouldn''t hide a needle between his fingers would he?

    "It seems this properdy doesn''t know the etiquette she religiously reprimanded me for," Yu Zhen snorted, irked that she was so hesitant to touch him.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes narrowed as herpetitive nature to retort him surfaced.

    "To dispel your confusion, Princess, you''re supposed to ce your hand on mine as I guide you up the carriage."

    "I know what to do!" Li Xueyue huffed.

    "Doesn''t seem like it," Yu Zhen provoked, shoving his hand towards her again. He smirked in satisfaction when she roughly pped her hand down, epting his offer. He surprised her by closing his fingers around her hand and pressing a kiss to her palm.

    "I hope to see you again soon, Princess."

    For a brief moment there, her stomach unwillingly fluttered nervously. "I hope to never see you again, Yu Zhen."

    His smile grew for her, reaching his guarded eyes, softening it. "Let that wish never happen."

    "I''ll pray my hardest for it to happen," she teased before heading into the carriage just as Duchess Wang Qixing walked down the stairs and out of the main entrance. Her curious eyes wandered from the two Hanjian warriors to the Commander who had a mesmerized expression on his face.

    Oh my.

    Did she match Xueyue with the wrong man? Not even the frigid Wen Jinkai looked that smitten when he was with Xueyue, but then again, that man barely showed a hint of emotion on his face. He was always brooding into the distance as if everything annoyed him. The only time his aloof expression melted, even if it was slightly, was for Xueyue.

    The only problem was, Duchess Wang Qixing had a hard time trusting him. Especially when he was once acquainted with Li Minghua.

 Chapter 82 Mark My Words

    <h4>Chapter 82 Mark My Words</h4>

    "So¡­" Duchess Wang Qixing chirpily said, "The Commander, huh?" She winked when Li Xueyue nced out the window, preferring the scenery of passing greenery. The Li Manor was located far out of the Capital, in the safe confines of a well-guarded plot ofnd.

    "Which one?" Li Xueyue replied with a slight smile, earning an excited squeal from the Duchess.

    "Which one did you think I was referring to?" Duchess Wang Qixingughed, her face eager and impatient. She was excited that her two years of tending to a flower had paid off.

    Li Xueyue shrugged. "I can''t read minds."

    "Oh, but you can read yours," Duchess Wang Qixing replied.

    "But I''m curious about which Commander you had in mind."

    Duchess Wang Qixing grinned, pinching Li Xueyue''s cheek. "Quite a clever girl you are."

    Li Xueyue beamed in response, herrge smile reached her eyes. "I learned it from you."

    Duchess Wang Qixing pleasantlyughed again. "Are you sure?" She squeezed Li Xueyue''s cheek again, amused that it was as soft as the rice cakes she loved to gobble down.

    "So, who was on your mind?" Li Xueyue asked whilst sitting still for the Duchess. She didn''t mind when it was the Duchess pinching her. She did mind when the twins or anyone else did it because hair ruffling always came next.

    "Well¡­" Duchess Wang Qixing thoughtfully pondered her next response.

    Both men came to mind, but she was hesitant about Yu Zhen. If he would woo Xueyue and she responded favorably to his courtship, then Xueyue would have to move to Hanjian and stay there indefinitely. It would be her new home with new acquaintances to call family. She would be far from the protection of the Duke and Duchess, but she would also be far from the Emperor and Empress if they chose to be as annoying as earlier.

    The fastest way to Hanjian, by horse, was at least a three-day ride, and by carriage, it would take a week. If anything happened to Xueyue there, the Lis would always respondte due to the constraints of travel time.

    The problems with Wen Jinkai were equally troublesome. He would live in the Capital, of course, unless he preferred to live elsewhere. The Emperor and Empress would surely meddle in their rtionship with the ability to enter and leave as they pleased.

    Wen Jinkai was also a debatable option. He was raised and surrounded by people who had harems of women who didn''t know, nor had to, stop.

    Suddenly, both men had too much baggage for Duchess Wang Qixing to favor either one. She could only helplessly stare at Li Xueyue.

    "Both came in mind¡­ but the final decision is up to you," Duchess Wang Qixing honestly said.

    Li Xueyue blinked. Why did she have a feeling that Duchess Wang Qixing already thought far too ahead into the future with a house of rowdy grandchildren?

    Slowly, she turned her gaze to her hands because she hadn''t thought about either men. For someone who had been hurt before, she sure loved to wear her heart on her sleeves. The only thing she could do was let nature take its course.

    "I''m not sure," Li Xueyue finally responded.

    "Well, who tickled your heart the most?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. Instantly, a name came to mind, her face turning the same color as the setting sun. "W-why don''t we talk about something else?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing pouted in disappointment before nudging her. "But this is the most interesting topic."

    Li Xueyue chuckled, "Really? What can be so interesting about my love life?"

    "Everything!" Duchess Wang Qixing huffed.

    "I think it''s a bore. Just like politics." Li Xueyue wrinkled her nose, unaware that many people were interested to know who exactly came to her mind.

    - - - - -

    In the pce.

    Within a quiet hallway, there was nothing but the sound of footsteps. The air was tense, awkward and thick. Imperial guards quietly trailed behind the Emperor and Prime Minister.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s fingers curled into a fist consistently before he forced himself to unravel it. When they turned a dark corner, he abruptly grabbed the Emperor by his cor and mmed him against a wall.

    The clink of metal could be heard, but none of the guards came forward to strike the Prime Minister. This was, after all, a daily urrence.

    "What the hell was that back there?!" Duke Li Shenyang snarled, his eyes a raging storm, but his face frighteningly passive. "Your meddling already ruined the lives of my family once, don''t let it happen again."

    "It''s not my fault you couldn''t protect her."

    Duke Li Shenyang grinded his teeth. Who was the ''her'' this Emperor was referring to? Li Xueyue, Li Minghua, or his wife?

    "Have you lost your mind? Or have you simply gone senile?!"

    The Emperor was not fazed by this explosion. He was already anticipating it. "Do you realize who you''re grabbing?"

    "As if I give a damn!"

    "You''re grabbing your leader by the throat right now. Are you threatening to kill the monarch?"

    "The leader?" Duke Li Shenyang let out a bark ofughter. "Are you referring to yourself or are you referring to me?"

    The Emperor''s face darkened. "Why are you letting a mere child get in between our friendship? All these years of hard work for what? For you to throw it away like you did two years ago?!"

    "Don''t fucking start with me," Duke Li Shenyang seethed, shoving the Emperor into the wall while taking steps back to create distance between them.

    "You let your feelings get the best of you."

    "You shouldn''t be talking about feelings." Duke Li Shenyang shook his head in disgust. "Not after yours drove you to¡ª" he paused, deciding to not stoop as low as the Emperor.

    "You''ve already harmed my wife in more ways than one. Do you want to do it again? Do you want to see her in that deste, depressing state again?!"

    The Emperor could do nothing but look away, his eyes intense with unspeakable emotions. Remorse, regret, and guilt swallowed him alive, weighing his shoulders down. His chest was prickling with so much pain, it was numb. The image of his younger sister''s wailing face came to mind, the wretched screams during the funeral when she didn''t have a body to cry over.

    "That is enough." Emperor Fadong could barelypose his trembling voice.

    "You were the one who ruined your own sister with your irrational emotions," Duke Li Shenyang snarled, storming to the Emperor. "Provoke what my wife holds dear again and I can swear to you, this Empire will be run to the ground.

    "The glory restored in the two years that I''ve resumed my position as the Prime Minister will be trampled over in less than two seconds. You better watch yourself." Duke Li Shenyang hissed.

    "Mark my words."

    He turned his back to the Emperor, a tant form of disrespect before flicking his sleeves and storming off. The darkness consumed him alive, starting from his heart to his body. Slowly, he disappeared until no one could hear his silent footsteps.

    The Emperor let out a shaky breath as the memories of that day shed in his head. The night of her heartbroken cries, the morning of her nk expression before she lost a grip on herself. Everything wasing back to him and he could do nothing but face the music that he had created this mess, all because he loved his sons too much.

 Chapter 83 Liar

    <h4>Chapter 83 Liar</h4>

    Note: I mentioned it in the previous author note, but I just wanted to remind you that the name for Duchess Li Qixing was changed to Duchess Wang Qixing so that it would be less confusing (Having the same surname makes it look like Duchess Li was Duke Li''s sibling xD). The change will be effective from now on c:

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue didn''t expect for Ning Huabing to live in the Capital, but then again, she didn''t know much about the girl nor did she expect an invitation from Marquis Ning arriving at their house the next day. The opened envelope rested in between her fingertips as she contemted her response.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nced up from the pile of invitations that she was sorting into two piles: Important and unimportant ones. As the outstanding Li Family, they had every right to not reply or show up to the majority of the events, but the Duchess was kind enough to write a rejection letter instead of simply ignoring the invitation.

    "Are you going?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked, cing her brush down. "That one seems to have caught your interest."

    "It''s Ning Huabing''s birthday in two days," Li Xueyue slowly said while cing the yellow envelope on the table.

    "Oh." Duchess Wang Qixing raised a brow. "Shall we pick a gift for her from the merchants who will be arriving tomorrow?"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded, but she had another idea for a present in mind. "Yes, she''d like that."

    "Is Ning Huabing a friend?" Duchess Wang Qixing curiously asked, remembering Ning Huabing was the victor of the martial arts tournament. She was fortunate enough to have selected a fine roll of white canary silk that could be turned into a lovely hanfu as her prize.

    Li Xueyue hummed, "Perhaps."

    "Oh¡­" Duchess Wang Qixing winked. "Leave the gift to me then."

    "Thank you." Li Xueyue smiled. "Two days from now is Sunday, right? That means Father won''t be working."

    Duchess Wang Qixing was shocked. This was the first time that Xueyue had ever referred to the Duke as her father.

    She tried to suppress her smile. "Yes, he won''t. All of the Ministers are not supposed to work on the weekend. Well, most of them aren''t."

    "I see." Li Xueyue thoughtfully ced a finger on her chin. "The invitation said I can bring a friend."

    "We received two invitations, actually." Duchess Wang Qixing held up another yellow envelope. "Why don''t you bring a date? And I''ll hand this to one of the twins."

    Li Xueyue awkwardlyughed, scratching her cheek in confusion. "As if anyone would be my date."

    Duchess Wang Qixing gave her a pointed look. "Darling, shall we ask one of the men who''s been eager to have an audience with the Duke? How many was it today?" She turned to her head maidservant, Jinxia.

    Jinxia bowed her head, "Five men have approached our manor today, but we have escorted them off to the Pce where they can speak directly to the Duke."

    "Five." Duchess Wang Qixing snickered, "It''s a shame our Xueyue doesn''t even know of their existence."

    Jinxia slightly smiled and teased, "That''s because she doesn''t need them, they need her."

    Li Xueyue regretted what she had said. They were evidently teasing and poking fun at her ignorance.

    Gloomily, she muttered, "Fine¡­ I''ll consider a date."

    "Fantastic!" Duchess Wang Qixing instantly perked up, "I shall have a letter sent to the Commander."

    "Which one?" Li Xueyue panicked, standing up.

    Duchess Wang Qixing deftly smirked. "Which one came to mind?"

    Li Xueyue groaned, "Not this conversation again."

    "But you''ve yet to tell me your response!" Duchess Wang Qixing pout. "I don''t know whose ship I should captain for!"

    "Ship?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing giggled, "Yes, as in rtionship''s ship!"

    "Oh, Mother, tell me you haven''t nned out ship names already!"

    "Oh but I have! I''ve even thought of cute baby namebinations." Duchess Wang Qixing pouted. "You can''t spoil the fun by not telling me which Commander it is!"

    "But what if it''s neither of them?"

    "Oh pish posh, of course, it''s one of the Commanders." Duchess Wang Qixing rolled her eyes before horror took over her features.

    "Wait!" she gasped, covering her mouth like the Drama Queen she was, "Unless¡­ it''s the Fourth Prince?"

    Li Xueyue slumped in her chair, covering her face with the envelope. "Why do I feel like I''m building a reverse harem?"

    "Sounds fun." Duchess Wang Qixingughed at her daughter''s pure horror.

    "What sounds fun?" Li Chenyang asked, strolling into the pavilion. He picked up an envelope from the table before wrinkling his nose when he saw it was a love letter. He instantly ripped it.

    Li Xueyue instantly perked up, "Chen-ge! Do you have time on the weekend?"

    "For?"

    "Well, do you?"

    He crossed his arms. "You have to tell me the reason first."

    "Nuh uh! I asked you the question first."

    Li Chenyang scrunched his nose. "Then I won''t answer."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s mind finally pieced everything together. "He does! He has all the time in the world."

    "Mother, I''m busy on the weekends," Li Chenyang groaned, slumping in a chair beside Xueyue. He smacked her hand when she reached for another envelope that he instantly saw was another love letter.

    "Busy with napping until the afternoon," the Duchess scoffed. "Stop sleeping like a well-fed pig."

    "I''ll stop as soon as Wenmin stops eating like one."

    "Then I guess it''ll never happen," Li Xueyue snorted, remembering what happened at the breakfast table. Li Wenmin had greedily sniped thest braised egg when she reached for it.

    Duchess Wang Qixing sighed, wiping away an imaginary tear. "Who''s going to marry my sons now? One eats too much and the other sleeps too much!"

    "At least I''m not wasting money on unnecessary snacks," Li Chenyang snorted. "Didn''t you hear the news about his squadron reprimanding him because he snuck in food during training?"

    "What happened?" Li Xueyue giggled.

    "He was supposed to be seriously watching over them, but nooo! He was munching away on rice cakes while telling them to run longer."

    "Hey! How can you bad mouth me in my absence!" Li Wenmin huffed, tossing his helmet at Li Chenyang. Both twins had returned home from their long day of work.

    "For the record, I only snacked because Xiao Yue took the braised egg from me!"

    "Liar! You clearly stole it from me!" Li Xueyue gasped, pointing her finger at him.

    Li Wenmin opened and closed his mouth, attempting to counter her but couldn''t. Eventually, he settled with, "A grown man is supposed to eat at least four meals a day."

    "Yet you eat eight." Duchess Wang Qixing wept to herself. How did she raise such a glutton? She couldn''t help but regret the nights when she used to sneak her twins into the kitchen for midnight snacks.

    Li Wenmin sulked to himself in another chair while Li Chenyang continued to rip the love letters.

    "So, are you free this weekend?" Li Xueyue asked again, eyeing Li Chenyang weirdly. What was he doing?

    Li Chenyang glowered at her. "For you?"

    "Yes."

    Li Chenyang smirked. "Then no."

    "Hey!"

    Li Chenyang chuckled to himself, "Fine. I am."

    "Great!" Li Xueyue pped.

    "Fantastic!" Duchess Wang Qixing squealed. It was time for her matchmaking skills to be put to the test.

 Chapter 84 Eye Candy

    <h4>Chapter 84 Eye Candy</h4>

    In a blink of an eye, two days passed by like a breeze.

    Li Xueyue felt like she was deliberately putting herself into the lion''s den. The Bai''s Family carriage was right in front of the Li Family''s carriage on their journey to the Ning Manor.

    People who came for the celebration of Ning Huabing''s birthday were gathered outside the expansive front garden of the Ning Manor. They marveled at the ivory and green carriage that had just arrived. They gossiped about the beautiful Bai Tianai, the morous Viscountess Mu Yihua [1], and the adorable little Bai Yihao who clung to his mother''s leg. They seemed like the perfect family, all smiles and grins.

    "Goodness, Viscountess Mu, your hanfu is such a beautiful shade of green!''

    "Wow, Tianai, turn your head and let me see that earring."

    "Aw, look at Yihao. He can walk now!"

    "The Viscount produces such good-looking children."

    "What an adorable little boy Yihao is!"

    The edge of Bai Tianai''s lips twitched in irritation. The journey from Hechen to the Capital took forever. Moreover, she had struggled all morning to find the best clothes for this banquet. Despite all of her efforts, she was outshined by a little toddler who didn''t put any effort into his clothes.

    She sneered on the inside. Bai Yihao was already two years old. Of course he could walk by now! It wasn''t like he was two weeks or two months old. What''s there to be proud about? Sure, he''s cute as a doll right now, but these people should''ve seen the tantrum he threw in the carriage.

    "Tianai!" Her group of friends instantly swarmed her. They squealed at the sight of her dressed perfectly in the colors of the night.

    Bai Tianai smirked to herself, happy that she was surrounded by familiar people. The only problem was, where''s Han Jieru?

    Ning Huabing finally decided to show up and make her presence known. She didn''t like the fact that this was her birthday celebration, but Bai Tianai was unabashedly forcing all of the attention on her. She strutted to her friend and smiled.

    "Oh, Xiao Hua!" Bai Tianai giggled, "You look so beautiful today."

    Bai Tianai''s friends exchanged nces with each other. Bai Tianai rarely gave outpliments.

    "Thank you." Ning Huabing awkwardly smiled, realizing the stares from her friends. They obviously didn''t believe a word that came out of Bai Tianai''s mouth.

    Bai Tianai''s navy blue hanfu with embroidery of tiny stars climbing up the dress, clearly outshone the birthday girl''s outfit. She walked with confidence like she was supposed to be the center of today''s attention.

    "Well?" Bai Tianai blinked, expecting the samepliment in return.

    "You look great," Ning Huabing strained out, forced to look away when Bai Tianai''s smile lessened. It seemed she was expecting a betterpliment.

    "Thanks," Bai Tianai deadpanned, sighing to herself. "Wait, is this the hanfu you had the tailor make from the silk gifted to you by the Emperor?"

    Ning Huabing perked up, "Yeah¡ª"

    "Oh." Disappointment momentarily shed in Bai Tianai''s eyes before she hurriedly said, "Sorry. I should''ve noticed it in advance! But don''t you think ruby wouldplete your look perfectly?"

    Ning Huabing nced down at her hanfu that was an innocent shade of white with embroidered canaries on the perfect ces of her clothes. She had worn a long red sleeve to match the eyes of the soaring birds. Her ribbons were also a bright crimson color. The only thingcking was ruby essories that she didn''t prepare.

    "P-perhaps." Ning Huabing sighed, tucking her baby hairs behind her ears. Had she embarrassed Bai Tianai by standing beside her?

    "You''re doing that again." Bai Tianai frowned in disapproval. "You''ll mess up your bun if you keep on touching your hair."

    "Right," Ning Huabing curtly said. "It was a force of habit, I''m sorry."

    "I know." Bai Tianai softly sighed, casting her group of friends a knowing nce. "You know I didn''t mean to scold you right? It''s just¡­ I worry about you. We don''t want to ward off any prospective suitors that mighte forward."

    Bai Tianai adjusted Ning Huabing''s already perfect cor. "I just want you to look pretty, that''s all."

    "I know," Ning Huabing muttered.

    "Great!" Bai Tianai eximed. "So you''ll change your clothes right?"

    Ning Huabing opened and closed her mouth. She didn''t want to change. She thought she looked fine as she was. As a matter of fact, she was getting a lot of approving nods from the guests with every step she took.

    "No¡­?"

    "What? Why? You don''t believe my advice?" Bai Tianai frowned again.

    She turned to her friends, waiting for their verbal or non-verbal support. "She needs to change, right girls?"

    The women awkwardly exchanged nervous stares. They thought Ning Huabing looked amazing. Actually, Ning Huabing was very close to outshining Bai Tianai.

    "W-well, I think Ning Huabing needs to¡­ oh my god."

    Bai Tianai blinked. What? What was it? Were her lips painted the wrong shade?

    "Look¡­" One of her friends turned Bai Tianai''s shoulders around as everyone watched as arger carriage came to a halt at the front door of Marquis Ning''s manor. Royal blue and purple, the noticeable colors of one specific household.

    "Is that¡­!"

    "The Li Family is attending?!"

    Bai Tianai watched in horror as the carriage door opened and out stepped a man she never thought would set foot in Marquis Ning''s house. The Marquis was taking a sip of finely-aged rice wine when he choked at the arrival of the Li carriage. He was originally chatting with Viscount Bai Sheng, but abandoned him without a second thought.

    "Minister Li! It''s so good to see you!" Marquis Ning Guahe merrily greeted the stone-faced Li Chenyang who nodded in approval.

    "Marquis Ning, it has been a while," Li Chenyang said while turning towards the carriage.

    To everyone''s envy, they watched as one of the most eligible bachelors of the Capital escorted a girl in blue hanfu out of the carriage. She was dressed humbly, like the rest of the girls, careful to not outshine the celebrant, Ning Huabing. Even so, her simple hanfu, the color of morning skies, became elegant when she wore it. The soft whiteyers underneath the blue made it seem like rolling clouds fluttered under her legs.

    "If this isn''t our third-rank Princess Li!" Marquis Ning Guahe happilyughed, weing Li Xueyue.

    She smiled. "I didn''t get to congratte you on Ning Huabing''s victory in the tournament. She was a great opponent."

    Marquis Ning Guahe instantly perked up at herpliment. His cheeks were rosy and high from his beaming smile. "I''m so d you enjoyed the match!"

    Li Xueyue nodded in agreement just as Li Chenyang inched closer to her, sending a warning glower to any pair of eyes that watched her for longer than necessary.

    Ning Huabing felt light-headed at the presence of Li Chenyang. She did not forget his actions during the tournament and how he unknowingly shielded her from Commander Wen Jinkai''s scathing stare.

    One of her friends nudged her and gasped. "Is that¡­!"

    Just then, two more men emerged from the same carriage. A familiar face and an unknown one.

    Commander Wen Jinkai and another man. The question was, who was apanying Li Xueyue and who was apanying Li Chenyang?

    "Commander Wen Jinkai?!"

    "Who''s that handsome man next to him?"

    "Oh my god, I think I can die happy right now."

    "The air is so sweet from the eye-candies in front of me."

    Gossips and whispers emerged from the ashes, until the military family, the Hans, finally noticed who exactly was the stranger.

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together, irked that he had to bring his friend as a date. He originally had ns to have a proper discussion with Wen Jinkai about the conditions surrounding Xueyue, but things happened and one thing led to another and all three men were stringed along to the banquet.

    "Oh my god, it''s an honor to meet you, Commander," Marquis Ning Guahe pleasantly said, eagerly sticking his hand out in a handshake.

    Wen Jinkai firmly shook the hand, squeezing a little bit too hard. "Likewise."

    "And this is¡­?" Marquis Ning Guahe tilted his head in confusion until his eyes widened. He had seen this man before! In the Capital!

    "A friend of mine," Li Xueyue forced herself to say with a cringed smile.

    This damn Commander showed up at her door this morning. And matchmaking Duchess Wang Qixing instantly dragged him into the carriage to apany her daughter. Originally, the Duchess thought Wen Jinkai was the date when he showed up for a discussion with Li Chenyang.

    In the end, she decided to let nature take its course and have both suitors show up at the banquet. Who knows? Maybe after a dance or two, Li Xueyue would realize who beats in her heart.

    "This is Commander¡ª"

    "Yu Zhen of Hanjian," Marquis Ning Guahe hurriedly breathed out, not expecting such a formidable man to be in their midst. His reaction was strange, given the fact that Hanjian and Wuyi were supposedly enemies, but it was hard to deny his position and presence.

    The infamous Yu Zhen, son of the Emperor of Hanjian and the Second Prince of the country. Before he was a Commander, he was the second-runner for the title of Crown Prince of Hanjian.

 Chapter 85 Faul

    <h4>Chapter 85 Faul</h4>

    "I¡­ didn''t think you''d be friends with Commander Yu Zhen," Marquis Ning Guahe slowly said, careful to not offend any of his guests.

    "You know of him?" Li Xueyue was surprised, to which Yu Zhen nudged her, clearly offended. She smirked a little, happy that she found one of his sore spots.

    "Yes. It''d be strange to not know the Second Prince of Hanjian."

    Second Prince? Li Xueyue blinked once, twice and thrice. ''Great, he''s someone else I can''t outrun from.''

    "I didn''t know that Hanjian''s royal family was that famous."

    "Well, they used to be our enemy. Most people are naturally curious," Marquis Ning Guahe cautiously exined, his eyes darting from Li Xueyue to Commander Yu Zhen. Never in a million years would he think that a simple woman like Xueyue was acquainted with this man. It was peculiar.

    "Regardless, it''s a pleasure to meet you, Prince Yu Zhen." Marquis Ning Guahe warmly smiled.

    Yu Zhen nodded and replied, "Sure."

    "Well,e ine in!" Marquis Ning Guahe said, gesturing them inside the banquet that was suddenly quiet. When the four walked through the front entrance, conversations immediately continued.

    "This is quite interesting," Yu Zhenmented, turning to Li Xueyue who was eyeing him skeptically.

    "What is it?" he mused, his fingers twitching to do something with her. "Don''t shamelessly ogle me in public."

    Li Xueyue scoffed, "I was merely wondering why you''re so¡ª"

    "Suave?"

    Li Xueyue eyed him from head to toe before rolling her eyes as if she couldn''t believe what he just said. "If it helps you sleep at night, sure."

    "You want to know what else can help me sleep at night?"

    "No." She looked away, praying her dirty mind was not written all over her face.

    Seeing her reaction, Yu Zhen grinned to himself. "Why not? Did you think I was going to say something suggestive?"

    Li Xueyue crossed her arms and retorted, "As if I''d ever think of doing anything suggestive with you."

    "Oh, but you''d think of it with another man?" There was a hard edge to Yu Zhen''s yful tone. She turned her head to face him, her eyes shining brightly from the lights surrounding her. For a split second there, he saw hesitancy sh in her eyes.

    "Who said I would?"

    "You didn''t say you wouldn''t," Yu Zhen remarked when her eyes grew bigger from her curiosity. What was she looking at? She was examining his face as if searching for something. He slightly smiled, softly grabbing her chin with his fingers.

    "Like what you see?"

    "Never."

    "You sure?"

    "Positive."

    "I don''t think you are," he teased, releasing her chin when she slightly pulled back.

    "You should keep your hands to yourself," Wen Jinkai snarled from behind, grabbing Li Xueyue who narrowly dodged his hand. His eyes narrowed at her effortless dodge. In her haste, she had directly bumped into someone.

    "Why should I?" Yu Zhen challenged with a loose and easygoing smile on his reassured face.

    Wen Jinkai''s face became solemn and chilly. "Do you really think you''d win against me?"

    Yu Zhen''s eyes wandered to Li Xueyue. "I already have."

    "You cocky¡ª"

    "I''m sorry, are you alright?" Li Xueyue asked, only to surprise herself when she realized she had bumped into Ning Huabing who was apanied by her friends.

    Bai Tianai''s eyes widened in shock and horror. From up close, she could see the striking simrity between this woman and Bai Xueyue. She truly was Bai Xueyue.

    "Oh. That''s fine." Ning Huabing swallowed, her eyes bouncing from Li Xueyue to Bai Tianai. She found it surprising that they had a slight resemnce to each other. It was barely noticeable, but she always had a keen eye.

    "Happy birthday," Li Xueyue said with a slight smile, revealing the silver box she had held onto the entire time since she entered the banquet.

    "Presents are delivered to the table," Bai Tianai deadpanned, careful of her words as her eyes wandered to Minister Li and both of the Commanders.

    She was incredibly wary of all three men and couldn''t help but wonder how exactly that brat wormed her way into bing acquaintances with them.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "Do I know you?"

    Bai Tianai''s eyes narrowed suspiciously. What was the point of feigning ignorance? She was obviously Bai Xueyue! But she couldn''t reveal this out loud, or else her parents would catch on.

    "No¡ª"

    "That''s so strange."

    "What is?" Bai Tianai asked.

    "I don''t recall asking for your opinion then."

    Bai Tianai was instantly taken back by her bold words. She was nothing like Bai Xueyue. That brat was too meek and quiet to even find the courage to muster insults like that.

    Bai Tianai batted hershes and softly said, "I was merely trying to help you."

    "Did I ask you too?"

    "No, but¡ª"

    "Then why did you give it?" Li Xueyue feigned confusion whilst cing a finger on her chin.

    "Do you realize who you''re talking to?" one of the women surrounding Bai Tianai spoke up.

    Li Chenyang raised a brow and barked, "Who gave you the right to talk to a Princess like that?"

    When the woman shrank back, Li Xueyue ced a hand on his arm. "She didn''t mean any harm, Chen-ge," she innocently said, presenting the woman a weing smile. "Right?"

    The woman awkwardly fiddled with her fingers. She was confused by the sudden kindness from Xueyue. "R-right¡­"

    "Arrogance is frowned upon," Bai Tianai worriedly said, cing a hand on her chest. "Your behavior today¡ª"

    "My behavior?" Li Xueyue repeated, revealing a harmless smile on her weing face. "What do you mean?" she innocently batted hershes.

    Bai Tianai gritted her teeth. This wench was copying me! "Lady Li, you''re causing a ruckus."

    "D-did I offend anyone...?" Li Xueyue sullenly nced at the floor, an apologetic look on her face. She decided to y the same white lotus card that Bai Tianai was so fond of using.

    "Now you''ve put the birthday girl in a rough predicament." Bai Tianai frowned, shielding Ning Huabing. "How can you be so rude like this? Are you ming our Huabing?"

    Li Xueyue bit her tongue, allowing Bai Tianai to make a fool out of herself.

    "It''s her birthday today. Don''t you think you''ve overly essorized yourself?" Bai Tianai gently asked, even though she was more morously dressed than all of them when she wasn''t supposed to.

    Li Xueyue lifted her head with an apologetic look on her face. She inched closer to Li Chenyang, almost shying back in fear. "I only wanted to give a present to Ning Huabing..."

    Ning Huabing''s eyes widened. She didn''t think Li Xueyue was this coy. Her eyes trailed to an infuriated Li Chenyang who instantly ced aforting hand on Li Xueyue''s shoulder. He hugged Xueyue close to him in a protective nature whilst sending an using re towards Bai Tianai.

    He was prepared to take Li Xueyue home, which meant he would also be gone.

    Ning Huabing immediately shook her head and said, "N-no! You''re fine, thank you so much for the present."

    Bai Tianai''s face snapped to Ning Huabing who threw her an apologetic look. What else was she supposed to do? Continue offending Li Xueyue?

    "See, now you''ve forced Ning Huabing to break the protocols." Bai Tianai softly sighed, shaking her head in dismay. "I''m sorry I dragged you into this Xiao Hua."

    Ning Huabing shot her a begging stare to be quiet because the me was now actually directed to her. Bai Tianai would walk away from this unscathed.

    Every pair of eyesnded on them, wondering what was causing so much tension.

    Bai Tianai seemed apologetic as she softly hugged Ning Huabing from the side. "I''m so sorry that she''s causing this scene, Xiao Hua. It is your birthday after all."

    Ning Huabing was ced in a rough predicament. She could only drop her head in shame which instantly made it look like it was Li Xueyue''s fault.

 Chapter 86 To Be Stronger

    <h4>Chapter 86 To Be Stronger</h4>

    Bai Tianai inwardly smiled. Do you really want to turn the tables on me? You''re decades toote for that!

    "Did I offend you, Miss Bai?" Li Xueyue quietly asked with teary eyes. Another secondter and she looked like she was going to cry. Her lips trembled in the most harmless manner.

    Bai Tianai raised a brow. Was that the best she could do? "I think you offended Miss Ning."

    "By giving her a gift?" Li Xueyue sniffled, her tiny shoulders shaking.

    Bai Tianai narrowed her eyes. Was she really going to cry? She was so focused on Li Xueyue, she didn''t realize how misleading this scene looked to everyone else.

    "You weren''t simply giving a present, you were insulting me." Bai Tianai inwardlyughed. This white lotus act was so fake!

    "Insulting you?" Li Xueyue blinked, "This is our first encounter."

    "Why would my sister waste her time insulting a nobody?" Li Chenyang scoffed. "Look at yourself, Lady Bai. You''re creating a ruckus out of nothing."

    Bai Tianai was baffled by this and retorted, "I merely pointed out the errors in Li Xueyue''s ways."

    "What gave you the right to point out her ws?" Li Chenyang mused. "I think you''re more offended by my words, thus decided to take it out on someone else."

    Ning Huabing''s eyes darted from Li Chenyang to Li Xueyue.

    "We''re not attention-seekers like you," Li Chenyang deadpanned.

    "How am I an attention seeker? I''m merely protecting my friend." Bai Tianai figured she could do the same pitiful act that Xueyue was bravely putting on.

    "Why else are you more essorized than Ning Huabing?" asked Li Xueyue. Her eyes wererge and innocent which made her question seem harmless. Bai Tianai was not the only one who could put on a damsel-in-distress show. She had watched her sister long enough to understand how these games worked. It was quite fun to y Bai Tianai''s tricks against her.

    The onlookers nced from Bai Tianai to Li Xueyue. Neither girls had a stain on their reputation. To the public, they were so wless that it was hard to choose sides.

    "Do you realize you''re dragging Miss Ning''s name through the mud by deliberately bringing her up?" Li Xueyue softly and hesitantly said, batting her eyes.

    Bai Tianai forced herself to smile. "I''m only looking out for my friend. You''ve made her ufortable, so I have to protect her."

    "You protect friends by using them as shields?" Li Xueyue ced a hand over her mouth. "That''s not a good habit."

    "I wasn''t¡ª"

    "Xiao Hua this, Xiao Hua that. If you rece the majority of ''Xiao Hua'' mentioned, your name would fit perfectly there." Li Xueyue tilted her head like a naive little bunny.

    Yu Zhen realized that he had severely underestimated this woman. She had many faces and she knew how to use them perfectly. Innocent. Daring. Shy. She utilized her face to its full potential by ying into the image she wanted to portray. Just as Hu Dengxiao said, a woman who knew her potential was a dangerous one.

    She was treating this like childsy. He could see it in her kneaded brows, forming soft creases on her forehead. She was subtly portraying a white lotus. Schemer¡ªthat was what she was.

    As her words traveled to the curious onlookers'' ears and wormed its way into their brains, many of them began piecing two things together.

    "Isn''t that Viscount Bai''s daughter¡­?"

    "The night has barely begun and she already made a woman cry?"

    "What do you mean by already? I didn''t think Viscount Bai''s daughter was a bully. Look at the poor thing, she seems so upset. What happened?"

    Bai Tianai dug her fingers into her palm, forming fists; an action that Li Xueyue did not miss.

    "Are you mad at me, Lady Bai?"

    "No, of course not."

    "Why are you clenching your fists then?"

    Bai Tianai instantly rxed her fingers. She didn''t realize it was a force of habit. "Lady Li, what is your motive?"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together and innocently replied, "To give Ning Huabing her present¡­?"

    "I think your motive is to cause a ruckus."

    "I merely came to deliver a present."

    "I don''t think¡ª"

    "No one cares about what you think, Bai Tianai," Li Chenyang scoffed. "You were the one who started this entire conversation by saying ''presents should be delivered to the table.'' And now you''re feigning ignorance."

    He clicked his tongue and said, "I expected better from a Bai."

    At this moment, Viscount Bai Sheng finally made his presence known. He strolled towards his daughter and ced a warning hand on her shoulder. "What seems to be the problem here?"

    Bai Tianai instantly changed her behavior to maintain her image of a gentle and dutiful daughter in front of her father. The only problem was, her behavior changed too quickly. Her voice became a higher pitch and she stered on a wronged expression.

    She sniffed. "Daddy, I¡ª"

    "Wow, did you see that?"

    "That''s scary."

    Bai Tianai''s stiffened. She instantly realized her mistake and cursed inside her head.

    "Viscount Bai," Li Chenyang pleasantly greeted. "It seems your daughter is purposely trying to tarnish our family''s reputation."

    Li Xueyue felt her soul leave her body at the sight of her intimidating abuser. Even after two years, she still could not forget the horror he had inflicted on her. Even on this day, memories of her past shed before her eyes, just as her life did when he repeatedly raised a hand at her.

    Cold sweat drenched her from head-to-toe. She couldn''t even register their exchange of words. Her heart was frozen with fear and she couldn''t even move to shield her face from him.

    Viscount Bai Sheng nearly choked on his spit. What did this young man just say? He was years his junior and he dared to point fingers at Bai Tianai, his perfect daughter?!

    "That seems to be your motive," Viscount Bai Sheng countered.

    "What benefit would I obtain from tarnishing the reputation of an unknown aristocrat?" Li Chenyangughed. "Besides, why did you only bring one daughter? I heard rumors that you had another one."

    Viscount Bai Sheng''sposed face darkened incredibly. "What do you mean?"

    Li Xueyue felt her entire body tense in horror. She didn''t think Li Chenyang would know about this. Did he know¡­ that she was Viscount Bai''s daughter?

    "Don''t tell me, you forgot your second daughter?" Li Chenyang raised an expectant brow.

    When Viscount Bai Sheng''s displeased eyes traveled from Li Chenyang and attempted to wander to Li Xueyue, a figure blocked his view.

    Wen Jinkai had deliberately shifted his body until Li Xueyue was stealthily hidden behind hisrge arm.

    Expertly hidden from unnecessary attention, a hand touched hers. Li Xueyue nced down and to her surprise, it was Wen Jinkai''s. He wrapped his fingers around her hand, clenching it with reassurance.

    She didn''t need him to fight her battles. She was not that type of woman. But there were certain times that required her to swallow her pride and now was the best one. She could not risk staring directly into his eyes. If she did, all of her confidence and haughtiness would disperse like the facade it was.

    ''I need to be stronger,'' was the sole thought running through her head.

    She believed she needed to be stronger to face Viscount Bai head-on. She needed to be stronger so that she did not have to rely on others. After all these years of never being able to rely on someone, she never had the sce of resting on someone else''s shoulders.

    ''If I wasn''t so weak¡­ I would have argued for myself. I wouldn''t have burdened Li Chenyang.'' Guilt and remorse filled her entire heart, squeezing it painfully.

    "Well?" Li Chenyang humorlessly smiled.

    Viscount Bai Shengughed. "What are you talking about?"

    "Did you forget your other daughter?"

    Viscount Bai Sheng swallowed. How did Minister Li Shenyang know of that girl? There were only a handful of people who knew of Li Xueyue''s existence.

    "What are you talking about? I didn''t have another¡­" he trailed off when he saw his wife''s face, pale with disbelief. The only problem was, Viscountess Mu Yihua was not looking at him. The Viscountess was looking at the back of a girl that she''d never thought she would see again.

 Chapter 87 Second Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 87 Second Daughter</h4>

    Viscount Bai Sheng struggled to see whom Viscountess Mu Yihua was staring at. He wanted to know but he couldn''t because of Wen Jinkai''s protective stance next to Li Chenyang who deliberately shielded the girl whom Bai Tianai was having a disagreement with.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua took a hesitant step closer towards the familiar back but forced herself to stop. She had no right to walk any closer.

    "Why are we discussing my second daughter when the discussion is about Bai Tianai? She was only looking out for Ning Huabing. Isn''t that right?" Viscount Bai Sheng turned to Ning Huabing. He sighed on the inside. All of this for a woman as useless as her?

    "So you do admit that you had another daughter." Li Chenyang raised a brow.

    Viscount Bai Sheng narrowed his eyes.

    "Interesting," was the only thing Li Chenyang remarked before his eyes shifted to Ning Huabing. "Did my sister offend you in any way?"

    Ning Huabing''s eyes slid to her father who instantly shook his head at her. He wanted to intervene but did not want to put himself in between two households.

    "I didn''t see the harm in her gesture," Ning Huabing said, watching as satisfaction filled Li Chenyang''s features. He was pleased by her words and nodded.

    "See? This could''ve been solved by asking that question." Viscount Bai Sheng frowned. "Why did you try to drag it more than necessary, Minister Li?"

    "I didn''t." Li Chenyang shrugged. "Your daughter was."

    "My daughter would never¡ª"

    "Then you don''t know your daughter well enough," Yu Zhen finally spoke up. He was standing silently in the background, observing everything the entire time. He wondered about Li Xueyue''s sudden shift in her mood. Why did she look so terrified of this man? Did she know him? If she did, it would change the entire dynamic.

    "Why, I¡ª"

    "Your daughter enjoys making a fool out of herself," Yu Zhen freely said, shrugging at the Viscount''s aggravated expression. "She was deliberately trying to ruin two women''s reputations at once while saving hers."

    Onlookers exchanged meaningful nods. Indeed, they began to realize that this entire time, Bai Tianai was dragging Ning Huabing into the conversation even when thetter didn''t say anything. What was the point of Bai Tianai mentioning Ning Huabing so many times when clearly, she was the one most offended.

    "I didn''t think Bai Tianai was like this."

    "Viscount Bai has failed in raising her."

    "Second daughter huh? Howe we''ve never heard of her?"

    "Well, if my first daughter was like this, I would be too ashamed to even introduce another one to society."

    Viscount Bai Sheng stiffened. He was stuck between a rock and a hard ce. He had to either apologize or make his daughter apologize. To the Viscount, his daughter was not in the wrong, but it would be better for his business if she took the fall.

    "It seems my daughter is at fault, she will apologize." Viscount Bai Sheng finally relented, but unknowingly this was his biggest mistake. A father should always protect his daughter. Not the other way around.

    "Hah, look at how shameless he is."

    "They''re both at fault but now he''s making her apologize."

    "Like father like daughter, I guess."

    Bai Tianai glowered at the position she was in¡ªa position that Li Xueyue was supposed to be standing in, but instead, thetter was being protectively sheltered. How nice it must be for her to whore around and have two men entangled in her sheets.

    "If I have offended you in any way, I''m sorry," Bai Tianai managed to grit out, hanging her head in shame.

    Li Chenyang tilted his head. "Originally, we weren''t offended, but this pathetic apology is¡­ quite disappointing. What gives you the right to offend a third-rank Princess? It can be counted as treason against the Crown"

    "Clearly, the Viscount failed to teach his daughter any manners. What a shame." Li Chenyang heaved a sigh.

    Viscount Bai Sheng''s heart dropped to his stomach at the Minister''s provoking words. He felt his confidence begin to waver, his eyes shaking and his palms sweating. He had forgotten this brat was a third-rank Princess.

    The onlookers snickered and giggled amongst themselves, their whispers soft and inaudible, but to Viscount Bai and his daughter, they were shrilling screams. This gossip would leave a stain on their reputation.

    "Wow, look at how shameless this Bai Tianai is."

    "I heard she participated in the painting tournament to get suitors."

    "How interesting, isn''t she promised to Zheng Leiyu?"

    "Guess not."

    Everyone gossiped amongst themselves, their words barely above a whisper but to the Viscount and Bai Tianai, it sounded like shrilling screams.

    "Both of you are at fault anyways." Li Chenyang shook his head and said, "I see where your daughter''s habit of using other people came from."

    "I did nothing wrong. I only asked about the situation," Viscount Bai Sheng''s voice trembled.

    Li Chenyang sighed. These people were so easy to ridicule, he pitied their stupidity.

    "We''ll see about that." Li Chenyang shrugged before cing a guiding hand on Li Xueyue''s shoulders. "Let''s head home. Their ignorance might turn us stupid."

    Marquis Ning Guahe instantly made moves to prevent this. His reputation was improving by just having the Li and Wen family here at once. It would be foolish to waste this opportunity.

    "Wait!" he said. "Why don''t we peacefully solve this?"

    Li Chenyang briefly cast a disgusted stare towards Bai Tianai. "No need."

    "I-I see¡­" Marquis Ning Guahe said. "Then how about this?"

    He turned to Viscount Bai Sheng. "If you do not mind, Viscount, perhaps you can escort your daughter to elsewhere?"

    "What? But my Tianai didn''t mean any harm¡ª"

    "This problem all started because she spoke out of turn, isn''t it? I understand that women love to chatter, but I was hoping a less¡­ crowded area would clear her mind."

    Where else would be less crowded aside from the front entrance and exit of this manor?

    Everyone instantly understood his polite but discreet message. They were getting publicly kicked out of here. Like a bunch of hooligans.

    "Xiao Hua, I''m sorry for ruining your party." Bai Tianai sniffed, "I hope you''ll forgive me for this."

    "Please don''t disturb my daughter any longer." Marquis Ning Guahe frowned in disapproval. "You''re dragging her into this mess when today is supposed to be a celebration for her."

    Bai Tianai burst into tears as she remorsefully hugged Ning Huabing. "I''m so sorry Xiao Hua!" she cried, before harshly whispering, "You can redeem yourself by tossing whatever present that bitch gave you!"

    Then she detached herself from Ning Huabing and hid her sobbing face behind her hands. She wept and walked off, purposely giving a show, hoping to garner some sympathy from the crowd. She received none.

    Viscount Bai Sheng wanted to leave with his daughter, but he couldn''t. He had to stay behind andwork, then clear her mess.

    Reluctantly, he bowed his head and said, "I apologize for this mess."

    Marquis Ning Guahe was a good-natured man with a genuine heart. He couldn''t help but pity Viscount Bai Shenng for this public humiliation. It would be difficult for the man to recover.

    "I hope there won''t be a next time for this," Marquis Ning Guahe said.

    "I''ll make sure my daughter never behaves this rashly ever again," Viscount Bai Sheng promised.

    "So you acknowledge she was irrational? Fantastic. We are on the same page," Marquis Ning Guahe sniped. "Have a good day, Viscount Bai."

    Viscount Bai Sheng blinked in disbelief. What was the problem? He had already forced Bai Tianai to apologize. He, too, had apologized as well! Now he was being escorted out?!

    "Marquis Ning, you''re aware¡ª"

    "I''m aware that you''re upsetting my daughter and the guest by your presence." Marquis Ning Guahe knew there was nothing that could be done but to get rid of the entire problem.

    Viscount Bai Sheng nced around where all of his friends and acquaintances were watching him with wary and disapproving stares. They were embarrassed to even be his friend at this point.

    "Very well." He held his head high as he guided his wife and son out the entrance, but this haughty behavior only caused the people to badmouth him further.

    How would he possibly recover from this?

 Chapter 88 Play Your Role

    <h4>Chapter 88 y Your Role</h4>

    After the entire ordeal was done and dusted, Marquis Ning Guahe urged everyone to enjoy the birthday banquet as if nothing unpleasant just happened. He gestured towards the instrumentalists to begin ying and for the dancers to be brought in for a congrattory performance dedicated to Ning Huabing. It didn''t take long for everything to resume as normal.

    Someway, somehow, Li Xueyue found herself alone. She quietly made her way towards the long table of snacks and pastries that were calling out to her.

    Li Xueyue looked around and was relieved when no one seemed to be paying her any attention. When no one was looking, she reached for a bite-size cake shaped like a blossoming peony. It was surprisingly crumbly and sweet with a slightly tangy vor to it.

    "Where did you learn to act like that?"

    Li Xueyue didn''t turn her head around while she reached for another cake. A hand was reaching for the same te she was reaching for, however, instead of grabbing a cake, he had clutched her hand, forcing her to turn around.

    Yu Zhen warmly smiled for her, his smile reached his eyes. Had Li Xueyue been a regr woman, she would''ve swooned and marveled at his appeal. The moon was high in the sky and its light seemed to have shone solely upon him.

    "That tearful act was splendid. Who taught you to behave like this?"

    "All of my moves are calcted," Li Xueyue simply said, tugging her hand back. He was hesitant at first but slowly released her. He didn''t like to force unwilling women unless he was teasing them.

    "I can tell," Yu Zhen chuckled, grabbing her chin and gently squeezing it to his amusement. "From the Pce to here, you love to scheme."

    Li Xueyue paused, "I only scheme against them when they scheme against me."

    "So I was right. That apologetic stare in the Pce was fake. That tearful sob in the argument was fake. You yed your role quite well."

    "To survive in this two-faced society, you need to have more faces than the others," Li Xueyue asserted.

    "Will you show me your true face then?"

    Seductively low, enticing, and dangerous, his tone suggested he wanted more than that. His scent of pine cones and spices were warm and surrounded her, pulling her to him when she didn''t want to be anywhere near him. He did things to her heart that she did not anticipate.

    Li Xueyue stared him down when he confidently touched the side of her face, his fingers coarse but gentle.

    "You don''t deserve to see it."

    He paused, his eyes shed with mirth. "Why not?"

    "I¡­" Li Xueyue hesitated. She didn''t know why.

    Yu Zhen''s smile became cunning and mischievous. He took a daring step forward and when she didn''t take another step back, he settled a hand at the small of her back.

    "Is this a calcted move as well?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes shed with shock.

    "You''re testing me."

    She tried to push him away from her but he took another step towards her until they were too close to not be intimidated.

    "What are you doing?" she hissed, realizing there were many wandering eyes settled upon her. "Are you trying to trap me? What is with you men and being so damn touchy."

    Yu Zhen chuckled, his chest lightly rumbling. The light in his eyes danced beneath the glow of thenterns, trapping her curious stare. "Perhaps you bring that trait out in us."

    "Don''t try to pin the me on me."

    Yu Zhen smiled at how quickly she sassed him. Would she ever get tired of this feisty streak? It was amusing. Her reactions made him want to bully her more.

    "I was only trying to point out a fact."

    "No one asked you to."

    "Oh, but you did."

    "It was a rhetorical question."

    "I''m sure it was," Yu Zhen scoffed.

    Using a single finger, he brought her baby hairs behind her ears, his smile deepening when it revealed more of her pale cheeks. He was focused solely on her but she did not give him her full attention. She was worriedly staring at something over his shoulder.

    Wen Jinkai was surrounded by women. He was quiet and brooding but did not reject the advances of these wealthy aristocratic daughters who fawned over him. Commander this, Commander that, they were so deeply in love with him, they were willing to bear his silence if it meant being near him.

    Yu Zhen didn''t have to look to know whom she was staring at.

    "If they act like they can live without you, let them," Yu Zhen warned her, a hard edge to his voice before he yanked her to his chest, forcing her to focus on him. Li Xueyue felt her heart drop when she heard the furious rhythm of his heartbeat.

    Li Xueyue breathed out in shock, struggling in his arms, hating that he was bing more and more unrestrained with his actions.

    "Has anyone ever told you your face was an open book?" Yu Zhen only hugged her tighter and breathed, "You''re so young, yet there is so much despair in your eyes."

    Li Xueyue despised his uracy. "I hate men like you."

    Yu Zhen''s smile went from adoring to understanding. "I know you do, Sunshine."

    "Then why are you still holding onto me? Let me go, you damn brute."

    "But I don''t want to." Yu Zhen slightly pouted for her, resting his chin on top of her head. "Everyone is eyeing you as if you''re essible."

    "I am."

    She could feel the violent rumble of his chest when he heartilyughed. Arrogant and confident, he said to her, "Are you sure?"

    "Yes."

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. She answered in a heartbeat and was not fazed by the fact that she waspletely wrapped in another man''s embrace. He could forcefully dere that she wasn''t essible, that he greedily wanted her all to himself.

    It wasn''t because she was unlike the other girls or that she was "unique" and "special", but because she was a puzzle he''d like to piece together.

    She was everything his conscience warned to not meddle with¡ªa girl meant to soar the sky, but if she flew too close to the sun, would fall from all of her grace.

    Multyered, difficult, and arrogant, she was an unconventional woman who knew exactly what she wanted. Someone not afraid of expressing her mind and desires, someone who demanded half the power in a rtionship.

    She was someone who aspired to fly, but forgot humans don''t have wings.

    He aspired to tie her down, but could not bring himself to be forceful with her. He desired to hug her tighter even when she resisted with her entire soul. There were so many forceful things he could do to her, but would never dare to. This realization was puzzling.

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion when his arms loosened and he created some distance between them whilst still holding onto her. There were so many emotions running through his eyes, she couldn''t hold onto one long enough to understand what he was thinking.

    "If your heart is set on the wrong person, he would only make you beg for his affection andmitment that should be essible if he truly cares about you. The right person gives you these things without you asking for it," he told her before he left her standing by the table, absolutely dumbfounded in disbelief.

    He finally had her attention. He could feel it¡ªa pressing stare bore a hole through the back of his head while he disappeared into the crowd.

    He could''ve left her there and never turned back, he could''ve returned to Hanjian and lived a merry life without her, but a tiny part of him knew that it would be impossible. She had already stolen something of his and he had barely known her. He should''ve continued walking, but he didn''t.

    He paused for her, looked back and shed her a wink before disappearing into the crowd.

 Chapter 89 Miles Away

    <h4>Chapter 89 Miles Away</h4>

    Li Xueyue was worried about the condition of her heart. It fell when he left but jumped when he turned his head back to wink at her before leaving.

    She was puzzled by his unexpected behavior. He was a confusing man with hidden motives. He was different from Wen Jinkai in every way possible. Dazzling like the sun and mellow like the moon, Yu Zhen was a man with too many personalities. He wasn''t traditionally aloof, nor was he unnecessarily kind.

    As a matter of fact, she didn''t know anything about him.

    Her eyes subconsciously sought for him in the crowd, simr to when her eyes were solely focused on Wen Jinkai. That sneaky Yu Zhen¡­ now that he had her attention, he decided to make her work for him.

    She jumped when someone brushed past her, a soft whisper following after, "Meet me behind the willow tree."

    By the time Li Xueyue turned to see who it was, the person was gone.

    For a brief moment, she looked in the direction that Wen Jinkai was in. He hadn''t moved, but his rigid lips were slightly curled upwards. It was barely noticeable from afar, but she''d be able to recognize that lopsided smile from miles away. He hadn''t nced at her the entire time. Only when he felt her stare did he raise his eyes, but she was long gone.

    Li Xueyue ignored the ufortable feeling in her stomach. She didn''t care if he was surrounded by women. She didn''t care about his push and pull game. She didn''t care about him and his lies.

    Standing under the thick willow tree was none other than Ning Huabing. She ushered them behind therge concave of the tree, walking them to the other side so that no one would catch them together.

    "What are we?" Ning Huabing asked, turning her face to Li Xueyue.

    To Li Xueyue''s pleasant surprise, her present was put to good use. A daring pair of ruby earrings restedfortably on Ning Huabing''s ears, sparkling with each movement.

    "You make it sound like we''re a couple," Li Xueyue snorted, crossing her arms whilst she leaned against the stubbly bark of the tree.

    Ning Huabing raised a brow. "Seriously? That''s the first thing you think of?"

    Li Xueyue shrugged in response while observing her surroundings. The willow tree was rtively healthy and its hanging branches created a thick curtain around them, shielding them from any wandering eyes. In particr, they couldn''t be spotted by Bai Tianai and her cronies.

    "Why are you after Bai Tianai?"

    "Why should I tell you?" Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "I need to know your motive to carry out your ns."

    "Who said anything about ns?" Li Xueyue turned to Ning Huabing who was ying with one of the branches near her.

    "Why else do you want to befriend me?"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "Fair point."

    "What will I get out of you using me?"

    "I wouldn''t call it using you," Li Xueyue worriedly said, her browsing together. "I just want to be friends with you."

    "Oh, please. No one wants to be friends with me for the sake of being friends. Everyone always wants something." Ning Huabing sighed, twirling a branch in between her fingers.

    "Of course they do. The healthiest rtionships are the ones where both parties benefit from it," Li Xueyue pointed out.

    "Then what will I be benefiting from this?" Ning Huabing curiously asked. She needed everything to be established before she could trust anyone. She needed to know what''s in it for her.

    Being friends with someone like Bai Tianai wasforting for Ning Huabing. She felt a sense of familiarity in being friends with Bai Tianai because that''s what her life had mainly consisted of¡ªfriendships with other aristocratic daughters in a close-knit circle.

    "What do you want?" Li Xueyue genuinely asked.

    Ning Huabing didn''t spell it out but there was a sense of despair in her eyes. "Believe it or not, I turn 21 today."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. She had no idea Ning Huabing was three years older than her.

    "My mother fears I would grow old and lonely just because no one has courted me."

    "What?!" Li Xueyue hissed, throwing a look of disbelief towards Ning Huabing. The girl was gorgeous! Howe no one came forth?

    "I mean¡­ there have been a few suitors here and there, but they always¡­ just, well I don''t know." Ning Huabing shrugged. "They always disappear on me."

    "Did they say why?" Li Xueyue pressed on, equally as confused as Ning Huabing. Why did she have a suspicion that someone was behind all of this?

    "I don''t know," Ning Huabing groaned. "They''re always like this when they meet my¡­ oh nevermind." She sighed, not wanting to sound like she was ming outside influences.

    "My point is, I don''t want to be a leftover woman [1]."

    "Leftover?" Li Xueyue was taken back. Ning Huabing was only 21! Her life had barely begun!

    "Girls older than the ripe marriage age of 18 to 21 be leftovers¡­"

    "That''s so stupid," Li Xueyue scoffed. Sometimes she felt like she was born in the wrong era.

    "I know," Ning Huabing huffed while plucking one of the small leaves off the branch she was ying with. "Most of my friends already have someone courting them. I mean, Bai Tianai has Zheng Leiyu, but there''s also someone else she''s¡ªoh nevermind. I''m rambling. Sorry."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes narrowed. Someone else?

    "But you get my point, don''t you?"

    "You want me to find you a suitor?" Li Xueyue deadpanned, blinking in disbelief. She could not wrap her head around the fact that Ning Huabing herself was having difficulty. It shouldn''t be possible¡­ unless someone was meddling with her chances of sess.

    "Yes, and in return, I''ll help you."

    Li Xueyue was suspicious of Ning Huabing''s alliance. "Prove to me you can be loyal."

    "How?"

    Li Xueyue straightened when she spotted a group of women in the distance¡ªBai Tianai''s friends. They were looking around, obviously searching for Ning Huabing.

    "I''ll leave that up to you."

    "That''s vague."

    "I know," Li Xueyue said, "I need to test your intelligence as well."

    "Aren''t you worried that I''ll snitch on you?"

    Li Xueyueughed, her face lighting up with mirth. She didn''t look the slightest bit offended. "Trust me, you don''t want me as your enemy."

    "Why?"

    Li Xueyue giggled, the sound was airy and gentle. "Because I can be your worst nightmare." With that said, she left the seclusion of the willow tree and left.

    Ning Huabing nervously bit her bottom lip while contemting a great n to prove her loyalty. She mindlessly fiddled with her new earrings just as someone caught her eye. Instantly, she straightened up and decided to approach him. The man that Bai Tianai was in cahoots with.

 Chapter 90 What Do You Want From Me

    <h4>Chapter 90 What Do You Want From Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue searched for Li Chenyang so that they could head home.

    Her first scheme against Bai Tianai was already dealt with. She had given Ning Huabing her present and wished her a birthday. She had stayed here for a while now and felt like there was no need to remain here any longer if there was no benefit to it aside frompanionship. Besides, it was gettingte, and a few people also shared the same mindset.

    Walking through the crowd, she was abruptly grabbed by the elbow. She turned around, shocked to see the person who had a tight grip on her was none other than a displeased Wen Jinkai. He didn''t wait for her to say anything before he began dragging her to a secluded area near the rose bushes.

    Li Xueyue crossed her arms, leaning against one of therge trees near the bush. She''d prefer if her identity was kept hidden. No one else was around them.

    "What do you want from me, Commander?"

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes were brewing a storm, dangerous enough to drown her. His aura was tense and threatened to suffocate her alive. The atmosphere was awkward. He didn''t know what to do with her.

    Her attention momentarily flickered to the tick of his jaw when he clenched it and the creases between his knitted brows.

    "Why are you like this?" Commander Wen Jinkai growled. To his irritation, she crossed her arms across her chest, almost in a protective manner. Did she think he''d hurt her?

    "What are you getting from ying around with other men?"

    "What?" Li Xueyue hissed in disbelief.

    "You were publicly dered to be promised to me and now you''re involved with Yu Zhen."

    "How does that concern you?" Li Xueyue scowled. "You made it clear you wanted nothing to do with me¡ª"

    "I made it clear that I wanted everything to do with you!" he snarled, storming to her.

    She didn''t take a timid step backward to create distance. Instead, she raised her head and red deeply into his eyes. A storm against a hurricane.

    "No, you didn''t," Li Xueyue calmly responded. She preferred to argue in the most passive voice. Not because she wanted to anger him, but because loud voices do not prompt open ears.

    "You gave me a vague answer and expect me to read your mind," she continued, resisting the urge to roll her eyes.

    "I gave you a vague answer because I wasn''t sure of what I felt. Why are you so impatient for an answer? Is it so wrong to be friends and wait it out¡ª"

    "Friends?" Li Xueyue repeated, gesturing to the proximity he had forced them to be in. "Do friends get jealous over another man? Do friends talk about marriage? Do friendssh out like this?"

    Wen Jinkai pressed his lips together. "Are you so eager to cage a man like me?"

    "Excuse me?!"

    "Do you know what people might think of you? A loose woman."

    Li Xueyue almost smacked him. She had raised her hand, her eyes wide with frustration. He didn''t even flinch. He simply red at her, daring her to hit him.

    Her heart was racing, her blood boiling, and her breath quickened. She was enraged by his insults, by his bold usations. Who the hell did he think he was?!

    She roughly grabbed him by the cors, yanking his head down so they were the same height.

    "Don''t you ever call me that when you think with your dick and not your brain," she seethed.

    Li Xueyue then shoved him away from her, but he grabbed her shoulders and mmed her back against the tree bark.

    Li Xueyue bit down on her tongue to not cry out in pain. He had hurt her; it was written all over her face, but he turned a blind eye to her emotions.

    "I said that for your own good," he growled.

    "Just like how dragging me to a secluded ce was for my own good?"

    He violently punched the tree, so close to her head that she tensed. The tree shook from the force as leaves tumbled down. Her eyes widened and for the first time in their encounter, she was fearful of him.

    "Apologize."

    "What?" she asked in disbelief.

    "Apologize and take back what you said." Wen Jinkai was calm and collected, his voice cool and cid, but nothing could mask the fury in his eyes.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart drop all the way to the pit of her stomach. She looked away from him, but he grabbed her jaw and forced her to stare at nothing but him. Goosebumps crawled up her arms, and she shivered against the iciness in his eyes.

    "I''m sorry!" Li Xueyue fumed. It was then she had lost all hope in him. He had hurt her, but she was the one to apologize for it.

    Finally, Wen Jinkai released her, and she immediately seized that opportunity to run. It surprised him when she whirled past him. He immediately reached for her wrist, only to grab her sleeves.

    "You shouldn''t run in these clothes¡ª" he paused when he saw the look on her face. Her eyes were shaking and she looked like she saw a ghost.

    "You''re scared of me," Wen Jinkai pointed out, slowly releasing her sleeves.

    She didn''t respond, her face a mixture of disgust, hatred, and dread.

    Wen Jinkai''s face instantly softened, terrified by the idea that she''d always feel frightful around him. He didn''t want to hurt her. "Little Fawn, I was just angry with myself. I didn''t mean to scare you."

    Remorse was painted all over his face, his eyes bing as gentle as the soothing waves of the ocean. "Come here, Little Fawn." His voice dripped of sweet promises and adoration. "You''re shaking, let me¡ª"

    "I''d appreciate it if you keep a distance from me," Li Xueyue told him.

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "Have a good night, Commander," Li Xueyue briskly told him before fleeing back to the banquet that hade to a closure. People were all leaving one by one, filing into the carriages.

    Li Xueyue could feel the desperation in his prating stare before she looked away. She told herself she shouldn''t look back at him, but she did. He was leaning against the tree, a hand over his face in disbelief.

    "Xueyue?" Li Chenyang spoke, happy and d that he had found her.

    Where did she wander off to? He had been searching for her for a while now. Relief flooded him when she turned to face him, but it was quickly reced by suspicion.

    "What happened?" he asked, stepping closer to her. She looked terrified out of her mind. He could see it in the way her eyes nervously darted from him to the ground.

    "Did someone do something to you? Did someone hurt you?" he worriedly asked, bending his head to her height. She didn''t reply.

    "Who was it?" he whispered to which she shook her head, still shaken up by what had just happened to her.

    "A name. All you had to do is give me a name and he''ll never bother you again. I promise."

    For the second time tonight, she felt sheer terror. No one in this world could oppose Wen Jinkai. Whatever he wanted, he''d get. With no consequences.

    She realized no one could protect her from him. She realized no amount of guards would keep her safe from him. He possessed more power and influence than she had anticipated. And he wouldn''t hesitate to use it against her.

    She would never feel safe. Ever again.

    Li Chenyang saw the dread on her face. "Xueyue¡­" he trailed off, unsure of what to tell her.

    "I want to go home," she pleaded.

    He lowered his face and whispered, "It''s Wen Jinkai isn''t it?"

    "I don''t want to talk about it¡ª"

    "I''m going to destroy him." Li Chenyang snarled, straightening up, but she grabbed him.

    "Chen-ge, I just want to go home."

    "Did he do anything to you?" he seriously asked, grabbing her.

    Li Chenyang had to know it was truly over. He was prepared to cut all ties with Wen Jinkai, but he needed her confirmation first. Their friendship was already strained by an incident that urred way before Xueyue''s arrival at the Li Manor, but this incident would forever ruin it.

    ''He hurt me and then I apologized for it.'' The confession rested on the tip of her tongue.

    "I don''t want any trouble, Chen-ge."

    "You won''t get in trouble."

    "I will." Li Xueyue looked around them and whispered, "I have a suspicion why the Emperor finds it so interesting to poke and jab at me."

    "Why?"

    "It''s because he doesn''t like the idea of Wen Jinkai being near me."

    "I guess I finally have something inmon with my uncle," Li Chenyang scoffed. "Don''t worry Xueyue," he leaned into her ear and discreetly whispered, "Father warned him."

    Li Xueyue blinked. "How is that possible?"

    "Just trust me," Li Chenyang warmly told her, patting her cheek. "Are you sure you want to continue protecting him like this?"

    Li Xueyue stared at the ground, finding it oddly fun to count every single pebble on the path. She didn''t want to be the reason why a friendship had ended. It''d feel like... she''s a friendship wrecker? Besides, this was her issue to deal with. She had been all alone for most of her life and it made it difficult for her to ever rely and depend on someone else for their help.

    "Yes. I''m sure."

 Chapter 91 Protecting

    <h4>Chapter 91 Protecting</h4>

    Deciding to change the topic, Li Xueyue asked, "Where did Yu Zhen go?"

    "Oh, that''s a good question. I lost track of him," Li Chenyang said, looking around in confusion. "Maybe he went home on his own?"

    Li Xueyue examined their surroundings and noticed the majority of the guests had already left. Only a few lingered behind to have a final word with Marquis Ning who stood by the door and Ning Huabing who was bidding everyone goodbye. Therge garden was quite empty, and Yu Zhen was nowhere in sight.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure if she wanted him to see her in this state. "He came with us, do you think he''d have a carriage to take him to wherever he''s staying?" She didn''t mean to sound so worried about him, but it just came out like that.

    Li Chenyangughed a bit and pinched her cheek.

    "Try to not show you''re so worried about a man. They''ll like you more if you do," he teased her while cing a hand on her upper back to guide her towards the front entrance.

    "I don''t care about him," Li Xueyue mumbled, ying with the ribbons on her waist belt before dropping it. Memories of his shameless tugs on her ribbons resurfaced in her mind.

    "I hope not." Li Chenyang softly smiled down at her. "You did well today."

    "Did I?" Li Xueyue hummed, "It wasn''t too dramatic?"

    "Only a teeny tiny bit, but it''s one of your first times. Practice makes perfect," he told her.

    "Minister Li and Princess Li Xueyue! Thank you for gracing us with your presence tonight," Marquis Ning Guahe cheerily spoke. He was intelligent enough to know which family to prioritize and bootlick over the rest which could be dyed.

    Li Chenyang merely nodded. "I appreciate the invitation."

    "It was a lovely celebration banquet. I''ve never seen one as fun and interesting as this one," Li Xueyue said, even though it was her first timeing to a celebration like this.

    Despite being sixteen years old when she was left for dead by the Bai Family, not once had they allowed her to participate in Bai Tianai''s birthday parties.

    From her room, she could always smell the amazing scent of food and hear the festive music and the happy chatter of the people. The noises always taunted her, reminding her of the fact that she wasn''t even worthy enough to set foot in the party that was just a few feet away.

    The Duke and Duchess always preferred things to be private, thus, for the past two years, Xueyue''s birthdays were celebrated just among the five of them withrge feasts of her favorite food and dessert.

    She neverined. To her, family was all that mattered. She liked the intimate setting of her birthday celebrations because she got to spend much-needed family time with people who actually love and care for her.

    "I''m so d you enjoyed it!" Marquis Ning Guahe eximed with a bright smile. "I hope you visit our manor often. My daughter would love yourpany."

    "That''s right," Ning Huabing warmly said with a tiny smile. Instantly, it captured the attention of a few lingering men. But they instantly looked away, remembering the rumors they heard from one of her friends.

    Li Chenyang curiously examined her and returned his attention back to Marquis Ning Guahe. Where was the Marquess?

    It was as if Marquis Ning Guahe read Li Chenyang''s mind as he added on, "I wish my wife was here to celebrate with us. She''s cities away and couldn''t make it back in time."

    Ning Huabing nced at her hands, suddenly glum. She had missed her mother dearly in the two months that passed. The Marquess was visiting her sick and ailing mother in a region that''s cities far away. Despite having so many friends over, it was always lonely at home.

    Li Chenyang nodded in understanding. "I''m sure Marquess Ning misses her daughter dearly."

    Ning Huabing''s eyes widened. Was he trying tofort her?

    Marquis Ning Guahe gratefully nodded in appreciation. He knew his daughter was growing lonelier by the day. It was hard for her to be away from her mother, especially when she always told her mother all of her secrets.

    Li Xueyue grabbed Ning Huabing''s hands and gave her a reassuring pat. She said nothing, but sometimes, words weren''t needed.

    Ning Huabing swallowed, raising her head to meet the genuine expression on Li Xueyue''s face. She was empathizing with her. No one had ever empathized with her except her mother. It was always pity or sympathy. Not even Bai Tianai had offered anyforting words tonight, even though she knew how much Ning Huabing loved her mother.

    "Thank you," Ning Huabing quietly whispered, to which Li Xueyue responded with a smile.

    "It will be okay. She''ll be home in no time."

    Ning Huabing nodded while squeezing Li Xueyue''s hand.

    Finally, the Li carriage arrived. The Nings bid farewell onest time, wishing for them to get home safe and sound.

    Li Chenyang stood by the carriage door, ready to help Li Xueyue in. She nced back onest time, almost as if she was waiting for someone. Then she headed into the carriage with his help.

    Once inside, a servant closed the door, and the carriage began heading toward the Li Manor on the other side of the city.

    "Do you want to know what I realized?" Li Xueyue asked Li Chenyang who was busy looking out the window, making sure they weren''t being followed.

    "What did you realize?" Li Chenyang sounded intrigued and amused by her question.

    Li Xueyue rested the side of her head on the carriage walls. "You don''t seem upset by Yu Zhen''s presence in my life."

    Li Chenyang hesitated to respond. He had to think slowly over his answers so it didn''t give too much away. "I never thought I''d be protective of a younger sister."

    "Neither did I think you''d be that type."

    "Wen Jinkai has a history with¡­" Li Chenyang paused, almost revealing something he shouldn''t. "He has a bad history with someone I used to know. He couldn''t treat her well enough."

    "What do you mean?"

    Li Chenyang swallowed. He wished the image of her pain-stricken face didn''t sh in his mind.

    "He''s a great man, but a horrible suitor," he said.

    Li Xueyue nodded. "Wen-ge said something simr."

    "Did he?" Li Chenyang''s voice was suddenly abnormal, almost as if he was rmed. "What did he say?"

    "Not much." Li Xueyue shrugged. "He respects Wen Jinkai as a soldier and man, but as a lover, not so much."

    "Yes." Li Chenyang slowly shook his head. "Wen Jinkai would make a horrible lover."

    "Why?"

    Li Chenyang clenched his hands, not because he was mad at Xueyue, but because he was mad at himself for failing to protect both of his sisters.

    "Don''t worry about it," he curtly said.

    Li Xueyue felt like there was more to the topic than he was leading on. Seeing his reaction, she decided to drop it. Besides, she didn''t want to think about Wen Jinkai any longer. The less she thought about him, the better. She didn''t need a man like him in her life, regardless of how handsome and mysterious he was.

    "Are you sure you don''t want to tell me what happened?" Li Chenyang asked, watching as her expression morphed in the shadows. It went from anger to reluctance and then to disappointment.

    Li Xueyue stared out the window, marveling at the full moon¡ªa great sign for a birthday.

    She weighed the options at hand and softly sighed. Fiddling with her little fingers, she could only nibble on her bottom lip. She didn''t want to create any more unnecessary conflicts.

    "Let me think about it, okay?"

    Li Chenyang became even more worried. Was it so bad that she had to prepare herself to tell him about what happened? Suddenly, he became as white as the pale moon.

    "Did someone touch you? As in, did theypromise you?" he kept his voice quiet, even though they were the only people in the carriage and no one else could hear them.

    "Did someone force their advances on you?!" Li Chenyang harshly asked, his eyes widening. Had he been toote again? Was history repeating itself?!

    "Xueyue, you have to tell me, I''ll kill that man with my bare hands and¡ª"

    "No! Nothing like that ever happened."

    Li Chenyang cursed under his breath. "I should''ve never let you wander off alone. Because it was a heavily guarded birthday and two Commanders were tagging along, I didn''t see the need to bring any guards."

    "It''s okay, nothing like that happened." Li Xueyue winced. "Let''s just drop this conversation, for now, okay?"

    Li Chenyang heavily sighed. "Fine, but you better not be protecting him."

    Li Xueyue nodded. She wasn''t protecting Wen Jinkai, she was protecting Li Chenyang. She didn''t want to hurt him and his friendship with Wen Jinkai.

 Chapter 92 Stalk Me

    <h4>Chapter 92 Stalk Me</h4>

    On the quiet streets of the Capital, not a single sound could be heard except for the asional footsteps of the patrolling soldiers keeping the city safe.

    A man leisurely walked the empty streets before he turned a discreet corner down an alleyway.

    "I know you''re there." He shifted his chin slightly to catch a glimpse of the man following him.

    "I made it deliberate."

    "You have a lot of guts to stalk me in my territory," Wen Jinkai said, turning around to see the figure of a familiar man.

    "I wouldn''t call it stalking." Yu Zhen''s voice was filled withughter. The moon illuminated his features, revealing the even-tempered smile on his face. It looked out of ce, especially with his indifferent eyes.

    "What do you want?" Wen Jinkai did not have all night. He had ces to be and a house to break into. His fingers tightened on the small jar of ointment in his hands. He wondered if prolonged time might form a permanent bruise.

    "To warn you." Yu Zhen nonchntly shrugged. He didn''t care that the soldiers patrolling the grounds were Wen Jinkai''s men. Nor did he care about the possibility of getting killed¡ªif they could even get past his sword skills.

    Wen Jinkai chuckled deeply, so entertained by Yu Zhen''s words A slight smirk rested on his lips. "Last time I checked, these grounds are my battlefield. Everything yields to my favor here."

    Wen Jinkai''s face grew serious and eerie. "If I wanted to, I could deliver your head back to Hanjian. Do you think I care about this alliance?"

    Yu Zhen tilted his head and mused, "It''d be fun to have your head spiked in the town center for everyone to spit on."

    Wen Jinkai stepped closer, his face filled with threats. "Try me."

    It was Yu Zhen''s turn tough. "A small provocation and you instantly took the bait. They weren''t lying when they said the Commander of Wuyi was nothing but an empty-headed man."

    Wen Jinkai''s hand flew to his sword and he challenged, "Let''s not waste time on pointless talks. You want my head? Come get it."

    Yu Zhen shook his head in disappointment. "Can''t we have a civilized discussion?"

    "Soldiers talk with their swords."

    "Uneducated men talk with their fists." Yu Zhen clicked his tongue, his handfortably resting on the hilt of his sword. He wasid-back and carefree, his face as cid as before.

    "All bark and no bite?" Wen Jinkai humored the man, realizing Yu Zhen had a point. They were both raised in the right environment.

    Yu Zhen shrugged. "That''s not what yourrades said," he paused, "Oh, wait. Dead men tell no tales."

    Wen Jinkai''s face grew more serious. Instantly, he unsheathed his sword at the same time Yu Zhen yawned and stretched.

    "You get provoked so easily."

    "What do you want?" Wen Jinkai snarled, tossing the sheath of hisrge sword onto the ground. It cked and created a smallmotion, but not enough to draw the attention of the soldiers. He wanted a fair fight.

    "Stay away from Li Xueyue."

    "Why should I?"

    Yu Zhen''s serene and untroubled expression instantly became stoic and stony. "A man like you will only ruin her."

    Wen Jinkaiughed yet again, a dark edge to his tone. His eyes shed with a warning. "As if Hanjian''s backstabbing hierarchy wouldn''t kill her. You''re a Prince whose life is destined in the pce. Do you think she''d be happy in the pce harem who wouldn''t hesitate to rip her into pieces and feed her to the pigs?"

    Yu Zhen simply smiled. "Why don''t you worry about your own court politics. Last I checked, the people that raised you tried to send her away to the enemy lines. And now they''re toying with her life."

    Wen Jinkai snarled, "I had it under control."

    "How is Hanjian''s Princess treating you?" Yu Zhen snickered. "You''re being married off like livestock for the benefit of your country."

    Wen Jinkai raised a brow. "Would you like to meet her?"

    "Oh?"

    "In the grave I''ve dug for her lifeless body to be tossed into."

    "You''d kill an innocent woman?" Yu Zhen seethed, instantly grabbing his sword.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t even bat an eye. "Why don''t you go and ask her?"

    "Did you really kill her, you son of a bitch?" Yu Zhen snarled.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t answer. "Duel me and find out."

    Yu Zhen spoke with his actions. He uncapped his sword and tossed the sheath onto the ground, the heavy equipment glistened under the moonlight.

    "You''re the scum of the Earth," Yu Zhen snarled.

    Wen Jinkai raised a brow. "As if you''re any better."

    "Does Li Xueyue know?" Yu Zhen''s lips curled upwards.

    "Know what?"

    "That you''ve sullied the Princess before killing her."

    "As if I''d touch that vermin," Wen Jinkai spat out. "Keep the name of my woman out of your mouth."

    "Your woman?" Yu Zhen loudlyughed. "You couldn''t even woo her today. I saw what you did to her, bastard," he hissed as his fingers tightened on his sword. "You''ve hurt her."

    Wen Jinkai''s stony expression cracked the slightest bit. "It was fucking unintentional¡ª"

    "Tell that to the bruises on her back," Yu Zhen said before storming to Wen Jinkai, sword drawn and ready to duel.

    In a blink of an eye, their swords shed against each other, pure strength oozing from both men. Their forms were perfectly bnced and both men jumped back in defense before charging again. Their swords nged and shed, creating a loudmotion that neither of them cared about. The only thing that mattered was blood being spilled. When their swords met again, it was a whirlwind of iron and steel, raw power and brute, speed too fast for the human eyes to register.

    "Who goes there?!" Guards shouted from behind them, holding upnterns to guide their path. Instantly, they dropped to their knees upon seeing the murderous expression of both Commanders.

    The atmosphere was thick and tense with promises of brutal deaths.

    "Commanders, we were not aware of this duel. We apologize!" they said, bowing low.

    Wen Jinkai''s lips curled in irritation. The mood was dampened by the distraction.

    Yu Zhen glowered at Wen Jinkai. "This is myst warning, stay away from Li Xueyue."

    "She''s mine."

    "She''s not your property," Yu Zhen said in disgust, his eyes shing with contempt.

    "Neither is she yours."

    "So?"

    "You have no right to warn me away from her." Wen Jinkai shook his head. "Besides, you''d never be able to keep her from me. What I want, I get."

    Yu Zhen tossed his head back in a burst of thunderingughter. "We''ll see about that." He picked up the sheath of his sword and strolled off into the darkness with the moonlight illuminating his path.

    Wen Jinkai''s face darkened before he capped his sword and examined the jar for any damages. There was none. He slipped it back into his pocket.

    "Return to your post," he instructed the guards before disappearing into the night, a destination in mind.

 Chapter 93 Bruises

    <h4>Chapter 93 Bruises</h4>

    Li Xueyue arrived home in time to bid the Duke and Duchess goodnight before she retired into her room. A hot bath was instantly drawn for her with ng-ng oil and a sprinkling of Jasmine petals that floated on the water.

    When she poked at the petals out of boredom whilst a maidservant cleaned her hair, she heard a sharp intake of air.

    "M-mydy, your back!" the maidservant cried out.

    "What happened?" Li Xueyue asked, sitting up straighter in the enormous bathtub.

    "There''s light bruising on your upper back."

    Li Xueyue groaned internally. Wen Jinkai''s tree m must''ve caused it. "Just ignore it."

    "Does it hurt? We can call for a physician immediately so it wouldn''t leave any permanent damage."

    "No, it''s fine," Li Xueyue curtly said, turning around to firmly stare at the maidservant. "Don''t mention a word of this to anyone. Is that clear?"

    Instantly, the maidservant nodded her head, but she was worried for her mistress. "N-not even to Master and Madam?"

    "Especially not to the Duke and Duchess," Li Xueyue huffed out, "And the twins as well. Is that understood?"

    There was hesitation and awkward shuffling from her part before she nodded her head. "Y-yes, I understand."

    Li Xueyue nodded in reply and allowed the maidservant to continue cleaning her hair. Once it was done, her wet hair was hand dried by towels, but was still damp and resting on her shoulders by the time she had excused the maidservant.

    It was an exhausting day that she could not wait for it to be over. Walking to herrge vanity, she took out a quill, ink jar, and her half-filled book, deciding it would be a great time to start formting another n.

    "What to do¡­" she hummed to herself.

    Unfortunately for her, she didn''t have any ideas tonight. Her fingers tightly held the ink-dipped quill pen, but it didn''t move. There were small traces of ink smears on her fingertips from holding the quill improperly for too long without movement.

    She decided to head elsewhere to clear her thoughts.

    Dressed in a loose and light nightgown, Li Xueyue sat down on the small couch directly under herrge circr window. She leaned her cheek upon the window sill and nced up at the night sky, infinite and beautiful, but unreachable and deste.

    "The moon is beautiful tonight," she said to no one in particr.

    She wondered how many times she had sat by this window and stared into space, pondering her next moves. She had humiliated the Bai Family today, but it was not enough for her. She wanted more. Greed for vengeance consumed her and she feared she would sumb to her demise if she went to great lengths to ruin them.

    "What shall be done?" Li Xueyue said to herself whilst her fingers drew on the window sill. She didn''t realize she was writing until the ink smears under her fingertips formed a haphazardly written "Commander." She had stopped herself before a name was actually formed. Deep down, she knew which name she''d write¡ªthe one who offered her sound advice.

    She yelped when something flew through her window, terrifying her. Her heart raced when she looked at the item that came tumbling to the floor. A pebble. What the hell?

    She heard a curse and peered down. To her horror and surprise, it was a man. Instantly, she stood up, the throw pillows beside her fell down.

    Li Xueyue turned and began fumbling to fasten her nightgown before she would scream for a guard.

    "Xueyue?"

    Her trembling fingers paused at the familiar voice. ''Oh yeah, I''m definitely calling a guard,'' she thought to herself, rushing to the other side of the room.

    "Don''t call for a guard," Wen Jinkai demanded.

    Li Xueyue swiveled around. To her pure fright, he had effortlessly and quickly scaled high enough to reach her window sill. There he was, hanging from her favorite spot with an awkward smile.

    "Can Ie in?"

    "Do I have a choice?" Li Xueyue snarled, wrapping her arms around herself, praying that this nightgown wasn''t too thin. She didn''t like thick sleepwear¡ªit was too suffocating after a while.

    "Well, I might fall from here and hit my head."

    "I''d prefer if you fall, hit your head, and it cracks open," Li Xueyue seethed, hugging herself when his eyes shed with an apology. She had expected him to be angered by her words, but he was the least offended.

    "I''vee to deliver a present." He easily hoisted his lower body up until he was sitting on her window sill whilst his legsfortably dangled from it. He was careful to not dirty her seat.

    "I don''t want it. I don''t want anything from you." Li Xueyue shook her head, pointing to the window he easily climbed through. "There were guards downstairs, lining the walls. How did you get past them?"

    Wen Jinkai smiled. "Is that even a question?" he asked, arching a perfect brow. "I''m not a Commander for show, Little Fawn."

    Wen Jinkai reached into his pocket and presented her with a porcin white jar. It was tiny and there were blue watercolor drawings upon it.

    "Come closer, Little Fawn, I''m not going to hurt you."

    "What is that?" Li Xueyue didn''t budge from her position. She preferred this safe distance between them. She was near the door and it would be incredibly easy to notify the guards outside.

    "It''s a cream for injuries."

    "So you''re aware."

    "Of?"

    "That you''ve injured me," Li Xueyue snapped.

    "I didn''t mean to." Wen Jinkai''s stony face softened just for her. His proud shoulders were slightly hunched, almost in a defenseless manner. His eyes were filled with remorse, even though he had just knocked out five guards by himself.

    "It won''t happen again, I promise."

    "You''re never going to uphold that promise." Li Xueyue''s voice was mellow and soothing to his frantic heart. He couldn''t read her. She was too guarded tonight, her walls higher than ever.

    "Xueyue, I will¡ª"

    "No, you won''t." Her tone grew harsher. "You have a horrendous temper and it blinds you from reality."

    "I''ll control it."

    Li Xueyue rapidly shook her head which caused him to worry for her neck. She could''ve gotten a whish.

    She snarled, "I don''t believe you."

    He frowned. "I swear, I''ll never hurt you again, Little Fawn. Please, I just want to help."

    Li Xueyue wished she never experienced the d¨¦j¨¤ vu [1] that mmed into her like a violent wave. Zheng Leiyu once told her the same thing. He promised he''d never hurt her when he stole her first kiss. And now, look at what he had done to her.

    The pain of his betrayal had hurt beyond the surface. It left a permanent scar on her heart, reminding her that the faster it beat for another man, the faster she ran towards death''s doors.

    Years of pent up frustration and pain from treachery began surfacing. Memories of their innocent youth shed through her head. The first kiss in the garden, his gentle touch upon her head, his caging arms, everything that reminded her of him came rolling back to her before she could stop it.

    She shook her head again. "Get out."

    "Little Fawn, please," Wen Jinkai pleaded while he maneuvered into the room, his shoes narrowly dodged the plush seat. When his foot touched her floor, she panicked.

    "I''m serious, Wen Jinkai."

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "I despise the sight of you."

    He stiffened. She was always surprising him in ways that drove him crazy. "Why?"

    "I hate seeing you, it brings back the feelings I tried so hard to forget." The words left her mouth before she could even control it.

    Wen Jinkai convinced himself to be level-headed despite being pped by the fact that she had loved another man. That she had feelings for another man prior to him. It was a foolish reason to feel frustrated by. The past was in the past. Which young maiden had never fallen in love before?

    "You cross too many boundary lines. ''No'' means ''yes'' to you and you never respect my wishes. I can never trust a man like you." Li Xueyue left out his dangerous personality, too bipr for her to properly pinpoint.

    Wen Jinkai ced the small jar onto the window sill. "Let me help you, Little Fawn." His cid voice was a soothing spell beckoning her forward. His eyes were filled with understanding andpassion.

    "I''ll help you forget the pain," he said whilst he stretched his hand to her, "Come here."

    Without warning, she felt a thunderbolt of revtion struck her. Perhaps she was reading too much into the situation, but she suddenly realized something.

    He had the ability to make everything his. This was her room, but he behaved as if she was the guest intruding upon him. This was supposed to be her territory, but he stillmanded her. He crossed her boundary lines, not because he wanted to, but because he can.

 Chapter 94 Crossing a Line

    <h4>Chapter 94 Crossing a Line</h4>

    Li Xueyue wished she wasn''t this ignorant and naive little girl pretending to be a confident woman. She wished she''d possess the ability to shake him, just as he had shaken her entire world. She wished she wasn''t this feeble and powerless against him.

    He''d always use her weaknesses against her. Even now, he knew she was scared of him. Even now, he knew she wanted him gone. But he''d never listen to her simple requests. If he couldn''t even uphold the basic foundation of respect, what''s stopping him from ruining her? What''s stopping him from leaving her after he was finished with her? Who can stop him from doing as he pleased?

    A man to be feared whose mercy she''d have to beg for.

    "If you don''t leave, I''m going to scream," Li Xueyue finally said.

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "How shameless can you get?!" she cried out, her eyes pleading with him when her pride couldn''t.

    "This is my room¡ªmy private space! You have no right trespassing here and demanding things from me."

    He was insulted by her words. It was written all over his stony face and hardened eyes. His jaw ticked, his pride and ego evidently wounded. "I''m only trying to help."

    "I never asked for it."

    "Why are you so stubborn?!" he finally raised his voice which instantly alerted the guards outside.

    They couldn''t barge into her room but they could knock on her doors. "Mydy, are you alright in there?"

    Li Xueyue sighed. Whether it was out of relief or irritation, she did not know. "Just leave."

    "Why are you like this?" Wen Jinkai asked. "When I first met you, you were so¡­ adoring and timid¡ª"

    "The image of me that was created in your mind is not my duty to fulfill," Li Xueyue coldly told him.

    "Xueyue, stop jumping to conclusions. Hear me out!"

    The guards quietly asked again, "Mydy, is there a problem? Do we have permission to enter?"

    Abruptly, Li Xueyue closed the distance between them, storming to him with a ferocity that waspletely unexpected of her. The sheer force of her fierce presence was enough to overwhelm his. It was a startling discovery that she had the ability to master such a dangerous expression with menace tucked in the infinite hazel folds of her eyes.

    "I understand everything now," she solemnly said. "You like me because of my so-called purity and straightforwardness. You want me to be appealing yet shallow¡ªa gentle soul that sways for you, a witty and graceful little thing. Dazzling, but cruel and apathetic to everyone else except for you."

    Never in a millennium would he expect her words to be so crude and precise, proper but ruthless. In life, there were things that were always better left unsaid.

    "You''re crossing a line," he growled, vicious and rming.

    She was courting death if she continued to provoke him with her stubbornness and unsympathetic words. If only he knew she didn''t mind knocking on death''s door.

    "Now you know how I feel," Li Xueyue retorted, restrained and severe.

    The guards were restless. They debated the idea of breaking down the door. Onest protocol to follow and they''d kick the door from its hinges. "Mydy¡ª"

    "I''m fine. I have it handled," Li Xueyue shouted over her shoulders, her eyes bitter with control.

    Just when Xueyue thought she had lost control, she had gained it back with her words. She did not need brutish actions to prove her point. Words were her weapon.

    Wen Jinkai took a deep breath, attempting to regain hisposure and patience for her. She believed she was as fierce as a tiger, but in reality, she was just a timid cat who needed the right treatment to open up. He understood the pain in her eyes, the fear of letting anyone in, and the events she''d never tell.

    "I don''t care about the version of you that I created in my mind, I care about the one you present to me today and from now on," he told her, his fingers twitching to gently stroke her face.

    He was reminded of the way her eyes slightly and unknowingly fluttered from his touch in the past. He wanted to see that expression again, the unguarded girl sitting on his bed, unafraid of voicing her wishes to him.

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. "That won''t be possible."

    "Xueyue, I''m willing to learn¡ª"

    "Just as you''re willing to marry another woman for this country''s alliance."

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes narrowed. "What did the Emperor tell you? Which empty rumors filled your ears and tricked your brain?"

    "The Princess from Hanjian. I was told she rushed out of your room while pulling her clothes together."

    "Who told you this?" Wen Jinkai hissed, reaching out to grab her shoulder to shake some rationality into her. She backhanded his hand away with the flick of her wrist.

    "Does it matter?"

    "Yes. The information was given without context." Wen Jinkai touched his rejected hand, not believing she was so quick to reject him. She was not as much of an easy conquest as he had originally thought her to be, but he enjoyed a challenge.

    "Oh? Let me take a guess then." Li Xueyue gave him a pointed look of disbelief. "The Imperial Family delivered her to your bedroom, hoping she''d entice you into marriage. You threatened to chop her to pieces and deliver her back to Hanjian. Then she ran away, terrified of your absurdity."

    Wen Jinkai rapidly blinked, staring at her like she could predict the future¡ªor look into the past in this case. She was sharp and deduced what actually happened with uracy.

    "Actually, yes. That''s pretty much what happened."

    "But you''re still going to keep her in your house," she deadpanned.

    "She has nowhere else to go," he retorted.

    "Oh boo hoo, a Princess has nowhere to go." Li Xueyue rolled her eyes, flipping her hair over her shoulder.

    She hadn''t realized that droplets from her wet hair had trickled down her nightgown, revealing moistened spots that he was forcing himself to not look. Especially when it was a path down her right chest.

    "You can''t be this selfish. Aren''t women supposed to support each other?" Wen Jinkai scoffed, resting his hands on his hips like a disapproving mother. He pressed his lips together, his eyes darting from her eyes to her hair.

    "What are your ns with Hanjian''s Princess?"

    "What are your ns with Hanjian''s Commander?"

    Li Xueyue red at him and said, "What are you? A parrot?"

    "What are you? A parrot?" he mimicked in a high-pitched voice, scrunching his face to mirror her expression.

    "You irritate me."

    "Likewise," Wen Jinkai deadpanned before turning back to the window sill.

    "Finally," Li Xueyue retorted, watching him lean half of his body over the window, calcting the likelihood of falling to his death.

    "I can practically see your hands itching to push me out the window."

    "Oh my god! How did you know?" Li Xueyue said in the ttest voice possible.

    "If you can climb up, you should be able to climb back down."

    "Do you want me to fall to my death?" Wen Jinkai rolled his eyes, deciding he won''t injure himself if he leveraged his body properly and ced his foot in the exact cranny.

    "Is that even a question?" she scoffed.

    He shot her a dirty look and she red back.

    "Don''t trip on your way down." She sassed.

    "I can say the same thing when you go to Hell," Wen Jinkai teased, hopping off the window and in one swift motion, he disappeared.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even run to the window to check his condition. She merely stood rooted to the ground, arms crossed in defiance. A second past before he poked his head through, "The least you could''ve done was check if I died."

    "For a Commander, you''re awfully scared of dying."

    "I''m only worried about a painful death." Wen Jinkai pressed his lips into a thin line when she rolled her eyes.

    He nodded to the jar. "If it left a bruise, use it. Please. It''ll help you, I promise."

    "Don''t ever make promises to me," Li Xueyue begrudgingly said. She wished she didn''t reveal more about herself. She''d give him an inch and he''ll take a mile.

    Wen Jinkai momentarily paused, examining her sober expression filled with grim seriousness. "One day, Little Fawn, I''m going to fix you."

    "I don''t need fixing, I''m perfect as I am."

    "Fine then. I''ll make you a little bit more perfect."

    "As if I''ll ever allow you long enough in my life to change me," Li Xueyue said with a determined expression to keep him out for as long as possible.

    "We''ll never know what the future holds," Wen Jinkai responded before his head disappeared into the night.

    Li Xueyue suddenly despised the moonlight. It casted an angelic hue onto the porcin jar, basking it in a glorious shine. She left the jar on the vanity, staring at it for the longest time. Eventually, she decided it was prettier collecting dust than being used.

    Wordlessly, she climbed into her bed, tossing and turning until she finally fell asleep. She didn''t know that she''d need this beauty sleep more than anything, for tomorrow will not be a beautiful day.

 Chapter 95 Last Nigh

    <h4>Chapter 95 Last Nigh</h4>

    "Wow, that''s a pretty face," Li Chenyang snorted when he saw Li Xueyue tiredly walking through the pavilion.

    The Li Family usually enjoyed their family meals in a specifically-built dining room that was different from the norm, but today, they decided to eat in the pavilion surrounded by the freshly bloomed hydrangeas. The air was sweet with a light floral scent washing over the people, the breeze weing and cid.

    It was a pleasant day outside. Too bad it was ruined by a not-so-pleasant sleep.

    Li Xueyue groaned at his words, her face dark from herck of sleep. She had another nightmare yesterday of Zheng Leiyu¡ªof the night she discovered that he cheated on her with Bai Tianai. Honestly, she found this part of his betrayal to be cliche and the stupidest and most predictable of things.

    "I didn''t sleep well," Li Xueyue sighed, copsing into her seat while a maidservant handed her a dipping bowl of water for her fingers.

    "Must''ve had something to do with the conversation I heard," Li Chenyang easilymented, as if he was discussing the weather.

    "Conversation? What conversation?" Li Wenmin asked while separating the fried egg yolk from the egg white. He ced the egg white into Xueyue''s bowl and ced the yolk into his¡ªlike it always had been.

    "Hm, I didn''t hear anything," Duchess Wang Qixingmented while taking off the skin of the braised chicken for Duke Li Shenyang before cing it into his bowl.

    "Funny, I heard some really interesting news from a little birdie," Li Chenyang said while deboning the fish for Li Wenmin.

    "I like to sleep talk, don''t you know?" Li Xueyue awkwardlymented while taking off the skin of the soy sauce and scallion steamed fish for Li Chenyang.

    "Really now?" Duke Li Shenyang skeptically said while using his chopsticks to skillfully peel thergest shrimp and cing it in Li Wenmin''s bowl.

    "Amazing, you can talk to yourself in different tones?" Li Chenyang pretended to be surprised, gasping and shooting her a dirty look.

    "What? You can''t?" Li Xueyue teased even though she felt a pang of panic settle in at his discontent re.

    "I''m sure I can if I had someone to talk to." Li Chenyang continued to stare her down.

    "What are we talking about? I''m so confused," Li Wenmin cluelessly said, finally pausing from gobbling his food. He was wolfing it down so quickly, people would''ve thought he was a starved cub.

    "Xiao Yue, why aren''t you eating?" Li Wenmin asked, noticing herck of appetite today.

    Li Chenyang opened his mouth, "Xueyue here, didn''t get proper sleepst night because¡ª"

    "Ow!" Li Wenmin cried out, "Who kicked me from under the table?!"

    Li Xueyue instantly dug into her food, pretending she hadn''t just missed Li Chenyang''s leg. Li Chenyang snickered at her before cing some steamed spinach in her bowl.

    "I think I will hire someone to check over the structure of our manor," Duke Li Shenyang thoughtfully said with a knowing frown.

    "What for?" Duchess Wang Qixing said, equally as lost as her son, Li Wenmin. The pair didn''t have a single clue about what happenedst night.

    "To make sure there aren''t any problematic areas on the walls," Duke Li Shenyang fondly said before beckoning to his wife to continue eating.

    Unbeknownst to him, there was a tiny smile resting on his lips when Duchess Wang drank her soup. There was a time where she didn''t eat anything more than a single bite. Seeing her in this condition, lively and thriving, which husband wouldn''t be happy?

    "Did we have any in the first ce?" Duchess Wang Qixing naively asked, tilting her head to Li Chenyang, waiting for him to weigh in.

    "I thought we didn''t, but it seems the same thing that happened in our old manor is happening in our current one," Li Chenyang grumbled while gesturing for Li Xueyue to try the morning soup.

    Li Xueyue blinked. The same thing that happened in the old manor? She didn''t recall someone scaling her wall in the old manor. Unless he was talking about someone else?

    Maybe Li Wenmin used to sneak out of his room like that? She couldn''t imagine him doing it though. He loved sleeping as much as Li Chenyang, maybe a little bit less.

    "Huh?" Duchess Wang Qixing blinked, unsure of the circles that her husband and son were fond of going about in.

    Li Wenmin merely shrugged. What he learned in his tutoring lessons came to mind¡ªthat if he still didn''t get it after the second time, he''d never get it until the tenth try¡ªand quite frankly, he was toozy to think in the morning.

    Li Xueyue awkwardly drank her soup, under the using stare from Li Chenyang and a humored smile from Duke Li Shenyang.

    "Let''s start with Xueyue''s room," Li Chenyang proposed. "We need to make sure the wall doesn''t have any nooks or crannies. Right, Xueyue?"

    She yed with her food and nodded. "Right."

    "Great. We''re all on the same page." Li Chenyang smiled, but it never reached his eyes. He was livid whereas the Duke was highly entertained.

    ''What made Chenyang so protective of Xueyue?'' Duke Li Shenyang wondered to himself, watching Chenyang nodding to Xueyue''s untouched rice and the dishes she hadn''t tried yet. His son didn''t eat until Xueyue finally began to consume her food normally.

    - - - - -

    When their family breakfast had ended, everyone parted and went their separate ways to focus on their own tasks forof the day. Li Xueyue thought she would spend the rest of her day practicing archery, but just as she picked up the bow and arrow, Li Chenyang came storming into the archery field.

    He was dressed properly for court, an indignant expression on his handsome face. Li Xueyue wished he''d smile more. It often lit up his entire features.

    "Is there a problem?" Li Xueyue curiously asked when Li Chenyang stopped directly in front of her, crossed his arms, and pressed his lips into a firm line.

    "Who was in your roomst night?"

    Li Xueyue awkwardly scratched the side of her face. "Can we drop this conversation?"

    "Xueyue, it''s damaging for you if word gets out that some bastard had the audacity to knock five of our guards out cold and then snuck into your room."

    "Did my guards tell you?"

    "No, and don''t try to change the subject." Li Chenyang firmly told her. "It''s Wen Jinkai, isn''t it?"

    "I don''t want to be the reason you guys aren''t friends anymore," Li Xueyue hesitantly said, setting the bow and arrow onto the equipment table.

    "What makes you think we''re not friends anymore?"

    "You guys are always so tense around each other. It''s as if you two had an argument or something," Li Xueyue mumbled, ncing at the ground, watching the evergreen des sway under the rolling breeze.

    Li Chenyang''s face became gentle. He slowly patted her head and smiled. "Xueyue, you don''t have to worry about us."

    Li Xueyue realized he didn''t exactly answer her properly. "Are you still friends with him? Two years ago, I heard you were great friends, but in the tournament, Wen Jinkai and your reactions towards each other were filled with hostility."

    "I didn''t think you''d see these things," Li Chenyang said.

    "You didn''t answer my question."

    "We''re on... " he trailed off, finding the proper words that wouldn''t offend Xueyue or Jinkai. "We''re on speaking terms."

    "Speaking terms?"

    "Yes," Li Chenyang curtly said, refusing to reveal any more. Nor would he ever reveal the conversation they shared the afternoon before the banquet. The violent argument that took ce, the chairs that were toppled over, the teacups that were smashed to the ground, and the tables that were turned upside down. A discussion about history repeating itself was enough to shred their trust for each other to pieces.

    Li Chenyang stared at Xueyue, his eyes memorizing every inch of her features. He looked at her as if he was going to lose her. And perhaps what happened in the past had traumatized him from ever trusting Wen Jinkai with women.

    Li Chenyang knew Wen Jinkai rarely fell in love, but when he did, he always fell hard. Without warning, he hugged Li Xueyue tightly, her face pressing into his chest.

    "Chen-ge¡­?"

    "I''m going to keep you safe," Li Chenyang vowed. "You will not wither away from Pce politics, I promise you."

    There was something in his emotional voice that made Li Xueyue understand something. This has happened in the past before. He had lost someone, whether involuntarily or not. Did Wen Jinkai and the pce have something to do with it?

    She looked up at him, her eyes wide with curiosity. Anguish was written all over his face, fear of losing her, fear of her losing her smile.

    Li Chenyang squeezed his eyes shut and hugged her a little bit tighter. Just a little bit, because he knew her life from now on would not be a smooth sailing one. Just like the life of Li Minghua when she was involved with the pce. History was reying itself, but this time, it would not im another victim. He would make sure of it.

 Chapter 96 How Weird

    <h4>Chapter 96 How Weird</h4>

    When Minister Li walked out of the Li Manor empty-handed, the Pce Eunuchs exchanged meaningful stares with each other. They bowed at his entrance, but they were disappointed that the reputable Li Chenyang would disobey a royal summoning.

    "May we ask why, Minister Li?"

    "Princess Li Xueyue is feeling unwell. She didn''t eat breakfast and has been bedridden the entire morning," Li Chenyang lied without flinching. He didn''t even blink.

    The Eunuchs hesitated on their next approach. They were supposed to bring their third-rank Princess into the Pce today at the unrelenting order of the Emperor and Empress of Wuyi.

    "May we see her?"

    "You want to barge into the room of a sick youngdy just to see her?" Li Chenyang responded, his voice filled with disbelief. "Does the Pce not teach you any manners?"

    The Eunuchs shrank back, bowing for him again. They were scared of disobeying the Imperial Family, but they were also afraid of offending the Li Family. Everyone knew Li Chenyang, despite being the youngest Minister in the court, was the coldest and most ruthless one.

    "We do not dare to offend you, Minister Li!"

    "Yet you doubt my words," Li Chenyang bluntly said, flicking his wrist. Instantly, the carriage door was opened for him.

    "Report to the Emperor that the Princess is unwell. The Duke and the Duchess do not wish for her to get sicker by the day." He continued to belittle and scrutinize them until they broke out in cold sweat, trembling in their shoes.

    "We c-can''t leave unless w-we see the Princess¡­" they managed to stutter out.

    BAM!

    They jumped when Li Chenyang mmed a Eunuch against his carriage, his eyes aze. "Did you not hear what I just said?"

    "Please, M-Minister Li, we¡ª"

    "If the Emperor has a problem with this, he cane here and see her condition for himself."

    The Eunuchs gulped with their eyes trained to the floor. When a tense minute passed by, they finally relented. "Very well, Minister Li, we will report back to His Majesty and Her Grace."

    Li Chenyang did not board his carriage until the Eunuchs finally got onto theirs. He waited until the Eunuch''s carriage finally rolled off into the distance before turning to one of his servants.

    "You heard what I just said. Leave."

    Instantly, his servant, a man with thin shoulders, bowed at his order. He understood the underlying message that didn''t need to be said. He excused himself and rushed into the manor, ready to personally guide Lady Li back to her room where she will diligentlyze around the entire day.

    Li Chenyang waited for the man''s shadow to disappear before he finally got onto the carriage. The doors were firmly shut and the carriage began heading in the direction of the royal pce where troubles awaited him. But when did it not wait for him?

    Inside the carriage, Li Chenyang sighed in relief whilst tapping his fingers one by one on his thigh. He had prevented Li Xueyue from cing a foot through the doors of Hell today, but this was only one small victorypared to the many battles that woulde her way. The Pce would grow persistent to see her¡ªthe only unwed Princess living outside of the castle walls.

    "I kept her safe, Minghua¡­ I should''ve done the same for you," he quietly muttered to himself, leaning his head back on the headrest of his seat.

    As much as he despised that conniving brat, he could not forgive himself from turning a blind-eye to her struggles. He could not forgive himself for not stopping her from sneaking outside every night, only to be caught in the crossroad of two men who were head over heels in love with her.

    - - - - -

    After being escorted back to her room for reasons that she did not know, Li Xueyue found herself bored out of her mind. She leaned her cheek on a propped up arm whilst reading a book. She had reread the same sentence five times and still couldn''t concentrate on the material.

    Li Xueyue didn''t like being cooped up in this room. She wanted to go out and bask in the sunlight whilst doing archery, or maybe even going on a run with Heiyue.

    It had been a while since she tended to her horse, but she was incredibly busy. And the stubborn horse would not let anyone else ride him. She had always given the stable boy permission to let him run and roam free, but she knew Heiyue preferred her presence than running alone.

    After rereading the exact same sentence for the sixth time, she finally mmed the book onto the table. She loved to read, but at times like this, she was too distracted and desired to walk around.

    Since she could not be found roaming the fields, Li Xueyue decided she would explore all of the hidden nooks and crannies of the house.

    "No harm in roaming in the house¡­" she thought to herself before opening her door only to find it blocked.

    "I''m going to the gardens," she told her guards, stepping out but they stopped her in her path.

    "Mydy, in that case, please wear a face veil to hide your identity."

    Li Xueyue sighed before heading back into her room. She approached her vanity and searched through the drawers until she finally found a face veil. It hooked from one ear to the other and revealed nothing more than half of her nose and her eyes.

    Then, she headed out of the room, and made her way to the garden, but then decided to explore the other wings and hallways of this house instead. Turning corners after corners, she found herself in a dark part of the house she didn''t think was even possible.

    The Duke always liked his house to be well-lit. Thus, the servants were always instructed to double-check all of themps in the hallways, making sure that every corner had a bright light guiding people on their path.

    On her tour two years ago, she had memorized theyout, but had nevere across this area before. During that time, the twins were the ones who took her on the tour, but they brought her nowhere near this ce.

    "Am I lost in my own house?" Li Xueyue wondered out loud, ncing at the eerily dark surroundings of this ce.

    She hadn''t seen someone ever since she made it to this unknown wing of the house. Thest time she saw a guard stationed at this ce was a little way back, but he had fallen asleep on his post which granted her ess here.

    "Way to go, Xueyue. You actually got lost," she berated herself, deciding to head down the path she came from before pausing in her step. Should she explore¡­?

    Li Xueyue didn''t know what she was thinking when she decided to test one of the doors of the hallway. Surprisingly, it was locked which felt strange. Not a single door was locked in this house, but suddenly, everything was locked here?

    "How weird," she said out loud while testing almost all of the doors. Finally, she decided that this ce must''ve been locked for a reason. She didn''t want to dwell too much on it, that''s until she passed by a set of doors and instantly came to a halt.

    One of the doors was slightly open by a crack. The only door that wasn''t locked.

    "Maybe I should head back to my room¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off. She debated for the briefest second and groaned. Curiosity killed the cat. She decided to push the door, wincing when it loudly creaked open which indicated it had not been used for a long time.

    A storm of dust attacked her. She coughed and swatted her hand back and forth in front of her face. This ce had been untouched for a long time. But why?

    She peeked her head inside and was intrigued to see it was a bedroom. Arge and girly one. For guests perhaps? But that didn''t make sense. All of the guest bedrooms were nowhere near here.

    "Hmmm¡­." she hummed to herself, slipping into the room. Everything was intact, from the untouched bed to the vanity collecting dust. None of the servants cleaned this ce, as if someone wanted every single detail to be preserved in its original and undisturbed form.

    Li Xueyue wandered into the room and nearly fell t on her face after tripping on something.

    "What the heck?" she piqued upon discovering what caused her to lose her footing.

    One of the floorboards had uprooted significantly. She frowned to herself and decided to step on it, hoping it would fall down in ce. But it didn''t. And there was resistance under her foot as if something was wedged under the floorboard.

    Li Xueyue bent down to examine the floor. She simply pushed at the wooden board and it instantly came out of the floor, almost as if it was loose for a while now.

    "Is that a book?" Li Xueyue wondered to herself, reaching down to take out the content hidden under the uprooted wooden board. Indeed, it was a book and when she flipped through the pages, she realized it was a diary. But the question was, who did it belong to?

    "We have to find thedy! Where did she go?"

    Li Xueyue jumped at the abrupt and frantic voice of a servant in the far distance. Instantly, she put the wooden board into ce and held the book close to her, deciding to examine it in her room.

    She slipped out of the room, closing the door behind her and then rushed out of the entrance of this ce. Luckily enough, the guard was still deeply asleep, snoring even.

    After walking back to the main house, she nearly collided into a rushing servant. "There you are, mydy," she said while panting for air.

    "Is there a problem?" Li Xueyue asked while slipping the book behind her, hiding it from the servant.

    "N-no¡­ but we''ve received strict orders to escort you back to your room, mydy."

    "Okay, let''s head back," Li Xueyue said, deciding that she would read the contents of the diary once she was in her room.

 Chapter 97 Tender Touch

    <h4>Chapter 97 Tender Touch</h4>

    Li Xueyue settled the diary onto one of the tables and requested for a servant to bring a tter of afternoon snacks, tea, and a damp towel. Once they were brought to her, she cleaned her hands and swiped off the dust from the book.

    She flipped through the pages, all of which were decently filled to either half a page or the entire page. The entries were all neatly written, describing someone''s day. She wasn''t interested in any of the entries until she came to a page that only had a single sentence.

    It read, ''I snuck out for the first time tonight.''

    Li Xueyue nodded in approval. "Must be fun," she said, flipping to the next page, her brows scrunching at the next entry.

    ''Everyone is going to be furious if they find out, but I don''t care anymore! I hate being locked in this room, it feels like I''m in a prison cell. Seriously, what is my crime? Being born? I never get to go outside and if I have to take another stupid stroll in the gardens, I''m going to cut off all of the flowers!''

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened at the pure frustration reeking from this page. Whose diary was this? Whoever the writer was, the entries never specified anyone''s name or title. Surely, a servant couldn''t be this bold to cut off the flowers? Locked in the room? Who could this be?

    Suddenly, a thought dawned upon her. Something that was once said in the past, the first time that she met the Duke and Duchess. Something about a¡­ daughter?

    "That''s right!" Li Xueyue breathed out. "They had a daughter." How could she have forgotten this crucial detail? Her heart began to race at the realization that the wing that she might''ve wandered into was perhaps¡­ the ce that their daughter once resided in. Which meant, this book belonged to that daughter. But what was her name?

    Li Xueyue nibbled her bottom lip. She wanted to ask but didn''t want to pry. It wasn''t her ce to ask about these things. And if she asked them, they would know she trespassed into the restricted area of the manor.

    "I should''ve just stayed put in my room." Li Xueyue groaned, facepalming herself for this stupid mistake. Nheless, she read on, her eyes growing wider and wider with every flip of the page.

    ''I snuck out again tonight. I know I shouldn''t, especially when the city was filled with people who might recognize how much I look like Father. But I can''t stand that stupid room. Who do they think they are? Locking their daughter away like some prisoner! What''s the point of being born this rich if I can''t show off?''

    She flipped the page and saw it was an ount of the next day.

    ''Oh my god, I should''ve stayed homest night. I''m sorry I didn''t write what happened, diary. You must''ve been so worried that I didn''t update you. I¡­ I met a man. He''s handsome! Like, really really handsome! I don''t think I''ve ever met a man like him before. He said his name was ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª''

    Li Xueyue scrunched her brows upon seeing the name was crossed out. It seemed like it was written down but then diligently crossed out that she couldn''t even make out the characters anymore.

    ''He had the most amazing voice! I didn''t think I''d meet him, but I did. I stopped a child from pickpocketing him, but I think he knew what the child was doing. He told me people usually find him scary, and I could see why. There''s a sword hanging off of his hips and he hasrge hands that look like they can kill someone.''

    Li Xueyue tilted her head, finding that the description sounded familiar. She flipped to the next page, realizing they had skipped days ahead.

    ''I don''t understand why Dad refuses to let me out! Everyone here in Hechen is so nice! I met that man again. He told me his family doesn''t live around this city, but he''s here as a guard, and I quote, ''A royal pain in the ass.'' He usually doesn''t talk much, so I brushed off his harsh choice of words. What if he offends the person he''s guarding? Could it be¡ª''

    A rough knock on her door interrupted her from her reading. She lifted her head and asked, "What is it?"

    The guard began, "Mydy, there is a guest¡ª"

    A maidservant gasped, "Sir, you can''t just trespass like this¡ª!"

    The door burst open and instantly, a man strolled into her room as if he owned the ce. Hisid back walk pissed her off, but then she was perplexed by the anxiety in his eyes. When he finally saw her, safe and sound on a chair, reading and snacking away, he rxed a bit.

    "What are you doing here, Yu Zhen?" Li Xueyue instantly stood up, closing the book and hiding it behind her.

    "I was told you''re bedridden," Yu Zhen deadpanned, handing the package of medicine to one of the servants that apanied him. It seemed there was no need to buy out half the herbal store...

    "Who told you that?" Li Xueyue asked. She was confused by the package, but didn''t ask any questions.

    "Mydy, should we escort him out of the room for trespassing?" one of the guards spoke, eyeing the foreign man with hesitation. He clearly didn''t look like he was from here as indicated by the different styles of clothing that he was wearing.

    They were worried about the safety of their youngdy and felt uncertain about his identity. Many of the soldiers felt like they had seen him before somewhere¡­ In particr, the newspaper that described a merciless Commander shing every soldier who crossed him on the battlefield.

    Li Xueyue was prepared to send Yu Zhen on his merry way out of her house, but then he spoke up.

    "I hope you''re not kicking me out, Sunshine. I generously graced your miserable boredom with my presence. You should keep me here."

    Li Xueyue looked around the room. She nced over her shoulders and behind her.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Oh wait, you were talking to me before?" she feigned confusion.

    Yu Zhen''s lips pressed into a thin line. "Ha. Ha. That was so funny, I almost cried," he responded in the ttest monotone voice possible.

    "I swear, one day you''re going to be beyond grateful for my presence," Yu Zhen said, flicking her on the forehead to which she stuck her tongue out at him.

    "And I can swear to you that it''s never going to happen."

    "Never?" Yu Zhen raised a brow.

    "Ever." Li Xueyue nodded.

    "We''ll see about that," Yu Zhen said with a smirk, turning his back to her, almost as if he was going to leave. "Pity really, I was going to tell you something I overheard in the Pce."

    Li Xueyue jutted her chin in the air, "Okay and?"

    "And it was about you."

    Now, she was curious. "Tell me then."

    Yu Zhen ced a thoughtful finger on his chin. "Hmmm, I don''t think so."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips into a thin line.

    The edges of his lips curled upwards, forming a pleased smile. He knew he had tempted her. She was always an inquisitive woman, he could see that quality of hers shine through. She wanted to know more, but was too stubborn to ask.

    In that case, he decided to tease her a bit more. "Well, I have to head back now." He turned his back to her and began approaching her door at a snail pace.

    "Go on then." Li Xueyue shooed him out with her hand, not once pausing to wee him back.

    Yu Zhen''s humored smile slipped a bit as he said, "I''m really leaving."

    "Okay."

    "Like, actually leaving."

    "Mmhm."

    "Look, I have one foot out the door."

    "Great."

    Yu Zhen glowered at her. "First you don''t know how to dress a man, and now you don''t know how to wee a guest."

    "First you yanked me into your room and now you''re barging into my room."

    "Touch¨¦," he chuckled, the sound tickling her heart and warming her stomach.

    Li Xueyue wished she wouldn''t react this way to him. She noticed his eyes crinkled when heughed and that he only had one dimple. The observation irked her. It meant she was examining him for too long. He had her attention for too long.

    "Are you sure you don''t want to know?"

    "Are you going to tell me?"

    "Only if you wee me back in."

    "Then I guess not." Li Xueyue shrugged.

    "Fine then, I''m leaving." Yu Zhen waved.

    "Good," she deadpanned.

    "Great," he responded.

    "Splendid."

    "Fantastic."

    "Ugh, what are you? Five?" She threw her hand up, not believing he was just this childish.

    "Actually..." he trailed off whilst he stepped back into her room without her wee. He closed the door behind him, shutting out any wandering eye.

    Strolling towards her, she waited for him to continue what he was about to say but he surprised her by tugging at her cheek, stretching it.

    "I''m five and a half, which means I''m older than your childish antics."

    "I am not childish."

    "And I''m not handsome," he scoffed, tugging at her cheek again. He found it adorable that it was as soft as rice cakes.

    "I''m d we''re on the same page."

    He scowled, stretching her cheeks extra hard as a way of punishing her. She scrunched her nose in response, leaning up on her tippy toes to grab his face. His eyes widened at her unexpected action, and he took steps back which caused her to lean forward until she practically crashed against his chest.

    She thought they would fall back from her weight, but he remained rooted. Strong and firm as always, she supported her perfectly. His hands gripped her elbow, steadying her.

    Her eyes widened upon realizing how close he was to her. His scent, his heat, and his thudding heart overwhelmed her senses. He was even more handsome up close. He peered down at her, a devious smirk on his face as mischief lit up his eyes. She was dumbfounded when he became even more attractive from the simple action.

    She swallowed, her eyes running over his wless features. Smooth skin the color of honey, a scar on his eyebrows, slightly crooked nose, perfectly full lips, one would never think his features came together, but it did in the most appealing way possible.

    She felt her heart rapidly drumming, mming against her chest. Briefly, he released one elbow to gently stroke his fingers across her cheek; her eyes fluttered shut, leaning into his tender touch.

    For a split second there, he thought he saw adoration in her eyes, but she had shut it too quickly for him to confirm anything. With her guard down and her trust in his hands, he knew he didn''t need any further confirmation.

 Chapter 98 You Should Be Careful

    <h4>Chapter 98 You Should Be Careful</h4>

    Yu Zhen knew he could take advantage of her right here and then, but he couldn''t bring himself to.

    His thumb softly caressed her smooth and tender skin with so muchpassion in his eyes. It was the first time Li Xueyue had ever been treated this kindly.

    She felt her heart race, thumping against her chest when he slowly dragged his fingers lower, tickling each spot it lingered upon. She didn''t understand what he was thinking nor did she understand her own thought process.

    He was an unfamiliar man with unknown intentions. But he touched her as if he had known and adored her all of his life¡ªas if she was the only treasure in his life. He firmly held her against him, protective and tenacious.

    When he cupped the side of her face, she knew it was time to put a stop to all this. Everything was happening too fast and she needed more time. The taunting words of Wen Jinkai mocked her¡ªthat she behaved like a loose woman.

    Then he surprised her. He lifted her chin and pressed a chaste kiss on her forehead that was filled with devotion and admiration. It was a simple gesture that disappeared as quickly as it came, but the warmth of his lips lingered on her forehead.

    He didn''t capture her lips, but he had captured her heart.

    "You should be careful, Princess." His voice, low and restrained, came out deviously husky.

    Li Xueyue struggled to formte a snarky remark to hisment. She could do nothing but stare up at him as different emotions coursed through her.

    He was a stranger. She didn''t know anything about him. She had just met him days ago, but there was nothing that could deny the attraction she felt towards him. The sense of security and unwavering trust in his actions.

    "Don''t make that face," he teased, pinching her nose when she innocently blinked. She didn''t have a single clue as to how much she had teased him without even trying to.

    "What face?"

    Yu Zhen studied her seriousness. Was she ying tricks on him, or was she deliberately naive and foolish? She once told him that all of her moves were calcted. Then was this reaction calcted? Hopefully, not. She had shifted her legs and identally brushed against a sensitive spot.

    He cleared his throat, loosening the front of his robes. It suddenly felt suffocating in here. He tried to untangle himself from her, but the more she leaned against him, the more he wanted her. It was then he realized this wasn''t a simple attraction.

    He deeply breathed in and prayed that it would quell his nerves, but it only heightened it. His pupils dted at the sweet and alluring scent of her, undeniably intoxicating. If he was not careful, he would lose control.

    "Princess¡ª"

    "Xueyue."

    "What?"

    "It''s Xueyue. Not Princess."

    Yu Zhen''s lip curved into an entertained smile, his eyes shed with mischief. He always wanted to tease her¡ªhe couldn''t help it. She was easily angered and he liked seeing the flush on her skin.

    "Fine then, Sunshine."

    "Whoever told you that''s a great nickname was a liar," she frowned.

    "Would you prefer Princess instead?" he grinned

    "I prefer Xueyue."

    "Princess it is." Yu Zhen pinched her cheek when she rolled her eyes in aggravation. His fingers easily slid down until her chin was captured by his fingers.

    "What are you doing¡­" her voice got caught in her throat when his thumb gently brushed against her lower lip; his eyes darkened when she parted her lips in surprise.

    She felt her breath hitch at the unrecognizable man in front of her. There was a pause between them as if nothing in the world mattered besides this moment. When he bent his head, she instantly tensed, backing away, but his arm held her in ce. Even so, he never disrespected her boundaries.

    "Like I said, you should be careful, Princess."

    "Or else what?"

    His eyes hardened, burning with the intensity of the sun. She was shrouded by the heat rolling off of his frame.

    "Or else I''ll make you mine," he gruffly told her, releasing her chin and forcing himself to look anywhere but her.

    He tried to focus on other things, like the decorations in her room, but she only had to touch his forearm for his attention to snap back to her in a heartbeat.

    Wild. Intense. Dangerous. He was on the brink of losing control and she kept on testing his limits.

    "So why haven''t you?"

    Instantly, he grabbed the back of her head, her hairpins slipping loose when his fingers wove into her hair. He brought her closer to him until nothing was separating them except their clothes.

    Li Xueyue could feel the clench of his muscles under her fingertips. His sharp jaw clenched and ticked while he wrestled with control. He was so close to loving her in ways that they would regret the next morning. But that was tomorrow and in this moment, he cared only about the present.

    His sanity was hanging by a thread, but she liked to y with fire and burn his patience with temptations.

    Li Xueyue knew she would one day be scorched by the passion in his eyes, the dangerous flicker of a growing me.

    Ever so slowly, he leaned closer, his lips skimmed her jaw. Teasingly, he nipped her before easing the pain with a kiss. She waspletely flushed against him, defenseless and breathless.

    The only thing she could do was dig her fingers into his arm, but she was met with the hardness of his biceps. She unknowingly angled her head for him, exposing her neck.

    She could feel the curve of his lips, quirking into a devious smile that promised of sinful nights with a single candlelight flickering amongst tangled bodies and bedsheets.

    She sucked in a breath, waiting for him to continue, but a harsh knock prevented them from proceeding further.

    Instantly, the spell was broken and she jumped back, her eyes widened in disbelief that she had allowed him to behave as he pleased. But then again, she was the one provoking him.

    "Yu Zhen, I..." she trailed off, unable to think properly.

    Sensing the panic on her face, he softly chuckled and carefully untangled his hand from her hair. "Did something happen, Princess?"

    Her face flushed at the meaning of his words. "N-nothing happened."

    Yu Zhen was the one who suggested this cover-up, but he was irked. This was their first intimate and serious moment, but they were so quick to hide it.

    "Why don''t we continue our discussion after the trouble settles?"

    Li Xueyue''s dirty mind spiraled down to what type of "discussion" they would have. Wordlessly, she nodded her head, and the two separated. She could feel the tension in the air when his intense stare grazed her face before he sat down on one of her chairs, intrigued by a book in front of him.

    Instantly, she mmed her hand on it and hid it behind her.

    Yu Zhen''s lips tugged upwards, "Is that your diary?"

    "No."

    "It looked like one."

    "It contains entries about someone else''s life." Li Xueyue was precautious with her wording. She didn''t want to lie to him, nor did she want to reveal the full truth.

    "Xiao Yue?" The slightly yful tone of Li Wenmin''s voice was muffled through the door.

    Li Xueyue slowly backed to her bed, slipping the book underneath her pillow before she ran to the door and peeked her head out.

    "Wen-ge, you''re home early."

    Li Wenmin brightly smiled, though his eyes were as cold as winter. "Who''s in there?"

    "Uhm¡­ A friend?"

    Yu Zhen''s ears sharpened. A friend? Well, it was better than nothing.

    "Since when did you have friends?"

    "Hey!" Li Xueyue pouted, "I have friends!"

    Li Wenmin raised a brow, throwing her a pointed look. "Really now?"

    "Yes."

    "Well, can I meet the person who trespassed into your room when you''re supposed to be bedridden," Li Wenmin skeptically said, attempting to see beyond the cracks of the door.

    "Uhm, they''re¡­ shy?"

    "Shy?" Li Wenmin scoffed, "I''ve never met a timid Commander. Step aside, Xueyue."

    Li Xueyue awkwardly shuffled in her shoes. "But, Wen-ge¡ª"

    "Now." He frowned at her reluctance. Abruptly, a hairpin slipped down from her hair, loudly pinging onto the ground. His eyes flickered from the fallen hairpin to her loose hair. He ced two and two together.

    "Li Xueyue, you did not¡ª"

    "I didn''t!" Li Xueyue exasperated, "Have some faith in me, Wen-ge."

    Li Wenmin sighed, "I only want to have a civilized discussion."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes scanned him from head-to-toe, zooming onto the sword hanging on his waist belt. His hand was patiently resting upon the hilt. "Are you sure it''s going to be civilized?"

    "Of course."

    "You''ll speak with words and not swords?"

    "I''ll pinky promise you," he said and struck out a pinky for her.

    Li Xueyue stared at it before hooking her pinky around his. "I trust you." She opened the door for him and it didn''t take long for him to break the promise.

 Chapter 99 At A Time Like This

    <h4>Chapter 99 At A Time Like This</h4>

    The minute Li Xueyue stepped aside for Li Wenmin, he whirled into the room like a storm bent on creating chaos. He abruptly stopped in front of Yu Zhen and grabbed him by the cor, yanking him incredibly close. "What''s your intent with Xueyue?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened in disbelief. "You promised you''d use words and not violence!"

    "I promised I wouldn''t use my sword," Li Wenmin told her, only for her to narrow her eyes. "Besides, I haven''t punched him yet, so it''s technically not violence."

    Li Xueyue could not argue with his point. She sulked in the corner with a vexed expression.

    Li Wenmin focused his attention back onto Yu Zhen. "Well? Are you going to answer my question or are you daft?"

    Yu Zhen''s eyes flickered to Li Wenmin''s hands and to Li Xueyue who obviously respected her older brother very much. This left Yu Zhen''s hands tied. He could not hurt someone whom she loved, but he could shove him off and that was exactly what he did.

    Li Wenmin stumbled a bit in utter shock, unable to fathom that he was pushed behind just like that. Yu Zhen didn''t even seem fazed by his own strength, as if he knew he''d seed.

    "My intentions with her are as pure as ash," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Li Wenmin''s brows scrunched together in confusion until it dawned on him the suggestive meaning of Yu Zhen''s words.

    Li Wenmin furiously turned to Li Xueyue, pointing a finger at Yu Zhen. "Why do you always pick the bad apple out of the bunch?"

    "You know, I''m standing right here." Yu Zhen waved a hand at Li Wenmin who ignored him.

    "You can''t be attracted to looks, Xiao Yue! The better looking a man is, the more evil he is!" Li Wenmin scolded.

    Li Xueyue stood there dumbfounded that Li Wenmin was the one giving her a lecture.

    "Had you been a girl who called me handsome, I''d be ttered. Honestly," Yu Zhen spoke up, but Li Wenmin pretended as if he didn''t exist.

    "Did you hear what he just said? His intentions are stupid! As pure as ash? He clearly meant he will soil you!"

    "Actually, I was merely joking¡ª"

    "And he thinks he''s so smart with that poetic line, but in reality, it was stupid," Li Wenmin scoffed, cing a hand on his waist.

    "If you want a toy, I''ll bring you one. Just don''t y with things like¡­" he trailed off and threw a displeased look towards Yu Zhen, "him."

    "I guess being shamelessly rude runs in the family," Yu Zhen noted to himself, not at all surprised by Li Wenmin''s brash talks.

    In all honesty, Yu Zhen could''ve beat Li Wenmin to the ground for disrespecting him but this person was Xueyue''s brother and she''d kill him if she saw her brother bruised.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes in response. "Did the truth hurt?"

    "No, but you know what does hurt?" Yu Zhen asked her, his eyes sparkling. "When I¡ª"

    "You mean when you crawled out from the pits of hell? Yeah, it must''ve really hurt." Li Xueyue shrugged her shoulders when he stared at her in disbelief. She had already predicted he would say, ''When he fell from Heaven.''

    "So you admit it then."

    "Admit what?"

    "That I''m devilishly handsome."

    Both siblings threw him an incredulous expression. He simply shrugged his shoulders. "General Li, you should rest assured."

    "Of?"

    "Your nieces and nephews will be incredibly good-looking¡ª"

    "No, Wen-ge. Don''t!" Li Xueyue yelped when Li Wenmin''s hand flew to the hilt of his sword, ready to in the man in half. "He was joking."

    "I wasn''t."

    "You see, the Commander was dropped on the head as a baby, so he''s kind of mentally special."

    "Are you sure I was the one dropped on the head?" He shot her a stare. "Coming from a mildly useless girl who¡ª"

    "Anywho!" Li Xueyue pped her hands, preventing him from saying anything that would incur Li Wenmin''s wrath. "W-why don''t we have some tea and snacks in the gardens? The hydrangeas are so lovely today."

    Li Wenmin threw Yu Zhen a disgusted frown. "I can''t eat with the likes of him near me."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes narrowed at the General''s childish remarks. "That''s riching from you."

    "What did you just say?" Li Wenmin scowled, taking a step closer to which Li Xueyue groaned. She nced up at her ceiling, almost questioning the cruelty of Heaven to leave her in the same room as them.

    "Did I stutter?" Yu Zhen asked, lifting a perfect brow. Despite being engaged in a conversation with Li Wenmin, he couldn''t help his fleeting eyes. It lingered on Li Xueyue but he immediately looked away when she turned her head. To his pleasant surprise, she was tantly watching him.

    He winked in her direction and her lips twitched before looking away.

    "Don''t flirt in front of me." Li Wenmin shivered in disgust.

    "We weren''t flirting," Li Xueyue said, just as Yu Zhen said, "What? Jealous?"

    Li Wenmin stared at the two in utter disbelief. He was supposed to be irritated by the presence of Yu Zhen, yet he was bewildered by how they treated each other. yful and nothing too serious, they were quite an endearing pair.

    He looked at Li Xueyue and pointed towards Yu Zhen. "Please tell me you don''t feel anything for this¡­ this runt."

    "I''ll show you who''s a runt." Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes and it instantly reminded Xueyue that nothing in this world was scarier than the anger of a tranquil man.

    "Why don''t we spar it out then?"

    "Or you know, we could drink tea and talk about our day," Li Xueyue spoke up, hoping to dispel this tension.

    "Why are you taking his side, Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin frowned. "Don''t worry, I won''t beat your loverboy up¡ªit''ll just be enough to disfigure him."

    "You bark too much. Where''s your bite?" Yu Zhen retorted, earning a scathing re from Li Wenmin.

    "Say that again, I dare you."

    "Last time I checked, you should be showing me some respect, General."

    "I give respect to those who earn it, Commander."

    "Then you must not get a lot."

    "This catfight is interesting." Li Xueyue decided to give up and sit down at the table. She lifted a cookie to her mouth, munching on it while they argued in front of her. She chewed extra loud to get their attention but they were too bent on destroying each other.

    "Wen-ge, these are your favorite. You sure you don''t want some?" Li Xueyue said, leaning her forehead on her fist while she offered him the te of flower cookies.

    "Hah, your favorite cookies are in the shape of flowers?" Yu Zhen loudlyughed, tossing his head back in utter amusement.

    "You''re just jealous she offered me the te," Li Wenmin jabbed, reaching for the te, but she swiftly retreated her arms.

    Yu Zhen grew quiet because Li Wenmin had finally hit a nerve. He was actually waiting for her to offer him a seat at the table, but she only patted the chair beside her.

    "If you want the cookie, Wen-ge, you have to sit down like a gentleman and enjoy it over an insightful conversation."

    "You talk like an old woman," Li Wenmin retorted, snorting when she tossed the cookie at his head which he dodged effortlessly. He approached the seat she offered him, but the petty Yu Zhen pushed him aside and sat on the spot that was meant for him.

    Li Wenmin did a double-take, rubbing his eyes. "Wow, Xiao Yue, I just saw the most unbelievable thing. A dog could sit, did you know?"

    "Just sit down and eat your cookie, Wen-ge," Li Xueyue demanded, pointing to the other chair beside her.

    Li Wenmin pouted. "Aren''t you going to apud me for my great insult?"

    "Sounds like a stolen one." Yu Zhen simply shrugged his shoulders before taking three out of five of the General''s favorite cookies and stuffing them in his mouth.

    Just great. Li Xueyue sighed, massaging her forehead. They would definitely bicker again. Just then, the door burst open and in walked another twin.

    "You''re taking too long," Li Chenyang scowled, pointing to Li Wenmin. "So much for being more conniving than me!"

    "It''s not my fault. Xiao Yue made me promise her I wouldn''t use the sword!"

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips into a thin line, turning to Li Xueyue who innocently sat there, munching her cookie.

    When she saw his aggravated expression and the veins popping on his forehead, she turned to the table and grabbed a te of Li Chenyang''s favorite cake bites.

    "Want one?" she offered right when his lids twitched.

    "Xueyue."

    She ced the te down and then turned to the melon cookies that she knew was his second favorite. "What about this one?"

    "Can you be serious?" Li Chenyang frowned, pointing to Yu Zhen in disbelief and irritation. "How can you eat at a time like this? There''s already rumors of your affiliation with the Commander of Hanjian, and with his visit today, they''re going to think you''re his."

    Li Xueyue quietly ate her cookie whilst looking down at herp. Li Chenyang blinked once, twice, and thrice. Judging by her reaction, something clicked in his mind and the only thing he could do was slowly nod his head.

    "You''re right. I should probably sit down for this discussion," he breathed out in shock, copsing onto the chair beside her and picking up the small cake bites.

 Chapter 100 So Much To Discuss

    <h4>Chapter 100 So Much To Discuss</h4>

    An awkward silence fell over the four of them, weighing them down.

    Yu Zhen was the only one who didn''t seem affected. He sat there, sipping his tea without a care in the world, peering over his teacup to study Li Xueyue.

    She was munching on the cookies without a single care in the world. Herck of awareness of the environment only made him more intrigued by her. She was raised with all of these rules of etiquette, yet she enjoyed breaking all of them down.

    "So, uh¡­" Li Wenmin spoke up when he finished two tes of cookies. "Are we going to address the elephant in the room?" He threw a look towards Yu Zhen.

    "No, we won''t." Li Xueyue left it there, refusing to speak any more about her love life. Her response did not satisfy any of the twins, but what could they do? Convince her to not see him? Would she even listen?

    Creases formed on Li Chenyang''s forehead while he contemted over his words. He needed to convince Li Xueyue that intertwining her fate with the Prince of Hanjian would not be the smartest decision right now. Especially with Wen Jinkai who was unwilling to put his pride away, but also reluctant to let Xueyue go.

    "What are your ns right now, Xueyue?" Li Chenyang asked, deliberately wording his question in a way that favored her. In reality, he was trying to dissect her thought process and mold it into his favor.

    Li Xueyue was a jumbled mess of mixed emotions and pure uncertainty. She didn''t mean to cross paths with Wen Jinkai nor did she mean to stumble across Yu Zhen. All she wanted to do was put her n of vengeance to ce. She hadn''t thought about her future at all or the people who could impact her life.

    "I didn''t mean for any of this to happen," Li Xueyue finally admitted.

    "I know." Li Chenyang''s tone was filled with understanding, but the weariness buried in his eyes said otherwise. "Maybe, we should focus on the current problems and then we can discuss your love life."

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. As much as he wanted to sort out the feelings between him and Xueyue, her safety was his current priority. He had already made too many enemies for himself. The list alone could stretch from the top of the pce stairs to the cement ground.

    "I''m sure you''re aware of this, but the Emperor has called you into the Pce again," Li Chenyang said.

    He heard from the Eunuchs that the royal family was far from happy regarding the news of her absence. Duke Li Shenyang handled the situation well, but not withoutplications.

    "You''re the only unwed Princess living outside of the Pce walls," Li Chenyang pointed out. "The Emperor has ns of moving you into the Pce. It''s protocol."

    "I thought we went over this already." Li Xueyue frowned, remembering the conversation that took ce thest time this was brought up.

    "Yes, but we can''t ignore thews set in ce to keep Princesses safe. The Imperial Family believes you will be safer in the Pce than in the Li Manor."

    "Which is stupid," Li Wenmin spat out, disgusted that his uncle had so little faith in them. "All of the Li guards are the cream of the crop. None of them misses a day of training. Everyone takes turns to train while others fulfil their duties as guards to the Li family."

    "Yes, butws arews." Li Chenyang sighed. "A week from now, there will be a Eunuching to make a public announcement in front of our manor''s entrance demanding you to pack your bags for the Pce."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She was growing aggravated by the Emperor''s meddling. What made her so unique that he could not stop bothering her? Everyone has a motive. What was his?

    "No one can force a third-rank Princess into marriage, is that correct?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Yes, but the problem is, the person acknowledging the marriage will be the Imperial Family," Li Chenyang confirmed.

    Li Xueyue frowned. "If the Emperor wants me to marry someone, he can make it happen without my consent."

    "Precisely." Li Chenyang fumed. "What''s the point of giving that long speech at the tournament when he''s going to be the one to break his own rules?"

    "One day, that''s going to change," Duke Li Shenyang reassured. He stepped into the room with his hands folded behind him, a tired smile on his features.

    "Father, you''re home early," Li Chenyang pointed out.

    For a split second, Duke Li Shenyang''s attention was on Yu Zhen¡ªthe only person not part of their n. Unless¡­ An idea came to Duke Li Shenyang''s mind. It would be insane, but worth it if it could guarantee her protection.

    "I''d like a private discussion with you, Chenyang. Why don''t you join me in private study?" Duke Li Shenyang asserted.

    "Now?"

    "Now."

    Li Chenyang turned his attention to Yu Zhen. "And what about this Commander?" he asked.

    Yu Zhen understood his presence was not needed here. For now. "I have ces to be," he noted, standing up.

    Li Xueyue tensed when he brushed past her, his fingers momentarily grazing her shoulder. It happened so quickly, no one saw it. Her eyes were attracted to him, watching his every move.

    He was aware of this and instead of ying with her emotions, he reassured her with a lopsided smile. "Have a good day, Princess."

    "Likewise, Commander," she retorted.

    He softly chuckled at her pettiness. If he refused to call her by her name, she''d do the same thing. He nodded in greeting to the Duke before excusing himself.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s knowing eyes followed Yu Zhen the entire time he walked down the hallways until he turned the corner and disappeared from sight. "We''ll address this issue," he decided.

    Li Xueyue knew the Duke was directly talking to her. "Of course."

    "Good." Duke Li Shenyang''s smile widened. "And Wenmin, why don''t you tag along as well? We have much to discuss."

    "Without me?" Li Xueyue raised a brow.

    "We all have your best interest in mind," Duke Li Shenyang assured her. "Do not worry, child. You will be safe."

    Li Xueyue believed him but she didn''t understand his ending words. She would be safe. From what or whom? The Emperor? What was so dangerous about him? Did he know something that he could not say? Her head snapped towards Li Chenyang, catching him by surprise. He averted her gaze, only to regret it, and stared into her curious eyes.

    ''He knows something,'' Li Xueyue thought to herself. Something that neither of them wanted to say. What was it?

    "Is there something I should know?"

    "No," Li Wenmin affirmed.

    "Of course not," Duke Li Shenyang confirmed.

    "Don''t worry about it," Li Chenyang stated.

    Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Are you sure I shouldn''t worry?"

    "There are some concerning details," Li Chenyang said. "But we''ll try to find a solution. So, don''t worry too much. Okay?"

    Duke Li Shenyang quirked a brow at his son''s willingness to share confidential information. He''d have to speak to him about thister. It''d be best if she was kept in the dark, or else the more she knew, the more she''d panic and make illogical moves. Then again, she had rarely made a foolish decision, but that didn''t mean she couldn''t.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "Will you tell me what happens in the discussion?" she asked no one in particr.

    "For now, it''s best if you don''t know a thing," Duke Li Shenyang insisted.

    "Even though it''s about me?" Li Xueyue questioned.

    "Unfortunately, yes," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "I do hope you can understand."

    Li Xueyue frowned, but didn''t respond.

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t feel the need to argue about this further. He beckoned the twins to leave with him.

    "I''ll see youter, Xiao Yue." Li Wenmin patted her head and Li Chenyang simply walked out of the room.

    Li Xueyue watched their figures strut past her window. Despite being rted, neither of their footsteps were in sync.

 Chapter 101 Suitors

    <h4>Chapter 101 Suitors</h4>

    Inside Duke Li Shenyang''s private study where only his closest friends and rtives were allowed to enter, the twins sat in pure silence. Books and scrolls of all sorts lined the shelves. The categories and titles changed from "To Lead a Nation" to "Herbology: The Different nts of Wuyi."

    Finally, Li Chenyang broke the silence. "Why can''t Xueyue be in here?"

    "She can, but not for this discussion," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    "Why?" Li Wenmin asked while leaning his cheek on a propped up arm.

    "I''ve found something in the Pce today," Duke Li Shenyang noted.

    He headed towards his desk where he slid open a drawer and pulled out a single hairpin. Silver and gold were molded into thousands of petals as gems of all shades and colors were blended into a glistening hydrangea flower. Pearls dangled from the hairpin, swaying furiously when Duke Li Shenyang presented it to the twins.

    Li Wenmin felt like buckets of cold water were emptied on him. He never thought he''d see it again.

    "This hairpin belongs to Minghua!" He shot up from his chair so abruptly that it fell onto the floor but he did not care.

    "How is that possible, Father?" Li Wenmin asked.

    "If a hairpin is not properly cared for, it will rust," Duke Li Shenyang pointed out, twirling the polished essory between his fingers.

    "Someone in the Pce has been tending to it," Li Chenyang concluded, his brows knitted together in conclusion. "But who? And why?"

    Li Wenmin felt his entire body begin to tremble, starting from his eyes. Rage coursed through him at the mere thought of Li Minghua. He was not frustrated by her, rather, he was infuriated by the people she was acquainted with before the fire. He''d recognize that hairpin anywhere.

    Hydrangeas were Li Minghua''s favorite flowers as well as the Duchess''s. Duchess Wang Qixing had gifted this particr design to Li Minghua on her sixteenth birthday. She always adorned her hair with it wherever she went. A few weeks after Minghua''s birthday, the hairpin went missing and subsequently a fire broke out and consumed their manor in Hechen.

    "Who else could it be?" Duke Li Shenyang sighed, settling the hairpin onto his mahogany desk.

    "Impossible. He has moved on from her, I know he has!" Li Chenyang shouted. He mmed his hand on the table, his blood boiling at the mere thought of the man. Li Minghua had given her heart to him but he was young and foolish. When her precious heart slipped through his fingers, it shattered into a million pieces.

    "We can''t be certain," Duke Li Shenyang said. "Just because he has expressed interest in our Xueyue does not mean his heart has moved on."

    "Xueyue bears only a slight resemnce to Minghua," Li Wenmin said through gritted teeth. His eyes were ignited in a zing fire.

    "Crazy bastard!" Li Wenmin snarled, swiping his hand across the table, the teapot flew and shattered as it hit the bookshelf, the impact from it sent everything tumbling down in a loud crash that startled neither of the men.

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together and collected the scrolls from the ground. He could not fathom the idea of damaging these books. He picked up the books in no particr order, whether it was titled, "Geography of Hanjian" or "The Road to Sess is Paved with Betrayal."

    "You don''t think he''d take an interest in Xiao Yue just because of this right?" Li Wenmin breathed out, clutching his hair in frustration. "She doesn''t like him."

    Duke Li Shenyang heaved a loud sigh and leaned back on his chair, resting his arms behind him. "Men are unpredictable."

    "He can''t have her," Li Chenyang snapped. "We can''t allow it, Father. Thest time one of our own was sent to the Pce¡ª"

    "I know," Duke Li Shenyang interjected.

    The Duke was more mellow-tempered than his hot-headed sons. He ced business above his emotions and that was how it had always been. Despite his beliefs, his family meant everything to him. Keeping them safe was his priority, even if it meant the sacrifice of others.

    "How did you find the hairpin, Father?" Li Chenyang inquired while Li Wenmin brooded at the innocent bookshelf.

    "I had Ling look around the Pce. He came across this in one of the rooms."

    Li Wenmin''s ears twitched. Whose room? Only two names came to mind. "Well, what are we going to do?"

    "We will have to keep this a secret for now. Your mother can''t find out about this hairpin or else she will go into a shock. We do not want that to happen," Duke Li Shenyang proposed.

    He walked to the other side of his desk and slipped the hairpin underneath the stacks of parchment. Next, he locked the drawer and slipped the key ne back around his neck, hiding it underneath hisyers of clothes.

    "That''s not what I meant," Li Wenmin scowled. "What about Xueyue? What are we going to do about this situation? We can''t let her be dragged into the Pce, not like Minghua!"

    "Minghua was not dragged into the pce. She left on her own ord," Li Chenyang snarled. "Don''t you dare forget that, dear brother. She was the one who walked into the lion''s den, expecting to tame them ande out as the ringmaster!"

    "Stop it, you know she was just in love!"

    "That was not love!" Li Chenyang roared. "If she had just stayed put instead of sneaking out every damn night, we wouldn''t have this issue!"

    "What?" Duke Li Shenyang hissed. He turned around in time to see the twins simmering down into their seats. Li Wenmin nced away and Li Chenyang stared at the ceiling. Neither of them wanted to speak.

    "What did you just say?! She snuck out?" Duke Li Shenyang snapped.

    Li Chenyang silently cursed inside his head for letting the cat out of the bag. Li Wenmin simply averted his gaze from his furious father.

    "Is that true?" Duke Li Shenyang demanded.

    Neither of the twins answered. Suddenly, the books were interesting to Li Wenmin and the carpet was fascinating to Li Chenyang.

    "Is it?!" Duke Li Shenyang repeated, his eyes widened in disbelief. When they continued to remain silent, he let out a frustrated sigh. He was not mad at the boys, he was disappointed.

    "What happened in the past can''t be undone, but I need to know if she snuck out or not," Duke Li Shenyang exined.

    "Why does it matter now, Father? So what if she snuck out?" Li Chenyang groaned.

    "Because we need to know who else she came across," Duke Li Shenyang answered, his eyes shed with calctions.

    Li Chenyang blinked. "What do you mean?"

    "Aside from him, who else did she expose herself to?" Duke Li Shenyang bit out. "How many people did she meet? How many did she think were her friends, but were actually foes? Who tricked her?"

    Li Chenyang''s befuddled expression instantly cleared into understanding. Perhaps, there was more than what meets the eye.

    "Do you mean¡­ there was someone else involved in convincing her to enter the Pce?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "Yes. Minghua didn''t have friends. Any stranger she came across could''ve tricked her into leaving us and entering the Pce." Duke Li Shenyang frowned.

    Even after the two years that passed, he could not wipe away the guilt of keeping her in the house and restricting her movements. He did it for her protection, but inevitably it made her feel like a caged bird put on disy. There were troubling nights where the guilt turned into nightmares that shook him awake, drenched in sweat.

    Li Minghua''s life in the Pce was supposed to be blissfully sweet, for she was the daughter of the Prime Minister and the niece of the Emperor, but it was not. And she never told him any of her troubles.

    "I never went with her on her adventures," Li Chenyang concluded. "I wouldn''t have known who else she talked to."

    "Why are we bringing this up again?" Li Wenmin scowled. "Can we focus on something else, please? What has happened has happened. There''s nothing we can do now but¡ª"

    "No. We have so much to do," Duke Li Shenyang said, his eyes lingered on his bookshelf. "Starting with the Imperial Family who ruined her."

    Li Chenyang''s spine stiffened at the underlying message of the Duke''s words. Li Wenmin must''ve felt the same emotions as his twin, for his expression shifted from disbelief to pure understanding.

    "It will be difficult to deal with them," Li Wenmin slowly said. "They''re protected by the best of the best soldiers this country has ever witnessed."

    "Yes, and who''s in charge of them?" Duke Li Shenyang mused.

    Li Wenmin swallowed. "Father, you don''t mean to¡ª"

    "No, of course not." Duke Li Shenyangughed, though it sounded heartless and awkward. "Do not worry, Son. She will be safe."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "Then how are we going to keep her protected? It''s not like we can lock her in the house."

    "No, we can''t." Duke Li Shenyang shook his head. "But we can finally open the doors to her suitors."

 Chapter 102 Didnt Want To See Him

    <h4>Chapter 102 Didn''t Want To See Him</h4>

    Li Xueyue jumped when the sky rumbled. She proceeded to the window, sticking her head out to see the somber skies. There would be a storm tonight.

    "Hopefully, it won''t be too loud," she said to herself.

    Li Xueyue walked back to her bed and retrieved the diary she hid underneath her pillow. She wandered back to her table where empty teacups and tes covered the surface. The teapot was empty, and the snacks were all eaten up while only crumbs remained.

    She called in the maidservants who instantly cleared the table and prepared more tea and snacks for her. Once everything was settled onto the table and a fresh pot of tea was brewed, she excused the maidservants and began reading the next entries of the diary from where she stopped reading thest time.

    ''I saw Uncle in town today. I didn''t know what he was doing here. I haven''t seen him in a while, not since he stormed out of my house. One time, I heard this really horrible rumor about him and my dad, but I''d like to think otherwise. Dad is mean, but he''d never backstab his own brother, right? Then again¡­ Dad said he doesn''t even view Uncle as his family. Uncle is rarely around.''

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "Uncle? Who could it be?" she asked no one in particr. Was it Duke Li Taojun? She turned to the next page.

    ''That''s so weird, Uncle is acquainted with the quiet bodyguard I met the other day! I saw them chatting in the town center, but this time, there was another man. He was dressed in a servant''s attire but behaved like royalty. It was strange. I didn''t want to disturb them, so I pretended to not see them.''

    "Dressed like a servant but behaved like royalty?" Li Xueyue blinked. Was it... no¡­ the possibility of the royal family being in Hechen was slim. She scratched her head, ncing down at the date. Two years ago¡­ Maybe they were there for Bai Tianai''s extravagant birthday party?

    "Let''s read on¡­" Li Xueyue murmured.

    ''But then Uncle left the group after noticing a woman. He looked really surprised to see her. It was so strange! And well, diary, being the nosy girl I am, I followed him. I didn''t know why, but I just did. He was arguing with a beautiful woman dressed in clothes too modest for her to be from the redntern district. The jewelry she was wearing looked expensive too. She might be the wife of one of the aristocrats in the area.

    The woman seemed really frightened by him, iming she didn''t know what he was talking about. They were bickering about some girl. I couldn''t catch on to her name, but based on the context, it might be a child. He demanded to see her. He was furious when she denied his request, iming the girl didn''t want to see him. Who could the girl be?''

    "Girl? Woman?" Li Xueyue scratched her head. Did Duke Li Taojun know someone in Hechen? This diary was getting stranger by the page¡­

    ''Uncle caught me. I didn''t mean to be so obvious with my snooping, but some kid tried to rob me! He was dirt poor, so I gave him a coin but he wanted more when he saw my money bag. How dare he! Not only did he expose me, he also ran off with my money.

    Uncle was pissed when he saw me. He said I can''t tell anything about what I witnessed to anyone, or else! I wanted to roll my eyes so bad. What can he do to me? I''m his niece and Dad would kill him if he did something to me.''

    "Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin called out. He opened the door when she was unresponsive.

    Li Xueyue shot out of her seat, closing the diary behind her. "Wen-ge! I didn''t hear you."

    "What could be so interesting that you couldn''t even hear me?" Li Wenminughed, walking to her.

    "A book. Ever read one?" she teased, sliding it behind her back.

    Li Wenmin suspected her abrupt and secretive actions. "Of course, I''ve read one!"

    She snorted. "Are you sure?"

    He red. "Yes! I''d like to let you know, I am a diligent schr!"

    "Is that what our tutor said when he hit you with a bookst time?" She snickered, fondly remembering what happened a year ago. She was a fast-learner and eventually was able to join the twins in their private lessons. No one minded, and she learned a lot from it.

    "H-he was practicing a new technique!" Li Wenmin argued.

    "Oh? What technique?"

    "Uhh¡­." Li Wenmin trailed off. He scratched the back of his head. "Hitting the book''s information into the brain?"

    "What?" Li Xueyueughed, the sound echoing in her room. He revealed a lopsided grin at his ability to make her grin and giggle like this.

    "That''s such a dumb technique! Just admit it, you were a bad student." She snorted.

    "It''s not like I wanted to be the brains of the family anyways! That job is for the bookworm, Chenyang." Li Wenmin scrunched his nose in disgust. "Did you know he reads books for fun?!"

    "I do that as well."

    "Well, I mean, he reads educational books and scrolls! Like ''The Meaning of Life'' and so many more!''

    "I read that for fun too¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, tilting her head to the bookshelves beside her window. She liked to read before she went to bed. On very lucky nights, it kept the nightmares at bay and she''d dream about herst thought before bed. Unfortunately for her, the nightmares woulde back to haunt her, ruining her in ways one could never imagine. Horrific nightmares of cruel abuse and obscene words.

    Li Wenmin blinked. "I-I mean, uh¡­ Well anyways!" He grinned, "Dinner is ready. Let''s go eat!"

    "Pft, okay." Li Xueyue giggled at his embarrassed expression. "Let''s eat," she said, picking up the diary and slipping it into the bookshelf.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to seem suspicious and hide it under her nket. Suddenly, she felt guilty for taking something that wasn''t hers, and reading through it¡ªviting someone''s privacy. Should she bring the diary back¡­?

    "Oh by the way, Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin spoke. "I never mentioned this to you, but there''s a part of the house you can''t ever walk into. Okay?"

    Li Xueyue swallowed.

    "W-where?" she asked, keeping her back turned to him while she wedged the book into an inconspicuous spot.

    "It''s far from your room and on the other side of your estate. There''s a guard in front of that ce, so you''ll know when you see it," Li Wenmin told her.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart drop to the pit of her stomach at the mention of the ce. It sounded exactly like where she had trespassed.

    "Why can''t we enter?"

    Li Wenmin blinked. He didn''t expect this question. He wished he had anticipated her reaction in advance so he''d know how to respond to it. He had forgotten how curious she was about everything.

    "It''s uhm, under construction and dangerous for you to walk there," he lied.

    Li Xueyue knew he was lying. Everything there was in good condition. Though the ce was a bit dusty, that was probably because the Duke and Duchess wanted to preserve the ce.

    "Okay," she agreed.

    "Great." He smiled, "Now let''s go eat dinner!"

    He walked over to her and loosely grabbed her wrist, guiding her out of the room. He nced back, his eyes briefly lingered on the spot she slipped the book into. Why was she so secretive about the book? Could it be her private diary? He resisted the urge to smile. It would be interesting if she kept one. He always wondered what goes on in her mind. Perhaps he''d give it a read when she wasn''t home.

 Chapter 103 A Prince and a Commander

    <h4>Chapter 103 A Prince and a Commander</h4>

    After a peaceful dinner, Li Xueyue retreated into her room. She wanted to continue reading the contents of the diary but eventually decided against it. She felt guilty for invading someone else''s privacy, so she promised her dying curiosity she would read it tomorrow.

    When she walked past the bookshelf, she retrieved the diary with the intention of hiding it somewhere else. The only problem was where? She didn''t have a secret spot that only she knew about. Reluctantly, she slipped it into her nightstand¡ªwhere servants would never snoop around or open.

    After everything was set, she climbed into bed and expected a restful night¡ªas if that was ever possible for her. The only thing she dreamed about were unforgivable days of abuse that she swore she''d pay back tenfold.

    - - - - -

    In Duke Li Shenyang''s public study, he poured tea for himself and Commander Yu Zhen.

    "What a pleasant surprise," Duke Li Shenyangmented. He swirled the teacup in his hand, catching the aromatic whiff of spices andvender. It was an interesting blend concocted by his wife but it tasted delightful so he did not mind having it.

    "I''m grateful you walked through the door instead of scaling the walls." Duke Li Shenyang chuckled to himself.

    Because of Wen Jinkai''s actions that night, he had increased the number of guards stationed around Li Xueyue''s bedroom and smoothen out the ridges of the walls until it was practically unclimbable in every angle.

    Yu Zhen quirked an interested brow at Duke Li Shenyang''s words. "What an odd thing to say."

    "Perhaps. But when you have a daughter under your roof, many odd things could happen. Like trespassing men who are full of themselves. Don''t you agree, Commander?"

    Yu Zhen chose to ignore the jab sent his way. "Have you taken into consideration that I might''ve been worried about her condition?"

    "You could''ve just asked me." Duke Li Shenyang hummed. He took a pleasant sip of his tea, breathing in the rxing scent of thevender and other spices that tingled his senses.

    "What is the purpose of yourte visit?" he added on.

    Yu Zhen simply raised the teacup to his lips and took a sip, his eyes briefly widened at the unique taste.

    "I simply wanted to chat," Yu Zhen replied.

    "I see." Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "About who? Xueyue?"

    "Yes, your daughter."

    "Right. My daughter," Duke Li Shenyang murmured. "I hope it''s not what I''m thinking about."

    "Of course, not." Yu Zhen smiled. It entuated his features, turning his ws into perfection. Sadly for him, he looked like a wolf in sheep''s clothing, and to some extent, he was exactly that.

    "I find it awfully embarrassing when mene to request my daughter''s hand in marriage before consulting her first. Don''t you agree?" Duke Li Shenyangughed.

    He did not forget what Li Chenyang told him the night he returned from Ning Huabing''s birthday soiree. Wen Jinkai hade in the afternoon to talk about courting Li Xueyue and even had the audacity to ask for Li Chenyang''s blessing. Needless to say, it ended in the worst dispute possible.

    Yu Zhen''s cunning smile widened, his eyes shed with mirth. "Which cowardly man came to mind?"

    Duke Li Shenyang deeply chuckled. "Does it matter?"

    Yu Zhen merely shrugged. "I''d like to know mypetition."

    "How about the Fourth Prince of this Empire or the Commander who seized the towns surrounding the Capital of Yijian?" Duke Li Shenyang smiled against his teacup lid when Yu Zhen simplyughed. The sound was frigid, but highly entertaining.

    "Pity for them, I am both a Prince and a Commander." Yu Zhen tilted his head and dered, "Xueyue will notck the luxury of a Prince''s wife nor will sheck the protection of a Commander''s woman."

    "Unluckily for you, she doesn''t care about either of those things," Duke Li Shenyang teased.

    "I figured she was that type." Yu Zhen''s smile finally became genuine. His hardened eyes softened at the memory of her sly smirk and twinkling eyes.

    Mischievous and yful, she was everything he liked. The question was, did she show him the same interest? She behaved like a troublemaker who enjoyed seeing him flustered but would turn a deaf ear to his quickened heartbeats.

    "If you''re here to forcefully ask for her hand in marriage, I will have to deny you of such luxury."

    "Don''t worry, Duke Li, I will never disrespect her in that regard." Yu Zhen grinned. "I came to learn of your nature, not hers."

    "Well, did you learn anything?" Duke Li Shenyang asked.

    "I only received confirmations of my initial suspicion," Yu Zhenmented, peering down on the aromatic tea. "But there is something I''ve yet to pinpoint."

    "And what is that?"

    Yu Zhen nced up at the Duke with a knowing smile. For a brief second there, something untold shed in his dark eyes.

    "Are you the one ruling behind the curtains?" Yu Zhen brazenly asked.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression wasposed and calm. He did not seem fazed or shocked by Yu Zhen''s audacious words.

    "What makes you think there is a man behind the curtains?"

    ''When did I ever say anything about a man?'' Yu Zhen did not miss that slip-up.

    Originally, he had suspicions it might''ve been thepetent Empress Dowager of Wuyi, but now that he thought about it, it would be too cliche¡ªthe pampering mother who worked hard to ensure her son would seed.

    There had to be someone else. Thus, he had done his research and noticed it was far too much of a coincidence. Wuyi was struggling two years ago, but with the return of their Prime Minister, the country''s economy began to improve and the country started to prosper and flourish. They were slowly and surely bing the best this nation had ever seen.

    "Did Hanjian''s Emperor ask you to look into this?" Duke Li Shenyang decided to humor the man. On the surface, he was a patient fox, but beneath it, he was growing suspicious of Yu Zhen''s intentions with Li Xueyue.

    What if Yu Zhen was using Xueyue to get to the Duke? Once she was in his clutches, it would be impossible for the Duke to ever get her back. She could be Hanjian''s puppet and would suffer the same fate as Li Minghua who was whisked into the Pce a blossoming flower and left a wilting one.

    "You''ve yet to answer my question, Duke."

    "I''ll answer it when you answer mine."

    "Then I suppose this conversation will go nowhere." Yu Zhen shrugged, standing up.

    "Is that all you came to me for? Just for that simple question?"

    Yu Zhen paused before continuing to straighten himself. He slid the sword he had ced on the chair beside him into his waist belt.

    Duke Li Shenyang did not miss the perfect and skilled craftsmanship of the weapon. Nor did he miss therge dragon slithering up the hilt, racing to snarl into a roaring dragon. The unmistakable crest of Hanjian.

    "I came to have a discussion," Yu Zhen responded.

    Duke Li Shenyang also stood up to bid the guest goodbye. He had enjoyed this conversation despite the controversies and sly exchange of words. He had learned a great deal about Yu Zhen from the short discussion. For example, this man was a lot moreposed than one would have imagined.

    All of Yu Zhen''s moves were calcted and there wasn''t a single w that gave away through his emotions. It was interesting to see a young man like him behave so wise and calm. Like a predator waiting to pounce on its prey.

    Duke Li Shenyang was unsure if he could trust Li Xueyue in this man''s hands. That is until a terrifying shrill pierced through the air.

    Yu Zhen''s tranquil features instantly darkened. He did not wait for Duke Li Shenyang''s response before mming the door open, his head scanning the premises.

    "Where is her room?" Yu Zhen snarled, turning around in time for Duke Li Shenyang to walk out with a worried expression.

    "Another nightmare," Duke Li Shenyang mumbled under his breath. If there was one thing for sure, it was that Li Xueyue had a great set of lungs in her body. Her screams never failed to reach far beyond her room.

    "You had no trouble finding itst time¡ª" Duke Li Shenyang did not finish his sentence before Yu Zhen dashed off, sword in hand, ready to be unsheathed.

    "Oh my." Duke Li Shenyang threw his head back,ughing loudly. "I have underestimated you, Commander." Hisughter settled into small chuckles. Instead of checking on her condition, he simply retreated back into his study to finish his pot of tea.

    "This reminds me so much of my younger days," Duke Li Shenyang said to one in particr. "The question is, Commander Yu Zhen, will you bring her out of that Pce sessfully? Or will you walk out of Wuyi a dead man?"

 Chapter 104 The Worst Traits In Me

    <h4>Chapter 104 The Worst Traits In Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue shot out of bed, panting and wing at her throat for air. Tears moistened her eyes and suddenly, it was difficult to breathe. She could feel choked sobs rising in her body, but she suppressed them and simply huped. No matter how hard she grabbed at her throat, the disgusting sensentation of hands choking her down could not be forgotten.

    Days before she was left for dead in the forest, Zheng Leiyu had choked her, his eyes filled with menace when she confronted him about his intentions with Bai Tianai. He always did as he pleased with her, but had never once mentioned that he would marry her.

    When the door to her room mmed open and bursts of rain and wind crashed in with it, Li Xueyue instantly reached for the knife under her pillow. Her eyes were locked on the door which was firmly shut behind him.

    Eyes wild. Heart racing. He, too, was panting for air. Yu Zhen stormed into the room, sword unsheathed and a murderous look on his face. Her eyes snapped to the sword, the polished metal shed with promises of a swift death.

    "Who came in here?" His voice did not sound like his usual. He was no longer warm and loving. In his stead was a man who wouldn''t hesitate to in anyone that came in front of him.

    "Answer me," he roughly demanded when she sat there, dumbfounded and petrified by his abrupt entrance.

    When he saw her ghastly expression and her jade skin as white as snow, he instantly knew the demons were in her mind. There was no one in here.

    His hardened features softened just for her and he let his sword slip from his firm grasp. It nked loudly onto the ground.

    She jumped at the abrupt noise, like a prey caught in a trap.

    "Xueyue." His voice was gentle and a soft caress upon her skin. "Are you alright?" He closed the distance between them, his serene voice a luby that soothed her heart.

    Li Xueyue was in too much shock to register that this was the first time he had ever called her by her name. She scrambled backwards when he approached the bed, her eyes wild. She was mistaking reality with her nightmares.

    "It''s okay," his voice was warm like the mellow sun that shone solely upon him. His movements were gradual butposed. He moved with an intent tofort her.

    She didn''t realize he was close to her until the spot beside her sank from his weight. He reached out to touch her but she flinched back, her heart racing. She was so used to ps that his simple gesture reminded her of the abuse she suffered in the past. He did not question her reaction.

    "You''re right, gloves are ufortable," Yu Zhenmented, slipping the ck leather gloves off of him, tossing it aside.

    Her eyesnded on hisrge calloused hands, roughened from the years of practicing with a sword.

    When he gently touched her face, caressing it as one would to a priceless treasure, she felt her heart swell with unsaid emotions. She couldn''t even bring herself to question his presence in the house, or his proximity to her. The only thing she could do was allow one of his arms to pull her closer to him. He was deliberately passive and unhurried with his actions, giving her ample time to protest if she wanted to.

    When she didn''t voice aint, he continued tugging her towards him until she was nestledfortably on hisp, her head leaning upon his shoulder. He hugged her tightly, but left enough room for her to escape.

    "What are you doing here?" Came herposed voice when she had finally wrestled her nightmares away. She had finally registered that he was not Zheng Leiyu, but Yu Zhen, a man whose intentions towards her weren''t pure, but his actions said otherwise. She did not miss the firm arm wrapped around her back, nor the hand stroking the back of her head.

    "Does that matter?" he teased and she could practically feel the smile on his face.

    "It does when you barge in here again. Where are my guards?"

    "Knocked out cold."

    "What?" she hissed, attempting to pull away but with his hand behind her back, he held her in ce. She pitied the poor Li guards who were easily defeated by two Commanders.

    "Rx, Princess. They''re merely unconscious. I didn''t kill or injure any of them." Yu Zhen wanted tough at her reaction, but couldn''t bring himself to do it.

    He wished her hair wasn''t so silky and easy to y with. He was already distracted by her feminie scent and the tiny spot where her face grazed the side of his neck.

    He wondered if she could hear the roaring sound of his thunderous heart, beating wildly for her and no one else. He prayed the horrid rain outside would mask the noise, but little did he know it also masked the heavy thumps of her racing heart.

    "I preferred it if you called me Xueyue," she quietly spoke, burying her face against hisfortable shoulder when his fingers momentarily paused.

    "Everyone calls you Xueyue."

    "And everyone calls me Princess."

    "I''m not a fan of cheesy nicknames," Yu Zhen dered. Nheless, he would not mind if she wanted to give him a pet name.

    "Yet, you call me Sunshine," she scoffed.

    Yu Zhen forced himself to not react to the cool gust of breath against his skin, sending his senses in all sorts of panic. She was sitting so close to a spot she shouldn''t touch, but everything she did was tempting him. All she had to do was breathe and he was already ignited.

    "Don''t you think it''s cute?" He grinned. "It''s the opposite of you."

    Li Xueyue blindly smacked his shoulders, her hand grazed the other side of his neck, sending shocks down his body.

    "What''s that supposed to mean?" she grumbled against his shoulders.

    She tried to not breathe in hisforting scent of pine cones and warmth. He smelled like the forest when it was basked in pure sunlight.

    His voice was as reassuring as hisforting gestures.

    He was so puzzling to her. There was so much she did not know about him, but she still found herself seeking him.

    "Take a guess," he teased her, his hands trailing to the back of her neck, massaging the spots that felt tense to him.

    "It''s not my fault the sun doesn''t shine on me."

    "Are you only book-smart?" He smiled when she tried to pinch him, but only pinched his robes.

    "Has anyone ever told you you''re as harmless as¡ª"

    "If you say some animal like a kitten or rabbit, I''ll roll my eyes till the next century."

    "Nevermind then," he snorted, his shoulders shaking.

    "Why are you so cheesy?" She wrinkled her nose as her eyelids began to feel heavy. His hand was working wonders on her neck. She angled it for him, hoping his magic fingers would touch the spot that desperately needed attention.

    Her face warmed when dirty thoughts swarmed her. She hoped it was dark enough in her room that he did not see it, even though he probably felt the heat of her embarrassment. Nheless, he didn''tment on it.

    "You bring out my worst traits. It''s not my fault," Yu Zhen mused, his eyes lingered on her exposed neck. He had parted her hair out of the way, and suddenly felt tempted to do something beyond massages.

    "Are you ming me?" she jokingly mumbled against him, her eyes slipping sshut. She nned to only rx for a brief second or so, but suddenly, didn''t possess the willpower to open her eyes again.

    "Yes, I am. Who else would I me?" he joked, poking her cheek. When she didn''t react, he shifted his head only to see that she had fallen asleep on top of him. Unbeknownst to him, an adoring smile graced his cold features.

    "You trust too easily, Sunshine," he whispered, pressing a chaste kiss upon her smooth cheek. She grumbled something in her sleep, but pressed her body closer to him.

    "Men are wolves, you know," he mumbled, shifting her hair to cover her neck. "You shouldn''t let me in so quickly," he told her, even though his heart did not agree with him.

    "I might fall for you faster if you do¡­" he trailed off, unable to cope with the fact that he had allowed something like that to slip out. He rarely fell in love, but when he did, he fell hard.

    "You bring out the worst in me, but also the best," heined, setting her back onto the bed. She groaned in protest, rolling to her side so that her back faced him.

    Yu Zhen resisted every nerve inside of him that begged to join her. He simply told himself that it was a foolish thing to wish for. He would not ruin her reputation and dignity by trespassing her boundaries.

    "Maybe next time," he suggested. He straightened to his full height and was prepared to leave, but then paused and decided to properly tuck her in. Once he made sure she was beyondfortable, he finally decided it was time to leave.

    "Annoying¡­" she grumbled in her sleep, turning to her other side, her body facing him.

    Yu Zhen grinned to himself. "Even in your sleep, you like to mock me." He quietly chuckled to himself, his eyesnding on the pendant hanging from his waist.

    "It''s a stupid tradition, really," he told her before slipping it off of him and slipping it in between her cupped hands. "But I''m just a fool for love," he mumbled and with that said, disappeared into the night.

 Chapter 105 Distracting Messenger

    <h4>Chapter 105 Distracting Messenger</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up the next morning in a pure daze. She tiredly rubbed her eyes, mystified by the strange dream she hadst night. Yu Zhen, of all people, appeared in her dreams,forting her. Hah, what a wild imagination she had.

    "What''s this?" she said when she felt something hard in her hand. Turning the item over, her entire face turned white as parchment. The pendant slipped out of her hand, thumping quietly onto her bed. Her eyes widened as she shot out of bed, staring at the item like it could talk to her or something.

    "What the hell?" she muttered under her breath, her mouth agape. She poked the pendant, turning it over, her throat running dry.

    Her hands shook when she picked it up, the obsidian pendant staring back at her. It was forged from volcanic rock and gold was marbled into it, creating the illusion of lightning. There was a lion roaring to the skies and in golden spelling, it spelled ''Yu Zhen.'' When she flipped the pendant to the back, she saw his titles perfectly, "Second Prince of Hanjian. First-rank Commander."

    "Oh my god," she breathed out. "I jumped from the hot frying pan into the fire."

    "Xiao Yueee~" Li Wenmin brightly called from outside of her door. "Are you awake yet? Breakfast is ready!" He didn''t wait for her response and proceeded to open the door, proudly strutting inside.

    "Oh, what''s that?" he asked, noticing the ck object in her hand.

    "They''re both crazy!" Li Xueyue mumbled under her breath before heading to her vanity.

    "Huh? Did you say something?" he asked her, watching as she slipped an item into her vanity drawer.

    "It was nothing."

    "Are you sure?" Li Wenmin curiously asked, hovering behind her. He didn''t get a peek of what it was.

    "I just forgot to take off one of my essories, that''s all," Li Xueyue lied.

    She knew it was better to drop the subject than dwell on it. Who knows how Li Wenmin would react should he find out she had another pendant in her possession? Seriously, what was she? A pendant collector?

    "Oh, are you sure?" Li Wenmin asked, "I thought you didn''t have any ck jewelry."

    "Since when were you so interested in my essories?" She grinned, leaning up to pinch his cheek. "Are you implying you want to y dress-up?"

    "Ew no."

    "I expected that¡ª"

    "I like ying house better."

    "What?" she blinked.

    "What?" he repeated, innocently blinking when she shot him an incredulous look.

    "For your sake, I''ll pretend I didn''t hear that." Li Xueyue patted him on the shoulders and began to usher him out of her room when the maidservants came in to get her ready.

    Li Wenmin scratched the back of his neck, offering her a sheepish smile. "I was just saying it in case you ever want to y games."

    "I thought you didn''t like ying games." Li Xueyue chuckled when he pouted.

    "I do, I do! I y Chenyang a lot!"

    "What type of games?"

    "Like Go [1]."

    "You can y Go? I''m so proud of you, Wen-ge!" Li Xueyue snickered, pping her hands for him whilst the maidservants began to prepare her outfit for the day¡ªan airy light green hanfu with sashes the color of the deep forest and yellow daisy decorations.

    "Actually, you should be proud of me. I always win against Chen-ge!"

    "That''s because I let you win," Li Chenyang exined, stepping into the room to see what was taking them so long. "Honestly, I can never trust you to be the messenger, Wenmin. You''re distracting her from getting ready."

    "No, I always win because I''m the strategist of the military." Li Wenmin scowled, deciding to ignore thestment.

    "Whoever told you that is a big fat liar." Li Chenyang smirked.

    "You''re a big fat liar." Li Wenmin rolled his eyes.

    "How about you grow up?" Li Chenyang snorted, dragging his twin out of the room so that Xueyue could finally get dressed and join them for breakfast.

    "You first!" Li Wenmin bit back, struggling against Li Chenyang''s grasp. "You''re wrinkling my clothes!"

    "Father wants to see us in our study again," Li Chenyang informed him, deciding to ignore thest part just like how Li Wenmin ignored him.

    Li Wenmin''s yful smile died off. He curtly nodded his head. "Alright then." He cast one final look in the room, but Xueyue was nowhere to be seen. She was being ushered behind the screen while one of the maidservant came to close the door.

    "I''ll see youter, Xiao Yue!" Li Wenmin called out just as the maidservant bowed and bid him goodbye. Once the twins were gone, she firmly shut the door.

    "What happened to the guards outside of Xueyue''s room? When the morning shift came, they said all of the men were knocked out cold. None of them were seriously injured, but there were bruises," Li Wenmin spoke up.

    "I have a bad suspicion that our dear father allowed a predator into the house," Li Chenyang muttered.

    "A predator? You mean Wen Jinkai?" Li Wenmin''s face darkened considerably. Day by day, that man was losing his respect.

    "No, even worse. Someone with the greatest potential to lead Xueyue out of this house." Li Chenyang scowled.

    "What do you mean?" Li Wenmin asked, confused on who it could be.

    "Use that brain of yours." Li Chenyang threw a look of disbelief towards Li Wenmin who shrugged his shoulders.

    "Sometimes, I''m toozy to think. Besides, it''s nine in the morning, whose brain is awake this early?"

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "Sometimes I wonder why you''re the strategist."

    "Why don''t you ask my Go victories against you."

    "Whatever," Li Chenyang muttered, unable to acknowledge his multiple defeats against Li Wenmin in that strategy game.

    "Also, was Han Jieru''s punishment finalized?" Li Wenmin asked, waiting for Li Chenyang''s answers, since the Ministers in court usually dealt with these petty crimes.

    "She''s serving her time in the Cold Pce for three days before she''s sent back home."

    "Cold Pce?" Li Wenmin shuddered at the thought of that horrid ce.

    The Cold Pce was cloaked in dreadful darkness. A person couldn''t see their own hands in there. asional droplets of water trickling down from god knows where created an eerie atmosphere. The temperature in there was always freezing anddies were thrown in there with minimal clothing. Food was little and unappetising and water supply woulde only once a day. Anyone would go insane just be staying in there for a day, much less three.

    "That''s quite harsh," Li Wenmin pointed out before cruelly smiling towards Li Chenyang. "I expected nothing less from your sadistic mind."

    "Her punishment will be announced to all of the aristocrats, so wenches like Bai Tianai would think twice before insulting our Xueyue." Li Chenyang lightly chuckled under his breath.

    "Wait, did something happen between them?" Li Wenmin asked, scratching the back of his head.

    Li Wenmin was aware of what his parents told him in the past when Xueyue joined their household. He knew of her origins and abusive background, but did not know as much as Li Chenyang who did his own research.

    "Yes, she had the audacity to insult a third-rank Princess. Someone has to serve as an example, and Han Jieru is the biggest fish for us to hang."

    "They''re growing gutsy. The Bai Family, I mean." Li Wenmin scowled. "Should we do something about them?"

    "Xueyue already publicly humiliated them at Ning Huabing''s banquet. We''ll let her decide what she wants to do with them."

    "Alright then." Li Wenmin nodded. "Speaking of Ning Huabing, Mother has been mentioning finding a maiden for you. What do you think about her? She''s the daughter of a Marquis."

    "I know," Li Chenyang vaguely answered. "I''m hesitant about her allegiance. Also, I prefer to fall in love naturally."

    "Imagine falling in love with someone as cold as you? I pity my future sister-inw." Li Wenmin snickered when Li Chenyang''s face darkened.

    "Shut up."

    "You''re just jealous because girls like me more."

    "Quality over quantity," Li Chenyang retorted to which Li Wenmin rolled his eyes.

    "Yeah sure, whatever floats your boat."

 Chapter 106 Fleeing the Capital

    <h4>Chapter 106 Fleeing the Capital</h4>

    "Father, you''ve called for us?" Li Wenmin asked, walking into the private study where he noticed several scrolls were sprawled open on the desk.

    At the sight of his sons, Duke Li Shenyang picked up a scroll and began to roll it back up. "Yes, I heard an interesting question yesterday."

    "Someone visited?" Li Wenmin asked, noticing a huge chunk was missing from the bookshelves. What was his father reading so early in the morning?

    "Yes."

    "Who?" Li Chenyang questioned, remaining by the door. This conversation shouldn''t take too long, breakfast would be ready soon. His mother disliked it when they werete for family meals. It was one of the rare moments they could all be together, thus she cherished these special times the most.

    "Commander Yu Zhen of Hanjian," Duke Li Shenyang answered. Disapproval hung in the air. "Did you see someone escaping from Xueyue''s room?"

    "No, why would I?" Li Wenmin scratched the back of his head, oblivious of the facts in front of him. "What did Yu Zhen want to talk about?"

    "Are you sure no one left?"

    "Yes, I''m certain." Li Wenmin frowned. "Is there something I should know?"

    "Nevermind," Duke Li Shenyang responded. He wondered if Yu Zhen had enough integrity to leave and not stay the night. As Xueyue''s guardian, the Duke would prefer if Yu Zhen had left afterforting her. He shouldn''t cross boundaries like a certain Commander of Wuyi.

    "Yu Zhen asked something so peculiar, I couldn''t help but wonder who else might have also thought of this," Duke Li Shenyang began. He gestured to his sons to walk and talk with him so that neither of them werete for breakfast.

    "Do you think there is a ruler behind the curtains in Wuyi?" The Duke decided to not beat around the bush. Besides, Li Chenyang would catch on since he was so direct.

    Li Chenyang cast a side nce towards his father. "A few Ministers have whispered about such conspiracy theories. The older, conservative ones like to think these are foolish talks."

    "Who do they think is the ruler?" Duke Li Shenyang wondered out loud.

    "Could it be Grandmother?" Li Wenmin spoke up. "The Empress Dowager. I still recall the rumors of what happened to ourte grandfather. She was a very attentive mother to our uncle, a bit too pampering if you ask me."

    "Yes, there have always been rumors specting about thete Emperor." Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "Then again, every mother wants the best for their children. The same applies to your mother. If anything was to happen to her child, she''d do everything to ruin the person that harmed you guys."

    "The same applies to Minghua?" Li Wenmin asked.

    Duke Li Shenyang momentarily hesitated. He briefly looked towards his son whose face was stony and guarded. "Indeed. She would turn a blind eye to the murder of her rtives if she found out who started the fire."

    "What makes you think it''s one of our rtives?" Li Wenmin pointed out, his eyes shed with suspicion.

    "It was just a hypothesis." Duke Li Shenyangughed it off. "Chenyang, who do you think is behind the curtain?"

    Li Chenyang stared at his father with an unreadable expression. "There have not been any names dropped, but there have been spections."

    "Is that so?" Duke Li Shenyang thoughtfully said. "Well then, who do they specte?"

    "Are you sure you want to know, Father?" Li Chenyang asked. "You know, I''ve been hearing something else in the courts."

    "Like?"

    "How ipetent our uncle is," Li Chenyang deadpanned.

    All three of them stopped walking at once. Li Wenmin examined their surroundings, noting there weren''t any servants within their proximity who could hear them. Li Chenyang knew this was a less frequented area, thus, he decided to say it now rather thanter.

    "They think he doesn''t do anything for the court except sit around sipping tea, ying with his concubines, and deciding who else he should marry for the benefit of our country," Li Chenyang concluded, beginning to walk again.

    "They know you were the mastermind behind the restoration of our economy, improvement of agriculture, well-managed taxes, and fairws," Li Chenyangmented. "It''s a known fact howpetent our Prime Minister is."

    "You tter me."

    "I never tter people. I simply state the facts," Li Chenyang responded. He turned to Li Wenmin who was lost in thought. "Has the military made talks about our uncle?"

    "They''re not the biggest fan of him ever since he cut funding for the military after the peace alliance with Hanjian. We''recking resources that we used to have ample of." Li Wenmin grunted.

    Li Chenyang decided to put his spection to test. "Do you think you can do anything about it Father? Just because the war has ended does not mean we should stop improving our fighters."

    "You know the matters of this country are all handled by the Emperor, especially the military. But you can ask Commander Wen Jinkai. He''s closer to that man," Duke Li Shenyang exined.

    Li Chenyang smiled to himself. Of course, his father always knew how to dodge the traps. "None of us are on good terms with him."

    "The majority of Wuyi''s militia listens to him. He has garnered respect amongst his seniors and juniors alike. Men with twice the experiences as him are willing to bow their heads in acknowledgement when Commander Wen Jinkai walks by," Li Wenmin sneered.

    Li Wenmin was one of the rare people who had stopped properly greeting the man aside from a firm nod on the head. He couldn''t bring himself to like the Commander anymore, especially when he was now involving himself with the life of another sister of his yet again.

    "Wen Jinkai would make a beneficial ally to us. It''s a shame Xueyue is not interested in him."

    "Father!" Li Wenmin protested. "You promised you wouldn''t marry her to whoever you pleased!"

    "Now, now, Wenmin, I never said anything about marriage. I was simply making ament. It''s not like I will force her to marry him." Duke Li Shenyang shook his head in disapproval at how rash his son was.

    "Do I seem like that type of cruel father?" he added on.

    Li Wenmin let out a sigh of relief. "I''m sorry, it''s just¡­ I don''t want what happened to Li Minghua to happen again. When she was in the Pce, she couldn''t even leave without her fiance''s permission."

    Li Wenmin''s lips dipped into a frown. "And when she dide back to the Capital, she was always in her room writing in that stupid book of hers¡ªthe one I gifted her in Hechen for her fifteenth birthday. The same one she used to write in during our stay in Hechen."

    "What book?" Duke Li Shenyang frowned. "She kept a diary?"

    "I don''t know. She said she liked to write stories because they were an escape from reality." Li Wenmin sighed. "I tried to find the book, hoping it''d give us insight on what happened in the short six months she spent in the Pce, but I couldn''t find it."

    Li Chenyang''s brows shot up. "Do you think there was a possibility that she brought the book with her back to Hechen when she fled the Pce and demanded to go back to our house in Hechen?"

    "I do not know. There could be a possibility that she left the book in this house and didn''t take it with her back to Hechen when¡­" Li Wenmin struggled to finish his sentence. In a lowered voice, he whispered, "when half of the manor was burned."

    "It''d be impossible for the book to survive the fire in that case. As you''re aware, the fire spread mainly in Minghua''s side of the house." Duke Li Shenyang sighed. He did not like speaking about the past, but now that things were beginning to unravel, perhaps it was time to dig into it.

    Duke Li Shenyang just wished he solely remembered the pure joy on her face when she left for the Capital. He wished he didn''t remember what happened half a year after she entered the Capital. Li Minghua had fled to her parents in Hechen in utter grief.

    When she came back to Hechen heartbroken and frightened, a shell of the girl she used to be, both the Duke and Duchess set off to the Capital, demanding answers for her despair.

    By the time they returned to Hechen empty-handed, there was a fire that spread out the night before. They had arrived in Hechen with half of their manor burned to the ground. And of course, everything was renovated after the fire, but nothing could wipe the fact that there wasn''t even a trace of Li Minghua. It was as if her bodypletely perished in the fire and the fact that they had nothing to remember her by was the most heartbreaking truth.

 Chapter 107 Admitting I

    <h4>Chapter 107 Admitting I</h4>

    After breakfast was settled, Li Xueyue was ushered back into her room where she was supposed to remain bedridden.

    ying with the pages of her geography book, she sighed, twirling the quill in her pen in utter boredom. She was tired of studying all day; there was only so much she could learn about the territories surrounding Wuyi and the routes leading to Hanjian.

    "Studious as always," azy voicemented from her door.

    Her head snapped in that direction, her eyes widening in disbelief when she saw hisrge frame leaning against the door.

    "What are you doing here? Who keeps on letting you into my room?" Li Xueyue asked, even though she was grateful for hispany. Though, she couldn''t let him know that, else his massive ego would be stoked.

    "As warm as ever, Sunshine." Yu Zhen snorted.

    "I''d be a lot nicer if you made appointments instead ofing as you please."

    His eyes shed with amusement. He wondered if she could hear the double meaning of her curious words.

    "Also, this isn''t good for either of our reputation if you continue to visit me like this." Li Xueyue frowned, her eyes darting to the door. She didn''t want to sound so spoiled and bratty, but these things had to be said. Once or twice was fine, but now¡­ they should publically establish what they were, but what were they? Friends?

    What if Wen Jinkai was right and that she''sing off as a loose woman? In an era like this, a woman''s virtue meant everything.

    Yu Zhen thoughtfully considered her remarks. "I will take that into consideration."

    "How so?"

    "You''ll see."

    Li Xueyue blinked at his vagueness.

    "Also, aren''t you d to see me? I''vee to whisk you away from your cage."

    She unknowingly brightened, her face filled with joy like a child stumbling into a surprise birthday party.

    "Really?" she asked.

    "Really," he confirmed.

    "Really really?"

    "Yes," he deadpanned, raising a brow at her childish antics. She dropped her book and quill without a second thought, springing up from her chair.

    "Today the traveling merchants are in town, it''ll be festive and fun." Yu Zhen could not suppress his adoring smile for her.

    "Really?" she asked, rushing to get ready.

    "I''m beginning to regret pulling you away from your studies. Clearly, you need to learn bigger vocabry words," he humored.

    Yu Zhen watched as she hooked a thin veil from one side of her ear to the other, revealing nothing but her bright eyes, shimmering like stars. He shuddered at his own vocabry, deciding she was right, he was indeed very cheesy.

    "Why are you wearing a veil?" he genuinely asked.

    She arranged her hair to hide the gold thread holding the veil upright. "Well, I''m supposed to be bedridden. It''s not the best idea to leisurely stroll outside with my face on disy. What if the Emperor hears of the truth?"

    Yu Zhen instantly picked up on how careful she was with her words. "I see."

    "Did you get permission from my parents to take me on an outing?"

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. "No."

    "What?" She turned to him, her eyes instantly flooded with disappointment. The excitement and whirl of energy from before died down. Her eyes, that shimmered like topaz under sunlight, suddenly dimmed to a dull river pebble.

    "Then I''m not sure if I can go¡ª"

    "But one of your brothers rmended for me to take you out," Yu Zhen quickly exined, his heart racing with panic. He eagerly searched her face, wishing he would see her features properly. The veil was thin and barely hid her features, but from their distance, he could only see her doe eyes, like a little deer nipping in the forest.

    "Which one¡­?" Li Xueyue asked, grateful for their help.

    "The one who thinks he''s so cool because he''s as chill as an iceberg, but in reality, he''s just too arrogant."

    "Hey! Chen-ge is not arrogant!" she bit out, her eyes widening in his defense. Besides, if one was in the same position as him, they should have every right to be proud of their aplishments.

    "Well, it''s an adequate description. He instantly came to your mind didn''t he?" Yu Zhen smiled.

    "You shouldn''t insult him."

    "Who said arrogance is an insult? It''s good to be confident in yourself." His smile widened when she hesitated.

    "Well, are youing, Sunshine?" He stretched a hand in her direction, waiting for her to take it.

    Li Xueyue stared intently at his palm, covered by a thick leather glove. He seemed extra intimidating with his outfit, dark and well-fitted, hugging his muscles perfectly. Her eyes flickered to the design of his clothes, a daring dragon roaring up his chest. From the sleek sleeves that protected his forearm to the loose white jacket, everything about him screamed perfection that she dared not trifle with.

    Noticing her clear hesitation, Yu Zhen instantly slid his gloves off. "Force of habit," he exined, handing it to someone behind him that she recognized was a foreign guard.

    "There, all better now. Isn''t it?" he mused, stretching his hand out.

    She slipped her hand on top of his, barely touching his hand. His fingers instantly closed around her tiny hand. If only she knew, he''d never let her go from now on. With their hands entwined, he tugged her forward until she was standing closer to him.

    "You''re brazen," she stated, just as one hand wrapped around her lower back, hugging her closer to him. He towered over her, enough for him tofortably rest his chin on top of her head if he wanted to.

    They were in thefort of her room, but she realized how touchy he was. Were all men in Hanjian like this? Were they less judging of women there? No one ever ced the me on men in Wuyi, but of course, it was like this in many parts of the continent.

    "That''s a sophisticated word," he teased, tilting his head down so she did not have to crane her neck so much. He quite enjoyed this intimate position where her guard was finally lowered and she was admiring his features, her eyes wandering.

    "You''re improving, I''m impressed." He softly chuckled when she kicked him on the shin. It stung, but he had too much pride to admit it. He simply smiled at the cub trying to be a lion.

    "Don''t you have better things to do than bully me?"

    Yu Zhen''s eyes raked over her face, staring deeply into her eyes. His lips twitched from his suppressed smirk. Yet another remark with double meaning. She used him of bullying her, but she was the biggest tease he had ever met.

    He leaned down, her body tensed up in response. Gently and teasingly, his lips grazed her ear, tickling her. "I prefer to do you instead."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head, not quite understanding the dark meaning of his words. To do¡­? Her eyes widened in utter disbelief and instantly, she tried to take her hand back but it was already toote. She was already caught in his trap.

    Yu Zhen loudlyughed at her realization, his chest rumbling. He bit his bottom lip when her pale skin flushed a lovely pink hue and he decided from now on, that would be his favorite color.

    "Easy now, little cub." He soothed her attempts to struggle free and her feeble kicks.

    "How can you say such dirty words in public?!"

    "And how can you understand them so quickly? Unless, you''re dirty-minded yourself," Yu Zhen taunted.

    "That''s because it''s so obvious!"

    "Are you sure it was?" he chided, shaking his head. "Who would''ve thought such a strict woman had the dirtiest mind?"

    "I don''t have a dirty mind!" Li Xueyue argued, her face growing redder and redder by the second.

    "Oh, but you do."

    "No, I don''t."

    "I can argue with you all day, darling," Yu Zhen teased. He was unable to wipe therge smile on his face. She was so flustered, she wasn''t thinking properly.

    "Me too," she argued back.

    "So you''re admitting it," he pointed out

    "Admitting what?"

    "That not only are you dirty-minded, but you''re petty as well," he deadpanned.

    Her jaw dropped open in disbelief at his facious usations. "You¡ªyou¡ª!"

    "Yes, yes, I''m incredibly shameless for cornering you like this." His smile widened for her, reaching his eyes when she retorted to a petty, "Hmph!"

    "Has anyone ever told you that you''re cute¡ª"

    "¡ªWhen I''m mad." She finished for him. "You need better phrases."

    "Oh, I''m sure you''re great at flirting then, Miss Know-It-All," he scoffed, lifting his hand to stretch her cheeks but she beat him to the chase and grabbed his instead, angrily pulling at both of it together. To her irritation, he had no baby fat on his face and she was only pulling at his wless skin.

    He barked another teasingughter at her feeble attempts and her height. She was on her tippy-toes and with just one poke, she toppled on top of him.

    "Why are we always falling onto each other!" she grumbled in irritation when she crashed onto his chest, but as always, he was able to steady them both. It gave him the perfect opportunity to hug her tightly, whilefortably resting his chin on top of her head. He relished in this unexpected embrace, enjoying the scent of her hair and the coolness of her skin.

    "I''d prefer if you fell in love with me instead," he told her.

 Chapter 108 You Traitor

    <h4>Chapter 108 You Traitor</h4>

    Li Xueyue couldn''t find it in herself to respond. She kept quiet until the only thing she could hear was the erratic thumping of his heart, wild and unrhythmic. She never expected to be the one to hear a sound like this.

    "Let''s go?" Yu Zhen asked, purposely brushing off his previous statement. He thought she might not have heard him from how tightly he had embraced her, but the astonishment written all over her face said otherwise.

    "R-right. The merchants are in town," Li Xueyue stuttered, avoiding eye contact with him.

    Li Xueyue knew she needed to sort out her feelings first before she responded with foolish talks of love. It had driven away one man already. Was she impatient? Was she greedy to want the purest form of love and devotion?

    "A majority of them are supposedly from Hanjian. My father allowed Wuyi to trade with us," Yu Zhen informed her, never once bringing up the matter regarding the pendant he had left behind. It was important to him and would grant him ess to nearly anywhere that he pleased. He hoped she would hold onto it dearly and keep it safe.

    "And vice versa," Li Xueyue concluded for him while she followed him out of her own house. She was surprised that he learned theplicatedyout of this house so quickly. How many times had hee here? Once? Twice? She didn''t know.

    "Hey, why were you in the manor yesterday?" Li Xueyue asked him whilst he surveyed their surroundings.

    "You remembered." Yu Zhen smiled down at her, his frame shielding her from the blinding sun that cast a brilliant glow upon his body.

    "I thought it was a dream¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off. "You identally left something behind."

    She awkwardly cleared her throat. "I-I''ll give it back to you when you visit again," she stuttered.

    "Wuyi has a tradition doesn''t it? Though I think it''s quite stupid, I figured you might like to follow it," Yu Zhenmented, tugging her in the long direction leading to the center of the lively Capital.

    "We''re not going to ride a carriage?" Li Xueyue asked, her eyes snapped to their entwined hands.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize they were holding hands the entire time they strolled from her room to the entrance. Instantly, she looked around her and saw the people apanying them were a mixture of familiar and unfamiliar faces. His servants and guards were easily noticeable by their different clothing and the evident disy of weapons on the men. She had no doubt there were more hidden underneath their dark clothing.

    "I can offer you something else to ride."

    "Be serious!" she hissed, her eyes widened at his shameless insinuations.

    Yu Zhen shed her a cheeky little smirk before cing two fingers together and whistling through it. Her brows knitted together in confusion and a minuteter, she heard it¡ªthe thunderous hooves, swift and steady, racing her way. She had expected a hoard of horses but there was only one. It was a darling color of roasted chestnuts.

    "We''re riding my horse. What were you thinking?" he asked her with a serious expression on his face.

    She opened and closed her mouth like a gaping fish out of water. "I thought we were not going to ride anything to town and walk there instead. That''s why, I uh, said, to be serious with your ns."

    "Right." Yu Zhen nodded with a dubious expression.

    "L-let''s just hop on."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes twinkled at the double meaning of her words. She intently stared at him, waiting for him to point it out. But he was the bigger person here, literally, and wanted to provoke her even more. "You first."

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes and strolled to the magnificent beast in front of her.

    "Wait, I forgot. Ladies require a stool for help." Yu Zhen waved his hand, gesturing for a servant to find one.

    "No need." Li Xueyue released his hand and stood towards the side of the horse''s head. She gave it a soft pat on the side of its face and when it snorted in reassurance, she took it as an invitation.

    "Are you sure? She''s quite tall and I needed help the first time I¡ª"

    In one smooth and confident motion, Li Xueyue had hopped onto the horse with ease. It was as if she had rode it longer than he had.

    Yu Zhen rapidly blinked in surprise. ''Xiao Lizi you traitor!'' he cursed inside his head, remembering the first time he hade across this wild horse. Xiao Lizi was an obnoxious horse which did not let him ride her for weeks on end until trust was gained. It had taken a lot of training, begging, and even treat bribing for Xiao Lizi to let Yu Zhen onto her back.

    "S-she''s usually not this nice you know. You''re just lucky. Watch, next time, she won''t let you on," Yu Zhen warned her, approaching his horse only for it to snort in reply and back away.

    "Xiao Lizi, you''re just sexist!" he groaned, reaching a hand out for his own horse only to be rejected again.

    "Or maybe it doesn''t like two people riding on it." Li Xueyue smirked. "Or it doesn''t like its ipetant owner."

    "I''ll have you know, she''s undeniably loyal to me and loves me to the core." Yu Zhen snorted, attempting to pat his horse only for her to stomp the ground in protest.

    "Sure she does." Li Xueyue snickered, reaching down to pet the horse. "Good girl."

    "That''s my job." He scowled, crossing his arms like the sore loser he was.

    "Doesn''t seem like it," she retorted.

    "Well, today is just your lucky day," he muttered.

    "Sure," she said.

    "And that''s the end of discussion," he deadpanned.

    "Okay."

    "Great," he grounded out.

    "Amazing."

    "Fantastic." She rolled her eyes.

    "Wonderful."

    "Excellent!"

    "You know, I can do this all day," Yu Zhenmented, staring down his horse who simply snorted in reply and flicked her tail.

    "Aww poor you." Li Xueyue snickered, hopping off his horse without hesitation. He watched her through narrowed eyes as she affectionately caressed the side of Xiao Lizi''s face.

    "You have such an adorable nickname," she informed the horse.

    Yu Zhen smirked in satisfaction, proudly jutting his chin in the air. "I know¡ª"

    "Too bad your ipetent owner has no creativity and named you after the nut that your fur coating looks like [1]."

    "I have greatpetence," Yu Zhen said through gritted teeth, his eyes sharpened just for her snide remarks.

    "And he likes to talk to himself. Poor thing, you''ve suffered." Li Xueyue ced a sympathetic hand on her chest, nodding as if she understood Xiao Lizi''s congruent snorts.

    Li Xueyue yelped in response when a pair of muscr arms wrapped over her waist, hoisting her in the air.

    "What are you doing?" So much for being mindful of their public reputation!

    Yu Zhen settled her a few feet away from the horse.

    Li Xueyue blinked when she saw the slight pout on his face and the sulking expression of a sore loser. She snickered in response, leaning up to pinch both of his cheeks.

    "Aw, is someone mad that he finally lost to me?"

    "At least you have the decency to say ''finally,''" he grumbled out, earning a small fit of giggles from her.

    He could''ve sworn his heart abnormally jumped. There was a weird and ufortable feeling in his stomach, a sensation that he had never experienced before.

    "I''m only saying it to save your wounded ego."

    "It wasn''t wounded," he muttered, his arms loosely wrapped behind her. "I was just giving you mercy from my teasing."

    "Does that make you happy?" she mused.

    "Does your victory make you?" he retorted.

    "So you do admit it was a victory." Li Xueyue grinned up at him, the first time she had shown him such an expression.

    Yu Zhen was momentarily awestruck by it, his eyes widened at the unexpected attack straight to his heart. He responded by grabbing her cheek and then tugging it, earning a sharp kick to his shin.

    He grunted in protest. "I have a cat who kicks harder than you."

    "Wouldn''t want to break your leg, Commander."

    "Oh please, don''t tter yourself, Princess."

    "It''s not ttery if it''s the truth."

    Yu Zhen rolled his eyes, the corner of his lips twitched. "If it makes you happy, then sure."

    "It does."

    "Then nevermind," he grumbled.

    Li Xueyue wished she could wipe the smile off of her face, but she couldn''t. She was either a lunatic for allowing herself to allow this to happen, or she was simply in the first stage of a... optimistic idea.

    And when Li Xueyue saw his smile, soft and gentle for her and no one else, she knew right then and there, that she did not mind the oues of this situation.

 Chapter 109 Whos the Father

    <h4>Chapter 109 Who''s the Father</h4>

    Yu Zhen peered down at her, examining her features from the way her eyes were lit up from the smile to the little dimple on one side of her cheek. She was on her tippy-toes for him again, her legs shaking and swaying. He grabbed both of her hands that were now resting on his shoulders in a feeble attempt to see him eye to eye.

    "Pft, you''re so short," he taunted her, wishing to see the irritation fill her eyes like it always does.

    She loved to dish out insults but found it hard to swallow some herself. This sassy and foolish side of her, he relished in it. He liked her unrestrained wit and with each passing time he saw her, he wished he could see all of the faces she was capable of making.

    "At least I''m not annoying."

    "Are you running out of insults now, Sunshine?" Yu Zhenughed, using the hands he had grabbed to steady her back onto her feet, worrying for her bnce.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t find a snappy reply to his question and glowered at the floor. She had lost track of how many victories and losses he had.

    He bit his bottom lip upon seeing the moping expression on her face, a tiny pout admitting her defeat.

    "Now, now, don''t go glum on me." He ced a finger on either side of her lips, tilting it upwards but she responded by attempting to bite him.

    "Wow, I can already imagine what type of kid you''d raise." Yu Zhen hummed, pulling his hand back in time for her to stick her tongue at him.

    "I can probably raise them better than you ever could."

    "Oh yeah? And who''s their father?" he asked.

    "Anyone but you."

    "Uh-huh." He nodded, "We''ll see about that."

    "What?"

    "What?" he mimicked her expression, pinching her on the nose when her eyes widened.

    "As if anyone wants to have your kids!"

    "Tell that to your future self."

    "Where did you learn to be this shameless?" she exasperated.

    "I picked it up after meeting you," he deadpanned and before she could retort, he reminded her, "I can bicker with you all day, Sunshine."

    "Hmph, good luck getting to the Capital without your horse." Li Xueyue attempted to steal his horse''s loyalty but was yanked into his arms, her back colliding against his chest.

    "What are you doing?" He scowled, his wless features morphing into a man refusing to ept defeat.

    Yu Zhen noticed she didn''t even protest, whether it was out of tiredness, or she was daft enough to not realize it. He doubted it was thetter.

    Her words rang in his head, ''All of my moves are calcted.'' What wasn''t calcted? Were her lowered guard and invisible walls a mere ploy to capture him in? His thoughts spiraled to all of the questions he wanted to ask but couldn''t.

    "Well? Are we going to the town?" Li Xueyue asked, snapping her fingers in front of his dazed expression.

    Suddenly, an abrupt and crazy question came to mind. He couldn''t help himself when he uttered out, "Do you know who''s behind the curtain?"

    "What curtain?" Li Xueyue responded, tilting her head.

    "The Emperor bullies you too much, don''t you think?" he suddenly said, noting the skepticism shrouding her features.

    Li Xueyue didn''t expect his questions. She pushed her hands at his arms but he held her in. She rapidly blinked upon realizing something. His loose arms were a mere illusion and that he was seemingly giving her the option to run, but there wasn''t an escape. It was a trap that would notify him to embrace her more tightly.

    "Does it look like bullying to you?" she asked.

    She was smart, he''ll give her that. Yu Zhen noticed she always knew how to deflect things away from her, asking for another person''s opinion¡ªwaiting for the other person to slip up.

    "It seems that way," he told her.

    "Who else thinks like this?" she fired back, her cheerful expression bing too serious for their liking. Their lively atmosphere was bing more tense by the second.

    Yu Zhen didn''t mean for it to be a political discussion, but couldn''t help but say, "Who doesn''t?"

    He eased the tension by flicking her on the forehead. She jumped, her hand flying to the spot.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize her shoulders were taut and her eyes were filled with usations. She was too affected by his words.

    "You don''t have to tolerate this, you know," he murmured, his warmth and reassurance draped over her like a heavy and stubborn nket.

    "What are you talking about?" Li Xueyue asked, even though she was hesitant about his response.

    "I can bring you to safety." Yu Zhen touched the side of her face, his thumb tracing shapes upon her cheekbones.

    "Safety?" she repeated, her voice dripping with bewilderment. She was safe here in the Li Manor. What was he talking about?

    "No one will dare to harm you in my territory. No one will meddle with your wellbeing and happiness."

    "I''m safer in Wuyi, with my family¡ª"

    "Your family can only keep you safe for so long."

    His words could''ve offended her if it wasn''t for the sincerity tucked in his voice. He was worried about her. He cared for her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want his sympathy or pity. She didn''t need someone to care for her. She didn''t want to rely on him, someone she barely knew about.

    "What did you hear in the Pce?" Li Xueyue shot back, finally understanding where this wasing from.

    "They''re demanding your audience almost every day. It makes me wonder about the time on their hands," Yu Zhen admitted.

    Li Xueyue refused to insult the Imperial Family in such an open ce. If she was going to criticize them, she preferred to do it in the confines of the house. Thus, she kept her mouth shut and allowed him to continue.

    "Come with me to Hanjian." Yu Zhen cradled both sides of her face now, a loving expression on his face.

    She didn''t expect this treatment.

    Li Xueyue wished he wouldn''t hold her so dear to him, she was beginning to get the wrong idea that maybe¡­ just maybe, his feelings for her were actually genuine.

    "You''ll want nothing there."

    Another materialistic invitation. Her face hardened with irritation. Was he just another Wen Jinkai in disguise?

    "Why does everyone tell me that? As if I can be brought with¡ª"

    "I will not buy you with materialism. I will bribe you with undivided love and affection, so long as you be mine."

    Li Xueyue felt the flutters in her stomach before she felt the tremor of her heart. His words were so sweet and promising, she was growing terrified of the possibilities he''d turn his back to her. He was asking for the unimaginable¡ªto abandon her life in Wuyi and go with him.

    "What do you want from me?" Li Xueyue''s voice quivered, her eyes growingrger with an uncertainty that he might break her heart. "...In return?" she added on.

    "Everything. Your soul, your body, your heart, but above all, I want you. Come to me, and you will be sheltered from every storm and hurricane that mighte our way."

    It was with this deration that Li Xueyue knew she was going to ce her fragile heart in his hands and expect him to not break it. She wasn''t sure if she was ready to trust him, and his devotion. She wasn''t sure if it was real, or if his affection was a daydream. She was terrified at the idea that to her, he would be the one, but to him, she would be just one out of the many women he married. Afterall, he was the Second Prince of Hanjian and second in line for the throne.

 Chapter 110 Hell Get Jealous

    <h4>Chapter 110 He''ll Get Jealous</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to give him a proper answer now. She was fearful of losing him if she asked him to wait, but if she gave in so easily, everything would happen too fast. Staying firm to her decision was the best n. There were things she had to deal with in Wuyi first.

    Li Xueyue searched for assurance in his eyes that were filled with sincere devotions. "I''ll need more time to think this over."

    Li Xueyue held her breath while anticipating his reply. How would he react? Was he as impatient as her? Would he make unfair demands from her? Would he find it more beneficial to return to Hanjian and find another beautiful woman who wouldn''t take too much time to think things over?

    Yu Zhen examined her features¡ªthe frightful knit of her brows, her pressed lips, and her anxiety-riddled eyes.

    His smile became even more weing. "I expected a rejection."

    She blinked. "What?"

    "I''ll let you weigh in your options, Sunshine. But I must warn you, I''m an impatient man." He dropped his hand just to y with the little flower essory resting on the ribbon belt of her lower back, his fingers twirling and weaving as he pleased.

    "How long can you stay in Wuyi?"

    "How long do you want me to?" Yu Zhen could hear the uncertainty in her voice.

    What was she hesitant of? Did she think he''d leave her in Wuyi to suffer her fate alone? Now that he had reassurance she was considering the possibility of bing his woman, he was bent on making sure she does. He would not let go of her now.

    "That''s up to you."

    "I''m not sure," Yu Zhen truthfully answered. "I never gave a proper reply to my father. He never bothered to ask in the first ce."

    "Do you behave differently in Hanjian than when you''re in Wuyi?" she suddenly asked, wanting to know more about him.

    "I have more duties in Hanjian. A reputation to uphold," he vaguely told her before nodding in the direction of his horse. "Let''s not keep the merchants waiting. Shall we?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, his eyes snapping towards it. "Xueyue¡ª" he warned her but she didn''t understand him, tilting her head.

    He thought she would bolt away with his horse, leaving him stranded here. He knew she was that much of a trickster.

    She was confused by his tone. "I was thinking of using my own horse."

    Yu Zhen cleared his throat, tugging at the tightened cor of his robe, only to realize he had already pulled at it enough times today.

    "I was wondering where you learned to get on top of a horse that quickly."

    "He''s amazing."

    "He?" Yu Zhen repeated, the warmth in his eyes instantly disappeared.

    "Who?" Yu Zhen''s voice deepened, a dangerous smile on his face.

    "You''ll meet him today."

    "I''d like some time alone with him," he proposed.

    "What for?" she asked, puzzled by the abrupt change in his behavior.

    His smile widened, never once reaching his eyes. He''d definitely kill with a smile. Why did he look like someone who relished in giving false hope to enemies?

    "Just to talk."

    "He doesn''t like talking to strangers," she replied.

    "You certainly know him well."

    "Of course I do. It''s been two years." She wondered what caused this reaction from him. She could feel the drop in the temperature, the dark aura that emitted from his soul.

    "Well, let''s not keep him waiting then."

    "You''ll have to let me go then."

    "Why?" He scowled. "He should see us in this position."

    "He''ll get jealous."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes sharpened at her words. What type of friend would get jealous? Of course, whichever man she was referring to was probably in love with her and she was simply too foolish to see it.

    "Besides, we can''t walk like this," she said and gestured to their position where one of his hands rested upon her face and the other grasped her waist.

    "I''m sure we can make it work."

    "Be serious!" she exasperated.

    "I am."

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. Ugh, men. "Then act like it."

    He responded by yanking her closer to him, their chests pressed against each other. He smiled provocatively and teased, "Like this?"

    "Yu Zhen!"

    "Yes, Sunshine?"

    "You''re getting on my nerves."

    "Aw, Sunshine, you''ll hurt my feelings."

    "Do you have any in the first ce?" she retorted, unknowingly poking him in a spot where she shouldn''t have.

    Yu Zhen''s face turned nk. "For you, yes."

    "What?"

    "Nevermind. Let''s head to the markets now," he curtly said.

    "I was suggesting that the entire time. The sun will set by the time we finish talking here," she retorted, rolling her eyes when he smirked in satisfaction.

    "Talking? Sounds like flirting to me."

    "In your dreams."

    "I''ll pray for that." He winked before finally separating them whilst loosely hooking his arm around her, one hand squeezing her hips.

    There was no one here to see his possessive im on her, so he took his chance on keeping his hand on her hips. It felt oddlyforting¡­ as if no one in this world could steal her from him. Who''d dare to take what was his? No one would leave this Empire alive if they took her from him. Not even Wen Jinkai.

    "Wait, stand right here. I''ll be back!" She didn''t give him a chance to respond before running back to her house. He stood there, dumbfounded that she just left him.

    A few minutes trickled by and he thought she had abandoned him. Was he stood up? He scratched the back of his neck while debating the idea of heading back into the house. Did she run off?

    His suspicions were put at bay when he felt the ground hum. It was barely there, but he heard it perfectly clear. His hand flew to his sword, his body shifting into a stance preparing for battle. The rippling sound of something powerful quickly approaching him heightened his senses.

    Any minute now¡­ His eyes widened in disbelief when he saw a whirlwind of ck and green.

    He simply blinked and there she was. Proud and beautiful on top of a well-built horse the color of midnight. All she needed was an armor and arge sword toplete the image of a respectable female soldier¡ªthey were not that well-received in Wuyi, but the people in Hanjian were less prejudiced.

    "Well then," he breathed out, unable to get over this picture-perfect image.

    With her hair fluttering in the wind, catching flight, and the sunlight basking upon her shoulders, she was everything that he did not expect.

    "After you," he said and gestured for her to take the lead, a mesmerized expression on his face.

    He had never seen this side of her. From this moment forth, he knew, he was determined to unravel everything about her.

    Li Xueyue merely smiled down at him, revealing a grin.

    "Would you like an autograph?" she teased just as Heiyue snorted in response. If he could roll his eyes, he would. It was as if he was saying, ''Give the poord some love won''t you?''

    Yu Zhen blinked back to reality, searching himself.

    "What are you doing?" she asked.

    "Looking for parchment and quill."

    "You''re so dramatic," she huffed, attempting to wipe the grin off of her face but she couldn''t.

    "I''m d you know."

    Heiyue impatiently stomped the ground, striding forward and back, growing tired of their flirting.

    Li Xueyue chuckled at his reaction, bending down to pat the side of his head. At the first contact of her hand, he roughly nudged into it, wanting more than a small caress. "Meet Heiyue. He''s my favorite."

    "He?" Yu Zhen repeated, his eyes widening in disbelief. This¡­ this entire time he was jealous, no, irritated over a horse?!

 Chapter 111 Forgetting Something

    <h4>Chapter 111 Forgetting Something</h4>

    If there was a ce Li Xueyue loved to wander, it would be the merchant stalls of the Capital. It was an entire street lined with colorful tents and vendors of all sorts. Festive music bustled in the air, children chased after each other, lively chatter, and there was a unique smell in the air. Foreign travelers from every corner of the country were gathered today who sold a variety of items ranging from essories to spices to materials.

    After handing the horses off to the stables, Li Xueyue was eager to explore. She easily wove through the crowd of people, forgetting who she hade with.

    Almost every stall caught her attention, whether it was selling essories or food like dried fruits. Li Xueyue couldn''t help but stop in front of every one of them, curiously examining the products being sold whilst unknowingly, everything she touched was brought.

    "Are you forgetting something?" a husky voice sounded behind her just as a pair of arms caged her against a table. He hovered over her, watching as she turned a polished ck stone in her hand.

    It was smooth but when Li Xueyue wrapped her fingers around it, heat emitted from the oddly colored pebble.

    "Isn''t it pretty?" Li Xueyue asked, not caring about their intimacy. Her face was covered by a veil anyways and there were guards surrounding them.

    Li Xueyue held the stone up to the sunlight, revealing the burst of colors hidden beneath the darkness. She was instantly mesmerized by it, in awe at the various hues of its brilliance. Despite the speckles of color, nothing could ever mask the beauty of the obsidian ck.

    "Look at the colors!" She swiveled around, showing it to him.

    Yu Zhen was caught off-guard by her abrupt movement. He had expected her to shy back from him but she was now facing him, her face so close to his.

    When she naively smiled up at him, her eyshes innocently batting, he could feel himself fall helplessly in love with her.

    Li Xueyue was going to be the death of him. She was as beautiful as the masterpieces of Heaven but that wasn''t what drew him to her. Words couldn''t describe what he felt towards her, nor could he pinpoint exactly what he liked about her. He just did.

    He was originally going to tease her for abandoning him whilst she bounced from one merchant to the other. He had instructed his men to buy everything she so much looked at for more than three seconds. It had gotten so bad that many people were beginning to notice this generous patronage and many were eagerly waiting for the youngdy to visit their stall.

    "What do you think?" she eagerly asked him, showing him the magnificent stone.

    Yu Zhen saw no purpose in it, for it was just a pretty rock but she regarded it with a higher degree, thus, he smiled for her and said, "It''s beautiful."

    She ced it beside his eyes, a childish smile resting on her lips. There were so much joy and excitement on her face that he couldn''t look at anything but her.

    A wave of possessiveness washed over him. He wanted her and only her in this lifetime. There would be no one else who could ever rece her.

    "They''re the color of your eyes!"

    "What?" Yu Zhen softly chuckled when she showed it to him again. "My eyes couldn''t possibly be this dazzling¡ª"

    "But they are." Li Xueyue grabbed one of his hands that was firmly grasping the table for control. She ced the stone in his fingers and used her hand to wrap his fingers around it.

    "It''s warm to the touch," he pointed out, unable to understand the meaning of her actions. "People say my eyes are the worst features of me. They''re dull¡ª"

    "This stone is also dull, until light fills the infinite abyss and creates a world of colors." She reached up to touch his face, his entire body stiffened. He held his breath, allowing her to do as she pleased. Even with all of the noise in the background, the only thing he could hear was the rapid beating of his heart.

    "Just like you."

    Yu Zhen felt his chest swell with adoration for this littledy. He could not find it in himself to respond to herpliment. He was a Prince. He had grown up listening to ttery, but none would everpare to her words, so soft and genuine, he believed it in a heartbeat.

    "Am I hot like the stone as well?" he teased but she easily took the bait, rapidly nodding her head.

    She shook her head. "I find it strange that you call me Sunshine, but you''re always emitting aforting warmth like no other."

    Abruptly, he embraced her, not caring if they were garnering attention from their intimacy. He hugged her like his life depended on it¡ªas if there was no one in the world that he''d cherish more than her. He tightly squeezed her, burying his face into the crook of her neck.

    "Where have you been all my life," he muttered under his breath, the sound too soft for her to decipher.

    "Can you repeat that? I didn''t hear you," she mumbled against his clothes, her arms squeezed between them. She couldn''t move a limb, but he was too focused on hugging her to realize.

    Finally, he released her, his eyes ignited with passion.

    Li Xueyue almost mistook it with lust until she saw the gigantic grin on his face. He truly was the most magnificent sight she had ever witnessed. Nothing could everpare to his smile. She could tell it came from deep within him, spreading the happiness to every inch of him and their surroundings.

    "What did you say before?"

    "Nevermind that." Heughed, turning to the merchant. "We''ll take it."

    "Thank you for the patronage!" the vendor eximed just as a pretty maidservant ced the payment on his palms.

    Before Li Xueyue could see the price, he turned her head to face him.

    "You didn''t have to buy it, I was merely admiring it¡ª"

    "Toote. It''s said and done."

    "But¡ª" Li Xueyue trailed off when she finally realized the guards surrounding them. A few of them were carrying things, ranging from spice bags to boxes of various sizes.

    "What''s that?" she asked and pointed to the boxes in his guards'' arms.

    "You''ll find outter," Yu Zhen reassured her while he took her hand and ced the stone on her palm. He wrapped his hand over hers until her icy fingertips were slowly turning warm.

    "What type of stone is this?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "It''s a ck fire opal usually found in the depths of volcanoes," Yu Zhen exined without hesitation.

    He was grateful that his hobby as a kid was collecting rocks. It was something he was genuinely fond of until his father severely reprimanded him that the hand of a Prince should never graze the ground. When Yu Zhen didn''t listen, the Emperor spared no mercy and ordered fiftyshings on the hand, until the skin was raw and a bleeding mess. Luckily, there wasn''t permanent scarring, but the event was enough to traumatize a young boy.

    "You should keep it. It''ll make a lovely ne."

    "Or a ring."

    "What?" Li Xueyue touched her left ear, wondering if she heard him correctly.

    "Nothing." Yu Zhen gently smiled, grabbing the hand resting on her ear. "Shall we explore more?"

    Completely oblivious to the money being spent today, Li Xueyue eagerly nodded her head. "Let''s visit the food vendors next!"

 Chapter 112 Lonely

    <h4>Chapter 112 Lonely</h4>

    Yu Zhen didn''t think a woman could have a bigger appetite than him until he met Li Xueyue. He was already stuffed from the variety of snacks they had, ranging from tanghulu to rice cake on a stick, but she was still browsing for other things to snack on.

    When he had turned his back to her for a brief second, she came up to him with tworge buns in her hands, a bright expression on her face.

    Yu Zhen should''ve been appalled, but he merelyughed at her childish antics. He didn''t think she was capable of being this excited over a simple tour of the merchant stalls. He didn''t realize the extent of her boredom in her room.

    She was brimming with excitement over exploring the city further and spending the day outside, even if it was in a rowdy and crowded area.

    "What are the fillings?" he found himself asking, though he didn''t care for the answer. He simply wanted to hear her babble about random things.

    "One of them has a smooth red bean paste and the other is a new vor, it''s made with green beans, but I wasn''t paying attention, so I don''t know which is which."

    Li Xueyue looked from her left to her right hand. "Would you like one?" she asked.

    He shook his head and replied, "I''m very full."

    "Oh, pity." She shrugged, but her expression didn''t match her words.

    "Where did you get such a big appetite from?" Yu Zhen snickered, watching as she happily bit into the left bun, her eyes widening.

    "Its green bean paste!"

    "Is it?" He brushed a crumb from the side of her lips, shaking his head at her excitement over food. What was so interesting about food? The only thing that he felt was interesting was watching her eat. He enjoyed watching herck of awareness of her surroundings.

    By now, she had taken off her veil just to enjoy the snacks, but his men had formed a protective barrier around them. No one would be able to see her tiny frame, but they could see Yu Zhen who was a bit taller than most of his guards.

    "Yep, which means this one has red bean paste!" She nodded to her right hand.

    Yu Zhenughed while sticking his hand out for a wet handkerchief that one of his servants easily handed to him. He cleaned her left hand, a tiny smile on his face.

    "Does food make you that happy?"

    "Yes, of course. Doesn''t it make you happy?" she asked, staring at hisrge hand. She noticed how amusing it was that his hand could easily swallow hers whole.

    "Not really." Yu Zhen''s smile softened a bit.

    He never found food enjoyable. Every time he had his meal, he was always alone. It had been like this since birth. He was raised without love and because of it, he rarely found things he enjoyed. He lived a life of luxury, but hated everything about it.

    From the quiet servants to the immoral lessons of ethics, there was nothing enjoyable about his life. His lessons of "ethics" always consisted of thinking about himself before others. As a Prince, his duty was to worry about his country, not his people. To some extent, it was brainwashing and he didn''t fall for it.

    "Oh." Li Xueyue frowned, "Why not?"

    "I ate my meals alone. It was hard to enjoy it."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "Despite being surrounded by servants, it gets lonely doesn''t it?"

    Yu Zhen was taken back by her words. Did she feel the same?

    "It''s understandable. Feeling alone in a sea of people¡ªthere''s nothing wrong with that, as long as we''refortable with the silence."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "I thought you were always surrounded by your lively siblings. I didn''t think you felt this way."

    "Well, they weren''t always¡ª" she paused, her eyes widening. She almost slipped out facts about her past.

    "They weren''t always what?"

    Li Xueyue stuffed the red bean bun into her mouth, averting his gaze. There was a pause between them before she finally said, "Nevermind."

    "Is there something I should know?"

    Li Xueyue was hesitant to tell him the truth¡ªthat she was not born a Li. But there were too many problems that would arise if she told him. Who''s to say he won''t spill this secret to someone else? Would he think less of her if he found out her heritage was not as perfect as it seemed?

    Li Xueyue wished she could tell him this secret without strings attached, but she couldn''t. She didn''t want to tarnish the Li Family''s reputation if people found out this so-called "daughter" of the Duke and Duchess was merely a random woman they found in the forest. What if word spreads and the Emperor catches wind of the murder she was framed for by Bai Tianai?

    A simple truth was enough to spiral into a snowball of problems.

    "Don''t worry about it," she finally responded.

    Yu Zhen studied. He could tell he was close to crossing over the boundary lines if he pushed her a little more. His curiosity was dying to know more about her.

    "What about a secret for a secret?" he suddenly offered, deciding it was better to coerce her into sharing.

    "How do I know I can trust you?" She pressed her lips together, skeptical of this exchange.

    "The same way that I can trust you."

    She tilted her head to their surroundings. "Are you sure you want to have this exchange in public?"

    "Why do you ask?" The corner of his lips curled into a mischievous smirk.

    "Well, there''s a lot of people around."

    His smirk deepened. She had fallen directly into his trap. "If you wanted to be alone with me, all you had to do was ask."

    Li Xueyue almost fell deeper into his trap. She nearly retorted with a in "as if," but that was too boring of a response.

    "Fine then. Let''s go."

    Yu Zhen was instantly caught off guard by her response. He awkwardly cleared his throat, a hint of a blush rising to the back of his neck.

    "W-what do you suggest?"

    He inwardly cursed himself for stuttering. So much for appearing seductive and coy. He wanted to see her flustered and embarrassed, but now, he was the one feeling these emotions.

    "A ce where people can''t hear¡­ and see what we do."

    His eyes widened. In the blink of an eye, he had closed the distance between them, his lips curled upwards. If she wanted to y this cat and mouse game, he''d dly oblige.

    He bent low until his lips softly brushed against her ear. She shivered at the teasing caress, her stomach churned when his warm breath fanned against it.

    "Alright then," he agreed in a husky voice. "I suggest my bedroom." Slowly and sensually, his hand snaked from her shoulders to her lower back, dangerously close to her backside.

    "We''d have all the privacy we need in there."

    Li Xueyue jumped when he abruptly mmed her against him, her eyes widened in surprise. She merely wanted to tease him back, but didn''t expect him to take the bait so quickly. She had him exactly where she wanted to.

    Two could y this game.

    Her voice softened into a seductive lull. "What are we waiting for then?"

    Yu Zhen chuckled, his chest rumbling under the tips of her fingers. She sure loved to y with fire.

 Chapter 113 True Colors

    <h4>Chapter 113 True Colors</h4>

    Yu Zhen lightly chuckled. "Alright then, let us leave¡ª"

    "Y-Yu Zhen?"

    Everyone paused upon hearing the familiar feminine voice. Li Xueyue examined Yu Zhen''s expression when he tensed and in a blink of an eye, he stood in front of her, shielding her from the woman who just called out his name.

    Another voice hesitatingly spoke up, "Princess, I don''t think these are Second Prince''s men¡ª"

    "But this is Hanjian''s crest. I would recognize the symbol of my country even if I was blind."

    Princess? Li Xueyue blinked. Was she one of the candidates sent from Hanjian? An eye for an eye until the world goes blind.

    "Yu Zhen, it''s you isn''t it?" The Princess tried to see past the barrier of men surrounding the Commander. Being a petite littledy, she couldn''t see past their heads.

    "Who''s that?" Li Xueyue asked, poking her head to the side, hoping to catch a better glimpse of the woman.

    If she vaguely recalled, one of the candidates was supposed to marry Wen Jinkai. The mere thought of it was enough for goosebumps to crawl on her skin. Not with regret or longing for him, but pity and sympathy for the girls who''d experience his wrath.

    "No one," Yu Zhen''s voice hardened. He grabbed her wrist, "Change of ns. I''m taking you home."

    "Yu Zhen please, I just want to talk¡ª"

    "Silence!" he snarled, startling Li Xueyue who had never seen this side of him.

    Her eyes snapped to his face where a dark cloud loomed over it. She winced when his hand tightened around her wrist, threatening to break the delicate little thing. He was shaking, not from fear, but from rage.

    "Y-Yu Zhen¡ª" the woman stuttered.

    "We are not acquainted. It''s Second Prince to you," he seethed.

    Princess Yu Xiyan shrank back, bowing her head even though she was unsure if he saw her or not. How could she have forgotten her manners?

    Second Prince Yu Zhen was the coldest son of the Emperor of Hanjian. His cruelty was astronomical and he spared no mercy to those who crossed his path. He was known to be aloof to everyone but his close circle of friends.

    Princess Yu Xiyan swallowed. Out of every Prince she had to beg for help, it just had to be the one who despised the entire Imperial Family of Hanjian.

    "I apologize, Second Prince, it was wrong of me. I was only¡ª"

    "Leave."

    Her eyes grew wide. "Please, Second Prince! H-he doesn''t want me¡ª"

    Yu Zhen flicked his wrist and his men instantly grabbed her with force. "Get her out of my sight."

    "Yes, Your Highness." In mere seconds, she was escorted off the premises, and a new set of guards immediately reced the vacated spots.

    ''What was that?'' Li Xueyue suddenly felt like she was tricked by him. Who exactly was this man? Was the personality he showed her a mere illusion? A daydream that hid the nightmare?

    "Uhm, Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "What?!" he snapped, his eyes widened upon seeing a startled Li Xueyue. Before she could react, he brought her closer to him, a hand behind her head, pressing her against his body.

    "I''m sorry." Yu Zhen sighed, embracing her. "Did I scare you?" He pulled back, examining her face.

    Yu Zhen wished she was an open-book. He couldn''t decipher what was running through her mind.

    Her eyes darted from the guards to the ground and then to him. "What was that?"

    "Duties."

    ''That''s it?'' she thought to herself. All of that ruckus and he brushed it off with a single word? She wondered who that woman was. He was obviously acquainted with her and she was a Princess from Hanjian. Perhaps a sister?

    "Isn''t she your sister?"

    "Half-sister."

    "You''re not going to help her?"

    Yu Zhen analyzed her creased brow and thinned lips. She didn''t seem pleased by his actions but what gave her the right to judge him?

    "She''s a Princess. She has a duty to her Kingdom. It''s the price they pay for a life of luxury."

    "Then what is the price you''re paying to be a Prince?"

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. He simply stared at her for the longest time.

    She just loved to test what made him tick, didn''t she? Why couldn''t she read the atmosphere and understand that he was not in the mood for interrogations? It was not the ce and time for her to argue with him like this.

    Then again, it was his fault for being drawn to a stubborn woman like her. She was very close to crossing his boundary lines, but he had never made it clear in the first ce. He couldn''t me her for what she didn''t know about him.

    In the end, he sighed. "Let''s bring you home, Sunshine."

    "You didn''t answer my question."

    "I know."

    "Why?" she asked.

    "I didn''t want to."

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "You''re crossing a line!" he growled, his eyes shed with a warning.

    Li Xueyue parted her lips in utter disbelief that he had the audacity to yell at her at a time like this. She opened and closed her mouth, unable to express her emotions through words. She was offended by his tone and his behavior was betraying her trust. Slowly, the image she had of him was beginning to shatter. Just who exactly was this man?

    "You never made it clear what you didn''t want me to cross."

    "Fine, it''s my fault." Yu Zhen sighed. "Happy now?"

    Li Xueyue''s face instantly hardened. She stepped back from him and when he tried to touch her, she smacked his hands away.

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "I''m going home." She didn''t want to wait for him to respond before pushing past his guards and storming in the direction of the stables.

    Li Xueyue was not aware that she was not wearing a veil until she heard a hum in the air. She dropped her head, allowing for her hair to behave as a curtain hiding her features. It didn''t take long for her to realize that Yu Zhen didn''t chase after her.

    Li Xueyue refused to look back, even though she hoped to catch sight of him. If he was going to behave like this, then she would do the same.

    When she reached the stables, she attempted to hand the payment over but to her horror, she didn''t have any more money with her. She had spent it all on the food. And because she had followed Yu Zhen out of the house without any notice, she didn''t bring any servants or guards with her. She had trapped herself in this situation.

    "That''ll be 20 silver coins, youngdy."

    Li Xueyue stuck a hand into her pocket, desperately searching for a form of payment. When her fingers grazed something, she excitedly took it out. To her pure disappointment, it was the ck opal that Yu Zhen had gifted her. Just seeing this stone pissed her off. It was like looking into his eyes all over again.

    "Uhm¡­" she nervously trailed off, finally realizing she was empty-handed. "I-is it alright if I exchange my hairpin as payment?" She took one out of her hair, revealing the five-petal flowers formed from carved topaz and rimmed with freshwater pearls.

    The stable boy scowled, cing his hand on his waist. "And what am I going to do with a hairpin? If you don''t have the money, you can''t get your horse."

    From the closest andrgest stall near them, Heiyue impatiently stomped his foot, snorting in irritation. He clearly heard Xueyue''s voice. Why wasn''t sheing here to pet him?

    "This is worth more than 20 silver¡ª"

    "Xueyue?" a familiar voice spoke up from behind her.

    Instantly, Li Xueyue stiffened, cursing her horrible luck. Why did she have to stumble across Bai Tianai now of all times?!

    "It''s Princess to you," Li Xueyue sniped, turning around in aggravation. Her face instantly paled upon catching sight of the man apanying Bai Tianai. It was none other than Zheng Leiyu.

    He was scrutinizing every inch of her, his face pale with horror. Was this Bai Xueyue? His gaze snapped towards Bai Tianai. How long had she known of this? He knew he should''ve suspected something in the tournament.

    From up close, this woman truly resembled the little girl he used to y with as a young boy. Even if she had matured and was cloaked in wealth, nothing could ever change her doe-eyes, filled with wonders of the universe.

    "Oh ho, revealing your true colors now aren''t you?" Bai Tianai giggled, clutching onto Zheng Leiyu''s arms. "What''s wrong, Princess?" she spat out thest part in disgust.

    "Can''t afford to pay for your stable? That''s quite sad of you."

    "That''ll be your situation soon," Li Xueyuemented, throwing her hair over her shoulders.

    "That''s riching from you. How pathetic that the Li Family who loves to boast of their wealth is this poor." Bai Tianai snickered while hugging Zheng Leiyu tighter.

    "She''s so pitiful, Leiyu. It''s only a few silver coins for the stables and she can''t pay it."

    Zheng Leiyu continued to stare at Xueyue with a dumbfounded expression, as if he couldn''t believe she was standing right in front of him.

 Chapter 114 I Hate Women

    <h4>Chapter 114 I Hate Women</h4>

    "I saw that gift you gave Ning Huabing. It must''ve taken your entire life savings to afford it¡­" Bai Tianai mocked, blinking her pretty little eyes.

    "It''s only a couple of silver coins for this stable." Bai Tianai snickered while she flicked her fingers. A servant came forward, bowing with a coin pouch.

    "I''m feeling very generous right now. I''ve decided you will be my charity case for the day." She offered Li Xueyue the silver coins. "Here."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "You should be careful with this temper of yours, Miss Bai."

    "Temper?" Bai Tianai innocently gasped, covering her mouth. "I''m only doing a good deed! What temper are you referring to? You should be grateful that I''m offering this to you, especially after themotion you caused at my friend''s birthday banquet!"

    Li Xueyue didn''t even flinch. She merely stood there, allowing the crude words of Bai Tianai to sink in. She didn''t have to insult Bai Tianai. That wasn''t Xueyue''s purpose here. She wanted to ruin the image that Zheng Tianyu had of Bai Tianai. And everything was going ording to n.

    "Now, now, darling, we shouldn''t provoke her. She''s a third-rank Princess," Zheng Leiyu warned. He meant every word he said. He could barely conceal the irritation in his voice.

    Zheng Leiyu abhorred public disys of affection and he especially disliked being grabbed without warning. He was irritated by the weight of Bai Tianai on his arm.

    "So much for being a Princess if she can''t even afford the payment for her horse stable. Don''t you pity her?" Bai Tianai pouted.

    Zheng Leiyu slightly frowned. What was she talking about? Pity this, pity that, he expected her to behave better than this.

    "We do not have the right to pity a Princess," he said.

    "She''s only a Princess by title¡­ And now she''s ruining her family name. What a shameful thing to do."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes narrowed. Why was Bai Tianai in the Capital in the first ce? Didn''t the Bai Family live in Hechen? Did they suddenly move to the Capital?

    Li Xueyue clicked her tongue. "You shouldn''t be pitying me when your family is losing business from your embarrassing stunt at the banquet."

    "Yet, I can still afford to pay for my own horse!" Bai Tianai snickered.

    She looked around the stable. Her nose twitched at the unpleasant odor. Finally, she found the ck horse that belonged to Xueyue.

    "Oh dear, not only are you poor, but you brought a discounted horse?" Bai Tianai said upon seeing the ssy eyes of a familiar horse.

    Li Xueyue didn''t feel like responding. She would not sink to Bai Tianai''s level.

    She crossed her arms and waited for Bai Tianai to make a fool out of herself in front of Zheng Leiyu.

    Li Xueyue knew what type of man he was. He loved wholesome women with a heart of gold and a priceless smile.

    Currently, Bai Tianai was nothing like the picture-perfect woman she pretended to be. In the end, she would reap what she sowed.

    "Like owner, like a pet I suppose," Bai Tianai added on, throwing a sympathetic smile towards Li Xueyue. "Right, Leiyu?"

    When he didn''t respond, she continued her rant. "This is the girl who embarrassed Father and me at Ning Huabing''s birthday banquet! I had to leave because of how distressed I was."

    ''More like you were kicked out.'' Li Xueyue scoffed inside her head.

    Her eyes wandered to a stony-faced Zheng Leiyu. Even from their distance, she could see the vein that had popped out of his forehead. He was far from happy and Bai Tianai didn''t even notice.

    Li Xueyue inwardly smiled to herself. Men like him were child''s y. She knew what made him tick.

    When Li Xueyue examined him again, she noticed the dark circles around his eyes. He seemed to becking sleep. From what? Nightmares? Sheughed inside of her head. She''d love for him to drown in guilt and sumb to it.

    "I only wanted to exin the rules to her, but then sheshed out on me and made me look like a monster!" Bai Tianai cried on, shaking Zheng Leiyu''s arm to emphasize how heartbroken she was by the incident.

    With each word tossed her way, Li Xueyue''s head hung low, she looked timid and small. Her lips wobbled, her eyes watering. She was the perfect image of a wronged woman, the pitiful type that incurred the protection of "nice guys" bent on saving damsels-in-distress. She sniffled and looked away, the gentle sound bouncing off on the walls.

    Zheng Leiyu''s eyes narrowed in displeasure. He was instantly provoked by her demure nature. She appeared to be as delicate as ss. He couldn''t help but want to defend her¡ªa bullied young maiden.

    "Get off of me!" he hissed.

    In one fluid motion, he shook Bai Tianai off of his arm, his lips curled in aggravation. "Didn''t I tell you I hate it when women try to take possessive ims over me? I despise being affectionate in public and you know that."

    Bai Tianai flinched at his words, her haughtiness disappeared as fast as it came. "Leiyu I didn''t mean to¡ª"

    "So you''re admitting that you remember." He scowled. "I''m disappointed in you. I thought you knew better than this."

    "Leiyu, I¡ª"

    "Did I say I was done talking? If you''re going to apologize, do it properly!" Zheng Leiyu scowled, taking a step away from her. He was irked by her watering eyes.

    "I-I''m sorry, it won''t happen again."

    "You said that thest time you did this." He shook his head at her like a father reprimanding his daughter. "Wipe your tears away. Do you think crying during an apology will solve anything?"

    Even Li Xueyue was shocked by how brash he was. She didn''t feel a single ounce of pity for Bai Tianai but she was certainly grateful that he didn''t choose her.

    Bai Tianai slowly shook her head, her fingers wrung together.

    Zheng Leiyu pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. "I''m going to have a discussion with your father. He didn''t tell me anything about the declining business. Why didn''t you say anything?"

    "I¡ª"

    "Nevermind. You''re ipetent and only know how to stir up trouble." Zheng Leiyu pressed his lips together, turning to the Princess.

    Zheng Leiyu couldn''t ignore the guilt that consumed him. Even after two years, Bai Xueyue''s beating did not leave his mind. He had held down his childhood best friend and watched as the final blow was delivered to her. What kind of man was he to watch a young woman get beaten to death?

    And now, standing before him was someone who resembled her too closely to be ignored. Seeing her feeble nature and the pain on her face from being insulted to this extent, he was instantly reminded of his Xueyue. She was so stunning and lovely, a breath of fresh air from the suffocating women of high-society.

    It was a shame she was not the one inheriting the Bai fortune. She was so easy to manipte, he wished he was more secretive of his affair with Bai Tianai.

    He wished he didn''t look her in the eye when he made love with Bai Tianai on the day she discovered their bodies tangled in bed. Maybe then, he could''ve had both sisters¡­ But all of that was in the past, and he should focus on the present.

    A delectable Princess was standing in front of him, desperately seeking a knight in shining armor to save her. If he yed his cards right, maybe he could make her his woman... The title of a Prince hung over him, his eyes ignited with the desire to obtain it.

    "Princess, I hope the words of my friend weren''t that harsh. I''d like to apologize on her behalf," he said.

    Zheng Leiyu''s words backhanded Bai Tianai whose face instantly paled in horror.

    Li Xueyue was d her head was dropped, or else he might''ve seen the sh of sweet victory in her eyes. She had sessfully turned Bai Tianai''s lover against her.

    What a satisfying revenge. Bai Tianai''s man just took the side of another woman. That must''ve hurt.

    ''How does it feel, Tianai? All these years of hard work going to waste in a matter of a few minutes!''

    In the end, Li Xueyue would have thestugh.

 Chapter 115 Sensitive

    <h4>Chapter 115 Sensitive</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t even have to contemte her next move. Zheng Leiyu was putty in her hands and she knew it.

    "May I ask for your name?" Li Xueyue quietly asked, shuffling her feet and wrying her fingers together. She was mirroring Bai Tianai''s current demeanor, but Li Xueyue knew she yed it better than her older sister. Li Xueyue was purposely using Bai Tianai''s tricks against her.

    Zheng Leiyu vigorously nodded his head. "I apologize, I didn''t properly introduce myself. Silly me." He loudlyughed, stepping forward with a friendly smile, eager to im his reward for defending her.

    "My name is Zheng Leiyu, I am Earl Zheng''s [1] oldest son. I''m sure your father has met him before, he''s only two titles below the Duke."

    Li Xueyue smiled a bit, brushing strands of her hair behind her ears. She nearly wanted tough at how easy this was for her. She didn''t even have to waste her breath for this victory.

    "Yes, I think my father has mentioned the Earl before," she lied.

    "Really?" Zheng Leiyu eagerly asked, his eyes widened at the opportunity. "Good things, I hope?"

    "Of course." Li Xueyue purposefully snuck a nce at him before averting her eyes. She forced herself to blush, the color illuminated by the sunlight that danced off her skin.

    "It''s just¡­" she trailed off, feigning hesitation.

    "What is it?" Zheng Leiyu questioned, a crease forming on his forehead. He was frightened and worried about her opinion. His reputation mattered to him more than anything and if even a Princess had something toment on it, it must''ve been an important w that everyone also realized!

    Zheng Leiyu promised he would do anything to fix it. He didn''t want a w to be so prominent, or else his reputation would be in shambles!

    Li Xueyue nced at Bai Tianai. She nervously said, "It''s just, with all of the praises of your intelligence, I didn''t think you''d associate yourself with the likes of Miss Bai."

    Zheng Leiyu''s eager expression slowly turned nk. What was he supposed to do at a time like this? Choose his woman or choose her? The daughter of a Viscount versus the daughter of a Duke. The perfect option was as clear as day for a man like him. Of course, it''d be the one who would bring in the most benefit¡ªthe Princess whose husband would be a Prince. But he couldn''t just abandon Bai Tianai like that¡ªnot in public at least.

    "M-my friend is a bit sensitive that''s all," he stuttered out, inching a bit closer to Bai Tianai.

    Li Xueyue continued to y the white lotus act that Bai Tianai loved to utilize against her. She blinked a few times, her distressed expression morphed into confusion.

    "Are you sure she''s just a friend?"

    Zheng Leiyu felt like he was struck by lightning. He was caught off guard by her seemingly genuine question. What was he supposed to say to that? Bai Tianai was obviously more than just a friend, but if he mentioned that part, it''d ruin any chances of him with her.

    Unsure of what to say, he merely nodded. Li Xueyue tilted her head in confusion, blinking.

    Bai Tianai felt her heart sinking to her stomach with anxiety and uneasiness. Why did he nod? She had given him her virginity, of course she was more than a friend! What was this buffoon doing? She didn''t make him the man he was today just for him to turn his back on her like this?

    All she wanted to do was have some fun poking and getting back at Xueyue for what happened at the Ning banquet. Bai Tianai didn''t expect the tables to turn on her.

    Bai Tianai scowled. "Are you that much of a desperate woman to covet what''s mine¡ª"

    "Bai Tianai is just a friend," Zheng Leiyu deadpanned, throwing her a scathing re that instantly silenced her.

    He couldn''t believe she was this audacious to vite the rules again! Clearly, she didn''t want to behave today. He''d have to deal with her once he takes her to his vacation home in the Capital. The only reason why he was here was because his father was summoned to the Capital and Bai Tianai begged toe along after being sent back to Hechen on the night of Ning Huabing''s birthday banquet.

    Bai Tianai felt as if cold water was poured over her. She stood there, shaken by his disgusted stare and his unforgiving words. He had not only taken the side of Xueyue, but also insulted her in more ways than one.

    She let out a shaky breath, unable to believe that the years she had spent with him was easily belittled like this.

    ''Did¡­ he love me at all?!'' Bai Tianai screamed inside her head. ''Did he n to leave me?'' The very thought terrified her.

    She had spent too much of her youth on him, and had given everything she had to offer to obtain him. Her first kiss, her virginity, everything that was considered sacred to women in Wuyi were all given to him.

    She can''t lose him. She should never lose him. If he didn''t wed her after ruining her, she''d be doomed for the rest of her life. She was already not going to inherit the Bai fortune, if she lost Zheng Leiyu as well, who''d fund her future?

    "W-what are you talking about, Leiyu?" she whispered, her voice purposefully cracking towards the end.

    Li Xueyue merely pressed her lips together and looked away from this scene.

    Zheng Leiyu saw her reaction and when she protectively hugged her stomach as a sign of defense, his heart sped with anxiety that he had further offended her. Unlike his dimwitted lover, he was fearful of offending a third-rank Princess.

    "Did you forget what happened to your little friend, Han Jieru?" Zheng Leiyu hissed at her, taking a step back when she attempted to grab his hand for support.

    Han Jieru''s punishment was widely broadcasted in the Capital and words traveled faster than letters ever could. Everyone knew she was tossed into the Cold Pce for attempting to injure Li Xueyue during the archery tournament. It was an event that could not go unnoticed, especially when it solidified Li Xueyue''s power and position in the high society¡ªshe was not a woman to be trifled with.

    "It''s not like I tried to harm Li Xueyue, I only wanted to help her today!" Bai Tianai cried out, her shoulders shaking with pent up emotions. It looked like she was trembling because she was afraid of him, but in reality, she was riddled with anger.

    ''How dare my younger sister steal my spotlight?! How dare she try to take what''s mine?! Has she lost her mind! She really turned Zheng Leiyu against me. Watch until I tell daddy and mommy!'' Bai Tianai raged inside of her mind,pletely forgetting the fact that Viscount Bai Sheng could nevery a hand on Xueyue again. They would never be able to hurt her¡ªever.

    "You need a new dictionary. ''Help'' and ''insult'' doesn''t mean the same thing," Li Xueyuemented.

    Bai Tianai''s head snapped in Xueyue''s direction whilst she blinked her eyes until a single teardrop slid down her face. "Why are you doing this to me, Lady Li¡ª"

    "And youck manners." Li Xueyue clicked her tongue, shaking her head in disappointment.

    "What are you talking about? All I did was ask you a question¡­" Bai Tianai sniffled. She was a second away from sobbing.

    Zheng Leiyu pressed his lips into a thin line. He knew his lover was stubborn, but that was why he loved her. It made her childish and young, but at times like this, he couldn''t handle it. She was throwing another tantrum and he was tired of giving in to her.

    "I''ve had enough of this," he harshly scolded her, grabbing her by the wrist, his eyes shed with irritation.

    Bai Tianai, once again, felt like she was pped by his words and actions. Zheng Leiyu had neverid a hand on her, but his words hurt a lot more. She had never seen him so repulsed by her. Her confidence was crumbling bit by bit. It would take months for her to get on his good graces again¡­ he was one of the men she had finally convinced to be on her side, but here she was, losing him¡ªyears of hard work went to waste in minutes.

    "We''re going home," he irritably said before turning to Li Xueyue and apologetically bowing his head.

    "I''d like to apologize on behalf of my acquaintance, Princess. She''s usually not this rude and intolerable, but she must''ve taken the wrong medicine this morning!" he angrily bit out.

    Bai Tianai flinched as if she had just been kicked. From friend to acquaintance. She had truly upset him today and would be scolded by both sides of the family. A long lecture that would stain her image in both family''s eyes.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head in understanding, cing a worried hand on her chest. "It''s not her I''m worried about, Mr. Zheng."

    "What do you mean?" he asked.

    "I''m just worried that an acquaintance like Miss Bai will drag you down." Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh, as if she truly cared about the likes of him.

    Zheng Leiyu''s eyes widened. He cast a nce towards Bai Tianai before staring at her again. Her words slowly sunk into him. If he had made the wrong decision and married Bai Tianai, he could be kicked down from the social pyramid he was desperately trying to climb.

    He gulped, his adam apple bobbing. "I will keep your advice in mind, Princess Li. Until next time."

    He bowed his head again before dragging Bai Tianai away. Usually, he''d wait for her tiny legs to catch up to him, but this time, he forcefully yanked her, causing her to trip over her own footing and harshly crash onto the ground¡ªin public.

    She had caught the attention of everyone who couldn''t help but snicker at the sight of a grown and elegant woman falling on her face.

    Li Xueyue shook her head in disapproval. So much for a perfect reputation.

 Chapter 116 A Genius

    <h4>Chapter 116 A Genius</h4>

    "Look, mommy! That woman just fell on her face!" a little kid loudly said, tugging at the skirts of his mother whilst pointing at Bai Tianai.

    "My, isn''t that Earl Zheng''s son? What was his name again?" a quiet whisper spected.

    "Who''s that with him?"

    "Oh dear, I think that''s Viscount Bai Sheng''s daughter, Bai Tianai!"

    "Ohh, isn''t she the girl who got kicked out of her friend''s banquet? How shameful. Look at what it did to her beauty and grace."

    Bai Tianai felt dizzy and nauseous from their taunting whispers. They rang in her ears and burned her face a fiery shade of red from embarrassment. She struggled to properly stand up in her restraining hanfu, her head snapped from left to right, searching desperately for Zheng Leiyu. He was gone.

    Her eyes widened in realization that he had just abandoned her here to rot and beughed upon. When people saw her struggling to stand,ughter howled among the nearby crowd and vendors. Some tried to hide their amusement behind their sleeves, but it was hard to notugh. She was making a fool of herself by sitting still on the ground, numbed with shock.

    "This is so humiliating to watch, I can''t bear it anymore!"

    "I pity Viscount Bai for having such a shameful daughter. Look at her, what a pathetic little thing she is!"

    "If that was my eldest daughter, I''d be too embarrassed to show my face. Luckily, he has a second daughter."

    "Who''s the other daughter?"

    Bai Tianai felt her heart race with anxiety. That''s right. Her father had identally let slip that he had another daughter!

    Bai Tianai needed something to distract the crowd and Li Xueyue would be the perfect thing!

    Bai Tianai shot a dirty re into the stables, expecting the crowd to follow her gaze. She expected them to see Li Xueyue in there and hoped that in doing so would cause a bigger spectacle than this. But to her horror, there was a man in there whose frame covered Li Xueyue from the public''s view. When she saw the color of his clothing and the familiarity of his back, she felt her entire world begin to spin.

    Zheng Leiyu had left her for Bai Xueyue¡ªliterally of course¡ªbut it was enough for Bai Tianai to panic. Instantly, she scrambled to her feet in an attempt to grab him back, but to her delightful surprise, he was already leaving Li Xueyue.

    "Leiyu, there you are¡­" she trailed off when she saw his disgruntled expression.

    Resentment shed on his face and disgust marred his eyes when he saw her. He walked past her as if he didn''t know her.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She had gone too far in taunting Zheng Leiyu. She had expected him to simply want to be friends with her, nothing more. But he had asked her something she didn''t expect.

    "Is there a man courting you?" he had asked her, only for her to vaguely respond with, "I think it''s best that you help your friend up."

    Li Xueyue wanted to heave a loud and heavy sigh that would lift some weight off of her shoulders. She didn''t think he''d be so brazen with his approach. She needed to carefully n out her next approach at home.

    She turned to her horse, an aggrieved expression on her face. She still didn''t have any money to take Heiyue out of his stable. She knew she should''ve brought her own servants and guards with her! She left her house with nothing but the clothes and jewelry on her.

    Li Xueyue slipped deeper into the shadows, contemting her next move. She was grateful for the dimly-lit stable, or else the crowd outside would be able to see her.

    Li Xueyue silently watched as Bai Tianai made herself theughing stock of the town.

    Bai Tianai struggled to get on her feet and when she finally did so, her face was bright red. She was too embarrassed to even show her face. Sniffling, she fled off in the direction that Zheng Leiyu walked off to. No one was mocking her anymore, but their tauntingughter rang in her mind, chasing her down the block until her figure disappeared into the distance.

    Finally, the crowd dispersed and everything resumed to normal.

    Li Xueyue tried to wipe the satisfied smile off of her face. Bai Tianai¨C0, Li Xueyue¨C2. This was such an effortless victory, she couldn''t believe how well things carried to her favor.

    Now, the only problem was, what was she going to do with her horse?

    Aggravated, she turned to Heiyue who had patiently waited for everything to unfold. When he heard the soft jingle of her hairpins and the familiar scent of her approaching body, his ears perked up. He stomped the ground, eager to be with her. When he detected she was close enough to touch him, he let out an excited neigh, happily walking to her.

    Li Xueyue wished she could take him out of this stable, but she couldn''t. Not with this stubborn stable boy who refused to take jewelry as an exchange for payment.

    Finally, she sighed and turned to the stable boy. She was surprised to see he was pale-faced and staring at her as if she had grown two heads. He nervously gulped whilst wiping his forehead with a handkerchief. He didn''t think this well-dressed woman was a Princess! Had he gravely offended her in any way? He didn''t want his head to roll so early in life!

    "O-on second thought, I-I will ept your hairpin as payment," he stuttered out, pointing with a shaking finger to the topaz hairpin. Even with theck of proper lighting in the stable, the hairpin dazzled and glistened.

    Li Xueyue touched her hairpin, suddenly feeling regretful to have to pawn it off. Heiyue abruptly neighed for attention before turning in circles, confusing both of them. He threw his front legs up, startling both of them.

    "What''s wrong?" Li Xueyue worriedly called out, approaching his stable gates but the stable boy stopped her.

    "Princess, it''s dangerous! Watch out!" he shouted, attempting to shield her from the powerful kick of the horse but Heiyue simply trampled at the gate door, growing irritated.

    He could smell and hear her, but couldn''t touch her. He was aggravated that she was this dense. He snorted, showing his side to her.

    Li Xueyue was confused by his reaction until she suddenly noticed the saddle and the small satchel attached to it.

    Her eyes lit up. "Heiyue, you''re a genius!" she gasped, easily sliding the gate door open.

    Before she could even head inside, a voice called out, "Xueyue?"

    Li Xueyue froze at his voice. She didn''t want to turn around. She didn''t want to face him. Not after the incident at the banquet. She didn''t want to see him ever again.

    "What are you doing in the Capital¡­? I thought you were bedridden," Wen Jinkai pointed out. His eyes wandered from her dainty back to the ck horse. It was surely his woman.

    "Are you feeling better now? How is your back, did you use the cream I brought for you?" Wen Jinkai worriedly asked, approaching her. He didn''t expect to see her here!

    Li Xueyue cursed the Heavens for her rotten luck. Reluctantly, she turned around to face him with a tight smile. "Commander."

    A smile graced his face upon seeing her. "How are you?"

    "I''ve been better," she retorted, sliding through the stable gates and towards her horse.

    Wen Jinkai noticed she was reaching for something in the satchel bag. "I''ll pay for you," he said, approaching the stable boy with his pouch of coins.

    "No!" she shouted, but it was toote.

    Wen Jinkai had already handed a shining gold coin to the boy whose eyes widened.

    "S-sir, this is significantly higher than the price¡ª"

    "Keep the rest for tip," Wen Jinkai interjected, his eyes never once leaving Xueyue. "I''ve been meaning to visit you as soon as I heard you were sick, but you seem fine and dandy now."

    Li Xueyue didn''t answer him. She lingered closer to Heiyue, seekingfort in herrge horse. Heiyue could sense fear in her. His tail began to swish behind him as he perked up his ears.

    Wen Jinkai''s lips thinned at the sight of her disgruntled horse. What was it going to do? Attack him when he was the one who paid for the stable?

    "Take a walk with me, Xueyue," Wen Jinkai said, handing the ropes of his horse to the stable boy.

    "It''s gettingte. I have to go home," she firmly said, her lips tugging downwards. His suggestion sounded like amand.

    "You''re afraid of missing dinner," he pointed out. "In that case, I will treat you to a reputable restaurant that many aristocrats fancy."

    "My family is expecting me."

    "I''ll send one of my guards back to inform them. Don''t worry, Little Fawn."

    "Are you that dense?" Li Xueyue snapped, her patience thinned by him. Why couldn''t he just understand that she didn''t want to apany him?! Especially after what he had done to her!

    Wen Jinkai''s face softened upon seeing her displeasure. "I didn''t mean to offend you."

    Li Xueyue struggled to maintain herposure when her chest pricked with guilt. Maybe she was overreacting? She shook her head. No. He was just maniptive.

    "I''m going home. Thank you for helping me," she sniped, taking out the coin pouch from the bag.

    She took the gold coin from the stable boy''s still outstretched hand, slipped her money into it and then stormed to Wen Jinkai and ced his money onto his palm. "Thanks, but no thanks."

 Chapter 117 Selfish

    <h4>Chapter 117 Selfish</h4>

    Wen Jinkai raised a brow. In a blink of an eye, he grabbed her wrist, preventing her from leaving. "I only wanted to help you¡ª"

    "That''s the thing, Commander. I never asked for your help."

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes narrowed at her temper. She loved to throw tantrums. Lucky for her, he was a patient man willing to work things out. He had learned from the unfortunate oues of being rough and violent with her. He would never repeat such horrible mistakes ever again. It had already caused a strain between them.

    "I think you''d need my help this time, though," hemented when she turned her back to him.

    Li Xueyue ignored him and approached Heiyue whilst adjusting the saddle so that he would be morefortable. Heiyue responded by nudging his head closer to her, hoping to receive a treat for his intelligence. She slightly smiled and caressed his mane, her fingers easily running through his hair.

    "Later," she whispered to him, promising a sugar cube or slices of apple.

    Upon seeing her ready to saddle her horse, Wen Jinkai spoke up again. "What if word gets out you''ve been lying to them?" He deliberately left out mentions of the royal family. He didn''t need unwanted ears to overhear this discussion. He shot a dirty look to the stable boy who instantly bowed and scurried off.

    Li Xueyue''s entire body tensed at his taunting words. Her gaze snapped to him, her lips curled in a snarl.

    "You wouldn''t."

    He smiled. "Of course not."

    "I don''t believe you."

    "Well, I did say you''d need my help one day. I''m offering it to you now." Wen Jinkai stepped closer to her and she remained rooted, refusing to back down yet again.

    Did she realize her stubbornness would one day ruin her? It wasn''t good to be so hard-headed. What''s wrong with relenting to him once in a while? He missed the curious little thing she was back in the archery tournament. She was so yielding and adorable, what happened? Had he done something to lose her favor?

    "You''re offering your help at a price." She scowled. "I''d hardly call that helping me. More like ckmail."

    "In the end, both of us would still benefit from it. In that case, does the term even matter?" Wen Jinkai heartily asked her, his lips lifted into a satisfied smile when he saw the hesitation on her face.

    She was debating her options. Obviously, joining him for dinner was the winning choice. It wasn''t like he was asking something audacious of her. It was a meal and he''d never do anything to hurt her.

    Li Xueyue weighed her options. If she went with him, it''d just show him that threats like this would be tolerated. Who''s to say he won''t demand more from her, with this lie lingering over her head?

    The first thing that came to her mind was rejecting his offer, but that was too rash. She''d have a higher possibility of him reporting to the Emperor and Empress. The only thing to do was to buy herself some time and personally tell them herself, that perhaps, she had finally begun feeling better in the afternoon?

    "How do I know you will keep your word?" she asked.

    "Good point." Wen Jinkai nodded in satisfaction, rubbing his chin. "You won''t."

    Li Xueyue''s lips thinned as she crossed her arms across her chest. She hated the way he towered over her, intimidating as always. He didn''t seem to mind.

    "But you have my word. I never break promises," Wen Jinkai uttered,ing closer to her. He reached his hand out to adjust her slipping hairpin but with a flick of her hand, she brushed his hand away, yet again.

    "Keep your hands to yourself, Commander."

    Wen Jinkai''s features softened at her defense. It seemed her guard was up again, this time, higher than before. It would be incredibly difficult for him to ever breach those walls of hers. A single mistake and she would judge him for all of eternity. He wished it wasn''t like this. That she wouldn''t shut him out so willingly.

    "What do you say then, Little Fawn? Will you dine with me?"

    Li Xueyue knew her best option here was to dy the possibility of him reporting to the Imperial Family.

    She sighed. "Not today. I had a long day, and I''m too exhausted to socialize. Besides, the sun is setting and if it''s dinner, my parents will freak out thinking it''s something else."

    Wen Jinkai frowned. It wasn''t a yes, nor was it a no. "When will you have time then?"

    Li Xueyue rested her forefinger on her chin, staring up at the ceiling while she contemted a reply. "I''ll let you know soon."

    "Will you really let me know?"

    "Don''t you trust me?" Li Xueyue vaguely responded, purposely not giving him a straightforward answer.

    "Fine." Wen Jinkai narrowed his eyes and warned, "Just so you know, Little Fawn, I''m not a fan of liars." He rested his hand on his hips whilst she sighed and nodded.

    "Good to know," she retorted, brushing past him whilst guiding her horse out of the stall.

    When he blinked, she was already on top of her horse, the reins restingfortably in her hands. He was not surprised to see she wasn''t sitting side-saddled with both of her feet dangling on one side. It was harder to ride a horse that way and he''d much prefer her to sit center-saddled with less chances of getting injured.

    Wen Jinkai stood directly between them and the stable entrance. "Will you keep your word?" he asked, raising a brow when she was silent.

    "I''ll think about it."

    "Little Fawn," he said with a threatening tone. "Do not lie to me."

    "And how will I know you won''t lie to me?" She scowled. "At the end of the day, words are just words."

    "Do you have that little trust in me and my morals? I am a man of my word. If I lie and cheat, would my men respect me? Have some faith in me!" he argued just as the temperature between them lowered and the tension thickened.

    "I tried having faith in you, Commander. Until you showed me what type of man you are."

    "You just don''t like the idea that I haven''t given you my word that I will not have a harem! Do you realize such a mentality is quite selfish in this country?"

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut. ''If Heaven has a heart, please open it and grant me patience to deal with this brute.''

    "And don''t take my words to heart, because it''s not definite! Whether I have a harem or not, it shouldn''t determine your choices. Damn it, Xueyue!" Wen Jinkai frustratedly sighed and clenched his jaw, a muscle ticking.

    "I don''t know what I feel towards you, but it''s nothing malicious. You''re everything I could possibly ask for, but I''m only human. I make mistakes, I say the wrong things, I have my own wishes. You can''t be selfish and expect me to bend to your wishes if you haven''t proved to me¡ª"

    "It takes two to be in a rtionship. It takes two to be married. It takes two to make a decision," Li Xueyue interjected, her eyes snapped open, revealing the fire that had broiled from within.

    A storm against a volcano, ice against fire, obsidian against topaz, their eyes shed in a violent argument that couldn''t be conveyed through words.

    "If you can''tpromise on the basic foundation of a rtionship, then do not pursue me any longer."

    Wen Jinkai''s fist clenched and unclenched. In a low and animalistic growl, he snarled, "No."

    Her eyes widened at the sound, too inhumane for her toprehend that it came from him. His face was marred with sheer fury, his eyes violent like the crashing waves during a hurricane. He was barely keeping his temper at bay.

    "Absolutely not!" he hissed, "I will not stop pursuing you. I won''t let another woman like you slip out of my fingers again."

    "Another woman?" Li Xueyue repeated before blinking. rity came to her faster than it would evere to him. She felt tremendous disbelief at the understanding that dawned onto her.

    Li Xueyue breathed out in shock, her shaking eyes mimicking the uncertainty running through her veins. "You''re trying to rece her with me."

 Chapter 118 I Cant.

    <h4>Chapter 118 I Can''t.</h4>

    Stunned silence ensued in the stable. Heiyue awkwardly kicked his legs, waiting for someone to break the deafening silence.

    Wen Jinkai tried to argue against her words, his mouth opening and closing. Memories of her shed in his mind, a naive little prey wandering into the battlefield of predators with a winning smile and looks of mischief.

    She thought he was a mute whose role was a bodyguard and he thought she was an annoying brat who needed to be taught a lesson. Who would''ve thought his first love would be the biggest mistake of his life, a lesson well-learned.

    His duty was to his country, to the Imperial Family who sheltered him when his parents didn''t. He swallowed his pride, his emotion, his wants, all for a loyal friend to ruin the only good thing he had stumbled upon.

    "Xueyue, I¡ª"

    "Save it for another woman who looks like her."

    Li Xueyue red down at him. Was that why he was infatuated with her? Because she resembled someone he once loved but had lost? Did he think she would be exactly like that girl? Whoever she was.

    "You disappoint me in more ways than one, Commander."

    She softly shook her head and in a blink of an eye, Heiyue was racing out of the stable. Wen Jinkai ran towards the entrance but was toote. He was met with the dust that the thunderous horse had kicked up.

    Heiyue was a whirlwind of pure stamina and stealth. He stormed out of the Capital, unafraid of trampling down the forest leading to the enormous Li Manor on the outskirts of the city. Most of the elite families lived on the outskirts of the Capital since it was a lot more secluded and quiet.

    On a normal day, Li Xueyue would''ve beenforted by the breeze that weaved through her hair, the refreshing air that blew past her, carrying all of her worries and stress away. Today was different. Thoughts of his behavior swarmed through her mind, his demanding ways, and the maniptive nature of his actions. She was d for Yu Zhen''s presence in her life, or else she would''ve never found an escape from Wen Jinkai, the man who could make Wuyi bend its knee.

    "I''ve officially lost my mind." She let out a shakyughter, the sound swallowed by the hollowing wind racing past her.

    Yu Zhen? Why was he the first suitor who came to mind? After the stunt he pulled today, she wasn''t sure if she wanted to ever focus on her love life anymore. Love was a wretched thing. She was foolish to think real love was easy and easy love was real.

    She shook her head, hoping to clear her thoughts, but the only thing she could think about was Yu Zhen this, Yu Zhen that. From his easy-going personality to the mysterious twinge of pain buried in his onyx eyes, there were so many things that she did not know about him but wanted to find out more about him.

    So, imagine her surprise when Heiyue came to a screeching halt at the gates of the Li Manor. Sitting on top of his horse, proud and confident, blocking their path was a man that Li Xueyue didn''t expect to see.

    Yu Zhen sat still on his high horse, observing her widened eyes and parted lips. He was solemn and quiet, his gloved hand loosely grasping the ck leather reins. The wind fluttered, blowing through his hair, lifting his white coat, revealing the golden embroidery of the roaring dragon.

    He was here, but how? She was in the stable the entire time. Did he race after her when she left the stable? But that was impossible, Heiyue was one of the fastest horses in the Capital!

    "How did you get here?"

    "A short cut," he curtly responded.

    "What are you here for?" She could feel Heiyue''s uneasiness while he stepped left and right, eager to head to his personal stable.

    "You left. I chased."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "Well, you were toote."

    "Betterte than never."

    "You''re saying the phrase wrong." Li Xueyue sighed, urging Heiyue to step backward. "You''re blocking my path. Move."

    "You wanted to learn more about me, didn''t you?" Yu Zhen asked. He tugged at the reins to signal Xiao Lizi to step aside, offering them a chance to escape. He would not cage a sparrow like her. He wouldn''t allow himself that cruel treatment. She was made to soar the skies, not caged down.

    "I''d rather you show it than speak it." Li Xueyue was stunned to see he was actually making way for her to leave if she wanted to. So, why hasn''t she?

    "Don''t you want to know my secrets?"

    "They''re secrets for a reason."

    "You''re afraid I''d share yours," Yu Zhen pointed out.

    She responded by staring him down, an indifferent expression on her face.

    "Your secrets are safe with me, just as you will be safer with me."

    "You heard the conversation." Li Xueyue realized, her eyes narrowed with usation. Exactly, how much did he see unfold? Was he there when Bai Tianai made a fool out of herself?

    "Only snippets."

    "And what kept you from hearing the rest?"

    "I was busy organizing your belongings and ordering my men to bring it to the Li Manor in perfect condition." The corner of his lips tugged upwards when her face clouded with bewilderment. He could tell she was racking her pretty little head for answers. She didn''t have a single clue about what he had been doing.

    "My belongings¡­?"

    "Everything you touched in the market belongs to you now."

    Li Xueyue fumbled to restrain her frustration. She didn''t want tosh out at his kind gesture, neither did she want to thank him for doing the unnecessary.

    In the end, she could only manage a mere, "Why?"

    Yu Zhen was baffled by her question. Why not? She deserved to be showered with everything precious and rare.

    Finally, he said, "Because you took interest in them."

    Li Xueyue was stunned speechless by his words. "You didn''t have to waste so much money on me. Now, I''ll be indebted to you¡ª"

    "Sunshine, that''s not how gifts work."

    Li Xueyue pinched the bridge of her nose, praying for enough patience to deal with his bewildering actions. "Perhaps one gift was fine, but that many? I''ll be indebted to you."

    "You can return the favor by doing justice to the presents. Wear them. Put them to use," Yu Zhen responded, smiling at her silliness. What was the big deal? Money came to him easily. She didn''t have to worry about such insignificant things.

    "Why are you so kind to me?" She blurted out, "Is there something you want from me? Is that it?"

    "I''ve already told you what I want from you, Sunshine."

    "Yes, but why? What did I do to get on your good side? There are so many other women out there, more willing than the next to entertain you."

    She bit her bottom lip. "We''ve barely met for more than a few weeks. We barely know each other! So..." she trailed off. "Why me?"

    Yu Zhen became eerily quiet for the longest time. He would have responded with a ''Why not?'' but he knew it wasn''t a satisfying enough answer for her. She''d want to hear more than that.

    He couldn''t even fathom why it had to be her, and no one else. The reasons were resting on the tip of his tongue, but he couldn''t wrestle it out of him.

    Yu Zhen wanted to present her with meaningful words that''d bring a smile to her face and reassurance to her heart. He wanted to say so much, but simply couldn''t.

    It wasn''t because he didn''t like her, it was because he was afraid of making a mistake and she''d slip right through his fingers. She was a fleeting moment in his life that he wanted to make his forever.

    The harder it was for him to answer that question, the more Yu Zhen realized he liked her a lot more than he originally thought he did. He could list the lovable qualities about the close friends in his life, but he couldn''t pinpoint all of the qualities he liked about Xueyue. He liked her for reasons he couldn''t describe or write down.

    "I''m sorry, I''m not able to answer that question." Yu Zhen breathed out, shocked at his response and mentality.

    What was wrong with him? It was almost as if¡­ as if, it was more than a simple infatuation with her. As if it was a four-letter word he never thought existed within him until he met her and saw hope.

    "Is it because you can''t do it or you don''t want to?" she asked.

    "I can''t."

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but stare at him in disbelief, unsure if she shouldugh or cry. Because like him, she couldn''t pinpoint exactly why she chose him out of everyone else. She couldn''t understand why she liked him so quickly andughed so easily around him. It just¡­ had to be him. No one else.

 Chapter 119 Large Inheirtance

    <h4>Chapter 119 Large Inheirtance</h4>

    A long silence ensued between the two of them. The only noise was the rustle of leaves and two rapidly thudding hearts.

    They tried on many asions to speak, but it always resulted in awkward mumbling or mouths that opened and closed.

    Finally, after what felt like forever, Yu Zhen cleared his throat. "You''ll catch a chill from being outside for too long."

    "Right." Li Xueyue awkwardly nodded her head. The sun was setting behind him, casting an orange hue over their figures.

    Yu Zhen offered her a gentle smile and an understanding nod. "Have a good night, Sunshine." He started his horse and right when Xiao Lizi brushed past Xueyue, she spoke up.

    "Will we see each other again?"

    Yu Zhen paused his horse until they were side by side, but he was facing the path leading out of the Li Manor grounds and she was facing the entrance of the Li Manor.

    "What happened to desperately praying you''d never see me again?" Yu Zhen teased, quirking a brow.

    Li Xueyue could feel the blush taint her cheeks. "I was asking to see if my prayers were going to be heard."

    Yu Zhen let out a loudughter, startling Xiao Lizi who snorted in protest and stomped the ground.

    Li Xueyue snuck a nce at him and had another discovery about him. When heughed, his eyes were the shape of crescent moons. He didn''t have deep smile lines, but she hoped it would form with her around.

    "I''m sorry to inform you, but your prayers are ignored." With that said, he rode off, leaving her stunned and amused by his response.

    Li Xueyue turned back fast enough to see Xiao Lizi disappearing into the distance. It was no wonder that he reached her house before her, despite him having ate start. Xiao Lizi was easily swifter than Heiyue, an invisible blur whizzing past someone.

    ?You''ve gotpetition," Li Xueyue mused, patting Heiyue''s mane. He responded by snorting in disbelief.

    "Let''s get you brushed and fed, buddy," she said. Heiyue responded by taking both of them towards the expansive back fields of the manor. Once they reached the stables, she handed him off to the stable boy.

    "It''s almost been six weeks, make sure to have his horse shoe adjusted," Li Xueyue instructed just as she approached the spot where Heiyue''s food was usually stored.

    "Understood, Young Miss." The stable boy bowed his head.

    Li Xueyue searched until she found his favorite treat and tossed it in Heiyue''s direction. He caught it with his mouth, happily munching away.

    "I''ll see youter, Heiyue." Li Xueyue nodded to her horse, giving it a firm pat before disappearing into the house.

    By the time she made it to her room, she was utterly exhausted. She simply copsed onto one of the couches in her room, her body slumped. She slipped one arm over her eyes, blowing out a tired sigh. It was a long day and it hadn''t even ended yet.

    She had only rested for a brief five minutes when the door to her room was mmed open. She internally groaned. The poor thing. How many times was it roughly shoved open like that? She was surprised the door hadn''t cracked by now!

    "Xiao Yue, Xiao Yue!" Li Wenmin yapped, strolling into her room with the energy of a puppy. "There''s so many presents in the foyer room! One of the maidservants said it''s all for you. Who is it from?"

    He closed the door behind him, leaving the servants and guards outside.

    When he saw her arm slung over her face, he thought she was sound asleep. "Xiao Yue, are you asleep?" he skeptically asked, tip-toeing to her motionless form on the couch.

    A devious grin lit up his face when she didn''t respond. It was time for her to experience the good ole Li family prank: Face drawing during nap times!

    Li Chenyang had always fallen victim to this trick due to his love for sleeping. It was Li Wenmin''s way of getting back at his brother for all of the foodments.

    Li Wenmin quietly made his way to her writing desk where he saw a piece of parchment alreadyid out. Both of his brows shot up when he saw the words, "ns for ruin."

    Whose ruin? He picked up the piece of parchment, a crinkling sound echoing in the room. He tensed, turning around in time to see Li Xueyue sit up.

    "Wen-ge? What are you doing?"

    Li Wenmin responded by turning around, holding up the piece of parchment. "What''s this?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. Did she really leave that out on her desk? Usually, she would burn the paper when she was finished with it, or else it would be dangerous.

    "It''s nothing major, Wen-ge." Li Xueyue got off the couch and headed his way, grabbing the piece of paper, but he held it high above her, purposely teasing her height.

    "Doesn''t seem unimportant to me," Li Wenminmented, grabbing the piece of paper in both hands and turning his back to her. "Seems like you were unproductive the entire day. There''s only three words on it."

    "Well, I''m not that good at nning."

    "Who are you trying to destroy?" Li Wenmin asked before handing the paper to her grabbing hands.

    "Don''t worry about it."

    "Is it the Bai Family?" Li Wenmin abruptly questioned.

    She tensed, her face turning nk. "I''ve been meaning to ask you this, but how much do you and Chen-ge know about my past?"

    "Enough to understand your desire to ruin their legacy."

    "I''m not trying to ruin their legacy," Li Xueyue mumbled, walking towards the table in her room, Li Wenmin following behind her.

    "Did you know you have a half brother? He''s barely over the age of two," Li Wenmin exined.

    Li Xueyue sulked in her chair, resting her chin on a propped up arm while Li Wenmin continued to reprimand her.

    "If you try to ruin them, what shall happen to that kid?"

    "Wen-ge¡ª"

    He held up a hand. "All I''m saying is, a child should not pay for the sins of their parents."

    "I never nned to hurt my younger half-brother. He''s innocent." Li Xueyue sighed. "I just want my revenge."

    "Sometimes, it''s best to let go of the past, or else it''ll drag down your future," Li Wenmin whispered, cing aforting hand over hers. "Are you sure you want to continue pursuing this?"

    Li Xueyue slipped her hand from underneath his. "I can''t let go of a past that''s already affecting my present and future self."

    "Is it the nightmares you''ve been getting every night?" Li Wenmin muttered, staring directly at her. He could see the exhaustion on her face, the dark circles and bags underneath her eyes. She always struggled to sleep and when she did, it was only a wink.

    "They''ve traumatized me in more ways than one," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    "There are safer ways of curing it."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She looked anywhere but him.

    "You''re not going to change your mind?"

    "I won''t hurt the child." Li Xueyue sighed while intertwining her fingers together.

    She didn''t think Li Wenmin would ever be her voice of reason. She expected the person to give her a lecture was Li Chenyang, but he simply supported her vengeance. If he opposed it, he never showed signs of it.

    "When you seed in ruining the people involved in hurting you, what shall happen to that child?" Li Wenmin asked.

    "Viscount Bai has arge inheritance set for him. The child will be fine as long as he doesn''t rashly waste it."

    "And who shall take care of him?" Li Wenmin sniped, pointing out the obvious ws in her ns.

    "His mother," she deadpanned.

    "You''re not going to ruin her?" Li Wenmin was surprised by this. He didn''t know she felt this way towards her mother. He thought Xueyue would want everyone to be condemned to hell.

    "I can''t bring myself to me her for being a bystander. She had her reasons."

    Li Xueyue wished she didn''t have this kind of conscience. She understood why her mother had to do what she did. As a woman, Viscountess Mu Yihua had to do everything she could to guarantee her survival, even if it was at the expense of her daughter. But that didn''t mean Li Xueyue would ever forgive her mother''sck of actions.

    "Which means your target is Bai Tianai and your father¡ª"

    "He''s not my father," Li Xueyue bit out, her eyes set aze.

    "What?" Li Wenmin breathed out in shock. This part was definitely left out from his parent''s exnation! "What do you mean?"

    "If I tell you, you''ll think less of me." Li Xueyue groaned, covering her face.

    "I promise I won''t," Li Wenmin firmly said, grabbing her wrist and tugging it down. "I''m more understanding than most people, Xiao Yue. As long as you''re truthful."

    Li Xueyue examined his face. From the understanding as seen by his upturned eyebrows to his reassuring smile, he was the epitome of a man who nned to keep his word. Besides, he had never lied to her before.

    Finally, she admitted, "I''m an illegitimate child."

 Chapter 120 Future Husband

    <h4>Chapter 120 Future Husband</h4>

    Li Wenmin was left speechless by her announcement. He didn''t know what to say to her statement that could ease the awkward atmosphere in the room.

    He was careful to not make assumptions about the situation, but it was difficult not to. "Do you know who your father is?"

    "No," Li Xueyue truthfully admitted. "You see I''m¡­" she trailed off, unable to finish the sentence.

    "I-I''m¡­" her voice cracked, her eyes watering at the unbearable truth. Her throat tightened, her face warming from the embarrassment.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t admit the fact that she was a mistake, a product of something that shouldn''t have happened but did. The stain that ruined the picture-perfect family. She wasn''t supposed to be born. She was an unwanted child whose presence horrified both sides of the Bai Family.

    Li Wenmin knew how to put the pieces together. It was either Viscountess Mu Yihua had an affair¡­ or something unpleasant was forced upon her.

    When her shoulders genuinely shook from held back tears, he shot out of his chair and embraced her. "It''s okay. You don''t have to exin yourself." Heforted her, hugging her tightly.

    Li Xueyue struggled to breathe as each gasp of air came out like a strangled wheeze. She refused to cry. She wasn''t a child anymore. What could tears do for her? Absolutely nothing.

    "No one will ever doubt you, Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin quietly whispered to her ear. "As long as you''re a third-rank Princess, only fools would question your legitimacy.

    "Don''t let it weigh you down. Don''t me yourself for the crimes of your parents. It wasn''t your fault. It''s never your fault."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. His words went through one ear and came out the other. She wished she could believe him, but a change of heart doesn''te easy. The only thing that could heal her was time and she had all of it in the world.

    When he pulled back to clean her face, he was surprised to see her cheeks were dry. She had held back her tears. She didn''t cry.

    Li Wenmin let out a sigh of relief, his lips curling into a tiny smile. "You''re a fighter, Xiao Yue, I expect to see you victorious."

    "In what fight?"

    In his most serious face, he dered, "For justice."

    Li Xueyue let out a brokenugh at his attempt to liven up the mood. "You''re so cheesy, Wen-ge."

    His smile widened into a grin upon the sound of herughter. It warmed him from head-to-toe. He patted her on the head. "It won''t be an easy battle."

    "I know."

    "It''s going to be dangerous."

    "I know."

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes, flicking her on the forehead. She responded by flicking him back and wriggling out of his bear hug.

    "And just so you know, we will always stand behind you."

    ??We?" she repeated, staring up at him.

    "I''ll let you figure that out yourself." Heughed when she puffed out her cheeks, dissatisfied by his response.

    "You look like a hungry hamster." He snorted, poking both cheeks at once, popping it. "Luckily for you, dinner is ready."

    "I always find it interesting that you''re the one telling me it''s ready."

    "That''s because I''m the most eager to eat." Li Wenmin snickered. "And you''re second."

    Li Xueyue easilyughed at his words. "I was negatively influenced by you."

    "More like I brought out the glutton in you," he scoffed, as both of them walked down the hallway leading to the main dining room.

    - - - - -

    Imperial Pce.

    After Yu Zhen handed his horse off to safe hands, he tiredly made his way back to the guest pce. He despised everything there. Of course, his men were the ones guarding him, but the gold and boring decorations were getting on hisst nerves. The least that Wuyi could''ve done was stop being so unnecessarily gaudy with their designs.

    Yu Zhen leisurely walked the quiet hallways leading to the guest pce. At arge archway entrance, he paused and sighed. "You''re horrible at stalking."

    Wen Jinkai stepped out of the shadows. Even when he stepped on the crunchy grass and stubbly pebble path, there was not a single sound. "What gave it away?"

    "You''re able to hold a proper conversation. I''m astonished!" Yu Zhen snickered, turning around to face the man.

    Nothing illuminated their paths except for thenternmps conveniently ced throughout the area. Guards lined the path, but their allegiance was questionable. Were they Hanjian''s men? Or were they Wuyi''s soldiers?

    An eerie gust of wind blew past them, Yu Zhen''s robes fluttered in the wind, the same time as Wen Jinkai''s sleeves did so.

    Wen Jinkai skimmed his surroundings, his scrutinizing gaze lingered on the soldiers.

    "Did Hanjian teach you to fight with words and not swords?" Wen Jinkai questioned, his hands resting behind his back. He leisurely strolled towards Yu Zhen whose handfortably rested on the sword, the typical posture of a warrior.

    "Hanjian teaches etiquette." Yu Zhen''s lips curled upwards, "Something Wuyi soldiers desperatelyck."

    Wen Jinkai''s cid expression remained. He would not be provoked by words. They were only a breath of air and not a weapon of destruction. What was there to get frustrated about?

    "Is that the best you can do? Insult the country feeding you and offering you a roof over your head?" Wen Jinkai calmly asked.

    Yu Zhen covered his mouth and yawned at Wen Jinkai''sment. "What a boringeback."

    He nearly rolled his eyes. It wasn''t like he had nowhere to go. There was an abundance of manors he could buy as he pleased but he didn''t see the need of building a shelter on enemynd.

    Wen Jinkai''s jaw ticked at the disrespect. "I''d rather prefer a conversation done through swords."

    "We''re on civilized grounds," Yu Zhen deadpanned, throwing an incredulous nce to the soldiers lining the paths. He had finally concluded they were a mixture of Hanjian and Wuyi soldiers, most likely to prevent any snooping.

    "If you wanted to fight, you should''ve left a note." Yu Zhen was growing bored with this argument that seemed to go nowhere. He decided to straighten up and head back to his room. He had better things to do than waste time on Wen Jinkai.

    "I have ces to be, duties to fulfill. Let''s not drag this conversation longer than it has to," Wen Jinkai spoke up. "You were in the Capital the same time your little Princess was there."

    Yu Zhen paused. Finally, they were reaching the topic of discussion. "So?"

    "Where is the candidate?"

    Yu Zhen shot in a look of disbelief. "Do I look like her warden to you?"

    "No, but you''re the only friend she has. Her sister is far away in Hechen, serving another General," Wen Jinkaimented, crossing his arms. "The one in Hechen has fled."

    Yu Zhen''s nonchnt expression shifted. The Princess fled? He grinded his teeth, god damn it. His father was going to be furious by this.

    Of course, one of the Princesses was smart enough to know the fastest and closest route to Hanjian was through Hechen. Usually, it would take at least two weeks by horse to reach Hanjian from the Capital, but it would take less than a week to travel from Hechen to Hanjian.

    Yu Zhen shrugged his shoulders. "And that concerns me because¡­?"

    "Did you know the General actually preferred another Princess. He doesn''t care about the one that fled his home. He''s willing to not cause a problem if he gets the one he wanted all along."

    Yu Zhen''s aloof smile threatened to crack. He knew where this was going. That damn Yu Xiyan. Was this what she was trying to tell him when they met at the Capital? That she was willing to trade her future husband? Of course, any man would''ve been better than the Demon Lord of the Battlefield¡ªWen Jinkai.

    "And it just so happens," Wen Jinkai paused mid-sentence, his lips twisted into a sinister smirk, "I sold your sister to him like livestock."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes narrowed. "Do youck money so much that you had to sell your leftovers?"

    Wen Jinkai didn''t give in. He threw his head back and let out a howlingughter that sent chills down the spine of every man present, except Yu Zhen. "Money is the least of my worries."

    "Doesn''t seem like it," Yu Zhen sneered in disgust, the temperature dropping around them. Electrifying thunder crackled in the background. Even though spring was approaching summer, the air here was below freezing point.

    "I''ll make this in and simple for you, Yu Zhen, since you obviouslyck themon sense to understand a simple fact that Li Xueyue is mine, will always be mine, no matter the consequences," Wen Jinkai exined.

    He smiled. "Without your irritating sister weighing me down, I''m free to marry Li Xueyue as I please."

    "I understand now." Yu Zhen firmly nodded, tapping his palm with his fist. Revtion came to his face.

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes narrowed in suspicion. He didn''t believe Yu Zhen would yield so easily.

    "I was wondering which coward asked Duke Li for Xueyue. It turned out, it was you all along!" Yu Zhen let out a peal of boomingughter, chilly and frigid, goosebumps rose on the soldiers'' forearms. He pped his hands, hisughter mocking Wen Jinkai, for it was true.

    On the morning of Ning Huabing''s birthday, he came to see Li Chenyang with the purpose of asking for Li Xueyue''s hand in marriage. He wanted to warn his friend first before he approached the Duke, but one thing escted to another, and a massive feud ensued. In the end, the Duke denied Wen Jinkai''s request, dering it was not right for him to pass Li Xueyue along as if she was a desirable livestock.

 Chapter 121 My Woman

    <h4>Chapter 121 My Woman</h4>

    "This is too hrious!" Yu Zhen howled, wiping away imaginary tears. "What a pathetic move that was!"

    Wen Jinkai clenched and unclenched his jaw. His fingers curled into a fist so tight, his skin turned a deadly shade of white. "I was merely following tradition by asking for his blessings. I''m going to marry Xueyue whether or not he gives me her hand."

    "Tradition this, tradition that," Yu Zhen scoffed. "Sounds like excuses to me."

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes narrowed, opening his mouth to speak, until someone interjected.

    "What''s with all of the ruckus?" Lu Tianbi stormed out of her sleeping corridors dressed in her nightgown and a thick cloak hanging off her shoulders.

    Hu Dengxiao tiredly yawned beside her, a pillow tucked in his arms and one hand rubbing his eye. They were shaken awake by the unsettlingughter of Yu Zhen and another man.

    Lu Tianbi came to a screeching halt when she saw Wen Jinkai. Her gaze snapped to her Commander, Yu Zhen who was handling this situation quite well. As expected of him, he was always the most level-headed person out of all three of them. It would be a grave mistake to underestimate him. The wrath of a calm tide could wreak havoc to the world.

    Hu Dengxiao reached for his dagger at the same time Yu Zhen held up a palm, halting him.

    "This discussion is already over," Yu Zhen dered, keeping his back to his peers. He trusted them enough to not backstab him.

    At his Commander''s words, Hu Dengxiao rxed his hand, but not his defensive stance. He was prepared to spill blood tonight if necessary.

    "Indeed." Wen Jinkai pressed his lips together. "This is myst warning, Yu Zhen. Keep your distance from my woman."

    Yu Zhen slowly smiled, resembling that of a cheshire cat. His eyes crinkled, but his smile did not reach his eyes. He was humored by the Commander''s words but had zero intent of fulfilling it.

    Wen Jinkai took that as his response. He turned his back and was prepared to walk off when suddenly an aloof voice piqued.

    "She will never be your woman. Ever."

    Wen Jinkai''s body went rigid, hard as stone. He was barely able to restrain his anger when he swiveled around, prepared to end it all tonight.

    Yu Zhen''s smile widened. "You will never be able to tie her down."

    "Watch me." Wen Jinkai red daggers into Yu Zhen whose impable defense never cracked. Calcted and cunning, he stood there defenseless and rxed¡ªas if he was already dered a victor.

    "I will enjoy your spectacle." Yu Zhen softly chuckled before turning his back and leisurely walking off, his steps light but meaningful, crunching on the organized stones beneath his feet. Once he finishes his business in Wuyi, he would leave no stone unturned.

    Lu Tianbi stole a final nce towards Wuyi''s Commander who was simmering with rage, his blood boiling from the provocations. She let out a small "hmph," and followed behind Yu Zhen, purposely walking in a way that shielded her Commander''s back.

    Hu Dengxiao mimicked her actions. From the guards'' perspective, he seemed too lethargic to fight. In reality, his senses were heightened and he could catch a flying arrow out of nowhere if he had to.

    Once the trio was in Yu Zhen''s highly guarded bedroom, everyone sat around the table except for Yu Zhen who was shrugging off his white coat. When he felt something heavy in his pockets, his brows scrunched together.

    Sticking his hand into his pocket, he felt something cold and pulled it out. His lips parted upon seeing the golden topaz, shining fiercely like a cluster of stars. He smiled to himself, slipping the item back into his pocket. He had another reason to see her now.

    "What is that man''s problem?" Hu Dengxiaoined whilst resting his head on Lu Tianbi''s shoulder.

    Lu Tianbi was sitting as still as a tree, her shoulders tense and awkward. She didn''t think he would behave like this. It was the first time he had made an initiative to be so affectionate with her, beyond that of a friend. He didn''t seem to mind, even though he had to lower his body into an ufortable position.

    "I think that Commander is a sociopath in the making!" Hu Dengxiao whined on, snuggling into Lu Tianbi''s shoulder.

    Hu Dengxiao had a foolish little smile on his face when he caught a whiff of her scent of freshly washed linen.

    It was way past his bedtime and he was struggling to hold onto his rationality. Now that he was in the safepany of his friends, he was free to rx and mope like a child all he wanted.

    "More like he''s already a sociopath. He''s also delusional and brash..." Lu Tianbi said stiffly, her eyes lingered on Hu Dengxiao''s face. He was barely able to keep his eyes open and any minute now, he was going to drift to sleep.

    "What are we going to do with him, Commander?" she asked Yu Zhen who finally joined them at the table.

    "We''ll keep an eye on him for now."

    Lu Tianbi tilted her head. "I think Xueyue''s family is doing a great job keeping her away from him and the Pce, but they''re both impatient to see her."

    "I fail to understand what the Emperor and Empress are thinking. Why do they want to see her so much?" Hu Dengxiao sighed.

    He forced himself to straighten up and be serious, but the only thing he could do wasy his head on the table, dreaming of sleeping.

    "They''re basically obsessive with her at this point. Don''t they have a country to run? I pity whoever their advisers are." Lu Tianbi sighed in disappointment.

    "Who are their advisers anyway? The Empress''s only role is controlling the harem, which means the Emperor has the most power?" Hu Dengxiao wondered out loud.

    "I reckon it''s the Prime Minister," Lu Tianbi boldly dered. "It''s suspicious. After his sudden return to court, everything was running smoothly again. Every minister praises him like he''s some god."

    Hu Dengxiao scratched the back of his head. "Hm, that means the ministers are fiercely loyal to the Prime Minister. That''s surprising. Usually, power-hungry ministers would support the weak-minded Emperor and rule through him with persuasive words."

    Lu Tianbi nodded in agreement. "This is what makes Wuyi so strange and different from Hanjian. Any changes orws affecting the country and its citizens must pass through the Emperor, but the one approving or denying it would be the Prime Minister who has the final say."

    Lu Tianbi felt like she was missing something. What was it?

    "Who''s the Prime Minister again?" Hu Dengxiao asked, even though the answer came to mind a secondter. "Oh right, what was his name¡­ Uh, he''s a Duke¡­ Oh! Li Shenyang!"

    Lu Tianbi nodded. "But isn''t he¡ª"

    "The father of the ex-candidate!" Hu Dengxiao snapped his fingers, finally energized by this juicy discussion. He turned to Yu Zhen who was silent the entire time, allowing them to y the conversation out.

    Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao were already used to his frequent silence. He spoke only when it was necessary. He was like this in Court as well.

    Yu Zhen''s nonchnt expressions and ability to hold back his tongue was what made him so likeable, yet dangerous at the same time. It was impossible to understand what he was thinking. It was a wonder why the Emperor didn''t choose Yu Zhen as the Crown Prince, especially when he had the most potential of helping Hanjian flourish further.

    "I see now... Is that why you like her, Zhenzhen? Because she''ll be useful?" Hu Dengxiao would have sounded offensive, but his wide eyes and innocuous expression showed it was a genuine question.

    Yu Zhen calmly said, "I''ve said it before. I''ll never use her."

    "But she''d be so useful¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off, sulking to himself.

    "I don''t care." Yu Zhen hummed, crossing his arms whilst continuing to observe them.

    Lu Tianbi decided to change the topic to more important matters. "When you visited the Prime Minister''s house for a private discussion, did you confirm your spections? You returned sote that night that I forgot to ask you this."

    "I''m certain about it, but it''s not confirmed yet." Yu Zhen pressed his lips together, thinking back to his conversation with the Duke and then Xueyue.

    Li Xueyue was oblivious to the idea that there was anyone behind the curtains in the first ce. She must''ve been sheltered by the Duke and Duchess regarding their affairs, as most daughters were. Parents never wanted to make their children worry.

    "You went to the Capital today after suggesting it to one of the Prime Minister''s sons. Do you think he''d know?" Lu Tianbi asked, vaguely recalling seeing Yu Zhen converse with one of the twins.

    "Even if he does, he''ll never tell." Yu Zhen knew what type of man Li Chenyang was. He was definitely closest to the Prime Minister and wise enough to see past the illusion in the court. Without a single doubt, Li Chenyang should know about a man ruling behind a curtain.

    In a lowered voice, Hu Dengxiao brazenly asked, "Do you ever think the Prime Minister might want to be the Emperor one day?"

    Lu Tianbi scrunched her brows together. She still felt like something was missing. This Li Family was mysterious, but what was it about them that felt familiar? Yes, they''re an old tree, but damn it, what was she forgetting?!

    Yu Zhen nced at Hu Dengxiao. "For now, it''s uncertain."

 Chapter 122 Start of the Wang Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 122 Start of the Wang Dynasty</h4>

    Hu Dengxiao squirmed in his chair. There was something he desperately wanted to ask his Commander but was too scared to ask. He began drawing circles on the table with his finger, his nerves reaching its limits.

    "What is it, Dengxiao?" Yu Zhen asked.

    "It''s just¡­" Hu Dengxiao sunk deeper into his chair and blurted, "I''ve been meaning to ask this, but of course you don''t have to answer. You know I''m always a curious person. I like to know things and I try to not be so nosy, but I just can''t help but want to know and¡ª"

    "You''re rambling again," Lu Tianbimented as Hu Dengxiao pouted to himself, continuing to draw an invisible masterpiece on the table with his finger.

    Yu Zhen patiently waited for his strategist to speak up. He remained quiet and peaceful. He didn''t mind Hu Dengxiao''s asional rambling, he was just too energetic for his own good.

    "Do you n to stay in Wuyi just for Xueyue?" Hu Dengxiao finally asked, jumping when Yu Zhen''s eyes snapped to him. "What I meant was, uhm... Do you n to bring Xueyue back with us?"

    "Why do you ask?" Yu Zhen questioned.

    "It''s just¡­" Hu Dengxiao nibbled on his bottom lip. "I''ve never seen a woman capture your interest as intensely as her. You''re a lot¡­ nicer around her. For once, i-it looks like you''ve found¡­"

    Lu Tianbi swallowed, staring down at her hands. She knew what Hu Dengxiao would say. For once, her Commander seemed genuinely happy and content with his life. It had been awhile since shest saw him with emotions beyond political smiles and polite nods.

    "...as if you''ve found hope," Hu Dengxiao finished whilst poking his forefingers together like an uncertain child.

    Hu Dengxiao didn''t want to make assumptions, but he was hoping it was the case.

    At the thought of Li Xueyue as his beacon of hope, Yu Zhen couldn''t help but relish in the moments they''ve spent together. From the wrinkle of her nose when she was irked, to the lovely curl of her lips when she suppressed a smile, every little habit of hers came to mind. An adoring little cub with terrible bite but amazing bark.

    Yu Zhen was suddenly reminded of how sharp and clear her eyes were. In the sunlight, it was gorgeous and blinding, dazzling as topaz and deep as amber. He couldn''t wipe the image of her smile out of his mind.

    When he looked at her, he saw a future he didn''t think was possible. He saw strength and resilience?He saw a witty but sheepish smile, and a curious yet understanding heart.

    She was sugar and spice¡ªeverything good in this world. He originally thought she was aplex puzzle he wanted to solve but didn''t know what to do after. Now, he simply wanted to fit in the puzzle and end up with her in the bigger picture.

    "Is that so," was his simple response. He was so lost in his daydream to even realize the stunned silence in the room.

    Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao exchanged knowing nces towards each other. Had they just witnessed the same thing, or were their eyes ying tricks on them? Their ruthless and nk as a stone Commander''s features were softened and there was a ghost of a smile on his face, his gaze lost in wondend. Who could''ve evoked such a gentle expression from him?

    His daydream was enough to let them know that Li Xueyue affected him more than he would ever understand.

    Hu Dengxiao''s lips could not stop fidgeting. He wanted to smile at this revtion but feared it would pull Yu Zhen out of this happy-go-lucky state. This was such a celebratory discovery that he was inclined to throw a party just to congratte his Commander. Eventually, he too was lost innd, blinking, and awing at scenarios that haven''t urred yet.

    In the end, Lu Tianbi shook her head with a knowing smile. Her heartless Commander was finally smitten by a woman and he didn''t even realize it. What an interesting turn of events it was.

    - - - - -

    The Li Manor.

    Li Chenyang paced back and forth outside of his parent''s bedroom. To ask or not to ask? With one curled finger resting under his bottom lip, his arm resting on a folded one, he resembled a schr trying to decipher the meaning of life. A crease formed between his brows whilst he was lost in a spiral of to ask or not to ask.

    He had formed a surreal conclusion that had been puzzling him all day. After watching his father sessfully convince the Emperor that Xueyue was bedridden again, Li Chenyang couldn''t help but think about his father''s peculiar question: "Do you think there is a ruler behind the curtains in Wuyi?"

    When the doors abruptly slid open, Li Chenyang jumped. He instantly rxed, blowing out a sigh of relief upon seeing who it was.

    "Is there a problem, sweetheart?" Duchess Wang Qixing stepped aside, weing her son to the couch. "How was your day at court?"

    "It went smoothly as usual," Li Chenyang responded, settling onto the couch. "Where''s Dad?"

    "Hmph, he''s in his private study spending more time with his books than with his wife." Duchess Wang Qixing crossed her arms, deciding to lock the doors tonight. If he liked to stay up sote, he shouldn''t disturb her sleep.

    "Father has been reading a lot of political bookstely, hasn''t he?" Li Chenyang chuckled at his mother''s childish antics. It kept her young at heart.

    "He should be focusing that time on me."

    "I''ll let him know that." Li Chenyang shook his head and suggested, "In the meantime, locking the doors to the guest bedrooms sounds like a great n."

    Duchess Wang Qixing grinned at the idea of locking him out everywhere. He''d have no bed to sleep in, except the couch in his room, which he was the least fond of.

    She nodded. "Great idea, I''ll inform the servants."

    "Jinxia?" She waved for her head maidservant to step forward. Jinxia politely bowed her head, waiting for themand. She had apanied Duchess Wang for the majority of their life and despite their years of acquaintance, always insisted on sticking to titles and respectful manners.

    "Yes, mydy?"

    "Lock all of the guest bedroom doors. Instruct the guards to not let their Master through and if he demands it, the guards can tell him to look for me."

    Jinxia lightly smiled and nodded her head. "Right away, mydy." She bowed yet again and was excused to perform the task.

    "By the way, Mother, I have an interesting question to ask. Please don''t think too much into it, it''s only a theoretical idea." Li Chenyang watched his mother''s reaction.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded her head in understanding. "Well, ask away. I''m always an open book to my adorable little boys." She reached over, pinching his cheek, despite the fact that he was a grown man with a job.

    He groaned, swatting at her hand, but she only pinched him harder, snickering when he finally gave in. He could be old and wrinkly, and she''d continue to view him as a child who needed her assistance.

    "Do you think Dad has a lot of influence in the court?"

    "Of course. He''s the Prime Minister after all." Duchess Wang Qixing mused, "His father, your paternal grandfather, was the Prime Minister and your great-grandfather was also the Prime Minister. This position has always been prominent in the Li Family."

    "That means we''ve built enough connections in court to support us for lifetimes toe. Right?" he asked.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded her head.

    "Which gave him the qualifications to marry you without qualms. Right?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing quietly hummed before saying, "Not really. Before our marriage, there were many disagreements from the royal family. Your father was the first in his family to wed a Princess, despite the historic connections between the Li and Wang family."

    Li Chenyang raised a brow. There were problems? What did she mean by that? He wasn''t aware of this. He had always thought his parents'' rtionship was smooth sailing since day one.

    "The Li Family has always served the Imperial Family?" he asked.

    "Yes. This rtionship dates back to the start of the Wang Dynasty."

    Li Chenyang dropped the unexpected bombshell on her. "In that case, who do you love more, Mother? The Li Family or the Wang?"

 Chapter 123 No One Would Marry Her

    <h4>Chapter 123 No One Would Marry Her</h4>

    "What a peculiar question to ask." Duchess Wang Qixing lightlyughed, covering her mouth. "I love both of them."

    "Even after what the Emperor and Empress did?" Li Chenyang carefully asked.

    He was stepping on eggshells for having the guts to bring up a question rting to Li Minghua. Even after all these years, he knew, his mother had never moved on. And he couldn''t me her. Li Minghua was her first and only daughter, but instead of living a life of luxury, she was trapped at home¡ªher beauty hidden from the world.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s smile slipped a bit, her brows kneading upwards. "Why¡­ do you ask?"

    "If¡­" Li Chenyang swallowed, nervous of his next statement. "If there is a possibility that¡ª"

    "Chenyang."

    Li Chenyang shot out of his seat at the sight of his exhausted father. Duke Li Shenyang stood by the door of his shared bedroom, a disapproving frown on his face.

    "It''ste and you have to wake up in six hours. Why aren''t you in bed?" Duke Li Shenyang asked, even though both father and son knew this wasn''t an important topic at hand.

    Li Chenyang reluctantly offered his mother an apologetic smile to which she brushed it off with a wave of her head.

    "Off to bed, darling." She gave him a soft pat on the cheek and attempted to give him a goodnight kiss, but he jumped far away from her.

    "Mom! I''m an adult now!" He groaned to which Duchess Wang Qixing delightfullyughed.

    "You''re always a kid in my eyes, silly child." She shook her head at his embarrassed expression. Kids grow up so fast nowadays¡­ she missed the nights where she''d bid her bickering twins good night with a kiss on the forehead and a pinch on the cheek. They had outgrown that stage too fast for her liking.

    "It''d be great if you paid me the same love you show our sons." Duke Li Shenyang snorted. "From a little birdie, I heard something interesting tonight."

    "Well, you can continue talking to your bird." Duchess Wang Qixing rolled her eyes. ??I''m off to bed." With a loud, "Hmph," she stomped her way to therge bed, slipping under the nkets and giving him the cold shoulder for joining them sote.

    Li Chenyang shot his father a knowing smirk, his eyes twinkled with mischief.

    Duke Li Shenyang internally groaned to himself. He was going to suffer the wrath of her worst-tasting tea blend for an entire week! May the Heavens have mercy on his poor soul.

    "Well, I''ll be off to bed now. Bye, Dad¡ª"

    "Not so quick, my boy. Why don''t we have a discussion outside?" Duke Li Shenyang offered, stretching his hand towards the door. "So that we don''t disturb the mother bear."

    "What was that?!" Duchess Wang Qixing shot out of bed, an aggravated expression on her face. Did that grouch justpare her to a bear?

    Unfortunately for her, the Duke and her son were already outside. He had shut the doors behind him, hoping it would provide her less of a disturbance. She grumbledints under her breath, deciding it was time to experiment making medicinal tea with the most bitter of herbs!

    "What did you n on asking your mother?" Duke Li Shenyang instantly asked when he guided them down the hallways leading to the twins'' part of the house.

    "I just wanted to see if she''s more loyal to the royal family or us," Li Chenyang grumbled.

    "If the truth about Minghua is rted to the royal family, then I can assure you, she''ll be more loyal to us," Duke Li Shenyang exined, lifting his head to stare up at the infinite sky¡ªdark and starless. A void of lost hope and ambitions, a moon hidden by the cloud, leading wanderers into destends.

    "History is repeating itself." Li Chenyang sighed. "The Emperor and Empress are relentless to see our Xueyue. It reminds me so much of when Minghua fled to Hechen after spending half a year in the Pce, and they demanded for her to go back."

    "You don''t think¡­ they''re trying to make sure Xueyue marries into the pce, do you?" Li Chenyang asked, his eyes shing with hesitation. He had already failed to protect one sister. He couldn''t let himself lose another.

    "If they wanted Xueyue to marry Wen Jinkai, they wouldn''t have tried to send her to Hanjian in the first ce." Duke Li Shenyang softly frowned.

    "What if¡­ she was chosen to be sent to Hanjian for her own good?" Li Chenyang couldn''t help but find something off about his uncle, Duke Li Taojun. He was the one choosing the candidates, but he must''ve had a good reason for wanting to send her there.

    "The possibility of that is little to none." Duke Li Shenyang piqued, "Besides, why would anyone aside from us want to help Xueyue¡ª" He stopped walking suddenly.

    "Chenyang."

    Li Chenyang halted and turned to his father, only to be shocked by the?Duke''s troubled expression. His eyes shook with disbelief. "Yes, Dad?"

    Duke Li Shenyang pointed out, "Don''t you think it''s strange how well Xueyue resembles us? Yes, people who spent a lot of time together often adapt their appearances, but her simrity is simply too astonishing to ignore."

    Li Chenyang parted his mouth, ready to disprove his father''s discovery, but couldn''t find himself doing so.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s fingers tightened behind his back. "The Emperor and Empress have pointed out her features are that of a Li. I had mistaken Xueyue as Minghua when I first encountered her in the forest."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes widened. "Are you suggesting she might share our blood? But that''s impossible, she was once a Bai¡ª"

    "I had Ling, my private guard, investigate into Xueyue''s life shortly after she joined us. He reported unsettling news of her background."

    "What is it?" Li Chenyang asked.

    His stomach churned with anticipation, his heart raced with fear. Could there be a possibility that Xueyue was the Duke''s illegitimate child? No, no, that''s crazy talk. He shook the irradical thoughts out of his mind. Hisck of sleep nowadays was finally affecting him too much. The events didn''t corrte with each other.

    "Her birth mother is Viscountess Mu Yihua, Viscount Bai Sheng''s wife. However, Xueyue''s birth father is unknown¡­" Duke Li Shenyang trailed off, a grave look on his face. "The Viscountess was supposedly raped when the Viscount left the city for a business trip. As a result¡ª"

    "Our Xueyue was born," Li Chenyang breathed out in shock, his eyes widened with disbelief. "S-she''s an illegitimate child?"

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded his head, his features darkened with sympathy for the youngdy. She suffered greatly in the Bai Household. He would never forget the testimonials he read from Ling''s reports about the horrific abuse that took ce. Starvation and dehydration were the easiest of punishments and the worst ones were too sinful to even think about. It was no wonder she screamed her lungs off during haunting nightmares. Even in the safe confines of the Li Manor, she was forced to relive the events of her previous life.

    "No one must find out about this," Li Chenyang breathed out. "If people found out that she''s an illegitimate child, no one would marry her. As screwed up as it is, they''ll me her and not her parents."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "Yes, it''s crucial we keep this a secret amongst us and no one else¡ª"

    "Do the Bai servants know of this?" Li Chenyang asked.

    Duke Li Shenyang shook his head. "No, only the Viscountess and Viscount knows of this."

    "In that case..." Li Chenyang''s face twisted into a cruel smile. "We must eradicate them from the face of this earth."

    Duke Li Shenyang could do nothing but nod his head. "But we shouldn''t harm people if it won''t provide us any benefits¡ª"

    "Last time I checked, they''re one of the wealthiest families in Hechen. They control the trade ports. Wouldn''t it be beneficial if it''s under our jurisdiction?" Li Chenyang pointed out.

    "Oh? And how do you n on doing that?" Duke Li Shenyang quirked a brow.

    "You can leave that to me and Xueyue." Li Chenyang''s smile widened. "Have a good night, Dad." He excused himself and strolled down the hallway, humming a quiet luby to himself, as if he hadn''t just plotted the demise of an entire family.

    Duke Li Shenyang watched as his son''s rxed figure disappeared down the hallways. "Perhaps one day, you''ll be ready for the truth, son. One day..." he muttered, turning his back and heading in the direction of his wife''s room.

    He let out a heavy sigh, his shoulders weighed down with exhaustion. He had spent a tiring day at court and studied many more books about ruling a country. He couldn''t wait to slip into bed, safe and sound with his loving wife.

    The only problem was, he was locked out... of his own bedroom.

    "D-darling?" he called through the door, pushing at it only to hear the solid click of a lock.

    He awkwardlyughed, "Sweetheart, don''t be so petty!" He whined from outside,pletely unaware that his adoring wife was sound asleep. And all the guest bedrooms were locked. He had nowhere to sleep tonight.

 Chapter 124 Id Like To Demand Some Respect!

    <h4>Chapter 124 I''d Like To Demand Some Respect!</h4>

    The next morning, everyone was gathered around the breakfast table. Li Chenyang''s head dropped and raised with each passing second as he struggled to not sleep and finally facepalmed into his congee. Li Wenmin was busy stuffing his cheeks like a hamster whereas Li Xueyue and Duchess Wang Qixing were peacefully eating their breakfast without a single care in the world.

    The only person in a sullen mood was the grumbling Duke, who had just made his way to the table. He sunk in his chair, shooting the Duchess a dirty look. "I still can''t believe you did that to me!" heined to his wife who took a pause from eating and turned her head to him.

    "Oh, darling!" She exasperated, "You looked like you didn''t sleep well the night before... How pitiful!"

    Duke Li Shenyang scowled at her obvious taunts. "My beloved wife, how could you have guessed? Was it from my poor posture from sleeping on a couch, or was it my eye bags fromck of sleep?"

    "Well, it''s your ugly face overall, so¡­" Duchess Wang Qixing simply shrugged.

    "How does it feel to be married to this ugly face for over twenty years?" he bit back, pouring a cup of tea for himself only to find the teapot empty.

    "I feel like the most generous woman to have lived! I''ve been doing charity work for over two decades now," Duchess Wang Qixing bickered, waving her hand to Jinxia.

    Duke Li Shenyang shot her a pointed look. "Oh really, now? Marrying me was charity work?" He snorted, rolling his eyes. "Then who was thatdy begging to marry the high and mighty¡ª"

    "You speak too much nonsense early in the morning. This tea will wake you up!" Duchess Wang Qixing sped her hands together, holding it near her face with a gigantic smile.

    Duke Li Shenyang stiffened at her words. "I take back what I said, my precious, loving, beautiful wife! Please, let us drink this glorious tea together as a family and¡ª"

    "Oh no no, I specifically brewed this tea for you! All of our wonderful children who rise when told are enjoying your favorite chrysanthemum tea." Duchess Wang Qixing lightlyughed whilst Jinxia poured the bitter tea that had a dark and mysterious color.

    "This is disgusting," Duke Li Shenyang groaned when he caught a whiff of the various herbs brewed into the tea.

    "But it''s beneficial for your health. Don''t pout like a child and drink it all down! Or else you''ll never sleepfortably." Duchess Wang Qixing rested her chin on her entwined fingers of her propped up arms on the table.

    When the Duke lifted the ss to her, shooting her a pleading look, her smile widened.

    "For its full benefits, drink it while it''s hot!" she beckoned.

    Duke Li Shenyang died a bit on the inside. He lifted the handleless teacup with both hands and squeezed his eyes shut, forcing himself to drink the tea that might as well have been poison.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but giggle at the scene. Herughter, pleasant like wind chimes on a splendid day, tickled the heart of the Duchess who turned to face her.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s smile softened at the sight of Xueyue. "You''re just so adorable, my dear." She sighed in content, watching as Xueyue happily ate.

    "She''s only cute when she stops stealing my braised eggs¡ªhey!" Li Wenmin cried when she took thest one, purposely biting into half of it just to aggravate him. "You saw that, Mom! She''s not cute at all!"

    "Ow!" Li Wenmin cried out when he was struck on the back of the head, his head snapping to a grouchy Li Chenyang.

    "Someone is trying to sleep here!" He hissed at his brother only for Li Wenmin to gesture to the table.

    "Uh, hello?! You''re supposed to be eating breakfast, not sleeping, dimwit! Who told you to sleep sote at night in the first ce?" Li Wenmin taunted, snickering when Li Chenyang''s irritated face scrunched into a displeased snarl.

    "Maybe if you stopped snoring like a well-fed piglet, I''d have the best sleep ever." Li Chenyang rolled his eyes when Li Wenmin dramatically gasped.

    "I am not a piglet!??

    "Whatever."

    "I am a proud¡ª"

    "Yeah yeah, h h h..." Li Chenyang snorted, picking up one of the mini steamed buns filled with pork.

    "Chenyang, as your older brother by a couple of minutes, I''d like to demand some respect¡ªmmph!" Li Chenyang had shoved the bun into Li Wenmin''s mouth.

    Li Wenmin didn''t seem to mind as he nodded in appreciation, finishing the bun in two bites. "Wow, this tastes so good!"

    "And you have the attention span of a piglet too." Li Chenyang rolled his eyes, finally digging into his food.

    Li Xueyue smiled to herself, enjoying the mild bickering in the early morning. It was such a contrasting sight whenpared to her life with the Bai Family. If she even got to eat at all, it was always in her dark and deste room with the most curious of smells.

    "After breakfast, would you like to join me in the gardens, Xueyue? We can trim the hydrangea flowers!" Duchess Wang Qixing offered. "I know you''ve been awfully bored from being ''bedridden.'' So what do you say?"

    "Actually¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, "Is it alright if I join you after I return from the Imperial Pce?"

    Everyone paused what they were doing.

    Li Xueyue awkwardly looked around. "You see, when Yu Zhen took me to the merchant''s market yesterday, I ran into Wen Jinkai."

    Li Chenyang scowled at the mere mention of that name. "If he was a real man, he''d keep it a secret."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "He promises to keep it a secret if I join him for dinner."

    "That''s absurd!" Li Wenmin retorted, mming his empty rice bowl onto the table.

    "I know." Li Xueyue nodded. "That''s why I would like to attend an audience with the Emperor and Empress. If I give in to Wen Jinkai''s demand once, who''s to say he won''t hold the secret against me another time?"

    Li Chenyang''s eyes briefly widened a bit. He didn''t expect her toe up with this n all by herself. "There''s still a possibility that he will say he saw you in the Capital on the day that you''re supposed to be bedridden."

    Li Xueyue nodded in agreement. "The Emperor will not miss an opportunity to tease me about my recovery. I will simply inform him I recovered yesterday afternoon, way past the time I???m supposed to see him. I was only in the Capital to get some fresh air before stumbling into Wen Jinkai."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded in approval. "That is a well thought out n, Xueyue. How did youe up with your scenarios?"

    "Oh, I just like to overthink and overanalyze every possible detail," Li Xueyue joked, even though it was half true.

    Duke Li Shenyang blinked at yet another simrity she had to the Li Family. But then again, it was amon trait¡­ Was he reading too much into this situation?

    "In that case, Chenyang will apany your audience with the Emperor," Duke Li Shenyang informed her. He could do it himself, but he was weighed down by the ridiculous amount of workload that should have been the Emperor''s job to finish. Instead, the ruler in question was too busy wasting time on his personal interests.

    Duke Li Shenyang cast a nce towards his wife. He thought back to Li Chenyang''s question on loyalty. Indeed, whose side would she take? The Li Family with her beloved children, or the Wang Family with her beloved mother and siblings? He did not want to make his wife choose, but there are times where emotions must be stretched thin to see the fine lines¡­

    "I''m fine with that." Li Chenyang nodded, turning to Li Xueyue who also nodded.

    "If it''s not too troubling," she pointed out.

    "Of course not."

    "You sure?" she asked.

    "Now that you ask, maybe a bit troubling¡­" He snickered when she rolled her eyes, knowing full well, that he would never be too troubled to help her.

 Chapter 125 Havent Moved On

    <h4>Chapter 125 Haven''t Moved On</h4>

    Wen Jinkai didn''t n to visit the Emperor and Empress, but he was swept into an audience with them after being ambushed by a group of Eunuchs in an empty hallway. He didn''t realize he had trespassed into this area yet again, the same space that Li Xueyue had gotten lost inst time.

    Standing before the golden staircase leading up to the Emperor and Empress, Wen Jinkai had a nk expression on his face. He was here for less than a minute and was already bored by their presence. He nearly rolled his eyes upon hearing the squeamish and excited whispers of the Princesses seated near Emperor Fadong and Empress Huiyun.

    Finally, Emperor Fadong spoke up. "What were you doing in that corridor, Jinkai?"

    "I was on my way to visiting the Second Prince."

    "But his living quarters are in the opposite direction from the one you have trespassed into," Emperor Fadong scolded, disapproval written all over his face. "Are you reminiscing again?"

    Fourth Prince Wang Longhe''s ears perked up with interest. Trespassed? There was a ce that the almighty Wen Jinkai was not allowed entry into? Well, that''s a first.

    Wen Jinkai''s face became frosty, his fierce eyes pierced a hole through the Emperor''s head. This meddling old man talked too much. "Does it matter if I am?"

    Empress Huiyun sighed. "Jinkai, you can''t continue going there! I''ve already told you this before."

    Wang Longhe''s eyes erged and in an instant, he shot up, his chair loudly crashed onto the ground. He had ced two and two together. Poking a shaking finger at Wen Jinkai, he roared, "You snuck into Li Minghua''s old living quarters?! Are you insane?"

    Imperial Consort Gu Feiying let out an inaudible gasp. Firstly, she was startled by her son''s rash and impudent actions, but she was even more shocked by the mention of a forbidden name. She shot a terrified nce in the Emperor''s direction, swallowing deeply in fear that her son would incur his wrath.

    A vein popped out from the Emperor''s reddening forehead, his face dark and furious.

    In the blink of an eye, a loud p sounded throughout the room. Wang Longhe was sent flying to the ground, clutching his cheek in disbelief and horror. Whispers arose from all corners of the room.

    A horrified scream could be heard when the Emperor raised his hand and men dressed in ck surrounded the Prince. "Guards! Throw this degenerate into the Cold Pce!"

    In an instant, Imperial Consort Gu Feiying shot out of her chair, copsing to her knees beside her son. "Your Majesty, please, he wasn''t thinking properly! He''s just a boy, he''s young and didn''t know any better!" she cried out, shielding her son with her body, her voiceced with fear and despair.

    She turned to her son, grabbed him by the shoulder and attempted to force him into a deep bow. "Snap out of it, Son. Hurry, apologize to your father, you rascal!"

    Wang Longhe was frozen in his position, unyielding against the desperate pleas of his mother. His cheek stung, but the pain went beyond that, digging deep into his heart as if thorns had pricked his chest.

    This was the second time he was struck in the face by his father. The first time was when Wang Longhe made a sinful confession of his love for ady who could never be his, yet he had convinced his friend to give her up.

    "No." Wang Longhe shook his head.

    The audience room was shrouded in lethal silence as the Emperor''s jaw ticked. The thick tension in the room suffocated the onlookers who held their breath, awaiting the next verdict.

    Emperor Fadong''s hands curled into a clenching fist. His infuriated eyes trembled like his fist. He tried to restrain his anger, but he could not. The mere mention of her name was enough for his patience to snap. He couldn''t bring himself to hear the name of the only niece he cared about. She was someone he was supposed to shelter, but ruined her instead.

    "What did you just say?"

    "I''m not going to apologize. Enough is enough!" Wang Longhe snarled.

    "Stop!" Imperial Consort Gu Feiying wailed as she turned to her son, shaking some sense into him. "You don''t mean that, tell your father you don''t mean it!"

    She could see all of the Emperor''s favor for her begin to disappear into thin air. The fear of losing it drove her to desperate means of forcing her son to kneel, but he resisted her.

    Wang Longhe shrugged off his mother''s grabbing hands. "I''m so tired of everyone tip-toeing around this issue as if it didn''t happen! She mattered to me too, Father, her disappearance mattered to me as well! I loved her more than¡ª"

    "Finish that sentence and I''ll kill you in front of your mother!" Wen Jinkai growled, his voice bouncing off the walls.

    Wang Longhe''s head snapped in Wen Jinkai''s direction. "You have no right to be enraged by my words! Especially when you failed to protect her, you bastard¡ª"

    Wen Jinkai instantly unsheathed his sword, storming to the golden staircase. "Li Minghua wouldn''t have needed my protection if you didn''t behave like a crazy man in love with his own cousin!" he roared.

    "Crazy?! I was trying to help her, you barely paid any attention to her after the Empress¡ª"

    "ENOUGH!" Emperor Fadong bellowed, his thunderous voice shaking the pirs in the throne room. He had reached his limit for the day.

    "Guards, drag both Commander Wen Jinkai and the Fourth Prince to the Cold Pce. Under my jurisdiction, they will be locked in there for at least a week."

    The Emperor turned to his shadow guards, the ones personally trained by Wen Jinkai.

    The shadow guards moved to grab the Fourth Prince, but none of them dared to approach the Commander.

    The Emperor scowled, his mood further dampening. "What are you waiting for? There is another¡ª"

    "These are my dogs," Wen Jinkai spat out. "You think they''ll bite their owner?"

    Emperor Fadong snapped. "What did you just say, boy?!" He didn''t think his very own dog would bite the hand that fed him in front of such arge audience.

    Empress Huiyun couldn''t believe how things had escted. When did all of this even start? She clenched her sharpened nails into her palm, digging it into her flesh. That damn Li Minghua. Even after her disappearance, she was still causing trouble at court! She was even more despicable absent than present!

    The Empress knew she should''ve ended Li Minghua once and for all in the Pce instead of allowing that wench to flee to Hechen! Her thoughts spiraled to the day she left the Pce just to drag Li Minghua to the depths of hell. It was an opportunistic day when the Duke and Duchess were not home to shield their daughter, for they were too busy heading to the Capital to demand answers.

    Empress Huiyun grounded her teeth, continuing to clench her fingers into her palms until blood trickled from her hand.

    "I trained them into the guards they are today," Wen Jinkai said. "Do you really think they will turn their allegiance away from me?"

    The Emperor''s gaze narrowed. "I figured you''d say as much." He waved his hand and this time, a different set of guards rushed into the room, dressed significantly different from the shadow guards. "Your father deployed these men to me. You have severely disappointed me today, my boy."

    Wen Jinkai slipped his sword back into his sheath. "Then I must let you know, I don''t give a damn how you feel. You have no jurisdiction to drag me to the Cold Pce. Yourmand was an act upon your feelings."

    Empress Huiyun decided enough was enough. "Jinkai, go to your room. Now."

    Emperor Fadong''s gaze snapped to his Empress. "What is the meaning of this¡ª"

    "Do you want to make a spectacle out of two sons in one day? Isn''t one enough?" She kept her tone understanding and patient. "Boys will be boys. They don''t think properly when they''re afraid."

    Afraid?

    Both Wen Jinkai and Wang Longhe had to suppress an eyeroll. As if they could ever be terrified of a frail man who couldn''t even defend himself.

    "If I release one and punish the other, it''s favoritism," the Emperor spat out. "They disrespected their Emperor. There are consequences for offending the Crown."

    He turned to the guards brought to him by Duke Wen Xuan, Wen Jinkai''s father. "What are you waiting for? Capture them!"

    "You don''t have to do this, my lord husband," Empress Huiyun said. "They were simply voicing their opinions to their father. They are your sons before they are your subjects!"

    Emperor Fadong began to waver at her logical words. "They need to be punished¡ª"

    "Yes, but not like this, Your Majesty. They have already made a spectacle and a fool out of themselves by their behavior today." Empress Huiyun almost slipped out, ''Over a worthless woman who deserved to perish,'' but she contained herself. It would only make things a lot worse.

    A long pause ensued. Everyone watched as the Emperor''s wrath slowly transformed into dissatisfaction. The Empress was right. There was no need for such a long-drawn punishment that would ruin their reputation.

    "Very well," the Emperor concluded. "But bring them out of my sight this instant!"

    Wang Longhe didn''t need to be told twice. He stood up and helped his mother to her feet. In a fell swoop, he dusted off his clothes and left through the entrance by the side.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t leave. He continued to stand there, staring at the Emperor. "It''s not my fault you hadn''t moved on from her," he spat out. And before anyone could react, he stormed down the steps and out of the main entrance.

 Chapter 126 Burn To The Ground

    <h4>Chapter 126 Burn To The Ground</h4>

    The Emperor''s scrutinizing gaze followed Wen Jinkai''s disappearing form. He didn''t expect the Commander to continue behaving so rashly. It was time to put a stop to his disgusting attitude, and the Emperor had the exact lessons in mind. Soon, Wen Jinkai would understand the consequences of biting the hand that fed him.

    Wen Jinkai made a sharp turn when he exited the throne room, only for a loud "Watch it!" to stop him in his path.

    Wen Jinkai''s mood soured further. People nowadays had too much audacity. "What the hell did you just say to me¡ª" he paused upon seeing who it was.

    Li Chenyang had a protective hand in front of Xueyue, shielding her from the near-collision with the Commander.

    Neither men seemed pleased by each other''s presence. Visible disgust and irritation were written on their faces. The atmosphere took a turn for the worst.

    "You ought to watch your tone with me, Li Chenyang," Wen Jinkai snapped. "Imand over your older brother."

    Li Chenyang opened his mouth, but Li Xueyue interrupted both of them.

    "First of all, don''t talk to my brother like that," she said and stepped around Li Chenyang''s arm. Jabbing the Commander in the chest, she spat out, "Second, you don''tmand over Li Wenmin. You belong to a different division."

    Wen Jinkai was caught off-guard by her air of authority. He had to do a double-take to make sure this was the same Xueyue he was talking to. When he opened his mouth in protest, she pushed him back with her finger, causing him to stumble.

    "Xueyue," he warned. "You need to pick your allegiance wisely," he bit out, grabbing her finger, and pulling her towards him, but she shoved him back.

    "Don''t grab me. Don''t touch me," she snarled, yanking her hand back before he had another chance to tug her closer to him. She would not allow him to taint her reputation. He called her a loose woman, but kept crossing the line with his behavior.

    "Are you going to continue being this stubborn?" Wen Jinkai seethed. "asional tantrums are allowed, but you''ve been spoiled rotten by my patience."

    "If you think my disagreements are tantrums, then I hate to see what yours are called."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. He had guts to call her stubborn when he was equally hard-headed.

    Li Chenyang stepped forward. "Let''s head inside now, Xueyue." He didn''t wait for either of them to respond and ced an ushering hand on her upper back, guiding her towards the enormous entrance.

    The Eunuch standing outside bowed at their presence. Clearing his throat, he loudly announced, "Weing Minister Li Chenyang and third-rank Princess Li Xueyue!"

    Emperor Fadong''s lips tugged upwards. Finally. He could rx now. "There you are, Little Lady. I was beginning to wonder if you''re even alive after so many days of being bedridden."

    Li Xueyue strained her smile and bowed for him. "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."

    "Pft, right. My concern." He lightly chuckled, pleased by her patience and response. It was time to make her a tool of influence over the reckless Wen Jinkai.

    "You might be wondering what could be the reason for my persistence to see you. I wanted to invite you to the marriage banquet of the Commander and Princess Yu Xiyan of Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched. Marriage banquet? Finally. She hoped Princess Yu Xiyan would keep the Commander upied enough that he would stop bothering her, but this was one wish of hers that was least likely to happen.

    "Unfortunately, during your bedridden days, there was a conflict that resulted in a change of ns." The Emperor carefully watched her reaction over his next words. "They won''t be getting married."

    And just like that, Li Xueyue felt utterly hopeless. She didn''t know how to react or respond to something like that. What was she supposed to say? Why did the Commander''s matters have anything to do with her in the first ce?

    When she didn''t react to the announcement, the Emperor finally concluded something. Li Xueyue didn''t wear her heart on her sleeve.

    She seemed the least affected by this announcement as if she didn''t care about it at all. Her apathetic eyes and the nk canvas of her face were enough for the Emperor to understand she wouldn''t care if Wen Jinkai dropped dead right in front of her. One of the most eligible bachelors of the country was free and she couldn''t care less.

    Finally, Li Xueyue spoke up. "I express my sadness for both parties and I pray this would not lead to bad blood between us and Hanjian." It was impossible for her to sound anymore nd.

    The Emperor raised his brows. What a boring response. She wasn''t affected by the news. Was this her new n? To appear as boring as possible so that he would lose interest in her? Poor Xueyue. She was too deep in the game to leave now. She had proved herself to be too useful.

    The Emperor sighed. "I couldn''t agree with you any less, Little Lady, but we''re not here to discuss Princess Yu Xiyan''s marriage."

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow.

    "We''re here to discuss yours."

    Li Chenyang stiffened, his eyes widened. "Your Majesty, I apologize for speaking out of turn, but Xueyue is only eighteen years old and has a magnificent future ahead of her¡ª"

    "Minister Li, it''s so good to see you early this morning. I''m afraid I didn''t request your presence." The Emperor pressed his lips together. All of the children he liked had grown up to be irritable little things. He had spoiled them for too long.

    "I believe your position is with your fellow Ministers." He nodded to his right where rows of ministers sat with low tables in front of them.

    Hisrge array of ministers were supposed to be his voice of reasons, but they had stopped caring about the Emperor''s approval a long time ago. To those men, the person they should amodate was the Prime Minister, who actually makes decisions for the country.

    Li Chenyang''s gaze sharpened. This was the first time the Emperor had ever spoken to him like this. Usually, his uncle was delighted by his presence and would wee him to speak as he pleased.

    "Besides, your younger sister isn''t mute. She can speak for herself," Empress Huiyun said.

    She turned her head in the direction of Li Xueyue and asked, "What do you think about marriage?"

    Li Xueyue internally sighed. The royal family would cause a scene again. "With all due respect, I agree with my older brother. I''m not ready to be married yet."

    Empress Huiyun let out a dramatic sigh, showing her visible disappointment in Xueyue''s response.

    "Right now, it''s a trend for ripe youngdies your age to get married as soon as possible. Or else, the fruit will sour into leftovers. I''m sure you don''t want that to apply to you, right?" the Empress said.

    "Then it''s a shame I am not a fruit to be sold to the highest bidder¡­" The Empress''s face darkened. "Your Grace." Li Xueyue finished with a smile, purposely taking a pause to utter the title.

    "Do you not care about your wellbeing at all? As your aunt, I believe it is my duty to see you properly married off." Empress Huiyun scowled. "It''s unfilial of you to deny my generous help."

    "Oh my¡­" Li Xueyue rapidly blinked, cing a chaste hand upon her chest. Abruptly, she lowered her upper body into a graceful curtsy. "I truly appreciate your desire to offer a helping hand, Your Grace."

    The Empress smiled in satisfaction, believing she had won this round.

    "However¡­" Li Xueyue''s voice softened, almost as if she was too scared to voice her opinion. "My precarious mistakest time has forced the royal family to retract their helping hand. Isn''t that correct?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, ncing at the floor. "Or perhaps, the medicine has caused me to be befuddled and I remembered wrongly?"

    Empress Huiyun was left speechless by Li Xueyue''s words. She had truly underestimated the capabilities of this quick-witted woman. Li Xueyue might''ve been as beautiful and dazzling as Li Minghua, but both girls were worlds apart. Despite that, the Empress couldn''t help but loathe Li Xueyue to the core. Both women thought they were capable of outsmarting the royal family.

    The Empress grounded her teeth. No one gets to make a fool out of the royal family like this.

    Li Xueyue would burn to the ground.

    The Empress would make sure of it.

 Chapter 127 Tied Down to One Man

    <h4>Chapter 127 Tied Down to One Man</h4>

    Emperor Fadong quietly hummed to himself. How should he deal with this fiery spitball? Li Xueyue had the soft features of an submissive daughter, but looks could be deceiving. She had the intelligence of a wild spirit bent on running free. She could not be chained down, so long as she used her words as a shield.

    "Yes, I suppose you''re correct. We said we wouldn''t help you anymore," Emperor Fadong agreed with her, nodding his head.

    Li Xueyue let out a silent sigh of relief. Her tense shoulders slightly rxed. She didn''t know this was only the beginning of her troubles.

    "Do you know the beauty of words, Little Lady?" the Emperor suddenly asked, causing her to blink once, twice, thrice.

    "Words are cruel. They can heal, but also harm. They speak for us when our actions can''t. They can build up but also destroy. There is no beauty in them," Li Xueyue answered, her words leaving an impact on everyone in the room.

    Emperor Fadong was astonished by her profundity, and the way she was able to twist things to her favor. Not a minute had passed since his question and she was able to spin such an borate reply.

    e decided she was right.

    Li Xueyue was indeed, too young to be married off. She would be more useful as an unwed woman than a wedded one. She wasn''t meant to be the idle wife of a Commander, she was meant for far more than that. But what could her use be?

    "You are correct, as always." Heughed, the sound foreign to his own ears.

    Whether the Emperor''sugh was genuine or forced, no one knew for sure. The Emperor was often unpredictable, doing as he pleased.

    "The problem with words is that you can always retract it. Just like how I will retract what I saidst time." The Emperor''s lips pulled into a smile, his eyes narrowed. He hid his scheming nature behind it, but she saw right through him.

    "You have a splendid future ahead of you. Your tongue will be your tool, unless¡­ it''s sliced off." The Emperor''s smile widened. He was rxed as if he hadn''t just threatened to take away one of her most useful assets.

    A heavy silence fell over them. No one said anything. No one moved. Not even Li Chenyang had expected this.

    Li Xueyue was the first to break the tension. Sheughed.

    Everyone was surprised by her reaction. The ministers exchanged perplexed expressions with each other. Had she lost her mind? Maybe Li Xueyue was right, the medicine she took must''ve affected her mental state.

    Who would have the guts tough at the words of the Emperor as if they were bluffs? Who wouldugh in a serious conversation like this? Her life was already hanging on by a thread, but this slice of tension also cut her lifeline.

    Li Xueyue was doomed.

    "Ever the jokester, Your Majesty." Li Xueyue settled down, her lips twisted into a smile mirroring his. She was the epitome of calm. Unfazed by his threats, she patiently waited for him to continue.

    Suddenly, a boomingughter filled the throne room. It was loud like the crackle of thunder, spontaneous like the burst of hanging fireworks, a sound too harsh to the ears. Then he abruptly stoppedughing.

    Who was the crazy person now?

    "Jokes keep my heart young," he finally said, his smile finally reaching his eyes. "Your reactions are refreshing as usual, Little Lady. You never fail to amuse me. What shall I do with you then?"

    "Absolutely nothing, Your Majesty. You don''t have to stress yourself out just to worry about my wellbeing." She bowed her head and continued, "I truly appreciate everything you''ve done for me, but there is no need to lend a helping hand my way, Your Majesty."

    "Hmm, as a reward for your bravery to bypass my bluff¡­" Emperor Fadong hummed to himself, pretending to debate his next response.

    Li Xueyue tried to not let out an aggravated sigh. She reminded herself this was just an elderly man who was bored of his mind, so he had to bully the youth as a source of entertainment. Even after all that she said, he still wanted to intervene in her life, as if he had any right to do so in the first ce.

    "I understand your reluctance to marry. After all, you''ll be tied down to one man for the rest of your life, which to you, I''m sure, is very boring," Emperor Fadong purposely said, jabbing at the fact that she had more than one suitor vying for her attention.

    Li Chenyang scowled at his uncle''s words. Was the Emperor purposely trying to make a fool out of her?

    Precarious provocations like that could ruin her reputation. People would think she''s a selfish and loose woman who liked to fool around when in reality, she was the opposite of that. She didn''t want to draw any unwanted attention towards her, but life always liked to have a mind of its own.

    "Don''t you find it annoying to have so many men bothering you for your hand in marriage? If I was the Duke, I would surely be irritated. I''d have better things to do than shooing people off my property," the Emperor mused. "Have you ever considered your unwed status might be a burden to everyone around you? Especially your family?"

    Li Xueyue could tell what his ns were. The Emperor wanted to guilt-trip her into marrying someone he favored. Why was he so obsessed with her? Didn''t he have better things to do? For example, ruling over a whole country?!

    She wouldn''t let this small taunt get to her. She cared about her family but knew they also cared about her. They wouldn''t want to force her into a marriage just because the Duke was tired of fending off suitors.

    Li Chenyang decided to put a stop to all of this foolishness. "Our parents have neverined about this. In fact, we prefer her to never marry if that makes her happy. Heading into a loveless marriage for the sake of public image is never a good idea." He cast a nce towards the Empress, purposely hinting about her.

    "I''m truly grateful for your concern over my younger sister, Your Majesty. However, there''s no need for it. And if I may be ever so bold¡­" he trailed off, waiting for the Emperor''s permission.

    "Go on," the Emperor urged, eager to hear what Li Chenyang, one of his favorite nephews had to say.

    "Li Xueyue is doing better on her own. She doesn''t need outside influences to meddle with her personal matters."

    When disapproval shed across the Emperor''s face, Li Chenyang added on, "We understand your concern for her. She''s unwed, with more potential than you can imagine. You''re worried about her falling into the wrong hands, and that''s a perfectly reasonable fear.

    "As her brother," he ced a hand upon his chest, "You can rest assured, something like that will never happen."

    "And how can I trust you?"

    Li Chenyang slyly smiled, concealing his frosty eyes. "Because history shouldn''t repeat itself."

    Confusion clouded the Emperor''s face, his browsing together to form even more lines on his wrinkled forehead. Finally, the words registered in his brain¡ªLi Xueyue should not suffer the same pitiful fate as Li Minghua.

    The Emperor was prepared to scorn his nephew with fiery wrath like no other but realized this was exactly the type of behavior that he shouldn''t show in front of his ministers.

    "Isn''t that right, Your Majesty?" Li Chenyang asked.

    Emperor Fadong wanted to refute Li Chenyang to hell and back but couldn''t. For the sake of his heartbroken sister, he couldn''t. For the sake of his niece, he couldn''t. This was akin to a checkmate for him. His pawns had outyed him.

    "I suppose you''re right,??? he reluctantly said, heaving an exhausted sigh. "Now, please excuse yourself out. There is another audience scheduled after yours."

    Li Chenyang nodded in satisfaction, upholding his crafty smile. Like his father, he was a sheep in wolf disguise. "Very well, Your Majesty. I will escort my sister out and return to my post."

 Chapter 128 His Woman

    <h4>Chapter 128 His Woman</h4>

    Li Chenyang wanted to personally take Li Xueyue back home, but his court duties didn''t permit him to do so. Forced to bid her goodbye at the entrance of the throne room, he watched with uncertainty as Li Xueyue strolled down the enormous hallway.

    When she turned a corner and disappeared from his sight, he pressed his lips into a thin line. Servants and guards apanied Xueyue, but Li Chenyang still feared for her safety, especially in this dreadful Pce. For her, there were more foes than friends.

    Li Xueyue didn''t let her guard down even though she was far from the clutches of the Emperor and Empress. She couldn''t help the unsettling sensation in her gut as if something went horribly wrong, and she didn''t even know what it was.

    When she saw who was ahead of her, hastily approaching the end of the hallway, she couldn''t help but stiffen.

    Duke Li Taojun seemed to be in a hurry, but he immediately halted at the sight of her. Baffled and disturbed, his face paled when she lifted her head, revealing shades of hazel that mirrored his rustic ones. The way her lips parted reminded him of a timid woman who should''ve been his, but wasn''t fated to be; not with his previous status and limited wealth.

    "Princess Li.??? He nodded his head in greeting while she slowly lowered into a small bow.

    "Duke Li Taojun," she greeted, her eyes clouded with curiosity.

    She had never gotten the chance to see him from up close. From up close, she could see his slight resemnce to Duke Li Shenyang but his personality distinguished him from thetter. She found it strange that she kind of resembled both of them.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t quite ce a finger on the simrity. Her gut told her there was more to this than meets the eyes.

    An awkward atmosphere hovered over them. Duke Li Taojun didn''t know what else to say aside frommenting about the weather.

    Well, what else could he say?

    He had attempted to seal her fate in a foreignnd with foreign people and she had publicly gone against his decision and the royal decree. The only candidate who talked her way out of her demise.

    "Have a good day, Duke Li Taojun," Li Xueyue abruptly said, bowing again. She attempted to rush past him, but his next words stopped her in her path.

    "Who are you, really?"

    Slowly, Li Xueyue turned to him, her face as nk as a canvas. She was disgruntled by his words, her eyes tearing him apart when her words couldn''t.

    "What an odd question to ask a stranger."

    "Well, you''re supposed to be my niece." Duke Li Taojun cracked a dry smile. "Is it wrong for me to want to get to know you better?"

    "Funny." Li Xueyue smiled. "You tried to marry off your supposed niece to a foreignnd."

    "Nepotism is never appreciated, Princess Li. I did what I thought was the best for this country."

    "Even at the cost of your family?"

    "Especially at the cost of my so-called ''family,''" Duke Li Taojun responded. "My family has abandoned me, why should I care for them? The only family I know is me, myself, and I."

    "What a pitiful thing to say," Li Xueyue muttered, her eyes softened.

    Duke Li Taojun tensed. Was she provoking him?

    When Duke Li Taojun took a closer look at her, he felt his world begin to unpleasantly spin. Memories of the past threatened to resurface as a sense of nostalgia mmed through him.

    Li Xueyue might''ve had the eyes of a Li, but she didn''t use it like one. Her delicate features resembled someone he used to know, a bold and audacious woman who drugged him, then fled into the midnight.

    "Are you really Duke Li Shenyang''s daughter?" Duke Li Taojun abruptly asked.?"The timeline doesn''t make sense."

    "My identity has nothing to do with you." Li Xueyue frowned. She jutted her chin in the air and stormed off.

    His intruding questions rubbed her in the wrong way and despite their brief encounter, she couldn''t help but be repulsed by him. Suddenly, she thought back to one entry she read in the diary.

    Li Minghua had mentioned an uncle. What was it again that she mentioned about her uncle? Something about a rumor of Duke Li Shenyang backstabbing his own brother?

    Li Xueyue swallowed deeply. Was this why Duke Li Taojun was so adamant about learning her identity? So that he could use it as a weapon against Duke Li Shenyang? She shivered at the thought of being used again.

    She was so lost in her thoughts to hear the quick approaching footsteps behind her.

    Duke Li Taojun reached out to grab her shoulder, "Wait, Princess Li, if I have offended you in any way, I don''t mean to¡ª"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened and before any of the guards could react, someone else had grabbed her. Her entire body tensed when she felt a muscr arm wrap around her stomach, her back colliding on a firm chest.

    "Watch where you''re touching, Duke," Yu Zhen warned in a chilling tone, his smile tense and tight-lipped.

    "Commander." Duke Li Taojun''s brows shot upwards. He couldn''t register the scene in front of him.

    First, Li Xueyue was offended by the idea of being married off to one of Hanjian''s high-achieving soldiers, but now, she''s wrapped in the arms of Hanjian''s most outstanding Commander?

    None of this made sense to him.

    "I apologize, Princess Li. I didn''t mean to startle you." Duke Li Taojun''s eyes snapped to Li Xueyue, who was equally surprised to see Commander Yu Zhen.

    "There was something else I wanted to ask you." Duke Li Taojun attempted to smile but it came out like a wince.

    "You''ve already asked enough personal questions." Li Xueyue scowled. "I''m not going to answer anything."

    "Yes, but this time, it''s not something as sensitive as your identity. I-I was just curious about something¡­" he stuttered, "B-by any chance, are you acquainted with Viscountess Mu Yihua?"

    Li Xueyue felt her heart drop to the pit of her stomach. Why¡­ was he asking this? Did he know something that she didn''t? Was he on to her? Did he dig into her background without her knowledge? How much did he know? Why was he doing this?

    Thousands of questions swarmed her mind, clouding her judgment.

    Yu Zhen immediately sensed her distress. He didn''t have to look at her to realize this question disturbed her. His arm tightened around her, and in an instant, she was tucked behind his broad shoulders, shielding her from the probing eyes of Duke Li Taojun.

    "Did I say something wrong, Princess Li¡­?" Duke Li Taojun awkwardly asked.

    He didn''t think Commander Yu Zhen was this¡­ protective.

    Duke Li Taojun had heard all sorts of rumors about which men were going to marry Wuyi''s candidates. Out of every candidate, Yu Zhen was the least weing to people. In Hanjian, he was a merciless man with a heart of ice.

    Second Prince Yu Zhen was never affiliated with any woman, despite the many that worshipped the ground he walked on.

    On many asions, people even wondered if he was capable of emotions beyond political smiles and nk eyes.

    People had alwaysplimented Yu Zhen''s skills on the battlefield, his impable precision to y his opponents. From the perfect footwork to the powerfulmand over his men, there wasn''t a single w in his style. All he had to do was step into a battlefield and a river of blood would flow. He was, after all, the heartless Grim Reaper of War.

    "I suggest you keep your eyes to yourself," Yu Zhen snapped.

    Duke Li Taojun was taken aback by the Commander''s reaction. "I was merely worried about the Princess''s condition."

    "You should worry about what happens after this," Yu Zhen calmly told him. His body went rigid when he felt something soft graze his wrist.

    Li Xueyue had unknowingly grabbed onto his sleeves for reassurance. She didn''t realize it until his fingers gently touched hers and in a blink of an eye, he was holding her hand. Oddly enough, she felt a sense offort from the small interaction, as if nothing could ever go wrong so long as they were together.

    "Is¡­ that a threat?" Duke Li Taojun''s eyes narrowed into slits.

    "What else could it be?" Yu Zhen raised a brow.

    Duke Li Taojun pressed his lips together. He couldn''t find the gut in him to have a stare-down with the Commander. He let out a disgruntled sound and was prepared to leave.

    "If you ever want to discuss things further with me, Princess, my doors would always be open for you," Duke Li Taojun loudly announced to them.

    "You should lock your doors from now on," Yu Zhen chillingly said, his lips curling into a menacing smile.

    Duke Li Taojun didn''t need to be told twice. With a visible shake of his head, he attempted to leave but was instantly blocked by soldiers dressed in a different attire.

    "You weren''t excused yet," the soldier said, his voice lifeless and cold. He would not permit people to disrespect his Commander--the second Prince--like this.

    Duke Li Taojun''s lips thinned, his eyes darting to the knife that was held to his throat. Reluctantly, he turned around and bowed to the Second Prince of Hanjian.

    "Have a good day, Commander."

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. He merely flicked his hand as if the Duke was an insignificant bug.

    Duke Li Taojun scowled at the pure disrespect but decided he had better things to do than wager his life with someone as reputable as Yu Zhen. The entire time he headed in the direction of the throne room, he couldn''t help but try to nce back at Li Xueyue but it was impossible.

    Even if he tried to do so, Yu Zhen was hovering over Li Xueyue, and there was a thickyer of guards surrounding them, keeping her safe and well. Nothing could ever get past Yu Zhen and his men. No one could ever hurt his woman, so long as he was around.

 Chapter 129 I Can If I Want To

    <h4>Chapter 129 I Can If I Want To</h4>

    Li Xueyue tried to ignore their intertwined hands but found her eyes wandering to it every few seconds. Finally, she spoke up. "What are you doing here? And why are we holding hands?"

    Yu Zhen studied her expression, and when he deemed she was fine, his shoulders rxed a bit. He released her hand, and in an instant, disappointment flooded her eyes. Before he could react and grab her hand back, she averted it, pulling her hand closer to her chest.

    Yu Zhen took off his gloves and passed it to a servant. Without wasting a second, he grabbed her hand again, giving it a small squeeze. "Well, what about? What did youe to the Pce for?" he asked, tugging her towards him, but she nervously nced around, pulling her hand back yet again.

    Yu Zhen understood her fear. He nodded towards his men and their formation shifted until they formed a barrier around them, spacious, with their backs facing the couple.

    "Let''s take a walk in one of the many and unnecessarily vast gardens," Yu Zhen suggested, pulling her in a direction.

    "You didn''t answer my question," Li Xueyue muttered, her eyes lingered on their entwined hands. She marveled in the warmth he provided her, the safety she felt from the simple action. Perhaps being guided by someone wasn''t so bad after all.

    "I''m forced to live in the Pce as a guest," Yu Zhen responded, ncing down at her with a pleasant smile resting on his face. "Now, it''s your turn to answer."

    "I came because of the Emperor''s persistence to see me." Li Xueyue sighed, staring up at him. She immediately wished she didn''t. He was staring intently at her the entire time, memorizing her features. All she saw was her reflection in his eyes. Suddenly, she thought of the phrase, ''The eyes are windows to the soul.''

    "Why did he want to see you?" Yu Zhen asked, reaching to brush her baby hairs aside. To his amusement, her baby hairs sprang back in ce, framing her face.

    "To speak about my marriage."

    Yu Zhen halted. Li Xueyue didn''t realize until she felt a pressure on their entwined hands and saw he was two steps behind.

    "What''s wrong?" she questioned, noticing the storm cloud that rolled over his features. Like a violent hurricane, his eyes were riddled with all sorts of emotions, ranging from indignation to frustration.

    "And what did he say?" Yu Zhen cooly asked, his voice nothing like the fury in his eyes.

    "Not much. The conversation was averted," Li Xueyue answered, confused as to why he was reacting like this. He behaved as if she was already promised to another man.

    Yu Zhen''s lips thinned as he began walking again, this time, stepping closer to her until Xueyue''s shoulder brushed against his upper arm.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he knew how much he was clenching her hand as if terrified she''d suddenly disappear. As if¡­ he was terrified of losing her. She shook her head at the foolish thought. Why would he be scared of such things? It wasn''t like¡­ She paused, deciding to not dwell on such silly thoughts.

    "How long will you stay in Wuyi?" she abruptly asked him, staring directly into his eyes.

    "How long do you want me to stay?"

    Forever.

    Her lips parted, a definite answer rested on the tip of her tongue, but she knew that would be an impossible dream. He was the Second Prince of Hanjian, his ce was with his family and country.

    She was suddenly aware that if she chose him, she''d have to go with him. Far away from Wuyi, far away from her ns of revenge, and the Li Family, but also far enough that the Emperor and Empress would have no influence over her.

    Li Xueyue nervously stared at the ground, unable to form an answer. She was selfish, but not to the extent where she''d force him to stay.

    "That''s up to you," she said. "Not me."

    Yu Zhen didn??t know what to tell her. With his fate looming over his head, he was unable to promise her something that he couldn''t prove. Finally, they reached the gardens where he abandoned his guards by the entrance.

    He led her deep into the gardens until flowers of all variety and color surrounded them, offering them a pleasant scent and a protectiveyer against wandering eyes. Proud trees stood tall, adding further protection, but he knew she wouldn''t be satisfied by this alone. Thus, he took her to the pavilion in a secluded part of the garden. She was too wary of what the public thought of her, and it wasn''t a surprise.

    It takes one rumor to ruin a woman and a thousand to ruin a man.

    "If I leave for Hanjian, will youe with me?" Yu Zhen patiently asked, offering her a choice that she couldn''t decide upon.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, unaware that his eyes snapped downwards. It was a tiny action but he was instantly lulled by it.

    "The social norms expect me to."

    They sat down on the stone chairs of the pavilion. The dome ceiling offered them shade from the sun whilst taking away the shadows. A pleasant breeze blew past them, carrying with it the scent of roses and lilies.

    Upon noticing her uncertainty, Yu Zhen could do nothing but smile for her. He understood this was a tough decision, but he wanted her to go with him. Her ce was by his side¡ªnot in Wuyi, where too many dangerous things could grab her, in particr, the shameless Commander Wen.

    Yu Zhen suddenly remembered something. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the topaz, the amber gem shimmering despite theck of sunlight.

    "What''s this?" she curiously asked, peering at it.

    "A volcanic opal for me and golden topaz for you," Yu Zhen mused, handing the brilliant jewel to her.

    "But my eyes aren''t this bright," she mused, holding the stone in between her fingers.

    Li Xueyue held it outside of the pavilion where light pierced directly through it. Holding the topaz was like holding the sun in her hand. She had never seen color as lovely as this, a blend of molten gold and warm sunlight streaming through a window on a summer afternoon.

    "Neither are my eyes as beautiful as the opal." Yu Zhen chuckled, watching the stone reflect in her eyes, turning the hazel into glistening shades of autumn leaves. He watched her roll the jewel in her hand, curious about the different hues it offered.

    Yu Zhen never thought he''d be this content with watching her, but he was, from the tiny smile on her face to the squint of her eyes. The mellow breeze softly swayed her hair and hanfu as the sunlight bathed her arms.

    Li Xueyue was the epitome of a painting that came to life and she wasn''t even aware of it. He let out a softugh at the realization, the sound easily captured her attention.

    She offered him a shy smile that reached her eyes. "Sorry, it was simply too mesmerizing."

    "Now you know how I feel." He grinned when her brows knitted together, befuddled by his words.

    "It''d make a great pair of earrings to frame your face and bring out the beauty in your eyes," he said.

    "Or a ring," she muttered.

    "What?"

    "Nothing." Her smile widened when his eyes narrowed in suspicion. He obviously didn''t believe her.

    She handed the jewel back to him, a tinyugh bubbling out of her. He had grabbed her fingers, not the gem.

    "I''d rather have you," Yu Zhen mumbled whilst she slipped her hand back, the gem resting upon his palm. He closed his hand around it, cing it back into his pocket. He''d return it to her after having it forged into something suitable for her.

    "Who says you can''t?" she teased, unaware that it was provoking him in more ways than one.

    Yu Zhen''s eyes darkened and in a blink of an eye, he was in front of her. She resisted a gasp and fumbled to keep her racing heart at bay.

    He gently cupped her face, careful to not hurt her in any way. "I can if I want to," he muttered, bending too low forfort.

    Her eyes fluttered shut, her shoulders tense up. She held her breath and anticipated his next moves.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart abruptly skip a beat when he ced a chaste kiss on her forehead, light as a feather, but left a heavy impression upon her. She could still feel the weight of it even when he pulled away. Her stomach churned, her heart thundering in her ears.

    "What''s stopping you?"

    "My respect for you."

    Her eyes flew open in surprise, only to suck in a gasp of air upon realizing their proximity. He had kneeled to her height now, his face just inches away from her. His lips curled into a tiny, lopsided smile while he brushed her hairs away from her eyes.

    She was lost in the abyss of his eyes, brilliant and fierce, but dark and limitless. His smile, her favorite sight, hisughter, her favorite sound, and above all, his eyes her favorite art.

    Li Xueyue didn''t understand her overwhelming emotions for him, and neither did he.

 Chapter 130 This Is Urgen

    <h4>Chapter 130 This Is Urgen</h4>

    Yu Zhen felt a confession resting on the tip of his tongue. He couldn''t look away from the depths of her eyes. They were the color of the ripe Earth, filled with life and soul. Delicate and expressive, her eyes hid a wealth of emotion he wished to decipher.

    His thumb stroked the unrecognizable shapes upon her skin, a motion that he didn''t think wasforting until now. She didn''t seem to mind and leaned closer to him, patient and understanding of his confusion.

    Yu Zhen didn''t want to part from her. He couldn''t bring himself to. He had found the greatest joy of his life. How could he lose it? She was his hope and future, someone he was too attached to let go.

    He wanted to treasure and watch over her, keeping her from harm''s way. And the only way to do so was by whisking her to Hanjian. Yu Zhen knew he was selfish to pull her from familiarnds to foreign ones, but he vowed to keep her safe for the rest of her life.

    "Xueyue," he coaxed, "Come with me to Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue was tongue-tied. She wanted to go with him, but also didn''t want to leave Wuyi. There was so much to be done, so many more memories to make with the Li Family, and so many things she would have to leave behind. He was everything she wanted, but couldn''t have.

    She felt her throat contract, her nose burning as tears filled her eyes. She couldn''t go with him. Not now.

    Li Xueyue would have to part with him. The thought of that was daunting. Everything within her screamed to go with him, to never lose something as promising as him. She feared¡­ she would never like a man as much as she liked Yu Zhen. Pain welted her chest for she knew she could never have him in this lifetime.

    Before any of them could continue their conversation, a desperate voice called out for the Commander. It was barely audible, yet both of them had heard it over the roaring of their racing hearts.

    Li Xueyue pulled away, averting her gaze to the pavilion grounds, forcing herself to keep her tears at bay. She shouldn''t cry, it wouldn''t change anything. She pressed her lips together, agony prickling through her body at the revtion that she''d have to abandon him. She couldn''t go with him to Hanjian.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened. "Are you alright?"

    "Your people are looking for you. Go," she murmured.

    Yu Zhen gently smiled down at her. "Will you wait for me?"

    "Where else would I be?" She cracked a smile.

    Yu Zhen felt his heart clench at the sight of her, ever so reassuring when she should be more worried about her own wellbeing.

    "You don''t have to give me a response right now," he slowly said, hoping she''d listen to his words very closely. "I am a patient man. I''m willing to wait."

    Li Xueyue nodded at his words despite the certainty of her response. She already knew her answer, but couldn''t find it within herself to say it. "Will you stay a little longer in Wuyi?"

    Yu Zhen''s lips tugged into a pleasant smile. "Of course." He tugged her cheeks. "Stay here. I''lle back for you."

    - - - - -

    "Let me through," Lu Tianbi seethed at the rows of Hanjian men guarding the entrance of the garden. She figured Yu Zhen would be here if these soldiers were so unrelenting.

    "The Commander is currently upied," one of the soldiers answered in a monotone voice.

    "Well, tell him this is urgent."

    "He doesn''t want anyone to disturb him," the same soldier said.

    Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together, turning to Hu Dengxiao, who narrowed his eyes at the guard.

    Hu Dengxiao''s lips dipped into a scowl. "Listen here, we don''t have time for this. It''s either you let us in or we force our way."

    "Let them through." Yu Zhen frowned, his voice frosty and rigid.

    The soldiers didn''t have to be told twice. They stepped aside, parting to form a path for Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao to easily glide through.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen demanded, walking to a secluded corner behind thick rows of flowers. He leaned against a tree, crossing his arms.

    Lu Tianbi handed him a letter sealed with wax that bore the unmistakable crest of Hanjian. "We received this from one of our messengers who rushed here to see you. I think this is a letter from the Emperor."

    Yu Zhen''s lips thinned. Impossible. What could his father want from him at a time like this? Did the Emperor catch wind of what happened to one of their candidates? He gritted his teeth. Right now was not the time for his father to throw a hissy fit.

    Yu Zhen took the letter from Lu Tianbi and broke the seal. The apparent handwriting of the Emperor greeted him. He inwardly cursed. It really was from his father.

    He read through the contents of the letter, his mood souring with each line until he got to thest part. His eyes briefly widened. In an instant, he crumpled the paper and tossed it to the ground, his lips curling into a snarl.

    "God damn it!" he seethed, his fingers curled and uncurled with pure rage. He ground his teeth, his jaw ticked with each passing second. How the hell was he going to respond to a letter as absurd as that?

    Hu Dengxiao bent down to pick up the paper and uncrumpled it. "What''s wrong?" he asked, sharing the letter with Lu Tianbi.

    In a quiet voice, they read it out loud.

    "After viewing your aplishments and everything you''ve done for the country, you have garnered a lot of support from the ministers. Many of our citizens are praising you as a hero, risking your life to escort the candidates and keeping them safe on the journey. You''re also viewed as a diplomat, but I question the legitimacy of that. However, I didn''t waste parchment today to boast of your achievements.

    I''ve written to you to present you with good news. My will and inheritance were altered yesterday, but you don''t care for that, do you? You never cared for grandeur and wealth, it was always above you. You care more about your duties to your country over family, which, to a certain extent, I''ve influenced and instilled into you.

    I hope you understand what it means for me to change my will and inheritance. As you already know, the position for Crown Prince was never decided, but it was implied to have been your older brother, the First Prince. Luckily for you, many ministers and supporters have advocated on your behalf to stall my decision on selecting a Crown Prince.

    I''ll leave it to you to decide what this letter implies."

    The letter slipped out of Hu Dengxiao''s fingers as all three of them were plunged into a prolonged silence. No one knew what to say. No one knew what to do. With something as major as this dropped over them, what could they say?

    As Yu Zhen''srades, Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao were supposed to congratte him. But being his best friend, they knew better than that.

    Yu Zhen was never appreciative of the Emperor and he wouldn''t start being grateful now out of all times.

    The position of a Crown Prince was a dream for many, but to Yu Zhen, it was a tiresome position. It was irritating to maintain. So many people would be watching him, specting his next moves. Nothing would go unnoticed, from the clothes he wore to the people he associated himself with. All of that hard work just to be the Emperor.

    Hu Dengxiao awkwardly stared at the quiet Yu Zhen who hadn''t simmered down yet.

    "W-what will we do now?" he asked.

    Lu Tianbi wanted to say the same, but still hadn''t recovered from the shock. Yu Zhen as the Crown Prince¡­? It was something she had never thought of. She knew he despised the position and would rather be the Emperor as it is, without the prolonged period of waiting.

    "Well, for starters, we can wait it out," Lu Tianbi spoke up. "The letter never mentioned for Yu Zhen to return home."

    "Neither did it mention for him to stay in Wuyi," Hu Dengxiao pointed out, nibbling on nails, out of habit.

    Both of their gaze snapped to Yu Zhen who had maintained his silence the entire time, simmering in rage. Then they realized he wasn''t even looking at them, or the letter. His attention was focused on someone else, Li Xueyue.

    Yu Zhen was more worried about her than his position in Hanjian. He was worried about what he had told her. He said he''d stay in Wuyi a little longer, but now, he couldn''t guarantee anything.

 Chapter 131 She Has To Flee

    <h4>Chapter 131 She Has To Flee</h4>

    Lu Tianbi silently observed her Commander while Hu Dengxiao continued to anxiously chew his nails. "What shall we do, Commander?"

    Yu Zhen couldn''t tear his eyes from Li Xueyue who had left the pavilion and was curiously smelling the flowers. When she liked a scent, her eyes would be a bitrger, her head nodding in approval. When she disliked a flower, her entire face would scrunch up, starting from her nose.

    "I''ll respond to him by today," Yu Zhen remarked. He finally shifted his attention to hisrades.

    Lu Tianbi nodded in approval. "Are we going to return to Hanjian?"

    "Not yet. We have the candidate situation to worry about," Yu Zhen said. All three of them knew he didn''t give a damn about the treaty. He didn''t care about the candidates in the first ce. He only cared about one woman.

    Hu Dengxiao finally stopped nibbling on his nails. He didn''t realize he was doing it until Lu Tianbi pped his hands, forcing them to stay by his side. She disliked this habit of his, but he couldn''t help it.

    "In regards to Princess Yu Xiyan, we spoke to her the other day," Hu Dengxiao began. "She despised Wen Jinkai and was terrified of him, so epting the new proposal wasn''t a big deal, but the biggest problem is¡­" he trailed off.

    Lu Tianbi let out an aggravated sigh at how messy the situation has be. "The Princess in Hechen who ran away couldn''t be found anywhere, nor her servants. If she was alone, we''d think she''s dead, but seeing as she took servants with her, it''s a different story."

    "I''m not sure if the Emperor has heard of this." Hu Dengxiao frowned a bit.

    "He won''t care if he did." Yu Zhen stood up straighter when he saw Li Xueyue wandering off.

    Lu Tianbi exchanged a nce with Hu Dengxiao. "Then do you suggest we turn a blind eye to this?" she asked.

    "For now, we monitor the situation," Yu Zhen curtly said, momentarily distracted by the disappearance of Li Xueyue. Where did she go?

    Lu Tianbi thoughtfully nodded at his words. "Are we going to let the candidate go?"

    "If she makes it to Hanjian alive, the Emperor will deal with her," Yu Zhen responded, straightening his clothes. He regretted not telling Li Xueyue to stay put.

    Hu Dengxiao shuffled his feet, noticing Yu Zhen''s distraction. Their Commander was rarely like this. "Alright, we''ll let nature take its course," he said.

    Yu Zhen nodded and left. Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao watched his disappearing form, wondering where he was headed to. They thought he''d leave this garden, but they found him heading deeper into it.

    Hu Dengxiao was the first to speak up after the departure of their Commander. "He''s smitten by her," he pointed out.

    "Well, it''s not a surprise is it? She''s easy on the eyes." Lu Tianbi shrugged.

    "Her appearance is subparpared to most girls, she''s different in that sense." Hu Dengxiao squeezed his chin, contemting what it was about Li Xueyue that drew their Commander''s attention.

    "I don''t think she''s necessarily ''different from the rest.'' Our Commander isn''t the type to like someone just because they''re not like other girls." Lu Tianbi turned to Hu Dengxiao.

    "True¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off in agreement.

    "It''s going to be difficult for her if she decides to fall in love with our Commander." Lu Tianbi wistfully sighed.

    "Yeah." Hu Dengxiao slightly frowned. "She''ll have to leave her family behind. The journey back and forth to visit them would be strenuous."

    He turned to Lu Tianbi, attempting to crack a joke. "Unless, you know, something dire happens and she has to flee Wuyi."

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes at his boring joke. "She''s a third-rank Princess sheltered by a Prime Minister and Duchess. One of her brothers is a Minister and the other is a General. Do you seriously think she''d flee her own country?"

    "True true," Hu Dengxiao effortlessly agreed. "Well, I suppose only time can tell how their rtionship will develop. So far, the ocean tides are calm and the ship is sailing smoothly."

    "Except for the asional disturbances, like that crazy Commander of Wuyi who wouldn''t leave her alone." Lu Tianbi sighed. She pitied the poor girl stuck in the crossroad of aplicated love triangle.

    "The tension is high between our Prince and that Commander. If we didn''t intervene that night, do you think a fight would have broken out?" Hu Dengxiao asked.

    "I hope not. A fight between two Commanders is never a pleasant thing to witness. They won''t stop until they tear each other apart. I just know it." Lu Tianbi scowled, crossing her arms at the unpleasant image of a bloody fight.

    "I feel like they would have some restraints though. They understand how valuable they are to their country," Hu Dengxiao said.

    "Well, let''s hope they keep that in mind the next time they decide to have a conversation," Lu Tianbi muttered, "Or else we might have another war on our hands." She shuddered at the thought of that. Neither country would let it slide if a brawl was to break out between their top fighters.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen struggled to find Li Xueyue. He had headed in the direction that he saw her wander off to, but when he arrived, she was nowhere to be found. This garden wasrger than anticipated and the deeper he went, the denser the trees and flower bushes got. It was a miracle that this ce was thriving in such a constrained ce like the Imperial Pce.

    Finally, he spotted something familiar. Hervender hanfu and essories had made her blend in with the light-colored flowers. He didn''t realize her hairpin had flowy strings of lc until she tilted her head and it moved with her.

    Another essory caught the light, a pure white hairpin crafted from jade, and the color of swirling clouds on a glorious morning.

    "I know you''re there."

    Yu Zhen tensed at her words, quiet and observant. She slowly turned around, revealing the thing that had caught her attention all this time.

    "A ck butterfly?" he questioned and raised a brow when he saw the flutter of the insect, its wings dark and demonic.

    "I''ve never seen one before," Li Xueyue said, raising her head a bit so that she wouldn''t unwittingly blow any air onto the butterfly resting on a curled finger and frightened it away.

    "They''re bad omens. You should let it go." Yu Zhen scowled, stepping closer to her.

    "But they''re beautiful," Li Xueyue sullenly said, taking steps back while he continued advancing towards her.

    "It''s a symbol for misfortune and foreshadows death. Get rid of it." Yu Zhen huffed,ing closer to her while she continued walking backward until eventually, she tripped.

    Her eyes widened as she reached out to grab the air, only to realize her stupid mistake. Yu Zhen rushed to grab her before she fell, only to grab her hand at thest second. Eventually, they tumbled onto a flower bush that copsed downwards, forcing their bodies even closer.

    Li Xueyue held her breath, unable toprehend their proximity. She could feel the tickle of the flower petals against her face, but the only thing she could focus on was him.

    Yu Zhen had toppled on top of her, but was careful to not harm her, his hands caging on either side of her, his weight ruining the nts under his palm. Despite being surrounded by all sorts of flowers, the only thing he could concentrate on was her scent¡ªsweet and beckoning.

    Her guard was lowered and her parted lips only stimted him further.

    He was irresistibly close to her now, his scent, a blend of pinecones and the forest, shrouded her. She stared up at him, a light blush traveling from her neck up. He was intensely staring at her, his eyes set aze, his restrain reaching its limits.

 Chapter 132 Cruel

    <h4>Chapter 132 Cruel</h4>

    Carefully, Yu Zhen stroked the hair away from her face, his lips twitching into a smirk. His sharp and rogue features were even more mesmerizing up close.

    Li Xueyue memorized every part of him¡ªas if she was scared he would be nothing but a fleeting moment in her youth. Someone she shouldn''t have, but desperately wanted.

    "You lowered your guard again." His minty breath brushed against her lips, cool and collected.

    "Only because I trust you."

    Yu Zhen''s lips curled into a slight smile, his rigid eyes softening. "You shouldn''t trust me."

    "Why not?"

    "I''m cruel."

    His gentle caress upon her face said otherwise. He touched her like she was ss, something ever so delicate and breakable. His calloused fingers traced from her cheekbone to her jaw, his touch left a lingering sensation. She shivered, her heart threatening to leap out of her chest. Her body reacted in ways that she couldn''tprehend.

    "To who?"

    "Everyone."

    "Doesn''t seem like it. Not to me, at the least."

    Yu Zhen''s hand paused. Li Xueyue wished she hadn''t said that. She missed his teasing fingers, the feather-soft caress upon her face.

    "Only because you haven???t done anything to incur my wrath."

    What could invoke his fury? What made him tick? What would he do to her if she angered him? All sorts of questions raised in her mind.

    When Li Xueyue rolled her bottom lip into her mouth, his eyes snapped downwards at the tiny action before it darted back up to her face. His jaw clenched, his fingers tightly balled around the grass.

    "Would you hurt me if I did?" she asked.

    His answer came in a heartbeat. "Never."

    Even if he tried, he would never hurt her.

    Li Xueyue believed him. Not because he had never harmed her before, but because she trusted her instincts.

    "Ever?"

    Yu Zhen softly chuckled, the sound tickling her heart. "What do you think, Sunshine?"

    She finally smiled, albeit small and timid. "Then what do I have to fear?"

    Yu Zhen carefully studied her, wishing he could remember this daydream for the rest of his life. He couldn''t have her. She was too perfect for him to destroy. He wasn''t cliche enough to think he was unworthy of her, but was cliche enough to believe he was incapable of properly loving her. She deserved everything in the world, a love like no other; untampered with, and smooth sailing.

    "Everything," he finally said, shifting off of her. "You have everything to fear."

    Li Xueyue squinted her eyes, covering half of her eye from the sun that beat down on her. Noticing her grimace, Yu Zhen stopped in front of her, his tall body shielding her from everything diforting.

    "Are you going to continueying there?" Yu Zhen mused, his hands resting at his side. He was going to offer her a hand, but knew she would get up on her own.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes and stood back up, dusting off the leaves that got stuck to her. "You could''ve helped."

    "Would you have epted it?"

    Li Xueyue struggled to not smile. He knew her so well. When she was finished tidying her clothes, she moved to fix her hair that was presumably turned into a bird''s nest.

    "Lovely sight there." Yu Zhen snickered, reaching out to pluck the pale jade hairpin from her hair. In an instant, one of the braids woven into her bun came undone. He seemed the least apologetic of his gesture, twirling it between his fingers in effortless spins.

    "What are you? A hairpin collector?" Li Xueyue huffed, sticking out her hand, silently demanding to have it back.

    "Let me help you," Yu Zhen mused. He ced her jade hairpin into his own hair.

    Li Xueyue raised a suspicious brow at his gesture. Finally, he ced a hairpin into her outstretched palms, but it didn''t belong to her. She was astounded to see the ebony hairpin resting on her hand, a stained ashwood bent into the outline of a roaring lion encrusted with silver.

    "This is¡­?"

    Yu Zhen responded by picking up his hairpin. He approached her until their chests touched. She found it interesting that she wasn''t ufortable by their proximity. He twisted the unbraided hair back into the bun and used his hairpin to hold everything in ce.

    "Why haven''t you worn anything I bought for you?" Yu Zhen asked her in a low voice. She looked up fast enough to see the slight jut of his bottom lips while he sulked to himself, unable to properly convey his discontent through words.

    "Where did you learn to do hair?" She changed the subject, touching her hair, realizing nothing was out of ce now.

    "I didn''t," Yu Zhen answered, his brows kneading together. What could be so hard about twisting strands of hair and curling it around the bun?

    "It wasn''t from experience?"

    Li Xueyue could feel a thorn twisting deep into her heart, pain spreading through her chest. All of a sudden, she was infuriated by the thought of him fixing another woman''s hair. What was this irritable emotion of hers? She had rarely felt something like this before.

    "No. Why would it be?" Yu Zhen hid the ghost of a smile on his face. Was she jealous of something that would never happen?

    "What reason could there be?" Li Xueyue countered, stubbornly crossing her arms across her chest. Her anger simmered down, but she was reluctant to reveal her thoughts to him.

    "Jealousy perhaps?" he teased, grabbing both of her hands and unweaving her crossed arms.

    ?As if." She snorted, rolling her eyes when he gave her a doubtful stare.

    "Doesn''t seem like it," he retorted, squeezing her hands. She didn''t respond, haughtily jutting her chin to the side.

    Yu Zhen wondered if she knew how easy it was to tease her. He couldn''t help it when her reactions brought out the mischievous side of him. With her lowered guard, he easily pulled her to him, his nose brushing against hers.

    "You can rest assured, Sunshine." He dropped her hands, opting to wrap an arm around her waist. One of his hands eased upwards, resting on her upper back, closing the little distance between them.

    "You''re the only woman I ever treasure like this, silly girl," he promised, pressing a small kiss on the tip of her nose.

    Her heart skipped a beat yet again, a small blush rose to her cheeks. She wondered if he could hear the loud drumming of her heart. And if only she knew, his were hammering even louder than hers...

 Chapter 133 Speechless

    <h4>Chapter 133 Speechless</h4>

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together, unable to look him in the eyes after such a daring confession. "How am I supposed to respond to that?" she grumbled, burying her burning face against his shoulder, her hand resting upon his body. She could feel the low rumble of his chest under her fingertips when he chuckled and hugged her tighter.

    "Have I finally left you speechless, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen remarked, leaning his face on top of her head, relishing in her sweet scent. He wanted this moment tost for a little while longer.

    "No," she mumbled against his shoulder.

    "Doesn''t seem like it."

    Li Xueyue knew he smirked before she even saw it. She quietly hummed in response, his shoulders tooforting for her to resist.

    "Let''s take you home now."

    "Have you settled your business?" Li Xueyue asked, referring to when he stepped out of the pavilion to handle something.

    Yu Zhen''s grip on her tightened. "Yes," he answered in a rough voice, not wanting to reveal any more than his simplistic answer.

    When they left the gardens, his men instantly surrounded them, keeping a mindful watch of their sides. Their steps were unknowingly in sync, not that anyone could see them. Upon reaching the grand entrance of the Imperial Pce, they patiently waited for a couple of minutes before Li Xueyue''s carriage was finally pulled to the entrance.

    "Will I see you again?" Yu Zhen asked, guiding her up the steps of therge carriage. She firmly grasped his hand for support, one leg up the steps. She paused and looked at him.

    "This feels like deja vu," Li Xueyue remarked,ughing at the time he said her ribbons were caught on his ring just because she was ignoring him. She had sworn they would never cross paths, but here she was, praying they would meet again.

    "Does it?" Yu Zhen remarked, reaching for one of her ribbons, tugging at it. She swatted at him, but he simply grasped her hand, holding it close to him. When he abruptly kissed her fingers, her eyes widened and stared into his eyes. His eyes twinkled with unsaid mischief, a devious little smile on his face.

    "Then, I hope we''ve changed our minds and you''ll pray to see me again." Yu Zhen chortled, enjoying the blush that tainted her face. He didn''t think pink would ever be his favorite color, but seeing it on her skin, he decided it was.

    "As if." Li Xueyue rolled her eyes, heading up the final steps of the carriage with Yu Zhen still holding her hand. He firmly squeezed it, the only reassurance she ever needed.

    "Aren''t you going to tell me goodbye?" He arched a brow.

    "Goodbyes are too depressing," Li Xueyue murmured. "See you again is a lot better."

    Arge smile spread on his face, his dreary face brightening at her optimistic words. "Finally, you''re behaving like a ray of sunshine."

    Li Xueyue snorted. "I''ve always been like this."

    "Really, now?" Yu Zhen''s tone evidently implied he didn''t believe in her, and neither did she believe in herself.

    Li Xueyue knew she was too untrusting of people, unwilling to be kind beyond the expected politeness. As a people pleaser, she found it difficult to say no, or reject someone. The guilt that weighed on her shoulder, her quivering heart that was terrified of disappointment, everything altered her personality in ways she wished she could change but couldn''t.

    "Of course," she said, slipping into the carriage seat.

    Li Xueyue found it interesting that it was finally her turn to peer down at him, and even then, he was intimidating and tall. There was something different in the air every time he was with her as if nothing was ever worthy of him, but when he looked at her, it felt too surreal, as if every little interaction between them was worth a thousand words.

    "Whatever makes you happy, Sunshine."

    "Even if it''s deceiving yourself," he added on, his smile widening when she threw him a scathing re, ever the feisty thing she was.

    "If lies make you happy, then so be it." Li Xueyue shrugged to which he rolled his eyes.

    "You make it sound like we''re a pair of dishonest swindlers." Yu Zhen shook his head, amused by the image that shed through his mind.

    "Perhaps we are." Li Xueyueughed and closed the door before he could respond.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow at her words. With their different personas, each reserved for different people, he figured she was right about that. In the end, he could only hope the facade they showed each other was their true selves. At least, Yu Zhen would like to believe that he was something beyond aloof, cruel, and cunning smiles.

    He gave her carriage door a pat, indicating to the coachmen that they could begin driving. He stood by the Pce entrance, watching the carriage ride off to the distance until it became a tiny speck that disappeared into nothingness.

    When she was out of sight, Yu Zhen''s smile disappeared. He had a letter to send back to Hanjian. Wordlessly, he headed back into the Pce and towards his private corridors.

    - - - - -

    Once Li Xueyue got home, she tried to search for the Duchess, hoping to check in on her, but she was nowhere to be found. Since Duchess Wang Qixing''s head maidservant wasn''t home as well, Li Xueyue concluded they must''ve left after her.

    Humming to herself, Li Xueyue strolled to her room, deciding it was best to begin formting a n since the time was ripe. With each passing day, the Bai Family''s tarnished reputation was slowly restored to its former glory. The more time she wasted idling about, the less time she''ll have to n.

    After what felt like an hour or so, she had finally decided on something. "Of course, how could I forget?" she muttered to herself. "No wonder Zheng Tianyi was in the Capital that day."

    Li Xueyue picked up the parchment where her ns were written in remarkable detail, down to each timing. "With merchantse wealthy men from foreignnds."

    She rolled up the parchment, walked towards her locked vanity, and slipped the key off of her neck. "I suppose the Zhengs'' n was to convince foreign investors to invest in their family business."

    Li Xueyue slipped the parchment into her drawer, where two inconspicuous containers were found.

    From what she recalled, the Bai Family''s business involved heavily in the trading ports of Hechen. Her lips curled into a cunning little smile. First, she would have to find out more about the Bai Family and which big fish they intend to reel in.

    Li Xueyue decided she would consult Li Chenyang about her n since he would be able to ess the financial department and retrieve useful information from there. Each year, aristocrats were supposed to report their source of ie to prevent any shady business from going on. If she could get her hands on the Bai Family''s financial records...

    She closed the vanity, twisted the key, locked the drawer. "Hook, line, and sink ''em."

 Chapter 134 Paranoid

    <h4>Chapter 134 Paranoid</h4>

    Once everything was ced away, Li Xueyue walked towards the spot where she left the diary. She was uncertain if she should continue to probe into someone else''s life, but her curiosity was killing her. What if there was something she could discover from the diary? What if she could learn vital information?

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip and decided to finally give it another reading. Taking the book out of its hidden spot, she carried it and walked towards her door, locked it, and settled on a low chair before a table.

    "Here goes nothing," she murmured out loud, flipping the pages until she reached the page shest stopped at.

    Her brows were scrunched together upon realizing that the date of the next entry had skipped three months ahead. What was going on? She flipped through the pages and realized it wasn''t her mistake.

    ''You might be wondering why I haven''t talked to you in so long, diary. You''re my best friend and the person I share my secrets with, but I found myself a few friends! Can you believe that? Well, I wouldn''t call them my friends, since one of them is already my cousin to begin with, and the other¡­ well, we''re in love.''

    Li Xueyue slowly blinked. "Cousin? Is this from the Duke''s side or the Duchess?" Her thoughts spiraled to the Imperial Family. Who was Li Minghua in love with? She felt like she was practically close to discovering something she''d never believe.

    ''I think Father is using me.''

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened in disbelief at the next entry.

    "The Duke¡­? Using his own daughter? What?" she whispered to herself, flipping the page back and forth.

    Li Xueyue realized this was the only line in the entry the day after. She continued reading on to the next entry, which was dated a weekter.

    ''That was such a paranoid confession, diary, I''m sorry. It''s just¡­ my cousin doesn''t think I should be locked in my own house like this. He thinks my father is using me to gain more power, believing he can wed me off to someone beneficial, but Father would never do such a thing. Right? Well, I''m not so sure¡­

    My cousin says he only has my best interest in mind. He cherishes me. He said I''m too precious to be used. I wish I got to know him better, he''s always so kind to me, but I sometimes find it weird how intimate he is with me. For example, he likes to hold my hand when we walk around at night and only let it go when my lover shows up at the meeting spot.

    He says it''s to keep me safe.

    Maybe I''m just paranoid.

    My lover is worried that my father would have another boy in mind for marriage. He said he''s not the heir in his family, thus, my father won''t approve of him, but he stilles from a reputable family. He''s in the military and is quickly skyrocketing in the ranks!

    I think he might be a very reputable soldier, one who would go down in history as a hero! Can you imagine that diary? If I wed him, I''d be the wife of a military hero. People will know my name thousands of years from now!''

    Li Xueyue felt her heart quicken at the realization that was beginning to dawn onto her. She felt like she was almost there, that the pieces of the puzzle wereing together to form a picture she would not like. She let out a shaky breath.

    "T-there''s no way this would happen¡­ it''s too much of a coincidence," Li Xueyueforted herself, but she had a suspicion that it wasn''t. She didn''t want to read on anymore, ignorance was bliss, but her curiosity killed her. She flipped to the next entry, dated three weekster.

    ''My lover showed up at my door with flowers and gifts. Wenmin was furious, but he''s just a dimwit, so I didn''t care. Chenyang was repulsed, thinking I was fooling around when I snuck out. Me, fooling around? As if! He thinks I''m chasing boys, but does the egg chase the sperm? I think not!

    Father was calm. I knew it, he didn''t care about me at all! He didn''t even ask how I found a man when I was locked away for so long.

    Father only talked to my suitor in his public study, and when they came out, I knew my cousin was right all along: My father is using me.

    Father berated my suitor about his wealth, ranking, status, and what benefit the Li Family would have if I were to wed him. Father only wanted to use me for more power than he already had. Isn''t it enough? He''s already the Prime Minister!''

    Li Xueyue felt her heart quicken. "Was Duke Li Shenyang really using his daughter for power? Or was Li Minghua simply too irritated by the restrictive measures ced on top of her?" she asked out loud.

    "Who was this cousin she kept on talking about?" She huffed, her eyes narrowing.

    Li Minghua didn''t seem like she had anyone to talk to, and with only one source of information, it''d be too easy to trick her.

    "Why would the Duke use her for power?" Li Xueyue mumbled, scratching her head.

    This was foolish thinking.

    How could Li Minghua simply insult Li Wenmin? He wasn''t a dimwit at all and was actually one of the most intelligent people she knew.

    Li Xueyue enjoyed poking at his reluctance to read books, but she knew he didn''t need to be book smart to be wise. She let out a sigh to herself. How could she have the audacity to criticize Li Minghua?

    Li Xueyue decided to read on, but she felt an unsettling knot in her stomach as if her gut was telling her to not continue¡ªas if the truth she would uncover today would be one she could ever forget.

    And like a fool, she ignored her gut feelings and continued on. The next entry was written the following week after the private meeting.

    ''My cousin said it''s not safe for me to continue living in Hechen with my parents. They''ll continue to lock me up at home and I won''t ever be able to see anyone!

    Both my cousin and lover said they have to head back to the Capital now, it''s where they belong. They can''t stay here for too long. I don''t want them to leave. I want to go to the Capital with them, I know the Li main manor is there, it''s enormous there.

    Father is only forcing us to stay in Hechen because he''s a damn coward! He doesn''t want to return to his Prime Minister position because he says it''s tiring. Well, this country is deteriorating, and he needs to hurry up and return to his post!

    I told him I want to live in the Capital with my cousin and the Royal Family. They''d never control me. I''d control them first! I honestly hate my Royal Aunt, why would she let my Royal Uncle marry so many whores? Doesn''t she feel ashamed of herself for not speaking up?''

    Li Xueyue''s eyebrows shot up at Li Minghua''s brash wording.

    "Control them first? What was she talking about?" She bit her bottom lip. Royal Aunt? Royal Uncle? Was Li Minghua referring to the Empress and Emperor?

    Li Xueyue continued. The date of the next entry was precisely two years ago, on this exact same day. She shivered at the coincidence, unsettling goosebumps rising on her arms.

    ''Today is the first day I moved into the Imperial Pce! Father finally relented, saying I can only stay for a little while. But we''ll see about that.

    Also, I have exciting news, diary. Guess diary, guess! I think I''m getting engaged! We haven''t told anyone yet, but he says he has ns. I know, I know, I''m too young for this, but he says he loves me regardless.

    And besides¡­ I¡­ allowed him to deflower me. I didn''t mean for it to happen, but he convinced me that it was for the best. That is, as long as I became his, no one would dare to take me away from him. It was consensual. I love him. He loves me. That''s all that mattered.

    I never told anyone about what happened that night. What if my parents find out? They''ll think less of him. Especially Dad. But not Mom, she always supports me, even if she doesn''t like him. I don''t think she knows the extent of my rtionship with him. She probably thinks we''re just friends.

    I don''t care that he''s not the heir. I don''t care that he''s intimidating and can easily overpower me. I love him. I love him, so so much.

    I have another exciting news! Guess again, diary! His rank in the military was upgraded! He''s no longer a simple General!

    Royal Uncle was so excited to see me move in. He''s the Emperor, but he''s always so kind towards me. He finds it amusing that I''m so close to my cousin, his son.

    I ignored thatment and joked that he should remember this day for the rest of his life. His niece might marry one of his favorite child, even though they''re not blood-rted, but the Empress really adores my lover.

    Also, I''m finally free from my father! I''m finally ready to live the life of the wife of a Commander.''

    Not the heir. Close to the Royal Family. Lives in the Imperial Pce. A Commander. Everything was beginning to make sense now, and not in the best way.

    Li Xueyue''s heart dropped to the pit of her stomach, her face turning pale. She abruptly stood up, tripping over her legs out of utter shock. "No way." She gasped, covering her mouth, her hands trembling.

    Li Minghua was Wen Jinkai''s woman. Li Minghua was the woman he couldn''t forget. The woman that Li Xueyue was supposed to rece.

 Chapter 135 This Cant Be...

    <h4>Chapter 135 This Can''t Be...</h4>

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. All along, did Wen Jinkai only take interest in her because she slightly resembled Li Minghua? She was told that their simrity wasn''t even that prominent, but was he that crazy enough to see past it?

    With shaking hands, she grabbed the diary and read through the lines of the previous entries. Who was this cousin that Li Minghua spoke so highly of? It seemed she trusted him with the world enough that his words weighed heavily over her decisions.

    Li Xueyue rattled her brain for answers. She reread the entry that momentarily shocked her before her heart sunk further.

    ''He''s the Emperor, but he''s always so kind to me. He finds it amusing that I''m so close to my cousin, his son.''

    The cousin was the Emperor''s son, which meant he was from Duchess Wang''s side of the family. Who could it be? Only one person came to mind, and she didn''t like how everything was panning out now.

    "This can''t be¡­" she murmured, gulping.

    Li Xueyue suspected it was Fourth Prince Wang Longhe. He had surprisingly left her alone for a while now. She didn''t know what to do with this information at hand. One thing was clear, and it was that she should stay away from both men at all cost.

    Her palms were sweaty with her anxiety. She wanted to read on, but feared what else she would discover from this diary.

    "O-one more entry wouldn''t hurt¡­" she whispered to herself, lifting the copsed chair and settling it back into ce.

    Li Xueyue breathed in deeply, trying to calm her nerves and read on. The next entry was dated a monthter. She noticed Li Minghua tended to write in the diary when there were big events or news that she wanted to share, but couldn''t do so with anyone.

    ''He promised he would love no other. He swore to me that his heart was settled on me and only me. We got into an argument today, all because of the Empress who said he should have a harem for political gains!

    I hate her.

    My royal aunt always came between me and him! It''s as if the sight of me repulses her, she''s disgusted every time she sees me. She thinks I''m bratty and just because I don''t obey her like a dog; she thinks I''m rebellious and disrespectful.

    I heard a scary rumor about her, but I don''t want to believe it. It involved Father, Royal Uncle, Mother, and her. I''m scared. There''s no way it could be true, right? Father has been Royal Uncle''s friend since they were toddlers, there''s no way a rumor like that could be true.''

    Li Xueyue''s brows crinkled together. What rumor? Did something happen between the Emperor, Empress, Duke, and Duchess? She pressed her lips together. So, the Empress didn''t like Li Minghua as well.

    ''Was the Empress as meddling in Li Minghua''s life as she is trying to be with my life?'' Li Xueyue wondered to herself, her eyes itched to read on. She didn''t want to, but it was so hard not to.

    "Fine. One more page and that''s it," she promised herself, flipping to the next page. She was not surprised to see it skipped two weeks ahead. Perhaps Li Minghua was too upied with the festive life in the Pce to find the time to write in the diary.

    ''I''m scared¡­ I heard another mindless gossip today, but it has to do with my cousin. I don''t want to even think about that horrid rumor. There''s no way it''s true! No way!

    It''s definitely the Empress''s doing. She''s trying to make my life a living hell. She doesn''t say it, but I know she hates the sight of my face. Everyone says I resemble my mother and her beauty, so what does that say about her? Does she hate my mother?! If she dared to say that to me, I willin to Royal Uncle! He will surely do something¡­ right diary? Right?

    I thought the Pce life would be a life of freedom, but it''s not! It''s even more restrictive than back at home.

    The Empress is jealous of me, I know she is. She keeps me locked away in the secluded wing of the Pce where no one would be able to see me and my beauty. I''m trapped in here, with nowhere to go. The only time I''m happy is when I''m with my servants, at least they talk to me, or when I''m with him¡­ buttely, he''s been upied with training. Each time he returns, he''s tired and doesn''t want to talk.

    He hasn''t touched me ever since I moved into the Pce. Not even once. I think the Empress is influencing him. Even he seems disgruntled by me.

    Everyone in this Pce hates me. The only person I can talk to is my cousin, but he''s busy as well. It feels like I''m a mere shadow here. No one cares about me. No one looks at me. I hate it here.''

    Li Xueyue nervously closed the diary, her eyes shaking with the information she had discovered today. It was too much to handle in one day. First, she discovered Li Minghua was affiliated with Wen Jinkai and perhaps Wang Longhe as well, then second, she discovered the Empress''s bad-blood with Li Minghua.

    Li Xueyue slipped the diary in between the bookshelves, praying it would blend in.

    "What am I going to do?" she cried to herself, burying her face in her hands. Should she report this diary back to the Duke and Duchess? But then they''ll know she had trespassed into Li Minghua''s room and think she did it after the rules were said to her.

    What if the Duke or Duchess already knew about Li Minghua''s condition in the Pce? Was that why they were so reluctant to see her live there? Was Li Minghua the reason why Li Chenyang despised Wen Jinkai?

    "What did he do to her?" Li Xueyue asked no one in particr, her hand itched to read the diary and find out the truth. All this discovery was too much for her. She should resume reading tomorrow, so that she''d have time to properly digest what she learned today.

    "Why does the Empress hate Li Minghua? What was the rumor she heard about her parents and rtives? What was the scary gossip she heard about her cousin?" Li Xueyue wondered out loud, groaning when she faced a deadend. The only way she could discover the truth was to read on, something her intuition begged her not to but her curiosity pestered to do so.

    Finally, Li Xueyue decided to read more tomorrow. Right now, she had ns of her own to focus on. When she heard the familiar sound of servants rushing to the front entrance, her eyes lit up.

    The family was home! Arge smile broke out on her face, eager and happy to see who it was. She rushed out of the door, hoping to greet whoever it was.

 Chapter 136 The Truth

    <h4>Chapter 136 The Truth</h4>

    Li Chenyang had just gotten home from an exhausting day of court politics. Copsing on the chair in the entry room, he heaved a long and dreary sigh.

    "How irritable they are," he bit out.

    What was the point of having so many ministers if all of them were shoving all the work onto the younger ones? His lips tugged downwards, his face scrunching into a deep scowl. The path to bing a Prime Minister was not easy.

    Li Chenyangzily examined the thick and heavy scroll that he had brought back from the Pce. He was intrigued about the Bai Family and their assets. What could they have to lose and he to gain?

    "Let''s see¡­"

    He opened the scroll, his eyes scanning through the clean handwriting. Not a single number was incorrectly calcted. To no one''s surprise, the Bai Family''s monthly ie was decent. The majority of it came from their trading ports in Hechen. Without it, they would be forced to rely on Viscount Bai Sheng''s inheritance, but even that was dwindling from theirvish and unrestricted spendings.

    Li Chenyang shook his head in disappointment. All of the Bai Family''s eggs were in one basket. They would be screwed without their trading ports. And their business was steadily declining due to their damaged reputation.

    "What to do¡­" he trailed off, only to straighten when he heard energetic footsteps thumping on the wooden floors of the hallway.

    The door slid open and in tumbled Li Xueyue with a bright smile. "Chenyang, you''re home!''"

    Li Chenyang''s tired expression quirked a bit, a tiny smile on his face. "How was your day after returning from the Throne Room?"

    Li Xueyue realized he didn''t know she didn''t return home immediately after she was excused from the audience. "Well, I didn''t return here until after an hour or so."

    "Really now?" Li Chenyang sat up taller, shifting into a morefortable position. "What happened?"

    "I stumbled across Duke Li Taojun and¡ª"

    "You saw my uncle today?" Li Chenyang was instantly more awake now. "What did he say?"

    "He asked me some personal questions. It was so strange, I don''t think he was serious about them," Li Xueyue truthfully said, sitting on a chair directly across him.

    Li Chenyang waved for a maidservant to serve tea and snacks. "Tell me what his questions were."

    "Will you report to the Duke?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Would you like me to?" Li Chenyang blinked. Were those questions pressing matters? If she wanted him to, he would. If not, he''d keep his mouth shut for now.

    "No, I don''t want to burden any of you."

    "Silly girl." Li Chenyangughed. "When were you ever a burden?"

    "W-well, I''ve been acting a bit too spoiled and haughtytely." Li Xueyue stared at the ground and then back at him, hesitation written on her face. "Ever since I started meeting more people, I don''t know¡­ I feel like I''ve changed from who I used to be."

    Li Chenyang softly smiled. He agreed with her words. She had indeed changed from a timid and fearful little girl into a confident youngdy. She used to speak only when spoken to, avoid making eye contact with people, and bow as low as her upper body would allow her whenever she had to greet someone. Despite all that, she was still the good-natured and family-driven girl he hade to love and protect.

    "Sometimes, change is for the best." Li Chenyang smiled. "I''d be surprised if all of this pampering didn''t spoil you."

    "But, I''ve be more demanding and a handful. Of course, I didn''t mean to start a pity party but¡ª"

    "Li Xueyue, there is nothing wrong in a woman having a voice. Be fierce. Be determined. Be everything that is you. I prefer that you show us who you really are rather than suppress your true self behind faux obedience and keeping silent which was instilled into you."

    Li Xueyue was tongue-tied from his words. She expected to be scolded, not uplifted.

    Li Chenyang''s expression became more gentle. "Even after the two years that have passed, I know you''re still that good-natured girl who offered to teach me and Wenmin archery. Sometimes, that part of you isn''t evident, because it''s overshadowed by the many other qualities you''ve developed."

    He cleared his throat, offering her an understanding smile. "Now, shall we discuss what my uncle asked of you?"

    Li Xueyue wrung her fingers together and nodded. Right on cue, the maidservant walked in with the tea and snacks. She urged him to eat first before she took her share of food.

    "He asked about my identity and he said, I quote ''who are you exactly?'' Of course, I dodged the question."

    Li Chenyang nodded, quietly munching on his almond cookie.

    "Then, he asked about my legitimacy as the Duke''s daughter." Li Xueyue understood it was a very touchy subject¡ªher identity. "I didn''t tell him anything."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes narrowed. What was his uncle nning? Duke Li Taojun had finally gained the title of a Duke that he wanted all along, but how? With whose help?

    Li Chenyang almostughed out loud. How could he forget the most crucial detail? Thep dog of the royal family was none other than Duke Li Taojun. Of course the Emperor''s pet would be rewarded with titles and rewards for doing their dirty deeds. Without a doubt, Duke Li Taojun''s best aplishment was training Wen Jinkai.

    "And then¡­" Li Xueyue lost her voice, unable to utter the name of her own birth giver. "H-he asked about someone from the Bai Family."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes narrowed. "Who?"

    "My birth mother, Mu Yihua. He asked if I knew her." Li Xueyue sighed, leaning back in her chair, suddenly losing her appetite for the snacks.

    Li Chenyang''s brows shot up rmingly. "Why would he ask such a suspicious question about your background? Only the Li Family knows of your situation. No one else."

    "I have a suspicion Bai Tianai sees past this facade. She knows I''m a Bai, not a Li. Granted, I was stupid enough to continue using my name, but I didn''t anticipate any of them to find out yet."

    Li Chenyang''s gaze snapped to the closed scroll on his chair, picking it up. "Bai Tianai might''ve said something to him. Or my uncle knows more than he''s letting on. No one asks such a random question out of nowhere. We''ll have to keep a close watch on him."

    "I only look a bit like Mu Yihua, but not enough for everyone to identify us as mother and daughter. Bai Tianai used to mock me that if I didn''t look like the man who forced himself on my mother, maybe the Viscount would despise me less."

    Li Chenyang hummed in response, standing up to pass her the scroll. The scroll was filled with confidential information about the Bai Family''s ie, which could be useful in the future.

    When her words registered to him, he suddenly paused, his hand frozen in midair. "What did you just say?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. Wait, did Li Chenyang not know of this? "W-what I meant was¡ª"

    "I know." Li Chenyang shook his head. "I know of your background, but repeat what you said before again. You mentioned you looked like who?"

    "I slightly resemble my birth mother?"

    "No, the part after that."

    Li Xueyue wondered why he looked so pale. "You mean the part where I share a lot of simrities to my birth father¡­? Whoever he is?"

    Li Chenyang''s fingers went ck, the scroll slipping from his hand. His eyes widened in disbelief, piecing two and two together. Could it be¡­ whoever raped Viscount Bai''s wife, Mu Yihua, was someone from the Li Family?

    Who else could it be aside from Duke Li Shenyang and Duke Li Taojun? Could it be the former? Li Chenyang nearly cursed himself out for thinking his father would ever be scummy enough topromise someone¡ªespecially when his wife was Wang Qixing.

    His father loved his mother more than he loved power. This fact alone ruled him out, leaving no one else except Li Taojun. The man who was hellbent on sending Li Xueyue to the enemy lines. The man who nearly ruined her life. The man who forced her to use one of the most powerful cards she had: A wish.

    "Could it be¡­?" Li Chenyang felt his blood boil at this revtion. Whether it was confirmed or not, he would get to the bottom of this.

    He bent down to Li Xueyue''s seated height, grabbing her by the shoulders. He locked eyes with her and slowly asked, "Have you ever met your birth father?"

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "No, never."

    "Has your mother ever spoken of him to you?"

    "No. Why do you ask?" Li Xueyue had a suspicion as to where this conversation was leading. They both did.

    Li Chenyang didn''t want to deliberately say it out loud, it was a mere suspicion for now.

    "Don''t you find it strange, Xueyue? That you resemble the Li Family so much despite not being directly rted to Mother and Father?"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "Well, I thought it was the theory mentioned in one of the books we''ve read. Those who spent too much time together will eventually resemble each other."

    "Correct, but the problem is, you''ve always resembled us. Since the first day we met you. Father had mistaken you for Li Minghua when he found you in the forest. Of course, the moment you regained consciousness, we saw that there was only a small resemnce between you two. Do you understand what I''m implying?"

    Li Xueyue nodded her head again. "Kind of."

    "The only Li capable of fathering a child in the year that you''re born is Father and Duke Li Taojun. Now, tell me, what do you think of this?"

    "One of thempromised Viscountess Mu Yihua."

    "Correct. One of them is your father. Who do you think it is?"

    Li Xueyue''s entwined fingers tightened on top of each other. She didn''t want to say it. She didn''t want to admit the unspeakable truth. For a split second there, she thought it might''ve been Duke Li Shenyang but that was impossible. He was too much of an honorable husband to betray the Duchess like this.

    She sucked in a shaky breath, her eyes trembling. "M-my father is Duke Li Taojun isn''t it¡­?"

    Li Chenyang felt a burst of pain spread throughout his chest when he saw her distraught expression. None of them spoke. They didn''t have to. They both knew the truth and it was not a pleasant one.

 Chapter 137 Death By Beating

    <h4>Chapter 137 Death By Beating</h4>

    Li Chenyang was the first to break the unsettling silence. "If he asked about your birth mother, then it means he''s aware of the simrity you two shared."

    "Which means¡­" Li Xueyue gulped. "He''s suspicious about my identity. He''s close to finding out who I really am."

    Li Chenyang stiffly nodded. "Precisely. This will be a problem for us."

    Li Xueyue bent down to pick up the scroll he dropped, handing it back to him. He took it, his fingers tightening around the item.

    "For now, we willy low when ites to Duke Li Taojun. Don''t talk to him. Don''t look at him. Pretend as if he doesn''t exist. If you see him, walk in the opposite direction. We shouldn''t give him any opportunity to think about you or talk with you."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. "He''s mainly in the Pce."

    "I know, which is why we''ll have another reason to keep you out of there."

    Li Chenyang didn''t even want to think about what would happen to Li Xueyue if her identity was revealed. If people found out that not only was she an illegitimate child, but the product of rape, and that her birth father tried to send her to Hanjian, then she would be ruined. It was cruel that a child had to pay for their parents'' sin, but society was never kind-hearted.

    "What do you think he will do with that information?" Li Xueyue asked out loud, even though she was already specting the worst oue possible.

    "Nothing good wille out of this," Li Chenyang pointed out. "He''s not the kind of man to care about family. Especially this one. Right now, you''re a liability to Father."

    Li Xueyue gulped. Thest thing she wanted to do was be the reason the Li Family''s reputation tanked. "Duke Li Taojun can use me as leverage. If he finds out Mu Yihua is my mother and I''m the second daughter of Viscount Bai, then Li Taojun will forever hold it against us."

    "Truths are terrifying. It never goes away." Li Chenyang sighed. "I will let Father know of this. You just stay put, okay? I know you''re smart enough to keep this a secret, but we don''t know if Duke Li Taojun will keep his mouth shut."

    He cursed himself for what he said at Ning Huabing''s banquet. Originally, he wanted to oust Viscount Bai''s treatment towards his second daughter and make society question her identity. And when their curiosity got the best of them, Li Chenyang was nning on revealing that the Viscount ordered a death by beating of his supposed daughter.

    Li Chenyang didn''t think about the possibility of Xueyue being caught up in that reveal.

    Li Chenyang had nned to keep Xueyue''s identity a secret all along. Even if Viscount Bai revealed Li Xueyue was his daughter, who''d ever believe such foolish talks? She resembled nothing like him and only a speckle of resemnce to his wife. Li Xueyue looked too much like Duke Li Shenyang for people to even think she was a Bai.

    Now, another problem has arised: Duke Li Taojun''s spections. Whether he knew about Li Xueyue''s identity, or not, it would only be a matter of time before this problem would blow out of proportion.

    "For now, don''t think too much of this. I will speak to Father about this matter."

    "I''m sorry for being a burden," Li Xueyue suddenly blurted out. She had been wanting to say this all along. She had so much baggage, she didn''t realize how much it would encumber the family.

    "I''m really sorry, I didn''t think it would be like this."

    Li Chenyang looked around him. Was¡­ was she apologizing to him? For what?! This silly girl! He stomped to her and threw her a disapproving re.

    Li Xueyue shrank back in her chair, attempting to make herself as small as possible. Remorse weighed her shoulders down, guilt twisting its way to her heart.

    Her eyes watered at the thought that she would harm those who helped her. She felt her face grow warm, her throat clogging.

    The Li Family had been nothing but kind to her and now look at the troubles she was bringing upon them. She would be the reason they''re going to be mocked by other aristocrats.

    She jumped when Li Chenyang lifted his hand only for him to ce it close to her forehead. She bit down on her tongue to prevent a sniffle or a sob. She didn''t want to cry. Not here. Not now. She didn''t want him tofort her given everything was her fault.

    "I.D.I.O.T," Li Chenyang bit out and in a fell swoop, flicked her hard on the forehead.

    Li Xueyue yelped in pain, grabbing her head. She blinked once, and the waterworks started. Tears dripped onto her hanfu and soon, she was a crying mess.

    Li Chenyang instantly panicked. Did he use too much force and had hurt her? He didn''t know what to do. He had neverforted a crying girl before, much less a sister. "X-xueyue?" he stuttered out, bending to her height, but she was hunched over and covering her face.

    "Did it hurt?" He reached out, awkwardly grabbing her shoulders.

    "I''m sorry¡­" she sobbed, struggling to speak properly or breathe.

    "What?" Li Chenyang frowned. "I should be apologizing for flicking you this hard. Why are you crying like this?"

    He shook her, but she remained firm with her position. She refused to show him her crying face, continuing to hide behind her hands. He felt his heart break when he felt the tremble of her body, heard her hups and gasps for air.

    "I-I¡­didn''t mean to be a b-burden¡­" Li Xueyue choked out, harshly wiping away her tears. Damn it! Damn it! She wanted to scream at herself for being such a crybaby. Now, he would be forced to forgive her. She didn''t want that. She didn''t want him to feel guilty over her problem.

    Li Chenyang rapidly blinked in understanding. Did this brat cry because she thought she was a burden?! His perplexed expression became more serious. He firmly grabbed her shoulders, forcing her to look up at him.

    "Don''t me yourself for this." He scowled. "None of this is your fault. You''re not going to pay for the sins of your parents. You didn''t ask to be born under those circumstances. You didn''t cause what happened between Li Taojun and Mu Yihua. You didn''t deserve anything that happened in that household."

    Li Xueyue stared at his shoulder, unable to meet his pressuring gaze.

    Li Chenyang gently shook her again. "Silly, silly girl. How can you ever me yourself for this?"

    "Because I am a mistake."

    Li Chenyang''s expression softened. He dried her wet cheeks and flicked her forehead again, earning a loud yelp from her.

    "Even if you weren''t a nned child, it''s not your fault. You didn''t y any part in what happened that night."

    "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to self-pity¡ª"

    "Don''t apologize." Li Chenyang ruffled her hair. "Is this why you cried?"

    Li Xueyue quietly nodded, her eyes lingered on the floor. She couldn''t find the confidence to face him after what he had drilled into her head.

    Li Chenyang let out augh, shaking his head. "I seriously don''t understand how your brain works. You''re always afraid of being a burden to us. Have we ever said you were?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip and shook her head. They had never told her that, but she was raised to believe she was nothing but a burden on others. A mistake that caused a rift between Viscountess Mu Yihua and Viscount Bai Sheng. She had heard it so many times, she might as well have epted it as a fact.

    "Exactly. We never said such a thing." Li Chenyang ced both hands on his hips, staring down at her like a disappointed mother. "Don''t ever think you encumber us, Xueyue. We have never thought of such a thing."

    He used a forefinger and pressed it into her forehead, forcing her to look up at him. His serious expression cracked when he saw her tiny pout. Gently, he smiled.

    "You''re so silly." He shook his head. "Next time you think you are a burden, I want you to tell your demons to go to hell because that''s exactly where they came from. Understood?"

    She nodded.

    When he gave her a pointed look, she nodded again. "Understood¡­" she said in a quiet voice.

    "Now, let''s enjoy the rest of the afternoon shall we?" Li Chenyang''s smile widened in satisfaction. "Our tea and snacks are getting cold."

    "Okay," she mumbled.

    "And don''t worry, I won''t call you out for being a glutton." Li Chenyang snickered, bringing the trays of snacks to her.

    Li Xueyue reached for the te and offered it to him first. He chuckled at her antics. The oldest had to eat first, which was a tradition that he found irritable and rarely observed in this household. He didn''t know why she followed it. Thus, he picked up a cookie and stuffed it into her mouth.

    "We''re family. You don''t have to follow etiquette at home."

    Li Xueyue slowly chewed the cookie. "Almost forgot."

    "Well, start remembering it," Li Chenyang teased, heading back to his seat. He called for a maidservant to change their cold pot of tea for another freshly brewed one. Then, they entered afortable silence while waiting for everyone toe home for dinner.

 Chapter 138 Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 138 Scheme</h4>

    After they finished the snacks, well, mainly Li Xueyue did, Li Chenyang opened the scroll he had closed.

    "I discovered something interesting today," hemented, handing it to her. She peered down at it, her brows raised upon recognizing what it was.

    "How did you get your hands on this?" Li Xueyue breathed out, taking it from him. Her eyes raked all over, a list of expenses, revenue, and so forth; everything that was about the Bai Family''s wealth was written on it.

    "I had my ways." Li Chenyang left out the part where the scroll was stored in the restricted section and he had to talk his way into acquiring it. Sometimes, he truly was grateful for the doors his surname and position opened for him.

    "When was thisst updated?" Li Xueyue asked, recalling that the month was almosting to an end.

    "Last month. The records are updated monthly." Li Chenyang clicked his tongue. This was what made the financial department so stressed at times.

    The entire ounting and auditing process wasplicated and aristocrats with a title attached to their name, for example, Viscount Bai or Duke Li, and so forth would undergo greater scrutiny and rigorous checks for corruption.

    "I will have to return this scroll tomorrow, so if you want to retain the information, it''s best to make your own copy for your safekeeping," he added on.

    "I heard their trading port business was negatively affected after what happened at the banquet and themotion that took ce on the streets the day I went out with Yu Zhen." Li Xueyue closed the scroll and ced it beside her. She told herself that she would focus on copying everything down when she finds the time today.

    "Yes, when the new reportes in, we''ll be able to analyze their plunge." Li Chenyang nodded. "Once their reputation ispletely tarnished, we''ll go in for the swoop."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes sparkled with mischief. "I thought of an interesting n."

    "Spill it then," Li Chenyang mused, returning to his seat.

    "When the Bai Family''s business slows down significantly, they''ll definitely start looking for investors, preferably someone not from Wuyi because that way, the investor won''t know of their reputation."

    "Interesting, go on."

    "Once their reputation dwindles like their business, the Bai Family will get desperate. They can only rely on their savings for so long. As you already know, they don''te from old money." Li Xueyue leaned back leisurely. "The Viscount came from humble beginnings. Once someone has a taste of money, it''ll be hard to forget it."

    "Are you suggesting we bankrupt them with a fake investor?" Li Chenyang asked.

    She shook her head. "What benefit would that bring us besides a sense of satisfaction?"

    "None." Li Chenyang''s brows tugged together. He had a suspicion as to where she was going with her ns.

    "Why don''t we be the ''foreign investors'' that they need?" Li Xueyue finally said. "But before that, we''ll need to rip their reputation to shreds until they''ll be forced to sell their trading ships and business at a low price. Once their selling price goes below the market price, the ''foreign trader'' will strike them a deal."

    "Hmm, go on." Li Chenyang began linking everything together inside his brain.

    "The deal is that the ''foreign trader'' or investor will pretend to see potential in their business, say, he''ll buy it at a fixed price where you and I will have full ownership."

    "They won''t willingly sell their business for a low price, knowing they won''t be able to benefit from it," Li Chenyang pointed out.

    "Indeed, they won''t, which is where our next schemees in. The investors will sign a false agreement that proposes the Bai Family will hand over the business to us, and in exchange, we will give them royalties of the trade, but the business will now be under the foreign traders'' name."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes grew wider. He knew where this was leading. "On the surface, the Bai Family will think they still own a small share of their business just because of their royalties, but because they''ve sold their rights to us, the trading ports be ours."

    "Precisely. The transfer of ownership drafted will be real, but the condition for royalties will not be. We''ll change the name of the trading ports, wipe out all traces of the Bai Family until everything about the business is totally different than what was stated in the contract. Until it bespletely ours."

    "Then are we going to pay them the royalties?"

    Li Xueyue nodded. "Yes, we''ll need to keep them quiet for the period that we would be revamping the business and fixing the reputation."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "Right now, their reputation is damaged, but not to the point where there is an rming drop in sales. How will we further ruin them?"

    "Pirates." Li Xueyue grinned, hopping out of her chair. "Sit here, I''ll return with the parchment of my ns really quickly." She ran off without waiting for his response. She rushed to her room, fumbled with the vanity drawers, took out the parchment, and sprinted back to the tearoom.

    By the time she returned, she was out of breath, but nheless, handed him the parchment and copsed in her chair. Maybe it was a good idea for her to increase her training. She hadn''t practiced sword fighting and archery for a while now.

    Li Chenyang read over her ns. He raised his brows. "You n to hire pirates to hijack the Bai trading ships?"

    "Traders won''t trade with the Bai Family if their goods got stolen. They will switch to another dock and find better ces to trade. The Bai trading ships are rarely armed with enough weapons to fend off pirates. On top of that, we can buy out the mistreated or underpaid workers employed by the Bai Family to spoil the goods of the ships that weren''t caught by pirates."

    Li Chenyang breathed out in shock. "I didn''t think you were capable of scheming to this extent. It''s a well-thought out n."

    Li Xueyue shrugged in response.

    "This will ruin their business for sure. No one will want to work with them, which is where we step in, am I right?" Li Chenyang mused.

    Li Xueyue instantly nodded. "Yes."

    "And how are you so sure their workers are treated unfairly?"

    Li Xueyue''s face darkened, her eyes shing with contempt. "I just do." She would never forget the faces of the servants who were forced to hold her down and deliver crude punishments. She would not forget the remorse that shed on their faces, and the guilt that they were forced to beat a young girl.

    They were paid to be servants to do chores, not murder. She wondered how the servant who nearly killed her felt. Was he drowning in remorse? Angst?

    "And the pirates? How will we get ess to those?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "This is the part of the n that I''m working on." Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. The Capital was known to haverge merchant stalls operated by foreign travelers, but she wasn''t sure if she could hire pirates from among them.

    "Don''t reach out to them by yourself. Leave the pirate part to me. Once I''ve secured everything, I''ll let you know," Li Chenyang told her in a serious voice that left little room for arguments. He would not risk her safety like this. Just the thought of her wandering to the dangerous parts of the Capital to seek out pirates in taverns gave him the shivers.

    "Okay." Li Xueyue nodded. "In the meantime, we will have to find a way to get in contact with the workers back in Hechen."

    Li Chenyang nodded in agreement, his eyes scanning over the parchment, his lips twitched when he saw her chicken-scratch handwriting that was a messy blur of ink. This would be a massive n, and if they seed, it would generate the best benefits.

 Chapter 139 Well-fed Idio

    <h4>Chapter 139 Well-fed Idio</h4>

    "Let''s get this straight then," Li Chenyang began. "First, we hire pirates who would steal the ships and the goods from the poorly guarded ships."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "Correct. Then, we will contact the dissatisfied workers and pay them handsomely to soil the goods."

    "How do we ensure they keep their silence? Hanging a big fish as an example?" Li Chenyang asked.

    She shook her head. "No, we''re more ethical than that. We''ll offer to support their families by sending their children to school, so that these workers won''t even think about snitching or else they''ll risk their family livingfortably. On top of that, we can double the pay rate."

    Li Chenyang slightly smiled. She had enough morals to not sacrifice the small fishes.

    "Next is step three, correct?" He nced at the parchment in his hand and read it out loud, "Once disgruntled traders stop giving the Bai Family their business, people will start gossiping. It will exacerbate the problems faced by the Bai family ports."

    Li Xueyue curtly nodded. "Nothing travels faster than word of mouth."

    "Good thinking." Li Cheyang raised a brow. "After their tarnished reputation rips their business to shreds, we''ll get started on the false investor?"

    Li Xueyue smiled in agreement. "Yep, once their customers are little to none, we''ll send a delegate that will make them a deal and buy over all of their trading ships and business for a cheap price."

    "Hmm, go on."

    "Nextes the difficult part. We will need an official agreement drafted and stamped by the Emperor of Wuyi to seem legit. They''ll trust the agreement more if it''s approved by the Emperor, even though we''re foreign investors," Li Xueyue exined.

    Li Chenyang nodded. "I will speak with my father about this and see what we can do. So after signing the official agreement, we will then give them the false one that promises royalties till the end of time. That way, the Bai Family will think they''re supported for generations toe without even lifting a finger."

    Li Xueyue smirked. "Yes, they''ll keep a copy of the false one. That one will be falsely stamped. They can never hold it against us even if they cry to the public because our identities will be kept hidden."

    Li Chenyang chuckled. "Then, the secondst part of the n after acquiring all of the rights will be to improve the business?"

    "Mmhm, we''ll improve the business and make it profitable again. Once the worth of the business increases, we could make a windfall by selling the business off at a much higher price than what we bought it for. Once we get to that point, we will ruin the Bai Family once and for all," Li Xueyue concluded, turning her head towards the window. Their discussion was so long that the sun was beginning to set.

    Li Chenyang slowly pped for her, an intrigued expression on his face. "So, this is what you spend your free time on."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded, anticipating his reaction. She had revealed to him her darkest ns and secrets. How would he view her now?

    "And you''re sure this will bring us benefits?"

    She nodded again. "If you look at the parchment again, you will see the arrows predicting where things might go wrong and how to rectify them. Almost all of the problems I thought of have a solution."

    Li Chenyang took another nce at the parchment and true to her words, there were potential conflicts and their solutions written on it. His lips curled into a satisfied smile, pride shining in his eyes.

    "Your overthinking actually came in handy," he joked.

    Li Chenyang handed the parchment back to her.

    Li Xueyue folded the parchment until it was as small as two fingers, a thick and inconspicuous little thing. "It''s a double-edged sword." She grinned up at him, her eyes sparkling.

    She had expected him to reject her ns, but he seemed to be onboard.

    "We can get started on the first step soon. I''ll have some of my men scour the taverns that were frequently visited by sailors. Once the weekendes along, I''ll deal with them under a disguise." Li Chenyang ced a warm hand on top of her head, peering down at her with a proud smile.

    He didn''t think she had it in her to be this intelligent. He had underestimated her. She was meant for greatness.

    "And in return," he said, his face became serious again. "You will not step foot in the dangerous parts of the Capital, is that clear? You leave the first steppletely to me. No one else. Understood?"

    Li Xueyue instantly nodded. "Of course."

    "Good. These sailors do not treat women kindly." Li Chenyang patted her head, but she jutted out her bottom lip in response.

    "Why do you and Wen-ge like to stroke the top of my head like this?"

    "He finds it endearing. I find it amusing." His eyes twinkled, wanting to tease her but knew she would retaliate like an agitated cat.

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh, not believing his reasoning at all. She knew he liked to pat her head because it felt like patting a little puppy. It made him happy, she supposed.

    - - - - -

    Everyone was gathered around the dinner table, having their routine family meal as usual. The table was brimming with conversations, mainly led by the energetic Li Wenmin who was babbling about his day.

    "And because the soldiers trained diligently today, I treated them to some delicious snacks!" Li Wenmin eximed betweenrge bites of food. Despite his gluttonous ways, he was still mindful of his manners and always chewed with his mouth close, even though he would open it wide to shove food in.

    Li Chenyang always found it a miracle that his brother rarely choked on his food. "Are you sure you treated them? It might be you treating yourself for doing the bare minimum."

    "W-well, everyone got to eat! So, yes, I was treating them and¡ª"

    "Who ate the most then?" Li Chenyang gave him a pointed look when Li Wenmin shot him a re.

    "It was me, of course! I''ve been the reigning food champion for years now. No one can take my position!"

    "I don''t think anyone would want to take that title." Li Chenyang snickered. "It''s a wonder that you''re not as round as the moon."

    "Funny thing is, I still have a better physique than you." Li Wenmin snickered. "Even after all of the food I''ve pigged down."

    "I''m d to see you admit you eat like a pig," Duke Li Shenyang chimed in, smiling a bit when Li Wenmin pouted.

    "Dad, you''re supposed to be on my side!" Li Wenmin whined. He shoved anotherrge bite of food into his mouth.

    "I will when you eat properly. You''re going to choke." Duke Li Shenyang shook his head, motioning for the maidservant to serve more tea to the gluttonous young master.

    Duchess Wang Qixing wept, wiping away an imaginary tear. "No one will wed my son and hisrge appetite that serves as his alter ego!"

    "As if anyone would even want to wed him in the first ce." Li Chenyang snickered, turning to Li Xueyue who choked on her food whilst suppressing herughter.

    "I saw that, Xiao Yue! Don''tugh at me!" Li Wenmin whined, his chopsticks crossing hers on the same te.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes narrowed. They were going to fight over thest braised egg again. She tried to take it but he used his chopsticks skillfully like a sword and pierced through the egg white, securing his egg.

    "I wouldn''t haveughed at you if it wasn''t so true!" Li Xueyue eximed, jamming his chopstick down with hers when he tried to pick up the egg. As a result of her interference, it slid out of his chopsticks.

    Her eyes lit up and she tried to steal the braised egg, only for him to block her with his chopsticks.

    "Not even all of the pce chefs will be able to cook enough food for you to be full!" Li Xueyue groaned when he refused to give up the battle for thest egg.

    "Noo, give it to me, Xiao Yue! It''s my favorite," Li Wenmin whined, continuing to use his chopstick as a weapon.

    Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head,ughing at their childish antics. "Children, you can always split the egg."

    Li Wenmin rapidly shook his head. "It won''t be even!"

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. "Eating too many eggs isn''t good for either of you."

    Li Chenyang smirked. "Yeah, it makes you stupid [1], which is no surprise for Li Wenmin who always hogs the eggs."

    And just like that, both of them stopped fighting for the egg, but not before they let out a simultaneous, "Hmph!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing wanted tough again, her eyes shimmering with joy. "That reminds me, you were always fond of finely chopped eggs as a kid, Chenyang. You had eggs with all of your meals."

    Li Chenyang went stiff, averting gaze from his siblings.

    "Ahah! Who''s the idiot now!" Li Wenmin shouted, pushing the te to Li Chenyang.

    "Whatever." Li Chenyang rolled his eyes, picking up the egg and cing it in Li Xueyue''s bowl.

    Li Xueyue grinned victoriously, showing Li Wenmin the egg in her rice bowl.

    "Careful, it''s going to make you stupid." Li Wenmin snorted, pretending to not be fazed by the enticing dish.

    "Oh well, I''ll be a well-fed idiot then." Li Xueyue''s smile widened as she picked up the egg and took a bite in his face.

    Li Wenmin sat there the entire time with a wronged expression whilst continuing to stuff his mouth with food. ''Just you wait, Xiao Yue, tomorrow I will hog all of the braised eggs!''

 Chapter 140 The Day You Get Married

    <h4>Chapter 140 The Day You Get Married</h4>

    After their dinner was over, Li Chenyang asked Li Xueyue for the parchment of their ns. Once obtained, he joined his father in the private study where tea was served. And because Li Chenyang was present, it was not one of the Duchess''s special concoctions. She didn''t want to put her son through all of the trouble that only the father should shoulder.

    "What is it?" Duke Li Shenyang curiously asked.

    He took a sip of the pleasantly scented ck tea, letting out a contented sigh. The strong and woody aroma did wonders to his tiredness, instantly waking him up.

    Duke Li Shenyang was exhausted after practically managing the country on his own; from checking over the agriculture reports in preparation for fall, to the regtion of trade with other countries on this continent and beyond. So far, everything with Hajian has been going smoothly.

    Li Chenyang unfolded the parchment and ced it on his father''s desk. "A business opportunity at the expense of riding an arrogant family."

    "Killing two birds with one stone?" Duke Li Shenyang mused, setting the teacup down on his desk. He picked up the piece of parchment, easily recognizing Li Xueyue''s messy handwriting.

    "We should teach her to perfect her handwriting," he joked.

    Li Chenyang let out a small bark ofughter. "Yes, it would do her wonders."

    Duke Li Shenyang hummed in response, his eyes shed with interest. A minute or two passed and soon, he settled the parchment onto the table. "This is a unique n."

    Li Chenyang nodded in agreement. "Xueyue came up with it. I promised you there would be benefits in causing their downfall."

    "Yes, I read the part about profiting from their fallen business, but it will not be an easy task to manage a sea port in a town that takes a week of travel by carriage to reach," Duke Li Shenyang pointed out.

    "We don''t have to manage the business forever. Once it''s able to stand on its own, we can sell it off at an even higher price, or we can have delegates to manage it for us," Li Chenyang said.

    Duke Li Shenyang hummed again, scratching his chin, contemting their next steps. "Yes, but you''re talking about something too far ahead into the future. First we need to address your immediate ns after you''ve acquired their business. How will you keep it in order? Will you head to Hechen and stay there until the business improves? Or will Xueyue be there to manage the business?"

    Li Chenyang certainly saw the problem with this. He would need to hire someone extremely trustworthy to manage it on their behalf. "Must this problem be addressed now?"

    "Yes. We always have to think about ways to resolve any obvious or potential failures of a n before you even carry it out," Duke Li Shenyang advised.

    Li Chenyang let out a quiet sigh as he sat on one of the couches in the study. He crossed his legs and tried toe up with a solution to this issue. Of course, he couldn''t stay too long in Hechen, he had ministerial duties to tend to and one day, a?position to take over from his father.

    "We will need to find someone trustworthy enough to manage it in our stead," Duke Li Shenyang exined. "It''s not like our Xueyue can stay in a city that would take three days by horse or a week by carriage. She would have to travel, all by herself as an unwed woman. It wouldn''t be safe for her."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded. "Yes, we will need someone who won''t turn their backs against us if we hand them the management right."

    Li Chenyang sighed at hisck of ideas. "Each step will take a while toplete. Let''s proceed with the n first and think of a solution along the way."

    Duke Li Shenyang raised his brows. "I didn''t raise you to be impatient, Chenyang."

    "I know, Dad, it''s just¡ª"

    "Think of a solution first. And then I will help you acquire the agreement stamped by the Emperor," Duke Li Shenyang wagered.

    Li Chenyang calmly turned to his father. "You mean it?"

    "Of course." Duke Li Shenyang smiled. "Any opportunity to earn money is a weed one."

    "Alright then. I''ll speak to Xueyue about the management," Li Chenyangmented, standing up.

    "I rmend asking about it during breakfast tomorrow. We can each chime in our opinion." Duke Li Shenyang folded the parchment in half and handed it back to Li Chenyang who epted it.

    "I understand." Li Chenyang ced the parchment into his pocket and headed for the door. "Have a good night, Dad."

    "Likewise."

    "I hope you get to sleep in the master bedroom tonight, and not the guest room." Li Chenyang snickered, running out of the door before his father could reprimand him.

    Duke Li Shenyang straightened his clothes and rolled his eyes. "I can''t wait for the day you get married and she does the same to you."

    When the sound of Li Chenyang''s footsteps disappeared, Duke Li Shenyang called out for his right-hand man.

    "Ling."

    A man dropped down from the tall ceiling,nding softly on the ground. As usual, he was dressed in full ck with a mask covering half his face. The two men grew up together, and for as long as the Duke could remember, Ling''s family had always served the Lis.

    Whenever Duke Li Shenyang needed a secretive task to be done, it was always Ling who carried out the responsibility. He used to have a longer name beyond a simple character, but after failing to guard Li Minghua in the Pce, Ling renounced his name as punishment. The Duke was against the punishment, but Ling insisted on it for his failure.

    Ling slipped his ck mask down his chin and bowed his head. "My lord, you''ve called?"

    "Yes. Did you look around the Pce and discover whose room the hairpin was found in?" Duke Li Shenyang asked, referring to the hydrangea hairpin that once belonged to Li Minghua.

    Ling swiftly nodded his head. "Yes, it was found in the Empress''s room."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s brows shot upwards. Out of everyone in the royal family, he most certainly did not expect this. "Are you certain of this?"

    "I am."

    Duke Li Shenyang pressed his lips together. "You used to guard Li Minghua. Do you recall her wearing this hairpin when she left the Capital and returned to Hechen?"

    Ling rapidly blinked, his face darkened with uncertainty. Guilt swarmed him at the thought of another failure.

    "I-I don''t remember¡­" he regretfully said, lowering his eyes.

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded, disappointed with the response, but didn''t show it. He knew Ling was already punishing himself for his failure in the past despite the time that had passed.

    "I want you to seek out all of the maidservants who used to serve Li Minghua. Especially the ones who used to dress her. Find out if they remember cing a hydrangea hairpin into her hair when she returned from the Capital to Hechen."

    If she was indeed wearing this in Hechen when she left the Pce, then it only meant one thing: The Empress might''ve been involved in the fire.

    It would be a difficult task, but nothing was ever too challenging for Ling. "Very well, my lord."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded in satisfaction. "And make sure, they don''t realize who''s asking these questions."

    "Understood."

    "That will be all for now, you''re dismissed."

    Ling cupped his hands, bowed again, and then disappeared out the door without a sound.

    Duke Li Shenyang took out the key hidden under his clothes and unlocked a drawer. He didn''t understand his actions when he pulled out the hairpin and twirled it around, a disheartened expression on his face. Squeezing his eyes shut, he was met with the horrifying revtion that she was slowly bing a blurry figure in his mind. Of course, there were paintings that were supposed to resemble her, but none came that close to her actual appearance.

 Chapter 141 Bachelors

    <h4>Chapter 141 Bachelors</h4>

    The next morning, Li Chenyang was the one who notified Li Xueyue that breakfast was ready. Normally, it was the servant''s job to do so, just like how Jinxia would be the one notifying the Duke and Duchess, but weirdly enough, it had be a routine for one of the twins to notify her.

    Usually, Li Wenmin was the one to inform Li Xueyue but he was too easily distracted to be handled with the task of a messenger.

    Li Chenyang knocked on the door twice.

    A faint, "Come in" could be heard.

    He pushed the door open and stepped inside.

    Li Xueyue was already dressed in an eye-catching blue hanfu the color of the morning sky painted with leisure clouds. She was sitting by the vanity whilst handmaidens styled her hair.

    "Chen-ge!" Li Xueyue called out, "It''s so strange to see you bright and early. Wen-ge is often the one who greets me."

    "Well, he sucks at being a messenger, so you''ll see me a lot more from now on," he said. His brows became knitted with worry when he saw her dark circles and eye bags. It was even more prominent than usual.

    "Did you have a nightmare?" Li Chenyang worriedly asked, walking closer to her.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded as the handmaiden lightly powdered her face, hoping to minimize the panda rims. She often instructed them to put on as minimal powder as possible. She didn''t like how easily it came off, and if too much was caked onto her face, it felt too stiff.

    Li Chenyang heaved a disappointed sigh. "How about we bring in a doctor to properly diagnose you and prescribe you with herbal tonics or tea that will help you sleep better?"

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "I don''t want to use herbal tonics unless absolutely necessary. What if my body grows resistant to it?"

    "Look at your dark circles." He scowled. "I think it has reached a stage where it''s necessary for you to be prescribed with some tonics."

    "I-it''s just nightmares and¡ª"

    "You''re also struggling to sleep. These are not good symptoms, Xueyue. How much do you even sleep at night?"

    "I''m not sure¡­" she trailed off, pressing her lips on a pearl pink paper that stained her lips with a soft tint.

    Li Chenyang rested his hands on his hips, staring at her like an overbearing mother hen. "You obviously need more sleep. It''s not good for such a young woman like you tock sleep. Your body regenerates at night and if you don''t give it time to do so, how will you function?"

    Li Xueyue sank down in her chair. He was right, as usual. "Let''spromise then. Instead of the bitter herbal tonics, I''ll drink soothing chamomile orvender tea before bed. Maybe it''ll help?"

    "Hopefully it helps. If after a week, you''re still struggling to sleep, it might be time to call in a physician to diagnose what might be wrong."

    "But I already know what''s wrong." Li Xueyue sighed. "It''s nightmares. I-I think my brain is too scared to sleep because it just knows I will see them."

    Li Chenyang''s irritated features softened. "We''ll make them pay for this."

    "Yes, we will."

    Li Chenyang wished he could do more than nag about her sleeping habits. He was worried that she was right. At some point, the herbal tonics might not work for her anymore. What then? Who couldfort her back to sleep? Who could help ease her worries? Who would chase away her nightmares?

    He let out a quiet sigh. Of course, it would never be her husband. Men in Wuyi often slept in different rooms from their wives, especially if there is a harem.

    Li Chenyang appreciated his father''s doting nature towards his mother. His adoring treatment towards the Duchess had set an example to the twins on how to treat their wives.

    "You look dejected again, Chen-ge. What''s wrong?"

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "Nothing that you should care about."

    He stepped back, allowing her to stand up. The handmaiden had finally finished dolling her up. He knew they secretly enjoyed ying dress-up with her, especially the Duchess who was fond of buying new things for Xueyue to try out.

    "Are you sure?" Li Xueyue asked, fearful that he might feel glum. She wanted to ease his worries in any way that she could.

    "Yes." Li Chenyang smiled a bit. "Let''s head to breakfast now, shall we?"

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. She walked out of her room with him, side by side, their footsteps falling in sync.

    "By the way, I told Father the n yesterday. He brought up an interesting point that we forgot to discuss," Li Chenyang piqued.

    "Oh, which point?"

    "Once the business is acquired by ''foreign traders,'' which is basically someone pretending to be us, how will we maintain the business? Also, how are we going to find trustworthy people to be sent out as delegates?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. "Oh, for management of the business, maybe I can do it?"

    "A littledy like you all alone in Hechen? Absolutely not." Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms. "We will have to send someone in your stead."

    "But who?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Li Chenyang hummed, cing a finger on his chin. "I might know a person or two. You''ve never met him before, but he''s a close friend of the Li Family."

    "Oh." Li Xueyue was disappointed that she couldn''t stay in Hechen and handle the business but knew she could always do it in thefort of her own home. The only problem was, they needed to assign someone to carry out her instructions.

    "It''s one of Duke Wen Xuan''s sons." Li Chenyang mused, "I think you''ve heard of him before? He''s the Duke''s third son who''s the same age as you."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She vaguely remembered the conversation that urred two years ago in Duke Li Shenyang''s private study in his manor at Hechen. She recalled Duke Wen Xuan paying their home a visit after an injured Wen Jinkai was discovered.

    "What about him?"

    "His name is Wen Qihong and he''s always eager to prove himself a capable heir to Duke Wen," Li Chenyang informed her. "He''s actually one out of five of the most eligible bachelors of the country, I''m surprised you haven''t heard of him."

    "Well, who are the other bachelors?" Li Xueyue tilted her head. "I don''t know much about the current trends and gossip of youngdies."

    "Gosh, you sound so old." Li Chenyang snorted, rolling his eyes. "Youngdies? You''re one of them, you know."

    "Yes, but no one interacts with me enough for me to be informed on thetest news," Li Xueyue pointed out, resisting the urge to tease him back.

    "Well, as you probably guessed by now, Wen Jinkai is also one of them, including me and Wenmin."

    "Who''s the fifth one?"

    "Why do you want to know?" Li Chenyang teased, raising a questioning brow. "Looking to collect more suitors?"

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. "What do I look like? Male lead ma?"

    Li Chenyang loudlyughed. "At this rate, you might as well be."

    Li Xueyue groaned. "Don''t remind me."

    Li Chenyang''s teasingughter settled into a small chuckle. "Maybe if you stop being so nice to everyone, they wouldn''t like you so much."

    "I don''t think it''s a matter of me being kind." Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "So, this Wen Qihong, is he really trustworthy?"

    Li Chenyang instantly nodded. "Duke Wen has a house near the Capital and one in Hechen. He''s great friends with our father, and he mainly lived in Hechen when we were growing up. I was closer to Wen Jinkai, but Li Wenmin was always close to Wen Qihong."

    "Isn''t Wen Qihong younger than Wenmin then? Since we''re both eighteen, and you''re twenty."

    "Yes, he''s younger, which is why he''s filled with aspirations to seed. He''s constantly overshadowed by his second brother who''s favored to be the heir, and by his first brother, Jinkai, who''s an aplished Commander. I''m sure you understand Qihong''s burden to outshine his brothers and step out of their shadows."

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    "Duke Wen Xuan always prefers outstanding children. His attention is all on his second son now and Qihong''s mother is always too busy with attending soirees and private gatherings held by other aristocrats¡ª" Li Chenyang paused, tilting his head. "Actually, instead of hearing from me, you should learn about him yourself."

    Li Xueyue stopped walking as well. She peered up at him, perplexed by his words. "What do you mean?"

    "Duke Wen Xuan is visiting the Capital soon, most likely to reprimand Wen Jinkai. I caught wind that the entire family mighte," he said.

    "That''s strange, I always thought Duke Wen Xuan despised Wen Jinkai¡­?"

    Li Chenyang let out a quiet sigh. "Duke Wen Xuan dislikes Wen Jinkai, but that doesn''t stop him from trying to take advantage of his own son."

    Li Xueyue suddenly pitied Wen Jinkai. They came from the same background starved of parental love.

    "Well, anyway, you''ll meet Wen Qihong soon. I''ll bring you to the Pce where Duke Wen Xuan will most likely be," Li Chenyang informed her, giving her head a pat.

    "Now, let''s enjoy breakfast, shall we?" he added on.

    Li Xueyue instantly smiled in agreement, grabbing him by the wrist and swiftly tugging him in the direction of the dining room.

 Chapter 142 Adorable Little Bun

    <h4>Chapter 142 Adorable Little Bun</h4>

    Once breakfast started and for the first time ever, braised eggs weren''t served, a slow conversation began.

    Duke Li Shenyang quietly snickered to himself at the dejected expression of Li Wenmin who dearly missed his favorite dish. He chose to ignore the glum res thrown by Li Wenmin. Instead, the Duke focused his attention on Li Xueyue.

    "I''m sure Chenyang pinpointed the problem of your business n?" Duke Li Shenyang spoke up.

    Yesterday night, Duke Li Shenyang had briefly mentioned everything to his wife. Of course, he left out the dubious parts like bribing pirates and workers. For Li Xueyue''s sake, he had summarized it in the most sugar-coated way possible. As mischievous as his wife was, she was too paranoid of things and he didn''t want her to overthink about every little thing.

    To the Duke, her only role in this house was to be pampered, live in luxury and have a worry-free life.

    "Mhm. We briefly spoke about it on our way to here. He mentioned Duke Wen Xuan''s third son, Wen Qihong?" Li Xueyue answered.

    Duke Li Shenyang slowly nodded his head. "Interesting choice, but not surprising. He always wanted to impress his father. If everything goes smoothly and he''s able to manage the business with your directions, perhaps it''ll serve as a good example to Duke Wen."

    Duke Li Shenyang took a sip of tea, afortable smile settling on his face. Praise the Heavens, the disgusting bitter teas had finally stopped. Did that mean his wife wasn''t angry at him anymore?

    "Oh, I''ve heard great things about Wen Qihong." Duchess Wen Qixing perked up, her eyes shining. She was practically calcting the possibility of matchmaking Li Xueyue with Wen Qihong. If Yu Zhen fails, then there''s always n B¡­

    "Supposedly, he''s very good-tempered, nothing like his older brothers. And on top of that¡ª"

    "I do hope, darling, that you''re not trying to be a matchmaker again?" Duke Li Shenyang spoke up, his smile widening when she let out a quiet "hmph," and went back to eating.

    "Well, in regards to Wen Qihong, I domend the choice, but weren''t you two interested in ''foreign investors'' whose identity can be kept a secret? Wen Qihong is pretty well-known," he pointed out. "And he''s a bit¡­ naive."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. "I suppose not having a foreign investor is fine. Perhaps Wen Qihong''s reputation might boost his trustworthiness?"

    "It will also damage his reputation. The Bai Family will try to drag him down for the false papers." Duke Li Shenyang raised his brow. "Although it might be easy to draft a false decree, who''s to say the Viscount won''t request an audience with the Emperor to prove the credibility of it?"

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. "Well, in that case, perhaps the n will have to be altered."

    Li Chenyang hummed, leaning his chin on a propped up arm. "In that case, we might have to really find a foreign investor. Someone who can easily go back to his kingdom once everything is settled down."

    "Or you can take out the fake decree and make it a real one, but don''t set a fixed royalty percentage," Duke Li Shenyang mused. "It will make things lessplicated."

    "Perhaps so, but do we really want to keep on supporting the Bai Family?" Li Chenyang''s lips thinned.

    "We don''t have to specify the time span of the royalty," Li Xueyue spoke up. "We can throw them a high percentage that will convince them to sell the business, but we won''t be bound to continue giving them anything for the rest of our lives."

    "Yes, a high percentage off the bat is convincing, especially because they will think it''s for the eternity of the business," Duke Li Shenyang thoughtfully said. "Or, you can just buy the full rights of the business."

    Li Chenyang''s brows shot up. "But then what about the satisfaction of seeing their frustrated expressions when they realize they''ve been tricked by us?"

    "They''ve already been tricked by you guys if they allow Wen Qihong to buy the entire business for a low price. Besides, not many people will expect him to give royalties. What''s the point of that, especially when the business is doing so bad?" Duke Li Shenyang rebutted.

    Meanwhile, Li Wenmin ate in a daze. Everytime he heard anything remotely political, he always turned a deaf ear. He was toozy to properly think in the morning. Yawning to himself, he quietly chewed his chicken, desperately hoping to see one of the maidservants walk out with a tray of braised eggs.

    "Oh." Li Xueyue blinked.

    "It''s best to head back and revise that n to adhere to whatever we discussed today," Duke Li Shenyang told Li Xueyue. Turning to Li Chenyang he said, "You can get started on the first stage of the n."

    Li Chenyang nodded, making a mental note in his head to order one of his servantster to run an errand for him.

    "And also, Xueyue," Duke Li?Shenyang said and turned to face her. "Have you thought about reading, ''The Art of War''? You will find it quite helpful."

    "No, I haven''t. Isn''t it just tactics of battle?"

    "Then it''s time to start reading. Many of the lessons there can be applied to real life," Duke Li Shenyang advised. "I will bring the copy in my library to you."

    "That''s alright, I don''t mind finding it myself," Li Xueyue responded, vividly remembering therge library in this house. She enjoyed reading books better in her room than in the library.

    Li Xueyue found it was too ustrophobic to be surrounded by so many books at once, especially when she had to focus solely on one book at a time. Her short attention span meant that she often jumped from one thing to another. If there were too many things bombarding her at the same time, it was hard to think straight.

    "If you have any difficulties, you know where to find me," Duke Li Shenyang said, taking another sip of tea. He found that it had gone cold.

    After finishing his second helping of rice, Li Wenmin finally spoke up. "Oddly enough, the Emperor didn''t request for Xueyue''s presence today."

    Li Chenyang''s lips curled into a slight smirk. "That''s good. I never liked to reopen old wounds, but it does remind people of the lessons they should''ve learned."

    Li Xueyue quietly ate, confused by his words. She vaguely remembered Li Chenyang saying, "history shouldn''t repeat itself." It was with that phrase that the Emperor had finally stopped teasing her for the day.

    Did it have something to do with Li Minghua? Did the Emperor use to meddle in Li Minghua''s life? Or was it ack of meddling? Maybe the Empress interfered instead?

    All of these questions were slowly killing her, but she had no one to ask for answers. The only thing she could do was bite her tongue. Maybe¡­ it would be a good idea to notify one of the twins about her diary discovery.

    Duchess Wen Qixing was curious about Li Chenyang''s suggestive tone. "Which wound did you reopen¡­?"

    Li Chenyang''s smirk slipped. He caught a warning stare from his father. "Don''t worry about it Mother."

    "I always worry more when you don''t tell me." She sighed. "Just answer me, I won''t be mad."

    "It''s one of the Emperor''s weaknesses. I''m sure he wouldn''t want me to go around telling his little sister that. Especially when you can¡­ uhm..." Li Chenyang struggled to properly lie to her. "Uh, when you can tease him about it?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing was even more suspicious now. "I know all of the Emperor''s weaknesses. It''s alright, you can tell me."

    Duke Li Shenyang decided it was time to intervene. "My tea went cold, darling. For some reason, I''m missing your daily blends¡ª"

    "Hush now, I''m talking to your son." She shushed him.

    "Why is it my son when he does something bad?" Duke Li Shenyang grumbled.

    "Because, my foolish husband, all of his bad traitse from you. He only inherited all of my perfection," she easily responded, innocently blinking her eyes when the Duke shot her an exasperated look.

    "Meanwhile, you gave all of your bad traits to Li Wenmin," Duke Li Shenyang retorted only for the Duchess to roll her eyes, the conversation with Chenyang long forgotten.

    "Is that what you tell yourself to sleep soundly every night?"

    Li Wenmin stared at his parents in disbelief. "I just like the fact that neither one of you are denying the fact that we inherited your bad traits."

    "Hush, sweetheart, the adults are talking." Duchess Wang Qixing waved her hand.

    "But mooom!" Li Wenmin groaned, "We are adults!"

    Li Xueyueughed. "You don''t act like it."

    "Well, someone has to be the adorable little bun of the family." Li Wenmin snorted.

    Li Chenyang quirked a brow. "Dear brother, there is absolutely nothing ''adorable'' about you."

    Li Wenmin responded by sticking out his tongue to both Li Chenyang and Li Xueyue, whereas the Duke and Duchess continued their yful banter. Li Xueyue simplyughed at the liveliness of the conversation, whereas Li Chenyang took a sip of the morning tea, feeling amused.

 Chapter 143 Undying Love

    <h4>Chapter 143 Undying Love</h4>

    Once breakfast came to a conclusion and everyone settled down their chopsticks, the butler stepped forward.

    He bowed and addressed the Duke and Duchess. "My lord, mydy, there is a man requesting entrance."

    "This early? And so unexpectedly?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked, daintily wiping her mouth.

    Duke Li Shenyang quirked a brow. "Who is it?"

    "It''s Commander Yu Zhen, my lord," the butler responded.

    Four pairs of eyes instantly snapped to Li Xueyue who was taken aback by this. "I didn''t request to see him, if that''s what you''re wondering," she said.

    The Duchess ced an understanding hand over Xueyue. "You will have to establish your rtionship with him, sweetheart."

    "To the public?" Li Xueyue asked, not sure of the proper procedures.

    "To us first, and then to the public," Duchess Wang Qixing answered. "That way, we can slowly ease the news to the aristocrats."

    "And it''ll warn away the pests¡ªoops, I mean suitors," Li Wenmin spoke up, covering his mouth, even though everyone knew he wholeheartedly intended to say "pests."

    Li Chenyang took an obnoxious loud sip of tea, shooting Li Xueyue a look. "Or you can continue torturing him with uncertainty."

    "I don''t even know how I feel towards him¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, her brows creasing together.

    "I believe it''s time for me to leave. Romance was never my expertise," Duke Li Shenyang said with augh, standing up and turning to the butler. "Tell Yu Zhen to see me in my public study first. He''s lucky that I have so much free time this morning," he instructed and turned to leave.

    "Yeah, I can really tell love isn''t your expertise," Duchess Wang Qixing muttered under her breath when he was almost near the door.

    Duke Li Shenyang paused and turned back. He hurried to her, ced a swift kiss on her cheek, and smiled. "Where''s my ''have a good day at work?'' You stopped telling me these, so I stopped giving you farewell kisses."

    Li Wenmin gagged.

    Li Chenyang choked.

    Both twins exchanged a disgusted look with each other.

    "Oh god, I think my breakfast ising up!" Li Wenmin whined, faking another gag, turning the other way.

    "Mother, Father, please! Not in front of us," Li Chenyang groaned.

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled. "Then you better cover your eyes."

    "Oh gross! Let''s go, Xueyue!" Li Wenmin eximed, shooting up from his chair, only to witness the Duchess staring lovingly at her husband.

    "Have a horrible day at work, darling~" She gave him an air kiss.

    Li Xueyue watched with her wide eyes full of disbelief as Duke Li Shenyang caught the air kiss. She was prepared to cry like the twins until unexpectedly, Duke Li Shenyang tossed the kiss to the ground and stomped on it.

    Duchess Wang Qixing gasped. "Fine, one more week of herbal tea!"

    "No, no, sweetie, I didn''t mean it. It was a joke, my wife¡ª"

    "Father, the guest is waiting. Please. Go," Li Chenyang exasperated, his eyes wide with horror.

    If there was one thing he didn''t want to see, it was his parents being lovey-dovey like this. As much as he appreciated their undying love for each other, it was very traumatizing to see.

    "Fine, fine." Duke Li Shenyang huffed. "It''s time to bully the poord."

    "Oooh, in that case, let me join you!" Li Wenmin shouted, happily skipping over to his father only to be grabbed by Li Chenyang.

    "Nuh-uh, we don''t need you to be present for now."

    "But whyyyyy?!" Li Wenmin dragged on, shaking his shoulders like a stubborn kid throwing a tantrum. Except, his only problem was, it never worked on Li Chenyang.

    "Ow!" Li Wenmin cried out when he received a chop at the back of his head.

    "I don''t want to throw up the breakfast as well." Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms.

    Duchess Wang Qixingughed at her bickering sons. Where did they learn to be this rowdy?

    Li Chenyang let out a heavy sigh, shaking his head. Sometimes, he forgot this big baby was one of the leading Generals of the country.

    "Don''t sound so disappointed in me, Chenyang! You sound and look old." Li Wenmin scowled. "Stop acting older than your age."

    "Then, can you stop acting younger than your age?" Li Chenyang retorted.

    Duchess Wang Qixing was tired of stopping these mindless arguments. She turned to Li Xueyue and smiled. "Would you like some more tea while we listen and watch this petty discussion unfold?"

    Li Xueyue didn''t even have to answer. She instantly picked up her teacup and the Duchess poured the tea.

    "You can really tell they inherited both the Duke and my bad traits." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "Of course. They inherited more from their father."

    Li Xueyue almost choked on her tea while preventing herself fromughing out loud. She feared it would disrupt this interesting and free entertainment.

    "Jokes keep the romance alive." Duchess Wang Qixing winked in Xueyue''s way. "Which you''re obviously notcking in your interactions with the Commander."

    "Well, yes, I can''t help but tease Yu Zhen." Li Xueyue chuckled.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s eyes shed with mirth. She wondered if Li Xueyue could see how wide her smile was, with a happy-go-lucky gleam in her eyes. Xueyue was awestruck by the images of Yu Zhen that shed in her mind, but didn''t even know it.

    "You know what I realized?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    "What?"

    "This time, you instantly knew which Commander I was referring to." Duchess Wang Qixing took a sip of her tea, casting Xueyue a cheeky smile.

    "I...well¡­ uh...uhm¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, unsure of what to say. In the end, she settled with a smallugh, awkwardly averting her gaze.

    Duchess Wang Qixing giggled at her response. "Young love, how adorable!"

    "Mooom, he hit me again!" Li Wenmin cried out, pointing an using finger at Li Chenyang.

    "You''re twenty years old, stop whining to Mom!" Li Chenyang hissed.

    "You''re just lucky I promised Mom to not use violence in the house!" Li Wenmin stuck out his tongue.

    "Do it again, I''ll cut that off!"

    "Oh yeah, with what sword?" Li Wenmin barked back, wiggling his waist to emphasize the sword dangling off of his waist.

    Duchess Wang Qixing gasped. "Li Wenmin! What did I say about weapons at the table?"

    "But Mom¡ª"

    "And you, Li Chenyang, stop hitting your brother like a child. You''re adults. Talk it out."

    "Yeah, and he started this argument too!" Li Wenmin chortled, egging his mother to continue reprimanding Li Chenyang.

    "You''re the one who wanted to anger me and started this argument." Li Chenyang rolled his eyes, jutting his chin in the opposite direction.

    Duchess Wang Qixing groaned. "I thought we were past this stage two years ago, when you went from boys to men."

    "Oh don''t worry Mom," Li Chenyang began. "I fully transitioned to that stage and¡ªOw! You dare to hit me?!"

    Li Wenmin let out a small yelp when he saw Li Chenyang''s murderous glower.

    "Come back here! I should''ve been the one born five minutes earlier!" Li Chenyang scowled, chasing after Li Wenmin who ran to the door.

    "I have better things to do! You know, like a job that manages hundreds of soldiers! Bleh!" Li Wenmin dragged down one eye bag and stuck out his tongue, running out of the door.

    "That brat!" Li Chenyang hissed, cing his hands on his waist. "I can''t believe he''s older than me. Must''ve been so eager toe out, his brain cells didn''t properly develop!"

    The door flew open and Li Wenmin stood there, mouth agape. "I heard that! No wonder you had to stay inside for so long, you werecking brain cells so much you needed more time to generate it!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing wistfully sighed andzily waved her hand.

    "Oh well, let''s ignore them, sweetheart," she said, turning to Xueyue with a bright smile. "Is there something you wanted to tell me in regards to Yu Zhen?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head, blinking in confusion. Was there?

    Duchess Wang Qixing pitied the Commander. When puzzled, Li Xueyue had the same expression as a perplexed puppy. Such an endearing sight¡­ The Duchess resisted the urge to pinch Xueyue''s cheeks.

    "For example¡­" Duchess Wang Qixing''s eyes sparkled with mischief. "Professing your undying love for him?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew wide. "I-I''m not in love with him," she awkwardly said,ughing nervously and averting her gaze. Wow, was the floor rug under the table always so interesting?

    Duchess Wang Qixing observed the blush that stained Xueyue''s cheeks. "Right¡­" she said, purposely dragging out the word.

    "Maybe I should reword it then~" Duchess Wang Qixing happily sped her hands together. "Do you have feelings for this Commander?"

    "W-what?" Li Xueyueughed again, high-pitched and anxious. "Uhm¡­ define feelings? I mean, we''re humans, so we all have feelings and emotions and uhm, uh, things that make us happy or sad. The word ''feeling'' in itself is vague and hard to express¡ª"

    "Well, that nervous rambling gives a lot away," Duchess Wang Qixing mused, her lips tugging into a pleasant smile. "Let me ask you this then, does your heart beat fast when he does something simple? Does your stomach flutter when he smiles?"

    Li Xueyue quietly sunk into her chair, looking at anywhere but the Duchess''s pressing smile.

    "Well? Do you?" Duchess Li Qixing eagerly asked, her eyes growing bright and curious. "You do, don''t you?" She squealed when Xueyue''s face became even redder, this time, bright as a tomato.

    "M-maybe¡­" Xueyue shyly whispered, covering her face, dying of embarrassment whilst the Duchess was on cloud nine, already calcting how many guests should be invited to the wedding.

 Chapter 144 I Weep For You

    <h4>Chapter 144 I Weep For You</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixingughed at Xueyue''s expression. She cupped one ear and asked, "What was that? I didn''t hear you."

    Li Xueyue''s face burned, her eyes darting all over the ce. She didn''t want to admit her feelings, it was already embarrassing to have said it once.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s smile widened. "Fine, fine, I will stop teasing you about him, but if you n to see him frequently, the high society will need to know of his intentions towards you. If not, it will stain both of your reputations."

    Finally, the twins stopped bickering back and forth. They simultaneously turned to the Duchess.

    Li Chenyang cast a worried nce towards Xueyue. "Is it true then? You like him?"

    Li Wenmin scratched the back of his neck. "What''s there to like about him anyway?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing waved her hand and ignored her sons. "There''s one thing that you have to keep in mind, Xueyue, and it''s the fact that Yu Zhenes from Hanjian. I''m sure you know what this means?"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "Yes, I do. If I marry him, I must depart for Hanjian."

    "Precisely," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "In that case, how will you fulfill your ns? If you marry him before your n for revenge ispleted, there will be a lot ofmunication problems between you and Chenyang."

    Li Xueyue understood the Duchess''s meaning. Right now, she shouldn''t be focused on love, rather, she should focus on herself. Romance is something that coulde afterwards. If Yu Zhen and Xueyue truly liked each other, they should be willing to wait for each other.

    "I love the idea of you and Yu Zhen, but you must focus on yourself first. You''re young and you''ve yet to experience the world. Perhaps you should discuss this with him," said Duchess Wang Qixing.

    Li Xueyue fumbled with her fingers. She knew Mother was right. She always was.

    "Do you know how long he will continue to stay in Wuyi for? He''s the Second Prince of Hanjian and their leading Commander. I assume his schedule is very packed and his time in Wuyi is limited," asked Duchess Wang Qixing.

    Duchess Wang Qixing had a worried, yet understanding smile on her face. She understood Xueyue''s viewpoint.

    Love was a fickle thing, showing up when someone least expected it. Many women were getting married around Xueyue''s age, but their life was much simpler than hers. None of them had a life mission to fulfill, revenge to pursue, and so forth.

    "He''s uncertain of how long he can stay in Wuyi," Li Xueyue answered.

    Duchess Wang Qixing sped her hands over Xueyue''s smaller ones. "You must have a discussion with him about this."

    Li Chenyang nodded in agreement, strolling over to them. "If not, there will be too many loose ends. Make it known that you have your own agenda and he has his. Question his ambitions, his wants, and his needs. His position in Hanjian is not something to joke about. He''s made for great things and I know he wants to achieve them."

    Li Chenyang nced at Xueyue''s troubled expression. "You have things to finish in Wuyi, just as he has things to settle in Hanjian. Perhaps the best thing for both of you right now is to separate."

    Li Xueyue tensed at his final sentence. Separate? She rapidly blinked. She didn''t think this moment woulde so soon. Their rtionship had barely started. Were they in a rtionship in the first ce?

    "I''ll speak to him about this," she finally said, her eyes wide with uncertainty. Was she ready to depart from him?

    "This chapter of your life doesn''t need love," Li Chenyang murmured. "It needs growth and self-development."

    Li Wenmin quietly analyzed Li Xueyue from afar. Was this considered peer-pressure? Or were these opinions said with the best intentions at heart, but delivered with the worst approach?

    Li Wenmin approached the table and ced a warm hand upon Xueyue''s shoulder. "Xiao Yue, we''ve been saying what''s the best for you, but we haven''t asked the most crucial question of all."

    She nced up at Li Wenmin, her face as open as a book. She was afraid of losing Yu Zhen but reluctant to let go of her ambitions.

    "What do you want?" Li Wenmin asked.

    "For now, forget about Chenyang''s opinions and mother''s advice. What do you want to do? It''s all up to you. The best thing we can do is offer suggestions, but we''ll never force you to do something that you don''t want to."

    A quiet pause shifted through them. It was afortable silence while Li Xueyue contemted her options at hand. There was so much she had yet to experience, so many things she had yet to do. A part of her was terrified of losing Yu Zhen, but another part of her wanted to focus on her aspirations first.

    She squeezed her eyes shut. Her heart and her brain were at war with each other. The illogical child and the rational parent. Her heart wanted love, her brain wanted revenge.

    Could love wait? Could he wait for her? Would he wait? Not in Wuyi, but in Hanjian?

    Li Xueyue already knew her response to this. She was willing to wait for him. Be it a year or a decade, she would wee him into her life any time in the future, but right now, it was not the time.

    Finally, her eyes snapped open, clear, and bright. She had made her decision.

    "Love can wait. This n will resume."

    Li Chenyang let out a breath he didn''t realize he was holding in. Was it a sigh of relief? Or disbelief?

    Li Wenmin slowly nodded, agreeing with her decision. Just like everyone else in this room, he wanted her to focus on herself.

    Duchess Wang Qixing squeezed Xueyue''s hand reassuringly. This wasn''t an easy decision to make. Love was never easy.

    "Are you ready to tell him that?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "I''ve thought of this topic before. I knew he would be a fleeting moment in my life. His duty is to his country, but I¡­" she trailed off, her voice cracking.

    "I wanted to live in this moment and forget my worries."

    "Love makes us do foolish things," Duchess Wang Qixing mused. "It''s the beauty of it."

    She released Xueyue''s hands and gently smiled. "You know, the Duke and I never had a smooth sailing courtship either. There were so many opposing sides, so many obstacles and bumps along the way, but here we are."

    She gestured to the twins. "A happy marriage with obnoxious children."

    "I think you meant ''obnoxious child,'' not children," Li Chenyang retorted, crossing his arms. "It must''ve been a struggle to raise this intellectually ipetent twin of mine."

    Li Wenmin''s jaw dropped open. He shoved his brother aside and ced an understanding hand over his chest. "And I understand, Mother, it must be hard to deal with this emotionally invalid brother. I weep for you every night, I do. Oh, how pitiful it is that he''s only book smart!"

    Li Chenyang wished he had brought a book to smack his brother with. "Go find your own insults, stop stealing mine!"

    Li Wenmin scrunched up his face into an ugly expression. He waved his hands around like a chicken, "Go find your own insults, stop stealing mine!" he mimicked in a high-pitched noise.

    When Li Chenyang shuffled his foot, ready to beat his brother down, Li Wenmin made a run for the dining-room door. Soon enough, they burst out of the room, on a mad chase.

    Duchess Wang Qixing heaved a tired sigh. "They were both a handful to raise," she said to Xueyue who smiled in return.

    "I can tell."

 Chapter 145 One Hear

    <h4>Chapter 145 One Hear</h4>

    In the Duke''s public study, Yu Zhen took a leisure sip of his tea, his brows raising at the interesting vor.

    "You do realize it''s impolite to visit unannounced? I have a job to head to in less than an hour from now," Duke Li Shenyangmented in a mellow tone as if he was conversing about the weather, and not subtly insulting Yu Zhen.

    "Well, it''s not like I wanted to see you," Yu Zhen pointed out, settling his teacup down.

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled. "Are you always this rude?"

    Yu Zhen paused, almost as if he was going to ask, ''Did you really just say that?''

    He chose to not respond.

    "Well, if you must insist," the Duke sighed, "You can see her after this discussion, but I must ask you something first."

    He lifted his teacup and through the rim of it, asked, "What are your intentions with Xueyue?"

    Yu Zhen knew this question was going to be asked sooner orter. "What do you think it is?"

    "Don''t turn my questions against me," Duke Li Shenyang sniped, taking a sip of the tea and settling it back onto the table.

    "My intentions towards her are pure and good. I only want the best for her. Nothing more, nothing less."

    "And if you''re not the best thing for her? What shall happen then?"

    "Then I will change to be the most ideal lover for her."

    "Do you think she''d change for you as well?" Duke Li Shenyang asked, his eyes shed with amusement. Young love was always so entertaining.

    "I don''t see why she wouldn''t."

    Duke Li Shenyang hummed as he leaned back in his chair. "Has it ever urred to you, Yu Zhen, that both of you are not ready for each other?"

    Yu Zhen stiffened. What was this old man talking about?

    "She has goals in life that can only be aplished in Wuyi. You have a Crown to fight for in Hanjian. Do you see the problem here?"

    Yu Zhen''s jaw clenched. He did. He hated how evident it was. Right now, they were ipatible with each other. He was shameless enough to pretend it wasn''t there, but he knew, deep down, that right now was not the time.

    "Sooner orter, your father will summon you back to Hanjian, but she can''t return with you."

    "You want me to abandon her."

    "For now, yes. You''re a distraction in her life, just as she is a distraction in yours. Both of your paths are headed in separate directions. In the future, your paths will cross each other, but now is not the time."

    "And does Xueyue want this?" Yu Zhen sharply asked, his blood boiling with irritation. The truth was hard to hear, and even more difficult to swallow.

    "I know for a fact that this thought has crossed your mind at least once," Duke Li Shenyang simply said. "Of course, I''m not against the idea of you two being together, but you''re both young and rash. As level-headed as you think you are, I know you''re the foolish type to throw everything away for love."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes narrowed. Just exactly how much did Duke Li Shenyang know about him?

    "And trust me, I was once in your shoes. In my youth, I was ready to abandon everything and kidnap the beloved Princess of Wuyi. I was willing to throw all of my fame and wealth away if it meant I could marry my current wife."

    Duke Li Shenyang couldn''t help but chuckle at the memory of his younger self. He wanted to marry the Duchess, but everyone was against it. Eventually, he was tangled in a mess that he hadn''t anticipated in the form of another Princess who desired to risk it all to have him, even if he didn''t want her.

    "Do you see how foolish I sounded? But during that time, none of it mattered to me, so long as I could have the woman of my dreams."

    Yu Zhen''s jaw ticked. He reluctantly agreed with the Duke.

    "In the end, everything worked out for us. It took time, much longer than we anticipated, but it worked. The same should apply to you and Xueyue," Duke Li Shenyang assured.

    "I will continue seeing her."

    Disappointment was painted all over the Duke''s expression, his eyes sharpening into a fine line. "Are you that stubborn? Did you not hear what I said?"

    "I heard each word perfectly," Yu Zhen calmly responded. "I will continue hovering over Xueyue like a fly¡ª"

    "You will never get my approval this way¡ª" Duke Li Shenyang''s lip tugged into a deep scowl.

    "¡ªfor the duration of my stay in Wuyi," Yu Zhen finished, his eyes shed with warning.

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t think it was possible for a man as young as Yu Zhen to have such a formidable and determined presence. This crazy Commander was bent on making Xueyue his, one way or another.

    "And when I leave Wuyi, I will give her time."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s brows raised upwards, not expecting this oue of events.

    Yu Zhen stood up, deciding this conversation was over. "Be it a year or a decade, I will wait for her."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded in approval. "I expected nothing less from a level-headed Commander¡ª"

    "And in return." Yu Zhen''s eyes darkened, a wicked smile on his face. "I expect your protection."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s eyes narrowed. "What are you talking about?"

    "Keep the other bugs away from her."

    Duke Li Shenyang was rarely surprised by anything, but today, he was in for a shock of his lifetime. He had expected the time they spent apart to cause a strain on the rtionship, that maybe Xueyue would decide moving to a different country was too much. And that Yu Zhen would realize that waiting that long for a girl when he had so many at his disposal was stupid.

    "How do I know you will wee her back into your life after the wait is over? After I get rid of every potential suitor from her life, who''s to say you won''t change your mind?"

    Yu Zhen quirked a single brow. "I only have one heart and I already gave it to her."

    Duke Li Shenyang was stunned by the Commander''s words.

    "Have a good day, Prime Minister." And with that said, Yu Zhen walked out of the door, never once looking back.

    Duke Li Shenyang stared at the doors in disbelief, blinking a few times to make sure he had heard himself correctly. Did that foolish Commander just dere his love for Xueyue without realizing it?

    "We really are fools for love," Duke Li Shenyang bit out,ughing to himself. Whether it was out of amusement or bewilderment, he couldn''t tell.

 Chapter 146 Pitiful

    <h4>Chapter 146 Pitiful</h4>

    Yu Zhen walked in the direction of Li Xueyue''s room but stopped halfway there. Perhaps it was time to be more considerate of her reputation. He switched his direction and decided to head in the direction of the drawing-room[1] [1] and told a servant to summon her there.

    Yu Zhen had barely turned the corner when he stopped yet again.

    In a taunt stance was Li Chenyang who seemed less than pleased by the Commander''s presence. As usual, he was followed by a small handful of servants ready to obey his every wish and demands.

    Yu Zhen nodded in greeting.

    Li Chenyang''s gaze narrowed. "What do you want?"

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. Who was this kid talking to? Obviously, he came here to see Xueyue. Why else would hee to the house?

    "If you''re going to woo her, you should make it known to the public. Not snoop around like a rat afraid of being caught."

    When Yu Zhen continued to silently stand there, Li Chenyang frowned. "Aren''t you going to say something?"

    "I''ll ask her what she wants and then I''ll make my move," Yu Zhen finally said.

    Li Chenyang''s brows shot up unexpectedly. "You''d...do that for her?"

    "Don''t sound so surprised."

    "How can I not? I''ve had horrible encounters with another Commander¡ªnevermind." Li Chenyang shrugged. "Where do you n to see her?"

    "In the drawing room," Yu Zhen lightly said, watching Li Chenyang''s bewildered expression morph into a look of content. The Minister was pleased by his response.

    "Good. I''ll notify her for you. She just finished breakfast."

    ''Well, that was easy,'' Yu Zhen thought to himself, not expecting the pleasant exchange between them.

    "I''d appreciate it," Yu Zhen curtly replied, forcing himself to smile for the sake of manners.

    Li Chenyang was used to these types of political smiles. He was humored by this oue. Evidently, neither men wanted to be in each other''s presence much longer than necessary.

    "Do you know your way there?"

    "Yes."

    "And how do you know this?" Li Chenyang asked, carefully masking the suspicion in his voice. Thest time he checked, Yu Zhen was never given a proper tour of this house.

    "The drawing rooms are usually near the entrance. Isn''t it?"

    "Well, yes." Li Chenyang folded his arms. "Did you think you could randomly open a door and it would actually lead to the drawing room? Did you n on making her look for you in every single room when we have so many rooms in our house?"

    "I initially nned to have a servant bring her to me."

    "You act like this is your house." Li Chenyang pressed his lips together, irritated by how nonchnt Yu Zhen seemed. Exactly what makes this man tick? Why was he so eerily calm all the time?

    Li Chenyang figured it was part of Yu Zhen''s upbringing as a Second Prince. The politics in Hanjian must''ve been simr to Wuyi.

    Yu Zhen chose to notment. He simply stood there like an unyielding tree¡ªtall and formidable.

    Li Chenyang scowled. "I could''ve sworn you were more talkative than this. Especially around Xueyue."

    Yu Zhen gave him a pointed look. "Are you Xueyue?"

    Li Chenyang''s lips twitched, deciding to change the topic. "When are you going to finally return to your country?"

    "Soon."

    "How soon?"

    "Soon," Yu Zhen repeated.

    Li Chenyang''s gaze narrowed. "Give an exact duration. Is it a week or month? Why are you being so vague?"

    "Why not?"

    "Listen, if you''re going to ask Xueyue for her opinion, then you have to let the Li Family know of your departure as well. Why court her only for you to leave soon?"

    "This country worries too much about a woman''s reputation." Yu Zhen scowled. "Why does everyone have their noses in other people''s business?"

    "I don''t set the rules around here." Li Chenyang scoffed. "So, how long?"

    "As long as I can."

    "Which means you''re controlled by an outside force who can demand you to return home anytime they please. Who is that outside force? The Emperor of Hanjian?"

    "No one gets tomand me as they wish," Yu Zhen mused, his smile widening, but never reached his eyes.

    "You have the guts to disobey your father, the Emperor? Aren''t you afraid of losing the chance of bing Crown Prince?"

    "Why do you ask?"

    "If Xueyue is going to marry, she should marry someone who isn''t afraid of going against norms and expectations," Li Chenyang said.

    He needed someone who would stand up for her when she was too polite too. He didn''t need her to marry a mommy''s boy who couldn''t defend her if the family decided to bully her.

    "She will be safe with me. You can rest assured."

    Li Chenyang stared at Yu Zhen who kept his face nk, his eyes lifeless. For a split second there, Chenyang thought he saw something sh within the bleak eyes of the Commander. What could it be? It was definitely nothing malicious.

    Finally, Li Chenyang was toozy to continue this conversation. He needed to head to the Pce now.

    Li Chenyang turned to one of his servants and instructed, "Bring Commander Yu Zhen to the main drawing room. Then notify Xueyue to head there as well."

    The servant bowed her head. "Understood, Second Young Master."

    Li Chenyang turned back to the quiet Yu Zhen and rolled his eyes. "You bore me." With that said, he began to walk past Yu Zhen.

    "Likewise," Yu Zhen scoffed and before Li Chenyang could have thest say, the Commander was already strolling down the hallway, guided by the servant.

    "Annoying rat," Li Chenyang muttered under his breath, turning his head to see Yu Zhen disappear around the corner.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue pushed the door of the main drawing room open, blinking in confusion when she saw it was empty. She turned to the servant who guided her here. "Are you sure this is the correct room?"

    The servant raised her head, an equally befuddled expression on her face. She peered around the room. "Y-yes, this was where I guided him. I apologize, mydy, perhaps he went to relieve himself?"

    Li Xueyue decided it would exin his absence. "Perhaps so. You''re excused."

    The servant bowed and left, closing the door behind her.

    Li Xueyue frowned a bit and walked towards the center of the room, wondering where the heck Yu Zhen wandered off. Did he leave? Did it take that long to get here?

    Pondering to herself, Li Xueyue waspletely unaware of the figure approaching her until she sensed a pair ofrge hands reaching towards her from behind.

    Li Xueyue didn''t give the perpetrator enough time to cover her eyes. She swiftly elbowed her assaulter until a quiet "Oof" could be heard.

    Li Xueyue swiveled around, her hanfu twirling with her, one hand already reaching for the sharp hairpins in her hair. She was prepared to stab whoever tried to grab her.

    "Oh," was the only sound she could make upon seeing him.

    Yu Zhen was slightly hunched over, clutching the spot she had pressed her elbow into. "Remind me¡­" he heaved, "To never surprise you," he faked a groan, pretending to copse onto the floor.

    Li Xueyue stood there, examining her nails. "You''re dead?" she asked, nudging his body with her foot. "Good," she mused, stepping over his body.

    Yu Zhen scowled from his position. He expected her to bend down and worriedly ask if he was okay whilst clutching his head in her arms. He sat up a bit and wrapped his arms around her lower legs. In one rough yank, she fell backward, her arms iling to keep bnce, but he was stronger.

    "That was mean!" she cried out, her heart racing when she fell straight into his arms, both of them sitting on the floor. His legs were on either side of her, pressing against her slim ones.

    Yu Zhen wrapped both arms around the front of her body until her back was fully pressed against his chest.

    "That''s riching from the girl who ignored my pitiful state on the ground."

    "That''s because your acting was too dramatic and fake." Li Xueyue huffed, resisting the skip of her heart when his arms tightened around her. She jumped when his hair tickled her neck.

    Yu Zhen rested his chin upon her shoulder, smiling a bit when he tilted his head to lean upon the side of her face. He chose to ignore her remark. Breathing in her scent, his smile widened in content.

    "Did I scare you?"

    "Your face terrified me even more."

    Yu Zhen chuckled at her words, burying his face into the crook of her neck. She could feel the rumble of his chest, the ripple of his biceps when he gently squeezed her body. Her stomach fluttered ufortably, whilst she gulped and forced herself to remain still.

    Li Xueyue wanted to treasure this moment and hold it dear to her. She was frightened that any small movement she made would cause the dream to crash and shatter on the ground.

    [1] A room in arge house where guests can be received. It is generally a ce to have a quiet and private discussion without being disturbed.

 Chapter 147 Out of Wedlock

    <h4>Chapter 147 Out of Wedlock</h4>

    "You came here unexpectedly, as always," Li Xueyue finally said after theirfortable silence.

    "I just wanted to see you." Yu Zhen hummed, nuzzling his head into the crook of her neck, his breath lightly fanning the exposed skin. She shuddered in response, her fingers reaching to clutch onto one of his arms.

    "Don''t you find it bizarre, Commander?"

    "Hmm, what is?"

    "That we barely know each other," Li Xueyue murmured. "I don''t know anything about your background, and neither do you know mine."

    "Well, is there something you''d like to know about me?"

    Li Xueyue shifted in their position, twisting her head to get a better look at him. He had raised his head that their faces were just inches apart. Her eyes grewrge at their proximity, but he didn''t mind. What he did mind was the na?ve look on her face. She had lowered her guard in front of him, again.

    Yu Zhen wondered if she was like this with everyone or just him. The thought of thetter lifted his mood, whether it was real or not.

    All he had to do was shift his face a bit closer and he would''ve easily captured her lips, but she would never respond to these types of kisses. Thus, he settled with a small peck on her forehead, lingering there for a split second before pulling away.

    "Well, Sunshine?" he mused.

    Li Xueyue snapped out of her daze, averting her gaze. Her fingers itched to touch the spot his lips had touched, the spot warm with his affection. He stood up, and she instantly missed the heat rolling off of hisrge frame. She thought he''d offer her a helping hand, but instead, he grabbed both of her hands and easily hoisted her to her feet, as if she weighed nothing, despite her heavy breakfast.

    Li Xueyue was sofortable around him that she didn''t notice their proximity nor was she aware of how easily he could easily take advantage of her. She wasfortably tucked in his arms, her hands pressed against his chest, yet he was never the type to breach her boundary more than necessary.

    "I''d like to know about your childhood," she found herself saying, her eyes darting from his dark eyes, dripping with mischief, to his lips. His tongue darted out to lick his bottom lip, as he slowly bit upon it.

    "Which part of it?" he asked in a low whisper.

    "Any part that you''re willing to share," she said, her eyes concentrating on his lips more than ever. When his lips curled into that fond little smile he always wore around her, her heart missed a beat again.

    "In the most cliche words possible, my childhood was ck and white. I lived in the shadow of my older brother whilst my younger siblings lived in mine."

    Li Xueyue blinked, realizing they had the same pitiful childhood. It was a miracle how easily he smiled around her despite their simr backgrounds. If only she was as cheerful as him¡­ And little did she know, he only behaved like this around her.

    "I was never my father''s favorite. With his treatment, you''d think I was an illegitimate child from a servant, but he was never a kind man towards his sons. To him, sons should be disciplined, and daughters should be loved."

    She saw the sh of indignation in his eyes before it left as fast as it came. Was he frustrated at his father? Or was he angered by his father''s treatment?

    "That is all I can share," Yu Zhen concluded, slowly raising a hand to cup the side of her face. His thumb stroked her face, his face softening. She wasn''t staring up at him with pity or sympathy, it was empathy, as if she once stood in his shoes.

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth, wanting to share her childhood, but hesitated. If she would tell him about her childhood, then she''d have to tell him she wasn''t raised by the Li Family. It was likely he''d ask her more questions, sensitive and personal, ones that she was terrified of answering. But it was unfair if she didn''t share the truth with him. He had done his part. It was her turn to do the same.

    ??Will you tell me about your childhood?" Yu Zhen asked, his voice a tad bit more hopeful than he had anticipated. He was eager to learn more about her.

    What type of child was she growing up? Was she as snarky as she was today? Or perhaps she was the troublemaker who med the broken vase on her siblings?

    Li Xueyue nervously licked her lips. Maybe it wasn''t the best idea to have asked about his childhood.

    He must''ve seen the panic in her eyes. Thus, added on, "Of course, you don''t have to tell me if you''re notfortable. You can always share something else."

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to look at him to know he was slightly disappointed by her actions. She felt guilt w at her chest, but fear weighed her down more. What if he looked at her as if she was lesser than him after finding out she was an illegitimate child?

    Originally, Xueyue thought the Viscount was her birth father. It wasn''t until she had gotten into a nasty argument with Bai Tianai in their youth did she learn the truth. "Your disgusting father raped our mother, and that''s how you were born! You''re not daddy''s daughter, you''re an illegitimate child!" Bai Tianai had hollered at Xueyue during the argument.

    The abused Xueyue didn''t need to second-guess Bai Tianai''s words. Of course, it would be the truth. Why else would Viscount Bai Sheng treat her so horribly? No one was inherently evil by nature.

    "You mentioned your father treated you as if you''re an illegitimate child. What¡­ do you think of them?"

    "Of who?"

    "Illegitimate children. What is your stance on them?"

    Yu Zhen didn''t answer her. He didn''t need to. He already knew where this was going.

    "Did the Duke have you out of wedlock?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. She immediately shook her head. "No, he''d never betray the Duchess''s trust like that."

    "In that case, why do you call her Duchess? Shouldn''t it be Mother?"

    A heavy silence fell over Li Xueyue. He had stopped stroking his thumb on her face now. He wore a puzzled expression, his brows creased together, forming three lines.

    "Is there something wrong?" he finally asked, dropping the hand around her face. She felt her heart plummet to her stomach at his loss of touch. She jumped when he curled a finger and lifted her chin, forcing her to look up at him.

    Li Xueyue had expected confusion to be written all over his face, but she didn''t expect the worry tucked between the folds of his eyes. He stared at her as if he was worried she''d shatter any moment.

    "No¡­ there''s nothing wrong."

    "Are you sure?"

    She didn''t answer him.

    Yu Zhen would give anything just to have a glimpse of what went on inside of her mind. He didn''t understand the fear in her eyes or the panic that stole her small smile.

    "Is¡­ the Duchess your mother?"

    She was, but not by blood.

    Li Xueyue tried to shy away from him, but his firm grip didn''t let her leave. She panicked, thinking he wouldn''t release her until she gave him an answer. But she had underestimated the type of man he was.

    Yu Zhen dropped his hands, giving her the space she needed. He felt his heart clench at the frightful expression on her face as if she was scared by something. What was she so petrified by? The truth?

    "You''re going to think less of me," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. Hugging her elbows, she stared towards the ground.

    "I won''t."

    "You will!" she exasperated, taking steps back when he took one forward.

    Yu Zhen became more serious. He stormed towards her and didn''t give her an opportunity to back away. He grabbed her arms, forcing her to look up at him.

    "''I''d never," he firmly said, leaving no room for arguments.

    "That''s only because you don''t know the truth!" she cried out, her eyes trembling.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to lose him. Not like this. But she couldn''t force herself to reveal her deepest secrets. It would wreck both of them and his respect for her. Even if it was an unchangeable fact, people would still degrade her for it.

    "Then tell me the truth."

    "Yu Zhen I¡ª"

    "I can''t judge what I don''t know."

    Li Xueyue swallowed, her eyes darting to the door, praying and hoping someone would walk in on them. A long silence passed through them, long enough to frustrate a regr person into walking out. But he didn''t. His grip on her upper arms remained the same, steady, but vice.

    He didn''t n to walk out of here until he heard the truth.

    Finally, Li Xueyue couldn''t hold it in anymore. Not with his pressing eyes and abdomen stare.

    "Neither the Duke or Duchess are my birth parents."

 Chapter 148 Disgraceful Title

    <h4>Chapter 148 Disgraceful Title</h4>

    Yu Zhen''s rigid grip on her loosened, his concerned expression morphing into disbelief. He could only stare at her and nothing more, unsure of what to say from there.

    A lump formed in her throat as prickling pain spread through her chest. It was as if someone was twisting a knife deep into her heart, her eyes burning with remorse.

    ''Telling him the truth was the worst decision I could''ve ever made,'' she scolded herself,?backing away from him, hugging her elbows. She shook her head and chided herself for being foolish. This was the exact oue that she had predicted. He would think of her as less than him now. He was never going to look at her the same way¡ªever again.

    Li Xueyue knew she shouldn''t me herself for this. It wasn''t her fault that she was born with this disgraceful title hanging over her head. Maybe in the future, society would care less about this, but right now, they were in the present¡ªa world riddled with judgment, where a w was a weakness.

    Suddenly, the room felt suffocating. Her eyes burned and it was difficult to swallow. What was she supposed to do in this situation? Stand around like a fool?

    Li Xueyue tried to calm her rising anxiety. He would not ept this w of hers. And she would never allow herself to be with a man who viewed her as someone inferior.

    It was difficult to gather her pride, but she did so. Forcing herself to jut her chin in the air, Li Xueyue sauntered past him, deciding it was time to head back to her room.

    No matter how much she liked him, she would not allow herself to falter like this. She refused to be trapped with someone who couldn''t ept her ws.

    "Where are you going?" he suddenly asked, his voice low and dangerous.

    Li Xueyue forced her optimistic heart to behave. It had leaped in joy, thinking he had changed his mind. How foolish of her heart to think he would be that gracious?

    "Back to my room," she curtly said, keeping her eyes forward, her back facing him. Why would he care where she was going? He had lost all respect for her, hadn''t he?

    "Why?"

    "This discussion is over."

    "No, it''s not."

    Pissed off by his words, she turned around, ready to give him a piece of her mind. Her eyes widened when he was suddenly in front of her. When had he moved? She didn''t even hear the shuffle of his clothes or the sound of his approaching footsteps.

    "Why are you like this?" Yu Zhen murmured, his eyes rigid as obsidian. He sounded far from happy, whether it was by her actions or her words, she didn''t know.

    "I have no idea what you''re talking about."

    "You can''t just drop the truth like that and walk away from me."

    "I''m not leaving because of what I said. I''m leaving because you''ve made your decision."

    "My decision?!" he harshly repeated. He clenched his teeth, his sharp jaw ticked.

    "Enlighten me what is my decision then?" he bit out, his burning eyes seemingly taunting her, the fire zing bright.

    "I don''t want to talk about it," she deadpanned.

    "So, you can read minds now?"

    "I never said that!" she cried out.

    "You implied it!"

    Li Xueyue''s jaw dropped open. She couldn''t wrap her head around him. He was seething now, his lips curled into a snarl. She couldn''t give a damn about his frustration.

    "I was merely¡ª"

    "You jumped to your own conclusion." He frowned.

    "So what if I did? I was right about it, wasn''t I?!" she exasperated, throwing her hands in the air. What was he angry about in the first ce? What gave him the right to be so pissed off at her?

    Yu Zhen reacted as if she had smacked him, his eyes dangerously narrowed into a fine line.

    "Do you think that lowly of me? To judge you for something you can''t fix?"

    It was Li Xueyue''s turn to be filled with silence. She opened and closed her mouth, wanting to retort with something intelligent that would silence him.

    "I would never think of you as¡ª"

    "You did," he seethed, his fingers curled into a rigid fist.

    Li Xueyue felt her blood boil with irritation. She despised him at this moment. He had turned the tables on her, using and ming her for something that wasn''t true.

    "I didn''t! Stop jumping to conclusions!"

    "Now you know how it feels." His voice was lethal and calm, something she didn''t expect.

    Li Xueyue''s voice died off in her throat. She was tongue-tied. Was this how he felt when she assumed what he thought about her?

    "You didn''t give me a chance to exin myself."

    "Neither did you," she shot back.

    "That was because you decided to leave."

    "I¡ª"

    "Did you truly think I would judge you for this?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. Yes. She did. The answer was written all over her face. She rolled her bottom lip into her mouth, unable to respond.

    Yu Zhen let out a heavy sigh filled with discontentment towards her.

    An ufortable silence lingered over them. Neither of them wanted to talk.

    Li Xueyue was no longer frustrated with him. She was more irritated by herself. Not a single person had judged her for her status yet, why did she think he would be different? Why did she love to think about the worst that could happen? Was it because that was her coping mechanism? To prepare herself for the pain before it happened? So that it would never catch her off guard?

    Yu Zhen didn''t say anything for the longest time. He simply stood there, refusing to even cast her a single nce.

    After what felt like forever, she decided the silence was too unbearable. "Fine. I did think you would criticize me because of the truth."

    "Why?"

    "Because it''s a shameful thing to many people."

    "I know it is."

    Her head snapped up.

    "I don''t agree with it." Yu Zhen kept his distance from her. He didn''t want to overwhelm her. He knew she was too anxious to ept anything he had to say right now.

    "But¡ª"

    "No buts."

    "At all?"

    "At all."

 Chapter 149 Part Ways

    <h4>Chapter 149 Part Ways</h4>

    Afterwards, silence ensued. It wasn''tfortable, nor was it awkward. It was just quiet. Neither of them spoke a word, and neither of them knew what to say. They sat opposite each other, quietly observing the other whilst looking away each time they were caught looking at the other. Seconds ticked by, trickling into minutes.

    Li Xueyue took a sip of her tea, leaned back in her chair while Yu Zhen sat cross-legged in a rxed posture.

    After a few minutes of watching her eyes dart from the tea to the floor and then to him, he finally asked, "Is there something you want to tell me?"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. There was so much she wanted to tell him. "How long will you be staying in Wuyi?" she asked again.

    "I received an interesting letter on the day I saw you in the Pce," Yu Zhen suddenly said, leaning back in his chair, mirroring her leisure posture.

    "Oh. From who?" she curiously asked.

    "The Emperor of Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. She already knew where this conversation was going. She forced a smile onto her face, widening her eyes and hoped toe off as optimistic.

    "Good news, I hope?"

    Yu Zhen''s eyes narrowed at the wince on her face. She was great at smiling, but not faking it. "It can be seen as good news to others, but not to us."

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion, waiting for him to continue.

    "My father has changed his mind on who might be the Crown Prince."

    It was great news from an outsider''s perspective. The Second Prince was outshining the First Prince¡ªsomething that rarely happened. So why was it that he seemed so depressed?

    Li Xueyue took another sip of her tea, debating her next response. She didn''t want to present him with false happiness. It wasn''t in her nature to do so. She wanted to be honest with him.

    "You seem far from happy," Yu Zhenmented, his lips tugging into a slight smile. "Why?"

    "I should be asking you that," she deadpanned.

    "What''s there to not be happy about? I''m going to be the Crown Prince, the center of everyone''s attention. I will have more servants tomand, more chatter about my name. An eternal life of luxury without needing to live in my older brother''s shadows."

    "But that''s not what you care about."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes snapped to her, wide and caught off guard. What did she just say?

    "And how do you know that?"

    Li Xueyue slowly smiled. "A man who doesn''t abide by tradition doesn''t care about gossip. If you preferred luxury, you would''ve arrived in Wuyi in the loudest manner possible, whether it''s arge parade or troops of servants apanying you."

    "Well, I brought my guards¡ª"

    "Every Prince needs a guard."

    Yu Zhen softly chuckled. "You speak as if you know me."

    Li Xueyue should''ve been offended by his using words, but she wasn''t. "Well, I want to learn more about you."

    Yu Zhen smiled and shook his head. "You asked about my childhood. It''s my turn to ask the questions now."

    "Okay then, take your pick."

    "If I asked you to drop everything ande to Hanjian, will you?"

    Li Xueyue tightly gripped her teacup, raising her head to stare him down. "You said you''d give me time."

    "I did." Yu Zhen nodded in agreement. "But I was given interesting advice today."

    "Funny, so did I."

    "Oh?" Yu Zhen quirked a brow. "Let me guess, it''s about our departure from each other?"

    "Unfortunately, yes."

    "Why unfortunately?"

    Li Xueyue''s gaze narrowed out of frustration, disbelief written all over her face. They wouldn''t be able to see each other for a while, isn''t that news worthy of displeasure?

    "Are you serious?"

    "Why wouldn''t I be?" he asked in a calm and collected voice.

    Li Xueyue loathed his aloof nature. One minute he was warm, the next he was cold. "We''ll have to part ways."

    "Not for a long time."

    "It might be."

    "Not if you nned it that way." Yu Zhen stood up, his eyes filled with usations as if he had already reached a conclusion. "Unless, you n to test my patience."

    "Why would I test your patience?" Li Xueyue frowned, abandoning her teacup onto the table.

    "Your father advised me to stay away from you. To give you space. Why?"

    "I thought it was my turn to ask personal questions since you already asked yours," Li Xueyue gritted through her teeth, shooting out of her chair. What was he doing right now?

    "Just answer me. Why can''t youe with me to Hanjian?"

    "I have to avenge someone."

    "Who?"

    "Me."

    Yu Zhen blinked in disbelief. "Don''t tell me it has to do with your previous parents?"

    "I''m sorry to disappoint you," she sarcastically said, crossing her arms over her chest. "But yes, it has to do with them."

    "Li Xueyue," he coldly addressed, closing the distance between them. In a low and anguished voice, he whispered, "This revenge will ruin you."

    She refused to listen, shaking her head in disagreement, even if simr words from Li Wenmin echoed in her mind. "No it won''t. This revenge will bring me satisfaction."

    "Why do you have to throw away thisfortable life of yours to pursue petty revenge?"

    "That''s none of your business."

    "Xueyue," he tried again, "Why do you have to linger in the past?"

    "Nothing you say will change my mind, I¡ª"

    "You''re starting a new life with your current parents now, aren''t you?"

    "That doesn''t change the past!" she cried out, taking steps back to create some distance between them.

    Yu Zhen shook his head in disappointment, his heart torn by her. "Neither can vengeance change it."

    "That''s enough, Yu Zhen. I don''t wish to see you any longer today," Li Xueyue harshly said, hugging her elbows, keeping her arms close to her chest. She didn''t like the truth spewed out of his mouth.

    "Don''t let your past destroy your present."

    "It''s already sabotaging my future!" she yelled out, her eyes wide and vicious. "You have no idea how much they''ve tormented me. You have no right to tell me what to do."

    "How could they possibly torment you when you''re sheltered by the Li Family?" Yu Zhen cooly asked, keeping his calm when she couldn''t. Someone had to be rational in this argument, and he decided it would be him.

    Li Xueyue blinked, licking her lips at the realization that struck her. "What they did to me in the past, it can''t be erased. It haunts me every night and I can''t sleep from it."

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened. He approached her and reached out to gently hold her, but she pped his hands away. He was taken back by her violent approach. She stared at him as if he was a monster, as if he was the enemy. And it was all because he disagreed with her.

    Li Xueyue was horrified at her own response. She didn''t mean to hit him like that.

    Her heart raced with panic, her eyes growing wide, but she did her best to hide it all.

    Li Xueyue would rathere off as a bitch than someone weak. If she was weak, everyone could hurt her. She didn''t want to be weak. She wanted to be strong. Strong enough to withstand the lethal gaze of Viscount Bai, powerful enough to trample them.

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut. He said he was patient, but no one can ever be patient for long. Soon, they''ll snap and get tired of it. He was no exception.

 Chapter 150 For The Bes

    <h4>Chapter 150 For The Bes</h4>

    Another suffocating silence passed through them. Li Xueyue couldn''t find it in herself to speak. What could she say to him? She had revealed a weakness of hers that she never wanted anyone to find out¡ªthat she was pathetic. She had nightmares. She had baggage. She was dead weight.

    No one should love her.

    It was exactly as Viscount Bai had instilled in her core.

    "Please," Li Xueyue finally said, her voice heavy. "Just go," she whispered thest part, half hoping he didn''t hear it and half hoping he would.

    Yu Zhen was never used to tantrums. He was often the one throwing them in the most lethal and unnoticeable manner. From slicing off the tongue of those who spread rumors about him, to beating his brothers at everything they were good at. His wrath was always unexpected and subtle.

    He liked to think of himself as a patient man, but that was a lie. Whatever he demanded, he got. Being a second toote was stillte and it deserved punishment. Everything had to go his way, or no way.

    So why was it that he found himself holding his hands out for her, revealing his palms to show he meant no harm? Why was it that he was still approaching this stubborn woman when she should be the one to apologize? Why was he swallowing his pride?

    "Come here, Sunshine," he softly said, urging Li Xueyue to take his outstretched hand.

    Li Xueyue blinked. It wasn''t amand. Guilt wed at her chest, reminding her of how much of a burden she was. She bit her bottom lip, her brow furrowing together.

    "I''m sorry¡­" she whispered.

    "Come to me."

    He didn''t forgive her. Li Xueyue knew forgiveness was too much to expect. Their pr differences would eventually sh and wreak havoc in their lives. They were the opposite of each other.

    Yu Zhen was the calm before the storm, and she was the violent crash of the waves.

    "Yu Zhen, I-I don''t think¡ª"

    He dropped his hands, an understanding smile on his face. "It''s getting dark," he suddenly pointed out, turning his head to the window where the sun was still bright and high in the sky.

    "I apologize, Princess Li. Your reputation must''ve been risked by my unannounced attendances," Yu Zhen formally said. "It won''t happen next time."

    He nodded his head, bidding her farewell. He didn''t look at her again when he walked past her, as if he was leaving the house of a mere acquaintance.

    Li Xueyue instantly turned around, watching as he wordlessly opened the door. She waited in silence, expecting him to m the door, rattling the frames of the walls but he didn''t. In fact, he softly closed it behind him.

    She read somewhere that people can tell how dangerous someone is by the way they hold their anger quietly to themselves. Yu Zhen was the epitome of this saying.

    Li Xueyue dug her fingers into her palm, forcing herself to remain rooted in this drawing-room. "This is for the best," she said out loud.

    Li Xueyue shouldn''t be dragged down by a man. She had made up her mind this morning, to bid him farewell. To request distance and time apart between them. Maybe his departure was for the best. Maybe it was better for him to walk out now, knowing there weren''t strings attached between them¡ªlittle red ribbons of fate wrapped around their pinkies. Maybe it was better for him¡ªshe couldn''t finish her thought.

    She dashed out the door.

    Li Xueyue ran as fast as she could, abandoning all forms of etiquette. Her hairpins loosened and it didn''t take long for them to tter onto the ground. She didn''t care for it, she didn''t care about her image. She cared about him.

    He had chased her once before. It was now her turn.

    "Yu Zhen, wait!" she cried out, seeing his tiny figure in the far distance, growing smaller with each gasp of air she took.

    Whether or not he had heard her pleas, he didn''t show it.

    Yu Zhen was disappearing from her view.

    Li Xueyue forced herself to run, but how could she? Her legs were restricted by her blue hanfu, the beautiful color of the unlimited sky, yet it was the very thing that trapped her.

    "Yu Zhen, please!" She didn''t know if he had heard her, but he was gone.

    Li Xueyue refused to stop for air, even if her vision was beginning to blur. Her heart lurched and she felt like throwing up from the exercise she hadn''t had in a while.

    She continued to run for him, even though he had turned the corner and was presumably on his way to his carriage.

    Li Xueyue was grateful when she finally turned the same corner as him, even if it was at the expense of her overworked lungs.

    "Mydy!" A servant gasped when a whirl of blue whizzed past her.

    She watched with her mouth agape as the Young Miss dashed to the front entrance of the Li Manor where a man was halfway up his carriage steps.

    "Oh my, I must inform the Madam of this," the servant worriedly said, rushing in the opposite direction of her sprinting Young Miss.

    Li Xueyue could see him now. He was outside the walls of the Li Manor, close to boarding his carriage. Her lungs were beginning to give out on her and in her haze, she suddenly tripped over footing, loudly crashing onto the ground.

    Yu Zhen was distracted by one of his men who frantically whispered something to him. His eyes widened in disbelief and in an instant, he rushed into the carriage, as one of his servants closed the door for him. It did not take long for the horseman to start the carriage.

    "Mydy, are you alright?!" Worried servants instantly clustered Li Xueyue. Collective gasps could be heard when they saw her disheveled appearance.

    "Your knees!" one of the handmaidens wailed, noticing the heavy fall had ripped through her hanfu, scrapping her pale skin.

    "Quick, we must get you back to your room. The cut is deep and bleeding!" the same handmaiden said, her eyes wide with fear.

    The rules stated that a young woman couldn''t marry royalty if she possessed a scar.

    Li Xueyue ignored them. She shoved her way past the servants, a cry of pain leaving her lips. She hobbled, biting her bottom lip. She continued her way to the front entrance, wincing and ignoring the mess she had turned herself into.

    She made it out to the front entrance only for the whirl of dust to m against her face. She shielded her face for a brief second and by the time she opened her eyes, the carriage wasn''t there anymore.

    Yu Zhen was gone with the wind.

 Chapter 151 Push and Pull

    <h4>Chapter 151 Push and Pull</h4>

    "Mydy, please, we must get you inside and cleaned up now," the same handmaiden said, her voice filled with urgency and worry. She didn''t understand the haste of her Young Miss. She had never once seen the Young Miss run or behave this rashly.

    Li Xueyue was always poised and graceful. Perfect etiquette andposure were what she prided herself to be; almost every maidservant in the house knew of this.

    Li Xueyue breathed out in shock, running a hand through her hair, grabbing the top of it out of frustration. The simple touch was enough for herst remaining hair essories toe tumbling out.

    Her chest was rapidly rising, gasping for puffs of air that she struggled to intake. It was difficult to properly breathe, especially when her lungs felt like it was on fire and her throat was as parched as the southern desert.

    She leaned against the pirs of the Li front entrance whilst she wiped away the sweat that had gathered on her forehead. She was doing everything to distract herself from the pain that had gripped her heart. It was as if a knife had pierced into her heart, twisting as it dug deeper into her, sending waves of pain that spread across her chest.

    "Have I lost him?" she softly said to herself, painfully squeezing her eyes shut. Her hesitation earlier had pushed him away.

    "You''ve lost your dignity, that''s for sure," a disapproving voice said.

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped up, only to see the disappointed frown of Duchess Wang Qixing.

    "Oh sweetie..." Duchess Wang Qixing released a heavy sigh. "You''re a mess."

    "I am¡­" Li Xueyue mumbled, dropping her head in shame. She couldn''t bring herself to meet the Duchess''s disapproving gaze. She felt remorse for abandoning the rules of etiquette taught by the Duchess when she could have hired a Governess or tutor.

    Duchess Wang Qixing was kind enough to teach Li Xueyue the proper way that ady should behave. For what her mother had done for her, Li Xueyue always tried to be grateful. She hoped to repay the Duchess''s painstaking efforts by consistently carrying herself with elegance and poise. But now, look at how she was behaving.

    "I''m not mad at you," said Duchess Wang Qixing. "I''m just disappointed."

    Li Xueyue nodded in agreement. She didn''t dare to respond. It was one thing for a mother to be mad and another for them to be disappointed¡­ Thetter was a lot worse than the former.

    Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "Get yourself cleaned up and then walk with me in the gardens," she sternly instructed, leaving no room for an argument.

    - - - - -

    It didn''t take long for Li Xueyue to be properly bathed, cleaned, and her appearance to be tidied up again. The problem was with her scraped knee that wouldn''t stop bleeding.

    The doctor was immediately called for and the maidservants did their best to treat her knee by wrapping a bandage around it. She could walk fine but she would wince whenever she put too much weight on that leg.

    "It''s fine. I''ll have the doctor look at it after the walk," Li Xueyue said, ttening her hanfu as she pushed the doors open to reveal the Duchess who was waiting outside her room.

    "Ready?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    Li Xueyue wordlessly nodded.

    "Everyone is excused," Duchess Wang Qixing instructed everyone in the room. They bowed and kept their distance from the pair.

    "Including the guards lining the hallways leading to the Thousand Petal Gardens," she loudly announced down the hallway, knowing they''ll pass the message along.

    The guards soon dispersed. They would resume their position once the pair was out of sight.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to anger the Duchess even further. She quickened her pace until she was half a step behind the Duchess.

    "Do you know why I dismissed everyone?" the Duchess asked, shooting Li Xueyue a nce.

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head.

    "I hate disciplining a child in front of a crowd. There''s no need to embarrass a child like that," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Especially a daughter."

    Li Xueyue paused, finally raising her head. Even after the spectacle in the front entrance, the Duchess had still viewed her as a daughter.

    "Why did you make a fool out of yourself?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked as they turned the corner. The small wooden gate leading to the Thousand Petals Garden became visible.

    "I didn''t mean to," Li Xueyue sullenly replied, staring at the ground as they walked. She truly didn''t think about the social repercussions from chasing him like a lovesick fool. She was afraid of losing him and that was the only thing guing her mind, nothing else.

    "I taught you better than this, Xueyue," Duchess Wang Qixing softly reprimanded. "Is this how ady should behave?"

    "No." Li Xueyue shook her head as her mother quietly sighed. She pushed open the garden gates and they walked through it. The air was sweet from the blooming flowers.

    "You must remember something." The Duchess came to a halt, turning to face Li Xueyue

    Li Xueyue raised her head, revealing her remorse-filled eyes.

    "Does the egg chase the sperm?"

    Li Xueyue''s mouth fell open in shock at her mother''s brazen words. She mutely shook her head. "No." She felt like she heard this phrase before.

    "Exactly," Duchess Wang Qixing deadpanned. "So why were you chasing the Commander?"

    "When I left him in the market squares, he chased after me. I thought it was time for me to return the favor."

    "How adorable." Duchess Wang Qixing humorlessly chuckled. "That''s not how it works. For every ten steps they take, you only have to take one. If they want you, they will have to prove it to you."

    Li Xueyue quietly listened to the Duchess. Whether Xueyue agreed or disagreed with the Duchess''s words, she kept her mouth shut and didn''t air her opinion.

    "You fell into his push and pull game. Don''t fall for it again." It sounded like a suggestion but the serious expression on Duchess Wang Qixing''s face said otherwise.

    "Is that clear?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip and tore her gaze away from the Duchess. "Wouldn''t that be unfair? A rtionship is not one-sided, it''s two."

    "If he wants you, nothing is unfair." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "I remember when I was in your shoes. I made the same foolish mistake as you demonstrated today."

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue curiously asked, tilting her head.

    Duchess Wang Qixing began walking again and this time, Li Xueyue was by her side. "When the Duke was young, he was a very handsome and charismatic man. Many mothers wanted their daughters to marry him and many women viewed him as the most eligible bachelor."

    Li Xueyue thought back to the quiet Duke and his simple smiles. Just like the Duchess, he had aged perfectly.

    "What''s there to not like about him?" Duchess Wang Qixing lightlyughed, but her face was cold and her eyes deste. An unpleasant memory came to mind.

    "He showed interest in me, showered me with gifts and attention that I couldn''t have fathomed." Duchess Wang Qixing smiled at the memory of her younger days. An adored Princess trapped in her room like a pretty bird, longing only for the shining knight in armor who was destined to be a Prime Minister.

    "But then I lowered my guard. I became desperate for him, I relied on him to leave the pce grounds. When I showed my dependence on him, he was suddenly cold to me."

    Duchess Wang Qixing cringed at the memories of her younger self: A pitiful Princess dressed in all the wealth in the world. The one thing shecked was freedom.

    The only time she could leave the suffocating pce was whenever the Duke came to visit with ns on taking her to the Capital. Gentle, loving, honest, there was nothing more the Duchess wanted.

    "It was a push and pull game. The more he pushed, the more I pulled. I waspletely and utterly in love with him, but that was when he lost respect for me. Do you want to know why?"

    Li Xueyue shook her head.

    "I gave him the exact reaction he wanted. I chased him. I lowered myself for him. Once a man learns he has the upper hand on you, he will lose respect for you." Duchess Wang Qixing sharply turned to Li Xueyue.

    "You must never repeat the same mistakes I have made. You must not give in to this push and pull. When Yu Zhen pushes, you don''t pull. You yank him to the ground."

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. Wasn''t that unfair¡­? But the Duchess was speaking from experience.

    She swallowed. Not everyone''s experiences were the same.

    "Is that understood?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    Li Xueyue quietly nodded.

    "Good." Duchess Wang Qixing smiled. "Of course, I don''t mean literally drag him to the ground, but I''m sure you understand what I meant. You''re a smart girl."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond.

    "Yu Zhen is a great catch. I couldn''t possibly ask for a better suitor for you, but I''m sure you see the problem with him?"

    Li Xueyue softly sighed. "He''s a Second Prince and a Commander. I''m sure there are vicious women in Hanjian vying for his attention."

    "I expect the same. Every mother with a suitable daughter in Hanjian will try to grab that man." Duchess Wang Qixing scowled. "Just like how every mother wanted the Duke."

    Her lips tug downwards into a scowl at the unpleasant memories that came to mind. It centered on a despicable and shameless woman who wanted it all, even when she had the best bachelor in this entire country.

 Chapter 152 Accused of Murder

    <h4>Chapter 152 used of Murder</h4>

    "How did you get rid of the women who wanted the Duke for themselves?" Li Xueyue curiously asked, wondering who the Duchess''spetitors were.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but think back to what she read in Li Minghua''s diary. There was a mention of a nasty rumor¡­ Perhaps it had something to do with the women vying for Duke Li Shenyang''s attention?

    "I hate to admit it, but the Empress Dowager pulled strings. Who would dare to steal the man of a Princess?" Duchess Wang Qixing mused.

    Li Xueyue wondered why the Duchess had such a disgruntled frown. Did something happen?

    "Of course, there was someone who was shameless enough to try and steal him from me, even though she already had the most powerful man of this country as her suitor."

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up. The most powerful man in this country? Was the Duchess referring to the Emperor? Her eyes grewrge. In that case, was this "shameless woman" the Empress¡­? Her breath hitched at the idea of this. If it was the Empress, then the rumor that Li Minghua mentioned could stir troubles.

    Li Xueyue felt like something was missing. What was it? What was she forgetting? There was a piece in the puzzle that she felt was left out, but she didn''t know what it was.

    "That woman fell in love with the Duke. Hopelessly and utterly in love with a man who wasn''t hers. By the time it happened, she was already engaged to another, but that didn''t stop her from wanting the Duke." Duchess Wang Qixing shuddered in disgust.

    "I will never forgive her." Duchess Wang Qixing''s frown deepened.

    "Why?"

    "She tried to separate the Duke and I. She did everything in her power to ruin us, whether it was spreading false rumors about me or creating fake scenarios to nder me. She was a crazy woman."

    "But if she was already engaged to such a powerful man, why would she try to go for the Duke?"

    "Because she would be marrying him out of power, not out of love." Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. She was a grown woman at that time, she shouldn''t be gossiping. The past is in the past, it should stay that way. Or so, she thought...

    "Did she¡­ ever love her husband?"

    "At a certain point, I''d like to believe she did love him. What she loved more was the titles acquired from him, the servants, the attention, the pampering. That is, until her husband took another wife, then one more, and soon, their house was filled with flowers of all shapes, types, and species."

    Li Xueyue nced around them. They weren''t apanied by any servants or guards. It was just the two of them in the gardens.

    "Is the woman you''re talking about, the Empress of Wuyi?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s head snapped in the direction of Xueyue. She pressed a hand to her mouth. ''I talked too much,'' she thought to herself.

    "It doesn''t matter who it is, sweetheart."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She wondered if the Duchess knew how horrified she looked and how pale her skin was. Xueyue knew she had hit the nail on the head, that it was indeed, the Empress.

    She couldn''t believe this twist of events. If the Empress was once madly in love with the Duke, enough to be the viin in the Duchess'' romance story, it would exin the Empress''s hatred towards Li Minghua who perfectly resembled both of her parents, especially the Duchess.

    "Anyway, you do realize what I''m saying, don''t you?"

    "A little bit," Li Xueyue said, biting her bottom lip.

    Duchess Wang Qixing gently grabbed Xueyue''s hand and squeezed it reassuringly. "You must remember real love isn''t easy and easy love isn''t real. No matter whates your way, you must brace it and fight back. As beautiful as women are, we are all vicious."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "I understand."

    "So long as you hold yourself with dignity, you will never lose him."

    ''I already did,'' Li Xueyue thought to herself, her eyes burning at the memory of Yu Zhen''s disappearing figure. He hadn''t even looked at her. When she fell, he didn''t even realize it. Was her hesitation that horrible for him to storm out like this?

    Wen Jinkai instantly came to her mind. His hesitation towards her infuriated her until she lost her patience for him. Yu Zhen must''ve felt the same frustration she did.

    "Give him time. If he does note back, then it''s his loss. Not yours."

    "I beg to differ," Li Xueyue whispered.

    "Xueyue," Duchess Wang Qixing sternly said. "You will not chase him. You will not seek his audience."

    Li Xueyue stared at the ground. "Even if it was my fault?"

    "What happened in the drawing room?"

    Li Xueyue hesitated, but in the end, she began to exin the events that took ce. From their first argument about her status as an illegitimate child to her hesitation.

    "He asked you to go to Hanjian?" Duchess Wang Qixing''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    "Yes."

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a sigh. "I''ll be honest with you, sweetie, I don''t think you should advance with this little business n of yours."

    Li Xueyue nced to the side, shifting the weight of her body to her uninjured leg.

    "Why must you risk yourself to get back at them?"

    Li Xueyue tried to smile but it came out as a wince. "I was wrongfully used of murder," she whispered. "I was tormented by them all of my life, I-I have to get back at them somehow."

    "I know, sweetie, I know." Duchess Wang Qixing squeezed Xueyue''s hands again. "This n of yours is fantastic, it will be a great way to p them back in your face, but it will strain your rtionship with Yu Zhen. Are you ready for that?"

    "I thought you supported the idea of our departure to Hechen?" Li Xueyue pointed out, confused by which side the Duchess was taking.

    "I am supportive of whatever you want," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Your wellbeing is always my priority."

    "Perhaps this test of time will show if our love is genuine or just an infatuation."

    "Perhaps," the Duchess agreed in a quiet voice. "Are you sure you have to remain in Wuyi to carry out this n?"

    "Yes, I couldn''t possibly force the workload onto Chenyang when it''s my idea to target them."

    "Well, he benefits from this business as well, don''t forget that." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled. "I know you''re going to make him the co-signer."

    "It''s the least I could do for his help."

    "I know." Duchess Wang Qixing warmly smiled for once. "I just want to warn you."

    "About what?"

    "You shouldn''t destroy yourself to destroy someone else."

    "Everyone has been telling me that." Li Xueyue chuckled, ncing around them. The flowers were beautiful today, but she couldn''t admire it. Not now. "First it was Wen-ge, then Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "And now it''s me," Duchess Wang Qixing finished for Li Xueyue. "We''re just worried about you, my dear girl."

    Li Xueyue nodded in understanding. "I know. I don''t hold it against any of you."

    "Even Yu Zhen won''t?"

    Li Xueyue sighed. Before she could respond, a servant came rushing to the entrance of the garden.

    "Madam, mydy," the servant addressed, bowing her head. "The doctor has finally arrived."

    Duchess Wang nodded. "Well, let''s get you properly treated."

 Chapter 153 Scars

    <h4>Chapter 153 Scars</h4>

    "This is bad," Doctor Xu gravelymented, standing to his full height. He shook his head in disappointment, turning to Duchess Wang Qixing with a grave expression.

    "Although your maidservant did an excellent job with the bandages, this cut might leave a scar," Doctor Xu said, his face filled with pity. He turned to his apprentice who was carrying a tray filled with all sorts of items upon it.

    "I''ve prepared an ointment to prevent scarring, but it might still leave a scar on her skin. It''s not going to be a deep one, lucky for her. But if she''s subjected to a thorough examination by one of the servants in the Pce, it will not go unnoticed."

    Li Xueyue frowned at his words but kept her mouth shut. She was the one who foolishly ran without thinking about the repercussions.

    "How serious is it? Is it going to be visible to the eye?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    Li Xueyue understood the Duchess''s fear. A woman who bears a scar, regardless if she was a Princess, would never be able to marry a royal. It was an unrealistic expectation, but who could argue with rules and traditions built upon centuries of history?

    "It will be visible to the eye if her body is examined by one of the Pce''s specialized head servants who are trained to look for blemishes," Doctor Xu responded, casting a nce towards his tray. He picked up the small in bottle.

    "This is a generic ointment, and I''m sure you can find better ones in the market, Duchess Wang, but religiously applying it won''t be able to guarantee a scar-free healing."

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded, epting the bottle. "We will use this for now while I have my servants search for a better one."

    Speaking of ointments, Li Xueyue''s gaze snapped to the window, remembering the night that Wen Jinkai had snuck into her room like a rogue. The ointment he gave her was still there¡ªuntouched and basking in the sun.

    She grinded her teeth, looking away from the window. She had refused his help that night. Would she swallow her pride and ept his helping hand? She could. He wouldn''t even have to know she used it.

    Duchess Wang Qixing had seen the small action from Xueyue. "That will be all, Doctor Xu."

    "Very well, Duchess Wang." Doctor Xu and his apprentice bowed their heads. They efficiently packed up and the two left the room.

    "Everyone is dismissed," Duchess Wang Qixing instructed. The servants exited the room, quietly shutting the door behind them.

    Once it was only the two of them in the room, Duchess Wang Qixing approached Li Xueyue who was seated on the couch. She ced the ointment jar on top of the table in front of the couch.

    "This is the consequence of that reckless chase." Duchess Wang Qixing didn''t seem partially irritated, nor was she upset. She was just disappointed, but what could she do? What''s done is done.

    "I''m sorry."

    "There''s no need to apologize, sweetheart." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed, seating herself down beside Xueyue. "What caught your eye earlier?"

    Li Xueyue???s neck whished to the Duchess. She couldn''t help but wonder if the Duchess knew of Li Minghua''s rtionship with Wen Jinkai. If the Duchess was aware, why wasn''t she bothered by the idea of Wen Jinkai courting her?

    "What do you mean?"

    "You were looking at something. What was it?" Duchess Wang Qixing curiously asked.

    "N-nothing of importance," Li Xueyue stuttered out, averting her eyes when the Duchess pressed on.

    "Are you sure?"

    "Yes."

    "You don''t have to keep secrets from me." Duchess Wang Qixing pleasantly smiled, her face gentle and understanding. "I will always stand on the side of my children."

    Li Xueyue reluctantly nced at the window. "I received a present the night of Ning Huabing''s banquet."

    "Really now?" Duchess Wang Qixing turned her attention in the direction of Xueyue''s gaze. A lone jar of ointment was perched on the window sill. She had nearly mistaken it to be a decor.

    Duchess Wang Qixing stood up and approached the jar of ointment. "I see that the maidservants are aware of this jar since there''s not a speck of dust on it despite being by the window."

    Li Xueyue silently nodded.

    "Who is it from?"

    "Wen Jinkai."

    Duchess Wang Qixing paused, her smile slipping a bit. "He''s persistent."

    Li Xueyue stared at the Duchess, wishing desperately to understand what went on in her head. ''Why did Mother let Wen Jinkai approach me if she knew Li Minghua was once associated with him¡­?'' she asked herself.

    Li Xueyue thought back to what the diary entailed. Li Minghua stated the Duchess was not aware of the romantic feelings shared between the pair, but surely, Duchess Wang Qixing wasn''t that oblivious?

    ''Unless¡­ Mother has ulterior motives for turning a blind eye? But why? Did Mother want me to live the life of Li Minghua? To rece her in the arms of Wen Jinkai?'' she thought to herself.

    Li Xueyue shook her head at her foolish thoughts. Duchess Wang Qixing was not that type of person.

    "Well, this is an ointment. Judging from the painting on the jar, it''s an expensive gift." Duchess Wang Qixing uncapped the top, catching a whiff of the strong scent of herbs and other ingredients mixed into it.

    "Wen Jinkai injured me that night. He sent this for the bruises. I''m not sure if this cream will work on cuts."

    Duchess Wang Qixing immediately turned around, her face pale with shock and disbelief. "He did what?!"

    "I didn''t mean to keep it a secret. Chen-ge persistently asked me what went wrong that night when I finished having a discussion with him but I couldn''t tell him the truth. I didn''t want to ruin their friendship."

    "Oh, sweetheart," Duchess Wang Qixing breathed out in shock, cing the jar back onto the window sill. She approached Xueyue and hugged her tightly.

    Li Xueyue numbly sat there, prickled with guilt. She had kept her silence for far too long. She thought revealing the truth would''ve been satisfying, but it only hurts more.

    "Why didn''t you tell me sooner? I would''ve done something¡ª"

    "No one can stop him."

    Duchess Wang Qixing squeezed her eyes shut, hugging Xueyue like her life depends on it. All along, she only wanted Xueyue to be carefree and happy. She didn''t think her daughter was bearing this weight on her shoulders.

    "You''ve ought to know, their rtionship has been strained ever since he was rescued by you."

    "What do you mean?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing pulled back. It was time to exin what went down a year and a half before the Spring Tournament.

    "A few months after Wen Jinkai disappeared from our house after his recovery, he showed up at our doors."

    "What?!" Li Xueyue hissed in disbelief, her eyes wide. She had never heard of this.

    "Wenmin was at the back of the house receiving his daily training and the only one free was Chenyang. Wen Jinkai was greeted by Chenyang. The two were good friends after all, but a-after what happened to my¡ª" Duchess Wang Qixing breathed in deeply, squeezing her eyes shut. It had been two years since she hadst said this name.

    "After what happened between him and my precious Minghua, Chenyang''s rtionship with Wen Jinkai became strained. The two haven''t spoken ever since the incident that took her away from me."

    Li Xueyue was puzzled. "What incident?"

    "Nevermind that." Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head, her voice cracking.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened in panic. Did her question trigger something? "I didn''t mean to, Mother, are you alright?"

    "I''m fine, sweetie, I''m fine," Duchess Wang Qixing softly responded, "Just a little bit choked up that''s all, but I-I''m a lot better now."

    Li Xueyue reluctantly nodded. She wanted tofort her mother in any way she could but knew the Duchess was too proud.

    "Well, Wen Jinkai said he wanted to see you, to thank you, but Li Chenyang knew there was more to it than meets the eye."

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked, suddenly thinking back to what Li Chenyang had said on the day of her archery tournament¡ª''Jinkai, I''ve already warned you once.''

    "You see, Wen Jinkai was once affiliated with Minghua. He had helped her entry into the Pce, and I''ve suspected he was the reason why she left the house. I''ve always known there was something between Wen Jinkai and my precious Minghua, but I didn''t want to make assumptions."

    Li Xueyue already knew where this was leading. "Chen-ge didn''t want history to repeat itself," she breathed out in shock.

    "Yes, Chenyang knew if Wen Jinkai took an interest in you, then you will be guided into the Pce and live a painful life. He feared you''d return to us in tatters like what happened to Minghua."

    "W-what was the conversation that took ce?" Li Xueyue hesitantly asked.

    "Are you sure you want to know?"

    "Yes, please, tell me in detail if you can."

    "Very well¡­"

 Chapter 154 Moving On

    <h4>Chapter 154 Moving On</h4>

    One and a half years ago.

    "Well, I can''t say this is a pleasant surprise." Li Chenyang sighed, weing Wen Jinkai into the foyer room. Strong tea was served as the two men settled in opposite couches.

    "At the least, you can pretend to be just a little bit more joyous to see me," Wen Jinkai muttered, taking a gulp of his tea. ck oolong, bitter and strong, one of his favorites¡ªat least Chenyang hadn''t forgotten his tea preference, even if it was a force of habit.

    "You know I can never be happy to see you."

    Wen Jinkai''s rigid expression softened. "You knew, didn''t you?"

    "Depends on what you''re talking about."

    "I''ve always wondered, if it wasn''t for that youngdy''s persistence, would you have saved me? Or would you have left me there to rot to my death?"

    Li Chenyang didn''t respond. He merely nced past Wen Jinkai''s shoulders, focusing on anything but his close friend.

    Wen Jinkai took his silence as the answer. "Why wouldn''t you save me?"

    "What did you do to Minghua in the Pce?"

    Wen Jinkai''s face toughened. "I''d never hurt her, you know that."

    Li Chenyang sipped his tea, peeking at his peer through the rim of the cup. "I wouldn''t have saved you. I would''ve left you to die and be fertilizer for grass."

    Wen Jinkai let out a humorless chuckle. "That hurts, my friend."

    Li Chenyang''s jaw tightened, his eyes darkened in disgust. "After what happened to Minghua, are we even considered friends?"

    Wen Jinkai let out a loud and heavy sigh. "How many times must I say it? I would never hurt her."

    "Why do you have to continue repeating that? Unless, you feel guilty or you did hurt her, just not physically."

    "Since when did you care about her? You despised her. Called her a spoilt brat who was too naive and ignorant."

    Li Chenyang hurled the teacup at Wen Jinkai, his eyes set aze.

    Wen Jinkai easily tilted his head to one side, the teacup whirling past his neck. "You missed."

    "Shut up," Li Chenyang snarled, his lips curled. "Get out of my house."

    "Since you obviously can''t hold a proper conversation with me, bring me your father."

    "As if he''d want to see the likes of you," Li Chenyang spat out, his blood boiling. He curled his fingers together.

    "We were such good friends," Wen Jinkai murmured, "It''s a pity you allowed a woman to get in the way."

    "She was my sister!"

    "She was my lover," Wen Jinkai seethed, shooting out of his chair. "I did what I could to keep her safe in that Pce!"

    "YOU KEPT HER SAFE?!" Li Chenyang roared.

    "Yes, she was fed and taken care of¡ª"

    "Then exin her heartbreak! Exin why she came back thin and ghastly as if the entire world had wronged her! Exin why her eyes were reddened by tears! Whatever the hell you think you did to keep her safe obviously failed."

    Wen Jinkai squeezed his eyes shut, forcing the image out of his mind. Her bright smiles, her innocentughter, the twinkle in her eyes when she looked up at him. He wanted to forget it all. The memories they shared, the trust she had for him, the hope for their future. He didn''t want to remember it.

    "I didn''te here to argue."

    "Then what the hell did you evene here for?" Li Chenyang snapped

    "I want to see the girl who saved my life."

    Li Chenyang let out a scoff of disbelief. "Do you hear yourself? After what you did to my sister, you think I''d let you corrupt another one?"

    "I only want to thank her. That''s all."

    "Stay away from Xueyue."

    "Is that her name?"

    "You bastard¡ª" Li Chenyang didn''t finish his sentence before he charged for Wen Jinkai just as the door abruptly opened.

    "What is going on?!" Duke Li Shenyang eximed, stepping into the room only to see his son toppled over Commander Wen Jinkai, his hands gripping the man by the cor.

    "You stay the hell away from her, do you hear me?" Li Chenyang seethed through gritted teeth, his hands shook with fury. "This is a warning."

    However, Wen Jinkai was unfazed. "Get off of me. You''re lucky we were friends. Just for touching me, I could''ve sliced your hand off¡ª"

    Li Chenyang punched him.

    Wen Jinkai could''ve easily dodged, but he didn''t. Wen Jinkai took the punch because he knew it was the least he could do after what happened to Li Minghua.

    "Chenyang!" Duke Li Shenyang scowled, storming to his son and yanking the boy off. "What is the meaning of this? You always negotiate with words, not your fist."

    Li Chenyang ignored his father, reaching over the Duke''s sturdy frame to grab Wen Jinkai only to be pulled back. "You stay away from her, you hear me?!"

    Wen Jinkai stood back up, unfazed that his lips were split and bleeding from the punch. He straightened his cors and his clothes without blinking. "I do as I please."

    "You bastard!"

    "Li Chenyang, that is enough!" Duke Li Shenyang roared, pushing his son back onto the couch. "I did not raise you to let your emotions get the best of you." He sighed, pinching the spot in between his brows.

    Turning to Wen Jinkai, he frowned. "I believe it is time for you to leave, Wen Jinkai."

    Wen Jinkai shot Li Chenyang a dirty look and stormed out of the room. Despite his irritation, he had enough respect to not m the door behind him.

    "How disappointing," Wen Jinkai muttered to himself, roughly wiping away the blood off of his lips. He breathed in deeply in an attempt to calm his irritation, but to no avail. He wanted to run back to the room and beat the living daylights out of Li Chenyang.

    Wen Jinkai blew out a sigh. "Fuck''s sake," he grumbled, heading down the hallway.

    Suddenly, his ears perked. A bell-likeughter chimed in the air, filled with life and joy, so carefree and sweet. Unknowingly, he began to walk farther away from the entrance of the Li Manor and towards the unsuspecting sound. Mesmerized by the angelic sound, he could do nothing but continue walking until he found himself near the stables. Keeping himself hidden behind a tree, he watched as a youngdy interacted with a horse.

    "You''re so spoiled." She giggled when the horse snorted, nudging her for more treats.

    Wen Jinkai sucked in a breath. He hadn''t heard something so reassuring, so lovely, in a long time. Herughter was sweet like honey, reminding him of Li Minghua who loved tough at the stupidest things.

    "Okay okay, one more and that''s it." She tried to be stern, sticking up one finger to show the horse.

    Wen Jinkai watched from afar, his eyes narrowing onto her face, her smile, and everything there was to take in. She was beautiful. In ways that words couldn''t describe and eyes couldn''t tear away from. From the curl of her rosy lips to the crinkle of her cheery eyes, she was a vision to behold.

    "There, no more." She revealed her empty palms to the horse, unable to wipe the smile off of her face when it snorted in response, angrily stomping the ground.

    "Tomorrow, if you behave, I will bring you some more." She gave her horse a pat on the head and turned around.

    Wen Jinkai instantly hid himself behind the tree, turning to the opposite side when she walked past it,pletely unaware that maybe, just maybe¡­ she was the reason he was finally moving on from Li Minghua.

 Chapter 155 Cunning and Cruel

    <h4>Chapter 155 Cunning and Cruel</h4>

    Warning: The following content contains triggers for self-harm. Please proceed with caution.

    - - - - -

    The present.

    Li Xueyue gulped. What was she supposed to say in this situation??"I¡­ didn''t know Wen Jinkai was involved with uhm, Minghua."

    "It''s alright, I''m also to me. I should''ve told you about this earlier." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed, her voice heavy with regret. "I didn''t tell you about his involvement with her partially because you seemed happy by his presence. I wanted the best for you and your wellbeing. It was the first time you had ever expressed interest in a man, I didn''t want to deter you."

    Li Xueyue nodded, though she was unable to fully grasp the Duchess''s perspective. "I understand where you wereing from. I should''ve known it wasn''t my ce to keep their friendship together."

    Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "You don''t have to me yourself for what happens between them. Friendse and go."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t respond. She didn''t have any close friends in the first ce. Ning Huabing hadn''t reached out in days now, and Xueyue was beginning to think the woman bailed on her.

    Li Xueyue wanted to show the diary to her mother. Now was a perfect time, since Duchess Wang Qixing finally opened up about Minghua, but there was so much Xueyue hadn''t read¡­ There was still so much that she wanted to know about and the book could provide answers.

    "Oh my, do you hear that?" Duchess Wang Qixing perked up. "I think one of the twins has returned home."

    Li Xueyue looked up, her eyes lingered on the spot where her diary was hidden.

    "Let''s go and greet them, shall we?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip and said, "S-sure."

    Duchess Wang Qixing was perplexed by Xueyue''s nervousness but decided to brush it off. "I suppose it might be Wenmin. Maybe training ended early today."

    "Yeah." Li Xueyue forced a smile on her face and apanied Duchess Wang Qixing out of the room.

    - - - - -

    It was indeed Li Wenmin who came home, sweaty from a long day of training. His mother rushed him off to a bath, holding her nose while she instructed him. He whined it was too early for one, but was nheless dragged away by the Duchess.

    After greeting Li Wenmin, Xueyue headed back to her room. "I''m going to finish reading it all today," she dered to herself, holding the diary tightly in her hands.

    "And then I''ll give it to Chen-ge. He will know what to do," she wondered out loud, approaching her door and locking it to prevent anyone from walking in on her while she is reading the diary.

    "Here goes nothing," she muttered, flipping it to the entry she had left off at. The only problem was, there were three entries left and the timing was months apart. What happened?

    ''I''m scared.

    I hate it here. I''m so terrified, diary. I didn''t mean to do it. I swear I didn''t! I didn''t mean to lead him on, I didn??t even think he had feelings for me! It''s repulsive to think that he would harbor these types of emotions towards me to the point where he begged the Emperor for my hand.

    Wen Jinkai must''ve known of this. Is that why he''s been distant towards me? He''s very close friends with the Fourth Prince. Afterall, Wen Jinkai was the one guarding Wang Longhe in Hechen. I can''t believe this. Can you?

    My cousin, the Fourth Prince was in love with me. You heard that right, my COUSIN! I''ve stopped referring to Jinkai as my lover. At this point, I don''t even know what we are. Is he even my lover at this point?

    He didn''t do anything to stop Wang Longhe from speaking to the Emperor. He allowed all of this to happen. Did he know my cousin was in love with me the entire time?

    I''m so confused. So, so confused.''

    Li Xueyue''s jaw dropped open in shock. What. The. Hell. "Oh my god." She closed the diary shut in disbelief, unable to get over what she had just read.

    Wang Longhe was in love with Li Minghua?

    Everything was messier than she initially thought. "I have to read on," she breathed out, flipping the diary open. The secondst entry was a few weeks after the previous one.

    ''I want to kill myself.''

    Li Xueyue felt her heart drop to the pit of her stomach. It was the only line in the entry. Urgently, she flipped to the next page.

    ''He doesn''t love me. If he did, he wouldn''t have done this. If he did, he wouldn''t have listened to her. If he did, he wouldn''t have moved into his own sleeping quarters.

    I can''t do this anymore.

    Not after his silence.

    No one loves me here. Not even Royal Uncle. He doesn''t know the Empress abhors me. She can''t stomach the thought of me.

    Every day I spend in this Pce is a living hell. No one dares toy a hand on me, but their words hurt more.

    Wang Longhe tried to make an advance on me. Wen Jinkai saw it and he just left.

    That damn coward. He valued his friendship over me, ME! His woman.

    No one loves me in this Pce.

    Their love isn''t genuine.

    I hate it here.

    Do you want to know why I''ve been talking to you less and less, diary? It''s because I feel like you are going to be the tool that creates my memoir. I don''t want you to be the defining factor of my life. I''m going to keep you away from here, far from this Pce.

    I will sneak out tonight, into the main manor of my parent''s house in the Capital. And then, I will go back to Hechen. They won''t be able to keep me here.

    I will kill myself if they do.

    My life is meaningless. I am meaningless. I will never be able to get married to another man. I am tied down to Wen Jinkai. I am no longer a virgin.

    I am a used product.

    I don''t want you to rot in the Capital, diary. It mustn''t happen. No one shall know what happened in the Pce.

    No one shall know that the Fourth Prince of Wuyi was in love with me, while I stupidly fell in love with the great Commander of Wuyi.

    If I ever make it back to Hechen, I do not know how I will heal from this. I do not know a better solution than death. It is the only way I can repent for the shame I brought upon myself.

    I just wish for a painless death, but then again, I am numb. I do not feel pain anymore. I me no one but myself.

    The Empress was right. I am nothing but a wretched bitch desperate for love. I got ahead of myself, thinking I can rebel against her, but I was wrong. The Empress is high and mighty. She is cunning and cruel, whilst I was foolish and young.''

    Li Xueyue let out a shaky breath as she closed the book. "I must show this to Chenyang when he returns home," she decided on the spot, jumping up from her chair and clutching the diary close to her.

    For now, she needed to keep the diary somewhere safe and secluded until she had the chance to see Li Chenyang. Slipping the diary back into its secret spot, Li Xueyue unlocked her door and stepped outside.

    Li Xueyue instantly headed towards the stable, where she desperately craved horseback riding. She needed it, after such a long and troublesome day.

 Chapter 156 Lack Discipline

    <h4>Chapter 156 Lack Discipline</h4>

    By the time Li Xueyue finished riding, the sun was setting on the horizon. After handing Heiyue off to the stable boy, she instantly went back to her bedroom, took out the diary, and headed in the direction of Li Chenyang''s room. Upon seeing it was empty, she decided to head to the library where he was usually found.

    "There you are," she said after pushing the door open. Sure enough, nestledfortably on the window seat was Li Chenyang engrossed in a book.

    "Were you out with Heiyue?"

    "Mmhm." Li Xueyue nodded. "I have something to show you, but first, you have to promise that you won''t get mad at me."

    Li Chenyang quirked a brow. He slipped a bookmark into the page he was reading and closed the book.

    "I don''t make false promises." His eyes fell on the object she hugged in her arms. "What''s that?"

    "A book."

    "Why so secretive?" He mused, "Unless¡­"

    "Unless what?" she curiously asked, tilting her head at his pointed look.

    "Is it an erotica?"

    "Chen-ge!" she gasped, horrified that he even knew those types of books existed. "For all I know, you could be reading one too!"

    Li Chenyangughed at her mortified expression. Her cheeks were stained red and she was averting his gaze. "Your reaction is very suspicious."

    "I didn''t expect you to say something like that."

    "You shouldn''t even know about erotica in the first ce." Li Chenyang chortled, sitting up straighter. "So what is it you''re going to show me?"

    "Uhm, a week or two ago, I was bored and I decided to wander in the house for things to do." Li Xueyue approached him.

    "And well, I might''ve...uhm, wandered off into a restricted area without knowing it was closed off to everyone in the house."

    A storm cloud rolled over Li Chenyang''s face, darkening it. "You unknowingly wandered into Minghua''s old corridors didn''t you?"

    "Y-yes¡­"

    He let out an exasperated sigh and leaned his head against the window. "Xueyue, you weren''t supposed to go there. It''s the only rule set in the house¡ª"

    "I didn''t know I wasn''t supposed to wander off in there! I only knew it was restricted after returning from it."

    "Well, in your defense, we should''ve told you about this earlier on." Li Chenyang frowned a bit. "What does that have to do with anything?"

    "Well, I found a book." Li Xueyue showed it to him, his eyes widening.

    "Is this Minghua''s diary?"

    "Yes.??

    "Did you read it?"

    "I did."

    "Xueyue!" he hissed, standing up. "You can''t just read other people''s personal journal! It''s private property."

    She quietly tucked her fingers together, staring at the floor. "I know¡­"

    Li Chenyang let out another sigh, his forehead creasing with worry. "Did you tell anyone about this?"

    "No, you''re the first person I told this to," she admitted.

    Li Chenyang frowned a bit. "I will have to show this book to Father. He will ask where we found it from. Maybe I can just say I found it¡ª"

    "You can tell him the truth," she blurted out. "You don''t have to lie to Father for my sake."

    Li Chenyang paused. He examined her widened eyes filled with panic and her paling skin. He lifted a hand and she squeezed her eyes shut, waiting to be reprimanded. He simply rested his hand atop of her head and ruffled her hair.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes shot open. She rapidly blinked. He¡­ wasn''t mad at her?

    "I''m proud that you''re remaining truthful about this," Li Chenyang softly told her, removing his hand. "I will have to read over this first. Without a doubt, Father will confiscate this."

    He tucked the book under his arms.

    Li Xueyue nervously nced at the dairy. "I should warn you, the contents inside aren''t pleasant."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes narrowed, not because of her, but because of what she said. He nced at the book and began to flip through the pages.

    "Wait!"

    He paused, ncing up before he could even read the first diary entry. "What is it?"

    "Maybe you should read this sitting down. The contents in there are very shocking and¡ª"

    "I will be fine, don''t worry." Li Chenyang chuckled, reaching his fingers to soothe the creases on her forehead. "If you worry too much, you''ll grow old too quickly."

    He closed the book. "I''ll read it after dinner. Tomorrow morning, we can approach Father with this. You can exin your side of the story. How does that sound?"

    Li Xueyue readily nodded. "It''s a solid n."

    "Great," Li Chenyang said. "I''m sure dinner is ready now. Let''s feed Piglet Number Two."

    "Okay¡ªhey!" she gasped, her jaw dropping open. "You did not just call me a piglet!"

    "I was being nice. I was actually going to call you a pig."

    "Fine then, you Bookworm!"

    "Oh boo hoo, I read a lot of books¡ªow!" Li Chenyang winced, shooting her a dirty look. He clutched his burning shin, hissing in pain. "How can you kick your big brother like this?"

    Li Xueyue crossed her arm and jutted her chin in the air. "Which big brother calls their younger sister a pig? Some big brother you are! Hmph!"

    She stomped out of the library, only to hear, "Oh no you don''t! Come back here!"

    Li Xueyue nced behind her and to her horror, he was chasing her. Frightful of his forehead flicks, she began picking up her pace. To her entertainment, he was slightly limping.

    When she let out a burst of giggles, Li Chenyang''s gaze narrowed. "Is it funny to see me limp? Just you wait, I''m going to flick your forehead and leave a bump!"

    "As if you can catch me!" Li Xueyue turned back and stuck out her tongue before picking up her pace until the hallways were met with thundering footsteps. You''d think she was running from a serial killer with how fast she raced to the dining room.

    Li Xueyue instantly slowed down when she neared the doors of the dining room. Adjusting her hair and clothes, she breathed in deeply and regained herposure. When she saw Li Chenyang''s figure quickly catching up, she wasted no time in pushing the doors to the dining room open.

    "Right on time!" Duchess Wang Qixing happily said, pping her hands. "I was just about to tell Wenmin to fetch you from your room."

    Li Xueyue smiled and entered the room, hurrying to her chair. When she sat down, Li Chenyang burst into the room. "Come here, Piglet Number Two!"

    Duke Li Shenyang coughed, suppressingughter whereas Duchess Wang Qixing let out a mortified gasp.

    "You can''t just call your sister a piglet!"

    "She called me a bookworm, Mother." Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms.

    "Well, it''s a lot better for what I''d call you," Li Wenmin spoke up, rolling his eyes. "Piglet is a suitable name for our little glutton, Mother."

    "Don''t be a hypocrite, Wenmin," Duchess Wang Qixing scoffed, taking a seat at the table.

    Duke Li Shenyang could do nothing but shake his head in amusement. "Will there be another petty argument over dinner?"

    Li Wenmin shot Xueyue a pointed look. "I don''t know, maybe we should ask the egg thief!"

    "Who? Me?" Li Xueyue innocently asked, blinking in confusion. "I thought that was you, Wen-ge. Aren''t you Piglet Number One?"

    Li Wenmin dramatically gasped at her words. "Why, I am offended!"

    "Oh shut up and eat your dinner." Li Chenyang snorted, taking a seat at the table.

    "Hey, no one invited you into this conversation!" Li Wenmin stuck out his tongue only to be grabbed by the ear.

    "Young man, I didn''t raise you to be like this over dinner." Duchess Wang QIxing scowled and turned to Li Chenyang, grabbing him by the ear as well, earning cries of pain.

    "Mom!" Li Chenyang cried out, attempting to tug his ear back. "What did I do?"

    "You burst into this room like some rogue." Duchess Wang Qixing huffed. "All of my children seem tock discipline today!"

    The twins exchanged nces with Xueyue, all three of them sharing the same sheepish expression.

 Chapter 157 Strange Atmosphere

    <h4>Chapter 157 Strange Atmosphere</h4>

    After dinner, Li Xueyue bathed and changed into her nightgown.

    She made up her mind to return Wen Jinkai''s pendant to him as soon as possible. She unlocked the vanity drawer where two pendants were found. Her eyes lingered on Yu Zhen''s pendant, picking it up to observe the obsidian. Sighing to herself, she slipped it back into her drawer, picked up Wen Jinkai''s pendant, and wrapped it in a handkerchief.

    She didn''t n to lead Wen Jinkai on, but it happened without her realizing it.

    Instead of giving Wen Jinkai''s pendant back to him personally, Li Xueyue would rather have someone deliver it but she feared he''d kill the messenger. Asking the twins to deliver it was impossible¡ªthe twins despised him to the core, and she couldn''t me them.

    "Chen-ge would kill Wen Jinkai if he could." Li Xueyue sighed to herself, running a hand through herbed hair. "He''ll only despise him more¡­" she grumbled.

    The contents of the diary were not something that should be treated lightly. Especially the part where Wen Jinkai took Li Minghua''s virginity. From the diary, Li Xueyue could tell it was consensual, but it didn''t change what happened in the Pce.

    What exactly happened?

    From what Li Xueyue could gather, the Empress must''ve done something to Li Minghua. Surely, loneliness couldn''t be that daunting?

    She swallowed, remembering her mother''s words. The Imperial Pce was a ce where flowers were meant to die.

    "Is it true?" a quiet voice said outside of her door, but before she could react, thuds of footsteps rushed down the hallways. There seemed to be amotion somewhere in the house, but Xueyue didn''t want to disturb anyone.

    She opened her door and was instantly blocked by her usual guards.

    "Is there a problem?" she asked, her head turning in the direction that the servants seemed to have rushed off to.

    The guards exchanged nces with each other wordlessly. Finally, one of them spoke up.

    "There is no need to worry, mydy."

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion, jumping when she heard the faint sound of things crashing. It sounded like things were being smashed. "What was that?"

    "One of the servants must''ve dropped something on their way to the kitchen," one of the guards fluidly answered her.

    Li Xueyue was instantly suspicious of his words. The servants here rarely made mistakes. "Step aside."

    "I''m afraid we were ced under strict orders to not let you wander off at night. If there is anything you''d like, please let us know and we will instantly have it fetched, mydy."

    Li Xueyue let out an irritated sigh. "Fine then," she muttered, closing the door behind her.

    - - - - -

    The next morning, Li Xueyue woke up fatigued. She had spent all night tossing and turning, haunted by the nightmares of the past that refused to leave her. Sweat coated her forehead, the circles under her eyes were darker than ever. At this point, she was morphing into a panda.

    When Li Xueyue caught sight of her pale and ghastly skin in the mirror, she groaned. After her morning bath, she was properly dressed and pampered. Her hair waspletely woven upwards into an intricate bun that resembled a blooming flower behind her.

    [1] The top of her hanfu was a pale white, lily petals scattered upon the sleeves, her cors lined with a blend of lc and blue. A navy belt was wrapped around her waist, secured by white ribbons. The dress part of her clothing started off a mellow blend ofvender and violet that matched her cor. The ombre slowly died off, leaving the bottom part of the dress an airy white.

    Li Xueyue was impressed by her handmaiden''s craftwork as usual but was too exhausted to offer herpliments.

    "Mydy, shall we apply blush today?"

    "Yes, please," Li Xueyue responded, deciding it was much needed or else she would look like a ghost. There was no color on her face today. She bit her bottom lip.

    Being the observant one in the family, Li Chenyang would surely notice her fatigue appearance and suggest that she drink some medicinal herbal tea to help with her sleep. There was nothing she could do to stop him.

    "If we may rmend¡­??? one of the handmaidens trailed off nervously, exchanging nces amongst one another.

    "What is it?" Li Xueyue patiently asked.

    "Please do not bite your lips, mydy. They''re lovely and the teeth could damage it."

    "Oh." Li Xueyue released her bottom lip, wryly smiling. "It''s a force of habit," she said, even though she didn''t need to exin herself.

    Her handmaidens silently nodded as they began to paint her lips a natural shade of red.

    After she was properly dressed, Li Xueyue headed to the dining room for breakfast. Today, she was earlier than usual. The doors were opened for her and to her surprise, only the Duke and the twins were inside.

    They were harshly conversing amongst themselves, neither of them happy with each other. The tension was high in the room and Li Xueyue felt like she was intruding on something.

    At the sound of the door opening, their gazes snapped towards her.

    "Xueyue, are you sure you found this in Minghua''s room?" Duke Li Shenyang held the book up and instantly asked, his voice heavy. He was reluctant to ept the truth and the contents found in the diary.

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted in shock. Her eyes lingered on Li Chenyang. Wasn''t she supposed to exin her side of the story first?!

    "I''m sorry, Xueyue. Father found me reading this." Li Chenyang sighed, waving for her toe closer to them.

    Li Xueyue turned to Duke Li Shenyang and slowly nodded. "It''s true, I found it when I wandered off. I didn''t mean to trespass into Minghua''s quarters. I didn''t know it was restricted. Granted, there was a guard there, but there were guards in every part of the house, so I thought it was normal."

    "I spoke to the guard, he didn''t recall seeing you." Duke Li Shenyang pressed his lips together, his eyes unknowingly used her.

    Li Xueyue wrung her fingers together, nervously squeezing it. "That''s because he¡­" she trailed off, not wanting the guard to be in trouble.

    Li Wenmin shook his head in annoyance. "It doesn''t matter if the guard saw her or not, Father. We should be focusing on the contents of this diary. If everything written in it is true, then¡ª" he paused when Duke Li Shenyang shot him a threatening nce.

    "Nevermind," Li Wenmin concluded.

    Li Xueyue''s gaze narrowed. There was an edge to his voice, hunting for a forbidden secret. What happens if the contents in the diary were true?

    Duke Li Shenyang approached Xueyue who was now standing near the edge of her seat at the table. Gently, he grabbed her shoulder.

    "Xueyue," he addressed in a stern tone, "You must never tell anyone about what happened in that diary. Is that clear?"

    "Of course," she immediately responded, her eyes wandered to his hands. One of them was covered in bandages. What happened?

    Li Chenyang noticed her curiosity but didn''tment on anything. Truth be told, yesterday night was a mess.

    Li Chenyang was reading the diary in his roomte into the night when he was discovered by Duke Li Shenyang. The Duke had insisted to know what was upying him for so long.

    Eventually, Li Chenyang was forced to admit the truth and when both men read the diary, things got out of hand. Teacups were smashed out of fury, and the Duke almost wreaked havoc. It had woken up Li Wenmin who demanded to know what was happening. Surprisingly, he was more calm than his raging father.

    When themotion was heard by the Duchess, she stormed into her son''s room, appalled by the mess that weed her.

    "Where''s¡­ Mother?" Li Xueyue finally asked, her eyes lingered on the empty spot near the circr table. Usually, the Duchess was always the first to wake up and arrive at the dining hall.

    The twins exchanged an awkward nce with each other. Li Wenmin was the first to speak up. "She''s uhm¡­ resting."

    "Did Mother have a rough night?" Li Xueyue questioned, confused.

    Duke Li Shenyang forced a smile upon his face. "Sure, we can put it that way."

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. "Should we wake her up for breakfast?"

    "No," Duke Li Shenyang answered in a heartbeat. He knew it was better for his wife to quietly simmer her anger off. "Leave her be."

    The twins looked at each other again, neither of them pleased with their father''s response. But what could they do? The Duchess had locked herself in her room after a nasty dispute with the Duke.

    "Did Mother read the contents of the diary?" she asked, blinking in confusion. Why was the atmosphere so strange here? Did something happen? She was puzzled.

    "Enough of the questions. It''s time for breakfast," Duke Li Shenyang coldly responded, guiding her to her seat.

    Li Xueyue awkwardly sat down as breakfast was served. She wanted to ask more, but didn''t want to anger the Duke. Holding back a sigh, she began to eat her breakfast in silence, butcked the appetite and ate less than usual. The same went for Li Wenmin.

 Chapter 158 Last Stage of Grief

    <h4>Chapter 158 Last Stage of Grief</h4>

    After the most unbearable breakfast that Li Xueyue ever had, everyone was dismissed. No one spoke throughout the entire meal, not that any of them wanted to in the first ce, but Xueyue certainly did. She tried to make small talk in hopes of uplifting the dreary mood, but no one matched her enthusiasm.

    After the meal, everyone began to disperse from the dining room. The Duke disappeared down the hall, presumably in the direction of the front entrance. Duke Li Shenyang was leaving for work earlier than usual which rarely happened. If he had any free time in the morning, it was always spent with the Duchess.

    Gathered in the hallways close to the dining room were the twins and Li Xueyue.

    "Did something happen?" Li Xueyue asked, turning to face the twins who looked reluctant to fill her in.

    Li Wenmin tried to smile. "Don''t worry about it, Xiao Yue." He gave her cheek a pat and adjusted his belt, where a sword was hung from it.

    "The Duke and Duchess had a fight didn''t they?" Li Xueyue, persisted.

    Li Chenyang lightly frowned. "Yeah. They did."

    "Over what?"

    "It''s adult stuff," Li Wenmin responded. "We don''t want you to be stressed by any of our problems."

    "But¡ª"

    "What are your ns for today, Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin interjected, deliberately changing the topic.

    "Did Mother read the diary? Did you, Wen-ge?" Li Xueyue asked again, this time, in a more serious tone. She figured he wouldn''t take her seriously if she wasn''t so direct and firm.

    "As I said, Xiao Yue, it''s not your ce to fret over trivial matters like this," Li Wenmin told her, his brows creasing together, his lips tugging downwards.

    Li Xueyue defiantly crossed her arms, refusing to ept his words.

    "Xiao Yue¡ª"

    "Just tell her the truth," Li Chenyang muttered. "She''ll find out about it eventually."

    Li Wenmin shot his brother a dirty look. "I thought we established she wouldn''t know what happenedst night."

    "Well, too bad, I didn''t agree to that yesterday," Li Chenyang bit out, turning to Xueyue. "Mother doesn''t know about the diary, but she was close to finding out about it. Yesterday, she demanded to know what angered her father to that extent. He refused to tell her anything. She was frustrated by the mess he created, his silence, and her curiosity got the best of her."

    Li Wenmin scowled. "Are you crazy?" he hissed at Chenyang, "Why would you tell Xueyue this? You''re going to stress her out!"

    "Uhm, I''m standing right here¡ª"

    "She has a right to know!" Li Chenyang barked, "She''s not a child. If we keep her in the dark forever, she will be ignorant!"

    "I want her to live an easy life free from these types of worries!" Li Wenmin''s eyes narrowed. "Do you really want to burden her with this truth?!"

    Li Chenyang scowled. "Does she look burdened to you?"

    Both of them immediately turned towards Xueyue whose eyes were wide with surprise. "Uhm, it''s fine to tell me, I won''t be stressed out¡­"

    "See!" Li Chenyang scoffed, rolling his eyes.

    "But I appreciate it, Wen-ge. Thank you for thinking about my wellbeing," Li Xueyue hurriedly added on, grabbing his hands. She hoped he wouldn''t be offended by any of Li Chenyang''s words.

    Li Wenmin scowled and stared at his twin irritably. Then he nced down at her tiny hands clutching at his. Releasing a sigh, he pulled one hand back and patted her cheek.

    "I just want you to live a carefree life."

    "I know," she said in understanding, gently smiling up at him.

    His gaze softened. "But yes, Mother and Father had a horrible argument. She doesn''t like it when we keep secrets from her, but we had no choice. We''re worried about what would happen if she finds out the contents of the diary."

    Li Chenyang quietly sighed, turning to face the courtyard. He stared up at the sky, cloudy and sunless. "Anything about Minghua will trigger her. The person most affected by what happened to Minghua is our mother."

    Li Wenmin nodded. "That''s why we have to keep everything a secret. If we don''t, Mother might be depressed again."

    Li Chenyang continued to observe the sky. It was gloomy today, despite the early morning. Even the birds weren''t chirping. "You''ll keep this a secret from her, won''t you Xueyue?"

    The twins stared her down, their gaze piercing and unrelenting.

    Li Xueyue was conflicted about what she should do. On one hand, she agreed with Li Wenmin in that she didn''t want the Duchess to worry about things like this. But on the other hand, it didn''t feel right to keep the Duchess in the dark.

    "It''s not fair to treat her like this," Li Xueyue finally said. "Even if it''s triggering for her, she has a right to know."

    Li Wenmin frowned. "We''re doing what''s best for her."

    "And how do you know what''s best for her?" she retorted, "Maybe she has healed from what happened. The secondst stage of grief is depression. She seems to have passed that stage, which leaves thest stage of grief¡ªeptance."

    Li Wenmin groaned. She has a point. "Well, regardless, we can''t tell her. Not yet."

    "Why not?" she pressed on, pulling her hand back and crossing her arms. She refused to acknowledge the problem of informing Mother.

    "Because, Xiao Yue, Father didn''t give us permission to tell her," Li Wenmin responded, nudging his brother on the shoulder. "I could use some support here," he quietly hissed but Xueyue heard him anyway.

    "It''s not right to keep this a secret from Mother."

    "It''s the best for her," Li Chenyang curtly said, refusing to budge. "Do not disclose anything to her¡ª"

    "No."

    "Xiao Yue!" Li Wenmin exasperated, his eyes burning with irritation. He was not used to her disobedience. "You can''t."

    "You''re taking Father''s side. Both of you." Li Xueyue slightly frowned. "How is that fair to her?"

    "We''re doing what''s best for her!" Li Chenyang groaned.

    "I don''t agree with this." Li Xueyue scowled.

    "We''re not asking you to lie to her or anything," Li Wenmin cried out, "Just keep it a secret for now."

    "Can wepromise?" she asked.

    "Fine." Li Chenyang sighed, knowing she was too stubborn to back down from this. "What do you want?"

    "If she doesn''t ask me, I won''t tell her anything, but if she does ask me, I will tell her everything."

    Li Wenmin pondered it for a bit, scratching the back of his head. After a few seconds of silence, he reluctantly said, "Alright then. It''s a deal."

    Li Xueyue turned to Li Chenyang who nodded. "Sounds good to me."

    "Great!" She smiled, happy that they finally reached a conclusion.

    Li Wenmin huffed in response, grumbling to himself. Li Chenyang kept his opinions to himself, deciding that this was better than deceiving his own mother.

 Chapter 159 You Wont Starve Me, Right?

    <h4>Chapter 159 You Won''t Starve Me, Right?</h4>

    Out of the blue, Li Xueyue spoke up again, "Can I head to the Pce?" she asked, knowing she couldn''t leave the house without any of them knowing.

    The twins instantly responded at the same time.

    "No," Li Wenmin deadpanned.

    "Absolutely not," Li Chenyang dered.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even have to ask why not. She let out a sigh, "But I have something to give¡ª"

    "The pendant right?" Li Wenmin spoke up, raising both of his brows. "I told you, you should''ve returned it to him when you had the chance."

    "You kept it?" Li Chenyang asked. "I forgot about that."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "I wanted to return it to him, but uhm, I didn''t want to ask any of you to do it because I know how much you dislike him."

    "Xiao Yue." Li Wenmin chuckled. "We don''t dislike him."

    "Oh, I thought you did¡ª"

    "We hate him," Li Wenmin concluded, patting her cheek when she blinked in confusion. "Now give us the pendant, we''ll break it¡ªno, I mean we''ll return it to him."

    "You can''t just destroy the pendant!" Li Xueyue exasperated. "No way am I going to give it to you then."

    "It was a joke." Li Wenmin awkwardlyughed, shooting Li Chenyang a re. ''This dang brother of mine, howe he never offers me any support?!''

    Li Chenyang quirked a brow. "Why should you care if we ruined his pendant. Did you forget, Xueyue? He held that against you at the tournament and nearly ruined your reputation with it."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "The decent thing to do is return it in one piece. He gave it to me to keep me safe¡ª"

    "And did it keep you safe at all?" Li Chenyang bit out, folding his arms, his tone dark and angry. He didn''t like how nice she was suddenly being. Wen Jinkai deserved none of their kindness.

    "No, but I''m sure¡ª"

    "Xiao Yue, I hope you know you''re taking his side right now." Li Wenmin scowled, sharing a simr stance to his brother. "Now, where is the pendant?"

    Li Xueyue nervously nced from one twin to the next, her eyes wary of what they would do. She fiddled her fingers and shuffled her foot. "I don''t know about this¡­"

    "Xiao Yue, he''s usually not in the Pce. He''s mainly on the fields, training his men," Li Wenmin pointed out. "I can return the pendant to him."

    "In pieces?" she hesitantly asked, her voice timid and tiny. As much as she disliked Wen Jinkai, she didn''t want to ruin the pendant. It seemed expensive and held a lot of authority.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even understand where this stubborn side of her came from. She abhorred what he did to her and Li Minghua, but had the decency to keep the pendant safe.

    Li Chenyang scowled, his face scrunching up like his father. "Xueyue," he warned. "What are you doing?"

    "I just¡ª"

    "What is going on here?" a voice asked from behind him.

    The siblings turned around and sure enough, Duchess Wang Qixing was standing by behind them, arms folded. She seemed disgruntled by something but obviously would not tell her children about it.

    Li Xueyue''s face instantly lit up. "Mother, you''re awake."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s lips twitched. "Yes, sweetheart, I am. Did you enjoy breakfast?"

    "Not as much as I would with you present."

    Finally, the Duchess smiled. "Ever the sweet talker, aren''t you?" she mused, stepping closer to them. "What are you discussing so early in the morning?"

    "Xiao Yue is being stubborn." Li Wenmin pouted, instantly approaching his mother. "She thinks we should return Wen Jinkai''s pendant to him in one piece, meanwhile I want to deliver it back shattered to dust."

    Duchess Wang Qixing gasped at his behavior. "You can''t break a gift and then on top of it, return it in shambles. It is disrespectful."

    Li Chenyang scowled. "So what if it''s disrespectful? Why should we care about his feelings?"

    "Chenyang," Duchess Wang Qixing addressed in a strict voice. "The pendant is presented to the child at birth. It is a gift from their parents and something they''ve held onto for a long time. You can''t just break it out of spite. Think of how it will affect his parents?"

    Li Wenmin frowned. "It''s not like his parents care about him in the first ce! Also, he still has Xiao Yue''s pendant!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing firmly shook her head. "His parents might not care for him, but I suspect the Empress is the one who gave him the pendant in the first ce. We can''t offend her like this."

    Li Chenyang opened his mouth, ready to argue back, but paused. Damn it! He almost leaked the contents of the diary right then and there¡ªabout the Empress''s bullying.

    In the end, he finally settled with, "Well, what are we going to do then?"

    "We''re going to politely seek an audience with him," Duchess Wang Qixing reasoned. "We will exchange the pendants back. He can have his and Xueyue will get hers back."

    Li Wenmin scowled. He had little to no faith in the Commander. "How do we know he will bring it with him?"

    "If he has any honor, he will."

    Li Wenmin scoffed. "Then I guess we won''t ever see Xiao Yue''s pendant."

    "You talk back too much." Duchess Wang Qixing tutted, shaking her head. "Have some faith in your Commander."

    Li Chenyang''s scowl deepened. He was infuriated by his initial silence yesterday. He should''ve just shown his mother the diary. If she read it, she wouldn''t be as kind as she is right now, but he promised his father he wouldn''t utter a single word about it.

    "In regards to the attendance, we must have the upper hand in this. He will have to visit the manor," Duchess Wang Qixing instructed.

    "I agree." Li Wenmin nodded, "We shouldn''t meet him in the Pce."

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "But it''d be suspicious if Wen Jinkai is frequently seen around Xueyue. Rumors will start flying if he visits our manor out of the blue."

    Duchess Wang Qixing hummed in response. He has a point. First it was Yu Zhen visiting Xueyue, and now it was Wen Jinkai? The gossiping women of upper society will be ruthless.

    Her lips curled in disgust. These women had too much time on their hands. It was one of the main reasons why she refused to associate with them unless necessary, which was at public outings.

    After a few seconds, she finally spoke up again. "Perhaps we don''t have to meet him at all. I will write a letter to him and request him to send the pendant back."

    Li Wenmin raised a brow, staring at his mother in disbelief. "Do you really think he will return it? He knows what it means to request for the pendant back and I can assure you, Wen Jinkai is shameless enough to hold onto it."

    "He will demand to see her," Li Chenyang added on, letting out a frustrated sigh.

    "Well," Li Xueyue spoke up, "Who''s to say he will bring the pendant to the meeting as well?"

    Li Wenmin groaned. "True."

    Duchess Wang Qixing slightly frowned. "Wen Jinkai is a Commander for Wuyi. Surely, he would have enough integrity and honor to not¡ª" she paused, already knowing the answer to this.

    Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "We shouldn''t stand around doubting. Let''s proceed with the meeting invitation first. Xueyue doesn''t have to be present, but I will leave out that part. The meeting will take ce in the Pce, where I still have jurisdiction if something happens, though I doubt it would."

    The twins pondered over her words before nodding in agreement.

    "Sounds like a solid n to me." Li Wenmin shrugged.

    "I agree," Li Chenyang added on.

    "Very well then, I''ll begin drafting the letter. You boys should be heading off now, it''s getting quitete," Duchess Wang Qixing pointed out.

    "Wait," Li Xueyue said and turned to the Duchess. "Shouldn''t you have breakfast first? The letter can wait."

    Duchess Wang Qixing paused, her eyes widened a bit. Finally, her lips quirked upwards in a warm smile. "I should." She chuckled. "Come and join me, I will have the chef prepare some snacks."

    Li Wenmin instantly perked up, his eyes lighting up. "Oh oh, I want some snacks too!"

    Li Chenyang scowled. "You have soldiers to train."

    "They can wait!" Li Wenmin cried out, turning to his mother. He erged his eyes and jutted out his bottom lips, looking pitiful. "You''ll feed me, right, Mother? You won''t starve me, right?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled, shaking her head in amusement. "You speak as if I starve you as punishment, my little glutton."

    "Well, I did eat less this morning." Li Wenmin faked a sniffle, like a pitiful child.

    "Oh please," Li Chenyang scoffed, rolling his eyes. "You only ate one less bowl of rice."

    "Yeah, you heard that Mom, I ate less, so now I''m hungry...Boo hoo¡­" he trailed off, wiping away a fake tear.

    Duchess Wang Qixing couldn''t help but smile at her foolish son. "What shall we do with you?" She sighed, grabbing his hand and Xueyue''s. "Let''s get both of my little piglets fed."

    Li Chenyangughed at the nickname. "I told you they were piglets."

    Li Wenmin chose to ignore his brother and when they walked past him, Li Xueyue purposely stomped on Chenyang''s foot.

    "That didn''t hurt at all." Li Chenyang scoffed, wincing as he took a step.

    Li Wenmin exchanged a knowing look with Xueyue who smirked at his response.

    "Sure, it didn''t hurt." She snickered.

 Chapter 160 What If

    <h4>Chapter 160 What If</h4>

    Two days came and went without anything major happening, except the suffocating tension between the Duke and Duchess. Every meal was awkward and there was always one of them missing. If Duchess Wang Qixing was present, Duke Li Shenyang wasn''t.

    Sighing to herself, Li Xueyue sat in her room in utter boredom,zily flipping the pages of a book. She didn''t know why, but there was a surplus of geography books in the library. She had practically memorized theyout of this continent and knew it like the back of her hand.

    "How boring¡­" she mumbled, her eyes zing over the paths leading out of the Capital. By now, she knew the fastest route to Hechen, Hanjian, and every other city.

    When a quiet knock sounded through her room, she straightened up, eager to see who it was. "Come in!" she happily called out, turning to the door.

    Li Chenyang strolled in, surprising her. It was early in the afternoon and he was rarely home during this time, especially on a workday.

    "Oh, Chen-ge, you''re home!" Li Xueyue grinned, standing up to greet him.

    The corners of his lips curled up a bit, revealing a small smile. "I''vee with great news."

    "Really?" she asked, her eyes growingrge, eager to find out what he was going to say.

    "Well, there''s also bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?"

    "The bad."

    "Why?"

    Li Xueyue shrugged. "It''s better to tackle the difficult part first. Besides, the good news afterwards might cheer me up. I don''t want to be happy and then depressed if the bad news is deliveredst."

    Li Chenyang nodded in understanding. "You have a point there," he said, closing the door behind him.

    "So what''s the bad news?"

    "Well, the first n is going to be more pricier than we thought."

    "Oh." Li Xueyue blinked.

    "The good news is that the pirates have agreed to work with us for a price."

    "That doesn''t make sense." Li Xueyue frowned. "They''re pirates. Isn''t it good enough that we reveal the route of trading ships that they''re going to hijack anyway?"

    "Well, yes, but the Bai Family''s ships are more guarded than we thought," Li Chenyang responded. "The pirates imed the Bai Family have hired guards, thus, they''ll need the money to hire more crewmates."

    "I see. Were our identities revealed? As in, do the pirates know you''re the one hiring them?" she asked.

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "No, they didn''t know it was me. All the pirates know is that a servant from an aristocratic family is hiring them. Secrecy in identities aremon."

    "How do these pirates know we''re not setting them up to be caught?"

    "Well, we had to pay them upfront with half the promised money. They''ll get the rest of it when they''ve sessfully looted everything, or ruined the goods."

    Li Xueyue hummed in response, pondering over his words. "In that case, how expensive are they?"

    "A handful of gold coins. You don''t have to worry about that," Li Chenyang responded, taking a seat near the usual table where she enjoyed her snacks.

    "When will the raid begin?"

    "Tonight they set sail. It should take less than a week," he said.

    Li Xueyue raised her brows. "That''s pretty quick."

    "Not quick enough. We shouldmence step two very soon. The question is, how do we contact the Viscount''s dissatisfied servants all the way from the Capital?" Li Chenyang sighed, leaning the side of his head on a propped up arm. He watched her fiddle with the pages of her book whilst she thought of a response.

    "That''s a good question¡­" she trailed off, curling her finger and pressing it against her chin. "Oh wait, please tell the pirates to not hurt the Bai family workers??"

    "I''ve already instructed the pirates to bring the workers back alive."

    "In that case, we can just get in touch with the workers they bring back alive and employ them as our messengers?"

    Li Chenyang hummed, tilting his head as he pondered over everything. "Theoretically, it''s a good n, but how can we be sure they''re not going to snitch on us? It''s suspicious to capture them and then randomly question their working conditions."

    "Well, pirates usually take other sailors as captives to be sold as ves. We can pretend to save these workers, pretend to be officers in charge of uhm¡­" she paused, rattling her head for some answers.

    "Oh, you mean servant rights officers?"

    "Yes!"

    "There''s no such thing as that." Li Chenyang chuckled, shaking his head. "No one cares about their servants."

    "Well, we treat our servants pretty well don''t we?"

    "We do." Li Chenyang nodded in satisfaction. "They have above average wages,fortable living situations, and are fed on the job."

    "Well, why don''t we save these men and employ them?"

    "How will that convince the Bai workers in Hechen to soil the products?"

    Li Xueyue slightly frowned. He had a point. She just didn''t know how to tie the strings together.

    "How about this?" Li Chenyang proposed, "We send our Li Family''s most trusted servants straight to the Hechen trading harbors, identify where the Bai Family stores their imported and exported goods, then we use our own servants to deal with it?"

    "Oh, that''s a great idea." Li Xueyue blinked. "Then, what shall happen to the captured men?"

    "Why do we have to care about them?"

    "Because it''s the ethical thing to do," she deadpanned in disbelief, staring at Li Chenyang as if he had grown three heads.

    "You''re cute for caring about ethics, but that''s not how business works." Li Chenyangughed, shaking his head when he saw how serious she was.

    "Chen-ge, we can''t harm innocent lives¡ª"

    "Toote for that," Li Chenyang muttered, standing up. "We''ll let the pirates deal with these men¡ª"

    "No," Li Xueyue firmly said, standing up as well. "These men have families to take care of, children to feed and¡ª"

    "These men work for our enemies. You can''t be a saint to everyone you meet." Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms.

    "Maybe let them return to the Bai Family."

    "These servants will be severely punished whether it''s a beating or torture, and then they''ll be fired. Even worse, killed for losing the expensive goods they''re exporting or importing. You really think any wealthy family will care about the lives of a mere servant?"

    She flinched as if she was pped by his words. Her brows drew together in worry, her eyes cast onto the ground. Is it so bad to want to save lives?

    Li Chenyang heaved a loud sigh. "Xueyue, you''re a great girl with a decent heart, but you use it at the wrong times."

    "When is it the right time to have a good heart?" Li Xueyue muttered, lifting her head to stare directly into his eyes. She refused to believe he didn''t have an ounce of moral inside of him to save these servants.

    "In the aristocratic society?"

    She nodded.

    His scowl deepened. "Never."

    "Chen-ge..."

    "Your kindness is a weakness. People will trample upon you if they discover your heart of gold. Only be nice to others when there is a benefit," he reprimanded, stepping closer to her.

    "I never said to be kind to everyone, I only wanted to save these workers. It''s not like they asked to be raided."

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "We will not save them. We will pretend they do not exist."

    Li Xueyue slightly frowned. "I''m sure we can find some use for them¡ª"

    "Enough."

    She froze, her eyes widening in disbelief. He had nevermanded her like this.

    "This discussion is over." He sighed, heading towards the door, but she refused to let him leave until this problem was settled with.

    Li Xueyue grabbed onto his sleeve, forcing him to look at her. "We''re saving these men," she gritted through her teeth.

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "It wasn''t a suggestion," she snapped. "They will be useful in the future."

    "You expect us to waste money and house them? What use would we have for them¡ª"

    "There will be uses," she firmly said, leaving no room for an argument.

    "Your kindness is a weakness!" he eximed, harshly grabbing her hands, forcing her to listen. "Do you really think saving them makes you a good person? In the end, you''re still going to use them."

    Li Xueyue struggled to keep calm at his provocative words. He was furious, she could see it in the ticks of his jaw, the re of his eyes, swirling with annoyance. He was far from happy.

    "It''s better than letting them rot at the hands of pirates," she calmly said, trying her hardest to not wince at his tight grip on her hands. It felt like he was going to crush her fingers, but she was simply too stubborn to voice out her pain.

    "Xueyue!" He groaned. "You have to be reasonable."

    "I am."

    "You''re not!" Li Chenyang growled. "We''re not going to give a damn about these men and that''s final."

    "What if they have families to feed?"

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "What if their children are waiting for them toe home? What if he''s the sole provider for his parents and his wife''s side of the family? What if¡ª"

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang gently muttered, grabbing her shoulders, shaking her.

    She nced up at him, hopeful of what he was going to say.

    "I. Don''t. Care. About. Them," he deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth to respond, but he dropped his hands and stormed out of her room.

 Chapter 161 Shameless Snitch

    <h4>Chapter 161 Shameless Snitch</h4>

    "Chen-ge, wait!" Li Xueyue called out, rushing out of her room only to see he had speed-walked down the hallway. She groaned in annoyance, deciding to chase him down.

    "We have to finish discussing this!"

    "No, we don''t," Li Chenyang called back, picking up his pace, asionally ncing behind him to make sure she wasn''t catching up. His eyes widened in shock when she was quickly approaching him.

    Eventually, they broke out in a run, and Li Chenyang was whizzing down the hallway.

    "Why can''t we talk about it?!" she called out, breaking out a sweat.

    "Because it''s going to end up in an argument!"

    "Why are we running?" she cried, rushing to catch up to his long legs.

    Li Chenyang let out a breathlessugh. She was right, why were they running? It originally started as an attempt for him to get away from her, but now it felt too weird.

    He slowed down into a leisure walk, allowing her to catch up to him.

    "Can''t we talk this out, please?" Li Xueyue exasperated, widening her eyes and jutting out her bottom lip into a pleading pout.

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "Your idea of ''talking it out'' is trying to convince me to agree with you and persisting until I do."

    "We canpromise!" she eximed, sping her hands together. "Please, Chen-ge?"

    Li Chenyang groaned in response. "No means no, Xueyue. Why do you have to care about the wellbeing of others so desperately? The only person you should care about is yourself."

    "How about we uhm¡­ consult Father¡ª"

    "Father''s morals are worse than mine. He would''ve told the pirates to not save a single man since they''ll serve as witnesses." Li Chenyang threw her a pointed look. He was amused by her bewilderment.

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked. "But¡­ I thought Father has great ethics¡­"

    "He pretends to." Li Chenyangughed, shaking his head when she tilted her head in confusion like a lost bunny. "Just trust me, it''s better to leave them be than care about them. What benefit could they possibly bring us? The satisfaction of being a savior? I''m not interested in those things."

    Li Xueyue''s shoulders dropped in disappointment, her pout turned into a frown. "Every life is important," she sullenly whispered.

    "Maybe in another lifetime it is, but the lives of these men will put us in jeopardy. Who''s to say they won''t run back to their masters and snitch that the Li Family were the ones who hijacked the ships?"

    "Well¡ª"

    "How about this?" Li Chenyang interjected. "We''ll let these men go, but we won''t offer them a helping hand to return back to Hechen. Their fate is up to them. That way our identities wouldn''t bepromised, and they don''t suffer at the hands of the pirates."

    Her eyes lit up at his suggestion. She let out a happy squeal, pouncing onto him into a tight hug. "That''s a fantastic n!"

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. On a normal asion, he would''ve hugged her back, but he was still mad at her so he kept his arms by his side, even when she happily smiled up at him.

    "You''re the best!"

    "I know." Li Chenyang snorted, cing a finger on her forehead. She blinked in confusion and yelped when he exerted a little force, pushing her backward with his finger.

    "You should try harder to appease me."

    "I wasn''t appeasing you, I just wanted to hug you."

    "Yeah right." Li Chenyang chuckled, flicking her on the forehead.

    "Ow! That hurts!" she cried out, clutching the spot on her head. If he continued flicking the same spot, there would be a permanent dent on it!

    "Whatever," Li Chenyang mused.

    "By the way, why are you home so early?"

    "I finished up my court duties earlier than usual. There wasn''t a lot of work to do."

    "I see, in that case, let''s y Go¡ª"

    "Oh, Xueyue," a voice called out from behind Li Chenyang.

    Both of them turned around to see their mother who bore a slight frown on her face. She didn''t seem happy with something, and the opened letter in her hand gave it away.

    "What''s wrong?" Li Xueyue asked, sidestepping Li Chenyang and approaching her mother. "You seem glum."

    "I received a letter from Wen Jinkai. It doesn''t bear good news." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed, walking towards her children. She handed the letter to Xueyue but it was snatched by Chenyang.

    Li Chenyang unfolded the letter, his eyes quickly skimmed through its contents. In the blink of an eye, his lips curled into a snarl. "That desperate son of a¡ª"

    "Don''t you dare finish that sentence!" Duchess Wang Qixing scolded, cing her hands on her waist.

    Li Chenyang responded by crumbling up the parchment into a ball, throwing it onto the ground. "Who does he think he is?! How dare he go against your authority, Mother. Does he really think the position of a Commander outweighs that of a Princess?" he hissed.

    Li Xueyue was perplexed by what just happened. She bent down and picked up the parchment he threw only for him to lightly smack her hand.

    "Don''t touch that dirty parchment, it has his disgusting bacteria all over it," Li Chenyang muttered, taking out a handkerchief and wiping her fingers.

    Duchess Wang Qixing sighed at her overprotective son. "You shouldn''t have thrown it onto the ground in the first ce."

    "Sorry¡­" Li Chenyang sheepishly responded though he seemed far from apologetic.

    "I still want to read it," Li Xueyue piqued, picking up the parchment again. She uncrumpled it much to his irritation. Her brows raised upwards. Yet again, she was surprised by his neat handwriting.

    ''Dear Duchess Wang,

    I have received your letter in regards to the pendants, however, I regret to inform you that to get it back, I would like to personally receive it from the woman I gave it to.

    Since meeting at the Li Manor is too risky for our Xueyue, may I suggest the Royal Pce? Or perhaps, one of the restaurants fancied by other aristocrats? She did owe me a meal, but it seems your mischievous daughter found the loophole in our agreement.

    Warm regards,

    Wen Jinkai''

    Li Xueyue blinked. "Okay, maybe you''re right Chen-ge, this letter is dirty." She scowled, crumpling it up again, tossing it onto the ground.

    "I told you," Li Chenyang deadpanned. He crossed his arms. "And what did he mean when he said you owe him a meal?"

    "It''s a long story."

    "We have time," he answered in a heartbeat.

    "Well, we can''t stand here all day, let''s discuss this in Xueyue''s room," Duchess Wang Qixing said, turning to her servant, Jinxia. "Prepare the afternoon tea with pastries. I rmend rice cakes for Xueyue and chewy cookies for Chenyang."

    Jinxia instantly bowed. "Right away, madam," she said before excusing herself.

    Once they reached Xueyue''s room, she began exining what happened at the horse stable in the Capital. As the story progressed from the shameless and irritable Bai Tianai, the faces of Duchess Wang Qixing and Li Chenyang were growing dimmer by the minute. And when she concluded the story about the practical ckmail of Wen Jinkai, neither of them seemed happy.

    Duchess Wang Qixing scowled. "This Bai Tianai has guts. When I attend the monthly private soirees held by Duke Wen Xuan''s wife tomorrow, I will purposely drag the Bai Family down. She has to pay for her shamelessness."

    Li Chenyang was more furious by Wen Jinkai. "Great idea Mother, but Wen Jinkai is equally despicable. He threatened to snitch to the Emperor. This man is more shameless than we initially thought."

    "Shameless snitch¡­" Li Xueyue grumbled under her breath.

    Duchess Wang Qixing couldn''t help but nod in agreement. "Well, I''m d you were able to find the loophole in the situation, but I didn''t think he was this immoral to hold it against you like this. He must have his reasons."

    Li Chenyang stared at his mother as if she had gone insane. Did she truly have to see the good in every person? "Mother, you can''t be serious."

    "Oh but I am¡­" Duchess Wang Qixing frowned. "He made our Minghua very happy."

    Li Chenyang inwardly cursed. So maybe it wasn''t the best idea to side with his father and keep his mother in the dark¡­ If only his mother knew how Wen Jinkai treated Minghua in the Pce...

 Chapter 162 Keeping A Secre

    <h4>Chapter 162 Keeping A Secre</h4>

    Li Xueyue threw Li Chenyang a pointed stare that practically tranted to, ''See, I told you that you should''ve told her about the diary.''

    Li Chenyang shook his head, ''Father said not to.''

    She sighed in disappointment, her lips tugging into a slight frown. ''It''s not fair.''

    Li Chenyang nodded in agreement, but he already swore he''d keep his silence.

    "What are you two doing?" Duchess Wang Qixing curiously asked, her eyes jumping from Chenyang to Xueyue. They were acting as if they could talk without words.

    "Nothing," Li Chenyang easily responded. "What shall we do, Mother? Surely, if we give in to his demands now, he''ll know he has the upper-hand on us and¡ª"

    "Well, we do have to honor the promise that Xueyue made. We always honor our words," Duchess Wang Qixing responded. "But don''t you worry, Xueyue, I will be there as well."

    "We''re just giving in?" Li Chenyang scowled. "I can just go into the Pce and demand Xueyue''s pendant back from him."

    "If we cause a ruckus all for Xueyue, it will catch the Emperor and Empress''s attention. We don''t want to give them any reason to summon our Xueyue," Duchess Wang Qixing responded with a slight shake of her head.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes erged. She turned to Li Chenyang, hoping he''d understand the problem of entering the Pce. She was supposed to stay out of Duke Li Taojun''s way.

    Li Chenyang secretly nodded. "How about we meet at a restaurant instead? I''ll bring Wenmin along and then all four of us can meet Wen Jinkai."

    "There''s no need to have a party there." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled. "I can handle him."

    Li Chenyang poked at his te of pastries. They were all of his favorites, but this conversation about Wen Jinkai was ruining his appetite from the get-go. "I just don''t feelfortable with the idea of Xueyue being in a confined room with him."

    "You talk as if I won''t be in the same room as them. I know he has enough honor to not do anything to Xueyue. Afterall, he didn''t do anything to Minghua."

    Li Xueyue cringed, averting her gaze to the ground. She desperately wished she could reveal what truly happened between them.

    Li Chenyang shared the same sentiments as her. His troubled stare bounced around the room, looking at anywhere but his mother''s pressing stare.

    Noticing the awkward tension in therge room, Duchess Wang Qixing quirked a brow. "What is it? You two have been so secretive ever since we sat down. Is there something I should know about?" she suspiciously questioned, her eyes darting from one child to the other.

    Li Xueyue nervously shifted in her chair, tucking her fingers together in anxiety. She chewed on her bottom lip, suddenly finding the floorboards in her room more interesting than this conversation. Wow, how does a single panel of wood have such intricate designs?

    Li Chenyang suddenly felt like he had his appetite back. He ced one cookie after the other into his mouth, deliberately chewing to show his mother that his mouth was too upied with food to talk. He nodded in approval, enjoying the hard shell of the cookie, but the soft rice cake on the inside made the small pastry the right amount of chewiness.

    "You two are terrible at hiding things from me." Duchess Wang Qixing lightlyughed, though it was cold. "So, why don''t you just spill the secrets you''re desperately trying to hold in."

    "What secret?" Li Chenyang asked, taking a hurried gulp of his tea to wash down all of the cookies he had inhaled in one sitting.

    Li Xueyue threw him a scathing re, her lips pressed into a thin line. Wasn''t this a breach of theirpromise? If their mother asked about what happened, weren''t they obligated to tell her?

    ''She has a right to know!'' Li Xueyue shouted through her pointed eyes.

    Li Chenyang pretended that he was blind and resumed eating.

    "Well?"

    Now, he decided he was both blind and deaf. The cookie he was consuming suddenly felt like the best treat in the world. He took another one.

    "Stop pretending to be a glutton, Chenyang. What secrets are you keeping from me this time?" Duchess Wang Qixing scowled, cing both hands firmly on the desk. She won''t leave this ce until the truth is revealed.

    Li Chenyang awkwardly coughed, punching his chest when the dry cookies clogged up his throat. He took another big gulp of his tea, suddenly feeling thirsty. Why is it that he could never lie to his parents? He wanted toin about their good parenting. It was always easy to scheme against other people, but never his parents.

    "I...uhm¡­" Li Chenyang hummed, hoping the small noise could serve as a form of distraction.

    "If you don''t tell me, then I will lock the library." Duchess Wang Qixing shrugged, deciding threats were the best way to deal with this twin.

    Li Chenyang''s eyes bulged, his head snapping to his mother. Now, she had his full attention. He nervously swallowed, taking another sip of his tea. He watched as her fingers unrhythmically tapped on the table, the speed matching his quickening heartbeat. He suddenly felt anxious, his palms growing mmy.

    Click. ck. Click. Click. ck. Her fingernails continued tapping, growing louder by the second.

    "Okay, fine." Li Chenyang groaned. "There-is-a-secret-we-have-been-keeping-from-you," he rushed out in one breath, in a speed so quick that no one except himself registered what was said.

    "What?" Duchess Wang Qixing tilted her head in confusion. "All I heard was secret."

    Li Chenyang let out a quiet sigh. In a small voice, he muttered, "There is actually something we''ve been¡ª"

    "There you are. I was wondering where the entire family was," Duke Li Shenyang loudly announced, stepping into Xueyue''s room without qualms.

    Li Chenyang''s eyes snapped to his scowling father. Uh-oh. The Duke seemed far from pleased, his smile was too wide and unnatural. His eyes wererger than usual, emphasizing his far from happy smile.

    "What are you doing gathered in this room for?" Duke Li Shenyang asked, glowering at his son.

    When he received zero responses, he turned to his wife. "Darling, I thought you enjoyed sipping tea and enjoying snacks near the gardens. The weather is lovely today and the breeze is gentle, you''d enjoy the pavilion in the center of the pond a lot better."

    "Hmph!" Duchess Wang Qixing crossed her arms, refusing to even acknowledge him.

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a quiet sigh, deciding it was better to let her simmer down. In the end, she''ll forgive him, she always did, without qualms. "Chenyang,e with me, there is a n we must discuss."

    Li Chenyang awkwardly stood up, his eyes lingered on his mother. She firmly shook her head, pointing her finger towards his chair.

    "Sit back down, Chenyang. We have things to discuss."

    "My ns are more important," Duke Li Shenyang snapped, his patience thinning. "Hurry, Chenyang, we don''t have all day. I didn''t rush home from work to waste time."

    Li Chenyang nced from his mother to his father. This literally felt the same as asking the child who was his favorite parent. He turned to Li Xueyue, expecting her to say something.

    Li Xueyue nervously looked from the Duke to the Duchess. She bent over and whispered to the Duchess in a hushed voice, "I will tell you the secretter."

    Duchess Wang Qixing was pleased by Xueyue''s words but wore her poker face perfectly to not give anything away. In a loud voice, she said, "Silly girl, if you needed to be excused for more snacks, you could''ve announced it out loud. There''s no need to be shy about it."

    She forced a chuckle, watching as Duke Li Shenyang''s shoulder sagged in relief. Her eyes suspiciously narrowed onto him, her lips curling in irritation. How dare he make his children choose between him and her? She hoped he found the couches in his private study to be morefortable than the beds!

    "Well, hurry along, Chenyang." Duchess Wang Qixing waved her hand. "We don''t want to keep that impatient stranger waiting. Hmph, it''s not like anyone asked him toe home early too."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s jaw dropped. "Chenyang, tell that strangedy over there that I came home early to see my children and my lovely wife, which for the record, I don''t see anywhere."

    Li Chenyang gawked at his father, his eyes darting from his mother to his father. "U-uhm, Mom, Dad said¡ª"

    Duchess Wang Qixing narrowed her eyes. If he was going to use Chenyang, then she would use Xueyue. "Well, Xueyue, tell that weird man over there that in case he''s blind, which I think he is, his children are less than happy to see him home so early."

    Li Xueyue opened and closed her mouth, her eyes darting to her father. In one gulp, she finished her tea. Despite that, her throat was still parched. She licked her bottom lip awkwardly. "Dad¡­ Mom said¡ª"

    "Well, Xueyue, you tell that crazy woman that I didn''t ask for her opinion."

    Duchess Wang Qixing scowled. "Chenyang, go tell that ugly turtle over there that hisebacks suck."

    Duke Li Shenyang threw her a scalding re. "Well, Xueyue you tell that woman¡ª"

    "We''re not messenger pigeons!" Li Chenyang snapped.

    Duke Li Shenyang blinked in surprise at his childish behavior. This was unlike him. He cleared his throat, flicked his wrist, and straightened his clothes. "Let''s head to my private study, son. We shouldn''t waste our time on crazy people."

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a gasp. In an instant, she picked up Xueyue''s empty teacup and hurled it at the Duke who easily tilted his head and dodged it. He clicked his tongue. "Like I said, she''s insane."

    "What did you just say¡ª"

    "You two behave like children." Li Chenyang growled, "What happened to our parents?!"

    The Duke glowered at his unyielding wife. She red back and flicked him the finger, disying the promised ring he had given her years back. A vein popped on his forehead, his face turning red.

    "You uncultured woman¡ª"

    "LET''S GO." Li Chenyang scowled. "Don''t we have to meet in your study, Dad?!"

    "Hmph!" Duke Li Shenyang dramatically flicked his wrist, his long-sleeve billowing behind him. "Let''s head to the study now." He stomped out of the room.

    "Finally, I thought he''d never leave!" Duchess Wang Qixing loudly announced.

    Before another fight could break out, Li Chenyang was already out of the door, pushing his father in the direction of the study.

 Chapter 163 How Exciting

    <h4>Chapter 163 How Exciting</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing continued glowering at the door even after the departure of Duke Li Shenyang.

    "Annoying prick," she muttered under her breath, forgetting she was in front of Xueyue. It had been a while since she had called him by that name.

    When she lifted her chin, she was surprised to see Xueyue was still sitting there, staring out of her window to provide her some much needed space.

    Duchess Wang Qixing warmly smiled in response. "You mentioned you would tell me their secrets?"

    Li Xueyue shifted her attention back to Duchess Wang Qixing. In a slow nod, she began. "It''s about yourte daughter."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s smile slipped a bit, her eyes dimming. She nced down at her hands before looking up at Xueyue. "It''s alright, you can mention her name. I''ve gotten a bit used to hearing it again."

    "Alright then." Li Xueyue cleared her throat, "Were you aware that Minghua kept a diary?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing lightly shook her head. "No, I didn''t."

    "Well¡­ she did and I found it when I was aimlessly wandering around,pletely unaware that I was entering restricted grounds," Li Xueyue admitted.

    "I didn''t mean to read it, but well, curiosity got the best of me." Her fingers aimlessly fiddled with her sleeves, hoping it''d provide her a distraction.

    "I see." Duchess Wang Qixing wasn''t that pleased at the idea of Xueyue reading Minghua''s diary, but what could she say? What happened has happened. And it wasn''t like the Duchess herself didn''t want to read the diary¡ªshe did.

    "There were a lot of rming entries that depicted her feelings," Li Xueyue exined, soothing the furled edge of her sleeves.

    "Where is the diary?"

    "I didn''t know who to give it to, so I gave it to Chen-ge first, since I usually confide in him," Li Xueyue admitted, her voice wary and hesitant over the Duchess''s reaction.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded in understanding. She could tell why Chenyang was a clear choice when Xueyue needed someone to talk to. He was more level-headed when it came to Minghua, whereas Wenmin was easily riled up by any mention of her. Afterall, Li Wenmin was the oldest of the siblings and he took on the responsibility to keep them safe.

    Duchess Wang Qixing hummed. "I assume it somehownded in the hands of the irritable man that was just in your bedroom. It would certainly exin his frustration that night, smashing all of the hand-selected house decorations."

    She suddenly scoffed, rolling her eyes. "The audacity of that man. He demanded me to leave my son''s room and then stormed out, providing zero responses to all of the questions I''ve asked him."

    Li Xueyue chose to notment on the ways that the Duchess was referencing Duke Li Shenyang.

    "I can''t believe the nerves of him." She scowled. "Who does he think he is? What gives him the right to hide my own daughter''s diary? He must''ve thought it was for my own good. Tch!"

    Li Xueyue sat there in silence while Duchess Wang Qixing continued her ramble.

    "Thest time he thought something was good for any of the females in this house was locking away," she paused, "¡ªnevermind. It''s in the past now, and I shouldn''t dwell on it, but he needs to change this habit of his."

    Li Xueyue nodded, not because she agreed, but it was to show she was still listening.

    "Well anyway," Duchess Wang Qixing said with a wave of her hand. "Where is the diary now?"

    "I''m not sure." Li Xueyue ced a finger on her chin, tilting her head while she contemted under whose possession the diary would be in.

    "I gave it to Chen-ge, but I think Wen-ge also read the contents. It might be with Father, but I am not too sure about it."

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a small groan. "I just hope it''s not with that grouchy man, but it''s highly possible. I will just ask one of the twins to steal it back from him."

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth but closed it. Originally, she wanted to say, ''Why not just make up?'' But this was their marital problems and she didn''t have any experience to give out dumb advice like that.

    - - - - -

    The next day, everything was as gloomy as it was yesterday. At the least, everyone was gathered together for a meal, but even so, it was excruciatingly awkward. The only sound was quiet clicks of chopsticks and passive aggressive res, passed by Duke Li Shenyang and Duchess Wang Qixing, towards each other.

    After their breakfast, everyone went their separate ways.

    Li Chenyang returned to his room to organize his materials for the day, the Duchess left to finish fixing her appearance, and the Duke disappeared into his private study as usual. Li Xueyue retired to her room to change into proper outing attire. Li Wenmin was the only one who didn''t have a single chore to do. He originally headed back to his room, but decided it would be more fun to annoy Li Xueyue.

    Thus, Li Wenmin found himself at the door of her room.

    "I still can''t believe you''re doing this." Li Wenmin scowled, watching from the doorframe.

    The handmaidens took their sweet time dressing her up to perfection. If there was any color that greatlyplimented her mellow features, it was the colors of spring.

    Half of her hair was let down whereas the other half was gathered and twirled into a flower bun behind her head. She was dressed in a pastel pink hanfu with hand drawn cherry blossom petals scattered throughout the silk.

    Her windows were pushed open, allowing strong beams of sunlight to peek through, washing over the seated figure. She had her eyes closed whilst the handmaidens ced the finishing touches upon her.

    "Mother shouldn''t have epted that invitation in the first ce. Even if it''s at a restaurant, it''s still giving into his demands," Li Wenmin muttered, finally strolling into her room. He lightly pushed the handmaidens aside and began to take out the hairpins in her hair.

    Instantly, the handmaidens perked up, exchanging panicked nces with each other. What was wrong with her hair essories?

    "You''ll look too dressed up for him," Li Wenmin muttered, cing the multiple hairpins he had taken out on the tray. He peered over her shoulders, his eyes sweeping over the assortment of essories in front of him. Their mother sure loved to doll her up. The entire tray could buy out a town or city.

    "Oh, perfect," Li Wenmin mused, bending down to pick up a simple hairpin that was the color of coal, but sleek and smooth despite the wooden material.

    "I never thought you''d be interested in lions. This hairpin is more masculine than expected." He twirled the hairpin, watching as the roaring lion rimmed with silver gleaned under the rays of sunlight that poured through the window.

    "But it''s a lot better than dressing up like a peony for him." He shrugged, slipping the hairpin in between the small rose bun.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She almost slipped out the fact that it was Yu Zhen''s hairpin, not hers. Her eyesnded on the handkerchief-wrapped pendant on the vanity.

    "It''s not my decision to be dressed up like this. Also, I think these are cherry blossom petals, not peony petals¡­"

    "I know," Li Wenmin muttered, reaching downwards to slip out the heavy earrings weighing her down. "Oh, this is nice," he said, holding up the tiny strings of pearl.

    "But too fancy for him." Li Wenmin snorted, opening one of her drawers to search for simpler earrings. To his surprise, one of her drawers was locked.

    "What''s in there?" he asked before his hand reached for another drawer on the other side of her.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "Just a few secretive items."

    Li Wenmin hummed in response. "How exciting," he deadpanned before letting out an "Ah-hah!"

    His fingers easily skimmed through the multiple pairs of earrings until his eyes caught onto a simple dangling one that was a single petal and leaf.

    He slipped it into her ear and smiled upon seeing how in, yet elegant she looked.

    "This is a lot better now." He nodded, satisfied with his styling.

    Li Xueyue chuckled, standing up.

    "Well, give me a little twirl," he pouted, "That''s the least you can do to appreciate my hard work."

    "All you did was take out hairpins and earrings, then rece them," she mused.

    Nheless, she twirled for him, her dress catching flight.

    Li Wenmin marveled at her appearance. She resembled the flutter of a petal dancing in the wind, softly, slowly, before it fell onto the ground, turning the in earth into a whirlwind of pink.

 Chapter 164 Stop Bullying His Soldiers

    <h4>Chapter 164 Stop Bullying His Soldiers</h4>

    When Li Xueyue walked out of the Li Manor adorned with the simplest jewelry from her trove, apanied by a smug Li Wenmin, the Duchess could do nothing but sigh at her petty children.

    "Don''t tell me you''re nning to join us, Wenmin?" Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled, her voice friendly and weing, but her dagger eyes suggested otherwise while she effortlessly slipped into the carriage.

    "As if I could stomach food with him around." Li Wenmin wrinkled his nose in disgust. "But no, unfortunately, I will be stuck with training soldiers. Even though we''re in the process of finalizing a peace treaty with Hanjian, it''s still not set in stone. We always have to be prepared for a war."

    Li Xueyue swallowed. The thought of war was daunting and horrifying. Would Li Wenmin have to join the battle? Her eyes flickered to the badge pinned on his chest, the glistening metal branding him a General.

    Li Wenmin would be one of the men leading the fight, his head targeted by every soldier behind the enemy lines. Just the thought of his head flying off his body was enough for her hands to tremble, her eyes shaking with fear.

    No. A war must never break out.

    "Yes, we always have to prepare for war," Duchess Wang Qixing softly repeated, her eyes zed over as she stared into the distance. Except, the war she would start would take ce in her country of Wuyi. She had read the diaryst night.

    Granted, it was stolen from her husband''s desk, but she did not care. Women were the scariest when they exercised control over their emotions and not let it get the best of them. She was the epitome of calm, unlike her husband who threw a fit after reading the diary.

    After going through the entries, she quietly returned the diary to where she found it and retreated to her room with an expression that none of her servants had ever seen on her face before.

    "But don''t worry, Mom!" Li Wenmin brightly grinned up at her, the sunlight basking hisrge form. He proudly pped his chest, his eyes twinkling with determination. "Even if a war breaks out, I''ll always protect our family!"

    "Even if it means raising a sword against the royal family?" Duchess Wang Qixing softly asked, her voice barely above a whisper. No one else heard her, except the people closest to her which were her children.

    Li Wenmin''s cheerful smile faltered. "What?"

    Did he hear his mother clearly? His bewildered eyes searched her features, his smile turning into a straight line. He did. The murderous glint in her eyes was not hard to miss. Her gentle smile suddenly appeared sickeningly sweet, bloodthirsty even.

    "Mother?" he muttered, his voice quivering with uncertainty. Was she alright?

    "Think about my words carefully, my dear child," she whispered, bending down from the carriage to ce a chaste hand upon the side of his face, her eyes filled with fondness for her son.

    Li Wenmin stood there dumbfounded as if he was rooted to the ground. "I don''t understand¡­"

    "Have you read the diary?"

    "I have¡ª" Li Women''s eyes widened in shock, his head snapping up. "Y-you read it¡ªb-but how? I-I don''t¡­" he trailed off, the answer dawned on him before he could finish asking his question.

    Li Xueyue sat quietly in a corner of the carriage, her head turned away from them. Clenching her fingers together, she forced herself to remain calm as if she hadn''t just heard the promise of treason against the Crown.

    "Xiao Yue, you told Mother¡­" Li Wenmin breathed out, his attention shifting from his quiet sister to the Duchess.

    He searched the face of his mother, the woman who single-handedly raised him without a nanny. Her face, beautiful as he had always remembered, was demure, her eyes shining with adoration for her children. His mother loved him unconditionally and he could see the fear that shed in her eyes¡ªfear of losing him for making such a sinful confession.

    She gave his face a small squeeze, warmth flooded her expression when she saw how confused her son was. He had the expression of a lost puppy.

    "We shall return before you arrive home for dinner, do not worry," Duchess Wang Qixing calmly said, her voice light and airy as if she hadn''t asked her son to betray the country he swore allegiance to.

    When she retracted her hand, Li Wenmin instantly grabbed onto it. "Mother, I¡ª"

    "Silly boy, there is no need to be so formal around me," she mused.

    With her long finger, she tapped his nose, the same way she did when he was a needy boy and a crybaby. As a kid, Li Wenmin always clung to his mother more than anyone else. The one person he could always rely on was the Duchess whose patient smile and understanding eyes soothed his troubled soul.

    "Y-you love me right?" he suddenly asked, his eyes wide with uncertainty, his grip on her hand tightening. "Right?" he repeated in a soft whisper, stepping closer to the carriage.

    Duchess Wang Qixing was taken aback. Had she not dotted on him enough? Letting out a quietugh, she gave his cheek a pat. "If I don''t love my own children, who else would I love?"

    "Even if I can''t fulfill that request?"

    "I''d love you regardless, my dear boy."

    She attempted to retract her hand from his unbearable grip, but he wanted to hold on¡ªfearful that she''d turn her back on him.

    "Mom, I¡ª"

    "You''re behaving as if I''m leaving on a vacation and my boat has the highest possibility of sinking in the middle of the high seas." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled. "Just think of my request as a simple joke."

    Li Wenmin didn''t respond, but he slowly released her hand. "I''m just worried, that''s all."

    "Worried that I''d be different when I return?"

    "Yes."

    "Why would I be?"

    "Because I¡­" Li Wenmin trailed off, unable toplete his own sentence.

    "Silly boy, have I not loved you enough as a child?" Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "Regardless of what you decide to do, you''re still the son I put all my heart and efforts into raising."

    "No matter what happens?"

    "No matter," Duchess Wang Qixing firmly responded.

    Duchess Wang Qixing offered him a final smile. "I''ll see you in the afternoon for lunch? Or will you return only for dinner?"

    "With the absence of the Commander, I might have to train his soldiers as well, so perhaps, dinner," Li Wenmin responded, grateful for the change in subject. His eyes lingered upon the unresponsive Xueyue.

    "Commanders don''t have days off?" Duchess Wang Qixing curiously asked.

    "Well, they do, but Wen Jinkai is very dedicated to his duties. Even if he does take a day off, he always assigns someone to train his soldiers. Unfortunately for me, I was the first person that came to mind."

    Li Xueyue frowned at the fact, turning to him. "Well, you tell him to stop bullying his soldiers."

    "You should tell him that since you''re going to waste your time to see him." Li Wenmin let out a smallugh. "Besides, I doubt he''d listen to me. He''s two ranks above mine, so he''s not obligated to take my advice."

    "How stupid," Li Xueyue blurted out. "What if his soldiers have better strategies than him? Everyone''s opinion matters."

    Li Wenmin shook his head. "Enforcing the hierarchy is more important. You weren''t exposed to the cruel reality of society, you wouldn''t know such things, Xiao Yue."

    Li Xueyue started at her hands. There it was. The subtle nagging to not be so kind.

    "In this world, it''s either you eat or be eaten. You have to remember that, Xiao Yue. You can be a sheep, but don''t forget, you''re surrounded by wolves, greedy to prey upon your kindness," Li Wenmin said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s face softened when she saw the regret on Xueyue''s face. "You can be nice to others, sweetie. You''ll just have to be more careful with whom your kindness is directed towards."

    Li Xueyue nodded in response, her gaze shifted to Li Wenmin. She expected his expression to be stern, but it wasn''t. His face was patient and filled with understanding that it''d take a while for her to change.

    "I''ll see youter, Wen-ge?"

    Li Wenmin presented her with a wide toothy smile. "See youter, Xiao Yue." He turned to his mother, his smile faltering a bit. "And you as well, Mother¡ª"

    "Call me Mother one more time and I''ll yank your ear. Mother sounds so formal," she groaned, "I am still in my early forties!"

    Li Wenmin let out a quiet chuckle. "You appear so young, you can be mistaken as my sister."

    "I know." Duchess Wang Qixing grinned. "Hurry home and don''t snack too much at training," she said before closing the carriage door.

    The carriage began driving down the road leading to the Capital. Duchess Wang Qixing poked her head out of the window to see Li Wenmin was still standing there, his eyes carefully watching the carriage in case anything were to happen.

    When she caught his stare, she waved him goodbye, watching as he slowly lifted a hand and waved back. Soon, the carriage disappeared and Li Wenmin was forced to ponder over his Mother''s words. Would he betray the Royal Family?

 Chapter 165 King of the Underworld

    <h4>Chapter 165 King of the Underworld</h4>

    "Well, I can certainly see why this ce is favored amongst the aristocrats," Duchess Wang Qixing mused, turning to Xueyue who was taking everything in with wide, curious eyes.

    "It''s perpetually clean and the decoration is elegant, but not too gaudy," Duchess Wang Qixing pointed out, ncing back to see the quiet streets filled with only a handful of people. This ce was far from the main roads, thus, far from the typical crowd. The shops here were mainly frequented by the upper middle-ss and above.

    "Duchess Wang, Princess Li, it is an honor to serve you," a middle-aged man happily greeted them with a deep bow. "I was requested by the Commander to bring you upstairs to the private room."

    "Lead the way," Duchess Wang Qixing said as Li Xueyue absentmindedly stared outside of the restaurant.

    Duchess Wang Qixing shifted her gaze to see what had caught Li Xueyue''s attention. Her eyebrows briefly shot up. ''Oh my, if it wasn''t¡ª''

    "No, you mustn''t," Duchess Wang Qixing chided when Xueyue took an eager step towards that direction. "You will not¡ª"

    Li Xueyue instantly began approaching in that direction, as if lost in a trance. She hadn''t seen that person in days, and there he stood, back turned, but nheless, present at a ce where she could easily reach.

    "Xueyue!" Duchess Wang Qixing called out, hurriedlytching a hand around Xueyue''s elbow.

    The person tensed, instantly turning around, ears perked and eyes sharp. Did someone just call out Xueyue?

    "You shouldn''t wander off like this,e now, the Commander is waiting," Duchess Wang Qixing scolded, tugging her closer.

    Li Xueyue sucked in a deep breath when their eyes met. "Just a word with him, please¡ª"

    "No, sweetheart, you mustn''t. If you give in now and show your desperation, things will¡ª"

    "Duchess Wang," a pleasant, but cold voice spoke up.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s head whirled around to see Commander Wen Jinkai standing behind her. When had hee downstairs? Her gaze became frigid and displeased. Just the sight of him pissed her off.

    She realized the middle-aged man that initially greeted them was now standing behind the Commander.

    ''How irritating, the man brought the bastard directly to us,'' Duchess Wang Qixing thought to herself, her eyes filled with usations.

    "We were just on our way upstairs," Duchess Wang Qixing responded, not bothering to give him a title. How could she show him any respect after what he had done to her lovely daughter?

    This despicable scum deserved to burn in the pits of Diyu [1] for what he had done to Li Minghua. How dare he take her virginity and not even promise marriage after that?!

    ''The least this insolent brat could''ve done was to keep her safe in the Pce, but he couldn''t even do the simplest of tasks,'' she sneered to herself.

    Wen Jinkai''s attention wasn''t on Duchess Wang Qixing. Instead, he was solely focused on Li Xueyue. Half of her back was turned to him.

    She was mesmerized by something outside of the restaurant. He was not pleased by that. His eyes narrowed. What had caught her attention that desperately?

    Wen Jinkai wanted her to look at him the same way she was looking out of the restaurant. If only Li Xueyue could spare him the time of day. That was all he wanted¡ªher attention on him, nothing else.

    "Xueyue," Wen Jinkai said in a quiet tone. "It''s been a while." He hated making small talks, but this was most effective in coaxing her to speak to him.

    Despite his beckoning voice, dripping with tender appreciation, Li Xueyue couldn''t tear her eyes away from the person standing a few feet away from her. Except, that person wasn''t looking her way now.

    Duchess Wang Qixing wanted to sigh at the pure irony of this situation. She was watching Wen Jinkai who was watching Xueyue who was entranced by a man who wasn''t even sparing her any attention. How could this be?

    "Shall we get seated? All of this standing has tired me out." Duchess Wang Qixing softly sighed, tugging on Xueyue. "Well, Xueyue?"

    Li Xueyue jumped at the stern voice of the Duchess. Finally, she focused her gaze on her mother, a sheepish smile on her face.

    "I¡­" her apologetic expression dispersed upon seeing who was standing in front of her now.

    Tall and proud as ever, Wen Jinkai oozed arrogance that was well-deserved for all of his aplishments. Mellow and cold, there was not a single ounce of warmth within him, but his smile suggested otherwise. He was intently staring at her, no one else. It was almost as if she was the center of his world.

    "Finally, I have your eyes on me." Wen Jinkai chuckled, the sound smooth and pleasing to the regr ears, but it caused goosebumps to spread on Duchess Wang Qixing''s arms.

    Duchess Wang Qixing could not believe that she once defended this man. She didn''t want to stomach food in front of him.

    The only reason Duchess Wang Qixing still came to this restaurant was because she needed Li Xueyue''s pendant back. The back of Xueyue''s pendant was engraved with the Li family name whose seal was unknown to most except a selected few. This pendant was irreceable and couldn''t be duplicated¡ªunless Duke Li Shenyang allowed it.

    "Commander," Li Xueyue muttered in greeting, her head slightly turning to see if the person was still standing there. Her heart dropped to the pit of her stomach when she saw he was gone.

    Wen Jinkai''s smile turned into a bleak line, his patience thinning. "What is so important outside?" he bit out in an irritable voice, storming towards her.

    Li Xueyue''s hand instantly flew to the spot on her thigh where a dagger was concealed. She thought he would do something to her, but he only stomped to where she stood and looked outside the window, his eyes ruthlessly scanning the scene outside.

    "You were so distracted by something outside, but there''s no one there." Wen Jinkai slightly scowled when he saw there was no one of importance anywhere near them. Perhaps, she was admiring a dress she saw through one of the shop''s windows?

    Li Xueyue glumly stared on the floor, her shoulders sagged. "He''s not there now¡­" she whispered.

    "He?" Wen Jinkai hissed. So her attention was on a man? He gritted his teeth, his jaw clenching. He almost reacted based on his frustration. He decided not to. Being rough was not the best way to deal with her.

    Women like Li Xueyue needed to be handled carefully, for she was too gentle and made of ss.

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a loud and disappointed sigh, shaking her head in dismay. It seems Xueyue was really attached to him.

    "Let''s head upstairs. We don''t have all day to loiter outside," she said in a cold, unweing voice.

    Not to mention, the enormous Li carriage pulled by two handsome horses was blocking the entrance, preventing anyone from entering. Anyone could''ve been hiding behind the carriage, eager to enter, but couldn''t because of howrge the transportation was.

    "Indeed, we do not." Wen Jinkai nodded in agreement, turning to Xueyue. In a blink of an eye, he had taken her hand.

    Li Xueyue tensed, her eyes widening with fear. She snatched her hand back, but he held onto it tightly.

    "Commander, what are you doing¡ª" her voice died off in her throat when he revealed a crimson red bracelet. The inside was rimmed with gold that swirled like violent waves, the outside was embedded with white opal that formed into lovely flowers.

    "A gift," he mused, slipping it through her wrist, but she struggled against his hold.

    "I do not want it."

    Wen Jinkai stilled, his piercing eyes met hers. Her heart erratically thudded against her chest, wild and terrified of what he would do to her. "Then it must be disposed of."

    "W-what?" Li Xueyue whispered, thinking he was referring to the idea of killing her.

    Li Xueyue snapped back to her senses when the Duchess gave her a pointed stare, warning her to not fall into his ruthless traps.

    "I have no need for useless things," he said.

    "I''m d we''re on the same page," she snapped. "I have no need of you in my life."

    He stared at her dumbfounded, his face suddenly going nk. Did he hear her correctly?

    "How shameless can you get?" she fired on.

    "You''re still mad at me." Wen Jinkai immediately released her wrist, a sorry expression on his face. "Xueyue, I didn''t mean to threaten you back at the stable. If you felt threatened by me, it was unintentional."

    "You wanted me to rece her," Li Xueyue breathed out, her eyes wide with disapproval. "I know everything now."

    Wen Jinkai''s brows shot up in shock. His dark eyes swirled with all sorts of emotions, but why was it that she could see her own reflection mirrored perfectly within those onyx orbs? Why was his attention so fixated on her, his pupils dting?

    "You don''t know everything. No one can possibly know everything about me," Wen Jinkai growled, his voice sinister and rough.

    "I don''t have to, nor do I want to know everything about you. I simply know what you did to her."

    Wen Jinkai instantly tensed at her words. Did he¡­ hear her correctly? "What are you talking about?"

    "I wanted to be pleasant, I really did." Li Xueyue huffed, crossing her arms and letting out a sign. She eyed him as if he was the most despicable thing in the world.

    "Do we look that foolish to you?"

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "Give me back my pendant. I don''t want to waste my time on you."

    He was taken back by her behavior yet again. Hurt shed within his eyes, his lips tugged downwards. Did he truly not stand a chance with her?

    "You''re reacting as if having a meal with me is dining with the King of the Underworld."

    "No, it''s even worse than dining with the King of the Underworld," Li Xueyue firmly said, sticking out her hand to reveal the handkerchief-wrapped pendant.

    "I believe this is yours."

    He stared at it in shock, his eyes snapping from the handkerchief to her determined expression. She was firm with her decision. She didn''t want his pendant.

 Chapter 166 One Last Time

    <h4>Chapter 166 One Last Time</h4>

    "Keep it," Wen Jinkai sternly said. His tone left no room for disagreements. He would not take ''no'' for an answer. She''d better keep it, or else he would smash it to pieces right before her eyes.

    Wen Jinkai clenched his jaw. If he bit any harder, his jaw would''ve shattered from the intensity. He was far from pleased by the events unfolding before him.

    ''God damn it!'' he roared inside of his head, his body trembled with the contained rage. ''Where the fuck did I go wrong?!'' he chastised himself, his eyes set aze by his own actions. ''Why was it turning out like this? What the hell did I do wrong?''

    "I don''t want it."

    "Did I stutter?" he snarled, his jaw ticked. He needed to punch something, to break something beyond repair. He desired something to quench his thirst for blood.

    Her patience snapped. "Take it back or dispose of it. I don''t care," she retorted, grabbing his wrist. She pped the handkerchief-wrapped pendant onto his open palm and forced his fingers to wrap over it.

    "I''m going home," Li Xueyue coldly said, turning her back to him.

    Abruptly and without warning, a strong pair of arms wrapped around her corbone and front, her back mming against his firm chest. He hugged her desperately and tightly, his head buried deeply into her shoulders.

    "Don''t go."

    "Let go of me! Have you lost your mind?!" she shrieked right as Duchess Wang Qixing rushed forward.

    "Commander! How improper of you!" Duchess Wang Qixing cried out, "Guards!"

    In an instant, a flood of men rushed to her aid, but no one was faster than the sword of Yu Zhen.

    Wen Jinkai was aware of the sword pointed at his head, so close that a single movement could slice his hair, but he did not care. He''d die if it meant being able to hear her voice onest time, see that smile light up her face, to witness the glisten of her eyes before she let out the sweetestughter.

    Wen Jinkai squeezed his eyes shut, her scent mixing with Xueyue until all he could envision was another woman in his arms.

    He''d give the world just to touch and see Li Minghua for a final moment, no matter how fleeting it would be. Just onest time, he pleaded. Just once more.

    "Remove your arm this instant," Yu Zhenmanded, his voice calm but filled with promises of a merciless death. His eyes were more violent than the roaring skies during a storm, and right at this moment, he did not care about anything else but Xueyue; who was wrapped in the arms of another man and not his.

    "I love you," Wen Jinkai whispered, his desperate voice rang in her ears. He was not sure if this confession was to Li Minghua or to Li Xueyue. Both women were beginning to be muddled in his brain and he found it difficult to see them as different people.

    Li Xueyue felt her entire world spin and threaten to crumble. No one else had heard this confession except for her, his voice a ghost of a whisper. So broken, so fearful of the oues.

    Li Xueyue''s throat tightened, not because she was emotional, but because she pitied him. Wen Jinkai had already lost her a long time ago when he mmed her against that tree and demanded for her to apologize. He had lost his chance that night, but perhaps, he had already lost it when he had mistaken her for someone else.

    Yu Zhen did not falter. He didn''t give out second chances and he most certainly wouldn''t remain patient for this despicable scum who held his woman.

    In the blink of an eye, he dove his sword forward. The tip of the sharp de was supposed to pierce right through Wen Jinkai''s skull. Seconds before it did, Wen Jinkai tightly gripped the de without flinching.

    Li Xueyue watched in horror as blood dripped from the arm that was originally wrapped around her corbone. The smell of iron wafted to her nose, the crimson liquid thick and terrifying to witness.

    "Crazy bastard." Yu Zhen let out a bark ofughter, twisting his sword, watching in satisfaction as it cut deeply into Wen Jinkai''s hand.

    The pain was excruciating, butpared to the wound in his heart, this was nothing but a small cut to Wen Jinkai who continued to hold the sharp sword. The edges dug deeply into his bleeding hand. He needed something to numb the agony in his heart, something to distract him from the distinctive memory of Li Minghua.

    "Come here, Xueyue," Yu Zhen demanded in a coarse and rough voice. Her quivering eyes met with his, a soft gasp left her parted mouth when she saw his face. Thunderous and dark, he was the most menacing sight she had ever witnessed.

    Li Xueyue never thought Yu Zhen was capable of anger until he saw him at this moment. He was not frowning, his face wasn''t twisted into an undeniable scowl. Instead, he let his eyes and his intimidating aura disy his wrath. He could kill Wen Jinkai without a second thought, though the Commander of Wuyi would not go down without a fight. However, he would not harm Wen Jinkai, not when Xueyue''s safety could bepromised.

    "Now," Yu Zhen snarled, his jaw ticked, his hand clenching into a fist.

    "Stay," Wen Jinkai murmured into her shoulder de, his other arm wrapped around her waist digging deep into her.

    Li Xueyue pushed against his strength until she heard a phrase that she had never expected to hear from him¡ªat least, not in this lifetime.

    "Please. I beg of you." He sounded so vulnerable, that for the slightest second, she wavered, her eyes nervously darted to him. She could not see his expression, but she knew he was envisioning someone else.

    "I''m not Li Minghua," she hissed.

    Wen Jinkai tensed in shock. He was not prepared for her name to be mentioned so carelessly.

    In his moment of weakness, his grip had loosened. And she did not hesitate to break free from his clutches.

    It took only three and a half steps to reach Yu Zhen. She was only a hand away from him when Yu Zhen roughly grabbed her, hauling her against him. It was then she felt the tremble of his body, not from fear, but from fury. He was barely containing his anger, and she could tell his patience was thinner than anticipated.

    Li Xueyue did not utter a single word. She leaned against his body, slightly shivering at the drop of temperature around her, all because of him. He was not radiating the warmth she was ustomed to. She desperately missed his heat.

    Why not obtainfort herself? And so she did.

    For the first time since their first encounter, she took an initiative with him. Slowly, hesitatingly, she wrapped her arms around hisrge frame. She hugged him tightly, burying her face upon his chest, squeezing her eyes shut. She didn''t know it, but she had missed him.

    The gold embroidered cor coat that hung from his shoulder was warm. She could feel the flutter of the fabric against her fingertips when her hands struggled to properly sp together on his back.

    "Sunshine," Yu Zhen softly muttered in a voice that only she could hear. "Took you long enough." His voice was low, calm, andforting.

    Li Xueyue wished to treasure this moment, hugging him tighter. She could feel the clench of his rigid muscles when he unclenched his fingers andfortably settled that hand upon her hip.

    Yu Zhen protectively pressed her against him, his coat shifting to hide her face. She let out a quiet, content sigh, her stomach fluttering more than his cape against the rigid breeze. Her heart skipped a beat when he gently squeezed her hip, his fingers grazing against the ribbons of her waist belt.

    "Don''t tug it," she mumbled against his dark clothes, her face heating when she felt the small chuckle that only she could hear. It sounded like a mixture between a scoff and a teeny tinyugh.

    "I didn''t n to. My ring was caught on it."

    Li Xueyue hid her face at the deja vu that he loved to evoke between them. This man was going to be the death of her, but because it was him, she''d wee death with open arms.

 Chapter 167 Win With One Hand

    <h4>Chapter 167 Win With One Hand</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing felt relieved that this restaurant was located in a quiet street, away from wandering eyes. Moreover, therge Li carriage, which had stopped at the entrance had blocked most of the view of themotion from the outside. If anyone were to see the tussle between Li Xueyue and Wen Jinkai before the former dashed into the arms of another man, her reputation would be ruined.

    Duchess Wang Qixing intently stared at Yu Zhen. His behavior reminded her so much of her younger days with Duke Li Shenyang. He, too, was willing to sacrifice everything to have her in the end, whilst forgetting he had a reputation to maintain.

    "Commander Wen," Duchess Wang Qixing addressed in a neutral tone that didn''t reveal any of her thoughts and emotions. "Our Xueyue has returned her pendant to you, it''s time that you return hers back to us."

    Duchess Wang Qixing was evidently unfazed by the blood trickling down his hand. She didn''t even blink at the presence of the bright liquid staining the floor and his clothes. She only cared about the primary purpose of this visit.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t even register the Duchess''s voice. His attention was on the couple in front of him, his gaze fixed on Li Xueyue. The scene before him felt all too familiar¡ªthe image of Wang Longhe desperately clutching Li Minghua, begging, pleading her to marry him. Except, the roles were reversed, and it was Li Xueyue hugging Yu Zhen as if her life depended on it, not the other way around.

    "Hah¡­" he let out a quiet chuckle, shaking his head in disbelief.

    How foolish of him to think Li Xueyue would see past her selfish thoughts. Was she purposely throwing this massive scene all because he could notpromise with her?

    He never said he was going to have a harem, yet he didn''t disapprove of the idea. Did she jump to conclusions and believed he would have one just because he wasn''t against the idea?

    Wen Jinkai''s lips twisted into a conniving smirk, his eyes dangerously shed with a warning.

    "If this is what you have decided, I will not quietly oblige to it," he said, referring to her intimate position with Yu Zhen.

    Wen Jinkai slipped his pendant into the pocket of his robes.

    He ignored his bleeding hand and the wound that opened wider when he clenched his fingers around the hilt of his sword.

    "Is a duel what you want? And her as the prize? I''ll dly ept this challenge."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s eyes grewrge. A fight? With Xueyue as a trophy? These men must''ve lost their minds!

    Yu Zhen''s grip on Li Xueyue tightened. His expression was vicious, like that of a beast who refused to let his prey go. Wen Jinkai wanted Xueyue? Dream on.

    "If you want a fight," he began, his eyes shifting from the top of Xueyue''s head to Wen Jinkai''s unsettling face. "Take it elsewhere."

    "What? Do youck confidence just because I am wounded? Do not worry," Wen Jinkai spat out, "I''ll win with one hand."

    "Do you only care about your pride?" Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes, holding Xueyue closer to him until the only thing she could hear and see was his dark clothes and the calm thuds of his heart respectively.

    Wen Jinkai opened his mouth, only for Duchess Wang Qixing to roughly interject.

    "You men can fight to death for all I care about, but not with Xueyue as a prize. Both of you disappoint me," Duchess Wang Qixing grounded out.

    Yu Zhen only cast the Duchess a brief nce, his lips thinned into a line. This was Li Xueyue''s mother, he had to be respectful.

    Wen Jinkai stared at the Duchess, their eyes met, a mixture of emotions shing. She was irritated and frustrated by him whereas he was intrigued but also annoyed. If Duchess Wang Qixing wanted to protect her daughter''s reputation, she should''ve prevented Li Xueyue from dashing off to Yu Zhen. Even so, he could not me her. After all, she was the one who raised Li Minghua and loved her the most.

    When Duchess Wang Qixing gave Wen Jinkai a pointed look, the same one a mother would give to her rebellious child, Wen Jinkai''s scowl deepened. After a few seconds, he reluctantly slipped the sword back into its sheath.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded in satisfaction. "Now," she said and turned to Commander Yu Zhen. "I''d greatly appreciate it if you release our Xueyue.?It''s time for us to go home."

    "May I have a moment with her?" Yu Zhen asked, not at all bothered by his shameless behavior.

    Duchess Wang Qixing firmly shook her head. "No, you''ve already done enough damage." She was beginning to doubt her trust in him. Both men were unreliable and neither of them seemed to care about Li Xueyue''s reputation.

    "I saved her from the ''so-called'' damage," Yu Zhen responded, his tone indifferent, but polite.

    "You demanded my daughter toe to your side and then you roughly grabbed her like a rag doll. Don''t you dare y the savior." She narrowed her eyes.

    "Xueyue, let''s head home," Duchess Wang Qixing called out.

    Li Xueyue hesitated but reluctantly dropped her hands. She nced up at Yu Zhen, hoping her eyes would speak for her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to part with him, but at the same time, she did. How could she forget what he had done to her that day? He left without a word, forced her to chase after him, and even when she roughly collided with the ground, he did not look back. Not even once.

    Yu Zhen''s brows shot upwards when he saw the adoration on her face was reced by a sudden wave of anger. "Xueyue," he slowly said, "You''re angry."

    "I fell because of you. I scraped my knee because of you. There might be a scar because of you," Li Xueyue suddenly said, taking steps backward but he reached out for her wrist.

    Yu Zhen would never admit it, but he panicked. He was frightful at the thought of losing her, that she would slip out of his clutches if he was not careful enough. "What are you talking about¡ª"

    "That day, you came to visit the manor and then abruptly stormed out without warning just because I didn''t listen to you. Just because I didn''t ept your hand."

    Yu Zhen''s gaze sharply narrowed. Just thinking about that day pissed him off. He had received the most unexpected news of his life before boarding the carriage.

    "This is not the time and ce to discuss such personal matters."

    Li Xueyue recoiled in horror as if he had just pped her with his words, but she quickly recovered herself. Her blood boiled at his harsh words.

    "When exactly is the proper time then? Youe and go as you please."

    Yu Zhen blew out an irritated sigh, his fingers balling into a fist. "First, everyone is worried about your reputation, thus I can''t visit the Li Manor easily. Second, you will not be safe if I meet you in the Pce. Third, you can''t leave the house without permission. I do note and go as I please. I try my best to see you."

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth only to close it. She hadn''t realized how difficult it was for him to see her withoutpromising her reputation.

    Duchess Wang Qixing pressed her lips into a thin line. As much as she hated to admit it, Yu Zhen was right. It was difficult to see Xueyue. However, it didn''t excuse his behavior.

    "You should request a proper attendance with us if you would like an audience with Xueyue," Duchess Wang Qixing sniped. "We will only ept that, nothing else."

    Wen Jinkai quirked a brow. Was it that easy? Fine then.

    "And you, Xueyue." Duchess Wang Qixing turned to her daughter, "It is time to part ways with him. It''s best for us to return home now."

    Yu Zhen tensed. It had been days since he hadst seen Xueyue, yet their encounter was cut short like this. "If I may¡ª"

    "You may not," Duchess Wang Qixing interrupted. "If you want to see her, you''ll have to do it formally. I will not ept any informal requests for an audience with Xueyue if you refuse to make your rtions to her clear."

    "If you desire, Duchess," Yu Zhen began. "I can announce to the entire country what my intentions with Li Xueyue are."

    Duchess Wang Qixing resisted the urge to smack him with a shoe. This arrogant boy! "Then do as you wish, but I must warn you, you won''t receive my blessings."

    She walked to Xueyue and gently grabbed the girl. "Let''s go."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t bring herself to disobey Duchess Wang Qixing who had done everything to protect her. Biting her bottom lip, she approached the carriage. She nearly jumped when Yu Zhen''s hand grazed her fingers, a cold object pressed against her palms. She blinked in surprise but nheless, wrapped her fingers around the item, hoping no one had seen the small exchange.

    Li Xueyue cast a final nce his way before wordlessly boarding the carriage.

 Chapter 168 Treason Against The Crown

    <h4>Chapter 168 Treason Against The Crown</h4>

    Li Xueyuefortably settled into her seat. Then, without warning, she shot out of it, her eyes wide.

    "Sweetheart, what are you doing?" Duchess Wang Qixing inquired, her eyes widening out of shock.

    Li Xueyue climbed out of the carriage, storming to Wen Jinkai with determined footsteps. "Where is my pendant?"

    Wen Jinkai studied her for a brief second. From the flutter of her hair against the wind to the glint in her eyes, she meant business. Her lips were pursued at hisck of response.

    "What is in your hand?" Wen Jinkai asked, his gaze briefly lingered upon her fist. He knew Yu Zhen must''ve slipped her something.

    "Give me back my pendant." Li Xueyue pretended he didn''t just ask her a stupid question. Whatever she had, it had nothing to do with him.

    "Why do you want it back so desperately? So that you can give it to him?" Wen Jinkai threw a disgusted nce towards Yu Zhen who nearly rolled his eyes at the childish provocation.

    ''If it''s that easy to trick me, I might as well retire my titles,'' Yu Zhen thought to himself. He was too confident with himself to care about Wen Jinkai''s words. He''ll personally deal with this man in a private duel.

    "Look," Li Xueyue coldly snapped in an authoritative voice. "I only came here to get my pendant back, not to chit chat. So it''s either you hand it over, or else."

    "Or else what?" Wen Jinkai repeated, his lips curling into a slight smirk. Li Xueyue thought her ws were sharp and threatening, how amusing. It would barely do any damage to him.

    Li Xueyue''s lips tilted downwards. "I will not hesitate to cut you out of my life."

    "With that power?" Wen Jinkai murmured, "Nothing in this world can keep me away from you."

    "I seriously do not understand." Li Xueyue shook her head. "Yourck of understanding for boundaries is apudable."

    "I gave you boundaries." Wen Jinkai slowly said, "I could''ve trespassed into your house, kidnapped you, and walked out of the front entrance unscathed, but for your sake, I didn''t."

    Li Xueyue quietlyughed, the sound piercing through his heart. Frigid and bleak, like her sharp eyes filled with disgust. "Perhaps these obsessive words could''ve worked on Minghua, but it''ll never work on me."

    Wen Jinkai''s eyes narrowed. "How much do you know?"

    "Everything."

    "How?" He took a threatening step closer to her and demanded, "Who told you?"

    "That is none of your business." Li Xueyue shook her head. "I don''t have time for this conversation. Give me back my pendant."

    Wen Jinkai was conflicted about what to do. The right thing was handing it back to her, after all, he stole it from her waist belt when she wasn''t watching. But this pendant was the only thing linking her to him. Without it, he wouldn''t have a reason to see her. He could not part with it.

    "Where did I screw up?" Wen Jinkai finally asked, "What made you dislike me? What did I do wrong?!"

    Yu Zhen''s hand instantly flew to his sword, his eyes narrowed in a warning. This was getting out of hand. He began to approach Xueyue but she firmly held up a hand. Her message was clear¡ªthis was her battle, not his.

    "I''ll admit it, I was intrigued by you. Perhaps I even liked you," Li Xueyue responded, brushing strands of hair behind her ears,pletely unfazed by his anger.

    "But then you lost my respect." Li Xueyue articted, "From yourck of understanding of boundaries to wanting a harem. It''s clear to me, you don''t view me as your equal."

    "I do," he firmly said, frustration evading his darkening eyes.

    "No, you don''t," she deadpanned. "If you respected me, you wouldn''t have publicly dered I was promised to you. If you did, you wouldn''t have injured me, then have the audacity to sneak into my room and act as if you own me. Even now, you do not respect me."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s brows shot upwards. Wen Jinkai had trespassed into Li Xueyue''s room? When was this?!

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "You should move on," she deadpanned. "Whether it''s from her or me, you should do it for not only your sake but hers."

    Wen Jinkai didn''t respond. It felt as if a boulder was weighing him down, his heart suddenly heavy. As much as he had reprimanded himself, he could not move on. How could he ever move on from his first love? She was everything to him, and without her, he was nothing.

    Her gaze softened for the briefest second. Despite his confident aura and endless achievements, he was such a pitiful man riddled with delusions from heartbreak.

    "This delusion of yours will destroy everything you hold dear¡ª"

    "I have nothing I hold dear," Wen Jinkai bit out, clenching his fist so tightly, his skin was beginning to pale. By now, he could barely feel his bleeding hand, but he did not care. There were more pressing matters at hand.

    "Then find something to hold dear," she calmly said.

    Wen Jinkai shook his head. "Impossible."

    "That''s not my problem," she chuckled, though itcked humor.

    Wen Jinkai grounded his teeth. The more indifferently she behaved, the more he wanted her. He wanted to see how far he could push her before she cracked. He wanted to see more than this aloof behavior.

    Wen Jinkai knew there was more to her than what meets the eyes. He didn''t want to view her as a challenge to be conquered, but he couldn''t help it. This was the only thing he knew how to do¡ªtake what wasn''t his, whether it was foreign territories for Wuyi, or stealing the affection the Empress should be giving to her own children.

    "In that case, you will never get your pendant back."

    "Fine then." Li Xueyue shrugged. "In return, I''ll never respect you. Not in this lifetime, not in the next."

    "That''s alright." Wen Jinkai revealed a frigid smile. "I do not need respect from you."

    Li Xueyue was irked by his words but forced herself to remain calm. He wanted a reaction out of her, something beyond her usual dissatisfaction. She carefully watched his movements, debating whether or not it was time to retreat back to the carriage. She would not waste any more time convincing this boulder to yield for her.

    "If respect will not bring you to my side, then other things will," Wen Jinkai mused, his eyes flickering to Yu Zhen. "No matter what stands in my way, I will have you."

    Yu Zhen''s entire face darkened with disgust. This man truly lost his damn mind. Or maybe, he didn''t have it in the first ce.

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a quiet sigh. "Wen Jinkai," she began. "If I knew you were this type of man, I would''ve never supported your friendship with Li Minghua."

    "Is that what you think we were? Friends?" Wen Jinkai let out a bark of cruelughter, his eyes wide with madness. "We were¡ª"

    "I know exactly what you were," Duchess Wang Qixing spat out in disgust. "And if you truly loved her, you wouldn''t be disrespecting her like this."

    "I''d never disrespect her," Wen Jinkai snarled. "She¡ª"

    "Oh, but you did disrespect her, and you''re still doing it now," Duchess Wang Qixing mused.

    "What are you talking about? When she was with me, the only thing she knew was adoration."

    "Don''t make meugh," Duchess Wang Qixing deadpanned. Her blood boiled with how ignorant he was. Was he blinded by love? Or was he delusional enough to not see how depressed Li Minghua was in the Pce?

    "Like mother, like daughter. Both of you love to jump to conclusions."

    "Speaking of mothers, why don''t you ask the woman who raised you?" Duchess Wang Qixing suggested in a steady and controlled voice, even when her patience was reaching its breaking point.

    "Ask her what?"

    "Why did Li Minghua want to kill herself?"

    "What?" Wen Jinkai breathed out, his eyes wide with disbelief. Li Minghua was¡­ suicidal? How? Why? He couldn''t process it. Wasn''t she happy with him? Did something happen that he was not aware of?

    Duchess Wang Qixing didn''t respond further. She grabbed Li Xueyue''s wrist and the two began approaching the carriage.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t want to see Li Xueyue leave so abruptly. He couldn''t let her go like this. He needed to say something to convince them to stay, to convince her to look at him once more, even if it was a disgusted nce. He didn''t care. As long as she''d look at him with those eyes, he would be satisfied.

    "Are you aware that you''remitting treason against the Crown with your words?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing paused. Abruptly, her chest shook, and out came a heartless chuckle. She turned around, a sickening sweet smile on her face. "I couldn''t care less."

    Wen Jinkai silently watched as the two began to board the carriage, never once looking back. He knew he had lost the respect of the entire Li Family, but that did not matter to him. If that was how they wanted to behave, then fine. He knew more than one way of convincing a woman to go with him¡ªeven if it meant he would be the viin in their life.

 Chapter 169 A Public Duel

    <h4>Chapter 169 A Public Duel</h4>

    Li Xueyue brushed past Yu Zhen, steadily watching him the entire walk towards the carriage.

    Yu Zhen was furious. His anger could not be expressed with words, but it heavily reflected in his eyes. He fed his frustration to his inner demons, but Li Xueyue knew, one day he would snap. And all hell would let loose.

    Li Xueyue did not spare Wen Jinkai a final nce for she couldn''t tear her eyes away from Yu Zhen. What was he thinking? What upied his mind? What was he currently feeling on the inside?

    She admired his ability to remain aloof even in the most frustrating moment, but she couldn''t help but fear the day he would unleash his wrath. And perhaps today could be that day.

    Despite the Duchess''s firm grip of her wrist, Li Xueyue resisted, even if it was for a brief moment.

    Yu Zhen''s dark eyes watched her every move, from her heels digging into the ground to the hand that gripped his sleeve. He looked down at the two fingers that pinched the fabric of his clothing.

    "Return to the Pce," she demanded.

    Li Xueyue, for the first time since their encounter, wasmanding him to do something. She was but a meek and tiny woman in front of him, but her spirit was twice her size. He wondered if she knew that about herself.

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow. "Why?"

    Li Xueyue shivered at his voice, cold and detached as if nothing in this world mattered to him. Indeed, it was as she predicted, he was beyond the point of anger. It was just sheer eptance, and that part was scarier than anything else.

    "You shouldn''t have a public duel," Li Xueyue whispered in a hesitant voice. When she felt an impatient tug at her hand, she slowly released her grip on his sleeve, but he instantly caught her freed hand.

    Yu Zhen wanted to rebut her, that is until he saw what rested in her hair. She was wearing his hairpin and it wasn''t even concealed. Properly ced in the most eye-catching part of her hairstyle, she wore it without qualms.

    When she tilted her head, waiting for him to respond, the hairpin caught the ray of the sun and brightly glistened.

    He wondered if she deliberately wore it, or if it was a coincidence. She had worn his hairpin to meet a man desperate for her. What did all of this mean?

    Finally he spoke up. "That was the first time you demanded me to do something," Yu Zhen leisurelymented in a voice she could not understand.

    Was he mad at her? She couldn''t tell.

    "If it was anyone else, I would''ve sliced their tongue off."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened in horror. She attempted to draw back her hand, her heart racing at his threat. Or perhaps it was a promise.

    Duchess Wang Qixing mirrored her reaction, letting out a startled gasp. She did not think he was a tyrannical man. What else did she not know about him? An unsettling realization dawned upon her, one that brought terror and difort. She didn''t know anything about Yu Zhen. And neither did Xueyue.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, displeased by his words. She was not cliche enough to want to change him, and she was doubtful he''d change for her. But at the least, he could refrain from scaring her with such bluntness.

    Yu Zhen simply smiled, though it never reached his eyes. It was a tiny smile, one that was barely visible except to her. Slowly, he lifted her hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss upon the tip of her fingers.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart tug at his tiny action before erratically skipping a beat when their eyes met.

    "Promise me I''ll see you again," he murmured, entwining their fingers for everyone to witness.

    Yu Zhen did not care for the Duchess''s irritated expression or the hole that was beginning to form at the back of his head from Wen Jinkai''s abhorring glower. All that mattered to him was the tiny woman in front of him, with the guts of a tiger, and appearance of a small kitten.

    "What a silly thing to request," Li Xueyue mused, her lips curling into a smile that softened her sharp gaze.

    "Just promise me," Yu Zhen firmly said, tugging her forward.

    "Only if you tell me why you left that day."

    "I will only tell you if you meet me."

    Li Xueyue stared at him in amusement. "You make it sound like we''re negotiating a business proposal."

    He let out a small chuckle, and finally it sounded like he meant it. "You were the one who started it."

    "Xueyue," Duchess Wang Qixing warned, "It''s time to head home. Now." She motioned to the sky, hoping to emphasize howte it was, but the sun was still high above the clouds, dazzling and bright.

    Li Xueyue rapidly nodded in response to her mother.

    "I''ll take that as a yes." Yu Zhen mischievously smirked, shifting a nce at her other hand, still closed. Without warning, he bent low, his lips gently brushed against her ear. She shivered upon the touch of his hot breath, tickling her ears.

    "Wear it," he quietlymanded.

    Li Xueyue didn''t get to respond, for the Duchess pulled her backward, instantly protective.

    "That was too close forfort." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "Obviously, neither of you two can part from each other."

    Duchess Wang Qixing began to lightly push Li Xueyue into the carriage. "In you go." She turned to Yu Zhen and threw him a pointed look, motioning in the direction of the Pce. "And off you go," she said to him.

    Yu Zhen''s smirk twisted into a tiny lopsided smile. He gave her a simple nod but remained rooted to the ground. His discussion with Wen Jinkai was not over, no matter how much Xueyue would plead him to go back to the Pce.

    Li Xueyue knew it too. She sat in the closest seat by the carriage door, herrge eyes watching over him. She emphasized the Duchess''s word with a look of her own, pressing and serious.

    He simply shook his head, but before she could say anything, Duchess Wang Qixing boarded the carriage and mmed the door shut.

    "You two love birds need a room," Duchess Wang Qixing muttered, giving the door a solid pat. It was the indication that the carriage men needed to start the journey back to the Li Manor.

    "Preferably with another person inside, or else." Duchess Wang Qixing smiled in amusement. "I might be a grandmother too early."

    Li Xueyue''s jaw dropped open.

    Duchess Wang Qixing smiled. "Is something wrong?"

    "N-nothing¡­" Li Xueyue stuttered, positioning her body to look out the window.

    "Wrong move," Duchess Wang Qixing instructed, cing two hands on Xueyue''s shoulder and pulling her backwards before anyone saw her.

    "Why?"

    "Just trust me." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled. Yu Zhen was already desperate to see Xueyue. If she gave in so quickly, it''ll ruin the game.

    "You don''t think, they''ll¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, turning to the Duchess with a worried expression.

    "Have a duel?" Duchess Wang Qixing finished her sentence.

    Li Xueyue nodded, her brows furrowing together.

    Duchess Wang Qixing simply shrugged. "I just hope they fight to the death if they do."

    "Mother!" Li Xueyue exasperated with a mortified expression.

    Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled, reaching out to soothe stray strands of Li Xueyue''s hair. "I''m just saying that if they should fight, at least one of them should get rid of each other. It''ll make it easier for us."

    "What if Yu Zhen was the one that was killed?"

    "Then we better pray for your wellbeing." Duchess Wang Qixing cringed. "Especially if Wen Jinkai wants to be a part of your future."

 Chapter 170 Eliminate All Of His Worries

    <h4>Chapter 170 Eliminate All Of His Worries</h4>

    Yu Zhen watched as the carriage disappeared into the distance. His lips twitched when he saw her hair blowing out of the carriage, her face a second from peeking out, but she was evidently dragged back inside.

    It was amusing to him. He wondered if she knew, that even if he returned to the Pce, that a duel would happen regardless of the circumstances. She was too foolish to think anything could prevent the inevitable from urring between him and Wen Jinkai. But perhaps, it was this ignorance that made her adorable. He could not tell.

    "Let''s get the duel over with," Yu Zhen said the second the carriage was fully gone from his line of sight. He didn''t wait for Wen Jinkai to respond before unsheathing his sword.

    "Well?" Yu Zhen asked, turning to face Wen Jinkai with his sword drawn and ready. He did not care that his opponent was injured on his dominant hand. He only cared about getting rid of this pestering obstacle that was standing in the way of obtaining Li Xueyue.

    "Hah¡­" Wen Jinkai shook his head. "Every time we meet, you pretend to be a gentleman." He slid his sword out of the sheath, tossing the casing to the ground. "But who would''ve thought you were a soldier without honor?"

    Yu Zhen simply shrugged. "Does ying fair win you wars?"

    Wen Jinkai took a step forward. "No, but a fair fight brings satisfaction."

    "Too bad I''ll feel more satisfaction cutting your dominant hand off." Yu Zhen let out a smallugh filled with more crazy than anyone would''ve imagined.

    Wen Jinkai silently cursed inside of his head. He could barely feel his fingertips on his bleeding hand. It was turning blue by the second and if it went untreated, he''d have to decapitate it.

    Yu Zhen took a step closer, easily twirling the sword in his hand as if it weighed nothing. But that was the only warning the shadow guards needed before they emerged from every corner, surrounding them. It was an ambush on all sides.

    Loud clicks could be heard as soldiers drew their swords from the metal scabbard before tossing it onto the ground without hesitation. They surrounded Yu Zhen, swords drawn, tips pointed towards him.

    Yu Zhen did note unguarded either. His soldiers instantly made their presence known exactly at the same time when Wen Jinkai''s own men came forward. It was a rough standoff, weapons drawn on all sides, and a single action was enough to spark a fight.

    "Imend your loyal dogs," Yu Zhen mused, nodding in satisfaction. "Do youck the confidence to fight me one-on-one?"

    "We would never disrespect our Commander as such," a man spoke up, his face hidden by the ck mask covering up to his nose, revealing nothing but his eyes. "We simply acted to prevent this unfair fight."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Since when do dogs bark before their master speaks?"

    The presumed leader of the shadow guards grounded his teeth, but chose to not respond. These Hanjian men were sneaky. They preached of honor and justice, but at any given chance, would go against their morals. How pathetic of them to not uphold their own ethic code.

    "Fall back, this is my fight," Wen Jinkai snarled, taking a step forward even when he knew this was a disadvantageous fight, but that was what made it so thrilling. If he won this with a non-dominant arm and a bleeding hand, what would that say about Hanjian''s most prized Commander?

    Yu Zhen''s defeat would be the talk of the town.

    The leader exchanged wary nces with their soldiers, but they could not disobey their Master. Slowly, they began to tuck their swords back, submitting to their Commander. They did not dare to question his orders.

    Yu Zhen''s eyes flickered with amusement at the tant disy of loyalty. It was all too humorous to him how touching but stupid this scene was. These men would rather obey their Master than save him from engaging in a disadvantageous battle. What amendable scene.

    "How touching this moment is." Yu Zhen let out a wistful sigh. "As a reward, I''ll spare you of tonight''s defeat," he mused, slipping his sword back into his sheath.

    Wen Jinkai narrowed his gaze. "Scared of losing this battle?"

    "No, but I''m sure you''re scared of losing that arm." Yu Zhen nodded to Wen Jinkai''s limp hand.

    "Though, I do pity you." Yu Zhen chuckled. "There will be no one to weep for your loss."

    Wen Jinkai''s grip tightened on his sword. "Draw your weapon you coward."

    "You should value yourself above your pride." Yu Zhen clicked his tongue. "If you''d like a duel, I''m always open to one."

    "I''d like one here."

    "Preferably, I like to duel capable men. Or else, it''ll be a waste of time." Yu Zhen simply shrugged. He was usually not this forgiving, but for the sake of his ray of Sunshine, he''ll subdue himself. She didn''t want a public bloodbath, and he''ll honor that wish.

    Wen Jinkai grounded his teeth. "How many times are you going to hint of a duel and then back down like a cuckold coward?"

    Yu Zhen didn''t even blink at the insult. He merely cast Wen Jinkai a sympathetic gaze. "I''m sure you''re eager to stroke your ego, since that''s the only thingrge about you, but many of us have honor to maintain."

    Yu Zhen snapped his finger and in an instant, his men rxed. They didn''t needmands to know what to do. His soldiers began to slip their weapons back into ce, as if nothing had happened.

    Yu Zhen nodded to the mess in the restaurant. Chairs were flipped over and tables were knocked out of the way when soldiers from both sides barged in. His men didn''t need to be told twice, they began to clean up the mess.

    "You speak of honor, yet you requested a duel and backed down from it. I have never seen a more pathetic attempt at ying hero." Wen Jinkai shook his head in disgust.

    Yu Zhen didn''t reply. He didn''t have to. His silence would speak for him.

    Wen Jinkai narrowed his eyes. He motioned for his men to begin cleaning up as well. As much as he didn''t care about maintaining his reputation, he did care about the lives of the people affected by his actions. They didn''t deserve to be caught up in all of this chaos.

    The leader of his shadow guards, a tall and burly man, turned to the manager of the restaurant who had cowered back when the entire scene unfolded.

    Wen Jinkai simply nodded and that was the only indication the leader needed to move forward with a bag of money.

    "This should pay for the broken decoration and chairs," the leader said as he dropped the bag into the owner''s hands.

    The owner hesitantly nodded, retracting himself behind the counter. He warily watched as these armed men began to tidy up the mess they created. They worked efficiently, quietly, and in less than a few minutes, everything was settled.

    Yu Zhen decided he had better ces to be than waste his time here. He didn''t care who was watching him, or whispering about themotion that unfolded inside of the restaurant. He simply slipped outside, ignoring the small group of people gathered outside who were murmuring about what had happened.

    Yu Zhen made up his mind right then and there. Hisst mission before departing from Wuyi would be to y Wen Jinkai and take his head back to Hanjian as a trophy. If he would depart from Wuyi, at the least, he should get rid of the man pestering his woman.

    But then something else came to mind, an even better idea. A n that would kill two birds with one stone.

    A sinister, twisted smile crept to his face. What a great idea it would be, if he could eliminate all of his worries in Wuyi.

 Chapter 171 A Dimwi

    <h4>Chapter 171 A Dimwi</h4>

    When Duchess Wang Qixing and Li Xueyue returned home, the remainder of their time was spent in the gardens.

    Duchess Wang Qixing did not reveal the fact that she had read the contents of the diary, but Xueyue knew she had. Their conversation was filled with the Duchess''s teasing and small talks about how much she regretted taking Wen Jinkai''s side in the past. Being the patient woman that she was, Li Xueyue listened to all of the Duchess''sints with an understanding smile.

    Soon, the sun began to set and one by one, the men of the family returned home.

    First came Li Chenyang who always finished his workload days in advance, so much so that he could take days off, but didn''t wish to. He was saving it for when he truly needed a break.

    Next was Duke Li Shenyang who was always exhausted from his duties that were never-ending. When he was finished addressing one issue, two more would spring up. He could never catch a break, but that was the price he paid for being born into the Li Family that has always served the Wangs.

    "Mom, Xiao Yue, I''m home!" Li Wenmin loudly announced the second he stepped through the doors of his house. He usually had the longest day out of everyone, but no amount of training would tire out the energetic puppy.

    "Listen, listen," he excitedly said over the dinner table once everyone was gathered. "I think I finally found someone to match my speed!"

    "In what?" Li Xueyue curiously asked, happy that someone else was trying to break the heavy tension in the dining room. For the past few days, it had always been her trying to dispel the awkward atmosphere, and she was beginning to run out of things to randomlyment on.

    Li Xueyue was grateful for her brother''s help. Or maybe, it was intentional. She did not know.

    "Snacking!"

    "What?" Li Xueyue blinked in confusion, bewildered that it was even something topete in.

    Li Chenyang chuckled. "What our idiotic brother meant was, there is something to rival his position as a glutton."

    Li Wenmin decided to ignore his irritable brother''sment. "And guess what?"

    "What?"

    "His identity ispletely unknown!" Li Wenmin eximed, his eyes wide with excitement.

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue mused. She realized he loved to animatedly move his hands when he spoke, and it provided her the perfect time to sneak another braised egg into her rice bowl.

    The chefs had finally begun making braised eggs again, per the request of the Duchess. It wasn''t hard to make the eggs, but it did take a while for the eggs to soak in the vorful broth overnight.

    "Well, this masked soldier is from Wen Jinkai''s squadron, and despite being one of the reputable shadow guards, he has such a small build that I felt bad for him. So, obviously being the well-raised kid I am," he paused and grinned in his mother''s direction, "I offered him some snacks!"

    "And he finished them so quickly!" Li Wenmin exasperated. "I thought he was starved or something, but it turns out, he''s the fastest eater in his squadron and¡ª"

    "Is that even a thing? Fastest eater?" Li Chenyang spoke up, "The military''s food budget will surely suffer because of you two."

    "Well, that''s not the point, you dimwit! Don''t interrupt my grand story," Li Wenmin huffed, "As I was saying¡ª"

    "Did you just call me a dimwit?"

    "Is that the only thing you heard?"

    "It''s the only thing that matters," Li Chenyang retorted, rolling his eyes when his brother groaned in irritation.

    "Shut up, I''m trying to finish my interesting story!"

    "I''m doing everyone a favor. Your story is boring." Li Chenyang chuckled, enjoying the sight of Li Wenmin''s face turning red with irritation.

    "Have you seen yourself?" Li Wenmin retorted.

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a loud, dramatic sigh. "How I wish for a peaceful dinner."

    Li Wenmin pointed an using finger towards Li Chenyang. "You''d get one if he wasn''t so grouchy all the time."

    "Being blunt does not mean I am grouchy."

    "You''re right," Li Wenmin suddenly said.

    "See¡ª"

    "It means you''re boring," Li Wenmin deadpanned.

    "That doesn''t even make sense." Li Chenyang scowled. Despite that, he still felt a prick of irritation. "I am not boring."

    "You are."

    "Am not."

    "You are!"

    "Am not!"

    "There they go again." Li Xueyue chuckled as the twins engaged in another endless bickering match that would not stop until one of them finally grew tired of being petty.

    Duke Li Shenyang snorted in response. "Sometimes I wonder if my sons are in their early twenties or the early years of their lives."

    "I wonder where they got that from." Duchess Wang Qixing lightly sniped, "Must''ve been another bad trait they inherited from their father. Just like the traits of keeping secrets from their mother."

    The twins finally settled down. They exchanged quiet stares with each other, nervous at her words.

    "Mom," Li Chenyang began, "We never meant to keep it a secret from you."

    Li Wenmin rapidly nodded his head. "We only wanted to keep you safe from any worries. We didn''t want you to be distressed by the contents of the diary."

    "I don''t like how everyone babies me in this family." Duchess Wang Qixing scowled. "I am not a sand castle that will crumble at the smallest poke."

    Li Chenyang let out a quiet sigh. "We know, it''s just¡­me and Wenmin thought it was for the better if you didn''t fret over these things."

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a quiet sigh. "That is very silly of you guys. As your mother, I should be sheltering you from bad news, not the other way around."

    Duke Li Shenyang decided it was time to speak up. "Well, I requested that they kept the secret from you."

    "Why?" she asked, her lips tug downwards. She was suddenly fired up to start another argument.

    "Because, your role as my wife is to live a blissful life."

    Li Chenyang gagged in the background and Li Wenmin suddenly lost his appetite. Oh gross, now their parents were exchanging googly eyes with each other.

    "H-how can you just¡ªthis is such stupid reasoning, I¡ª" Duchess Wang Qixing stuttered, unsure of what she should say to his adoring confession. It was one of the rare moments that her husband spoiled her with words, despite iming romance wasn''t his expertise.

    "So please, my lovely wife, you must understand why I keep things from you. I don''t want you to ever be burdened by the world around you." Duke Li Shenyang gently reached for his wife''s hands. "The only thing you should be burdened by is the color you should wear each day and if rubies suit your appearance more than sapphires."

    Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "We''re husband and wife, you foolish fox. Don''t shoulder the burden by yourself. In my wedding vow to you, I had sworn to bear your problems as if they were mine, and together, we''d deal with it as one."

    "Indeed, my darling wife, but I''m simply too weak-hearted to see you in pain," Duke Li Shenyang murmured, his usually aloof eyes softening just for her.

    Li Chenyang resisted the urge to throw up. Li Wenmin, for once, settled his chopsticks onto the table. This lovey-dovey moment was too much for them.

    They turned to Li Xueyue, expecting her to share the same disgusted expression as them, but she didn''t. She had a tender hand on her heart, a mesmerized expression on her face. She was at awe with the love they had for each other.

    The twins exchanged nces with each other before simultaneously shuddering in disgust. They would never understand what was so endearing with this cringeworthy moment¡­ no matter how adoring it was.

    "Next time, do not keep secrets from me. I want to be informed of what goes down in this house. Like, Wen Jinkai sneaking into Xueyue''s room."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s eyes widened. "How did you know of this?"

    "That doesn''t matter."

    "Right, right." Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "If you promise to voice your feelings to me, especially when you''re distressed, then I will not keep things from you."

    "Deal."

    "Good." Duke Li Shenyang finally smiled a bit.

    "I''ve always known you kept secrets from me," Duchess Wang Qixing suddenly said, a faraway expression on her face. "You''ve started doing it more frequently after what happened to our dear Minghua¡­"

    Duke Li Shenyang shifted his gaze elsewhere. "I was simply worried the smallest poke would trigger you."

    "I suppose we all have our reasons," Duchess Wang Qixing murmured.

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''tment.

    "From now on, you will tell me everything," Duchess Wang Qixing firmly said. "Even if it hurts me, you will tell me."

    "Darling, I can''t bear to hear you¡ª"

    "I understand. My pain hurts you more than it''ll hurt me." Duchess Wang Qixing sped her hands over his. "But do not fear, you old fox, I am stronger than you actually think."

    "I know, I know," Duke Li Shenyang reluctantly said, sighing to himself. "I only want you to remain the carefree Princess you grew up being."

    "I was never a carefree Princess, but I was good at pretending to be one."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s gaze softened. He knew her naive smiles in her youth were a mere illusion, but somehow, he wished it was the truth, but no matter how much he prayed for it, such a thing would nevere true.

    In the end, he could only nod. The small action was more than enough for the Duchess. From now on, they would embrace their problems as a family.

 Chapter 172 Royal Decrees

    <h4>Chapter 172 Royal Decrees</h4>

    After dinner, everyone parted and went their separate ways except for Li Chenyang who directed Xueyue into the library. They were seated before a polished wooden table with open books scattered across it.

    Li Xueyue curiously skimmed on the open books. The topics ranged from the territories of Wuyi and Hanjian to the different political viewpoints of the countries. These were all books that she was intrigued by but never got around to reading. Speaking of books, she had yet to set her hands on ''The Art of War''.

    "When Father came home, he handed me these," Li Chenyang said while cing three separate scrolls on the table.

    Li Xueyue unrolled the parchment, her brows shot upwards in shock. "These are royal decrees!"

    "Yes, these were properly obtained and approved by the Emperor, though I doubt he actually looked over them before stamping his royal seal on it." Li Chenyang scowled at thest part, his blood boiling in frustration.

    Because the Emperor disliked his workload, he always shoved the majority of it to his Prime Minister, and as a result, their father was overworked. Li Chenyang loathed the fact that the Li Family always had to serve the Wangs. It was unfair and the Li Family rarely got recognition for their work.

    "A royal decree for the transfer of business shares," Li Xueyue began reading one of the scrolls in front of her. "If we get Viscount Bai Sheng to sign this, then all of his shares, which is the majority of the business, will be given to us. In the Bai family, only he has shares in the trading port."

    Moving onto another one, she remarked, "This one is for royalties for a certain time period¡­" she trailed off, shifting her attention to the final one. "And this is for¡­!"

    Her head shot up in shock. "Completely handing over the business to us, no strings attached."

    "Yes, Father was very thorough with the way everything was drafted. As long as we get Viscount Bai Sheng''s fingerprints and signature on the decrees, everything will be finalized."

    "What about the other investors in his business? Surely, they would have a say in this?

    "That''s the interesting thing about Viscount Bai Sheng''s business," Li Chenyang noted, tilting his head. "He must''ve been very paranoid about who held the most power in the business because the shares given to other aristocrats aren''t enough to ever overthrow him."

    "I see," Li Xueyue muttered, holding one of the decrees up, noting that the wooden spin of the scroll was heavy and purposeful. "Everything seems easier said than done."

    Li Chenyang leaned back into his chair. "The pirates will set sail tonight."

    Li Xueyue nodded in response before examining the decrees further, all of which had the same sizes. "All we need is Viscount Bai Sheng''s fingerprints in red and his signature right? And then things will be finalized?"

    "We would also need the Bai family stamp. With all three of thatbined, everything will be finalized and the business will be in our hands," Li Chenyang mused, watching her roll up the two most important ones and leaving the royalties decree on the table.

    "These are the ones we should focus on," she exined, holding up the scrolls in her hands. "As for that," she said, nodding towards the opened scroll left on the table, "It''s not as important."

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang suddenly said, watching her expression very carefully. She seemed satisfied by how smoothly her ns were going, but he knew there was more than what meets the eye. There was something bothering her and the small things that gave it away were the slight crease between her brows and the tiny wince in her smile.

    "Hmm?" she hummed in response, turning to him.

    Li Chenyang''s suspicion was confirmed. She was upset about something. "Have you discussed Yu Zhen''s departure with him?"

    Li Xueyue''s smile slipped, her eyes shifted from him to the table. "Not really."

    "I thought you talked it out thest time he came to our manor?" Li Chenyang pointed out.

    Li Xueyue shrugged. "Things didn''t go as nned."

    "Xueyue, I want you to be honest with me," he began. "As much as we offer you advice, at the end of the day, you make the final decisions."

    Li Chenyang straightened in his chair, resting his elbows on the table. "What is keeping you in Wuyi?"

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She merely folded her fingers together, keeping her eyes trained to the table in front of her. She couldn''t understand her silence. Why was it so hard to answer him?

    Li Chenyang let out a small sigh through his nose. "Let me rephrase that. Is this revenge holding you back? Or is it that you can''t bear to depart from us? Or is it something else?"

    "It''s everything you listed."

    "I listed three options, but thest one was too vague. Why don''t you make it clearer for me? What else is keeping you here?"

    "I''m scared," Li Xueyue finally admitted, lifting her head to stare at him, her eyes trembling with unsaid thoughts.

    Li Chenyang was instantly rmed by her answer. "What do you mean?" He leaned forward and in a lowered voice, asked, "Is someone threatening you?"

    Despite his best attempts of concealing it, she heard the rm in his tone. He would kill anyone who tried to harm her.

    "What if Yu Zhen is merely infatuated by me? What happens when he gets bored of me? We''ve barely known each other, yet he seems so deeply in love with me. I''m scared that it won''tst."

    Li Chenyang''s cold gaze softened. He reached over and patted her on the head, his tense shoulders rxed.

    "You''re worried this rtionship will only be a fling instead ofsting forever?"

    Li Xueyue shrank back into her chair. She gave him a tiny nod that was barely visible.

    "In all honesty, I''m worried about the same thing," Li Chenyang admitted. "What if you travel all the way to Hechen, and then he suddenly decides he doesn''t love you anymore?"

    Li Chenyang worriedly drummed his fingers on the table. "You''ll be stuck in a foreign country without friends or rtives, and far, far away from our helping hands. You''ll be surrounded by his people, his servants, his peers, and no one will be on your side."

    He shuddered at the horrible thoughts of Li Xueyue sitting in the same position as Li Minghua, surrounded by all the wealth in the world, butcked apanion to share it with.

    Like the flowers raised in the pce, they would bloom and wilt to nothingness. Their name would be a mere memory and soon, their existence would be forgotten, whilst their husband would surely go down in history books.

    The thought that Li Xueyue''s bright smiles would be twisted with mncholy was enough for Li Chenyang to remain rooted in his decision: If Yu Zhen wanted Li Xueyue, then he''d have to wait.

    "Letting him depart to Hanjian will put your rtionship through the test of time," Li Chenyang suddenly spoke up. "Perhaps he wille back for you, perhaps he will not."

    He reached over and quietly patted her on the head, his lips curled into a slight smile. "He mighte back as an Emperor demanding his Empress, or he mighte back bearing news of a treaty, but never seek you out."

    Li Xueyue''s heart dipped at the thought of thetter. Would he evere back at all? The minute he returned to Hanjian, he would yet again, be the most eligible bachelor of all. Mothers would scheme to curry his favor and daughters would kill to get his attention.

    One backstabbing woman after the other, until finally, a beautiful Empress emerges¡ªa woman dressed in crimson red and blinding gold climbing up the imperial stairs of Hanjian''s Imperial Pce. The woman will nce upwards and smile at the sight of her husband, the Emperor of Hanjian, as he lends her a helping hand with that mischievous smirk of his. And that woman might never be Li Xueyue.

 Chapter 173 Disheartening Topic

    <h4>Chapter 173 Disheartening Topic</h4>

    "This test of time will be beneficial for you two," Li Chenyang pointed out, though he couldn''t bring himself to support this idea.

    Li Chenyang was fearful of the heartbreak she would face in Hanjian if she chose to go with Yu Zhen, but he was also fearful of the heartbreak she would feel in Wuyi if she remained. To be far away from Yu Zhen without any proper means ofmunication except the asional letter or two was a bleak thing to imagine for this pair of lovers.

    Long-distance rtionships were always difficult.

    With the disheartening topic, the room suddenly felt suffocating.

    Li Xueyue shifted her gaze to the locked window. Absentmindedly, she wandered towards it, unlocked it, and pushed it open to peer outside. A cool, refreshing breeze whirled past her, calming her uneasy nerves. She leaned out of the window to peer up at the cloudless night and star-speckled sky.

    Li Chenyang silently watched over her as she basked in the moonlight. Glowing in an ethereal manner, she resembled a fairy who had descended from the heavens but suddenly missed home.

    "If you didn''t have the Bai Family holding you back and you didn''t have to worry about us, would you take a leap of faith for him?" Li Chenyang asked.

    Li Xueyue shifted her upper body backward so that she could meet his gaze. In a quiet tone, she muttered, "I would."

    Her voice was mellow and soft, the sound so light, it was almost carried away by the wind.

    Li Chenyang knew this would be her response. He didn''t even have to ask. People were fools for love and the rare handful who were willing to sacrifice it all would do so in a heartbeat.

    Li Xueyue knew she was foolish. She was tricked by love before in the form of Zheng Leiyu, but she didn''t hesitate to answer Li Chenyang. She thought her heart would never heal from Zheng Leiyu''s betrayals, and that no one in this world would be able to convince her of otherwise, but perhaps it was because no one ever came close to Yu Zhen''s presence in her life.

    Zheng Leiyu smiled at the expense of her happiness, but Yu Zhen smiled to make her happy.

    - - - - -

    After a brief discussion to confirm the details of their ns, the siblings parted ways. They decided that Li Chenyang would be the one to safekeep the scrolls since he had more secret hiding ces.

    Meanwhile, Li Xueyue retired to her room. In utter exhaustion, she copsed onto her bed without paying attention to the hairpins and make-up that she needed to remove.

    Li Xueyue was too lethargic to move another finger. "What a long day," she sighed, her shoulders sagged in relief when she melted into herfortable bed, but her restless heart was beginning to weigh her down.

    What if Li Chenyang''s predictions were true¡­? What if Yu Zhen would nevere back to fetch her from Wuyi? What if he suddenly decided that the women in Hanjian were more beneficial to him? There were plenty he could choose from.

    "Stop thinking these stupid thoughts!" Li Xueyue groaned, shifting her body on the bed. Her thoughts spiralled down the rabbit hole and conjured up the worst scenarios possible until she terrified herself too much to have a restful night.

    And that was exactly what happened. Lying motionless on the bed, Li Xueyue had finally drifted off to sleep, but this time, her mind was gued with one of her worst nightmares.

    - - - - -

    Three years ago.

    "I''m hungry¡­" Bai Xueyue mumbled to herself. She was huddled in the corner of her bedroom that was smaller than the servants'' living quarters.

    Bai Xueyue didn''t know why, but she always found the corner of this bedroom to be the mostforting spot for her. Perhaps it was because this cramped corner pressing against her shoulder felt like the gentle hands of a mother hugging her.

    Bai Xueyue ced a hand on her stomach, t and never full. She hugged it, cringing when her legs nearly gave out from under her. How long was she in this position for? She had fallen asleep here, instead of the decently-sized bed. She couldn''t even tell whether it was the early morning orte at night.

    She had identally talked back to Viscount Bai Sheng in regard to her meals and as a result, he had banished her to her room for three days without food. He had left her in istion, going as far as hammering wooden boards over her windows to seal her in.

    "Starvation is the least of my worries¡­" she told herself, deciding that at least she was given water to drink, even if it tasted funny and random bits of food could be found at the bottom of the small bowl.

    Bai Xueyue hesitantly made her way to the doors of her bedroom. "What if¡­" she whispered, cing a hand on the knob and twisting it. To her surprise, the door wasn''t locked.

    Standing there dumbfounded, she wondered if it was because one of the servants forgot to lock it up after giving her the smallest ration of water for the day. She nervously licked her cracked lips, but she was so parched that her tongue didn''t do much to soothe her lips.

    Bai Xueyue nervously wandered down the dark hallways. "It''s night time," she said to herself, her heart leaping. If it was nighttime, then she could at least sneak into the storage room. If she was lucky, she''d find a piece of stale bread in there. Even a raw vegetable like a carrot would satisfy her hunger.

    She walked for a while before hearing a loudmotion down the hallways. Bai Xueyue jumped out of fear, her eyes widening. There was a room down the hallways that was brightly lit.

    Bai Xueyue looked at her surroundings. She was just a short distance away from the kitchen and storage rooms.

    "I-I should head back," she whispered, taking hesitant steps backward.

    Her stomach loudly grumbled in protest. Bai Xueyue let out a quiet groan as a spark of pain shot through her body.

    "Maybe if I run past really quickly, they won''t see me," she whispered to herself.

    Bai Xueyue had already ventured this far. It would be toote for her to head back to her room. All of her hard work would go to waste if she gave up here.

    Mustering her courage, she ventured onwards.

    "Just a little bit more¡­" she mumbled, swallowing hard as she picked up her ragged hanfu and prepared herself to dash past the room as fast as she could.

    "Hey¡ªwhat was that¡ª" a voice spoke up upon hearing the loud thuds of footsteps scampering past the doors.

    The door was instantly mmed open and Bai Xueyue turned her head, eyes widened in horror when she saw the person who stepped out. It was none other than Viscount Bai Sheng.

    She jumped in fear. He had seen her. Before he or anyone else in the room could speak up, she continued running. The only problem was, she didn''t look at where she was running.

    Bai Xueyue ran into something. She fell backwards in horror and shock,nding right on her butt.

    "My, my, what do we have here?" a voicemented in front of her.

    Bai Xueyue looked up in confusion, her eyes widened at the sight of the stranger in front of her. She had never seen this person before. Despite that, she still felt an angsty tug in her gut. This person was up to no good.

 Chapter 174 So Generous

    <h4>Chapter 174 So Generous</h4>

    Bai Xueyue stared up at the man, her trembling eyes wide and nervous. She scrambled to her feet, her gaze trained to the floor. When the man, reeking of alcohol and tobo, took a step towards her, she shrank backwards, hoping to blend into the darkness of the hallways. s, it was inevitable, and everyone had seen her.

    "What are you doing out of your room?" Viscount Bai Sheng snarled, storming towards her, but it was toote.

    Bai Xueyue had caught the eye of the highest bidder in Hechen. He was a man with arge pocket and an even bigger house to store as many wives as he pleased, no matter their age, though he preferred them young and before they bled.

    Despiteing from Hanjian, a country where harems were frowned upon, he did not mind. So long as he had the money to support his many wives, he would not face any problems.

    "Who''s this, Viscount?" the man asked, revealing a cunning smile. He was not ugly, nor was he handsome. There was nothing special about him, except the malicious and greedy glint in his eyes.

    Another voice answered him. "No one!" Viscountess Mu Yihua eximed, rushing out of the room to see who it was. Her heart drummed in fear at the thought of Bai Xueyue being caught in his spiderweb.

    "Go back to your room, Xueyue!" Viscountess Mu Yihua demanded, her voice harsher than usual. It was high-pitched and revealed the panic in her voice.

    Bai Xueyue was paralyzed with fear. She could feel the scathing glower of Viscount Bai who was demanding for her to move, but her foot was rooted to the ground.

    "Useless brat," Viscount Bai Sheng muttered, storming towards her and grabbing her thin wrist. He tugged her forward in an attempt to drag her back to her room. He''ll deal with her tomorrow with a thorough beating, but the man had different ns.

    "Wait a minute, Viscount." The man held up a hand, licking his lips when he saw herrge, docile eyes.

    He could practically smell her fear before he witnessed it. When their eyes met, he felt his body hum with interest. Despite her ragged figure and clothes, she was easily one of the most attractive women he had ever met, with the beauty of the imported porcin dolls that his younger daughters loved to carry. Her hair stuck to her forehead, her cheeks were hollow and she was evidently malnourished, but he could easily feed her, with something too malicious for her toprehend.

    He licked his lips again, wondering what type of woman she would be in bed. So young, so pure, he wanted her instantly. "Is this your youngest daughter?"

    Viscountess Mu Yihua stiffened. Horrified by his suggestion, she immediately stepped out of the room in an attempt to shield her daughter. As much as she despised Xueyue, she could not bring herself to sell off her own child like livestock.

    "She is only a child," Viscountess Mu Yihua nervously exined.

    "How old?"

    She nervously swallowed, her eyes darting to her husband, pleading for his mercy.

    Viscount Bai Sheng spared his wife none of it. He nced at the thin child beside him, her figure so small, she looked years younger than her actual age.

    "She''s turning sixteen very soon," Viscount Bai Sheng answered in a pleasant tone. He released her wrist and grabbed her by the shoulders, swiveling her around to show the man her front assets.

    "Has she bled yet?" the man asked, wondering if she had her first cycle. He preferred for them to not have it yet, it was better in bed that way. He would know.

    Viscountess Mu Yihua took a hurried step towards her daughter only for her husband to shoot her a warning glower.

    "Yes, she has, very recently," Viscount Bai Sheng responded. "But don''t worry, she''s untouched."

    "Truly?" the man asked, his eyes leering over her from head to toe. His gaze lingered on her undeveloped chest, licking his lips again. His attention flickered back to her eyes, like that of a baby fawn. She had the same eyes as the Viscountess. A smirk traveled to his face.

    "How much for her?"

    "What?" Bai Xueyue finally spoke up, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "Depends on what you want from her," Viscount Bai Sheng smoothly answered.

    Hebed his hands through her hair, his lips twitching when he found it tangled. He was attempting to fix her appearance in hopes of fetching a higher price. If he could get rid of this unwanted scum and generate profit from it, it would be killing two birds with one stone.

    "If it''s a few touches here and there, I do not mind offering a great price, considering our friendship. However, if you''d like her as a wife, then I would love to negotiate further," Viscount Bai Sheng added.

    "You wanted more investors, didn''t you? As you know, Ie from Hanjian and I have many wealthy friends there," the man began, shifting his weight to one leg while he rubbed his throat.

    He analyzed her ws, or rather, parts of her body that hadn''t developed yet, like her chest and hip that was too small for childbearing. That was fine. He''d stretch her.

    "Yes, investors are weed as well," Viscount Bai Sheng slowly answered. "But will that be all you''re offering?"

    The man hummed in response. "We''ll see after I get a proper look at her. Open her mouth."

    Bai Xueyue constantly struggled to break free from her father''s grip. Why would this man peer inside her mouth?

    "For¡­?" Viscount Bai Sheng asked, confused by such a perplexing request.

    "I can''t have a wife with a weak set of teeth. How will she feed herself to breastfeed my child?"

    Viscountess Mu Yihua stiffened at his words. Xueyue, a mother? She was still a child and barely a grown woman!

    "Very well." Viscount Bai Sheng nervously said. He reached forward and without warning, roughly grabbed Xueyue''s jaw, clenching it tightly until she was forced to let out a cry of pain and reveal her teeth.

    "Hmm..." The man rubbed his chin, tilting his head. "I''ll take her for five hundred gold."

    Viscount Bai Sheng hesitated at the price. It was not enough. Five hundred gold could barely buy a decent-sized house, he wanted more than that. "Hmm¡­" he visibly hesitated, slowly shaking his head.

    "I''m afraid it will be difficult to separate from my daughter¡­ she''s my youngest and my wife is quite attached to her," Viscount Bai Sheng lied through his teeth with a smile on his face.

    The man chuckled in response. "If you wanted a higher price, you could''ve just said so. How about one thousand and five hundred gold coins?"

    Viscount Bai Sheng''s eyes lit up. "My, that is a¡ª"

    "But first, I want a taste of her."

    "NO!" Viscountess Mu Yihua cried out, finally deciding enough was enough. Xueyue was only fifteen and was yet a woman. This unfair High Lord was too much! Even if he was an Earl whose title was one rank above her husband, she could not tolerate this further!

    "S-surely, Earl Qin, you wouldn''t want such an inexperienced child..." Viscountess Mu Yihua hurriedly added on, softening her tone, hoping to ease the tension.

    "The less experience, the better," Earl Qin answered with a deep scowl on his face. He turned to Viscount Bai Sheng and clicked his tongue irritably. "You should discipline your wife better. If that was my wife and she spoke out of turn, I would''ve given her a good smack in front of her children."

    Viscount Bai Sheng''s body tensed at his words. He would nevery a hand on his wife, not in this lifetime or the next. She was simply too important to be harmed. If he had abused her and she was suddenly unable to give him an heir, she would be useless in his life, and the Mu Family would me him.

    Nheless, he strained his smile and opened his mouth to respond, but was interjected by Earl Qin.

    "Because of that disrespect, I do not know if I want your daughter anymore. What if she has the same rebellious streak as your wife? How despicable it is for women to have a tongue on them. It should be used for pleasure, not talking."

    Viscount Bai Sheng grounded his teeth, irritated by this arrogant Earl. He dug his fingers deep into Xueyue''s shoulder. He watched in satisfaction as she sobbed in pain and winced. Good. It lessened his frustration seeing her like this.

    "How would you like me to show you her obedience? I have disciplined my daughter very well. She won''t dare to speak out of turn and look, even now, she looks at the floor, instead of directly in the eyes."

    "Obedience can be faked," Earl Qin responded, shaking his head irritably. He had a daughter who loved to fake obedience and instantlysh out when he was not looking.

    "Well, I have no interest in someone so unruly like your wife." Earl Qin sighed, shaking his head in disappointment. "I will see you the next time I am in town."

    "W-when is that?" Viscount Bai Sheng nervously answered.

    "I don''t know. Weeks, months, or¡­" Earl Qin wickedly smiled. "Years?"

    Viscount Bai Sheng''s heart dropped to his stomach. One thousand and five hundred gold for Xueyue. No one has ever offered him such a high price for her hand in marriage. He was too terrified that such a great offer would nevere again.

    "Have a good life, Viscount," Earl Qin said. He turned around and took a single step forward when his peer nervously called out.

    "W-wait a minute."

    Earl Qin paused, but did not face the Viscount. His lips twitched to contain the excited grin that threatened to break out. His n was working.

    "H-how about you sample her? A few touches here and there to measure her worth."

    "Just a few¡­?" Earl Qin mused, turning only his chin to look at the Viscount.

    "Yes."

    "Why should I fondle her for a few seconds when I can easily y with the wife waiting for me in the carriage?"

    "Well¡ª"

    "Hmph, you are a cheap man, Viscount."

    "Wait!" Viscount Bai Sheng hurriedly called out when Earl Qin took another step. "Fine," he gritted out. "As long as you''d like, until you deem her a suitable fit for you."

    Earl Qin''s lips tugged into a cheshire grin, revealing his yellow and less than perfect teeth. "Why, you are so generous today, Viscount! I shall dly take up on that offer."

 Chapter 175 A Simple Gif

    <h4>Chapter 175 A Simple Gif</h4>

    The present.

    Li Xueyue shot out of bed, her heart mming against her chest. With shaky hands, she tried to run a hand through her hair, only to find her hair tangled. Angrily she yanked out her hand, only to wince in pain. She jumped, frightened when something fell down with her hand. She let out a nervous chuckle,ughing at how foolish she was behaving.

    ''I''m safe here,'' she told herself, though it suddenly didn''t feel that way. Goosebumps rose on her arms when a small breeze drifted through her. She gulped and began to furiously rub her quivering arms, drenched from cold sweat.

    Suddenly, her own hands transformed into hairy thick ones that did not belong to her.

    "NO!" she shrieked, dropping her hands, scrambling backwards. She sucked in panicked puffs of air, her eyes darted from the white sheets of the bed to the spot where she hadst seen those masculine hands. Hands that had wandered over every inch of her body until she was practically in tears, kicking and screaming for mercy.

    "Stop it, make it stop¡­" she cried out, burying her face in her hands. It did not take long for the silent night to be filled with quiet sniffles and heartbroken sobs. She wasn''t crying for her trampled dignity, she cried for the young child in her dreams who would never heal from the emotional scars.

    - - - - -

    No matter how hard Li Xueyue tried to go back to sleep, she couldn''t do so. Eventually, she gave up and began to wordlessly read books in hopes that the sun would rise a lot faster than usual.

    Soon, Li Xueyue found herself rereading the same line five times in a row. She was still unable to grasp an understanding. Realizing it would be impossible to focus on anything other than the nightmares, she ced the book down and headed towards her bed.

    "What''s this¡­?" she curiously asked, realizing there was something on top of her nkets all along. She approached her bed. It was Yu Zhen''s hairpin.

    "This must''ve been what fell from my head and spooked me," she sighed, picking it up. Twirling it between two fingers, she watched the blurry reflection along the silver borders of the roaring lion. She held it up against the window, her eyes widening upon seeing the rising sun.

    Li Xueyue instantly approached the window, watching as the dark sky began to brighten into a soft hue of blue. In the background, the birds stretched and began to chirp. Their song slowly encouraged the sun to rise higher and higher, until daybreak approached.

    It was finally morning and the start of a new day.

    "To think I could''ve missed this sight," she mused, continuing to twirl the hairpin in her hand. She watched the silver glisten, the blinding rays dancing across the floor. Smiling to herself, she clutched the hairpin closer to her chest, hugging it dearly. Absentmindedly, Li Xueyue wished it was not the hairpin in her arms, but the person who gave it to her.

    - - - - -

    When the handmaidens entered her room to begin helping with her appearance, none of them were surprised to see she was awake before them. It was usually like this. It wasn''t a secret that their Young Lady rarely had a good night''s rest. As if such a thing was even possible in her dictionary.

    Li Xueyue silently allowed her handmaidens to properly cleanse her face of yesterday''s makeup and thoroughly cleaned her hair beforebing out all of the knots.

    After her morning bath, she was settled in front of the vanity mirror. One of the handmaidens worked on drying her hair while the other worked on essorizing her and another one was picking out an outfit. It took a team to get her ready.

    While they were still busy getting her ready, Li Xueyue reached for the drawer that contained smaller jewelry and trinkets. Everything was neatly organized inside ranging from brooches to ribbons, but only one thing caught her eye, a ring perfectly made for her finger.

    She picked it up, holding it up to the light, watching as the sun''s ray soaked the sparkling topaz, turning it from a glistening dandelion yellow to the color of molten gold. She could hear the soft gasps from her handmaidens who couldn''t help but pause and marvel at the gorgeous ring.

    Under the sunlight that bathed Li Xueyue, they realized exactly what inspired the design of this ring. Her eyes shone under the morning rays, turning the

    brown orbs into the colour of falling autumn leaves.

    "Mydy, this is a beautiful ring," one of the maidservants earlyplimented. She was so mesmerized by the ring, she didn''t realize she spoke out of turn.

    Li Xueyue brushed it off. She preferred their small chatter over the usual silence. "I was told this topaz resembled my eyes, though it was an exaggeration."

    "It doesn''t seem that way, mydy, " the same handmaiden happily said.

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She simply turned the ring over in her hand, poking at it. Unbeknownst to her, she had a tiny smile resting on her lips.

    "If I may ask, mydy, did Madam buy this for you?" another handmaiden asked, this time, it was the one working on Xueyue''s hair.

    "What are you guys discussing?" He asked from the door.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even have to look to know it was Li Chenyang who was always thest person to wake up in the family, but dressed the quickest. He entered her room without knocking, not like he needed to anyway.

    Before he reached her, Li Xueyue closed her fingers around the ring and settled her closed hand on herp. She nervously smiled up at him, her heart skipping out of fear when their eyes met and he lifted a brow, suspicious of her.

    "Justdies gossiping about jewelry," she answered him, motioning for the handmaidens to begin working on tidying her appearance.

    "What''s that in your hand?" Li Chenyang mused, his lips curled into a small lopsided smile. He leaned his hips against her vanity and watched as a handmaiden picked up a crimson red tinted sheet meant for adding color to the lips.

    "Too bright," he chided, "Rose-pink suits her better. Get another color."

    The handmaiden bowed her head, "I apologize, Young Master," she rushed out, knowing he was the most hot-tempered sibling of the family. He might''ve seemed calm and collected, but was the least forgiving on servants.

    Li Xueyue might''ve had a kind heart, but she''d never go against her Chen-ge in front of servants.

    "Well?" he asked again, his tone gentle but impatient.

    Li Xueyue shook her head and let out a small daughter. "Trust me, you won''t be interested in it."

    "I would be," he said, "Since it''s a ring." Li Chenyang revealed a tight-lipped smile, too wide and sweet for it to be sincere.

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh. He was upset by the ring, or perhaps, he was mad at herck of response. "You don''t have to worry about it."

    "It''s from that rat isn''t it?" Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms in irritation.

    "A rat? Who are you talking about?"

    "Yu Zhen, who else?"

    "He''s not a rat." Li Xueyue frowned, squeezing the ring in her palm.

    "How did he give it to you in the first ce? I don''t recall a proposal. He has some guts to give you a ring when he didn''t even ask Mother and Father for their blessings."

    "You''re overthinking everything. It''s a simple gift." She groaned, recalling yesterday''s events.

    The object that Yu Zhen had slipped into her hand was this ring and it wasn''t difficult to hide it. The thing that bewildered her was how perfect and snug it fit on her finger, as if he already knew her size when all he did was hold her hand once or twice.

    "Or a promise ring." Li Chenyang sighed, sticking his hand out. "Give it to me, I''ll return it to him if I see him in the Pce."

    Li Xueyue stared at his outstretched hand. With each second that passed, her brows began to furrow together, her lips tugged downwards into a soft and hesitant frown.

    It felt like what happened during the Spring Tournament, when Li Wenmin demanded her to give him Wen Jinkai''s pendant. Couldn''t any of her brothers trust her with men?

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang coaxed, "I will be simply returning it. Nothing else."

    Li Xueyue shook her head, holding her hand close to her chest where her heart rapidly beated.

    "Xueyue," he tried again, this time his voiceing out lower than usual, his tone filled with warning. He did not take her disobedience very well. "Give it."

    "No." She glowered at him when his friendly stare turned cruel. It was the first time she had ever seen him angered by something and she knew, it would not be thest time.

 Chapter 176 Highest Realm of Heaven

    <h4>Chapter 176 Highest Realm of Heaven</h4>

    A long staredown between them ensued, the atmosphere bing frigid and unweing. A dreary silence persisted between them, as neither of them wanted to back down. It was not in their nature to give up in the first ce, mainly because both Li Chenyang and Li Xueyue were toopetitive and stubborn.

    "Hand it over."

    "No."

    "Li Xueyue!" he exasperated, finally deciding enough was enough.

    Li Chenyang grabbed her by the shoulders, forcing her to crane her neck up to meet his eyes. At this moment, she despised having an average height. He was even taller when they were seated.

    At the least, Yu Zhen would support her neck or ease his body down to make her morefortable. Thinking of his slight smiles and gentle touches, she felt her face flush. Why was she having thoughts about him at a time like this?

    "I won''t ask again. Give me the ring right now."

    "I don''t want to."

    Li Chenyang scowled at her words. It was one of the rare moments she had ever defied him. "Do you realize how bad it is to walk around wearing this ring when you''re not even publicly dered to him? People will talk!"

    Li Xueyue shook her head. She couldn''t care less about what people thought of her. It wasn''t like rumors and gossip could feed her. Her eyes dropped to the floor because she did care about one thing: The Li Family''s reputation that she was always careful to not drag down.

    "Don''t be stubborn. If you want something made with yellow stones like topaz, then I will buy out an entire collection for you!"

    "But I only want this ring¡­" she whispered, her voice cracking towards the end. Li Xueyue didn''t mean to get so emotional over this topic, but she couldn''t help herself. It was like Li Chenyang said, this could be a promise ring that he woulde back to her. A promise that he would patiently wait for her, no matter the weeks, months, and maybe even years that went by.

    Promises were nothing but sweet lies.

    She used to tell herself that, but for odd reasons, Yu Zhen''s promises towards her sounded too truthful for her to not believe him.

    Li Xueyue knew she was foolish and this world was too cruel for her, but she did not care.

    She only wanted Yu Zhen.

    Even if loving him would bring her pain and maybe a disastrous demise in Wuyi, she did not care. If loving him was knocking on death''s door, then she''d fling it open and run down the steps leading to the Underworld. If it meant she could have him, then consequences did not matter to her.

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang tried again, this time, softening his voice.

    He could not bear the sight of her trembling lips. She was trying too hard to be strong despite the tears that threatened to spill.

    Li Chenyang could tell herck of sleep was more frequent than usual. Nowadays, she was more erratic and emotional. She seemed physically exhausted with her dropped shoulders and dark circles. She was a Panda in the making.

    "Please," he muttered. "Give it to me. I only have your best interest at heart. I would never do something that I know would hurt you."

    Li Xueyue believed him. She would always believe her Chen-ge, no matter what kind of man he might be in the future.

    Even if he would be a tyrannical Prime Minister, ordering the beheading of anyone who pissed him off, she would still believe the good in him. Not because she was ignorant, but simply because she cherished him too much.

    "Please," she begged, "I just want to hold onto this ring. I-it''s the only thing reassuring me that he''lle back for me."

    "He hasn''t left yet. You can request something else to hold onto," Li Chenyang responded. "But not this ring. Never this ring."

    "Chen-ge¡­" she trailed off, "I do not want anything else but this."

    "Fine then." Li Chenyang scowled, straightening his back. "Then give me both his pendant and his hairpin."

    "What? No, I can''t!" she breathed out, shocked that he knew about these things.

    "I was testing you." Li Chenyang''s face darkened.

    Li Xueyue stiffened, her eyes widened in horror. This was the first time she had seen him look at her in such a manner. He was truly furious with her.

    "But thank you for telling me how much of a shameless man he is for giving you sentimental gifts. It''s either you hand the ring over, or you hand both the pendant and hairpin."

    "But why?" Li Xueyue asked, standing up, hoping to flee from this room, even if it belonged to her in the first ce. He would not let her stand. The second he saw her try to stand, he firmly pressed both of his hands onto her shoulders, forcing her back down.

    "What are you going to choose? The ring or the pendant and hairpin?"

    "Neither."

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "Why are you behaving like this?!" she yelled, her voice rising an octave. She had rarely raised her voice at him, the sound surprising him.

    Li Xueyue had enough of this mess. Despite the tears that threatened to slip down her face and despite the fear of angering him, disappointing him, she continued to defy his orders.

    No matter what he said to her, she would not give these things over. Because she knew, the second she parted with them, her Chen-ge would burn it. He''d get rid of it because Li Chenyang was the type of man who feared the worst scenarios.

    Li Xueyue knew from the bottom of her heart that he was not furious, he was fearful. He was terrified that she would follow the path of Li Minghua, giving herself to a man who seemingly promised her everything only to let her downter. He was scared that she would slip into a loveless marriage just because the first stage of acquaintance was rainbows and butterflies.

    Li Xueyue refused to part with these items. What if Yu Zhen left without telling her? What shall she have to remember him by?

    Li Xueyue wanted to reprimand him for his behavior, but she couldn''t do it. She couldn''t yell at him, or even have the heart to curse at him¡ªsomething she''d rather die than do.

    "You''re being really, really¡­" she struggled to find the proper words, "Mean. You''re being mean right now. I don''t like it."

    "Mean?" Li Chenyang repeated in disbelief. Even now, she still found the time to go out of her way to worry about him than herself. Was she worried cursing and yelling at him for his insolence was going to result in him hating her?

    "Yes, mean."

    Li Chenyang let out a frustrated sigh. "Xueyue, don''t make it harder than this already is." He groaned. "Don''t be dramatic."

    She shook her head, refusing to listen.

    "Be good," he scolded, letting out a small "tsk" when she narrowed her eyes at him. "Xueyue, we don''t have time for this. Breakfast is almost ready and everyone is waiting for you."

    Li Xueyue kept her mouth shut and refused to look at him. She kept her gaze trained to the ground, wishing it was his face that she was glowering at.

    Suddenly, a timid knock echoed in the room. Li Chenyang let out an irritated sigh through his nose, straightening himself.

    "Come in," he barked out, terrifying the poor messenger on the other side of the door.

    When the door was pushed open, he was even more irritated. Standing in front of the door was a shy and hesitant maidservant, young and new to the job. She bowed her body as low as she could.

    "Second Young Master, Young Miss," she greeted. "There is someone requesting to see our Young Miss¡ª"

    Li Xueyue did not need to be told twice before she shot out of her chair, surprising Li Chenyang. In the blink of an eye, she raced past him, and dashed out of the door like her life depended on it.

    "Hey¡ª!" Li Chenyang called out, furious that she would do something like this. He ran to the door and swiveled his head outside to see she was long gone.

    "Why the hell is she this fast?!" he groaned, mming his fist into the wooden frame of the door.

    The loud rattle surprised the maidservants who let out a yelp, jumping when he turned around to shoot them an irritated re. He did not need their screaming so early in the morning, especially when he was holding onto hisst straw of patience.

    "God damn it, Xueyue," he huffed, stomping out of the door and down the hallways. "Why can''t you tell I''m only trying to help you?"

    Li Chenyang continued toin under his breath, cursing Yu Zhen to Diyu and back. That man can rot in the Underworld for all he cared, but Xueyue? She deserved to ascend to the highest realm of Heaven.

    "You''re going to get hurt if you stay with him," he grumbled, letting out a long sigh that he was trying his best to hold back throughout their entire conversation.

    "I just¡­" he trailed off, noticing something on the floor.

    Li Chenyang bent down to pick up thevender ribbon. His face cringed when he attempted to smile. He tightly clenched the ribbon that evidently belonged to Li Xueyue. He squeezed his eyes shut and brought the ribbon closer to his chest.

    "I just want to see you safe and happy. Why can''t you understand that?"

 Chapter 177 I Wont Be Gentle

    <h4>Chapter 177 I Won''t Be Gentle</h4>

    Li Xueyue ran as if she was being chased by insidious spirits. She kept running and never stopped to catch her breath even when her lungs were about to copse from exhaustion. She continued sprinting like her life depended on it. And halfway into the run, she had slipped the ring directly onto her finger. No one could take it away from her now. Not unless they yanked it from her. And she''d never let that happen.

    Finally, she took a nce backward, watching to see if Chenyang was running after her.

    In her daze, she roughly collided with one of the small tables near the hallway. Letting out a terrified yelp, she watched in horror as an expensive vase shook and slid off the table.

    "No!" she shouted, reaching over to catch it but her fingers merely grazed the painted porcin. Everything seemed to be happening in slow motion, from the vase tumbling off the table to arge hand that caught the vase seconds before it crashed onto the ground.

    "Well then," Yu Zhen mused, watching in amusement as her face transformed from fear to shock and then to relief.

    Yu Zhen settled the vase back onto the table, adjusting the cement so that it looked as if nothing was out of ce. Less than a second after his fingers left the vase, he felt something pounce onto him, nearly catching him off guard. He took a tiny step backward, his lips twitching to resist a giant grin that threatened to break out.

    "You certainly missed me," hemented in a gentle voice.

    Li Xueyue buried her face against his clothes, wrapping her arms around him tighter. She felt the rumble of his chest when he let out a cool chuckle before his arm wrapped around her, hoisting her closer to him. He rested one hand behind her head, fondly stroking her hair.

    "What was the rush for?" Yu Zhen asked, his voice as velvety and warm as she had always remembered it to be.

    Li Xueyue did not respond for the longest time, as if she was treasuring this moment, hoping to pocket it and carry it with her for the rest of her life. She could not resist thefort his steady arms provided, nor could she ignore his erratic heartbeat that pounded furiously in her ears. He was as happy to see her as she was.

    Yu Zhen did not mind her silence. He continued to hold her without a single care about his environment. If there was one thing that mattered in the world, it was this tiny moment, regardless of how fleeting it was.

    "I missed you," came her quiet confession, barely louder than a whisper.

    Yu Zhen could not suppress his smile anymore. "It has only been a day since we''ve seen each other," he teased, bending low to press a fond kiss upon the crown of her head.

    Li Xueyue wished her stomach did not flutter and her heart did not skip a beat. How could she envision parting from him when he made her the happiest and craziest she had ever been? Moments like this were a brutal reminder to her that not everything was forever.

    "You don''t miss me?" Li Xueyue suddenly asked, pulling back to reveal the small pout she didn''t know was on her face.

    When Yu Zhen saw her sulk and glower up at him, as if she was wronged by the entire world, he couldn''t help but let out a heartyugh. He cupped her face, squeezing her cheeks with his thumb, before pressing her cheeks together, watching her pout turn into puckered lips. She narrowed her eyes, irritated by his behavior.

    "I missed teasing you." His smile widened when she angrily kicked his shin. It only hurts a bit, but he pretended to not feel anything.

    "Was that supposed to hurt?" he teased.

    Li Xueyue scowled at his words, which was not a pretty expression on her squished face. She began to frustratingly p his chest, forcing him to release her. How mean of him to continue bullying her like this!

    Yu Zhen couldn''t help but loudlyugh at her response. When she reacted like an angry little kitty, how could anyone resist the urge to not tease her? Hisughter provoked her further and she began to struggle in his arms, flinging her arms and legs everywhere.

    In a blink of an eye, he caught both of her wrists and mmed her against the wall. He was careful to not hurt her, but could not prevent the mischief that shed within his dark eyes. He pressed his body against hers, caging her in.

    "Easy now," he murmured. He bent his head towards hers. He could feel her body clench and tense in anticipation, her eyes fluttering shut.

    Yu Zhen''s lips twitched yet again. He knew what she was waiting for. He lowered his lips, brushing it against her soft ones. At thest minute, he changed direction and kissed the corner of her mouth, her eyes impatiently snapped open.

    Li Xueyue felt the intensity of heat that rolled off of him in waves. He teasingly trailed a kiss from the corner of her lips to her earlobes.

    She shivered in response. His grip on her wrists tightened.

    Her knees quivered when his warm breath fanned her ears, his teeth grazing her lobes before he pressed a final kiss against the back of her ears.

    She groaned in protest when he pulled back, his eyes darker than usual. A fire was ignited in his eyes, burning more than her humming body that warmed in response.

    "We should stop." It was not a suggestion, but amand. He was at the edge of his limits, his voice tight and restrained. One more temptation, and he''d take her right then and there.

    Her voice came out in the quietest whisper, "No."

    She pressed her body against his until he could feel all of her, just as she could feel all of him. She always found it interesting; his voice was rough, his body rigid and hard, but his touch was always gentle when it came to her. Hesitant and fearful, he treated her like she would shatter in his hands. She preferred it if he used his hands to help her reach that shattering moment.

    Li Xueyue''s cheeks heated at the dirty suggestion that shed in her mind. "Let''s continue."

    In a blink of an eye, he lightly grabbed her throat with one hand, forcing her head upwards. She gasped at the abrupt action as an unfamiliar warmth pooled in her lower stomach. He pressed his fingers against her sensitive spot, yet he did not tighten his hand in a way that would hurt her.

    "Do not tempt me," he growled, the fire brightly burning in his eyes.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart skip a beat. His grip on her neck was so soft, she almost didn''t feel it.

    She opened her mouth to respond, but he firmly pressed his body against hers. Her eyes widened by a fraction when she felt something press against her thigh. His freed hand began to travel from her shoulder, sliding lower and lower, teasingly grazing the side of her breast before settling on her hips.

    "Don''t provoke me, I won''t be gentle," he warned, squeezing her waist.

    "Who said I wanted you to be gentle?"

    His entire body tensed, his eyes narrowing dangerously. In a blink of an eye, he mmed his lips against hers, capturing it roughly.

    His kiss was merciless and cruel, punishing even, but that didn''t stop her from meeting his ferocity. Her body hummed as he pulled back, only to furiously kiss her yet again. Her fingers dug into his arms as she clenched a part that she didn''t know was even possible to clench.

    When he pulled back, she was gasping and panting for air. His chest rose and fell against hers. His burning, taunting glower piercing right through her. The tension between them was inescapable and he wanted to do nothing but yank her into one of these rooms and have his way with her.

    "That was a warning, Sunshine," he murmured.

    The hand gripping her throat loosened and slid down her body, his fingers brushing against all of her curves. Without warning, he yanked her lower body closer to him, promising himself that nothing would evere in between them. And he would fight to keep it that way.

    She was his. He would not ept it any other way.

 Chapter 178 All Yours

    <h4>Chapter 178 All Yours</h4>

    Yu Zhen took a moment to examine her, his eyes lingered on her swollen lips.

    Li Xueyue''s heart skipped a beat when his lips curled into a cunning smirk, seemingly satisfied by what he saw. He was so damn handsome that it hurt. Angr nose, sharp jawlines, and sun-kissed skin, he was a vision she would never forget¡ªespecially his eyes, dark and devious, constantly shing with mischief. Even through their clothes, she could feel the contours of his body and the ripple of his muscles.

    As he swiped his thumb over her lips, the look in his eyes hardened. "You shouldn''t have tempted me," he said. "I wouldn''t have been so rough otherwise."

    Li Xueyue watched as he swallowed, his prominent Adam''s apple bobbed up and down. She didn''t care about the warning bells going off in her head when she wrapped her fingers around his wrist and kissed his thumb. His pupils dted, his chest rumbled when he let out a warning growl.

    "Sunshine," he seethed through gritted teeth. "Don''t."

    Li Xueyue innocently blinked, tilting her head to the side. She slightly shifted her legs, biting her bottom lip in satisfaction when he let out a quiet groan.

    "Xueyue," he groaned, this time, his voice dripping with lust, "I won''t hesitate."

    "Hesitate to do what?"

    "Take you right here and now."

    Her eyes widened when his other hand reached for the belt holding her hanfu closed. In a single yank, her clothes loosened, her cors widening, revealing more to him than she anticipated. She sucked in a quivering breath when his hand trailed upwards, his touch¡ªteasing, and merciless as his fingers wandered closer to her breast. She thought he''d grab it, but he didn''t.

    Yu Zhen''s smirk deepened at her reaction. "So innocent, so naive, and all mine¡­" he murmured. He could feel her icy skin turn warm under the tip of his fingers. She shivered against him, her body jolting when he trailed a lone finger from her corbone to her chest.

    "What shall I do with you?" he teased, dragging his finger down. "Perhaps I''ll just do you."

    Her cheeks instantly heated when she realized he was far, far more experienced than she ever would be.

    Li Xueyue was losing the game she started.

    She wanted to tempt him, to watch thisposed man in front of her lose control. But she did not anticipate the consequences of her teasing actions. From the gleam of lust in his eyes to the curl of his lips when she gave in to him, he knew she was puddy in his hands.

    "I¡ª"

    "Shhh¡­" He gently captured her lips again, this time, in a slow, sensual kiss that caught her by surprise. Her legs wobbled, but he easily supported her weight, steadying her in ce. He licked her bruised lips, tugging her bottom lip, nibbling it. She writhed under his wandering hands, gasping in bursts of air. He was greedy and shameless, but so was she.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she pleaded, her own voice surprising her.

    His eyes sharpened at her tone. His jaw ticked. Not now. Dear god, he was going crazy from this damn tease.

    Yu Zhen had only kissed her once, yet, she was already his drug, intoxicating him in ways that shouldn''t be possible.

    Yu Zhen cursed the gods above. If he was allowed into Heaven, he would beat all of them into a damn pulp for putting him in this situation.

    Her expression was unguarded and provocative, her eyes soft and pleading. He could take advantage of her again and she would not protest. She was dangerous¡ªa weapon, even. One word from her and it would turn into hismand. It was inevitable now¡ªhe was wrapped around her fingers.

    If Li Xueyue continued to give him permission, he knew it would not be long before she was officially his.

    When his fingers grazed her chest again, she knew he had lost control. She closed her eyes, not sure what to expect next.

    Abruptly, his fingers began to arrange her clothes swiftly, covering her uppletely. In fact, she was more modest-looking now than she had been before. He tightened her waist belt, forcing her clothes to stay in ce.

    "Be a good girl and turn around for me."

    "W-what?" she asked, her cheeks heating when he threw her a teasing smile. Her stomach fluttered and her heart skipped a beat. His hands traveled from her elbows to her shoulder, thoroughly relishing her with attention.

    Despite his smile, his gaze was intense. He turned her around and pushed her forward until her chest was pressed against the wall.

    Li Xueyue tensed as she waited. What would he do to her? He surprised her when his hands gentlybed through her hair. She felt him pause in his action, knowing that he must have seen it¡ªhis hairpin. She had specially chosen this hairpin¡ªit had be one of her favorites.

    She fidgeted, desperate to turn around and see his reaction. What were the thoughts running through his mind? Was he happy? Was he proud? She did not know.

    Yu Zhen, yet again, effortlessly fixed her hair. He adjusted the nted hairpin and the strands of hair that stuck out. He even braided her hair and styled it differently, bringing it over her shoulders.

    "Thank you," Li Xueyue said upon turning around. One of her hands aimlessly touched the braid, wondering where he learned it from. But she didn''t want to dwell on this thought. It would only upset her more.

    Yu Zhen responded by squeezing both of her cheeks. When she thought he was going to kiss her again, he didn''t. Instead, he swooped in and kissed right behind her ear, smiling when she giggled in response.

    "That tickles."

    He tapped her button nose and shook his head, unable to wipe the smile off of his face. "You''re not wearing the essories from the merchant stalls," he pointed out whilst reaching for her hand.

    He quirked a brow when he felt something rough brush against his finger.

    Li Xueyue watched as confusion clouded his eyes until he nced down. In an instant, his puzzled expression morphed into satisfaction. His head shot back up and abruptly, he began to pepper her face with kisses. She let out a squeal of joy,ughing when he wrapped his arms around her and squished her against his warm embrace. He swayed their bodies, twirling them around.

    Li Xueyue''s face hurt from how much she was smiling. She momentarily looked up at him. Her heart swelled. He looked the happiest she had ever seen him. And that was saying something, considering he was usually all smiles and smirks around her.

    "It''s a promise ring," he suddenly said.

    "Mmhm."

    "I will give you the real deal in Hanjian."

    Her head shot up so fast, he worried she would get whish from it.

    "What?" she asked, her eyes wide from shock.

    Yu Zhenughed at her reaction. "Don''t sound so surprised." He brushed a hand over the side of her face, gently squeezing it.

    "You''re mine, Li Xueyue."

    "So possessive," she said and shook her head, biting her bottom lip. "But why am I not surprised?"

    He simply smiled in response, lowering his head to peck her on the lips. "I''m also yours, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue liked the idea of that.

    They both did.

 Chapter 179 Little Hamster

    <h4>Chapter 179 Little Hamster</h4>

    It was then that Li Xueyue suddenly paid attention to their surroundings. Luckily for them, the hallway here was enclosed with a wall, which meant if?someone was watching them that person would either be on their left or right. She took a panicked nce in both directions, wondering if anyone saw them. She didn''t feel ashamed of what she had done, but she was still hesitant of a gossiping mouth.

    "No one saw us. I would''ve noticed if they did," Yu Zhen informed her after noticing her take a peek.

    "You didn''te with anyone today?" she asked, remembering he usually walked around with a handful of servants. She knew his guards were lurking somewhere, they always were¡ªhidden in the shadows, out of sight, out of mind.

    "My servants are outside. I didn''t bring my guards today."

    "Oh, why not?"

    "I can handle my own," Yu Zhen exined, grabbing both of her hands. He lowered his gaze, his smile widened upon seeing the topaz ring on her finger. He brought her hand to his lips, kissing each of her knuckles.

    "Why were you in a rush?" he asked again, entwining his fingers with hers. He found it amusing how small her hands werepared to his muchrger ones.

    Li Xueyue relished in the heat that oozed off of him. She squeezed her fingers and tugged him closer. She wanted to tell him the truth but she didn''t want to me Chenyang.

    She settled with a half-truth. "Well, breakfast was starting."

    "So, you decided to run down the hallways like a crazy woman for food?" he skeptically asked.

    She nodded.

    A few seconds passed between them.

    "Seems¡­ very likely," he carefully said, upon remembering how fast she inhaled the red bean and green bean buns during their visit to the Capital.

    "Are you calling me fat?" she narrowed her eyes.

    "Well, I''m not calling you skinny, am I?"

    "Hmph, I bet you''re heavier than me," she said, stubbornly jutting her chin in the air.

    "At least mine is all muscle and not¡ªdon''t pull at my face." Heughed, grabbing the hand that was attempting to pull his skin off. The fact that she had no meat to pull irked her further.

    And he knew that.

    "It''s okay, Little Hamster," Yu Zhen mused. "Chewing food can exercise your cheeks."

    "Shut up."

    "Though, it won''t build muscle if you''re always working your jaw by eating." Yu Zhen chuckled as he pulled both of her cheeks. She nipped at his finger, like an aggravated kitten.

    "But that''s okay," Yu Zhen added on, "I enjoy seeing you eat." He was relieved that she did not pick at her food, or hesitate over her manners. It was much more satisfying to eat with someone who enjoyed their food.

    "Come," he smiled.

    Her eyes widened, wondering if he knew how dirty it sounded.

    "¡ªLet''s get you fed. Shall we?" he concluded, his smile curling into a smirk at her panicked expression. What did she think he meant?

    "You better not be joining us for breakfast," a cold voicemented down the hallway.

    Yu Zhen didn''t have to turn his head to know who was talking to him. Only the Li Family were not frightful of his status. They spoke to him as they pleased, and he only allowed them to because Li Xueyue cared about them. If it was anyone else, they would''ve long lost their tongues.

    Li Xueyue, on the other hand, shifted her head in the direction of the voice.

    Li Chenyang was quickly approaching them with a disappointed look on his face. He was not pleased with them being so intimate, especially when Xueyue was supposed to not get so attached to him. Silly girl, what if Yu Zhen never came back for you?

    Li Chenyang''s heart grew heavy at the idea. Just imaging her heartbreak and disappointment was enough for his scowl to deepen.

    "Alright, break it up. You''re ruining my appetite," he said. When his eyes shifted to Yu Zhen, he added on, "Ugh."

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow. "Great, now I don''t have to look at you when I eat."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes narrowed into a fine line. "I guess I''m getting my appetite back, just so I can ruin yours."

    "Trust me, my appetite is already gone."

    "Good," Li Chenyang bit out, "Now, break it up," he nodded to their intimate position.

    Yu Zhen responded by shamelessly hugging her, bringing her even closer to him. When Li Chenyang''s face twisted into a sneer, Yu Zhen rested his chin on the top of her head, just to piss him off further.

    "You¡ª"

    "I think breakfast is getting cold," Li Xueyue spoke up, stomping roughly on Yu Zhen''s foot. He responded by tightening his arms and teasingly kissing her hair.

    Li Chenyang scoffed. "Please tell me you didn''t invite this brute to join us for breakfast?"

    "I invited myself."

    "Does being shameless make you proud?" Li Chenyang bit out. "And I wasn''t talking to you."

    Yu Zhen ignored him. He grabbed Li Xueyue''s hand and said, "Let''s get you fed, Little Hamster."

    "You''re nicknaming my younger sister after a rat?!" Li Chenyang scowled, sharply turning to Xueyue. "That''s it, he sucks. You need to find a better lover."

    Yu Zhen resisted the urge to roll his eyes to the next century. He tugged Li Xueyue forward. "It''s an adorable nickname, right, Sunshine?"

    "Look how quickly you changed it back," Li Chenyang pointed out. "It shows that you know it sucks."

    "Your brother speaks too much." Yu Zhen clicked his tongue. "It''d be a shame if he woke up the next morning with his mouth sewn shut."

    "And it''d be a shame," Li Chenyang spoke up, "If I influence Father and Mother to not give their blessings. Don''t you think so, Yueyue?"

    Yueyue? Who the hell was Yueyue? Li Xueyue looked at her older brother as if he had grown three heads. This was the first time he had ever called her by a nickname. It was very unexpected.

    Noticing her confusion, Li Chenyang let out augh. "It''s a great nickname, isn''t it? Better than cheesy Sunshine or offensive Little Hamster."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes narrowed in displeasure. He decided this Li sibling did not need his tongue anymore.

    Li Xueyue squeezed his hand. "Or you know," she said and nodded to both men, "You can just call me Xueyue."

    "How boring," Yu Zhen frowned.

    "Everyone calls you that," Li Chenyang scoffed.

    They said it at the same time. Neither of them seemed happy to be in sync.

    Li Xueyue let out an exasperated sigh. Breakfast was already rowdy with Li Wenmin''s constant love for bickering with her or Chenyang. Today would be extra noisy, and without a doubt, at least one sibling would be reprimanded for their behavior.

    "Are we going to eat, or what?" she angrily asked, bing hangrier¡ªhungry and ¡ªby the second. Her stomach was rumbling for food, and if she wasn''t fed in the next five minutes, none of them were going to be happy.

    "Fine, fine," Li Chenyang sighed, approaching her. In one rough push, he shoved Yu Zhen off of her. Happily, he wrapped his arm around her shoulder and began to guide her forward.

    "The chef made braised eggs today," he spoke up. "It''s such a pity," he paused and threw an irritated look towards Yu Zhen. "Apparently the people in Hanjian do not eat braised eggs. You will starve in that country."

    Yu Zhen angrily grabbed Li Xueyue, yanking her towards him. Li Chenyang grabbed her arm, glowering when Yu Zhen continued to pull at her.

    "That''s okay, I''ll just kidnap your chef and bring them with me to Hanjian," Yu Zhen snarled.

    "The chef''s family has worked with us for generations. I''ll tell him to poison your food if you ever kidnap him."

    "Fine, I''ll slit his throat in front of his family."

    "Oh yeah?" Li Chenyang scoffed, "I''d like to see you try!"

    "Ladies!" Li Xueyue snapped, "You''re both beautiful!" She angrily shook both men, or should she say, boys, off of her. "Now can we get to the dining room or what?!"

    Yu Zhen was dumbfounded by her words. He made a mental note to never let her go hungry. This kitten might actually be a tiger.

    "Alrighty." Li Chenyang chuckled, hoping to soothe her irritation. "Let''s go." He attempted to reach for her hand again, but she crossed her arms.

    Yu Zhen smirked and tucked an arm around her¡ªvictory was his! But in the next second, she shrugged him off.

    Before any of them could attempt to assert their stupid alpha pride, Li Xueyue was already stomping down the hallway, ignoring their attempts of capturing her attention. If they wanted to argue and be petty, they should do it in their own free time. Not hers! Especially with Piglet Number One, Li Wenmin, who was no doubt, gobbling down the braised eggs before anyone could stop him!

 Chapter 180 No One Told You To Arrive This Early

    <h4>Chapter 180 No One Told You To Arrive This Early</h4>

    When Yu Zhen entered the dining room apanied by none other than Li Xueyue and Li Chenyang, silence ensued. A vein popped on Li Wenmin''s forehead, whereas the Duchess was too stunned to say anything, and the Duke continued sipping his tea as if he was waiting for the drama to unfold.

    "Well, this is a very¡­ pleasant surprise," Duchess Wang Qixing spoke up, pausing in the middle of her sentence to find the proper words to describe this unexpected encounter.

    Yu Zhen had sent a letter requesting an audience with Xueyue yesterday afternoon, a few hours after the family returned home. Duchess Wang Qixing had epted the audience but didn''t think he woulde as soon as the sun rose.

    He was adhering to her rules which she appreciated. However, there was something that Duchess Wang Qixing saw which she certainly did not like: Her daughter''s bright red lips that''s not the result of using a tinted sheet meant to add color to the lips. As someone who had her fair share of rough kisses in the past, she knew exactly what urred¡ªwhereas the dense men in the room did not notice this peculiar detail aside from Yu Zhen himself.

    "I didn''t mean to intrude," Yu Zhen curtly said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing quirked a brow. "You didn''t mean to intrude yet you came at the crack of dawn?"

    "Yes, I''m an early riser."

    "You could''ve waited until the afternoon," Li Wenmin bit out, settling his chopsticks down. He was midway into stealing an egg, but suddenly, his attention drifted to Yu Zhen. "No one told you to arrive this early."

    Yu Zhen''s jaw ticked, his eyes narrowed irritably. He reminded himself to remain patient with the Li Family, they were the people who raised Xueyue. But he could only tolerate so much insolence. In Hanjian, no one dared to disrespect the Commander, much less, the Second Prince known for his short temper.

    Li Xueyue nervously squeezed their entwined hands, hoping to provide himfort, but he did not seem to realize the small action.

    "Let''s begin breakfast," Li Xueyue spoke up, tugging Yu Zhen''s hand. He did not move an inch and instead, scanned the environment. There were only five chairs in total. He would have nowhere to sit.

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled at the tension in the dining room. His family sure loved drama, didn''t they? He waved his hand to a servant who bowed in response.

    "My lord?"

    "Fetch a chair for the guest."

    "Yes, my lord," the servant replied. He left the room and in no less than a minute, came back with a chair whereas another servant walked in with an additional bowl and a pair of chopsticks.

    "Have a seat," Duke Li Shenyang spoke up, patting the spot beside him. Unluckily for Yu Zhen, he would be sandwiched between the parents, with zero ess to his Little Hamster.

    Yu Zhen forced a tight smile onto his lips. "I appreciate that, Prime Minister."

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes in response, leaning back in his chair. Li Chenyang said nothing. He attempted to reach for Xueyue''s wrist, hoping to bring her to her seat, but it would be to no avail. Their entwined hands were visible for everyone to see, but no one realized how tight his grip was. He refused to let her go unless it was on her own ord.

    Li Xueyue pretended to not notice hisck of patience today. She tugged him in the direction of his seat, but he guided her to a random chair and pulled it out, helping her settle down.

    Everyone watched in surprise as he helped to push the chair back in, nodding in satisfaction when she looked asfortable as she could be. Only then did he finally sit down in his own seat, but not before nodding towards the Duke and Duchess in acknowledgment.

    Duke Li Shenyang smiled in satisfaction, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

    Li Chenyang held back the sigh he was holding in. How was he going to enjoy his meal when the tension in the room was so high? He chose to not voice his concerns, and instead, sat in his usual chair.

    "I''m surprised," Duchess Wang Qixing mused, "My Little Piglets aren''t fighting today."

    "Piglets?" Yu Zhen repeated, quirking a brow.

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a tinyugh, a fond smile rested on her lips. "You''ll see."

    Li Wenmin felt his irritation slightly wash away out of embarrassment. He did not like receiving guests during his meals. As proud of his appetite as he was, he wasn''t fond of showing it off to higher-ups in the military.

    With the presence of Yu Zhen, how else could Li Wenmin pig out today? His attention shifted to Xueyue and to his surprise, she had no qualms eating as she usually did. Her chopsticks always moved faster than a blink of an eye, just as usual. And judging from Yu Zhen''s adoring smile, Li Wenmin knew the former had witnessed her appetite before. Obviously, Yu Zhen was unfazed by it. In fact, the Commander of Hanjian seemed to be pleased that she was not self-conscious around him.

    "Dig in, Wenmin." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled. "Or else Xueyue will steal all of your favorites."

    Li Wenmin instantly picked up his chopsticks. So what if there''s a guest? He had a reputation to maintain!

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled upon seeing his son was back to his usual antics.

    Yu Zhen had a normal appetite, but his attention was not on the food. It was on Li Xueyue. He was making sure she was properly eating, and upon seeing she was, he could not help but smile a bit more.

    Wistfully, Yu Zhen watched her instead of focusing on his food. He enjoyed her reactions the most. Her eyes would erge when she ate something delicious and pure joy would fill her face. It was absolutely adorable.

    The entire family, except for the love birds themselves, noticed Yu Zhen''s mesmerized expression. He was watching her, whereas the family was watching him.

    Oddly enough, everything fell into ce. The atmosphere wasn''t as awkward as anticipated. In fact, there was rarely a silence due to the light clinks of the utensils. Breakfast ended without much conversation, except for the asional bickering between the siblings, but what else was new? Anyone in the Li Family would know the siblings liked to tease and provoke each other to no avail.

    Yu Zhen knew this was where she learned to have a fiery tongue. Arguing between two older brothers was no easy feat, especially when they loved to tease her until she was red with embarrassment. Heughed at the right moment and smiled when needed to. It was moments like these that made him wonder if this was how a proper family should function.

 Chapter 181 Alone

    <h4>Chapter 181 Alone</h4>

    Once breakfast was concluded, Li Chenyang followed his father into the private study to discuss that morning''s pce work. Only Duchess Wang Qixing, Li Wenmin, Li Xueyue, and Yu Zhen remained in the dining room.

    When the meal was finished, Yu Zhen had moved his seat to sit beside Li Xueyue who did not mind his proximity.

    Li Wenmin watched with a sour expression while Yu Zhen grabbed Xueyue''s chin and wiped her mouth with an expensive handkerchief. He wondered if his Xiao Yue even realized that a handkerchief like that was only meant to show off one''s status, and not used as a mouth wipe.

    Li Xueyue gratefully smiled at Yu Zhen''s gesture. When Yu Zhen leaned in to whisper something into her ear, her eyes lit up in response.

    ''Tch, it''s probably some stupid promise or something. Don''t believe his bull crap, Xiao Yue!'' Li Wenmin shouted inside of his head, desperately wishing he could say it out loud. If only his mother wasn''t in the same room.

    Speaking of the Duchess, she was watching the couple with googly eyes like an excited matchmaker.

    ''Mom you should be keeping them at least six feet apart! What about our Xueyue''s reputation?!'' Li Wenmin groaned to himself, rolling his eyes when Duchess Wang Qixing sped her hands together, nodding in approval as Yu Zhen yfully tapped Xueyue''s nose.

    ''Great, just great! She''s already nning the wedding. Let me guess, she''s also thinking of what color would look the best on her first grandchildren. Tch!'' Li Wenmin bitterly thought, hating how easygoing his mother was.

    "Xueyue," Li Wenmin finally spoke up, "You haven''t been practicing sword fighting and martial artstely. I''ve decided to personally train you today."

    "Oh, but don''t you have an important tactical meeting today, Wenmin?" Duchess Wang Qixing spoke up, confused by his change of ns. Was there something that she didn''t know?

    "Uhhhh," Li Wenmin scratched the back of his head. "It doesn''t start untilter."

    "Well, you won''t have time to train Xueyue and then rush over to the meeting. You won''t even have time to bathe and you won''t be presentable for the meeting if you''re covered in sweat," Duchess Wang Qixing firmly said. He was a General now. She would not tolerate his tardiness to his own job, just because he didn''t want to leave his younger sister with a man.

    "But, Mom," Li Wenmin exasperated, "Xueyue hasn''t trained in a while! If we leave her be, then her skills will get rusty and everything will go to waste."

    "I can train her," Yu Zhen answered.

    Li Wenmin shot him a dirty glower. He did not expect his n to backfire like this! Originally, he nned to use the training as an excuse to kick Yu Zhen out of the house. It wasn''t supposed to make the darn Commander stay and spend more time with Xueyue.

    "I wouldn''t trouble you as such, Commander," Duchess Wang Qixing said, finally growing mindful that some things could not be pardoned. What if someone walked in on the couple while they were practicing in an intimate position? She had no doubt this sneaky Commander would have tricks up his sleeve.

    "As for Xueyue, I will send a servant to notify her instructor that lessons will be startingter than usual. My son is right," she nodded, "Our Xueyue hasn''t been getting lessonstely because she has been so busy."

    "Busy with being bedridden?" Yu Zhen asked.

    Li Xueyue kicked him under the table, knowing he pointed that out simply because he was just that petty. He responded by grabbing her upper-thigh, his lips curled into a sly smirk when she abruptly jumped. Her eyes snapped towards him, but his attention was focused on the Duchess.

    Li Xueyue nervously nced around and was grateful no one saw them. Her eyes darted towards his spread fingers on her thigh. She stared at the bulging small veins on his hand and wondered how much easier it would be to wield a sword with fingers as long as his.

    "Yes, busy with being bedridden." Duchess Wang Qixing scowled, crossing her arms. What was he getting at by provoking her like this?"

    "In that case, it''s better for Xueyue to move around a bit and exercise her body," he said.

    "Which is why her usual instructors wille."

    "There is no need to call instructors when you have the master right here," Yu Zhen shamelessly said.

    "Absolutely not." Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "You are not allowed to teach Xueyue a single thing, you''ll ruin her form."

    Li Wenmin didn''t want to admit it, but for once, his mother was wrong. If there was someone more than qualified to teach Li Xueyue, it would be Yu Zhen, the famed Sword Beast of Hanjian.

    Li Wenmin didn''t forget the nickname Yu Zhen had earned on the battlefield as the Grim Reaper of War. A swing of his sword and heads effortlessly flew. His precision was immacte and nothing was more perfect than his form. If he taught Xueyue, she would surely excel in swordsmanship.

    "Mydy," Yu Zhen mused, "I swear on my honor that Xueyue''s form will improve with my teachings."

    "No." Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "She is used to the instructors'' technique. There is no need for outside influence like this."

    "If she is used to their techniques, then it means they''ve taught all that they can," Yu Zhen pointed out.

    "Well, she can practice with the instructor."

    "I can teach her different forms employed in Hanjian. The more she knows, the better."

    Li Wenmin''s ears perked up, his attention immediately shifting to Yu Zhen. Did he hear him properly? The Great Commander of Hanjian was willing to share their military techniques?

    Each country was always very tightlipped about how they trained their soldiers and many techniques were forbidden to be passed down. If a soldier spilled the secrets, they would instantly be sentenced to death and there would also be a seven-generation family massacre.

    No one dared to share the secrets, not unless they were the instructors themselves. And even then, instructors wouldn''t share.

    To see Yu Zhen so willing to sacrifice his secrets, Li Wenmin was more than pleased. Perhaps he could steal these secrets from Xueyue and evaluate it before notifying his soldiers. It would be great if he could catch Hanjian''s soldiers off-guard when their own techniques were used against them.

    Perfect.

    Li Wenmin forced a cheery smile on his face.

    "Mother, why don''t we let Xueyue learn from Yu Zhen? I hate to say it, but he''s right. The more she knows, the better. Don''t you think so, Xiao Yue?" he asked, nudging his younger sister to respond.

    Li Xueyue suspiciously narrowed her eyes. Her overprotective Wen-ge was relenting this easily? He must be nning something. And judging from hisrge smile, he was definitely up to no good.

    "She doesn''t need to know more than she already does." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "It''s not like our Xueyue will go off to war. She already has enough tricks up her sleeve."

    "But Mother, knowledge is power."

    "You''re awfully persistent. If I hadn''t known better, I''d think you were Yu Zhen''s wingman." Duchess Wang Qixing scowled and probed, "What are you nning?"

    Li Wenmin dramatically ced a hand on his chest, taken aback. He feigned offense. "I simply want my younger sister to know as many techniques possible to defend herself."

    He wiped away an imaginary tear and sniffled. "My poor Xiao Yue, she''s so skinny and tiny, I fear for her wellbeing!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing scoffed, rolling her eyes. "You''re not fooling anyone, my idiotic son."

    "Oh, Xiao Yue, you pitiful thing! Why must you be born with a frail body and pretty face? Just imagine the men who will take advantage of you! Boo hoo¡­" Li Wenmin loudly sobbed, grabbing his younger sister.

    "It''s okay, Xiao Yue, you have an older brother on your side! I will make sure you learn everything you have to! It is only right that such a feeble youngdy should be able to defend herself with as many techniques as possible."

    Li Xueyue jumped when his spit flew andnded on her cheek. She angrily wiped it away.

    He let out a tiny "Oopsie~" before going back to the performance of a lifetime. "My beloved sister, how pitiful it is you''re deprived of learning! Do not worry, our mother may be cruel in that aspect to deny a Princess the privilege to protect herself and¡ªmmph!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing had stuffed a bun into his mouth, forcing him to shut up for the love of everything holy!

    "Alright, alright, you crybaby son of mine," she snapped, "Xueyue will train under Yu Zhen, but only for today."

    Li Wenmin gulped down the bun at an rming speed. "But one day isn''t enough to learn!"

    "Don''t talk back to me," Duchess Wang Qixing hissed, grabbing him by the ear.

    Li Wenmin let out a howl of pain, his eyes quivering as he pouted. "Mother, Mother, please!"

    "As a gift for your performance, I will present you with an hour-long lecture," Duchess Wang Qixing angrily bit out, tugging him upwards by the ear.

    "Ow, ow! Now I won''t be able to hear from that side!" he cried out, bouncing on his feet, hoping to relieve the pain, but she twisted it.

    "That''s what you get for publicly disagreeing with your mother," she huffed, dragging him towards the door. She paused and sharply turned around.

    "And you!" she said, pointing towards Yu Zhen who instantly straightened up. "You better not assault my daughter again. I was once a maiden, I know exactly what you did to her."

    Yu Zhen raised his brows. She spoke with so much determination, he felt like a son being scolded by his mother.

    "Keep your hands off of Xueyue or else I will personally see to it that you receive proper punishment. Second Prince or not, I will still scold you," she hissed. "Is that clear?"

    Yu Zhen wondered if a formal salute would make her happy. He resorted to a simple nod of his head.

    "And Xueyue," Duchess Wang Qixing paused and turned to her daughter. Her eyes and voice softened as she said, "Darling, remember what I said. Okay?"

    Li Xueyue rapidly nodded.

    "Howe she gets the kinder treatment?!" Li Wenminined, "That''s so unfair and biased, Mom!"

    "It''s because she doesn''t act up as much as you do, my tantrum-throwing son." Duchess Wang Qixing huffed. Finally, she dragged her son out of the dining room.

    And then there were two.

    Finally, Li Xueyue and Yu Zhen were alone, without anyone to disturb them.

 Chapter 182 Show Me What You Know

    <h4>Chapter 182 Show Me What You Know</h4>

    "Are you sure you want to teach me?" Li Xueyue asked, hoping he''d understand her hint. She wanted him to realize that Li Wenmin was probably nning something. If Yu Zhen taught her, Wenmin would definitely pester her to show him what she learned.

    Nheless, she could not throw Li Wenmin under the carriage and reveal his n, since it was mere spection.

    If he caught onto her hint, he didn''t react in any way. Instead, he touched the braid he tied for her, his fingers ran down the length of her hair that stopped near her breast. Before his hand could graze her chest, he lifted her hair and yed with the ends of it.

    "It''ll be fun," he said, his eyes twinkling.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure if his meaning of "fun" would match hers. "I''m a slow learner," she admitted. "It takes me forever to understand a technique, but I would learn it in the end."

    "That''s alright, I''m patient." He stood up, dropped her hair, and offered her an outstretched hand. "Let''s begin?"

    Li Xueyue nodded. She took his hand and stood up, smiling to herself when he immediately wrapped his fingers around hers.

    He lightly swayed their entwined hands as his thumb asionally rubbed her skin.

    Yu Zhen didn''t know why, but it was oddlyforting to hold a woman''s hand. He used to think small things like this was stupid and a pointless disy of affection. Now that he found someone to share these moments with, he realized maybe it wasn''t so bad afterall.

    When he caught her taking frequent peeks at their entwined hands, he nodded to himself. It truly wasn''t a bad idea. He squeezed her hand, bringing it up to his lips. He stared into her eyes before kissing each of her knuckles, earning small peals ofughter from her.

    Seeing her smile made him smile. Maybe she was right, he was too cheesy.

    Yu Zhen couldn''t help himself around her. The things he refused to do and abhorred, he found himself doing almost all of it with her. When he was with Xueyue, it was as if nothing in this world mattered. No request was too little or small, so long as it made her happy, it would be hismand.

    - - - - -

    "Aren''t you going to change?" Li Xueyue asked once they were behind the manor and walking towards the training field often used by her and the twins.

    "No, are you?" Yu Zhen questioned, nodding towards her perfectly smooth hanfu.

    Today, she was dressed in cool tones thatplemented herplexion. He found that any color worked on her, regardless of how horrendous the color was. Perhaps he was a fool for love, but she was picture-perfect in every way, even if she did not feel so.

    "Well, I usually put on training clothes," Li Xueyue responded, pointing towards the heavy-curtained tents.

    Often, when she did not feel like running back to her room to change clothes, her handmaidens would change her inside of the tent. It was fully stocked with clothes that were always washed and pressed, regardless if they would be worn or not.

    "Go change, Sunshine. You''ll injure yourself without the proper attire," he said, specifically referring to her pointed shoes.

    Li Xueyue nodded and released his hand, taking a step forward only for her to be tugged back. She turned her head, confused by his actions, her eyes widened when he swiftly leaned in and pecked her on the lips. It happened so fast that she didn''t register his kiss until it was gone.

    She absentmindedly touched her lips, ncing up at him in shock. He simply winked, and lightly shoved her in the direction of the tents.

    "Go."

    She didn''t need to be told twice. Huffing to herself, wishing it was more than a simple kiss, she began heading in the direction of the tents. Her handmaidens hurriedly scurried after her, their footwork swift and concise, not wasting a single second.

    They dressed her so frequently that everything was basically muscle memory at this point. Her braided hair was parted and twisted into a secure bun, held in ce by ribbons tied into perfect bows. The hairpin firmly held everything in ce, so that no matter how fast she moved her head, her hair would never fall down.

    Her handmaidens efficiently dressed her in body-hugging clothes that would allow her to move freely. Her knee-high boots were secured by the leather strings that were tightly tied.

    Less than ten minutester, she strolled out of the tent, morefortable than before. She walked with pride as if everything was beneath her. When she wielded the sword in her hand, the easygoing glint in her eyes was instantly reced with deadly sharpness.

    Yu Zhen was nowhere to be found. That was the first thing she noticed upon strutting to the center of the enormous field.

    Where could he be?

    Li Xueyue looked around, pivoting on the ball of her feet curiously. Perhaps he went to change?

    Yu Zhen had half a foot in the training field when he suddenly had the urge to curse the Heavens yet again. Standing there with clothes that tightly hugged every part of her delectable body, almost nothing was left to the imagination.

    Yu Zhen clenched his jaw, frustrated at himself and the handmaidens who let her walk out, dressed like that. She was a sight that not many could tear their eyes from. All she had to do was lower her guard for a brief second and he could sweep in for a taste.

    She rested her sword behind her back, swaying her body, the sight mesmerizing and fluid. He wanted to pounce on her at any given chance he had.

    Breathing in deeply, he forced himself to remain calm.

    Hearing his approaching footsteps, she instantly turned around with a bright smile that paralyzed his heart.

    Well, there goes the calm¡ªout the window.

    "Where did you go?" Li Xueyue blinked, confused by his tightened jaw and clenched fist. Why did he look so irritated?

    "My guards followed me without my consent." Yu Zhen grunted. He had noticed their presence no matter how well they attempted to conceal it.

    "Oh," she said, believing it was the reason for his frustration.

    "Don''t worry, you won''t even know they''re here." Yu Zhen scowled, his eyes lingered on her clothes.

    ''Look away you damn scoundrel,'' he thought to himself before taking onest peek at her. He forced his attention elsewhere, focusing on the sword in her hand. Thick and long, he swallowed deeply.

    "Show me what you know," hemanded whilst scanning the training field for a practice mannequin.

    "I don''t practice with mannequins. It''s always with someone, whether it''s the instructor, a guard, or Wenmin."

    Li Xueyue wondered if she was getting ahead of herself. She rarely won against Li Wenmin, who was a simr height to Yu Zhen, but her brother''s build wasn''t asrge as Yu Zhen''s.

    Yu Zhen towered over her. He was all strength and muscle. Strong shoulders, broad chest, his sharp figure was perfect. She instantly looked away when his attention returned to her.

    He was staring intently at her.

    "Let??s start," he said through gritted teeth, for reasons she was unsure of. He didn''t like the idea of sparring with someone half his size. She was a youngdy and he''d be damned if he injured her. Just as he was distracted by his thoughts, she sliced at his upper arm.

    Yu Zhen let out a looseugh, the jab did slice through his clothes but it barely nipped his skin.

    "Rookie mistake." He scowled, aiming his sword right towards her while her guard was lowered.

    It was a trap.

    Right when he lunged his sword forward, she side-stepped him and twisted her sword to aim for his throat. He was also tricking her.

    They were both schemers.

    Her sword barely reached his throat when he turned his body and met her sword in a rough sh. Her eyes widened, caught off guard. Shecked strength, but made it up in speed, easily jumping back, dodging the swing of his sword. He didn''t waste time. Lunging straight for her, she ducked and aimed for the knees only for his sword to block her in the nick of time.

    He was going easy on her.

    Li Xueyue gritted her teeth and swung her sword upwards, throwing his force off of her.

    He did not fall for her trap. Instead, he brought his sword down onto hers, forcing it to the ground, suppressing it. cing pressure onto his sword, she struggled against his weight, her wrist burning with pain.

    "Tsk, that move was predictable," he chided her.

    Who said sword fighting was only about wielding your weapon?

    She dropped her weapon and struck a leg out, tripping him forward slightly. She ducked and grabbed her sword seconds before he fell, and brought it back up in a swing that aimed for his throat.

    But he was merciless.

    He twisted his sword against hers, pinning her sword. It was yet another sh and he forced her to block the harsh blow. Her knees were forced to bend from his immense strength, her muscles screaming. Sweat gathered on her brows, her body soaked from head to toe, but his form was perfect regardless. This was just a warm-up to him.

    "Be mindful of your position," he said upon noticing her trembling arms.

    She could not win against his strength but that did not stop her from attempting a trick she had learned from a book.

    Li Xueyue loosened her grip on her sword in an attempt to use his own weight against him. She swiftly moved her upper body, hoping to dodge his sword, but it was to no avail. In an instant, he toppled over her. He moved faster than she could blink. Tightly, he gripped her wrist, pinning her own sword against her neck whilst he angled his sword on top of hers, pressing her into the ground.

    It was an inevitable defeat for Xueyue.

    A single gulp and her throat would be slit open.

 Chapter 183 Red

    <h4>Chapter 183 Red</h4>

    Li Xueyue''s robes clung to her body, drenched in sweat. Her breathing came in short puffs, her face flushed.

    Yu Zhen could feel each rise and fall of her chest while she panted beneath him. She was an amazing fighter who excelled not only in sword fighting but also in martial arts. He admired that part about her.

    "Would you like to take a break?" Li Xueyue asked, despite being the one who was pinned to the ground.

    Yu Zhen let out a small chuckle, his dark eyes gleaming with unsaid words. He tossed the swords away but didn''t give her the chance to rise. His armsnded on either side of her head.

    "We can do this all day."

    "I thought you were going to teach me something new."

    "It depends on where you want to learn it," he teased, lowering himself onto her. "The bed? Or here?"

    Li Xueyue cocked her head. "The bed then."

    Yu Zhen was immediately caught off guard. His eyes darkened at the suggestive images that shed across his mind¡ªthey were in the same position, except, she was unclothed and writhing beneath him.

    His jaw tightened. "Such teasing won''t go unpunished."

    Li Xueyue smiled up at him, reaching her hand to cup his face. She felt his jaw clench underneath her thumb. His obsidian eyes were riddled with a fire that burned her.

    "Xueyue," he warned, but she ignored him. Her fingers explored more of him, trailing from his sharp jawline to his throat. Her touch was teasing and featherlight.

    Abruptly, he grabbed both of her wrists in one fell swoop of his hand. His piercing gaze narrowed. "We should stop."

    "Why?"

    "Or else we''ll do something you''re going to regret."

    "I doubt it."

    He pinned her hands on top of her head and in one smooth motion, roughly captured her lips. His kiss was always cruel and nipping, yet burning hot. She struggled to meet his assault, her eyes fluttering shut.

    He thrust his tongue into her mouth, exploring every crevice of it. He had never tasted something as sweet as her. She would be the death of him¡ªthe drug that led to his addiction. When she quietly moaned, he instantly hardened.

    When he reluctantly released her, she let out a groan of protest, her upper body rose, wanting more.

    Yu Zhen felt himself go crazy. She shouldn''t lower her guard like this. How many times must he remind her? Was she like this with every man? Jealousy struck through him. Without warning, he pressed his lips against hers again. Their lips moved in a furious fervor. Hepletely dominated her.

    By the time they finished, her lips were bruised and bright red. Her eyes were dewy and soft, beckoning him to continue. But he could not.

    "Do you still doubt it?" he murmured against her lips, softly caressing another kiss upon it.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t think properly. Her mind was still befuddled with the kiss. She was in a daze and her vision was blurry, but she could see him perfectly¡ªfrom his sharp brows to his burning eyes, his angr nose to his irresistible lips.

    She mutely shook her head.

    "Good." He released her and stormed off.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen wanted to bash his head against a wall. "You retarded imbecile and fool of a man!" he snarled at himself. He clenched his fingers into a fist and groaned.

    Twice. He had assaulted her two times now.

    All of the control he exercised flew out the window.

    Nheless, he had enjoyed the kiss very much, so much so that it took everything within him to not enter the training ground yet. He was near the entrance, back turned towards the field as he forced himself to regainposure.

    Yu Zhen had to leave her there. If she continued to provoke him, things would''ve spiraled out of control.

    Yu Zhen was not at all remorseful of his actions, but he felt the smallest twinge of guilt. What if she wanted their first kiss to be slow and gentle? He was not the type of man to be affectionate and caressing. He was too brutal and rough for those things.

    "Yu Zhen?"

    He didn''t need to be called twice. Her voice immediately lulled him to turn around.

    Yu Zhen''s fist tightened upon noticing her lips were still red with passion. "Sunshine," he greeted.

    Li Xueyue blinked. She was confused by his tense voice as if his patience was hanging on a thin line.

    "Come here, my Little Hamster," he beckoned her and she took a small step forward. He closed the distance between them and held her face in his hands.

    Yu Zhen''s jaw ticked, frustrated with himself. He had taken advantage of her twice, yet she was still so weing of him. What was he supposed to do with her?

    He let out a quiet sigh, guilt shed in his eyes. He wanted to treasure her, not treat her so brazenly. Was she mad at him? He nced downwards and saw her naively smiling up at him, blinking when their gaze met. Foolishly, she grinned and hugged him, oblivious to his inner conflict.

    "Does it hurt?" he mumbled, finallying to terms with what happened. His thumb brushed her bruised lips.

    "I know how to make it feel better."

    "How?"

    "Another kiss¡ª"

    She didn''t even have to finish that thought before he brought his lips down towards her. This time, it was a slow, torturous kiss. He was careful with her, patiently learning her traits. He kissed her as if he was cherishing this moment like hisst.

    When he pulled back to let her breathe, he kissed her on the forehead, his lips lingered on the spot.

    "All better now?" he teased.

    Yu Zhen ignored the prickling guilt in his heart, but couldn''t help worry about her. Was she truly fine with this?

    The thought of hurting her terrified him.

    He brought one hand behind her head and ced the other on her lower back, pressing her against him.

    Li Xueyue was bewildered by their sudden embrace. Yu Zhen hugged her like his life depended on it. He fondly rested his cheek above her head, tightening his arms around her. She enjoyed the warmth that radiated off of him. In his arms, she felt the safest she could ever be. She hoped they would remain like that, but there were times that her prayers were never answered¡ªand this was one of them.

 Chapter 184 A Puppy

    <h4>Chapter 184 A Puppy</h4>

    As anticipated, Yu Zhen had taught her the basics of Hanjian''s sword-fighting techniques. It was far more difficult than she had predicted. To no one''s surprise, Hanjian''s style waspletely different from Wuyi''s. While Wuyi focused on brute strength and speed, Hanjian was all about precision and technique.

    By the time they had finished training, Li Xueyue was covered in sweat. Embarrassed at her appearance, she kept her distance from Yu Zhen, but he couldn''t grasp her message. Each time he tried to approach her, she would purposely create distance between them.

    Li Xueyue was worried that she didn''t smell good. Her hair was frayed and sticking to her forehead whereas her face was flushed red from tiring herself out.

    "Stay at least six feet back!" she exasperated when he attempted to hold her hand.

    Li Xueyue wiped the sweat that trickled from her head to her chin. She was irritated that he was as clean and dry as when he arrived this morning, as if he wasn''t practicing with her the entire day.

    Yu Zhen paused, bewildered by her warnings. The sun was setting behind her, the ruby hue of the sky was beginning to reflect over her robe-clung body. The rays emphasized her figure perfectly as she glistened under the sun.

    Yu Zhen deeply breathed in through his nose, hoping to regain hisposure. Despite that, his eyes were glued to her like a moth to a me.

    "Why are we keeping a distance?" he begrudgingly asked, gesturing towards therge space between them.

    "I''m soaked in sweat and I look like a mess," Li Xueyue pointed out, frowning when he scowled.

    "So?"

    "S-so, I don''t feel my best right now," Li Xueyue exined. He pouted like a spoiled kid who finally heard the word ''no'' for the first time in his life.

    "And?"

    "And you''re going to feel ufortable by the stench?" she said, though it came out like a question.

    Li Xueyue slipped the sword into the sheath. She approached the equipment rack and ced the weapon back to its rightful ce. Her eyes scanned over the vast array of weapons here. Li Wenmin loved to collect exotic swords and daggers every chance he got. He usually stored the least prized ones on this rack, whereas the most expensive and rare ones would be found in his bedroom.

    The worst ce to ambush Li Wenmin was inside of his room. She dully remembered a time when she wanted to sneak up on him and he thought she was an intruder. Needless to say, things didn''t end well.

    Lost in thought, she didn''t hear the swift footsteps approaching her. She snapped to reality when a sturdy pair of arms came from behind. A yelp left her mouth when she was hoisted against a muscr chest.

    "Yu Zhen!" she groaned. Did this man not listen?

    Yu Zhen responded by hugging her tighter, burying his face into the crook of her neck.

    "I don''t smell pleasant!" she hissed, struggling in his arms, but he didn''t care.

    "I think you smell fine," he grumbled, bewildered by how self-conscious she was. Compared to his soldiers, she smelled delectable. Her usual scent, soft and sweet, was musky today, not that he wasining.

    Letting out a quiet huff, she could do nothing but give into his embrace. She stayed still for him, leaning into his arms.

    "You''re like a big baby," she mumbled, reaching her hand up to stroke his hair. She felt the lift of his lips when he smiled against her skin.

    "Only for you," he quietly whispered, pressing asting kiss upon the exposed skin of her neck.

    Eventually, her sore arm could not handle being lifted to y with his hair. She dropped her hand, hoping to rest, but he was quick to protest.

    "More," he demanded like a child. She let out aughter that warmed his heart and widened his smile.

    "Scratch that, I think you''re a puppy." Nheless, she reached back to fondly stroke him on the head, enjoying how lucious his dark hair was.

    Li Xueyue wondered if it was tiring to always bend down for her. He was noticeably taller than her with great proportions, especially his long legs. Was he getting sore in this position? She shifted her head to examine his wless features, but his face was still buried in her shoulders.

    Upon feeling her face shift, he finally raised his head to stare at her. When their gaze met and she smiled, he felt an unfamiliar and confusing tug at his heart. What was that feeling? He always felt strange around her, but couldn''t ce a finger on that emotion. The only thing he knew was that he wanted her to stay in his life, forever.

    Even after their many encounters, Li Xueyue could not get over how handsome this man was. It was beginning to get to the point of where she didn''t think it was fair. He didn''t even have to do anything, and she found him incredibly irresistible. And when he wore that cunning smirk of his, she''d always feel her stomach churning for him.

    "What are you thinking about?" Yu Zhen curiously asked.

    "Only foolish things," Li Xueyue mused, craning her neck to look at him properly.

    Yu Zhen briefly released her to turn her around. He didn''t want her to get injured from her bad neck posture.

    Her eyes widened when he tugged her forward to step on his foot, so that she didn''t have to look up at him. He smiled down at her for no particr reason.

    "You smile a lot," Li Xueyue pointed out, reaching up to poke his dimples.

    Yu Zhen was taken aback by her words. Was he smiling? He didn''t even realize it. When was thest time he had smiled in Hanjian? He couldn''t remember.

    "Do I?" he asked in disbelief, grabbing one of her hands that was touching his face.

    He fondly kissed her palm whilst blissfully staring at her. She didn''t have to do anything, and he was already willing to sacrifice the world for her. What did all of this devotion mean? He couldn''t wrap his head around it.

    "Mmhm, you do. Like right now, and previously. You didn''t know?" Li Xueyue wished he wouldn''t do crazy things to her heart like this. Their eyes barely met and her insides were already reacting to him.

    Yu Zhen hummed in response, ying with one of her hands until their palmsid t against each other. He entwined their fingers. He stared at theirced fingers and couldn''t help but squeeze it. It was odd to feel soforted by such a small gesture.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he was doing this on purpose. He had to be. How else could someone be this inhumanely handsome?

    When he caught her staring, he simply winked. She scoffed and rolled her eyes. Nheless, she couldn''t resist the smile that broke out, no matter how much she bit her bottom lip.

    "What''s so funny?"

    "Nothing," she said andughed, leaning the side of her face against his chest. She let out a content sigh and relished in his warmth, wishing, praying, that he would be her forever.

 Chapter 185 The Sun and The Flower

    <h4>Chapter 185 The Sun and The Flower</h4>

    After a brief second offortable silence, Yu Zhen finally spoke up again. "I''m going to ask your parents for their blessings."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked in shock, pulling back to reveal her bewildered expression. "Blessings? As in, for marriage?"

    "Yes." He nodded.

    "No."

    "What? Why not?" Yu Zhen asked, his brows furrowing together in disbelief. He peered down at her, suddenly bothered by the irritation that flooded her eyes.

    "I think we''re going too fast."

    "You think?" he scoffed. "I know we are."

    "If you knew we''re going too fast, then why are you rushing?"

    "Because I refuse to part from you."

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "Screw this test of time," Yu Zhen bit out, dropping his hands to grab her face, pulling it closer to him. "I want you, Li Xueyue, all of you."

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "I''ll give you all of me, and in return, will you do the same?"

    "I¡­" she nervously trailed off, licking her bottom lip.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze instantly snapped towards her irresistible lips. He forced himself to look away a secondter.

    "I just think we''re rushing things."

    "It''s fine if we are."

    "It''s not fine," she deadpanned. "You didn''t even establish what we were, and now you''re dropping your ns onto me. It''s unfair and p-perhaps I''m also to me for giving in to you so quickly."

    Yu Zhen''s thoughts shed to their first kiss in the hallway this morning. He grinded his teeth, his jaw tightening. No, she wasn''t to me. He was. He took advantage of her. He had allowed his control to snap, all because he was too fearful of losing her.

    "But marriage? I-I don''t think we''re ready for it yet."

    "You''re not ready?" Yu Zhen breathed out, his tone harsher than anticipated.

    Li Xueyue flinched as if she was struck by him. She didn''t expect his voice to get so rough and his gaze to be so frigid. He glowered down at her as if she was a stranger.

    Without warning, he dropped his hands and took a step backward. She shivered, suddenly missing his warmth. Right at this moment, arge gust of wind blew past them, reminding her that this was her fault. She was the one drawing a fine line between them.

    Li Xueyue hugged her stomach, her shoulders shrinking as she looked away. "I-I don''t think I can go with you to Hanjian. Not now. I have things to finish in Wuyi, aplishments to achieve, a-and I don''t want to part from my family."

    She swallowed hard. "I''m selfish, Yu Zhen. I know that. From wanting you to wait, to not wanting you to have a harem, my requests are tough."

    "They are."

    She recoiled at his words. Although she said the truth, she wasn''t ready to hear it. Biting her trembling bottom lip, she was hoping to regain her confidence to continue on. His crude tone and brutal eyes weren''t making things easier for her.

    There was so much she wanted to say, but couldn''t, in fear of hurting him. And he too wanted to voice his thoughts, but couldn''t in fear of overwhelming her.

    The progress they had suddenly felt like it went to waste. It was as if they took five steps forward, only to fall ten steps back.

    "Make your intentions clear with me, Li Xueyue," Yu Zhen snarled. He clenched and unclenched his fist, suddenly feeling the urge to grab her. He was on the brink of losing his patience. His blood boiled at the thought of being yed by her.

    "What do you want from me? First, you lowered your guard around me, then, you turned my heart and head into a mess."

    "I''m sorry, I¡ª"

    "Take some responsibility," he seethed, taking a step forward. When she took two steps back, his patience snapped. It was as if she was literally showing him that all of his attempts were meaningless, that this was just a push-and-pull game for her.

    "For what?"

    "For crashing into my life like a damn tornado and now you want to be gone, and leave it a mess!" he snarled.

    Li Xueyue jolted in response, her eyes wide. "I just need time, Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "Look at me when you talk to me," he snapped, his voice cold and sharp.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t. She felt like a coward for reacting like this. It was difficult as it was to keep her emotions in control. Her heart pricked with pain that spread through her chest. She knew if she looked into his onyx eyes filled with infinite depths, like theplicatedyers of the Underworld, she would break down right then and there.

    She would give in to him, whilst forgetting about herself.

    A startled gasp escaped her mouth when he grabbed her chin and forced her to look up at him. Her eyes erged itself, glistening with unsaid emotions.

    Yu Zhen was stunned silent. She was on the verge of tears.

    Unable to look at him any longer, Li Xueyue immediately averted her gaze. She chewed at her bottom lip, her shoulders quivering as she struggled to keep her emotions at bay.

    "Do you despise me that much that you can''t even look at me?" he whispered. Despite his frigid voice and sharp tone, she could still hear the hurt in it.

    Li Xueyue rapidly shook her head but kept her attention trained to the floor. ''Don''t look at him. Don''t look at him,'' she chanted inside of her head, knowing the second she did, her world would not revolve around herself anymore. Her heart, her mind, her soul, all of it would be his. And the only thing she had to do was get lost inside his infinite eyes, so dark, so terrifying, yet, brimmed with nothing but adoration for her.

    How could she love this man when she couldn''t even love herself?

    "It''s okay to leave me," she suddenly said, her voice quivering more than her freezing form.

    Yu Zhen''s softened expression instantly hardened.

    She didn''t have to look to know his guards were raised. There was now an imprable wall in front of them, and he would never let her break it. She tried to breathe, but couldn''t. Everything felt so suffocating, and suddenly, her face felt hot.

    "I''ll be fine if you leave." Her voice cracked, and she hated herself for that. This was the lie sheforted herself with, a smile on her face, and lost hope in her eyes.

    Finally, she looked at him, her eyes moistened with tears that she refused to release. "So please, go." She wished it didn''t hurt this much, as if her heart was shattering to pieces, her soul ripped apart. Her entire body hummed with pain, her fingertips turning cold.

    "You will meet a great woman, Yu Zhen. Someone who will properly understand you, a girl who will not make you wait like this. She''ll love herself as much as she loves you. And to her, loving you would be nothing about hating herself. Her ambition will be you, and nothing else."

    Yu Zhen let out a scoff. He shook his head in utter disbelief, dropping his hand. "Loving me was all about hating yourself. Was that it?"

    "No, I didn''t mean it like that¡ª"

    "I''m sure you did," he harshly bit out.

    "Yu Zhen, I¡ª"

    "Enough of this beating around the bush discussion." He scowled.

    Li Xueyue supposed she was so used to his warm tone and gentle murmurs that his sudden angerpletely caught her off guard. He had never spoken to her like this. He was never this aloof, detached, and almost¡­ disgusted by her. He had every right to feel that way.

    "Look me in the eyes, Li Xueyue, and tell me you want me out of your life."

    "Yu Zhen, please, I can''t¡ª"

    "Do it," he demanded.

    She shook her head.

    "God damn it, Xueyue!" he roared, taking steps back in disbelief. "You can''t do this to me, fuck, you really can''t."

    "I¡ª"

    "How can you be so cruel?" he harshly whispered. "How can you y me like a fool and I¡­" he trailed off, shaking his head in disbelief. "...how can I still let you do this to me?"

    "I didn''t y you like a fool!" She exasperated, "I like you, Yu Zhen, I really do¡ª"

    "No you don''t," he said, his eyes snapped towards her.

    She coiled back, unable to deal with the reality of this situation. His eyes, they were so dead and bleak. He looked at her like she was a stranger. And that part shattered her in more ways than one.

    "If you liked me, you wouldn''t be doing this." He gestured to the distance between them. "Fucking hell, if you liked me, you wouldn''t have told me to leave and walk out of your life, as if I meant nothing to you!"

    "That''s not what I meant!" she shouted, "I wanted you to leave because it would bring peace for both of us! We''re not suitable for each other, Yu Zhen. My life is tied to Wuyi, and yours is tied to a throne in Hanjian. We can''t be together."

    Yu Zhen shook his head in disgust. "You''re right. Li Xueyue, you are selfish." His tone was bitter, and he spat it out like his words were poison on his tongue.

    "I kn¡ª"

    "Save it. I''ve had enough," Yu Zhen snapped, turning his back to her. In a flick of a wrist, he flung his coat over his shoulders and stormed off.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered, her quiet voice carried by the wind that sent his coat fluttering majestically in the distance. It reminded her of the greatest loss of her lifetime: a man who would love her unconditionally.

    But this chapter of her life did not need love. It needed improvements. It needed achievements and aplishments that would build the steps of sess for her. Steps that would spiral high into the sky until she was untouchable. Until she was finally on the same level as him. Until she would be proud enough to bravely stare up at him and dere themselves as equal.

    Li Xueyue wanted to rise. She wanted to be the phoenix that soared the skies. But how could she be that without getting rid of the chains that held her back? How could she dream of touching the sun when the ghost of her past still haunted her?

    If Yu Zhen was the sun that burned in the sky, then she was the pitiful flower blooming on the ground. The flower that daydreamed of the day her petals could ever touch the clouds.

 Chapter 186 Sealed Fate

    <h4>Chapter 186 Sealed Fate</h4>

    When Li Chenyang returned home and caught word that Yu Zhen and Li Xueyue were alone in the training field, he rushed down the hallways¡ªhe had never run as fast as he did today.

    Who the hell left them alone in the first ce?! Training new techniques? With a man as brazen and shameless as Yu Zhen? As if!

    Li Chenyang bolted down the corridors until he reached the quiet and dark corridor that led to the training field. It was like seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, except, a figure emerged in the distance.

    Li Chenyang halted in his tracks upon seeing the rigid figure of Yu Zhen who strutted like he was plotting the destruction of Wuyi. Even from a distance, Li Chenyang could feel the anger radiate off of the Commander.

    An enemy''s loss was his win, and Yu Zhen''s frustration was Li Chenyang''s happiness.

    Li Chenyang almost smiled victoriously upon seeing how pissed Yu Zhen was. Oh ho, was the great Commander finally cracking?

    He paused and shook his head. No, it wasn''t the right time to focus on personal grudges. He needed to investigate the reason for Yu Zhen''s furious footpace. He walked as if he was on his way to murder the Emperor of Wuyi.

    "Where are you going?" Li Chenyang immediately asked when Yu Zhen was closer to him.

    Yu Zhen ignored the Minister and stormed past him, only for Li Chenyang to harshly grab his wrist.

    "I asked you a question."

    Yu Zhen''s hand itched to grab his sword. How nice it would be to slice this man''s hand off. What gave him the right to touch him? Not even the other Princes of Hanjian had the guts toy a finger on him without permission.

    Yu Zhen flicked his wrist and threw off Li Chenyang''s grip.

    Despite feeling irritated at this tantrum-throwing Commander, Li Chenyang forced a tight-lipped smile on his face. Fine, he''ll just ask Xueyue what happened.

    "Where''s my sister?"

    Yu Zhen threw him a scathing glower at the mention of Li Xueyue. She was the first and only woman to acquire his heart, only to trample upon it. He knew he shouldn''t havee to Wuyi in the first ce. What was he expecting when he left his post in the military just to meet the candidate who talked her way out?

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes in response. "Whatever. I''ll find her myself." He crossed his arms and added, "I''m d I advised her to think about this rtionship carefully. Obviously, you have a horrible temper."

    Yu Zhen''s entire body stiffened. If it was even possible, his violent eyes became even crueler.

    "What did you just say?" His voice was eerily calm in ways that sent shivers down Li Chenyang''s back.

    It was one of the rare moments that Li Chenyang feared for his life. He stared at Yu Zhen in bewilderment.

    "Tch, nevermind. I''m wasting too much time on you." Li Chenyang snorted. He only took one step forward when he heard the familiar clink of an unsheathing sword. His eyes widened.

    He turned around and was instantly met with the lethally sharp sword pointed directly at his throat.

    Li Chenyang cursed in his mind for hisck of any weapon. He was not a soldier like Li Wenmin. Moreover, there was no need to carry a weapon around, especially in his own house. Besides, who allowed this Commander to walk around with that sword in the first ce?! Guests were always confiscated of any visible weapons.

    "Say that one more time," Yu Zhen seethed, his hands shook with anger. "You told Li Xueyue to do what?"

    Li Chenyang scoffed. "That''s what got you so riled up?"

    Yu Zhen advanced forward until Li Chenyang was taking cautious steps back. Eventually, the Minister had nowhere to go, back against the wall, his throat stretched to avoid the tip of the sword.

    "Our parents also advised the same thing." Li Chenyang mused, "Unlike you, we actually care about her wellbeing. She has ns to aplish in Wuyi¡ª"

    "What are these ns?"

    Li Chenyang''s gaze narrowed. He bit his tongue. He had said too much. "They''re none of your concern¡ª" he paused when the sword grazed his neck, a single drop of blood trailing down his throat.

    "What are you going to do? Kill me?" Li Chenyang let out a bark ofughter, not caring he was a second away from instant death. "You think the Li Family will let you walk out of here alive?"

    "I don''t care." Yu Zhen chuckled. "Your life means nothing to me if I mean nothing to her."

    "How pitiful." Li Chenyang mockinglyughed yet again. "This is precisely why I refuse to fall in love. Look at what it has made of you. I heard you''re the most level-headed and intelligent Prince of your n, as well as a sharp-minded Commander whose strategy nearly brought Wuyi to its knees."

    Li Chenyang scanned Yu Zhen from head to toe, his lips curled in disgust. "And now you''re nothing but a stubborn boy chasing a young maiden. How pathetic."

    Yu Zhen did not care for provocations like this. If he did, he would''ve long lost his position in Hanjian.

    Before he had solidified his ruthless reputation, there were many who taunted him, believing he would never grow as powerful as he was today. Of course, all of those people were dead, but not before they experienced the worst torture of their lives. None of them even got a proper burial. Their bodies were fed to pigs and the pork was fed to their remaining families. Even when they didn''t want to consume it, the food was shoved down their throats.

    It was a ruthless move that made him many enemies, but also many supporters. They knew the strength of the Second Prince and they knew the lengths he would take against rebels. Fear creates loyalty, but fear also loses it.

    Yu Zhen had his own methods of keeping his men loyal. Some were cruel. Some were not. It depended on who they were.

    "Li Xueyue will never go with you," Li Chenyang spat out. "Not unless I can help it."

    Yu Zhen decided he had enough of this bbering Minister. Yu Zhen retracted his sword and knew if he was going to make this man shut up, he''d have to knock him unconscious.

    "You think I want to hurt my sister?" Li Chenyang suddenly said, his voice softening at the thought of Xueyue.

    At this, Yu Zhen paused. What the hell was this insolent fool talking about?

    "Let me ask you something, Second Prince," he said the title like it was a joke, his lips drawing into a political smile.

    Li Chenyangzily leaned against the wall. He crossed one leg over the other and cocked his head.

    "How many women are interested in you?"

    "An eye for an eye," Yu Zhen coldly said. "You want answers? Fine, I''ll give it to you."

    Li Chenyang''s gaze narrowed suspiciously.

    "In return, you''re going to answer my questions."

    It was a reasonable proposal, but Li Chenyang was skeptical of these questions. "If they''re confidential, I won''t answer."

    "Your questions are already personal, yet I''m still answering them. Am I not?"

    Li Chenyang scowled. This man spoke like they were doing some shady business deal. "I never said you had to answer them."

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. He simply belittled Li Chenyang with his gaze.

    After a long, dreary silence, Li Chenyang finally spoke up. "The questions can''t be something that can harm the Li Family or Xueyue."

    "Deal," Yu Zhen deadpanned. Something flickered in the corner of his eyes, and he slightly shifted his gaze to realize what it was. In the far distance, he saw Li Xueyue.

    Yu Zhen had sworn to himself he wouldn''t look back. But he did. And instantly, he regretted it. She was in tears. He could see it from afar. Unbearable pain spread throughout his entire body. It was excruciating and he felt like his soul was being ripped from him. Just the sight of her crying form was enough for him to lose his mind.

    Yu Zhen grinded his teeth and tore his gaze away from her. He could not bear to look at her another second longer. He wanted to, but couldn''t. It would ruin his pride and ego.

    All she had to do was reach out to him, to chase him like how he chased her. All she had to do was grab his sleeve and tell him to stay. And he would. For a lifetime. All she had to do was ask. But she didn''t, and now their fate was sealed.

 Chapter 187 Only One

    <h4>Chapter 187 Only One</h4>

    "You''re lucky I''m more patient than my older brother," Li Chenyang said and shook his head. "Wenmin would not have the tolerance to converse with you."

    Yu Zhen didn''t feel like responding. This man talked too much. Did he know that? Or was it a tactic? His gaze narrowed. He couldn''t tell.

    "I''ll ask again, how many women are after you in Hanjian?"

    "None that I care about."

    "How many?"

    "Who knows?" Yu Zhen shrugged. It wasn''t like he went around counting how many admirers he had. He barely had time for himself, much less entertaining different women in hopes that one would be his wife.

    Li Chenyang scowled. "If your replies are going to continue being vague, then my answers will be even worse."

    Yu Zhen nearly rolled his eyes at the petty threat. He could just send one of his people to investigate what went on behind the Li Family''s closed doors. Granted, it would be a hard task, but nothing was too difficult for a Hanjian soldier.

    "So, give me an estimate of how manypetitors Xueyue will have."

    "My woman will have nopetitors," Yu Zhen fluidly answered. "Anyone that she deems a threat, she can tell me and that person will be gone."

    Li Chenyang wanted to believe his words were just empty promises, but deep down he knew they weren''t.

    Li Chenyang wasn''t stupid. He had heard of the dark rumors that surrounded the Second Prince of Hanjian and his ruthless ways concealed behind a cool, aloof expression.

    Without a doubt, Yu Zhen would carry out his promise to eliminate all threats.

    "Even if the threat is a Princess of your country? Your sister or half-sister?"

    "If it''s a Princess, it''s killing two birds with one stone." Yu Zhen chuckled. He had never once cared about any of his siblings, except for one, but he was certain they would never cause trouble.

    "Don''t you think this will sully Xueyue''s reputation? That suddenly, the woman that''s publicly vying for your attention, or the woman that''s publicly bothering Xueyue is suddenly executed for no reason?"

    "Do you really think I will let my woman be dragged through the mud for my actions?" Yu Zhen asked with a pointed look. "If there are any consequences, it''ll be on my shoulders. Not hers."

    Li Chenyang nodded. Great, this man wasn''t a momma''s boy. He supposed this would get rid of his initial worries. However, he would not give Yu Zhen''s the satisfaction of getting his approval.

    "Second question," Li Chenyang began, "When are you returning to Hanjian?"

    "It''s my turn to ask questions."

    Li Chenyang sighed. "Fine. Ask away."

    "What are the ns for keeping Xueyue in Wuyi?"

    Li Chenyang''s rxed expression was stiffened. The mere mention of Xueyue was enough for his guard to be raised. He straightened his spine and stopped leaning against the wall.

    "That''s too personal. If you want to know, you have to ask her."

    "I can help her achieve those ns."

    "She doesn''t need your help," Li Chenyang spat out. "I have everything under control."

    "Hm, a n that requires the help of a Minister," Yu Zhen quietly observed.

    Li Chenyang bit his tongue. Yet again, he had revealed too much. Maybe his father was right, he was getting weak. In the past, nothing identally slipped out of Li Chenyang''s mouth, unless there was a purpose for the spill of information. But nowadays, he was bing too loose-lipped.

    Li Chenyang sighed through his nose. It was time to start practicing his silence. His father could help him with that.

    "Look, this n is important to my sister," Li Chenyang pointed out. "I''m not going to reveal her personal information like this."

    "I can finish it in half the time you''d take."

    "I don''t care."

    "My men would be at her disposal."

    "Good for you."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his gaze. Was this man dense? Or just stupid? He was graciously offering his help, something that rarely happened except once in a blue moon if he was feeling generous.

    The Second Prince doesn''t hand out favors to just anyone. Especially favors with no strings attached.

    Li Chenyang nced around curiously. Suddenly, the air was chilly and the atmosphere was frigid. Huh, how weird. He was pretty sure Spring was soon turning into Summer. Why was it so cold here?

    "Does it have to do with her past?"

    Li Chenyang paused. His gaze shifted to Yu Zhen''s pressing one. How much did this man know of Li Xueyue''s past? Did he dig into her background?

    It would be impossible to find anything. Li Chenyang knew that. He had hired men to look into the past of Bai Xueyue but found absolutely nothing. He had a suspicion that his father knew more than he was letting on. It was simply too suspicious that there wasn''t a single record about Bai Xueyue. Unless¡­ it was purposely wiped out, and who''d have that much power?

    Only a small handful of names came to mind.

    "Like I said," Li Chenyang began, "Her past has nothing to do with you. Her ns have nothing to do with you. You have no right to ask about personal details like this, especially from her brother. If you want to know more about her, you have to ask yourself."

    "I truthfully answered your question, it''s your turn to answer mine."

    "Yes, but the question I asked was about you, which is something you have the right to respond to." Li Chenyang shrugged. "In this case, you''re asking about someone else, which I don''t have the right to answer on their behalf."

    "You don''t want to scam me. Trust me."

    "I''m not trying to scam you of our deal," Li Chenyang simply exined. "I''m just borating on why I can''t spill the secrets."

    Yu Zhen couldn''t argue with that. Well, he could, but it would lead him nowhere. He also did not have time for this. He had to return to Hanjian as soon as possible. If the letter he received the day he stormed out of the Li Manor was true, and then he must set for Hanjian in less than two weeks.

    There was a throne calling his name and he intended to make it his.

    Li Chenyang examined Yu Zhen and his silence. "It''s your turn, but I don''t care. Answer the final question for me. Do you love Xueyue?"

    A silence fell over them. Yu Zhen shifted his gaze to his right, where the entrance leading to the training field was located at. He could see Li Xueyue perfectly. Her back was turned towards him, but she still captured his attention. Despite the servants that were now surrounding her, helping her clean up, the only person he saw was Li Xueyue.

    In a crowd of many, she was the only one who stood out.

    Did he love her?

 Chapter 188 Shes Happy

    <h4>Chapter 188 She''s Happy</h4>

    Love was a curious thing. It woulde in the least expected moment, or when we needed it the least.

    Yu Zhen had never experienced the so-called "unconditional love." He was raised by his tutors and nannies and barely spent any time with his detached parents.

    His father was a strict man who didn''t believe in any sort of affection, not even tough love. Yu Zhen''s mother was kind and weing, but she tried too hard to control her son in hopes of ruling through him.

    Yu Zhen was unfamiliar with the concept of love. He didn''t know what it was supposed to feel like. Was love supposed to make him happy? Depressed? Weak? He didn''t know.

    The only thing he was aware of was the emotions that Li Xueyue made him feel. For once, he felt alive. She was a breath of fresh air, not because she was different from the rest, but because she was one of the only people to make him hopeful of the future.

    "I''ve said it before," Yu Zhen calmly said, "My intentions for your sister are as pure as ash."

    "Which means it''s not pure at all. You''re going to taint her." Li Chenyang scowled.

    Yu Zhen shook his head. "No one''s intentions can ever be pure. There is always a hidden motive behind every action. There is no such thing as selflessness."

    "Your view on this world is skewed and jaded. It''s horrible."

    "It''s reality."

    Li Chenyang did not expect his own words to be used against him. He had always told Li Xueyue about the cruelty of reality, but now, he was forgetting how ruthless it would be.

    "I will never give her to you," Li Chenyang sternly said. "Li Xueyue should stay in Wuyi. She''s happy with us, she''s safer with us. We''re her family."

    "If it''s a family she wants, I can start one with her."

    "You brazzen imbecile¡ª"

    "Chen-ge¡­?"

    Yu Zhen stiffened. His ears sharpened, his eyes dting. Just the sound of her voice was enough to drive him crazy.

    When she approached him, her scent lingered heavily in the air, Yu Zhen suddenly found it difficult to breathe. It was difficult to concentrate over the erratic thumping of his heart. He could''ve sworn it died back there. Why was he suddenly excited to see her again?

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang lowered his voice, forcing a smile onto his face. "You''re sweaty," his gaze wandered to the servants behind her. "Get her bathed and properly dressed."

    "Wait, I¡ª" she paused, her gaze flickering to Yu Zhen who had kept his eyes forward. He hadn''t spared her a single nce. Disappointment and guilt consumed her alive, from the inside out.

    "I was hoping we could discuss something in the library."

    "Of course," Li Chenyang smiled, reaching a hand out to pat her but hesitated upon seeing her dishevelled appearance. He noticed the dirt that clung to her clothes and the redness of her eyes.

    His smile slipped, his gaze darkened. "Were you crying?"

    "No, it was just the debris from the dirt kicked up during sword fighting," Li Xueyue fluidly said. She had lied to him again¡ªsomething she hated doing, but was beginning to make a habit out of.

    "It doesn''t seem like it, your eyes are puffy."

    While Li Chenyang was distracted by his younger sister, Yu Zhen quietly slipped away from them. He was initially headed towards the exit of this manor, but now he had a new objective. If Li Chenyang wouldn''t give him the proper answer, Yu Zhen decided he''d find it himself.

    "Xueyue, why were you crying? Did something happen between you and Yu Zhen¡ª" he turned around and paused. Where the hell did Yu Zhen go?

    "It''s fine, Chen-ge. You were right. T-this chapter of my life doesn''t need love. It needs self-improvement," Li Xueyue spoke up, nervously fiddling her fingers.

    Li Chenyang''s hard expression softened. She was averting her gaze from him. No matter how much she told herself that lie, she didn''t believe it. This chapter of her life needed love more than ever. Especially with the trauma of her past catching up on her.

    "It''s going to be okay," Li Chenyang gently said, cing an arm around her shoulder, shaking it. Even so, her eyes were glued to the floor. She was unable to lift her head, her shoulders quivering.

    Li Xueyue knew she had no one to me but herself. It was all her fault and she willingly owned up to it.

    It did not take long for rain to drip onto the wooden boards of the hallway. Quiet sniffles and sobs echoed off the walls. A strong gust of wind blew down the corridor, blowing thentern lights until they werepletely shrouded in darkness.

    - - - - -

    After Li Xueyue had finally calmed down, she was ushered back to her room. The handmaidens were used to her dishevelled appearance by now. The majority of her training always resulted in dirty clothes and a sweaty body.

    The handmaidens quickly cleaned her up. She bathed withvender petals and oils that was supposed to soothe her nerves, but only made her more anxious. After she was dried off and properly dressed, Li Xueyue was finally allowed to leave her room. When she had one foot out the door, a maidservant came rushing down the hall.

    She struggled to catch her breath. "Mydy, I heard disturbing news in regard to the hallway leading to the library. I think it''s best for us to stay in the room."

    "Did something happen?"

    "W-well¡ª"

    "Nevermind, I''ll investigate myself."

    Li Xueyue speed-walked to the library, yet her attention was elsewhere. Her mind was upied with thoughts of Yu Zhen, whether it was his outburst in the training field, or his adoring smiles before that.

    Li Xueyue knew she would never be able to forget him. Not in this lifetime, or the next. Whoever said first love died hard was a liar. All of the beatings she had suffered in her past would nevere close to the pain she felt when her heart broke in the training field. His words left a scar on her heart.

    Oddly enough, none of the beatings that she had experienced left a scar on her. Sure, they left a bruise but she always healed from them. Viscount Bai Sheng made sure of that.

    As a kid, she always wondered why the Viscount didn''t kill her. But that night with Earl Qin made her realize why. She was a valuable livestock meant to be fed and then sold off.

    "What aughable man the Viscount was," she said to herself, confusing the servants behind her. Nheless, they kept their mouths shut and heads bent.

    "Impossible!"

    Li Xueyue jumped upon hearing the loud crash andmotion inside of the library. She was surprised at the sight of an unconscious guard slumped by the doorway of the library. In fact, all of the guards here were knocked out cold. What happened here?

    Bending down, her hands shook as she reached for their pulse. There weren''t any visible injuries except for the yellow bruise that was beginning to form.

    "They''re alive," she breathed out.

    Li Xueyue stepped inside the room, confused by the mess in front of her. Bookshelves that lined the four walls of the library were disorganized as books were slewn everywhere. In the center of the spacious room was a table that was covered by books, scrolls and parchment.

    Li Xueyue saw her brother was frantically tossing scrolls and parchment off of the shelves.

    "What''s going on?" Li Xueyue asked the minute she walked inside the library. "Why were the guards unconscious outside?"

    "It''s not here," Li Chenyang impatiently said, continuing to make a mess in the library. By now, almost all of the shelves were empty and its contentsid in a pile on the floor.

    "What''s not here?"

    "The royal decrees!" Li Chenyang exasperated. "They''re gone!"

 Chapter 189 The Manipulator and The Thief

    <h4>Chapter 189 The Maniptor and The Thief</h4>

    Li Xueyue stumbled over a book, grabbing onto one of the shelves out of pure horror. What did he just say?

    Suddenly she swiveled around, her eyes glued to the door. Unconscious guards, missing decrees. Someone had broken into the library. And only one person came to mind¡ªthe man who was present when she requested to meet Li Chenyang in the library¡ªYu Zhen.

    Li Xueyue''s gaze spontaneously shifted to the window where the sun was low and dusk was soon approaching, but there was still light out.

    "The decrees can''t be reced. It was difficult as it was to have them stamped." Li Chenyang groaned, grabbing his hair out of frustration. "It will take awhile for me to slip the proposal onto the Emperor''s desk again."

    "How long until the sun sets?"

    "What?"

    "How long until it''s night time?"

    Li Chenyang peered out the window. "I''d say we have no more than an hour."

    "That''s all I need." Li Xueyue didn''t wait for his response before sprinting out of the room, her blood boiled at the audacity of Yu Zhen. Was he truly that petty? Was this his way of throwing a tantrum? Knocking out all of the guards and stealing the most crucial part of her n?

    Li Xueyue refused to give in to him like this. If he would be this cruel, then she would not spare him any kindness, no matter what she felt for him. This n to ruin the Bai Family was all that she ever wanted to do.

    To avenge the little girl who was locked in her room, starved and dehydrated.

    To take vengeance for the young maiden who was assaulted on the night she wanted food.

    For the sake of relieving herself from the past, she would bring destruction to the person who ruined it for her in the first ce.

    "Xueyue, where are you going?!" Li Chenyang cried out, jumping out of the door only to see her disappear down the hallways.

    Li Xueyue started this mess, so she would end it. She would get the decrees back, no matter the cost. Lost in thought, she wasn''t aware of where she was running until she roughly collided with someone.

    "Ow!" Li Wenmin grumbled in pain, rubbing his chest. Did a bull ram against him? He looked down to see it was none other than his Xiao Yue. Of course her head would hurt his chest, she was too hard-headed!

    "Why are you running, Xiao Yue? What''s so urgent for you to bolt like this?" Li Wenmin looked around. In the vast distance, he heard loud footsteps quickly approaching them.

    "Oh my, are you running from Chenyang? He''s scary when he''s mad." Li Wenmin nodded in agreement. "It''s okay Xiao Yue, I''ll help you run and hide from him! I know the perfect spot¡ª"

    "Stop right there!" Li Chenyang barked, turning the corner. He was slightly out of breath, for exercising was never his speciality.

    "Where do you think you''re going?" he asked.

    "Well, uh, I was actually going to take her to a hiding ce." Li Wenmin scratched the back of his head in confusion. "I-if you''re mad at her, Chenyang, don''t scold too harshly. Our Xiao Yue is sensitive and¡ª"

    "I wasn''t asking you," Li Chenyang groaned in frustration. He pointed at Xueyue and repeated, "Where do you think you''re going?"

    "To the Pce."

    "For what?" Li Wenmin asked while Li Chenyang yelled, "Are you stupid?!"

    Li Wenmin tilted his head,pletely bewildered by what''s happening.

    "Ugh, it''s all your fault Wenmin!" Li Chenyang huffed.

    "Me?!" Li Wenmin cried out, "What the hell did I do?!"

    "Your stupidity is rubbing off on our Xueyue!"

    "Well, how do you know she wasn''t stupid from the start?!" Li Wenmin scoffed, rolling his eyes. "She always loses to us in Go which shows her strategies suck. Also, she''s only book smart, so she doesn''t know how to apply things to reality."

    "Yeah well, if you taught her some strategies, maybe she wouldn''t be this dimwitted right now."

    "Uhm, you know I''m standing right here. Right?" Li Xueyue scowled, crossing her arms. She impatiently tapped her foot on the floor.

    "Aw would you look at this little kid," Li Wenmin teased, pinching one side of her cheek. "Xiao Yue is so cute when she''s mad like a little kitty."

    Li Xueyue''s fingertips twitched. She wanted to punch him.

    "Don''t you find it adorable, Chenyang? Hehehe I bet she thinks she looks like a tiger¡ªOW!" He sobbed, clutching his leg, hopping in pain. "Chenyang, look at your horrible influence on her! She just kicked me."

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes and snorted. "You deserved it."

    Li Wenmin let out a ''hmph,'' and jerked his chin to the opposite direction of his siblings, unable to bear with them any longer. Sooner orter, these fools would appreciate his intelligence! Soon!

    "Have fun insulting each other." Li Xueyue waved her hand and said, "I have a Pce to run to." She turned her back and was prepared to run. Unluckily for her, she was grabbed by the cor, halting her in ce.

    "Oh no you''re not." Li Chenyang scowled, yanking her back to them. "Have you lost your mind? Why are you going to the Pce sote at night?"

    "I know who took the decrees."

    "You do?" Li Chenyang asked right as Li Wenmin said, "What decrees?"

    Li Chenyang ignored his older brother. "Well, who took it?"

    "It has to be Y-" she paused, her eyes darting to Li Wenmin before saying, "I think it''s the...the¡­" she trailed off, struggling to call Yu Zhen by the horrid nickname. "The Rat."

    "Oh." Li Chenyang rxed, only for his body to instantly tense. "What?!" he hissed. "What do you mean the Rat took it? How? When?"

    "It might''ve happened when I¡­ you know¡­ broke down in the hallway."

    "Huh, you broke the hallway?" Li Wenmin asked, scratching the back of his head. "Which part? And how?"

    "Gosh, I still can''t believe you''re the leading strategist of our country." Li Chenyang scowled, shaking his head. "It''s like you left your brain at the training camps or something."

    "Actually, I do." Li Wenmin happily nodded. "It''s to preserve my intelligence, so I don''t waste time thinking about stupid things."

    "So you don''t think about yourself?" Li Chenyang mused.

    "No, it''s so I don''t think about you."

    "Yeah right¡ªstop right here, Li Xueyue!" Li Chenyang demanded when she nearly snuck off again. "Why do you want to go to the Pce so bad? It''s crawling with all the pests we need you to stay far away from."

    "I know he won''t give it back unless I personally ask for it."

    Li Chenyang hated how correct she was. If he was lucky, Yu Zhen might grant him an audience. But the Second Prince wasn''t obligated to care about those ranked below him¡ªeven if it was the Minister of a foreign country.

    "Tomorrow morning, I''ll demand it back from him. I don''t care if I have to trespass the guest pce, I''ll get our decrees. Don''t worry, Xueyue. Have some faith in me."

    Li Wenmin nced at Li Chenyang''s slender body that was only toned from horseback riding and the asional sport like archery or sword fighting. "No offense, Brother, but I don''t think you will get past the cream of the crop soldiers that guards Yu Zhen''s quarters."

    "Thanks for the morale support, I really appreciate it." Li Chenyang scoffed, crossing his arms. "Do you have a better n? Because if not, keep your thoughts to yourself."

    "Actually I do," Li Wenmin said, "But in return, you''ll have to tell me what happened."

    "I''m not going to tell you everything. All you have to know is that Yu Zhen took the decrees I worked hard on acquiring. So, slightly-intelligent brother of mine, how do you propose we get our stuff back?"

    Li Wenmin was confused as to why Yu Zhen would even take something like a royal decree. What was so important about it?

    "Well, why don''t I apany Xueyue to the Pce tomorrow? I''ll keep her hidden and I''ll ward off anyone who would approach her."

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "No, Xueyue can''t enter the Pce. If Royal Uncle or Aunt catches wind she''s in their territory, she won''t leave unscathed."

    "Well, you already know Yu Zhen won''t willingly give it back to us, and he also won''t grant you an audience, which by the way, he''s ballsy for denying a Li." Li Wenmin scowled. "And Mother was so gracious to always grant him an audience to our house, but that''s not the point."

    "It''s not," Li Chenyang agreed.

    "Oh shut up, I''m trying to help." Li Wenmin scowled. "You will be busy tomorrow because of your court duties, so you can''t escort Xueyue around. But I can. Tomorrow is my off-day. I''ll get her in and out of the Pce in no more than an hour. With me and this trusty sword around, I''ll just threaten whoever steps in our way."

    Li Chenyang let out a sigh. "You know it''s dangerous for her to be in the Pce."

    "Yes, but you also know I would never put Xiao Yue in harm''s way. Her protection is my priority," Li Wenmin said. "And if that imbecile is as stubborn as you think he is, the only n that has the highest chance of seeding is this one."

    "And you, Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin scowled, "Why do you always pick bad men? First is a maniptor and the other is a thief." He huffed, shaking his head in disappointment. "I should introduce you to Wen Qihong."

 Chapter 190 Why Do You Care?

    <h4>Chapter 190 Why Do You Care?</h4>

    Li Chenyang was disgusted by the suggestion. "At this point, she might as well y with all of Duke Wen Xuan''s sons'' hearts," he scoffed. "I rmended Wen Qihong to Xueyue as in, he should be friends with her."

    Li Wenmin scowled. "I meant the same thing. What were you thinking?"

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "Yeah right, you were implying Xueyue should get to know Qihong on a different level than ''friends.''"

    "Only your dirty mind would think that," Li Wenmin stuck out his tongue, "Stop reading so much erotica, your brain will get corrupted!"

    "I don''t read eroticas you rascal, but I''m sure you do."

    "Well, let''s search your room and mine, and then we''ll find out," Li Wenmin suggested.

    "How about we get back to the topic at hand," Li Xueyue replied in a monotonous voice, throwing both of her brothers a disapproving stare. She wondered if there would ever be a time they behaved like actual siblings, instead of enemies.

    "Yes, we should discuss more about the decrees," Li Chenyang sighed. "Wenmin, your n sucks."

    "Well, do you have a better one?" Li Wenmin scowled, crossing his arms. "At least mine is the most efficient and time-saving."

    "It''s also stupid. The goal of our entire family is to keep Xueyue out of the Pce, especially away from our uncles."

    "Look, no one will even know she''s there. I''ll have her dress in a soldier''s uniform or something, with the helmet on, fully covering her face." Li Wenmin paused for a brief second, finally registering his younger brother''s words.

    "Wait, what do you mean uncles? I thought she only had to stay away from the Emperor. Is there another uncle I should be aware of?"

    Li Chenyang''s eyes grewrge. He had let his tongue slip again. Seriously, what was with him today? His ability to keep secrets has been deteriorating. "Nevermind the topic of uncles, let''s get back to the most important point."

    "As I was saying, Xueyue can be disguised as a guard or maidservant. We are a Li, we never have to exin why the hell we''re in the Pce. Some of the guards stationed at the Pce entrances are my underlings anyways. They won''t dare to question the identity of my servants."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded while he pondered over the pros and cons of this n. Finally, he deemed the benefits outweighed the problems. "For once, I realize why you''re a strategist. I approve of the n."

    Li Wenmin rubbed a finger over his nose, grinning in satisfaction. "I told you I was smart."

    "It was onepliment," Li Chenyang scoffed. "Get over yourself."

    "You''re just angry I always beat you in Go, right Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin said, nudging his younger sister who was spacing out.

    Li Xueyue absentmindedly nodded her head. "Yeah."

    "And five plus seven equals thirteen, right, Xueyue?"

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes at Li Chenyang. "Just because I''m mentally elsewhere, it doesn''t mean I can''t hear you guys."

    "Just making sure you didn''t go stupid on us." Li Chenyang snickered. "Wouldn''t want you to be Wenmin."

    "It''s a lot better if Xueyue became like me instead of you." Li Wenmin huffed, "I''m more sociable and I have a lot more friends than you."

    "Quality over quantity," Li Chenyang said and shrugged.

    "Hmph, keep on lying to yourself." Li Wenmin threw an arm around Xueyue. "Let''s go, Xiao Yue. While this loner brother buries his face in books, we should y Go."

    "But I''m a lot worse at Go than Chen-ge," Li Xueyue pointed out, quaking a brow. "You''re not trying to feel good about yourself by beating me, right?"

    "W-what? No, I''d never!" Li Wenmin nervouslyughed, averting his gaze. He simply wanted to make a bet with Xueyue, knowing he would win it.

    "It''s okay, Yueyue," Li Chenyang bit out, grabbing Xueyue''s wrist. "You can stay with me in the library. We''ll read and educate ourselves while our stupid brother gets dumber."

    "What kind of stupid nickname is Yueyue?" Li Wenminughed loudly just to mock Chenyang. "What are you gonna call her next? Xuexue?"

    "It''s a lot better than Xiao Yue."

    "No, Xiao Yue is a lot more creative."

    "Says who?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "Everyone!" Li Wenmin eximed.

    "Yeah right."

    "Hmph, I''m d you know."

    While the two boys argue amongst themselves, Li Xueyue quietly slipped away. She''d rather go take a nap and hope for the day to pass faster. Besides, she was beyond exhausted from training the entire afternoon. Her lips tugged downwards. Thinking about the training session reminded her of what she had foolishly said.

    "I''ve permanently lost him, haven''t I?" she asked herself, despite knowing the answer to that question.

    - - - - -

    The next morning.

    To no one''s surprise, Li Wenmin''s n had worked. No one even questioned the new maidservant with him whose face, except her eyes, was covered by a thin cloth held up by silver beads.

    Li Wenmin nodded to his men in acknowledgment as he speedily headed in the direction of the enormous guest pce located far from the throne room. He wanted to get Xueyue in and out of this ce as fast as possible.

    "Wenmin? What are you doing here?"

    Li Wenmin stiffened, his body froze. He could practically hear the panic heartbeats of Xueyue.

    "Don''t you have training today?" Duke Li Taojun asked, curious by the presence of his nephew. Though he rarely kept in contact with his brother, Duke Li Taojun was still familiar with the aplishments of a General.

    "Uncle," Li Wenmin forced a tight-lipped smile onto his face. He turned around, and in return, his servants shuffled until they were behind him.

    "You''re usually not in this part of the pce grounds," Li Wenmin added on.

    "Indeed, I''m not, but the Second Prince''s quarters are near here. I''m supposed to train him."

    "Train the Second Prince?" Li Wenmin repeated, his brows furrowing.

    Li Wenmin knew his uncle was an excellent fighter and was the one who personally taught Wen Jinkai all that he knew. Everyone knew how tough of a mentor Duke Li Taojun was. Even when a soldier was at their limits, Duke Li Taojun would force them to perform another set until their bodies literally dropped to the ground, unable to move.

    "Yes, as you know, exercise is good for the body. More muscles will strengthen the immune system," Duke Li Taojun exined, his eyes scanned beyond Li Wenmin. He found it interesting that there was only one maidservant with her face covered.

    "I didn''t know my elitist brother hired ugly maidservants. Why is that one wearing a veil?" Duke Li Taojun inquired.

    Li Wenmin''s blood boiled irritably. His uncle talked too much. "Why do you care about the lowly life of a peasant?"

    "I am a curious man." Duke Li Taojun mused, "There was no need to be so aggressive with me."

    "I''m afraid, I have ces to be. Excuse me," Li Wenmin muttered.

    "You''re heading in the direction of the guest pce, I presume?"

    Li Wenmin ignored his question and turned his back, preparing to take a step forward when his uncle spoke up again.

    "If you want to see the Commander of Hanjian, I''m afraid it''s a futile attempt," Duke Li Taojun said. He was mindful of the way he addressed the Commander. He didn''t want a repeat of a threatening scenario. As much as he was once a soldier, he was now a simple mentor. He preferred words over fighting.

    "What are you talking about?" Li Wenmin scowled, turning around. His uncle spoke like his father¡ªin circles.

    "I caught wind this morning," Duke Li Taojun began, "The Second Prince of Hanjian has departed from the Capital."

 Chapter 191 Last Goodbyes

    <h4>Chapter 191 Last Goodbyes</h4>

    Li Wenmin was stunned to silence. He could practically feel the disappointment oozing off of Xueyue whose eyes were growingrge with disbelief.

    ''Did he depart for Hanjian? Had he truly left me here? Without anyst goodbyes?'' Li Xueyue pressed her lips together, scolding herself for asking such foolish questions.

    Li Xueyue was the one who dered it was fine for him to leave her¡ªthat she''d be fine on her own. She was the one who pushed him away for good. What gave her the right to think like this?

    Her insecurities had harmed the man she liked. She had trampled over his heart and ruined her own in exchange. There was nothing she could do to turn back the time.

    Even so, Li Xueyue had hoped he had stayed one more day so that she could exin herself. She wanted to tell him that if only he could wait for her for just a little bit longer, then perhaps she would depart for Hanjian, just not together with him. But soon. Soon, she would be there.

    All of that seemed like a false reality now. The future she had dreamed of was beginning to crumble before her eyes and she was to me for it. She could find no fault in anyone but herself.

    "Did the Commander tell you where he was going?" Li Wenmin asked, deciding it was better to get to the bottom of this. Maybe Yu Zhen didn''t leave for Hanjian, maybe he was just taking a tour of the country? Though he doubted it¡­

    "Well, I didn''t engage in any conversation with the Commander," Duke Li Taojun exined. "I simply heard from the servants that he had gathered his men and left the Pce."

    "Are there any of his people remaining in the Pce?"

    "I would assume none were left, but there could be a possibility that a few are lingering behind to finish packing."

    Li Xueyue wished he didn''t word it as if Yu Zhen would never return, but she chided herself again. Of course, he wouldn''t return. His job in Wuyi was done. He had safely delivered the candidates and enforced the treaty between Wuyi and Hanjian. Why else would he stay in Wuyi for?

    Li Xueyue realized Yu Zhen didn''t even exin why he left in such a hurry the girst time they argued. He had hopped into his carriage as if his life depended on it. What happened?

    "Besides, Wenmin, why would you seek out Yu Zhen for?" Duke Li Taojun asked whilst shifting his gaze back to the maidservant near him. Those eyes of hers, gentle and clear, he felt like he had seen them before.

    "I just wanted to get to know him better," Li Wenmin lied with a smile. "Well, since he''s gone, I suppose I will head back. You best head to the Second Prince''s residence."

    "Hmm, it would be the wise thing to do, isn''t it? I wouldn''t want to keep them waiting," Duke Li Taojun mused. He had a sly expression on his face that neither of the Li siblings could figure out why. If only Li Wenmin was intelligent enough to see past the exterior and realize the hint that was dropped.

    "The Second Prince has been so impatient these days." Duke Li Taojun sighed. "And he''s been requesting strange ointments from his doctors. I''m beginning to wonder who they''re for. Obviously, he would not put strains on himself to get a cut or so. So strange, don''t you think, General?"

    "Gossiping about the Crown will result in a beheading," Li Wenmin warned whilst maintaining his smile.

    There was stillness in the air before Duke Li Taojun broke out in a loudughter that sounded empty to the ears. It was carried off by the rushing wind, swirling around the Pce, mocking the siblings.

    "If my head rolls for such ament, then it is not my fault but yours. Who else would hear this conversation except for you and your servants?" Duke Li Taojun chuckled, wiping away an imaginary tear. "Your jokes are getting better with each passing day, General."

    "Keep my name and title out of your mouth. It repulses me." Li Wenmin slightly frowned and continued, "Especially when you use that same mouth to threaten Grandfather."

    "Pft, that wilting old man? You still consider him your Grandfather? Fool! He didn''t remember you or your brother before he passed! Not even your father crossed his mind. But do you know who did?" Duke Li Taojun cackled, throwing his head back.

    Li Wenmin narrowed his gaze. He didn''t want to continue with this conversation anymore. It was clear his uncle didn''t know the meaning of respect. "Don''t get so riled up simply because Grandfather disowned you."

    "At the least, I was mentioned in his will. You received nothing from him."

    "It was because I needed nothing." Li Wenmin shook his head with a slight smile. "Whereas you¡­" he trailed off, eyeing his uncle from head-to-toe. "You need all the help you can get."

    "You brat¡ª"

    "Oh, are you insulting the military now?" Li Wenmin haughtily said. "An insult to me is a direct insult to my squadron. Can you handle that?" he gestured to the guards that apanied him.

    The guards were already near fighting stances, their hands hovering over their swords.

    Duke Li Taojun raised a brow, a vein on his forehead popped from restraining his anger. If only he had not retired his military influence years ago. He had abandoned nearly everything upon hearing the news that he fathered a daughter. A daughter who was meant to die in her household if he did not rescue her. And he dide. He had intended to whisk her into a life of grandeur and luxury.

    All of that was just wishful thinking now. The mother of the child had made it very clear his daughter didn''t want to see him. The mother of the child wanted nothing to do with him even though she was the one who forced herself upon him.

    "You''ve learned to talk like an adult now. I''m sure your father is very proud of you, even if you had ate development. That''s alright, you only need your hands anyway. That''s the only useful part of you," Duke Li Taojun wryly said before ncing up at the sky.

    "I wasted too much time conversing with you, boy." Duke Li Taojun sighed, shaking his head. "I''m too generous nowadays to be conversing with nobodies when I usually mentor royal children."

    "I''m d you know your lowly position." Li Wenmin chuckled and said, "Nothing but a dog riding on the coats of the royal family. How shameful, but I guess that''s what you expect from being their watchdog."

    "Now now, boy, you''ve gotten too ahead of yourself. What happened, child? You used to cling onto my leg, begging me to teach you all that I know."

    Li Wenmin''s face darkened. He didn''t expect the direct jab. Everyone knew it wasn''t just him who requested to be trained. Li Minghua also pestered him at the same time.

    "Now that you''ve mastered techniques on your own, do you truly think of yourself as the Master? You''re still a pupil who''s only famous because of his family name."

    "Do youck so much self-esteem that you have to insult a ''pupil'' who has achieved far more things than you ever had?" Li Wenmin sighed, shaking his head in disapproval.

    Duke Li Taojun took a threatening step forward. "You and I both know exactly why I abandoned my position in the military. Your father had a hand in it. Do not tempt me to reveal all of his darkest secrets¡ªlike holding my own daughter over my head!"

    Li Xueyue flinched. She didn''t expect to hear the word ''daughter'' to ever leave his mouth. Suddenly, her eyes grewrge. Wait a minute. Did this mean he knew all along?!

 Chapter 192 His Last Wish

    <h4>Chapter 192 His Last Wish</h4>

    Li Xueyue was grateful for her veil, or else her befuddled expression would''ve given everything away.

    Li Xueyue forced herself to remain calm. She wanted to say so much to Duke Li Taojun, to demand answers from him. Why did he rape Viscountess Mu Yihua?

    ''Why didn''t he¡­ ever contact me?'' Li Xueyue stared at her fingers. Was she truly that unworthy of love that even her birth father didn''t want her?

    A wave of emotions mmed into her. The taunting words of Viscount Bai Sheng shed in her mind. "You should be grateful I took you in! There is no one in this world who will love an unruly and filthy illegitimate daughter like yourself! No one!"

    Li Xueyue struggled to breathe. Her throat tightened and her lungs burned. She refused to delve in the past, but she had no choice. Every waking night, Li Xueyue was reminded of the insults and abuse she endured.

    "Go ahead and spill my father''s secrets," Li Wenmin boldly said. "But who will believe you? The second you spill his, he will spill yours. And trust me, yours were a lot worse than my father''s."

    "That is where you''re wrong, boy." Duke Li Taojun clicked his tongue. "The secrets I possess will be enough to ruin the Li family name for the rest of your life. Once word gets out of what your father is nning, a seven-generation extermination will be the least of your worries."

    "What are you talking about?" Li Wenmin seethed, narrowing his eyes. He knew his uncle was insinuating about treason¡ªsomething that had never once crossed his mind.

    "Well, you should worry about the torture your parents will have to endure. No one will be able to hold back the Shadow Guards who will ambush your family and rob you of all hopes and aspirations. And when that happens, I will wait for the pleas from your kneeling father."

    "The day my father kneels to you is when snow falls in summer," Li Wenmin seethed, his fingers itched to grab his sword. He wanted to y this man right then and there.

    "How pitiful your mother will be¡­ Such a beautiful woman, but for her crimes, she would be vited in the worst ways possible."

    In a split second, Li Wenmin unsheathed his sword. At the blink of an eye, he had grabbed his uncle by the throat, the tip of his sword pressing against the fragile flesh. "Keep my mother out of your mouth. I will not hesitate to kill you."

    "Pft, hahaha!" Duke Li Taojun let out a crazyughter, his eyes filled with manic. "GO ahead! Kill me! I have nothing else to live for!"

    Li Wenmin glowered.

    Duke Li Taojun pressed his throat closer to the sword, begging for the taste of metal through his mouth. He would dly die a martyr. His death would be the catalyst that sparked the Royal Family''s hatred towards the Li Family.

    "Kill me you coward! Do it. Hurry up now! What are you waiting for?!" Duke Li Taojun barked, jabbing and shoving at his nephew. "Just kill me already! Take me out of my misery."

    Li Wenmin''s grip tightened on his sword. He would love to risk it all and dive this sword right through his uncle''s neck. Twice, his uncles have betrayed him. Twice, they''ve acted on their own motives whilst ignoring the issues at hand. Both of them were present in the Pce when Li Minghua resided there. And neither of these scums offered her a helping hand.

    Yes. The death of Li Taojun would surely avenge Minghua. She would''ve wanted this.

    Li Wenmin lifted his hand and was prepared to dive the de straight through Li Taojun. Except, someone instantly grabbed him by the arm, their grip strong, but not enough to overpower the General.

    Loud gasps could be heard. Clothes shuffled and legs kneeled, for the Second Prince of Wuyi had made his presence known.

    "Unhand my mentor, General Li Wenmin."

    Li Xueyue was blown away by the unexpected entrance of the Second Prince. She knew nothing of him except that he was sick and was always in his room. She never expected this pale beauty in front of her was the Second Prince.

    Hisplexion was unnaturally pale. His build, unexpectedly, wasn''t muscr, nor was he extremely skinny. He was decently toned, but what stood out about him was his undeniable resemnce to the Empress. If she was envisioned in a male body, it would be the Second Prince right here.

    Li Xueyue was surprised that no one had ever talked about how handsome the Second Prince was. Of course, that was none of her business and she immediately averted her eyes. She took a cautious step backward, adjusting her position.

    If he hadn''t stepped in, she would''ve blown her cover. She was initially prepared to stop Li Wenmin from making the biggest mistake of his life.

    "I knew that the servant of yours was no simple one. How dare she not kneel before the Second Prince?!" Duke Li Taojun said, pointing a livid finger at the only standing maidservant.

    Li Xueyue immediately dropped onto her knees, bowing before the Second Prince. "T-this servant was wrong, I meant no harm, your Grace."

    Li Wenmin stiffened, his pupils dted. The Lis need not kneel for anyone¡ªnot even the Royal Family. Even if her identity was not revealed, he didn''t care.

    Li Wenmin bared his teeth and seethed, "Shut your trap you bastard!"

    "Wenmin," the Second Prince gently chided, his voice soft and mellow. Ever the patient and understanding man, he ced a hand upon his cousin''s shoulder. "Your uncle doesn''t mean any harm."

    "And you," Li Wenmin scowled, "Stop defending him! It''s because of your pampering that he thinks he''s high and mighty when he''s less than the dirt underneath my shoes."

    Second Prince Wang Jing shook his head. "He''s my mentor, Wenmin. I have to shelter him, or else I would lose the means to strengthening myself."

    Li Xueyue didn''t expect him to sound so kind and gentle. She wondered if hisck of existence in the Pce sheltered him from the cruelty of this world. His tone was so pleasant and smooth that she thought he was telling a bedtime story to a child.

    "If you can, I would appreciate it if you do not kill him yet," Second Prince Wang Jing muttered.

    Li Wenmin threw him a scathing re before shrugging off his hand. "Don''t touch me," he snapped.

    "Wenmin," Second Prince Wang Jing addressed. "I understand your anger. My mentor is a crazy man who does not fear death. If you kill him now, it will only satisfy hisst wish."

    Li Wenmin grounded his teeth. He pondered over his cousin''s words before agreeing that he was right. If he kills Li Taojun, things would get too messy.

    Li Wenmin would rather die than give in to Duke Li Taojun''s fantasy of a meaningful death.

    "Tch." He reluctantly slipped the sword back into his sheath. It was then he realized the Second Prince was only apanied by a single servant.

    She seemed out of breath as if she had known what was about to unfold. It wouldn''t be a surprise if she had rushed to usher the Second Prince out here.

    Li Wenmin red at her. Like Li Xueyue, she was wearing a veil that covered the majority of her face, except her monolid eyes. There was nothing special about her appearance, but he found it odd that the Second Prince would walk around with only one servant. That is until their eyes met and he felt a sudden jolt in his body. It was as if he had stared into those eyes before.

    "Who''s this?" He nodded to the maidservant. He scowled upon seeing she had not averted her gaze. Her attention was glued to him, her eyes wide with shock.

    "What the hell are you looking at?" Li Wenmin snapped.

    She seemed even more astonished by his tone, flinching back, as if not believing he was this mean.

    "Now, now, Wenmin," Second Prince Wang Jing stood protectively in front of his maidservant. "She''s only a young maiden who doesn''t know right from wrong. This is the first time she has ever seen a person violent enough to threaten the Emperor''s watchdog."

    "A maidservant who has never been scolded? I find that hard to believe."

    Second Prince Wang Jing ced a hand upon Li Wenmin''s shoulder. "She''s very special to me. I''ve known her for a while now. She obeys no one but me. Please pardon her insolence, I will reprimand her when I retreat back to my residence."

    "Whatever," Li Wenmin muttered, crossing his arms. "Just keep her in line. My servant was forced to kneel to you when she didn''t even bow at my presence. I hardly think that''s fair."

    "Your servant¡­?" Second Prince Wang Jing shifted his attention to the only servant that stood out. "Oh, she''s also wearing a veil. Such a coincidence. What imperfections is she trying to hide?"

    "That''s none of your business," Li Wenmin snapped, flicking off his cousin''s hand.

    Second Prince Wang Jing smiled at his grouchy cousin. He was already used to Li Wenmin''s haughty nature. "I didn''t mean to offend her. You see, my servant also has blemishes she wants to hide. Though, they''re healing now."

    "I don''t care." Li Wenmin sighed, reaching down to grab Li Xueyue off her feet. It all happened so suddenly that he wasn''t able to catch himself. Fuck. He had nearly blown her cover.

    "You''re so kind to your servant," Second Prince Wang Jing observed, his smile widened. He seemed genuinely pleased by Li Wenmin''s treatment. "I''m d to know I''m not the only person who pampers my favorite servants."

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes. "Just stay out of my way."

 Chapter 193 Remember It Well

    <h4>Chapter 193 Remember It Well</h4>

    Second Prince Wang Jing''s smile softened. He understood where Li Wenmin''s protective nature came from. Perhaps this servant reminded him of his younger sister.

    "It''s alright, you don''t have to pretend in front of me, Cousin. I meant no harm," Second Prince Wang Jing said. "I cherish all of my servants, but I especially care about this one. Only this one is allowed to serve me medicine."

    "I don''t care about your ugly servant."

    She stiffened at his insult, but it was not the first time she had heard of it. People have always gossiped about her appearance for no one had ever seen her face underneath the veil she wore all the time.

    "I just wanted to make small talk¡­" Second Prince Wang Jing murmured. A depressing cloud rolled over his features.

    Li Wenmin suddenly felt guilty forshing out. He shifted his attention to his cousin who had never meant any harm. All of his life, Li Wenmin knew the Second Prince did not have a malicious bone in his body. It was because he lived such a sheltered and protective life that he thought everyone was as kind as his caretakers.

    "I''ve told you before. You shouldn''t be so gentle to people who are confronting you. They won''t take you seriously, Wang Jing." Li Wenmin sighed.

    Second Prince Wang Jing slowly nodded. "I know, Cousin¡­ It''s just, I can''t help it. No one has ever betrayed me before, I''m not used to that feeling."

    "It must be nice to live in bliss." Li Wenmin scowled. "Is that why you protect your mentor? So he can live in bliss?"

    Duke Li Taojun was in the process of fixing his clothes when he was brought back to the conversation. He sneered at his nephew, his eyes filled with mocking. How stupid of this boy to not realize who he was ignoring!

    "Perhaps so¡­"

    "Second Prince, you don''t have to worry about me," Duke Li Taojun muttered. "Though I appreciate it, thank you."

    "No need."

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes. "I''m leaving."

    "Ah, please stay for tea!" Wang Jing said, reaching out to grab Li Wenmin.

    "Don''t touch me!" Li Wenmin snapped, taking a step back.

    Second Prince Wang Jing flinched, his gaze wandered all over the ce. "My illness isn''t contagious¡­ you know that."

    Li Wenmin felt a prick of guilt before it spread throughout his entire body. He let out a rough sigh. "You know I didn''t mean it like that. I just don''t like to be touched. By anyone."

    "You used to enjoy the teasing poke of your younger sister¡ª" Wang Jing pped a hand over his mouth, his eyes widened at the forbidden topic. "P-pardon me, I didn''t intend to mention that."

    It was toote. Li Wenmin''s mood had gone sour, like his scorned eyes. "Just get out of my sight."

    "Forgive me, Cousin, I truly didn''t mean to bring it up. It slipped out and¡ª"

    "She''s dead," Li Wenmin muttered. "I''m moving on. You don''t have to tip-toe around me with topics about her."

    "Even if you find her to resemble almost every small-bodied woman?" Wang Jing asked. "Even if you search for her face in a crowd? I know you don''t think she''s dead. Her body was never found¡ª"

    "Do you want to die?!" Li Wenmin shouted, grabbing his cousin by the throat. "If you don''t want to provoke me, keep your mouth shut!"

    "I only wanted to help¡­" Wang Jing muttered, "She''s my cousin too. The only female one I have. The only one who didn''t find my illness and sore marks to be disgusting. You know I treasure her more than anything."

    Li Wenmin let out a heavy sigh he had been holding in for the longest time. He shoved his cousin away.

    How many times must he get provoked by the mere mention of Li Minghua? How long would it be before he gets over her disappearance? How long would it take for him to move on? How could he easily forget the years he had spent with her?

    Li Minghua was mischievous and loved to snitch on the twins, but at the end of the day, he loved her. She was his sister, how could he not?

    "I know." Li Wenmin shook his head. "Look, I have no time for this meaningless talk. I have to go."

    "Are you sure you can''t join me for tea¡­?" Wang Jing asked, his eyes drifting to the servant beside his cousin. "I''m sure your servant is tired from standing that long."

    "She''s stronger than you think." Li Wenmin scowled.

    Second Prince Wang Jing raised a curious brow. "You truly seem to treasure this servant. Is she someone special to you?"

    "What part of I''m leaving do you not understand?"

    "I just like to engage in small talk¡­ No one visits me that often, it gets quite lonely," Wang Jing mumbled, his shoulders dropped in disappointment.

    Li Wenmin wanted to roll his eyes again. "Your pitiful tricks won''t work on me anymore. I''m leaving."

    "Wait!" Wang Jing said. "Onest question, please."

    "Why are you so needy?!" Li Wenmin hissed.

    "I just wanted to ask if it was true."

    "What is?"

    "I heard the Li Family has a new daughter. She''s the same age as Minghua. You guys aren''t recing her or anything right¡­? I know Auntie has a hard time moving on, but she wouldn''t be that cruel to rece her own daughter?"

    Li Wenmin nearly punched his cousin for making assumptions like this in public. How dense was his cousin?! "Of course my mother would never rece Minghua. Xueyue and her are worlds apart. No one is recing anyone."

    "Well, it''s just, don''t you think the timing is controversial?"

    "What are you trying to say? Let''s not beat around the bush now. Just spit it out."

    "I didn''t mean to make it controversial."

    Li Wenmin pinched the space between his brows. "Look, I''m not going to answer your question¡ª"

    "If you answer it, I''ll tell you where the Commander of Hanjian went."

    "I know where he went. He left for his own country."

    "If you answer my question, I¡ª"

    "Shut up and get out of my way." Li Wenmin had enough of irritating people. He shoved past the Second Prince without remorse.

    "Wenmin!" Wang Jing called out. "I only wanted to discuss this because the rumors are saying she''s Li Minghua''s recement!"

    Li Wenmin halted. He didn''t turn around. "You tell those people that if they use their tongue for gossip, they won''t need it anymore. The Li Family will not tolerate anyone who nders Li Xueyue."

    "Is that her name? Xueyue?"

    Li Wenmin knew this was not confidential news, thus responded with, "It is. Remember it well. She will go down in history books."

 Chapter 194 On Your Way to Hanjian

    <h4>Chapter 194 On Your Way to Hanjian</h4>

    Li Wenmin did not wait for his cousin''s response before taking his leave. He walked past one of the entrances that separated each pces within therge Imperial grounds. When he turned a corner, he paused and hung around there.

    "We''re not actually leaving?" Li Xueyue asked in a quiet voice upon seeing Li Wenmin ushering everyone away from the entrance.

    Li Wenmin nodded. "We don''t need the Duke and Second Prince to see where we''re heading to."

    "Okay," Li Xueyue said, leaning against the wall with him.

    Thinking back to his cousin, Li Wenmin couldn''t help but grow curious about the Second Prince''s servant. Why was she wearing a veil? There was something so distinctive about her that he couldn''t ce a finger on. He pondered the Second Prince''s words.

    Wang Jing was right.

    Li Wenmin didn''t believe Li Minghua was dead. He would not believe it until he personally buried her, even if it was a possibility that would never happen. He let out a quiet sigh. ''Minghua, where are you?'' he asked himself, looking up to the sky.

    ''Was life so unbearable that you had to leave us this early in your life?''

    "What are you thinking about?" Li Xueyue asked. She saw he was staring deeply into space.

    Li Wenmin reached out to touch her face, his fingers grazed the thin and fluttering cloth of the veil. He couldn''t help but bring himself closer to her. "Please don''t ever leave me, Xiao Yue."

    Li Xueyue blinked. There were so much angst and sadness in his eyes that she could do nothing but part her lips. "Wen-ge¡­ you''re thinking too ahead into the future."

    "Even if you do leave me, Xiao Yue, please remember toe back once in a while," Li Wenmin said, upon realizing it was too unfair of him to request her to never leave his side. She was a woman. Her life would be bound to her husband''s family when she would get married.

    Even so, he couldn''t help but be selfish.

    Li Wenmin wanted to keep Li Xueyue safe. He wanted to give her the things that Li Minghua never had. He wanted to see her smile the brightest andugh the loudest. Forever and always, he wanted her to never worry about anything.

    Li Xueyue did not respond immediately. She reached her hands out and hugged Li Wenmin, hoping to squeeze the pain and fear out of him. "It''s going to be okay, Wen-ge."

    "I hope so," Li Wenmin sighed, gently patting her on the head. "I''m just a worrywart."

    "For once, you''re simr to Chen-ge." Li Xueyueughed, looking up at him.

    Li Wenmin seemed less depressed now, but wore the small smile he was known for. He rubbed his nose with one curled finger. "Hmph, he should be honored to resemble me. I mean, look at how handsome I am," he boasted, gesturing to his face.

    "You guys don''t look that alike," she said and chuckled. "Maybe it''s because of your shing personalities."

    "Thank god I don''t have his face. I mean, imagine being that brooding at such a young age? Gosh! He reminds me of Dad." Li Wenmin darkened his features, scrunching his brows together. In a low voice that was supposed to mimic his younger brother, he said, "You should be reading more books!"

    "Pft!" Li Xueyue covered her mouth, resisting augh. She was worried that if they were too loud, someone might overhear them.

    "That sounds a lot like Chen-ge," she said and grinned. "I think he has actually told me that before."

    "Chenyang looks and sounds like an old man stuck in a young man''s body. I pity my future nieces and nephews. He''s going to be such an overbearing and strict father."

    "I have a feeling you will be the same, Wen-ge."

    "I would never be that boring!"

    "You already are."

    "Hey!" Li Wenmin scowled, angrily sticking a finger out to jab her forehead backward.

    "Ow!" she cried, massaging her forehead. What was with the twins and their obsession with her forehead? First, Chenyang loved to flick it, and now Wenmin enjoyed pushing it backwards.

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes at how dramatic she sounded. He shifted his attention towards the entrance leading to the guest pce. Poking his head around a corner, he looked around to see if his uncle and Wang Jing were gone. They were.

    "Okay, let''s head to Yu Zhen''s pce again. Everyone is out of sight, out of mind," Li Wenmin said.

    "Sounds like a n to me." Li Xueyue nodded, adjusting her veil to make sure it covered her face.

    "Let''s go," Li Wenmin said. As he took his first step forward, he cautiously scanned his surroundings. Upon noticing someone lurking in the corner, he nodded in that direction.

    Three guards instantly got the cue. They departed from the group and made their way towards that servant who was lurking in the corner. But it was toote. The servant realized that he had been discovered and instantly fled from his spot.

    Li Xueyue nervously yed with her fingers. Was the servant observing her interactions with Li Wenmin? Or was he just passing by?

    After a few minutes, the guards came rushing back. They kneeled before Li Wenmin and bowed their heads. "Young Master, we were unable to capture him. I apologize."

    Li Wenmin''s lips thinned. "Continue trailing that direction. Let me know if anything suspiciouses up."

    The guards nodded and departed yet again.

    Li Xueyue knew they were going to be fine. They had the Li si on them. No one would question their motives unless it was too suspicious.

    "Come on." Li Wenmin gestured to her. "You need to y the role of a servant better."

    "I know," Li Xueyue sighed, lightly jogging to catch up to him.

    Together, they advanced towards the enormous guest pce. It was overly decorated and designed to perfection as a means of boasting to any visitor. The Emperor of Wuyi wanted to make it clear how wealthy Wuyi was. Every foreign ambassador or diplomat would reside here. Clearly, the intent was for them to report back to their country about the generosity of the Great Wuyi.

    "Huh, how interesting," Li Wenmin said, tilting his head. "There are a lot more people left behind than expected."

    Li Xueyue knew what he meant. There were still many servants and guards around. The servants were busy carrying things around. "Maybe there was a lot of stuff that needed to be moved?"

    "Even so, why would Yu Zhen leave all of them unattended like this? If I remember correctly, he came with two of his closest friends¡­ What were their names again?"

    "I think the female one is called Lu Tianbi and the male one is called Hu Dengxiao."

    "Yeah, those were their names. They''re pretty well known, even in Wuyi. I just don''t pay much attention to them," Li Wenmin responded. He began to walk down the pavement leading to the entrance of the residential area.

    Unsurprisingly, Hanjian guards instantly swarmed the area.

    "Halt! State your purpose with our Commander and Second Prince!" one of the men shouted in a stern voice, presumably the leader of the pack. He was in light armor, but it didn''t conceal his buff build.

    "As a General of Wuyi, I would like to inquire the whereabouts of your leader."

    The guard cupped his fist in acknowledgment and bowed his head. "Greetings to you, General. Unfortunately, we can''t disclose the location of our Commander. It is confidential."

    "Fine then." Li Wenmin shrugged. He made a big show of looking around the ce, specifically the servants who were walking back and forth along the corridors.

    "Busy day, huh?" he suddenly asked.

    The guard nodded. "Yes, more than usual, General."

    "What''s the rush for?" Li Wenmin conversed, nodding towards the servants who were still carrying things.

    "We are packing, General."

    "Ah yes, to depart for Hanjian, I assume?"

    "I''m afraid I can''t answer that question, General," he bowed his head, "This soldier apologizes for his insolence."

    Li Wenmin waved his hand as if he didn''t care. "Bah, don''t worry about it. You''re just doing your duties, right?"

    "Yes¡ª"

    "But there''s nothing wrong in answering questions, don''t worry."

    "I¡ª"

    ?Would you like some assistance on your way to Hanjian? I heard it was raining in the other provinces which made the roads leading there very muddy and dangerous. Are your horses and carriages prepared for that?"

    "Rain?" the guard asked, befuddled.

    "Oh, nevermind. It''s just my observation." Li Wenmin lightlyughed, brushing it off. "Well, in that case, I won''t keep you busy."

    The guard bowed low and in response, so did his men. "We thank you for your understanding, General. You are ever so kind!"

    "Heh, I know." Li Wenmin smiled.

    With that said, Li Wenmin made another grand gesture to show he was leaving. He turned around and headed in the direction he came from, followed by his servants and guards.

    Li Wenmin departed from the guest pce without another word or a second nce. He didn''t have to look back. He had gotten his answer already.

 Chapter 195 The Key

    <h4>Chapter 195 The Key</h4>

    When they were far from earshot of the guest pce, Li Wenmin halted again. "Did you see what I did there, Xiao Yue?" he asked, making sure she would learn from his methods.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. "Yes, you made it look like you were conversing with them. In reality, it was a tactic to lower their guards and wait for information to slip out."

    "And it did." Li Wenmin chuckled. "Intimidation will only shut a person''s mouth. We have to be pleasant so they''re open to share."

    "We can safely conclude one thing," Li Wenmin added on. "Yu Zhen was not heading to Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue nodded in agreement, relief instantly flooded her. However, it was suddenly reced by uncertainty. If he wasn''t heading to Hanjian, then where did he go? It wasn''t like he had any other business to deal with.

    Wuyi was still foreign territory to Yu Zhen. Unless, he had a friend here? She ruled out that possibility. It simply doesn''t make sense.

    Li Xueyue spoke up, "If he truly was heading to Hanjian, the soldiers would''ve been aware of the weather conditions and made preparations ahead of time. Since they were uncertain about the weather enroute to Hanjian, it meant their final location was somewhere else."

    "Yes, they didn''t study the weather because they didn''t have to. The routes to Hanjian weren''t their destination in the first ce." Li Wenmin nodded. "There was a reason I pretended to be nice and offered them a hand."

    He looked around his environment and realized there were a few pce servants who were beginning to curiously look their way.

    "There''s too many people here. Let us head home now."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She, too, had seen the stares. She waited for Li Wenmin to take the first step before apanying him, mindful of his shadow. It was a rule that the servants should never step in their master''s shadow for it was one of therger forms of disrespect.

    - - - - -

    "What do you mean he left?" Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms irritably. What a waste of time for them to head to the Pce.

    "He didn''t leave for Hanjian, that''s for sure." Li Wenmin sighed. "But supposedly, he departed from the Capital. His servants were moving things around."

    "Hmm," Li Chenyang hummed, scratching his chin while he attempted toe up with a n. "Well, there is not much that we can do. It''s not like we can force his men to obey us and answer our questions. They''re under a different jurisdiction."

    Li Xueyue nodded as she took a sip of tea.

    "Unless, we have leverage over them?"

    Li Xueyue spat out her tea.

    The twins both turned to look at her.

    "Is there a problem, Xiao Yue?"

    "Yeah, what happened, Yueyue?"

    "Ew, stop using that nickname!" Li Wenmin shuddered in disgust. "It''s so cringeworthy!"

    "Shut up, you''re just jealous that I have a better nickname."

    "Oh yeah, Yueyue is a good nickname? Says who?! Everyone in this household and even the servants know Xiao Yue is more adorable."

    "Bah, they only tell you that because they know how weak-hearted and sensitive you are."

    "Pft, is that how youfort yourself?" Li Wenmin loudly cackled, purposely shaking his shoulders. "Poor you! All you do is read books, but none of them make you creative."

    "Oh, I''ll show you creative." Li Chenyang scowled, shooting out of his chair.

    "Come at me, Brother!" Li Wenmin pounded his chest, getting ready to defend himself from a beating.

    "You better not cry to Mom when you run out of here in tears," Li Chenyang provoked. He took a dangerous step closer to his overly confident twin.

    "And you better notin to Dad about what I''m about to do to you."

    "Oh please, not everyone is crybaby Wenmin. Ow! You brat how dare you yank my hair?!" Li Chenyang growled as he rudely kicked Li Wenmin''s shin.

    "T-that doesn''t even hurt!" Li Wenmin argued, picking up the teacup beside him. Suddenly, he realized something.

    "Uh, where did Xiao Yue go?"

    Li Chenyang''s brows drew together in confusion. What was this idiot talking about? He turned his head and sure enough, Li Xueyue was gone. What the? She was here just a second ago. Where did she go?

    Li Wenmin ced the teacup back onto the table. He decided to be a civilized person today. "Did she ditch us because we were too loud again?"

    "Hah, she was probably just tired of hearing your obnoxious voice." Li Chenyang chortled.

    "I''m sure she was even more aggravated by your ''oh I''m so wise because I read a lot of books, so look at me!'' behavior!" Li Wenmin bickered back, purposely lowering his voice to mimic his younger brother.

    "I do not talk like that," Li Chenyang growled, grabbing his brother by the cor.

    "Oh, but you do!" Li Wenmin snickered, "Sucks to be you, brother. You sound like a grandpa."

    "It''s a lot better than talking and behaving like a five-year-old."

    Li Wenmin gasped. "I do not behave like a five-year-old. Take that back!"

    Li Chenyang snickered. "Oh, but you do!" he said, purposely raising his voice to mimic his older brother.

    Li Wenmin was yet again offended by his brother. "You''re disrespectful and¡ª"

    "I got it!" Li Xueyue shouted.

    Finally, the twins'' attention was on anyone but themselves. Standing by the door was a slightly out of breath Xueyue. She looked like she dashed back to this ce.

    "Where have you gone, Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin asked.

    "Yeah, where did you go, Yueyue?"

    "Stop mimicking me!" Li Wenmin hollered, his face scrunched like an angry kid who didn''t get his way.

    "I''ll stop when you start behaving your age." Li Chenyang scoffed.

    "So never," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "Xiao Yue, you''re supposed to be on my side." Li Wenmin pouted.

    "In my defense," Li Xueyue mused, "I never said Yueyue was a great nickname."

    Li Chenyang''s mouth dropped open. "It is an amazing nickname and you love it. So take that back right now, Yueyue."

    Li Xueyue scrunched her nose. "Both of you don''t behave your age. The oldest behaves like the youngest and the youngest behaves like the oldest." She huffed, stepping into the room.

    "That''s because Wenmin was probably dropped on the head as a baby."

    "I was not!"

    Li Xueyue resisted rolling her eyes. She could not wait for the day these bickering brothers of hers would get along. Settling back onto the chair, she took a gulp of her tea to quench her thirst.

    "So, YUEYUE," Li Chenyang said while cing emphasis on the nickname, "What happened? You abruptly left the room."

    "Yes, I went to fetch something." Li Xueyue nodded, cing the object she retrieved from her room onto the table. It was neatly wrapped in her handkerchief.

    "What is it, Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin asked, analyzing the decently-sized item.

    "This, dear brothers," she pointed to the silk cloth, "Is the key that will make Yu Zhen''s men talk."

 Chapter 196 No More Hanjian

    <h4>Chapter 196 No More Hanjian</h4>

    "What''s that?" Li Wenmin asked, taking a step closer for a better look. He was perplexed by the inconspicuous item wrapped in a handkerchief. Why was she so secretive about this?

    The twins were bewildered by what''s in front of them.

    That is, until Li Xueyue lifted the item that dangled off of her fingertips.

    "No. Way," Li Wenmin breathed out in shock, his eyes grew asrge as the sun. He could not believe what he was seeing.

    "Wow. He really gave you that." Li Chenyang shook his head in disbelief.

    Li Chenyang hoped love wouldn''t make him do something as stupid as this. Yu Zhen had barely known Xueyue for more than a month. Yet, he had already given her a valuable thing that was too meaningful to ignore.

    Li Xueyue nodded. She wrapped her fingers around the volcanic rock. It was smooth to the touch, but appearance-wise, the stone was rugged and sharp, threatening even. The marbled gold that forged an illusion of lightning shing behind a roaring lion on a cliff was enough for Li Wenmin to realize something.

    "Wait a minute, a lion? Don''t you have a hairpin with a lion on it?" Li Wenmin''s eyes grew wide with disbelief.

    "U-uhm, that''s not important right now¡ª"

    "Like hell, it''s not! When were you going to tell me I unintentionally put his hairpin into your hair that day you went to meet Wen Jinkai?!" Li Wenmin irritably groaned.

    "I literally supported him and you didn''t tell me!" Li Wenmin huffed.

    "Stop trying to deviate from the important topic at hand, you dimwit!" Li Chenyang barked.

    "Who are you calling a dimwit, you bookworm?!"

    Li Chenyang snorted. "Bookworm? Really? That''s the best you got? It''s such a horrible insult."

    "At least I have the honor to not disrespect my own brother. Which, for the record, you don''t have that honor," Li Wenmin resorted.

    "You only have honor because you''re in the military. Without your job, you would be the most honorless man I know."

    "Honor-less isn''t even a word!" Li Wenmin shouted.

    "It is."

    "It''s not!"

    "IT IS." Li Cheyang raised his voice.

    "IT''S NOT!" Li Wenmin shouted back.

    "I said it is, so it is."

    "I said it''s not, so it''s not."

    "Can you stop copying me? Gosh, you''re so stupid that you can''t even find your own things to say¡ª"

    "Chen-ge!" Li Xueyue snapped. "You were supposed to be the voice of reason."

    "Sorry," Li Chenyang sheepishly said. He was usuallyposed in court, but at home, he always lowered his guard. He couldn''t help it. With a sibling as aggravating as Wenmin, the only thing he could do was give in to his anger.

    "And you, Wen-ge, stop trying to argue at every given chance."

    "Well, you should stop disappearing on us," Li Wenmin said with a pout.

    Li Xueyue sighed. She didn''t want to reply to him. It would start another bickering feast, this time, with three people.

    "Can we get back to the topic?" she asked.

    "You''re resembling Mom right now¡­" Li Wenmin grumbled.

    "Yes. Now sit back down like a civilized person." Li Xueyue nodded towards their chairs. "Both of you."

    "Aye, Sir!" Li Wenmin joked whilst saluting her.

    Li Chenyang scoffed at his brother''s sense of humor. Nheless, both he and Xueyue wore a small smile on their faces.

    "As I was saying before both of your egos took over," she said and gestured to the pendant. "I can use this and make those men talk."

    "If they see you possess this pendant, they''ll know exactly who you are," Li Chenyang said.

    Li Wenmin nodded. "This pendant shows you''re Yu Zhen''s woman."

    "Are you sure you want to use this pendant?" Li Chenyang asked. "There''s no turning back from this, you know."

    Li Wenmin sighed. "As much as I hate it, Chenyang is right. Once you show this pendant, the message will be clear: You ept the fact that you belong to him now."

    "I wouldn''t call it belonging to him¡­" Li Xueyue mumbled, recalling the argument that broke out in the training field.

    Suddenly, Li Xueyue felt dirty for using this pendant when she and Yu Zhen were no longer a thing.

    "Nheless, it''ll show his men exactly who you are," Li Wenmin firmly said. "You''re going to be Yu Zhen''s Wangfei [1]."

    "Think about this carefully," Li Chenyang warned. "Although Hanjian doesn''t have the tradition of pendant exchange in marital rtionships, pendants have other important uses there. Men do not walk around giving their pendants away. Especially not a Prince."

    Li Wenmin scratched the back of his neck. Huh, so maybe all those readings were actually beneficial. "Wow, you actually said something useful for once."

    Li Chenyang smacked his brother upside the head.

    Li Wenmin did the same, but he smacked harder.

    "I feel so bad that Mom had to raise both of you," Li Xueyue massaged her forehead. "You two must''ve been a handful."

    Li Wenmin rubbed his sore spots while grinning. "Mom used to hire caretakers in hopes of alleviating the stress."

    "We hated all of them, no matter how nice they were," Li Chenyang added on.

    Li Wenmin nodded. "As a result, we did everything we could to get rid of them just so Mom can give us all of her attention."

    Li Xueyue nced at them in bewilderment. They were proud of getting rid of nannies and burdening the Duchess? She shuddered at the thought of the twins bickering and engaging in fights all day every day. They must''ve been the nightmare children of every parent. But at least, they turned out well¡­?

    "You know," she said, "You guys were finishing each other''s sentences."

    Li Chenyang''s lips dug downwards. She shouldn''t have said that. He nced at his brother and scoffed. "As if this boy with a brain the size of a peanut could have the same thought process as me."

    "If my brain is the size of a peanut, then so is your¡ª"

    "Anyway," Li Xueyue interrupted before she learned unwanted information. "I''ll mull over if it''s a good idea to show the pendant or not. Since, uhm¡­" she trailed off, suddenly unable to finish the sentence.

    Li Xueyue''s smile abruptly slipped from her face. Pain pricked her chest. Her heart suddenly felt heavy despite being empty. After all, she had given it to the man she pushed away.

    "I never got to ask you, Xueyue," Li Chenyang began. "What happened in the training field?"

    "Oh, he''s right. Did you learn anything new? Can you tell me his techniques¡ªOw!" Li Wenmin groaned, rubbing his ribcage.

    Li Chenyang harshly elbowed his brother.

    "What was that for?!" Li Wenmin cried out.

    Li Chenyang angrily scowled, jutting his chin in Xueyue''s direction.

    Li Wenmin shifted his attention to her and realized exactly why his brother interrupted him. The remorse, regret, and guilt on her face were too hard to ignore. Despair and heartbreak shed in her eyes. She was a dreary cloud of sadness, her tears, the rain. This was only the beginning of the storm. She had yet to cry, but when she did, it would surely form a river.

    Words didn''t have to be exchanged to understand what went down.

    There was no more Yu Zhen.

    No more Hanjian.

    This was what the twins wanted all along, yet they weren''t satisfied. Their end game was to see her happy, not depressed.

    Sometimes the people we love the most aren''t beside us but in our hearts. Forever a memory.

    And that was exactly what Yu Zhen would be.

 Chapter 197 Grieve in Peace

    <h4>Chapter 197 Grieve in Peace</h4>

    Hours passed like days, and days felt like an eternity. Time was excruciatingly slow and painful. Days trickled by slower than the droplets of water trickling down a lotus leaf.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize how much Yu Zhen had affected her life until he was gone. She was unable to look in the drawer where his hairpin was kept. It was not until recently that she realized the impact of his gifts on her. She was prideful enough to swallow her remorse and attempt to move on but failed miserably.

    A week had passed and there were still no signs of him.

    However, it wasn''t a surprise. Li Xueyue knew that much, yet she couldn''t ept it. She had stayed up endless nights wondering and picturing the different possible oues of the future if she wasn''t so foolish that day. If she didn''t push him away. If she didn''t let her revenge consume her thoughts.

    "This revenge will ruin you."

    She would never forget these words. It was slowly bing reality.

    - - - - -

    "Xiao Yue, it''s not good to be cooped up in your bedroom all day. How about we take our horses out for a ride?" Li Wenmin said for the tenth time that week.

    Sitting by the window seat was none other than Li Xueyue spacing out. A book rested on herp but her attention was outside. She could see the gardens perfectly from there, and smell the aromas of the blooming flowers. Yet, nothing tickled her senses. The pain of a silent heartbreak had numbed her too much.

    Li Wenmin stepped into her room, cing his hands on his hips. "You haven''t ridden Heiyue in a week now. I heard he''s causing a ruckus in the stable, biting at the groomers and stomping at the door."

    "Heiyue¡­?" Li Xueyue mumbled, her thoughts shed to her wild-spirited horse. "Are you sure he didn''t get the door mixed up for the wall? He''s blind, he might''ve mistaken it."

    "As if stomping on the wall is any better." Li Wenmin scoffed.

    "The stable boy lets him roam the fields every day."

    "Yes, but nothing beats a run that only you can control," Li Wenmin argued. He stopped beside her and nced down at the book on herp, his eyes softening at the title. ''Traditions of Hanjian,'' it read.

    There were more books sprawled all over the room, all of them having to deal with topics about the foreign country. By now, she had practically known about Hanjian like the back of her hand.

    Li Wenmin sighed. "You''ve yet to tell me and Chenyang what happened. We don''t know how tofort you if you don''t tell us what''s been upying your mind for so long."

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to tell the twins the truth. She knew they would me themselves. The twins were the ones who advised her to separate from Yu Zhen and she did. But look at her now¡ªdepressed and quiet.

    "Your dark eye circles are worsening," Li Wenmin pointed out, his lips tugged downwards. "I heard Chenyang ordered the servants to prepare you herbal tea that should help with insomnia."

    "He did."

    "Did you drink them?"

    "Yes."

    "And it''s not working?"

    "Yes."

    "Can you give me more than one-word responses?" Li Wenmin scowled.

    "Of course."

    "Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin heaved a dejected sigh. "What has gotten into you?"

    "Nothing much. Just feeling a bit glum, that''s all."

    Li Wenmin''s brows drew together. He grabbed her shoulders and forced her to look at him. His heart dropped. He had never seen her with such a nk and dazed expression.

    "When was thest time you had gotten proper sleep?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "I''ve never had a decent sleep."

    "And why haven''t you told any of us?" Li Wenmin frowned. "Do you like to worry us like this, Xiao Yue?"

    "It never crossed my mind how important my sleep is. I didn''t mean to worry you, I''m sorry."

    "What does an apology do?" Li Wenmin huffed. "It''s not like it can make up for yourck of sleep."

    "I''m sorry," she repeated, ncing away from him.

    She looked so haggard and exhausted that it broke his heart.

    "I''m going to have the doctor prescribe the herbal tonics and medicine. You need to sleep." Li Wenmin harshly said, "And don''t you dare object."

    She mutely nodded.

    "Xiao Yue." Li Wenmin frowned. "Talk to me. Don''t be like this. If there''s something on your mind, please tell me. I''ll fix it. I promise."

    Li Xueyue reached out and patted him on the cheek. She forced a smile onto her lips. "I''m fine¡ª"

    "No, you''re not!" Li Wenmin exasperated, gesturing to the books and untouched afternoon snack. "Look, you''re not even eating properly! You usually finish two tes of rice cakes and pastries, but you didn''t touch anything today. You''ve been eating less during every meal."

    Li Wenmin scowled. "Look at how hollow your cheeks are. You''ve lost too much weight, Xiao Yue. All for what?"

    He didn''t give her the chance to speak.

    "Is this your way of rebelling?"

    "No, of course not¡ª"

    "Then what is it?!" Li Wenmin cried out, staring desperately at her. "Mom and Dad are worried about you, so is Chenyang. What exactly happened? Why are you like this?"

    Li Xueyue realized how unfair she was behaving. She was cing unnecessary pressure on her family. But couldn''t she silently grieve in peace?

    "I''m just¡­ heartbroken, that''s all."

    Li Wenmin raised a brow. "This has to do with Yu Zhen?"

    She didn''t respond.

    "What happened? You have to tell me, Xiao Yue. Ranting will help your frustration."

    Li Xueyue reluctantly focused her attention elsewhere. He might''ve grabbed her shoulder, but he didn''t grab her chin. She studied the garden. The colorful flowers glistening from the rain used to fascinate her so much. It smelled the best after a storm, but nothing mattered. The world was ck and white. She didn''t know why.

    "He wanted to ask for Mom and Dad''s blessings."

    Li Wenmin''s eyes widened. "He nned on marrying you."

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    "You said no." Li Wenmin swallowed, predicting the end results.

    She nodded again.

    "Oh my heavens," Li Wenmin let out a deep sigh. "Well, now I know."

    Li Wenmin didn''t know what to do in this situation. He had consistently advised Xueyue to not fall in love. But it was toote. She had fallen in love. And she fell hard.

    Li Xueyue followed his advice and was logical enough to realize her life wasn''t destined for Hanjian¡ªat least, not now. This decision was supposed to propel her into a greater future, one that would allow her to aplish great things. Except, neither of them knew how to get there.

    What was the future she dreamed of? What was the life she wanted?

    Neither of them knew the answer to that. Quite frankly, the only time Xueyue thought far into the future was when she was around Yu Zhen. But that future was so bleak now¡ªunattainable and only a daydream.

 Chapter 198 Collecting Dus

    <h4>Chapter 198 Collecting Dus</h4>

    Li Wenmin peered at her. It wasn''t hard to tell she regretted everything she did.

    Li Xueyue wished she wasn''t stubborn and foolish. What exactly did she want with her life? Her ns revolved around the Bai Family and their downfall. Along the way, she had forgotten about her goals and aspirations and simply wanted to live a simple and happy life with her family. She had already gotten her wish. Now what?

    What was she even going to do after obtaining the Bai business? Yes, it would be great if she could generate profits from it, and maybe even sustain the business for a few generations, thereby ensuring her family would continue to be wealthy andfortable in the years ahead.

    "Xiao Yue, it''s not toote," Li Wenmin finally said.

    "What do you mean?"

    Li Wenmin swallowed. "We can still find Yu Zhen. I''ll drag him to your room if I have to. It''s not toote to confess you regret your words, that you want him back."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "No, I won''t do that to him. He''s in the process of moving on. I was the one who broke his heart. How could I ask for it back? That''ll be horrible of me."

    Li Xueyue closed her book, cing it beside her. It was opened for the past hour but it wasn''t like she read a single line.

    "I''m so selfish, Wen-ge," she admitted. "Before Yu Zhen, there was Wen Jinkai. I disliked that Wen Jinkai wanted a harem. I found him to be borderline maniptive and too unstable. When he couldn''t give me clear answers about his feelings and intentions towards me, I got impatient and decided to put a stop to whatever was between us."

    "Xiao Yue¡ª"

    "Thenes Yu Zhen who was clear with his intentions and showered me with love and adoration¡ªit was all I ever wanted. Compared to Wen Jinkai, Yu Zhen gave me everything I wanted in a rtionship but I rejected him. Do you see how ironic this situation is?"

    Li Wenmin realized she was ming herself. And to some extent, it was understandable. She was the one who did this to herself. Nheless, he couldn''t help but feel guilty. All along, the entire family emphasized her voice was important. They had advised what they thought was the best for her, but it turned out that it wasn''t the case.

    "Then, what are we going to do now?" Li Wenmin asked, "You can''t wither away in this room."

    "I know¡­"

    "You''ve been neglecting training too. It''s time to stop collecting dust in here," Li Wenmin said, grabbing her hand. "Let''s do something to take your mind off of these things. For example, why don''t we practice archery? You''re amazing at it."

    Li Xueyue was torn. This room wasforting to her. It separated her from the outside world.

    "Come on," Li Wenmin pestered. "Outside air would be good for you. Maybe we can even go hunting in the forest. I''m sure Heiyue would like that."

    Li Xueyue eventually gave in. Quirking a small smile, she said, "Alright then. Let''s go."

    Li Wenmin brightened at her words. "Great! Hurry and get dressed. I''ll wait for you by the stables."

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    Li Wenmin exited the room and turned to her handmaidens outside. "Get her dressed for training."

    The handmaidens bowed. "Yes, Young Master."

    - - - - -

    "That was quick," Li Wenminmented when she strolled to the stables.

    "Mmhm," she hummed.

    At the sharp sound of his master, Heiyue instantly let out an impatient neigh. He raised his front legs and began to stomp on the door. Impatiently, he paced in circles in his stable, waiting eagerly for her.

    His ears twitched at the sound of something unclicking. A soft hand caressed his mane, familiar and gentle. He instantly responded by leaning towards the touch.

    "Such a baby," Li Xueyue whispered before giving her horse a final pat. She slipped the sugar cube out of her pocket and tossed it into his mouth.

    Heiyue caught it in one fell swoop, happily crunching away at the delicious treat. He nudged her for more and she gave him a slice of carrot.

    "You spoil your horse so much," Li Wenmin huffed. He walked towards his stallion, a thoroughbred meant for speed.

    "Says the one who''s feeding his horse an apple." Li Xueyue chortled, taking a step back while the stable boy fastened everything in ce. Once all was done, she effortlessly climbed onto the saddle, reins in hand.

    "It''s a healthy treat."

    "Sure it is."

    Li Wenmin stuck his tongue out at her. He hopped onto his horse and the two began riding out of the stable.

    The servants approached them with the archery equipment.

    Li Xueyue nodded in satisfaction upon seeing it was her favorite archery bow. She stretched the string, testing its tension. Since the bow was properly taken care of, there wasn''t anything toin about.

    "Are we hunting today? Or just archery practices?"

    "We can take a stroll in the forest."

    "Sounds like a n to me," Li Xueyue agreed.

    - - - - -

    "No fair, that was my shot!" Li Wenminined fifteen minutes into the gallop through the forest. He angrily glowered at his younger sister who had stolen the shot.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. "You should''ve shot your arrow faster then," she said whilst getting off of the horse.

    Li Xueyue approached the direction she shot the arrow at. Heiyue confusedly walked in circles, befuddled about where she could''ve gone to.

    "Just a second, Heiyue," Li Xueyue called back, though she wasn''t too sure if he understood her or not.

    Sometimes she found it interesting that Heiyue responded to her only. She knew his loss of eyesight forced him to rely on his other senses, but his hearing was simply incredible. The smallest snap of a twig in the distance was enough to alert him.

    "Xiao Yue, your horse is stupid." Li Wenmin groaned when he saw the horse follow in her direction, only to bump into a tree.

    "Heiyue is not stupid." Li Xueyue scowled whilst searching for the animal she had shot her arrows at. That''s strange. She was sure it went in this direction.

    "He can''t see, so it''s hard for him to know the directions without me." She nced back and let out a small whistle.

    In an instant, Heiyue jolted and effortlessly galloped in her direction.

    "Look, he responds to me perfectly well." Li Xueyue mused, "He''s so smart that he understands mymands."

    Li Wenmin let out a wistful sigh. He was still jealous of how well-built and powerful the horse was. In the two and half years that went by, Heiyue had undergone a drastic transformation. Originally, he was a matted, skinny, and abused horse, but look at him now. He was effortlessly one of the fastest horses in the country.

    Li Wenmin had never seen such a deadlybination of stealth and strength. Quite honestly, he was jealous. What Heiyuecked in sight, he made it up with his intelligence and hearing.

    "That''s so strange, Wen-ge. I can''t find my prey." Li Xueyue crossed her arms. "I''m pretty sure I shot in this direction. Less than five minutes have passed since I shot it. There''s no way a predator would''ve stolen the prey from me without any of us seeing it."

    Li Wenmin barely had a second to turn his horse in her direction before he heard her scream. His heart lurched in his chest.

    "What happened?! Xiao Yue?!" he called out, noticing she was suddenly nowhere to be found.

    Li Wenmin pressed his foot into his horse which peddled her forward. "Xiao Yue?!"

    Li Wenmin urged his horse in the direction she had wandered off to, his heart racing faster than he could blink.

    "W-Wen-ge¡­" Li Xueyue wailed out, pressing a horrified hand to her mouth.

    Li Wenmin''s jaw dropped open in shock. Standing in front of them, teeth bearing was none other than a bloodthirsty tiger.

 Chapter 199 Where Does Your Allegiance Lie?

    <h4>Chapter 199 Where Does Your Allegiance Lie?</h4>

    "Don''t move," Li Wenminmanded, his eyes focused on the striped beast. What the hell was a tiger doing out here?! In the middle of Wuyi?

    This was practically impossible. Last time he checked, tigers weren''t a species found in Wuyi. The only ce it could be found in was Hanjian. He had heard many ounts of soldiers mauled during forest training in Hanjian.

    Li Xueyue swallowed. Her eyes lingered on the bleeding rabbit that was less than two steps away from her. She had finally rounded her prey, but so had the actual predator.

    "W-why is there a tiger in Wuyi?" she breathed out, "How could it get here from Hanjian?"

    "Hush, Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin demanded. He slowly uncapped his sword, knowing this would be dangerous.

    They were eye-to-eye with a beast that could rip them to shreds before they could even blink.

    The tiger bared hisrge teeth at them, his body lowered, ready to pounce. He snarled in their direction.

    Li Xueyue had never seen a tiger in person, but she knew this one was abnormallyrge. On top of that, there was something peculiar about him. His coat was shiny. It gleamed under the sunlight, bright and powerful. The tiger was healthy and well-fed. This was strange. Does this mean there''s more of them in this forest?

    "Take slow steps backwards, do not run from it. Lower your eyes to the ground," Li Wenmin instructed.

    Li Xueyue could feel a cold sweat dribble down her forehead. She was terrified. Nheless, she shakily took a step backward, then another. Until suddenly, she stepped on a twig, and it loudly cracked.

    The tiger growled louder, snarling his teeth at her.

    "Careful," Li Wenmin warned. He was about to climb off of his horse when the tiger''s ears unexpectedly twitched.

    Li Wenmin had heard it too.

    It echoed in the forest. The sound was faint and he almost missed it.

    Someone had loudly whistled.

    Who was it?

    Li Wenmin''s attention shifted in the direction the sound came from. The tiger, too, was focused elsewhere.

    "Back away right now, Xiao Yue. Quick."

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to be told twice. She began to walk backwards again, keeping a steady eye on the distracted tiger. He wasn''t focused on her anymore. When she was at a safe distance from it, she instantly climbed onto her horse.

    The tiger sniffed the air. He took a step towards the lifeless rabbit. This time, he was back to watching them again.

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut when she heard him bite directly into the rabbit.

    Li Wenmin watched as the tiger began to dig into the rabbit. Then he stopped. There it was again, that faint whistle.

    This time, the tiger had not mistaken it. He picked up the rabbit, took onest nce their way before racing into the forest, disappearing into the direction it came from.

    Li Wenmin let out the loudest sigh of relief he ever had. He ced a hand on his chest, rubbing it. The stress had shaved at least a decade from his life.

    "What the hell was that?" he hissed, "Anyway we should head back now."

    Li Xueyue instantly nodded. "We have to report this to Dad. This forest is very close to the Capital as well. It will be bad if the tiger shows up when one of the town folkses here searching for herbs."

    "I will inform Dad immediately. It''s bizarre to see a tiger out here. They''re not native to this part of the country." Li Wenmin scowled and urged, "Let''s just leave. Now."

    - - - - -

    By the time the duo returned home, the Duke and Li Chenyang were already back home.

    Oddly enough, Li Chenyang was already waiting for them at the stables. Anxiously, he paced back and forth, chewing at his fingers. When he finally saw their horses emerge in the distance, relief coursed through him.

    "Chen-ge, you wouldn''t believe what I saw!" Li Xueyue said as soon as she approached him.

    Li Xueyue climbed off of her horse. Heiyue snorted in response, nudging at her, waiting for a treat. The stable boy was quick with his response and handed her a slice of apple with the cores removed.

    The stable boy was too frightened by the unpredictable Heiyue to feed him treats by hand. It was always tossed or ced into Heiyue''s food container.

    Li Xueyue ced her hand out and Heiyue bit into the apple, happily chomping on it.

    "I have urgent news," Li Chenyang said, ignoring her earlier statement.

    "What is it?"

    "In regard to the¡ª"

    "Chenyang!" Li Wenmin eximed. He had already dismounted his horse and was beginning to approach the two of them.

    "I need you to inform Dad to tighten the security around the forest," Li Wenmin rushed out, not caring that he had interrupted his younger brother.

    "What? Why?" Li Chenyang sighed, "Wait, that''s not important right now. I was trying to say¡ª"

    "Look, this is really important," Li Wenmin interjected. "We ran into a tiger in the forest. With fangs and everything!"

    "A tiger?!" Li Chenyang hissed, "Stop joking, Wenmin. The chances of tigers being spotted in Wuyi is little to none."

    "No, I''m being serious! There really was a tiger and it looked well-kept."

    "Gosh, Wenmin, I don''t have time for this," Li Chenyang said. "At the least, you should read some geography books. There is no way a tiger would show up in Wuyi, especially not the forest you came out from."

    "Chen-ge, Wenmin is right." Li Xueyue added on, "We really saw one."

    "Are both of you in on this prank?" Li Chenyang scowled, crossing his arms. "This isn''t funny."

    "No! We''re being serious," Li Wenmin exasperated, letting out a frustrated groan. "Fine, if you won''t believe me, I''ll just tell Dad myself."

    "No use. Dad has been in his private study with someone ever since he returned home."

    "Oh, who?"

    Li Chenyang''s expression was grave. "Wenmin, family matters to you right?"

    "What a stupid question. Of course, it does!"

    "Then tell me, where does your allegiance lie?" Li Chenyang inquired.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Does the military matter to you more than this family?"

    Li Wenmin was stunned by his brother''s questions. He suddenly had shbacks to what his mother had said the day Li Xueyue went to meet Wen Jinkai.

    "M-mom asked me something simr. Why? What is it? She didn''t tell me anything else, but I hate being kept in the dark like this." Li Wenmin nced at Xueyue, wondering if she knew what was happening.

    Like him, she was sharing an equally confused expression. She scratched the side of her head and tilted it.

    "Don''t look at me, I don''t have a single clue as to what''s happening right now."

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together. If his mom and dad didn''t tell Wenmin and Xueyue, then it meant they shouldn''t know. It was too much of a confidential secret to be leaked.

    "Just answer my question, Wenmin. Do you value our family more than your oath of loyalty to the military?"

    "Being involved in the military is all I''ve ever wanted to do since I was a child, Chenyang. You know that." Li Wenmin groaned. "Why is everyone being so secretive? What exactly is going on? Is there something I should know?"

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "Nevermind. You''ll have to ask Mom and Dad about it."

    "Just tell me. I have a feeling I know what you''re talking about."

    "I can''t. You said Mom asked you that question before." Li Chenyang''s eyes became frigid and guarded. "And since you didn''t tell me what she said, I''m assuming it was nothing we wanted to hear."

    "Chenyang, we''re brothers. We shouldn''t keep secrets like this. It''s unfair."

    "It''s not a secret." Li Chenyang sighed. "It''s not the right time to talk about this. I didn''te to the stable to ask this question."

    "I''ll answer you honestly," Li Wenmin began, "If you answer my question."

    Li Chenyang weighed his options. "Depends."

    "Fine."

    "So, what''s the question?"

    Li Wenmin''s expression hardened. "Will the Li Familymit treason against the Crown?"

 Chapter 200 Demon Lord of War

    <h4>Chapter 200 Demon Lord of War</h4>

    Li Chenyang was not surprised by his brother''s question. As much as he liked to joke about how idiotic Wenmin was, there was no denying the intelligence of Wuyi''s progressive strategist.

    "What will you do if it is treason?" Li Chenyang asked, his eyes hardened. He kept his toneposed and neutral, even when his heart nervously trembled.

    Li Wenmin had swornplete allegiance to the military. His loyalty was to his sword, this country, and its people.

    "On what grounds will youmit treason?" Li Wenmin''s voice was solemn and bleak.

    Li Xueyue was surprised by hisplete change of character. He was nothing like his carefree and childish self. For once, he resembled Li Chenyang''s seriousness.

    A cold gust of air rushed by, their clothes loudly fluttering. Despite the howling wind, nothing could beat the heavy silence that ensued.

    Goosebumps rose on Li Xueyue''s arms. She knew what this meant for Li Wenmin. It was a sh of duty, a conflict of interest. He had a family to honor, but he also had a Kingdom to keep safe. He was torn.

    "It is our right to overthrow an ipetent Crown," Li Chenyang said in a somber tone. "We have no need for a doll on a throne."

    "Who is this ''we'' you''re talking about?"

    "The ministers in court."

    "And the people? What do they think of this?"

    "The people''s representative is speaking with Dad as of right now," Li Chenyang exined.

    "Why are we disposing of Uncle?" Li Wenmin demanded. "The Wang Family have ruled this kingdom for centuries. Our great-great-great-grandfather helped establish this dynasty. Do you realize what this betrayal means?!"

    "Why do we have to continue helping them?" Li Chenyang snarled. "Why does the Li Family have to obey themand of the Wang in each and every generation?!"

    Li Wenmin was taken aback. "Because it''s our duty. It always has been. The Li bloodline has always been a loyal friend to the Wangs."

    "No. The Wang and Li family are not friends." Li Chenyang bit out, "We are servants."

    "Chenyang¡ª"

    "Servants they exploit and use at their disposal," Li Chenyang snarled, his eyes wide with fury.

    Li Chenyang clenched his fist until his skin turned white as snow. He could not suppress his anger anymore.

    Just thinking about the Wangs was enough to make his blood boil. How dare they? Each and every generation, they have solely relied on the Lis.

    "Why do we have to spoon-feed the Wangs when we also had a hand in establishing this dynasty?! Why do we have to parent them when we don''t know anything ourselves? What gives them the right to rule?!" he shouted out.

    Li Xueyue flinched from his voice. It was brutal, resembling a furious growl that perfectly embodied his wrath.

    Li Chenyang had enough.

    He refused to be the next puppet, the next ruler behind the curtain. He refused to bend over for the Crown Prince who did nothing but spend his leisure days with the Crown Princess.

    Li Chenyang refused to serve. He wanted to rule.

    "Is this because the Emperor pushes his workload onto us?" Li Wenmin asked this time. A look of genuine understanding shed upon his features. "Chenyang, let''s think this properly. We can''t dethrone them just because he isn''t doing his work¡ª"

    "The role of an Emperor is to overlook the country''s matters and keep the entire nation safe."

    "Yes, but¡ª"

    "Do you know who has been fulfilling that role ever since the establishment of the Wang Dynasty?" Li Chenyang harshly asked, his eyes wide and crazed. He could not remain patient anymore. This needed to end.

    "Us," he whispered. "IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN US!"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew asrge as the moon. She had never seen him lose hisposure like this. It was simply frightening, but she could not tear her eyes away from him. The saying was not a lie; nothing was more terrifying than the anger of a gentleman.

    Li Wenmin was unaware of this. His specialty was never in politics or the courts. It was always on the battlefield. He did not get callouses from holding a brush for too long, he got it from gripping a sword all day.

    It was then he realized how familiar this dynamic was. Duke Li Shenyang was in politics whereas Duke Li Taojun used to be in the military. Both of them yed an important role in two of the most crucial areas of any country. The pen and the sword. They were the foundation of every nation.

    The Li Family had always been involved in both.

    That was how it was supposed to be.

    Not because they wanted it to be that way, but because it was instilled in them since birth. The Li Family would help this country prosper, but the Wang Family would receive the recognition. For every one hundred aplishments the Li Family had, they would only getplimented once. For every achievement the Wang Family obtained, there would be endless praise.

    The scale was deliberately unbnced.

    "I didn''t know," Li Wenmin muttered, dropping his head. "I''ve always thought it was our duty to protect the Wangs, for our families have been as close as siblings for generations."

    "We were never a sibling to them," Li Chenyang seethed. "We were a tool. We''re the step-children forced to let the true heir shine."

    Li Wenmin let out a sigh. He was not prepared for this revtion that mmed into him like a powerful blow of a sword. It pierced through his heart, forcing him to question his loyalty.

    "There will be a military coup." Li Chenyang muttered, "Are you going to be onboard?"

    "It''ll never work," Li Wenmin pointed out. "You''re forgetting the most important detail."

    "And what is that?"

    "The Royal Family has a trump card."

    "Which is?"

    "Wen Jinkai, the Demon Lord of War."

    There was a pause.

    No one spoke, no one breathed. Li Wenmin was right. If the Li Family wanted to obtain the throne, they''d have to kill Wen Jinkai first. That man was the most loyal person to the Royal Family and also the strongest soldier in this entire country.

    No one would be able to meet his sword. Not unless the Grim Reaper of the Battlefield stepped forward himself.

    Even then, what shall happen? A sh between Wuyi and Hanjian? The other nations would shame them. Hanjian openly supporting a military coup would be a devastating event. It would create mayhem and disasters in all the wrong ces.

    "That''s a shame," Li Xueyue spoke up. "We have a trump card to beat theirs."

    Li Chenyang rapidly blinked. "What do you mean, Xueyue?"

    "Are you talking about Yu Zhen?" Li Wenmin curiously said. "If there is one person in this entire country who can duel Wen Jinkai head-on, it would be that man. But things will get messy."

    "Wenmin is right," Li Chenyang said. "I''m surprised I actually said that, but we can''t ask for Yu Zhen for help. He is the Second Prince of Hanjian, the chaos that ensues from his help will cause havoc in the nation."

    "No, Yu Zhen is not our best bet." Li Xueyue shook her head. "Wen Jinkai is loyal to the Crown, but his heart is loyal to someone else."

    The twin''s eyes grew wide.

    Simultaneously, they muttered, "Li Minghua, our ultimate trump card."

 Chapter 201 She Loves You More

    <h4>Chapter 201 She Loves You More</h4>

    The Pce.

    "How strange of you to visit me at such odd hours," Second Prince Wang Jing lightlymented. He took a sip of his favorite Jasmine tea but cringed at the repulsive taste. Despite the aromatic and sweet scent, the tea was incredibly bitter and disgusting.

    The Second Prince figured it was because this pot of tea wasn''t brewed and served by his favorite servant. The veiled woman was nowhere to be found in this room. It was always like this when guests came around. Specifically, Wen Jinkai.

    "You''re adding too much sugar into your tea. It''s repulsive and unhealthy for you," Wen Jinkai nagged as he took the sugar bowl away from his long-time friend. He swatted at the grabbing hands of the needy Prince.

    "Ugh, just one more spoonful, please. This tea is so bitter and it was brewed incorrectly!" Second Prince Wang Jing whined.

    The Second Prince couldn''t stomach this tea without the help of the sugar! Usually, he didn''t like sweet things, especially sugar in tea. On top of it, he hated teas that weren''t brewed by his favorite servant. He couldn''tin. It was the risk he took to keep his servants safe from the wrath of the Commander.

    "You should punish the servant for their ipetence." Wen Jinkai scowled. "Have your people always mistreated you with vulgar tea?" He took a whiff of the tea, deeming it was safe. There wasn''t any lingering smell of poison.

    "No, of course not. You know my servants will never bully me. They''re paid more than the regr pce servants. Besides, Mother will kill them if they do." Wang Jing sighed. "And even if they did, I won''t report it. Mother can be scary."

    "The Empress is always protective of her sons. It''s not a surprise," Wen Jinkai responded whilst taking a small gulp of the tea. He found nothing wrong with it. It was bitter like his heart. Just as he liked his teas to be.

    Wang Jing''s gaze softened. "You''re considered her son too, you know. Sometimes I think she loves you more than she loves the rest of us."

    "Her love is obsessive and overbearing." Wen Jinkai let out an agitated sigh. "It has progressed into something I''vee to despise."

    "What do you mean?" Wang Jing curiously asked.

    Wen Jinkai surveyed the empty tea room. There was no one in here except for the two of them. The doors outside were heavily guarded by Wen Jinkai''s men. No one would dare to eavesdrop.

    It wasn''t like Wang Jing had a big mouth either. He knew how to keep secrets. It was one of the reasons why Wen Jinkai hung out with the Second Prince so much. Wen Jinkai could vent in peace without judgment.

    "I heard a nasty rumor," Wen Jinkai muttered.

    "About?"

    "The Empress."

    "Why don''t you call her Mother?" Wang Jing softly frowned. "She''d like that, you know. That''s all she wants to hear from you."

    Wen Jinkai was irked by the Second Prince''s unwavering loyalty to their mother, Empress Huiyun. But what could be done? She was a great caretaker to all of her children, so much so, that none of them could find faults in her, just as she never saw a w in them.

    The happiness of her children mattered more to her than her own life.

    The Empress would do everything to keep her children safe by her side. No sin was too heavy, and no risk was too terrifying. Her children were her life, her only joy, her only treasure. Empress Huiyuin loved all of her children. Even if she showed it in different ways¡ªsome more repulsive than the other.

    "As always, this conversation must be kept between us, and no one else," Wen Jinkai began.

    "Of course." Wang Jing firmly nodded. "Besides, who would I tell this to?" heughed, "You''re the only brother who talks to me."

    Wen Jinkai''s expression dimmed. He sympathized with the Second Prince. It must be lonely in this part of the pce. No one ever came here unless it was to take care of Wang Jing¡ªthe neglected Prince of Wuyi.

    "Mother trusts you with all of her secrets, doesn''t she?" Wen Jinkai asked.

    Wang Jing blinked. "I can''t tell you that. My lips are sealed when ites to other people''s conversations with me."

    "Tch, stingy."

    "You''re just a hypocrite." Wang Jing snickered. He settled the teacup onto the table. "So, what has been upying your mind?"

    "There''s something disturbing that was brought up the other day."

    "What day?"

    "The morning I went to see Li Xueyue."

    "Oh, yes I remember! You were so excited about the meeting. It was the first time in nearly three years since I''ve seen you ramble over something." Wang Jing left out the part that Wen Jinkai used to talk for hours about Li Minghua.

    Everything that the Second Prince didn''t know about Minghua, he learned from Wen Jinkai. The Commander never stopped babbling about her. The day she moved into the Pce was the happiest day of his life. Except, it was also because of her that his life took a turn for the worst.

    Wen Jinkai was no longer the same after Li Minghua.

    "Yes, anyway, Xueyue said something very particr. It hasn''t left my mind. Not once."

    "What is it? I know she gave you back your pendant, but you still kept hers. Which, by the way, was the stupidest thing you''ve ever done. How could you do that to a poor maiden?"

    "That''s not the important discussion at hand," Wen Jinkai snapped.

    "Fine, fine, tell me what''s been bothering you." Wang Jing sighed, shaking his head at his ill-tempered friend.

    "Li Xueyue told me Minghua was suicidal."

    "What?" Wang Jing whispered out of shock. "How would she know? I thought this Xueyue girl was naive and ignorant? You said she was."

    "I don''t know how Li Xueyue found out. She said she knew everything."

    "Everything¡­? What does that even mean?" Wang Jing asked, his eyes nervously darting around the room. Did this Xueyue girl truly discover the events that took ce in the Pce?

    The Second Prince gulped. How much did this Li Xueyue know? Who told her? How did she find out? There were so many unanswered questions. It was beginning to stress him out. He knew he would be rambling to his favorite servant soon.

    "I don''t think she knows too much, except the fact that Li Minghua and I were once lovers." Wen Jinkai crossed his fingers together. "But I have such a bad feeling that she knows more than that."

    "Well, why don''t you directly ask her?"

    "You know I can''t." Wen Jinkai groaned. "The entire Li Family hates me. They guard Xueyue like she''s the nation''s treasure."

    "I would too if my daughter had a suitor like you." Wang Jing snorted. "Your obsession and maniptive manners will obviously scare parents and daughters away."

    "I''m only obsessive because it''s hard to find someone who genuinely cares for me. I''m terrified of losing them. Terrified that the circle of acquaintances will grow smaller¡­" Wen Jinkai trailed off, "I find it difficult to trust someone."

    "I know you do, but this behavior of yours isn''t healthy. Minghua tolerated it because she loved you more than herself, even if it meant loving you was hating herself." Wang Jing pped a hand over his mouth, horrified at how much he had spoken.

    Wen Jinkai''s his mood soured.

    "W-wait, Jinkai, I didn''t mean it like that. I just had my nightly medicine, so I''m not thinking properly right now."

    For the sake of his rant, Wen Jinkai waved his hand to dismiss the Second Prince''s insolence. "Anyways, we''re not here to discuss my problematic attitude. We''re here to discuss what the Empress did to my woman."

    Wang Jing tensed. He was always defensive of his mother, but tonight, he couldn''t. Because he knew his mother was in the wrong. And he had the physical evidence to prove it.

 Chapter 202 The Only Beautiful Thing In Life

    <h4>Chapter 202 The Only Beautiful Thing In Life</h4>

    "The Empress always confides in you, especially the things that are bothering her," Wen Jinkai began. "Has she ever spoken ill of Minghua, especially during her stay in the Pce nearly three years go?"

    The Second Prince pursed his lips. "You know I can''t reveal the conversations I shared with Mother, just like how I don''t let her know what you say."

    "Just tell me."

    "I know you''ve spoken ill of Minghua when she stayed in the Pce," Wang Jing deadpanned. He stared disapprovingly at his close friend.

    Wen Jinkai abhorred Wang Jing''s resemnce to the Empress. They shared the same crinkle of their brows and how they tightened lips when things didn''t go their way or simply when they were upset.

    Staring at Wang Jing was like staring at the Empress. Perhaps that was why she wanted to shelter the Second Prince more than anything. It convinced her that there was still good in this world, that perhaps, she wasn''t using her children to secure her position on the throne.

    "Only when we had fights."

    "You neglected her in the Pce," Wang Jing slowly said. "All because you convinced yourself friendship mattered more than her."

    CRASH!

    Wang Jing didn''t even blink when Wen Jinkai swiped the entire tea set onto the floor. It loudly ttered on the wooden floor, the porcin pieces shattered upon impact.

    Calm as an ancient tree, Wang Jing didn''t even react when Wen Jinkai shot out of his chair with a livid expression on his face. Wen Jinkai looked as if he was prepared for war but the only battle was the inner conflict he had within himself.

    The truth was too hard to hear, to swallow, and bear. He could not process the reality of his behavior towards Li Minghua in the Pce. It was the only thing he had ever regretted, but what could he do? He could never turn back time.

    Wang Jing didn''t stop there. "How could you do that to her? She was a young woman all alone in the Pce, tortured by father''s harem. She had no other friends except for you and Longhe. She didn''t have a singlepanion."

    "Enough¡ª"

    "I heard she was easily one of the most beautiful women in the Pce. When she stepped through those doors, everyoneplimented how bright-eyed and joyous she appeared, like a glimmer of hope buried beneath the darkness."

    "Wang Jing, I swear if you don''t shut up¡ª"

    "What did you do to her, Jinkai? She left the Pce a shell of the girl she used to be. I''ve never seen someone so defeated and heartbroken. You took what little happiness she had and trampled over the heart she gave you."

    Wang Jing stood up. "Perhaps Mother was also at fault, for she never liked the woman her sons chose. She enjoyed choosing the bride for her children. Not the other way around. You knew that," he said, his gaze hardened.

    "You knew Mother would be merciless towards Li Minghua. She''s the daughter of Duke Li Shenyang and Duchess Wang Qixing. You knew of the history that took ce before the start of our lives. You knew the Empress would despise Li Minghua."

    "Wang Jing, I will never ever see you as a friend again if you don''t shut your trap!" Wen Jinkai roared, storming to his friend. He roughly grabbed the Second Prince by his cor and yanked him closer. "Another word and I''ll slit your throat."

    "You knew so much," Wang Jing said and shook his head, disappointed at his beloved friend. "Yet you didn''t protect her. You believed the malice that Mother fed to you. You believe Minghua was a wanton woman who yed with the Fourth Prince''s heart. But you also knew¡ª"

    Wang Jing gasped when Wen Jinkai grabbed him by the throat, strangling the Second Prince into silence.

    "SHUT UP, SHUT UP, SHUT UP!" Wen Jinkai roared, glowering deeply into the glistening eyes of the Second Prince who didn''t know any better. Staring into those eyes was like staring into the pleading ones of the Empress.

    His thoughts spiraled and shed to the past when he, too, had grabbed his mother by her cor. She had stared up at him, tears in her eyes, desperate for her favorite son''s obedience.

    "Son, she will ruin you! She doesn''t love you, she loves the freedom you offered her! She loves the Fourth Prince but couldn''t get to him, so she got to you instead! The only reason she agreed to marry you is because she wanted to be closer to the Fourth Prince!"

    Her wails echoed in his head, forever taunting him. He was forced to remember all of the things he desperately tried to forget. The memories coursed through him, unexpectedly and mercilessly.

    Shortly after she had made her audaciousment, Wen Jinkai had stormed out of her room in search of Li Minghua. In search of his woman, his wife, his everything. And he found her. In the exact situation his mother had warned him.

    He would never forget the confession that took ce. He would never forget the sheer horror on Li Minghua''s expression when she was caught by Wen Jinkai. Whether it was horror at being caught or horror at the confession, Wen Jinkai never knew. He didn''t have to. He already made up a conclusion for her.

    "Run away with me, Minghua! Please, I beg of you. I will treasure you more than Wen Jinkai ever can! You do not have to live in this suffocating pce anymore, I will bring you out of it."

    The Fourth Prince had tightly grabbed her, "I know you do not love Wen Jinkai. I know he was your ploy to escape the Duke. So please,e with me. I will offer you a freedom like no other. All you have to do is ept this ring of mine, and I will take you out of this hell."

    Wen Jinkai''s blood boiled. He could not stand another second in this Pce filled with scums greedy for power. He could not stand another minute beside the Empress who smiled andughed as if she hadn''t ruined the one thing Wen Jinkai cared about.

    Wen Jinkai knew he would never leave the Royal Family. Not now. Not ever. He was indebted to them¡ªa couple who took in an abandoned child and raised him to a Commander. How could he turn his back on the people who sheltered him? Gave him everything he had ever wanted? Loved him when his blood and flesh didn''t?

    How could he?

    Abruptly, Wen Jinkai remembered something that Li Minghua once told him. "I love you," Li Minghua confessed, "I crave for you more than I crave for air. When I''m with you, I see no one else but you. I do not want anything in return for marriage, I only want you and your endless adoration. Can you promise me that?"

    Wen Jinkai had readily agreed to that promise, but never honored it. He had promised her the world, and treated her like scum.

    Wang Jing''s expression softened. He watched as Wen Jinkai slowly released him and slid onto the ground in utter defeat. The Great Commander of Wuyi, the Demon Lord of the Battlefield, sank to his knees.

    "You broke her," Wang Jing muttered. "Why did you do it?!?? he cried out, grabbing Wen Jinkai.

    Wang Jing was stunned by the haunted look on Wen Jinkai''s face. It was as if there was nothing in the world that could make him smile. It was as if all hope was lost and happiness was a mere delusion.

    "Was Li Minghua nothing to you all along?" Wang Jing''s voice cracked, but he did not care. He was overwhelmed with emotions that he had held back for too long.

    "She never fathomed the thought of betraying you. Whatever lies Mother spewed to you were never true! She did nothing but love you, and craved for your attention! You scoundrel!"

    Wang Jing shook Wen Jinkai roughly and frantically.

    "And damn you!" Wang Jing roared, "How can you ruin her like this? How can you ruin her for loving you unconditionally?! Are you even human?!"

    Wen Jinkai let out a cold, lifelessughter. Everyone viewed him as the viin when he was a victim. ''If Wang Jing viewed me as the antagonist, then so be it, I will y that role to his heart''s content.''

    Wen Jinkai''s mouth twisted into a sadistic smile, his eyes wide with insanity. "I enjoyed destroying the only beautiful thing in my life."

 Chapter 203 Stop This Nonsense

    <h4>Chapter 203 Stop This Nonsense</h4>

    Wang Jing was beyond horrified at Wen Jinkai''s confession. He dropped his hands, faltered backward, shaking his head in disbelief.

    Wang Jing nced down at his friend, his lips parted out of shock. Wang Jing struggled to ignore the pressing reality that he had said too much.

    "I don''t believe you," Wang Jing loudly whispered. "You may be the cruelest person I know, but you''re not that ruthless."

    "You wanted me to y the viin, didn''t you?" Wen Jinkai murmured, raising his head.

    Wang Jing was surprised by the disheveled look on Wen Jinkai''s face.

    "I am but a tool that guarantees the safety of the Royal Family."

    "No, you''re not¡ª"

    "Tools have no need for emotions, for love." Wen Jinkai slowly rose to his feet, swaying and looking haggard. He was not the same man who walked in here a few minutes ago.

    "I''ve always wondered why the Empress took me in." Wen Jinkai''s sinister smile widened as he mused, "The Empress didn''t do favors for just anyone, not even for her closest friend, my birth mother."

    "Jinkai, enough, you''re not in the clearest state of mind."

    "The Empress had a purpose for me. It was to keep her family safe."

    "You ARE her family," Wang Jing emphasized. "Please, stop this nonsense. We''ve escted things too much¡ª"

    "No, the only family to her is the one she created." Wen Jinkai shook his head. "How foolish of me to chase for her eptance and love. I wanted her to love me unconditionally. The only way she''d do so was giving her my obedience without questions."

    "Jinkai¡ª"

    "And when I disobeyed her, she took from me the only good thing in my life." Wen Jinkai let out a satanicughter that bounced off the walls of the room.

    "Of course, the biggest me was on myself, isn''t it?" he mmed his chest in agitation. "I listened to her lies. I obeyed hermand to stay far away from my own wife! Like a dog, I obeyed every god-damn thing she wanted me to do!"

    Wang Jing flinched. He squeezed his eyes shut and clenched his fist. He could not rebut, for it was the truth.

    Everyone knew the Commander of Wuyi was nothing but the Royal Family''s guard dog.

    "I''m sorry," Wang Jing whispered, his brows drawing together. "I''m sorry it had to be like this, Jinkai, I really am."

    "It is not your ce to apologize," Wen Jinkai snapped. "It is the Empress''s."

    "She will admit her mistakes," Wang Jing said, his voice heavy with distress. "All you have to do is talk with her. She will apologize. Mother loves you so, so much, it is unfathomable how much she cares for you."

    "How can someone love their tool of protection?"

    "No! She used to think of you like that, I admit! But over the years, as she watched you grow into the man you are, she hase to love you without bounds!" Wang Jing shouted. "I would know, she told me this herself!"

    "I¡ª"

    "Mother is terrified of losing you," Wang Jing admitted. "That is why she did everything she did! You know she is a self-conscious woman who loves no one but her children. She does not even love herself!"

    "I don''t need your blubbering bullshit," Wen Jinkai snarled.

    "No one loves Mother but her children. Our father has neglected her for decades. He loves no one but his concubines. You know how Mother is. She''s jealous of every young and beautiful woman that crosses her path. She''s envious of the future they still have, of their youth that will not die for a few decades."

    "It''s not my fault she wasted her youth chasing after a heartless man," Wen Jinkai seethed. "It''s not our ce to rece the love she was supposed to acquire from her husband."

    "You''re right, it''s not, but she has no one else but us." Wang Jing pleaded, "Please, You must understand why she did what she did. You can''t leave her, Jinkai."

    "And why not?"

    "She will kill herself!" Wang Jing wailed. "Do you not know? How much Mother loves you? How much she suffers daily at the thought that you, the only child she had raised, might leave her?!"

    He gestured to the fancy room and the tea sets. "All of my luxury means nothing to her if she can''t share it with her children! All of her sons and daughters are Princes and Princesses. The Emperor took us away from her the second we were born so that we could be raised by royal nannies and tutors!"

    He pointed a finger at Wen Jinkai and said, "But you! You''re different. She raised you all by herself! The attachment she felt for you was unlike any of the love she had for us."

    Wang Jing dropped to his knees. "So please," he begged, "Don''t leave Mother. Don''t abandon her. If you do, she will never be the same."

    Wen Jinkai did not respond. He simply opened the door and left, mming it shut behind him.

    But Wang Jing knew, or at least, he hoped he did, that Wen Jinkai would not turn his back on the hand that fed him. Wen Jinkai would not abandon his only family because if he did, he would have no one else in this world.

    - - - - -

    "He has finally left," the servant murmured. Her gaze swept over the messy floor, and she let out a sigh.

    "You can''t talk about a Commander like that," the Second Prince said. "Even if he''s not here."

    The servant did not respond. She merely walked towards a chair and plopped herself down, swinging her feet as she watched other maidservants walk in and out of the room, attempting to clean up the shattered teacups.

    "Little One," Wang Jing huffed, "You''re a servant. You shouldn''t behave like this."

    "I don''t care about my current status," she mumbled whilst ying with the long strands of her hair. "It doesn''t define me."

    "Stubborn and naive as always," Wang Jing sighed. He leaned against his chair and grabbed his hair. "How frustrating it is to talk to him. I''ve known him for so long, yet he showed no remorse for choking me."

    "It''s your fault for letting him do it to you. You could have cried to your mother, you know. She would hurt anyone that tried to touch her children."

    "She would never hurt Wen Jinkai."

    "But she would hurt the things he cares about. I would know."

    "Of course she would," Wang Jing said and let out another sigh. He loved his mother, but at times, she was hical and cruel, very much like Wen Jinkai. Perhaps that was why he was so heartless and frightsome.

    "She won''t hurt her children, but will indirectly do so. It''s in her nature," Wang Jing said.

    "You should stop giving her excuses. Why do you defend bad people?" the servant mumbled as she picked up a shattered porcin piece, handing it to the other servant close to her.

    Originally, the Second Prince''s other maidservants abhorred her, but after it was demonstrated how much he valued her, no one dared to cross her path.

    "Because I always see the good in the bad."

    "That''s your biggest w."

    "Or most redeeming character," Wang Jing muttered.

    "You didn''t y a part in harming me," the servant sneered, though he did not see it. "Why do you feel the need to redeem yourself?"

    "Because I sat idly by and watched someone get hurt. Mother tells me everything. I could''ve advised her to not hurt¡ª"

    "The past is in the past. It should stay that way."

    "That''s not what the Li Family thinks."

    "I''m leaving," the servant abruptly said, standing up. "I don''t want to get in the way of the people cleaning up."

    "No, don''t go. I won''t bring them up again. Sit, let''s have a proper discussion."

    "No, I don''t want to."

    "Little One¡ª"

    He didn''t finish his sentence. She left too quickly.

    The Second Prince shook his head. "You never learn, do you?"

 Chapter 204 The Rumor is True

    <h4>Chapter 204 The Rumor is True</h4>

    When the sun rose in the sky the next morning, marking the beginning of a new dawn, an unexpected visitor showed up at the Li Family''s manor.

    Li Xueyue had just finished breakfast when she received word of the visitor.

    "Ning Huabing?" Duchess Wang Qixing had said, astonished by her visit. "Isn''t that Marquis Ning''s daughter?"

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "He''s a prominent member of the Courts."

    "Well, I don''t see a reason to keep her outside waiting. Let her in," Duchess Wang Qixing instructed the servant.

    Duchess Wang Qixing took a nce towards her aloof son who was reading a book at the breakfast table, even though she precisely told him books weren''t allowed at this time.

    Li Chenyang could feel the pressing stare of his mother. "I''m too young for marriage," was the only thing he said whilst flipping to the other page.

    "W-what?" Duchess Wang Qixing awkwardlyughed, "Marriage? Psh, I didn''t even think of it."

    "I know you did," Li Chenyang murmured, closing his book and raising his head in time to see a beautiful and familiar woman walk through the door.

    Ning Huabing looked the same as she had at the Spring Tournament and her birthday banquet. Except, this time, she wore a distressed expression instead of a desperate one.

    Li Chenyang''s lips tugged downwards when he noticed that she was awestruck by him. Out of everyone in this room, her attention went to him first.

    When Ning Huabing saw his displeased glower, she quickly averted her stare.

    Composing herself, Ning Huabing dipped into a bow. "Greetings to the Li family," she said in a mellow voice.

    Duchess Wang Qixing smiled in approval. She rose to her feet and beckoned the girl to straighten. "It''s such a pleasure to see you early in the morning."

    "Yeah, it''s a lot better than seeing someone else," Li Wenmin chimed in, confusing the poor woman.

    Li Chenyang facepalmed, shaking his head. Could his idiotic brother get any more stupid? He nced in Xueyue''s direction and noticed that her smile had slipped a bit, and now it looked too forced and awkward.

    However, Li Wenmin hadn''t noticed a thing. "Are you here to see my brother?" he asked, nodding to his twin. "He''s single. I understand if you''re frightened by his frigid exterior and that ''know-it-all'' attitude, but I promise he''s nice!"

    Li Chenyang nearly mmed the book onto his brother''s head. What the hell was this fool babbling about now?

    Li Wenmin shed a cheeky smirk towards Chenyang''s way. He knew how much matchmaking irked his brother. "See that re of his? It''ll soften if you impress him."

    Ning Huabing was stunned to silence. She opened and closed her mouth, unable to formte a sentence. Eventually, she became flustered, her face turned bright red.

    "Look what you did to the poor thing." Li Wenmin snorted. "This is why you''re going to be single for the rest of your life. You should''ve at least spared her a smile."

    "If you don''t shut up," Li Chenyang whispered, "I will make sure you wake up in the middle of the forest covered in bugs and honey."

    "Pft, you''re the heavy sleeper of this family, not me." Li Wenmin whispered back, "I''m a light sleeper. Good luck trying to kidnap me!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing ignored her bickering sons. "What has brought you to us, Miss Ning?"

    "I apologize for my intrusion so early in the morning, Madam Li," Ning Huabing began. "But I''d like to seek a private audience with Xueyue, if that''s alright with you?"

    "Oh..." Duchess Wang Qixing''s shoulders sagged in disappointment. "In that case, I can escort you to the nearest drawing room."

    "Yes, I''d appreciate that. Thank you."

    Li Wenmin let out a huff. "The servants won''t talk, Miss Ning. If you''d like to see my brother after Xueyue, I will dly arrange that as well!"

    Li Chenyang glowered at his brother, wishing he didn''t have a twin!

    Li Chenyang lowered his voice and hissed, "Shut up you insolent fool¡ª"

    "What was that, Brother?" Li Wenmin cupped his ear, "You''d like to see her in private? Why, you should''ve said that earlier! You didn''t have to whisper."

    Duke Li Shenyang quietly sipped his tea. Every morning in this house was always so amusing. His obnoxious sons were bing his daily entertainment.

    Duchess Wang Qixing pped her hands. "Chenyang, you''d like to see her? How fantastic!"

    Ning Huabing shook her head. "I-it seems the Minister is busy early in the morning, I won''t intrude on his personal time."

    Before Duchess Wang Qixing could butt in, Li Chenyang spoke up, "I''m grateful for your wise consideration. It is as you said, I''m quite busy. Now, if my family will excuse me, I must prepare to depart to the Royal Courts."

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes at how posh and formal his brother sounded. Can''t he spare the poor girl some mercy? It was evident Ning Huabing was in love with him.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s lips tugged downwards. She had remembered Ning Huabing''s encounter with Li Chenyang during the Spring Tournament. If she recalled correctly, Ning Huabing attempted to give her son a gift. Ultimately, the young woman was rejected.

    A sudden thought crossed her mind. Was her son¡­ not interested in women? Her jaw dropped open in shock, as she swiveled around, surprising everyone.

    "Are you¡­" she trailed off, ncing at her son, "Perhaps¡ª"

    "If it''s a personal question, ask me privately," Li Chenyang muttered, standing up with his book.

    "Don''t interrupt your mother," Duchess Wang Qixing chided and narrowed her eyes. This son of hers needed a lecture!

    "Won''t happen again." Li Chenyang chuckled.

    Duchess Wang Qixing watched as he left the room. She could practically feel the disappointment rolling off of Ning Huabing. Duchess Wang Qixing felt the same thing.

    Li Xueyue stood up and said, "I will guide her to the drawing room."

    Li Xueyue raised her guards. It had been weeks since she hadst seen Ning Huabing. By now, she had decided Ning Huabing wasn''t on her side. But who knew, the woman in question would show up this randomly?

    Once they were alone in the hallways, Ning Huabing immediately spoke up, "I won''t take much of your time, I know you''re still a bit sick, so I won''t force you to stay out of bed for too long."

    Sick? Li Xueyue blinked. That''s right, she almost forgot. The Li Family had continued to inform the Royal Family that she was bedridden. Perhaps word got around and now everyone knew¡ªnot that she cared.

    Li Xueyue gratefully smiled whilst faking a small cough. "Yes, your consideration is much appreciated."

    "You must be wondering about my absence, the truth is," Ning Huabing began, "I was doing a lot of research into Bai Tianai."

    "About what?"

    "There''s a rumor that Bai Tianai is seeing someone aside from Zheng Tianyi. There''s another man courting her and she''s not refuting him. The rumor is true, I''ve seen him before."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew wide. Well, that was unexpected.

    "When did this happen? Who''s her other suitor?"

    "His identity was so tight-lipped, which was why it took me forever to find out about him, but that''s not the important topic at hand. I don''t think you have to worry about Bai Tianai anymore."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "What do you mean?"

    "The Bai Family haspletely disappeared!"

 Chapter 205 Comfort Them With A Lie

    <h4>Chapter 205 Comfort Them With A Lie</h4>

    "What?!" Li Xueyue hissed, turning to face Ning Huabing in utter disbelief. They hadn''t even reached the drawing room!

    Ning Huabing nervously gulped. "I spent so many weeks attempting to gather more information and evidence that can oust Bai Tianai, but then, all of a sudden, the henchmen I sent out came back yesterday night with urgent news. They rushed to my manor, reporting the Bai Family literally up and left!"

    "How is that possible?" Li Xueyue asked. "Their entire life revolves around Hechen. Doesn''t the Bai Family have arge trading port there? How can they just abandon it?"

    "The thing is, the Bai Trading Ports weren''t abandoned! All work resumed as per normal, except for the harsh hit they took before the Bai Family''s disappearance. Something about pirates looting the exports."

    Li Xueyue was beyond bewildered by the turn of events. What exactly was going on? Did the Bai Family really flee from Hechen? But why? It wasn''t like there was a visible threating their way.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, rattling her brain for answers. She didn''t think she would have to revise her n so early. The effort she and Li Chenyang ced into snatching the Bai Trading Ports were all wasted.

    "Does anyone else know about their disappearance?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Ning Huabing shook her head. "So far, from what I know, not many people know this. None of the servants remained who could confirm this anyway!"

    "They packed up their entire family alongside the servants? This just doesn''t make sense," Li Xueyue pointed out. "There must''ve been servants who didn''t want to part with them."

    "Their manor still looks upied."

    "What do you mean?"

    "There were unfamiliar guards stationed outside of the entrance, but they wouldn''t let anyone in or out. My henchmen were able to snoop around, though one of them was heavily injured after getting caught. The people outside are guarding an empty house."

    Li Xueyue''s brows creased together at the bewildering details. "What about the Zheng Family?"

    Ning Huabing''s eyes widened in recognition. "Now that you mention it, I haven''t looked into Zheng Leiyu. Perhaps he knows of the Bai Family whereabouts?"

    "The Zheng Family was in the Capital with Bai Tianai a few weeks ago. I ran into them."

    "I heard." Ning Huabing nodded. "Bai Tianai was utterly humiliated. Her reputation and self-esteem haven''t recovered ever since then."

    Li Xueyue wondered if reputation even mattered at this point. Bai Tianai was nowhere to be found. Perhaps the Bai Family fled because they couldn''t handle everyone ridiculing them? From the embarrassing incidents to angry traders whose goods were stolen by pirates, things were beginning to take a horrific turn for the once noble family.

    "I''m sorry I couldn''t find sufficient evidence to prove my loyalty." Ning Huabing sighed, her shoulders sagged. "I should???ve contacted you a lot sooner to inform you of my whereabouts, Princess Li."

    Li Xueyue hadn''t heard that title in a while. No one called her that in this household, and she wanted to keep it that way. But outside these doors, she knew it would be an inevitable address for her.

    "I still don''t trust you," Li Xueyue truthfully said.

    "That''s understandable. I wouldn''t trust myself either." Ning Huabing let out a sigh. "Perhaps I can find something else to prove my loyalty?"

    Li Xueyue wordlessly nodded.

    "It''s strange," Ning Huabing spoke up. "Not even the mutual friends I share with Bai Tianai know of her whereabouts. The usual group of gossipers are getting antsy that their leader is gone. They don''t know what to do amongst themselves."

    "I expected someone to fight for Bai Tianai''s leadership position, but I guessed not." Li Xueyue shrugged. "Well, they have nothing to do with me, and I prefer to keep it that way."

    "They''re useful if you want to utilize them to spread gossip. Their family titlesbined can make them a reliable ally."

    "Have you noticed a corrtion?" Li Xueyue suddenly asked, wondering if her initial predictions were correct."

    "I don''t understand, Princess Li¡­?" Ning Huabing trailed off.

    "Are there any suitors approaching Marquis Ning who are requesting to see you?"

    Ning Huabing''s features brightened. "Yes, so many came! How did you know, Princess?"

    "I figured that was the case." Li Xueyue let out a sigh. "You''re a beautiful woman, Ning Huabing. That''s why I found it so surprising when you approached me in hopes I would find you a suitor."

    "What do you mean, Princess Li?"

    "Now that Bai Tianai has disappeared and the gossip group doesn''t know what to do with themselves, you''re the least of everyone''s worries."

    Ning Huabing''s eyes grewrge with realization. "You mean¡­ all along, the people preventing me from getting suitors were my friends?"

    "Yes, I''m afraid so."

    Ning Huabing was instantly hurt by the betrayal. She didn''t want to believe it, despite the evidence in front of her. The coincidence was simply too hard to ignore.

    In the past, Ning Huabing had overheard something unpleasant. It was Bai Tianai whispering something to one of Ning Huabing''s potential suitors. No less than a dayter, he abruptly left the Capital without a word. One by one, every rich aristocrat who approached her stopped reaching out to her.

    "It seems this was too much of a shocking news to you," Li Xueyue began. "Perhaps it''s best for you to head home and rest up."

    "Y-yes, I''d like that. Thank you, Princess." Ning Huabing murmured, her voice trembling. She looked pale as if a bucket of cold water had drenched her.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. How miserable it was to make friends with a person from the High Society¡­ Everyone was either a backstabber or an opportunist. She let out a sigh. It was why she preferred to not have any friends at all. If she wanted friends, she would only choose a small handful to ce her trust in. Quality over quantity.

    "I''ll walk you to the entrance," Li Xueyue responded.

    The two strode in silence.

    Ning Huabing was lost in her thoughts, her brows creasing to form lines on her forehead. She behaved as if she was having an internal battle with herself. Keeping herposure was no longer a thing.

    The mask that every aristocrat wore was beginning to crack. She couldn''t hide her emotions anymore. How could she?

    The people she had grown up with had betrayed her. They saw the struggle she faced with her increasing age and decreasing suitors. Her friendsforted her, reassuring everything would be okay. But who would''ve thought they were the root of all of her problems?

    Why did they do it?

    Ning Huabing couldn''t wrap her head around such atrocity. It wasn''t like she had wronged any of them. She was always neutral and weing to them. If they needed something, anything at all, she was the first to provide help. How could they do this to her¡­?

    "Please remember to rest," Li Xueyue said whilst she stood by the foot of the carriage.

    Ning Huabing absentmindedly nodded, but couldn''t bring it in herself to say a single word. She was dazed and on the verge of tears.

    Li Xueyue wondered if she should''ve sugarcoated the truth. She shook her head. It was better to hurt someone with the truth thanfort them with a lie.

 Chapter 206 What a Miracle

    <h4>Chapter 206 What a Miracle</h4>

    Once Ning Huabing had left, Li Xueyue went to find Li Chenyang and caught him in the nick of time. He was getting ready to depart for the Pce with their father, but she was able to pull him aside and inform him of what happened.

    Like her, he was surprised but also puzzled. Why would the Bai Family suddenly disappear? Yet, why were there guards in front of their house? It didn''t make sense.

    Li Chenyang promised he would investigate it.

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but nod in response and retreat to her room. She then spent her entire day sitting in front of her table whilst attempting toe up with new ns. But with an unpredictable future lying ahead of her, there wasn''t a single thing she coulde up with.

    Everything was a mess.

    As the sun set, Li Xueyue was beginning to grow antsy. She could barely keep her eyes open, exhaustion took over her. She felt the ufortable tremble of her heart as her vision grew dizzy. Herck of sleep was finally taking its toll on her, but she pressed on.

    "Now is not the time to y sick," Li Xueyue scolded herself, despite the cold sweat that broke out on her body. She stood up and suddenly, her world spun. She grabbed the table for support but couldn''t hold on.

    "Please forgive this servant''s insolence, but you can''t enter Young Miss''s room yet!"

    Something crashed in the background but Li Xueyue didn''t realize it was her body copsing onto the floor, dragging the table down with her.

    A loudmotion was heard from outside. The door mmed open and in her daze, she made out blurry figures rushing to her aid. One of them was a male, his shoes were too decorated and fancy for it to have been one of the Li servants.

    Who was it? Was it one of the twins? She couldn''t tell.

    Li Xueyue didn''t understand how tired she was. She didn''t understand the repercussions of trying to live with only three hours of sleep every night. She couldn''t even keep her eyes open.

    Screams were heard in the far distance, yet the voices seemed so close. Someone was demanding for a doctor whilst scrambled footsteps bounced off the floor.

    Thest thing she said before slipping unconsciously was a whisper, practically no one heard it except for the man approaching her.

    "Yu Zhen..." she trailed off.

    And just like that, her world went ck.

    - - - - -

    Ten years ago.

    "This is the basic principle of ournguage structure! How can you not grasp it?!" Viscount Bai Sheng roared as he picked up the book and threw it across the room.

    Bai Xueyue flinched back in fear, trembling in her seat. Her breaths came out in erratic gasps for air. She was simply too terrified to even breathe.

    Viscount Bai Sheng hovered over her as he pointed to her score which was three questions away from a perfect score.

    "How stupid are you to not even understand the beginner steps? Even a pig knows more than you do!" he growled.

    Staring at the less than a wless score, he picked up the test paper and crumbled it. "Why am I even wasting money to hire tutors for you? You''re nothing but a livestock bred to make me money. What purpose do you have in education?!"

    Bai Xueyue couldn''t even utter a word. She was tongue-tied. Her eyes were shaking and she was unable to focus. She licked her cracked lips, dry from dehydration. She knew the punishment that awaited her.

    "At your age, your prodigy sister was able to memorize materials twice the difficulty of yours!" Viscount Bai Sheng berated, "Why can''t you be more like Tianai? Why can''t you show gratitude for the kindness I''m offering you, a good for nothing brat."

    Bai Xueyue didn''t dare to raise her head. That was precisely why she didn''t see the hand of Viscount Bai Sheng moving towards her before a harsh blow was dealt on the back of her head. She let out a painful yelp, grasping the burning spot. He had hit her with a thick book.

    "I''m sorry!" She wailed, but it only infuriated him further.

    "Sorry?" Viscount Bai Sheng seethed, "Will ''sorry'' give you a perfect score? Will ''sorry'' teach you to memorize the words? Will ''sorry'' ever fix anything?!" he snarled, picking up another book and pping her with it again, this time, directly on the side of her head.

    A headache immediately formed. The pain was unbearable as it coursed through her body.

    "How dare you waste my money on a tutor? How dare you waste my kindness? How dare you be born! You should''ve just died in the womb."

    She didn''t get the opportunity to respond before he backhanded her. The force was so hard, she fell out of her chair, roughly crashing onto the ground. In her clumsiness, she had dragged the ink ss and parchment with her. Everything came tumbling down, creating a bigger mess.

    Viscount Bai Sheng saw red.

    That night, she was beaten without remorse. Even when her eyes rolled to the back of her head and she was unconscious, he continued kicking her. It wasn''t until Viscountess Mu Yihua rushed in and begged on her knees for him to stop that he momentarily did. It took servants and guards to hold back the rampaging Viscount whose mood was already soured before he entered Bai Xueyue''s humble bedroom that was more like a servant''s shack.

    Viscount Bai Sheng was already aggravated by something that had happened before he heard of Bai Xueyue''s less than appealing test scores. One of his business partners for Bai Trading Ports had bailed on him without an exnation.

    Bai Xueyue''s failure in her studies was the straw that broke the camel''s back. He needed something to relieve his anger, even if it meant beating a child until she was unconscious. Even if it meant a weak and defenseless little girl was grabbing onto his leg, pleading for mercy before he heartlessly kicked her off.

    Viscount Bai Sheng did not care for Bai Xueyue. He never will.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue shot out of bed, her eyes open wide. She didn''t think she would ever relive that nightmare ever again. It was new, but the events were not. Her heart raced faster than Heiyue dashing through an open field. Her breathing was quick and erratic, desperate for air.

    She squeezed her eyes shut and forced herself to calm down.

    "It''s not real. It''s not real. It''s not real," she chanted, again and again.

    Li Xueyue hoped these words could calm her down. But this time, it didn''t.

    "It''s not real¡­ please¡­" she whispered, despite the cruel reality.

    Li Xueyue wanted to forget her past, but how could she? She was haunted by the nightmares of her past.

    "As long as I get rid of them," she muttered, clearly not in her best state of mind. "As long as I get rid of the Bai Family, I won''t have to suffer like this."

    "That''s all I need to do," Li Xueyue said to herself. "Their downfall will be my salvation."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know how long it took for her to calm down. She didn''t keep a record of the time.

    Shifting her attention to the window, Li Xueyue realized it was already night time. Her gaze swept over the room. It was as perfect as it always had been. The flipped over table was ced back onto its original position and was most likely wiped clean.

    The maidservants never touched anything on the table. They knew it was off-limits. But everything had fallen off the table when she dragged it down with her.

    Li Xueyue noticed a stack of neatly organized parchment on top of the table, alongside something else. Slowly, she climbed out of bed and approached the table. She took a sniff of the air and smelled something that made her nose crinkle unpleasantly.

    "It''s an incense stick," she realized. It was letting out a herbal scent that was presumably a prescribed tonic that was supposed to help her sleep better.

    "I''ve slept for more than three hours, what a miracle," she said, preparing to get back to bed until something else caught her attention.

    There was a letter on her table, in perfect handwriting that belonged to neither of the twins. On top of the letter was something even more unsuspecting. There was an item wrapped in a gold handkerchief with ck embroidery.

    "What''s this?" she asked, picking up the item. The handkerchief was soft and unmistakably made of silk. The material was definitely expensive but she couldn''t care less.

    Messily, she unraveled the item.

    Her face paled.

    It was her pendant.

    The man who had rushed into the room was not one of the twins. It was Wen Jinkai.

 Chapter 207 Biggest Fool

    <h4>Chapter 207 Biggest Fool</h4>

    Li Xueyue swallowed. Who let him into her room in the first ce? What the hell were her guards doing if they couldn''t keep the guests out? But then she thought about the frightsome aura of Wen Jinkai and the overpowered guards he had.

    The Li family soldiers were definitely unable to withstand the pressure of a Commander.

    "What an insolent, audacious, irritable brat he is," she cursed him to the stars and back. cing her pendant onto the table, she tore open his letter, not caring about how ugly it had be.

    ''I won''t start with headings or greetings, for it''s a waste of time to you. Firstly, I would like to apologize for my treatment towards you. I''ve realized my wrongdoings, and I promise if you will give me a chance, I will change. I promise I will. I am a man of my word. To show you I mean no ill intent, I''ve returned your pendant to you.

    It wasn''t mine to take, but I had no other way of grabbing your attention. It was the only thing that tied me to you. I didn''t want to part with it, but my moral conscience told me it was the best thing to do.

    I hope you can forgive what I''ve done to you. If I had offended you in any way, I do not mean it. I rarely apologize, Little Fawn. I am too honorable of a man, so please, I hope you take into consideration the meaning of my words.

    Yours truly,

    Wen Jinkai''

    Li Xueyue wanted to rip the letter into shreds. He apologized but demanded her to ept it. That wasn''t how it worked. But she couldn''t ignore the weight of his apology. It must''ve been a great deal for him to swallow that massive ego and lower his head to write this.

    Li Xueyue clutched her pendant tightly in her palm, staring down at it. She ced it back down on the table again, deciding it needed a proper cleaning.

    "Poor thing, you must''ve suffered," Li Xueyue muttered, stroking the pendant. It had endured enough. This time, she would keep it safe for the rest of her life. She would never allow it to be stolen. Ever again.

    Li Xueyue wondered if Wen Jinkai had heard thest thing she said before she fainted.

    Li Xueyue wondered about the impact of her saying, "Yu Zhen" right before she passed out.

    It must''ve infuriated him. But what could he even do?

    "You''re the biggest fool of the century, Li Xueyue," she bit out. "How can you still think of him? Why can''t you get him out of your head?" she sighed.

    "Li Xueyue, I hate you. I hate you so much," she grumbled, crossing her arm, hoping this self-berating would awake her from her stupidity.

    - - - - -

    The morning eventually approached. Instead of continuing to sleep until the morning, Li Xueyue had spent her time by the window. She was reading a book with half of her attention outside of the window.

    She admired the rosy hues of the sky as the sun emerged high in the sky, burning bright. She reached her hand out, capturing the warmth of the rays. It wasforting, but painful, for the memories instantly surfaced.

    Li Xueyue retracted her hand and sighed. Every little thing reminded her of Yu Zhen, but what could she do? She was the dimwit who pushed him away.

    "He''s nevering back, is he?" Li Xueyue wondered out loud. She held back a mncholic sigh.

    "I guess it''s my turn to barge into the twins'' room," she said.

    Hopping off the window sill, Li Xueyue thought she would quickly dress herself. When she was living in the Bai Manor, no one tended to her. The clothing in the Bai Manor was always simple, in, and just a singleyer of cheap fabric.

    However, her clothing in the Li Manor was multiyered and colorful. It required expertise to perfectly match eachyer so that itplemented the next. Eventually, she found herself angrily putting the pieces on blindly¡ªshe couldn''t care less if they were mismatched.

    Li Xueyue took her sweet time walking down the hallways, knowing she was early anyway. She found the silence in the hallways to be oddly soothing. There wasn''t a single sound except for her light footsteps and the hollow murmurs of the wind.

    The breeze had been rough ever since Yu Zhen left. Not that she noticed or anything¡­

    Li Xueyue could feel the pressing stares of the guards who never took their attention off of her when she passed by them. It was strange. Did they always look at her for longer than necessary?

    She nced around her surroundings. "Maybe it''s because I''m the only one out here," she mumbled."

    "Are they awake yet?" Li Xueyue asked when she stopped in front of the door of her first victim, her dear ole'' Wen-ge.

    The guards nced at her once, before taking an abrupt second look. "Y-Young Miss," they said in unison.

    Li Xueyue was puzzled by their expression. Why did they look so surprised to see her? It wasn''t like she was a ghost.

    Li Xueyue ignored them. Maybe they were simply surprised to see her in this part of the house. She seldom ventured to the twins'' side of the house anyway and the twins seldom have visitors. Shrugging at their response, she pushed the door open and entered her brother''s room.

    Unsurprisingly, she heard the loud snore of a ''piglet''. She snickered. That nickname truly suited Wenmin.

    Li Xueyue tiptoed into the room until she was near his bed.

    "One¡­more¡­" he groaned in his sleep.

    Huh? One more what? Set of training?

    Li Xueyue bent down to hear him clearly.

    "Bun¡­"

    "Pft!" Li Xueyue covered her mouth to resist theughter that almost burst out. One more bun? Of course, this glutton would dream of food in his sleep!

    "No more buns for you," she loudly said.

    His eyebrows scrunched together. "Bun....nooo, why are you running away from me?!" His hand shot up, his fingers reaching and grabbing for the food in his dream.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t hold herughter back anymore. She let out a small giggle, but the slightest of noise shook Li Wenmin awake.

    "What the¡ª!" he let out a yelp, bringing the nket up to his corbone as if he was a young maiden caught in a thin nightgown.

    "Xiao Yue, what are you doing here?" he asked, cing a frightened hand upon his chest. "Gosh, this must be a nightmare," he added on, slipping back under his nkets.

    "Hey, that''s rude!" she called out, grabbing the edges of his nkets.

    "Go away you evil spirit!" he groaned, kicking at the parts she was trying to yank. "You can haunt me once I get a few more hours of sleep."

    "But I''m not a ghost!" Li Xueyue huffed. In one rough tug, she ripped the nkets off of him.

    Li Wenmin let out a scream. He rolled his entire body into a ball and moaned. "Just a few more minutes please."

    "It''s already morning, wake up you sleepy piglet!" Li Xueyue hissed, tossing the nket to the other side of the enormous bed.

    "I am not a piglet!" Li Wenmin cried out. Finally, he cracked his eyes open, rubbing the tiredness out of it. He found it difficult to keep his eyes open so early in the damn morning.

    "You snore like one," Li Xueyue piqued.

    "Doesn''t make me one!"

    "And you were also dreaming of food¡­"

    "So you were the one stealing my buns," Li Wenmin huffed. "I should''ve known!"

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. "It''s not like you''re gonna actually eat the bun. Nowe on!"

    "Ugh, where are we going?" Li Wenmin groaned, rolling onto his stomach.

    Li Xueyue could see his toned muscles. She wondered how it was possible for him to eat so much and not get fat. "We''re going to scare Chenyang."

    Li Wenmin bolted upwards. "Oh, that sounds fun! Let''s go, let''s go!" he excitedly said.

    Li Wenmin''s eyes lit up. He couldn''t wait to get payback on his brother for all of the teasing and bullying.

 Chapter 208 Violence

    <h4>Chapter 208 Violence</h4>

    Li Wenmin thought of all sorts of ways to spook his brother, but he had forgotten the most crucial detail¡ªLi Chenyang was the heaviest sleeper in the family.

    "I told you pulling his nket away won''t work!" Li Xueyue groaned, facepalming when Li Chenyang continued to remain asleep.

    Li Wenmin proceeded to p his brother on the face but Li Chenyang didn''t even move.

    "Is he dead?" Li Wenmin asked.

    "I don''t think so."

    "You think?" Li Wenmin snickered, taking a nce at her. His eyes widened in horror. He had finally noticed what she was wearing.

    Grabbing her by the shoulders, he quickly scanned the room. He sighed in relief when he realized that no other men were present. "Gosh, Xiao Yue, who dressed you this morning?! They need a beating!"

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked, shrugging her shoulders. "I dressed myself." She yelped when he tossed a cloak over her.

    "Did anyone see you like this?" Li Wenmin hissed, tightening the strings of the cloak so that he could preserve her dignity.

    "Well, no one except the guards. What is it? Did I color-match incorrectly? I thought yellow would go nicely with green¡­"

    "Your clothes are worn inside out!" Li Wenmin groaned. "Your topyer is the one to be worn before your undergarment! How could you not know that?!"

    "W-well thisyer has strings and my handmaidens always tie something when they finish dressing me¡­ I thought this was the finalyer," Li Xueyue nervously said as she looked down. It was too confusing for her.

    The topyer she was currently wearing was a pretty sheer linen that went well with the rest of her clothing. How was she supposed to know it was the one to be worn before the undergarment?! She was always spacing out when her handmaidens dressed her, so she hadn''t paid attention to how she was usually dressed.

    "Ugh, at least you didn''t wear your undergarment at the top." He shivered at the thought. "Or else we might have to dunk every guard in water until they forget seeing you."

    "You''re so dramatic," Li Xueyue huffed, pulling the cloak closer to her. "I''ll just change my outfit."

    "Yes, you should do that. Hurry off now." Li Wenmin shooed her away. "In the meantime, I''ll try to wake this sleeping bear."

    "Try poking it with a stick." Li Xueyue giggled. "Maybe that will work?"

    Li Wenmin rolled his eyes and pushed her in the direction of the door. She huffed and had only taken one step out of Li Chenyang''s room when Li Wenmin spoke up behind her.

    "Oh by the way, Xiao Yue?"

    "Yes, Wen-ge?"

    "The yellow you''re wearing doesn''t match the green."

    "Oh whatever!" Li Xueyue said, mming the door shut and stomping her way back to her bedroom. So much for trying!

    Li Wenmin snickered at her tantrum. He was d she was beginning to express herself a lot more now. He always pitied her silence when she arrived two years ago.

    Turning around to face his slumbering brother, a wicked idea came to Li Wenmin''s mind. "Yes, why not poke the bear?" He let out an evil cackle.

    Li Wenmin wandered around the room until he found a sword enclosed in its metal casing. Approaching his brother, he smirked.

    "Wakey, wakey, little brother!" He jabbed the sword directly into Li Chenyang''s stomach.

    "Huh?" Li Wenmin was befuddled when he met something hard. "No way!" he wailed, approaching his brother who was deep asleep without a nket.

    "Why do you have abs when you don''t even work out! This is so unfair," Li Wenmin cried out when he lifted his brother''s tunic and saw the rigid lines.

    "Tch, whatever. I give up!" he eximed, dropping the sword and storming out of the room.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue felt like she was doing the walk of shame.

    The servants were awake now, and each one she passed would bow for her. Confusion was written on their faces when they noticed she was wrapped under a cloak.

    Li Xueyue was embarrassed at the idea of being caught in her current attire. She picked up her pace and dashed to her room, surprising the handmaidens waiting outside.

    "Good morning, Young Miss," her usual group of handmaidens said in unison whilst bowing low.

    "Good morning," Li Xueyue said as the handmaidens pushed the doors open. "Not a word about this," she instructed when they closed the doors behind them.

    The handmaidens were befuddled until their Young Miss dropped the cloak and their eyes widened by arge fraction. They covered their mouths in shock whereas Li Xueyue awkwardlyughed.

    "Please dress me properly."

    "R-right away, Young Miss!"

    - - - - -

    "You''re in horseback riding attire today," Li Wenmin pointed out when Xueyue entered the breakfast room.

    Li Chenyang loudly yawned as he slumped onto the table, resting his head. "What''s so surprising about that?"

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a sigh upon seeing his exhausted son. "Is no one going to discuss yesterday''s incident?"

    Li Wenmin scratched the back of his head. "What incident?"

    Yesterday, everyone except Duchess Wang Qixing had left early in the morning. They came backter than expected. No one had told the twins about the incident. The only reason the Duke knew was because the servants had reported to him about the incident, since he was the Patriarch of the Manor.

    "The doctors were called," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "I was so surprised."

    "Why were the doctors called?" both twins asked in unison. They exchanged a disgusted look with each other upon being in sync.

    Duchess Wang Qixing turned to Li Xueyue with eyes of concern. "Xueyue fainted yesterday. Are you feeling all better now?"

    Li Xueyue nodded and apologized, "I''m sorry for worrying you."

    "You didn''t have to apologize, sweetheart," Duchess Wang Qixing sighed, grabbing her daughter''s hand. "Why didn''t you tell me about your insomnia?"

    "I didn''t think it was that serious."

    Li Chenyang snorted at her words. "It''s serious. She wouldn''t listen to me when I told her that she should let a doctor prescribe some herbal tonics for her."

    Duke Li Shenyang shook his head in disapproval. "Too much herbal tonics at a young age will lead to immunity in the future. We don''t want that to happen to our Xueyue."

    "Still, Dad," Li Chenyang argued, "She needs it. Didn''t you notice the dark circles under her eyes?"

    "No, actually I didn''t," Duke Li Shenyang said. "The handmaidens concealed it nicely with powder. I never noticed them before."

    "Neither did I." Li Wenmin frowned. "Why am I always kept in the dark?"

    "Also, there''s something else," Duchess Wang Qixing said and frowned. "Wen Jinkai trespassed into Xueyue''s room just as she fainted. The timing was perfect, but it doesn''t excuse his actions."

    "It doesn''t," Li Chenyang snapped. "Who the hell let him into our house in the first ce?"

    "He requested an audience."

    "And you let him in?!" Li Wenmin hollered. "Mother, please tell me you didn''t."

    "I didn''t." Duchess Wang Qixing rubbed her forehead. "I was in the gardens when he stormed his way in. By the time the servants rushed to me, he had already forced his way into Xueyue''s room."

    Duke Li Shenyang scowled at the matter. "I''ve already informed the Emperor of this issue. Wen Jinkai has been ced under house lockdown."

    "As if a damn lockdown can restrain him!" Li Wenmin said exasperatedly. "He needs a serious punishment. What the hell was he doing in our house in the first ce?!"

    "He returned my pendant," Li Xueyue said.

    "Really?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked. She was shocked that Wen Jinkai finally found the audacity to do so.

    Li Xueyue nodded. "I have already instructed the maidservants to thoroughly clean my pendant."

    "Good," Li Chenyang muttered. "It has his germs all over it."

    Duke Li Shenyang frowned. "We will ce more guards at the entrance. For him to barge his way into the house is simply unforgivable."

    "Once we increase our security, I''ll thoroughly retrain every single Li guard. Everyone will have more sets to do," Li Wenmin sternly said. "Xiao Yue''s safety is our priority."

    "He also gave me a letter," Li Xueyue muttered.

    "Where is it?" Li Chenyang asked, holding out his hand.

    "Here," Li Xueyue said. She reached into her pockets and pulled it out, then handed it to him.

    The family read the contents out loud.

    Afterwards, no one spoke.

    "We will not reply," Duke Li Shenyang finally said. "He doesn''t deserve one."

    "I agree," Li Chenyang said and nodded.

    "Me too," Li Wenmin muttered.

    "What a disappointing apology," Duchess Wang Qixing scowled.

    "In the meantime," Duke Li Shenyang said, "You will not step outside of these doors, Xueyue. Not unless you''re horseback riding."

    Duchess Wang Qixing stiffened at his words. Her gaze snapped to her husband. "No, you will not confine Xueyue in this house."

    "I''m not confining her, I''m doing it for her safety," Duke Li Shenyang exined. "There are two very dangerous men lurking beyond our walls, like a predator after their prey. The first chance they get with Xueyue, they''ll seize it."

    Duchess Wang Qixing had no choice but to oblige. "We can''t let her avoid them forever."

    "We can''t," Duke Li Shenyang agreed. "However, we will make it clear to these men that they will never be her suitors. Especially this Wen Jinkai who has no understanding of respect."

    "And how will we do that?" Li Chenyang huffed. "We should''ve put these measures in a lot sooner."

    "I''ve already rejected Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue said. "I''ve caught word he has left the Capital as well. To where, I don''t know nor care."

    "In regard to Wen Jinkai," Duke Li Shenyang added on, "I will have a discussion with him. He will be thoroughly reminded of what he did to Minghua. If he truly loved her, he will stay away from you, Xueyue."

    "And if he doesn''t stay away?" Li Chenyang asked.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression darkened. "Let us hope he stays away. Or else, violence will have to be used."

 Chapter 209 Ran Off

    <h4>Chapter 209 Ran Off</h4>

    After breakfast, Li Xueyue decided Li Wenmin was right. She had been neglecting her beloved horse. Thus, she decided to take Heiyue for a long run in the never-ending fields behind the Li Manor.

    Li Xueyue started when the sun was high in the sky, but now, it was beginning to set. She took a break in the forest where Heiyue was happily drinking water from the river.

    "How beautiful," Li Xueyue breathed out as she watched the smallest of waterfalls trickle down to the next river stream. The clear water appeared to be cool and inviting, so much so, that she hopped off of Heiyue to run her hand through it.

    "You must be hungry," Li Xueyue mumbled, reaching into the small pouch attached to her waist. She pulled out an apple and a carrot. "This is probably too much sugar for you," shemented, but nheless, fed it to him, deciding she needed to give him healthier treats.

    When Heiyue finished the apple, he instantly bit the air, thinking there was more. Li Xueyue chuckled and ced her hand on his head, directing his mouth to the carrot. Heiyue finished it quickly, and as he was down to thest bite, his head abruptly shot upwards.

    "What''s wrong?"

    Heiyue stomped the ground, his head turned in the direction behind her. Li Xueyue nced backward, but noticed nothing was there.

    "There''s nothing there, Heiyue," Li Xueyue said, but nheless, she reached for the dagger strapped on her leg. "What is it?"

    Heiyue let out a quiet neigh, nudging her.

    Just then, Li Xueyue heard it. In the far distance, there was the slightest chatter. Who could it be? Perhaps farmers who wandered too far? That was impossible. This section of the forest was specifically closed off to outsiders. It was heavily marked to be the Li Family''s territory.

    "Let''s go," Li Xueyue said whilst hopping onto Heiyue. "I think we''re at the border of our territory."

    Heiyue tilted his head, whether it was in approval or not, she didn''t know.

    "There shouldn''t be activities in this forest in the first ce," Li Xueyue said, "Come on, Heiyue. Let''s head home."

    She urged her horse forward and began to head down the trail they took. That is, until Heiyue let out a loud neigh, raising his front legs.

    "Heiyue!" Li Xueyue gasped, grabbing onto the reins tightly. She had almost fallen off her own horse! "What has gotten into you?" she breathed out in shock.

    Heiyue let out a neigh of protest. He jutted his head in the direction he had heard the distinctive whiz of something flying his way.

    Li Xueyue turned her head and to her horror, there was an arrow stuck to a tree. It was fresh and brand new, which meant it was shot just now. She uncapped her dagger, wishing she had brought a sword with her as well.

    And then she heard it. The familiar ping of an arrow being shot. In the blink of an eye, she flicked her wrist and sliced the arrow before itnded somewhere near them.

    "Who''s there?" Li Xueyue said in a loud and stern voice. "Come out right now!"

    She immediately regretted saying that when they came out.

    To her horror and surprise, the people who showed themselves were soldiers in armor and they were fully equipped. On top of that, they were dressed in clothes that were oddly familiar but obviously did not belong to Wuyi''s military.

    Their swords were raised and in the near distance, she could see the gleam of their bows loaded with arrows aimed at her and Heiyue.

    "Which country do you work for?" Li Xueyue demanded. "This ground is the property of the Prime Minister of Wuyi. You have no right trespassing here."

    "Silence!" the man leading the group snarled. He flicked two fingers in her direction and abruptly, the soldiers surrounded her.

    "We ask the questions here," the man seethed. "How did you find us?"

    "What are you talking about?" Li Xueyue hissed, "This is my father''snd. I didn''t find you, you found me."

    "Now that you''ve seen us, we can''t let you go." The man nodded to his subordinates and immediately the soldiers took a step forward.

    Li Xueyue''s expression darkened. "Touch me or my horse, and I can guarantee you will lose that hand."

    "And what made you say that?"

    "I am the Prime Minister of Wuyi''s daughter. You will not get away with this."

    The man in charge paused. The Prime Minister''s daughter? Why did he feel like the title sounded familiar?

    "Who do you work for?" Li Xueyue demanded. She would never yield to these men. Pretending to be timid and weak was stupid.

    "That is none of your concern."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. None of these men was wearing the emblem of their country. "What are you doing on my father''snd?"

    "Enough of your questions. Prime Minister''s daughter or not, you''reing with us." The man nodded to his soldiers.

    "Get away from me¡ªHeiyue!" Li Xueyue gasped when one of the soldiers threw a rope around her horse.

    Heiyue instantly protested, tossing his head in the other direction before the noose grazed his neck.

    "Wait, what''s that?" Li Xueyue suddenly said, her face frozen in horror. She pointed to something behind the man in charge.

    "As if that could work on me¡ª"

    An animal loudly roared.

    "Lieutenant!" the soldiers warned.

    The man turned around in confusion and sure enough, he was met face to face with a proud and daring tiger.

    "Let''s go, Heiyue!"

    Heiyue didn''t need to be told twice. He raised his front legs, surprising the soldiers in front of him who backed off without knowing.

    "Stop! Do you have a death wish?!" the man demanded. "If you run now, the tiger will chase you."

    Reluctantly, Li Xueyue admitted the Lieutenant was right, for the tiger''s attention was now on her.

    "Anyway, this tiger is on our side," the man said, nodding to his soldier. "Grab her first. This one likes to run."

    "You¡ª!" she didn''t get to finish her sentence when a noose was looped around her neck without warning.

    Li Xueyue gasped but couldn''t react fast enough. Like an animal cored by the neck, she was yanked off of her own horse. Roughly, she mmed onto the ground, pain coursing her body.

    She struggled against the rope that tightened around her throat.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t breathe. ck dots tainted her vision and the more she fought, the more she was getting light-headed.

    "Fighting against it is futile. This is a special knot known to our country. The more you struggle, the tighter it''ll get."

    Only when she was bound on her wrists and legs did the rope around her neck finally loosen. She heaved, gasping for air, her vision returning to normal.

    "Be a doll and shut up," the Lieutenant said. Before she could reply, he shoved a cloth ball into her mouth.

    Her eyes went wide.

    How the hell was this happening? Did all the years of training teach her nothing?

    "Up close, you''re quite beautiful aren''t you?" the Lieutenantmented. He gently touched her face. "Do not worry, in our country, we do not vite women unless you''re a war conquest."

    Li Xueyue glowered at him, wishing he could drop dead right then and there.

    "Quite a lovely sight you are," the Lieutenant said and smiled. "But you''re irritating. You see, we are honorable men, but we won''t hesitate to slit your throat if you continue to annoy us¡ª" he paused.

    "Sir!" his soldier called out, but it was all toote.

    Heiyue had charged forward, rope and all. He did not care about the noose tightening around his neck, or the man he was dragging behind him.

    "You fool!" the Lieutenant roared when his soldier let go of the rope.

    Heiyue had ran off.

 Chapter 210 A Lifetime

    <h4>Chapter 210 A Lifetime</h4>

    Li Xueyue silently cheered on the inside. If Heiyue would return home without his Master, the stable boy would immediately alert everyone. There would be a massive search for her.

    The Lieutenant sneered. "Let that horse go. He''s blind. I doubt he will know his way back here."

    Li Xueyue felt her hope instantly die off. Did Heiyue know the way back home? She hoped he did. Her horse was smart so he wouldn''t get lost. But then again, it was their first time riding this far.

    She had a bad feeling about this.

    "Sir, what are we going to do about the girl?"

    "Blindfold her."

    "Yes, sir."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t even protest when a cloth was tightly wrapped over her eyes.

    "Knock her out."

    Her eyes widened. Before she knew it, a harsh blow was dealt on her head. The force was so strong, it felt like her entire brain shook inside of her skull.

    It did not take long for her body to slump motionlessly.

    "And the tiger?" the soldier said.

    "He already left. Most likely to his master," the Lieutenant sighed, ncing in the direction that the tiger disappeared off to. He could not believe his leader would let it wander around like that without a chain cor.

    No one knew how their leader tamed a tiger, but perhaps it had to do with the fact that he raised it since the tiger was a cub.

    - - - - -

    "Please spare us! We did not know!" a voice wailed in the distance as loud crashes could be heard.

    There was the shuffling of clothes before the sound of men dropping to their knees could be heard.

    Li Xueyue felt like her world was spinning. She was lying upon something soft and warm but did not know what it was. Her head was no longer pounding, but it was very sore.

    With her eyes closed, she rubbed the spot that was bothering her. Everything was fine until it wasn''t. Memories of what happened shed in her mind.

    Immediately, she snapped her eyes open just as the clink of a sword being unsheathed could be heard.

    "How dare you touch her?!" a voice roared like that of a ferocious beast.

    Li Xueyue had never heard something so frightsome. She nervously looked around her, realizing theck of ropes bounding her together. Her eyes widened at the scene that unfolded before her.

    "I should cut off your hands for this," he seethed in a low, dangerous voice.

    A familiar back, a familiar posture, a familiar set of ck robes.

    She was dreaming. It had to be a dream.

    What was he doing here? He was grabbing a man by his throat. The Lieutenant was being choked to near-death.

    Lu Tianbi leaned against one of the poles holding up the tent, her attention focused elsewhere. She could not bear to witness the sight of her raging Commander.

    Hu Dengxiao heaved a sigh, knowing this would get rough. When the Second Prince was aggravated, no one could hold him back. Not even groups of men.

    There was no point in trying to hold him back. He would simply kill those who get in his way. That was how the Second Prince behaved. And that was what the soldiers had to ept.

    Hu Dengxiao was standing beside Lu Tianai. He patted her on the back but she pped his hand away.

    "Yu Zhen¡­?" The words left Li Xueyue''s mouth before she could hold her tongue.

    It took two simple words to grab the Commander''s attention. It was only his name, yet she was able to quell his wrath. Perhaps, it was not these two words that worked like magic. It was her voice, frightened and hesitant, like a nervous bunny.

    What would take tens of men a long time to calm him down only took her a single second.

    Commander Yu Zhen dropped the man he was holding. He turned around, a murderous expression on his face. But that did not scare her. He would never terrify her. She knew that much.

    He would never hurt her. But she had hurt him.

    "What do you want?" he snapped.

    Li Xueyue opened and closed her mouth. She had never seen him like this. He had never treated her like this. After what she had done to him, what did she expect? For him to wee her with a smile and hold her like he used to?

    Li Xueyue wished she was stronger than this. She wished she was not weak. Her eyes watered and her throat tightened. She had missed him. Even if red gs were waving in front of her, she did not care. For his sake, she would pretend to be colorblind. Red gs, green gs, they did not matter. She never knew what she lost until it was gone. And the days without him had been tortuous.

    Yu Zhen''s expression hardened at the sight of her moist eyes. "Everyone get out," he seethed.

    Lu Tianbi nervously nced at Li Xueyue, wondering if she would be alright.

    No one knew what happened on the Li training grounds. No one knew their great Commander was rejected for the first time in his life.

    Nheless, Lu Tianbi couldn''t do anything but obey her higher-up, even if he was a friend. Dragging Hu Dengxiao by the wrist, she left therge tent that was practically the size of a cabin.

    The soldiers and the Lieutenant rushed out of the tent as well, wandering far away from it.

    "Speak," Yu Zhen deadpanned, glowering at her. He was furious with himself, but also at her.

    Li Xueyue had broken his heart, yet here he was, disciplining his men because of her. He should''ve never stolen the decrees. He should''ve quietly left Hanjian. So why the hell was he doing this? Why did he waste resources and men for her sake? Was it to see her onest time? Was it to give her a reason to go with him to Hanjian? Was it to see that tiny smile of hers?

    There were so many things he wanted to say or do, but he held it in. He swallowed his pride and dignity for her.

    Yu Zhen remained rooted in his spot, even when his supposedly broken heart yearned for her. She was going to cry. He could predict that much. Every part of him wanted to dash to her and dry her eyes. He wanted to reassure her that everything would be okay. He would y her demons, so long as she asked.

    But the thing was, she never asked. He still did it. At his own expense.

    "You''re wasting my time," Yu Zhen growled. He turned his back to her and headed for the entrance of the tent.

    Li Xueyue panicked. The familiar sight of his disappearing form terrified her. She never wanted to see it again. She never wanted him to leave.

    Everything within her told her to look away. To turn her back to him, to ignore him, to do anything but chase him. Yet, she did the opposite of that. She scrambled off the bed and ran to him.

    Li Xueyue did not dare to touch him. She lost that right the day she yed his heart. It was her fault for tempting him, for teasing him, expecting he would understand where everything came from.

    So, she grabbed his sleeves.

    It was the lightest of touch, a tug that would never be able to hold him back, but Yu Zhen instantly paused for her. He couldn''t take another step forward. It was as if an invisible force was holding him back.

    Yu Zhen cursed himself for stopping for her. Why was he doing this? He had already gotten his heart broken once and had yet to heal. But like a moth drawn to a me, destined to burn and die, he waited for her to speak.

    Hell, his heart skipped a giddy beat. He hated himself. If only he knew, she hated herself more.

    "Stay."

    One word, onemand, and a lifetime of heartbreak for he did not listen to her plea.

 Chapter 211 To Hurt Her

    <h4>Chapter 211 To Hurt Her</h4>

    Yu Zhen roughly yanked his arm away from her. "Don''t touch me," he snapped.

    He heard her heart break before he witnessed it. He left her there, without a single nce in her direction.

    Li Xueyue dropped to her knees. She would not cry. She told herself that tears were for the weak; that she no longer had it in her to cry anymore. So why was it that tears trickled down from her eyes? Why was it that her entire chest swelled and her throat clogged?

    The heartbreak was too much to exin. She cried and cried for the man she had lost and the pride she had tossed away. But it was not loud wails and pleas. That was unlike her.

    She cried in silence, because that''s what she was trained to do. She cried silent tears that no one witnessed, but one person knew.

    "Li Xueyue, you damn fool¡­"

    - - - - -

    Lu Tianbi stood by the edge of the forest that Yu Zhen had wandered off into. She let out a sigh, staring up at the sky, wondering why he was doing all of this just to see the Princess.

    "I don''t get it," Hu Dengxiao mumbled, kicking a pebble. "He''s doing so much for her, but he doesn''t even tell her anything."

    "Poor thing," Lu Tianbu said and shook her head. "She shouldn''t have gotten on his bad side."

    "I don''t think she''s on his bad side," Hu Dengxiao said. "If she was, we''d know."

    "Trust me, the Commander despises her," Lu Tianbi said. "If he didn''t, why would he leave the tent? I saw she was on the verge of tears. I bet he didn''t evenfort her."

    "If he hated that Princess, he wouldn''t have punished the Lieutenant and told us to leave. He could''ve embarrassed her in front of all of us, but he didn''t," Hu Dengxiao pointed out.

    "What do you think happened between them?" Lu Tianbi asked. "I wonder what she did to piss him off like that?"

    Hu Dengxiao shrugged. "I wish I knew."

    Lu Tianbi shook her head again. "You know, when he rounded up all of the soldiers, I thought he was going to take us back to Hanjian. Didn''t you hear about the letter that the Eunuch urgently sent out?"

    "Of course I know about the letter. The Second Prince was at her house that day when we sent a Eunuch to hurry and fetch him home. It''s been almost two weeks and a half since that incident."

    Lu Tianbi scowled. "Don''t give me attitude."

    "I''m not." Hu Dengxiao pouted.

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes at this man-child. "We should be hurrying back to Hanjian instead of lurking here in the forest of Wuyi. The Second Prince''s presence is urgently needed in Hanjian. It''s his best opportunity to snatch the throne."

    "What if our Prince doesn''t want to be the Emperor? Have you ever thought about that?" Hu Dengxiao mumbled. "Maybe he''d like a peaceful life outside of the Pce and live blissfully with his Wangfei [1]."

    "Our Second Prince will never be able to live blissfully," Lu Tianbi deadpanned.

    Hu Dengxiao swallowed. "I know. I just wish he could."

    Lu Tianbi opened her mouth but closed it when she saw her Commander. She straightened up and handed him the towel.

    "Thanks," he muttered, taking it and wiping the sweat off of his features.

    "Where were you?" Hu Dengxiao huffed. "The prisoners woke up."

    "Did you secure the area?" Yu Zhen asked.

    "Of course," Lu Tianbi said. "No one should be able to hear us for miles anyways. No one lives around here, we''re too deep in the forest for their screams to be heard."

    "Good," Yu Zhen said. "Let''s have some fun."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she had cried herself asleep until she found herself back on the bed. Where had she fallen asleep in the first ce? By the entrance of the tent? That was embarrassing.

    She sat up in the bed, realizing her headache was no longer there. When she touched her head, she felt the familiar cloth of a bandage.

    She saw something move out of the corner of her eyes.

    Li Xueyue shifted in her position to look in that direction. His back was faced to her and he seemed thoroughly engrossed in something. Or he was simply ignoring her?

    Li Xueyue realized the soft thing she had woken up to initially was a fur nket. Thick and luscious, she ran her hand upon it.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he knew she was awake. He must have. Her clothes had rustled. She looked down and noticed she was dirtying his bed. Her robes were brown from its contact with the soil when she was yanked off of her horse.

    Nervously, she pulled her hand back from the fur nket. Did he not care that she was staining his bed? Why had he ced it over her? She must''ve looked like a mess.

    "You can continue patting it."

    Li Xueyue jumped, startled by his voice.

    Despite speaking to her, his back was still facing her. She wondered what he was doing.

    Li Xueyue tilted her body, angling herself for a better view. She finally caught a whiff of it¡ªthe heavy stench of blood. Her face paled and goosebumps rose.

    Yu Zhen pretended his stained knives were more important than her. He continued wiping them even though he knew he was smearing the blood, and that it was better to just wash them off with water.

    Yu Zhen wanted to be around her. He needed to. He couldn''t help but guard her while she slept.

    Yu Zhen cursed himself to hell and back for not leaving her on the ground when she fell asleep there. He should''ve just let her sleep there. When the curtains blew, everyone could catch a sight of her stupid, unconscious body.

    Yu Zhen could''ve made a fool of her, but didn''t. He could never do that to her.

    Despite what she had done to him, Yu Zhen could not find it in himself to hurt her.

    Yu Zhen stiffened when she grabbed his arm. Before he could speak, she opened her mouth and asked, "Are you injured?"

    What? He couldn''t even register her question.

    Li Xueyue''s eyesnded on the bloody daggers before her gaze snapped up to him. She gasped at the sight of him; blood sttered on his face, but he didn''t seem to care.

    Li Xueyue didn''t know she was trembling until she reached her hand towards his face. Where was the blooding from? Was it his? She cupped his face, turning it to examine for any signs of wounds.

    Yu Zhen''s body went tense. He should''ve pushed her away. Instead, he found himself bending down so that she did not have to tip-toe for so long. He let her touch him, something that was prohibited in Hanjian.

    All of the rules he set were broken by her. Every single one of them.

    "Does it hurt anywhere?" Li Xueyue shakily asked, reaching into her pocket for a handkerchief.

    Yu Zhen stilled. Why wasn''t she frightened by the blood? He knew there was blood on his face. He deliberately wanted her to see him in this state. He hoped it would frighten her. He hoped she would be so terrified of him, she would run out of this tent and demand to go home.

    Yu Zhen couldn''t send her back on his own ord. He needed her to tell him she wanted to go home. He needed her to yell at him, call him a monster, and all sorts of names. He needed her to chase him away, for he could not part from her.

    "Is this your blood?"

    Yu Zhen was too stunned to answer her. He stared at her, dumbfounded at himself and her.

    "I don''t see any injuries¡­" she added on.

    Li Xueyue wanted to know what the hell she was doing. She should be staying away from him, not touching him! But she couldn''t help it. The first sight of blood was enough for her heart to skip a beat. She was terrified at the thought that he was injured. The fear had propelled her to scramble off of the bed and grab him.

    What was she thinking?

    She obviously wasn''t thinking!

    Noticing his bleak stare, she dropped her hands and took a step back. "I didn''t mean to grab you."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know what to do with her fingers. It was now covered with blood. She could only awkwardly stand there as he continued to gawk at her. She nervously forced a smile on her face, wondering if it would encourage him to say something, anything.

    And he did, but it was not what she expected.

    "Li Xueyue, I loathe you."

 Chapter 212 How Dare You

    <h4>Chapter 212 How Dare You</h4>

    Li Xueyue was stunned but not surprised. Her heart was absolutely shattered by his words, but what did she expect? She had broken his. The least he could do was do the same. But why did it hurt so much? It was as if a thousand little needles were prickling at her chest, stinging her.

    Her eyes burned, her throat tightening. "I-I see."

    "I hate everything about you," Yu Zhen seethed, taking a step closer to her.

    Li Xueyue took one step back. He took another and the cycle continued. He was menacing and devious. His eyes burned her more than any fire could ever do to her. He looked at her as if she had murdered his family.

    Eventually, Li Xueyue was cornered against the bed. She didn''t realize it until her calves touched the edge of the bed and buckled. He did not stop advancing towards her. He shoved her onto the bed, her back pressing into the soft material.

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut when he mmed his hands down on either side of her head. He didn''t touch her. She pried her eyes open, surprised to see him up close.

    He was breathtakingly beautiful. Nothing in this world could ever rival his appearance. She would never forget this face¡ªnot even if she tried. It would be the face haunting her in the future¡ªthe face of the man she had to let go.

    And decades from now, she would still think of him. When another man would touch her, she would think of him. When another man would hug her, she would wish it was his arms.

    Yu Zhen gued her thoughts mercilessly. His face, his appearance, his body, his touch, his hands, everything. Nothing could ever rece him. And she could not bring herself to find another man.

    "How dare you," Yu Zhen breathed out. "How fucking dare you?"

    Li Xueyue was puzzled. What was he talking about? When their eyes met, her heart skipped a beat. Never had she seen anything so vicious and terrifying. His eyes resembled a night without stars¡ªdim and hopeless, there was nothing weing about him. His aura was overbearing and it suffocated her. If she looked closely, she could see the doors of death looming behind him.

    "What gave you the right to torture me?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. What was he talking about?

    "Why do you gue my thoughts? Why does my heart still beat for you? Why does my entire world still revolve around you?!"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened.

    "Why are you doing this to me?" he seethed.

    She did not know.

    "Why¡­ do I still care about you?" His voice cracked in utter defeat.

    Li Xueyue had never seen a man so angered yet broken at the same time. Anguish shed in his eyes, blending into the dark abyss devoid of hope and light. Did she do this to him? What happened to the glimmer and brilliant hues of volcanic opal?

    His sharp jaw was taut, twitching as he clenched his teeth. He did not know what to do with her. He was still drawn to her, his heart yearning for that timid smile. There was so much he wanted to say but didn''t.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered. It was the only thing she could say.

    "Sorry?" Yu Zhen repeated, irritation recing his pain. "What can ''sorry'' do? Can it turn back time?"

    "No, but it can mend a broken heart."

    "My heart is not broken," he spat out. "You never had it in the first ce."

    "Then why are you doing this?" Li Xueyue asked, reaching up to touch his face. She wondered if he realized he had instantly leaned into her hand.

    Yu Zhen told himself he should''ve looked away. It was better to leave this ce for good. The longer he stayed in Wuyi, the more he wanted her for himself.

    "You''re the most selfish woman I know."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. Words did not hurt her, she had heard much worse.

    Li Xueyue knew he was trying to hurt her. He could not do it physically, so he resorted to different weapons.

    Was this how he coped with pain? Byforting himself with these insults? Was he trying to convince himself, or was he trying to convince her?

    "Everything about you pisses me off."

    "So why are you like this?" Li Xueyue gestured to their intimate position. He had pinned her down, leaving her with no room to escape.

    His fingers balled the nkets, threatening to rip the fur. "Stop asking me stupid questions."

    "Your actions contradict your words."

    "Li Xueyue, if you do not shut your mouth¡ª"

    "I hurt you, didn''t I?"

    Yu Zhen tensed.

    "I didn''t mean to," Li Xueyue whispered. "I thought by pushing you away, you would move on. We''re not good for each other."

    "We''re not," he agreed.

    "Even so, I''m still drawn to you," Li Xueyue said.

    Yu Zhen could not bear to look at her any longer. Those eyes of hers shimmered like the stars he had seen on his way back to Wuyi''s capital. High in the sky, filled with hope and light, yet so afar and unattainable. It was so cliche of him to think of such ideas, but he could not help it.

    "You will stop whatever you''re doing to me," Yu Zhen said.

    "What?"

    "You will walk out of my life. Never return. And our paths will never cross again."

    Li Xueyue dropped her hands, pressing it to her chest, wishing it would subdue the pain. This was precisely what she wanted. But their days of separation told her otherwise. The depression she had felt, the mncholy that drowned her, she didn''t want to experience the same pain ever again.

    She wanted to keep her emotions bottled up. And when the jar threatened to crack, she wished it would never be in his presence. She never wanted him to see her at her lowest.

    Li Xueyue should''ve listened to her gut feeling. The best option was to push him off and demand to go home. Everyone must''ve been worried about her.

    "I can''t," she admitted for once.

    Immediately, her shoulders felt lightened, as if an unbearable pressure was lifted.

    "Xueyue, you can''t be this cruel."

    "I will."

    "You¡ª"

    "Come back to me," Li Xueyue whispered, lifting her hands to grab his neck. He had chased her in this entire rtionship, it was time for him to know, he had seeded.

    "Don''t call me Xueyue, call me by that stupid nickname. Sunshine, Little Hamster, I don''t care. Call me anything but Xueyue."

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. A memory shed before his eyes. During an encounter in the past, she had demanded him to call her by her name. But it was too formal for him to do so. Nicknames were more intimate. It meant there was a rtionship between them, a link that would allow such teasing.

    Yu Zhen was hurt by her once. He refused to experience it again. "No."

    Her eyes widened. She was caught off guard.

    Yu Zhen''s features hardened. He climbed off of her and stormed out of the tent.

    Li Xueyue sat there, bewildered at his words. Finally, she registered the powerful impact of a single word. And her world shattered.

 Chapter 213 Do You Want Me to Die Early?

    <h4>Chapter 213 Do You Want Me to Die Early?</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t know how long she sat on that bed, dazed and heartbroken by his rejection. The pain was too much to bear. It felt as if the entire world was against her, and she would never feel joy ever again. Her chest hurts, her eyes hurt, everything hurts.

    The more time she spent there, the sadder she became. Climbing off the bed, she approached the tent''s entrance. She observed the heavy cloth material of the entire tent that was supported by pirs of wood. It was incredibly sturdy and reminded her of the tents from the Spring Tournament, except, this one was much bigger.

    Li Xueyue stepped out of the tent with the intention of going home. The grounds outside were bustling with noise. The sun had set and nightfall was quickly approaching. Soldiers were huddled around fires, some cooked, others conversed andughed amongst themselves. It was festive and there was a hum of music in the air.

    In the far corner, there was a group of men being disciplined. Judging by their familiar faces, she knew they were the soldiers who kidnapped her here. Half of them were doing drills of exercises, whereas the other was forced to train until they dropped.

    "Princess Li," a voice called out from her side.

    Li Xueyue turned. She was met with the familiar smile of Hu Dengxiao who resembled a big puppy, much like Wenmin.

    "How may I help you?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue realized they had garnered unwanted attention. A few soldiers were staring at her now. It must''ve been because of her messy appearance that she resembled a birds'' nest. Or the fact that she had stepped out of their Commander''s tent¡ªan unfamiliar woman.

    "I''m looking for Yu Zhen."

    Hu Dengxiao''s expression softened. "He''s unavable right now, Princess Li."

    "He stole something from me," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "The royal decrees?"

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. "Yes, how did you know?"

    "It was the reason why he immobilized his troops."

    "I don''t understand¡­?"

    "You won''t unless the Commander tells you what he did," Hu Dengxiao said.

    "What did he do?"

    Hu Dengxiao''s smile dropped apologetically. "It''s his personal business. You will have to ask him yourself, Princess Li."

    "Which I can''t do, because you said he''s busy."

    Hu Dengxiao slowly nodded. He didn''t think she was this bold and confident. Despite his happy-go-lucky personality, not many women had the courage to speak out like her.

    Hu Dengxiao wondered if she truly grew up in a horrible past. "You must be hungry, Princess Li. I''ll bring you food. It may not be as fancy as the meal you enjoy at home, but it''s tasty."

    "Can you lend me a horse?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "What for?"

    "I want to go home."

    "You can''t!" Hu Dengxiao blurted out.

    Li Xueyue jumped at his unexpected yell.

    "I-I apologize, I didn''t mean to raise my voice."

    "Why can''t I leave?" she asked. "Your men kidnapped me on my father''s territory."

    "I know," Hu Dengxiao cringed. "We didn''t mean to be so rough. My men thought you were a trespasser. They didn''t know you''re the Commander''s woman."

    "I''m not his woman," she said.

    "But where else would his pendant be?" Hu Dengxiao softly frowned. "I noticed it was missing. He couldn''t have possibly lost it."

    Li Xueyue wrung her fingers together. "Nevermind."

    Hu Dengxiao scratched his head. "It was easy to capture them, you know."

    "Capture who?"

    "Nevermind," Hu Dengxiao mocked.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her gaze. Scratch that, Hu Dengxiao did not remind her of Li Wenmin. This man was much more cunning.

    Hu Dengxiao brightly smiled. "I will bring supper to you. Please head back inside the tent, Princess Li."

    Li Xueyue had no other choice. "I don''t want supper." She forced a polite nod and headed back into the tent, leaving Hu Dengxiao stunned.

    Hu Dengxiao had expected her to throw a haughty tantrum. He thought she would make a fool out of herself, but she didn''t. Except for her confident remarks, there wasn''t anything to nitpick at.

    Hu Dengxiao let out a sigh. "At least she''s good at holding her emotions in." Hu Dengxiao carelessly shrugged. "Oh well, if she doesn''t want to eat, then she won''t get anything. It''s not my fault if she starves."

    "You''ll be in trouble when the Commander discovers you starved his woman," Lu Tianbi spoke up, stepping out of the shadows.

    "Gah!" Hu Dengxiao jumped. "Where did youe from?"

    "I finished bathing by the river," Lu Tianbi said, quirking a brow at his horrified expression. "Are you that much of a scaredy-cat?"

    "You shouldn''t bathe when the men are awake," Hu Dengxiao hissed. He grabbed the towel wrapped around her shoulders and tossed it over her head, furiously wiping at her wet hair. He gulped upon seeing her exposed neck.

    "What if someone saw you?" he harshly scolded.

    "Well, people did see me."

    "What?!" Hu Dengxiao paused.

    "I was bathing with the other female soldiers," she said.

    "Oh." Hu Dengxiao blinked. "It would''ve been better if you guys bathed at night when everyone is asleep."

    "We won''t be able to see who''s trying to peep on us during night time."

    "True¡­"

    Lu Tianbi pped his hand away. "You''re wiping my hair too harshly."

    "S-sorry¡­" Hu Dengxiao sheepishly said.

    "Anyway, go get the Princess some food." Lu Tianbi wished he wasn''t so tall. She couldn''t see past his shoulders. She wanted to look and check if the food was done, but couldn''t because he was blocking her view.

    "But Princess Li didn''t want any!" Hu Dengxiao whined, angrily swishing his shoulders like a grumbling child.

    Lu Tianbi frowned. "That can''t be true. I heard she enjoys eating."

    "Well, maybe she''s not in the mood to eat. We kidnapped her and she''s being held?hostage."

    "It''s not like we intended to kidnap her. It''s just the Commander who refuses to let her leave," Lu Tianbi said.

    "True, but what can we do?"

    "We should be sending her back home," Lu Tianbi deadpanned. "Not keep her in that tent."

    "Why don''t you tell the Commander that?"

    "Do you want me to die early?" she retorted.

    "No."

    "Then I won''t tell him." Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes. "You need to think more."

    "I do think!"

    "About what?" she mused.

    "You." The edge of his lips rose into arge grin.

    Lu Tianbi couldn''t wipe the smile off of her face. She turned away from him. "You''re stupid."

    "I know."

    "Don''t agree with me."

    "Okay," heughed.

    "Dengxiao!"

    "Fine, fine," he said, holding up his hands. "You girls get riled up so easily."

    "Hard to believe I''m the voice of reason here," she muttered.

    "Me too," he agreed, snickering when she threw him a scathing re.

    "Shut up and go grab her food. I''ll check up on her," Lu Tianbi said, tossing the moist towel at him.

    Hu Dengxiao effortlessly caught it. He gulped and watched her walk off. He wondered how long it would be before she finally looked his way. As Lu Tianbi walked towards the tent, she paused and smiled at what a passing soldier told her.

    Hu Dengxiao''s expression darkened. What the hell did that man say to make her so happy? He wished she would smile andugh like that with him.

    "Stop being so stupid," Hu Dengxiao said to himself. The soldiers were theirrades. It was silly to get so worked up over a small conversation, but he couldn''t help it.

    Hu Dengxiao had known Lu Tianbi for as long as he could remember. There was not a time she smiled at him in the same goofy manner that he did. She had always looked at him, but not in the way he wanted her to. She viewed him as a friend, he viewed her as a woman.

    "Just go grab the food," Hu Dengxiao huffed. "Don''t loiter here," he reprimanded himself.

    Despite his ownmands, he remained rooted and watched Lu Tianbi head into the tent. Abruptly, she ran back out with a horrified expression. Their eyes met and in an instant, Hu Dengxiao rushed to her.

    "What happened?"

    "The Princess, she''s gone!"

 Chapter 214 Feeding Time

    <h4>Chapter 214 Feeding Time</h4>

    "What do you mean she''s gone?!" Hu Dengxiao loudly whispered, gesturing for Lu Tianbi to lower her voice as well. He surveyed his surroundings, and luckily, no one had heard them.

    "Go see for yourself!" Lu Tianbi hissed. She angrily flicked her wrist at the tent''s entrance which was a thick and unwavering curtain.

    Hu Dengxiao poked his head inside, and sure enough, the littledy was nowhere to be seen. "How did she escape?"

    "It must''ve happened when I was talking to you. I couldn''t look over your shoulder, so I must''ve not seen her sneak off."

    "This is bad, she can''t be wandering around," Hu Dengxiao worriedly said, his brows scrunching together.

    "I know," she snapped, "It''s Xiao Juzi[1]''s [1] feeding time!"

    "I still can''t believe our Second Prince literally named the tiger ''little orange''!" Hu Dengxiao scowled. "First he names his horse the color of her chestnut coat and then¡ª"

    "You''re digressing from the important topic at hand!" Lu Tianbi exasperated. "Come on, we have to find her before Xiao Juzi does."

    "Y-you don''t think Xiao Juzi would eat her right? I mean, our Commander feeds him so well."

    Lu Tianbi cringed at the bloody image that shed in her mind. "Let''s hope Xiao Juzi doesn''t want fresh prey today."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue didn''t mean to wander off. She wanted to use the bathroom and thought it would be in a secluded spot somewhere in the forest. But now she was lost in the said forest. Turning left and right, everywhere looked the same. Which direction did shee from again?

    Li Xueyue let out a frustrated sigh. "Way to go, you idiot," she mumbled.

    Li Xueyue walked around a bit. A gentle breeze blew past her and she caught a whiff of something delicious. Her eyes lit up. That must be the direction of the campsite!

    She began to hurry in that direction, following the mouthwatering scent of food. That is, until her path was blocked by the same tiger she had seen with Li Wenmin.

    Instantly, Li Xueyue froze, her eyes grew wide. She was petrified at the sight of the enormous tiger who hadzily crossed her path.

    The tiger nced at her and bared his bright yellow fangs. Li Xueyue saw her life shrivel before her eyes.

    "G-good tiger," she stuttered out.

    Li Xueyue almost facepalmed herself at how stupid she seemed. It was a tiger for goodness sake, not a dog! Besides, why was this tiger continuously showing up everywhere she went? First, it was the fields and now it was in the forest.

    Who did this temperamental animal belong to? She doubted anyone would be crazy enough to raise a beast as their pet.

    The tiger growled in warning, daring her to take a step forward. It guarded the path leading back to the campsite.

    Li Xueyue had no other choice but to slowly back away, heading in the other direction. The tiger watched her movement with sharp eyes.

    Li Xueyue was mindful of her steps. She was careful to not step on a branch and irritate the animal. Was that blood on his lips? She gulped.

    "I-I don''t taste good," she said, even though the tiger probably didn''t understand her. "Really, I''m all bones and skin."

    The tiger continued staring her down as she slowly backed into the forest. Li Xueyue made sure they didn''t make any eye contact. She was mindful to not turn her back on him.

    Inch by inch, she began disappearing into the forest. She backed away until the tiger was no longer in sight. Even so, she continued walking backwards, her eyes trained in the direction the tiger was most likely resting.

    Eventually, herck of awareness of her surroundings caused a massive trip. She let out a loud yelp before falling directly onto her backside. pping a hand over her mouth, her eyes grew wide. D-did the tiger hear her?

    Li Xueyue held her breath. The only noise she could hear was the furious thump of her petrified heart. A few seconds went by and there wasn''t any reaction.

    "I get to live for another day," Li Xueyue gasped, patting her chest.

    Li Xueyue observed her surroundings and decided it would be better to walk in the same direction she intended. Except, this time, it would be a few feet away from the tiger. She hoped and prayed the tiger wouldn''t have a heightened sense of smell like Heiyue.

    Speaking of her horse, she suddenly felt a sense of dread. What if Heiyue got lost on his way back? What if he was stranded in the forest right now, frightened and hungry? She chewed her bottom lip, antsy that something could happen to her beloved friend.

    "Please be okay, please be okay," she repeated under her breath as she began the trudge back to the camp.

    Just then, she saw something shifted out of the corner of her eyes. Li Xueyue''s head snapped in that direction and it was then she saw him. His tall figure was unmistakable. Through the evergreen trees, he stood out the most in his dark clothing.

    Where was he going?

    Li Xueyue decided to follow him. If there was anyone who knew their way back to the camp it would be Yu Zhen. Thus, she picked up her pace and began to tiptoe ahead.

    Her footsteps were light and airy. She took extra care to not step on a twig. He was heading somewhere she least expected. He was strutting deeper into the forest.

    It was toote to go back to where they came from. Li Xueyue had no choice but to follow him, hoping he''d guide her back to the camp.

    However, they reached a different spot that was heavily guarded. The campsite was just a few feet away. It was then she realized howrge the campgrounds were. It must''ve stretched at least a mile.

    How was this possible? How did no one see Hanjian''s soldiers out here?

    Li Xueyue finally realized these were unimed territory. It didn''t belong to the Duke and was far from the manor walls. The Li family guards didn''t need to patrol here.

    "So many soldiers here¡­" she muttered, noticing there were at least twoyers of soldiers surrounding an inconspicuous tent.

    Li Xueyue watched from the trees as Yu Zhen began approaching the tent. He disappeared into it and shortly after, a bloodcurdling scream pierced the air.

    Terrified at the noise that sounded like a pig being ughtered, she tripped over her footing. Luckily, she was able to slip behind the tree, pressing a hand to her mouth. Her breathing quickened, her eyes growing wide.

    Being discovered was the least of her worries. In the distance, she could see the looming figure of a striped animal. The tiger wasing this way, most likely attracted by the animalistic screams.

    "NOOOOO!" a high-pitched voice shrieked. It was apanied by another wail so terrifying, she nearly fainted.

    Li Xueyue trembled at the horrific sound. She could not control her heart that mmed against her rib cage. The fear was simply too much and the tiger was approaching closer to her now.

    She had made direct eye contact with the orange beast. This was it. She was going to die today.

    The tiger was just an arm''s length away from her.

    Li Xueyue suddenly made the decision. "I can''t die young like this! Not before I start a family, with adorable children, and azy dog who loves snacks as much as I do!" she whispered.

    Li Xueyue was left with no choice but to reveal her position. As the tiger approached her, she slipped out of the trees.

    "HALT!" a voice screamed at her. "Turn around."

    Li Xueyue shakily pointed to the tiger. "W-we can''t turn our backs on a tiger. I read it somewhere they''ll pounce on you."

    She heard the shuffling of feet as guards departed this ce. She turned her head a bit and saw two soldiers disappear into the tent.

    Li Xueyue felt like she had jumped from the pan to the fire. Yu Zhen had emerged from the tent no less than a secondter. Stormy eyed and lips curled in a sneer, he looked far from pleased.

    [1] Juzi is Mandarin for orange (the color and the fruit)! Xiao means "small" or "little," so the tiger''s name roughly trantes to "Little Orange" xD

 Chapter 215 Third Leg

    <h4>Chapter 215 Third Leg</h4>

    Yu Zhen wondered if she had a special skill of putting herself in danger. He closed the distance between them and rudely grabbed her by the elbow. She nced up at him, surprised at his rough behavior.

    "Xiao Juzi, down," Yu Zhen demanded.

    Xiao Juzi tilted his head, his golden gaze flickered from the interesting prey to his Master. He swished his tail, his eyes no longer in a slit. His ears perked up and he approached them.

    "Xiao Juzi," Yu Zhen warned.

    Xiao Juzi took his sweet time parading to his Master.

    When he was just a few feet away, Li Xueyue grabbed Yu Zhen''s arm, frightened by therge animal. Did this frightsome tiger truly belong to him? Howe she had never heard of this?

    Li Xueyue recalled seeing this animal when she was hunting with Li Wenmin. Did that mean Yu Zhen was in the Capital earlier in the week?

    Suddenly, Li Xueyue remembered how the tiger had bared his teeth. He had effortlessly torn through the flesh of its prey and watched them through the slit of his narrowed eyes.

    Anxious at the approaching animal, Li Xueyue unknowingly inched closer to Yu Zhen, seeking hisfort. She hoped this tiger would not bite the hand that fed it.

    Yu Zhen''s lips twitched. She was cing her entire weight upon his arm. He was not in the best of mood, but her touch was enough to distract him. Her fingers dug into his clothes and she let out a small whimper when Xiao Juzi was less than an arm''s length away.

    "It likes to bite people."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped up to Yu Zhen. Her eyes were wide with terror, her skin paling. It was as if she heard the date of her execution.

    Yu Zhen found her petrified expression humorous. He wanted tough but resisted the urge to do so because it would give her the satisfaction that her charms were working on him again.

    "C-can Xiao Juzi not bite me then?"

    "He acts as he wishes."

    "Like his Master."

    "What was that?" Yu Zhen sniped.

    "He''s brazen like his Master!" Li Xueyue boldly retorted.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his gaze. "It seems Xiao Juzi is still hungry. Why don''t you donate a limb for his dinner snack?"

    "Why don''t you feed him your third leg?" she demanded, pushing off of him.

    Yu Zhen silently glowered at her. Even at a time like this, she was prideful and fearless. She was about to meet her impending doom. Li Xueyue should be appeasing him. She should''ve pleaded for her life and asked for his help to not be the tiger''s meal. Yet, she still found the time to bicker with him.

    Yu Zhen hated his body''s honest reaction towards her. Despite the irritation festering within him, he could not help but find her endearing. He spoiled her too much. He would always find justifications for each and every one of her tantrums.

    "He prefers the meat of little girls," Yu Zhenmented right when Xiao Juzi reached him.

    The massive tiger stopped a little over Yu Zhen''s knee. He circled his Master and taunted his prey at the same time. Xiao Juzi opened his mouth.

    Li Xueyue was absolutely horrified. Her life shed before her eyes. Shameless and brazen, shetched onto Yu Zhen yet again.

    Li Xueyue thought Xiao Juzi was opening his mouth to indicate he wanted food. But the damn tiger was simply yawning,zily stretching his tongue out.

    "You should''ve clung onto me a lot earlier," Yu Zhen snapped.

    "As if you have the right to talk about clinging onto a person, you pervert!" she said.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his gaze. Pervert? Was that what she thought of him?

    Xiao Juzi sensed his Master''s irritation. Letting out a quiet purr, he rubbed his body against Yu Zhen''s leg, seeking treats and adoration.

    A wicked n came to mind. Yu Zhen reached down and fondly patted Xiao Juzi upon the head. He curled his fingers and scratched the beast by the chin. Xiao Juzi was familiar with only one hand and his touch; it was that of the man who raised him ever since he was found in the forest as an abandoned cub.

    Xiao Juzi rubbed his head against his Master''s touch. When his Master ced a hand out for him to rest his head on, Xiao Juzi instantly seized the opportunity. Happily, he was given all the affectionate pats he craved all along.

    "I-it''s cute up close," Li Xueyue said.

    "It''ll be more adorable when he bites."

    "I hope he bites the hand that feeds him."

    Yu Zhen''s gaze snapped to her. Did she have no filter? Even his guards were anxiously shuffling in their shoes, not knowing if they should apprehend her. They had never witnessed someone as arrogant as her. No one speaks to the Second Prince that way.

    "You need a bigger vocabry, Li Xueyue," Yu Zhen sniped. "There were so many books in your library. You should try reading one."

    "I do."

    "Doesn''t seem like it."

    Li Xueyue refused to give in to his taunting. She licked her bottom lip. "You''re a thief for stealing from me."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes followed the tiny action. He swallowed and looked away. He couldn''t afford to be distracted by her. "I didn''t take your decrees."

    "Who said anything about decrees?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Li Xueyue threw him a scathing re, wishing it would burn him alive. Despite her words and behavior, she was still holding onto him for her dear life.

    Yu Zhen didn''t realize he had let his tongue slip. He was not one to reveal information so carelessly. What had gotten into him? He breathed in through his nose, hoping to regainposure. Except, he was assaulted by her intoxicating scent. She smelled as sweet as he hadst remembered. Whether it was her natural scent or something she bathed in, he did not know. He only wanted more of it. He recalled where his favorite spot was.

    "It''s looking at me," Li Xueyue suddenly said. "T-tell it to look away."

    Yu Zhen wickedly smiled. She was stiff as a tree beside him. Abruptly, he grabbed her fingers.

    Li Xueyue was too paralyzed by fear to retract her hand. She couldn''t tear her eyes away from the tiger''s. Lethal yet beautiful, the tiger was a fascinating sight, his eyes reminded her of a full moon.

    "What are you doing?" she asked in a trembling voice.

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond.

    Li Xueyue thought he would press gentle kisses upon the tips of her fingers as he always did. But that was too much to ask.

    Instead, he fluidly ced her fingers near Xiao Juzi''s nose. Li Xueyue freaked out. She struggled against Yu Zhen''s tight grip. "Stop it, don''t do this¡ª!"

    Xiao Juzi sniffed her fingers. She smelled like his Master. He licked her fingers.

    She nearly fainted.

    Her knees gave out, but Yu Zhen effortlessly grabbed her waist. "Careful," he said.

    Li Xueyue''s breathing came out in short, panicked puffs of air. She was so distracted by the tiger, she didn''t realize how intimate their position was. Yu Zhen had a protective arm around her. She was pressed against him. His lips brushed against the top of her head. A single movement and he would''ve kissed her temple.

    "I hate you," Li Xueyue whimpered, her fingers trembling. Yu Zhen closed it into a fist for her. Slowly, he retracted his hand and she immediately grabbed onto his robes.

    "The feeling is mutual," Yu Zhen muttered.

    She was quivering in his arms, and he wanted to do nothing but embrace her. How could he not? She was finally showing a docile side to him.

    What was so scary about a damn tiger? Yu Zhen had grown up with Xiao Juzi to know the tiger did not bite. He was simply trying to rile her up. Who would''ve expected his n to be so sessful?

    Yu Zhen made eye contact with his confused pet. Xiao Juzi''s raised ears indicated he was still in a pleasant mood. Yu Zhen let out a small chuckle and fondly patted his tiger on the head. It was just a big cat, that was all. Xiao Juzi licked his Master''s hand and rested the side of his head against Yu Zhen''s leg.

    "How long are you going to hold onto me for?"

    Li Xueyue stiffened at his question. She pulled her head back. Finally, she had realized how wanton her behavior was.

    Li Xueyue attempted to detach from him, but he did not let her. It took only one arm for her body to be pressed against his. His grip was iron-like and unbreakable. "Let me go then."

    "I can''t."

    "Why not?"

    Yu Zhen pondered over the question. There wasn''t a proper response he could give her. He simply liked the idea of having her in his arms. It was where she belonged¡ªwith him, and no one else.

    Peering down at her, he could see all of her¡ªfrom her erged eyes, drowning in fear, yet sharp with feistiness, to her lips, delectable and parted. He could not tear his gaze from her. She was a drug. She was the one addiction he did not mind.

    She let out a small gasp when he bent his head. His lips softly brushed against hers. It was a simple graze, but her heart quickened.

    Softly, slowly, he uttered his response. "Because you''re mine. I will never let you go. I won''t have it any other way."

 Chapter 216 Stop

    <h4>Chapter 216 Stop</h4>

    Li Xueyue wished he would stop torturing her like this. One minute, he was cold, and the next, he was warm. How was she supposed to react to such a confession? Only one answer came to mind.

    "Then never let me go," she softly uttered. "Hold me for as long as you deem suitable. A lifetime, a century, I do not mind."

    Yu Zhen was stunned by her words. Did she truly mean it?

    Yu Zhen wished he could believe her, but he couldn''t. Not after the number of times, she had yed with his heart.

    "Yet another selfish response," Yu Zhen said and released her.

    Li Xueyue forced herself to smile when she wanted to cry. She was never this emotional, but when it came to him, all of her pent up tears seemed to flow. She told herself that his words didn''t hurt. That her heart wasn''t stabbed by him. That the pain in her chest was just a mere illusion.

    With his warmth gone, she was freezing cold. Nightfall had approached and she was in nothing but thin riding clothes. Nheless, she clenched her chattering teeth and looked away.

    Xiao Juzi did not spare her a second look. This prey was weird. He wondered if he could eat it, or he should just ignore it.

    "Guide the Princess back to the tent," Yu Zhen ordered a soldier.

    The soldier bowed his head. "Right away, Commander."

    "What''s in there?" Li Xueyue asked, pointing to where she had heard the grotesque scream. She saw a handful of soldiers were preparing twonterns to light up their view.

    "None of your business."

    "Are you raising animals there?" she continued to inquire. "I heard an animalistic wail."

    "Under the right circumstances," he mused.?"Humans can also make that noise."

    Li Xueyue felt like lightning had struck her. She was bewildered, yet frightful of his words. What did he mean by that? She licked her bottom lip, unable to tear her gaze from his satanic smile. She once admired his eyes, filled with depth and brilliance. Now, it was wide, crazed, and thirsty for blood. But whose? Was it hers?

    "Who''s in there?"

    "Would you like to see?"

    The soldiers stiffened. They exchanged looks with each other, wondering if they should speak up. The gruesome scene was not something a Princess like her should see.

    Li Xueyue felt like she would die of curiosity if he denied her. Nervously, she licked her bottom lip. "A-are you going to hurt me?"

    "Yes."

    "What?!"

    "A stupid question deserves a stupid response," Yu Zhen snapped. He ground his teeth, his fingers tightening into fists. Did she truly think he would every a hand on her? How idiotic of her. Was there ever a time he had intentionally harmed her?

    "I want to see what''s inside."

    Yu Zhen smirked. This would be an interesting test. "Follow me then."

    Li Xueyue didn''t behave as she was told. Instead of trailing behind him, she boldly matched his footsteps. Side by side, she forced herself to catch up to hisrge strides.

    The soldiers nced at each other again. No one knew of her identity, but judging from her behavior, they knew she wasn''t a simple woman. Perhaps, she was the Commander''s woman. They sneakily peered at her onest time. Noticing theck of discontent on their Commander''s face, the soldiers knew, she was not one to be messed with. That, and the fact their Lieutenant was forced to train the entire day and night.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he was truly cruel enough to make a human scream as such. She turned to examine his dark, prominent features. Could such a handsome man be capable of questionable deeds?

    He once said he was cruel, but not to her. What a lie that was. Then again, she could not argue with him about such ims. She was the one who pushed him to behave like this.

    Letting out a quiet sigh, Li Xueyue hugged her elbows and focused her attention elsewhere. It was cold and the frost was nipping at her arms.

    The soldiers expectedly stared at their Commander. The proper thing to do was lend her his heavy cape. It would keep her warm andfortable.

    Yu Zhen didn''t bother to pay her any mind. He continued walking, ignoring her the entire time. When they reached the tent, her nose crinkled. Her ears perked, straining to hear the questionable sounds emitting from the inconspicuous tent.

    "Commander," the guards greeted, cupping their fists and bowing to pay their respects.

    Yu Zhen nodded in acknowledgment. He entered the tent without antern. He had no need for it. His eyes were trained to handle the darkness.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. He didn''t even hold the curtains open for her. Ignoring his discourtesy, she picked up one of the litnterns.

    "Careful, mydy," one of the guards nervously said, knowing the handles were still hot. "It''s best to hold it with a handkerchief. Or else, it will burn your fingers."

    "Thank you," Li Xueyue responded, cing thentern back down. Her fingers were indeed warm from holding thentern but not to the point that they were burnt. She searched for a handkerchief in her pocket but found none.

    "A little burn never hurt anyone," she finally said, bending down to pick up thentern again.

    The guards anxiously watched her. Weren''tdies more mindful of their skin? Especially a highly-ranked woman such as herself? It wasmon knowledge that women with blemishes or scars would never be able to marry well beyond their ranks. Isn''t she the Commander''s woman?

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet hiss. Thentern was indeed too hot to handle without a handkerchief. She realized the design of thisntern was different from that of Wuyi''s. The frame was made out of metal, instead of wood. It was more efficient and durable, but the metal absorbed too much of the candle''s heat.

    "Are youing?" Yu Zhen snapped from inside of the tent.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "Thanks for your help," she snapped back, stomping into the tent with thentern. She ignored the pain that was building up at her fingertips.

    When Li Xueyue entered the tent, her face scrunched up in disgust. There was an awful smell in the air. She couldn''t ce a finger on it, but it was simply nauseating. She blinked rapidly to adjust her eyes to the darkness. Thentern was too small to light up the entire tent that wasrger than anticipated.

    Li Xueyue coughed, covering her mouth and nose. "What is that smell?"

    Yu Zhen ignored her. He took a step forward and disappeared into the darkness.

    Li Xueyue wondered how it was possible for this tent to be thatrge. She supposed she didn''t see it was longer than it was wide, for he continued walking. There was the faint sound of muffled whimpers and groans.

    Something didn''t feel right. Li Xueyue felt antsy and nervous. Nheless, she persevered. Ignoring her gut feelings, and the tugs at her heart, she advanced forward.

    Li Xueyue continued taking a few small steps, wincing at the pain that was radiating from her fingertips for the handle of thentern was burning her. She ced it down and blew at her hand, wishing she had brought a handkerchief with her. Eventually, she grew irritated. Turning around, she hoped to see a guard following them. That way, she could borrow their sword and cut some fabric from her clothes to wrap around the handle.

    "Of course no one else came in, the smell in here is horrible," Li Xueyue mumbled. She shook her head and picked up thentern again.

    "If I get a burn or blister, I''m going to make him pay," sheined.

    Li Xueyue could hear a soft "pft," which most likely came from the damn brute who put her through this mess. She ignored his teasing and continued walking. She held up thentern, realizing there was something beside her. It was a table, filled with all sorts of weird equipment.

    Picking up one of the uniquely shaped ones, she wondered what it was for. There was a handle, like that of a scissor, but the front resembled a sharp bird''s beak. When she pressed the handle, the beak opened and closed. What was this for?

    "It yanks off nails."

    "Like the metal ones for carpentry?" Li Xueyue asked, holding it closer to thentern. Upon close inspection, she realized there was a small piece of something on the other end.

    "No, like human nails."

    "What?" Li Xueyue asked, astonished by Yu Zhen''s response. Where was he? She couldn''t see him anywhere beside her.

    "Yu Zhen, where are you?"

    He didn''t respond.

    Li Xueyue was growing antsy. She didn''t like the horrid smell and the questionable sounds. The more she walked, the sweatier her palms became.

    Though Li Xueyue would not admit it, she was scared.

    "Come to the light," she said.

    Yet again, he didn''t respond.

    Li Xueyue gulped. What was going on? She didn''t want to leave thentern behind, despite the handle burning her. Forcing herself to remain calm, Li Xueyue continued forward.

    Finally, she came to the end of the tent. The whimpers, cries, and sobs were louder now. Almost as if she was just a few feet away from it.

    When Li Xueyue lifted her tinyntern, hoping to shed some light in front of her, something grabbed her elbow.

    "NOOO!" she wailed, swinging her hand at the person behind her. A loud p was heard.

    Yu Zhen touched his cheek. On normal asions, he would''ve sliced that handoff. But the person who touched him was Li Xueyue. He had frightened her too much.

    "Careful," he softly said, yet again, cing a hand on her forearm.

    "Once I get out of this tent, I''m going to beat you to a pulp."

    Yu Zhen let out a dark chuckle. In an instant, he stole thentern from her, tossing it far away. They were immersed in darkness.

    Li Xueyue attempted to head in the direction of thentern. She needed her light source. The darkness was frightening. It reminded her of one Viscount Bai Sheng''s punishments. When she misbehaved, he would lock her in her bedroom without food and light. asionally, servants weremanded to make spooky noises until she was convinced monsters lurked beside her.

    Li Xueyue panicked. The candlelight had flickered out. The tent was utterly pitch ck. Nothing could be seen, not even her hands. Her breathing quickened, her heart raced.

    Yu Zhen smirked. The prey was trapped. She had nowhere to go. "Boo!"

    Li Xueyue screamed bloody murder. Her adrenaline rushed and the overwhelming fear crashed over her.

    "Stop it, stop it, stop it!" she wailed, swinging her arms in defense.

    "I thought I said to be careful," Yu Zhen muttered, grabbing her wrist before she could p him again. He admired her strength. Even now, his cheek was stinging a bit.

    Li Xueyue let out a frightened scream when he grabbed her wrist. The monsters. They were getting to her now. The monsters were real. They weren''t hiding under her bed now. They were in front of her.

    Just to get her riled up, Yu Zhen teasingly patted her head, pretending to be a ghost.

    "STOP!" she screeched, this time, it sounded far too serious.

    Yu Zhen froze. Perhaps he had taken it too far. He was weighed down with guilt. She was truly shaking now, like a brittle autumn leaf on a dying branch. Her breathing was rushed and sharp.

    "Sunshine¡ª" he didn''t finish his sentence. Her knees gave out and she copsed to the ground.

 Chapter 217 Run Off

    <h4>Chapter 217 Run Off</h4>

    Yu Zhen kneeled before her, grabbing her shoulders before it hit the ground. Except, she wasn''t unconscious. She had balled up her body, rocking back and forth like an estranged child.

    "It''s not real, it''s not real, it''s not real!" she mumbled under her breath, covering her ears.

    Yu Zhen didn''t think she would react like this. He thought he would spook her a bit before revealing the truth.

    She would not stop trembling.

    "Sunshine, what''s wrong?" Yu Zhen quietly asked. He attempted to stop her bizarre behavior, but it only worsened.

    "It''s not real, it''s not real, monsters aren''t real, Bai Xueyue."

    Bai Xueyue? Yu Zhen narrowed his gaze. So they weren''t lying to him. He had the right targets.

    Yu Zhen needed to do something. Was this a panic attack? He had never witnessed one before. Not knowing what to do, he reached out and wrapped his arms around her, but she struggled. wing, kicking, punching, she did all she could.

    "Don''t touch me!" she shrieked, "I won''t go to the Underworld with you!"

    Did she think he was a monster that would drag her to Diyu? Yu Zhen''s features softened. He immediately regretted everything.

    "My little Sunshine," Yu Zhen murmured, digging his fingers into her shoulders to force her to stop. She continued to struggle against him, fighting with all of her life.

    Yu Zhen remained patient, even when she harshly scratched his face. He instantly grabbed that hand. She tugged and fought to retract her limbs.

    "Monsters are real," he deadpanned.

    She stiffened, terrified by his words.

    "Everyone in this world is a monster."

    "Shut up, shut up, SHUT UP!" she cried, wing at her throat for air.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her other hand as well, forcing her to stop moving. "Are you afraid of them? Is that it, Sunshine?"

    She did not know who Sunshine was. She only wanted to escape that room. She hated that room. It was dark, cramped, and there were strange sounds. Her stomach grumbled for food.

    Li Xueuye began to confuse the present with her past. Everything merged together to form a gigantic nightmare.

    "Don''t touch me!" she screamed, her voice nearly shattering his eardrums. It was loud and reminded him of a banshee.

    "Monsters may be real," he said and yanked her against him, embracing her. She wrestled against his grip, but could not overpower him.

    "But I promise you, Sunshine..." Yu Zhen tightened his grip. A dark, menacing look shed upon his face. "For all of eternity, I will y each and every monster that dares to touch you."

    Finally, she had stopped fighting against him.

    "Those who harmed you will suffer a fate worse than death."

    "You''re lying. No one can kill them."

    "I can, and I will."

    "No, my demons won''t die, for they do not live under my bed, but inside of my head."

    Yu Zhen sucked in sharply. He didn''t think her trauma had run this deep. "Then let us conquer those demons together."

    "..."

    "I swear on my life."

    "P-pinky...promise?"

    Yu Zhen felt his heart clench at her timid voice, like that of a terrified child. He was reminded of a soulless little boy trapped in his room. A little boy who never smiled orughed. When he wasn''t studying or writing, he was watching people. Watching them giggle and grin. Then, he''d sit in front of a mirror and practice the emotions, wondering what it felt like to smile andugh.

    "My little ray of Sunshine, you didn''t even have to ask," Yu Zhen mused, fondly patting her on the back of her head. She didn''t respond. Instead, she leaned closer to him, cing her head upon the crook of his neck.

    "Shall we leave?" he gently asked, ready to give in to any of her wishes.

    Li Xueyue gave a timid and quiet nod. She wrapped her arms around his neck, hanging onto him. Whether she was fully conscious or not, he didn''t know.

    Yu Zhen decided he would show her his masterpiece next time. He hooked one arm under her leg and easily stood up, bncing their weight. He effortlessly carried her against him. Secure andfortable, she was tucked in his arms.

    No one would be able to take her away from him.

    Yu Zhen would never allow it. Those who touched her will lose their hand. Those who harmed her will lose their life. He will not have it any other way.

    Not because she needed protection but because she was Li Xueyue, the one and only woman he had ever given his heart to.

    At this exact moment, he didn''t care about what she had done to him. He didn''t pay heed to his broken heart. He pretended she didn''t harm him beyond repair. He was a fool, but that didn''t matter.

    All that mattered was Li Xueyue.

    - - - - -

    Hu Dengxiao anxiously paced back and forth outside of the tent. "Tianbi, what am I going to do?!" he sniffed, "I''m too handsome to die young!''

    Lu Tianbi opened her mouth to respond but closed it. "He''s here."

    "What? You mean my impending death is here?" Hu Dengxiao wailed. "I don''t want to see the Grim Reaper so early! I''m only in my early twenties, I have so much to live for!"

    Lu Tianbi ignored her babbling best friend. She straightened her spine. "Commander."

    Hu Dengxiao squeezed his eyes shut and whimpered. Here goes nothing. He turned around and was prepared to drop to his knees and beg for mercy.

    "Zhenzhen, I didn''t know she would run off¡ª" he paused.

    Hu Dengxiao''s jaw dropped open in shock. Li Xueyue was safely carried by Yu Zhen. The Commander''s features were cruel and menacing.

    Commander Yu Zhen of Hanjian was never a possessive man. He was rarely kind unless there was an ulterior motive. The duo had never seen him behave like this. He held Li Xueyue as if his entire world revolved around her and nothing else.

    Everyone was shocked by their fearsome Commander''s behavior. Who would''ve thought the Grim Reaper was capable of feelings?

    Hu Dengxiao took a step back, letting his Commander through.

    Yu Zhen didn''t even nce at him. He brushed past his people without acknowledging them as he usually did. In long strides, he disappeared into the tent with his woman.

    "D-did you see that?" Hu Dengxiao whispered, frightful that his voice would bring out the Grim Reaper from the tent. "I-I''ve never seen our Commander carry a woman, much less, hold one so endearingly."

    "He''s changed."

    "For the best," Hu Dengxiao said. "This is a good thing. He''s finally acting human."

    Lu Tianbi slowly nodded. "For a second there, I thought I saw someone else."

    "Me too." Hu Dengxiao shuddered. "I never thought he would have this gentle side to him. I always thought his happy-go-lucky behavior around Princess Li was fake."

    "Now we know it''s genuine." Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. "He wouldn''t risk his reputation in front of all of his soldiers for just anybody."

    "The intent is clear," Hu Dengxiao said. "Our Second Prince has officially found his Wangfei."

 Chapter 218 Dont Blame Me

    <h4>Chapter 218 Don''t me Me</h4>

    Yu Zhen entered his tent and advanced towards the bed. Softly, he ced Li Xueyue onto the bed until she was seated upon it. Kneeling before the bed, he reached out to caress her face. He had hoped to wipe away any tears that had escaped from her reddened eyes, except, he would''ve never expected her next course of action.

    Li Xueyue pped him in the face.

    The p rang out throughout the tent, an ominous silence followed after it.

    Yu Zhen stared at her in shock. A bright red spot formed on the left side of his cheek. He was stunned and made no moves to soothe the pain on his left cheek. Soon, disbelief clouded his vision and his blood began to boil.

    "What the hell was that for?!" he demanded, standing up.

    "Get out." Her fingers dug into her palms, shaking to quell her frustration at what he had done to her in that tent.

    Yu Zhen had never heard her sweet voice turn so vicious and bitter.

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "Are you deaf?"

    Yu Zhen''sst ounce of sympathy shriveled up and died. He glowered at the stubborn woman in front of him. She was ring a hole into the floor, never raising her head to acknowledge him.

    "If you think I''m going to walk out of my own tent, then you can¡ª"

    She stood up and pushed past him.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even make it far when he grabbed her by the wrist, roughly turning her around.

    "Don''t touch me, you sadistic Prince!"

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. It wasn''t like he knew she''d have a panic attack in the middle of the darkness. All he wanted to do was spook her a bit. He didn''t think she would be rendered into tears.

    "Do you realize who the hell you''re speaking to?" he grabbed her chin, forcing her to look up at him. Right away, he regretted his decision.

    Hatred. Angst. Irritation. So many negative emotions shed across her eyes, wide and unforgiving. She loathed him. There was no other way to describe what she felt. How could he do that to her? Not only was he behaving like a prick, but he also mistreated her with thentern and then that jump scare.

    What gave him the right to hurt her like this? Just because she hurted him? Wasn''t his unforgiving words already enough? How far was he going to take this?!

    "I could be talking to the damn Emperor himself, and I wouldn''t give a damn," she said, flicking his hand away.

    Li Xueyue was aware that she was a mess. Her clothes were disheveled and her hair was tangled, but nothing could distract her from the sheer rage she felt towards him. How dare he?

    First, he offered for her to see the tent, next, he kept the inside of the tent in utter darkness. On top of that, he had forced her to abandon the light. Not to mention the fear he had put her through.

    She was terrified of the darkness, and he used it against her. She had never felt so much fear, not even in her nightmares. The fear of the unknown gued her deeply, especially in a void of ck, where nothing could be heard but the wails and groans of whoever was kept inside of that tent.

    Everything he did to her was despicable. Forgiveness was off the table for now.

    "You''re right, Yu Zhen. Monsters are real," Li Xueyue gritted out.

    Li Xueyue was in a crazed and vulnerable mindset inside of that tent, where everything she spoke felt like gibberish. She wasn''t thinking rationally inside of that tent. The things he promised her felt too surreal to believe. She had heard his confession loud and clear but she could not find it in herself to believe him.

    "And you''re one of them," she concluded. "The worst one!"

    Yu Zhen felt like he was pped again, but this time, with her insulting words. He had rescued her when she needed him the most. He had sacrificed the time of his men to capture those who wronged her. He hadforted her when she needed him the most. He had done so much for her, but she treated him like he was a nobody.

    His expression hardened, his sharp features straightened into aloofness.

    Yu Zhen would not tolerate such abusive words, especially not from the woman he cared about the most.

    Yu Zhen clenched and unclenched his fist, grounding his teeth. There was so much he could say to her¡ªwords that would ruin her. Swallowing his pride, he bit his tongue and stormed out of the tent.

    Li Xueyue didn''t bother to care about his temper tantrum. She was busy throwing one of her own.

    - - - - -

    "Hey, do you think I can be the Godfather to their child?" Hu Dengxiao happily asked Lu Tianbi over a meal they shared near the firece.

    Lu Tianbi yed with her food and stared at him as if he had grown three heads. "What kind of stupid question is that?"

    "I mean, didn''t you see the expression on our Commander? He looked so bothered. Who knows, maybe they''re doing it right now, and a child could be their result."

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes. Is that what gued him the entire time? He looked so lost in his thought, she had believed he was formting some sort of strategy. She was annoyed that he was wasting his intelligence by thinking about something as stupid as the unpredictable.

    "Do you really think our Commander will impregnate her before he even introduces her to the Royal Family?"

    "You''re right¡­" Hu Dengxiao pouted. "He wouldn''t ruin her reputation like that."

    "Precisely," Lu Tianbi muttered. In the far distance, she noticed the approaching figure of her Commander.

    "Oh, there he is," Lu Tianbi said, pointing at him. She settled her te of food down when he stopped in front of them.

    "Zhenzhen¡ª" Hu Dengxiao paused, noticing a strange hue of red on the side of his Second Prince''s features. "What happened?"

    Lu Tianbi nudged Hu Dengxiao to stop being a bbermouth.

    Yu Zhen seemed to be in the worst of moods. Not bothering to answer Hu Dengxiao''s question, he plopped himself onto the log they shared.

    Hu Dengxiao sulked upon being ignored. He yed with his fingers, deciding he was no longer hungry, despite finishing two tes worth of food.

    Lu Tianbi figured something must''ve happened, but she couldn''t ce a finger on it. ncing at her Commander''s nearly bruised face, she could roughly guess what happened but hoped it wasn''t true. If Princess Li truly smacked the Second Prince, it was a crime punishable by execution.

    "Did she p you, Zhenzhen?" Hu Dengxiao abruptly asked, breaking the awkward silence.

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. He picked up Hu Dengxiao''s abandoned te of food and shoved it into his friend''s hands. "Shut up and eat."

    Hu Dengxiao''s pout deepened. He brooded over his food, angrily shoving it into his mouth.

    Lu Tianbi let out an aggravated sigh. "Women are fickle, Commander. If she did p you, you must''ve done something wrong."

    "You''re supposed to be on my side," Yu Zhen snapped.

    "I am." Lu Tianbi nodded. "But I''m also trying to help you pinpoint the problem. You look bewildered by what she has done, so I was just trying to offer you some advice."

    "I didn''t ask for it."

    "Don''t be so stubborn, dear Commander," she sarcastically addressed. "You''re my friend, I''m simply finding ways to fix your wrongdoings."

    Hu Dengxiao scraped his te clean and showed Yu Zhen the result. "There, I finished my food. All happy now?"

    "Did you make sure Xueyue was fed?" Yu Zhen muttered.

    Hu Dengxiao wanted to cry on the spot. He didn''t like Yu Zhen''s cold shoulder. It was the third time today that the Commander seemed aggravated. First, Yu Zhen ignored him on his way to the tent, next he shoved the te into Hu Dengxiao''s hands, and third, he was already using Hu Dengxiao of starving the Princess.

    "I asked her to eat, but she said she wasn''t hungry¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off.

    "She''s a glutton," Yu Zhen said. "It doesn''t make sense she won''t eat."

    "That does remind me," Lu Tianbi began. "It looks like she has lost weight since thest time I''ve seen her with you, which was in the Pce Gardens."

    Yu Zhen''s mood worsened. Was she starving herself? Was that thetest trend amongst women? He red at the open fire, his stare matched the intensity of the flickering me.

    "God damn it," he growled, standing back up. "Dengxiao, go fix her some food."

    "I''ll do it." Lu Tianbi sighed, deciding she would be the voice of reason.

    "And if she doesn''t eat¡­?" Hu Dengxiao asked.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. "Then you tell her, I''ll shove the food into her mouth."

    Lu Tianbi threw him a disappointed look.

    Yu Zhen ignored her. She reminded him of an older sister who loved to nag and behave like the parent. "Tell me if she doesn''t eat."

    Lu Tianbi didn''t respond. She watched as her Commander squared his shoulders and disappeared into the distance. Most likely, to vent his anger in that tent.

    Letting out a sigh, she turned to Hu Dengxiao. "Go make her a te of food. I''ll bring it to her."

    Hu Dengxiao reluctantly nodded. "Fine, but don''t me me if it goes to waste."

 Chapter 219 Stupid Suggestion

    <h4>Chapter 219 Stupid Suggestion</h4>

    Lu Tianbi entered the tent with a te of food and arge jug of clean water bnced on a dark, wooden tray. She nced around the tent, looking for a table to settle everything on. She cringed upon seeing a foldable table filled with bloodied daggers and stained handkerchiefs.

    "You have to eat, Princess Li." Lu Tianbi settled the tray on the bed. She let out a sigh of relief upon seeing the wooden tray was sturdy enough to not tip things over.

    "Thank you," Li Xueyue said. She picked up the jug first and poured herself a cup of water.

    "You''re bold, you know," Lu Tianbi said, crossing her arm. "No one has everid their hands on the Commander."

    Li Xueyue nced away and ced the cup down.

    "I''m surprised he didn''t retaliate against you for that p."

    "Was it that obvious?"

    "It was. There was a red mark on his face, but it''ll probably go away." Lu Tianbi shrugged. "Well, you better hope it goes away. If his other soldiers see it, they''ll think horribly of you."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She nced around the tent, wondering how long Yu Zhen was here for. The tent wasrge and well-heated, with everything that someone could possibly need to feelfortable. She ran a hand over the fur nket that was most likely made from a bear.

    "He''s usually not this kind to women," Lu Tianbi added on. "I don''t know what he did to evoke your wrath, but next time, you should hit him where people can''t see."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped to Lu Tianbi in shock. She thought the female soldier would ask her to nevery a hand on Yu Zhen, but who would''ve thought Lu Tianbi would be giving such advice.

    Lu Tianbi thoughtfully smiled. "I don''t know who''s wrong in this argument, but I hope you can resolve it soon."

    Li Xueyue did not respond. "He should let me go home."

    "He should," Lu Tianbi agreed. "It''s already nightfall. By now, your family must''ve been alerted of your absence."

    Li Xueyue nodded. The twins must''ve freaked out by now, and their mother must''ve been worried sick. Perhaps their father had notified the guards and they''rebing through the fields as they speak.

    "He''ll have to let me go in the morning."

    "I''ll speak to him about it," Lu Tianbi said. "I don''t understand why he''s keeping you here. It''s unfair to both sides."

    "He wanted to show me something."

    "Oh, what is it?" Lu Tianbi asked, though she already had her own suspicions.

    "There''s a really long tent not far from the campgrounds. There''s no proper lighting in there, but I heard groans and muffled whimpers."

    "Yes, they''re our prisoners."

    "Prisoners?" Li Xueyue said.

    Every country always took prisoners of war after winning a battle. But Hanjian didn''t have any other conflict, except with Wuyi due to the trading routes. Everything didn''t make sense. Why would Yu Zhen be keeping someone hostage? Did it have something to do with her?

    "You''ll understand when you see them," Lu Tianbi vaguely said. She pushed the wooden tray closer to Xueyue, motioning for her to eat.

    Li Xueyue reluctantly picked up the chopsticks and ate the food. For something that was made by the campfire, it was surprisingly delicious. The cuisine had ingredients that weremonly used in many of Wuyi''s dishes, but it was prepared and seasoned differently. She enjoyed the food and didn''t bother to hide her delighted expression.

    "You eat well," Lu Tianbi observed and chuckled. "I suppose the rumors of your great appetite weren''t lies."

    Li Xueyue nodded as she took a sip of the water. The meal was finished very quickly, mainly because she wanted to ask more questions.

    "I will prepare you some tea before bedtime. You will like it. Hanjian has a different brewing method," Lu Tianbi said.

    "Will you tell me more about the prisoners?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "No, I can''t. You will have to see for yourself," Lu Tianbi responded.

    Li Xueyue fiddled with her fingers irritably.

    "In the meantime, would you like to take a bath in the river? It''s well-irrigated because of the mellow tides and the small waterfall," Lu Tianbi asked.

    "I will," Li Xueyue gratefully responded, standing up.

    "I''ll bring the wooden tray back ande with my clothes. They might not fit you that well since I''m a bit taller, but it''s better than nothing."

    Li Xueyue smiled a bit. "Thank you."

    "You''re very wee, Princess." Lu Tianbi picked up the wooden tray and left the tent. She was surprised by how well-mannered Li Xueyue was. There wasn''t a sense of masked kindness.

    Lu Tianbi wondered if such a warm heart would get Li Xueyue very far in life. She hoped there was more than what met the eyes.

    - - - - -

    True to her words, Lu Tianbi came back with clothes. She guided Li Xueyue to a heavily secluded area behind some boulders. Lu Tianbi stood guard while Xueyue quickly bathed. Shortly after, Li Xueyue dried herself off and slipped into Lu Tianbi''s clothing.

    The clothes were indeedrger and looser. It wasn''t a hanfu, but more of a robe meant for battle. Lu Tianbi exined that she didn''t wear a lot of feminine clothing since it was harder to do heavy chores like training.

    Once all was set, Li Xueyue was guided back into the tent. She checked the curtains and realized there were actually buttons rimming the edges. Most likely, it was meant for holding the heavy curtains in ce so that people did not try to enter without warning.

    Li Xueyue wondered how sturdy it would be, thus, buttoned the curtains and tried to roughly yank on it. The buttons would not budge, and the knotting of it seemed really strange. Perhaps it was Hanjian''s own techniques. She had never seen them before.

    "How unique," she said whilst unbuttoning the tent.

    Poking her head outside, she noticed many of the soldiers were retreating into their own individual tents. There were a few patrolling the forest, and another handful staying awake to guard into the night. Most likely, there would be different groups of soldiers taking shifts.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "Where am I going to sleep?" she thought out loud, turning back to the tent. Sure enough, there was only one bed.

    Li Xueyue scowled. Was this all nned by him? She refused to sleep in the same bed as him. And if he made any stupid suggestion like keeping their hands to themselves with a pillow in between them, she would roll her eyes to the next century. Did he think she was born yesterday?

    Li Xueyue grumbled under her breath. "He''s a pervert, I shouldn''t trust him."

    A tiny voice in the back of her mind said, ''But you gave him permission and teased him. Aren''t you also a pervert?''

    Li Xueyue hated the Angel on her shoulders. She flicked it off and approached the table lined with weapons.

    Li Xueyue grabbed a cloth from the table and wiped a dagger clean. She nced over her shoulders before slipping it into her pocket. Better safe than sorry.

    "Oh, there''s a chair," Li Xueyue said. She grabbed the fur nket off the bed and made her way to the spot.

    "Better than the floor," Li Xueyue mumbled whilst sitting down. Draping the nket over herself, she decided to sleep. It was better than waiting for morning to approach. Besides, the earlier she slept, the earlier she''d wake up.

    Li Xueyue made up her mind to sneak off as early in the morning as possible. It would be difficult to make it past the soldiers guarding this ce, but it wasn''t impossible. There was bound to be a loophole in the defense.

 Chapter 220 Please

    <h4>Chapter 220 Please</h4>

    Lu Tianbi was approaching her sleeping tent when she noticed a figure walking out of the forest. Picking up her pace, she quickly approached herCommander.

    "Yu Zhen," she called out.

    Yu Zhen paused and turned to look at her.

    "You have to take her home," she said. "Her parents have most likely sent out people to search for her. It won''t be long before the Li guards would find this ce."

    Yu Zhen did not reply.

    Lu Tianbi froze when she saw Xiao Juzi was beside her Commander''s leg. Xiao Juzi opened his mouth and let out a loud yawn. Yu Zhen gently patted his tiger.

    "Please tell me you didn''t n on kidnapping her back to Hanjian. It will only make things worse. Her parents will never give you their blessings. And those brothers of hers, I know they will cause a ruckus to have her back."

    "I won''t force her to do something she doesn''t want to," Yu Zhen said in a dark voice.

    Lu Tianbi held back a sigh at her stubborn Commander. "How long do you n on keeping her here? I heard you showed her the tent today, but I''m guessing you didn''t show her the people inside. She still doesn''t know anything."

    "It''s gettingte. You should sleep. Or keep Hu Dengxiaopany."

    Lu Tianbi''s face warmed at the mention of Hu Dengxiao. The male soldiers slept on the other side of the campgrounds. "Stop teasing me."

    "I''m not."

    "Fine, I will sleep." Lu Tianbi frowned. "I hate to say this, but as your advisor, I think it''s best to send the Princess home first thing in the morning."

    "Then she won''t be there to open my present."

    Lu Tianbi cringed. "She''s innocent and inexperienced in brutality. Do you really want to corrupt those eyes of hers?"

    Lu Tianbi touched her elbows to shield herself from the cold. "Once you show her what you did to them, there is no going back. Your bloodthirsty nature will be revealed to her. Things will be different."

    "..."

    "Just think about it before you do it." Lu Tianbi nagged on, "I know I sound like an annoying sister, but as your friend, I''d hate to see you lose her. The Princess makes you happy. You genuinely smile when you''re with her."

    "It''s better for her to know," he finally said.

    Lu Tianbi sighed. He was right. It was. Sooner orter, Li Xueyue will find out the patient man she had fallen in love with was not who he pretended to be. Yu Zhen was ruthless and his methods were crude.

    "But why do you look so reluctant, Commander?" Lu Tianbi whispered. "I know you want to keep her hidden in the dark forever. You don''t want to corrupt her, do you?"

    Yu Zhen kept quiet. He merely nced up at the night sky, admiring the stars that reminded him of her hope-filled eyes. He had never witnessed something more adoring than her.

    Yu Zhen wanted to keep Li Xueyue safe and sound, free from worries. He wanted her to live a blissful life surrounded by luxury andfort. He never wanted her to witness the horrible things in life.

    "Your silence is my answer," Lu Tianbi mused. "Just think about it, okay? Especially the part of returning her home tomorrow morning. We don''t want any bad blood with the Prime Minister of Wuyi."

    "Have a good night," Yu Zhen said. He turned his back and walked off with Xiao Juzi.

    Lu Tianbi watched as Yu Zhen guided Xiao Juzi to a sleeping spot near his tent. She let out a sigh. "What a scary pet to have. I''m surprised he was able to keep him hidden in the guest pce for so long."

    She scowled. "Not even I knew where he hid it. How mean of him. I wonder if the pce servants questioned why he was requesting raw meat."

    Lu Tianbi crossed her arms. "I''m just grateful no one in Wuyi found out about this pet. It would''ve been horrible if they did."

    Letting out a long-held back sigh, she decided to retreat to her tent. The pet wasn''t her business, and she knew Yu Zhen brought it with him because no one else in Hanjian would be capable of taking care of the tiger.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen gave Xiao Juzi a final pat, watching as the tiger stretched beforefortably lying onto the ground. He ced one paw on top of the other and rested his head, swishing his tail.

    "Sleep well," Yu Zhen muttered.

    Xiao Juzi ignored him.

    Yu Zhen walked into the tent, half-expecting to see her awake. She wasn''t. His eyes narrowed at the empty bed. Immediately, he surveyed his tent, seeking for where she could''ve been sleeping.

    Yu Zhen deeply frowned upon seeing her curled up in a chair. She must''ve been ufortable. He was surprised she hadn''t tilted over by now.

    "Fine then, suit yourself," Yu Zhen coldly said.

    Yu Zhen should''ve slipped underneath the nket of his bed, but he decided to stay up a bit longer. The knives wouldn''t clean themselves. He approached the table and dipped the handkerchief in the bowl of water beside him.

    "I should''ve used the tools on the table, not these daggers," Yu Zhen said to himself.

    One of the daggers was missing.

    Yu Zhen already knew who took it. Guess that made them even. They were both thieves now. Except, he stole the decrees for her benefit, not his.

    Yu Zhen couldn''t help himself. He approached Li Xueyue who was still asleep. Her brows were crinkled, her face in a grimace. Was she experiencing a nightmare?

    Dread filled him. He didn''t like that. He didn''t want to see her in pain.

    Yu Zhen squatted to her height. He reached out to soothe the creases which formed on her forehead. It was then he noticed a lone tear had slipped down her face.

    "I...didn''t¡­"

    Yu Zhen blinked. What did she say?

    "...do it¡­didn''t¡­"

    She didn''t do what?

    Yu Zhen leaned closer to listen, but that was all she said. Nothing else.

    Yu Zhen let out an aggravated sigh. He should''ve left her on the chair, really. He should have.

    "I still hate you," Yu Zhen growled when he effortlessly picked her up. "You irritate me and I''m always frustrated around you."

    Yu Zhen ced her onto the bed. He took off her shoes and ced it at the foot of the bed.

    "I should''ve just tossed you to sleep outside," he bit out. "So why the hell am I doing this?" he harshly asked, despite his contradicting actions.

    Yu Zhen draped theforter up to her chin and then ced the fur nket on top of her. He softly adjusted her head on the pillow, making sure she wouldn''t wake up with a sore neck.

    Yu Zhen scowled upon seeing her expression had worsened. She was grimacing. Another tear had slipped from her eyes.

    "What''s wrong?" he reluctantly asked, sitting by the edge of the bed. Gently, he wiped away the tears from her eyes.

    "Don''t cry," he mumbled. "It hurts me."

    Yu Zhen fondly grabbed her hand, squeezing it, hoping it would bring her reassurance.

    "I...didn''t¡­"

    "You didn''t what?" he whispered, leaning down to hear her properly.

    "Kill¡­her¡­"

    Yu Zhen stiffened. What did she just say?

    "Please!" she cried out.

    Yu Zhen nearly jumped. He didn''t expect her to raise her voice as such. Abruptly, she kicked off the nkets, struggling to tug her hand back.

    Yu Zhen instantly released her, his expression stormy. It was time to pay the people in the tent another visit. He stood up, prepared to leave, but then he felt it. A tiny weight upon his sleeve.

    Yu Zhen nced at her fingers. It took only two to hold him back. "You can''t keep doing this to me," he painfully whispered. "It''s unfair."

    "Don''te back to me. My heart will find a reason to forgive you," Yu Zhen muttered. He slowly pried off her fingers and tucked her arms under the nket.

    "Sleep well, Sunshine," he gently whispered, giving her a final pat on the forehead.

    Yu Zhen headed for the tent curtains. He didn''t even have to button it if he didn''t want to. Xiao Juzi was right outside, and his hearing was sharp. Anyone who approached the tent would be bitten.

    Yu Zhen decided if he wasn''t able to sleep, then the prisoners also didn''t need to sleep. He had a foot outside of the door when he heard it¡ªa whisper so sweet and heart-shattering that he squeezed his eyes shut.

    "Yu Zhen¡­"

    He paused. Slowly, he turned around. She was still fast asleep.

    Yu Zhen knew he would regret letting her back into his heart. He knew she would hurt him again.

    There were so many things he should not do.

    For the sake of his heart and future, Yu Zhen should''ve walked out of this tent. He should''ve left for Hanjian, not Hechen. He shouldn''t have stolen the royal decrees. But he had to. He needed her.

    It was as Lu Tianbi had said. She made him happy, the happiest he has ever been in a long time.

    Yu Zhen cursed himself to hell and back, for he found himself walking back towards her.

    "I''m here, Sunshine," Yu Zhen muttered, grasping her hand. Her features rxed. Just like that, he found himself falling for her, faster than ever.

 Chapter 221 Why Are You Following Me?

    <h4>Chapter 221 Why Are You Following Me?</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up disgruntled and confused. She had a strange nightmare yesterday. It shifted from the Bai Family to a blurry figure of a man approaching her.

    The man held a sword and had pierced it right through her family. It was such a bizarre feeling that she couldn''t describe. Li Xueyue was horrified at the brutal murder that took ce, yet oddly felt a sense of relief. It was hard to pinpoint her exact emotions.

    Sighing to herself, Li Xueyue attempted to push the hair that stuck on her face. But there was an unusual pressure holding down her other hand.

    Li Xueyue immediately sat upright, realizing she was lying down. Pale-faced, she shifted her head and saw exactly what held down her arm. Yu Zhen had fallen asleep while holding her hand. He was in a seated position with half of his body on the bed, and his legs resting on a chair.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together.

    "Why are you doing this?" she huffed. He should''ve just left her on the chair. Now, he would wake up with a stiff neck and she was to me.

    Li Xueyue realized how different his sleeping face appeared to be. Contrary to her expectations, it looked serene and normal.

    Suddenly, his brows began to knead together, as if he was experiencing a bad dream. Unwittingly, she reached out and touched his hair, running her hand through it. His tense shoulders rxed at her touch.

    Li Xueyue attempted to slip her hand away from his tight grip. It was nearly impossible, but she managed to wriggle her way out of it. Letting out a sigh of relief, she vigorously shook that hand which had gone numb, realizing it hadcked blood cirction because of his tight and desperate grip.

    "Idiot," she mumbled, slipping out of bed. "You should''ve slept on the bed."

    Li Xueyue began to approach the entrance of the tent, but paused midway. Her conscience would not let her leave. Angrily, she headed to the bed and picked up the fur nket, draping it over his shoulders.

    Li Xueyue hated how she was adjusting it to make sure he was warm andfortable. Li Xueyue loathed her hand that smoothed the creases between his brow. She wished her hand would stopbing through his hair until he was less tense.

    Li Xueyue hated how much she still cared about him. Likewise, he felt the same.

    Slipping out of the tent, Li Xueyue knew things would never be the same. Ever again.

    - - - - -

    When Xiao Juzi heard the sound of footsteps disappearing out of the tent, he raised his head. Lazily, he nced around and could smell the faint scent of his Master, except he realized it wasn''t him. Standing up, he began to trot after the woman.

    Li Xueyue gulped upon noticing the tiger was following her. He didn''t seem like a threat. Nheless, he was still a feral animal, and she had to keep her guards up.

    "Why are you following me?" Li Xueyue hissed. She began heading into the forest and Xiao Juzi continued after her. He watched her as a predator would stare at their prey.

    "Did your Master put you up to this?" she asked, disappearing deeper into the forest. She was hoping to steal a horse and ride back to Li Manor as soon as possible.

    Abruptly, the tiger jumped in front of her. Baring his fangs, he growled and tucked his ears. It was almost as if he knew what she nned to do.

    Li Xueyue paused. She couldn''t bypass the tiger. He was blocking her path now. "Your Master definitely made you do this," she concluded and scowled. "Be a good boy and get out of my way."

    Xiao Juzi let out a snarl as he lowered his front legs. He would not tolerate her attempt to escape.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She could not stop her fingers from trembling. Perhaps Xiao Juzi sensed her fear, for he took a threatening step forward, urging her to go back to the campground.

    "You''re irritating. Like father, like son," Li Xueyue said.

    Xiao Juzi began advancing towards her slowly, hisrge, gnarly teeth on full disy.

    "F-fine, I''ll go back¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, fearing for the safety of her life. Angrily, she began to walk in the direction of the campsite.

    Xiao Juzi gloated behind her, lifting his paws a bit higher than usual. He was evidently happy that she behaved so well.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen was awoken by the sound of soldiers getting ready to make breakfast. Eyes closed, he felt around the bed, seeking for her hand. When he felt nothing but a cold mattress, his eyes shot open.

    Where did she go?

    Yu Zhen had never panicked so much. He ran out of his tent, disheveled and in yesterday''s clothing. Xiao Juzi was nowhere to be seen, and so was she.

    A dark cloud passed over his profound features. He curled his lips and stormed to his men, deciding to send out a massive search for her. Who would dare to kidnap her from his own tent? Did she leave on her own will?

    Yu Zhen could not ept thetter. He refused to believe she would run from him again.

    "Zhenzhen, you woke upter than usual~" Hu Dengxiao said as he happily skipped over to his grouchy Commander.

    "Send out one hundred soldiers to search for Li Xueyue. Whoever took her must''ve not gone very far."

    Hu Dengxiao sulked. First thing in the morning, his Commander was already making demands. Where were the good morning pats?

    Lu Tianbi sighed at Hu Dengxiao''s lost-puppy expression. She gave him a rough pat on the head. "Go get the food ready."

    Yu Zhen''s features became vicious. "Go send out the soldiers."

    Lu Tianbi shook her head. "She must''ve left on her own free-will. It''s better to leave her be."

    Yu Zhen took a threatening step forward, lethal and unforgiving. "Go. Send. Out. The. Soldiers."

    Lu Tianbi should''ve been offended by hismand, but she was already used to his unpredictable temper. She felt silly for thinking Li Xueyue had changed him for the best.

    Reluctantly, Lu Tianbi turned to Hu Dengxiao. "You heard him."

    Hu Dengxiao nervously yed with the pan. He was almost ready to cook. He supposed the role could be given to another unlucky soldier, but no one else made meals as good as him¡­ what should he do?

    Just then, Lu Tianbi noticed something in the far distance. Her tiny figure was unmistakable against the tall andrge frame of the soldiers. "Commander, isn''t that her¡ª"

    She didn''t even finish her sentence when Yu Zhen immediately turned around. It was as if hope had flooded him yet again. His icy exterior melted away at the sight of her.

    Lu Tianbi recognized that lovestruck expression. "Commander, please don''t¡ª"

    It was toote.

    Yu Zhen was already advancing in her direction, his long strides effortlessly reaching her.

    "Lovers'' quarrel, I guess." Hu Dengxiao huffed. He sat back down and began to prepare the ingredients for breakfast.

    "They won''t be good for each other. Fire and ice, one of them is bound to lose," Lu Tianbi mumbled as she watched Yu Zhen eagerly make his way to her. It was almost as if his life depended on seeing her well.

    "Oh gosh, he''s being rejected." Hu Dengxiao sighed as he began to grease the pan. "How sad. It reminds me of someone I know," he mumbled thest part, for it was describing him.

    Lu Tianbi didn''t catch on. "She knows how to keep him in check."

    Lu Tianbi stared at the couple. Li Xueyue had a displeased expression on her face, most likely asking to go home. Yu Zhen was not having it. He abruptly grabbed her shoulders, bringing her closer, but she angrily pushed him away. He was furious by her actions, grabbing her chin. Yet again, she pped his hands away, her eyesrge and wide.

    "She''s bold, I''ll give her that," Hu Dengxiaomented.

    "Of course she''s bold." Lu Tianbi sighed. "Or else Yu Zhen would get bored."

    "Well, let''s hope that fire of hers doesn''t burn her," Hu Dengxiao said. "It''ll hurt her more than it hurts him."

    "It already hurts her," Lu Tianbi said. "I just hope they do not burn each other to ashes."

    "From the looks of it, they already are."

 Chapter 222 Violated Trus

    <h4>Chapter 222 Vited Trus</h4>

    "Don''t touch me." Li Xueyue snapped, stepping back to create a distance between them.

    "Is this how it is?" Yu Zhen harshly asked. "First you plea to get me back, and now, you''re refusing me."

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she was going directly against what she wanted in the first ce. Her expression hardened. "That was before you vited my trust."

    "There it is again, that push-and-pull game you love so much."

    "Excuse me?" Li Xueyue hissed, angrily grabbing him by the cor. It was a feeble attempt. He was much taller than her and had predicted her move. Before she evenid a hand on him, he grabbed her wrist and forcibly yanked her closer.

    "Do not do this to me again, Li Xueyue. Don''t you dare trailze into my life and try to wreck it."

    "I''m not."

    "You are," he angrily said, "You''re reverting to what you love to do."

    "And what''s that?"

    "Mess with my head."

    Li Xueyue felt like she was struck by his words. She had never intended to "mess" or "y" with him. Her feelings were always genuine, and there was no one she wanted more in this world. Her eyes shed, revealing how offended she was by his words.

    "All I wanted was for you to wait¡ª"

    "No, you wanted me to find another woman."

    Li Xueyue flinched. She was not prepared to hear the truth.

    "Right after I showed you how much I want you, did you know what you did?" he snarled.

    Li Xueyue realized that despite his anger, he would not hurt her. She could see his barely contained rage roaring in his eyes. Violent and merciless, there was so much he could do to hurt her. His grip could''ve tightened until her wrists shattered and she yielded to him. But he did not.

    "You told me to find someone else. To find another woman when the only one I wanted was standing right in front of me!"

    Li Xueyue recoiled from him. She didn''t want to swallow the truth. It was too much to bear, but he was relentless.

    Yu Zhen red at her. "Imagine if you confessed to me, and I told you to run into Wen Jinkai''s arms. How would that feel?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She didn''t want to ever imagine that scenario. It would tear her apart, like what was happening now. Her heart was aching for him. She wanted him so much but couldn''t have him. She was too much of a burden.

    "I''m sorry¡ª"

    "Sorry doesn''t cut it," Yu Zhen bit out. He wrapped one arm behind her, pressing her closer to him. "Sorry doesn''t change anything you did."

    "But it can heal a broken heart."

    "My heart is not broken." he seethed. Though he denied it, the look on his face said otherwise.

    Li Xueyue never wanted to see him like this. She never wanted to see that fear in his eyes, fear of never being able to love again.

    Li Xueyue wished she wasn''t so weak. She wished she followed her own morals. For the next thing she knew, she got on her tippy-toes and hugged him deeply. Burying her face into his shoulders, she hugged him as if her life depended on it.

    Yu Zhen squeezed his eyes shut. It was what he wanted all along. She was all that he needed in this lifetime, and for the rest of eternity. Except, he could not hug her back. He was already tired of these games.

    Li Xueyue was a drug, and he was already addicted. Together, they would only destroy each other.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart crack and shatter into thousands of pieces when he shoved her off of him. She looked away, ashamed.

    Yu Zhen turned his back to her and began heading in the other direction. Specifically, west of the campgrounds, where the prisoners were held. Truthfully, he didn''t need them anymore.

    Yu Zhen had already gotten what he wanted from them.

    Li Xueyue never knew she was stubborn until this moment. The next she knew, she had grabbed onto his sleeves.

    It was but a mere pressure on his hand. Yu Zhen could''ve easily shaken her off. He could angrily flick his wrist into the air so that she would trip and fall to the ground. But he could never do that to her.

    Reluctantly, Yu Zhen gently grabbed her fingers and pried it away. "Go eat. I will return you home after your breakfast."

    Li Xueyue felt like a fool. It was all that she wanted. To go home.

    Now that the option was presented in front of her, she didn''t want it. The thought of parting from him again terrified her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to experience that pain ever again. But what could she do? He had already made up his mind.

    Li Xueyue stood there as Yu Zhen walked off. She was startled by a rough nudge at her legs. ncing down, she realized Xiao Juzi was with them the entire time.

    "What are you doing?" she sniffled, angrily wiping at her eyes. She hated how wet they got around him. "Your Master went that way. Go follow him."

    Xiao Juzi angrily shoved her by the leg. She let out a yelp, taking a few steps forward. He continued to push at her until she was forced to walk in the same direction as Yu Zhen.

    "Stop it!" Li Xueyue hissed, but Xiao Juzi barely snarled at her.

    It was as if he was saying, ''I''m trying to help you, human! I should just eat you by now!''

    "You''re annoying," Li Xueyue groaned, but nheless, obeyed his wishes. She continued walking in the direction that he wanted. When she tried to go off course, Xiao Juzi would angrily nudge her in the direction he wanted.

    Eventually, Li Xueyue was forced to obey the stubborn animal.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue made it out of the clearing just to see Yu Zhen enter the tent. He had nodded at his soldiers.

    "I can''t go in there. Not without his permission," Li Xueyue said, knowing these soldiers would kick her out without a second thought.

    Xiao Juzi believed otherwise. He softly paced around her body, ncing to his surroundings.

    "What is it?" Li Xueyue mumbled. "I don''t have food on me."

    Xiao Juzi nearly rolled his eyes. This human was stupid.

    "No, I''m not going!" Li Xueyue hissed when Xiao Juzi bit down on her clothes, tugging and yanking her towards the tent.

    "Can you not?" she cried and tried to push him away, but he let out a low growl, warning her to not touch him.

    Li Xueyue found this stubborn animal to be irritating. Howe he could touch her but she couldn''t touch him? How was that a fair exchange?!

    "You remind me of your Master," Li Xueyue huffed. Nheless, she obliged to his greedy demands and began heading in the direction of the tent.

    The event of what happenedst time shed into her mind. She didn''t want to experience that paralyzing darkness again. What if¡­ he pulled the same stunt?

    Li Xueyue would be traumatized by him again.

    Almost as if sensing her distrust, Xiao Juzi became a bit more gentle. He encouragingly nudged her to walk. He purred against her leg, hoping to uplift her frown.

    Li Xueyue nervously smiled. "You''re weird," she said. Did he hate her or like her? She did not know.

    "Halt! Who goes there?" a soldier called out when she stopped in front of them.

    Li Xueyue didn''t know what to say. Should she reveal her identity and the real reason foring here? Obviously, they would know she was a stranger, since the soldiers must''ve been acquainted with all of their peers.

    Xiao Juzi''s actions spoke for her. He let out a low, threatening growl. Pressed against her side, it was evident who she was.

    The soldiers didn''t need to be told twice. If the people-hating Xiao Juzi was fond of her, then it only meant one thing. She was the rumored woman.

    "The Commander is busy attending to¡ª"

    A strangled scream echoed out of the tent.

    Li Xueyue was startled. Her eyes grew wide. She knew she didn''t hear incorrectly. That sound, it was very familiar. She had heard it before and that tone was unmistakable. She knew this person.

 Chapter 223 Ill Do Anything

    <h4>Chapter 223 I''ll Do Anything</h4>

    Warning: The following scent contains gore.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to find out the truth. It would be too much of a weight to bear. Nheless, curiosity got the best of her and she pushed past the soldiers. They were nervous.

    Should they grab her and pull her back out? But she had clearlye with the Commanderst time¡­ Besides, these soldiers knew what happened to the Lieutenant.

    Deciding it was better to let her wander, the soldiers straightened their spines and remained outside.

    Li Xueyue was grateful for the morning. The sunlight had peered through the tent, making it a lot easier to see. Now that she had a better view of this ce, she was truly astonished by the size of it. The only thing that bothered her was the table. It was filled with weapons and all sorts of tools.

    Were they for¡­ torturing people?

    "I-I d-d-don''t know w-what you''re t-talking about!" a voice, mangled and panicked, wailed in the distance.

    Li Xueyue''s heart raced. She was frightened by this inhumane voice like that of an animal. Were humans capable of such a thing? She was frightened.

    Unable to move forward, she stayed by the table. The truth was going to hurt her. It was going to be inevitable.

    Li Xueyue nearly fell onto her knees when Xiao Juzi nudged her stiff body. "No," she whispered. "I-I don''t want to see¡ª" She didn''t finish her sentence when Xiao Juzi pushed her again.

    Reluctantly, Li Xueyue took a few more steps forward.

    "PLEASE!" the same voice shrieked.

    She nearly toppled over in fear. The blood had drained from her face and she couldn''t stop trembling.

    Xiao Juzi sensed her distress. But he also smelled the blood. It was too hard to ignore. For her sake, he continued to push her forward.

    Li Xueyue wanted to cry on the inside. Yu Zhen, why is your tiger so annoying?! Biting her bottom lip, she forced herself to keep moving forward until she saw them.

    Li Xueyue was frozen solid. It was as if roots sprang up from the ground, holding her in ce. Her entire world spun. Even if their faces were disfigured, stained with dried blood, and their hairs a matted mess, she would spot them from miles away.

    How could she not?

    They were the people who had raised, but abused her for the past sixteen years of her life. They were the people who instilled in her how worthless she was. They were the cause of her nightmares, the reason she could not sleep at night. Except now, they were haunted by something else.

    Yu Zhen sat there, with his back turned to her. He was not aware of an approaching presence, for he was too engrossed in watching the scene.

    With a ss of Bai-Jiu [1] poured besides him and his legs crossed, he yed the role of a sinister devil very well. Except, it was not a role, and that was his true form.

    The soldiers in charge of the torture spared no mercy. They haven''t even used half of the techniques they''ve employed on enemy soldiers. These people were so dramatic. But then again, when one grew up in a life of luxury, any sort of pain and difort would hurt by tenfold.

    "What did you use her of?!" a soldier demanded, holding a bucket of boiling hot water. It would desensitize all of the cuts and blood in the worst way possible.

    The aristocrat''s disfigured face was barely distinguishable. Blood dripped from his forehead, his teeth chattering to bear with the pain. The tiniest of movements were enough for fireworks of agony to erupt. He couldn''t see from one eye, and the other was blurred.

    "I...didn''t¡ª"

    Wrong answer.

    The soldier sshed a cup of boiling water over the man''s features. He let out a wretched scream that was truly unforgettable. But to the men of war, they were music to the ears.

    "Continue," Yu Zhen mused. He took a sip of the liquor, not at all bothered by what he witnessed.

    "What did you use her of?!" the soldier demanded, this time, picking up a knife. Now that the skin was clean, wasn''t it better to start skinning him alive? Boiling water and raw flesh. It was the best of punishments, but not the worst, for a man that he was.

    "P-please...I-I g-gave y-you what you wanted...my fingerprints...and blood. They''re all on t-there!"

    The soldiers didn''t like this answer. They nodded to each other. It was time to skin this man, starting from his broken legs. The man couldn''t run anymore. Or even walk. They had repeatedly bashed the knee caps, again and again, each sickening crack louder than the other. That was because he was so irritating yesterday.

    "Proceed."

    One of the soldiers advanced forward and slowly, he dragged the knife down the man''s revealed thighs. Another pig-like scream sliced through the air, the sound ever so pleasant to Yu Zhen''s ears. This pain, it was nothingpared to what his woman felt.

    For each minute she suffered, the people here would suffer an hour. He would make sure of it.

    "H-help me! Help me please!" the man screeched when he saw a blurry shadow in the distance. It was tiny and didn''t resemble the normal physique of a soldier.

    His daughter could not watch. She was a sobbing mess, wailing and faltering. Spit flew from her mouth as snot mixed with blood trailed down her nose. She was nothing like the famed beauty she used to be. Especially when she was the first to soil herself, the stench, pungent and disgusting.

    "The daughter is annoying," Yu Zhenmented.

    The soldiers instantly understood his message. The daughter did not need to have her lips to speak. The tongue did that part. They approached her, knives at the ready to slice off her pretty little lips.

    "N-no please!" she begged, "I-I''ll be q-quiet! T-take i-it out o-on my father! I''m innocent!"

    Yu Zhen cocked his head, pretending to think about it. When he saw the man still had the decency to look heartbroken by the betrayal of his own daughter, another wicked idea came to Yu Zhen''s mind.

    Of course, how could he forget? Psychological torture hurt a lot worse. He let out a humorlessughter. "There are more than one way of harming a woman."

    The soldiers did not need to be told twice. The man heaved, gasping for air, praying, hoping it would take the pain away. It didn''t. There was a half rectangr cut on his thigh. His skin was flying in the wind and tugging at it would ruin him for sure.

    Li Xueyue watched in horror as they untied the woman.

    The woman dropped to her knees, unable to stand, for every bone in her leg was shattered. The sound of clothes tearing was heard.

    Li Xueyue could not look away, even though she desperately wanted to.

    "P-please n-no!" The woman wailed, pleading. She crawled on the ground, not caring that her hands were stained with her own waste.

    "A-anything but t-this! I-I''ll do anything you want!" she shrieked, knowing what was about toe to her.

    "Anything?" Yu Zhen revealed a wicked smile.

    Her hope soared. "A-anything!"

    "Splendid." Yu Zhen let out anotherugh. He tilted his head and nodded to the skin hanging off of the man''s leg.

    "Rip that off. Do it slow and steady, like how these men would take you before leaving you for the horses."

    And just like that, her hope was trampled. She was left to choose. Would she sacrifice herself or her father? Would she let the man who raised her with his blood, sweat, and tears, suffer like that?

    No one loved her more than her father. No one treated her that well and fretted over her as he did. All of the precious memories that she had spent with him was bing a mere illusion now.

    Her father, ever so loving, was just a tool for her survival.

 Chapter 224 For The Bes

    <h4>Chapter 224 For The Bes</h4>

    Li Xueyue wanted to run away from here. The exit was not so far back yet her eyes were trained on the scene in front of her. She wanted to throw up. Anything was better than staying here.

    The smell was gut-wrenching. Blood mixed with human waste, there was only so much she could handle.

    cing a hand on her face, she covered her nose and mouth. Stumbling backwards, she nearly stepped on the tiger.

    Xiao Juzi let out a soft, threatening snarl, warning her to stay away from him.

    Li Xueyue took another step in the opposite direction. She intended to flee from here.

    It was toote to turn back.

    Xiao Juzi''s quiet snarl had given their position away. Yu Zhen turned his neck, expecting to see his friendly pet, but he saw both of them at once.

    When his eyes connected with Li Xueyue''s petrified ones, his gaze hardened. This was who he really was. If she couldn''t handle it, she could leave.

    "Come here, Little Hamster," Yu Zhen muttered.

    Li Xueyue did not understand this man. One minute he vowed to take her back home, and the next, he wanted her by his side. What exactly did Yu Zhen want from her?

    When she didn''t react, Yu Zhen reached out a hand in her direction. It was herst chance. Take it or leave it.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes flickered from Yu Zhen''s outstretched hand to the tortured family who was beyond shocked by her presence. They had not expected to be soiled and disfigured, whilst she stood there, clean and healthy.

    Li Xueyue took a step forward, then another. Yu Zhen smiled encouragingly. She hesitated in putting her hand in his but did so with great reluctance. Her eyes grew wide when he wrapped his fingers around her hand and pressed a fond kiss upon her fingernails.

    "Did you eat yet?" Yu Zhen mused. His gazended on a proud Xiao Juzi who seemed to be eagerly waiting for his praise.

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. He gently tugged her closer until she was standing beside his seated position.

    "Why not?" he asked, warmly caressing her fingers. He could sense her fear. She was practically shaking, but she would not hold onto him for support. Such a stubborn little thing she was.

    "T-these people," she stuttered, "They''re¡ª"

    "The ones keeping you in Wuyi," Yu Zhen chillingly said, his smile turned sickening.

    Li Xueyue swallowed hard. She knew he was intelligent, but she didn''t think it was to this extent.

    "D-did you find them through the royal decrees?"

    Yu Zhen tilted his head. "Of course, where else would I find them?"

    "You''re torturing them...why?"

    "You know the answer to that, Sunshine." Yu Zhen''s sharp features darkened.

    Yu ZhenHe did not need to divulge the details to her since it involved her. He only found out about the abuse after the Bai family servants spilled it in exchange for their lives.

    Li Xueyue''s face paled. "What do you know?" Her eyes nervously darted to the family in front of her. "Did you do this because of me?"

    "Who else would I do it for?" Yu Zhen quirked a brow.

    Yu Zhen?released her hand and grabbed her waist. He feared she would buckle onto the ground any minute now. Perhaps her stomach wasn''t as strong as his. It was not a surprise.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t used to the cruelty of war. But he, who led the men to battle, was familiar with all of this. As a matter of fact, this torture was nothing like the ones he experimented on war criminals.

    Li Xueyue felt her lips tremble. Just who exactly had she fallen in love with?

    Her eyes met his eyes and she shivered. His aloof expression seemed lifeless. He was not fazed by his own brutality. In fact, Yu Zhen appeared to be amused that she was even worried about such a thing.

    "I''ve said it before, Sunshine. All of your monsters, I will y them for you."

    "But you''re a monster too."

    Yu Zhen''s smile disappeared. He dropped his hand. "Do you expect me to fall onto my own sword?"

    "What?" she blinked, "Of course not. Don''t jump to conclusions."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. She jumped to conclusions faster than him. He supposed they were both hypocrites.

    "Xueyue?"

    Li Xueyue stiffened. Her eyesnded on presumably Viscountess Mu Yihua. She didn''t suffer as much as her husband, but it was difficult to ignore the bruises and ck eyes.

    "My baby, is that you?" Viscountess Mu Yihua breathed out. She was choked with emotions, her eyes wandering over her daughter''s body. "I-I''m so happy to see you''re well. The Li Family, they treat you well, don''t they?"

    Li Xueyue could not find it in herself to answer her birth mother.

    "Ce closer, my baby,e let mommy have a good look at you."

    Mommy? Li Xueyue''s expression went cold. Thest time she had called Viscountess Mu Yihua ''Mother'' in front of Viscount Bai Sheng, Li Xueyue was pped across the face by her so-called "father."

    Suddenly, the fear she felt for Yu Zhen was reced. Raw anger coursed through her veins, her blood boiling at the realization that the Bai family was using her.

    "What''s... wrong, my baby?" Viscountess Mu Yihua heaved. She was severely dehydrated that her own voice sounded different to her. It was foreign and a cackle like that of a witch.

    Her husband had it worse. She knew that. She had witnessed the cruelty of the man that adored her daughter. Selective pieces of the Viscount''s tongue were cut, enough to make him stutter, but not lose his ability to talk.

    Seeing the Viscountess like this, Li Xueyue''s heart went cold. The terror was momentarily distracted by the rage she felt for the Bai Family. The crimes and abuse theymitted towards her came back in violent memories.

    "You''ve never treated me as your daughter," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "What makes you want to start now?"

    Viscountess Mu Yihua''s heart shattered at her daughter''s voice. "I''ve always treated you as my daughter. You were birthed by me, breastfed by me. How could I not love you?"

    "I never said you didn''t love me." Li Xueyue''s gaze softened. "Perhaps, you knew it yourself that you didn''t. Is that why you brought it up?"

    Tears filled Viscountess Mu Yihua''s eyes. "I''ve always loved you, it''s just different from Tianai. In the end, it is still motherly love."

    Li Xueyue was growing more and more irritated. Fear did not hold her back anymore. Anger propelled her next action.

    "You couldn''t even ept the fact that you gave birth to me," Li Xueyue pointed out. "There is no such thing as differentiated love between a mother and her child."

    "X-Xueyue, is that you?" Viscount Bai Sheng stuttered out, his eyes wide with disbelief. "Oh, h-how d I-I am to see you."

    "I wish I can say the same," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    Viscount Bai Sheng recoiled at her words. When was she ever this confident? He was a hair''s breadth away from cursing her out.

    "S-sweetie," he gritted out. "Ce and help your d-dear old father¡ª"

    "Why don''t you rot in Hell?"

    Bai Tianai''s jaw dropped open in shock. She had never seen this kind of confidence in Bai Xueyue.

    Yu Zhen hid his smile and looked away. His little kitty finally used her ws for the right people. To say he was proud was an understatement.

    Li Xueyue was fueled by the Bai Family''s abusive nature towards her. Nothing could hold her back today.

    Li Xueyue''s gaze shifted to Bai Tianai. "Wow, you look great."

    Bai Tianai glowered at her. "Wish I could say the same, you wench."

    Yu Zhen''s mood soured. "Proceed," hemanded.

    The soldier didn''t need to be told twice. One man held her head and mouth in ce. Another advanced towards her with a sharpened de.

    "No, p-please don''t!" Viscountess Mu Yihua wailed. She turned to her youngest daughter, her eyes wide with tears. "My baby, tell him to stop, please, I beg of you!"

    Yu Zhen held up a hand and his soldiers paused. He shifted his attention to Li Xueyue. "What do you think? Should we stop?" he asked mockingly.

    Li Xueyue blinked. Where was Viscountess Mu Yihua when Bai Xueyue begged for mercy? What was Viscountess Mu Yihua doing when Bai Xueyue was abused and beaten by the Viscount? Where was that "motherly love" that was supposed to protect her?

    Li Xueyue felt numb. Her heart did not beat for them. She didn''t even feel pity. The Bai Family was nothing to her. They were monsters.

    "Why don''t we ask Bai Tianai if you should stop?" Li Xueyue responded.

    Bai Tianai''s face flushed red. She knew exactly what Li Xueyue was implying. "I will not beg you for mercy!"

    "Mercy?" Li Xueyue mused. "You should be begging for your life."

    Bai Tianai''s heart dropped.

    Viscount Bai Sheng felt like a bucket of cold water was emptied over him. Did this useless scum threaten to kill his daughter?! He saw red. "Y-you despicable brat, I s-should''ve had your mother a-abort you the day we found out about you!"

    It was the wrong move. And his daughter paid for it.

    Bai Tianai''s lips were cut off, the most wretched of screams filled the tent.

    Li Xueyue thought her ears would shatter from the intensity of Bai Tianai''s wails. It came and went, but her sobs and bleeding did not. The blood dripped down her chin, staining the already dirtied rag she wore.

    Li Xueyue was not fazed, even though she should be. Her fear had dispersed into anger.

    Li Xueyue thought she couldn''t stomach such things, but didn''t realize the satisfaction that came afterwards.

    Li Xueyue was not ready to face the truth, that she too, was bing what she vowed to destroy. She was a monster.

    The only thing that Li Xueyue''s gaze could not meet was the little boy huddled in the corner of the tent, a blindfold over his eyes. His ears and mouth were covered. He could not hear or see anything, nor could he speak. It was for the best.

    "Don''t look away," Yu Zhen mused when she took a nervous step backward. "This is all for you."

    Li Xueyue''s stunned eyes met him.

    He smiled.

    She cringed.

    Yu Zhen did not mind. All that mattered was the fact that she wasn''t fleeing.

 Chapter 225 She Didnt Exis

    <h4>Chapter 225 She Didn''t Exis</h4>

    Li Xueyue wanted to run away from here. But she could not. Yu Zhen had done all of this for her. The least she could do was stand here and watch. Watch as the Bai Family''s legacy ended tonight.

    She watched until tears filled her eyes and her ears were numb to the screaming. A painless death was never Yu Zhen''s forte. He preferred everything to be as agonizing as possible¡ªthe more, the better.

    Scum like them deserved the worst end of the stick.

    Finally, after a while, the screams felt too much like music to his ears. Yu Zhen stood up, amused at how much of a bloodied mess these people were. "I suppose this is enough for now," he said.

    Viscount Bai Sheng was motionless. Whether or not he was dead, Yu Zhen did not know. But he did care. He couldn''t have the Viscount die on him yet. "Call in the doctor, make sure that one stays alive to watch the torture of his wife and daughter."

    The soldiers bowed in acknowledgment. One ran off to fetch the camp doctor.

    Yu Zhen turned to Li Xueyue who stood like a tree. Her eyes were trembling, and she finally looked away. When he wrapped an arm around her waist, she nearly flung herself away from him.

    Li Xueyue''s wide eyes met his. Yu Zhen gently caressed her face, his tanned and clean hand arge contrast to the Bai Family''s bloodied skin.

    "Perhaps this was too much for you," he gently murmured.

    Li Xueyue did not respond. She could note to terms that a tiny amount of fear had sprouted in her heart.

    "Let''s take you home shall we?"

    Her head snapped up to him.

    Yu Zhen smiled at her bewildered features. He brushed away strands of her hair, tucking it behind her ears. "You didn''t think I would make you watch forever did you?"

    Li Xueyue nervously licked her bottom lip. "I thought you would be cruel enough to do that."

    "I''m a horrible man, but never to you."

    She doubted that statement. He knew it.

    Yu Zhen chuckled. "An eye for an eye."

    "Until the world goes blind," she finished with a scowl.

    Yu Zhen shook his head in amusement. "Let''s get you fed. I''ll personally take you back home." He grabbed her hand and tugged her out of the tent, Xiao Juzi pressed against his leg.

    "T-this tiger, howe I''ve never seen it? It''s so random and out of the blue."

    "I brought him with me to Wuyi. No one else except my people knew about him. When I left the Pce for Hechen, I knew I had to bring him."

    "Did he help with¡­?"

    "Xiao Juzi does not eat human meat, or else he will crave it," Yu Zhen said. "But he''s a fine tool for intimidation. Don''t you think so?"

    Li Xueyue peered at the tiger.

    Xiao Juzi ignored her and licked his paws, pretending that she didn''t exist.

    "Don''t look at him, he''s shy," Yu Zhen teased.

    "You said he bites people," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "Only those whom I want him to."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. The more she learned about Yu Zhen, the more of a monster she realized he was. Would he ever retaliate against her?

    Li Xueyue feared the day she would be the one sitting in the torture chair. Would he do that to her? Would hey a hand on her?

    Li Xueyue nced up at him. Her gaze wandered over his wless features. She envied everything about him, from his perfect hair to his perfectly long eyshes. Couldn''t he have a w? Even a tiny one would be fine.

    Catching her stare, Yu Zhen turned to look at her. Once they were out of the tent, he abruptly released her hand.

    "I haven''t forgiven you," he softly muttered. With a final pat on her head, he walked off, leaving her standing there.

    Li Xueyue realized all of that lovey-dovey behavior in the tent was just an act. It was better for the enemy to believe they were a blissful couple.

    Yu Zhen didn''t want to give the Bai Family the satisfaction of knowing there was trouble in paradise.

    A tiny part of Li Xueyue wished it wasn''t an act.

    - - - - -

    True to his words, he brought her home right after she finished her breakfast. They rode in silence on Xiao Lizi, his powerful and incredibly swift horse. Li Xueyue wished her heart didn''t skip a beat at least once on their journey back. She hadn''t objected to his strong arms that rested on either side of her. It kept her steady and upright.

    Once they reached Li Manor''s main entrance, Li Xueyue knew she would be in for an earful. And that was exactly what happened.

    The enormous door in the front opened, and no less than a secondter, Duchess Wang Qixing stormed out.

    "Xueyue?" she gasped, pressing a hand to her mouth. She rushed forward and warmly engulfed her daughter in a hug.

    "Oh sweetheart, are you alright?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked, holding Li Xueyue back at arms'' length to examine her.

    "Mom, I''m fine¡ª"

    "Good, because you''ll be in the perfect condition for a lengthy lecture!" Duchess Wang Qixing eximed just as the twins came bursting out of the mansion.

    "You shameless bastard!" Li Wenmin roared, charging forward with his sword ready.

    "Calling you a rat would be the nicest nickname I''ve ever given you," Li Chenyang snarled.

    "Wait, Wen-ge, no!" Li Xueyue called out, but it was toote. Her brother had already made his move.

    Yu Zhen effortlessly blocked Li Wenmin''s sword with his own. He rotated his wrist and swung his sword. In the blink of an eye, Li Wenmin''s sword flew out of his hand. But Li Wenmin expected that. He came prepared with a small knife, ready to murder the Commander of Hanjian and start a war.

    Yu Zhen had no time for games. He hopped off of his horse and grabbed Li Wenmin''s knife. Lucky for the Commander, he was wearing his usual gloves. They were meant for horse riding, but it was still ample protection.

    "Give it a rest, I didn''t kidnap her," Yu Zhen hissed.

    "Is that right?" Duchess Wang Qixing snapped. "So, you''re telling me you found her in the middle of the forest and graciously brought her back to us the next day?!"

    Yu Zhen nodded. "Actually, that''s exactly what happened."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s face turned red with anger. "How dare you lie to me?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew wide. "Mother, he''s not--"

    "Hush," Duchess Wang Qixing muttered.

    "Xueyue was caught by my soldiers at the borders of your territory," Yu Zhen exined. "My men didn''t know she was your daughter. They knocked her out, and by the time she woke up, it was nightfall."

    Duchess Wang Qixing paused. The story seemed usible, but what the hell was the Commander of Hanjian doing at the borders of their territory?

    "I had nned to return her to you, but it was already too dark out. Riding through the forest would be dangerous, and had we lost our way, it would''ve dyed the process. That is why I kept her until this morning when it''s safer to travel."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his gaze. "Why should we believe you?"

    "You don''t have to if you don''t want to." Yu Zhen mused, "But I don''t want to start off on the wrong foot with my future inws by lying."

    "F-future inws?!" Li Wenmin sputtered. "Over my dead body!"

    "That can be arranged." Yu Zhen chuckled. "But Xueyue actually values your life. So for her sake, I won''t harm you."

    Li Wenmin narrowed his gaze. "First you abandon my younger sister, and now you''re implying she''s yours? What gives you such liberty, you shameless bastard?"

    "What''s wrong with being shameless?" Yu Zhen asked. "I allowed you to raise a sword on me, a crime worthy of a deration of war."

    Li Wenmin was speechless. He roughly nudged Li Chenyang to take over for him.

    "That doesn''t excuse what you did to my sister," Li Chenyang snapped. "You broke her heart and now you''re iming you''re going to marry her. Do you really think we''d give her to you?"

    "No, I don''t." Yu Zhen shook his head. "But I do hope that you will. My feelings for her are genuine. They''ve always been."

    Li Chenyang ground his teeth. He could not deny that. God damn it, he abhorred how eloquent this man was. "You broke her heart."

    "She broke mine."

    "She wanted time!"

    Yu Zhen shook his head. "No, she wanted me to find another woman. That''s different."

    Li Xueyue epted her actions. She had said it for his own benefit, not hers. She wanted him to move on.

    "That''s because she wanted you to move on from her," Li Chenyang said.

    "How would you feel?" Yu Zhen began, "If the only woman you''veid eyes on tells you to find someone else to love?"

    "You love her?" Li Chenyang asked. "That''s absurd. Men like you never love a woman. You''re infatuated by her until someone else catches your interest."

    Yu Zhen tilted his head. Who hurt this poor boy? "You have my word that I will never marry anyone after Li Xueyue."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. "I want that written and signed by a royal decree with the Imperial Family''s stamp."

    "Deal."

    Li Chenyang glowered. It wasn''t supposed to be this easy. "You should know that doesn''t mean I''ll ever give my blessings."

    Li Xueyue grabbed her brother''s sleeves, tugging at it, hoping he''d lessen his torment over Yu Zhen.

    Li Chenyang pretended he didn''t feel the pressure on his sleeve.

    "Will blessings keep me fed?" Yu Zhen mused, "Will it provide me with infinite power and wealth?"

    Li Chenyang red at the Commander. He was going to go lighter on him, but Yu Zhen had provoked him.

    "Blessings are nothing but useless traditions," Yu Zhen calmly said. "But for Xueyue''s sake, I''ll value that meaningless exchange."

    Duchess Wang Qixing frowned. What an obnoxious but intelligent son-inw this crude man would make. "You will never see my Xueyue after this."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew wide. Horrified at her mother''s words, she turned to face the Duchess.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze darkened. "I didn''t kidnap her."

    "You kept her overnight. Do you know what that means?" Duchess Wang Qixing snapped. "When my husband sent out that search party, rumors spread. We were able to contain it, but word still got out."

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. "Isn''t that more reason for me to marry her? To uphold her reputation?"

    "That might be how it works in Hanjian, but it''s not how it works in Wuyi. Even if you dere to the entire world that you didn''t touch her, only a handful will believe you."

    Yu Zhen scowled. "That''s because you Wuyi folks always have your head in the gutter. I did not touch Li Xueyue. I didn''t even share the same bed as her, nor did I make any inappropriate moves."

    Duchess Wang Qixing raised a brow. "And how can I believe you?"

    "What do you want me to do? Show you the bleeding sheets on our wedding night?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing gasped at his insolence. She angrily took off her shoe and tossed it at his head.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. It all happened so quickly, she didn''t have time to restrain the Duchess.

    Yu Zhen blinked in shock. Did¡­ this woman just¡ªthe shoe whacked his head and bounced off, rolling onto the ground.

 Chapter 226 Falling

    <h4>Chapter 226 Falling</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing couldn''t care less about the fact that she had thrown her shoe at a Commander who was also the Second Prince. Titles didn''t matter to an angry mother. Nothing did, except punishments.

    "You spoke too brash with me," she snapped.

    Yu Zhen blinked. Wuyi''s customs were truly different from those of Hanjian. "I apologize then," he softly said. "It wasn''t my intention."

    Duchess Wang Qixing liked a man who was good at admitting his mistakes. Her rage simmered slightly. "From now on, I want you to stay far away from my daughter. You''ve already caused enough damage."

    Yu Zhen didn''t understand. He was offering to save Xueyue from this mess, but this woman wasn''t epting it. Why not? Had he said something wrong?

    "If you keep her away from me," Yu Zhen began, "No one else will have her."

    "Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue hissed, knowing this was not the proper way to deal with things.

    "Just because her reputation is ruined, it doesn''t mean there won''t be another suitor," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Her title as a Princess will ovee any reluctance. Her family name will silence the people.

    Yet again, Li Xueyue was ignored. She felt like the side character in her love story!

    "That''s not what I meant," Yu Zhen chuckled. A ghost of a smile rested upon his lips.

    "What were you implying then?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    "Every suitor that shows up to that door," he mused. "Will end up dying under mysterious circumstances."

    Duchess Wang Qixing gasped at the absurdity. "You dare to spill blood on foreignnds? Do you want to start a war? It''s not that easy to murder the sons of aristocrats."

    "Who said I would murder them?" Yu Zhen tilted his head. "For all they know, the man fell on his sword."

    "I will spill your secrets and tell people it was you who did it," Duchess Wang Qixing bit out.

    "That will further ruin Xueyue," Yu Zhen noted. "People know she''s acquainted with me. They''ll gossip that she asked me to kill these pesky men."

    Duchess Wang Qixing narrowed her eyes. "What a troublesome man you are. And here I was, thinking I saved my Xueyue from Wen Jinkai, only for her to meet you."

    Yu Zhen''s expression hardened at theparison. His gaze finally met Xueyue and she urgently shook her head. She didn''t want him to threaten her mother.

    His features softened. She loved her family. The things she love, he would protect.

    "Why can''t I marry her?" Yu Zhen finally asked. "Wasn''t that what you wanted all along?"

    "Xueyue is only eighteen! Don''t you realize how young she is?! I know Hanjian does not value the idea of marrying extremely young women since your traditions are a lot different from us."

    Yu Zhen was astonished at thest bit of information. He was five years older than her.

    Yu Zhen didn''t know she was this young. Suddenly, their rtionship felt wrong. She was indeed, too young. He knew Wuyi epted marriage at this early of an age, but Hanjian did not tolerate it. Especially the Emperor.

    Yu Zhen slightly frowned. "If you had told me that from the start¡ª"

    "What? You''d refrain yourself from advancing on her?" Duchess Wang Qixing scoffed.

    Yu Zhen lost count how many times this family had insulted him.

    "Hees in peace, mother." Li Xueyue was grateful that she could finally get a full sentence into this argument. Everyone kept on interrupting her that having a word in was difficult.

    Duchess Wang Qixing sighed through her nose. She knew she was being too harsh, but what else could be done? This man just wouldn''t listen!

    "The decrees," Li Chenyang began. "You stole them from us, where is it¡ª"

    Li Xueyue peered at Yu Zhen. "He took it for our benefit."

    "What are you talking about?" Li Chenyang asked. He watched as Yu Zhen reached into the satchel attached by the side of the horse.

    "See for yourself," Yu Zhen said. He tossed the scrolls at Li Chenyang who caught it mid-air.

    Li Chenyang tucked one under his arm and unrolled the next. The most important one was the transfer of ownership. It was properly signed with fingerprints inked in blood. It was no mistake.

    "How did you¡­?" Li Chenyang breathed out.

    "Let''s just say, a Commander has his ways." Yu Zhen pleasantly smiled. "I saved you all of the hassles."

    Li Wenmin scratched the back of his neck. Now the Li family owed him a favor. "Why did you--"

    "I did it for Li Xueyue''s sake. Not yours," Yu Zhen interrupted.

    Li Chenyang swallowed. "Was this willingly signed?"

    "Does it matter?" Yu Zhen responded.

    "Of course it does," Li Chenyang said. "We can''t have the Viscount randomly showing up to the Imperial Courts, telling us that he signed it against his will."

    "You won''t have to worry about him showing up. Ever."

    "Did you do something to him?" Li Chenyang asked. He wasn''t sure if he wanted to know the answer to that.

    "Maybe," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Chenyang was skeptical. "It''s suspicious if we get ownership, but the Viscount suddenly vanished."

    "I suppose that''s true," Yu Zhen firmly nodded. "In that case, what do you propose?"

    Li Wenmin didn''t like the sound of this. "Chenyang, you don''t mean you''re actually going to ept his help, right?"

    "It''s toote, we already did. Against our free will as well." Li Chenyang sighed. What''s done has been done. It was irreversible. "But I appreciate the help."

    Yu Zhen finally loosened a bit. Finally.

    "Don''t worry," Yu Zhen added on. "I won''t use this as leverage to get Li Xueyue."

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded in satisfaction. So maybe he still had an ounce of decency in him.

    Xiao Lizi anxiously shuffled her feet, growing tired of standing idle. Yu Zhen patted her mane. "You''ve gotten what you both wanted. Xueyue and the signed decrees."

    "Yes, we have." Li Chenyang nodded, wondering where this conversation was headed to.

    "I will be taking my leave now."

    Li Xueyue stiffened. Just like that? Without even acknowledging her?

    Yu Zhen smiled upon meeting her nce. He predicted what she was thinking. "Are we having the same discussion for the tenth time? We really have horriblemunication."

    "You treat me so differently each time I''m with you. First you''re nice, then your cold," Li Xueyue said.

    "I treat you coldly because you say the wrong things."

    Li Xueyue frowned a bit. "How am I supposed to know when you don''t tell me?"

    "Your conscience and morals should''ve told you," Yu Zhen calmly exined.

    Li Xueyue blinked. Was he... calling her immoral? He had some nerves! "You don''t evenmunicate with me when you''re mad¡ª"

    "And neither do you."

    Li Xueyue faltered. She didn''t know this bad habit of hers. It was difficult to vocalize her thoughts and concerns. The words that Viscount Bai Sheng instilled inside of her head were gradually losing its presence, but they continue to influence her still.

    Li Xueyue believed no matter how much practice she would have, she would still remember his crude insults.

    Women should keep their mouth shut, especially a little girl like her. Her value in life decreased each time she talked, he had once told her. Her emotions didn''t matter and if Li Xueyue voiced it, she would be considered an irritating woman. Or so, she was told.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened upon seeing she was torn by his words. "Consider my proposal wisely. This is thest time I will ever forgive you."

    Yu Zhen knew that was a lie. She was too attractive to him.

    Yu Zhen had already forgiven her for what the wrongs she did in the past, and would even forgive her for the wrongs she wouldmit in the future. It was with this realization that Yu Zhen knew he had fallen helplessly in love with her. Except, he was not the only one falling.

 Chapter 227 Ruined the Mood

    <h4>Chapter 227 Ruined the Mood</h4>

    "I will thoughtfully consider your proposal," Li Xueyue said.

    Yu Zhen had gotten out of his way to swallow his pride for her. It was time for her to return the favor.

    Yu Zhen smiled a bit and rode off.

    "Let''s head inside," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "I hope you''re ready for your lecture."

    Li Xueyue gulped. It wasn''t her fault for being kidnapped, but she supposed her mother was right. She rarely listened.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue rubbed her ears, feeling as if they''d been yelled at.

    The Duchess had spent the past hour venting about Xueyue''s wrongdoings. Her mother had exasperatedly lectured her on the importance of reputations and not allowing men to do as they pleased.

    Next, Duchess Wang Qixing scolded Li Xueyue for giving into the Commander so easily, for lowering her guard. There was so much to be said, and all of it was done in less than an hour. By the time her mother finished, Li Xueyue had sunk low in her chair, riddled with guilt.

    "Sweetheart, I say this for your own good," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "I lecture you because I care. If I didn''t, I would''ve turned my head the other direction."

    Li Xueyue nodded before engulfing her mother in a meaningful hug. Not because she wanted to appease her mother, but because, she truly appreciated the lecture. It reminded her of much of a fool she was behaving.

    Duchess Wang Qixing said to not chase the man, but Li Xueyue had done exactly that.

    However, there were times where mothers didn''t know best, for they did not walk in the same shoes as their daughters.

    Duke Li Shenyang had returned home soon after the lecture. During dinner, he too gave her a lecture about her mischief. He was not angered by her actions but simply disappointed. Thetter was a lot worse.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to ever let them down but had done exactly that.

    Li Xueyue spent the next few days cooped in her room, practicing what she told them she would do.

    Yu Zhen hadn''t reached out to her, but Li Xueyue refused to let that bother her.

    Slowly, but surely, she started her old hobbies. In her free time, she took Heiyue on a run, or practiced her archery. The sun had consistently beamed down on her, adding a healthy glow to her paleplexion.

    Even the Li Family had noticed her progressive change for the better.

    The days trickled past, peacefully and slowly, without any momentous event. It was strangely reassuring but nerve-racking. Why hadn''t he contacted her?

    Li Xueyue flipped the page on her book, deciding to focus on her studies.

    "Xiao Yue~" Li Wenmin giddily said, skipping into her room. "What are you doing?"

    "Reading poems," Li Xueyue said, ncing up from the small book. When she saw his eager expression, she smiled. He wanted something. It was so obvious.

    "Hey hey, remember when Yu Zhen came over to teach you Hanjian''s techniques. Can you teach them to me?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "I don''t remember much of it since it was one lesson."

    "That''s fine, I still want to learn!" Li Wenmin said. "You''re such a good teacher Xiao Yue. If it wasn''t for your archery skills and your amazing ability to teach, I wouldn''t have improved on my archery."

    Li Xueyue snorted. "Yourpliments are too exaggerated."

    "Hehe~" Li Wemin didn''t bother denying it.

    "Well, I suppose I can. I''m not doing anything important in the first ce¡ª"

    "Actually, you are," Li Chenyang said, stepping into her room.

    Li Wenmin''s shoulder dropped in disappointment. Great! Li Chenyang always ruined the mood.

    "What does she have to do so early in the morning?" Li Wenmin huffed. "We just finished breakfast too. I''m sure whatever you want can wait."

    "As you said, she just ate. Too much strenuous exercise will make her throw up," Li Chenyang mused.

    Li Wenmin scowled in displeasure. He was annoyed by the uracy of his younger brother. Too eager to learn, he had forgotten the force she would be exerting on herself.

    "Anyways, you will be busy for half the day." Li Chenyang''s face became more stern. "You''ve been summoned into the Royal Pce."

    Li Wenmin''s expression darkened. "What do you mean? I thought Uncle and Aunt didn''t want anything to do with her anymore. They haven''t contacted her for weeks."

    "It''s not the Emperor and Aunt," Li Chenyang muttered. "It''s the Second Prince."

    Li Xueyue''s suspicious gaze instantly met Li Wenmin. She had not forgotten the encounter they had near the guest pce. Was her identity given away?

    "What does he want?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "I do not know. He simply requested for you, that is all."

    "Remember when I told you I ran into him on my way to the guest pce?" Li Wenmin said. "Well, he asked about Xueyue. He thought Mother and Father were recing Minghua with her."

    "How absurd." Li Chenyang scowled. "If we truly were recing Minghua, we would''ve kept Xueyue locked at home, dressed in all of the styles and clothing that Minghua used to wear."

    "Exactly." Li Wenmin sighed. "Well, words travel, I suppose."

    Li Chenyang glowered at the ground. "We don''t have time for this meaningless gossip."

    "We don''t," Li Wenmin agreed.

    "And, have you thought about what I asked of youst time?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "What did the People''s Representative say?" Li Wenmin shot back.

    "He agreed that a change would be beneficial. There is no need for a puppet on the throne."

    Li Wenmin was stunned. He grew quiet and unsure of his next course of action.

    "It''s toote to back out, Wenmin," Li Chenyang coldly stated. "You already know what''s going to happen. Your only choice is to join us or betray your family."

    "That''s unfair!" Li Wenmin bickered. "How can you make me choose between that?"

    "The fact that you have to choose is already despicable," Li Chenyang said. "We''re your family. Blood is thicker than water."

    "Well, yes but¡ª"

    "I''ve had enough of this conversation," Li Chenyang deadpanned. He approached Xueyue and grabbed her wrist, dragging her out of the room.

    Li Wenmin stood there in utter silence. He was torn between his loyalty to this country and to his family. If the Li Family was to usurp the throne, how many people would be mercilessly ughtered? How many members of the Royal Family must die? How many of the Emperor''s supporting aristocrats would be killed without mercy?

    Li Wenmin stared at his hands, trembling. He had never used it to kill his peers before.

    Sure, Li Wenmin had joined many battles, but that was different. He was defending his country, something he was sworn to do. But now, he was asked to kill the people who ruled this country.

    Torn at a crossroad, Li Wenmin could do nothing but sit down and ponder his choices.

 Chapter 228 Spill the Secrets

    <h4>Chapter 228 Spill the Secrets</h4>

    Li Xueyue allowed her brother to drag her down the hallways. She dealt with his anger in silence, knowing it was better to let himself calm down. He didn''t like it when others intervened or tried tofort him. He was simply too prideful for that.

    "Why are we obliging the Second Prince''s request?" she finally asked once the carriage was drawn.

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together. "Wang Jing rarely seeks an audience with anyone. If he does, it must be for something important."

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    Li Chenyang shrugged a bit. "Besides, the Empress and Wen Jinkai always go to him to vent their frustrations. Who knows? Maybe Wang Jing will leak something to us."

    Li Xueyue climbed onto the carriage with her brother''s help. "I doubt it. I wouldn''t spill the secrets of my friends and family. It feels weird to do so, no matter who requests it."

    "Nothing wrong in getting our hopes up," Li Chenyang said as he got into the carriage after her.

    The coachman shutted the door for them and proceeded to the front of the carriage.

    Li Xueyue nced out the window, watching as the scenery rolled past them. "Is the Second Prince actually that calm and nice? Or is it all an act?"

    Li Chenyang shifted his attention to her. "Well, I rarely interact with him. Wenmin is usually the one who is buddy-buddy with everyone."

    "The Second Prince seemed so mellow and pleasant that I couldn''t believe the Empress gave birth to him," Li Xueyue said. "Something about him tells me he knew I wasn''t a simple servant."

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together. "The Second Prince is intelligent. If he wasn''t so sickly, the Emperor would''ve chosen him as the Crown Prince."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew wide. "Really?"

    "It''s not a known fact, but Father told me of this," Li Chenyang muttered. "After the Emperor got drunk one night with his concubine, Father discovered him and dragged him out of that room before any secrets were revealed. It was then the Emperor randomly said how much he valued his second son''s intelligence."

    "Do you think the Second Prince might know of this?" Li Xueyue asked. "I mean, if my father said I was destined to be the Crown Prince, but my position was given away just because of my health, I''d feel offended."

    "The Crown Prince''s position has always belonged to the firstborn legitimate son of the Emperor. The rest of the sons born after that should never dream of touching the Crown," Li Chenyang exined.

    Li Xueyue quietly nodded. She decided to change the topic. "Is the Li family nning to¡­" she trailed off, careful of her words.

    Li Chenyang caught on to what she hinted, but didn''t respond. He simply nced out of the window, watching the trees whirl by.

    The carriage ride was a little bumpy, but that was normal. The terrain leading to the Capital was a bit rough.

    Li Xueyue realized she asked something that she wasn''t supposed to. She couldn''t help it. Curiosity always got the best of her.

    "It''s best that you don''t know," Li Chenyang said. "Or else people will think you''re an aplice."

    "How do you n to get rid of them?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Summer is approaching," Li Chenyang abruptly said. "The weather is getting hot isn''t it?"

    Li Xueyue blinked at the obvious diversion of discussion. "Yes, the heat is getting unbearable."

    "Many aristocrats often move to a much cooler city to reside in. The Royal family is no exception," Li Chenyang mused. "They have a vacation pce elsewhere."

    Li Xueyue read between the lines. She predicted what was going to happen. On their way to their summer home, something would go down.

    Li Xueyue gulped. Perhaps he was right. It was best for her to not know.

    "Don''t worry," Li Chenyang said. "You will be kept cool at home. No one will disturb you."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. He was talking in circles today, but she supposed it was to keep everything a secret.

    The rest of the journey to the Pce was gued with silence. No one spoke, no one wanted to. Both of them were lost in thought.

    - - - - -

    "You''re here!" Second Prince Wang Jing instantly said when he saw Li Chenyang exit the carriage.

    Wang Jing watched?Li Chenyang like a hawk. He observed as Li Chenyang turned around and offered a hand to someone in the carriage. Out stepped a beautiful woman that fitted the description of the rumors. She was indeed breathtaking in the most refreshing manner.

    When she graciously smiled at Li Chenyang, Wang Jing was awestruck. Not because he was interested in her as a woman, but because she was nothing like he expected.

    He thought Li Xueyue would be haughty and arrogant, given the titles and wealth bestowed upon her. But she wasn''t.

    There was a humble air to her. It might''ve been due to the way she carried herself¡ªGraceful but not exaggerated. Everything was so¡­ effortless. It was like she wasn''t forcing herself to be something she wasn''t.

    "It''s a pleasure to meet your acquaintance," Li Xueyue said with a small bow.

    Wang Jing blinked. He smiled at her politeness. "I hope the road here wasn''t rough?"

    "It was," Li Chenyang muttered. "But it''s always rough."

    Wang Jingughed at his cousin''s straightforward behavior. It was what made the other Ministers like Li Chenyang so much.

    "Well, I wouldn''t want to keep everyone standing in the open," Wang Jing said. "Come, let''s go to my pce."

    Li Xueyue''s attention drifted to the person beside him. There she was again. That veiled servant. When their eyes met, the servant politely nodded her head and looked away.

    Li Xueyue knew something was odd. Servants did not nod. They bowed. Who was this woman?

    Li Chenyang ced an encouraging hand on her upper back, gesturing for her to walk.

    Li Xueyue blinked. She wasn''t aware that she hadn''t taken a single step forward. "Thank you," she whispered.

    Li Chenyang simply patted the back of her head.

    Wang Jing noticed how gentle Li Chenyang was. He had heard the rumors of how aloof and distant this man was. The rumors even spoke that he was unkind to all of his siblings, but this man right here didn''t fit any of that description.

    Wang Jing frowned towards the ground. If he was kind to Li Xueyue, why couldn''t he be kind to the other siblings? Keeping his mouth shut about his misgivings, he led them to a tea room.

    Li Xueyue realized how well-kept this room was. The windows were pushed open and the curtains fluttered. It was well-circted and airy inside with ample room andfortable chairs to sit back and rx on.

    "Please sit," he gestured to the chair right as his veiled servant disappeared. Most likely to fetch the tea and snacks.

    Li Xueyue sat down on the chair that directly faced him.

    Li Chenyang sat by her side. He faced the door as that was what he preferred. It was best to know who came in and out of this room. Even though the Second Prince was as harmless as a fly, Li Chenyang could not lower his guard.

    "You must be wondering why I invited you here," Wang Jing spoke up. "Oh but don''t worry, there''s no ulterior motive. I''m not a fan of schemes."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "That''s good to hear."

    "You see, I have a weak body, so ruining others was never my forte. It''s such a waste of time too, don''t you think?" the Second Prince abruptly asked.

    Wang Jing nced at her and then Li Chenyang. "I mean, if we hate someone, we should just say it instead of holding it in and waiting for the perfect opportunity to hurt someone."

    Li Chenyang was rmed by the Second Prince''s words. Did¡­ Wang Jing know something that he shouldn''t?

    The more irritated Li Chenyang was, the more he smiled to mask his frustration. His smile forcibly met his eyes to look genuine.

    "How refreshing of a behavior you have," Li Chenyangmented. "It''s a pity that being blunt will ruin reputations. I''m sure you''re aware of that? Your mother, my Royal Aunt, used to be scornful when she was a Crown Princess because she didn''t know how to control her tongue."

    Wang Jing blinked. He was instantly struck down by his cousin and the war hadn''t even begun yet. "Haha¡­ I suppose so. I''m d Mother learned now."

    "Hm, it''d be best if she taught you the same thing," Li Chenyang muttered. "In High Society, we do not use violence. Words are our weapons and defense. I''m sure you''re aware of this."

    The Second Prince shrunk in his chair. He didn''t think his cousin would be so ruthless from the start.

    "I didn''t mean to broach an unspeakable subject¡ª"

    "You didn''t." Li Chenyang chuckled. He looked at the empty table. "Your servant is taking her sweet time with the tea and snacks."

    Li Xueyue felt like an outsider in this conversation but she knew Li Chenyang didn''t mean it.

    There was something about the way the Second Prince nced at her made her feel uneasy. It was as if he saw right past her¡ªlike he knew everything she didn''t.

    When their eyes met, he pleasantly smiled. "My, that''s a lovely hairpin."

    Li Xueyue blinked, touching it. She had forgotten what the maidservants slipped onto her hair. She felt the petals of the tiny flowers that were clustered together. It was a gift from the Duchess.

    "The tiny flowers bunched together like that reminds me of hydrangeas. How pretty." Wang Jing sped his hands together. "Who gave it to you?"

    "Who else?" Li Chenyang said. "I hope you''re not trying to start a rumor, Second Prince."

    The Second Prince shifted in his chair. Was this man never going to let her speak? Was that the n? If so, it was a stupid one. He truly meant no harm...

 Chapter 229 Where Are Your Manners?

    <h4>Chapter 229 Where Are Your Manners?</h4>

    Wang Jing anxiously rubbed his fingers together. "I was only curious about who could have such a good eye."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. He sneered, "I know what you''re insinuating and I would advise you to shut your trap."

    Li Xueyue only thought Wang Jing was hinting about a suitor, but she felt like there was a hidden meaning behind both of these men''s words. They spoke as if she wasn''t there.

    ''I might as well have stayed home,'' she thought to herself.

    "Yueyue," Li Chenyang began. "The gardens are lovely at this time of the year. Take a walk. Bring your servants and guards."

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. She thought the purpose of having him apany her was so that she didn''t run into certain people.

    Li Chenyang leaned close and whispered, "The irritating people are upied as of right now. You will be safe."

    Nheless, Li Xueyue didn''t feel secure. Her gaze wandered towards the Second Prince whose nervous eyes met hers. He pleasantly smiled, tilting his head.

    Li Xueyue felt uneasy around him. He held all of the pce secrets. What a scary man she had encountered.

    "Very well then," Li Xueyue muttered, standing up.

    "Actually, take all of the guards with you. I want no one to see you except for the reflection of the pond." Li Chenyang gestured for the servants and guards to apany her.

    Li Xueyue felt like she was intentionally excluded from this conversation. Something was amiss but she couldn''t pinpoint it.

    Li Chenyang watched as she got up and walked out of the door, heavily surrounded on all sides. No one would even know it''s her. Once she was gone, his aura turned chilly. There was no need to feign amicability.

    Li Chenyang wanted her to leave, so the conversation couldn''t hurt her.

    "You were implying my mother had reced Li Minghua," Li Chenyang pointed out. "Li Minghua''s signature flower was always hydrangeas. Did you truly think that sort ofment would slip past me?"

    Wang Jing held up his hands in defense. His palms felt sweaty and he rubbed it against his thighs. Whenever he spoke to any of the ministers, they never seemed weing of him. He assumed it was because he was of no use to any of them.

    Wang Jing nced at the table, wishing the tea woulde by now. What had taken her so long? He wondered if she was caught up by something.

    The tea today would be chamomile and it would help calm his nerves and relive his tense shoulders.

    Biting his bottom lip, Wang Jing finally nodded his head. "I just think the coincidence is too much to not notice."

    Li Chenyang truthfully didn''t know who gave Li Xueyue the hairpin. He did, however, recall the day that he allowed Yu Zhen to take her out to the market stalls. Perhaps it was a gift from Yu Zhen.

    Li Chenyang did notice the simrity of Li Minghua''s hydrangea hairpin and the one that Li Xueyue had worn today. "I don''t know how many times I have to tell you, but Duchess Wang Qixing would never rece any of her children."

    Wang Jing cringed. "It just seems that way and¡ª"

    "Why do you even care in the first ce?" Li Chenyang suddenly said, his eyes narrowing suspiciously. "Besides, how would you know Li Minghua wore a hydrangea hairpin?"

    Wang Jing''s heart pummeled. He had spoken too quickly. "I was always close to Wen Jinkai. Of course, I''d be acquainted with his lover at the time."

    Li Chenyang raised a brow. "The protective Empress would let her most despicable niece-inw near one of her favorite sons? I find that hard to believe."

    "My mother didn''t know I was acquainted with her."

    Li Chenyang was beginning to realize the Second Prince was more than a listening ear for the Royal Family. Exactly how much did the Second Prince know?

    "What is the purpose for requesting to see me today?" Li Chenyang finally asked. He had better things to do than entertain royalty. There was a stack of paperwork awaiting him.

    "Are you busy?" Wang Jing asked. "I''m sorry, I only wanted to chat and¡ª"

    "I work for your father. Every minister is busy because the work is passed around," Li Chenyang gritted out.

    Wang Jing instantly nodded his head. "Yes, I heard Father has not been attending to his duties recently."

    "Recently, huh?" Li Chenyang mused. He shook his head and stood up. "Well, it was a pleasure seeing you today, Second Prince."

    Wang Jing instantly panicked. "No, don''t leave!" He rushed out, grabbing his cousin''s hand. ''Li Chenyang can''t leave yet, absolutely not!'' he thought. His cousin hadn''t met the intended woman.

    "Please stay a little while, my servant will be back with the tea and snacks too. I can''t possibly finish them all."

    Li Chenyang nced down at the Second Prince''s hands. In one fell swoop, he shoved him off. "Do you want to know what amuses me?"

    "Yes, please tell!" Wang Jing said, eager to do anything to get Li Chenyang to stay. It had been so long since a guest that wasn''t the Empress, Wen Jinkai, or Duke Li Shenyang came to this part of the pce.

    "I remember you used to be so sickly." Li Chenyang slyly smiled. "It''s so good to see you''re well and healthy."

    Wang Jing felt as if cold water was poured over him. He retracted his hand, almost as if he was burned by it.

    Li Chenyang''s smile widened, his eyes as friendly as a predator. "I pray your recovery will continue to be smooth from here on out."

    Li Chenyang didn''t wait for the Second Prince to respond. He simply headed out the door in search of his younger sister. Knowing her horrible luck, he predicted she had gotten herself in some sort of trouble.

    There was a reason he was so eager to leave. And it wasn''t because of Wang Jing''s irritable nature.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue let out a sigh. If she had to take another leisure stroll by the gardens, she would just fling herself off the bridge. Peering over the bridge railings and staring down at therge lotus pads, she couldn''t help but scowl. What''s the point ofing to the Pce today?

    "Gardens are boring," she mumbled. "Especially after walking through it a hundred times or so."

    Li Xueyue only liked the gardens at home¡ªthe ones tended to by Duchess Wang Qixing. The flowers there actually seemed alive and happy, unlike the ones in the Pce that bloomed for no one to see. The fate of Pce flowers was wilting and dying after their prime years.

    Li Xueyue pushed off the bridge''s railings. She decided to head in the direction of the Second Prince''s pce. Enough time had passed and their conversation would''vee to an end by now.

    Humming to herself, Li Xueyue was d to see she hadn''t gotten lost again. The Pce could be confusing. It was tooplex for her. It was easy to grasp theyout of the Li Manor, but this Pce was at least five times the size of their house.

    "Careful!" one of her guards said when one of the maidservants nearly collided into him. Except, he realized, it wasn''t a Li servant.

    Li Xueyue turned and saw it was the same veiled servant fromst time. The servant was carrying a tray with a tea pot and a small te of snacks on top, almost as if the servant was serving one person and not three.

    "Oh, you''re the Second Prince''s servant," Li Xueyue said.

    The servant paused. Her eyes met with Li Xueyue.

    Li Xueyue blinked. For a second there, she thought this woman had red at her. Perhaps it was her imagination. Besides, this servant''s face was covered by a veil.

    "Why are you wearing a veil?" Li Xueyue curiously asked. She approached the servant.

    Li Xueyue found it interesting that this woman had not bowed to her. Servants always bowed.

    Li Xueyue recalled something that Li Wenmin had said. It was hard to believe there was a pce servant who wasn''t scolded. This one should''ve been thoroughly disciplined if she was this bold to raise her chin that high towards a third-rank Princess.

    "Where are your manners?" the same Li guard from earlier spoke up.

    The woman stiffened. She turned to face the guard, her eyes filled with irritation. "I serve the Second Prince. I do not bow to anyone but him¡ª" she didn''t get to finish her sentence when a servant snatched the tray from her and another guard forced her to kneel.

    Li Xueyue gasped. "No, that''s enough."

    Li Xueyuedidn''t realize that her disappearance that night had made her servants more protective of her.

    The woman ground her teeth. "How dare you, this crime will not go unpunished by the Second Prince! Is it fun to bully a servant?!"

    Li Xueyue was taken back by the audacity of this woman. She blinked, wondering if her ears were ying tricks on her.

    "You look familiar, Princess," the woman said. "I''ve seen you before, haven''t I? Your eyes are very distinctive and beautiful, it''s hard to not notice."

    "How bold," Li Xueyue murmured.

    The woman cringed back. "I was just¡ª"

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to be caught with false rumors that she was bullying a servant. "Get up."

    The Li guard took a step back, allowing the woman to stand.

    Li Xueyue softly shook her head. "Your actions today won''t go unpunished."

    "And what gives you the right to hurt me?" the woman snapped, "You who took¡ª" she paused.

    The woman abruptly bowed her head and apologized, "I was wrong."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. Why did the servant seem so terrified all of the sudden? It''s not like a ghost was standing behind her. And if only she knew there was indeed a malicious presence not far off from where she stood.

 Chapter 230 Pay Me Back

    <h4>Chapter 230 Pay Me Back</h4>

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but wonder what face was under this woman''s veil. She took a curious step in the woman''s direction and reached down for the veil. Abruptly, the woman pped her hand away.

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet gasp and immediately soothed her hand.

    Instantly, the guards got to work. "You dare p our Young Miss!" They grabbed her roughly by the shoulder until she winced from the pain.

    "I didn''t mean to. It was just a reflex!" the woman cried out, her voice filled with disbelief. She struggled against the hands that were supposed to protect her.

    Li Xueyue was so astonished by this servant''s behavior that she didn''t know what to make of it. But someone else did. A shadow whirled by her before a hand reached out and grabbed the servant''s neck.

    Wen Jinkai ground his teeth. Who the hell was this servant? Such a useless thing did not deserve to live.

    "What are you doing?!" Li Xueyue cried out, grabbing his arm. When had hee forward? She didn''t even notice him!

    The woman didn''t even struggle for her life. She simply stared at the man in front of her, wide-eyed.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. Were those...tears? The woman was crying.

    "Enough, stop it!" Li Xueyue hissed. She tugged at Wen Jinkai''s arm, her face filled with annoyance. "This isn''t your problem to deal with!"

    Wen Jinkai swung the woman to the floor as if she was a rag doll. The woman heaved, grabbing at her throat, coughing and sucking in desperate breaths of air. Something about her felt strange, but he couldn''t pinpoint it.

    "Are you alright?" Wen Jinkai murmured, ignoring the panic expression on Li Xueyue''s face. He reached for her hand that was pped by the servant, hoping to examine it for any marks that might''ve formed.

    Li Xueyue took a step back. She shouldn''t havee here today. Her guards and servants had broken formation. If only this servant didn''t run into her, there wouldn''t have been a problem.

    "I''m fine, don''t touch me," Li Xueyue boldly said.

    Wen Jinkai paused. His face shed with remorse and he nced towards the ground. He took an apologetic step backwards to create distance between them. It wasn''t because he wanted to but he knew it was for the best.

    "I only wanted to help."

    "You do that a lot." Li Xueyue frowned. "You intervene when you shouldn''t have."

    "This rodentid a hand on you," Wen Jinkai said, pointing a finger at the servant?as if she was worth less than the scum under his shoe. "What else was I supposed to do? Death was the only option."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "She deserved to be punished. But choking her? That vites thews set in ce to protect servants."

    "Rules do not apply to me, Li Xueyue." Wen Jinkai raised a brow. "It will do you well to remember that."

    Li Xueyue folded her arms together. "I won''t stand here and justify her actions, nor will I ept yours."

    "You''re so stubborn," Wen Jinkai gently said. "Why are your walls always so raised around me? I''ve had nothing but the best intentions towards you."

    "Was hurting me and then demanding me to apologize to you done with the best intentions? Was viting my privacy and storming into my room the best thing for me? Is it?" she fired out.

    Wen Jinkai stilled at her words.

    Li Xueyue noticed how weighed down he seemed, as if there was something bothering him.

    The proud and arrogant Commander suddenly seemed small to her. Did his shoulders always hunch? She noticed the dark circles under his eyes but did notment on it. It was not her ce to do so. It wasn''t like she was his wife or something.

    "What will it take for you to forgive me?" Wen Jinkai murmured. "Do you want to see me on my knees that desperately? Do you want to see me beg?"

    Li Xueyue cringed. "No, of course not. I just want you to stay as far away from me as possible."

    "I can''t do that."

    "I will not rece Li Minghua," Li Xueyue bit out. "How could you dishonor her death by doing this?!"

    The servant''s head snapped up at her words. Her throbbing neck was no longer the center of focus. What did this haughty Princess just say?!

    "You have no right to say that name!" Wen Jinkai hollered, "You know nothing, Li Xueyue¡ª"

    "I know you''re a horrible lover and a scum of a man," Li Xueyue hissed. "Now get out of my face."

    Wen Jinkai''s expression darkened. He effortlessly closed the distance between them before any of her guards could react.

    But she was faster. A knife was pointed towards his neck the minute he reached a hand out.

    "Do not touch me," Li Xueyue coldly warned, the dagger glinting under the sun. "I will not tolerate you further."

    Wen Jinkai let out a bark ofughter. In the blink of an eye, he grabbed the knife and tugged it out of her hand.

    Li Xueyue would not let him vite her anymore. As one knifended to the ground, so did he. For she had kneed him directly where the sun did not shine.

    Wen Jinkai let out a cough, grabbing his precious jewels. He hissed in pain, not expecting her to be this violent.

    Li Xueyue stared down at him. Her lips tugged downwards into a frown. "Stay the hell away from me."

    The Li guards felt like they were the most useless things ever. How many times have they failed to protect their Young Miss? Guilt ate them alive, so much so, that they could do nothing but stare at the floor in defeat.

    Li Xueyue snuck onest look at the woman. "You''re lucky I didn''t have my guards chop off your hands for touching me."

    The woman stiffened. She was so caught up by the conversation that she had forgotten her manners. Finally, she bowed her head apologetically, but said nothing.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes at the woman and said, "I will remember you very well."

    Li Xueyue took a final look in Wen Jinkai''s direction. She rolled her eyes when she saw he was ring at her. Having no words for any of them, she strutted off, leaving both of them on the floor.

    - - - - -

    When Wang Jing heard the familiar pitter patter of footsteps, he turned around. "What took you so long¡­" he trailed off upon seeing her.

    "Little One," he immediately stood up. "What happened to you?" he rushed to her, warmly grabbing her shoulders.

    Rage filled him at the thought that someone had touched what was his. She looked like a damn mess. She looked as if she was mauled by someone. He could not help but notice the visible bruise on her neck, as well as the tears that were on the verge of falling from her eyes.

    Angrily, she tore off the veil, stomping on it. "I want to go home!" she cried out, her voice cracking.

    The Second Prince''s expression softened. He pulled her into his arms, hugging her warmly and tightly. She let out a quiet sob and buried herself within him.

    Under normal circumstances, she was too feisty to let anyone touch her.

    Today was different. She had run into the two people she wanted to avoid the most in this world.

    "Please¡­!" she begged, "I can''t do this anymore. I-I-"

    "Shhh," Wang Jing murmured, patting her hair. "It will be okay," heforted as her body trembled and shook.

    "No, I want to go home. The pce is not where I belong!" she shrieked, pushing at his arms. "Take me home, take me home! I don''t want to be here¡ª"

    "You have no home to return to!" the Second Prince hissed, pushing her off of him.

    The woman gasped at his outburst. She had never seen him rage like this. His expression was vicious and menacing, his lips curled into a sneer.

    "Wang Jing¡­" she trailed off, dropping to her knees. "Please! I beg of you, I do not want to be here any longer. They have to know, they¡ª"

    "Little One."

    The woman paused. It was just a nickname, but it weighed so heavily upon her. His usually gentle and reassuring voice was lethal and threatening. It reminded her that he could kill her at any moment and no one would weep for her death for they already did it once.

    "Do you want to go home?" he asked her.

    She blinked, her head shooting upwards. "Yes, I do¡ª" She let out a cry of pain when he painfully gripped her elbows, dragging her upwards.

    "Then I''ll take you home."

    She was petrified. He had never given in to her request like this. Moreover, he was never this eerie around her. Something was wrong. She could feel it. Her suspicions were confirmed when they entered deeper into the pce.

    "No, wait, Wang Jing, I-I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to!" She pleaded, struggling against his firm grip.

    Wang Jing ignored her. He dragged her into his bedroom and angrily tossed her onto the bed. She attempted to scramble upwards, but he grabbed her wrists and pinned her down. She stilled. Tears freely rolled down her face, salty on her lips.

    "Your home is by my side. You belong to me from now on. I saved you from a life of misery. You will pay me back with your loyalty!" Wang Jing gritted out.

    More tears spilled out. She wept, not because he terrified her, but because she knew, her fate was sealed. He was not lying when he said he was her home. A home was a ce that offered herfort. And he offered her that, but at a cost.

    "Do you understand?!" Wang Jing demanded.

    She turned her chin to the side, revealing her bruised neck. "I do."

    "Good," Wang Jing said, easing off of her. "Now make me some tea before I lose my patience for you again."

    The woman did not respond. She simply got off the bed and fled out the door, her heart lurching in her chest.

    Wang Jing let out an exhausted sigh. Angrily, he shoved his hands into his hair. "What have I done¡­?"

 Chapter 231 Nearly Strangled

    <h4>Chapter 231 Nearly Strangled</h4>

    "Xueyue?" Li Chenyang called out when he finally found her. She was in the far distance but he knew it was her. Only one person would walk around with tightly-knit guards and servants.

    Li Chenyang rushed to her just as she turned around at his voice. The guards parted and his shoulders rxed upon seeing her. A smile graced her features and stars swarmed her eyes at the sight of him.

    "There you are," Li Chenyang said when she reached him. He affectionately patted the top of her head but stopped. He didn''t want to ruin her appearance.

    "Did anything happen?" he asked her with a pleasant smile.

    Li Xueyue wondered if she should tell him about what happened. She had dealt with it ordingly, didn''t she?

    Well, it wasn''t like she should keep it a secret. She didn''t want to lie to him either.

    Intertwining her fingers together, she truthfully said, "I ran into Wen Jinkai and one of the Second Prince''s servants."

    "What?" Li Chenyang deadpanned. Grabbing her shoulders, he scanned her for any visible injuries. "Did he hurt you?" he immediately asked.

    The thought of Wen Jinkai anywhere near her repulsed him. Li Chenyang never wanted Li Xueyue to go through the same thing as Li Minghua. He would never put another sister in danger.

    "No, but he nearly strangled the Second Prince''s servant to death."

    Li Chenyang was taken aback by this. He always knew Wen Jinkai was very violent, but he was not the type to harm a woman without reason. "Did this servant do something to you¡­?"

    "She was rude." Li Xueyue frowned. "But there''s something so strange about her."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Most people who are being choked will fight against it, right?" Li Xueyue asked

    "Yes, of course," Li Chenyang nodded. "Her fight or flight responses should''ve been activated."

    "The woman cried the second her eyes met Wen Jinkai."

    "What?" Li Chenyang didn''t think such a thing was possible. Why would a random servant cry at the sight of Wen Jinkai? "Well, I know he''s ugly beyondparison, but to cry¡­? What an odd behavior."

    "And she''s audacious." Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "Well, I suppose I was also at fault for wanting to see her face, but she pped my hand when I tried to unveil her."

    "A veil¡­?" Li Chenyang trailed off. "The pce servants are all beautiful. There is no way the Eunuchs will let a woman pass if she wears a veil."

    Li Chenyang grabbed her hands and asked, "Did she hit you hard? I will have her dragged out in front of everyone and thoroughly punished for touching you."

    "I think she already learned her ce," Li Xueyue said. "Especially after Wen Jinkai tossed her to the ground. It looked like it hurt."

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "It must be done. No servant should get away from hitting a Princess. She should be grateful that she''s alive in the first ce."

    Li Xueyue decided to let him do as he pleased.

    "Let''s take you home now. The Pce isn''t safe for you. I should''ve never let you wander the gardens. I apologize," Li Chenyang said. He ced an encouraging hand on her upper back and began guiding her down the hallway.

    "Chen-ge¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off. "Aren''t you going to ask me about how Yu Zhen obtained the decrees?"

    "I don''t need to know," Li Chenyang responded. "I already have my predictions."

    Li Xueyue peered at him. His attention wasn''t in her direction but elsewhere. She nced at what he was staring at, her lips parted upon realizing it was a bush of flowers.

    "Hydrangeas, how pretty." Li Xueyue smiled. "We have them at home. Mother loves tending to them."

    Li Chenyang''s expression softened. "Yes, hydrangeas are Mother''s favorite flowers."

    Li Xueyue felt like there was more to his words but she couldn''t pinpoint it. She wanted to ask about Li Minghua but she knew it wasn''t her ce to do so.

    - - - - -

    Upon reaching home, Li Xueyue slipped the hairpin out of her hair. She ran a finger over the petals of the small flowers that clustered together. Indeed, it resembled a hydrangea, but her hairpin wasn''t deliberately trying to resemble therge flower.

    "Hydrangeas¡­" she trailed off, feeling like there was some significance attached to this beautiful flower.

    Yu Zhen had given this to her. Did the Second Prince know that? Was that why he was asking about this?

    Li Xueyue sighed. It was one of the gifts that he had bought for her after seeing she was interested in it during their tour in the market. She had originally wanted to give it to the Duchess, but seeing as it was worn now, there was no need to.

    "Mother likes hydrangeas," Li Xueyue quietly said to herself as the servant began to undo herplicated hair.

    Li Xueyue caught the eye of a servant through the mirror. "Do you know why the Duchess is so fond of hydrangeas?"

    The servant didn''t expect the question. "P-pardon, Young Miss?"

    Li Xueyue hummed. "How long have you been working here?"

    "Less than three years, Young Miss."

    "Oh." Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. That was quite recent. She supposed there was no need to indulge in the question any longer.

    Li Xueyue slipped the hairpin into her drawer. There was no need to think so much. Perhaps her mother liked hydrangeas because of the mesmerizing hues of it.

    From the corner of her eye, something caught Li Xueyue''s interest. Crafted from obsidian with cracks of gold to resemble lightning, it was hard to not notice it¡ªYu Zhen''s pendant.

    Li Xueyue realized she had never carried it with her. It was always safe inside of her drawer.

    Yu Zhen hadn''t reached out to her, at all. It had been days since she hadst seen him.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her fingers firmly around the pendant, holding it close to her. She wondered if he was still out there, in that forest, doing the things she should''ve done, but didn''t.

    It was her revenge. But he did it for her. It was her who was supposed to bring the Viscount''s demise. But he ruined that satisfaction. All because they were the ones keeping her in Wuyi.

    Letting out another sigh, Li Xueyue shook her head. She wondered what went through his mind at times like this.

 Chapter 232 What Are You Waiting For?

    <h4>Chapter 232 What Are You Waiting For?</h4>

    The next morning, Li Xueyue woke up with a n in mind. If Yu Zhen would not reach out to her, she would make the first initiative. He had already made clear what he wanted from her.

    Shortly after a lively breakfast was concluded, Li Xueyue approached Duchess Wang Qixing who was tending to her gardens as usual. The air was refreshing and filled with a sweet floral scent. Li Xueyue took a deep breath, filling her lungs with a sense of tranquility.

    It was almost the time of year where the hydrangeas bloomed the prettiest, creating a palette of blush pink,vender, and sky blue.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but admire the beauty of the clustered flowers. It was no wonder the Duchess was so fond of them. The breed was eye-catching even from afar.

    In order for Hydrangeas to bloom to their full potential and achieve a nice shade, special care was required. Each and every flower here was properly tended to by the Duchess.

    "Mother," Li Xueyue approached the Duchess who was hand-pollinating a flower.

    "Sweetheart, is there a problem?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked, raising her head to see Li Xueyue standing beside her.

    "It''s about Yu Zhen."

    "Well, he''s always a problem, isn''t he? Most men are." Duchess Wang Qixingughed, remembering the fond days of her irritating husband when they were younger. He was the biggest issue in her life and almost every conflict seemed to involve him.

    "He hasn''t reached out," Li Xueyue confessed to which Duchess Wang Qixing''s smile slipped.

    "What a troublesome man, especially after dering his intentions towards you. Well, I suppose I was at fault for being too harsh on him." Duchess Wang Qixing softly frowned. "I was disappointed at his actions towards you."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "I would like to see him. I think he''s still in the forest. Riding with Heiyue there will be no problem."

    Duchess Wang Qixing was puzzled by her daughter''s words. "Have you made up your mind then? Is this your final decision?"

    "My final decision¡­?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing stopped tending to the hydrangeas and let the beautiful flower be. "You once told me your n was to stay in Wuyi and prosper. If you go with him now, sweet girl, your fate will no longer be entwined here. A new life will begin in Hanjian. Are you prepared for that?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. Was she destined for a life in Hanjian? With Yu Zhen? His charismatic smile shed in her mind, his teasing, and the amusement written all over his face when she did something silly. There was not a moment that went by when she did not miss him.

    It was time to take charge of her future and destiny. No one else would decide for hers. "A change of scenery will be nice," was her only response.

    Duchess Wang Qixing gently smiled. "I knew one day my little birdies would fly away from the nest, but I didn''t think the first would be my youngest."

    Li Xueyue felt a sense of relief at her mother''s warm response. It seemed the Duchess was not disappointed by her decision.

    "I''ve always been waiting, my dear girl," Duchess Wang Qixing began. "For the day you would decide things on your own without worrying about burdening us. Which, by the way, will never be."

    Li Xueyue blinked at her mother''s words. ''Was mother aware of my biggest fear?'' she asked herself.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s smile widened at Li Xueyue''s confused expression. "You are destined for greater things in life, but they would not be achieved in Wuyi."

    "Everything happened so easily. I feel like I cheated on my own future," Li Xueyue confessed. "My ns for bringing the Bai Family''s downfall; I wanted to achieve it on my own, with my blood, sweat, and tears."

    "Things never go as nned," Duchess Wang Qixing reassured.

    "It''s not your fault that Yu Zhen stole the satisfaction from you. It''s not your fault that he mobilized his people and got rid of your worries. It''s his decision, no one else''s. Perhaps you influenced him, but the one making the final decision was made by him."

    Li Xueyue intertwined her fingers together. The decrees, she had read over it. The Bai Family had signed both: the transfer of business ownership, as well as the payment of royalties. Only the former would be enforced. Thetter will be disposed of since there was no need for such a thing.

    Even now, Li Xueyue didn''t know what happened to the Bai Family. They were brutally tortured but were they dead? Were their bodies properly disposed of? She had a feeling that the sadistic Yu Zhen would never let them die so easily.

    "I only want you to answer me one thing," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Do you love him?"

    Li Xueyue already knew the answer to that question the fateful day they crossed paths in his bedroom after he pretended to mistaken her for a servant.

    When Yu Zhen had protected her integrity and reputation, their fate was already set in stone. A teasing grin, mischief-filled eyes, and a face like no other, he had already engraved himself in her heart.

    "I like him a lot," Li Xueyue professed.

    "Then what are you waiting for, my sweet girl?" Duchess Wang Qixing let out aughter so gentle, it was like the chimes of a bell.

    Duchess Wang Qixing made a shooing motion with her hand. "Go get your husband. It''s time he asks us for his blessings, don''t you think so?"

    Li Xueyue''s expression lit up at the Duchess''s words.

    Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled when Li Xueyue threw her arms around her and engulfed her in a tight hug. A gigantic smile broke out on Li Xueyue''s face.

    "Thank you, Mother!" Li Xueyue eximed in a cheery tone, the happiest that Duchess Wang Qixing had seen her in awhile.

    "Silly girl, there is no need to thank your family. Now go and fetch your future husband. I expect him to kneel and beg me for the blessing I would''ve given him even if he asked normally."

    Li Xueyue didn''t have to be told twice. She bolted out of the gardens, racing to the stables. Except, whilst she was hurrying to Heiyue, a soldier was on his way to the Li family manor.

 Chapter 233 Nothing To Lose

    <h4>Chapter 233 Nothing To Lose</h4>

    "Let''s go, Heiyue!" Li Xueyue happily said after climbing on top of her horse. She urged Heiyue forward. He excitedly walked in the direction of the open field. Eventually, the small walk broke into a run, and soon, the two were racing in the familiar direction of the forest.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart leap against her chest the closer they approached the forest. Excitement swarmed her at the thought of her secured future.

    Months ago, everything still seemed so bleak and helpless. She thought her destiny would forever lie in Wuyi, but she supposed all of her worries were silly and futile now.

    Li Xueyue had finallye to terms with the inevitable¡ªshe had fallen in love for the final time in her life. Whatever happened next, she would decide what to do herself. Whatever troubles and hurricanes that mighte her way, all of that would seem trivial with Yu Zhen by her side.

    "Good boy," Li Xueyue murmured as Heiyue came to a slow strut. They were inside of the forest now and the familiar path where she had taken before, greeted her.

    "Hmm, if I remember correctly, Yu Zhen took me out from that direction¡­" Li Xueyue murmured as she urged Heiyue forward.

    The deeper they got into the forest, the more she was certain of her directions. The trees were all the same but the nts around it weren''t. She distinctively recalled the path that Yu Zhen had taken when he brought her back to Li Manor on his horse.

    "That''s so strange," Li Xueyue mumbled under her breath.

    The forest was still and quiet. Not a single soul was disturbed. The tiny animals ran freely, hopping as they pleased. There was a calm in the air. A serene breeze danced past her, lifting her hair as it fluttered in the wind. The scent was musty and earthy as if there wasn''t a single sign of human activity.

    There was no longer the hustle and bustle of soldiers. The smell of food cooking over a campfire no longer lingered in the air.

    Heiyue continued walking in the direction she wanted. Eventually, Li Xueyue guided her horse to the exact ce that should''ve been brimming with human activity, but there wasn''t.

    "What happened¡­?" she said.

    A quiet gust of air blew by, revealing the dented grounds devoid of human life. Her smile slipped. The soldiers were all gone. The tents, the campfire, the troops, not a single one of them were in sight except for some scattered wood and remnants of burnt wood from put out campfires.

    Was this why Yu Zhen never contacted her? Because he was busy packing?

    "Let''s go," Li Xueyue murmured, deciding he must''ve ventured deeper into the forest. He had to be.

    Yu Zhen wouldn''t leave her like this. She was certain of it.

    The longer they rode, the antsier Li Xueyue became. They finally stopped at the parted clearing leading to the tents that the Bai Family was held captive then. But to her sheer horror, even that ce was vacated.

    There wasn''t even a single splotch of blood on the ground. Yu Zhen and his men left as quickly as they came. There were barely any imprints of civilization that briefly settled down there. Not a single trace of human activity could be found.

    It was then Li Xueyue epted the truth. Yu Zhen was gone.

    - - - - -

    "Mother, where did Xueyue go?" Li Chenyang said the minute he found his mother in the gardens.

    Duchess Wang Qixing had a faraway expression as she tenderly touched the hydrangea flowers.

    Li Chenyang''s throat dried at the sight of his mother''s tender action. It was as if his mother thought she was caressing Li Minghua''s face.

    Even his younger sister''s name sounded like a flower, a prominent and bright one destined to bloom to her fullest.

    Li Minghua''s stars were aligned and she had everything going well for her; a wealthy Princess for a mother and a prominent Prime Minister for a father.

    Li Chenyang''s heart felt heavy. Did she have to leave so soon?

    Li Chenyang nced down at his hands. His fingers had imprints from holding a brush for too long. There was so much he could''ve done for Minghua, but didn''t, all because he couldn''t get past her frequent betrayals. If there was one thing that Li Minghua loved to do, it was snitching on her older brothers.

    "Mother¡­?" Li Chenyang called out, wondering if she heard him the first time.

    Duchess Wang Qixing blinked in surprise. She dropped her hands and turned to her son. "Sorry, what did you say?"

    Li Chenyang frowned. It was unlike his mother to space out like that. She was always quick-witted and clear-minded, never missing a single detail. There was a reason that rumors never arose about her. Her sharp tongue kept people in ce.

    "I was asking where Xueyue went. She''s not in her room nor at the training fields. Her horse is also gone. Did she go horseback riding?"

    "Well, your sister is chasing her future," Duchess Wang Qixing vaguely said. She ced her watering can down and decided the flowers had enough attention from her today. But when she turned her back to it, it called for her again.

    Li Chenyang read between the lines. His aloof expression was reced by sheer anger. "Mother, you let her go after Yu Zhen?!"

    "Don''t raise your voice at me," Duchess Wang Qixing sniped. "What has gotten into you, Son? You''re beginning to lose yourposure more often. That''s not good for you, especially for what you''re nning in the future."

    Li Chenyang let out a sigh, nodding in agreement. "Sorry, I was just¡ª"

    "No need to exin yourself," Duchess Wang Qixing assured and smiled up at him, giving his cheek a reassuring pat. "I know you''re tired from shouldering the Emperor''s burdens. It will all be over soon."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded. "The meeting with Wen Jinkai is approaching soon."

    Duchess Wang Qixing blinked. "Indeed, it is."

    "The entire family except Xueyue will be present," Li Chenyang murmured. "If she''s there, more problems will arise. Wen Jinkai might even be tempted to wager for her in exchange for his loyalty."

    "Well, we can''t be certain that he will ever betray the Empress. But once his mother''s crimese to light, perhaps things will be different."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded at her words. "I just hope he has the conscience to admit his wrongdoings."

    "That boy, no matter how aggravating and frustrating he may be, is one of the most pitiful people I''vee to know," Duchess Wang Qixing murmured. "His actions towards our Minghua are despicable, but he has no one in this world except the Empress."

    Li Chenyang didn''t bother to refute her. He knew it was true. Wen Jinkai had less than a handful of friends, and those he was acquainted with, he never trusted. The only person that kept him sane was Li Minghua. The only person he had ever ced his full trust in was her. And now, look at where she was.

    Li Chenyang frowned. "I don''t have time to pity him. I don''t care about his background or the things that shaped him to be who he is today. I only care about the actions he took that described him to be more than what meets the eye."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s expression softened. She, too, would not find excuses for his actions, but the thought of that lonely man gued her thoughts. Ever since Wen Jinkai was born, his life was filled with nothing but misery and despair. That kind of man was the least predictable.

    Wen Jinkai had nothing to lose.

 Chapter 234 Mountain of Whispering Trees

    <h4>Chapter 234 Mountain of Whispering Trees</h4>

    "Are we going to kill all of them?" Li Chenyang finally asked his mother who was essential to how the n would unfold. It would be a midnight ambush of the military.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nced at the hydrangeas in front of her. "Let''s not discuss this somewhere so public."

    Li Chenyang knew there wasn''t a single servant near them. It was simply because the hydrangeas reminded his mother of Li Minghua. Li Minghua had had everything in the world, but happiness and freedom. So many resources were at her disposal but she wanted none of it.

    Li Chenyang could do nothing but bow his head in respect. These flowers, he wished they would bloom for the rest of eternity.

    "Let''s head to your father''s private study."

    "But it''s locked," Li Chenyang said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing snorted. "He can think that all he wants."

    Li Chenyang was confused by her words until they stopped in front of Duke Li Shenyang''s private study. Like always, it was heavily guarded.

    "Hello there, Ling," Duchess Wang Qixing said to no one in particr.

    Li Chenyang nced around the ce, wondering if they had a guard with that particr name. He met the stare of each and every guard in this ce, but none of them responded to that name.

    That is until a shadow dropped down from the top ceiling. Li Chenyang was startled, thinking a dead body had fallen right beside him.

    Like a stealthy cat, Lingnded softly on his foot. There was the slightest of thud that would''ve been missed if it wasn''t for the silence of the hallway.

    "Madam," Ling said, bowing his head.

    "It''s been so long since I''vest seen you," Duchess Wang Qixing mused.

    Ling did not respond. He remained in a one-legged kneeling position with a fist resting upon the floor and his other hand tucked over his chest.

    "I will be entering into my husband''s private study now. Don''t worry too much and stand guard outside, won''t you?"

    Ling nodded his head. "As you wish, Madam."

    Li Chenyang realized this man was familiar. Hisrge silhouette and that voice, he had once heard it before in his youth.

    Li Chenyang always wondered who did his father''s dirty work. Looking at the man before him with his entire face covered, except his eyes, Li Chenyang knew he had his answer.

    Duchess Wang Qixing slipped a key out of her sleeves. Li Chenyang gawked at the sight of the tiny key that she inserted without a problem. There was a quiet click and just like that, she pushed the doors open, revealing the disorganized room.

    Books were ced in random ces with stacks of paper upon the desk. Not a single servant was allowed into this room, and Duke Li Shenyang didn''t care for the mess.

    Duchess Wang Qixing wrinkled her nose. "So stuffy and dusty," she huffed. Approaching the windows, she pushed it open, allowing a lovely breeze to circte the room.

    "Hmmm, sometimes I wonder if he has a secret he''s hiding from me." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled. "This room always has the best of security."

    Li Chenyang nodded as he picked up a book and ced it back on the shelf where it ought to belong.

    "Especially with Ling guarding it, I''m left to wonder about the crucial information inside of here," Duchess Wang Qixing said andughed. "You know, Ling is one of the most lethal fighters I''ve ever seen."

    "How so?" Li Chenyang asked, picking up a document. His eyes widened for a brief moment. Was this¡­? The Emperor''s private funds!

    Li Chenyang instantly picked up the document to examine it closely. His eyes quickly read over the information, his hands shaking. What the hell was this? Why were there thousands of gold transferred to an unknown location? His eyes narrowed upon the slip of paper.

    The Mountain of Whispering Trees? Li Chenyang had never heard of this ce before, but he knew it was a marked spot on a geography map somewhere.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s attention was also diverted to something. A locked drawer. She wondered what could be inside. "Well, in my youth, I was a mischievous Princess, but you already know that."

    "Of course I do." Li Chenyang chuckled. He ced the document down and hoped his mother didn''t catch onto his strange behavior. "You used to tell me stories of the past during bedtime to ease me and Wenmin to sleep."

    "Yes, you boys were so devious," Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "Always keeping me up at night, refusing to sleep in your own rooms."

    Li Chenyang let out anotherugh. He did remember those days. It would always have a fond spot in his heart. But then his smile died down, remembering a tiny Minghua clinging onto them. Her bright eyes and innocuous smile was no match for the twins who always huddled with her as they slept.

    "There was one day I snuck out of the Pce and a search was sent for me." Duchess Wang Qixing smiled at the memory. It was so fun sneaking away from the guards, that is until she was captured by bandits.

    "Your father was immediately notified of my disappearance," Duchess Wang Qixing began. "And to think he didn''t care about me at all! Do you know what your stupid father did?"

    Li Chenyang paused his search for a geography book amongst the shelves. "I don''t remember that story that well."

    "Well, that idiot sent out one man! Whilst the Emperor mobilized hundreds of men, your father sent out a single person to seek for me. How rude of him?" she huffed, crossing her arms. "I almost didn''t marry him because of that."

    Li Chenyang smiled at her words. His mother would always say she wished she didn''t marry the Duke, but everyone knew, she loved him the most.

    "But guess what? The person that brutally murdered the group of bandits was none other than the single man your father employed. Gosh, that night was filled with so much blood and death."

    Li Chenyang nodded encouragingly.

    "Ling had killed them all. Those men all had a swift and clean death, none of them suffered. But two men were captured for interrogation. I have never witnessed someone as quick and powerful as Ling. It was terrifying that a single man handled thirty men who were twice his size."

    Li Chenyang blinked. Ling was that powerful? Howe he didn''t know of this?

    Duchess Wang Qixing smiled a bit. "He has such a pitiful background and past though¡­ he''ll never forgive himself for what he did."

    Li Chenyang finally raised his head to look at her. A book rested in his hand, but he wasn''t sure if he wanted to read it.

    "What did he do, Mother?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s face became grave. She nced at the closed doors, knowing no one could hear inside of this room. Even so, she couldn''t bring it in herself to utter Ling''s failure. It was the one thing that would haunt him for the rest of his life.

    "Nevermind that, my dear boy," Duchess Wang Qixing let out a sigh. "Why am I not surprised you found a book during my storytime?"

    Li Chenyang smiled a bit. "You know I love books."

    "I wish you''d love girls instead," she retorted.

    Li Chenyang was taken back. "What do you mean?"

    "Oh son, if you must confess to me that you don''t find interest in women, please do so quickly!" Duchess Wang Qixing dramatically said as she copsed onto a couch. "Hurry now, tell me if you don''t like women and I''ll inform the matchmakers to change their ns."

    Li Chenyang scowled. "What are you talking about, Mother? I don''t like men if that''s what you''re implying."

    "But you had never shown interest in anyone who smiles your way." Duchess Wang Qixing groaned, rubbing her forehead. She felt a headache kicking in any moment now.

    "Stop jumping to conclusions," Li Chenyang huffed. He opened the geography book and began to go through the list of mountains and the page it could be found on.

    "It''s because you didn''t spare Ning Huabing any attention when she''s obviously head over heels in love with you!"

    Li Chenyang paused. The timid woman with that tiny, hesitant smile shed in his mind. "It''s because she seems two-faced."

    "Then what type of woman interests you?" Duchess Wang Qixing huffed, ring at him.

    Li Chenyang tilted his head, pretending to think of a response. In reality, his attention was directed towards the book. Finally, he found the page about the Mountain of Whispering Trees. And his heart dropped.

    The Mountain of Whispering Trees was located on what was supposedly Wuyi''s enemynds. The Emperor of Wuyi was sending funds to their sworn enemy, Jiangsu.

 Chapter 235 A Betrayal

    <h4>Chapter 235 A Betrayal</h4>

    The geography book slipped out of Li Chenyang''s hand,nding on the floor with a loud thud. He couldn''t speak, his hands shook at the realization of this betrayal. Not only was Jiangsu an enemy country, but it was also Hanjian''s prime target for battles.

    For decades, Hanjian had a feud with Jiangsu, and neither country was willing to make peace until a treaty was formed. Recently, there was talk of one, thus, war had been called off.

    If Wuyi was funding Jiangsu, it only meant one thing¡ªWuyi nned on taking down Hanjian. With the forces of two countriesbined, Hanjian would suffer.

    If Hanjian found out about this, there would surely be another gruesome war between Hanjian and Wuyi.

    "What''s wrong?" Duchess Wang Qixing said, approaching the book that hadnded on the floor. She picked it up and saw it was just a in geography book.

    "It''s not like you to drop books. You said they''re more valuable than gold." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled, slipping the book back onto the shelf.

    Li Chenyang attempted to regain hisposure. So much was spiraling out of control.

    The Emperor had to be disposed of as soon as possible.

    Another war with Hanjian would be deadly and costly; especially with Li Xueyue''s inevitable decision to stay with Yu Zhen. What if she arrived in Hanjian only to be scrutinized for she was a Princess of Wuyi? What if Li Wenmin was sent off to battle?

    Li Chenyang''s expression paled at the horrid idea. Both of his siblings would suffer whilst he remained safe and sound in Wuyi.

    A war must not break out.

    "Mother, when are we going to mobilize our people?" Li Chenyang asked, swiveling around to face his mother.

    "As soon as we finish discussing everything with Wen Jinkai."

    "We need to kill the Emperor first," Li Chenyang harshly whispered. "Whoever deals with his private ie must be disposed of prior to his death!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing was taken aback by her son. It was unlike him to rush about things like this. "Why are you so impatient?"

    "Mother, the Emperor is sending funds to Jiangsu! He''s most likely sending funds to Jiangsu''s military. It willplicate things with Hanjian."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s expression darkened. "Why would he support Jiangsu? To take down Hanjian together?"

    Li Chenyang nodded.

    Duchess Wang Qixing scowled. "We still have Hanjian''s candidate with us, and Hanjian has our Princesses. What shall happen to them?"

    "It seems the candidates were nothing but a mere distraction to make Hanjian think everything is fine between us," Li Chenyang gritted out.

    Duchess Wang Qixing frowned. "We need to prevent all of this at all costs. A betrayal mustn''t happen, or else¡ª"

    "What if we inform Hanjian?" Li Chenyang suddenly proposed.

    "Are you crazy?! Why would you do that?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    "The other countries will frown upon our leadership if we conduct a military coup. However, if we have Hanjian''s support for the Li family, then the other countries will follow."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s lips parted. So it was inevitable now. Her beloved brother''s death was finalized.

    There was no turning back now.

    Once upon a time, Duchess Wang Qixing loved no one but her brother. And now, that love hade to bite her. The Emperor had all of the opportunities to keep his niece safe but didn''t.

    "We''ll have to discuss this with your father first," Duchess Wang Qixing finally said. "Afterwards, we''lle to a conclusion on our next course of action."

    "Let''s inform him as soon as he returns home. We mustn''t waste any time now," Li Chenyang said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded. "I agree."

    - - - - -

    Li Chenyang didn''t remain in the private study any further. It was a mess to others, but he figured that it was an organized one to Duke Li Shenyang who probably knew where everything was.

    As the mother and son began to exit the private study, a Eunuch rushed down the corridor. Out of breath, the Eunuch stopped before them and bowed deeply.

    "Madam, Young Master, there is a soldier from Hanjian requesting an urgent audience."

    Li Chenyang straightened. ''Was it Yu Zhen? It was about damn time! That stupid rascal. How dare he make Xueyue wait? Hmph, if he hase to beg me for my blessings, I''ll only give it to him when he''s on his hands and knees!'' he thought.

    "Oh my, but our Xueyue went out to see him already." Duchess Wang Qixing frowned. Perhaps they didn''t meet in the forest? She sighed. What a bad timing both of them had.

    Duchess Wang Qixing approved of Yu Zhen as a supporter, but she was still upset by the "kidnapping" that took ce. The least he would''ve done was take her home earlier or sent out a soldier to inform the Li family of what had happened.

    Duchess Wang Qixing didn''t enjoy the idea of Xueyue chasing after a man, but she knew it was inevitable. There are times where women must reciprocate, or else men will get tired of chasing for so long.

    Duchess Wang Qixing only hoped Xueyue would be wise of her decisions from here on out.

    Li Chenyang saw his mother was spaced out. He decided to respond to the Eunuch himself.

    "We''ll see him in the main drawing room. Prepare the tea," Li Chenyang said. "Oh, and I heard Hanjian soldiers hate savory pastries. Get us plenty of those."

    Duchess Wang Qixing threw her son a pointed look that screamed, ''Really? Must you be so petty?''

    Li Chenyang returned a sickeningly sweet smile that tranted to, ''Why, of course I must!''

    Duchess Wang Qixing rolled her eyes as the Eunuch excused himself for the task. He motioned for two servants to prepare the tea and snack whilst he prepared to direct the guest to the drawing room.

    "Wasn''t Xueyue heading to see him?" Li Chenyang huffed, "Why is heing to us alone? He should''ve just stayed put in that forest."

    "Maybe it''s urgent," Duchess Wang Qixing sighed, brushing strands of hair behind her ears. She saw her son''s messy cors and decided to fix it. Reaching forward, she adjusted it gently and gave his chest a reassuring pat.

    "Mother¡­" Li Chenyang mumbled, obviously embarrassed that she was still babying him when he was fully grown now.

    "Whether you''re twenty or two, you will forever be a child in my eyes." Duchess Wang Qixing smiled up at him with amusement. His cheeks were slightly stained red and she couldn''t help but pinch one side.

    "Mother!" he exasperated, pushing at her hands and sheughed at his sullen pout.

    "Fine, fine, I will stop bothering you for now." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled, keeping her hands to herself. "I do hope you will find me a daughter-inw to entertain this aging mother of yours. I do wish to see my grandchildren whilst I can still y with them!"

    Li Chenyang groaned at her nagging words. He covered his face with one hand and looked away. "Why don''t you ask Wenmin to provide you with kids first? I have a career to aplish."

    "There is nothing wrong with finding a woman along the way. Who knows? Maybe she will help you advance in life."

    "Our family is already ranked above the majority of families. There is no one who will bring us benefit."

    "No one, except for Marquis Ning''s daughter. He''s an important member in the courts and the other faction''s main leader. If you''re able to garner his support, it will make things easier in the future should the other faction oppose us."

    Li Chenyang did not respond. Yet again this week, Ning Huabing came to mind. Her flustered expression, her shaking hands when she attempted to give him a good luck tassel?during the Spring Tournament. A meek and shy woman like her was not to his interest. And little did he know, she was theplete opposite of his expectations.

    "She deserves someone better," Li Chenyang muttered. "Someone who will give her the time of day. Not me. I have things to do."

    Duchess Wang Qixing wondered if he was hearing himself correctly. Why must the men in this household be so dense? It was so clear that Ning Huabing was still in love with this emotionally stupid son of hers!

    "Hmph, just you wait," Duchess Wang Qixing bit out.

 Chapter 236 Time Is Escaping

    <h4>Chapter 236 Time Is Escaping</h4>

    "Let''s not keep the guest waiting," Li Chenyang said. He wondered if Xueyue was on her way home now since Yu Zhen was here. He hoped she would return safely and quickly.

    Li Chenyang wanted to see her before he would leave for his court duties. He vaguely remembered the Pce Courts were opened to guests today; something about exposing the younger generation to the way inner politics worked.

    Nheless, Li Chenyang didn''t care. It wasn''t like he was going to bring Xueyue to tour around the Pce when so many people were after her.

    Li Chenyang sighed. There was so much to be done today, and the Court Ministers still had time to bring in people? He scowled. Perhaps it was time he increased their workload.

    "What are you doing standing there like a tree? Hurry along now," Duchess Wang Qixing ushered him. She was now standing at the end of the hallway, looking back at her son.

    "I''ming," Li Chenyang said. He hurried in her direction and it didn''t take long for the two of them to stop outside of the drawing room.

    The Eunuch opened the door for them, loudly announcing, "Weing Madam Wang Qixing and our Young Master Li Chenyang!"

    Duchess Wang Qixing was the first to step inside the room. She was followed by Li Chenyang who shared the same puzzled expression as her. What was going on?

    Seated on the chair was a well-dressed Hanjian soldier. Indeed, he was more equipped and had the aura of someone who was more than a regr soldier. He seemed friendlier but they knew that was just a facade to lead people to lower their guards.

    "I apologize foring here on such short notice," the man said, standing up to greet them. "My name is Hu Dengxiao."

    Li Chenyang vaguely remembered seeing him in the Pce with Yu Zhen.

    "I''vee bearing grave news, mydy." Hu Dengxiao took off his helmet and held it against his chest.

    "What is it?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked, sitting down and gesturing for him to do the same. "Please, have a seat and enjoy some tea. It''s freshly brewed."

    "I''m afraid time is escaping me." Hu Dengxiao nced at the Prime Minister''s son. Even from this distance, he could feel the man''s analyzing eyes raking all over him.

    "I''vee to inform you that something abrupt has happened in Hanjian. Thus, our Commander and every soldier had to return to our homnd as soon as we could."

    "What happened?" Li Chenyang asked. "Why isn''t your Commander telling us this in person? The disrespect of sending you is astronomical."

    Hu Dengxiao bowed his head. "Our Commander had received word of the issue two weeks ago. The Second Prince was supposed to return the exact day he heard of the problem, but he stayed in Wuyi to finalize his business with the Young Miss of this household. Just yesterday, another letter was delivered and this time, the matter can no longer be ignored."

    "Finalize?" Li Chenyang hissed. "Your Second Prince tells us he''s interested in Xueyue. Then he ups and leaves like it''s nobody''s business. What do you mean he was supposed to leave two weeks ago?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing vaguely remembered what happened. Xueyue had urgently chased after Yu Zhen and had grazed her knee. Luckily, there wasn''t a scar.

    Duchess Wang Qixing wondered what was so urgent that Yu Zhen had to hop onto his carriage. The Li soldiers conveyed to her the look of urgency on Yu Zhen''s face and the speed he left the manor. It was as if he was chased by malevolent spirits!

    "We can''t disclose any information as it''s confidential. However, our Commander wrote her a letter." Hu Dengxiao reached into his pockets and pulled out a neatly folded letter.

    Duchess Wang Qixing took it from him, her eyes narrowing onto the wax seal. It irritated her that every male that came Xueyue''s way always seemed to have some sort of baggage.

    "Very well, I will have it delivered to my daughter," Duchess Wang Qixing said, cing the letter into her sleeve pockets.

    Hu Dengxiao bowed a bit. "Thank you, we will truly appreciate that, Madam."

    Li Chenyang''s lips curled irritably. "You tell your Commander that we''ve never been so disappointed in him. If he ever wants our Xueyue, he will have toe and fetch her himself."

    Hu Dengxiao bit his tongue to refrain from saying anything. He could do nothing but nod his head.

    Talking to aristocrats wasn''t his specialty. It was Lu Tianbi''s. She was originally supposed to be sent here, but he volunteered in her ce. She would have tog behind from the troops, and that was too dangerous for a woman¡ªeven if she was a trained soldier.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nced at the soldier, knowing he wasn''t an ordinary one. This Hu Dengxiao must''ve been the Commander''s trusted man. Why else would Yu Zhen send this soldier to deliver the important information?

    "When will your Commander return?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    Hu Dengxiao worriedly turned to look at her. "As soon as he finalizes everything in Hanjian."

    "What exactly happened in Hanjian?" Li Chenyang muttered. "The Prime Minister will catch wind of it eventually. Better for you to tell us now than never."

    "With all due respect, Minister Li," Hu Dengxiao began. "It will be news that you will never hear."

    Duchess Wang Qixing narrowed her eyes. This soldier was getting on herst nerves, but so were they. "Is there anything you can say to reassure us that we shouldn''t promise our Xueyue to another man?"

    Hu Dengxiao jolted out of panic. Li Xueyue belonging to another man? Yu Zhen would have his head for this!

    "Please rest assured Madam, our Commander will rush here on the first opportunity that he can get. Do not promise her to another man. Our Commander is still very interested in her. If not, he wouldn''t have sent me, his right hand man."

    Duchess Wang Qixing frowned. She wanted to know why Yu Zhen couldn''te here and beg to take Li Xueyue with him back to Hanjian.

    This soldier mentioned Yu Zhen was finalizing something. Did that mean the courts in Hanjian were too hectic and chaotic for Xueyue to step foot in?

    Li Chenyang let out a sigh. There was not much they could say or do to this man. It wasn''t like he was Yu Zhen.

    Duchess Wang Qixing ced a warm hand on her son''s elbow, hoping to alleviate his annoyance.

    Duchess Wang Qixing turned to face Hu Dengxiao. "Tell your Commander that the Li family is extremely disappointed and displeased by his actions, but we will respect the effort he has spent on our Xueyue. We will wait, but not for too long."

    Hu Dengxiao felt like a mountain was lifted off of his shoulders. He was so grateful for her actions that he bowed deeply at her words. "Thank you very much, Madam, your decision is greatly appreciated!"

    Li Chenyang forced a tight smile. "Anything else?"

    ?None at all," Hu Dengxiao said. "Everything that must be said is in the letter. Please have it delivered ordingly to the Young Miss of the Li family."

    Duchess Wang Qixing reluctantly nodded. She was quite curious about what was inside this letter.

    "That is all," Hu Dengxiao said. "Please excuse me, Madam Wang, and Minister Li. I''m afraid I will have to leave as soon as I can."

    Li Chenyang took a step to the side. "Have a safe return to Hanjian."

    Hu Dengxiao nodded. "Thank you."

    Hu Dengxiao left before Duchess Wang Qixing could escort him out.

 Chapter 237 Yours Truly

    <h4>Chapter 237 Yours Truly</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing was the first to break the news to Li Xueyue when she returned home.

    "What?" Li Xueyue said, after hearing the story for the second time. "He just left?"

    "Yes, he did." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed at the unpleasant exchange. Hu Dengxiao was very respectful but the news irked her to no avail.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure if she wanted to chase Yu Zhen down and murder him like a crazy woman or just stay put and read the letter. The former seemed like the most appealing option but she chose thetter with a scowl.

    Opening the letter, she read the contents out loud to Duchess Wang Qixing.

    "To my dearest Sunshine,

    I pray the next time you see me, there isn''t a sharpened dagger calling my name. There is an urgent business that requires my attention in Hanjian. The problem couldn''t be ignored any longer. It''s either now or never.

    It''s just as you said, perhaps time apart will do us good. If you will grant me the greatest wish and patiently wait at home, I wille for you. I will, no matter how long it takes.

    I''m unable to disclose much, but please remember, each step I take from now on is to lead me closer to you. I keep you in the dark not because I want to, but there are outside forces silencing me.

    I will be safe.

    Everything will be fine. All you have to do is put your trust in me, Sunshine. There won''t be a day that goes by where I do not dream or think of you.

    Please remember to remain a glutton. Don''t skip any meals or wallow by the window. May I rmend reading a few vocabry books?

    Yours truly,

    Yu Zhen."

    Li Xueyue felt her cheeks heat up at hisstment. She folded the letter closed and slipped it into her sleeve. Embarrassed that this letter was even read out loud, she could do nothing but clear her throat.

    "One thing is for sure," Duchess Wang Qixing said and drew out with a teasing smile. "It''s that Yu Zhen is a lot better at writing letters than Wen Jinkai."

    "Mom!" Li Xueyue groaned, hiding her face behind her hands.

    Duchess Wang Qixing grinned and said, "There is nothing wrong with being inexperienced at writing letters, though, Wen Jinkai''s handwriting is surprisingly neat for a soldier."

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    "Since neither the soldier nor this letter disclosed the day that he shall return, I suppose we can do nothing but wait for him," Duchess Wang Qixing murmured.

    Li Xueyue smiled a bit. "Perhaps it will truly be a trial of time. At least, this time, it started off on a good foot."

    "So many wrong turns and now, we finally see the light at the end of the cave." Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head.

    "It''ll be fine," Li Xueyue mused. "I''ll spend my time doing archery and sword fighting, or horseback riding with Heiyue."

    "It''s time for you to begin your rigorous training again," Duchess Wang Qixing said.

    Li Xueyue let out an amusedughter. "It''s as if you''re training me to be a soldier or something, but it''ll be fun. I''ve missed wielding a sword and firing arrows at least six times a week."

    Duchess Wang Qixing smiled at the fond memory. Life was so simple back then. Before the Spring Tournament, before the truth was revealed. Where did it all go wrong?

    Duchess Wang Qixing stared ahead as they walked. Her garden wasing to view. The first thing she saw were the hydrangeas that stood tall and proud, overshadowing all of those around her.

    Maybe, everything that seemed to be falling apart was actually falling in ce. The buried sins were beginning to wash ashore, drowning the sinners.

    "I hope this will be a period of growth for both of us," Duchess Wang Qixing said with a ghost of a smile lingering on her lips.

    Li Xueyue knew there was an underlying message to her mother''s words, but chose to notment. The Li Family was always filled with secrets, and she learned, ignorance is bliss. If there was something she should know, they would tell her.

    - - - - -

    The next morning.

    The dreadful meeting with Wen Jinkai came earlier than expected, especially when Li Chenyang and Duchess Wang Qixing discussed the Emperor''s hidden motives with Duke Li Shenyang. The inevitable had crept upon them, and everyone was forced to rush the n.

    If the Li Family was to oust the Wangs, they''d have to do it now before Wuyi was ostracized by everyone.

    Duchess Wang Qixing would have informed Hu Dengxiao about their n so that he could report to Yu Zhen, but she didn''t want to do anything until her husband was consulted.

    The trio decided on one thing: Hanjian must know.

    "Absolutely not," Li Chenyang gritted out. Wen Jinkai would arrive any moment now, and their father chose this time to say something as crazy as this?

    "We will not use Xueyue," Li Chenyang added on. "What kind of atrocious idea is that?"

    Duke Li Shenyang threw his son a disappointed look. "No one said anything about using Xueyue."

    "You just proposed to utilize Xueyue''s connection with Hanjian''s Second Prince!" Li Chenyang exasperated. "All for what? Ensuring Hanjian is on board with our n? For all that we know, Yu Zhen hasn''t made it clear to the Emperor of Hanjian his intentions with Xueyue."

    Duke Li Shenyang pressed his lisp together. "If Xueyue is going to marry someone prominent, why can''t we use the benefits thate with it?"

    "Father." Li Chenyang scowled. "Xueyue had only just established her rtionship with Yu Zhenst time. Yu Zhen had already massacred the Bai family and handed the royal decree to us without asking for anything in return."

    "You think we''re asking too much," Duke Li Shenyang concluded.

    "Yes, exactly."

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. "I didn''t mention anything about using the Second Prince of Hanjian so quickly. It''s only a suggestion. Besides, I''ve already sent word to Hanjian yesterday night. Ling is rushing there as we speak."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his gaze. "And why would the Emperor of Hanjian ept the letter from a random servant?"

    "It bore the mark of the Li family and the Imperial stamp. The Emperor of Hanjian will be wise to read it as soon as he receives it."

    Li Chenyang anxiously chewed on his nails. "Things are escting too fast."

    "It is," Duke Li Shenyang said. "But better now than ever. Our tension with Hanjian has just simmered down, but they''re still skeptical about us. On top of that, trading routes are being tightened. If we don''t utilize this opportunity to seize Hanjian''s trust, then we might never have another chance as good as this one."

    Li Chenyang knew his father was correct. "Why didn''t you tell me of this earlier? That the Emperor was giving funds to Jiangsu?"

    "I didn''t know," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "I had only received the report this morning, but was in a hurry to head to the courts for an urgent meeting."

    "An urgent meeting? Why?"

    "The Ministers are getting anxious. They''re scared that, one by one, people are going to get hanged and tortured for treason."

    Li Chenyang quirked a brow. "If they want big rewards, they''d have to takerger risks."

    "Precisely," Duke Li Shenyang said. "The People''s Representatives will be on board as long as the peasants andmoners wouldn''t be forgotten during the country''s reforms after our military takeover."

    Li Chenyang didn''t know why but he suddenly recalled an unpleasant memory where Li Xueyue was nearly struck by some baker. That event in her first week in the Capital was hard to forget. Especially Li Xueyue''s courage to risk herself for a mere child.

    Li Chenyang knew without a doubt that there were more starving children than the one Xueyue saved.

    "And will we give the People''s Representative what they want?" Li Chenyang asked, though, it was a test. As much as he supported this military coup, he wanted to make sure it was for a good cause.

    Duke Li Shenyang stared at his son in disbelief. "Have all these years of ethics and moral lessons taught you nothing, Son?"

    "I was just checking," Li Chenyang muttered. His attention shifted to his mother who had been silent throughout this entire conversation. He thought it was because she was pondering over something, but who would''ve known that all this discussion of politics had bored her to sleep!

    Duke Li Shenyang finally saw his wife who was deep in slumber. His hardened expression became mellow and soft upon seeing her defenseless form. Staring at her was like staring at Li Minghua. Their resemnce was too uncanny.

    "Father¡­" Li Chenyang trailed off, his eyes widening in disbelief. All these years and his father still had the strength to lift the Duchess?

    Duke Li Shenyang gestured to the door. "Don''t be useless."

    Li Chenyang opened the door for his father, careful to not get in his way.

    Duke Li Shenyang carried his wife out of the study room with the intent of making sure she wasfortably napping elsewhere.

    Li Chenyang watched his father''s figure disappear down the hallways. "Romance isn''t your expertise?" He snorted. "As if!"

 Chapter 238 Guilt Trip

    <h4>Chapter 238 Guilt Trip</h4>

    Li Chenyang knew that once the military takeover began, there would be no more looking back. It was now or never. The future of this country was his for the taking. The only thing that stood in their way of massacring the entire Royal family was Wen Jinkai. The man in question sat by the couch of the Duke''s private study.

    Wen Jinkai was uncertain about the purpose of this meeting. He had caught wind of an unsettling rumor that was most likely false. But when Wen Jinkai saw the expressions on Li Chenyang and Duke Li Shenyang''s face, he knew things weren''t looking good.

    "Is anyone going to talk?" Wen Jinkai finally said, "Or are we going to sit around this table like it''s a tea party?"

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together. Thest time he had a thorough discussion with Wen Jinkai, things didn''t turn out favorably. The mess he created that day would continue to remain unforgiven.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew he was treading on thin ice. The wrong word could cause a domino effect of problems. "Did you love my daughter, Wen Jinkai?"

    Wen Jinkai tensed at the unexpected question. Which daughter? Li Minghua or Li Xueyue? Both women had an impact in his life¡ªone had turned it for the worst.

    "Sometimes I wonder about your motive for taking my daughter out of this household and returning her without warning," Duke Li Shenyang began. "Was it because you offered her freedom like no other? A freedom that was disguised as a cage?"

    Wen Jinkai''s expression darkened. "You speak as if I was the only one who took part in that n. Are you going to guilt-trip Wang Longhe as well?

    "He doesn''t need to be guilt-tripped. Wang Longhe understands the consequences of what he has done. As a result, the Emperor favors him less than all of the Princes," Duke Li Shenyang mused.

    Wen Jinkai scowled in response. He knew what the Duke was implying. Why was Wen Jinkai the only one who walked away as a free man? The Emperor still adored him and the Empress still loved him.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t need to get punished. A life without Li Minghua was the consequence. A life without genuine love and affection. He had lost the only woman who loved him without qualms. The only one who prayed for his happiness and wished for his peace.

    Wen Jinkai shifted his attention to the window. "Is that why you called me? So I can drown in guilt for what I''ve done to your daughter?"

    "You can save yourself with redemption by what you can do for my daughter," Duke Li Shenyang mused.

    "And how can I possibly do that? It''s not like I can turn back time and bring her from the dead," Wen Jinkai bitterly said. "What? Do you want me to get on my knees and beg you for forgiveness? Will that be redemption?"

    Duke Li Shenyang slowly shook his head. Seated on his desk, he fiddled with a key. "Seeing you on your knees is the least of my concern. I know you suffer day and night for what you did to her."

    Wen Jinkai didn''t respond. He continued to watch the sway of the trees outside of the window. There was a faint aroma in the air that he knew all too well. It was her favorite flower''s prime blooming time. He would know. She used to pester him to guide her through a walk in the gardens.

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. "When was thest time you properly slept knowing Minghua was safe and sound in her grave?"

    Wen Jinkai''s gaze snapped to Li Chenyang. "Are you mocking me?" he seethed.

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "I really want to, but for the sake of this conversation, I won''t. I''m just asking you the obvious."

    "Minghua''s body wasn''t found," Wen Jinkai gritted out. "How do you expect her to be in her grave? None of you would even tell me where you set up her worship grounds."

    Duke Li Shenyang was d his wife had fallen asleep before this conversation. It would be too much for her to handle. "Exactly, her body wasn''t found. Do you want to know why?"

    Wen Jinkai narrowed his eyes. "Because it was burned down. In that fire."

    "Has it ever urred to you why a fire would break out in the first ce?" Duke Li Shenyang asked.

    "How am I supposed to know?" Wen Jinkai sighed. "I wasn''t there."

    "But someone else was." Duke Li Shenyang smiled, knowing he had Wen Jinkai''s full attention now.

    Duke Li Shenyang slipped the key into the drawer, pulling out an unmistakable hairpin. Therge flower shimmered under the sunlight that peered through the windows. Rosy pink,vender, pastel blue with strings of pearl trickling from the leaves, it was hard to not stare at the hydrangea crafted from crystals and gemstones.

    Wen Jinkai''s expression darkened. He recognized that hairpin. He had seen it before in the Empress''s room. Why did the Duke have Empress Huiyun''s hairpin?

    "Do you know who this belonged to?" Duke Li Shenyang asked.

    "The Empress," Wen Jinkai gritted out. "Why the hell do you have that in your possession? I suppose the rumors of the past were true."

    Duke Li Shenyang ignored the obvious jab. The past was in the past, this man out of everyone here should know that. "Do you truly think the Empress would wear such a youthful hairpin of a flower she despises?"

    Wen Jinkai was puzzled. Where was this conversation leading to? "Who knows. Maybe the Emperor gifted it to her not knowing she hated hydrangeas. What does a hairpin have to do with anything?"

    "You used to woo my daughter in the middle of the night," Duke Li Shenyang suddenly said. "And present her with all sorts of gifts. Has it ever urred to you what Minghua''s favorite flower is?"

    Wen Jinkai snorted. "What a stupid question. Everyone who''s acquainted with Li Minghua will remember her favorite flower is the one her mother tends to."

    "And which flower is that?"

    "The hydrangea," Wen Jinkai deadpanned. "What are you¡ª" he paused, the answer was clear as day. His face morphed from confusion to realization then to pure horror. The truth was just a step away but he suddenly wished for ignorance. Everything was beginning to unravel before him.

    "You said it yourself, Wen Jinkai," Duke Li Shenyang muttered. "This hairpin supposedly belonged to the Empress. Why do you think that?"

    "It was in her room¡­" Wen Jinkai trailed off.

    "You''re a smart man, I''m sure you can piece things together," Duke Li Shenyang mused, twirling the hairpin until the crystal reflected light directly onto Wen Jinkai.

    Duke Li Shenyang felt the engraving before he saw it. Nheless, he approached Wen Jinkai and ced the hairpin onto the table.

    "Would you like to take a look?" Duke Li Shenyang asked, but he already knew the answer to that.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t even touch the hairpin. He didn''t have to. "What are you implying?"

    "I hope you know the owner of this hairpin," Duke Li Shenyang said. "The true owner, that is."

    Wen Jinkai gritted his teeth. He knew. It didn''t have to be said. This hairpin belonged to none other than Li Minghua. The biggest question was, why the hell did the Empress have it in her possession?

    "When my daughter left the Pce and headed straight to our house in Hechen, she took everything with her. I believe she visited this house in the Capital to seek refuge whilst my men rushed to fetch her home. She left something here, but that''s not important right now."

    "What you''re implying will result in a public execution," Wen Jinkai gritted out. "Are you sure you want to continue?"

    "A public execution of who?" Duke Li Shenyang let out a chuckle.

    Wen Jinkai narrowed his eyes. He had respected the Prime Minister of this country, not because of who he was, but because they were both the Wang Family''s tools.

    "Minghua took nearly everything with her to Hechen. Including this hairpin that her mother gifted her. I do hope you can pick it up and look at it closely. It''s a very beautiful essory, don''t you think so?"

    Wen Jinkai read between the lines. He picked up the hairpin and began to examine it. He felt his heart begin to sink the more he looked.

    Wen Jinkai wished it wasn''t true. He had seen this hairpin in the Empress''s room shortly after she finally allowed guests into her Pce. There was a period of time where she nearly went crazy and refused to see anyone.

    The servants said she was sick, but Wen Jinkai knew better. The Empress was hiding something.

    On the handle of the hairpin was a single message engraved. "To my Minghua, may your future bloom like that of hydrangeas."

    Wen Jinkai swallowed. The truth was so close. All he had to do was grab it.

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a sigh. "This hairpin was supposed to be amongst the remains in Hechen, but it wasn''t. So strange. The essory should''ve been burned down with Minghua, but it wasn''t. I wonder why?"

    Wen Jinkai shot out of his chair. "I''ve had enough of this treasonous conversation."

    Duke Li Shenyang shot him a disappointed stare like that of a father. "Is it treason because the truth is too hard to swallow?"

    "You''re implying the Empress murdered the Prime Minister''s daughter!" Wen Jinkai roared, "Li Minghua was her niece-inw and the Emperor''s favorite niece! There''s no way my mother would''veid a hand on my wife!"

    Duke Li Shenyang was unfazed by the thunderous screams. He didn''t even blink. "You don''t believe that."

    It was these four words that sent Wen Jinkai storming out of the private study, hairpin in hand. Except, this hairpin would never slide through hair. The hairpin will pierce through a heart.

 Chapter 239 Redeem Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 239 Redeem Yourself</h4>

    "Father," Li Chenyang hissed. "Are you actually letting Wen Jinkai leave with the hairpin?"

    Duke Li Shenyang simply turned to face his son. "He will do the hairpin justice."

    "What if he hands it over to the Empress?" Li Chenyang frowned. "We can''t just let him leave with it like that."

    "He won''t hand it over," Duke Li Shenyang firmly said. "I have faith that this boy is a lot more trustworthy than we initially believed him to be."

    Li Chenyang ground his teeth. He stared at the open door and decided if his father wasn''t going to take action, then he would.

    "Son¡ª"

    Li Chenyang ignored his father. He grabbed the diary that was tucked into his sleeve and ran out of the door, chasing after Wen Jinkai.

    Duke Li Shenyang slowly shook his head at the two hot-headed boys that fled his private study. "Stupid son of mine. If you show him the diary now, it will shatter that man."

    Duke Li Shenyang approached his chair and sat down upon it, letting out a loud sigh. "I''ve done all that I could for Minghua, the rest is up to you now."

    - - - - -

    "S-sir?!" the stable boy cried out when he was halfway into brushing the Commander''s horse only to meet with the Demon Lord face-to-face.

    Wen Jinkai shoved the stable boy away from his horse. In one swift motion, he hopped onto the saddle and began to head out of the stables.

    "You stop right there, Wen Jinkai!" Li Chenyang demanded as he stood right in front of the stables'' entrance. It blocked Wen Jinkai from leaving.

    "Get out of my way!" Wen Jinkai demanded, his voice so loud that it nearly shook the stable walls. There was nothing that needed to be said at the sight of his violent expression. His eyes were set on murder. His menacing glower oozed a promise of death. No one would escape his fury today.

    "It is exactly as my father implied," Li Chenyang gritted out. "The person who started that fire might be your mother!"

    "I don''t need you to behave like a damn parrot today," Wen Jinkai said. "Now move before I trample you to a pulp."

    "Do you want to know exactly how Minghua felt about you?"

    At this, Wen Jinkai stilled. "And how would you know how she felt?"

    Li Chenyang held up a single book in his hand, weathered and old. "Did you know my sister had the habit of writing a diary?"

    Wen Jinkai stiffened. He didn''t know. He didn''t know much about what she did with her free time. It wasn''t his business what she decided to waste her time on.

    Li Chenyang scowled. "Read this if you still doubt my father''s words," he said, stomping his way to the horse and holding it out.

    Wen Jinkai nced down at the small book. Reluctantly, he snatched it out of Li Chenyang''s hand. "Thanks," he said in a gruff voice.

    Li Chenyang red at the ground. Hearing his words of appreciation meant nothing to him. "You''ll have to return it after reading it."

    "As if the Li Family will ever wee me back here."

    Li Chenyang nced up at Wen Jinkai. "If you want to redeem yourself for what you did to my sister, you better start picking a side soon."

    Wen Jinkai didn''t respond. He didn''t need to. The answer was already clear.

    Li Chenyang watched in irritation as Wen Jinkai rode off, kicking up a cloud of dirt in his wake.

    Li Chenyang walked out of the stable fast enough to see the horse disappear into the distance, shaking the ground as it raced out of the house. Wen Jinkai was heading in the direction of the Royal Pce.

    Li Chenyang predicted the oue would be less than favorable to many people. He let out a sigh and stared up at the sky, noticing the sun was hidden behind a dark, grey cloud.

    There was going to be a storm today.

    - - - - -

    The Pce.

    "Your Grace, I''ve checked the grounds as you requested and indeed, the Commander has returned from his outing," a servant said as she kneeled on the ground before the Empress of Wuyi.

    Empress Huiyun nced up from the embroidery she was working on. The proud characters of Wen Jinkai''s name were spelled in front of her. She was working on the sword part of the embroidery and smiled at the idea of presenting it to him as a gift.

    "How long has he been home?" Empress Huiyun gently asked, holding up the embroidery to examine it from a different angle. If only every day was as blissful as this one. She missed doing small tasks like this. Nheless, she was happy that her embroidery skills hadn''t deteriorated.

    When was thest time she made something like this? A custom handkerchief. She wondered if Wen Jinkai would like it. It''s been nearly three years since the Empress embroidered.

    The servant bowed lower. "It seems the Commander has returned for at least an hour now. He wasst seen heading towards his room."

    Empress Huiyun slowly nodded as she pricked the needle through the silk. She showed it to her servant who took a nce and quickly bowed her head.

    "The design and craftwork are truly magnificent, Your Grace. The Commander will surely love this gift."

    Empress Huiyun nodded. She was in such a good mood today. So many of her worries were disposed of. Well, there was Li Xueyue who still roamed free, but as long as that girl didn''t show her face in the Pce, Empress Huiyun would be content.

    The Pce was her territory. Whoever dared to go against her would lose the battle, regardless of who they were.

    "There, all finished." Empress Huiyun let out a wistful sigh, touching Wen Jinkai''s embroidered name.

    "Prepare the tea and snacks. Send it to his room," Empress Huiyun said as she stood up whilst slowly detaching the silk from the embroidery stand.

    "Yes, Your Grace," the servant said. She dutifully rose to her feet, slowly and careful to not turn her back on the Empress.

    Empress Huiyun softly hummed. Her smile spread upon seeing the handkerchief was perfect. Not a single thread was loose. His favorite colors. She found it strange that a man like him would be fond of blush pink, light purple, and celestial blue. But all of that didn''t matter. Everyone had their own preferences.

    Empress Huiyun wondered if this handkerchief was a bit too girly, considering the colors used, but then she shrugged it off. Only the cloud and sunset was that color, the rest, like his name and the sword were sewn in darker shades.

    "How tiring," Empress Huiyun muttered whilst she rolled her sore shoulders. Perhaps she would have one of her servants massage herter.

    "C-Commander!" the same servant gasped, upon opening the door for the tall man.

    Empress Huiyun brightened. Her son hade to see her at his free will? That was certainly a surprise! She happily turned around, excited to see him.

    "Mother."

    Empress Huiyun''s energetic smile began to slip. She had never seen him like this. Even the storm outside was no match for his thunderous expression. A dark cloud rolled over his perfect features.

    Wen Jinkai was furious.

 Chapter 240 We Can Never Go Forward

    <h4>Chapter 240 We Can Never Go Forward</h4>

    "Jinkai, what happened?" Empress Huiyun hesitantly asked, her eyes nervously darting to her son.

    Empress Huiyun had never seen him stare at her like that. It was almost as if she had massacred his family. The noticeable hatred in his eyes made her shudder, but what terrified her the most was his calmposure. Taut shoulders and a menacing glower, but his face was aloof and dark.

    "What did you do to her, Mother?" Wen Jinkai questioned in a low and controlled voice.

    Empress Huiyun was bewildered by his tone that came out in a rumble. There was something in his hand but she couldn''t make out what it was.

    "What are you talking about, my son? I had spent the entire day in my room making you this handkerchief," Empress Huiyun patiently exined, revealing the silk in her hand.

    "Lovely isn''t it¡ª!" She gasped when he reached out and angrily grabbed her by the neck. "Jinkai, are you crazy?!" she cried out when he mmed her against the floor.

    Empress Huiyun struggled against her son''s tightening grip.

    "What did you do to Li Minghua?!" Wen Jinkai roared, his voice bounced off the walls.

    At the sound of themotion, the doors started to rattle. The guards outside were frantically calling in, questioning the condition of their Empress whose face paled with horror.

    "W-what are you talking¡ª" she couldn''t finish her sentence as Wen Jinkai squeezed her tender neck, watching her eyes pop open in horror. The blood had drained from her face and it was painful to breathe, but she could still suck in air. Enough to keep her alive, but not enough to feelfortable.

    "What did you say? What did you do?!" Wen Jinkai screamed, violently picking her up by the neck. He yanked her closer and in a low voice, hissed, "Did you kill her?!"

    Empress Huiyun felt like the rug was yanked from under her feet. It was as if cold water drenched her from head to toe. How much did her son know?!

    Fear weighed her down as memories shed before her eyes. That treacherous night filled with fire and provocation. She would never forget the day her hands were tainted with blood for the first time in her life. Despite the life she had ruined, Empress Huiyun was not satisfied, for it wasn''t the blood of Duchess Wang Qixing, but her daughter, Li Minghua.

    "N-no, I didn''t¡­!" Empress Huiyun choked out, grabbing the hand that could end her life. Tears filled her eyes. He stared at her as if she was a stranger and the vilest creature on Earth. It pained her to see him like this. She suddenly remembered him as a young child¡ªcold and depressing.

    "LIES!" Wen Jinkai snarled as he flung her to the ground, growing irritable by the sight of her face. The diary, he had read through each and every entry.

    Li Minghua was not in love with Wang Longhe. She was disgusted by Wang Longhe''s confession. It waspletely unlike the story that Empress Huiyun weaved. Everything about Li Minghua was nothing like how the Empress portrayed.

    Wen Jinkai stalked to his mother''s fallen form on the ground. She was a mess, her kohl-rimmed eyes left unsightly streaks down her cheeks. A hairpin had slipped from her hair and a few dangled, barely holding on. She quickly adjusted her appearance.

    Terror shed on her face when Wen Jinkai squatted before her, narrowing his eyes. "What the hell did you do?"

    "I didn''t do anything to her!" Empress Huiyun wailed, reaching up to grab her son''s cheek.

    Empress Huiyun hoped her tender touch would snap him out of this tantrum. She had raised a violent beast, and now he wasshing out on her. She expected it. This was the result of not putting a cor on him.

    "Please, my dear son, you must believe me. I didn''t do anything to her that would hurt you!" Empress Huiyun cried out, desperately grabbing his hand. When he made no attempt of pushing her away, hope-filled her.

    Wen Jinkai was still her son. He wouldn???t hurt her more than this, would he?

    "She brought you great happiness, how could I harm her?" Empress Huiyun whispered in the soft, caressing voice he was familiar with. A voice that was filled with love and devotion for no one but him, the son she had finallye to love. Not because he was useful, but because she had raised him. She had watched him grow up from the boy who clung onto her legs to the man leading this country.

    "My dear son, I care about nothing but your happiness¡ª" her voice died off when she felt the prick of a hairpin. Blood drew from her finger, ruby red like the scattered gems on the floor.

    And just like that, Empress Huiyun felt as if she had lost the battle. Clenched tightly in her son''s hand was Li Minghua''s hydrangea''s hairpin¡ªthe one that wouldn''t burn in the fire, so Empress Huiyun took it as a trophy and reminder of her small victory.

    "T-this¡ª"

    "Ah, so you know what this is," Wen Jinkai sneered. With an eerie smile, he mused, "Do you know where you got it from, Mother?"

    "Please, Son," she whispered, "You''re not thinking rationally. Have you been drinking? Come to me, my son, I will fix you a warm cup of tea and guide you to bed."

    Empress Huiyun tenderly touched his face, her eyes wide with falling tears. She caressed his cheek with her thumb, believing her coaxing worked. It did as a child when he was startled by the demons under his bed. She was the one who reassured him everything was okay. What happened to that trembling little boy who clung onto her dearly? What happened to that little cub?

    "Tea?" Wen Jinkai repeated in a soft voice.

    "Y-yes, tea¡ª"

    "TEA?!" His tone rose an octave. Furious, he grabbed her by the cor until she was yanked towards him. "Even at a time like this, you dare to manipte me?!"

    Empress Huiyun felt her heart shatter at his treatment. He had never raised his hand to her like this. Never yelled at her. Never hurt her. That wasn''t how little cubs should react to their mother bear.

    "You have to calm down, my dear son¡ª"

    "Did. You. Kill. Her?" Wen Jinkai gritted out, his eyes were wide and furious. There was so much he wanted to say, but that was all he cared about.

    Who was the one that started the fire? Who was the one that pushed his beloved away from him?

    "I didn''t kill her!" she cried out, "You did that yourself, Son. You ruined her!"

    "I didn''t!" Wen Jinkai bellowed.

    Empress Huiyun saw a vein had popped out on his forehead. He was restraining his anger, but all of that bottled up emotions would soon explode. She feared the ss had already cracked. Any moment now, she would suck in herst breath. She was fine with that. Better to die at his hands than live with the idea that he hated her.

    "You did," Empress Huiyun whispered. "You were the one who neglected her in the Pce and left her alone to rot in that room. When she needed you the most, you turned your back to her. When she had no one but you as herpanion, you shunned her."

    A shadow passed over Wen Jinkai''s face. "I only did those things because your wicked words twisted me into hating her."

    Empress Huiyun let out a scoff. "I merely told you what I thought of her. I can''t control your behavior or actions. I''m not you."

    Wen Jinkai ground his teeth. Irritably, he threw her back onto the ground. Lies. She was feeding him more lies. He would never hurt Li Minghua. He would nevery a hand on her. He loved her more than he loved himself. She was what kept him sane.

    Li Minghua was the one person who loved him the most in this world.

    "I would never, ever, hurt her," Wen Jinkai gritted out.

    "No, you didn''t hurt her," Empress Huiyun agreed. "But do you want to know what you did to her? You tore apart her heart and soul. It''s worse thanying a hand on her."

    Empress Huiyun watched as Wen Jinkai''s frustrated expression morphed into confusion and then sheer horror at what he had done. She knew he was finally growing conscious of his actions. But how did he know of this? Who told him? How did he find the hairpin?

    There were too many unanswered questions.

    Empress Huiyun''s arms trembled as she struggled to stand up. She cursed her guards outside to hell and back. They couldn''t get inside, not because they didn''t want to, but because they were obviously held back by something. She had no doubt Wen Jinkai mobilized the Shadow Guards.

    "Now, listen to me, Son," Empress Huiyun gently muttered. She approached the Commander, calmly and slowly. She knew his temperament.

    "I didn''t hurt her. You did," she whispered. "But that''s okay. The past is in the past. We can never go forward if we continue to look backward."

    Empress Huiyun saw a flicker of humanity on his sharp features. Her hopes soared. Her son, he was still there. That little boy she hade to love was still inside him. All Wen Jinkai needed was a small push. The obedient beast woulde back to her.

    "Forget about her, everything will be fine as long as you trust me," Empress Huiyun gently said. "Mother knows best, my dear son. I only want the best for you."

    Empress Huiyun lovingly touched his face, cupping it with her palms. "I love you, my dear boy. A mother can never pick favorites, but you bring out that side in me," she murmured.

    "Now,e and have a cup of warm tea with me. All of this," she gestured to the turned tables and fallen essories, "Means nothing to me. I forgive you."

    "Forgive¡­?" Wen Jinkai murmured in an unreadable expression.

    "Yes, my dear son, mother forgives you¡ª!" He grabbed her by the neck again, this time, with both hands. She cried out in pain, her feet dangled off the floor.

    "S-s-son¡­!" she squeezed out, choking for real this time.

    "I will never forgive you," Wen Jinkai seethed, yanking her closer. "Not even your death can wager for my forgiveness. But I''m sure it can avenge Li Minghua."

    Empress Huiyun''s serene expression morphed into fear. For once in her life, she was terrified of death. She had nevere so close to those daunting doors of death. And who would''ve thought, he would be the one knocking on death''s doors for her?

    Who would''ve thought her own son would murder her?

 Chapter 241 You Disgust Me

    <h4>Chapter 241 You Disgust Me</h4>

    Wen Jinkai felt so much disgust towards the woman in front of him that he couldn''t fathom to look at her any longer. He dropped her to the ground, finally having enough of her sickening tricks. It was all too familiar to him, that sweet beckoning and plea.

    "Son¡­" she trailed off, in a broken plea.

    When was thest time she was this desperate? When was thest time the Empress wanted him to do something? He could still recall the days she invited him to the tea room, whispering lies into his ears until it tainted his heart.

    It was the same voice, the same despair that convinced him Li Minghua was the viin in his life.

    Believing the Empress''s lies before had already harmed him for the rest of eternity. He refused to fall into that same cycle over and over again. Enough was enough.

    Wen Jinkai stared at her cowering form on the ground. What had happened to her? He used to think she was the most pitiful woman in the pce. She had everything but love. Now, he saw her as nothing but the vermin that crawled up the water drain.

    Wen Jinkai drew his sword. If he ended her life, then Li Minghua''s death would be avenged. A life for a life. That was how it was on the battlefield. For honor and glory, he would sacrifice the Empress''s life.

    "What are you doing?!" Empress Huiyun lowered her voice. Her hands trembled upon seeing the glint of the weapon. A flick of his wrist and she''d bleed out.

    "Don''t do it, Jinkai!" Empress Huiyun exasperated. "You will be hanged for this treason. The Emperor will not let you out of here alive."

    "You should be worried about yourself," Wen Jinkai muttered as he stalked towards her.

    Empress Huiyun crawled backward, struggling to get away from him. Death used to not fathom her, but now that she''s meeting it eye-to-eye, she was truly terrified. Duchess Wang Qixing hadn''t paid for her crimes yet.

    ''It''s not my time to die yet!'' Empress Huiyun screamed inside of her head. She had to avenge her broken heart. She had to help the tearful Princess two decades ago who begged for the Duke''s heart.

    "This is how a mother behaves, Jinkai. We care about no one but our children, even until ourst breath," Empress Huiyun whispered. "To a mother, nothing else matters but her children!"

    Wen Jinkai cocked his head. He tightened his fingers on the hilt of the sword. "It''s funny that you think of me as your son when all you''ve done is used me."

    "That''s not true!" Empress Huiyun pleaded, "I cared about no one but you!"

    "If you cared for me, why did you kill Li Minghua?"

    Empress Huiyun''s eyes teared up. She wanted to forget the sins of the past that stained her hands red. That fiery night wasn''t supposed to happen. But Li Minghua resembled her mother too much. That same smile, same haughtiness, same face. All of it repulsed her.

    Watching Li Minghua get closer to Wen Jinkai was like witnessing Duchess Wang Qixing and the Duke. Having her son marry that wench''s daughter was the same as living in Hell. The Pce would be upturned.

    "I didn''t want to do it," Empress Huiyun whispered. "That woman, she''s crazy! She set her own room on fire, dering she would kill both of us instead of only taking her own life. You have to believe me, you must!"

    Wen Jinkai''s expression darkened. "And why was Li Minghua suicidal? What made her that way?" he seethed, bringing the tip of his sword to her chin. It would only take a final motion to end it all.

    "Because of you!" Empress Huiyun shrieked. "You made her that way! Your neglect led to her self-destruction. Your inability to love her had ruined her happiness. You left her to wallow in that cold room, all alone. Remember, Son, I might''ve provided the sword, but you swung it."

    Wen Jinkai had heard enough. He curled his lips and dove the sword forward. In the nick of time, Empress Huiyun dodged just as the doors swung open.

    The Second Prince stood there furious and out of breath. He rushed to his mother, hugging her. He glowered at Wen Jinkai with a look filled with nothing but hatred and animosity.

    "Are you out of your mind?!" Wang Jing demanded.

    Wen Jinkai''s attention wasn''t on the Second Prince. It was on the scene beyond the door. Where were his men? He turned and saw they were all oppressed by hoards of soldiers.

    "Mother, are you alright?" Wang Jing whispered, horrified at her injured body. There were bruises on her neck, but the pain went deeper than that. What hurts the most was her shattered heart.

    Empress Huiyun had just lost a son today¡ªthe only one she loved. The tears wouldn''t stop flowing.

    "My son¡­" Empress Huiyun trailed off, watching as Wen Jinkai stumbled backward. She reached for him, but Wang Jing grabbed her hand.

    "Mother, please," Wang Jing begged. "Give up on him. It''s no use."

    Empress Huiyun rapidly shook her head. She shoved the Second Prince away and quickly approached Wen Jinkai. "Drop your weapons, my boy. With themotion that we''ve caused, the Emperor is going toe any moment now."

    Wang Jing was stunned and quiet. He stared at his empty hands, numb and broken by her rejection. Even in herst moments, the Empress cared for no one but Wen Jinkai.

    Wang Jing was the one who came to the Empress''s aid but she only focused on her killer.

    "Jinkai, listen to me," Empress Huiyun whispered as she grabbed the hand. She shook the sword out of his grip, the weapon loudlynded onto the floor.

    Wen Jinkai''s attention lingered elsewhere. A woman. She was standing by the edge of the door, her horrified eyes meeting his. He had seen her before; in the Pce, when Li Xueyue was rudely pped on the hand by a servant.

    At that time, Li Xueyue was all that he saw. No one else mattered. But now, it was that woman. The eyes of the veiled woman brought back memories of Li Minghua.

    "Minghua?" Wen Jinkai muttered, taking a step in the woman''s direction. She showed no reaction to the name.

    "What?" Empress Huiyun whispered, turning to the servant. She grabbed onto her son and desperately tried to ce his sword back into the hilt that rested on his waist.

    "This is not important right now," Empress Huiyun desperately said. "Hurry, leave this ce before your fatheres here."

    Wen Jinkai swung her off of him. "Minghua, is that you?" he said, rushing to her.

    The servant freaked out. Who wouldn''t? The man that had once harmed her was now advancing towards her.

    "Stop it, Jinkai!" Wang Jing hollered, stopping in front of Wen Jinkai. "You''ve caused enough damage today!"

    "Get off of me," Wen Jinkai snarled, pushing the Second Prince away.

    "Son, please!" Empress Huiyun cried out, her voice hoarse from all of the screaming. She knew the bruises were bing more visible now, but that wasn''t important to her.

    The Emperor could walk in any minute from here. If anything happened to Wen Jinkai, she would fling herself off the nearest cliff. His actions today were worthy of death. Everyone knew that.

    "Listen to Mother," Empress Huiyun said. She grabbed Wen Jinkai''s hand but he pped it away. She nced up, despair written all over her face.

    "My dear son¡ª"

    "I''m not your son," Wen Jinkai growled. "And you''re not my mother. You disgust me."

    He didn''t wait for her reaction before storming out of the room, his Shadow Guards immediately following after him.

    Wang Jing let out an irritated sigh. That stupid friend of his! Wang Jing knew Wen Jinkai would walk out of here unscathed. No one could every a hand on him.

    "Mother, forget about him¡ª" his voice died in his throat when he saw her.

    Empress Huiyun had dropped to her knees, her face pale and nk. There were enough tears to form a river to drown herself in. The pain was inevitable. The heartbreak was evident. She looked utterly defeated and lost.

    She let out a loud sob that filled the empty room, echoing off the walls. Hugging herself, a heartbroken wail shrilled out.

    Empress Huiyun had lost the only son she loved¡ªthe only person who filled that void in her heart.

    And it was then Wang Jing knew: None of the other Princes mattered. Only a single Commander had the Empress''s true affection. She did not cry for anyone but herself and Wen Jinkai.

    To the Empress, if there was one thing that was worse than death itself, it was the thought of losing Wen Jinkai. That was exactly what happened. And nothing brought her more agony than that thought.

    Wen Jinkai had given up on her. The idea of that shattered her more than the reality of the situation. She would no longer be the same.

 Chapter 242 Spare Them Mercy

    <h4>Chapter 242 Spare Them Mercy</h4>

    "There''s a storm outside," Li Xueyuemented as she turned to face the window, watching the heavy rainfall. The water gushed down, never-ending, as thunder rumbled the sky. It was chaotic, but nothing would match the storm inside of the Pce.

    "How soothing," she mused when a bolt of lightning shed in the sky. The storm was finally making its presence known. The rain trickled down from the rooftop, gathering upon a leaf.

    Li Xueyue sat, curled up by the window seat, her book abandoned and forgotten. She vaguely recalled it was something about herbology.

    "It rarely rains in the Capital. I think this is the first time I''ve seen such bad weather," Li Xueyuemented, tilting her head in the direction of her brother.

    "If only you paid more attention to that book, instead of what''s outside the window that brings you no benefit," Li Chenyang said. He didn''t have to look up to know the book was settled beside her.

    "It''s so hard to read here," Li Xueyue sighed as she swung her feet. She was exhausted from this afternoon''s archery practice. Her fingers were growing sore and she found it difficult to even turn a page on the book.

    Moreover, being surrounded by this many books at once made Li Xueyue feel ustrophobic. Even with the oolong tea and rice cakes, the library was a dreary ce. She was enjoying the outdoor weather when dark clouds suddenly covered the sun. The rain ruined her afternoon fun.

    "The library is the best ce to read. We''re surrounded by knowledge," Li Chenyang responded as he flipped a page, thoroughly engrossed in his book.

    Li Xueyue hopped off the window seat and picked up her book, deciding to put it back to its original ce. She pulled out a chair from the table that Li Chenyang was seated at. Not once did he nce up from his book but that wasn''t a surprise. If Li Chenyang could marry a book, he would.

    Li Xueyue reached for a rice cake stuffed with ck sesame paste. She happily munched into it. The nutty and sweet taste instantly burst in her mouth. Mixed with the chewy softness of the rice cake, she felt like she was in heaven. A sip of the bitter oolong tea immediately washed away the taste, allowing her to try out another vor.

    "Go get another book. Don''t just sit there and eat." Li Chenyang chuckled. He could practically feel the joy radiating off of her. Did food make her that happy?

    "Will you tell me who visited today? I thought I saw someone leave when I came back from the training fields," Li Xueyue said, remembering a figure near the front entrance. She wasn''t close enough to catch a glimpse of who that man could be.

    Li Chenyang stiffened. His hand was stuck on the page he was about to flip. Finally, he closed the book and nced up.

    "It''s getting hot outside," Li Chenyang abruptly said. "Slowly, the weather will worsen until it''s unbearable to stand in the sun for too long."

    Li Xueyue was unsure of where this topic was going. "Yes, I''ll try to wear a hat when I practice archery."

    "Mmhm." Li Chenyang nodded in agreement. "The Emperor was supposed to make his way to the vacation home today but was obstructed by the weather."

    Li Xueyue blinked, finally understanding the message. Was the¡­ treason supposed to bemitted today?

    Li Chenyang caught her curious stare and firmly shook his head. "The less you know, the least suspicious you are."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together, deciding he was right. She shouldn''t get herself involved in things that did not concern her. But curiosity killed the cat. "And what shall happen to the Emperor''s children? Will they not enjoy the same privilege in the vacation pce?"

    Li Chenyang smiled at her vague wording. She was quick to catch on. "The Crown Prince will apany his father in the same carriage. The rest of the Emperor''s children will not have the same luxury."

    "And the Empress? I''m sure the sun won''t do her any good," Li Xueyuemented, turning her head in the direction of the door that was far away from where they were seated.

    "Well, the Emperor brought his concubines with him. That''s enough to know where the Empress will reside," Li Chenyang said. He stood up and ced the book away.

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. If there was one thing that she didn''t want to be, it was the Empress. It would be gut-wrenching to watch your husband marry another woman and produce a child with her. Her lips tugged downwards. Just the thought of it tore her apart.

    Yu Zhen in another woman''s arms, holding another woman''s child. He''d smile down at her the same way he''d smile down at Xueyue.

    Li Xueyue shuddered at the idea.

    "I heard something political came up in Hanjian. It was why Yu Zhen rushed home," Li Xueyue said, leaning her chin on her hand. "Have you heard about it?"

    Li Chenyang browsed through the books on the shelves, searching for one that might entertain his sister. "No, not yet. Usually, we catch wind of news pretty quickly. Hanjian loves to gossip."

    Finally, Li Chenyang found something. A foolish romance story between a lowly servant and a Crown Prince. He snorted at the dubious idea. As if something like that could evere true.

    "Even if you''re reading something useless, I still prefer for you to read it. It''ll improve your reading speed and ability to grasp concepts." Li Chenyang ced the book in front of her and she picked it up.

    "What shall happen to the Empress, the other concubines, and the children of the Royal family? Will they all suffer under the Capital heat?" Li Xueyue asked as she began to examine the first page of the book.

    Li Chenyang nced at her. She was nosy. He pinched her nose, smiling when she cringed backwards. "I''m sure they will experience a simr experience as the Emperor. It will all be in good time before the Pce empties."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She wondered how long this n had been spanning out for. It must''ve taken a while, considering the fact that Duke Li Shenyang needed to convince everyone in court.

    "But you shouldn''t worry about their conditions. I''m sure the Capital''s sun will spare them mercy," Li Chenyang said. He patted her head and gestured for her to focus less on the food and more on the book.

    "It''s an interesting story, though I''ve never read it before. But I heard it''s popr amongst themoners," he said.

    Li Xueyue nced down and read the title out loud. "A Pebble In the Jewel Pce."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "The pebble refers to¡ª"

    "Don''t tell me anything. I want to find out myself," Li Xueyue said as she began to read the first page.

    Li Chenyang shrugged. "Suit yourself."

    And eventually, silence ensued in the library. Minutes trickled by as the rain grew heavier. The only sound came from pages being flipped and the asional ps of thunder. It was a luby to Li Xueyue who eventually drifted to sleep with the book on her chest.

 Chapter 243 Ruler Behind The Curtain

    <h4>Chapter 243 Ruler Behind The Curtain</h4>

    The next morning.

    "Oh dear," Duchess Wang Qixing said when she nced out the window, only to see the same depressing canvas of a stormy morning. "The rain hasn''t stopped."

    Li Xueyue turned to the Duchess. "Yes, as a result, I''ll have to practice archery indoors. I hope it won''t be a rough journey for the instructor."

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded in response. "It''ll be difficult to get here since we''re located outside of the Capital, but don''t worry. We''llpensate them more for today''s lesson."

    Li Xueyue smiled at the idea, happy that there would at least be a reward for them. It had been a while since she hadst seen her instructor.

    "I do pity the men working in the forest. They will have to endure another night out there." Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "Well, they''re diligent people."

    Li Xueyue was unsure of who the Duchess was referring to. She had a suspicion on who it might be but she didn''t want to jump to conclusions.

    As Li Xueyue stared out the window, she wondered if Yu Zhen was alright. Wouldn''t the rain hinder his journey back to Hanjian? The thought of him facing any difficulties made her uncertain.

    Li Xueyue didn''t know that that would be the least of her worries.

    - - - - -

    Duke Li Shenyang stood in the rain with an umbre. The pce grounds spanned before him. From the bright red pirs drenched in rain, turning a depressing shade of burgundy, to the golden rooftops, everything about this ce felt like home. He had grown up apanying his father to the Pce.

    Duke Li Shenyang found it amusing that he spent more time in the Pce than he did at home. His workload as a Prime Minister was imbnced whenpared to other countries'' Prime Ministers.

    "What are you thinking about, old friend?" the Emperor asked as he watched the servants load the carriages.

    Duke Li Shenyang turned to his long-term friend. Memories of their youth came flooding back. It was as if his body knew this would be thest time he''ll ever look into the untroubled features of the Emperor.

    "It''s horrible weather to ride carriages," Duke Li Shenyang responded.

    The Emperor chuckled and said, "You get bolder every day. How can you forget to address me with a title?"

    "Your Majesty," Duke Li Shenyang sarcastically said. "I bid you a safe journey."

    Emperor Fadong snorted at the Duke''s tone. "You don''t sound like you mean it."

    "That''s because I don''t, Your Majesty. But for your sake, I will pray to a God that I don''t believe in," Duke Li Shenyang mused, turning his head towards the direction of the Throne Room.

    "Let''s head inside. There''s no need to wait outside in the rain." Duke Li Shenyang gestured to his umbre that might give out on him anytime. The thick material was beginning to absorb the heavy rainfall.

    Emperor Fadong nodded. He walked ahead of his friend and was the first to step inside. Once they werefortably indoors, he finally spoke up. "Before I go, I want to request something."

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. "What is it?"

    "I haven''t seen your daughter in so long." Emperor Fadong let out a disappointed sigh. "You love to keep her away from me as if I would ever do anything to her."

    "You already have done enough," Duke Li Shenyang calmly said. "Do I have to remind you of your methods? From selecting her as a candidate for Hanjian, then forcing her to use the gift of a wish, and mocking her in front of an entire court. On top of that, you threatened to marry her off."

    Emperor Fadong frowned at the wording. "I didn''t choose her for Hanjian, your brother did. Besides, I think her time in Hanjian would''ve yed out well. She seemed quite fond of that Commander from Hanjian."

    Duke Li Shenyang did his very best to not re at the Emperor. Annoyance shed in his eyes but he averted his gaze. "She would''ve suffered in Hanjian. The candidates are practically sacrificialmbs. Even now, the fathers of the candidates are still furious."

    Emperor Fadong chuckled deeply. "Angry aristocrats and ministers aren''t my problem. It''s yours."

    Duke Li Shenyang ground his teeth. "My job as the Prime Minister is to advise you and share a bit of the workload. I''m not supposed to take over your position."

    "But isn''t this what you wanted, my good friend?" Emperor Fadong said as he turned his head. "You wanted to be the ruler behind the curtain. I granted you that privilege. In return, I live a blissful life."

    "I never wanted to be in such a position. There is a reason why I retired, but you decided otherwise," Duke Li Shenyang said in a controlled voice. He was supposed to be out of this Pce a long time ago.

    "You just had to call me back two years ago," Duke Li Shenyang sighed.

    Emperor Fadongughed. "Yes, the months without you in court were so chaotic and tiring. I didn''t have time for myself or my concubines. My children were so rowdy, demanding my time when I had a country to look after."

    Duke Li Shenyang clenched his fingers into fists. He had a wife and children to look after as well. Because of the Emperor, the only time that the Duke had for his wife and children was during their brief breakfast together each morning. By the time the Duke returned home each day, it was alwayste, and he was too tired to entertain anyone.

    "I''m d to have such a supportive and useful friend such as yourself," Emperor Fadong wistfully said. He smiled at the fond memories of their youth. "Remember when you used to sneak me the answers through the window behind the teacher''s back?"

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a bark ofughter. He remembered those days very well, so much, that the back of his legs burned. "Yes, I would stand by the window, mouthing the answers to your idiotic self."

    Emperor Fadong chuckled. He ignored the insult that was worthy of a beheading. "You were too obvious with your methods. You were always caught, and thete Emperor would always assign you a beating. Your father was so disappointed in you."

    Duke Li Shenyang would never forget the sores. As a young boy, he was beaten so hard on the leg that it made walking difficult. Even now, Duke Li Shenyang could not enjoy the sports that many other patriarchs fancy. His legs were damaged ever since he was a child. Not from any idents, but because he had sacrificed himself for the Emperor.

    "And then," Duke Li Shenyang sighed. "You would me me for helping you cheat, iming you didn''t want the help, but I still gave it to you anyways."

    Emperor Fadong loudlyughed. "No one believed you when you said I forced you to help me."

    Duke Li Shenyang was growing more and more infuriated by this conversation. He didn''t want to be reminded of the horrible past. He was so foolish back then, thinking his position as the Prime Minister''s son would bring him out of troubles.

    "I was always beaten in your ce," Duke Li Shenyang said in a light voice, even when it was a heavy discussion.

    The warmth and joy fled from Emperor Fadong''s features. He softly frowned. "Yes, my father would nevery a hand on me, but he would order servants to pummel you in front of me. You were beaten up so harshly that I could feel the pain."

    Duke Li Shenyang stared ahead. He didn''t want to see the Emperor''s remorse that did nothing but remind him of how weak they were as children. "Even up to hisst dying breath, my father never forgave thete Emperor."

    "I wouldn''t me him," Emperor Fadong muttered. "If my son was beaten only because his friend was of a higher position and had immunity, I would be furious enough tomit the worst of crimes."

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t respond. Thete Emperor was tyrannical and cruel. He would not order the servants to stop unless blood was drawn.

    "I pity you, my friend," Emperor Fadong sighed. "I know to this day, you can''t ride a horse without wincing in pain. My father''s methods have left you unable to do many things, except read and write."

    Duke Li Shenyang continued to watch the rain cascade to the ground.

    Emperor Fadong wished the Duke would say something, but thetter couldn''t find it in him to say anything. "But I broke that tradition, didn''t I? Your eldest son was never beaten in my son''s ce."

    Duke Li Shenyang would''ve raised hell in the Pce if such a thing happened.

    Emperor Fadong let out a sigh. "Your youngest son would be a great helper to the Crown Prince. I''m d you raised such an intelligent fellow. Now, your oldest will protect the Crown Prince too."

    Duke Li Shenyang frowned. "Li Wenmin wants to be a Commander, not a personal bodyguard for Crown Prince Wang Qianghao."

    Emperor Fadong scowled at the idea. His friendly expression became malicious. He didn''t like the idea of the Duke opposing his wishes. Duke Li Shenyang should be grateful with the positions bestowed upon him.

    "Li Wenmin will protect Wang Qianghao with his life," the Emperor said in a serious tone.

    "It''s Li Wenmin''s dream to be a Commander whose aplishments would go down in history," Duke Li Shenyang responded. He didn''t like where this conversation was going.

    "I don''t care what his dreams are," Emperor Fadong chillingly said. "He''s a Li. You guys aren''t meant to have dreams. You''re supposed to have aspirations of keeping the Royal family safe."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s mood dampened. His blood boiled at the thought of Li Wenmin taking an arrow meant for the Crown Prince. He told himself he should endure all of it. Everything would be over soon.

    "I refuse," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    At this, the Emperor''s mood greatly soured. He was no longer pleased by this conversation. Grounding his teeth, he pondered what type of punishment he should give the Duke. This disobedience would not be tolerated.

    "Bah, you put me in a horrible mood." Emperor Fadong angrily turned to the Duke. "Now that we''re on the topic of your children, bring your daughter to me right now."

    Duke Li Shenyang stiffened. "What reason would you have to see her, Your Majesty? Because of the horrible weather, she had a heat stroke and is now bedridden¡ª"

    "Don''t y that stupid trick with me!" Emperor Fadong yelled. "I know your daughter visited the Pce to see my second son! Now bring her to me. You''re telling me she has the guts to defy me and not show her face?!"

    Duke Li Shenyang angrily turned to the Emperor. "Is it because of what I said?"

    "Shut your mouth and bring her to me. The Empress has been wanting to see her for a while as well. After the stunt Li Xueyue pulled on the Second Prince''s servant, she has the audacity to hide?!"

    Duke Li Shenyang was taken aback. What did Li Xueyue do?

    "Your guards bullied one of my Second Prince''s servants. As you know, abuse of a servant is a crime. If you don''t bring Li Xueyue to me, I will determine a punishment for her and announce it in front of the entire court."

    Duke Li Shenyang paled at the idea. Xueyue''s reputation would be in scrambles if that ever happened. He could do nothing but oblige this final request from the soon-to-be-dead man.

    "Very well, I will have her summoned to the Pce, Your Majesty," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    "Good, now get out of my face. You ruined my good mood," Emperor Fadong snarled. He was furious at how selfish Duke Li Shenyang had be.

    The Wang Family has always supported the Lis. The resources and gifts bestowed upon the Li Family were more generous than what any other family ever had. The least that the Li Family could do was to pay them back for the kindness they received.

    Li Wenmin was bred to be a soldier. His skills would go to waste if it wasn''t protecting the next ruler of this country, Crown Prince Wang Qianghao.

    If Li Wenmin would be that useless, he might as well just fall onto his own sword!

    Emperor Fadong was infuriated by the stubborn Duke. Even when his best friend''s figure disappeared into the pouring rain, the Emperor was furious. "He has gotten too gutsy. He forgets who actually rules this country."

 Chapter 244 The Commander of Wuyi

    <h4>Chapter 244 The Commander of Wuyi</h4>

    No one spoke in the carriage on the way to the Pce. Duchess Wang Qixing apanied Li Xueyue, but both women were displeased by the unexpected summoning.

    Li Xueyue told herself to endure it. All of this would be over soon. The Royal family would no longer be able to y her like a pawn. Her eyes shifted to Duchess Wang Qixing who had been watching the passing scenery.

    "Mother," Li Xueyue gently called out. "Are you sure you want to apany me?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing fondly chuckled when she detected worry in Li Xueyue''s tone. "Silly girl, of course, I''m fine. What will the Emperor do to me?" She rolled her eyes, knowing he''d nevery a hand on her. Not if the Empress Dowager had a say.

    Speaking of the Empress Dowager, Duchess Wang Qixing''s expression dimmed. A few members of the Royal family would be spared from the massacre that would happen one after the other. The influential Empress Dowager was one of the people who would be spared.

    Duchess Wang Qixing had fought vehemently to make sure her mother wouldn''t be killed. The Empress Dowager hadn''t caused any trouble in court. Her only crime was loving her children which didn''t warrant a death sentence.

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew her husband wanted the Empress Dowager dead. The person who had viciously objected to the marriage between Duke Li Shenyang and Duchess Wang Qixing was none other than the Empress Dowager.

    "It''s so strange for the Emperor to randomly summon me to the Pce," Li Xueyuemented. "It makes me wonder what he has in stall for me."

    "Who knows?" Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "He has an unpredictable temper. Perhaps he was angered by the Duke, and wanted to take it out on you."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. What could the Duke have done to irritate the Emperor? She wondered how cowardly the Emperor was for punishing someone else instead of the actual perpetrator.

    "We''re here," Duchess Wang Qixing reluctantly said when the carriage rolled through therge entrance.

    The carriage came to a halt and the door opened to reveal several Eunuchs. The Li servants rushed forward with rows of umbres to guide their Madam and Young Miss. Duchess Wang Qixing was the first to exit, then out came Li Xueyue.

    Everyone walked in ominous silence up the enormous steps leading to the Pce. The trudge was tiring and slippery with the unforgiving rain bashing down on them.

    The bottom of Li Xueyue''s hanfu was wet and dirty from the storm. She swallowed herints and continued the climb upwards.

    "That irritable man," Duchess Wang Qixing huffed when they finally reached the top of the staircase.

    Li Xueyueughed at herment. She was a bit out of breath from the climb but decided to continue onwards.

    Soon, they reached the Throne Room. Umbres were closed when everyone had finally gotten under a shade. The Eunuch stationed outside saw them and immediately made the announcement.

    "Weing Her Grace, Duchess Wang Qixing, and third-rank Princess, Li Xueyue!"

    Emperor Fadong tilted his head as the two walked in. His lips curled in amusement upon seeing the Princess''s dirtied hanfu. She walked like it didn''t bother her, but deep down, he knew she was agitated. He wondered if her emotions would hinder her performance in court today.

    "I hope the journey here wasn''t too difficult for everyone?" Emperor Fadong mused, his eyes twinkling with amusement. He was eager to see how bold Li Xueyue would be.

    "It would''ve been much appreciated if you had called for us during a better weather, but I suppose duties must be performed," Duchess Wang Qixing said with a sickeningly sweet smile that never reached her eyes.

    She dipped into a bow at the same time as Xueyue did.

    Li Xueyue noticed the Empress wasn''t present. The smaller throne was unupied, but there were a few Princes and Concubines present¡ªall of whom she did not care for. But there was another familiar face in the form of Wang Longhe. His eyes met hers briefly before looking away with a frown, almost as if he was upset with her.

    "You''ve been avoiding me, Little Lady," Emperor Fadong pointed out. "Why is that? Afraid I''d gobble you up?"

    "You wanted to see me seed on my own from the sidelines," Li Xueyue exined in a neutral voice. "Thus, I did not dare to take up your precious time, Your Majesty."

    Emperor Fadong smiled at her words. Ever the pleasant talker she was. He wondered what made her tick. Perhaps¡­ "Do you want to know what my sources told me, Little Lady?"

    Li Xueyue simply bowed her head.

    "You had abused your powers recently and abused a servant of the Second Prince. There were bruise marks on her neck and many witnesses saw a Li guard push her to the ground."

    Li Xueyue bit down on her tongue. The actions of her people reflected on her. It was inevitable.

    "How do you answer such usations?" Emperor Fadong said. He shifted his eyes, searching for the said-servant that was supposed to be summoned to court but was nowhere to be found.

    Li Xueyue gritted her teeth. Servant abuse was illegal, but many people chose to ignore thew. Why was it brought up now of all times? She knew there were many servants being bullied in the Pce, but howe the Emperor didn''t care about that?

    "My servants acted without orders," Li Xueyue finally said. "I apologize on their behalf, but an undisciplined servant shouldn''t be left unpunished. It would create a problem if her unruly behavior offended another country''s diplomat."

    Emperor Fadong raised a brow. "It wasn''t your ce to discipline servants."

    "Your Majesty," she addressed and raised her head. "The servant did not kneel before someone who was a few ranks above her. Such an offense is inexcusable. The bruises on her neck were not caused by the Li servants."

    Emperor Fadong narrowed his eyes. She was losing her touch. How boring. He thought she would do better than this sorry excuse of an exnation. Indeed, she was right. Showing respect to higher authorities was one of the most emphasized societal norms.

    "So, you''re ming other people?" Emperor Fadong questioned. "As their Master, you''re the one responsible for your servant''s actions. It''s despicable that you would push the me onto the voiceless when you''re supposed to be their voice."

    Li Xueyue did not waver in front of his obvious taunting. The Emperor was in a sour mood. She could see it from the pucker of his lips to the crease on his forehead. Did he not have anything better to do than personally question her for this crime?

    Li Xueyue had purposely given him a boring response, knowing he saw her as an entertainer. The more he grew bored of her, the less he would summon her to court. She didn''t want to give him a reason to see her.

    "It was a mere exnation of the situation. If it offended you in any way, Your Majesty, I deeply apologize," Li Xueyue fluidly said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing felt like there were some things that were unsaid. "Our servants would never step out of line. They''re disciplined better than that, unlike the Second Prince''s disrespectful maid."

    "You stay out of other people''s problems, dear sister." Emperor Fadong chuckled. "Li Xueyue is not a child. You don''t have to speak on her behalf."

    Li Xueyue softly frowned. "If a trial was to begin, I''m afraid you''re missing the main perpetrator."

    "And who''s that?"

    "Wen Jinkai, the Commander of Wuyi," Li Xueyue said without hesitation. "The one who caused the most damage and unnecessarily interfered when the situation was in control."

    Emperor Fadong gritted his teeth. So this girl was actually bold enough to use the Great Commander of Wuyi of such crimes. He hoped she was prepared for the consequence of targeting Wen Jinkai.

    "In that case, I shall have him summoned," Emperor Fadong said.

    The Eunuchs rushed off to fetch the Commander. In the meantime, silence engulfed the Throne Room.

 Chapter 245 Whats My Crime?

    <h4>Chapter 245 What''s My Crime?</h4>

    Wen Jinkai was not the only person who entered the Throne Room. He was apanied by a sour-faced Duke Li Shenyang who glowered at the Emperor the second he walked in.

    Duchess Wang Qixing saw the glint in her husband''s eyes. He seemed out of breath as if he had rushed here. What was he nning?

    Duke Li Shenyang stared up at the man he grew up with. The Emperor was the Duke''s first friend. It would only be fair if Duke Li Shenyang was the one who would end everything.

    Duke Li Shenyang found it ironic that the Emperor didn''t realize history was repeating itself. Li Xueyue was taking the heat in ce of Li Wenmin, it was just like when they were children and the Duke shouldered the Emperor''s punishments. What a petty ruler. The Emperor must''ve been furious that his power and authority were challenged when he did nothing to deserve his position.

    "What are you doing here, Prime Minister? You''re supposed to oversee the packing of the carriages. Are you neglecting your duties?" Emperor Fadong snapped when he saw his friend enter.

    Duke Li Shenyang forced a pleasant smile. So he was right. The Emperor was mad at him but was taking his frustration out on someone who couldn''t argue back¡ªLi Xueyue. The Emperor was deliberately targeting the Li Family''s only weakness.

    "You''ve summoned my wife and my daughter in such awful weather. The least I could do as their husband and father, respectively, is to ensure they''re not bullied by you, Your Majesty," Duke Li Shenyang said in a humorous tone, despite the warning in his message.

    "I was merely questioning your daughter about the heinous crime shemitted against an innocent servant of the Second Prince. My son was furious to find out that his servant was mistreated. An offense towards his servants is an offense to the Crown," Emperor Fadong gritted out.

    Li Xueyue found that the Emperor''s words were a bunch of lies. Since when were the lives of servants cherished in the Pce? She thought that there were probably enough discarded servants to form a human mountain before the pce grounds. Her eyes shed. There was so much she could retort to that but she''d rather not fall into his trap and speak out of turn.

    "Really now?" Duke Li Shenyang said, turning to Li Xueyue. "How do you answer such charges, Xueyue?"

    Li Xueyue bowed her head. "If the Emperor is implying that a servant''s life could ever equate to the blood of a royal, then I have no choice but to ept this unjustified rule."

    The court fell into another silence. A wise move, but bold and using. Her words were like a sword concealed by silk. She was deliberately targeting not only the Emperor for his words but his mentality. By suggesting the servant''s life was that important, it only raised suspicions.

    There was a murmur among the Court Ministers and eventually, one of them stepped forward.

    Li Xueyue instantly recognized him. Marquis Ning, who was known to have a great influence over the opposing faction of the courts.

    "Your Majesty, I hate to step in, but my faction would like to share their opinion. We believe it''s audacious to think a servant''s life would even be that important. I''m sure the Princess did not mean to offend the Crown or the Second Prince. Undisciplined servants shouldn''t be walking around freely in the Pce," Marquis Ningmented.

    Duchess Wang Qixing made a mental note to tell Li Chenyang that Ning Huabing''s father defended Xueyue. Maybe that way, he wouldn''t make such a grouchy face whenever Ning Huabing was invited for "tea" on the exact day he would be off from work¡­

    Wen Jinkai raised a brow. He threw an irritable nce towards the Emperor. "Is this why Li Xueyue was summoned before a full court of Ministers as if she hadmitted an unspeakable crime? She bullied a servant? Howughable. We all know she wouldn''t do such a thing."

    Emperor Fadong narrowed his eyes at his son. He had caught wind of themotion that happened in his wife''s sleeping quarters. The details were vague, but he knew there was a reason she refused to see him. The Empress imed she was bedridden and wanted to be left alone, but that sounded like mere excuses.

    "You''re also being used of mistreating the same servant, Commander Wen," Emperor Fadong seethed. "You''ve gotten bold so as to forget to use a title before you address me."

    Wen Jinkai revealed a cunning smile. "Your Majesty, let''s be honest. This isn''t the real reason you summoned Li Xueyue. I''ve witnessed countless abuse of servants before by the hands of the Empress. Let us cut to the chase. Why did you really summon her?"

    Emperor Fadong angrily stood up and pointed a finger to his son. "You insolent imbecile. Who gave you the right to speak to me as such?! Do you think the Empress''s protection will keep you away from punishments?!" he bellowed.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t even blink. "What''s my crime? Answering the Emperor when he addressed me? Should I have ignored you? Or perhaps, the truth was a crime. I wouldn''t be surprised if you punished me for this reason."

    A vein popped out on Emperor Fadong''s forehead. His skin had be a furious shade of red. His patience had snapped.

    "If you want to charge anyone of servant abuse, especially that pesky and disrespectful one, I will dly take the charges upon my name. But then, word will get out about the importance of this specific servant. A Commander is punished for what? Mistreating her? Bullying her?" Wen Jinkai let out a loudughter.

    "It''ll truly make the public question this servant''s identity. What makes her so important? Is the Second Prince having an illicit rtionship with a peasant? Is this girl the illegitimate daughter of someone in the Royal family? Or perhaps¡­" Wen Jinkai trailed off, eyeing the Emperor.

    Everyone knew what he was implying.

    By now, Emperor Fadong had reached hisst straw. "You preposterous brat, today is the day I''ve tolerated enough of you."

    Wen Jinkai nearly rolled his eyes. Yeah, yeah, it would be some punishment in the Cold Pce. There wasn''t a single thing that he wouldn''t be able to handle. Bring it on then.

    When he felt a pressing stare on the side of his head, he already knew who it was.

    Li Xueyue didn''t understand Wen Jinkai''s rash words and actions. He had the courage to directly insult the Royal family. What pushed him to do it? He shifted his head and their eyes met. His lips curled into a tiny, sympathetic smile before he nced away.

    It was the first time that Li Xueyue actually felt safe with Wen Jinkai. What influenced that sudden change in him?

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure she wanted the answer to that question. Instead, she averted her gaze, but it identally met an unwanted one. She had looked at the Emperor directly in the eyes.

    Emperor Fadong was instantly reminded of the reason why he summoned Li Xueyue in the first ce. He let out a humorless chuckle. What an intelligent son he had. Rude and bold, but a genius.

    Emperor Fadong realized Wen Jinkai''s n. It was to distract and shift the me onto him so that Li Xueyue would walk out of here a free woman.

    Emperor Fadong''s lips curled into a dark, twisted smile. "The servant is precious to the Second Prince because she was the only one not afraid of serving him when his illness was at its peak. She has earned a good ce in many people''s hearts."

    He stared Li Xueyue directly in the eye as he issued his next words. "Before the High Courts of the Imperial Family, Li Xueyue is hereby charged for servant abuse and offense against the Crown. Her punishment shall be a public canning before the pce servants."

    Just like that, chaos ensued.

 Chapter 246 Lead The Way

    <h4>Chapter 246 Lead The Way</h4>

    A loud murmur fell over the Court Ministers. Everyone began to discuss what the issue had escted to. Duke Li Shenyang was stunned into silence, but the man beside him moved faster than a horse.

    Duchess Wang Qixing was horrified as she immediately grabbed onto Li Xueyue, daring anyone to touch her daughter.

    "Your Majesty, you have gone too far," she said. "The punishment for a crime as light as bullying of a servant is no more than an apology."

    "So as her mother, you also acknowledge the crime. This is why I tell you that babying your children will bring no good," Emperor Fadong said, shaking his head at the reaction of everyone.

    The guards stepped forward and rushed towards Li Xueyue, ready to take her away, but one man was a step ahead.

    Wen Jinkai drew his sword out, as he stood protectively in front of Li Xueyue. "Anyone who touches her will lose that hand," he seethed.

    The guards did not hesitate at his threat. They didn''t care that he was the Demon Lord of the Battlefield. It was thirty against one. What could possibly go wrong?

    The guards advanced towards the Commander, leaving no room for hesitations as they charged, but that was their first mistake. Wen Jinkai pushed Li Xueyue backward as his sword collided with a soldier. At the same time, in rushed reinforcements. Shadow Guards stepped out from their hiding spots, immediately supporting their Master before anyone else.

    "Wen Jinkai!" Emperor Fadong hollered. "Withdraw your sword this instant. You''ve gotten gutsy pulling out a weapon in front of my face."

    Wen Jinkai effortlessly sliced through a soldier. He didn''t hesitate to pull out the bloodied sword and stab it into the ground.

    He smiled. "A murder has beenmitted right in front of you. I was the one who bullied that useless servant. Now, what are your charges for me?"

    Emperor Fadong was taken aback by his son''s brash behavior. His face scrunched up in pure fury. Everyone was testing his power today. "Have you fallen deep into the Princess''s schemes to acquire powerful men as her aid?"

    Li Xueyue was practically pped by the Emperor''s insult. She nced up at him, shocked that he would make such a bold usation that would immediately ruin her reputation. She felt the supportive and sympathetic stares of the Ministers turning into curious and doubtful ones. usations lingered in the air as tensions rose high.

    Wen Jinkai let out a darkughter. "You, out of everyone here, should know I do not fall for anyone anymore."

    Confusion flickered in the Emperor''s angry stare before realization coursed through him. For a split second there, remorse and guilt clouded his judgement and weighed down his heart. But all of that was meaningless now.

    Li Minghua was dead. What was the point of honoring her after that?

    "You disappoint me," Emperor Fadong seethed. "Get out of my sight. This isn''t a punishment that you should bear. It''s Li Xueyue''s."

    "I. Harmed. That. Servant." Wen Jinkai emphasized each and every word. "It''s four simple words. Surely, Your Majesty would understand it."

    "You¡ª"

    "If there is anyone you want to use of that stupid crime, then it should be me," Wen Jinkai snarled. "We all know this isn''t the reason you''re punishing Li Xueyue. What is your actual motive, Your Majesty?"

    The Emperor saw red. The disrespect towards him by the people inside of this room could pile into a mountain. "You want a punishment so desperately?" he seethed. "Fine."

    Wen Jinkai stood there as Emperor Fadong gestured for a Eunuch forward. A decree was immediately read out loud by the man.

    "Hereby, from this day onwards, Commander Wen Jinkai will be used of treason against the Crown and banished¡ª" the Eunuch choked. Blood spurted from his throat where an arrow had pierced through it. He staggered and copsed to the ground, dead in an instant.

    Mayhem broke out in the court. The Ministers rushed to get out of the Throne Room, but realized it was safer beyond the walls than the grand entrance of the Throne Room.

    Soldiers from all sides of the Throne Room rushed forward, advancing up the staircase. They protectively formed a barrier around the Emperor and the Princes, rushing to escort them far away to safety. They avoided the front entrance that directly faced the throne where it was deemed the most dangerous.

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew that ns had changed. She nced backward and her eyes grew wide upon seeing the squadrons of soldiers swarming up the steps. They all wore masks that concealed their identity.

    Horrified screams echoed in the Throne Room as more soldiers with masks began to pour in from every direction. It was a mess and swords loudly shed.

    "We must run," Duchess Wang Qixing said as she grabbed onto Li Xueyue''s hand and tugged her towards Duke Li Shenyang''s direction.

    Li Xueyue stood there frozen in shock at what had just happened. Was this the assassination that was hinted of?

    "GO!" Wen Jinkai roared, as he pushed the mother and daughter in the Duke''s direction just as he blocked off a soldier.

    "We have to hurry!" Duchess Wang Qixing dragged Li Xueyue in her husband''s direction. When she saw the panic on her husband''s face, she knew it was an act.

    The Duke never panicked. Even in the worst of storms, he would remain calm with that passive, brooding stare of his.

    Duke Li Shenyang rushed his wife and daughter out of the Throne Room. He ushered them in the opposite direction of the soldiers. More and more of the Imperial Guards were pooling into the Throne Room, running past the Li Family. No one spared them the time of day, but that was exactly what the Duke wanted.

    "What''s going on?" Li Xueyue asked as she quickly followed her parents.

    "Change of ns," Duke Li Shenyang exined. "We must rush all of you home first. The twins are waiting there¡ª"

    "But Chenyang has work today, and Wenmin is supposed to be at the training camp." Duchess Wang Qixing pointed out when they reached a dark hallway that led to a secret passage.

    "HALT!"

    Duke Li Shenyang cursed under his breath. He turned around to see one of the Imperial soldiers.

    "Prime Minister, I didn''t know it was you." The leader of the group stepped forward, but he seemed far from apologetic. "You may not advance forward any longer. This is the secret passage to be used by only the Royal family and no one else."

    "What are you doing here?" Duke Li Shenyang asked. "The Emperor is in danger in the Throne Room. We need every soldier there as soon as possible."

    "I understand your viewpoint, Prime Minister, but you''re under the Emperor''s protection. We''re told to escort you elsewhere."

    Duke Li Shenyang was immediately suspicious. Why would the Emperor protect them? When was this order given?

    Duke Li Shenyang stiffened. Did the Emperor catch onto the n? Following the Royal family''s evacuation protocol meant that they would be escorted off the pce grounds and into a safe house.

    Duchess Wang Qixing realized they didn''t have any guards with them. In the chaotic fight, everyone had split up. What exactly was going on?

    Duke Li Shenyang had no other choice but toply. These soldiers could easily overpower them all.

    "Very well, gentlemen. Lead the way," he reluctantly said.

    The soldiers nodded their heads as they began to guide the way down the hallways. Duke Li Shenyang stood protectively in front of his family as the soldiers walked ahead of them. He could only hope that everything would go ording to n, but nothing prepared him for the chaotic night.

 Chapter 247 Figment Of My Imagination

    <h4>Chapter 247 Figment Of My Imagination</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing walked behind her husband as she began to observe their surroundings. If she recalled it correctly, the Second Prince''s sleeping quarters were located nearby.

    Duchess Wang Qixing wondered exactly how much of the original n was changed by her husband. She didn''t understand why he moved the n forward instead of waiting till tomorrow morning. Perhaps, in the chaos of the night, everything would unfold and it was easier to silence the Royal family in this mayhem.

    Out of the corner of her eyes, Duchess Wang Qixing saw something startling. She thought it was a trick of the light, but when she blinked, the woman was still there. Even from the side profile, the woman starkly resembled her daughter.

    "Minghua?" Duchess Wang Qixing whispered.

    Li Xueyue jolted at the name as she turned her head in the direction that the Duchess was suddenly drawn to. In the near distance was a woman dressed in servant clothing.

    "Minghua?!" Duchess Wang Qixing called out, surprising her husband who turned around in time to see her rush off in the direction of the woman.

    "Mother, wait!" Li Xueyue cried out as she also broke off from the group, chasing down the Duchess who was swift on her feet.

    The woman must''ve not heard the Duchess for she continued walking forward and turned a corner.

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew she was not mistaken. There was no way that a mother wouldn''t recognize her own daughter! No matter how much time had passed, she would never forget the twinkle of that hydrangea hairpin.

    It was almost as if she was in a trance and the world around her didn''t matter. Her legs were strained as she chased down the woman who walked too fast for her liking. As she turned the corner, she paid no mind to anyone else.

    Duchess Wang Qixing never believed that Li Minghua died. Without her body being found, she was left with the broken hope that her daughter simply disappeared.

    Seeing that woman at this abrupt moment only solidified her prediction. She chased her past and abandoned her future, not knowing the consequence she would bring to someone else.

    "Mother?" Li Xueyue huffed as she turned the corner, only to see the Duchess was gone. She was stuck in a crossroads of winding hallways that extended to the west, east, and north.

    Which path could the Duchess have ran down?

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, unsure of herself. The West Wing was more lit than the East which she assumed was the Second Prince''s sleeping quarters.

    There was a slight movement out of the corner of her eyes and she turned to see the wisp of colorful hanfu before it disappeared down the West Wing.

    "Mother!" Li Xueyue called out, believing that was the path Duchess Wang Qixing took.

    Li Xueyue immediately picked up her hanfu and ran down the brightly lit West Wing. Eventually, the hallway became more decorated andvished. Shiny red pirs held up the golden ceilings as her shoes thudded upon the polished hallways. The luxury in this hallway alone was enough to buy out a small kingdom.

    Li Xueyue stopped short to catch her breath, unable to chase onwards. "Where is this ce?" she breathed out in between gasps of air.

    Turning her head, she found this ce to be too surreal for a normal concubine to live here.

    "It''s so empty¡­" Li Xueyue murmured, realizing there wasn''t a single guard or servant here. She assumed it was because of the chaos in the Throne Room. Everyone must''ve been summoned there or ran off, frightful of getting injured.

    Li Xueyue''s ears twitched. She heard the sound of a door being slid open. She swiveled fast enough to see the door close. Immediately, she approached that direction, hoping to find someone who could guide her out of this ce.

    "How strange, why would anyone still be here?" Li Xueyue said to herself as she approached the door.

    Goosebumps rose on her arms and a feeling of dread coursed through her. Li Xueyue snapped her head behind her and called out, "Who''s there?!"

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She was certain that she felt a presence behind her. When she looked behind her, there was no one there.

    Li Xueyue rubbed her arms, growing scared of the eerie atmosphere. To be alone in this enormous pce was suddenly daunting. She had no idea how to leave here.

    "Hello?" Li Xueyue called out, not realizing she was bringing unwanted attention to herself.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "Maybe it''s just a figment of my imagination," she sighed. The days of insufficient sleep were beginning to take a toll on her. If she ever made it back home, she would summon the doctors for some herbal tonics.

    "I should head back," she said out loud.

    Li Xueyue knew her loud voice would be recognised by her mother. Since no one responded to her, it only meant the Duchess didn''t walk down this side of the hallway.

    "You!"

    Li Xueyue jumped when she heard a loud scream from behind one of the doors. Her eyes widened and she looked around, wondering if they were talking to her.

    "How did you get in here?!"

    Li Xueyue cringed at the loud shrill. She realized the sound wasing from behind the door that she saw open and closed earlier. Stepping in that direction, she debated the idea of eavesdropping.

    "Guards!" the same voice cried out.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. It sounded familiar and feminine. She had no choice but to lean on the side of the door to hear what was going on.

    "There are no guards outside," another voice spoke up.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She also recognized this voice. What was going on? If there were no soldiers and servants here, why didn''t they usher whoever was inside of this room to safety beforehand? None of this made sense to her.

    "What are you talking about? I am the Empress. How could there not be a single guard or servant outside?!"

    Li Xueyue''s jaw dropped open at the deration. This was the Empress''s residence?! Her eyes widened in disbelief. Maybe it would be a good idea for her to leave¡­

    "That''s not my problem," the other voice said. "You''re the one who likes to sleep without a single servant or guard around, frightful that you''d be assassinated in your sleep. It''s a stupid idea really. Without a single guard or servant here, who else would protect you?"

    "Is this how you repay me for my generosity?!" Empress Huiyun hissed as her lips curled into a scowl. "I allowed you to leave that fire with only a few burns on your arm! You were able to live because of my kindness."

    "Is this how you justify your actions? By saving me?" the woman let out a cackle ofughter. "You were the one who started the fire. You were the cause of my burns. Save me? Don''t make meugh!"

    "You despicable brat!" Empress Huiyun seethed. "How dare you barge into my room and use me¡ª" She paused upon seeing the hairpin. How did this wench get her hand on that? Wasn''t it in the possession of Wen Jinkai?!

    "You forced me to a life of servitude instead of allowing me to go back to my family," the woman gritted out. "There wouldn''t have been a need to save me in the first ce if you hadn''t tried to kill me."

    Empress Huiyun chuckled as her ruby red lips twisted into a sinister smile. "Oh little Minghua, so naive as always." She shook her head in disappointment. "Has all these years in the Pce taught you nothing?"

    Li Xueyue was absolutely floored by the twist of events. Her eyes grew wide and she pped a hand over her mouth to prevent a gasp froming out. She had heard that name loud and clear.

    After all this time, Li Minghua was alive?

 Chapter 248 Senile Ministers

    <h4>Chapter 248 Senile Ministers</h4>

    Li Minghua''s expression morphed into discontentment. Her eyes shed with indignation. A fire burned within her, brighter and louder than the one that shrouded the house back then.

    Empress Huiyun smiled in pure amusement at the little girl in front of her. "You should remember exactly what happens to those who went against me. You, out of everyone else in this Pce should know."

    "Then it''s a pity I never learn," Li Minghua said as she stepped forward.

    "What are you going to do?" Empress Huiyun mused. "Kill me?"

    "Yes."

    The Empress let out a shrillingughter that sounded foreign to herself. She knew Li Minghua was nothing but a bluff. This girl only knew how to be stupid and create a mess out of herself.

    "You?" Empress Huiyun mused. "A little girl such as yourself who has never once lifted a sword in her life?"

    Empress Huiyun shook her head at how hrious this woman was behaving. "Do you want to know why I don''t keep guards in the corridors?" she asked.

    Li Minghua simply waited for her to continue, knowing the Empress was the type of woman who loved to monologue.

    "My Jinkai loves me more than anyone else in the world," Empress Huiyun said. "The men assigned to me are the best of the best. As we speak now, their weapons are undoubtedly pointed towards you somewhere in the distance."

    "Then it''s a pity they will never lift a finger on me," Li Minghua mused.

    "You''re supposed to be dead. That protection on you has long been lifted. The second you approach me with a weapon, someone will step out of the shadows in the hallways or outside of the window and you will fall onto the floor dead."

    Li Xueyue gulped. This was a conversation she shouldn''t be eavesdropping on. She didn''t expect so many things to unfold tonight. It was simply too much for her to handle. She took a step back, not wanting to hear any more of the conversation. If she was found near the Empress''s corridors, she would be deemed a witness and that would cause too much trouble.

    Li Xueyue thought her mother was delusional when the Duchess called out Li Minghua''s name. Turns out, a mother knows best.

    "I should go," Li Xueyue said as she took a hesitant step backward but had unexpectedly collided against something. Her heart dropped. Goosebumps rose on her arms. She didn''t even want to turn around, but she didn''t have to.

    The person grabbed her tightly as the other hand reached out in front of her. A white handkerchief was pressed against her nose and face.

    Li Xueyue struggled for her dear life. She reached for the dagger hidden in her hanfu, but the person already predicted her next move. She was barely able to ease out the knife before it was pped out of her hand, ttering on the ground.

    Li Xueyue''s vision was beginning to blur, but she did everything in her power to continue fighting. Whether it was kicking or attempting to scream against the hand, nothing worked.

    Soon, the drugs on the handkerchief began to work and she started to see ck dots before the world faded around her. Thest thing she heard was a loud scream and then everything went dark.

    - - - - -

    "Darling?!" Duke Li Shenyang called out when he saw a familiar figure standing at the corner of a hallway. He had never ran faster in his life.

    Duchess Wang Qixing had barely turned her head when she was roughly embraced by Duke Li Shenyang. The only sound she could hear was his muffled breathing and his erratic heartbeat.

    "You''re safe," Duke Li Shenyang whispered as he pulled back, holding her at arm''s length, examining her for any signs of injuries.

    "H-honey?" Duchess Wang Qixing muttered.

    Duke Li Shenyang noticed his wife was still in a daze. Her eyes were on him but her mind wasn''t. When he saw the tears in her eyes, he knew she had been hallucinating again. He could do nothing but hug her again.

    "It was just another illusion, darling," he murmured.

    "N-no, this time it wasn''t," Duchess Wang Qixing stuttered out. "I know it wasn''t!"

    "Shhh." Duke Li Shenyang tightened his arms around her frail frame, knowing the heartbreak was too much to deal with. He thought she had moved on from Li Minghua''s death. What could''ve triggered it today?

    "Come, let''s get you to safety so that I can continue the search for Xueyue," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    Duke Li Shenyang had barely managed to sneak past the Imperial soldiers when he chased after his wife and child. It was just his luck that he had memorized theyout of the pce grounds. The hallways were built to be a maze that trapped suspicious people inside.

    "You are my wife. Your safety will be my men''s priority. Come with me," Duke Li Shenyang said, cing a hand behind her back and began to guide her down the hallway, but she fought against him.

    "No, I really saw Minghua!" Duchess Wang Qixing cried out in a rush. "I''m sure Xueyue saw her too, and that''s why she went with me and¡ª"

    "Darling, Xueyue chased after you because she was probably worried by whatever the hell you were doing," Duke Li Shenyang sternly said. "As a result, we''re unable to find her now."

    "I will always recognize my daughter, even from afar," Duchess Wang Qixing eximed. She shoved him away and hugged her stomach. How could her own husband not believe her? It wasn''t like she was crazy!

    "Please, my dear, we don''t have time for another argument. I''ve barely managed to escape the Emperor''s guards. We have to get you to safety so that I can organize a search party for Xueyue."

    Duchess Wang Qixing bit her bottom lip. She wanted to see her Minghua onest time. There was so much she hadn''t said or done with her daughter. "I grew up in this Pce. I can navigate it myself. I have your pendant on me. If the soldiers that stormed the Throne Room are on your side, they won''t harm me if they see the pendant."

    Duke Li Shenyang firmly shook his head. "We can''t have you wandering the pce halls when it''s as chaotic as it is right now. There were many people trapped in the Pce when they ran out of the Throne Room but got lost in the never-ending hallways."

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew her husband was right. "Fine, but I also want your soldiers to search for Minghua¡ª"

    "Minghua is dead!" Duke Li Shenyang exasperated, grabbing her by the shoulders. "It hurts me as much as it hurts you to know our daughter died, but please, you can''t keep doing this to us!" he exploded.

    Duchess Wang Qixing was surprised and hurt by his outburst. She stared at him as if he had wronged her for the rest of eternity.

    "We don''t have time for this." Duke Li Shenyang scowled. "Our sons are waiting for us at home. You shouldn''t throw away your present for the past. We must hurry now."

    Duchess Wang Qixing had no choice but to oblige. Perhaps her husband was right. Li Minghua was dead. And there was nothing she could do to change that fact.

    Duke Li Shenyang wrapped an arm around her shoulder and began to usher her down the hallway. He was surprised by the loud chatter that sounded like an argument.

    "Prime Minister!" Marquis Ning gasped when he saw the couple approaching them.

    Duke Li Shenyang paused. He recognized the faces of everyone gathered here. It was a handful of people from both sides of the faction. "Gentlemen, what brings you here? Have you also gotten lost?"

    Marquis Ning immediately nodded as he gestured to the other Ministers. "Yes, we were just discussing the right route that would lead us out of this maze."

    Duke Li Shenang calmly nced at the Ministers. Discussion? More like an argument. He forced a polite smile and nodded. "This seems to be the Empress''s quarters. I pray she made it out of the mess, safe and sound. Come, let''s head down in the other direction. I believe it???ll lead us to at least one exit¡ª"

    He was interrupted by the sound of a loud and piercing scream. The sound was so haunting, you''d think someone was murdered.

    Marquis Ning was rmed by the feminine cry. "Who could that be? Oh dear, do you think it''s the Empress?!"

    Before Duke Li Shenyang could respond, another man spoke up.

    "We must investigate! If it''s the Empress, then we have to save her!" Baron Han said.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s lips twitched. If it wasn''t the stupid father of Han Jieru who tried to harm Li Xueyue.

    Baron Han was one of the senile Ministers who weren''t part of the n.

    Duke Li Shenyang held back a sigh. Just his luck. He could try to direct their attention elsewhere, but it''d raise too much attention to him.

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t need people to think he was suspicious. Once the entire Royal family is killed, the next person in line for the throne would be the only remaining Princess of the Wang Family¡ªPrincess Wang Qixing.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s smile tightened. "Yes, we must hurry and head there. If it''s the Empress, we must do everything in our power to save her."

    Marquis Ning''s eyes met the Duke''s and he bowed his head, knowing what was toe. The two men could only try to stall time through a discussion.

    "Someone should guide the Duchess to safety," Marquis Ning said. "In case it is a bunch of soldiers attempting to ambush the Empress, saving the women is our top priority."

    Marquis Ning turned to Baron Han and revealed a benevolent smile. "Why don''t your group of men lead Duchess Wang to her safety. The Prime Minister and I hail from a military lineage. We can fight off the rogues if need to¡ª"

    "No!" Baron Han said with a shake of his head. "We need to stick together. If we separate, there might be more conflicts. Why are you men trying to dy time? It''s very suspicious."

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. At a time like this, the Baron had the nerve to make stupid usations? Last time he checked, Baron Han''s reputation had greatly diminished because of his daughter''s crimes.

    Nheless, Duke Li Shenyang forced a small chuckle. "It seems you''re suspicious of me for no apparent reason besides the fact that your daughter hates mine." He shook his head, almost as if disappointed by the Baron''s words.

    Baron Han flushed red at the hint. The other Ministers murmured amongst themselves, knowing exactly what Duke Li Shenyang was implying.

    "T-that wasn''t my n. Instead of arguing amongst ourselves, we should head in the direction of that scream together!" Baron Han nervously pointed towards the hallway where the sound came from.

    "Let''s go then," Duke Li Shenyang said with a determined nod. He moved his arm and ced the Duchess behind him, in case something did happen.

    Together, the group of aristocrats headed down the path leading to where the scream came from. And no one would''ve anticipated what happened after that.

 Chapter 249 Jump Out Of The Window

    <h4>Chapter 249 Jump Out Of The Window</h4>

    Duke Li Shenyang had an unsettling feeling about the events that would unfold before him. He had predicted the inevitable oue from that scream. If it truly belonged to the Empress, it could only mean one thing¡­

    "We shouldn''t crowd the Empress''s bedroom and storm in all at once," Duke Li Shenyang spoke up. "It will be a vition of courtesy and a disturbance to the Empress."

    Duchess Wang Qixing was quick to catch on to the n. In case anything went wrong in the Empress''s bedroom, Duke Li Shenyang could be the first to ess the situation.

    "I agree," Duchess Wang Qixing spoke up. "It''s impolite for so many men to trample into the Empress''s bedroom¡­"

    The Ministers hesitated at the words of the Li Family. They were undoubtedly right.

    "Since I am a woman, I will enter first. It will preserve the Empress''s reputation and protect her privacy. If anything was to go wrong, I''ll scream and alert everyone," Duchess Wang Qixing said. Her firm tone and serious expression didn''t allow them to object to the suggestion.

    Duke Li Shenyang slowly nodded. "Please be cautious," he responded as the Ministers reached the doors.

    Marquis Ning made eye contact with the Duke just as Duchess Wang Qixing knocked on the door.

    "Empress, is everything alright in there?"

    There was no response.

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew it was time to face the music. She cracked open the door by the slightest bit and slipped inside. She closed the door shut behind her.

    Duchess Wang Qixing was met with the hand-carved folded wooden panels that created partitions in the room. Hesitantly, she peeled it back and assessed the situation. But never in her wildest dreams would she predict the oue before her.

    "X-Xueyue?" she whispered, noticing her daughter unconscious on the floor. But what was even more startling was the pool of blood just a few feet away.

    To Duchess Wang Qixing''s pure horror, she saw the Empress''s limp body. A shiny hairpin was stabbed right through the Empress. To be exact, a brightly colored hydrangea flower hairpin had pierced the Empress''s heart.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s face paled. Did¡­ Li Xueyue killed the Empress? She stumbled back a little, unable to wrap her head around the fact that Xueyue was capable of murder.

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew she had to act quickly. She rushed towards Li Xueyue''s motionless body on the ground and began to hurriedly shake her awake. "Sweetheart, there''s no time for this!" she hissed as she violently shook her daughter''s body.

    "Mm¡­ Mother?" Li Xueyue mumbled in response as she slowly opened her eyes.

    Li Xueyue touched her forehead. Her head was throbbing from a terrible ache. "Where¡­ am I?" she whispered, confused, and in a daze.

    "Hurry, jump out of the window!" Duchess Wang Qixing pointed to the window.

    "W-what?"

    "Do as I say," Duchess Wang Qixing whispered as she forced Xueyue onto her feet. "You can ask questionster! For now, I need you to run as far as you can. Rush home on foot if you have to. No matter what, make sure no one sees you!"

    Li Xueyue had so much she wanted to tell and ask, but she knew it was not the proper time for it. Immediately, she rushed to her feet but swayed. Her world was still blurry and she felt dizzy. Nheless, she trudged onwards and headed towards the window.

    Duchess Wang Qixing watched in fear as her daughter climbed out of the window. Less than a secondter, Li Xueyue was gone.

    Now, it was only the Duchess, and the Empress''s corpse left in the room. Duchess Wang Qixing approached the limp body, her nose crinkled at the scent. With shaky hands, she reached for the hydrangea hairpin. It had been so long since she hadst seen the beautiful essory.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s thoughts were a jumbled mess, but she couldn''t afford to nk out. She jumped when she pulled out the hairpin and more blood gushed out.

    Duchess Wang Qixing couldn''t fathom the sight of so much blood. However, she had more pressing issues at hand. She hastily wrapped a handkerchief over the hairpin that was still dripping with blood. Reluctantly, she slipped the hairpin into her pocket for safekeeping.

    This hydrangea hairpin could frame the Li Family if the right people knew about their association with it.

    "Here goes nothing¡­" she whispered to herself.

    The next step of the n had to be executed.

    Duchess Wang Qixing breathed in deeply and squeezed her eyes shut, letting out the loudest scream she could fathom.

    Without warning, the doors mmed open and poured into the Ministers.

    Baron Han was the first to speak up, "Duchess, what seems to be the problem¡ª" he trailed off. It was as if the rug was yanked from underneath him.

    No one had expected the horrific events before them. Duchess Wang Qixing was on her knees, trembling and visibly shaken by the scene in front of her.

    "T-the folded screens took forever to o-open, but when I finally got it to w-work..." she trailed off, unable to finish her conversation before breaking into tears. She sobbed and hid her face behind her hands.

    Duke Li Shenyang was the first to react. He approached his wife and helped her to her feet. "It''ll be alright, darling¡­" he soothed whilst offeringforting pats on her back.

    "W-who could''ve done this?!" Baron Han exasperated. The lines on his face deepened at the disturbing sight before him. He couldn''t look on any longer. Turning his face away from the lifeless body, he covered his nose at the smell of death.

    "Duchess!" Baron Han loudly called out, pointing a finger in her direction. "You were the only one in here. Did you see anyone escaping out the window? Perhaps the killer is still in this pce."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s worried expression darkened. His usually mellow smile was twisted into a disapproving scowl. Tightening his arms around his wife, he threw a dissatisfied stare in the Baron''s direction.

    "You''re asking my traumatized wife such daring questions at a time like this?" he seethed. "Do you trulyck that much manners, Baron Han?"

    "I was simply asking the most important questions here. We have no time for whimpering women!" Baron Han eximed. "Your wife must''ve seen something, why else would she scream¡ª"

    "Women are fragile beings. If they see a dead body, of course, they would scream," Duke Li Shenyang interjected.

    Baron Han opened his mouth to retort but stiffened. He broke out in a cold sweat at the threatening re of the Prime Minister. Never had he felt such a terrifying aura from the calm man. In front of him was a vicious husband who''d go at any lengths to protect his wife.

    Baron Han gulped. He knew this was a losing fight. The majority of the people here would support Duke Li Shenyang, especially when he was behaving as any husband would.

    "I-I was only asking for the sake of the¡ª"

    "We don''t have time for this," Marquis Ning spoke up. "People must be notified of this crime immediately! Whoever did this to her will pay for it with their head and a seven-generation family extermination."

    "I agree," Duke Li Shenyang confidently said. "We need to get out of here as soon as possible. I''m sure the mayhem has died down by now. We must seek out the Emperor as quickly as we can."

    Duke Li Shenyang had to act as if he wasn''t a part of the bigger n, even though Marquis Ning knew he was. If Marquis Ning knew what was for his own good, he''d keep his mouth shut.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew the best way to pretend was by acting as if the Emperor was still alive. If everything was going ording to n, the entire Royal family should be dead by the rise of dawn.

 Chapter 250 The Emperors Safety

    <h4>Chapter 250 The Emperor''s Safety</h4>

    The Ministers didn''t know where exactly they were supposed to be headed to. After all, the entire Pce was a mess. Where could they locate the Emperor?

    "It''s so bizarre," Baron Han spoke up as the Ministers walked down an empty hallway. "A bunch of crazy soldiers had invaded the Pce, but there''s not a single dead body in the hallway. If it was a group of rebels, wouldn''t they have killed anyone they see?"

    Duke Li Shenyang ground his teeth. This Baron sure had a lot of words for someone with zero influence. "Who knows what these people are thinking?"

    Baron Han nced at Duchess Wang Qixing whose face couldn''t be seen. Half of it was pressed against her husband''s chest and the other half was shielded by her hair. He didn''t think the stoic Prime Minister was such an endearing husband. It was all too suspicious¡­

    "Where are we walking to exactly?" Baron Han asked as he observed their surroundings. He was unfamiliar with this part of the Pce since his duties were always near the Throne Room.

    "To the outside of the Pce. Judging by the silence, I''d assume the chaos has ended. If it''s our victory, then I would assume one of the Eunuchs can direct us to the Emperor," Duke Li Shenyang exined.

    "You''re very calm about this entire ordeal, Prime Minister," Baron Han sniped. "It''s all too strange."

    "In the face of a storm, someone has to remain calm. Or else, we''d all be a bunch of mindless chickens," Duke Li Shenyang retorted.

    Baron Han scowled. He had not gotten over the grudge he held against the Li Family for what they did to his precious daughter, Han Jieru. Even to this day, her reputation hadn''t recovered.

    "It''s almost as if you¡ª"

    "Prime Minister," Marquis Ning interrupted whilst sending a warning smile to the Baron''s direction. "Why don''t you guide your wife home first? I''m sure she''s shaken by today''s events."

    Duke Li Shenyang weighed the benefits. He nced down at Duchess Wang Qixing whose superb acting had fooled everyone.

    With his wife by his side, he''d raise fewer suspicions since his silence could be justified by thefort he was offering her. But then again, if she was home, she could assert leadership and control the situation outside of the Pce.

    Duke Li Shenyang trusted his children, but at the end of the day, they were still young adults. They needed someone to guide them in case things took a turn for the worst.

    "W-will you return home with me, darling?" Duchess Wang Qixing purposely asked, knowing exactly what her husband would say. She had crafted this exact question to brush the suspicion off of him.

    "No, my sweetheart. I''m afraid my duty is to this country," Duke Li Shenyang gently exined as he grasped her hand. "I must seek our Emperor and ensure he is safe and well."

    It was the response that Duchess Wang Qixing had predicted. The concern in the Duke''s expression was enough to throw the suspicious Baron Han off his trail. The other Ministers should also feel at ease by the Duke''s response since it illustrated that their Prime Minister still cared for the Emperor.

    "Yes, please find my dear brother! You must promise me that, darling!" Duchess Wang Qixing pleaded. Her eyes were moistened from tears and she nced up at him like a damsel in distress.

    Duke Li Shenyang resisted the urge to smile at her excellent acting. Instead, he wiped the tears from her eyes and nodded. "I will do everything in my power to find him, do not worry. The Emperor''s safety is my first priority."

    Duchess Wang Qixing sniffled in response and nodded her head, pretending to be the obedient wife she wasn''t. "O-once we make it beyond the hallway and the pce grounds, I will head home and pray for everyone''s safety."

    Judging by the couple''s behavior, Baron Han knew he could no longer use the Li Family of any treasonous schemes. Their behavior was simply too endearing to ignore.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue stumbled as she grabbed her forehead. The pain was beginning to dull, but it was still there. She wondered what was giving her such a throbbing headache. She concluded that it was most likely something about the handkerchief that was pressed to her nose that had caused this reaction.

    She ground her teeth. "Who the hell did that?" she muttered to herself.

    There was so much for Li Xueyue to ponder over. From Li Minghua''s appearance to the Empress''s death¡­ She shuddered.

    Li Xueyue suddenly recalled the image of the Empress''s limp body on the ground. It was such an unbearable sight, even though she had seen it only for a few seconds. It was all very suspicious to her.

    "Suddenly Li Minghua shows up, and then I''m knocked out from behind¡­ I should''ve known my instincts weren''t off. There really was someone in the hallway beside me," Li Xueyue thought out loud and bit her bottom lip.

    "Who could it be?" she mumbled whilst trudging onwards. That is until she stumbled across a group of soldiers in the distance. Whether they were friends or foes, she did not know.

    Li Xueyue was terrified that something might happen to her if they noticed her. Immediately, she attempted to slip into one of the rooms but found it was locked.

    "We see someone!" one of the soldiers called out.

    Li Xueyue cursed under her breath. It was now or never. She made a dash down the other direction of the hallway, hoping that one of these corners would confuse them.

    Li Xueyue wished she could be faster but the strain from running had only worsened her headache. She groaned in protest, touching her forehead. Exactly how strong was that drug for it not to wear off after such a long time?

    Not watching where she was going, Li Xueyue stumbled. The mistake had caused her to slow down a bit. She didn''t know exactly who was chasing her, or the fact that the soldiers were catching up to her.

    It was toote, by the time she turned around, someone had grabbed onto her elbow. Li Xueyue screamed as she swung her hand. It immediately connected with flesh and a loud p was heard.

    The grip on her elbow loosened and she attempted to escape, only to be grabbed again. Li Xueyue had no time to waste. She back-kicked, hoping to connect her foot with his manberries. Unfortunately for her, he was already used to that move.

    "Will you calm down?!" Wen Jinkai demanded, pushing her legs away. "Are you trying to make me infertile?" he hissed, turning her around.

    Li Xueyue let out a horrified scream upon seeing him. "W-what are you doing here?"

    "I should be asking you that question," Wen Jinkai seethed. "What are you doing snooping near the Empress''s corridors?"

    "I wasn''t snooping, I got lost here," she lied. "Next thing I knew, I was hit in the head and woke up in a strange room."

    Wen Jinkai paused. "Who would knock you unconscious?"

    "That''s what I want to know," Li Xueyue muttered. "Look, just take me to the pce entrance. I need to head home and¡ª" she stopped herself. "Wait, what are you doing here as well?"

    Wen Jinkai''s face became guarded. "Nothing. Let''s go, I''ll take you beyond the pce walls."

    Li Xueyue was skeptical of his response, but nheless, decided to apany him.

 Chapter 251 Im Sorry

    <h4>Chapter 251 I''m Sorry</h4>

    Li Xueyue hesitantly followed Wen Jinkai. They walked in pure silence, to which she was grateful for, but it left her to her thoughts. She couldn''t help but think back to what she had discovered. Firstly, Li Minghua was alive, secondly, the Empress was the one who tried to kill her.

    Li Xueyue gulped. If she had seen it correctly¡­ the Empress was now dead. Li Xueyue knew the Royal family would be assassinated, but she didn''t think it would be in such a direct manner. On top of that, who was the one that knocked her out? Who murdered the Empress? Why did she wake up in the Empress''s bedroom? Was someone trying to frame her for the death of the Empress?

    There were so many unanswered questions, Li Xueyue felt like her head would explode. The longer she walked, the more anxious she grew. Was someone out to get her? Was that why they tried to frame her for the Empress''s murder?

    ''Did I have enemies?'' Li Xueyue thought to herself, but in a daze, she had actually whispered it.

    "I don''t know," Wen Jinkai responded. He nced down at her before his gaze shifted to the Shadow Guards behind him. They were taught to mind their business. It was a pitiful thing. These guards were thoroughly numbed to every little emotion that all they knew were obedience and violence.

    Wen Jinkai turned his attention elsewhere. Li Xueyue was intently staring at the floor, her thoughts elsewhere. He, too, had questions of his own. What the hell was she doing near the Empress''s corridors?

    "Where are your parents? Why are you alone?" Wen Jinkai asked her.

    Li Xueyue nced up, uncertain if she could trust him. Despite the fact that he was behaving like a decent human being, there was something off about him. His eye circles had darkened since thest time she saw him. And when his gaze met hers, it was hauntingly eerie. His smilescked warmth. It was as if¡­ he had given up on life.

    "When was thest time you slept?" Li Xueyue abruptly asked. "Your eyebags make you look like a panda."

    "Not everyone has the time to put hundreds ofyers of powders underneath their eyes," Wen Jinkai retorted, noticing how quickly she averted the topic.

    Li Xueyue didn''t bother to respond. She merely kept her eyes glued forward as the group quietly made their way down the hallways.

    "The Emperor is dead."

    Li Xueyue immediately came to a halt. Her eyes widened, surprised at the news. She nced upwards and was met with the lifeless stare of Wen Jinkai.

    Wen Jinkai was gauging her reaction, wondering if she had any part in it. Her shocked expression seemed genuine, but then again, she was a great actress. All of her moves seemed calcted. He knew she wasn''t stupid enough to walk around like an airhead. Was she truly puzzled by the information? Or did she already predict the oue?

    "W-why are you here then?" Li Xueyue whispered. "Shouldn''t you be looking for the Emperor''s murderers?"

    "Funny questions you have there," Wen Jinkai coldly responded.

    As they walked past a brightly litntern, Li Xueyue finally saw Wen Jinkai clearly. There was blood everywhere. His robes were soaked red, so much that you''d think it was the original color. There was blood sttered over his face and hands as well.

    How did she not smell it? Li Xueyue guessed it was because she was too distracted by her jumbled thoughts. Did the blood not bother him at all? When she peered at him again, and was met with his nonchnt features, she learned it did not faze him.

    "What is the empire going to do now?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Following traditions, we will mourn for the Emperor''s death for at least weeks on end. Once it''s over, the Crown Prince will resume the position¡ª" Wen Jinkai paused. Without warning, he let out a cruelughter.

    Li Xueyue shivered at the menacing sound. It was colder than the wind that nipped her during winter. She hugged her shoulders, feeling goosebumps rise. ''What was so funny?'' she thought.

    "Oh right, the Crown Prince is dead," he deadpanned. "The rebels tonight knew theyout of the Pce very well. Almost everyone from the Royal family was massacred."

    Li Xueyue stilled. She couldn''t even breathe at the information she had heard. Was it true then¡­? If everyone was actually killed and every person in line before the Li Family had dropped dead, then it could only mean one thing: the Wang Dynasty had fallen. It was the start of a new era in history.

    It was then Li Xueyue understood Wen Jinkai''s mncholic stare. His eyes were dead because he had lost everyone he had cared about¡ªhe had lost his family. Her lips wobbled. She pitied him. His mother, his father, his closest friends, they were all gone in the span of one night. He''d never get to see them again.

    Li Xueyue despised Wen Jinkai. But at the end of the day, she was human. Her heart was kinder than she liked it to be. She became emotional, but would not spill any tears for him.

    "I''m sorry," was the only thing she said.

    Wen Jinkai chuckled at her reaction. Her mournful expression almost convinced him otherwise, that the true monsters in court weren''t the Li Family, but it was. Power was what they wanted, and they obtained it all in one swoop ambush.

    Of course, he also yed a part in it. He should''ve ran to the Emperor and stayed by that man''s side to protect him. But he didn''t. Because he was not the only one who had seen a blur in the distance. He wasn''t the only one who thought they saw Li Minghua.

    Amidst the chaos, he had seen her face onest time. It was outside of the Throne Room and the moment was fleeting, but he chased it. He chased the shadow that walked faster than he could run. When he stumbled into a dead end, he knew it was just a figment of his imagination.

    "Why are you sorry?" Wen Jinkai let out a darkughter. "It wasn''t like your family was killed tonight. Your parents will be perfectly safe and unscathed. Your brothers will wait for you at home. When the dawn rises, it will be the start of the Li Dynasty."

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. "I said I was sorry because I pitied you."

    A haunting shadow passed over Wen Jinkai''s features. He swiftly turned around and nearly grabbed her but she dodged his hand.

    "I''ve said what I want to say," Li Xueyue mused. "Whether or not it offended you, I don''t care. You wanted to know the reason, so I was truthful."

    Wen Jinkai ground his teeth. He was frustrated by her words and that nk face. He had hoped she''d smile for him onest time. He could no longer recall a memory where she wasn''t upset with him. No matter what he did or said, she would never be happy with it.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head upon seeing the pain sh in his eyes. Her pity for him intensified but she couldn''t sympathize with him. It wasn''t her ce to do so. After all, her family was the reason that his was gone. But she could tell him a fact that would uplift his dreary mood.

    She slowly smiled. "Li Minghua is alive."

 Chapter 252 Unidentified Soldiers

    <h4>Chapter 252 Unidentified Soldiers</h4>

    Li Minghua was alive¡­? Was Wen Jinkai hearing Xue Yue correctly? His head shot upwards and he stared at her, astonishingly. His lips were parted and he felt dizzy from the information.

    "You heard me correctly," Li Xueyue said. "Li Minghua is alive."

    "And how do you know?" Wen Jinkai said as he took a step closer to her.

    Li Xueyue jutted her chin in the air, not once shrinking back from his intimidating re. He continued walking towards her and she remained rooted. She knew his ploy. He was attempting to scare her into telling the truth, but that was the truth¡ªLi Minghua didn''t die in that fire. She survived it because the Empress allowed her to.

    "I will tell you, but not here," Li Xueyue said.

    Her eyes shifted to the Shadow Guards. She knew revealing this information would put her at risk. People might use her of being the Empress''s murderer, but something told her Wen Jinkai would not rat her out like that.

    Or would he¡­?

    Li Xueyue stared into his eyes. They were heartbroken and lost, but strong and determined. They were the eyes of a soldier who had killed more lives than the years he had lived.

    "They won''t tell anyone what happens between us," Wen Jinkai said. "How do you know¡ª"

    "You just have to trust me," Li Xueyue responded.

    Li Xueyue decided that telling him the truth was too dangerous. Even though she should trust him, she couldn''t. His ties with the Royal family were simply too deep. What if he learned of the Empress''s death and deemed her the killer all because she had eavesdropped?

    Li Xueyue had a disturbing feeling that the murderer was Li Minghua. She bit her bottom lip. If she recalled correctly¡­ the murder weapon was a hairpin.

    Wen Jinkai couldn''t trust her. He couldn''t trust anyone in the Pce. Someone had broken into his room. How the hell they did it, he did not know. But they had stolen the hydrangea hairpin that belonged to Li Minghua. His entire morning was spent searching for it.

    To no avail, he couldn''t find the hairpin. Who else would know of its existence except for the Empress and the Second Prince? He doubted the Li Family would go to such lengths to break into his room. Only the Empress would have enough power to enter his room, but he doubted it was her. Then who else woulde for the hairpin?

    Without warning, Wen Jinkai''s body jolted. He realized something. There was someone else who had seen him with the hairpin in his hand the night he stormed into the Empress''s bedroom. That female servant. The one whose eyes were just like that of Li Minghua.

    "We shouldn''t stand here all day," Li Xueyue bit out. "You will find out the truth soon enough."

    Wen Jinkai narrowed his eyes. "Tell me the truth right now. Or else you''re not going home."

    "I''ll die with this information if I have to." Li Xueyue crossed her arms. "Once I''m dead, you''ll be left to wonder everything I know."

    "When enemy soldiers are captured, there is more than one way of making them talk," Wen Jinkai hissed. He continued advancing towards her until their chests touched.

    Not once did she flinch under his scathing re. Li Xueyue thought she was invincible. The thought humored him. He lifted a hand, reaching for her chin but she flinched.

    Wen Jinkai froze. He saw fear sh in her eyes¡ªfear of being struck by him. Did she think he''d hurt her? The mere thought pissed him off. What a stupid thing to be scared of. She reacted like she grew up in an abusive family of some sort.

    "Get over yourself," Wen Jinkai snapped. He turned his back to her and began walking down the hallways again much to Li Xueyue''s surprise.

    Li Xueyue was unsure what caused the sudden shift in his attitude, but she decided to not question it. Whether or not she would tell him what happened, it''d all depend on her. She chewed on her bottom lip anxiously. She didn''t know what forced her to tell him that information.

    But when she raised her eyes and saw his broad shoulders, hunched and depressing, she knew the reason why. She pitied him too much. She had hoped the small piece of information would give him hope. She thought it would make him happy, even if it was just a little bit.

    Li Xueyue didn''t know what inclined her to feel anything for him. Maybe it was because he had always tried his best to help her, or maybe it was because she was an idiot. She decided it was thetter.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue thought Wen Jinkai would only lead her to the pce gates where she''d have to struggle to find a way home. He surprised her with his courtesy of actually escorting her home. Granted, they rode on his horse together, with his arms on either side of her body, but he didn''t speak or touch her inappropriately.

    "Xiao Yue!" Li Wenmin called out when he saw her on top of arge horse.

    "There you are," Li Wenmin breathed out. When she slid off the horse, he engulfed her. "I was so worried you were stuck in the chaotic courts."

    Li Xueyue could hear the worry in his voice before she saw it on his face. His arms shook around her as if he was terrified by the thought of losing her.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her arms around her brother, hugging him tightly. It had been a long day. His tender embrace reassured her that everything would be alright, even if it wasn''t.

    "Where are Mom and Dad?" Li Wenmin asked as he pulled back. He was too distracted by her to see Wen Jinkai urging his horse away from the manor. Only when the horse galloped off did Li Wenmin saw something.

    "Who was that¡ª"

    "N-nevermind him," Li Xueyue said, knowing what his reaction would be if he found out the truth. "I haven''t seen Mother and Father anywhere."

    "What do you mean?" Li Wenmin asked, "How could you have returned home without their help?"

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth and exined the entire story. She started with her court summon and then progressed to the unidentified soldiers barging into the Throne Room, then getting lost in the Pce chasing after Duchess Wang Qixing, andstly, waking up unconscious near the Empress''s lifeless body.

    Li Xueyue thoroughly exined everything and didn''t leave out a single detail, except the one about Wen Jinkai.

    "I don''t know what to say," Li Wenmin muttered. He felt like he needed to sit down with the amount of information revealed. "The Empress is dead¡­ and you think Li Minghua is still alive?"

    "Yes," Li Xueyue said and nodded. "I thought Mother was crazy when she said she saw Li Minghua in the distance. But when I got lost and wandered into the Empress''s quarters, I clearly heard her address someone in the room as Minghua."

    Li Wenmin didn''t even know where to begin. He was ecstatic at the news that Li Minghua was alive, but a part of him didn''t believe it. The coincidence of her surviving that fire was surreal. It was a dreame true. He needed to see Minghua for himself to believe it.

    "Are you sure the Empress is dead?" Li Wenmin asked as he began to usher her into the manor.

    "I saw her dead body with my own eyes." Li Xueyue cringed at the memory of the Empress''s pale and blue body. "Mother had rushed me out of that room when I woke up. Even now, I still don''t know who attacked me from behind. It seems like they were trying to frame me for murder."

    Li Wenmin slowly nodded. "The identity of that person is a mystery, but I agree." He angrily clenched his fist, his face morphing into a deep scowl. Who the hell was trying to harm his precious sister? Whoever it was, they better prepare themselves. He won''t leave them unscathed.

    "Let''s head inside now," Li Wenmin said. "Chenyang has been worrying himself to death at home. With the amount of pacing he did, there might as well have been a dent on our floors."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "I think none of us expected things to go south that quickly."

    "Yeah." Li Wenmin let out a reluctant sigh. "The n was to get you and everyone else home as soon as possible. It''s already nightfall. Mom and Dad still aren''t home. I''m worried."

    "Mom had rushed me out of the Empress''s room which was less than an hour or two ago. I think she''ll be fine. It''ll only be a matter of time before she and Dad return home."

    Li Wenmin ced a hand on her upper back and began to guide her inside the manor. "I hope so."

 Chapter 253 Discuss Everythhing

    <h4>Chapter 253 Discuss Everythhing</h4>

    "Where the hell were you?!" Li Chenyang fumed the second he saw Li Xueyue step into the library. "Do you understand how stressed Wenmin was?" he hissed, storming to her as he began to examine her for any signs of injuries.

    "Wenmin was practically going to die early from the pressure he had on himself," Li Chenyang bit out. His shoulders rxed a bit when he didn''t see a single sign of injury on her, except for her mangled appearance. Li Xueyue appeared as if she was dragged through a forest with her disheveled hair and wrinkled clothes.

    "Oh please," Li Wenmin said and snorted. "You were the one who was pacing so hard, there''s probably a dent on the floor by now. If you were so concerned for Xiao Yue, you should just say it t out instead of using me as an excuse."

    "You irritate me," Li Chenyang retorted.

    "I''ve felt that way for you ever since you came out a few minutes after me," Li Wenmin responded.

    "I''m sure Mother felt the same way when she gave birth to you," Li Chenyang angrily said.

    "Oh please, Mother loves me more than she would ever love you." Li Wenmin chortled. "I was always her favorite because I resemble her the most and¡ª"

    "Xueyue, are you feeling alright?" Li Chenyang asked as he ignored his brother. He continued to examine her for injuries as he turned her head left and right, praying he wouldn''t spot a single cut on her.

    "I''m fine," Li Xueyue sighed. "I had a horrible headache earlier, but it has greatly subsided."

    "A headache?!" Li Chenyang repeated. "How? Why? Are you sure it went away? Did you suffer any head injuries? Oh heavens, you already have so little brain cells. You shouldn''t lose anymore!"

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "It''s fine¡ª" she paused, realizing he had practically called her dumb. "Hey! What''s that supposed to mean?"

    "My idiotic sister can''t afford to get any dumber," Li Chenyang groaned as he turned her around, examining her head for any cuts or bruises. To his relief, her head was fine, except for the bird nest of a hair she had.

    "That''s rude," Li Xueyue huffed. "For someone who''s only book smart, you sure have a lot to say about my intelligence."

    "Book smart?" Li Chenyang mused. "That''s riching from an incredibly dense girl."

    "If I''m dense, then I''d hate to see what you are."

    Li Wenmin felt like a neglected child as he watched them bicker back and forth. His head turned left and right, his eyes darted between the two as they argued to hell and back. Eventually, the loneliness of being excluded got to him.

    "Hey hey, let me into the conversation!" Li Wenmin cried out as he butted in between them. "Don''t leave me out of it."

    Li Chenyang and Li Xueyue exchanged hateful stares with each other before they let out a simultaneous, "Hmph!"

    "Why do I feel like a child watching their parents argue," Li Wenmin said and faked a sniffle. "No fair, howe I''m always left out of important discussions?"

    Li Chenyang opened his mouth to respond but paused when he heard the footsteps echoing in the hallway. The servants were rushing to the front entrance, which only meant one thing.

    "Mother and Father are home," Li Chenyang said as he opened the door to see a servant hurry past it. "Let''s go¡ª"

    He didn''t even get to finish his sentence before Li Xueyue and Li Wenmin raced out the door. All of a sudden, Li Chenyang felt like the abandoned one. His siblings were unnecessarily fast. Scowling at hisck of athletic abilities, he could only speed walk down the hallways and directly towards the front entrance.

    By the time Li Chenyang made it outside, his mother was nearly inside the main house. Li Chenyang stood by the open hallway, watching her with an anxious expression.

    "Mom, where''s Dad?" he instantly asked.

    Duchess Wang Qixing frowned a bit, her lips curled downwards. "There were irritating Ministers who dragged him away. I suppose they required his help since he''s the Prime Minister."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded. "Yes, many of the Ministers have their full trust in Father. They view him as the leader of this political reform."

    Li Wenmin raised a brow. Political reform? That was a nice way of rephrasing "rebellion" or "military overthrow."

    Li Wenmin guessed the reason he wasn''t at the scene of action was because he hadn''t picked a side yet. "Were any servants harmed?" he asked.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nced at her son with a gentle expression. He was too kind for this world. She gave him a fond pat on the cheek and smiled. "Public civilians weren''t involved."

    "But what about the servants and other people?" Li Wenmin questioned. "Was any of them swept in the mess¡ª"

    "I''m tired, Son," Duchess Wang Qixing said and let out a soft sigh. "It was a chaotic day. Do you mind letting your aging mother rest before you ask so many questions?"

    Li Wenmin slowly nodded. He offered her his elbow to which she gratefully took. He made eye contact with Li Chenyang just as she leaned against his arm.

    Li Xueyue anxiously chewed at her bottom lip, wondering if she should inform everyone of Li Minghua''s presence. She was hesitant about revealing the information. What if it was some other Minghua¡­? It would be such a big coincidence if the person inside of the Empress''s bedroom wasn''t Li Minghua.

    "What is it?" Li Chenyang asked as he approached her. "You look like you have a lot to say."

    "It''s just¡­" she trailed off, watching as Duchess Wang Qixing began making her way down the hallway.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nced back upon noticing the missing presence of two more children. "Come with me kids, we will discuss everything in your father''s private study."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "We''ll be right there," he said whilst urging Xueyue to walk.

    Li Xueyue began trotting to her mother, all the while she began to overthink everything.

    What if she told them about Minghua, and no one believed her? Wen Jinkai already had his suspicions. Besides, even if she told them about Minghua, what could be done? How could they possibly find a single woman in a pce filled with hundreds of people?

    What if the person inside the bedroom wasn''t Li Minghua?

    Suddenly, a chilling thought passed through Li Xueyue. Her blood turned cold as her face paled. ''What if Li Minghua was framing me as the murderer?''

 Chapter 254 I Wont Get Angry

    <h4>Chapter 254 I Won''t Get Angry</h4>

    Li Xueyue swallowed. In her jumbled brain, she abruptly recalled something that the Second Prince once said. Near the guest pce, he had asked Wenmin if the Li Family was recing Li Minghua.

    At that time, the question was peculiar and out of the blue. But now that Li Xueyue pondered it further, she felt like she was missing a crucial detail. Why would the Second Prince talk about Li Minghua as if he was close to her? The Second Prince was never mentioned in Li Minghua''s diary¡­ What were his ties to her?

    "Chenyang," she called and grabbed his sleeves.

    Li Chenyang wondered if she knew she didn''t even have to tug his sleeve to catch his attention. He kept the thought to himself. "What''s wrong?" he asked, obviously concerned.

    Li Xueyue nced upwards and saw his brows were creased together, forming lines on his forehead. He would age too quickly if he continues to worry so much.

    Li Xueyue looked around their surroundings. The Duchess was far down the hallway. She lowered her voice and asked, "Was the Second Prince close with Minghua?"

    "What do you mean?" Li Chenyang asked in an equally quiet voice.

    "As in, were they great friends? What was their rtionship like? They''re cousins right?"

    "Yes, they''re cousins," Li Chenyang began. "But now that you ask, it''s quite strange. I don''t remember them being particrly close as they grew older. Of course, the Second Prince favored her because she was kind to him as a child."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "Do you think she reached out to him during her stay in the Pce? Since you said they''re good friends during childhood, do you think they were still close in the Pce?"

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "Your guess is as good as mine, but I would say they weren''t as close as they used to be. If we recall the diary correctly, not once did Minghua mention the Second Prince."

    "Then, don''t you think it''s strange?" Li Xueyue asked. "The Second Prince brought up Minghua when Wenmin and I visited the guest pce. He asked if we were recing her."

    Li Chenyang blinked in surprise. "He also said something simr to that when you and I went to have a private discussion with him."

    "If he asked it twice, then it means the question is extremely important," Li Xueyue pointed out. "It''s almost like¡­"

    "Like he knows something we don''t," Li Chenyang finished for her. His lips dipped into a frown. Why was the Second Prince so intrigued by Minghua? It wasn''t like they were particrly close in the Pce when she was secretly betrothed to Wen Jinkai?

    "I feel like we''re missing a crucial hint here," Li Xueyue said whilst anxiously nibbling on her bottom lip. She touched her chin and tilted her head, wondering what it could be.

    "Why are you suddenly bringing that up?" Li Chenyang asked.

    "You see??" she trailed and peered around, making sure there wasn''t anyone in the vicinity. Leaning onto his sleeves, she got on her tippy-toes and whispered, "I think Minghua is alive."

    Li Chenyang''s eyes had never grown so wide. He was floored by her words and grabbed her upper arms when she tried to pull back. He stared down at her in disbelief as his lips parted to form a response. His mind went nk. He didn''t even know what to say.

    "How¡­? What? You¡ªHuh?" he stuttered out. He scratched the back of his neck as he attempted to form full sentences.

    "Remember I told you I woke up in the Empress''s bedroom?" Li Xueyue said. "I identally eavesdropped on her conversation with someone in her bedroom, and I specifically recall the Empress addressing someone as ''Minghua.'' She even brought up the incident about a fire."

    Li Chenyang was rooted to the floor. His lips opened and closed like a fish out of water. What was he supposed to say to such a thing? For the past two years and a half, he had believed his younger sister was dead. There was not a single doubt in him that she had incinerated in the fire.

    "And before I could peek inside to see the woman''s face, someone had ced a handkerchief over my face that knocked me unconscious. Then, the next thing I knew, I was awoken by Mother in front of the Empress''s dead body. It was as if¡ª"

    "As if someone was intentionally framing you for murder. Why else would you be left inside of the bedroom?" Li Chenyang said. He couldn''t believe it. Who would be out to get Xueyue? It wasn''t like she wronged anyone!

    The only enemies he could think of was Han Jieru and maybe the rest of Bai Tianai''s friends. Xueyue rarely left the house. She didn''t have any friends to even turn into enemies.

    "This is such an atrocious thought and it''s very far-stretched, but uhm¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, hesitant if she could utter such a confession. She was nervous. What if the Li Family shunned her for having such spections?

    Li Xueyue knew how much the Li Family loved theirte daughter, Minghua. To speak ill of her was to instantly be enemies of the Li Family.

    Li Xueyue was terrified of losing her only family members. Just the thought of it was enough for her to get teary-eyed. She sniffed and nced at the ground, worried about their reaction. She had to get it off her chest, or else it would forever weigh her down.

    "What is it?" Li Chenyang asked. "Just tell me. It''s okay, I would never judge you for anything you say. You''re my younger sister now, and I will protect you to the best of my abilities."

    Li Xueyue softly nodded, but couldn''t bring it in herself to lift her chin. Chenyang out of everyone had done so much for her. She wanted to repay them back in any way possible. using Li Minghua of such a heinous thing was the opposite of Xueyue''s intentions.

    "You''re such a silly girl," Li Chenyang said as she pushed her chin up with a single finger under it. "Don''t drop your chin like that. Tell me as it is. Don''t worry, I won''t get angry."

    Li Xueyue could not escape his pressing stare. His eyes were gentle and understanding as if nothing she did or say would ever be wrong in his eyes.

    "What if the person that made me unconscious was one of Minghua''s allies? As in¡­ what if Li Minghua tried to frame me for the Empress''s murder? And¡­ and her helper was the Second Prince?"

    Li Chenyang felt like he was stabbed in the heart. It felt like he was forced to choose between his sisters. He couldn''t help the irritation that ran through his veins. His blood boiled at the usation towards his sister, Minghua.

    Li Chenyang didn''t know how to react. On one hand, he was disappointed with himself for getting angry at Xueyue. On the other hand, he was supposed to be loyal to Minghua. Staring down at her, he was torn in a crossroad of trust.

    In the end, he couldn''t respond.

    Li Xueyue understood his silence. He had made up his mind. His loyalty did not lie with her whom he had known for only two years. His heart was with Minghua who grew up with him for the majority of his life.

    Li Xueyue knew the inevitable had happened. She would slowly, but surely, lose the Li Family''s trust. The thought would forever haunt her and silence her mouth for the rest of her life. There was nothing she could do or say to take back her confession.

 Chapter 255 Dead

    <h4>Chapter 255 Dead</h4>

    "I don''t know what to say," Li Chenyang finally said after the longest silence possible. "I''m torn on what to believe."

    Li Xueyue''s heart sank just a little bit more. She nervously nced away whilst holding back a sigh.

    "You don''t have to believe me on the spot. J-just think about it," she said and shifted her eyes towards the hallway that Duchess Wang Qixing and Li Wenmin went down in.

    "We should join them before they think something happened to us," Li Xueyue said as she pointed to the hallway.

    Li Xueyue didn''t give him the opportunity to give her a reply. She swiveled around and approached the hallway without another nce backwards. All the while, she cursed herself for being so stupid with her approach. She should''ve gently told him the truth instead of dumping the information onto him all at once.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She wished she had someone to talk to. Staring out of the open hallway, she realized it was already nighttime. The moon was hauntingly beautiful in the most eerie way. She was suddenly reminded of Yu Zhen and his cruel, yet bittersweet smile.

    Li Xueyue had never missed his warm embrace until tonight. A chill ran through the air as the wind picked up. She shivered and hugged her arms. She wondered if he was doing alright. Perhaps it would be better to write him a letter.

    "What are you doing?" Li Chenyang asked when he reached her frozen form in the hallway. She was intensely staring up at the dimmed moon, almost as if lost in thought.

    "Spacing out like a fool," Li Xueyue mused with a slight smile. She could feel the distance between them, even if he had ced a beckoning hand upon her upper back.

    "Well, if you read more books, it might train your ability to focus," Li Chenyang joked.

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh, but nothing could rid the awkward tension in the air. She bit her bottom lip and began walking again. Eventually, their footsteps fell in silent sync.

    It didn''t take long for them to reach the Duke''s private study where Li Wenmin was already inhaling the second te of lotus seed pastries. He happily munched away,pletely unaware of the strain in the room.

    Duchess Wang Qixing shot out of the couch upon seeing Li Xueyue. "There you two are," she huffed. "I was beginning to think if two of my smartest children got lost in their own house."

    Li Xueyue chuckled at her mother''s jokes. "Chenyang got lost. I had to guide the poor thing," she teased.

    "More like I was trying to lead her to this ce and she thought the study was in the opposite direction," Li Chenyang said and chortled. He hoped their jokes would hide the ufortable atmosphere between them.

    It worked on Li Wenmin who nodded his head in agreement. "See, I told you, Mom. These two are only book smart, nothing else. That''s why I''m actually the smartest child. I''m street smart, which is actually useful."

    Duchess Wang Qixing could only smile at her oldest son. As their mother, she was easily able to read her children. Especially when they were upset with each other.

    "Anyway, just sit down and try to swoop thest piece of pastry before Wenmin steals it from us." Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled as she gestured to the unupied couches.

    "Hey, don''t invite them to steal my food!" Li Wenmin huffed just as Xueyue reached over his shoulders and plucked up the small pastry. "Xiao Yue¡ªmmph!" His eyes widened when she shoved the pastry into his mouth.

    "You''re so stingy, Little Piglet," Li Xueyue chuckled.

    "Hmph, good to know you won''t be stealing my food¡ªhey! Who are you calling a Little Piglet?" Li Wenmin scowled as he pointed an using finger in her direction. "If I''m the Little Piglet, then you must be the Big Piglet."

    Li Chenyang quirked a brow. "At least you''re admitting you''re a piglet," he said.

    Li Wenmin gasped at the audacity of his younger brother. He ced a hand on his chest, almost as if he was offended by Chenyang''s words. "You''re lucky Mother is here or else I would''ve beaten you up."

    "Only idiots fight with their fists. Gentlemen fight with their words," Li Chenyang said.

    "That''s just an excuse made up by weaklings like you who''s scared of violence," Li Wenmin retorted as he stuck out his tongue.

    Li Chenyang cringed at the unsettling sight of the chewed up lotus seed. "Gosh, no wonder why you''ll be single for the rest of your life. Youck manners."

    "At least I still have girls who are attracted to me, whereas you''ll be single for the rest of your life," Li Wenmin said. He picked up the final piece of pastry off the te and popped it into his mouth, happily chewing away.

    He picked up the te and showed it to his mother. "More please."

    Duchess Wang Qixing rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Too much sugar before bedtime will give you nightmares."

    Li Xueyue straightened up at the mention of nightmares. Was that old-wives tale actually true? She decided it would be in her best interest to cut down on sweets. But then her mouth watered at the thought of a good snack. She slumped into her chair, pouting at the idea of decreasing her intake of pastries.

    Duchess Wang Qixing noticed the obvious distance between Xueyue and Chenyang. The two usually sat together. She tried to not pay too much attention to this issue. It would be addressedter. At least they were being civilized about it

    "Well, speaking of nightmares," Duchess Wang Qixing began. "Today was pretty much a nightmaree true. The n was advanced, but it was messy and chaotic. We should''ve just waited for when the Emperor traveled to the vacation pce."

    "Yeah," Li Wenmin agreed. "I was in the fields getting ready to train the soldiers when one of our servants rushed to deliver the message. Next thing I knew, I was forced to head home."

    "I was put in a rough predicament as well." Li Chenyang sighed. "I was in the pce court this morning, minding my own business when dad rushed into my office and demanded for me to go home. I didn''t understand the issue until I saw rebel soldiers in the far distance."

    "The best n in mind is to pretend the attack was done by rebels," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Any ally soldier that was caught for torture will be snuck out one way or the other. We can''t have anyone snitching on us."

    Li Chenyang pondered over the idea. "Where is Dad right now? You mentioned he was sorting the problems at court."

    "Baron Han was suspicious of us. I''ve managed to throw the Ministers off our trail with my amazing acting, but nothing is finalized yet. Your father is at the Pce Courts tying any loose ends together," Duchess Wang Qixing said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing tilted her head as she began to anxiously chew on her nails. "The Empress is dead."

    "So is the Emperor," Li Xueyue added on.

    "What?!" Li Chenyang hissed. He turned to his mother and then Xueyue. "How do either of you know¡ª"

    "I saw the Empress dead with my own two eyes," Li Xueyue said. "As for the Emperor, I was informed of this news by Wen Jinkai. I feel like he was testing my reaction to the information, but I kept my face neutral. I don''t think he saw through me."

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew this would happen. Even so, she couldn''t help but tear up. She was emotional at the news of her beloved brother''s death.

    If only the Emperor didn''t walk down the wrong path. If only he didn''t marry the Empress. If only he listened to her advice decades ago. If only he cared about what Duchess Wang Qixing loved the most¡ªher children.

    There were so many "ifs" in this situation, but all of which were toote now.

    The Emperor was dead. The stern older brother who locked her within the Pce had died within the walls he confined his beloved people in. She would never forget his smile and his scowl. At times, they resembled each other until they became nothing but the same image.

    Li Xueyue gently patted her mother''s back as Duchess Wang Qixing dropped her head. Silently, they allowed her to mourn over her loss.

    Not a single sound could be heard in the private study. Respectfully, they gave the Emperor and Empress a moment of silence, even if the twins and Xueyue were reluctant to do so. Their eyes met with each other before it shifted to the weeping Duchess.

    No matter what happened from here on out, they were family. All of them were in this together. And if one went down, so would the other. Tomorrow morning, when the sun rose in the east, and the birds soared through the sky, a new page in history would begin. Its title would be the start of the Li Dynasty.

 Chapter 256 Rude Little Thing

    <h4>Chapter 256 Rude Little Thing</h4>

    "We''ll have to wait until your father returns," Duchess Wang Qixing finally said. Her voice was a bit choked up with emotions but she continued on. "He''ll inform us of the status of the remaining Royal family."

    "The concubines can be set free," Li Chenyang said. "We only need to get rid of the heirs like the Princes or Princesses."

    All the while, Li Wenmin sulked in his chair. It wasn''t his ce to speak up. He felt like a fool for taking so long to choose a side. There wasn''t anything he could contribute to the conversation.

    Li Xueyue was also lost in thought. She wanted to tell the Duchess about Li Minghua, but at this point, it felt like it was no use. It wasn''t like Li Xueyue had physical evidence of Li Minghua''s presence. Chenyang''s reaction was enough to silence her.

    Holding back a sigh, she could only stare out the window and try her best to listen to the discussion between Chenyang and Duchess Wang Qixing.

    "Xueyue?" Duchess Wang Qixing said. "What are you thinking about?"

    Li Xueyue shifted her attention from the night sky. "Uhm¡­" she trailed off, ncing at Chenyang who firmly shook his head. The action was small and was only noticed by her.

    "I-it''s just weird," she said. "Who was the one that killed the Empress? Why would someone knock me unconscious and put me in her bedroom? It was almost as if someone tried to frame me for her death."

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded in agreement. "Yes, it''s peculiar and suspicious. This is what I found on the Empress''s body." She reached into her sleeves and pulled out the bloodied handkerchief.

    At the sight of blood, Li Wenmin finally straightened up. His eyes grew asrge as the moon outside.

    Li Chenyang sucked in a deep breath. "This hydrangea hairpin, didn''t it belong to Minghua¡ª"

    "It''s the murder weapon that finished off the Empress," Duchess Wang Qixing grimly said.

    "Mother, do you recall that meeting you were supposed to be a part of? The one with Wen Jinkai in it?" Li Chenyang brought up. "Well, Father presented this hairpin to Wen Jinkai and informed him that the hairpin was initially in Hechen since Minghua brought it with her there¡­ it should''ve disappeared in the fire."

    Li Chenyang took a peek at Xueyue as regret filled him. No matter how much he wanted to believe her, he couldn''t. "But then the hairpin was found in the Capital. To be specific, it was discovered in the Empress''s bedroom. I think Wen Jinkai knows that as well."

    "What?" Duchess Wang Qixing breathed out, shocked at the news. Didn''t this mean the Empress was near the fire? Or her servants were? How else would the Empress acquire the hairpin?

    "Wen Jinkai stormed out of Dad''s private study after realizing what we were hinting. He took the hairpin and diary with him," Li Chenyang exined. "Do you think¡­" he trailed off, unable to utter his conclusion.

    Everyone shared the same thought. If the hairpin was supposed to be in the hands of Wen Jinkai, but then it was found to be a murder weapon¡­

    "Wen Jinkai killed the Empress?" Li Wenmin hesitatingly said.

    "But that doesn''t make sense," Li Xueyue said. "Wen Jinkai was the one who escorted me home. I heard of how close he was with the Empress. If he was the one who killed her, how could he look so sane today¡ª"

    "The idea of murder and death does not faze Wen Jinkai," Li Wenmin calmly said. "As a seasoned soldier, he wouldn''t have even reacted to her death."

    "No," Li Xueyue disagreed. "I know for a fact that Wen Jinkai didn''t kill her. It wouldn''t make sense. He should''ve at least been heartbroken. When he told me the Emperor died, it was almost as if he was testing me to see if I was the killer."

    Duchess Wang Qixing pressed her lips together and she showed the hairpin to everyone. "There was someone trying to frame the entire Li Family. The engraving on the hairpin would''ve given our identity away."

    Li Xueyue curiously peered at the engraving. ''To my Minghua, may your future bloom like that of hydrangeas.''

    Li Xueyue nced at the beautiful flowers clustered at the top of the hairpin. This hairpin was easily one of the most stunning essories her eyes had everid on, but what caught her attention was the type of flower it was shaped after.

    Hydrangeas¡­ Li Xueyue didn''t think this flower held so much significance until now. Each and every day, the Duchess always tended to her flowers. She paid the most attention to hydrangeas.

    Now, Li Xueyue knew why.

    "If Wen Jinkai is the killer," Li Chenyang began. "It''d mean he was trying to frame us by leaving this hairpin inside of the Empress. That way, when the Empress''s dead body was found, the examiner could trace the hairpin back to us."

    "Exactly," Duchess Wang Qixing bit out. "It seems this man is trying to bring us all down."

    Li Xueyue knew it was either now or never. "Mother, there''s something I should tell you."

    Li Chenyang threw her a warning re.

    Li Xueyue pretended he didn''t exist. She turned to face the Duchess and decided the most important detail shouldn''t be left out. "Before I was knocked out outside the Empress''s bedroom, I overheard a conversation she was having with someone inside."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She saw Chenyang clench his fingers into fists. He was furious that she was disobeying his wishes. But she had to say it. The Duchess herself said she never wanted to be kept in the dark. It wouldn''t be fair to not share this information.

    "The murderer definitely has an aplice since I was grabbed from behind," Li Xueyue pointed out. "But the most crucial detail is the person that the Empress wasst talking to before her death."

    Li Chenyang ground his teeth and glowered at the ground. He was also angry at himself for wanting to keep his mother oblivious. He couldn''t help it. The mncholy she experienced after Minghua''s death was haunting. The Duchess had never been so depressed in her life.

    Li Chenyang didn''t want his mother to be hurt by the truth or this spection. There could be hundreds of other girls named Minghua. Xueyue also didn''t have solid evidence to back her im that it was actually Li Minghua.

    "The Empress was angrily arguing with someone in her bedroom," Li Xueyue said. "She uhm¡­ called the other woman Minghua. And then she talked about some sort of fire and¡ª"

    "Are you implying my Minghua is alive?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked as her voice cracked towards the end. The thought of such a miracle was enough for her eyes to tear up. "M-My darling Minghua didn''t perish in that fire?"

    "We can''t be too sure," Li Xueyue said. "But that''s what I heard in the bedroom. When I tried to sneak a peek, it was toote, I was grabbed from the behind. It''s just strange that Wen Jinkai would''ve killed the Empress."

    "What do you mean?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "Well, I told Wen Jinkai the same spection¡ªthat Li Minghua might be alive. He was absolutely shocked by the news."

    She rubbed her chin. "This only meant Wen Jinkai didn''te across the woman who was in the Empress''s room. Since a woman was conversing with the Empress prior to her death, wouldn''t Wen Jinkai have seen or heard something if he had also been near the Empress''s corridors when I was there?"

    She tilted her head. "If he did, and I was right that the woman in the Empress''s room was Li Minghua, he wouldn''t have been so surprised when I told him Minghua might be alive. At least, this means Wen Jinkai wasn''t the one who knocked me out and then frame me for the Empress''s murder."

    Duchess Wang Qixing slowly nodded her head. "I can see where you''reing from, but this hairpin was given to Wen Jinkai. And then it was stabbed through the Empress. Who else would''ve held this hairpin in possession?"

    Li Xueyue supposed her mother was right. She bit her bottom lip and sunk down in her chair, not sure of what to do.

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a sigh. "I suppose we can''te to a proper conclusion without Wen Jinkai''s presence. For now, we need to be careful. There is someone against us who might have a motive to bring down the Li Family."

    "We always have enemies," Li Chenyang said. "But none were bold enough to try to drag us down like this."

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded. "Yes, this one is more serious than the rest."

    Suddenly, a loud knock resonated in the room.

    "Come in," Duchess Wang Qixing said, only to realize she had locked the door from the inside.

    "I''ll get it," Li Wenmin said. He stood up and opened the door to reveal the family Eunuch.

    Li Wenmin was puzzled when he saw the Eunuch''s pale expression. It was almost as if he had seen a ghost.

    "Young Master," the Eunuch addressed with a bow. He gulped and said, "The Master has returned home."

    Duchess Wang Qixing perked up. "Let''s go greet your father, shall we? He had a tiring day at work," she said as everyone got out of the chair.

    "T-there is a woman with him," the Eunuch suddenly said.

    "Who? A mistress?" Li Wenmin joked, only for him to get angry at the thought of his father with another woman.

    "A guest?" Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Well, let''s not keep them waiting then."

    It didn''t take long for the entire family to leave the private study.

    Duchess Wang Qixing made sure the door was locked before she hurried and joined the rest of the family. Now that Duke Li Shenyang was finally home, they could get to the bottom of this problem.

    - - - - -

    "Mother," Li Wenmin spoke up. "Don''t worry, if the woman that Dad brought home is a mistress, I will vehemently object to their marriage.???

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. What a kiss-up. "You think at a crucial time like this, Dad would be bringing home a new concubine? Are you stupid?"

    "You''re the stupid one," Li Wenmin huffed.

    "You boys argue too much," Duchess Wang Qixing sighed. "I suppose it keeps this household lively."

    "Lively? It seems like they create the most ruckus in this household," Li Xueyue mused as she nced at the bickering twins who were too engrossed in the argument to even realize what thedies said.

    Li Xueyue was relieved the twins were the ones who broke the tension or else the walk to the front of the house would''ve been filled with an awkward silence.

    Li Xueyue wondered if she should''ve just kept her mouth shut about Minghua. No one seemed to believe her, but she couldn''t me them. If someone told her that a woman who was supposedly dead for two and a half years was suddenly found in the Pce, she wouldn''t believe it either.

    But it wasn''t as if Xueyue would purposely lie to the Li Family¡­ She held back a sigh.

    The twins finally stopped arguing when they saw their father at the front of Li Manor. It wasn''t the sight of their father that silenced them, but the presence of an unfamiliar woman wearing a veil over her face.

    Li Xueyue knew who this servant was, and so did Li Wenmin. "Dad," she said. "That''s the Second Prince''s servant."

    "Yeah," Li Wenmin agreed. "She was a rude little thing who didn''t bow to me thest time I was near the guest pce. What the hell is she doing here?"

    "Well, I see you haven''t changed a bit in the past two years," the woman spoke up.

    Li Wenmin''s heart dropped all the way to his stomach. That voice¡­! He''d known it was her even if the sound was drowned inside of a crowd.

    The servant slipped the veil off of her face, revealing her true identity.

    There was no mistaking it.

    Standing before the entire Li family, well and alive, was none other than Li Minghua.

 Chapter 257 Tired and Dirty

    <h4>Chapter 257 Tired and Dirty</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing was at a loss for words. Seeing her daughter who was presumably dead was simply too much for her to handle.

    "Mother!" Li Xueyue gasped as Duchess Wang Qixing took a single nce at Li Minghua and fainted.

    "Mother?" Li Minghua sneered. "What gives you the right to say such a thing?"

    Li Xueyue ignored the brat in front of her. She supported the Duchess''s weight with her body as servants rushed forward to offer assistance.

    Li Wenmin was too dumbstruck by the sight of Minghua to realize his mother had copsed. Nor did he hear the rude words that came out of Minghua''s mouth.

    Li Chenyang came to Xueyue''s aid. He held up his mother so that she wouldn''t slide to the floor and dirty herself. "Dad, a little help here."

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t even need to be told that. He was already approaching his wife and in a fell swoop, scooped her off her feet. He knew the abrupt appearance of Minghua had shocked everyone but he had a problem to address.

    "You boys take her to the drawing room. In the meantime, I''m going to take your mother to the bedroom so that she can get some rest," Duke Li Shenyang instructed.

    "No need, I want a bath," Li Minghua said as she handed her veil to a dumbstruck servant.

    No one could believe their eyes. Not even the servants who had worked here for as long as they could remember.

    "Well?" Li Minghua said as she caught the eyes of a familiar face standing near her mother. "Ah Jingxia!" she called out, upon seeing it was the Head Maidservant. "You remember how I enjoy my baths right? Prepare it as usual."

    Jingxia found it incredibly difficult to believe this woman was Li Minghua, but the tone and attitude employed were the same as back then. In an instant, she bowed. "Right away, Young Miss."

    Li Minghua offered her a sweet smile. "Great," she said with a p. "At least someone is stillpetent enough to address me instead of standing there like a fool."

    Li Xueyue knew Minghua had a questionable attitude, but this behavior was simply¡­ She was speechless. But then, Xueyue knew it was how Aristocrats typically behaved. The only thing that stuck out about Minghua was the way she awkwardly walked with her shoulders slightly hunched as if shecked all of the confidence in the world.

    As Li Minghua passed by Wenmin, she gave him a pat on the shoulder. "It''s been a while, dear brother¡ª" She didn''t get to finish her sentence before he grabbed her and tightly embraced her.

    Li Minghua''s shocked expression softened. She gently tapped his back and returned the hug. "I''ve missed you," she whispered.

    "Is it really you, Minghua?" Li Wenmin asked, his eyes moistening. He was choked up with emotions as his chest swelled in disbelief and pure relief. "I-I''m not dreaming right, Xiao Hua?"

    Li Xueyue nced at the floor, realizing that the nickname he called her was simr to Minghua. She felt like she was intruding into a special moment, even though Chenyang was also left out of it.

    Li Minghua revealed her lopsided smile that he was ever so fond of. "You''re a dimwit, as usual, Wenmin. Of course, it''s me. Who else would it be?"

    "But the fire¡­" Li Wenmin trailed off. "I-I thought you died in it. Why are you wearing a veil if your face was perfectly fine? Why didn''t you try to reach out to me and¡ª"

    "You talk too much," Li Minghua lightlyughed. She touched her shoulder and yanked down her clothes to reveal the burn marks. Then she rolled up the sleeves that were on the same side to show the burn mark ran all the way to her elbows.

    "At least my money-making face wasn''t burned," Li Minghua said. "But one side of my body wasn''t spared."

    "And the veil? Why did you wear it?" Li Wenmin desperately asked. "You knew it was me in the guest pce. You could''ve grabbed me, or did anything to get my attention. I would''ve whisked you home."

    He nced at Chenyang. "Everyone was in the Capital for two years. Dad and Chenyang were in court. This entire time, you could''ve told us you were alive¡ª"

    "I kept my identity hidden to protect you," Li Minghua said. "If I had disappeared from the Second Prince''s side, the Empress would''ve revealed the secrets she had against us."

    "The Second Prince?" Li Wenmin fumed. "You are a Li. How dare the Wangs degrade you into a servant? Those damn bastards, I knew I should''ve joined the battle. If only¡ª"

    "You''re getting too riled up," Li Minghua said. "I''m tired and dirty. I want a bath. Then, maybe if I''m in the mood, I''ll speak to you."

    Li Wenmin was hesitant to part with her. He was terrified that this was all a cruel nightmare. He thought she would disappear again. If he let go of her now, what if she never came back again? Just the idea of that was enough for his heart to shatter again.

    Li Minghua knew what he was thinking. "Don''t worry," she said and gently smiled. "It''s not a dream. It''s really me."

    "Ce to the drawing room afterwards, okay? There''s so much we have to discuss," Li Wenmin finally said. "Please?"

    Li Minghua let out a sigh. She shoved his arms off of her and threw him a pointed look. "Why can''t we talk tomorrow? I''m exhausted and hungry. Obviously, I''m not in the mood to talk."

    Li Wenmin was used to this temper tantrum of hers. "Fine fine, we can address the problem tomorrow¡ª"

    "No," Li Chenyang butted in. He angrily grabbed Minghua by her shoulder. "You little brat," he gritted out. "You haven''t changed one bit huh?"

    "And you''re still the mean older brother I wished I never had!" Li Minghua shrugged off his hand. "Don''t touch me."

    Li Chenyang was initially relieved to see her, but now that she was in front of him, he couldn''t find it in himself to be appreciative of her presence. "Do you know how happy I was to see you? Like Wenmin, I was worried about you. I missed you with every fiber of my heart, but how can you still be such a brat?"

    "You try serving the Royal family for two years!" she screamed. "You try to dine with the enemies, bow to them, smile for them. If you didn''t walk in my shoes, then don''t you dare judge me, you damn hypocrite."

    Li Xueyue pressed a hand to her mouth to prevent a gasp froming out.

    "You think you''re better than me, Chenyang. Frankly, you''re not. You''re the biggest brat of this entire family, but you hide it better than me. Yet, there will always be moments you throw the worst of tantrums. You''re worse than me," Li Minghua seethed.

    "Let''s go Jingxia," Li Minghua said as she stomped into the house.

    The Head Maidservant was severely disappointed to see the Young Miss hadn''t changed. But what could she expect? Holding back a sigh, she bowed to the rest of the Li family children.

    "Jingxia,?? Li Chenyang quietly said as Li Minghua''s figure disappeared down the hallway.

    "Yes, Young Master?" Jingxia responded.

    Li Chenyang approved the maidservant who was in her mid-forties. Bending down, he whispered, "Make sure she doesn''t wander into any other parts of the house. Keep thismand a secret from my parents."

    Jingxia was torn by thest part but nheless bowed her head. "I will try my best, Young Master."

    Li Chenyang nodded. He nced up and met Xueyue''s questioning stare. He leaned near Jingxia''s ears again. "Also, I don''t care what it takes, but make sure Minghua never approaches Xueyue''s bedroom or her wing of the house. Is that clear?"

    "Understood, Young Master," Jingxia said with a bow.

    "Good," Li Chenyang sighed. He straightened up and nodded down the hallway. "You can go now."

    Jingxia didn''t need to be told twice. She hurried off.

    Even though Jinxia wanted to tend to the Duchess, she knew this matter was more important. She was there when the Duchess had given birth to Li Minghua. Jinxia was there to witness the struggles of the Duchess who rejected every wetnurse and nanny just to breastfeed and raise her daughter by herself.

    Jingxia personally witnessed all of the family''s struggles when it came to Li Minghua. Out of everyone here, she knew of the tantrums the haughty Young Miss loved to throw for attention. The Young Master was right. Li Minghua needed to be kept under a close watch, especially with how mischievous she was.

 Chapter 258 Mere Servan

    <h4>Chapter 258 Mere Servan</h4>

    "I''m going to check on Minghua," Li Wenmin abruptly said. "Just to make sure everything is okay. It''s been a while since she''s been in this house."

    Li Chenyang raised a brow. He wasn''t perplexed by Wenmin''s behavior. It was typical of his older brother.

    "Go on ahead," Li Chenyang said as he waved his hand.

    "See youter, Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin said as he gave her head a pat before disappearing into the house.

    Li Chenyang noticed Xueyue''s silence. He turned towards her. To his surprise, she had a nk expression, almost as if she wasn''t fazed by Minghua''s behavior. She hadpletely ignored Minghua''s subtle disrespect.

    "I told you she was alive," Li Xueyue finally said as her gaze shifted to him usingly.

    "I''m sorry," Li Chenyang confessed. "I didn''t believe you because the thought of a dead woman walking again is just¡ª"

    "It''s understandable," Li Xueyue interrupted.

    She gently smiled. "I know you meant no harm. It was a questionable idea, but I would''ve appreciated it if you had a little bit more trust in me."

    "I do," Li Chenyang argued. "Well, now that you''ve seen the Li family''s caged canary, what do you think of her?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "Well, I wasn''t surprised by her behavior. From the diary I read, I sort of expected it. She seemed callous and a bit rude."

    "It''s because she was spoiled rotten since birth," Li Chenyang sighed. "Her biggest w was that she got everything she wanted in life. When we have everything in the world, it''s difficult to appreciate the little things in life."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "No one would be shocked by that idea. Minghua is the legitimate and eldest daughter of the Prime Minister and Princess. The world is your oyster."

    Li Chenyang chuckled at the idea. "Not really. In fact, I pitied her."

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked, turning to face him. He threw an arm around her shoulder and squeezed it before guiding her inside of the house.

    "Father was always very protective of her. He would never let her outside the manor walls. Minghua grew up in istion without a single friend."

    Li Xueyue blinked. "And to make up for herck of social life, I''d assume Mother and Father gave her everything she had ever wanted except for her freedom."

    "Precisely. In return, Minghua never understood how privileged she was. As a result," he gestured to the spot she previously stood, "she behaves like that without qualms."

    "It''s so strange," Li Xueyue said. "Minghua said she was a servant in the Pce. I thought it would''ve humbled her¡­ no matter the reason that turned her into one."

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together. "Notice how she''s the Second Prince''s servant? I hypothesize the Empress made Minghua a servant in hopes of ruining her dreams and ambition."

    Li Chenyang''s expression became stormy at the idea of a Li ever serving anyone. They rarely bowed to anyone in the first ce.

    Li Chenyang tilted his head. "Minghua went from the eldest daughter of a privileged family to a mere servant in the Pce."

    His gaze traveled in the direction she stormed down the hallways. "It must''ve been a harsh awakening and an insufferable idea, which was probably what the Empress had in mind. If only she knew, her second son was too kind-hearted."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She received that impression from the mellow Second Prince but there was also something suspicious about him. He knew the secrets of two of the most influential people in this country. The power he possessed was terrifying.

    "Wouldn''t that mean Minghua was under the Second Prince''s protection?" Li Xueyue asked. "So her life as a servant wasn''t as bad as the rest of the pce workers? If she''s still so haughty after two years in the Pce, it must''ve meant the Second Prince treated her very well."

    Li Chenyang knew her prediction wasn''t far from the truth. "When the Second Prince was a child and the Li family still lived in the Capital, Minghua would visit him often. Among all his cousins, she''s one of the few who believed the Second Prince''s illness wasn''t contagious."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "That sort of kindness will not be forgotten."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "Indeed. It would exin why the Second Prince took her in the first ce and treated her so nicely."

    Li Chenyang knew he should''ve been suspicious when the servant took her sweet time grabbing the tea and snacks.

    Li Xueyue fiddled with her sleeves. "I wonder what Wen Jinkai''s reaction will be when he realizes Minghua is alive all along¡­ and the fact that heid a hand on her," she muttered.

    The oues would be unfavorable.

    Even now, Li Xueyue couldn''t forget the event of Wen Jinkai grabbing that veiled servant by the throat. What was Li Minghua feeling when he did that to her?

    "Chen-ge¡­" she trailed off. "You don''t think Minghua would uhm¡­"

    "What is it?" Li Chenyang asked. He peered at her for a brief second before focusing on walking. He noticed she was antsy and nervous.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. It was a bad habit of hers that she needed to get rid of, but couldn''t. This had already caused her lips to be rough.

    "The timing must''ve been weird for her," she abruptly said.

    Li Xueyue lifted her head and stared up at Chenyang. He was watching where he walked. She realized he resembled their father, especially when he had ced his hands behind his back.

    "Maybe Minghua thinks she has been reced by me," Li Xueyue rushed out.

    Li Chenyang halted. His foot stopped moving before he could take another step forward. She was ahead of him now.

    Li Xueyue turned back to face him. "I mean, if I suddenly disappeared and then a few monthster, another woman joins the family, I''d feel the same."

    Li Chenyang realized her skin had paled. She was troubled over this major detail. Her hair was beginning to stick to her forehead from the cold sweat that broke out due to her anxiety.

    "I won''t deny it," Li Chenyang said. "The Second Prince brought up the same stupid idea once, even though I''ve vehemently denied it."

    Li Xueyue blinked. Was that the conversation that took ce when she was sent out of the tea room? It wouldn''t be a farfetched guess.

    "That''s so strange," she spoke up. "The Second Prince also said the same thing when Wenmin and I met him on the day we went to the Pce together to find Yu Zhen. He asked a simr question, not knowing I was standing right there."

    Li Chenyang''s face dimmed. If the Second Prince asked both of the twins the same question, then it could only mean one thing: the Second Prince wasn''t the only one who thought this way.

    What if the Second Prince was asking this question in Li Minghua''s ce? Why else would he bring up the question so many times?

    Li Chenyang was displeased. Did Minghua truly feel this way? That she was reced by Xueyue? If so, wouldn''t it lead to resentment and hatred?

    "Stay away from Minghua," Li Chenyang demanded. "No matter the costs, I want you to avoid her. The only time you should see her is during meals. Aside from that, don''t ever be alone with her."

    Li Xueyue blinked at hismand. He was as serious as he could ever be. There was no humor in his eyes.

    Li Chenyang stepped forward and grabbed her elbow. "Until this issue is resolved, I want you to walk the opposite direction every time you see her," he solemnly said. "No matter what it takes, do you hear me?"

    "Y-you make it sound like Minghua is someone dangerous," Li Xueyue joked. She wanted to lighten the tense atmosphere, but he took it the wrong way.

    "I''m serious," Li Chenyang said. "She may look like a fairy from heaven, but the truth is, she''s the most mischievous girl I''ve ever met."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "Okay, I will do my best to stay clear of her."

    Li Chenyang searched her eyes for the truth. He knew he could rely on her. She had rarely let him down. "Good, now let''s get you cleaned up as well. You''ve had a rough day."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "Is that your way of politely telling me I stink?"

    "At least you can read between the lines." He snorted.

    "I see the pot is calling the kettle ck," she retorted.

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes as he shoved her in the direction of her bedroom. "Just go take a shower, Piglet."

    Li Xueyue stuck out her tongue at him.

    "Little Piglet, just you wait¡ª"

    Li Xueyue let out a tauntingugh and ran down the hallways before he could catch her.

    Li Chenyang shook his head at her but couldn''t suppress the smile resting on his lips. He enjoyed that carefree sound, so light and airy, it reminded him of every good memory.

 Chapter 259 Never Show Weakness

    <h4>Chapter 259 Never Show Weakness</h4>

    Li Chenyang knew his next destination. He headed straight to his father''s private study. Knocking upon the door, he heard a faint e in," before opening it.

    "Dad," Li Chenyang greeted in a hard voice. Creases formed on his forehead upon seeing his father''s exhausted facial features.

    Duke Li Shenyang gestured for his son to take a seat in one of the couches. "I''m sure we have a lot to discuss," he said.

    Li Chenyang''s eyes lingered on the items on his father''s cluttered desk. For a split second, Chenyang thought he saw letters. It was toote to take a second nce.

    Duke Li Shenyang stood in front of his desk to face his son, conveniently blocking thetter''s view of the contents on the desk.

    "Father," Li Chenyang formally addressed. "We never got to finish our discussionst time about the Emperor''s private funds. It''s extremely secretive and no one should have ess to it, not even the Prime Minister."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "You''re right. I wouldn''t have ess to such things, but it was randomly discovered."

    "What?" Li Chenyang said. "Where? Why would something as important as that be discovered in the open?"

    Duke Li Shenyang sighed. "I was hoping you''d leave it at that, but I guess I''ll have to be truthful."

    "You guess?" Li Chenyang snorted. "Since when were you a fan of lying to me?"

    "Since never, but I guess a few white lies never hurt anyone," Duke Li Shenyang said. He rested his arms on the desk behind him. He could really use some stress-relief teas at this moment¡­ or the one brewed by his wife.

    "This was actually secretly handed to me," Duke Li Shenyang said. "I was in my office in the Pce when I heard a knock outside. A guard opened the door, iming a servant delivered a letter to me."

    Li Chenyang was taken back by this. "A servant? How can anyone just have their hands on something as important as this?!"

    ?That''s exactly what I was wondering. I thoroughly questioned the guard about that servant but he couldn''t give a clear description of her. She came and left quickly like a ghost."

    "None of the guards were able to identify her?" Li Chenyang asked. "But that''s impossible. The pce guards keep a track of each and every pce servant. You could''ve lined everyone up and the guard should be able to identify the correct one."

    "If the person who delivered this to me was also the same one who obtained it, it means that person was no ordinary servant," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    Li Chenyang''s lips dipped into a frown. "That means the information isn''t credible. What if it was forged?"

    "I thought the same thing when I opened it in my office, but then I saw it¡ªthe Emperor''s signature on the document. The writing was exactly like the Emperor''s as well, especially the strokes on specific characters. There''s no mistaking it."

    Li Chenyang chewed on his nails. He paced the private study. "That means someone else besides us knows of the Emperor''s private funds. Who would deliver this to us?"

    "I want to know the same thing," Duke Li Shenyang sighed. "Besides, it''s gettingte. You should head to bed. We''ll discuss everything in the morning when the entire family is present."

    "Dad¡­" Li Chenyang trailed off. "You still haven''t told us how you found Minghua. Can you imagine our shock when we all saw her with you?"

    "Quite frankly," Duke Li Shenyang began. "I was just as surprised as the rest of you. Minghua had came running up to me as if she was chased by a ghost."

    "You''ll have to tell me exactly what happened," Li Chenyang requested.

    "I was out in the pce grounds, directing everyone to their rightful ces. The pce hallways were a mess, the aftermath of the havoc that was wrecked. Servants were ordered to clean up whereas guards were instructed to search for surviving members of the royal family."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s chest felt heavy. He was slightly ovee with emotions at the miracle that was bestowed upon him.

    "Everywhere I looked was grim and depressing. No one had the spirits to do anything, but they trudged onwards," he said.

    Duke Li Shenyang raised his head towards the ceiling. He needed something to distract himself.

    "Minghua was like a fairy descending from the heavens at a time of cmity. When every meter of the pce grounds was covered with somber mncholy, she had burst forward."

    The corner of Duke Li Shenyang''s lips curled downwards when he recalled the next memory. It was unpleasant and he nearly copsed like his wife.

    "Wide-eyed and frantic, she had rushed to me. The guards stepped forward. They thought she was just a crazy servant after the Prime Minister''s life," Duke Li Shenyang mused.

    He shifted his gaze towards the couch where Chenyang stood. "I took one nce at her and I knew it was Minghua. I didn''t even have to see her face up close. Even from a distance, I knew it was her."

    Duke Li Shenyang brought his chin back to a neutral level. His gaze shifted to Chenyang. "Minghua resembled your mother. Looking at her was like staring at your mother in her youth. I''m rarely choked up by emotions, but the second I saw her, I thought I was going to burst in tears."

    "And did you?" Li Chenyang asked. "Did you cry?"

    "In public? Surrounded by so many people?" Duke Li Shenyang scoffed. "Of course not. Do you really want me to lose face so quickly?"

    "I figured you wouldn''t," Li Chenyang muttered. "In the twenty-one years of my time on Earth, I''ve never seen you shed a single tear. Not even at Minghua''s burial."

    "In order to ensure our family doesn''t crumble, I will never show weakness," Duke Li Shenyang said with determination. Tears were for the weak. He had no need for them. What could they provide for the family? It wasn??t like tears would keep the family wealthy.

    "And what did Minghua tell you?" Li Chenyang asked. "Surely, she would have exined what happened to her?"

    Duke Li Shenyang instantly nodded. "Yes, she exined everything to me on the carriage ride home. It was dreadful. I should''ve known that damn vixen was behind all of this."

    "Vixen?" Li Chenyang repeated. "Do you mean the Empress? I have worser nicknames for her, but go on."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s lips twitched in amusement. Leave it to his son to say it with such a straight face.

    "The Empress was behind the fire in our house. She had snuck from the Capital to Hechen just to confront Minghua. One thing escted to the other and the Empress set the room on fire."

    "That doesn''t make sense," Li Chenyang said. "Our house was supposed to be Minghua''s territory. How did the Empress win?"

    "I don''t know the exact details of that, but I''m sure there''s more to what we were led to believe," Duke Li Shenyang muttered. He hated the idea that his own daughter would lie to him, but it wouldn''t have been the first time.

    Even though Duke Li Shenyang was filled with joy at the return of his daughter, there was still a sense of dread. He was grateful to have her back, and he was the happiest he had been in a long time.

    Seeing how his mischievous daughter hadn''t changed one bit, Duke Li Shenyang was hesitant of her presence. It felt like he was walking on eggshells in his own house, worrying over the exact moment he would wake up from this dream.

    "Minghua was at the mercy of the Empress. She was severely burned from her shoulder to her arms. She had passed out from the fumes and smoke. By the time Minghua woke up, she was already kidnapped, hands and legs bound, in a carriage headed straight to the Pce."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s face became stormy. His blood boiled. "My own daughter was right under my nose in the Pce all this time, yet I didn''t even know."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded. "I heard the Empress threatened Minghua in order to make her stay. She mentioned something about secrets dark enough to ruin our family. What was Minghua talking about?"

    Duke Li Shenyang''s fury was reced with anxiety. There were simply too many secrets in the Li Family. He couldn''t predict which ones the Empress knew about.

    "Let''s not talk about this anymore," Duke Li Shenyang said. "You should eat dinner in your room and then get ready for bed. Once you have energy tomorrow morning, we''ll have a discussion with Minghua."

    "Dad," Li Chenyang sternly said. "What is the secret?"

    "You will know soon enough," Duke Li Shenyang pushed off of his desk. He ced a hand on his son''s shoulder and pushed him towards the door. "Off you go."

    "Dad¡ª"

    "If I stay in my private study for too long and your mother is awake, she might lock me out of the bedroom again. The couches in here are so stiff on the shoulders."

    Li Chenyang scowled at the tant excuse. Reluctantly, he gave in to his father''s wishes. "Fine, but you have to tell me about the secret eventually. Or else I won''t know what''sing."

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled a bit. "Ever the worrywart aren''t you?" he said whilst opening the door.

    "I got it from Mother," Li Chenyang mumbled. "Well, I also got all of your bad traits. What can I say?"

    "You can say they''re all from your mother and not me," Duke Li Shenyang said as he let out augh. "You only inherited the best traits from me."

    Li Chenyang raised a brow. "Doesn''t seem like it."

    "You rascal." Duke Li Shenyang pped his son upside the head. "I can''t believe I have to force you to go to bed again as if you''re five years old."

    "Yeah yeah," Li Chenyang said. "Fine. I''m going back to my room now. Good night."

    Duke Li Shenyang gently smiled. "Good night, Son. Sleep well."

    "I will," Li Chenyang muttered. He opened the door and closed it behind him.

 Chapter 260 You Will Be Gone Soon

    <h4>Chapter 260 You Will Be Gone Soon</h4>

    Li Xueyue tossed and turned on her bed, unable to sleep at all. The crickets chirped outside of her window as a mellow breeze drifted inside. Her curtains fluttered in the distance. There was a calm in the air that soothed her nerves.

    Li Xueyue wondered if it was possible to be traumatized by nightmares so much that sleep was a terrifying thought.

    "How irritating," she grumbled.

    After the longest hour of lying in her bed, Li Xueyue jumped up and put on her shoes. She decided a midnight walk in the gardens should drain the energy from her system.

    Li Xueyue opened her doors and wasn''t surprised by the guards stationed outside. They were always there. Upon the sight of her in a nightgown, they straightened up.

    "Good evening, Young Miss," one of the guards spoke up. "How may we help you?"

    "I will be taking a walk in the gardens. I can''t sleep," Li Xueyue said as she bent down to pick up one of thenterns by her door.

    The guards exchanged nces with each other. The house was highly secured but they weren''t sure if Duke Li Shenyang allowed her to wander around sote.

    "Don''t worry, it won''t be near the front entrance. I''ll just take a stroll in Mother''s garden," Li Xueyue told them.

    "Would you like one of us to apany you, Young Miss?"

    "No, that''s fine," Li Xueyue responded. She silently walked down the hallways that led directly to the Duchess''s personal gardens.

    She gently pushed the wooden fence open and approached the pavilion. She fondly remembered an encounter with Chenyang there. At that time, she was in tears, and he thought his bullying was the reason for it. She let out a quietugh at the idea.

    "Who''s there?"

    Li Xueyue stiffened. She raised herntern and saw a figure in the distance. It was thin and small, no doubt, the silhouette of a woman.

    Li Xueyue recalled Chenyang''s advice. She knew it was Li Minghua standing in the pavilion, probably struggling to sleep. Biting her bottom lip, she slowly took steps backward and began to retreat towards the gate.

    "What are you running for? You''re acting as if you''ve seen a ghost," Li Minghua said as she approached the edge of the pavilion.

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She slipped towards the wooden fence and pushed it open.

    "You will be gone soon."

    Li Xueyue paused. She turned her head and finally spared Li Minghua a nce. "What are you talking about?"

    "You were just a recement for me," Li Minghua said and chuckled. "Why else do you think they brought you into a life of luxury? All of the gifts that Mother and Father gave to you were what they wanted to give to me but I wasn''t there to receive it."

    So that was what this was all about. Li Xueyue''s expression turned gentle. She couldn''t find it in herself to hate someone like her. Li Minghua must''ve been too insecure with herself.

    "I pity you," Li Xueyue said.

    "What?" Li Minghua seethed. She stomped off the pavilion and approached the unflinching woman. "Repeat that."

    "We don''t have to do this, you know," Li Xueyue said as she swiveled around. "We can be normal sisters. I didn''t have any intention of recing you, and neither did your parents."

    "Do you know how hard I worked in the Pce?" Li Minghua questioned. "I sacrificed my dignity and pride to keep my parents'' secrets but they went to pick a crow off the streets to rece the swan."

    Li Xueyue was so used to these types of insults. It didn''t faze her. Not even one bit. Compared to the words of Viscount Bai Sheng, Li Minghua''s taunts were child''s y. At this point, there wasn''t much that could hurt her. Her thick skin was a blessing and a curse.

    "You''re angered by your parents'' actions," Li Xueyue pointed out. "I can understand where you''reing from."

    "I don''t need you to understand. I need the recement to be gone from my life," Li Minghua deadpanned. "If you''d kindly scram to where you came from, I''d appreciate it."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "If you feel that way, inform your parents." With that said, she turned her back and pushed the wooden fence open.

    "Wen Jinkai also saw you as a recement for me," Li Minghua added on.

    Li Xueyue told herself she would never doubt Chenyang''s words. He was right. She should''ve stayed far away from Minghua. Why did she even stop in the first ce?

    Li Minghua thought her words were sharper than a knife. She wished it would stab right through Xueyue and twist itself a nice,fortable spot of doubt and fear. She smirked. This Xueyue was nothing but a small fry she could easily get rid of.

    "It''s pathetic that''s how you view yourself," Li Xueyue spoke up without turning to face Minghua. "Do you truly think you''re that easily reced? Do you hate yourself that much?"

    Li Minghua was stunned silent. Such a thought had never urred to her. She loved herself. She loved how pretty she was, how dazzling her smile was. She loved the wealth and privilege she was born into.

    Li Minghua swore she loved herself, but the more she thought of it, the less she believed it.

    Li Xueyue didn''t wait for the young woman to respond. She simply slipped out of the gardens and headed straight for her bedroom, but then she paused. She heard it, the tiny sounds of feet paddling down the hallway.

    Letting out a reluctant sigh, she turned around. Sure enough, Li Minghua was heading her way.

    Li Xueyue irritably settled thentern onto the ground and folded her arms. When will this girl ever learn? Why can''t Minghua just move on from this event? They could live in peace and quiet. It wasn''t like the Duke and Duchess yed favorites!

    Li Xueyue was beginning to see the exact reason the Empress despised Minghua so much. That haughtiness, that persistence, it was irritating.

    "What do you want¡ª" she let out a gasp and stumbled backwards when Minghua lunged forward and swung her arms.

    "Are you crazy?!" Li Xueyue hissed.

    Li Minghua didn''t respond. She swung her hand again, this time, aiming directly for Xueyue''s face.

    In the blink of an eye, Li Xueyue grabbed Minghua by the wrist.

    "Let go of me!" Li Minghua demanded as she attempted to yank her hand back. "You''re despicable, Li Xueyue. How dare youe into my house, my life, and my room? What gave you the right?! And to reprimand me, who do you think you are?"

    Li Xueyue snatched the weapon out of Minghua''s hand. She nced down and noticed it was a lethally sharp hairpin. Horror dawned onto Xueyue when she realized something.

    Li Minghua wasn''t trying to kill her. She was trying to injure her face.

    "You tried to ruin my face," Li Xueyue said. "You won''t go unpunished for this."

    "Oh yeah? Who''s going to punish me?" Li Minghua hissed. "My brothers? My parents? Wen Jinkai? The dead Empress? Who exactly would have the audacity toy a hand on me?"

    Li Xueyue was left speechless. She truly had no one to turn too. This house wasn''t her battlefield. It was Minghua''s.

    "You better get the hell out of here while I''m still nice, Bai Xueyue," Li Minghua hissed. "Leave or your crimes would be revealed before the High Court."

    It was as if cold water was poured over Xueyue. She didn''t even fathom the fact that Li Minghua knew about her previous identity.

    "You don''t know a single thing about me," Li Xueyue seethed.

    Li Minghua''s lips curled into a taunting smile. She took a threatening step closer. "Oh but I do, darling. You were sentenced to death by beating in Viscount Bai Sheng''s house for the brutal murder of a caretaker."

    Li Xueyue wanted to run, but couldn''t. It was as if she was rooted to the ground. The confidence and upper hand she had over Minghua seemed like a mere delusion. This girl knew more than what she was letting on.

    "And that''s the least of your worries," Li Minghua chuckled. "Poor thing, you don''t even know who your birth father is. An illegitimate child and a murderer. Who would marry you now?"

    "I don''t have the slightest inkling to what you''re talking about," Li Xueyue gritted out.

    Li Minghua let out augh devoid of warmth. There was a sense of mania in her eyes. It was as if she was out for blood. "Your little Prince might''ve silenced the Bai family, but I have evidence that can ruin you for good."

    Li Xueyue was terrified at whatever game Li Minghua was ying. Her fingertips had gone cold from the fear.

    "Now scurry along," Li Minghua said and motioned with her fingers as if she was shooing off a stray animal. "The sight of you disgust me."

    Li Xueyue ground her teeth. She dug her fingers into her palms. If she left now, it would be Minghua''s victory. If she headed back to her room, then Minghua would always have the upper hand. This wasn''t a battle she could afford to lose.

 Chapter 261 Common Enemy

    <h4>Chapter 261 Common Enemy</h4>

    Li Minghua contemptuously stared at the girl in front of her. She couldn''t wipe the sneer off of her face. What did her family even see in this woman? Bai Xueyue looked exactly like her father.

    Just the thought of that man made Li Minghua''s blood boil. She hoped he had also died in the chaos that ensued in the Pce. She didn''t expect to get out of the Pce so quickly but supposed it was a blessing in disguise. After all, the chaos created the perfect distraction for her to flee from the Second Prince''s side.

    "It seems you don''t listen tomands very well," Li Minghua mocked. "How disappointing. Here I was thinking you''re a trained dog eager top her tongue at every man¡ª"

    "I wonder what Wen Jinkai sees in you," Li Xueyue abruptly said.

    Li Minghua began to falter. She rapidly blinked at the mention of him. Just his name was enough to create a pain in her chest. She rubbed the sore spot.

    "You have no right to talk about him¡ª"

    "He didn''t even recognize you," Li Xueyue dered, her lips curling into a slight smile. How amusing. Was this Minghua''s weakness?

    Initially, Li Xueyue wanted to be nice to Minghua, but there was no point anymore. Both of them had sunk their ws into each other.

    "Even when Wen Jinkai insulted you and picked you up by the throat, he didn''t recognize you. I guess he didn''t love you that much if he couldn''t distinguish it was you all along," Li Xueyue added on.

    Li Xueyue watched in satisfaction as Li Minghua''s confidence began to crumble. Hesitation and heartbreak shed before her eyes. Just the mention of that man was enough for an unbearable ache to form in her chest.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "It''s funny that no one else knows of the Empress''s status, yet you boldly dered she''s dead."

    Li Xueyue peered at Minghua.

    Li Minghua was frozen with shock that such crucial information had slipped out.

    Li Xueyue shook her head, almost like a disappointed parent disciplining her child. "I know the Empress had herst conversation with you before she died. I also know you had an aplice. You tried to frame me for the murder but almost sabotaged your own family with that hairpin."

    Li Minghua fumbled to say something. Her lips twitched. "Don''t speak as if you know everything. You were at the scene of the crime. For all we know, it was you who did it."

    "With what evidence?" Li Xueyue asked as she innocently tilted her head.

    "You also have no evidence to use me of murdering the Empress," Li Minghua dered. "I''m not scared of you."

    "Neither am I of you," Li Xueyue mused, despite her shaking fingers that she hid behind clenched fists. She hoped Li Minghua couldn''t see past her bluff.

    "Why don''t we get along from now on?" Li Xueyue graciously said. "We share amon enemy."

    Li Minghua''s lips curled in disgust. "As if," she hissed before turning around and stomping off.

    Li Xueyue''s mask dropped just like that. Her pleasant expression curled into a scowl. What an unpleasant woman. She let out a sigh and twirled the hairpin between her fingers. It was beautiful. Too bad it was used as a weapon.

    "I''m too nice," she scolded herself as she watched Minghua angrily storm down the hallway and turn a corner. "Or maybe I should do some charity work. What a pitiful woman. She grasps onto thest sanity she has."

    Li Xueyue wondered how Minghua must''ve felt at this moment. She wondered why they had to be enemies. Why couldn''t Minghua get along with her? She figured human nature was tooplicated and that maybe, Minghua was dealing with problems of her own.

    Li Xueyue examined the hairpin longer as she ran her hand over the simple, yet elegant design. Flipping it over, she was intrigued by the engraving of Li Minghua''s name. It must''ve been a custom gift.

    "Best to head back to my room," Li Xueyue said to herself. She bent down and picked up thentern. Steadily, she began to head inside. She nodded in greeting to the guards who pushed the door open for her just as she left thentern outside.

    "Even after all of that, I''m still not tired," she angrily grumbled.

    Li Xueyue decided a bedtime story might do the trick. She approached her bookshelf and pulled out a book. Her eyesnded on her bed, but her body craved the view from her window. Eventually, she gave in to her wishes and took a seat by the window.

    Just like before, she was distracted by the scenery before her. For once, the moon actually looked decent. It was a sharp crescent whose beauty was enhanced by the starless night. Only the moon shone the brightest. Clouds danced upon the nk canvas, swaying against the wind.

    Li Xueyue wondered if the moon looked the same in Hanjian. Was midnight in Hanjian as lovely as it was in Wuyi?

    - - - - -

    Royal Pce, Hanjian.

    "Your Highness, what are you looking at?" a voice spoke up from behind a tall pir that held up the golden ceiling.

    Hu Dengxiao stepped out from the shadows and casually leaned against the pole. He quietly yawned and stretched a bit, like a cat who just woke up from a nap. He was sleepy from using his brain so much but his duty was to stay beside the Crown Prince of Hanjian.

    Yu Zhen peered up at the sky. He was awestruck by the moon, but not its beauty. When Xueyue smiled, her eyes would crinkle like that of a half-moon. He wished to see that smile again.

    "Zhenzhen," Hu Dengxiao whined upon seeing he was being ignored. He angrily pouted and crossed his arms like a neglected lover. "Stop standing there like a man from a painting ande inside."

    "You sound like a concubine begging for my attention," Yu Zhen muttered with a slight frown. The idea of his strategist dressed in flowery gowns left a bad taste in his mouth and an unsettling image in his mind.

    Hu Dengxiao shyly beckoned the Crown Prince like a maiden hiding behind a corner. "But Zhenzhen~"

    Yu Zhen didn''t bother to look at his strategist. "Go bother Lu Tianbi."

    "She''s asleep," Hu Dengxiao huffed. "If only you didn''t keep me up sote discussing ns about Jiangsu''s political situation, I would''ve snuck into her room."

    "You should just court her already," Yu Zhen said. He finally tore his eyes away from the night sky to focus it on Hu Dengxiao. He scowled at what he saw.

    "What is it?" Hu Dengxiao whined. "You always look disgusted to see me."

    Yu Zhen suppressed the urge to roll his eyes. This man was so needy. He pitied Lu Tianbi. "Don''t ignore my suggestion."

    Hu Dengxiao pouted. He pressed his forefingers together and nced to the ground. "Tiantian doesn''t like me. I just know it. Ever since we got back, she''s been talking to that stupid Chancellor''s son."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow at this. Hu Dengxiao was book smart but he was socially awkward. "You realize the Chancellor''s son is her cousin right?"

    "Yes, but¡ª"

    "He''s married."

    "A-affairs are a thing¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off, unable to find another excuse. "I don''t even know what to do at this point. I get so riled with anger when she''s talking with someone else. The possessiveness is killing me, but I can''t have her."

    Yu Zhen knew what Hu Dengxiao was implying. The man was, after all, an orphan.

    Lu Tianbi was the precious daughter of a prestigious aristocrat. Her future was set and she was bound to be wealthy for generations toe. Hu Dengxiao''s legacy began with him. Lu Tianbi would be continuing a legacy.

    "You two are stupid," Yu Zhen deadpanned. "You want each other so evidently, but both of you are cowards."

    "Hey!" Hu Dengxiao pointed an using finger at him and said, "Your Highness, you have no right to call me that when you couldn''t even man up to bring Xueyue with you to Hanjian."

    "She''s eighteen, what the hell was I supposed to do?" Yu Zhen scowled. "I''m five years older than her."

    Hu Dengxiao rolled his eyes. "What are you? Some saint hailing from heaven? Zhenzhen, since when did you care about age?"

    Hu Dengxiao crossed his arms. "I hear the marriageable age in Wuyi is rmingly low. On average, girls as young as thirteen can get married. The second they bleed, they be an eligible bride."

    Yu Zhen frowned. "You realize we''re in Hanjian right?"

    Hu Dengxiao threw him a pointed look. "Eighteen is a perfectly eptable age here. It''s unfair of you to not bring her here. There''s such things as ''leftover women'' in Wuyi."

    "She wanted a test of time. So I gave it to her."

    Hu Dengxiao frowned a bit. "If you let the fruit continue to ripe, it''ll be rotten."

    "I don''t need you to advise my love life when you can''t even confess your love for Lu Tianbi," Yu Zhen mused. He approached his strategist and gave him a pat on the shoulder.

    "Go to sleep, we have another long day of politics ahead," Yu Zhen said.

    Hu Dengxiao straightened up. "I still think you should get married to the Princess as soon as possible. She doesn''t have a future in that country, but here," he said and gestured to therge pce. "She can be the concubine of a Crown Prince."

    "Li Xueyue will not be a concubine," Yu Zhen responded in a hard voice.

    Hu Dengxiao shivered at the dark tone. Goosebumps rose on his skin. Perhaps that was a touchy subject¡­

    "Fine, Your Highness. I suppose she could have the honor of bing your second wife or a consort, but¡ª"

    "I intend to make Li Xueyue my Empress."

 Chapter 262 An Actual Princess

    <h4>Chapter 262 An Actual Princess</h4>

    Hu Dengxiao blinked a few times before letting out an awkwardugh. He waved his hands in front of him and cupped his ear. "I apologize, Your Highness, but what did you just say? Silly me, I thought I heard something strange."

    "Did I stutter?" Yu Zhen asked as he began to walk down the hallway leading to his side of the grand pce.

    Hu Dengxiao hurriedly chased after his Commander. Yu Zhen was now the Crown Prince of Hanjian. But the idea of calling him by that new title felt strange. It was a difficult selection that surprised everyone, but not his supporters. There were many people in court who had always supported the Second Prince over the First.

    "But Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao exasperated. "She''s an outsider from Wuyi. The Ministers of the Courts might be open-minded, but they''re still conservative."

    "Hanjian''s peace treaty with Wuyi is straining," Yu Zhen said.

    "I agree, Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao said with a nod. "They still refuse to finalize the trade routes with us. Wuyi possesses an ample amount of resources too, all of which they refuse to sell."

    "A political marriage always resolves issues between countries," Yu Zhen responded. His voice was light as if he was talking to a child instead of a grown adult.

    "But what can Xueyue do for us? It''s not like she can convince the Courts of Wuyi to change their decision. She''s only the daughter of a Prime Minister and a Princess. I mean, she''s also a Princess but it''s a title bestowed to her, not an inherited one."

    "You answered your own question," Yu Zhen muttered. With a shake of his head, he turned a corner only to hear the rapid footsteps of a puppy eagerly chasing him.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together and swiveled around. "Are you going to join me in my chambers or what? Go home."

    "But Your Highness!" Hu Dengxiao eximed. "We haven''t finished discussing the important thing at hand. Yes, marrying the daughter of Wuyi''s Prime Minister will be beneficial, but wouldn''t it be better to marry an actual Princess? Like someone who has an influence in the courts."

    "I have a suspicion," Yu Zhen said. He leaned against one of the pirs and crossed his arms, much to his strategist''s envy.

    "Stop looking like a damn painting every time you move. It''s so annoying," Hu Dengxiao grumbled under his breath.

    It was no wonder the Crown Prince, Yu Zhen, was popr with thedies. When one behaved and appeared as he did, there was no such thing as apetition.

    But Hu Dengxiao''s concerns weren''t attracting other girls. He only wanted Lu Tianbi. However, she''d never look his way¡­ He let out a?sigh. What aplicated life he lived.

    "The Prime Minister of Wuyi is undoubtedly the ruler behind the curtains," Yu Zhen said.

    Hu Dengxiao tilted his head. "Yes, I believe the same thing. Are you implying we can convince the Prime Minister through Xueyue?"

    "You''re implying I''m using her," Yu Zhen deadpanned. "I''ve already said it before, I won''t."

    "Then why are you bringing this up?" Hu Dengxiao asked.

    "I would''ve ignored stupid questions like yours, but you''re too persistent to not take no as an answer."

    "Hehe, thank you," Hu Dengxiao bashfully said.

    "It wasn''t apliment."

    "Oh..." Hu Dengxiao pouted as he began to sulk near the walls. With a finger, he started to draw tiny circles on the wall, like a pitiful child abandoned by his parents.

    "Of course that wasn''t apliment for me, because who would like me?" Hu Dengxiao mumbled as he purposely sniffled.

    Yu Zhen rolled his eyes. Sometimes he wondered if he was talking to a grown man or a child.

    Hu Dengxiao snuck a peek at Yu Zhen and noticed zero reaction. Angrily, he squatted to the ground and traced circles on the floor. He hugged his knees and grumbled under his breath.

    He perked up when he heard the sound of approaching footsteps. The Crown Prince angrily stomped to him. "Zhenzhen, I knew you''de around¡ªow! Why did you kick me?!"

    Hu Dengxiao cried out as he toppled over, "How can you knock your strategist to the ground like this. This is abuse!"

    Yu Zhen scoffed in response. "You''re going to wake up the entire pce with your screaming."

    "Good!" Hu Dengxiao scowled. "And then everyone will see the Crown Prince for what he really is¡ªa bully!"

    Yu Zhen crossed his arms. "They already know."

    "W-well, then...t-then, uhm," Hu Dengxiao rattled his brain for another provocation.

    There wasn''t a need to expose Yu Zhen''s true colors. Everyone knew how heartless their Second Prince was, yet they ruthlessly supported him to be appointed the Crown Prince. It was because they knew he would get things done, no matter the methods it would take. Such a tactic was a double-edged sword, but many people took the risk.

    Hu Dengxiao wondered if the Crown Prince even had human emotions aside from sadistic anger. He nced up at the quiet Crown Prince whose attention was now elsewhere.

    ''What was he looking at?'' Hu Dengxiao wondered as he watched Yu Zhen stare outside of the open hallways. A calm breeze circted the floor, dancing and swaying as it pleased.

    The Crown Prince was yet again staring up at the sky.

    It was a poetic scene that irritated Hu Dengxiao. Who was Zhenzhen even posing for?!

    "There isn''t a single person to admire your beauty." Hu Dengxiao scowled. "Go to bed, Your Highness. What are you doing outside?"

    "Babysitting."

    Hu Dengxiao gasped as a visible offense shed across his features. "I''m not a baby."

    "I didn''t say it was you, but if the shoe fits¡­"

    "You''re a bully," Hu Dengxiao eximed. "I''m going to tattle on you to Tiantian."

    "She''ll kill you if you call her that."

    "Heh, but it''s cute when she punches me¡­ it hurts a lot though," Hu Dengxiao retorted. Subconsciously, he rubbed his upper arms even though the area didn''t hurt.

    Hu Dengxiao got to his feet and dusted off his clothes. He stretched his tense muscles and let out a quiet yawn. "When do you n to bring Princess Li to Hanjian?"

    "I don''t know," Yu Zhen truthfully answered.

    "I see," Hu Dengxiao said in understanding. His tone was soft and gentle because he knew the Crown Prince''s struggle.

    The politics in court was still turbulent. There was still the opposing faction who favored the First Prince. Additionally, Yu Zhen hadn''t finished weeding out the moles and corrupted officials.

    It would be horrendous timing if Xueyue was to step foot in Hanjian. She would have many enemies left and right, specifically, in the form of women who''d envy her rtionship with the Crown Prince.

    "I heard she was intelligent," Hu Dengxiao abruptly spoke up. "Wasn''t that the reason you visited her? To see the candidate that talked her way out of Hanjian."

    Yu Zhen silently nodded.

    "I think she''ll do well in Hanjian. It will be rough for her here, but I feel like she can handle any problem thates her way. A sharp tongue can get someone very far."

    "Until it''s cut off," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    "If she''s going to be the Empress, she''ll need to learn how to curb her tongue then," Hu Dengxiao answered. "Or else her emotions will get the best of her and she''ll fail every obstacle thates her way."

    "I just want her to live blissfully."

    "Then she shouldn''t be the Empress," Hu Dengxiao said. "She should just be a concubine or your second wife. The Emperor is allowed to take two or three wives, you know. I hear the Emperor of Wuyi has half a hundred concubines."

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. He merely observed the infinite sky. It was the only thing that connected him to Xueyue. They were all under the same moon.

    "The higher we climb, the harsher we fall," Hu Dengxiao exined. "If she wants to rise to power here, she''ll have to maintain that position for the rest of her life."

    "Go to bed," Yu Zhen finally answered in a low voice.

    "I''m just looking out for you."

    "I know," Yu Zhen grumbled.

    "Have you made up your mind? I saw you were lost in thought," Hu Dengxiao said.

    "I have." Yu Zhen nodded.

    "And what is it?"

    "She''ll adapt."

    "You''re still going to bring her to Hanjian?" Hu Dengxiao asked. "Even after what I said?"

    Yu Zhen merely smiled in response. He tore his eyes away from the moon that reminded him of her.

    Hu Dengxiao sighed. There was no point in changing the Crown Prince''s mind. He was simply too stubborn.

    "Fine then," Hu Dengxiao said. "I will respect your decision, but you should get ready to announce it."

    "I''ve always been ready," Yu Zhen responded. "Ever since I met her."

    Hu Dengxiao let out a deepugh. "Save this mushy talk for her. I almost gagged."

    "Just go to bed," Yu Zhen retorted.

    "Fine, fine. I will, you mother hen," Hu Dengxiao huffed. "You too. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

    Yu Zhen nodded. He watched as Hu Dengxiao bowed his head before sauntering off. "Don''t wander to Lu Tianbi''s bedroom."

    "I-I wasn''t!" Hu Dengxiao said. "But you know, it''s a shortcut to my bedroom and¡ª"

    Yu Zhen threw a pointed look.

    "Fine!" Hu Dengxiao huffed. "I won''t check on her to see if she''s asleep," he angrily bit out before stomping off like a child throwing a tantrum.

    Yu Zhen shook his head in amusement before retreating to his own bedroom. As he walked down the dark hallways illuminated by the moonlight, he couldn''t help but think of her. Li Xueyue had always shrouded his mind.

    Yu Zhen continued walking down the dimly lit hallways. He stepped into the darkness and disappeared within it.

 Chapter 263 Quiet Down

    <h4>Chapter 263 Quiet Down</h4>

    Li Family Manor

    The breakfast next morning was quiet and awkward. No one spoke during the entire meal. The only sound was asional clinks of the chopsticks against porcin bowls and tes.

    Li Xueyue didn''t have her usual appetite because of her restless night. She was utterly exhausted whilst ying with the braised egg in her bowl of rice. Lazily, she raised her head, only to witness Li Wenmin happily cing their favorite dish into Minghua''s bowl.

    "I don''t like eggs," Li Minghua said with a slight frown. "Did you forget?"

    "Oh," Li Wenmin responded. He smiled a bit. "The dish is so good, I thought you''d appreciate it."

    "No, thanks," Li Minghua muttered. "Consuming too many eggs won''t be good for the body. Here, you need to eat more vegetables." She pushed the te of leafy vegetables closer to the reluctant twin.

    Li Wenmin poked at it in disgust. What was he? A cow? A rabbit? He didn''t like vegetables, he liked meat.

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "Just eat it. What are you? Five?"

    "Yeah, five minutes older than you," Li Wenmin retorted before he shoved the dish towards his younger brother. "Why don''t you eat it?"

    "I will, thanks," Li Chenyang said.

    Li Wenmin scowled as he watched his younger brother consume the dish. He averted his gaze and his eyes met Xueyue.

    "Why aren''t you eating?" Li Wenmin asked. "You''re usually racing me to finish the second bowl of rice."

    "I''m not that hungry today," Li Xueyue said with a smile. She stared at his second bowl of rice and let out a smallugh. "They don''t call you piglet for nothing."

    "Hmph, at least I''m a cute one." Li Wenmin snorted. He edged the dishes towards her. "Eat. You''ll need some energy for training."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She picked up the preserved vegetables and ced a few in her bowl but didn''t eat. She was too antsy and tired to have an appetite. How did Li Minghua find out about her background? She bit her bottom lip and poked the rice.

    "What training?" Li Minghua spoke up.

    "None of your concern," Li Chenyang sniped. "Just eat your food."

    Li Minghua scowled. "You''re still the same. Being unnecessarily mean like this will get you nowhere with thedies."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. "And all these years in the Pce hasn''t humbled you a single bit."

    "You¡ª"

    "Quiet down," Duchess Wang Qixing instructed. "Both of you," she added on. She ced more side dishes into Minghua''s bowl and warmly smiled.

    "Eat up, my Little Flower," she gently said. "You''ve gotten so thin. They must''ve starved you in the Pce. Here, have more meat. I remember it''s your favorite."

    "Thank you, Mother," Li Minghua happily said. She plopped the meat into her mouth. "I like your cooking a lot more."

    "Really?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked. She was ecstatic by the news, her eyes shining. It had been so long since she hadst cooked for her daughter.

    "I didn''t think you''d remember," Duchess Wang Qixing gushed. "Will you be staying home? If so, I''ll make lunch. It''ll be all of your favorite foods!"

    "I''d love that, Mother," Li Minghua brightly smiled as she happily swung her legs under the table.

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet hiss when a foot connected with her shin. She averted her gaze and gritted her teeth, already knowing who did it. The only person sitting opposite her was Minghua whose gloating expression was ruining the meal.

    "What''s wrong?" Li Minghua asked as she innocently tilted her head.

    Li Chenyang scrunched his eyebrows in confusion. He turned to Xueyue whose eyes were set aze.

    "Someone kicked me," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "I wonder who."

    "Oh no, dear sister, that must''ve been me. Maybe if your legs weren''t stretched out, and you sat like a properdy, it wouldn''t have happened," Li Minghua said with a shrug of her shoulders.

    Duchess Wang Qixing let out a small gasp. "Minghua, you shouldn''t behave like this."

    "I didn''t mean to, Mother," Li Minghua responded. "She''s my younger sister. Why would I purposely hurt her?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s expression softened. She had missed hearing Minghua''s voice. "You''re right. Next time, try to be mindful of your actions."

    "I will, Mother," Li Minghua said with a shy smile.

    Li Chenyang was not having any of this drama. "Apologize."

    Li Minghua''s smile slipped in a second. She turned to her brother and red at him. "It wasn''t intentional."

    "Apologize, now." Li Chenyang glowered at her. His intent stare could''ve bore a hole right through her forehead. His voice was deep and angered, leaving no room for an argument.

    "No," Li Minghua seethed. "You''re acting as if I bullied her when she was the one who bullied me in the Pce!"

    "That''s because you were a sorry excuse of a servant," Li Chenyang barked out. "If you did your role, you wouldn''t have been punished."

    Li Minghua was taken aback by his harsh words. Tears filled her eyes. She looked as if the entire world had wronged her. Letting out a loud "hmph," she stood up from the table and ran out of the door.

    Li Chenyang frustratingly stood up.

    "Sit down," Duke Li Shenyang finally said. "Your sister is just emotional. Leave her be."

    "She hasn''t changed a single bit," Li Chenyang retorted. He sat back down and angrily stabbed the egg.

    "Chenyang," Duchess Wang Qixing said with a sigh. "You need to be kinder to her. She has finallye back to us. You were like this before the incident as well."

    "And what about Xueyue?" Li Chenyang questioned. "She has been sitting there quietly, doing nothing but eating, and Minghua just kicked her."

    Every pair of eyes fell on Xueyue who squirmed in her seat. Their stares were ufortable. She suddenly didn''t feel weed here. She knew they meant no harm, but it was a strange atmosphere¡ªas if everyone didn''t know what to do with her.

 Chapter 264 How To Charm A Lady

    <h4>Chapter 264 How To Charm A Lady</h4>

    Duke Li Shenyang was the first to notice the distress in Xueyue''s eyes. She was paler than usual. His lips dipped into a disapproving frown. He made up his mind to call for a doctor before he leaves for his morning work. It was time for her to get used to bitter herbal tonics. At least she''d sleep better with it.

    "You''ve barely touched your food," Duke Li Shenyang pointed out. His tone was gentle and reassuring. He didn''t want to overwhelm her or make it seem he was angered by herck of appetite.

    "I''m not hungry today," Li Xueyue said. She tried her best to sound cheerful in hopes of not raising any concerns.

    Li Xueyue ced her chopsticks down. "I''m sorry, I had a rough night," she admitted. "Do you mind calling for the doctor?"

    "Of course," Duke Li Shenyang warmly responded. "I was nning on doing that."

    Li Xueyue smiled in appreciation. "Thank you, Father."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s lips slightly curled upwards at her politeness. Even after all these years, she hadn''t changed. At least she knew how to appreciate what she had.

    "You don''t have to thank me, child," Duke Li Shenyang responded as he gestured for her to eat more.

    "I''m sorry," Li Xueyue said. It was a force of habit. She couldn''t help but show her gratitude to all of them. They had done so much for her. She wanted to find a way to make them proud.

    "You also don''t have to apologize, sweetheart," Duchess Wang Qixing said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s attention wandered to Xueyue''s darkplexion. The dark circles under her eyes had worsened, and her cheeks were beginning to look sunken in.

    "How about I brew you some chamomile tea and we call off the training for today? Some sleep will alleviate your exhaustion," Duchess Wang Qixing offered.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. Her smile widened. "Thank you, Mother," she quietly responded.

    Duchess Wang Qixing fondly patted Xueyue on the hand. "Go rest up, I''ll make the tea as soon as I finish eating."

    "It''s alright," Li Xueyue said. "I''ll fetch a servant for it. Enjoy your meal."

    Li Wenmin''s attention finally went to her. The second he nced at her, he was filled with concern. His heart felt heavy to see her like this.

    "Xueyue," he spoke up. "Your eyebags are horrible."

    "Thanks for thepliment, Wen-ge," she said and chuckled. "You sure know how to charm ady, don''t you?"

    Li Wenmin slumped in his chair. "You know I didn''t mean it like that," he exined. "How about we work out all that energy so that you can fall asleep faster?"

    "No need," Li Xueyue said. She pushed the chair back and stood up without a sound. Her eyes met the Duke''s who nodded in acknowledgment.

    "Please excuse me," she muttered before leaving the breakfast table.

    "And then there were four," Li Wenmin said as he picked up a chicken drumstick.

    "Thank you for pointing out the obvious," Li Chenyang sarcastically said. "Without that contribution, the entire family would''ve been left in the dark."

    Li Wenmin resisted the urge to chuck the chicken drumstick at his brother''s head. Where did he learn to have such a bad attitude from?!

    "What are we going to do?" Duchess Wang Qixing purposefully asked. She turned to her husband who also noticed the tension between the two sisters.

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a hum. He pondered his next decision whilst sipping his morning tea. He didn''t think both daughters would hate each other so quickly, but that was expected wasn''t it?

    "They don''t like each other," Duke Li Shenyang finally said. "It''s quite obvious, but I''m not surprised."

    Li Chenyang loudly sighed. He ced his utensils down whilst his older brother continued to shove food down his throat.

    "It''s because Minghua feels reced by Xueyue," Li Chenyang said.

    "What?" Duchess Wang Qixing exasperated. She was shocked by this news, her eyes widening a bit.

    "But we''d never do such a thing to our Minghua," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "Taking Xueyue into our family is just gaining another daughter. A mother could never rece their children. We love them equally."

    Duke Li Shenyang pressed his lips together. "I can see why she thinks like that. Xueyue came at a convenient time for us."

    "How will we address this issue?" Li Chenyang asked. His lips curled downwards when he saw Wenmin shove a whole egg into his mouth.

    "I will personally speak to Minghua," Duchess Wang Qixing suggested. "She''ll listen to me, I just know it."

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a bushy brow. "Our daughter is a stubborn one. It''ll take more than one lecture to get through her thick skull."

    "Hmph, I wonder where she gets that from," Duchess Wang Qixing bit out.

    "I''m not going to lie," Li Wenmin spoke up in between bites of food. ???I''d feel the same if I was her."

    Duke Li Shenyang couldn''t deny the fact that he did see a resemnce between Minghua and Xueyue when both women were asleep. It was what prompted him to bring Xueyue home from the forest on that fateful morning.

    "Worst case scenario," Duchess Wang Qixing began. "If they still don''t get along, I''ll force them into the same room and not let them out until they hug each other in a truce."

    "No, don''t do that," Duke Li Shenyang firmly said. "It''ll make them hate each other."

    Li Chenyang didn''t like where this conversation was going, especially the glint in his father''s eyes. "Then what do you suggest we do, Dad?"

    "Let them resolve the conflict on their own. We shouldn''t instigate anything unless the problem gets out of hand," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    "So basically, we let the awkward atmosphere continue," Li Chenyang muttered. "Great idea. Thank you for your input."

    "Don''t sass me, Son." Duke Li Shenyangughed. "Trust me. It''s better for them to deal with the problem on their own. If we force them to do anything or lecture them, it''ll only worsen the issue."

    Li Chenyang chewed on his nails. His father had a point. He couldn''t deny that. He knew Xueyue and Minghua were both too stubborn to listen. It would take more than one try to lecture them.

    "Fine," Li Chenyang said. "We''ll let them deal with it for now, but if the issue worsens, then you''ll have to intervene."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded in response. "Now that breakfast has concluded, I have to rush to court. It is without a doubt, a mess in there right now. Chenyang, you''reing with me."

    "Do I have a choice?" Li Chenyang muttered as he stood up. He nced down and noticed Wenmin hadn''t stopped inhaling the food.

    Angrily, Li Chenyang pped his brother upside the head.

    "Ow!" Li Wenmin cried out as he rubbed the spot. "What was that for?!"

    ?Chenyang!" Duchess Wang Qixing scowled. "You shouldn''t hit your brother."

    Li Chenyang stared at his twin with irritation. "Stop eating and try to contribute to the conversation next time!"

    "The food was too good, I couldn''t help myself. Besides, it wasn''t like I could offer good advice."

    Li Chenyang didn''t bother to respond. He approached the door and was the first to leave, only to be apanied by his father.

    "And then there were two," Li Wenmin repeated.

    "Or one," he added on when Duchess Wang Qixing stood up.

    Duchess Wang Qixing chuckled at her son''s pout. "Eat up. I''ll be in the gardens."

    "Okay¡­" Li Wenmin trailed off as he watched his mother leave the dining room. ''Hmph, that''s fine with me! More food for me anyways.''

 Chapter 265 To Knock Out A Bear

    <h4>Chapter 265 To Knock Out A Bear</h4>

    "You should mentally prepare yourself for today''s court session," Duke Li Shenyangmanded whilst boarding the carriage.

    Li Chenyang climbed into the carriage after his father. To say he wasn''t nervous was an understatement. It would be more hectic than usual today. Even now, he didn''t know who was alive or dead.

    "We''ve eliminated many people who were ahead of us in the line for the throne," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "To be specific, the Royal family is dead. The biggest hurdle had been tackled, but the other Princes¡­"

    "And the concubines?" Li Chenyang asked, even though he knew the answer to this. The Li Family didn''t indulge in unnecessary deaths.

    "Those who aren''t a threat to us weren''t targeted. Their fates were left up to them."

    "Which Prince or Princess is alive?"

    "To our luck, the Second and Fourth Prince," Duke Li Shenyang responded in a neutral tone. His face was impassive, as always. There was an iron wall tucked within the folds of his eyes, too strong to be invaded.

    Even though Li Chenyang had grown up with his father, he had never gained the ability to see beyond that mask. Whether his father was truly calm or not, Li Chenyang didn''t know.

    "Mother is a Princess," Li Chenyang stated. "It doesn''t give us the opportunity to seize the throne, but we''ll have the Ministers on our side. With enough allies, we can seize the throne if we want."

    "I suppose so," Duke Li Shenyang said. "The Fourth Prince was heavily injured in the battle. The extent of his wounds is currently unknown, but I will have a report of it today."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "The Second Prince has always been sickly. There isn''t a single Minister who would support his reign. Except for the greedy ones who''d like to rule through him."

    "People like Baron Han wouldn''t hesitate to jump onto the Second Prince''s wagon," Duke Li Shenyang murmured. "Luckily, we have Marquis Ning keeping the opposite faction in check. It''s the one that Baron Han belongs to."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded. "We''ll get rid of all support for the Royal family when the Emperor''s dirty deedse to light."

    "Yes, we''ve yet to use our trump card," Duke Li Shenyang said and nodded. A slow, cunning smile spread onto his face.

    "I can''t wait for the backstabbing and schemes to begin," Li Chenyangmented. He nced out of the window and watched as the Capital rolled past him. People were dressed in darker colors today as they prepared to mourn for the death of the Royal family.

    "I wished we had a public execution. That would be more interesting and satisfying, but people would call us cruel," Li Chenyang sighed.

    His gaze lingered upon the ck and white mourning gs. "Generations here have grown ustomed to the Wangs, believing it was them who performed so many good deeds. If only the civilians knew it was actually us who created such a great environment for them."

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled. "We''ll have that altered in the history books. Don''t worry, Son."

    "History is always written by the winners," Li Chenyang muttered.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue was awoken from her nap when a knock echoed in her room. She sat up and grumbled under her breath. It had taken her forever to even fall asleep but it was disrupted so quickly.

    "Come in," she said.

    The door opened to reveal a Doctor and his apprentice.

    Li Xueyue noticed the Duchess and Li Wenmin weren''t present but chose to notment. She knew Wenmin was on his way to the training camps, and the Duchess might''ve been upied with making lunch.

    "Wee," Li Xueyue said as she slipped out of bed. The servants came forward and closed the partition curtains as they quickly prepared her to greet the guest. In less than a minute, the outeryer of her attire was changed to something more presentable.

    "It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance, Princess Li," the Doctor said.

    Li Xueyue nodded with a polite smile.

    "My name is Doctor Mo, and this is my apprentice. Please pay no mind to him, he''s still in the training phase," Doctor Mo added on.

    Li Xueyue''s eyesnded on the young man standing beside the Doctor. His appearance wasn''t special but she could tell he''d be popr with themondies. There was something about his easygoing smile that calms her nerves. This man reminded her of Yu Zhen.

    "Please take a seat. I will check your pulse and the diagnosis can go from there," Doctor Momented.

    Li Xueyue sat down on the chair near the main table on the other side of her room. She watched as Doctor Mo took out a pulse cushion lined with velvet.?He gestured to her to ce her wrist upon it.

    "If I may," he said, nodding to her hand.

    Li Xueyue rested her hand upon the object as a servant rolled up her sleeves a bit. Doctor Mo ced two aged fingers upon her pulse and quietly began to examine her.

    "I was told you had trouble sleeping, Princess Li," Doctor Mo spoke up. His voice reminded her of a friendly grandfather who enjoyed watching over children in his vige.

    "Yes, I''d appreciate it if any herbal tonics could be prescribed for me," Li Xueyue said.

    "How long has this issue persisted, Princess Li?" Doctor Mo asked.

    Li Xueyue''s gaze fell onto the maidservants. They instantly understood her message and left the room. The doors were closed behind them leaving only three people in the room.

    Li Xueyue''s attention returned to the Doctor. "For almost three years now. I have an uneasy feeling whenever I try to sleep. Sometimes I stay awake all night. It''s as if my consciousness is terrified of closing my eyes."

    "Do you also have nightmares?"

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    "I see," Doctor Mo muttered. "What are these nightmares about? Perhaps we can tackle the root of the problem."

    "No need," Li Xueyue said through a tight smile.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to worry the Li Family further. Without a doubt, Doctor Mo would report back to them. Additionally, she wasn''tfortable with revealing something so personal. She had never told anyone of the events that haunted her sleep. And she intended to keep it that way.

    "Very well," Doctor Mo responded. His voice was filled with patient understanding. "Ah-Yi, pass me the box."

    The apprentice came forward with a box polished with blue and silver designs. He opened it and began to take out various herbs packed in pouches. Doctor Mo began to shift through the small pockets wrapped in paper.

    The apprentice pulled out a bncing scale. Doctor Mo started to mix the bags together.

    "How strong will these tonics be?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Your issue seems quite severe, but with your age taken into ount, I''ve concocted a medicine that''s not as strong as the ones given to older folks," Doctor Mo said as he ced the finished mixture onto the paper. He gestured for his apprentice to wrap things up.

    "Can you also make me a stronger medicine on top of the one you''re nning to give me?" Li Xueyue questioned. "In case the milder one doesn''t work as well?"

    Doctor Mo was a bit hesitant about her request. "I can, but if you do start to take the stronger one, your body will grow resistant to these herbs over time and they''ll be ineffective."

    "That''s alright, I n on starting with the milder one first. I wouldn''t take the stronger medicine unless absolutely necessary," Li Xueyue exined.

    Doctor Mo raised his head to examine the young woman before averting his gaze. He knew it was disrespectful to meet the eyes of someone who clearly outranked him. Age didn''t matter in such a case.

    The apprentice, on the other hand, had forgotten about such a rule. He had nced up from wrapping the package of herbs and couldn''t tear his gaze from her. He had heard rumors on the streets of the new third-rank Princess, but didn''t expect her to be so¡­ beautiful. It was in a refreshing manner that outshone all of the women he was ever acquainted with.

    "Alright then," Doctor Mo responded. "I will create a stronger medicine for you. One drop to fall asleep within the hour, two for less than thirty minutes. Three drops will be strong enough to knock out a bear."

    Doctor Mo began to organize the herbs again. "Ah-Yi," he sternly said upon realizing his apprentice was awestruck by the Young Miss.

    Ah-Yi was startled and immediately averted his eyes. She was simply too captivating but there was something about her that felt off. Why would she want such a strong medicine for? The milder one would''ve worked just fine.

    Li Xueyue saw the suspicion on the apprentice''s face. As the Doctor prepared the mixture, she stood up and approached her vanity. A secondter, she returned with her fingers enclosed over something.

    The Doctor ced the neatly wrapped herbs onto a polished wooden tray. He had served and seen many wealthy aristocrats in his line of work but he didn''t expect the Li Family to be this wealthy. Even a simple wooden tray was encrusted with gems. He could tell this girl was a favored daughter of the household.

    "The first medication is more suitable for you. Your servants should boil the harder herbs, but steep the softer ones. Drink it an hour before you sleep, Princess Li," Doctor Mo instructed.

    Next, he sifted through his wooden box in search of a certain vial. "You''re in luck, Princess Li. I was able to find rare herbsst week to brew this medicine, Princess."

    Li Xueyue watched as he pulled out a small vial in a dark ss bottle.

    "But you have to be careful with this medicine. Too much of it can kill someone."

    "Is it bitter?" Li Xueyue asked. "I''m not a fan of such taste."

    "Don''t worry, Princess Li," Doctor Mo said with a reassuring smile. "It''s practically tasteless, but it does have a color to it due to the herbs it was created from."

    Li Xueyue smiled in response. Perfect. "Thank you, Doctor Mo, I appreciate your efforts," she said as she received the bottle that was presented to her with two hands.

    As Li Xueyue took the bottle, her hand grazed upon his aged skin. His eyebrows raised the slightest bit upon feeling a cloth pouch. Aside from that, he showed no reaction and epted the generous gift.

    Li Xueyue enclosed her fingers over the small bottle and slipped it into her sleeves.

    "Thank you for your patronage, Princess Li," Doctor Momented as he stood up with a smile. He reached for the wooden box and seemingly began to organize the herbs inside. In reality, he was slipping the coin pouch underneathyers of medicines and vials. He knew the meaning of this bribery. She wanted the other medicine to be kept a secret.

    "Have a great day," Li Xueyue responded. Her lips curled into a smile as the Doctor left her room, followed by his apprentice.

 Chapter 266 I Never Wanted Him

    <h4>Chapter 266 I Never Wanted Him</h4>

    Li Xueyue had initially wanted to nap the remainder of the day but decided against it as it would ruin her sleep schedule further. Afterzily browsing through the books in her room, she decided to practice archery and take her mind off of things. When she was in the zone, nothing mattered except for the target and the arrows.

    She bent low and plucked the grass. Rubbing it in between her palms, she dried off the remaining moisture on them.

    Holding the grass high above her, she let it go, watching the direction that it fluttered off to determine the wind direction.

    Li Xueyue prepped the arrow and bow. Seconds went by until it trickled into minutes and hours. It didn''t take long for the high sun to swoop low as it cast a fiery cloak across the skies. The day went by as cerulean blue was overtaken by the blush of dawn.

    "Are you done showing off?"

    Li Xueyue jumped at the unexpected voice. She was too concentrated on her archery to notice someone had entered the training fields.

    Wiping the sweat from her forehead, she looked up and realized the sun was already setting. The afternoon had passed too quickly.

    "No one asked you to watch," Li Xueyue responded as she dropped her hands. Undoubtedly, she would be sore all over tomorrow.

    A familiar ''whirl'' whizzed through the air. She ducked her head to the right, narrowly missing the arrow which had sliced through a strand of her hair.

    Li Xueyue turned around and raised a brow. "I should''ve let the arrow graze my ear, then I''d have something to me you with."

    Li Minghua narrowed her eyes irritably. How was she able to dodge the arrow unscathed? "I was aiming for the targets behind you."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together and chose to not respond. She didn''t have time for people like Minghua.

    Picking up her footing, she headed in the direction of the equipment racks. She handed her bow and quiver to the servants who hung it up for her.

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh as she gathered her long ponytail into a bun. She was well aware that her guards were down in front of Minghua. She didn''t care. If the girl wanted to attack her, go ahead. It would be used as evidence against her.

    Li Xueyue tied a string around her new bun to secure it and began to head in the direction that led into the house. When she was near the steps leading up to the hallway, Li Minghua blocked her path.

    "What do you want?" Li Xueyue impatiently asked.

    In the far distance, her eyes handed on Jingxia who seemed far from pleased at the sight of the Young Misses together. The Head Maidservant disappeared into the hallways no less than a secondter, most likely to report to the Duchess.

    "I want you to get the hell out of my house. You''re not weed here. Your time as my recement is up and over with. Stop leeching off of my family," Li Minghua truthfully responded.

    Li Minghua crossed her arms and stared her down.

    "And if I don''t?" Li Xueyue mused.

    Li Minghua took a threatening step closer. Her hair swayed along with the unforgiving breeze that coursed through the fields. Hatred and irritation shed within her eyes, rough and dark like tree bark.

    "I''ll expose your secrets. You killed someone. You''re a murderer," Li Minghua seethed. Her lips curled into a satisfied smile upon seeing Xueyue''s body tense.

    "Funny you would say that," Li Xueyue murmured. "When you were the one who killed the Empress."

    "You have no proof that I killed her¡ª"

    "Why did you have the hydrangea hairpin in your possession?" Li Xueyue fired back.

    "That''s none of your business¡ª"

    "So you admit to having it," Li Xueyue retorted. "Funny thing is, I remember When Jinkai had taken it from the Li family. It makes me wonder if you''re both a thief and a murderer."

    "You know nothing, Bai Xueyue. You better watch that mouth of yours. Who knows? Maybe one day you''ll wake up with your tongue missing," Li Minghua angrily said.

    Li Minghua''s face morphed into a deep scowl. She loathed Bai Xueyue. What gave Bai Xueyue the right to be so bold? She was nothing but a neglected daughter of a Viscount.

    Li Xueyue''s lips settled into a gentle smile. Amusement shed in her eyes. "I''ve barely begun my insults. Don''t get so riled up."

    "You¡ª"

    "Contrary to your beliefs, Minghua, I don''t want to rece you. There''s nothing about you that I want to be," Li Xueyue answered. "You should get over yourself."

    "This is my house, my family, and my life. You came trampling into it as if you had a spot here in the first ce. Don''t you dare forget you were nothing but a girl they picked up from the streets."

    Li Xueyue softly shook her head, as if she was a mother disappointed in her stubborn child. If only Minghua knew, these types of insults didn''t work on her. No one hated Li Xueyue more than herself.

    "I don''t like making enemies," Li Xueyue said. "Especially with you¡ªsomeone that the twins and our parents cherish."

    Li Minghua ground her teeth. She dug her nails into her palm. She hated how calm and collected Bai Xueyue was, as if nothing in the world fazed her. She wanted to see Bai Xueyue blow up out of rage. She wanted to see that pretty little face of hers moistened with tears as she sank onto her knees and begged.

    "You took everything from me," Li Minghua argued. "You seduced the only man who loved me for who I truly was. You stole my brothers and now Chenyang hates me. He takes your side over mine. You convinced my parents to like you more than me."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. Was this how she felt? "You can have Wen Jinkai, I never wanted him in the first ce. The twins don''t belong to you, neither do our parents. You should learn to share."

    "You have the audacity to school me? Who do you think you are?" Li Minghua hissed. "Everything that you possess was given by my family. You should treat me with respect."

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. She couldn''t wrap her head around Li Minghua''s logic. What was so wrong with coexisting? She supposed this was the behavior of a spoiled brat. They think everything in this world belonged to them. No request was too big and no wish was too greedy.

    Even after two years in the Pce, Li Minghua still didn''t learn to humble herself.

    "This behavior of yours has already ruined you once. Don''t let it harm you again," Li Xueyue said.

    Li Minghua was caught off guard by her words. She didn''t expect such haughty advice from such a useless girl.

    Li Xueyue seized this opportunity to excuse herself. She despised Li Minghua, but would never stoop to her level. She nodded in acknowledgment before side-stepping past her.

    It was fine if Li Minghua didn''t like her. The feeling was mutual anyway.

 Chapter 267 Why Dont You Run Faster?

    <h4>Chapter 267 Why Don''t You Run Faster?</h4>

    Li Xueyue had just entered the house when she noticed servants were speed walking down the hallway. They bowed upon seeing her, but would quickly excuse themselves.

    The corner of her lips turned upwards into a slight smile. Someone was home! She excitedly rushed down the corridors, ignoring how udylike she behaved. She reached the front entrance in time to see Li Chenyang walking down the stone pavement leading into the Li Manor.

    "Chen-ge!" she called out, stepping outside with her indoor shoes. She would probably get scolded for it but she didn''t care.

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang gently called and smiled upon seeing her. He seemed visibly exhausted but still had the energy to ce a warm pat upon her head.

    "You look like a mess, as usual," he said and chuckled upon seeing her messy hair and crumpled training robes.

    "You''re hometer than usual, Chen-ge," Li Xueyue said as she noticed the sky had finally darkened into nighttime. But where was the Duke?

    "I am," he agreed. "It was a very tiring day in court today," Li Chenyang said in a heavy voice. He had argued so much with the other Ministers in court, enough for his voice to be slightly hoarse.

    "You''ve been biting your nails too much," Li Xueyue muttered when he retracted his hand and she caught a glimpse of his fingers. "Was today that hectic?"

    "Yes, we were arguing about who''d take over the position of the throne," Li Chenyang wearily said. "It''s such a stupid argument since the Second Prince was known to be sickly. Everyone still has high hopes that the Fourth Prince would recover."

    "The Second and Fourth Prince are still alive?" Li Xueyue asked. She was astonished by this news, her eyes growing wide. Wouldn''t this mean there were two more people in line for the throne?

    "Unfortunately, they are. But you don''t have to worry about these kinds of things. They won''t affect you at all, so you should put your mind elsewhere," Li Chenyang reassured her.

    "Nheless, I''d still like to help in any way I can. Please inform me if there''s something I can do," Li Xueyue argued.

    Li Chenyang ced a thumb in between her eyebrows and let out a soft chuckle. "If you keep worrying like this, you''ll get wrinkles," he chided.

    Li Xueyue blinked. She touched her forehead and didn''t realize her brows were scrunched together. "I can''t help it. I want to give back to you guys for all that you''ve done for me."

    "There you go with that stupid talk again," Li Chenyang mused. He smiled a bit at her determined expression. "The only help you can give is enjoying your life with a smile."

    "But¡ªow!" Li Xueyue grumbled when he flicked her forehead. She clutched the burning spot and red at him.

    "I was just checking that it''s still working," Li Chenyang snickered as he knocked upon it. "Hello? Anyone home?"

    Li Xueyue angrily kicked him in the shin. He let out a loudugh at her reaction.

    "You act like a feral animal," Li Chenyangmented. He had never seen ady as unruly as her. Well, she pretended to be ady quite well.

    "I hope that hurt," Li Xueyue mumbled under her breath.

    "What was that?" he asked whilst cupping his ear towards her.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. "Juste inside already."

    Li Chenyang simply shook his head at her attitude. "And here I was, hoping for a cute little sister."

    "Well, I wanted a good-looking brother. Guess we both didn''t get what we wanted, huh?"

    "You brat," Li Chenyang retorted.

    Li Xueyue stuck her tongue out at him. She let out a yelp when heunched forward, no doubt to flick her forehead again. She made a mad dash into the house, only for him toe chasing after her.

    "Come back here, I haven''t returned your kind present yet!" he hollered from behind, but she kept on running.

    Their footsteps were loud and echoed throughout the quiet house. Many servants rushed towards the hallway railings, in fear of getting in their way.

    Li Xueyue let out a tauntingugh upon seeing him struggle to catch up to her. She was grateful for her training clothes, or else she would''ve tripped over her long dresses had she worn them instead.

    When she turned a corner, she nearly bumped into someone. "Mother!" Li Xueyue eximed as she came to an immediate halt.

    Huffing and puffing, Li Xueyue nervously adjusted her messy clothes. "Chen-ge came home," she said in between breaths of air.

    Duchess Wang Qixing stared at her daughter in disapproval. She took out a handkerchief and roughly wiped Xueyue''s face. "How many times do I have to tell you children to not run in the hallways?"

    "Uhm¡­ just a few more times?" Li Xueyue responded, which earned an angry pinch on her cheek. "Ow¡­" she grumbled, rubbing the sore spot.

    "There you are!" Li Chenyang called out when he saw her. He, too, came to a screeching halt upon seeing his mother.

    "Mom," Li Chenyang greeted with a teasing grin. "I''m home."

    "You were so loud, our ancestors in Heaven heard youe home," Duchess Wang Qixing bit out. "And now you look like a mess. Both of you do. Go clean up."

    "No, I''d rather eat dinner in dirty clothes," Li Chenyang sarcastically responded only to let out a howl of pain a secondter. "Mom, not the ear, not the ears! It''s already big enough."

    "I might as well give you monkey ears," Duchess Wang Qixing hissed as she dragged her son by his ears. "You shouldn''t be talking back to your mother. And in such a sarcastic tone, too."

    "Okay, I won''t," Li Chenyang groaned. She finally released his ears as he began to rub the sore spot.

    "Now, get yourself fixed up. Both of you."

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to be told twice. She hurried off before Chenyang caught up to her.

    "Why don??t you run faster?" a voice called out from behind her.

    Li Xueyue turned around and stuck her tongue out to Chenyang who narrowed his eyes at her. He pretended to advance towards her, and she quickly ran off before he did.

    Li Xueyue ignored his mockingugh as she hurried into her room where the servants were already waiting for her. They rushed her into the bathroom located on her side of the house. A bath was initially already drawn, for when she would return from training, but since she took so long, they had to reheat the water.

    Li Xueyue slowly entered therge bathing pool in the center of the room. She let out a sigh of content and sank deeper into the water.

    It didn''t take long for her to be cleaned and prepped for nighttime. The servants braided her hair behind her and woven it on top of her head. She slipped into her night clothes and was sent off to dinner.

    Li Xueyue realized the winds were quite rough tonight. The pale moon hid behind a thin curtain of clouds. There was a silence in the air. Despite being surrounded by servants on her walk to the dining hall, she had a gut feeling that something was off.

    Unsure of what it was, Li Xueyue brushed it off.

 Chapter 268 No Request Is Too Big

    <h4>Chapter 268 No Request Is Too Big</h4>

    When Li Xueyue entered the dining room, she was surprised to see Duke Li Shenyang and Wenmin were already home. Everyone was already seated at the table except for Chenyang and her.

    "Did I take too long?" Li Xueyue nervously asked as she stepped into the room.

    "No, I''m thest person," Li Chenyangmented from behind her.

    Li Xueyue was startled by his unexpected arrival as she swiveled around to see him standing right beside the door she had just stepped into. When did he get here?

    "Don''t just stand there," Li Chenyang said. "Sit down, Xueyue."

    Li Xueyue nodded as she joined everyone at the table. She felt her appetite shrivel and die. It was to her luck that Minghua sat directly across from her. Their eyes met and simultaneously, they averted their gaze and red at the floor.

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. It seemed as if the house would be divided. He supposed it might be a good time to intervene in this problem. Perhaps waiting for them to deal with it would take too long.

    "Minghua," he spoke up. "Something interesting hase to my attention. Would you like to know?"

    Li Minghua nced up from the steamed cauliflower she was ying with. She swallowed at the thought of what he would reveal to her. Did her father already find out the truth? He was a smart man. She didn''t have a single doubt he would always get to the bottom of things. But she was slowly losing faith in him.

    Li Minghua was directly under his nose the entire time in the Pce, yet he wasn''t able to save her in time. Li Minghua had to save herself.

    "What did you find out, Father?" Li Minghua responded. Her attention was no longer on the food. It was tasty, of course, and was much better than the nd food they served in the Pce, but shecked the will to eat.

    "Did you think you were reced by Xueyue?" Duke Li Shenyang directly asked. He had no time to beat around the bush, especially with his family.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew it was the truth when grievance shed in her eyes. There was pain and heartbreak. Why was that? Did she feel betrayed by her own family?

    Suddenly, her shoulders seemed so small and feeble. He realized she had lost so much weight over the past two years. Her cheeks were hollow and she no longer had a glimmer in her eyes.

    His sheltered daughter had experienced the cruelty of this world¡ªsomething he had done everything in his power to prevent. He never wanted her to look this unhappy. Her joy was his greatest wish. Why couldn''t she understand that?

    "Well, isn''t that the truth?" Li Minghua said. "Mother was undoubtedly upset by the idea of my death. Thus, you needed someone to fill that void in her heart, so you brought in a cheap recement."

    Li Chenyang instantly mmed his chopsticks onto the table. It caught everyone''s attention. "Take that back right now," he demanded in a harsh voice.

    "Now, now," Duke Li Shenyang reassured. "There is no need to get so riled up by this discussion."

    "Father, she insulted Xueyue yet again. If you let her get away with it, Minghua will always think it''s okay to do it," Li Chenyang argued. "You and Mother spoiled her so much, she''s still a brat even after all these years."

    "You have the audacity to think that?" Li Minghua shot back. "Because Mother and Father ced you on a high pedestal, you always think you''re better than everyone! You think my spoiled attitude looks bad? You should take a good look at yourself!"

    "What did you just say?" Li Chenyang hissed. His blood boiled at her provocation.

    What has gotten into Li Minghua? Li Chenyang was familiar with her tantrums and always forgave her for it. After all, she was a caged canary. He had pitied her more than he loved her. He sympathized with the lonely girl trapped in arge house. She had all the luxury in the world but did not have a singlepanion to enjoy it with.

    Times had changed. They were all adults now. Her present behavior was inexcusable. It was time for Li Minghua to grow up and face the real world. Her current attitude would only expose her weaknesses.

    "You heard me," Li Minghua demanded.

    "Minghua," Duchess Wang Qixing chided with a gentle voice. She ced a hand over her daughter hoping to calm her down.

    "Let''s not raise our voices," Duchess Wang Qixing added on. "And you too, Chenyang. Don''t attack your sister so quickly. Whilst Minghua is also in the wrong for insulting Xueyue, fighting fire with fire will only create a bigger ze."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. Of course, his mother would baby Minghua. She was the favorite child, after all. For every one hundred tantrums that Li Minghua threw, she would get scolded for one. But Chenyang only had to step out of line one time, and his mother already had the lecture ready.

    "You''re upsetting our son," Duke Li Shenyang mused. "You''re taking a side, sweetheart."

    "I wasn''t," Duchess Wang Qixing defended. "I was merely stating a point. We''re diverging from the actual topic at hand."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s gaze flickered to Xueyue. "Have you ever felt like Minghua''s recement, dear child?"

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. "No, never. I lived my life as Xueyue and no one else."

    "Lies!" Li Minghua yelled. She shot out of her chair and pointed an angry finger at Xueyue who was taken aback by Minghua''s outburst.

    "You came into the picture shortly after I disappeared in Hechen. You tried to seduce my Jinkai and¡ª"

    "Wen Jinkai only liked me because he thought I resemble you!" Li Xueyue retorted. "Get that through your head, Li Minghua. I might''ve shown interest in him, but I didn''t know about your rtionship with him."

    "He''s in love with you now!"

    "That''s a lie," Li Xueyue said. "And you know it."

    Li Minghua narrowed her pretty little eyes. "No, he loves no one but you. I''ve heard the stories. Many people have whispered about you and him. He risked his honor and reputation to defend you. I heard about what happened at the Spring Tournament. He opposed the Royal family all for you!"

    Li Xueyue firmly shook her head in disagreement. "He acted on his own ord. He doesn''t love me, he''s only infatuated with my resemnce to you."

    "Wen Jinkai has never defended me before," Li Minghua mocked. She held herself to the highest regard, but everyone heard the crack in her voice. She was hurt and broken.

    "Not even in front of his friends or family. But for you, he did it so effortlessly. I know what he has done for you. I''m not stupid," Li Minghua whispered. "No request is too big in his eyes if he can obtain you."

    Li Xueyue stood up. "Do you want to know why he did these things for me? Do you want to know what I have that you didn''t?"

    "Shut up, you overly confident¡ª"

    "I didn''t realize it at first," Li Xueyue began. "Why exactly was the aplished Commander of Wuyi risking everything for me? Why did he like me, out of every other woman that came his way? Why was he willing to do so much for me?"

    Her eyesnded on Li Minghua. "There were always so many questions I had when it came to him. But do you want to know what I found out?"

    "Shut the hell up¡ª"

    "Wen Jinkai went against the Fourth Prince for me, he insulted the Emperor for me, he went against the Empress for me. He betrayed his back to his family, all for me!" Li Xueyue seethed. "And do you want to know why the hell he did that?"

    "Shut up, shut up, shut up¡ª"

    "All because he saw you within me!" Li Xueyue yelled. "Wen Jinkai did these things with YOU in mind. It was his way of paying you back for all that you''ve endured. Wen Jinkai did so much in hopes he could be with you through me."

    "That''s not true and¡ª"

    "Wen Jinkai did everything for me that he wanted to do for you. He went against his friends and family because it was what he should''ve done for you. It was what he wanted to do for so long but couldn''t. All the mistakes which he made when he was with you, he wanted to fix them through me. And do you want to know why?"

    "No, I don''t want to hear this¡ª"

    "Even to this day, Wen Jinkai loves no one but you. In every girl that he meets, he searches for your qualities within them. And he treats them well because he sees you in them all. Don''t you understand what this means?!"

    Li Minghua refused to listen any longer. It felt like thousands of needles were being pricked into her chest. The pain was unbearable. The agony of the truth was too much for her to ept.

    Li Minghua didn''t want to believe the fact that all of her hatred and wrath were misced. She couldn''te to terms that Wen Jinkai still loved her. How could he? She didn''t even love herself.

 Chapter 269 His Accomplice

    <h4>Chapter 269 His Aplice</h4>

    Li Xueyue couldn''t stand another moment in the dining room. It was suffocating, and she didn''t want to eat anymore. She bowed her head to show respect to her parents and excused herself without another nce backward.

    Li Xueyue didn''t care about Minghua''s paled expression and the sheer agony on thetter''s face. Li Minghua''s heartbreak was evident.

    Li Minghua opened and closed her mouth. The thread of lies binding her for over two years was beginning to strangle her. She was at a loss for words, unable to understand what was reality and what wasn''t.

    Was Wen Jinkai truly as Xueyue imed he was? Did he still love her?

    Tears filled her eyes as her face warmed up. Her throat tightened and her vision blurred.

    No, she refused to believe his sincerity for her. It was just as the Second Prince said. Wen Jinkai no longer loved her. He loved the third-rank Princess of Wuyi.

    Li Minghua had seen the look in his eyes when he picked her up by the throat. The sheer disgust and aggravation that shed on his face. She had never seen rage so terrifying. He reacted like that all because Xueyue was pped on the hand.

    "Minghua," Duchess Wang Qixing gently murmured. "What your sister said could be the truth. Please don''t be angry with Xueyue. She has done nothing wrong."

    "Everyone is always on her side," Li Minghua dered. She raised her head as a single droplet of tear slipped down her cheeks. "She has it all! Beauty, brains, and¡ª"

    "You only know Xueyue on the surface," Li Chenyang harshly said. He stood up and glowered down at her. "If you don''t know anything about her past, you should keep your mouth shut."

    "She lived in an abusive household and was used of murder by the Bai Family. She killed an older caretaker of Viscount Bai Sheng!" Li Minghua eximed. "I know everything about her."

    Li Chenyang was instantly taken aback. Xueyue was used of murder? When was this? His eyes snapped to his parents who nced away.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew Xueyue was sentenced to death by beating. For the crime she supposedlymitted. It was not surprising that her punishment had been severe. Ling had looked into her background. He knew what she was used of, but still epted her.

    "Is it true?" Li Chenyang asked.

    Duke Li Shenyang silently nodded. The reason that he continued to ept Xueyue into the household was not because of the happiness she brought to Duchess Wang Qixing. It was because he had silently watched over her.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew Xueyue would never be capable of murder¡ªespecially of an elderly person.

    "I don''t believe it," Li Chenyang sniped. A part of him did. He had seen the way she maneuvered a sword. She had the ability to kill, but the question was, would she do it?

    Li Chenyang refused toe to terms with such an atrocious usation. He stood up and didn''t excuse himself, only to chase after his younger sister. Xueyue wouldn''t do such a thing. Would she?

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a sigh upon seeing how disrupted the meal had be. "She might''ve been used of murder, but the circumstances surrounding it is suspicious."

    Duchess Wang Qixing slowly nodded. She trusted her husband''s words over anyone else''s. There was no way that a happy-go-lucky girl would be able to kill someone. Right? Even so, she turned to Minghua.

    Duke Li Shenyang nced at his daughter. "How do you know so much about Xueyue? Chenyang was ovee with shock to realize that, but I wasn''t fazed."

    Li Minghua bit her tongue. She peered at Wenmin who was pale-faced with disbelief at the turn of events. He hadn''t spoken up. Not even once.

    "I saw it¡­" Li Minghua whispered. "T-the night before the pce ughter urred, I snuck into the Empress''s bedroom. It was fairly easy. She never had a guard with her when she slept."

    Li Minghua didn''t n to disclose the conversation that unfolded between Wen Jinkai and the Empress the night he had stormed into her bedroom. Perhaps it was what prompted the Empress to lose all sense of security. The Empress most likely wanted a leverage over her son in the form of Xueyue.

    Li Minghua fiddled with her hand. "I think the Empress looked into Xueyue''s background. I think it was difficult to find the information, since the Bai family disappeared, but there were still servants remaining.

    There was a scroll that was hidden between the bookshelves. When I pulled it out and read it, I discovered it was all about Xueyue''s history."

    Li Wenmin was the first to be rmed. His eyes grew wide. The thought of dangering to Xueyue''s way was enough for him to snap into reality. He sprang out of his chair.

    "Where is that scroll now?" Li Wenmin urgently asked. He was terrified that there was something that could jeopardize Xueyue.

    "It''s in the Pce. I hid it in my bedroom," Li Minghua said. "But¡ª"

    "Father," Li Wenmin addressed. He hated the formal title, but desperate times called for desperate measures. "You must burn it. No one else must know¡ª"

    "You didn''t even have to tell me," Duke Li Shenyang mused. "You''reing with me to the Pce today, Minghua. You''ll take me to your bedroom."

    "But the thing is¡­" Li Minghua nervously responded. Her eyes darted everywhere in the room, but her parents and brother. Fear weighed her down. She didn''t want to return to the Pce, it was a dreadful ce.

    "What is it?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked. Her voice was filled with reassurance. She ced a gentle hand upon her daughter''s back and soothingly rubbed it, knowing this would calm Minghua down.

    "My bedroom is in the Second Prince''s residence. I-I don''t want to run into him."

    Li Wenmin stiffened. Why the hell would a servant reside near a Prince? It was as if she was a concubine. And the reason a concubine''s room would be so close to a royal¡­ "Did the Second Prince, our cousin touch you?!"

    The blood drained from Duchess Wang Qixing''s face. It wouldn''t be the first time Minghua''s cousin fell for her. But it''d be the first time if one had seeded. She was suddenly grateful for the massacre of the Princes. How could they have the audacity to touch her daughter?

    "No, not yet, he hasn''t," Li Minghua muttered in a quiet voice.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s lips dipped into a slight frown. Minghua''s shoulders were hunched over and she had lost the confidence from earlier. This was definitely a sensitive topic for her. He nned to request for the Duchess to speak to her in private about this.

    "Have faith in your father," Duke Li Shenyang spoke up. "I''ve failed to protect you in the past, but this time, I will not fail you. Come with me to the Pce. Once we''ve secured the scroll, I will send you home as soon as I can."

    Li Minghua was hesitant. She didn''t want to run into the Second Prince. If he was alive, he was most likely simmering with rage. The Second Prince had ced his trust in her, his aplice, and she had fled from him. She had never ran so fast than the night she rushed to her father.

    "I-I don''t want to," Li Minghua whispered. She shrank back when Wenmin''s gaze became intense and pressing.

    "Do you dislike Xueyue?" Li Wenmin suddenly asked.

    "I just¡ª"

    "It''s alright," Duke Li Shenyang interrupted with a slight sigh. "Tell me where you ced the scroll and I''ll have it fetched."

    Li Minghua bit her bottom lip. That scroll was the only leverage she had over Bai Xueyue. If she gave it up so quickly, then wouldn''t Xueyue win this battle?

    "It''s under my pillow," Li Minghua said as she averted her eyes from them.

    "Alright then," Duchess Wang Qixing warmly responded. "You don''t have to worry about this anymore."

    Li Minghua rapidly nodded. "C-can I head back to my room now? I''m tired."

    "Of course," Duchess Wang Qixing attentively said. "Here, let me guide you back."

    "No need," Li Minghua blurted out. She panicked and stood up from her chair in a hurry. Her chair fell backward. A loud crash followed after her as she jumped.

    Duke Li Shenyang was suspicious of her abrupt clumsiness. If he recalled correctly, she was the most nervous when she was hiding something. He wanted to question her, but it would be wrong of him. Why would his own daughter hide from him?

    "Wait," Li Wenmin spoke up.

    Li Minghua stiffened. "I said I''m fine walking back on my own! I don''t need anyone''s help. This is also my house. I''m not a guest. I won''t get lost!" she eximed.

    Li Wenmin''s expression softened. "I wasn''t implying that, Xiao Hua."

    "Then what are you trying to say?" Li Minghua impatiently asked as she tucked her shaking hands behind her back.

    "Are you sure it''s under your pillow?" Li Wenmin asked. "We don''t want to create suspicion by rummaging through your room, so we''ll have to grab the scroll quickly. I hope you can understand where I''ming from, Xiao Hua."

    Li Minghua stared at her brother usingly. "Is that how it is now? You don''t believe me anymore?"

    Li Wenmin''s eyes widened. He shook his head and began to approach her. He always had faith in his Xiao Hua¡ªno matter what she said or did to him. She was, after all, his precious little sister. She could do no wrong in his eyes, just as Xueyue wouldn''t either.

    "No, it''s not that¡ª"

    "Thanks for that insult," Li Minghua bit out. She was scorned by his words, and it was written all over her face.

    "Xiao Hua¡ª"

    "I''m leaving. Excuse me," she said. Without waiting for his reply, Li Minghua stomped out of the dining room.

 Chapter 270 Murdering an Elderly Caretaker

    <h4>Chapter 270 Murdering an Elderly Caretaker</h4>

    "Xueyue, wait!" Li Chenyang called out when he saw a distinct figure in the distance. Her white hanfu fluttered in the wind as her hair danced in the direction of the soft breeze. When she nced back, he was awestruck by her beauty. She truly resembled a fairy from the Heavens.

    Li Chenyang knew he was protective of her. He couldn''t help it. He''d never want her to fall in the wrong hands. The day her sleeves would be tainted with sins would be the day he would sacrifice everything to save her from harm.

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang called when he caught up to her. "You''re on the verge of tears," he pointed out. He frowned upon seeing her moistened eyes.

    "It must''ve been difficult to admit that," he grumbled. He lifted a hand to wipe the tears away but she did it herself before he could.

    "It''s nothing, don''t worry about me, Chen-ge. How''s Minghua? I think she might''ve been ovee with shock."

    "Don''t worry about her. The only thing she can do is hurt others with words. There is no bite in her bark," Li Chenyang responded. "She said something unexpected when you left."

    "Oh..." Li Xueyue blinked. She sniffled a bit and continued to wipe at her eyes, frustrated that her emotions had gotten the best of her.

    "What did she say?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Minghua said you were used of murdering an elderly caretaker. It was the reason you were sentenced to death by beating. Is it true?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. It was almost as if a cold bucket of water was emptied over her. Her fingers shook. So the cat was out of the bag now.

    "I-I¡ª" she stuttered, unable to say something.

    "It was just a false usation, right? You were framed? I know you were. So don''t hesitate to tell me the truth," Li Chenyang hurriedly added on. He was afraid of upsetting her. All of this must''ve been too much for her to handle. He wouldn''t be surprised if she suddenly requested to leave this city for a change of scenery.

    "I was framed," Li Xueyue quickly said. "I-I woke up one night in the servants'' quarter. I don''t know what happened, but the next thing I knew, there was a dead body in front of me. It was Viscount Bai Sheng''s elderly caretaker. And then the Bai family all came rushing in and they saw me next to the dead caretaker..."

    "I see," Li Chenyang muttered. "Someone was out to get you, but I''m not surprised. It''s a pity the Bai family didn''t suffer more at the hands of Yu Zhen."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped up at Chenyang''s words. "You¡­ don''t think of me as a murderer?"

    "You said it yourself that you didn''t do it. You''ve rarely lied to me, Xueyue. This time, I will believe you more than the rest."

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. He gently patted her on the cheek.

    "Don''t look so puzzled that I believed you. I''ve learned my lesson from when I didn''t trust you about the news of Minghua," Li Chenyang mused. He was hoping to lighten the mood with a small joke, but couldn''t think of one.

    "You must hate being in Wuyi," he suddenly said. "Everywhere you go, you are haunted by your past."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "If it wasn''t for the Li family, I wouldn''t know what to do with myself."

    Li Chenyang smiled a bit at her words. She was never good at being sentimental. He already knew the sincerity of her words.

    "It''ste, you should try to rest. I heard the doctor came for a visit. I''ll have the servants boil the herbal tonic and have it sent to your room."

    "Thank you," Li Xueyue said.

    "Now off you go," Li Chenyang said and ushered her off. He watched as she walked down the hallway and snuck a peek back at him. When she saw he was still watching, she gave him a small wave.

    Li Chenyang chuckled at her action. He waved back and soon, she disappeared around a corner. He recalled a?conversation they had in the Pce and decided that perhaps it was truly better for Xueyue to leave for Hanjian.

    - - - - -

    "Did you speak to her about it?" Duke Li Shenyang asked the second his younger son walked into the private study.

    "No, not yet. I briefly hinted at it, but I don''t think she understood what I was trying to imply," Li Chenyang responded.

    "Hanjian is growing restless. Even before the Emperor''s death, the treaty wasn''t finalized. We only called off the war after deciding to open the trade routes to them, but thete Emperor went back on his word and had demanded it to be closed."

    "I know," Li Chenyang said. "There will likely be another war if we don''t open the trade routes again. Additionally, they want to know if we''re actually sincere with the allegiance. After Jiangsu''s n was revealed to them, I''m sure Hanjian is questioning where the loyalty of Wuyi lies."

    "Well, I''m still impressed that Yu Zhen didn''t show favoritism or any leniency, even though he tantly knows I''m the one dealing with the entire issue," Duke Li Shenyang sarcastically remarked.

    Li Chenyang chuckled a bit. It was strange that the Crown Prince was speaking for his country, instead of the Emperor of Hanjian. Perhaps the Emperor was testing the capabilities of the new Crown Prince?

    "At least we know he''s not a mere Second Prince anymore," Li Chenyang added on. "I''m sure the Courts are heavily watching him as well to make sure he doesn''t show favouritism."

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a sigh. "I suppose so. Having him in the family will be good if Xueyue decides to leave for Hanjian."

    "Let''s not rush her," Li Chenyang exined. "It''ll look like we''re sending her off now that Minghua has returned even if we don''t have that intention in mind."

    "Hanjian would be a nice change of scenery for her. Once we begin to establish the start of the Li Dynasty, everything will be chaotic. People will seek her out as our weakness and target her. It''s best if Xueyue isn''t caught in all of the chaos."

    Li Chenyang nodded. "I know, but we''re the ones who said Yu Zhen should wait to prove his sincerity towards her."

    "Words are a fickle thing," Duke Li Shenyang mused. "They can always be taken back. This is why I always prefer everything to be on paper. Stamped, signed, and sealed."

    "Father¡­" Li Chenyang trailed off in warning. He didn''t want to see Xueyue go so quickly. He had barely spent enough time with her.

    "Don''t look so aggrieved. It''s only marriage. You make it seem as if she can nevere back, or we can''t visit her."

    "It''ll practically feel that way," Li Chenyang said. "She''ll be all the way on the other side of the country. Traveling there would be harsh for all of us. She won''t be able toe back as she pleases as it''ll look suspicious. People will think there''s trouble in paradise with Yu Zhen if she abruptly returned."

    "Well, we can visit her then. You worry too much about a life that isn''t yours to live," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "At the end of the day, I will respect Xueyue''s wishes. If she wants to wait a bit longer for Yu Zhen, she can."

    Duke Li Shenyang reached into his drawers and pulled out three letters. "But before we ask her anything, let''s show her these."

    "You''re not being fair, Father," Li Chenyang jeered with a scowl. "If she sees these letters, she''ll surely miss him and want to see him."

    "I''m sure she already misses him," Duke Li Shenyang retorted. "Don''t you want her to be happy? There is nothing for Xueyue in Wuyi. She is already a Princess here. She does nothing at home except for training. Her days are filled with boredom. Hanjian''s open-minded nature will do her well."

    Li Chenyang glowered at the letters. His father added the finishing blow by standing up and waiving the sealed envelopes in front of his face.

    The corner of Duke Li Shenyang''s lips curled into an amused smile. His younger son was sulking. "You finally behaved your age," he joked.

    "You give it to her. I don''t want to," Li Chenyang huffed. "I''m sure Xueyue didn''t send out any letters yet. Why is that damn Prince writing so many?"

    "Did you consume vinegar?" [1] Duke Li Shenyang asked.

    "Tch." Li Chenyang crossed his arms.

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a bark of tauntingugh when he saw that reaction. He wiped a nonexistent tear from his eyes. "Comedy gold," he teased.

    Duke Li Shenyang enjoyed seeing his son so glum and pouty. It reminded him that Chenyang still had this side to him. He couldn''t help but want to bully his son even more.

    "It has been a month since the Prince''s departure," Duke Li Shenyang said. "I''m sure he misses her dearly."

    "I''m going off to bed," Li Chenyang angrily bit out.

    "Not so quick," Duke Li Shenyang said. "Marquis Ning has invited us to have an afternoon tea with him on the day that you don''t have to work. Unfortunately, I''m swamped with court issues on that day. Why don''t you apany him with your mother?"

    "If this is a matchmaking scheme, I don''t want to go."

    "Who said it is?" Duke Li Shenyang asked. "Besides, you already know the nature of Marquis Ning. He''s been very supportive of us."

    "I know," Li Chenyang deadpanned. "Fine. I''ll go, but on the condition that Mother doesn''t bring up talks of marriage."

    "Deal," Duke Li Shenyang instantly agreed. He smirked behind his son''s back. If only this fool knew¡­ His mother was the best at matchmaking. She wouldn''t mention marriage, but who''s to say, rtionships between children were off the table?

 Chapter 271 The Second Choice

    <h4>Chapter 271 The Second Choice</h4>

    The next morning eventually arrived. Li Xueyue, for once, had a decent sleep, but it wasn''t enough. She was still exhausted and barely slept longer than usual. The herbal tonics she consumed before bedtime helped to soothe her a little but the nightmares didn''t stop.

    Li Xueyue sat up on the bed and let out a sigh. She couldn''t help but think of the time Yu Zhen had barged into her room after she had a nightmare. That night, she slept the best, knowing he was there to keep her safe. She dearly missed his warm embrace and soothing words.

    Li Xueyue wanted to write him a letter, but she feared it would only drag him down. She didn''t want to burden him with thoughts of her. She would only be a distraction in his life. She bit her bottom lip and wished there was more she could do. Would it be selfish of her to want to leave for Hanjian?

    A quiet knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.

    Li Xueyue rubbed her tired eyes, knowing who it was. "Come in," she said. Servants opened the door and soon enough, she was prepped for the morning.

    Li Xueyue dreaded the breakfast table. Having meals with Minghua always worsened her appetite.

    "This is looser than usual, Young Miss," one of the servantsmented as they began to tie the waist belt of her hanfu tighter.

    Li Xueyue frowned a bit. She had lost weight. It was most likely the result of skipping meals and herck of desire to consume snacks. She knew the Li Family was trying their best to make her feel weed as always. She didn''t want their effort to go to waste, but she couldn''t stomach much foodtely.

    Once she was dressed, Li Xueyue began making her way to the dining hall. She was surprised to see Duke Li Shenyang standing outside, almost as if he was waiting for her.

    "Father," she addressed him with a small smile. "Good morning."

    Duke Li Shenyang paused as he nced down at her. As usual, she was the best part of his morning. He fondly smiled and presented her with a stack of letters.

    "I''m sure you don''t have to guess whom these are from," Duke Li Shenyang responded.

    Li Xueyue''s lethargic eyes instantly brightened upon seeing them. She graciously epted the letters with both hands. Her lips twitched as she tried to contain arge smile from breaking out.

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled when he saw her mood brighten so quickly. Whether the twins liked it or not, Yu Zhen had a positive influence on Xueyue.

    "Read them after breakfast," Duke Li Shenyang instructed. "Afterwards, I want you to consider something."

    "What is it?" Li Xueyue asked as she nced upwards at him. She ced the letters into her pocket.

    "It''s nothing," Li Chenyang said from behind them. He frowned at his father''s ambush. ''I thought we decided that I would be the one to tell her,'' he thought to himself.

    Duke Li Shenyangughed at his son''s reaction. Of course, he would have a sisterplex. At least he had raised his sons well.

    "Let''s have this discussion at a different time then," Duke Li Shenyang mused.

    Taking that as a cue, a Eunuch pushed the doors open. Duchess Wang Qixing was already seating inside as she conversed with Minghua about something. Wenmin was yawning as always, but paid close attention to whatever his sister was saying.

    "Well, what about Wen Jinkai?" Duchess Wang Qixing suddenly asked as everyone came to an immediate halt at her words.

    "I don''t think he knows you''re actually alive. Are you going to see him?" Duchess Wang Qixing added on.

    "No, he''s in love with Xueyue. I don''t want to be the second choice," Li Minghua said.

    "You were always his first choice," Li Xueyue bit out. How many times must she say it for Minghua to get it through her thick skull? Minghua could have Wen Jinkai for all Xueyue cared.

    Li Minghua didn''t bother to turn around for Xueyue. She simply drank her tea and red at the table. It was the least she could do to keep her silence.

    "Xiao Hua, Xueyue was talking to you," Li Wenmin pointed out. He began to frown when Minghua ignored him and gave him a cold shoulder. What could be so difficult about getting along? Why couldn''t everyone get along and be a big happy family?

    Li Wenmin''s mood soured as his shoulders began to droop. All he wanted was for them to get along. He couldn''t take sides or force them to behave. They were both his younger sisters and he cherished them both.

    Li Xueyue resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the silent tantrum of Minghua. She made her way to her seat and sat down. The meal was cooked by the same people but it tasted nd in her mouth. She didn''t want to consume anything, especially whilst facing Minghua, but she didn''t have a choice.

    There were small talks made, mainly centered around Minghua and her next step. Everyone always tried to include Xueyue into the conversation but she gaveckluster responses and polite nods.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to disrupt the family''s dynamic but she still wanted to contribute a bit. She didn''t want to purposely make them worry about whether or not she felt left out in the family.

    Finally, after taking a few bites, Xueyue knew she had eaten a sufficient amount. "Please excuse me," she said and stood up, surprising the people gathered around the table.

    Li Chenyang worriedly nced down at her rice bowl. She usually had three servings but she was only on her first serving. Moreover, it was only half-eaten.

    "Aren''t you going to fight with me over the braised eggs, Xiao Yue?" Li Wenmin sullenly asked. "Look, I even got a new pair of chopsticks. They''re sharper at the ends, so it''s easier for me to steal them from you."

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh at his words. "I should''ve known you''d y dirty, but no, I''m not hungry anymore. Please enjoy them to your heart''s content."

    Li Xueyue bowed her head in respect and then left the dining room. She let out a quiet sigh upon stepping outside. A secondter, the door opened again. She turned around and was surprised to see Chenyang with a frustrated expression.

    "You barely ate," Li Chenyang nagged. "You''ll be too skinny at this point."

    "I''m full," Li Xueyue said, but it was a lie. He knew it. Everyone in this hallway knew it.

    Li Chenyang pressed his lips together. He turned to one of the servants that always apanied Xueyue. "Prepare the afternoon snacks and tea. Make sure there is a variety of savory and sweet pastries. Bring more than usual."

    "Yes, Second Young Master," the maidservant responded with a deep bow. She excused herself to fulfill her orders.

    "Chen-ge¡­ I''m fine, really¡ª"

    "I know you don''t want us to worry about you, but you''re our responsibility now. We''ll always be concerned over you and your wellbeing, not because we have to, but because we want to. If something has been bothering you, tell us," Li Chenyang remarked.

    Li Xueyue blinked. She couldn''t tell them anything. Her request was selfish. The only problem was that she didn''t want to eat with Minghua around. How rude would it be if she suddenly wanted that woman gone from the table? Surely, people would think she was selfish.

    "There was something that Father wanted to tell me before the meal," Li Xueyue said. She decided to change the topic. "What was it?"

    Li Chenyang frowned a bit. "Xueyue," he sternly addressed. "I''m serious. What has been guing your thoughtstely? I can tell you''ve lost weight."

    "It''s just myck of sleep," Li Xueyue said. It was half the truth, so technically it wasn''t a lie, right? "But it''s been getting better. I slept longer than usualst night."

    Li Chenyang was still distressed by what could be bothering her so much, but wisely chose to not press on. He knew she''d open up when she could. "That''s good. We can''t have Yu Zhen see a panda when he opens the carriage doors."

    "What?" Li Xueyue responded.

    "Nothing," Li Chenyang said with a slight smile.

    "Am I going to Hanjian?"

    "We''ll discuss this after you have your snacks. You should return to your room. The food will most likely be there soon. I''ll check in on you after my morning discussion with Father."

    Li Xueyue wanted to ask more but couldn''t. He patted her on the cheeks and walked off before she could question him further. What did he mean by that? Was it simply a distraction? Or was it the truth?

    Li Xueyue touched her pocket, where the letters remained. She decided it was to her best interest if she began responding to it as soon as she could.

 Chapter 272 Left a Mark

    <h4>Chapter 272 Left a Mark</h4>

    Li Xueyue hurried off to her room. Sure enough, the servants were already waiting for her outside. One opened the door for her whilst the other waited for her to be seated.

    The servants ced therge carrying tray down and began to move the tes of pastries onto the table while they served tea.

    "You''re all excused," Li Xueyue said once they finished setting everything up. The servants politely bowed their heads. They left the room without a single noise and closed the door behind them.

    Li Xueyue excitedly pulled the letters out of her pocket. They were a bit wrinkled because she had sat down with it in her pocket, but it didn''t dampen her enthusiasm. She gingerly soothed out the creases and opened them all together. She sorted them by date and began with the earliest one.

    ''To my Little Hamster,

    You haven''t written to me at all. Are you frustrated that I left without a word? If so, then Hu Dengxiao did a sorry job and I should punish him for his ipetence. I should''ve exined everything to you in person but I couldn''t. The situation in Hanjian was simply too chaotic to be exined in a single letter. As usual, I can''t disclose much.

    But how have you been? I hope you''re safe and well in Wuyi. If not¡­ you can alwayse to Hanjian. I will always wee you. No matter the problems here, I will ensure your happiness. If you ever need a ce to escape to, my arms are wide open for you.

    Even if you''re troubled by something, please do not skip a meal. You seem to do that a lot. I noticed you''ve lost weight since thest time we met. Is everything alright? I will seek your response.

    Additionally, have you been reading books as I''ve suggestedst time? It''ll do you well...

    Warmly,

    Yu Zhen.''

    Li Xueyue let out augh. Leave it to him to worry about her and nag even through a letter. She smiled at the letter and hugged it to her chest. She missed him even more now. She wondered what life would be like in Hanjian. He must''ve been busy with court duties.

    She opened the next letter.

    ''To my Sunshine who doesn''t like to write letters,

    Perhaps I should''ve rmended you to read books on writing. This is my third letter, the first was the one Hu Dengxiao delivered. I''ve yet to see you respond. Is everything alright? Are you feeling okay? Is something amiss? Have you been eating well?

    There''s so much I want to ask you in person. I''ve missed you. Everything reminds me of you. From the morning sun to the midnight moon. How have you been? You better be eating well. I expect to see your usual hamster cheeks if you evere to Hanjian.

    I''ve be the Crown Prince. The pesky title was assigned to me shortly after my return. The Courts and my faction were busy in my absence. It would exin the frequent letters they''ve sent out during my stay in Wuyi. Such pesky things they are.

    Do not worry, Little Hamster. I won''t be taking a Crown Princess from another country because I''m waiting for my Wangfei from Wuyi toe to Hanjian. Without my permission, no woman will obtain the title of Crown Princess.

    I hope you''re well. If you''re not, tell me what you''re feeling. If there are pressing matters, tell me. I will abandon everything to see you, Sunshine. No request is too big if it''s made by you.

    Yours truly,

    Yu Zhen.''

    Li Xueyue''s smile slipped a bit. How could he know her so well? He asked the right questions. She didn''t want to think about how she was feeling. It would force her to ept the truth: she was lonely in this household. Everyone tried their best, she appreciated their efforts, but the twins were always busy with their respective work. The Duchess wanted to make up for lost time with Minghua, and the Duke was incredibly busy dealing with pce matters.

    Li Xueyue had always upied her time with reading, writing, sword fighting, archery, and horseback riding. She had a routine in ce and she was always doing something. Yet, nothing could fill the void from theck of human interaction. Her instructors were friendly, but it wasn''t like they were her friends.

    "I miss you, Yu Zhen¡­" she trailed off.

    Li Xueyue opened the final letter.

    ''To Li Xueyue,

    I might as well be writing to a wall. At least, I won''t be expecting a reply if it was so. Are you receiving these letters at all? If my letters havended in the wrong hands, then I want you, the unintended person reading this letter to not be a fool and kindly deliver this letter along with the earlier ones to the Li Manor. People say we shouldn''t shoot the messenger, but at this point, mine might be publicly executed.

    Angry regards,

    Yu Zhen.''

    Li Xueyueughed at the short letter and his address. She could feel his impatience even through a letter. She reached for another pastry and blinked in surprise. She had finished them all while reading his letters.

    "At least his nagging worked," Li Xueyue said to herself. She took a sip of her tea and ced the letters down. Wiping her hands with a handkerchief, she began to neatly fold the letters back to its original form.

    Standing up, she headed to her vanity. Pulling out a key that was tied around her neck, she inserted it into the keyhole of a drawer and twisted it. She pulled it open and gently ced the letters into it, next to his pendant. She wanted to keep it safe, just like his pendant.

    Picking up the obsidian essory, she couldn''t help but run her fingers over the design. Her touch lingered upon the engraving of his name. Her heart ached at the thought of him. She truly missed everything about him. From his slight smile to his teasing remarks. Whether she liked it or not, he had left a mark upon her.

    - - - - -

    The day went by as usual. The sun rose high in the sky, only to set in the evening. Cerulean blue and fluffy white muddled into nothingness when dusk vastly approached. The clouds made way for the stars, just as the sun disappeared for the moon.

    Duke Li Shenyang and Li Chenyang sat in the carriage with a disgruntled expression.

    "Hanjian is growing more restless and impatient as the days go by," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    "I know," Li Chenyang responded. "I would too, if I was them. Our initial talks of a peace treaty never came to finalizing one. Candidates were sent from both sides to appease each other, but one of Hanjian''s candidates had run off a while back. Hanjian must''ve been worried."

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "Additionally, the treaty should''ve allowed both countries to trade freely, but thete Emperor ced so many restrictions and imposed tariffs that made trading costly. It made Wuyi look suspicious and gave the impression that we''re not sincere. Telling them about Jiangsu''s ns averted their suspicions a little since we revealed vital information.

    "Hanjian supports the Li Family because we''ve continuously pushed for the treaty to be finalized. We were the ones who urged for the territory wars to be called off since there were too many losses on both sides."

    Li Chenyang chewed on his nail anxiously. "We shouldn''t put off the matter with Hanjian any longer. They were already suspicious of Wuyi, and with Jiangsu in the mix, the trust we''ve built with Hanjian has weakened. If we do finalize the peace treaty, they''ll want something from us to prove our sincerity. God damn it, that damn Emperor ruined everything. Now we have to give something valuable to them as a way of apology."

    "That is why," Duke Li Shenyang threw a pointed look. "I told you to discuss it with her."

    "Xueyue will be burdened with the title¡ª"

    "She is the most eligible person in the entire country," Duke Li Shenyang ruthlessly sniped.

    He stared at his son with disapproval. "In the eyes of the public, Li Xueyue is the daughter of the Prime Minister¡ªa favored one, at that. If Xueyue is indirectly showing her support for us in Hanjian, the Courts of Wuyi will not be able to refute our reign for we settled one of the biggest problems this country has faced¡ªa ceasefire with Hanjian."

    Li Chenyang let out a sigh at the pressure ced upon his shoulders. His father could easily tell Xueyue himself, but the Duke wanted to give his son the option to rebut.

    "You''re wise, Chenyang," Duke Li Shenyang sternly said.

    "You know it better than anyone where Xueyue belongs. She will be happier with him, and we''ll be benefitting from her help. She has always wanted to give back to us. You''re burdening her more by wanting her to stay in Wuyi."

    "I don''t want her to feel used! She''ll think she was a recement all along for Minghua if we send her off to Hanjian," Li Chenyang argued.

    "Why don''t you ask her if she feels that way?" Duke Li Shenyang asked. "Have we ever requested something from her? Have we everpared her to Minghua? Have we ever forced her to reside in Minghua''s bedroom and wear the same clothes as her?"

    Li Chenyang was stunned to silence. His father was right. Of course he always was. His words were sharp, even towards family members. Li Chenyang could effortlessly argue with everyone else without qualms. It was easy for him to bend people to his will, but when it came to family, he couldn''t. He always relented for them because he cared for them.

    "Tell her by today," Duke Li Shenyang demanded. He left no room for an argument. "I''ve already given her the letters. She will want to see him. I''m sure of it."

    Li Chenyang stared out the window, refusing to respond or acknowledge his father''s words.

    Duke Li Shenyang shook his head at his son''s tant frustration. "Well?"

    Li Chenyang bit down on his tongue. "I want what''s best for her," he finally said.

    The response was vague, but Duke Li Shenyang epted it. He trusted his son''s decision. Li Chenyang was intelligent. Li Chenyang woulde to the perfect decision, even if it would hurt him.

 Chapter 273 To Hanjian?

    <h4>Chapter 273 To Hanjian?</h4>

    Li Chenyang was in a glum mood when he exited the carriage after his father. This morning, he had promised to see Xueyue but couldn''t find the time to do so before he was whisked away to the Pce. He let out a tired sigh, weighed down by the duties he had today. The battle was nearly finished. The person who could put an end to the arguments would be none other than...

    "Chen-ge!" Li Xueyue cheerfully called out upon spotting him entering the house. Her eyes lit up at the sight of him as she rushed to greet him.

    Li Chenyang''s smile came out in a bittersweet grimace. Leave it to her toe out in such an opportune moment. He patted her on the cheek.

    "You suddenly seem so eager to see me recently," Li Chenyang pointed out. "Is it that boring in the house?"

    "Hm? Not really, I was upied with writing letters in response to Yu Zhen''s. Aren''t I usually this energetic?" Li Xueyue asked with a tilt of her head.

    "Father," she addressed with a smile.

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded his head at her greeting. "Have you eaten lunch?"

    "Yes, with Mother and Minghua," Li Xueyue responded.

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. He could tell it was half the truth. She most likely sat down for lunch, yed with the food and ran back into her room. He held back a sigh. Would it always be like this? The conversation duringst night''s dinner still rang in his mind.

    Both of his daughters possessed the means to destroy each other. It was a matter of how or when they''d do it.

    Duke Li Shenyang figured he''d need to have a talk with his daughter, Minghua. The scroll wasn''t found under her pillow in the Pce. Li Minghua, his own daughter, had lied to him. He was more than disappointed, but not surprised. She lied to him before, but he had trusted her too much to fathom such a thought to happen again.

    "Well, you should get ready for dinner. It''s likely to be ready soon," Duke Li Shenyang responded. He turned to his son and threw him a pointed look.

    "If you''ll excuse me, I will go bother your mother," Duke Li Shenyang said as he headed towards the gardens.

    Li Xueyue watched his figure disappear down the hallways. She had been avoiding the gardenstely because the sight of hydrangeas upset her.

    "Xueyue, why don''t you take a walk with me? Near the gardens in the opposite direction to where Dad is heading towards."

    "What for?" Li Xueyue asked as Chenyang began to walk. She quickly followed after him, knowing which side of the garden he was referring to. That part didn''t have as much hydrangeas as the entrance, where Duchess Wang Qixing was always found.

    "What do you think of Wuyi?" Li Chenyang questioned. He slipped off the indoor slippers for the outdoor ones when he stepped onto the stone pavement. He turned around to help her down the tiny stairs.

    "Well, a new dynasty is starting here," Li Xueyue answered.

    Li Xueyue nced up at his serious expression and wondered what he could be telling her. Was he worried about something? She bit her bottom lip. Was there anything she could do to alleviate his stress?

    Li Xueyue dropped her gaze to the ground where there wererge stones leading to the other entrance of the garden. It would be far from their parents who would no doubt be reliving their younger days together.

    "Yes, it will be very chaotic soon. There are still a handful of Ministers who object to our reign because the Second and Fourth Prince are still alive, despite how useless they are."

    "I''m suspicious of the Second Prince," Li Xueyue suddenly said. "Wasn''t Minghua kept secretly by his side? It''s so strange that she had the opportunity to run up to Dad. Wouldn''t the Second Prince have kept a close watch of her?"

    Li Chenyang was bewildered by her words. Now that he thought about it¡­ she was right. How exactly did Minghua escape the Second Prince''s grasp? She said the Empress knew of a secret dark enough to ruin the Li Family. And since the Empress always vented out her frustrations to the Second Prince¡­wouldn''t it mean the Second Prince knew of the secret as well?

    "You''re implying Minghua would betray our family," Li Chenyang murmured.

    "No, I was just¡ª"

    "Don''t panic so quickly," Li Chenyang reassured her. He came to a halt and turned to face her. "I''m on your side, Xueyue. I will always be."

    "You weren''t when I told you Minghua was alive," Li Xueyue whispered under her breath. "Yourck of trust really hurt."

    "I''m sorry," Li Chenyang said. "It was such an unbelievable thing. I couldn''t fathom it, not even in my wildest dreams."

    Li Xueyue touched her neck and nced to the side. "Have more faith in me."

    "From now on, I will. I promise."

    Li Xueyue wished people didn''t make promises. They were meant to be broken. They always were.

    "But I pointed out that implication because if you said it in front of the wrong people, it might cause problems. It sounded like Minghua was in cahoots with the Second Prince, our presumed enemy," Li Chenyang continued.

    "It''s a far-stretched idea, but seeing how much the Second Prince enjoys her presence, I wouldn''t be surprised if it was true," Li Xueyue responded. Her voice was unwavering, and she meant everything she said.

    Li Xueyue raised her head. "You said it yourself. The Second Prince has always favored Minghua even when they were children. He must''ve taken care of Minghua when she was a pce servant."

    She pressed her lips together. "The Second Prince is very protective of Minghua. I have a feeling the Second Princeined to the Emperor when Minghua was ''bullied'' by me. As a result, I was punished."

    Li Chenyang slowly nodded. He couldn''t forget the fact that Xueyue was randomly summoned to the Pce on the day of the massacre. And then she randomly woke up in the Empress''s bedroom? The coincidence was simply too much to ignore¡­

    "I suppose you''re right," Li Chenyang said. "I''ll mention it to Father. We''ll keep a lookout for the Second Prince. If we have to, we''ll get rid of him."

    Li Chenyang also suspected there was more to the Second Prince than what met the eyes.

    "But besides that," Li Xueyue spoke up. "Why are you asking me about Wuyi? You were really strange this morning as well. Is there something you want to tell me?"

    A harsh breeze unexpectedly whirled past them. Li Xueyue''s hair flew to her face, irritating her eyes. She brushed strands of her hair back and peered up at him. When their gaze met, the corner of her lips quipped into a slight smile. She realized he had been watching her the entire time.

    Li Chenyang couldn''t look away from her. She seemed so feeble and small, he couldn''t help but want to protect her.

    Li Chenyang didn''t want to burden those tiny shoulders of hers. What if the pressure and stress broke her? What if Hanjian''s court politics was too much for her to handle?

    Li Chenyang had finally gained a sister whose sincerity matched his. Xueyue had brightened his dull world. She had found a spot in his rigid heart.

    The light in her eyes was blinding. What would happen when it fades? What would happen to a beacon of light when it steps into the shadows? Would she be swallowed by the darkness?

    "Won''t you stay by my side?" Li Chenyang whispered just as the wind picked up again.

    "Hm, what was that?" Li Xueyue asked as she cupped her ears. She lifted her head to the sky and noticed the clouds had significantly darkened. Was it going to rain soon? It would exin the strong whirl of air coursing past them.

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. For a split second there, she saw agony dance within his gaze. They said the eyes were the window to the soul. Then why did he seem so depressed?

    "Would you like to go to Hanjian?" Li Chenyang abruptly asked her.

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked at his words. She didn''t register it at first and thought the wind was ying tricks on her. But then she saw fear on his face, fear of losing her, fear of not seeing her¡ªshe knew she didn''t mishear.

    He had asked her if she wanted to go to Hanjian. The answer was yes, it always would be. So long as Yu Zhen was there, she''d go. Anywhere he was, she''d go¡ªeven to the ends of the earth.

    Li Xueyue didn''t believe it at first, but now she knew her fate didn''t lie in Wuyi. It was in Hanjian, where her future seemed to shine so brightly that it blinded her. There was nothing left for her in Wuyi, except the Li Family. If she could lighten any burden for them by going to Hanjian, she would instantly take up that opportunity. The question was, what did they want her to do there?

 Chapter 274 Who Cares?

    <h4>Chapter 274 Who Cares?</h4>

    Li Xueyue was conflicted about her decision. On one hand, she wanted to go to Hanjian, but on the other, she was worried about the repercussions. It was so strange for the Li Family to send her to Hanjian without a specific reason.

    "Is there something I''m supposed to do in Hanjian?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Li Chenyang should''ve known she was too smart to be fooled. "As you already know, the rtionship between Hanjian and Wuyi has been straining. We''ve resumed talks of forming a peace treaty and are starting to open up the trade routes. We''re also calling off the territory battles."

    Li Xueyue knew where this conversation was going. "I will be sent off as a gesture of goodwill."

    "No," Li Chenyang said. "You will be sent to Hanjian as the daughter of a Prime Minister."

    Li Xueyue caught on to what he was implying. "In other words, I''m going to Hanjian to show Wuyi''s sincerity regarding the proposals made by Father and other Ministers. It''s the same thing, Chen-ge."

    "You don''t have to sugarcoat it for me," she added on. "If I can be of any use to the Li family, I don''t mind epting the opportunity."

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang addressed in a sullen voice. He didn''t want her to think of it like that. "You''re not forced to go to Hanjian."

    "I know."

    "We just think this decision is killing two birds with one stone. You''ll like it there in Hanjian with Yu Zhen by your side, add to that the fact that you will be helping the Li family as well. But we don''t want to use you at all, thus, we''re not forcing you to do anything."

    Li Xueyue nodded at his words. She could see the panic in his eyes. Chenyang was worried her feelings were hurt in the process. "I don''t mind being used. I wanted to give back to the Li family for so long¡ª"

    "You talk about us as if you''re not part of that family, you little fool," Li Chenyang interjected with a scowl. "You''re a Li too. Stop referring to us in the third person."

    Li Xueyue blinked. She wasn''t aware of that habit.

    "Just think about it okay?" Li Chenyang said. He grasped her hands and squeezed it. "Yu Zhen is a Crown Prince now. He can''te and leave as he pleases. Everyone will be watching him and if he suddenly disappears, problems will arise."

    Li Xueyue was well aware of that. It didn''t stop her from dearly missing him. There were so many things she wanted to say that couldn''t be conveyed in a letter.

    Li Xueyue wanted to bury herself into his arms and voice all the grievances that she couldn''t tell the Li Family.

    "Don''t look so glum," Li Chenyang muttered as he gave her cheek a gentle pat. "You''ll see us again even if you go to Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue realized he had misunderstood her expression. She decided it was better for him to believe that she would miss the Li Family as well. Everyone was so kind to her here, minus Minghua.

    "What would be my role in Hanjian? A diplomat?" Li Xueyue asked as she raised her eyes to meet him.

    Li Chenyang threw her a pointed look that questioned her intelligence. She was too dense. "No, you''ll be there as a candidate for one of the generals," he sarcastically said.

    "Oh," she mumbled with a blink of her eye. "I don''t think Yu Zhen will like that."

    "Xueyue," Li Chenyang groaned out as he pped his forehead. "It was a joke. I obviously didn''t mean that. You can''t believe everything thates out of a person''s mouth!"

    "I only believed it because you never lied to me before," Li Xueyue said with a slight smile. "You''d never do anything to hurt me, so I blindly trusted you."

    Li Chenyang wished she wouldn''t say the right things at times like this. It made him miss her more, even though she hadn''t left yet.

    "So," Li Xueyue eximed. "What exactly will I be doing in Hanjian? Will I be a spy or¡ª"

    "Are you really that dense or were you joking the entire time?" Li Chenyang retorted. He raised a brow and crossed his arms. She revealed a silly smile and brushed strands of hair behind her ears. His expression softened at her behavior.

    "I''m seriously that dense¡­" she trailed off, averting her gaze. "I mean, what else would I be doing in Hanjian?"

    "I just hope Yu Zhen isn''t that dense," Li Chenyang muttered under his breath. "Think about it, Little Piglet, why would we send you to Hanjian to spy? It''s such a dangerous job and would require a trained professional."

    "Oh," Li Xueyue said. "Then¡ª"

    "No, don''t guess anymore. I''ll tell you t out," Li Chenyang interrupted. He nced down at her and then looked away. "You''re going to Hanjian as the bride of the Crown Prince."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked a few times. She scratched her ear. Huh? She must''ve heard that wrong. What a bad time to be lost in her delusions.

    "Haha, I heard something weird and unbelievable. Can you say it again?" Li Xueyue asked, much to the displeasure of her brother.

    Li Chenyang glowered down at her. He angrily flicked her on the forehead. "I was already reluctant to say it the first time, but now you''re making me repeat it. If you want to know, go ask Father."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened when he let out a huff and began to exit the gardens. She hurriedly grabbed onto his wrist, forcing him to stop. "Wait wait, I just wanted to confirm. I''m really going to marry Yu Zhen?"

    "Isn''t that obvious?" Li Chenyang remarked. "If his feelings are truly sincere, then he should take no other wife than you. If the Crown Princess of Hanjian is a high-ranking woman from Wuyi, surely, everyone will know the sincerity of our actions. Additionally, you really like Yu Zhen don''t you?"

    "I-I do, but it''s just¡ª"

    "No buts," Li Chenyang said. He turned around and revealed a tiny smile. His eyes became more gentle when he saw her hesitant features.

    "Xueyue," he murmured in a voice too gentle for her to get used to. "Don''t worry about us. We''ll miss you, but we''ll survive. When you would make decisions for the benefit of your future, don''t be so fearful of dragging us down."

    Li Xueyue quietly nodded at his words. How was he able to pinpoint her concerns so quickly? He knew her too well.

    "I-I''m also concerned that when I leave, everyone will forget me. Your lives will be consumed with Minghua, and soon, I''ll be a stranger if I ever return. I know it''s so selfish of me to think that, especially when Minghua is blood-rted to you and¡ªow!"

    Li Xueyue cried out in pain when he flicked her on the forehead. She stared up at him with moistened eyes. "That really hurts!" she said whilst grabbing the burning spot.

    "Stupid, stupid girl," he huffed. "Do you really think we''d forget you that easily? You''ve left an impact in all of our lives. You managed to worm your way into every little heart and found yourself afortable home within it."

    Li Xueyue fiddled ayer of her hanfu with her fingers as she averted her gaze.

    "Listen to me well, Xueyue, there is no one that can ever rece you in this family. You will forever and always be my sister, and to Mother and Father, their daughter. Blood may be thicker than water, but who cares? It''s the memories and actions that count," Li Chenyang solemnly said.

    "Do you understand?" Li Chenyang sternly asked. He grabbed her shoulders and gently shook it, forcing her to look up at him.

    Li Xueyue instantly nodded. She sniffled a bit and wiped her eyes. "I do," she mumbled in a quiet voice. Her eyes widened when he abruptly pulled her into a hug.

    "You''re such a fool," Li Chenyang muttered.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but smile at his words. Her brother''s embrace was gentle and endearing. She hugged him tight and close, knowing this would be a memory she''d forever cherish.

 Chapter 275 A Lowly Woman As Your Wife

    <h4>Chapter 275 A Lowly Woman As Your Wife</h4>

    Royal Courts, Hanjian

    "Your Highness, you must reconsider!" Cries of protest arose throughout the court.

    Yu Zhen sat upon a throne with an aloof expression. His eyebrows drew together slightly out of agitation. He had his eyes closed, almost as if he didn''t care about their opinions. Quite frankly, he didn''t. They could all drop dead in front of him and he wouldn''t flinch.

    "You shouldn''t take such a lowly woman as your wife, Your Highness. For the wellbeing of this country, we need someone who''s as aplished as you. The Empress is the mother of our country. If she''s amoner, how will the people think?!"

    Hu Dengxiao nced at the Crown Prince. The Emperor of Hanjian was nowhere to be found. This throne was meant for the Emperor, yet Yu Zhen sat there as if it was made for him. There was not a single w in sight. This throne had always belonged to the Second Prince.

    ''What exactly are you thinking, Zhenzhen? Who the hell is that random woman? Where did shee from?'' Hu Dengxiao thought to himself as he nced at the feeble girl below the golden staircase. She didn''t seem bothered by the Ministers who were appalled at the sight of her.

    "Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao mumbled in a quiet voice. The Ministers continued to bicker amongst themselves as they fought for the opportunity to voice their opinions.

    "What is going on, Your Highness? I thought you said you''d take Li Xueyue as your Empress," Hu Dengxiao whispered. He made sure to keep his tone low. If the Ministers overheard this conversation, they''d surely jump to conclusions.

    When Yu Zhen didn''t respond, Hu Dengxiao wondered if he fell asleep. "Pst pst Zhenzhen, do you hear me?!" he muttered.

    Hu Dengxiao nervously nced away when he saw the tick in Yu Zhen''s clenched jaw. The Crown Prince was definitely awake and aware of this chaos.

    "The basics of bargaining," Yu Zhen responded as he kept his lip movement small.

    "What?"

    "First you give them an absurd deal they''ll have to refuse. Then you counter with a much better deal that they''ll instantly ept after the trauma of the first offer."

    Hu Dengxiao''s eyes widened. His attention snapped to the bottom of the golden staircase where the pretty servant stood. How much would she be awarded for her bravery?

    How did Yu Zhen manage to find such a stoic-faced woman?

    The woman kept her face neutral, despite the angry men glowering at her. Hu Dengxiao recognized her. She was a fallen aristocrat who used to be the eldest daughter of a prominent family. They had disowned her for unknown reasons, but there were dark rumors of her past. She was raised in luxury, but now, she was a mere servant with soft hands and a beautiful face.

    "Zhenzhen, you''re so intelligent," Hu Dengxiao whispered. "No wonder Princess Li likes you so much. Hey, you know, I heard Lu Tianbi has an off-day but I don''t. So uhm, I was wondering¡ª"

    "No."

    Hu Dengxiao''s heart sank. Disappointment shed in his eyes as he began to sulk to himself. He kept his expression polite, for he was in front of the entire court. Hu Dengxiao knew he would be scolded if the advisor of the Crown Prince wasn''t able to contain his emotions.

    Yu Zhen let out an aggravated sigh. He cracked one eye open to peer at his pouting advisor. Hu Dengxiao stood beside the throne, but one could see the mncholy in his eyes from miles away.

    "Only if you get these squabbling Ministers to shut up," Yu Zhen muttered as he shut his eyes and continued learning the side of his face onto a propped up fist.

    Hu Dengxiao''s face brightened. But then he paused. Wait a minute! Did Zhenzhen use that bargaining trick against him?! Hu Dengxiao gaped at the Crown Prince, realizing he had fallen right into the trap.

    Hu Dengxiao cried on the inside. ''How can I be so stupid?! He literally revealed that trick of his less than a minute ago.''

    "Well?"

    "Okay, I''ll ept the deal, Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao reluctantly said. He loudly cleared his throat and adjusted his cor.

    In the loudest voice possible, he roared, "SILENCE!"

    The Ministers all paused their chaotic bickering. The noise in the Throne Room finally settled down. An awkward stillness passed over them.

    The new Advisor of Hanjian rarely raised his voice. Everyone knew him as an impartial and weing man. Hu Dengxiao was easier to get along with than Yu Zhen and many people saw that as a good thing. So many people always attempted to get on Hu Dengxiao''s good side, hoping for a favor or two.

    If only they knew, Hu Dengxiao was actually collecting information from these Ministers.

    "Your less than thoughtful advice and subpar counselling abilities wereughable," Yu Zhen mused. He opened his eyes, revealing a dark glower that frightened the Ministers in their boots.

    The people averted their gaze to the ground, unable to meet the intimidating stare of the Crown Prince. They were the one who chose the Second Prince to be seated on the throne, yet they were also fearful of him.

    "Nheless, it seems this decision has upset the entire court. For the sake of this glorious country and my dear Ministers, I will reconsider my decision."

    The Ministers instantly perked up at the Crown Prince''s words. They knew they could rely on him! As ruthless as the Crown Prince was, they were used to this tyrannical behavior. The Emperor was very much like this. Except¡­ the Second Prince was a lot more cruel. They wondered why.

    "The royal blood shouldn''t be tainted by someone of a lowly status, even if she hailed from a prestigious background," Yu Zhen concluded. He took azy drawl in the direction of his Ministers. Never once did he pay any mind to the woman whose expression finally morphed.

    The woman nced up at Hu Dengxiao with an indistinguishable look in her eyes.

    Hu Dengxiao was puzzled. Why was she ncing at him? She seemed upset, but it wasn''t because of this news. No, her stare, it resembled someone else. He had seen it many times before, but on whom? He couldn''t pinpoint it. It was then Hu Dengxiao realized something.

    The woman wasn''t looking at him. She was looking at the Crown Prince.

    "We agree, Your Highness!" a Minister readily said as he stepped forward. "Therefore, we''d like to propose the idea of¡ª"

    "Did you receive permission to speak?" Yu Zhen questioned. It was a simple question asked in a quiet tone, but it held more power than anything else. The calm before the storm.

    The Minister immediately bowed his head. "Your Highness, this foolish Minister dearly apologizes."

    Yu Zhen flicked his wrist. "Get him out."

    "Your Highness, please!" the Minister cried out as panic filled him. He had to rmend his daughter as the Crown Princess. He must! She had begged for that position for so long. It would tear them apart if she doesn''t be the future Empress of Hanijan.

    Yu Zhen didn''t even look in the Minister''s direction as guards rushed forward to escort the Minister out. He needed to gut a big fish and hang it up as an example. This Minister would do the trick.

    Yu Zhen didn''t need someone who would openly speak out so quickly. He had no need for disobedience.

    "Our rtionship with Wuyi has always been strained," Yu Zhen stated. His dark stare traveled across the room,nding on each and every Minister presented before him.

    A murmur of agreement arose. Indeed, Wuyi had gotten too bold with their refusals. But then again, wasn''t there a new family seizing the monarchy?

    They had heard great things about this family. Afterall, the Patriarch of the family was the Prime Minister. After his return, Wuyi began to prosper even more. Was that why they had the guts to deny Hanjian?

    "As you''re aware, there is a new family in power. The Wang Dynasty hase to an end," Yu Zhen began.

    Yu Zhen surveyed their reaction. As always, it was a mix of curiosity, awe, and fear. He enjoyed keeping them on their toes. The longer he took to reach a conclusion, the more they eagerly waited for him to speak.

    The strategy held their attention, but Yu Zhen didn''t want to dwell on it for too long. Or else, the Ministers would grow tired of waiting. Yu Zhen always knew the perfect bnce of time and attention.

    "Under my jurisdiction, the alliance has been finalized without qualms. Wuyi will not seize territory from us, just as we won''t take from them. The restrictive regtions governing the trade routes have also lessened."

    A loud uproar of excitement surfaced. The Ministers excitedly whispered amongst themselves. Finally! They could get a good night''s sleep, knowing their borders were safe, and the country''s wealth would be increasing exponentially. What the Emperor couldn''t aplish, the Crown Prince has done so in less than a month.

    "This is such great news, Your Highness!" a Minister quipped up. The other Ministers were quick to lick the Crown Prince''s boots as well.

    "We must thank you, Your Highness. This issue has finallye to a conclusion, and it''s all because of your regime, Crown Prince!"

    "Indeed. Without you, Hanjian would''ve plunged into another war, Your Highness. We must rejoice!"

    "The future of Hanjian is always bright as the sun with your help, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhen nearly rolled his eyes. They were so easy to please. It was tiring as the Crown Prince. He would have to do all the work of an Emperor, but without the outstanding title.

    "In addition, to show their sincerity and loyalty to this alliance, they''re sending us a gift," Yu Zhen began. "It is one that will ensure this peace treaty willst for centuries toe."

    The Ministers eagerly opened their ears. They were brimming with excitement at the previous good news. Could this be another one?

    "The patriarch of the newfound Li Dynasty has offered their favored daughter''s hand in marriage. The daughter of a Prime Minister and Duchess¡ªtheir daughter is a third-rank Princess."

    At the new proposal, the Ministers were a lot more epting. Especially when they recalled the previous dreadful idea. Their gazended on the lowly servant in front of them.

    Compared to that woman, the daughter of a Prime Minister whose title of a third-rank Princess was much more appealing. Besides, this marriage would solidify the deal. If the patriarch''s favorite daughter was in Hanjian, Wuyi would never dream of attacking this ce.

    "The proposal has been epted by yours truly," Yu Zhen concluded.

    The Ministers hurriedly whispered amongst themselves. An internal struggle broke out as they fought to speak as the representative. Eventually, someone finally spoke up.

    "It is such great news, Your Highness! We must rejoice at this newfound marriage. Atst, Hanjian has found their Crown Princess! It is news worth celebrating over."

    "Yes, Your Highness. Our bond will be strengthened with this marriage. It is more than we could have ever asked for!"

    "Hurrah, your Highness. Hanjian must wee this Princess with open arms!"

    The corner of Yu Zhen''s lips curled into a devious smirk. And just like that, the Ministers had all fallen into his trap.

 Chapter 276 One Last Time

    <h4>Chapter 276 One Last Time</h4>

    Once the court meeting was dismissed, Yu Zhen left without turning back.

    Initially, Yu Zhen wanted to write Li Xueyue another letter, but couldn''t decide if he should sneak to Wuyi or stay put in Hanjian. Why hasn''t she responded to any of his letters? Did they even reach her? Shall he shoot the messenger?

    Hu Dengxiao hurriedly ran after the Crown Prince. He let out a tiny shriek when the atmosphere around them turned deadly.

    Even from afar, he could see Yu Zhen was simmering with dissatisfaction. What went wrong? Wasn''t the oue at court today exactly what the Crown Prince wanted. What was upsetting his Zhenzhen so much?

    "Zhenzhen?" Hu Dengxiao spoke up once they were out of everyone''s earshot.

    Hu Dengxiao nced around and noticed the only people with them were the guards. Some stood in in sight whilst others hid in the shadows. Only the cream of the crop was allowed to guard the Crown Prince.

    It was strange to see such arge pce so empty, but he supposed that was how Yu Zhen liked it. Besides, having too many ears around them was dangerous. Who''s to say the servants weren''t spies?

    Hu Dengxiao also knew how much Yu Zhen despised being followed. It was the precise reason why he didn''t allow servants and eunuchs to apany him, even if they would be useful.

    "Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao said upon realizing he was ignored the first time.

    "Behead that useless messenger," Yu Zhen abruptlymanded.

    "B-but¡­" Hu Dengxiao took a few steps back when the Crown Prince finally turned around, only to reveal a gaze brimming with rage and hatred.

    "Why?" Hu Dengxiao asked, but his own question sounded foreign to him.

    If his position hadn''t changed from Strategist to Advisor, Hu Dengxiao wouldn''t have questioned the Crown Prince''s decision, but now he had no choice.

    Hu Dengxiao had to be a fair and just advisor. He didn''t want to condone Yu Zhen''s tyrannical behavior¡­ though it could be fun.

    "I''ve sent out a few letters, and she hasn''t responded to any of them," Yu Zhen gritted out.

    Yu Zhen was unwilling to ept any other exnation except the failure of the messenger. Why else would she not reply?

    Hu Dengxiao scratched the back of his neck as he pondered a response. It wasn''t his expertise to be sympathetic towards others.

    In reality, Hu Dengxiao wanted to readily agree to Yu Zhen''smand. He truly wished Lu Tianbi was here. She would''ve offered the best advice that would prevent bloodshed. It was a shame she was stuck finalizing the peace treaty documents.

    "Uhm, Your Highness, have you considered the fact that maybe the letters are withheld from her? You mentioned the Li family wanted time. I think the messenger did a sufficient job, since he''d always head out to deliver the letter the second you give it to him."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. "Impossible. They wouldn''t hide the letters, especially after epting the political marriage suggestion. Xueyue''s reputation in Hanjian will be elevated because of my words."

    "Yes, that would be correct, Your Highness. However, the Prime Minister of Wuyi has been known for his cunning ways. What if he dyed giving the letters to Princess Li until you''ve made your decisions for the peace treaty clear?"

    Yu Zhen pondered over the idea. It was a high possibility. The Prime Minister could''ve held onto the letters until it would be beneficial. He ground his teeth. What a frustrating father.

    "Let''s give Princess Li one more week to respond. If she doesn''t, then we shall punish the messenger as you deem fit."

    Yu Zhen''s expression darkened. It was a good idea, but why should he spare the messenger''s life? He could make a great example out of an ipetant servant.

    Hu Dengxiao decided to quickly change the topic. Lu Tianbi would be furious if blood was spilled so quickly.

    "You know, Zhenzhen," Hu Dengxiao spoke up. "Princess Li is guarded like a national treasure in Wuyi. Everything about her past is hidden"

    Yu Zhen wasn''t surprised. Her illegitimate status would surely stain her reputation. He believed her story better than anyone else, but that didn''t mean other people would be so kind. Quite frankly, he didn''t care about outsiders'' opinions.

    At the end of the day, Yu Zhen could always silence them.

    Seeing as Yu Zhen wasn''t opposed to the new topic about Li Xueyue, Hu Dengxiao quickly began talking more.

    "I researched about her and discovered something odd," Hu Dengxiao said. "Her public debut to high society was made only two and a half years ago. If we consider her age, it''s a strange decision. Most girls would''ve made their debut at the age of thirteen."

    "So?"

    Hu Dengxiao wanted to give a longer reply, but he decided to get straight to the point.

    Hu Dengxiao shrugged. "It feels like they''re hiding a secret or something. Wouldn''t a family as prominent as the Lis want her to be seen earlier than most?"

    Yu Zhen raised a brow.

    "I mean, if I have a daughter as intelligent and talented as her, I''d readily show her off, but they didn''t do so. It makes me wonder¡­. Is she really the Li family''s daughter?" Hu Dengxiao asked.

    "My Wangfei''s background has nothing to do with you," Yu Zhen deadpanned in a frigid tone. He left little to no room for arguments.

    Yu Zhen vowed to take Li Xueyue''s secrets to the grave. He would kill anyone who dared to reveal her illegitimate status. Anyone who had the guts to stain her reputation didn''t need organs in the first ce.

    Hu Dengxiao fiddled with his fingers. He had changed the atmosphere for the worst¡­ He silently pouted to himself.

    "Zhenzhen, don''t get mad so quickly. I''ll make sure no one else looks into her background, okay? If anyone speaks about herte debut, I''ll tell them the excuse that the Li family is just overprotective of their daughter."

    Yu Zhen nodded in satisfaction. "Lu Tianbi is taking a while," he stated. "Go help her."

    Hu Dengxiao''s glum expression morphed into pure excitement. His face lit up as a grin spread upon his lips. "Do you really mean it, Your Highness? I can go see Tiantian?"

    Yu Zhen responded by flicking his wrist, almost as if he was shooing away a loyal dog. Hu Dengxiao might as well have been wagging his tail. There was so much joy brimming from that man, it was contagious.

    "You''re so nice today, Your Highness. This is why I love you so much, Zhenzhen!" Hu Dengxiao eximed. He hurriedly bowed and excused himself.

    Yu Zhen watched as the puppy bounced down the hallway, eager to join his beloved.

    Yu Zhen''s mood soured at the thought of the two lovebirds together. He never thought it would be possible but for the first time in his life, he felt lonely.

    Yu Zhen desperately wanted to see Li Xueyue. A simple smile from her was enough for him to feel energized. Whenever sheughed, he couldn''t help but smile. How was it possible that she brought him so much joy? It should be illegal for her to be so endearing.

    Yu Zhen let out a quiet sigh. He wanted to see her onest time before he left Wuyi then.

    He regretted sending Hu Dengxiao to the Li Manor. He had no choice. It was that or they would be dyed in getting home.

    The Crown Prince title would''ve been handed to the First Prince if it wasn''t for Yu Zhen''s abrupt entrance at thest minute.

    "Must you copse at such a horrible time?" Yu Zhen muttered as he turned on his heel and began to head in the direction of the Emperor''s residence. The hallways were quiet and still as usual. A pce of gold and no one was here to admire it.

 Chapter 277 I Must Be Blind

    <h4>Chapter 277 I Must Be Blind</h4>

    Li Manor

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh as she stretched her upper body. "I''ve finally finished!" she happily said whilst ignoring the crumbled parchments beside her. There were enough balls of parchment to create a mountain to sit upon.

    Atst, she finished the three response letters she would send to Yu Zhen. It had taken her all night, but she vowed to get it done.

    Li Xueyue wanted it to be delivered as soon as possible. She opened the door to reveal her patient handmaidens who were waiting for her outside. They were diligent and always on standby for her.

    Li Xueyue preferred it that way. She preferred to be alone in her bedroom. That way, there was no one watching her every move.

    With the letters in hand, Li Xueyue turned to face the servants. Initially, she wanted them to deliver the letters to the Li family messenger. At thest minute, she changed her mind. A simple messenger would never be able to deliver these on time.

    "Maybe, Father can help¡­" she mumbled to herself. If her father utilized the Royal Messenger, then it would speed the process up.

    Li Xueyue headed down the hallways and towards the direction of her father''s private study. It didn''t take too long for her to reach there. When she was about to open the door, she heard bickering inside.

    Li Xueyue paused. It would be bad to eavesdrop, especially in front of the guards. She raised her head, ready to knock, but paused upon hearing the shrill of Li Minghua''s voice.

    "I would never lie to you, Father, and you know that!" Li Minghua cried out as she stood up, indignant at his usation. What was wrong with her father? He had never treated her like this.

    Her father always took her words as they were. In his eyes, his daughter could do no wrong¡ªeven when she had attempted to elope with Wen Jinkai.

    "How could you do this to me, Father? You''ve changed. Is it because Xueyue is here? You care so much more about her now that you see her worth?"

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression didn''t change even in the face of his screaming daughter. His features were always stoic and unrelenting. He kept hisposure when others couldn''t. It was in his nature to do so. Showing emotions were for the weak.

    "I hear you let her do as she pleases. Horseback riding, sword fighting, martial arts, and so much more. You gave Xueyue so much, but when I was living with you, you never let me do anything! And now you''re taking her side."

    Li Minghua pointed a finger at him in spite. "You believe her over me. Is that what it is?! So what if I killed the Empress?! I did the dirty work, shouldn''t I be praised? Why are you restricting me from leaving the house? What did I do?"

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a sigh through his nose. His patience was running thin. "After all these years, you''re still throwing a temper tantrum."

    Li Minghua felt like he stabbed her with his words. Tears of frustration brimmed her eyes. She angrily wiped it away, refusing to let him see the satisfaction that he was right.

    "I''m not throwing a fit, I''m only¡ª"

    "You''re screaming and pointing a finger at me. Your emotions are on full disy for everyone to see and hear. Have I taught you nothing?"

    "Father¡ª"

    "Why do you think I kept you locked up all these years? Of course, it was to protect you. People thought it was from suitors, but no," Duke Li Shenyang said and stood up. "It was because you never knew how to hide your feelings. It''s your biggest w and everyone can take advantage of you for that."

    Li Minghua''s lips mped shut. She knew it was the truth. It was one of the reasons why the Empress had targeted her in the past. Li Minghua never held back her tongue and would alwayssh out in front of the Empress.

    "In High Society, words are our weapons. The sharper our tongue, the more people we hurt. You fought with weapons like an animal."

    Li Minghua was offended by her father''s words. He had neverplimented her, not even once. All he had was criticism for her. Whoever said tough love was eptable must''ve never experienced love.

    She swallowed the knot in her throat. "Xueyue fights with weapons. I bet she''s only good in masculine sports and not feminine ones, yet you''ve never objected to any of her hobbies."

    "I''m not here topare my daughters," Duke Li Shenyang sternly said. "And you shouldn''t do it either. You will rob yourself of happiness if you do."

    "How can I notpare? She''s my recement, a subpar one if you asked me, but still, she took my position in this house and¡ª"

    "My dear girl, you are delusional. Go to your room. I will have a doctor called forth tomorrow. He will ess your mental state. It has deteriorated."

    Li Minghua blinked back tears. Was this how he wanted to behave? She had risked her happiness for two years just to keep the family secret safe. And now, he was giving her the same cold shoulders. All she wanted to hear in life was a praise from him. Was that so hard to obtain?

    "If I am delusional, then I must also be blind. How did I not see it sooner?"

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow at her dramatic antics. What was she going to say now?

    "You don''t love me, Father."

    "You fool, if I don''t love my own daughter, my flesh and blood, who can I love?"

    "You love useful things that will bring you benefit. Isn''t that why you adore the twins so much? You love Chenyang''s political influence and Wenmin''s power in the military. You love Mother''s title and prestige. But what can you love about me? Absolutely nothing."

    Duke Li Shenyang was immediately rmed by her words. Was that how she saw herself? He stood up without a second thought.

    "My dear girl, have I not showered you with love and affection? Have I not given you everything you wanted in life? When you resided in this house, have I ever denied you a gift? Any priceless item you wanted, I''ve given you."

    "The love you gave me was materialistic, because the love you felt for me was that way," Li Minghua dered. She had enough of this heart-wrenching conversation. She turned her back to him and decided to leave the room.

    "Minghua¡ª"

    Li Minghua ignored him and headed towards the door.

    "Stop right there, Li Minghua!" Duke Li Shenyang demanded as he mmed a hand upon his desk.

    Li Minghua jumped at the loud sound. Never in her life had he ever raised his voice like this. He was always aloof when it came to her. His cold shoulders had made her wonder if he even cared about her at all. Hisck of reaction to her frequent tantrums only solidified her assumptions. Her father didn''t love her. If he did, wouldn''t he have disciplined her?

    "Haven''t you done enough damage, Father?" Li Minghua asked with tear-filled eyes.

    Duke Li Shenyang paused at the sight of her reddening eyes. His daughter, ever so precious, was on the verge of crying. Was he the cause of it? Guilt threatened to consume him alive.

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t want to be the viin in his daughter''s life. But it seemed as if this was how she viewed him. Was he nothing more than the antagonist that held her back from sess?

 Chapter 278 Hes Been Tortured

    <h4>Chapter 278 He''s Been Tortured</h4>

    Li Xueyue knew this was the best time to hurry up and knock on the door. If one of them opened the door to reveal her standing just outside, it''d be obvious she had eavesdropped.

    Curling her fingers into a fist, she loudly knocked on the door to catch their attention. The private study fell into silence. Without warning, the door swung open to reveal an emotional Li Minghua.

    "What the hell are you doing here?" Li Minghua gritted out as she wiped her face. Her cheeks were flushed red from her pent up anger. She had desperately wished toe home, but now, it doesn''t feel like she even belonged here.

    "None of your concern," Li Xueyue coldly said as she pushed past Li Minghua and entered the room.

    "Did you eavesdrop, you sneaky little rat?" Li Minghua demanded as she grabbed onto Xueyue''s elbow.

    "Minghua!" Duke Li Shenyang furiously bellowed. "Enough of these childish antics. Head back to your room right this instant."

    Duke Li Shenyang could no longer tolerate the feud between the two sisters. It had to stop at some point even if it meant one side would get hurt. He never wanted his house to be divided like this. Sides were being taken, and he''d rather prevent it before it was toote.

    "So you n to take her side?" Li Minghua scoffed. "Why am I not surprised? Xueyue brings you much more benefit, doesn''t she? Rumor has it she seduced not only Wen Jinkai but also the Commander of a foreign kingdom. This wanton behavior is exactly like her birth mother."

    "Don''t you have better insults for me?" Li Xueyue retorted. "I''ve heard worse. Grow up. You''re older than me and you''re still acting like a kid."

    Li Minghua''s blood boiled at Xueyue''s response. What gave her recement this much confidence? "Who do you think you are? A puny little thing like you, I can squash you with my pinky."

    The corner of Li Xueyue''s lips curled upwards into an entertained smile. "I''d like to see you try. Good luckying a hand on me. You''ll have an entire army after your head."

    "Enough, both of you," Duke Li Shenyang demanded in a stern voice. He pointed to the door. "It''s gettingte, Xiao Hua. Head to bed. We will continue our business tomorrow."

    "If I will even be here tomorrow," Li Minghua muttered under her breath as she angrily left the room, mming the door behind her.

    Li Xueyue jumped at the loud bang. Even after all these years, she still hadn''t gotten used to noises like this. Her heart raced a bit as she tried to calm herself down. There was no need to flinch like this. She was safe.

    Duke Li Shenyang let out an exhausted sigh. This was the exact oue that he didn''t want to happen. "Is it so hard to get along?" he asked as he sat down.

    "I tried to on the first day, but she chose to scratch my face with a hairpin, Father," Li Xueyue responded. She was tired of ying nice with Minghua. The next time the brat bared her ws, she would do the same thing.

    "She what?" Duke Li Shenyang hissed. "Come here, let me get a good look at you. Did she seed? You shouldn''t have scars on you."

    "I''m fine, Father. I was able to stop her in time."

    "Why didn''t you tell me this sooner? Xiao Hua is a mischievous girl who never listens. I me it on myck of discipline towards her."

    "Every daughter is a Princess in their father''s eyes," Li Xueyue gently said.

    "I treasured her too much," Duke Li Shenyang muttered. "I''ve never felt more guilty than when I locked her in the manor."

    "I know, but if we continue to look backward, we can never go forward," Li Xueyue responded. She approached her father''s desk.

    "Such wise words you use," Duke Li Shenyang mused with a slight smile. He could always rely on her to appease him. He nodded to her arms. "Are those letters?"

    Li Xueyue nced down in her hand. "Yes, these are my responses to Yu Zhen''s letters. I''m sorry to disturb you sote at night to request a favor."

    "None of my children are ever disturbances in my life. I assume you''d like the Royal Messenger to deliver these letters for you.."

    "Yes, please, if possible," Li Xueyue requested. She handed the letters to her father with both hands.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s smile widened at her politeness. Even after all these years, she remained the same well-mannered girl.

    "Of course, I have documents that needed to be delivered to Hanjian as well," Duke Li Shenyang said as he grabbed the letters from her.

    Duke Li Shenyang raised a brow. A knowing expression rested upon his face. "There are three?"

    Li Xueyue brushed strands of hair behind her ears and nced away as her ears reddened. "He sent out three letters, so I thought it was best to respond to all of them."

    "Hmm, I''ll keep this a secret from your mother. She would advise you to send a short one that would keep the Second Prince on his toes."

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh. "Yes, Mother always prefers if I y a push and pull game with Yu Zhen. I think he''s been tortured enough. Each subsequent letter of his was more desperate for a reply than the previous one."

    "Good," Duke Li Shenyang said. "The more he misses you, the more he''ll anticipate your presence."

    Li Xueyue nodded.

    "I assume Chenyang has informed you of the political marriage to the Crown Prince of Hanjian?"

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked at his question. Nheless, she nodded again. "He briefly mentioned it by asking if I''d like to go to Hanjian for a change of scenery. Supposedly, I would thrive there more than I would here."

    "You''re already a third-rank Princess in Wuyi," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "It is the highest achievement attainable for ady in this country who wasn''t born into royalty. The requirements to attain the title of a first-rank Princess are simply too tiring to perform."

    Li Xueyue never aimed for the title of a first-rank Princess. There weren''t many benefits attached to it except a slightly bigger recognition from the aristocrats.

    "The title of a Crown Princess is the dream of every little girl. Your future in Hanjian will be brighter than it would ever be in Wuyi," Duke Li Shenyang added on. He was proud of everything she had done so far.

    Not trembling under Emperor Fadong''s gaze and not yielding to the Royal Family was something that many couldn''t achieve. Not only that, but she had talked her way out of the impossible during the Spring Tournament. Granted, it required a trump card, but she had seeded nheless.

    "Would you like to go to Hanjian?" Duke Li Shenyang asked. "The preparations will take a week. Once the final copy of the treaty papers is passed over, you will be able to see Yu Zhen again."

    Li Xueyue knew this was the most daunting question of all. Her future in Hanjian seemed unpredictablepared to what she''d have in Wuyi. She had denied Yu Zhen because she thought she wasn''t good enough for him. She had pushed him away, for she wanted to stand on the same level as him before they became official.

    Now, with this newfound opportunity before her, there was nothing she could do but ept it. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity. How could she deny it?

    "If it''s possible, I would love to go to Hanjian. I will make the Li family proud, Father," Li Xueyue said with determination weighing heavily upon her voice.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression softened at her words. "Foolish child, you''ve already made us proud in more ways than one."

 Chapter 279 Invite Him For Breakfas

    <h4>Chapter 279 Invite Him For Breakfas</h4>

    The next day, an unexpected guest arrived at the Li Manor. Li Xueyue had woken upte and was rushing to the dining hall when she heard a slightmotion. Curious as to why the servants were rushing down the corridor, she grabbed onto one of them.

    "What''s wrong?" Li Xueyue asked.

    The Eunuch instantly bowed at the sight of her. He dipped low and rose when she gave him permission to do so. "Young Miss, there is a guest that we must inform the Master of."

    "Oh, who is it? Why is everyone in such a hurry?"

    "Young Miss, the guest is Commander Wen Jinkai."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked in surprise. Her lips fell open in shock. Did Wen Jinkai finally believe her in the end? That Li Minghua was alive? Did hee in person to check out for himself?

    "I see," was her only response as she excused the Eunuch who bowed again before running off. Meanwhile, she began to head towards the dining hall.

    Li Xueyue decided it was none of her business whether Wen Jinkai was at Li Manor or not. It wasn''t like he was here to see her or anything. Now that he wasn''t actively courting her, there was no need to be so wary of him.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue was too inquisitive for her own good. She wanted to find out the purpose of his abrupt visit. Did the Duke or Duchess know of this beforehand? Had he made an appointment?

    "Well, this should be entertaining," she said to herself.

    Li Xueyue picked up her pace and scurried her way to the dining hall. She was alreadyte, having overslept. The tonic definitely helped her to sleep, but it took longer than anticipated for it to take effect on her. Additionally, she was still having nightmares.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure if she wanted to continue taking the tonic. On one hand, she liked that it made her fall asleep, but it also kept her trapped in her nightmares longer. She sighed. What a double-edged remedy! Maybe it was best to use the second medicine that the Doctor had secretly prescribed.

    Li Xueyue was uncertain of her decision. She wanted to preserve the second medicine as long as she could. It came in such a short dosage, that it would be difficult to get her hands on it again¡ªwithout raising suspicions.

    "Xueyue?" Li Chenyang said when he opened the door to leave the dining room and saw her standing outside. The entire family was just informed of Wen Jinkai''s presence.

    "Chen-ge," Li Xueyue greeted. Her attention shifted to the dining room where everyone else was seated, especially on Minghua who kept her stare trained at the table.

    "Where are you going?" she asked. "I''m sorry I was sote. I didn''t mean to sleep for so long."

    "It''s alright, don''t apologize," Li Chenyang responded. "I was actually on my way to inquire Wen Jinkai regarding his visit."

    "Oh, I thought he was scheduled toe here," Li Xueyue said.

    "He wasn''t," Duke Li Shenyang replied from the table. He waved for her to join them for breakfast. "The food is getting cold."

    "Father is right. Go and eat, Xueyue," Li Chenyang said. "I''ll personally speak to Wen Jinkai and try to send him away. We don''t need him to cause a ruckus."

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. She leaned in closer and lowered her voice. "Wouldn''t it be better to let him in? It''s best if he spoke with Minghua. I think he knows we''re the ones behind the Royal family''s murder."

    "He does know, we implied it," Li Chenyang whispered back.

    "Minghua can be the appeasement in case heshes out against us," Li Xueyue muttered.

    Li Chenyang lowered his gaze to meet hers. Since when did she enjoy using people? She had be more cunning. Or was she always like this? Did someone bring out the worst in her?

    Duke Li Shenyang was the only one to have noticed the hushed conversation that took ce between his children. He raised a brow when Chenyang turned back.

    "Perhaps it''s better if we hold an audience with him, Dad."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s gazended on Xueyue. Without a doubt, she had a hand in Chenyang''s decision. "I''m d you came to that conclusion. Why don''t we invite him in for breakfast?"

    "Dad!" Li Wenmin immediately called out. "Do you want a fight to ensue so early in the morning? Both Xiao Yue and Xiao Hua are present here. Surely, there will be problems if we let him in."

    "He''s a guest, Wenmin," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "We can''t turn him away. Especially after what happened recently. Have some pity on the poor Commander who lost his family."

    Li Minghua stiffened at her father''s words. She gripped the chopsticks so tightly, her hand began to tremble. She shot a dirty re in Xueyue''s direction, but was blocked by Chenyang whose body covered hers.

    "I don''t want to see him, Father," Li Minghua mumbled. "Not now. Now when she''s here. Can we¡ª"

    Duchess Wang Qixing shook her head. "It''s best to see him now that both of you two are here."

    "But Mother¡ª"

    "You''re so formal with us, dear girl. You never used to call us Mother and Father. It was always Mom and Dad. What changed that?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked in a patient voice. She reached a hand out and lovingly caressed her daughter''s face.

    Li Minghua shrank back in her seat. She couldn''t deny her mother''s kindness. "I just¡­"

    Duke Li Shenyang''s hardened heart cracked a bit for her. Li Minghua endured too much in the Pce. "We shouldn''t keep Wen Jinkai waiting any longer."

    Li Chenyang nodded. He turned to the Eunuch who always stood by the door. "Go and tell the servants to escort Wen Jinkai to the dining room."

    "Right away, Second Young Master," the Eunuch responded with a bow. He walked off to pass the message along.

    Li Chenyang''s hand shifted from the opened door to Xueyue''s upper back. "Come and sit. Don''t just stand here."

    Li Xueyue''s gazended on Minghua and the servants who hurried to create another seat at therge and spacious table.

    Li Chenyang had a suspicion about why she was eating so little. He lowered his voice and said, "Let''s switch seats. Instead of you facing Minghua, we''ll have you face Wenmin."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped upwards. She was caught off guard by his sudden suggestion. "Thank you, Chen-ge. I''d appreciate that."

    With a smile, he patted her on the cheek. "In return, I expect you to eat more than usual," he negotiated while poking her cheek. "See this? It''s sinking in because you''ve lost so much weight."

    She swatted at his hand. "I think I look fine."

    "You''re perfect as always, but I want to see the return of the second piglet of our family," Li Chenyang retorted much to her dismay.

    "I don''t want to be a piglet."

    "But they''re adorable."

    "Until they grow older."

    Li Chenyangughed at her remarks. She rarely sulked. It was endearing. He wanted to be even more overprotective when she showed this side of her to him.

    "Xiao Yue," Li Wenmin whined. "Come and sit. We need to fight for braised eggs, or it doesn''t feel like an actual breakfast."

    "Is that why you''re using your sharpened chopsticks again?" Li Xueyue teased as she began to approach the table with Li Chenyang right behind her.

    "Of course!" Li Wenmin shouted. "Why else would I have these for? It''s to stab the eggs since picking it up is simply too slippery."

    "Careful Xueyue," Li Chenyang mused. "If you eat too many eggs, you''ll be stupid like him."

    "Careful Xueyue," Li Wenmin mocked in a high-pitched voice. "If you read too many books, you''ll only be book smart like him."

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes at his childish brother. "How about you grow up and behave like the oldest?"

    "How about you grow up and behave like the oldest?" Li Wenmin mimicked in the same voice.

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. ''Just you wait, you damn brat. I''m going to smack you on the head as soon as Mom and Dad look away!''

    Li Wenmin red right back at his brother.

    When Duke Li Shenyang cleared his throat, the two finally broke it off, but not without a loud "hmph!" as they crossed their arms and nced away.

 Chapter 280 I Never Want To See You Again

    <h4>Chapter 280 I Never Want To See You Again</h4>

    Li Xueyue should''ve known Li Chenyang''s seat gave her a perfect view of the door. When Wen Jinkai stepped in and the first person heid eyes on was her, she took a visible sip of tea. The drama unfolding was going to either be mind-boggling, messy, or both.

    "Pardon my intrusion," Wen Jinkai said with attention still set on her. There was someone else sitting by the table, her back turned to him.

    "I had to confirm something that Xueyue once told me in the Pce on the night that the mayhem took ce," Wen Jinkai exined. He continued to advance towards the table, not caring that the Li Family hadn''t extended their invite for him to join them at the table for a meal.

    Wen Jinkai reached out to grab the unmoving woman, but Li Wenmin stood up and blocked her.

    "Move," Wen Jinkai demanded.

    "First," Duke Li Shenyang mused. "Whose side are you on, Commander?"

    "I came here alone without any of my men. I left my weapons at the front entrance. I haven''t used you of your sinful crimes. Whose side do you think I''m on?" Wen Jinkai spat out.

    Li Xueyue continued to sip her tea, the taste lingered on her tongue. It was a calming blend of chamomile and wild forest honey. Both of the men she told this secret to hadn''t trusted her until now. It was all too amusing. It just showed how little they trusted her.

    Her attention shifted to Li Wenmin who hadn''t budged from his position.

    Li Wenmin refused to let Wen Jinkai anywhere near Li Minghua. Especially after the diary revealed the Commander''s wrongdoings towards his younger sister. There was too much blood on the Commander''s hands. Blood that could taint Li Minghua''s white sleeves. Blood that could never be washed off.

    "Do you have a death wish?" Wen Jinkai asked. "General Li, do you understand the crime you''re currentlymitting?"

    Li Wenmin narrowed his eyes. He didn''t care about Wen Jinkai''s clenched jaw that ticked with each passing second. He couldn''t care less about his Commander''s thin patience. His family mattered more than respecting military titles. He''d put his honor on the line to save Minghua.

    Li Minghua had finallye back to the family. Li Wenmin would never risk losing her again.

    "What purpose do you have with her?" Li Wenmin demanded. "Haven''t you done enough damage to her? Why are you even here? To confirm whether the woman you abandoned in the Pce is alive or not?"

    "Little General, I will have no problem squashing you like a bug. Don''t make me use violence in front of her," Wen Jinkai seethed.

    Li Minghua stiffened at his words. He was threatening her brother. As much as the twins annoyed her, she still cherished Wenmin who stood by her side when no one else did.

    Li Minghua wished she could do something about this. She couldn''t even speak up for her own brother. Even after all that she went through, she was still a coward.

    "I''ve sacrificed my family like amb for what they''ve done to Minghua. The least you can do is show me the results of my pain!" Wen Jinkai snarled. Without warning, he shoved Li Wenmin to the side.

    Li Wenmin stumbled in surprise, and it was all toote. Wen Jinkai had grabbed Minghua and turned her around.

    "Commander Wen!" Duchess Wang Qixing exasperated with disappointment heavilycing her distressed voice. She couldn''t prevent the brute force of a powerful Commander.

    And for the first time in their lives, they had seen the impossible. Wen Jinkai dropped to his knees. Emotions coursed through Wen Jinkai faster than the crashing tides on a stormy night. First it was surprise, next came confusion, and then came disbelief. His eyes grew wide as he reached a shaky hand out to her. It was as if he had seen a ghost.

    "Little one?" Wen Jinkai muttered amidst his astonishment. He couldn''te to terms with the woman in front of him. She was Minghua, but she also wasn''t. The light in her eyes was reced with shadows. The hope and glimmer had died down. She had been thrown into the cruel reality that her family had sheltered her from.

    Li Minghua was no longer the naive little girl from two years ago. Everything had changed. She had changed.

    Wen Jinkai didn''t want to believe it. This wasn''t her. This wasn''t the Minghua who smiled without qualms. A soul as bleak as hers wouldn''t be capable of bell-likeughter. She wasn''t his Minghua.

    "Why are you so surprised?" Li Minghua asked. "You look terrified by the truth. I''m not that stupid maiden anymore."

    Wen Jinkai got to his feet. She moved like her, sounded like her, but she wasn''t her. "You''re not my Minghua."

    "The Minghua you knew had died in the Pce, long ago. Your neglect had killed her off," Li Minghua responded. There was so much she wanted to say, but wouldn''t. She preferred to keep her dignity.

    Even after all these years, her heart still ached for him. Li Minghua had seen the side profile of Wen Jinkai many times when he visited the Second Prince. Never once had he lingered long enough for her to catch a full glimpse of him. The first time she did so in two years was when he had violently grabbed her by the throat before Li Xueyue.

    "I wanted to treat you better," Wen Jinkai began. He approached her but came to an instant halt when she cringed back. "I truly didn''t mean to¡ª"

    "You didn''t mean to believe the Empress''s lies? Or you didn''t mean to believe the Fourth Prince''s words over mine? Oh no, perhaps you didn''t mean to find a recement for me. What exactly didn''t you intend to do, Commander?"

    Wen Jinkai''s lips parted in shock. She had never spoken to him like this. Her tone was never this coarse and her words so brash. The woman he had fallen in love with would never treat him as such. What happened to the timid smiles and shy nces to the ground?

    "I never want to see you again, Commander Wen," Li Minghua stated without hesitation. She didn''t mean it. She never could. Even now, pain spread throughout her chest. She felt like someone had stabbed her right through the heart.

    Li Minghua couldn''t meet his stare. She was too fearful of falling in love with him all over again.

    Regret weighed his shoulders down as grief filled his eyes. They were both remorseful of the past, but neither could admit to it. She wished she hadn''t fallen in love with him, and he wished he had loved her better.

    "I''m sorry."

    Li Minghua''s head snapped up at the unexpected apology. It was two simple words, yet the impact on her was so strong. It was thest thing he had said before exiting the dining room. Never once did he look back. Never once did he fight for her. History was repeating itself all over again. She had pushed him away, hoping he''d chase her. But he didn''t.

    Wen Jinkai had left without caring about her reply.

    Li Minghua tried to blink back the tears of her heartbreak, she truly did. She gnawed on the inside of her cheek, hoping, praying for any distraction. In the end, she could do nothing but break down in a fit of tears.

 Chapter 281 Departing For Hanjian

    <h4>Chapter 281 Departing For Hanjian</h4>

    Li Xueyue sipped her tea. She didn''t bat a single eysh to the drama.

    Duchess Wang Qixing immediately came forward tofort her crying daughter. "There, there, Mother is here," she murmured as Minghua threw her arms around her shoulders and loudly sobbed out.

    Li Wenmin squeezed his eyes shut at the sound that tore his heart apart. His fingers curled into fists. He would never forgive Wen Jinkai for this. Grounding his teeth, he took ast nce towards Minghua before storming out of the door.

    If Wen Jinkai would note running back for Li Minghua, then Li Wenmin would just have to drag the Commander here¡ªkicking and screaming.

    "Stop in your tracks!" Duchess Wang Qixing loudlymanded when she saw her oldest son run for the door. She already knew where this would lead to.

    Li Xueyue swung her legs without a care in the world. She continued to daydream.

    "Don''t you dare bring him back into this room. He has said what he said. There is no point in forcing him to reconsider his words," Duchess Wang Qixing exined.

    "But, Mother!" Li Wenmin exasperated. "He made Xiao Hua cry. The least he can do is pay for it in blood and broken bones."

    "This is not your battle to fight," Duchess Wang Qixing harshly scolded. "Get back to your seat and continue eating breakfast."

    "Mother is right," Li Chenyang spoke up. "Wen Jinkai is a grown man. He has made his decision. Leave him be."

    "How can you say that, Chenyang?!" Li Wenmin demanded. "He broke Minghua''s heart once before, and he did it again! This time, he had the guts to do it right in front of us. He needs to pay for what he has done."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. It was an interesting point.

    Duke Li Shenyang firmly shook his head. "He has paid with the death of his family. The same people who''ve used him ever since he was a mere child."

    Li Wenmin was quickly shut down by his father. As much as Wenmin abhorred the Commander, he couldn''t help but feel pity towards him. How did the Commander feel right now? Who had gained the most from the Royal family''s massacre? The Li Family.

    Li Wenmin couldn''t imagine losing his family all in one day, only for the love of his life to treat him coldly. The heartbreak would be too much to handle.

    "Fine," Li Wenmin said. He stomped to his chair and sat down. Out of frustration, he stabbed the egg and began eating in a rough manner.

    As a heavy atmosphere fell over the table, Li Xueyue was the only one unfazed by everything. Seeing Li Minghua in tears like this didn''t bother her the least. She lifted her teacup only to realize it was now empty.

    Li Xueyue only cared about the Li Family, minus their Minghua.

    The entire family, except Xueyue, was bothered by Minghua''s unstoppable tears. Everyone was glum and agitated. She couldn''t grieve with them, so she quietly poured herself another cup of tea and waited for everything to return to normal.

    - - - - -

    Once breakfast had ended, Li Xueyue realized she had once again skipped an important meal. Holed up in her room, she ate some pastries. Taking small nibbles here and there, she eventually pushed the te of snacks away.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t in the mood to eat. She wanted to do something that would distract her for the entire day.

    "I shall apany Heiyue on a long run through the fields today," she decided.

    Everyone had left her alone to do their own things. The Li Family always thought she preferred solitude, but it wasn''t true. She just didn''t have friends to socialize with.

    Li Xueyue exited her room and headed for the stables. She was surprised to see her father and Chenyang standing there with a horse she had never seen before.

    "This should cheer her up," Duke Li Shenyang muttered. "Minghua has always wanted to ride horses in the past. I never let her do so, but now, she''s all grown up. She should be fine with this one right?"

    "I don''t know why you dragged me into this," Li Chenyang said. He crossed his arms and red at the horse whose coat was as white as snow.

    "I had Ling search for a horse. It has finallye today, at the best of timing," Duke Li Shenyang stated. He ignored his grouchy son''s reply and handed the reins to him.

    "Give the horse to Minghua. You''re allowed toeter than usual today since the paperwork for the change of leadership is almostplete. Wuyi can''t survive another day without a man on the throne. Soon, the Li family will be crowned. I''d estimate it''d take another week and a half until our coronation."

    Li Chenyang stared at the reins in his hand and then the horse. It was well-built and beautiful. Any youngdy with a sensible mind would love this horse. It was a shame that his younger sister was neither ady or sensible.

    "Why are we even giving Minghua a horse if she doesn''t know how to ride it¡­" he paused, "Xueyue?" Li Chenyang finally noticed her standing in the middle of the path leading up to the stables.

    It was almost as if Heiyue recognized the name of his owner. He neighed in protest from within the stables.

    "For a blind horse," Duke Li Shenyang began. "That one is quite intelligent. Well, I should''ve known when he managed toe home on his own, despite not being able to see."

    "I picked him out myself," Li Xueyue proudly said as she approached her father and brother.

    Li Xueyue smiled a bit upon seeing the new horse. "This one seems obedient. It''ll be perfect for a beginner like Minghua."

    Li Chenyang''s lips twitched at the subtle jab towards Li Minghua. Everyone in the family knew how to ride horses. Only Minghua didn''t. He nced away to hide the smile that threatened to break out.

    Duke Li Shenyang patted her shoulders. "Don''t think thatment slipped by me, child."

    Li Xueyue sweetly smiled. She innocently blinked and tilted her head, feigning confusion. "I was only pointing out the obvious, Father."

    "I''m sure you were," Duke Li Shenyang mused. He nced down at her and smiled a bit.

    Even to this day, Duke Li Shenyang was d he took her under his wing. Despite her fake smile that needed more work, Li Xueyue had matured into a fine young woman. Even if Yu Zhen was never in their lives, Duke Li Shenyang would ept no other suitor except a Crown Prince.

    Duke Li Shenyang knew she was the illegitimate daughter of Viscountess Mu Yihua, but even to this day, he didn''t know who Xueyue''s birth father was.

    "Are you going to ride today?" Duke Li Shenyang asked, despite knowing the answer. He hated small talk, but this one would lead to his favor.

    Li Xueyue felt like there was some sort of underlying n in his words. "I was nning to give him a treat," she said. It was half the truth.

    "Oh?"

    Li Xueyue revealed the sugar cubes in her pockets. She tilted her head. "I wanted to spend a little bit of timebing Heiyue''s coat today before heading off to practice sword fighting. I''ve gotten a bit rusty."

    "Such a pity," Duke Li Shenyang mused. "I was hoping you''d apany Minghua on a ride. It would be a great bonding moment for both of you. You can teach her how to ride this horse."

    "It''s a shame," Li Xueyue feigned disappointment. "If only I hadn''t neglected my training so much¡­ I''d be able to teach Minghua."

    Li Chenyang raised a brow at her magnificent acting. If he hadn''t known better, he would''ve thought she enjoyed being around Minghua.

    Duke Li Shenyang chuckled at her behavior. "I was only joking with you, child. Minghua has an instructoring soon. You can take Heiyue deep into the fields to avoid them, but this time, try to note back with a new suitor begging at our doors."

    Li Xueyue flushed at his words. He had said it as payback for her white lie. Awkwardly, she scratched the side of her face and nced to the ground.

    Li Chenyangughed at her reaction. The subtle jab was hrious. He ruffled her hair. "You shouldn''t feed so many sugar cubes to Heiyue. Carrots are much healthier."

    At the call of its name, a loud thud came from the stables. Heiyue had kicked the stable doors. He was usually obedient inside, but whenever his Master was around, patience was never an option.

    Duke Li Shenyang nced into the stable where an impatient horse had his head craned out of the stable doors. His ears were perked, and he was on high alert.

    "Will you be bringing this horse to Hanjian?" Duke Li Shenyang questioned.

    Li Xueyue''s attention followed his line of sight. She suppressed a smile upon seeing Heiyue''s head sticking out of the door.

    "Yes, I think the terrain in Hanjian would be great. I''ve studied Hanjian''s geography. I was surprised by the speed of Yu Zhen''s horse, but didn''t know Hanjian had so many green ins for them to run," she responded.

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. He was d she was always studying. At least she didn''t waste her time alone on idle things. "Fighting soldiers of Hanjian on horses are for fools that court death."

    Li Chenyang frowned a bit. If only Wuyi''snd weren''t filled with so much uphills and forests, it''d be easier for them to train horses too. He supposed every country had their strengths and weaknesses. Hanjian''s soldiers were more likely to get tired out if they ran on foot.

    "Why do you ask, Father?" Li Xueyue questioned.

    Duke Li Shenyang smiled. "It''s because you''re departing for Hanjian in less than a week."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked in surprise. T-that soon?!

 Chapter 282 The Worst In Me

    <h4>Chapter 282 The Worst In Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue was excited to depart for Hanjian, but she didn''t think it would be so early. She wasn''t prepared to leave too soon. "Wouldn''t that mean I''d miss the coronation?"

    Duke Li Shenyang grimly nodded. He wished it wouldn''t be like this. If she was gone for the coronation, then she wouldn''t have the opportunity to be crowned as an official member of the Royal family before the people.

    "Yes, it would seem likely so," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "We wanted to dy your departure to Hanjian, but it''s inevitable, given the peace treaty is about to be finalized and the tension between two countries would finallye to an end. Moreover, the journey to Hanjian will take longer than two weeks because it will be by carriage."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She didn''t want to miss the most glorious day of the Li Family. The day Duke Li Shenyang would be crowned as the Emperor would mark the beginning of the Li Dynasty. Such a monumental day and she wouldn''t be able to witness it.

    "Are we receiving pressure from Hanjian''s courts? I understand that it would take them nearly a month from now to see me, but isn''t it unfair?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "They''re impatient, but we were the ones to have caused the most trouble," Duke Li Shenyang said. "I''ve already dyed your departure for a week. Originally, they wanted you to be sent off the day the political marriage was agreed upon."

    "How have you beenmunicating with Hanjian?" Li Xueyue asked. "Aside from the messenger. Is a carrier dove used?"

    "Yes, there is one for short messages," Duke Li Shenyang said. Everything was going ording to n. It was just as he had predicted.

    Li Chenyang frowned at how close Xueyue was falling into the Duke''s trap. He nced away, irritated by his own father. With each passing day as the Duke aged, one would think he should''ve grown a little more senile. Unfortunately, it seemed as if the Duke was only bing more sly.

    "Let me write a message," Li Xueyue said. "A short one. I''ll dy Yu Zhen. I feel like he''s being this petty because I didn''t respond to his letters which seemed to have been delivered to mete¡­"

    Duke Li Shenyang held back augh at her suggestion. She was always so quick to pick up on things like this. He had, indeed, dyed giving her the letters. It wasn''t because he didn''t want her to see the letters. He withheld them to make Yu Zhen even more desperate to ept the proposal to see Xueyue.

    Duke Li Shenyang had a suspicion that the cunning Hanjian Crown Prince would''ve requested for more than Xueyue if they could. But it seemed their Crown Prince had fallen right into the duke''s trap. With Yu Zhen losing his patience, the only thing he would seek from Wuyi aspensation would be none other than his beloved.

    "That is a wonderful idea, Xueyue," Duke Li Shenyang fondly responded. "You will have the entirety of today to write that short message. Once I get home, you can give it to me and I''ll attach it to the dove tomorrow morning."

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow. "Was that your n all along, Father? You knew he''d listen to me, didn''t you?"

    Duke Li Shenyang warmlyughed at her words. She was pouting after finally realizing his intentions. He nced up at the sky. "It''s gettingte. I should head to the Pce now."

    "So I was right," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    Duke Li Shenyang fondly smiled down at her. He patted her on the shoulders. She rarely showed this side of her. He would miss it indefinitely. "I merely offered you the kindling. You were the one who ignited it."

    Li Chenyang snorted at his father''s words. "What a dramatic way of saying your actions influenced her behavior."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s smile widened. "Interpret my words as you deem fit. Now,e along Chenyang. It will be a long day ahead of us."

    "I thought I was supposed to stay at home a bit longer to... you know," he said and gestured to the reins in his hand. "Deliver this horse to my bratty sister who doesn''t deserve it one bit."

    "She has always been like this," Duke Li Shenyang said. "It won''t be easy to change her."

    "But that doesn''t mean we shouldn''t try too," Li Chenyang sniped. "If two years as a servant didn''t humble her, what makes you think we can?"

    "Your sister is aplicated woman, as most of them are," Duke Li Shenyang began. "We must understand things from her perspective. Justst night, she thought I never loved her."

    "What?" Li Chenyang retorted. "That''s such bullcrap¡ª"

    "Don''t curse," Duke Li Shenyang interrupted. It was very unlike his son to behave like this.

    "She brings out the worst in me," Li Chenyang muttered. He was toofortable around his family. Hisposure always slipped away inside of this household.

    "That''s a good thing," Duke Li Shenyang pointed out. "It means she has left a big enough impact for you to react as such, though I don''t appreciate the way this family is taking sides."

    "We''re not," Li Chenyang said, even though he didn''t believe in his own words. "I just think her behavior is a way to make us pity her. Father, you''ve given her everything she has ever wanted in life. If that''s not love, then I don''t know what is."

    "She imed my love was materialistic," Duke Li Shenyang sniped. He nced at the horse and realized, perhaps it was true. He wanted to give this horse to her, in hopes he''d cure her depression. In reality, he should''ve had a decent conversation with her.

    "It is," Li Chenyang deadpanned. "But it''s still love isn''t it? And how does she respond? It''s as if we starved her and deprived her of water."

    It was time for Li Xueyue to intrude into the conversation. "Just because it has the word ''love'' attached to the phrase, it doesn''t mean it''s actually love."

    Both pairs of eyesnded directly upon her. She had a serious expression on her face.

    "Tough love isn''t love just because of the word attached to the phrase. Love is love. Ites in all forms, but when it hurts the person you hold adoration for, then it bes something else," she said.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s lips dipped into a slight frown. He didn''t expect these words of wisdom from her. Where had she learned this from?

    Li Chenyang nced away. He had never viewed it from her perspective, but he couldn''t deny the truth in her words. What is love when it inflicts pain? Is that even love?

    Li Chenyang always knew Xueyue was intelligent. He didn''t think she had it in her to understand the meaning of love.

    "If Minghua feels that way," Li Xueyue said. "Then there must be something failing in the rtionship."

    "You''re too kind," Li Chenyang snapped. "You shouldn''t be caring so much about a girl who does nothing but nder you."

    Duke Li Shenyang frowned. If only Xueyue wasn''t thispassionate. For her behavior, he adored her even more. It made the thought of departing from her even more difficult.

    "I''d rather not stoop to her level and get dragged to the Eighteen Levels of Hell [1] together," Li Xueyue responded.

    Duke Li Shenyang should''ve been offended at her words, but couldn''t find it in himself to do so. Minghua had said much more nasty things about Xueyue. "I will consider your words then, Xueuye."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She knew the consequences of her words and actions. Minghua''s life might get better from here if Duke Li Shenyang was true to his words. All of this didn''t matter to Xueyue. In the end, she had still benefited from her own words.

    Li Xueyue herself could see the approval in the Duke''s facial features.

    Duke Li Shenyang ced an affection hand on her shoulder. "You will do well in Hanjian, my dear girl."

    The corner of Li Xueyue''s lips curled upwards into a serene smile. It was the only thing she could do and say without sounding too humble or arrogant.

    "We should get going now," Li Chenyang muttered. His gaze met Xueyue''s. He was defeated by her words, but didn''t realize the impact of it was much deeper than intended. That is until he gazed into the distance and noticed a figure running off.

    Li Minghua had heard the conversation unfold.

 Chapter 283 Why Are You Running?

    <h4>Chapter 283 Why Are You Running?</h4>

    Li Xueyue turned around and saw the same thing: a tiny figure running off down the road. From the sway of the light-colored clothes, she concluded it was Li Minghua. She hoped the young woman had heard their conversation.

    ''I defended her. If Minghua has some conscience, she would know I''m not exactly against her, nor do I support her,'' Li Xueyue thought to herself.

    "I''ll leave this horse in the stable," Li Chenyang said. "Once we get home from today''s pce duties, you can give it to her, Dad."

    Duke Li Shenyang slowly nodded. He watched the shadow of his daughter finally disappear into nothingness. "Time seems to go by much faster when we''re not wilting in the Pce. Come now, Chenyang. We''ll bete if we don''t hurry."

    Li Chenyang nodded.

    Li Xueyue bid her brother and father farewell. She stared at their backs as they walked down the same road as Li Minghua. When she was all alone, she turned towards the stable door and decided to not keep Heiyue waiting for so long.

    The stable boy bowed at the sight of her. He quickly stepped to the other end of the stable as the Young Miss opened the stable doors. No one else could get close to Heiyue except for the cksmith who adjusted his metal horseshoe and the stable boy who tended it daily.

    Heiyue would still behave like a wild horse without a Master. His impatience was hard to manage. The powerful horse showed no mercy to those he despised.

    "Did you miss me?" Li Xueyue fondly asked as she patted the horse''sbed mane. She smiled a bit when Heiyue snorted in response.

    Li Xueyue revealed the sugar cube in her palm and ced it near his mouth. Heiyue instantly gobbled it up in loud crunches.

    "Let''s have some fun today," Li Xueyue said. She guided Heiyue out of the well-kept stables. There was always fresh hay and waterid out for her horse. Because of Heiyue''s nutritious diet, his midnight coat of hair always gleamed under the sun.

    Li Xueyue watched as the stable boy prepared the saddles. Once everything was set up, she guided the horse to the other side of the stable where the entrance leading to the field at the back of the manor was.

    Li Xueyue slid onto her horse with ease and it didn''t take long for them to run through the clearing. She let out a sigh of relief upon feeling the gentle caress of the sun on her back. Wind coursed through them, lifting her high ponytail. And eventually, they were nothing but a whirl of ck.

    - - - - -

    They ran all the way to the forest, paused for a sip of water before returning home. By the time Li Xueyue returned from her ride, it was nighttime.

    Stars danced upon the ck canvas whilst mingling with the pale, white moon. The curtain of clouds was pulled back to reveal a stunning ray of moonlight that guided the lost dreamers.

    Li Xueyue guided Heiyue into the stables as she wiped the sweat from her forehead. She appreciated the Li family''s manor and everything it offered. The fields were always well-leveled, which made it easier for Heiyue to have his fun.

    "Wee home, Young Miss," the stable boy said with a deep bow.

    "Thank you," Li Xueyue responded as she handed the rein to the stable boy who nervously took it, careful to not touch her. The stable boy didn''t want to taint his Young Miss''s hands. Despite his well-kept appearance, he couldn''t help but feel dirtypared to the daughter of the house.

    "We''ve run almost all day. Please feed him more than usual," Li Xueyue instructed as she patted Heiyue''s mane.

    Heiyue nudged at her shoulders, enjoying the caress that always came from nowhere.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but smile at his affectionate reactions. He was her onlypanion in this house. The only person that would forever be by her side.

    "Has my father and brother returned home?" Li Xueyue asked the stable boy who had begun to take off the saddles.

    The stable boy turned to face her and averted his gaze. "Yes, Young Miss. Master and the Second Young Master had just recentlye home."

    "Great," Li Xueyue said. She turned to Heiyue and gave him a final pat. "I''ll see you soon," she murmured before walking out of the stables.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue initially wanted to greet Duke Li Shenyang and Li Chenyang as soon as she could, but decided to take a quick bath first. From the sweat she had umted, the clothes clung to her body. Thus, she headed to her room but paused upon seeing someone in the main hallway.

    Li Xueyue quickly turned on her feet and began walking in the opposite direction. She''d just have to take the long way back to her room. Right now, she was too fatigued to deal with a spoiled brat.

    "Why are you running from me?" Li Minghua shouted down the hallway.

    She stared as Li Xueyue jumped from the loud sound. Li Xueyue''s back was turned to her.

    Li Xueyue picked up her footing and continued her merry way. She refused to have a conversation with Li Minghua at this time. The woman was crazy. Who knew what her next ploy was?

    Li Minghua''s lips curved down in disapproval. All she wanted to do was talk, that was all. She had no friends in this country, and her previous hobbies bored her. There was nothing she enjoyed doing in this house.

    Li Minghua couldn''t help but think back to Li Xueyue''s words from this morning. Did Xueyue truly mean to defend her? Or was it all a ploy?

    Because of this morning''s conversation, Minghua had no choice but to be grateful for Xueyue''s help. Perhaps the words of Xueyue would get through the stubborn Duke more than anyone else could.

    Li Minghua helplessly watched as Li Xueyue turned a corner. Never once did she look back.

    Li Minghua finally realized something. Despite all the problems she had caused, it seemed as if Li Xueyue had faith in her. Wasn''t that the reason Xueyue kept her back unguarded?

    "How puzzling," Li Minghua muttered to herself.

    ''Was Li Xueyue simply that naive? Or does she have blind trust in me?'' Li Minghua wondered to herself.

    She bit her bottom lip whilst ncing out of the open hallway. What greeted her was a small cluster of hydrangeas.

    Li Minghua was surprised to see these flowers since thergest and prettiest ones were often found in the Duchess''s gardens.

    "I wonder why Mother likes hydrangeas so much¡­" Li Minghua thought out loud. She could vaguely remember asking her mother the question in her childhood. What exactly had the Duchess said? Li Minghua couldn''t recall the exact reason except for a few keywords.

    "Because hydrangeas bloom in a wonderful cluster that reminds us of the importance of family."

    Li Minghua jumped upon hearing the sweet, tender voice of her mother. She turned around to see her kind mother standing there.

    "I don''t understand¡­" Li Minghua trailed off.

    Duchess Wang Qixing smiled. "Hydrangeas are difficult to take care of. Without proper care, they won''t bloom to their fullest. It reminds me of this family. Without a proper understanding of each other, we would never get along to the best of our abilities."

    "Then what does a hydrangea have to do with me?" Li Minghua asked.

    "Your fickle behavior mimics the flower. Every little thing can upset you, but when you have the attention you require, there is nothing more beautiful than your smile," Duchess Wang Qixing said.

    Li Minghua blinked back her tears. Li Minghua couldn''t love herself. She was scarred for life. There would be no one in this world who''d marry her. She could never make her family proud.

 Chapter 284 Bully

    <h4>Chapter 284 Bully</h4>

    Duchess Wang Qixing noticed her daughter''s silence and knew her daughter was overthinking again. "I''m grateful that you didn''tsh out on Xueyue again even if she had ignored you."

    "She defended me today," Li Minghua mumbled. She hugged her stomach and nced away. "I don''t understand her. One minute, she''s patient with me, and the next, she takes jabs."

    "Xueyue is a kind-hearted girl," Duchess Wang Qixing exined. "Herpassiones at unexpected moments. She only attacks those who wed at her first."

    "I don''t want to hear this," Li Minghua said. She wasn''t ready to hear the truth or acknowledge Li Xueyue''s deeds.

    "I know you don''t," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "But I''m simply exining her nature to you. We truly didn''t rece you, my dear girl. There is a spot for both of you in my heart."

    Li Minghua bit her bottom lip. Her mother always knew what to say. She didn''t want to ept the cruel reality. The Second Prince was right¡­ The Li Family would do everything in their power to make her feel loved, but none of their attempts would ever seed.

    Li Minghua had built walls around herself. They were tall and firm, made of the strongest of materials. Nothing could knock her walls down, even if it closed in on her.

    Duchess Wang Qixing knew her daughter needed time to heal. "Dinner won''t be ready for another hour. Come and take a walk with me in the gardens, my sweet child."

    - - - - -

    "And done!" Li Xueyue smiled as she held up the small slip of parchment. She just finished her bath. Whilst the servants were drying her hair with a cloth, she was writing a message for Yu Zhen.

    Li Xueyue swung her legs as she peered down at the message. She ignored the small, crumbled pieces of parchment beside the table. It had taken several tries to make her handwriting as neat as possible.

    She read the message in her head, wondering if it should be more cryptic.

    ''Don''t be so petty, you bully. Good thingse to those who wait.''

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. Was the message too vague? Yu Zhen was intelligent. She hoped it wasn''t just for show. Hmph, the irony of that situation would be hrious.

    Li Xueyue flicked the parchment back and forth to let the ink dry. Then she patted the words, making sure the ink didn''t transfer to her fingers. Luckily, it didn''t. She neatly folded the slip of parchment in half and stood up just as her hair was done drying.

    A gentle knock sounded in her room. "Come in," she said.

    The door opened to reveal Li Wenmin. He stepped into her room and examined it like he always did. He didn''t know why and when it became a habit of his.

    "Xiao Yue, dinner is ready," Li Wenmin stated.

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. It was usually Li Chenyang who notified her. What brought Wenmin in here?

    "I was just preparing to head there," Li Xueyue said she slipped the message into her pockets.

    "What was that?" Li Wenmin asked. He pointed to her thigh, where the pocket resided.

    "It''s a secret," Li Xueyue mused. She approached him and looped her hand around his elbow. The two began to head out of the room and towards the dining hall.

    "It''s so strange to see you notify me about dinner. Usually, you''d race to the table to steal a bite or two before I show up."

    Li Wenminughed a bit as he scratched the back of his neck. "I decided to give both of us a head start."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. That was unlike her Wen-ge who loved to y sneaky in the form of custom-made chopsticks. "Is that so?" she responded.

    Li Wenmin eagerly nodded. "And also because¡­ Well, I figured you feel left out."

    "Well, I didn''t feel that way until you mentioned it," Li Xueyue mused. "It''s strange, Wen-ge. Maybe I overthink everything, but it feels like you''re distancing yourself away from me. Is there something you want to tell me?"

    Li Wenmin slowly shook his head. "I didn''t mean to make you feel that way. It''s just¡­ Minghua has finally returned home, and I was worried she would be out of ce in her own house. I wanted to make sure Minghua has the attention she needed."

    "Well, that''s not a good excuse," Li Xueyue truthfully said. She wanted to resolve this issue before it was toote. On a normal day, she would''ve curbed her tongue and yielded to whatever he wanted. She had learned from Yu Zhen that this was not the best approach.

    It surprised Li Wenmin to hear her rebuttal. She rarely voiced her opinions. "I''m sorry."

    "For what?" Li Xueyue asked with a slight smile. She nced up at her older brother whose features were haunted by grim displeasure. The truth always hurts doesn''t it?

    "For neglecting you¡­" Li Wenmin trailed off. "I should''ve done much more in your defense, but Xiao Hua was so pitiful and it''s just¡ª"

    "I don''t think Minghua would appreciate the attention you give her out of pity and guilt. No one wants to receive pity, especially by their own family member," Li Xueyue responded.

    Li Wenmin rapidly blinked at her words. He dropped his gaze to the ground. He had never thought of it from this perspective.

    "I can''t understand where Minghua ising from, but she has lost my favor," Li Xueyue responded. "That''s the nature of life, isn''t it? We can''t like everyone in our lives, despite the impact they''d have on us."

    Li Wenmin let out a smallugh. She was right, as always. "I suppose there was a lot of wrongdoing on my part with my behavior."

    "Well, at least you''re aware of it," Li Xueyue mused. "That''s a good thing. Awareness is the first step to change."

    Li Wenmin slowly nodded. He hadn''t realized she had matured so much in the short span of time he had known her. Two and a half years passed by so quickly¡­ Time always passed by quickly when one was having fun. It was unfair. He wanted more time with his Xiao Yue.

    Li Xueyue decided to change the topic. "How was your day in the military?"

    Li Wenmin pondered over his next words. There was an eventful moment¡­ It was another encounter with the small-figured soldier who had an appetite that matched his.

    "Do you remember that soldier I told you about? The one who was able to beat my snacking record? Well, whoever he is, he showed up again!" Li Wenmin eximed. He was eager to mention the soldier whose identity was still unknown.

    "I knew it was him the second I saw him, but it''s so weird. How can he be half my size but have a stomach that was able topete with mine?" Li Wenmin thought out loud.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "Are you sure it''s a ''he''?" she asked. "How did you know it''s not a girl?"

    "Hmmm, that''s a good question," Li Wenmin responded. He had never considered the possibility of a female soldier in the camps. It wasn''t an impossible thing, but female soldiers were certainly rare, unlike in Hanjian.

    "The next time you see that soldier, you should ask him to take off his helmet. It''d be nice to get to know him and make a new friend," Li Xueyue said. At the mention of friends, her mood soured a bit. She didn''t have a single friend in this world.

    Li Wenmin eagerly nodded. "I will, I will!"

    Li Xueyue smiled at his energetic behavior. "Who knows?" she shrugged. "If it''s a girl¡­" She winked.

    Li Wenmin was initially confused by her reaction, but then realization dawned on him. "Hey, you''re not ying matchmaker, right?!"

    Li Xueyueughed at his words. "Maybe I am."

    "No, don''t!" Li Wenmin groaned. "I don''t want to get married so quickly. I want to y around a bit more."

    Li Xueyue merely shrugged in response. And little did they both know, Li Wenmin would eventually regret his words in the near future.

 Chapter 285 The Towns Laughing Stock

    <h4>Chapter 285 The Town''s Laughing Stock</h4>

    Dinner went by quickly.

    Li Xueyue had eaten a bit more than she did in the past few days; however, it couldn''tpare to how much she could eat in the past.

    The only reason she ate more that night was because the twins wouldn''t stop piling food into her bowl. It was as if they were forcing her to eat. Everyone watched her like a hawk, making sure she was eating well.

    Li Xueyue had no choice but to eat it all. Once dinner concluded, she slipped the Duke a little note to be delivered by the messenger dove to Hanjian.

    "Another uneventful day," Li Xueyue said to herself once she was in her room. She had nothing to do but wait for the herbal tonic to finish boiling. She sighed to herself, knowing the bitter drink was too dreadful for her to consume.

    Li Xueyue approached the vanity and unlocked a drawer. She pulled out the small vial of sleep-inducing medicine that she had requested from the doctor and examined it. She was sure the doctor knew of her ns. This wasn''t a simple sleep-inducing medicine.

    "I just hope I''d never have to use it on someone else," Li Xueyue said before slipping the item back into the drawer, but something else caught her eyes. Yu Zhen''s pendant. It was directly beside hers.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but muse at the idea. She could''ve sworn Hanjian didn''t have the same tradition of giving pendants to loved ones, but she supposed the act of doing so was still as significant.

    Li Xueyue wondered if there would ever be a day she''d have to use Yu Zhen''s pendant to protect herself. She hoped and prayed that day would nevere, for it meant the danger was simply too peril for her to handle by herself¡­

    - - - - -

    The next few days went by smoothly. Without Xueyue knowing it, the day of her supposed departure to Hanjian was tomorrow morning.

    Li Xueyue paced back and forth in her room. Did the messenger dove get lost? She hadn''t received a single word from Yu Zhen in regard to the matter of dying her departure to Hanjian.

    The storm had finally passed for the Li Family. This morning, the family had sent out orders for the capital''s announcement board near the town hall to be updated.

    Heinous deeds of the Royal family were revealed to the entire country, from servant abuse to private funds leaking to foreign countries, not a single crime was spared.

    As a result, the Second and Fourth Prince''s im on the throne was rescinded. Even if they tried to, no one would support them. The Second Prince was too sickly in the first ce, and the Fourth Prince was so badly wounded, he was unable to wake up from his unconsciousness.

    But all of this still didn''t put Li Xueyue''s mind at rest.

    "I must go to Hanjian in case they speak up against the Li family''s reign on the throne¡­ but Yu Zhen hasn''t given me his word. What do to..." she trailed off.

    She stopped pacing upon hearing a knock on the door. She turned towards it and called out, "Come in."

    The doors were pushed open by the servants and Duke Li Shenyang stepped inside. His attention went directly to her.

    "You seemed burdened by something, Xueyue," Duke Li Shenyang pointed out when he noticed Xueyue''s posture.

    With her left arm slung across her stomach, her right elbow rested on her left hand while her right hand touched her chin.What was she thinking about? Her posture reminded him of Chenyang when he was stressed out.

    Li Xueyue dropped her hands. "I was just worried because it''s been days and I''ve not heard from Yu Zhen. It seems the tables have turned, and now I''m forced to ponder whether my message was sessfully delivered or not."

    Duke Li Shenyang let out a heartyugh at her words. If he was in her shoes, he''d worry as well.

    "He''s a petty man. Just as you made him wait for your letters, he took his sweet time in sending the messenger dove back," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    Li Xueyue straightened up at the Duke''s words. Hope filled her. Didn''t that mean Yu Zhen did respond?

    Duke Li Shenyang''s smile grew wide at her behavior. It seemed she was eager to see Yu Zhen. He had never seen so much joy in her eyes unless they spoke of Yu Zhen.

    "It''s just as you predicted," Duke Li Shenyang said. He approached her and stretched out his hand to reveal a small slip of parchment in his palm. "He has finally replied."

    "May I?" Li Xueyue asked as she pointed a finger at his open palm.

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. He found it interesting that she was still so polite, despite the years she had spent with them. His smile slipped a bit upon remembering what caused her to be so courteous in the first ce.

    Li Xueyue took the note from her father''s hand. She noticed the Duke had respected her privacy. The small piece of parchment hadn''t been unraveled at all. She unrolled it and read the message.

    ''Only because you asked.''

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. Was this a yes? Or a no?

    "What did he say?" Duke Li Shenyang asked.

    Li Xueyue held up the note for him to read. He squinted a bit and frowned.

    "Well, that is a vague answer. As expected of a petty boy," Duke Li Shenyang said and chuckled. "I suppose we can take that as a yes. You can dy your departure to Hanjian."

    "Truly?" Li Xueyue asked with a small gasp. Wouldn''t that mean she would be there to witness the crowning of Duke Li Shenyang as the new Emperor of Wuyi?

    Duke Li Shenyang nodded. "Even if the Ministers of Hanjian were to object, I will just me it on their Prince''s stupid response."

    Li Xueyue chuckled at her father''s subtle jabs at Yu Zhen. Leave it to her father to have the guts to insult a Crown Prince. "When will the coronation be?"

    "Very soon. In less than a week," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "Your mother ordered custom-made clothes for you to wear for that day. The Qun Kwa [1] for your wedding has also been ordered."

    Li Xueyue blushed at his words. Everything that had fallen apart was falling into ce. She couldn''t believe how much had happened this year. Just the thought of getting married was simply too surreal for her.

    "You''ve done well, my dear," Duke Li Shenyang fondly said. Never would he have imagined the youngest in the family would be the first to get married.

    "Thank you¡­" Li Xueyue timidly responded. Even until now, she didn''t know how to react topliments.

    "You''ve made me very proud of you, Xueyue," Duke Li Shenyang added on. "I anticipate great things from you."

    "I won''t let you down, Father."

    "You never have, and never will," Duke Li Shenyang said. He ced a fond hand upon her shoulder. "Do not burden yourself with the thought of bing a disappointment to us. No matter what happens in Hanjian, the Li family will always be on your side."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know the Duke was aware of her sentiments. How did he know she was terrified of disappointing the family that has given her everything when she had nothing to give back?

    "Even if there are enough crimes to dye your sleeves bright red, the Li family will not mind. You''re our daughter and we will always protect you. If there is someone that dares to make a fool out of you, then make sure you turn them into the town''sughing stock."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted at these words. Was he giving her permission to act out? Or was he implying the future would be dangerous? She supposed it was both.

    "But that doesn''t mean you shouldn''t take our family name into consideration. Without a doubt, I know you will. Thus, I am not worried about your actions. You''ve always been a wise youngdy," Duke Li Shenyang added on.

    The corner of his lips settled into a warm smile. Duke Li Shenyang wondered when was the exact moment he began to cherish her.

    Was it when he discovered her battered body in the forest? Was it the first time heid eyes on her? Was it the time he looked out the window to see her teaching the twins?

    She had done so much of the Li Family without even knowing it.

    If there was one thing that he was certain of, it was that Li Xueyue had never once disappointed him. He trusted she would never do so, at least, not in this lifetime.

 Chapter 286 Lack of Protection

    <h4>Chapter 286 Lack of Protection</h4>

    Li Xueyue heard nothing about an envoy or diplomating from Hanjian to Wuyi. She could safely assume Yu Zhen had truly given her more time. She was grateful of his response. It gave her more time to spend with the twins, even if it was only for a short while.

    "The house used to be filled with so much screams andughter," Li Xueyue wondered out loud.

    Li Xueyue missed the days when the twins didn''t have to work. Before they moved to the Capital, the twins were always at home to apany her.

    Whether it was swordfighting with Wenmin or reading books with Chenyang, everything they did with her, she enjoyed. There were also days dedicated to archery training, where all three of them would enjoy the sport with smiles andughter.

    "Those were the days¡­" she trailed off.

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh whilst taking a sip of her tea. It was raining today, and she should''ve stayed in her room. But the gentle rain fall was calming and she wanted to experience it in person.

    Li Xueyue?especially enjoyed it in the pavilion where the air was humid but soft and gentle. Rain trickled down from the round rooftop of the pavilion as flowers dropped from the weight of the collecting raindrops.

    "Why did you avoid me?"

    Li Xueyue frowned. Well, there goes her peaceful afternoon. She raised her head and shifted her attention from the book on herp to the woman who stood by the pirs of the stone pavilion. Vines climbed around therge column that held up the dome.

    "I was told to stay away from you," Li Xueyue responded as she flipped a page of her book. "I supposed I''ve been doing a sorry job at it."

    Li Minghua wondered if Li Xueyue was putting up an act for everyone to see how diligent she was. Why else would the young woman read in the open pavilion? Wasn''t Li Xueyue worried the book would get wet?

    "You''re awfully quiet today," Li Xueyue added on. She took a nibble of the rice cake and another sip of tea. The snack and tea were prepared by the Duchess which left her no choice but to finish it all.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize how weird the tea tasted until it mixed with the rice cake in her mouth. The vors shed when consumed together. The tea was tangy and spicy, yet sweet at the same time. She wondered what was in it.

    "I heard what you said about Father''s materialistic love," Li Minghua began. She continued to stare at Li Xueyue whose nimble fingers turned a page once again. Everything that Li Xueyue did was simply too graceful.

    Li Minghua found this behavior of hers to be bizarre. Wasn''t Bai Xueyue abused in her household? Where did she learn etiquette like this from?

    Li Minghua''s gaze wandered to the flowers behind Li Xueyue. Had the Second Prince lied? Everything that Minghua knew about Xueyue came from the Second Prince.

    Li Minghua felt a sense of fear and dread. He was an unpredictable man. It has been days.

    Wang Jing should''ve been alerted of her absence on the day she ran off, yet he didn''t contact her. Was he unable to? Or did he not care for her anymore? She shuddered at the thought of his silent rage.

    The Second Prince was a possessive man, especially when it came to his friends. Once they were acquainted, he would do everything in his power to keep them close¡ªeven if they didn''t want to be friends anymore.

    "What are you looking at?" Li Xueyue calmly asked. She didn''t feel the need to be terrified of Li Minghua. This girl lost every single argument she started. ''I hope she learned her lesson.''

    "Why are you so nice to me?" Li Minghua demanded. "It''s creepy and suspicious. I hear you''re kind to everyone you know, even the servants. Do you think that makes you a saint?"

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. She kept her eyes trained on the book. It was about the different herbs found in Hanjian. Some could be poisonous, others could be medicinal.

    "In High Society, words are our weapons. The thicker our masks, the stronger we are. Not all of us can afford to wear our emotions on our sleeves," Li Xueyue responded.

    "I learned that the hard way," she said and nced up at Minghua. "You should too."

    Li Minghua was stunned by her words. She had never thought of it that way. She was born in such an influential family that everything she said could be pardoned. There will always be people willing to protect her from harm.

    Li Minghua could never curb her tongue. She always spoke whatever came to mind. She prided herself on theck of filters. It was better to be truthful than tantly lie.

    "Truthfully, I don''t understand you," Li Minghua said. "You have the protection of Mother and Father, as well as the twins. Why do you have to be so careful all the time?"

    "I don''t want to suffer the same fate as you," Li Xueyue simply said.

    Li Minghua was immediately offended by her words. "What is that supposed to mean?"

    "Your behavior and attitude earned the hatred of a powerful enemy¡ªthe Empress. As a result, you were burned and demoted to the ranks of a servant. Such a fate is heartbreaking, especially when you could''ve soared higher."

    Li Minghua frowned. "You love to talk all high and mighty. It''s hrious,ing from someone who lived a life worse than that of a servant."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "It''s exactly because I lived such a life that I''m grateful for all that I have today."

    "Oh, you mean the life with the Bai family?"

    Li Xueyue nodded. "My past shaped my future. Every mistake is a lesson."

    She peered at her half-empty tea cup. She saw a clear reflection of herself. "I used to be exactly like you. I said everything that came to mind, especially if it was the truth, but look at what it had earned me. I was beaten severely even if I never told a lie."

    Li Minghua was deeply touched by her words. They lived such pr opposite lives. One lived a life of luxury while the other lived a life full of hardships, yet Li Xueyue prevailed over her obstacles.

    Li Minghua realized she had no excuses in life. Everything was handed to her but she didn''t know how to use it to her advantage. She had so much but misused it.

    Guilt threatened to consume her alive. It nibbled at her conscience. She averted her gaze and dropped her shoulders. Why exactly did she hate Li Xueyue again? Was it because she was told that Li Xueyue was her recement?

    Was it because Li Xueyue was dearly loved by the Li Family at a time that Li Minghua was paying for her mistakes?

    Was it because the Li Family''s attention was divided?

    Was it because Wen Jinkai had fallen for her?

    Was it because the pieces that seemed to be falling out of ce were actually forming a full picture?

    Li Minghua couldn''t ce a finger on the exact question, but deep down¡­ she knew the answer.

    "Mother made a lot of snacks," Li Xueyue finally said. She decided the prolonged silence between them was too stifling. It made it difficult for her to read the book.

    "I can''t finish it, why don''t you join me?" Li Xueyue offered.

    Li Minghua hugged the pir with her body. There was too much remorse for her to sit down with Li Xueyue. ''I''m older than her, but why is she so much more mature than me? She could''ve continued tearing me down¡­''

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "This doesn''t mean I forgive you for everything you''ve said and done to me. One day I''ll get you back for it, or maybe I won''t. It all depends on our rtionship from here on out."

    "I¡­" Li Minghua trailed off. "I only¡­"

    Li Xueyue lifted her head from the book and took a small gulp of tea. What was so hard to say? She had never seen this timid side of Minghua. It reminded her of a child struggling to admit to their mistakes.

    "It''s just¡­ uhm, the Second Prince¡­" Li Minghua stumbled over her words.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow.

    Li Minghua stared at the floor. "I-I''m still bitter about my family''sck of protection towards me. When I was ving away in the Pce, I was angry that they found someone else. I was working so hard to keep them safe, but they continued to live a life of bliss."

    "I don''t think that''s necessarily true," Li Xueyue murmured. "I heard Mother was depressed for days on end when you disappeared."

    "Really¡­?"

    Li Xueyue nodded. "When mother wasn''t crying, she was mindlessly staring out the window. Her body was physically there, but her soul and heart weren''t."

    "But why would she¡ª"

    "Your disappearance absolutely shattered her. Everyone copes differently. Father he held it all in so that it wouldn''t make the family even more depressed."

    Li Xueyue shifted her attention to Li Minghua. "The twins must''ve been hurt too. They reacted differently. Even Chenyang missed you. There were moments he''d abruptly hug me, begging for me to never leave his side. He was terrified of losing me because he had already lost a sister."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted when she saw the rain trickling down Li Minghua''s face. She nearly offered her toe inside again but paused. Those weren''t droplets of rain. They were tears.

 Chapter 287 Another Bra

    <h4>Chapter 287 Another Bra</h4>

    Li Minghua didn''t know what to say to Li Xueyue. There was so much that should be said, but she couldn''t properly piece her jumbled thoughts into words. How could she?

    Li Minghua was overwhelmed with emotions. She didn''t want to ept the truth, but knew she had to. Truths are hard to swallow. That was why it weighed more than a simple lie.

    "I''m sorry," Li Minghua finally said.

    "I don''t forgive you. Your words didn''t hurt me, but your actions did."

    Li Minghua was surprised. She thought the good-hearted Xueyue would yield. "That''s fine. I didn''t expect you to forgive me."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "You should reflect on your behavior and actions. Feeling remorse is the first step."

    "...I will," Li Minghua reluctantly said.

    Li Xueyue closed the book and stood up. The tea had gone cold, and the snacks had hardened. It was no longer enjoyable reading in the pavilion. She supposed it was time to head back into her room. Besides, the wind was picking up and blowing rain into the pavilion.

    It would be a waste if the book was damaged in the process. The book was also a gift from Yu Zhen, purchased on the day they went to the merchant fair.

    "Where are you going?" Li Minghua asked in panic. "Aren''t we going to talk more?"

    "What is there to talk about?" Li Xueyue questioned. "Did you expect that this simple encounter to fix everything?"

    "I was hoping it would," Li Minghua muttered.

    Li Xueyue''s expression softened into a wry smile. "This isn''t how an apology works."

    "Why can''t we use this encounter as a way of restarting our rtionship?" Li Minghua asked. "I''m sure Mother and Father would appreciate it if we didn''t argue so much."

    "I wanted to get along with you right from the start, but your behavior towards me has changed my mind," Li Xueyue said.

    Li Xueyue tucked the book into the crook of her elbow and picked up the te of snacks.

    "So you''re saying there is absolutely no way we can be friends? Or even acquaintances?" Li Minghua asked.

    Li Minghua was hurt by this. What could make things better between them? There was no point in crying over spilled milk! What has happened has already happened.

    What more did Li Xueyue want? Li Minghua had already apologized.

    "I''m not a saint," Li Xueyue answered. "Just because you apologized, it doesn''t automatically make everything sunshine and rainbows. Everything takes time."

    Li Minghua thinned her lips together. It was a fair point. She couldn''t argue with that.

    "Then at the least, can we get along? As acquaintances I mean," Li Minghua said. "I won''t purposely try to make you look bad."

    "Your attempts have all failed anyways," Li Xueyue responded. "I suppose we could be acquaintances, but no more than that."

    Li Xueyue was suspicious of Li Minghua''s intentions, but so far, there wasn''t a fault in her suggestion. Maybe deep down, Minghua was just a lost and scared little girl who didn''t know what to believe anymore.

    Li Xueyue wouldn''t be surprised if Minghua''s time in the Pce resulted in maniption and gaslighting from outside influences. Whoever had been controlling her must''ve wiped her mind clean. Who was powerful enough to turn Minghua against her own family?

    "If that is all," Li Xueyue said. "I will be leaving now."

    Li Minghua stepped aside. "Go as you wish."

    "Just so you know, I''m still suspicious of you," Li Xueyue said. "If your action speaks louder than words, then I will have faith that we can be more than acquaintances."

    With that said, she left without turning back. Li Xueyue wouldn''t benefit from this friendship in the first ce. Once she was gone, there would be no more awkward atmosphere during mealtime. The family wouldn''t have to be split in two.

    - - - - -

    When nightfall approached, Li Chenyang and Duke Li Shenyang were surprised to see the first person to greet them. Usually, it was either the Duchess or Xueyue standing by the front entrance. This time, it was Li Minghua.

    Li Minghua stood inside of the manor, where she was sheltered by the rain, but could still see outside.

    "Father, I have to confess something," Li Minghua said the minute her father entered the house.

    "Hah, that''s a surprise," Li Chenyangmented when his foot touched crossed over the threshold. He crossed his arms. "What do you want to say?"

    Li Minghua shot him a dirty look. "Maybe if you weren''t so rude, I wouldn''t be so reluctant to tell you."

    "Maybe if you weren''t such a brat, I would adore you a lot more," Li Chenyang spat out.

    "I can''t change what I grew up with!" Li Minghua exasperated. "Xueyue said you missed me, but that must be an exaggeration."

    "You don''t know anything about me, Minghua," Li Chenyang seethed. "I regretted the fact that I couldn''t protect you from harm''s way. I regretted failing my duties as your older brother, but those feelings harbored guilt. I only missed you when I was remorseful of my actions."

    "How cruel of you," Li Minghua stated. "I missed everyone here, even though I believed you found a recement for me."

    "For thest time, Li Xueyue is not your recement! You two are worlds apart. If we truly wanted a substitute, we would''ve found another brat!"

    "Chenyang," Duke Li Shenyang warned. "Both of you, enough."

    Li Minghua glowered at her older brother. "You don''t love me at all, do you?"

    "You''re my younger sister," Li Chenyang angrily said. "If I don''t love you, who the hell am I supposed to love?"

    "Then why don''t you act like it?!" Li Minghua demanded. "I am your blood sister, am I not? Why are you so cold to me? Why are you¡ª"

    "Not everyone in this family wants to baby you. Just because I don''t spoil you with my time and attention, it doesn''t mean I don''t care for you," Li Chenyang deadpanned. "Someone has to be the voice of reason in your life. Someone has to not spoil you. Someone has to toughen you up for the real world."

    Li Minghua rapidly blinked. She nced away in shock whilst hugging her stomach. Yet again, she was pped by the cold-hard facts. Everyone was looking out for her, but she never realized it until everything was toote.

    "Now if you''ll excuse me," Li Chenyang seethed. "I''m tired from work."

    Li Chenyang stomped past his younger sister, never once sparing her a second nce. What a damn brat she was. Yet, he loved that irritable woman. Siblings were supposed to look out for each other. Somehow, it felt like a one-sided behavior.

    "Chen-ge, wait," Li Minghua said as she grabbed onto his sleeves.

    Li Chenyang released a loud and exasperated sigh through his nose. Furiously, he turned around. "What do you want?" he demanded.

    "I''m sorry," Li Minghua blurted out.

    "I''ll believe that when I see it," Li Chenyang said. He shook her hand off of him and walked off.

    "Chenyang¡ª"

    "Give him time, Minghua," Duke Li Shenyang stated. "Chenyang heals best when he''s alone."

    Li Minghua slowly nodded her head. She sped her fingers together and stared towards the ground. She wanted to fix things, but it only seemed to worsen everything. A silence fell over them.

    "What did you want to tell me, Minghua?" Duke Li Shenyang questioned her.

    Duke Li Shenyang examined the falling rain and the droplets that gathered upon the rooftops. The horrid weather matched the stressful preparation that took ce to secure the Li Family''s reign on the throne.

    "I-it''s about the scroll that could incriminate Xueyue," Li Minghua started. "The truth is¡­ the scroll used to be under my pillow, but then I moved it because I was scared someone might find it."

    Duke Li Shenyang didn''t appreciate that she had initially lied to him. "You shouldn''t trick family like this. Especially your father."

    Li Minghua hung her head in shame. "I''m sorry, Father. I was too scared of not having an advantage over Xueyue. What if she did something to hurt me and I wouldn''t have the ability to retaliate? I''m scared."

    Duke Li Shenyang was unable to view things from her perspective. When has Xueyue evershed out on someone unworthy? She hated confrontations unless it was necessary. Xueyue only revealed her weapons when someone else struck first.

    "Darling, you should know Xueyue is not a backstabbing schemer. She doesn''t enjoy creating unwanted conflicts. It''s not in her nature to do so," Duke Li Shenyang said. "She will never hurt our family. Have faith in her."

    "I just started to¡­ a few hours ago when I spoke to her in the pavilion," Li Minghua mumbled. She was still unable to raise her head.

    Duke Li Shenyang allowed her to drown in guilt. It would teach her a lesson. "Have you finally realized she''s not as bad as the Second Prince made her seem to be?"

    "Well, yes, but¡ª" Li Minghua paused. "Wait, how did you know?"

    "I had my suspicions, but you confirmed it," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "It will be difficult for you to ept the truth, but I will still say it: the Second Prince manipted the truth in his favor."

    "H-he wouldn''t¡ª"

    "Oh but, darling, he would," Duke Li Shenyang said. "I''ve met many men like him. They pretend to be kind, but deep down, they''re scum. They hide their sinister intentions behind an understanding smile."

    "No, Father, Wang Jing wouldn''t¡ª"

    "Isn''t he the reason why you couldn''t run to me for help? On the surface, it seemed he was protecting you from the Empress, but in reality, he was the danger all along."

    Li Minghua shook her head. "No, please, Father, you have to hear me out. The Second Prince is my friend, my aplice, my helper. He wouldn''t do anything to hurt me¡ª"

    "Let me guess, he gave you the opportunity to kill the Empress didn''t he?"

    "How did you¡ª"

    "It''s exactly as I predicted," Duke Li Shenyang responded. "He must''ve told you how much the Empress meant to him. That the Empress gave birth to him and protected him from the harsh reality of life. But the truth is, she was raising a monster all along."

    "..." Li Minghua was stunned to utter silence.

    "Think about it," Duke Li Shenyang said.

    "If the Empress meant the world to the Second Prince, why would he help you kill her? Why would the Second Prince allow you to shatter the very thing his world was built upon? Why would the Second Prince, the son of the Empress give you the opportunity to kill his own mother?"

    Li Minghua''s knees gave out from underneath her. She sank to the floor in utter disbelief. Her world trembled and quaked. Was everything that she believed in¡­ a lie all along? Was everything that he told her a lie?

 Chapter 288 More Than One Monster

    <h4>Chapter 288 More Than One Monster</h4>

    Li Minghua didn''t want to believe it but her father had never lied to her before. However, some things were simply too hard to ept.

    The Second Prince was maniptive and loved to gaslight her, she knew that much, but like a butterfly caught in a spider''s web, the more she struggled, the faster she died.

    Duke Li Shenyang reached out and fondly patted the back of her head, surprising her.

    "You''ve endured many hardships in the Imperial Pce. I was unable to save you in time, forgive me, dear girl," he said.

    Li Minghua blinked back the tears, her vision grew blurry. Her father had never caressed her like this. He was always cold towards her. She didn''t know what to say. Was this a coercion technique?

    Duke Li Shenyang opened his mouth and spoke again. "Whether you choose to believe my words or not, you must understand one thing: I always have your best interest in mind. Every sane parent would want their child to seed."

    She dropped her head to hide her eyes.

    He continued. "You might think your mother and I have been too protective, but that''s because you were not yet ready to face the harsh world outside. We dote on you and want to protect you until the day you are strong enough to spread your wings, fly away from the nest, and explore the world."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s frowned a bit. "We never meant to keep you caged forever."

    Tears pricked her eyes and she could no longer hold them back. They fell freely as she dropped her head, covered her face with her hands, and sobbed.

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression softened. He had never seen his daughter cry. Comforting people was never his specialty, but for his precious daughter, he was willing to try.

    - - - - -

    "I hope you got more answers out of her," Li Chenyang said upon seeing his father approach the doors of his private study.

    Li Chenyang had been waiting outside for a while now. He initially wanted to snoop around inside the private study, but it was locked. He also didn''t want to bother his mother with this task because she''d ask too many questions.

    "Iforted a crying child for the first time in my life," Duke Li Shenyang muttered. "Even when you three were kids, I''ve never lent a shoulder to any of you to cry on."

    Li Chenyang curtly nodded. "Yes, I still remember the days I fell to the ground, scraped my knees, and cried my eyes out. Instead offorting me, you reprimanded me and told me to stand on my own."

    Duke Li Shenyang smiled at the memories of his parenting. What a handful his sons and daughter were¡­

    "Your mother used to scold me until my ears almost fell off, dering my style of parenting was horrid."

    Li Chenyang''s lips twitched. He distinctively recalled the moments his mother picked him up, soothed the pain, and then reprimanded the Duke. It was one of his best memories of his childhood.

    "On a different note," Li Chenyang said. "Did you get the location of the incriminating scroll? I knew I shouldn''t have trusted that brat the first time. She always enjoyed being apulsive liar."

    Duke Li Shenyang shot his son a warning re. "You shouldn''t insult your sister by calling her names, even if it''s true at times. But yes, she has given me a new location."

    "Siblings who are too sweet with each other are cringy," Li Chenyang retorted. He watched as his father raised a knowing brow.

    "Your sisterplex says otherwise," Duke Li Shenyang said in a humorous voice.

    Li Chenyang chose to ignore his father''sment. Sisterplex? Impossible.

    Duke Li Shenyang slipped the key from his wrist and opened the door to his private study, allowing his son to enter.

    Li Chenyang shook his head. "Not today. I don''t have much to discuss, except the coronation, but the details are being handled by you, isn''t it?"

    "Yes, the preparations are almostplete. At the end of this week, by the first break of dawn, the Li Dynasty will begin."

    "And just like that," Li Chenyang began. "We''ve put an end to the oppression faced by the Li family."

    Duke Li Shenyang''s expression sharpened. "Let us ensure there will never be a family who suffers the same fate as us."

    Li Chenyang didn''t respond, because he knew, the possibility of that happening would be unlikely. Someone else would be the sword and pen of this country, except, the burden won''t fall on a single-family.

    - - - - -

    For the first time in a while, Li Chenyang struggled to sleep.

    Have Xueyue''s bad habits rubbed off on him? He let out a frustrated sigh and sat up from his bed. Struggling in his bedroom was futile. The only thing that he could do thiste at night to drain his energy was taking an extensive walk in the gardens. Thus, he did exactly that.

    "What are you doing out here in the dead of night, in nothing but your nightgown?" Li Chenyang demanded when he saw the distinctive figure of his younger sister.

    On normal asions, Li Xueyue would''ve resembled a ghost, with long hair cascading down her back, and a pale, white sleeping dress.

    Li Xueyue was curled up by the pavilion. She leaned against the edge and peered up at the night sky. The moon was pale and beautiful. It reflected upon her skin instead of lighting up a path for wandering souls.

    "I''m sorry Chen-ge, I never listen, do I?" Li Xueyue said.

    Li Chenyang paused at her words. What was she talking about?

    Li Chenyang closed the distance between them and angrily took off his night shawl and put it on her. The thick clothing was slung over her shoulders, but her attention remained in the sky.

    What was her intention for sitting out here? Did she want to catch a cold so desperately? If so, he''d toss her into the pond a few meters away from here. In such thin clothing, did she n to lure death?

    "What are you even babbling about? Do you know how little clothing you''re wearing? What if you get sick and never recover?" he nagged.

    "You told me to stay away from Minghua, but I keep having encounters with her."

    "Only because she keeps on showing up everywhere you go. By now, I''d think Minghua is an obsessive stalker. But Mother and Father said I shouldn''t call her bad names, even if she deserves it," Li Chenyang bit out.

    She let out a small peal ofughter that tickled his heart.

    Just like that, his rage went away. Her shoulders shook when sheughed, but the joy never reached her eyes.

    He wondered if she had a nightmare.

    "Were you crying?" Li Chenyang asked. Even the moon was attracted to Li Xueyue who was bathed in the pale moonlight. He noticed there were streaks of dried tears clinging to her cheeks.

    "What happened?" Li Chenyang questioned. He took a seat beside her curled up feet and leaned against the railings. What was so mesmerizing in the sky that she couldn''t even spare him a nce?

    "I had a nightmare¡­ It''s one of the worst ones."

    "Do you want to talk about it?"

    Li Xueyue immediately shook her head. She was disgusted with herself for allowing it to happen. No matter how much time has passed, the grimy touch of Earl Qin would never leave her alone.

    "Well, do you want to tell me about yourtest encounter with Minghua? A servant had spotted you two by the pavilion, but noticed there was a visible distance between you two."

    "Where was that servant when Minghua attempted to disfigure my face?"

    WHAT?!" Li Chenyang eximed. He instantly got to his feet and grabbed her shoulders, forcing her to look at him. "What did she do?"

    "It happened a while ago, but I kept it to myself because no one will take my side. Not even you."

    Li Chenyang scowled at her words. Without warning, he flickered her on the forehead, earning a loud yelp of pain.

    "How stupid are you?" Li Chenyang demanded. "Something as serious as that, and you only mention it to me now?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lips. "I think she did it in a fit of rage. She swiped a hairpin at my face?but I snatched it out of her hand before it could touch me."

    Li Chenyang''s deeply scowled. He had tolerated enough of Minghua''s devious antics.

    "That''s it," he deadpanned. "I''m going to have her punished. I don''t care what Mother and Father say. She needs to learn the harsh way that her brute actions will always have consequences."

    Li Xueyue grabbed onto his sleeves. "Don''t do anything. I don''t want this family to be even more torn. She has apologized, but I didn''t ept it. Today, I reprimanded her words and actions. I provided insights of her wrongdoings."

    "Stop being a pushover!" Li Chenyang scolded. "Do you truly think Minghua won''ty a hand on you again? As long as we continue to pardon her behavior, things will never change. She will continue to go after you and¡ª"

    "I will give her a final chance. If she truly does something to me again, I will drag her to hell and back. It won''t be just one side of her body that gets burned."

    Li Chenyang was baffled to pure silence. He had never heard such sinister wordse out of her mouth. He didn''t even think about the extent of the punishment when he mentioned it earlier. But she had. And it made him realize there was more than one monster living inside of this house.

 Chapter 289 No One Will Take You From Me

    <h4>Chapter 289 No One Will Take You From Me</h4>

    Li Chenyang reached out to her and caressed the back of her head. She blinked up at him in surprise, perplexed by his behavior.

    "When you''re in Hanjian, you''ll write to me, right?" Li Chenyang questioned, though it came out as a softmand.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. His voice was gentle, but his words sounded threatening.

    "Of course," Li Xueyue mused with a tiny smile. He seemed hesitant over her answer as if he found it difficult to believe she would. She saw the crease of his brows.

    ''Was it what I said earlier? About hurting Minghua if she hurt me? I thought Chen-ge would be used to this by now¡­'' she thought to herself.

    "You have to be careful of what you share," Li Chenyang said. He retracted his hand from her head and presented a wry smile. "If the wrong ears catch wind of it, your tongue won''t be the only thing cut off."

    Li Xueyue''s initial suspicions were confirmed. He had been disgruntled by her words. Then again, Chenyang always loved to nag.

    "I know that, Chen-ge. I said that to put your heart at ease, but I didn''t think it would rile you up like this," Li Xueyue responded.

    "I''m not angered by your words," Li Chenyang said. "I''m just worried about you."

    Li Xueyue nodded in understanding. "We should head back to our rooms now." She slipped his shawl off her shoulders and wrapped it around him.

    "You won''t tell me about your nightmare?" Li Chenyang tried onest time, hoping she''d reveal much more to him.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. She refused to speak about that night. She was too?ashamed that she did not fight back. There was no cure to her wounded soul. Perhaps time would heal it. It usually did.

    "Alright then," Li Chenyang softly said. "I won''t press on."

    Li Xueyue was grateful that he didn''t attempt to pry further. He was always good at reading people. She wondered if it was a learned skill or something he was forced to pick up on. Brushing those thoughts away, she raised her head and quirked a smile.

    "Good night, Chen-ge," Li Xueyue said.

    "Sleep well," Li Chenyang bid.

    Li Chenyang?watched her protectively as she walked down the hallways. Even when she was out of sight, he continued to look in that direction, in case something went wrong. He was fearful to hear a scream in the dead of the night.

    Luckily, there was none. She seemed to have gotten back into her room without any disruptions. Nheless, Li Chenyang headed down the path leading to her bedroom. He didn''t mean to follow her but did so. In the far distance, he saw her figure entering her bedroom.

    Deeming that she was safe and sound, Li Chenyang finally turned around and walked back to his bedroom. It was an uneventful night, but he was grateful to have gotten her word. Hearing that she''d write to him ced his mind at ease.

    - - - - -

    The days passed by without qualms. Everything went by smoothly, so much so, that it was unnerving. It felt like the calm before a storm, but only Li Xueyue felt that way.

    The sinful deeds and crimesmitted by the Royal family hade to light. Even when they resided in their graves, the Emperor and Empress were cursed upon. The citizens'' disgruntled reactions made it a lot easier for the Li Family to swoop in as their savior.

    By tradition, whenever an Emperor or Empress died, there would be weeks of mourning. Yet, the Wang Family''s mourningsted less than a week.

    "Are you excited?" Duchess Wang Qixing asked whilst keeping her eyes trained upon the embroidery ring in her hand.

    Li Xueyue winced upon pricking her finger yet again. Her lines were tangled, and the colors didn''t match. She wanted to give up on this task, but everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, Li Minghua included.

    "About what, Mother?" Li Minghua muttered as she yanked at the needle.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together and finally decided to ce the embroidery ring down. It was going nowhere. The design was nothing but a blob of colors that were supposed to resemble chrysanthemum flowers.

    She squirmed in her chair. This room was stifling and awkward. When Duchess Wang Qixing had invited her this morning, Li Xueyue thought it would be just the two of them. Turns out, it was a forced ydate.

    "The coronation of your father," Duchess Wang Qixing responded. She lifted her head and examined her design with a pleasant smile. It would make a great handkerchief for Xueyue.

    Li Xueyue thought about the Duke''s coronation. By tradition, he would be wearing the fanciest of attires, with the country''s symbol designed into the clothes. He''d climb the long staircase leading to the entrance of the Pce. Each and every Minister would kowtow until their foreheads touched the ground.

    "What''s there to be excited about?" Li Minghua asked. "It''s literally just walking up a couple of staircases and having everyone acknowledge your presence. After Father goes up those steps, you will follow suit, and then it''ll be the twins. Me and Xueyue will best."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. She disagreed with Minghua''s initial statement. "It''s a momentous event for the entire family. The day of the coronation marks the official beginning of the Li Dynasty."

    Li Minghua pressed her lips together. So what? It wasn''t like she would be on the throne.

    "You and I won''t even touch the throne because of our gender," Minghua said. "Only Mother and Father will be seated upon the throne. We''ll probably be on the sidelines, in a much smaller chair."

    "It''s still an important day," Li Xueyue pointed out. "Though, it''ll feel strange to have so many eyes upon you."

    Li Xueyue found it interesting that they were actually having a conversation. So far, insults hadn''t been thrown. She hoped it would remain that way. Or else, the Duchess would reprimand them for hours.

    Duchess Wang Qixing settled the embroidery ring down. The design was finished. All she had to do was detach the ring from the soft silk.

    "It will be nerve-wracking," Duchess Wang Qixing said. "But it will be a day that each and every one of us will remember, for the rest of our lives."

    Li Minghua fiddled with her embroidery ring. She had drawn a design but was perplexed by the final result. The colors... were all of Wen Jinkai''s favorite.

    "Don''t you think it''s strange, Mother? The Second and Fourth Prince are still alive, yet the citizens and Ministers chose the Li family," Li Minghua said.

    Duchess Wang Qixing nodded. "Well, it''s known across the entire kingdom that the Second Prince is sickly. No one wants a ruler who would die so soon."

    She turned to her daughters. "The Fourth Prince is too injured and remains in aa. After the Emperor and Empress''s crimes were revealed, no one wants to support the Wang family anymore."

    "What if¡­" Li Minghua trailed off. "The Second Prince has recovered from his illness?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s gaze snapped to her daughter. "Are you sure?"

    Li Xueyue stiffened at the thought of the Second Prince. Now that Minghua had mentioned it¡­ On both asions, the Second Prince was nothing like how the rumors depicted him to be. He was pale, but he behaved like a regr man.

    Li Minghua reluctantly nodded her head. "I was by Wang Jing''s side for the longest time, yet there was never medicine served to him. Of course, there were tonics brewed to boost his health, but that was all."

    Duchess Wang Qixing''s expression darkened. "Then that meant his illness was cured. We must tell your father about this immediately."

    Li Minghua gulped. She had betrayed the Second Prince just now. No one knew of his impable state, except for her. "Mother, if anything was to happen, everyone will protect me, won''t they?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing was perplexed by her daughter''s behavior. She stood up and approached Minghua. "Of course, my Little Flower. As long as you''re within these walls, no one will dare to harm you."

    "Even if soldiers storm this ce?" Li Minghua whispered.

    "Especially if soldiers were toe here," Duchess Wang Qixing firmly said. "As long as I am alive, no one will take you from me, ever again."

    Li Xueyue silently stared at Duchess Wang Qixing and Li Minghua. Duchess Wang Qixing had wrapped a protective arm around her daughter.

    Li Xueyue wondered what type of danger would evene Li Minghua''s way. What would be so terrifying for the bold and daring Minghua to behave like this?

 Chapter 290 Words of Gratitude

    <h4>Chapter 290 Words of Gratitude</h4>

    "Well, you girls stay in here and finish the embroidery ring. I will prepare my special tea and bring it in," Duchess Wang Qixing said as she nced over at her daughters. She hoped this abrupt alone time would force them to bond¡ªsomething that might never happen if an opportunity wasn''t created for them.

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked at the Duchess''s obvious schemes. Usually, her mother would call for a servant to boil water whilst she took out herrge box of ingredients to brew tea.

    But very well. If that was what Duchess Wang Qixing wanted to do, Xueyue wouldn''t stop her mother.

    ''Besides, I doubt Minghua would still have the guts to hurt me when no one is watching,'' she thought to herself.

    "What vor would it be?" Li Xueyue asked when Duchess Wang Qixing rose to her feet.

    "It''s a secret," Duchess Wang Qixing responded with a wink. She reached over and pinched Xueyue''s cheek before affectionately patting Minghua''s upper back.

    "It won''t take too long," Duchess Wang Qixing added on.

    "I like sweeter teas," Li Minghua spoke up whilst grabbing her mother''s hand. "Please?"

    Duchess Wang Qixing felt her heart being squeezed by her daughter''s endearing expression. It must''ve been a while since Minghua had high-quality tea. Oh, poor thing. What horrid things has Minghua tasted in the Pce?

    "Of course, my Little Flower. I will make it to everyone''s liking. Don''t fret," Duchess Wang Qixing said. She gave her daughter ast caress on the upper back before exiting the room.

    Li Xueyue''s attentionnded upon Jingxia, the Head Maidservant. She was so quiet and still that Xueyue had nearly forgotten her presence in the room. Jingxia stood by the door with her head bowed, but ears perked up.

    An amused smile fell upon Li Xueyue''s lips. It seemed no one in the family trusted the two of them to be alone. It was a shame they had missed witnessing their previous encounters.

    "I''m d you''re leaving for Hanjian shortly after the coronation," Li Minghua spoke up. She pulled at the needles whilst marveling at her design. It was a sun setting across a sword and shield. There was a name engraved onto the shield, but she''d never tell whose it was.

    "It''d be my utter delight to not see your face anymore," Li Xueyue retorted. She yed with the threads of her embroidery ring and the abandoned handkerchief.

    Li Xueyue was d she had chosen a poorer quality material for her practice. If not, precious silk would''ve gone to waste, even if she still had rolls of silk that thete Emperor had gifted her left unused.

    How irritating for her expertise to all be in things that didn''t fit her image as a noble and third-rank Princess. Li Xueyue sometimes wished she entertained feminine hobbies like penmanship, poetry, art, music, or even instruments. She chose the sword over the brush, martial arts over dancing, and so forth.

    ??That''s not what I meant, but I suppose the feeling is mutual," Li Minghua responded. Her attention remained upon the embroidery ring. If she''d like, she could make a remark about Xueyue''s utterck of skills in embroidery, but she held her tongue.

    Li Xueyue was toozy to respond. Shezily twirled the threads across her fingers.

    There was an interesting book she had read about knots. Some could be tied with threads to suffocate a person to death and make it look like an ident. She practiced the design with her fingertips, wondering if such a thing was even possible. Surely, it had to be if it was written in a book?

    "I don''t think Wang Jing or Wang Longhe will be able to show up at the coronation, but shortly afterward, they will show their faces. That is when the real problem will ensue, but you will be safe and sound in Hanjian," Li Minghua said.

    Li Xueyue raised her head from the design she had swirled with her fingers. "My life in Hanjian might seem blissful on the surface, but most likely, I would have to tread through political schemes. One after the other."

    "If that esteemed Commander of yours truly loved you, he''d keep you far away from it. Honestly, making you the Empress of a foreign country has ced many targets on your head¡ªin and out of Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue blinked. "I''d rather not be kept in the dark like an ignorant fool, but to each our own."

    "I learned," Li Minghua spat out. "Why are you deliberately attacking me when I''m trying to make peace and have a decent conversation here?"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes never left her design. "Because the entire time we''ve been talking, our attention was never on each other. Isn''t this mindless small talk?"

    Li Minghua''s gaze instantly shot up. "The same thing could be said about you!"

    "And besides, an apology or two won''t be enough to make amends," Li Xueyue said. She held up the intricate knots above her head. How could someone fit a head through thatrge hole? Hmm¡­ What did the book say about traps again?

    Li Minghua bit her bottom lip. "Well, consider yourself lucky that I won''t be saying it more than once. Whether you like me or not, I hardly care."

    "Good for you," Li Xueyue said as she slipped the design off of her fingers. She yanked the threads together until everything was knotted and tangled. She didn''t need anyone finding this lying around.

    Li Minghua should''ve been even more aggravated by Xueyue''s behavior, but strangely enough, she wasn''t. She med it on how calm and collected Xueyue was. Poised but sharp, it was everything the Li Family wanted their daughter to be. She bit her bottom lip.

    "Will you teach me?" Li Minghua asked.

    At this, Li Xueyue finally raised her head. She found Minghua''s attention was solely on her now. It must''ve been hard for this arrogant Young Miss to swallow her pride.

    "On what?" Li Xueyue questioned.

    Li Minghua awkwardly nced away. She ced her finished embroidery ring down. "The art of sharpening my tongue until it bes a weapon."

    "I''d hardly call mine something so lethal, but I can teach you to control yourself," Li Xueyue said. "For wistful responses, you should enlist your father on that. He''s an expert in such things."

    Li Xueyue loathed Li Minghua, but it wasn''t to the extent where she would wish for Minghua and the Duke to continue to have a strained rtionship. She wanted them to have more bonding experiences. It''d warm her heart to see the Duke happy, even if it was with Minghua.

    "I want to learn it quickly," Li Minghua added on. "You would leave so soon and¡ª"

    "Don''t worry, the tactic is quite simple, though it takes practice," Li Xueyue exined. "Are you up for the challenge?"

    "Of course I am," Li Minghua said. "Why else would I throw away my dignity to ask you for help?"

    Li Xueyue properly examined Li Minghua. Was that¡­ a light blush of embarrassment? She smiled at this. For a brief second, Xueyue had seen Minghua''s charm, though it was only momentarily. Was this what Wen Jinkai saw in her?

    "When you''re angered by something," Li Xueyue began. "You have to remain calm. Don''t yell or raise your voice during an argument. Men love to roar like a lion, but when we do the same, we''re deemed as overly emotional. How disgusting is that?"

    Li Minghua blinked. Now that she thought about it¡­ Men were said to be more passionate when they raised their voice, but when a woman does it? She''s crazy and a cry baby.

    "The angrier you are, the more motivated you should be to control the situation. Don''t let people see through your frigid expression. Don''t let anyone in, and if you do, never let them out."

    Li Minghua never thought of it as that way before. She thought showing her displeasure would make the other person panic. After all, they had offended the daughter of the Prime Minister. Shouldn''t they be shaking in their shoes?

    There was so much more that Li Xueyue knew, but decided to not reveal. If Minghua wanted to know her tricks, then she''d have to earn it. What would happen when the pupil beats the master?

    Li Xueyue held back her other words of wisdom. She didn''t want to groom the cat into a tiger. "That is all for today, but I''m sure you can learn more from our family."

    Li Minghua rapidly nodded. "I-I¡­ uhm¡­" She nervously averted her gaze again. Her fingers fiddled with a random thread nearby. She rolled it into a ball with her fingers, hoping it''d distract her.

    "I have all day to wait for words of gratitude," Li Xueyue said. She leaned back into her chair and stretched. She even let out a yawn to show her ease.

    "Uhm¡­" Li Minghua trailed off as she continued to y with the thread.

    "Hmmmm," Li Xueyue hummed a song whilstzily tapping her fingers on the table. She was humming off tune but didn''t care.

    ??T-tha...nk¡­"

    Li Xueyue leaned her cheek upon a propped up arm. Her other hand poked the pile of the tangled thread she had made. Seeing Minghua struggle to utter words of appreciation was simply too entertaining.

    "...Thank...you¡­" Li Minghua finally mumbled out. She felt like a weight was lifted off of her shoulders and chest.

    "Your not that wee, but sure," Li Xueyue joked. "Oh, I smell something pleasant." She sniffed the air just as the doors were pushed open to reveal the Duchess.

    Li Minghua blinked multiple times. Her face was red with embarrassment. She hid it behind her hand and nced away. Why was it so hard to say ''thank you''? It must''ve been herck of practice.

 Chapter 291 Set An Example

    <h4>Chapter 291 Set An Example</h4>

    Days passed by and soon, the day of the coronation finally arrived. True to what they discussed a couple days ago, nobody mattered more than the Emperor, Empress, and Crown Prince.

    There wasn''t a single argument in the family about who would be the Crown Prince. The title effortlessly went to Li Chenyang without qualms.

    Entire streets of the Capital were rimming with celebratory gs. The ck and white mourning colors were long stripped away, reced by bright colours of yellow, red and white. Citizens took days off from their work and daily chores just to catch a glimpse of the founders of the new Li Dynasty.

    "Oh my, I see them now!"

    "Where, where?"

    "Right there!"

    Screams and cheers could be heard from miles on when the golden carriages rolled through the streets. The carriages'' curtains were drawn as the Li Family waved to greet their people. The sound was deafening as people jostled to catch a glimpse of the Li Family.

    Who thought the Prime Minister was the one behind the country''s achievements? The ruler behind the curtains no longer had to hide his face. It was his turn to sit upon the throne forged for him.

    The announcement of the previous Imperial Family''s deeds had traveled far and wide. The People''s Representatives who were of middle-ss wealth had outdone themselves. As promised, they spread word of the Wang families'' wrongdoings throughout themunities.

    There were some people who whispered that Wuyi flourished because of the Prime Minister''s innovative ideas. Such rumors traveled faster than the distribution of newspapers detailing the Li Family''s contributions. It didn''t take long for many people to instantly start supporting the new Imperial Family.

    - - - - -

    "The stairs to the Pce suddenly seem even more daunting from here," Li Xueyue whispered to Li Minghua who stood beside her.

    Li Minghua nodded, but found it difficult to move her head much. Her neck was hurting from the amount of essories slipped into the overlyplicated hairstyle.

    Her outfit was also heavy, and it dragged along the ground as she walked, but her mother had it worse.

    Empress Wang Qixing was a sight to behold. She was in a whirlwind of red, white, and gold. They were the colors of this country and she wore it with pride.

    Even with the ornaments adorning her head, neck, and wrists, she held herself with the utmost grace. After all, the Empress was the Mother of the country. She must set an example for every woman in her kingdom.

    "Father is first, and thenes Mother, then Chenyang, Wenmin, and finally, it''s our turn," Li Minghua murmured. "Why am I not surprised?"

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched in agreement. "We''re daughters, not sons. The twins will forever be praised first, but we shouldn''tpare ourselves to them."

    Li Minghua slowly nodded. She kept her eyes glued to the back of her older brothers. Li Chenyang bore the colors of the skies, with his bold navy and silver, whereas Li Wenmin embodied the flourishing Earth in his emerald green and golden attire.

    "They look so near, yet so far¡­" Li Minghua trailed off. "I hope nothing changes between them."

    "Nothing will," Li Xueyue firmly said. "Wenmin never wanted the throne in the first ce."

    Li Xueyue wanted to crane her head and nce up, but couldn''t. Everything was too heavy, but she forced herself to look up, even if it hurt her neck.

    She nced in time to witness their Father take the first step up the enormous staircase. Banners of red, white, and gold shed before them. The sun shone brilliantly upon the new Royal family whose essories created a heavenly glow on their figure.

    Li Xueyue herself was dressed in colors that were dimmer than the Emperor and Empress.

    There were hundreds ofyers in her hanfu, all to create the illusion of the heavenly clouds. Pearls were sewed into wisps of white fabric as flowers fluttered from her dress, much like cherry blossom petals against the spring breeze that warned of approaching summer.

    "You look like Spring and Summer," Li Minghua mused. "Whereas I embody Fall and Winter. We get the seasons, but the twins get to represent the most important parts of this world¡ªthe skies and the earth."

    Li Xueyue smiled. "Without the seasons, this world can''t thrive." She found it interesting that this was one of the first conversations where they didn''t bicker. Perhaps it was all a facade, to show the people how stable the family was.

    As everyone climbed the staircases leading to the front entrance, soldiers were prominent everywhere they looked.

    Some blended into the crowds, others lined the staircases. She didn''t realize exactly how many people were in this kingdom until she reached the top of the staircase and looked back.

    "Wow," she murmured upon seeing the mass of people gathered.

    "Keep your eyes forward," Li Minghua instructed. "Father is ascending the final steps to the Pce."

    Li Xueyue turned her head just in time to see the event happen. She felt the air knocked out of her system.

    The second Emperor Li Shenyang ced his foot onto the small steps leading to the Throne Room, a powerful rush of wind coursed through the trees.

    The branches swayed wildly, but nothing was more eye-catching than the event unfolding before them. gs waived from the poles that reached the highest points of the Pce.

    In bold, daring letters, "Li," was proudly disyed before everyone. The symbols, the design, everything changed¡ªfor the better.

    These gs that marked the beginning of the Li Dynasty. gs that solidified their reign. gs that meant they didn''t have to hide in the shadows with their robbed spotlight.

    Nothing could ever be more momentous for the Li generation than this exact moment. Even now, the Li Family felt it¡ªthe joyous stares of their ancestors from Heaven, praising and celebrating their victory.

    "All hail the Emperor of Wuyi, he whom the Heaven shines upon, he who shall bring this country to its eternal glory!"

    "Praise the Empress of Wuyi, the Mother of our nation, she who wields the scales of justice!"

    Nothing but the shuffles of clothes could be heard. Sleeves pped rhythmically as everyone dropped to their knees. Their foreheads touched the ground as everyone simultaneously kowtowed before the new Imperial Family.

    Hearts raced, stomachs lurched, but everything was set in stone. The Wang Dynasty hade to an official end. The old had made way for the new.

    Li Xueyue felt at a loss of words. What was everyone thinking right now? Every person in this country was kneeling before them. She nced upwards at the sky, where sparrows flew and the clouds swayed.

    Without a doubt, this was an event to be remembered. And it would be one that went down in history books of every century toe.

 Chapter 292 Terrified of Him

    <h4>Chapter 292 Terrified of Him</h4>

    "I don''t want to reside in the Pce," Li Minghua seethed. The dinner banquet had just begun, and she had changed into another dress. It was lighter than the previous one but it was still heavy.

    Li Xueyue tuned out Li Minghua. Everyone was watching them.

    All the Ministers and important aristocrats were present at this enormous banquet.

    There were musicians, festivity, and scrumptious food being served for the celebration. Everyone eagerly presented themselves before the Li Family with gifts and greetings, showing their overwhelming support.

    "And what is this tea?" Li Minghuained. "I like the ones that Mother brews."

    Li Xueyue found nothing wrong with the tea. It was well brewed and had a strong vor without it being too overpowering. She lifted the teacup to her lips and drank it.

    No one seemed to pay Li Minghua any mind. Their father was listening intently to something Chenyang was telling him, whereas their mother was quietly scolding Wenmin for eating so much in front of watchful eyes.

    Li Xueyue wanted to escape into the night. It was suffocating in this enormous banquet venue.

    Curtains draped from the tall ceilings as lights seemed to float above their heads. It was a picturesque celebration held in therge fields behind the Pce.

    Crickets chirped in the distance, followed by the asional plop of fishes in the pond. If one were to look into the distance, they could see the fireflies dancing amongst themselves.

    Everything about the scenery screamed perfection. Too bad that it was ruined by fake smiles and forcedughter. Everyone was too eager to please the new Royal family.

    "It''s overbearing," Li Xueyue finally said. She shifted her gaze to Minghua who sat directly beside her.

    Li Minghua let out a scoff before pushing the te of food away from her. "Of course, it is. Everyone is watching us. There are so many prying eyes filled with questions."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. She could see the curiosity brimming behind their sickening sweet smiles.

    "The Li family''s eldest daughter hasn''t shown her face in public for two and a half years. What happened to her? Since when did the Li family have another daughter? Where did shee from?" Li Minghua voiced out what the guests might be questioning in their minds.

    "I bet there are more sinister thoughts running through their minds," Li Minghua added on. She shrugged. "So many questions, but so few answers."

    "If they''re wise, they''ll keep their mouths shut," Li Xueyue responded with a slight curl to her lips.

    From a distance, one would think the two were having an amicable conversation about what color they would wear tomorrow. In reality, they were fed up with everything here.

    "It must be nice that you''re leaving for Hanjian whilst the real problems will ensue soon," Li Minghua said, swirling the teacup gently in her hand. She was mindful to not let the wind pick up on her sleeves, or else her burns would be revealed.

    "I''ll probably face a lot more conflicts in Hanjian than Wuyi," Li Xueyue stated.

    There were tters of snacks in front of her, but she didn''t have the appetite for them.

    It was difficult to eat under the watchful eyes of so many people who were observing them like they were art pieces in a gallery.

    Li Minghua abruptly leaned closer to Xueyue. "Don''t you want to confront your real father?"

    Li Xueyue stiffened. Her head snapped to Li Minghua. How did this brat know so much? "Who supplied you with this information?"

    "You seemed startled, but not surprised¡­ It seems you already have predictions on who your birth father is," Li Minghua mused. She had lowered her voice so that no one else would overhear their conversation.

    Li Minghua didn''t want to bring unnecessary attention to them, what with every eligible man already eyeing them, she''d rather not have more people staring at them.

    "You seem to know so much about me," Li Xueyue pointed out. "Who told you these things?"

    "An eye for an eye. I''ll respond if you tell me how to seduce men."

    Li Xueyue''s eyebrows drew together. She had never once thought of doing such questionable deeds. "I never¡ª"

    "How did you do it, Xueyue? How did you manage to snatch a Commander and a Crown Prince? What is your technique? What is your weapon? Is it your tears or perhaps.... the flower in between your legs."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted in disgust. "Have some decency."

    Li Minghua pulled back with a tiny smirk on her face. "I''m just being crude. Why beat around the bush? It''s not like people can hear us in the first ce."

    "You already know how to snag a Commander, why are you asking me that?" Li Xueyue retorted.

    "I wasn''t able to keep him," Li Minghua muttered. She let out a wistful sigh and continued to y with the edge of her teacup.

    "Doesn''t seem like it to me," Li Xueyue said. She raised the teacup to her lips. Peering through hershes, she saw him even amongst the crowd. One would think his attention was on her, but it wasn''t. He was staring intently at the woman beside her.

    "He''s watching you," Li Minghua gritted out. Her blood boiled. "Don''t mess with me¡ª"

    "Touch your mouth," Li Xueyue instructed.

    "What?"

    "Just do it."

    Li Minghua was puzzled but still did so. Her fingers momentarily grazed her lips before it curled underneath her chin, almost as if she was lost in thought.

    "And just like that," Li Xueyue mused. "His stare can bore a hole through your face."

    Li Minghua refused to respond. She shifted her gaze towards the table and picked up a pastry.

    Li Xueyue rxed in her chair. Finally, Minghua had quieted down. She wondered how little self-esteem Minghua has. Why did she doubt herself so much? For someone so arrogant and bratty, Li Minghua sure hated herself.

    Li Xueyue didn''t care enough to interfere in her enemy''s life.

    "The Second Prince."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She momentarily peered at Minghua before shifting her attention elsewhere. "What are you talking about?"

    "The Second Prince was the one who told me about you."

    Li Xueyue''s spine went stiff. She sat up straighter as her head snapped to Minghua. "How does he know so much about me?"

    "If there''s anyone who should''ve been killed in the entire ordeal, it''s him, the Mastermind of Wuyi."

    Li Xueyue''s heart plummeted to her stomach. Of course, it would be him. The Second Prince was the gatekeeper of secrets. If he wanted to, he could use it against each and every person he had deemed an enemy.

    "And you chose now out of all times to tell me?" Li Xueyue said. "Does Mother and Father know of his capabilities?"

    "Obviously they do," Li Minghua said. "Why else would there be so many soldiers here tonight? Wen Jinkai is a Commander, but his name alone would have granted him a seating closest to the Emperor. Instead, he''s forced to stand guard."

    "All of them¡­ just to capture the Second Prince?" Li Xueyue questioned. "I thought he was residing in the Pce?"

    "He is," Li Minghua said. "We n to murder him in secret. The Second Prince knows too much."

    "I thought you were scared of him? Wasn''t that why you put up such an borate act a couple days ago when we were embroidering?" Li Xueyue questioned.

    "I''m terrified of him and his capabilities, but right now, I"m safe aren''t I? No one will dare to attack me here. Not with¡ª" Li Minghua cut herself off. She harshly bit her tongue for being so foolish to even have thoughts like that.

    "You''re right," Li Xueyue jabbed. "No one has the guts to hurt Wen Jinkai''s woman."

    "I''m not¡ª"

    "I don''t care," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "Keep your doubts to yourself."

    Li Minghua mped her mouth shut, partly because she was tired of Xueyue''s uracy. She should''ve known the most quiet person observed the most. Why else would they remain silent for so long?

 Chapter 293 I Stopped Caring

    <h4>Chapter 293 I Stopped Caring</h4>

    "I''m tired of sitting," Li Xueyue said after a while.

    "I can''t even feel my bottom¡­" Li Minghuained. She had taken enough dainty bites of the pastries. Eating in front of an audience was so aggravating. She felt like every movement she made was being heavily scrutinized.

    Li Xueyue turned her head to their mother who was now distracted by something their father had said. "Mother," she quietly whispered.

    Empress Wang Qixing paused. She turned to her daughter and gently smiled. "The banquet will be over very soon."

    "Can I take a walk?" Li Xueyue asked. "Sitting for so long is making me ufortable."

    Empress Wang Qixing slowly shook her head. "No, there are too many people present today. If you slip off, something might happen to you in this enormous pce."

    Li Xueyue reluctantly nodded, even though she wanted to argue. "Then can I at least take a short stroll near the parameters of this pce? I won''t wander too far. The furthest I will go will be the gazebos near the ponds over there."

    Li Xueyue pointed to the near distance. There was a small bridge that led to the center of a man-made pond. The path was well lit, except for half of the gazebo.

    "Please?" Li Xueyue asked. "You can see me from here. Besides, there are also guards near that ce."

    Empress Wang Qixing pressed her lips together. "Only if you promise not to be gone for so long."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes lit up. She happily nodded. "It''ll only be a short stroll."

    Her mother smiled and ced a tender hand upon her cheek. "Don''t wander too far."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue managed to slip her way through the crowd with polite smiles and dry responses. A few people stopped her to engage in small talk, but she brushed them off to the best of her abilities.

    Eventually, she was able to reach the small bridge. It was just as she had predicted, the other half of the gazebo was pretty dark. Not even the light from the nearbynterns reached this far, nor did the moonlight peer through the openings.

    "Finally," Li Xueyue sighed. She slipped into the darkness and sat down. "Far away from prying eyes."

    From afar, Li Xueyue saw Minghua was now engaging their mother in a conversation. No doubt, Minghua also wanted to walk off.

    "How tiring," she said whilst swinging her feet and rotating her shoulder in circles.

    Li Xueyue stretched her neck from side to side and hoped to slip off a hairpin or two. If she took some out of her hair, no one would notice, right?

    "Well, I''m alone, so it should be fine," Li Xueyue said as she began to take off a few of the smaller hairpins. No one would even notice they were missing, since therger essories in her head were the main focus.

    "Not quite," a voice spoke up in the shadows.

    Li Xueyue shot out of her seat. She stepped closer into the light in case she needed to run back. Her eyes inched towards the guards who were just a small cry away.

    "Don''t be so frightened, Princess Li," the voice said.

    Li Xueyue recognized it and instantly wished she didn''t. It was time to finally heed Chenyang''s advice. She turned her back to him and stepped foot onto the small bridge leading back tond.

    "I won''t hurt you, Princess Li. I would nevery a hand on my only daughter."

    Li Xueyue was forced to stop. Not because she wanted to, but because curiosity got the best of her. How did Duke Li Taojun find out she was his daughter? Who told him?

    "I didn''t believe my mentee at first. After all, what are the possibilities that my own daughter was so close, yet so far away?" he said.

    "I don''t know what you''re bbering about," Li Xueyue calmly responded. She turned around in time to see Duke Li Taojun had also stepped out of the shadows.

    "Why didn''t you want to see me, Little Princess?" Duke Li Taojun softly questioned. "I didn''t mean to neglect you when the Bai family had treated you horribly. If only you hadn''t pushed me away, I would''ve whisked you into a life of luxury."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes shed with indignation. What the hell was he talking about? "I didn''t even know of your existence when I lived with them."

    She narrowed her eyes. "But you can continue living in that delusional world of yours."

    "I never raped your mother," Duke Li Taojun said. "We had too much to drink. She was unhappy in her marriage with Viscount Bai Sheng because her firstborn was not a son. You have to understand¡ª"

    "What are your intentions for telling me this?" Li Xueyue demanded.

    It was difficult to maintain herposure, especially when such an unexpected bomb was dropped on top of her. All of her life, she had lived as the unwanted offspring of a rapist, and now, he''s telling her it was consensual?

    Duke Li Taojun''s gaze softened. "She was lonely. She was neglected by your father and was frustrated. Women rely on love to survive. I believe she drugged my drink. As a result, you were born."

    Duke Li Taojun searched her face, wondering if she believed him. "I didn''t want to touch her. I swear. She was a married woman, and I do not go for those types. But it happened. Nothing can be done to change the past. I believe she told Viscount Bai Sheng that it was rape to save herself, not knowing how much it would affect you."

    Li Xueyue glowered at him. He was trying to save himself by sacrificing Viscountess Mu Yihua. Did Duke Li Taojun even know he was insulting the dead?

    "Your birth mother must''ve fed you with so much lies to turn you against me," Duke Li Taojun said. "And if only my damn brother didn''t tangle my sinful secrets against me, I would''vee for you so much earlier. Even if I had to drag you out of that house I¡ª"

    "But you didn''t," Li Xueyue softly said.

    Duke Li Taojun didn''t think three simple words could hurt so much. There was so much he wanted to know.

    What was she thinking? How was she feeling? He studied her face and immediately regretted it. He got his answer in her eyes¡ªso calm and aloof. She wasn''t fazed by him. She would never be.

    "Are you mad at me for picking you as a candidate? Is that what this is all about?" Duke Li Shenyang questioned in a louder voice. "I didn''t mean to, little princess. If I had known much earlier that you were my daughter, I would''ve¡ª"

    "But what''s done was done," Li Xueyue said. She didn''t know why, but she felt nothing for him. Initially, she was surprised to see him, but now, she was numb. Not from pain. Not from eptance. She simply¡­ didn''t care that he was her birth father.

    Li Xueyue had given up on her birth father a long time ago. The first time she was beaten by Viscount Bai Sheng, the first time Viscountess Mu Yihua turned a blind eye, all hope was lost.

    Li Xueyue didn''t care about the sinful events that took ce before her birth. She didn''t care that the grown-ups had their own stories.

    What mattered the most was that, no one came to her aid. Her birth mother had ignored the abuse. Viscountess Mu Yihua only pleaded for mercy when Xueyue''s face would get damaged.

    Her birth father was a coward. For not saving her and for caring about his reputation above her life, he had lost a spot in her heart.

    Everyone was toote. Li Xueyue had already lost hope in her birth parents. What had they done for her? Nothing. So, what did she feel for them? Nothing. Except rage and disgust.

    Li Xueyue abhorred Duke Li Taojun. She despised him with a fiery passion. Words couldn''t describe the disgust she felt for Viscountess Mu Yihua. That woman tried to use Xueyue, even until herst dying breath.

    "Xueyue, if only I could have a little bit more time with you," Duke Li Taojun said. "If only my own brother didn''t threaten to ruin my reputation by using you against me!"

    "What are you talking about?" Li Xueyue asked. His brother? Wasn''t that Emperor Li Shenyang?

    Duke Li Taojun instantly saw his opportunity. She was confused. Good. Those who were perplexed by something were easier to convince. All he had to do was spin the truth to his favor.

    "The man that you currently call father, the tyrant on the throne, do you know he is the exact reason why I couldn''t get to you in time?" Duke Li Taojun demanded.

    His eyes red. "Do you know he threatened to ruin everything I''ve built by using my darkest secrets against me? Why else do you think I despised him so much?"

    Li Xueyue simply tilted her head.

    "I despise your father, not because he took the title of ''Duke,'' away from me, but because he was the sole reason I couldn''t see you!" he lied.

    "Li Shenyang knew about you all along. He knew I had an illegitimate daughter and that I had an affair with your mother. He threatened to ruin your birth mother and I whilst dragging you down with us all!"

    Li Xueyue blinked. Oh. Was that it? She had expected a much better excuse than this. Emperor Li Shenyang knew of her existence?

    Li Xueyue knew Chenyang hadn''t told the Emperor about her birth father. Wouldn''t that mean her father wouldn''t have known the illegitimate daughter was Bai Xueyue? She would have to speak to him about this.

    But right now, she was willing to defend the Emperor. After all, he was more of a father-figure than any of the men in her life.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes onto Duke Li Taojun. "So you''re ming the abuse on your younger brother. If he hadn''t stopped you, then I wouldn''t have been abused all my life?"

    "I knew you''d inherit my intelligence. That is exactly what I was trying to say," Duke Li Shenyang argued. "I love you, my little Princess. I''ve always had, ever since I heard about you¡ª"

    Li Xueyue let out a small yawn. "You bore me."

    Duke Li Taojun felt like he was struck by lightning. Why was she so nonchnt about this entire ordeal?! He had expected her to shed a tear, throw a tantrum, and curse Li Shenyang to hell and back, but she was eerily serene.

    Li Xueyue revealed a slight smile. "Sure, my father had secrets against you, but you also had secrets against him. At the end of the day, you should''ve ced your only child first. Not your reputation or status. But you chose that over me, didn''t you?"

    "I¡ª"

    "You''re a coward. One who couldn''t go against his younger brother, it''s quite pitiful," Li Xueyue muttered.

    "You¡ª"

    "I stopped caring about my birth father a long time ago. Sure, there was a time I questioned who he was, but when he had failed me so many times before we even met, why should I waste my time worrying about him?"

    Duke Li Taojun''s heart was being torn to pieces by her cold words. They were jaded, much like her smiles.

    "And besides," Li Xueyue chuckled. "What did you expect from telling me all of this? Did you think I would run into your arms and thank the Heavens for meeting you?"

    "Well yes, but I¡ª"

    "I lived eighteen years without you, I can continue living without meeting you," Li Xueyue said.

    Li Xueyue meant each and every word. In all honesty, the only thing she cared about was her curiosity. It would be nice to see her birth father at least once in her life. At least, the unresolved questions she had about her origin was answered. She wasn''t the lowly daughter of a random man, after all.

    The Li Family wasn''t just for show. It was true. She had the blood of the Li coursing through her. And that was Li Xueyue''s sce.

 Chapter 294 Coward

    <h4>Chapter 294 Coward</h4>

    Duke Li Taojun had expected so much more out of this conversation. He wanted to apologize for being sote in her life.

    Duke Li Taojun wanted to form a father-daughter rtionship with her. There was so much to be done, but he hadn''t. He thought she''d at least hug him or shed a tear.

    This encounter was a lot more painful than he anticipated. Who knew she''d be so heartless¡­? Who knew she was exactly like her mother?

    "Don''t you have any empathy for me, at all?" Duke Li Taojun demanded in a raised voice. He was hurt by her words.

    "Don''t tter yourself," Li Xueyue said with a smallugh. "The only contribution you had in my life was bringing me into this world, which by the way, no thank you."

    Duke Li Taojun was infuriated by her indifference. Was this how both families raised her to be? He was told she was a lot more humble and kinder than this. What had gotten into her?

    "I suppose this conversation hase to an end." Li Xueyue revealed a small smile, her eyes softening with the tiny movement.

    She was entertained by his dumbfounded stare. It was almost as if he thought she wasn''t capable of being amicable.

    "I wish I can say it was a pleasure to see you, but it wasn''t." Li Xueyue picked up her hanfu a bit and walked off without a nod of acknowledgement or a bow. He didn''t deserve any of her kindness or sympathy.

    A coward. That was what he was. Her birth father was a useless man and her birth mother was an absentee parent.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but want tough at her situation. Her past would forever leave a scar in her heart. She couldn''t find the energy in herself to ever forgive any of her biological parents. Nothing they do or say would change what had happened to her.

    The only thing that could heal Xueyue was time and eptance.

    "Is this how it''s going to be? You''re going to cast me aside, all because I am of no use to you? Are you going to pretend to not know me, even though I can drag you through the dirt?

    Li Xueyue let out a sigh. Was this where her stubbornness came from?

    Duke Li Shenytang glowered at her. "I might''ve lost my power because of thete Emperor''s death, but that should make me an even more lethal enemy."

    She tilted her head and raised a brow. What was he bbering about?

    He continued, "I have nothing to lose now. I won''t hesitate to nder you any chance I get. For example, bringing up your abrupt presence in the Li family''s life."

    Something in her snapped. She lost it.

    So this was how it was going to be? Both of her birth parents were insignificant in her growth. They offered her nothing, but wanted something from her. They had treated her so horribly, yet had the audacity to request things from her as if she owed them.

    Her own birth father threatened to ruin her. A coward was too kind of an insult for him. He was less than scum.

    Li Xueyue turned around to face him. "Oh dear, you''re right, Father. I didn''t think ahead into the future. That''s quite a w I have, don''t you think so?"

    Duke Li Taojun was suspicious of her sudden change. "What are you nning?"

    "How can I n anything when I don''t have anything against you? Whereas you have everything against me?" Li Xueyue questioned in a soft voice. She dropped her gaze to the ground and shrank her shoulders a bit.

    "Is it toote to apologize for my insolence? Please don''t ruin my reputation, Father. I''ve worked so hard to build it," Li Xueyue pleaded.

    Duke Li Taojun blinked. "I can see past this pitiful act of yours. Do you truly think I''m that stupid?"

    Li Xueyue figured he wasn''t as simple-minded as most men. After all, it would take quite a lot of skills to train someone like Wen Jinkai. It must''ve been even more difficult to slither his way into power after losing it all.

    "What do you expect me to say, Father? Now that you hold my secrets against me, do you really think I will continue to insult you and dig a deeper grave for myself?" she questioned in a sullen voice.

    Raising her stare from the ground, she revealed the fear that temporarily shed in her eyes.

    Duke Li Taojun wryly smiled. At times like this, her coyness resembled her mother. "Do you really think you can trick me just like that vixen? I''ve learned from my mistakes."

    Li Xueyue took a step closer. "Then what do you want me to do and say, Father? Apologize for being such a disrespectful brat? You revealed your weapon against me. Shouldn''t my defenseless self yield to you?"

    Duke Li Taojun hadn''t thought that far ahead. He supposed she had inherited that trait from him.

    He had threatened her but didn''t know exactly what he wanted from her. It was toote to take him under his care and wing. She was simply too loyal to Li Shenyang.

    "Be my eyes and ears," Duke Li Taojun instructed. "For every secret you tell me, I will award you with a month of mypliance. You''re leaving for Hanjian soon, aren''t you? If you don''t want your reputation to be ndered here when you''re residing there, then find out as much dirt as possible."

    It was the final straw for Xueyue. The one that broke the camel''s back.

    This useless man truly had the guts to demand her betrayal to the only family that had actually loved her.

    Li Xueyue no longer worried about the consequences anymore. Lifting her head from the ground, she was prepared to end it all. Once and for all.

    Li Xueyue forced herself to frown. "This is unfair."

    "This is your punishment for being such a brat earlier," Duke Li Taojun spat. "If you had behaved properly and ran into my arms much earlier, I wouldn''t have done this to you."

    Li Xueyue realized this man was all brawns and no brains. How exactly did he even acquire his power? Was it by sweet-talking the previous Emperor? Hm¡­

    "I need more time," Li Xueyue whispered. "I''d leave for Hanjian in less than a week. There is no way I would be able to acquire so much information in such a short span of¡ª"

    "I don''t care," Duke Li Taojun hummed. "You''ve made your mistake. Now, you''ll learn the harsh way."

    "So you''re actually going to reprimand me like a father?" Li Xueyue mused.

    Duke Li Taojun narrowed his gaze. "If I don''t, who will? Obviously my younger brother has done a sorry job at disciplining you," he spat out.

    He observed her from head to toe in disgust. "It seems I resented the Bai family''s abuse towards you all for nothing. You''re a disobedient little girl who needs to be taught a proper lesson."

    ''Isn''t it a little bit toote for that?'' Li Xueyue bit down on her tongue to stop herself from blurting out that response. She continued digging her teeth into her tongue until she tasted blood and her eyes watered.

    "How unfair of you," Li Xueyue sullenly whispered. She dropped her stare to the ground right as her eyes glistened with unshed tears.

    "Fine," Li Xueyue gritted out. "I will do as you said, just this once."

    Duke Li Taojun clenched his fists together. She was ying him. Did she actually think he would fall for those fake tears? How many times have they been used against him by her mother? He had already lost count.

    "Good, now hurry off before they suspect anything due to your absence," Duke Li Taojun said. He shooed the Princess as if she was a dog that wouldn''t stop showing up at his door.

    Li Xueyue turned her back to him. She took a step forward but paused. "You know, Father. There is one thing you didn''t ask me."

    "Stop calling me by that title in hopes of appeasing me. It does nothing."

    "You never asked if I missed you," Li Xueyue murmured.

    She continued, "Have I ever nced out the window in my battered state and wondered if my knight in shining armor was out there somewhere? Have I ever cried to see my birth father? Have I ever prayed day and night to meet you, even if it''s just once?"

    Duke Li Taojun''s throat dried up at her words. It was what he initially wanted to hear from her. Because he, too, had done the same.

    Duke Li Taojun had peered up at the limitless night sky and wondered if she was alright, if she was happy if she was well-fed. It was before he discovered the Bai Family''s abuse.

    "Because the truth is," Li Xueyue said and shifted her chin just to peer at him. "I did."

    Duke Li Taojun''s heart plummeted. It was as if the rug was yanked from underneath him.

    Duke Li Taojun squeezed his eyes shut and forced himself not to believe her. And because he concentrated too much on blocking her out, he didn''t hear the soft thud of her shoes. Nor did he expect the body that crashed against his, or the arms that wrapped itself around him.

 Chapter 295 The Victim

    <h4>Chapter 295 The Victim</h4>

    Duke Li Taojun didn''t know how to react to the hug. His arms rested stiffly by his side.

    He tilted his head downwards and saw how she had buried her head within his chest. He blinked and rubbed his eyes, wondering if he was just seeing things.

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "I''ve always wondered what it would be like to experience this with my birth parents," Li Xueyue muttered against his clothes. She pulled back a bit and tilted her head.

    "Don''t you?" she asked.

    Duke Li Taojun wished she didn''t peer up at him with those eyes of hers. Her pupils were sharp and clear, like a reflective pond that seemed shallow at first, but held the most depth.

    Duke Li Taojun shakily wrapped his arms around her, catching both of them by surprise. He ced a hand behind the back of her head and tightly hugged her, wishing this moment wasn''t so abrupt.

    Li Xueyue''s expression softened. How strange. He hugged her as if his life depended on it.

    She could feel the quiver of his fingertips when his upper body curved to meet her stature. It was such a shame that she had to do this.

    "Xueyue, I want you to know that although your mother never loved you properly, I would''ve¡ªargh!"

    Duke Li Taojun choked when he felt a knee-buckling agony. He tried to fight against it, but she had tightly wrapped herself around him.

    "W-w-what did you¡ª!" He was interrupted by her twisting the knife deeper into his back.

    Duke Li Taojun violently reacted, struggling in her arms and in a split second, was able to push her backward.

    Li Xueyue didn''t have time to waste. The only way she could ever overpower this man was to catch him off-guard.

    The knife that was already wedged into his back created pain with each movement.

    Li Xueyue slipped out the other knife strapped to her thigh and in a single flick of her wrist, attempted to slice it through Duke Li Taojun''s neck.

    But he was faster than her. Angrily, he gripped her wrist and then her throat.

    "How fucking dare you!" Duke Li Taojun roared as he tightened his hold onto her feeble little wrist. He clenched it so tightly with the intention of shattering it on the spot.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened in fear when his fingers dug deep into her throat.

    When he clenched her neck, she cried out in pain. To her sheer horror, he began to lift her up, much like what Wen Jinkai had done to Li Minghua.

    "Your death will be the most satisfying one of them all!" Duke Li Taojun seethed as he attempted to push his daughter to the ground.

    He regretteding unarmed, but she certainly wasn''t.

    Duke Li Taojun watched in satisfaction as she writhed and struggled against his unbearable grip. He dropped his hold on her wrist and decided to grab her neck with both hands. It''d kill her faster.

    If he was going to die from blood loss, at least they''d die together. "Let''s go to Hell as father and daughter," he gritted out.

    With both of his hands strangling her neck, Li Xueyue''s vision began to swim with ck dots. She fought against him, kicking and wriggling. She wed at his arms, her fingers digging into it, but it was to no avail.

    Duke Li Taojun wasrger and stronger than her. Eventually, her body went limp and her head slumped forward.

    "Brat," Duke Li Taojun growled as he pulled her a bit closer to make sure she was actually dead. Without warning, she flicked her wrist and something sharp flew from inside of her sleeves.

    "My eyes!" he screamed in pain, dropping her to clutch his eye.

    His hands trembled to identify the item that had lodged into his right eye. He was so distracted that he hadn''t realized he had released her from his grip.

    Li Xueyue fell to the ground and gasped for air as she watched him struggle. He attempted to soothe his eye, but it only made it worse. He had pushed the small needle deeper.

    Seizing this distraction, Li Xueyue reached into her pockets and pulled out an indistinguishable vial of liquid.

    "How dare you?!" Duke Li Taojun roared.

    He staggered forward, only to gasp in pain. The knife had gone deeper into his back at his movement. Agony spread in his body. Just then, he felt the wind was knocked out of him.

    Li Xueyue had kicked him in the groin. He let out a startled wheeze, almost as if he was strangled. His knees buckled for a brief moment as he clutched his precious jewels.

    Now that he was distracted again, Li Xueyue knew this was her chance. She rushed forward and attempted to slice his throat open. But at thest moment, he grabbed her wrist.

    "You''re going to pay for this," Duke Li Taojun screamed as he attempted to crush her feeble wrist.

    Li Xueyue cringed at the sight of blood running from his right eye. But he had just exposed a weak spot. Abruptly, she reached for the needle stuck in his right eye, yanking it out. He let out an animalistic scream and touched his eye, distracted yet again.

    Li Xueyue didn''t think it would go this far. But she did it anyway. She stabbed his other eye. Her body tensed when the needle pierced through the flesh. She let out a small squeal of disgust at the sensation.

    "Say hello to the King of the Underworld for me," she growled before pouring the vial of liquid down his throat.

    He gargled and choked at the unidentifiable liquid, but was forced to swallow it.

    "Y-you¡­" he heaved, struggling to stand against his attacker who loved to y dirty.

    Li Xueyue stumbled back as he staggered forward. He blindly reached for her but swayed in his footing.

    "H-how?!" he coughed out before copsing onto his knees.

    Li Xueyue watched in horror as he dropped to the ground, facedown. The needle dug deeper into his eye, but he didn''t even flinch.

    Li Xueyue let out a shaky breath at the sight of him. It was a bloody mess. She flinched upon seeing the sttered blood on the ends of her white hanfu. She was tainted red.

    Li Xueyue wiped the sweat that gathered from her brows.

    Finally, the realization of her actions settled into her adrenaline-rushed body.

    She copsed onto the ground.

    A quivered sigh escaped from her. She nced down at her hands. There was grass and blood on it. Bruises were evident on her wrist. And no doubt, she looked like a mess.

    "I couldn''t have you bbering," Li Xueyue said through her chattering teeth.

    She had done it. She had killed someone with her bare hands. Her eyesnded upon his motionless body.

    "This had to be done," Li Xueyue muttered. "I''ve worked far too hard for you to ruin it out of spite."

    Li Xueyue nervously licked her bottom lip. She nced around their surroundings, wondering if anyone had seen the fight.

    She noticed they were too far out for anyone to have heard or seen anything.

    When she finally calmed down, the festive music could be heard in the distance. Loud and unrivaled. It was almost as if the song was celebrating his death.

    Li Xueyue nced down at her soiled dress. The innocent white was no match for her. She was meant to embody the Heavens and Spring, but behaved the opposite of that.

    Squeezing her eyes shut, she reached for the ends of her clothing.

    "To survive in this world, I need to have more than brains," she reminded herself.

    Without hesitation, Li Xueyue tore the bottom parts of her dress. Her hands reached for the intricate hairstyle. She shoved her fingers into her hair and fumbled about.

    It was showtime.

    - - - - -

    Li Chenyang thought he saw something glisten in the distance. He squinted his eyes, blinking in confusion when something blinded him.

    ''What the hell was going on?''

    He nced to his left and then his right. Everyone was distracted by the music, dancer, or other people.

    Li Chenyang studied the crowd and there wasn''t a single suspicious person.

    Far into the darkness, he saw it again. A glimmer of light, so small, it was barely noticeable. He thought he had imagined it.

    Perhaps the glow of thentern made it seem that way? But then the burst of light surged forward again. Was someone signaling to him?

    His stomach ufortably churned.

    He had finally noticed the empty seat next to Minghua. Where did Xueyue go?

    Li Chenyang shot out of his chair which caught the attention of his father.

    "Where are you going, Chenyang?" his father asked in a solemn voice.

    "Xueyue¡­ she''s not here," Li Chenyang responded.

    "She mentioned taking a walk near the gazebo over there," his mother said whilst jutting her chin in the direction that Xueyue had walked towards.

    "Perfect," Li Chenyang said. "I''ll join her and catch some fresh air. It''s so stuffy after having talked to so many people."

    "Bring her back without anyone noticing. The banquet ising to an end anyway," Empress Wang Qixing stated.

    Li Chenyang stiffly nodded his head. The ce his mother had told him about was the exact spot he had seen the light. Was it a coincidence?

    Li Chenyang excused himself and began to walk out of the banquet.

    Stares followed him with each step he took, but once they were distracted by the musicians and performers, Chenyang picked up his pace. He practically speed-walked his way to the gazebo.

    Picking up antern that hung from a small pole, he took it with him. Unexpectedly, the source of light slipped through his fingertips.

    Blood. There was so much of it. It was everywhere.

    "Xueyue¡­?" Li Chenyang gasped out.

    He rushed forward, long abandoning thentern. Through the small glow, he spotted a figure on the ground. Her feeble shoulders, small and trembling, was hard to ignore.

    Li Xueyue resembled an injured swan unable to fly anymore. Her sleeves were torn in more than one ce and strands of her hair stuck out in odd directions.

    "C-Chen-ge?" Li Xueyue stuttered out, not expecting for him to see her like this.

    She thought her signal would have reached the other members of her family who would be horrified to see her in this state.

    Seeing as it was Chenyang, she knew there was no need to put on an act anymore. But then he rushed forward and tightly hugged her.

    "Are you hurt?" Li Chenyang worriedly asked whilst pulling her up in the process. "Why are you on the ground? Is the blood yours? Where did you get injured? Did your time of the monthe, is that why¡ª"

    "I-I didn''t mean to¡­" Li Xueyue whispered in a broken voice. Her eyes grew wide as she desperately held onto him. "I swear, I didn''t! H-he threatened to ruin me and¡ª"

    "Goodness gracious," Li Chenyang muttered at the sight before him.

    But that wasn''t the issue at hand. Her terrified behavior was. He was too busy concentrating on her to even care about what she had done.

    Li Chenyang pulled her closer and patted the top of her head. "Calm down, Xueyue. It''s okay, none of this is your fault, I believe you. I won''t make the same mistake as mistrusting you again."

    Li Chenyang''s heart was being torn to pieces at the sight of her frightened facial features. There was so much panic in her eyes that he could do nothing but try tofort her. She wasn''t crying but was on the verge of shedding tears.

    "H-he¡ª"

    "Shhh, it''s okay," Li Chenyangforted.

    Li Chenyang pulled her into his arms as she buried herself into his chest. He had finally seen the lifeless body beside him.

    Whoever this man was, he didn''t care. Xueyue was the victim. Not the perpetrator. And even if she had killed him, he was the one who started the fight.

    Li Chenyang tightened his grip. That was right. His Xueyue simply performed self-defense. That is all. Nothing more. Nothing less. She would never take the me for this crime. Never ever. Not unless he had something to say about it.

 Chapter 296 Phoenix That Soared

    <h4>Chapter 296 Phoenix That Soared</h4>

    "The banquet has ended," Li Chenyang said as he sat beside Xueyue.

    They remained seated on the small patch of grass that was between the bridge and the gazebo. They had the perfect view of the banquet, but the people there wouldn''t be able to notice them due to theck of light.

    "Once Mother and Father notice we''re both gone for a while, they''lle and find us here," Li Chenyang exined.

    He could already picture their mother''s panic state. Amidst her rambling, their father would remain calm and collected.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She couldn''t bring herself to speak about what had happened. She didn''t mean to cry in his arms.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even think she would be so shaken up. Chenyang had brought out all of her emotions¡ªespecially the bottled up ones.

    She felt no remorse for killing Duke Li Taojun, nor did she feel sympathy.

    "I don''t regret it," she suddenly said.

    What kind of father would extort a daughter he had just imed as his own? What kind of man did he have to be to demand so much from her?

    Duke Li Taojun spoke as if he knew about the horrible conditions of the Bai Family. Yet, he didn''t take the initiative to save her. He was a coward until the end of his time. A greedy, shameless one.

    Li Xueyue felt nothing for this man, yet, she had broken down in Chenyang''s arms.

    Why was that? Was it the guilt of taking a life? Or had the frustrations in the house finally reached its breaking point?

    She wept not for the Duke, but for her childhood self. She cried for the bottled up emotions and everything else along the way.

    "That''s alright. I don''t expect you to regret it." He took a look at her appearance.

    "But this dress will have to be burned, as well as his body," Li Chenyang said.

    Li Chenyang tried to not look in the direction of the limp body. He hadn''t properly examined the body, nor did he feel any inclination to do so.

    His nose crinkled at the unpleasant smell. He chose to ignore it for her sake.

    "Who was it?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue hugged her knees tightly. She leaned her chin on her arms and briefly peered at him through hershes. Her heart raced in anticipation. She was fearful of his responses.

    "If I tell you who it was, will you think of me any less?" she questioned.

    Li Chenyang let out a humorousugh. "Did you truly think I was a saint? Murder and death do not faze me. I''ve gotten rid of people who stood in my way as well. It''s just how this world works. The strong eat the weak."

    Li Xueyue shivered at his words. His tone was cold and nonchnt. She always knew her older brother was as cunning as their father. A maniac smile rested upon his lips as his eyes shed with amusement.

    "It will be fine," Li Chenyang said. "We will burn his body into ashes. All remnants of this moment will be forgotten."

    "Will it be selfish of me?" Li Xueyue whispered. "This is Mother and Father''s big day, and I just had to ruin it by¡ª"

    "You worry even more than me," Li Chenyang pointed out. He reached over and pinched her cheek. "Stop overthinking, Piglet Number Two."

    Li Xueyue was so relieved by his words, she didn''t notice him calling her by this horrid nickname.

    Li Chenyang smiled in satisfaction. At least she was learning to not be so aggrieved by everything. He was worried about the day she had wrinkles too early.

    Deeming she was fine and dandy, Li Chenyang turned his head. He observed the guests who were starting to trickle out of the banquet.

    Li Xueyue followed suit. There was something so calming about watching a crowded ce slowly shrink in number, until only a handful of people remained.

    Afortable silence settled in between them.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue was informed that the body was burned by a servant named Ling¡­? Something about him having the most experience when it came to disposing of worthless things? She wasn''t sure about the family''s reaction towards the newfound discovery.

    Once all of the guests had dispersed, Chenyang was the first to make a move. He told her to stay put to make sure no one would walk over the bridge. Next, he approached his father and in a hushed voice, mentioned what had happened.

    The new Emperor was certainly surprised to hear the news of his dead brother but was the least bit fazed. He knew Duke Li Taojun had to be disposed of, sooner orter. He was just d it was done so quickly and without soiling his hands.

    "It was such pretty clothes," Li Xueyue mumbled to herself. "What a waste that was burned¡­"

    Li Xueyue wondered what went through her father''s head when he saw her disheveled form. His stoic face was filled with concern as he offered her a helping hand to stand back up.

    "Father must''ve thought I was attacked by Li Taojun or something¡­ Well, that was how I wanted to paint it to be," Li Xueyue murmured. She stood up from the newly-made vanity.

    The Li Family had officially moved into the Pce this morning. All of Xueyue''s belongings were moved into this room, but she didn''t think it was necessary to unpack everything since she was leaving for Hanjian very soon.

    Li Xueyue''s room here was muchrger than their house in the Capital. Here, she had an entire pce to herself. She felt out of breath just walking to the other side of this ce.

    "No matter how much I wash and clean, it''s still pink," Li Xueyue wondered out loud.

    Li Xueyue lifted her hand to the moonlight, staring at her fingers. No one else noticed it, but she most certainly did. Her skin was pale. Distinctively, she could still feel the heat of Li Taojun''s warm blood.

    "What''s done is done," Li Xueyue said. She wondered if Duke Li Taojun would get a proper burial.

    "I wonder what Wen Jinkai is thinking¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off. She sat beside the windowsill with her arms resting upon it. She leaned her cheek upon her folded arms.

    "Now he truly has no one left in this world. No friends, no family¡­"

    Li Xueyue pitied him more than anything. He had the most to lose in this situation. The people he had grown up with, they were all dead.

    Despite what the Li Family had done to his closed-ones, Wen Jinkai''s attention was still focused on Li Minghua. Throughout the entire banquet, he watched no one else but her. And whenever she was approached by someone, his expression would darken.

    "How can he be so possessive over something that''s not his?" Li Xueyue asked. She let out a sigh. This wasn''t a problem that should gue her thoughts to this extent.

    "I should have a final talk with him before my departure to Hanjian¡­ It would only be fair," Li Xueyue decided.

    She peered up at the night sky, smiling at the stars that seemed so far, yet so close. She reached a hand out as the moonlight relished upon her skin.

    "Am I still a lone flower peering up at the sky¡­? A useless little thing that sways along the wind¡­ whose petals dream of flying towards the sun?"

    Li Xueyue eventually fell asleep by the windowsill. A pale glow basked over her, gently, softly, like a nket over her small form. That night, she dreamed of the limitless blue sky, and of a phoenix that soared through the clouds.

 Chapter 297 The One Who Collapses

    <h4>Chapter 297 The One Who Copses</h4>

    Hanjian

    A full moon hung over the enormous pce estate that was the size of a town. The Imperial Pce was the most formidable part of the country. Next came the Capital which was right outside of the pce gates.

    "The details have been finalized, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi reported. She unraveled the heavy scroll in her hands. There were wooden cylinders on either ends of the scroll that ensured the edges of the paper wouldn''t scrunch upwards.

    "Your Princess will arrive very soon," Lu Tianbi proudly said. She ced the ttened scroll in front of the fussy Crown Prince.

    Yu Zhen had a book over his face and it was unknown if he was awake or not.

    Lu Tianbi''s attention wandered to his stack of parchments that had shifted in cement. So he had finally finished all of next week''s work. She didn''t know why he was working himself to the bone like this. Did he want an entire week off? Was that it?

    His mornings were upied with court duties and then touring the closest towns outside of the Capital to ensure everything went smoothly. Yu Zhen was the most ideal Crown Prince that anyone could ask for. Albeit, he was too crude and harsh, but he got the work done the most efficiently.

    "Zhenzhen?" Hu Dengxiao whispered whilst waving a hand over his Crown Prince''s face. The man in question was leaned back in the cushioned chair.

    "He''s exhausted," Lu Tianbi muttered. She crossed her arms and sighed. "He wakes up the earliest out of everyone and sleeps thetest. It''s so rare to see him nap like this."

    "Are you sure he''s actually asleep though?" Hu Dengxiao mumbled.

    "Leave him be," Lu Tianbi warned when Hu Dengxiao reached for the book. "Let our Prince sleep a while longer. If not, he might drop dead in front of us."

    "Nuh-uh! Our Commander is too strong for that. What''s the point of training every morning if he doesn''t put his well-built stamina to use?" Hu Dengxiao retorted much to Lu Tianbi''s displeasure.

    "He should use the time he spent training to sleep instead. All of his techniques are near perfection. He has also mastered the secret arts of sword fighting andbat. I don''t know why he''s pushing himself like this," Lu Tianbi nagged.

    "Maybe he wants to maintain a great body for when the Princesses," Hu Dengxiao snickered. He wondered if she caught the double meaning in his words.

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes.

    "Let''s sneak out of here, Tiantian~ I found this really small waterfall in the forest and maybe we can ssh around like when we were children¡ª"

    "Get back to work," a voice bit out.

    Hu Dengxiao let out a terrified shriek. He jumped behind Lu Tianbi and shakily peered over her shoulders. "T-the monster, he''s alive!"

    "Sadly," Yu Zhen grumbled out. He sat upwards and gripped the book off of his face. He checked the title and scowled. ''The 99 Steps of Love.'' No wonder he had such a sweet dream about Xueyue and their future in the pce.

    Too bad he had woken up to the cruel reality that they were far from having a family of their own. He let out an aggravated sigh and tossed the book aside. He didn''t need to fill his head with false hope like this. He preferred to live in reality.

    "The work for today, tomorrow, and the day after that has already been finished on your part. For me and Dengxiao, we only need to finalize a few documents. You should head to bed now, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi said.

    Concern marred her pretty face. Lu Tianbi was worried about his condition. She approached the Crown Prince and ced a hand over his when he picked up the brush.

    "Don''t do this to yourself, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi said.

    "Leave him be, Tiantian. I''ve already tried convincing him day and night to not put a strain on himself," Hu Dengxiao said with a wave of his hand. He was just d that his best fiend hadn''t punched him for the nickname. Luckily, she was too distracted by their dear friend.

    Yu Zhen lightly pushed her hand away and stood up.

    Lu Tianbi''s heart soared, thinking this stubborn Prince had finally listened to her. Her hopes were dashed when he got up to pick up the other stack of parchment. They weren''t supposed to be addressed until the week after next.

    "Your Highness!" Lu Tianbi exasperated. "I know you hate it when I nag, but why are you doing this, Your Highness?"

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. He picked up the finely crafted brush and dipped it into the ink t grounded by Lu Tianbi. He shifted all of his attention to diligentlyplete the documents.

    "Xueyue ising soon," Yu Zhen finally said after a long pause. He dipped the brush into the ink, his long fingers moving with ease.

    Lu Tianbi was befuddled by what he meant by that. Eventually, rity filled her. The Crown Prince was overworking himself so that he could have enough time to spend with her. He treasured her so much that his own health meant nothing if Princess Li Xueyue could smile.

    She shook her head at this. Who would''ve thought the Grim Reaper of the battlefield had such a tender heart? She didn''t even know he possessed such a thing.

    "Why don''t we take another break, then?" Lu Tianbi suggested. She began to pour him a cup of tea. She hoped thevender mixed with chamomile would lull him to sleep.

    Yu Zhen didn''t touch the teacup and continued to pay no mind to anything but the documents in front of him.

    Lu Tianbi angrily kicked Hu Dengxiao, waiting for him to say something. She was the right-hand woman, and he was the advisor. Together, they should be able to convince the Second Prince. Right?

    "U-uh, I think the Princess who resembles a pretty puppy will look like a depressed one if you uhm¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off, not sure how he should word it. Truthfully, the thought of convincing Yu Zhen to sleep had never crossed his mind.

    As someone who was addicted to spending his time being productive, Hu Dengxiao couldn''t find a fault in Yu Zhen''s ways. Of course, the Crown Prince was putting harm on his body, but hey, there was nothing the man couldn''t handle. Right?

    Lu Tianbi pinched the bridge of her nose. Why were the men in her life soplicated? They just loved to make her tick. And who even calls a woman a ''pretty puppy''? She was surprised Yu Zhen hadn''t reacted to such a nickname, but she did see his jaw clenched at the mention of her¡­

    Hmmm¡­.

    "I''m sure Princess Li would be in tears to find out you''ve overworked yourself to such an extent," Lu Tianbi coaxed. A conniving smirk began to form when his fingers tightened around the brush. For a second, he had hesitated. It was barely noticeable, but her keen eyes had spotted it.

    "Also, think about the wedding night¡­ What if all the days of overworking catches up and you just copse on top of her. Imagine how she''d feel¡ª"

    The brush slipped from Yu Zhen''s palms.

    ''Ah hah! Got him!'' Lu Tianbi chanted inside of her head. Her happiness was short-lived when he picked up the brush again.

    "She will be the one who copses once I''m done with her," Yu Zhen muttered.

    Lu Tianbi''s mouth was agape at his words. Had he no shame? With the Commander''s stamina¡­ that poor Princess!

 Chapter 298 Embrace The Change

    <h4>Chapter 298 Embrace The Change</h4>

    Imperial Pce, Wuyi

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize how lonely the Pce would be until the first morning that they didn''t have breakfast together.

    The Emperor was too preupied with paperwork. Her mother was whisked away to fulfill her Empress duties. The twins were also sent off for their duties as soon as they had awoken, leaving both of the daughters to eat in their respective rooms.

    What she missed was not a meal together, but time that they should''ve spent chatting around the table. Much has changed. And she wasn''t ready for loneliness.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to be holed up in her room, all alone. Thus, she toured the garden with a stomach filled with nerves.

    Yet again, she had only eaten small bites here and there. It just didn''t feel the same. She didn''t know why.

    "What could be so interesting about this ripped up garden?"

    Li Xueyue swiveled around in a heartbeat. She was astonished to see Wen Jinkai standing a few feet away from her. When did he get here?

    "Your mother seemed to have busied herself with redecorating the tens of gardens in the Pce.The flowers that used to grow here were all snipped off."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "If anyone of them held meaning to you or to thete Empress, you can always tell my mother. She''s kind enough topromise."

    "I''ve already informed her this morning. The ones by thete Empress''s residence will be preserved."

    Li Xueyue was taken aback by this. For a split second there, she saw remorse and mncholy sh upon his suave features. It left as quickly as it came. Her heart was heavy with sympathy for him.

    "I''m sorry that you lost everyone," Li Xueyue slowly said. She didn''t want him to think this emotion of hers suggested something she didn''t intend. Did he have to carry himself like an abandoned puppy?

    His shoulders were still raised and taut, but it slightly slouched. The confidence that he carried himself with had dimmed. He was everything that he had always been, yet he was different.

    "I don''t need your pity."

    "I wasn''t going to offer any," Li Xueyue responded with a small smile. "But you can think as you wish," she added on.

    Li Xueyue settled herself onto one of the wooden benches. She liked this part of the gardens, since it allowed her to be under the shade, but within sight of the flowers.

    Li Xueyue wished she could see the final product of the renovated gardens. Without a doubt, her mother''s flowers would fill this pce with more life.

    Wen Jinkai approached her bench but didn''t sit down. He leaned against it and folded his arms across his chest. "Do you feel like a recement for Minghua?"

    "No, but you definitely viewed me like that," Li Xueyue calmly said.

    Li Xueyue used to be offended by his intentions, but now, she couldn''t bring herself to even care.

    All of that was in the past.

    She had learned to ept it and move on. There was no point in dwelling on the unchangeable. She refused to waste her time worrying over these things.

    "It was never my intention to do so," Wen Jinkai exined.

    He cast her a side nce and held back a sigh. What a fool he had been to the women in his life. "You certainly reminded me of Minghua, and at times when I stood up for you, the thought of her crossed my mind, but I never wanted to rece her. There is no one in this world who can fill her spot."

    "Except her," Li Xueyue stated. She tore her gaze from a butterfly that hadnded upon a flower. "You should go and beg her for forgiveness. What are you doing here in the first ce?"

    Wen Jinkai pressed his lips together. "You''re departing for Hanjian soon. In the end, that man won, didn''t he? I wanted to see you onest time. To make amends."

    "He didn''t win anything. You were never apetitor in his eyes," Li Xueyue remarked.

    Wen Jinkai chuckled at her bitter words. Even in the end, she was still ruthless and cold.

    How had he not seen it sooner? He always thought her frigid words were because of the irritation she felt for him. Who knew it was actually a part of her behavior?

    "Besides," Li Xueyue said. "There are no amends to make."

    "I''ve said it before, but I''m sorry for hurting you that day. I didn''t realize I was so rough, or the fact that I was even¡ª"

    "You need to stop being so possessive and maniptive," Li Xueyue interrupted. "That is not the proper way to treat a woman. Even if you are in the wrong, and your temper gets the best of you. Neither of these are excuses for your behaviour."

    Wen Jinkai was irked by the snipes she took at him. He didn''te prepared to be lectured by her, like an older sister. It felt weird, especially because he was much older than her, by at least three or four years.

    "I''m not trying to offend you. I just want us to end on good terms since we started that way," Li Xueyue added on.

    She turned her chin to peer up at him and his stormy expression. His brows were drawn together in concentration and he was watching the gardens.

    Wen Jinkai was unable to ept her advice at the moment, but it had gotten through him.

    "Let''s talk about something else," he asserted.

    Li Xueyue shook her head in amusement. The least he could do was be subtle about changing the subject.

    Wen Jinkai was the first to speak. "As you''re well aware of, the Second Prince is alive and locked away in the Pce."

    She raised a brow.

    He continued, "I had a brief discussion with him. Who would''ve known thete Empress worried about her sick son so much that she created a passage in his bedroom that no one knew about, except the two of them?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She boredly yed with the edges of her soft sleeves. "Why should that concern me? Dead or alive, it''s not my problem."

    Wen Jinkai steered his eyes towards her, staring her down. "Because he was an aplice in his mother''s murder. Minghua killed the Empress and he stood guard outside."

    Li Xueyue slowly blinked. She was torn about what to say. If the Second Prince was standing guard¡­ then it could only mean one thing. The person who had knocked her unconscious was Wang Jing.

    "Why¡­ are you telling me this?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "I thought you should know what type of crazy son of a¡ª" Wen Jinkai cleared his throat. "What type of maniac that man is. To murder his own mother in cold blood¡­ I thought I was the only one capable of such atrocity."

    Li Xueyue realized he must''ve had no one to talk to. The Commander of Wuyi, despite his aplishment and fame, had no one left in this world. He was all alone.

    "Why would Wang Jing kill his mother? It doesn''t make sense," Li Xueyue questioned in a careful tone. She didn''t want to trigger him.

    "The Second Prince is a pitiful man. Ever since he was a child, he had a motherplex. There is no one he loved more than the Empress who tended to him, even when the doctors said his illness could be contagious."

    Wen Jinkai''s gaze softened. He, too, had foundfort within the Empress. She was a loving woman with a tainted heart.

    He exined, "Wang Jing always took his mother''s side. No matter what crime shemitted, what sinister thought crossed her mind, Wang Jing always supported it. He needed nothing in this world except the love of the Empress."

    Li Xueyue was unsure of where this conversation was going. But for his sake, she let him continue. He needed to get this off his chest.

    "When your father and brother showed me Minghua''s diary and hairpin¡­ I lost it." Wen Jinkai dug his fingers into tight fists. The guilt ate him alive. Hisst encounter with his mother was the first and only time he turned his back to her. Now, she''s gone from this world.

    "Despite threatening to kill the Empress, she took my side. Despite strangling her, she still pleaded for me to stay by her side. In the Second Prince''s twisted reality, he must''ve thought the Empress only loved me. Something inside of him must''ve snapped that night."

    Li Xueyue''s blood turned cold. The Second Prince had characteristics of a psychopath. Charming at first, but cunning and crazy.

    "He must''ve thought ''if I can''t have her love, no one else can.'' As a result¡ª" Wen Jinkai gritted his teeth. How had he not seen it sooner? He regretted his actions, but couldn''t me the Second Prince.

    Wen Jinkai had also tried to kill the Empress. Both of them were crazy enough to bite the hand that fed them. The only problem? Wen Jinkai would live with this regret for the rest of his life. And the Second Prince? He got thestugh. He didn''t even feel remorse.

    "I lied," Wen Jinkai said. "The Second Prince isn''t locked away in a random part of the pce grounds. He''s in the Cold Pce, losing his sanity. He was fed with a newly developed poison that attacks the vital organs. It''ll be a slow, painful death."

    Li Xueyue''s spine went rigid at the horrible fate. "W-was it my family who¡ª"

    "It''s best for you to not know which member of your family enforced the torture," Wen Jinkai said. "And do not think any more of this topic, except the fact that you will be safe."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "What do you mean?"

    Wen Jinkai threw her a pointed look. "Don''t you realize it, Xueyue? Exactly who was the puppet master? Who controlled Minghua? Who controlled Duke Li Taojun? Who was the hidden master in the pce? It was the one who possessed the most knowledge. He was the keeper of secrets."

    Wen Jinkai frowned. "The man who wielded the most power wasn''t your father, it was the Second Prince. He knew each and every secret of everyone in power."

    "Then why would my family poison him? Why didn''t they just kill him?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Because your family is sinister enough to let him die a painful death rather than a swift one," Wen Jinkai muttered. "Without a doubt, after my conversation with the Second Prince today¡­ that man willck the ability to spread such secrets."

    Li Xueyue''s lips trembled. "That''s enough, I don''t want to hear anymore."

    Wen Jinkai wouldn''t me her. The entire Li Family had sheltered her from their cruelty.

    It would be too difficult for her to ept everything all at once. He, too, couldn''t ept anything. And that was exactly why he sought sce in ignorance was bliss. The less he knew, the less he''d feel.

    "The reason why I haven''t killed your family for what they did to mine," Wen Jinkai began. "Was because of Li Minghua."

    "In the end," Li Xueyue said. "You still love her."

    Wen Jinkai looked away. He had always loved Li Minghua. He should''ve known sooner that his heart was set on no one else but her.

    Li Minghua was no longer the girl from two years ago. She was a woman now¡ªone who had experienced the cruelty of reality.

    Was he ready to embrace the change?

 Chapter 299 Sweet Dreams

    <h4>Chapter 299 Sweet Dreams</h4>

    A long silence settled over them. It was asionally broken by the chirp of a bird or the flutter of butterflies. The air was sweet and floral. The sun rose high in the sky. It was a shame they had spent their time doing nothing under the shade within the pce grounds instead of horseback riding or something.

    "You might not have a family now," Li Xueyue slowly began. "But you can start one of your own."

    "What are you even¡ª"

    "Minghua still loves you," Li Xueyue deadpanned. She cursed her heart for feeling sympathetic towards him. But he had lost everything in life. There was nothing wrong with throwing the man a bone.

    "She doesn''t¡ª"

    "She does."

    Wen Jinkai''s head snapped to her so fast, he ignored the possibility of whish. "Don''t try to lie to me. I know that heart of hers will never beat for me again."

    "I thought the same. If I was in her shoes, two and a half years ago, I would''ve left a long time ago. I wouldn''t have stayed in the Pce and endure the psychological torture inflicted by the Empress," Li Xueyue bluntly said.

    She let out a sigh and leaned against the bench. "But she clearly didn''t do that. Even now, she still loves you. You''ve hurt her, but she''s willing to forgive if you apologize with everything you have."

    Wen Jinkai wasn''t sure if Li Xueyue was feeding him with false hope or not. He was willing to try. Not for his sake, but for Li Minghua''s. He had given her nothing but empty promises, but now, he was willing to give her his everything.

    "So go," Li Xueyue said.

    "What?" Wen Jinkai asked with a dumbfounded expression.

    "What are you waiting for?" Li Xueyue bit out. "Find her. Chase her. And make sure, this time, you don''t lose her."

    Wen Jinkai didn''t need to be told twice. "Thank you."

    And with that said, he was gone.

    - - - - -

    "You are too kind," Li Chenyang said the minute he walked into Xueyue''s waiting room.

    Li Chenyang could effortlessly walk into her bedroom when they resided within the Li Manor, but now, there were too many watchful eyes. For her reputation''s sake, regardless of their status as siblings, Chenyang would only enter her drawing room.

    "You''d think with so much hardships, I would finally get a grip on myself," Li Xueyue muttered. "But no, I just had to sympathize with the enemy."

    "It''s called being the bigger person, even though you''re the youngest," Li Chenyang exined. He leaned against the chair and took a leisure sip of tea whilst crossing his legs. What a tiring day he had in the Pce.

    Li Chenyang always knew the Crown Prince was swamped with responsibilities, but he didn''t think he''d have to take lessons on how to rule a country. Letting out a loud and heavy sigh, he rubbed his forehead.

    "Tired?" Li Xueyue asked. She was concerned about his current state. When he was just a simple Minister, he was already overloaded with work. And now, he seemed to be buried under even more responsibilities.

    "I''m fine," Li Chenyang lied. Nheless, he was slumped in the chair, forgetting all sorts of etiquette rules.

    Li Chenyang didn''t want the topic to dwell on his health. He didn''t want to be nagged by her. "I don''t think any of the remaining Princes will try to usurp the throne."

    Li Xueyue''s lips curved downwards into a frown. This wasn''t a topic she wanted to talk about. She preferred to know nothing.

    "The Fourth Prince hasn''t awakened from hisa. The doctor also said he suffered multiple blows to the head¡­ I wouldn''t be surprised if he woke up with memory loss."

    Li Xueyue never got to question it, but how exactly did the Fourth Prince manage to make it out alive? Wasn''t every eligible heir to the throne massacred until the next in line was the Li Family? She understood the Second Prince had his safety passage, but what about the neglected Fourth Prince? And his mother, Consort Gu Feiying?

    Li Chenyang saw the confusion on her face. "You may not know this, but the Fourth Prince has always trained in sword fighting. He''s a remarkable fighter. He didn''t go down without a fight."

    Li Chenyang shook his head. He didn''t think that bastard would be so strong. "He took down twenty of our men, before finally losing. In all honesty," he said and sipped his tea, "I hope he never wakes up."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She silently picked up a pastry and nibbled on it.

    The food was vorful, but she didn''t have the stomach to eat.

    She pulled down her sleeves, hoping to hide her thin wrist. She had lost so much weight that bracelets would asionally slip off of her.

    "Of course, it''s nothing that you should be concerned about," Li Chenyang said.

    He turned to face her and chuckled upon seeing the crumbs thatnded upon herp. He swiped it off of her and with a handkerchief, he wiped at her face like a mother would to their child.

    "Don''t eat something so crumbly if you n to take small bites. Here, try the chestnut buns instead," Li Chenyang said whilst picking up the tter of delicacies.

    Li Xueyue picked up a single pastry, and he frowned.

    "No, you need to eat more¡ª" he paused when she offered it to him. He took the pastry. She took the te. He blinked in surprise before letting out a warmugh.

    "As expected of a Little Piglet," he joked whilst biting into the small snack. She red at him before picking up a bite-sized cake from the te.

    "Will you miss me in Hanjian?" Li Chenyang abruptly asked out of pure curiosity.

    Li Xueyue scoffed. "No, I won''t."

    "You brat¡ª"

    "Someone once told me stupid questions only elicited stupid answers."

    Li Chenyang wondered who said that to her. He lowered his flexed fingers. It seemed there was no need to flick her¡­ But he curled his fingers, just in case she needed a scolding.

    "Of course I will miss you," Li Xueyue said. "I will miss all of you, Mother, Father, Wenmin, and even the servants who never speak to me."

    Li Chenyang ignored the fact that she didn''t mention Minghua. "You promise to write to me?"

    "I don''t make promises anymore," Li Xueyue mused. "But yes, I swear I''ll write to you. Even if I have to use my blood as ink."

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes at her dramatic words. "As if Yu Zhen will deny you parchment and ink."

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh. "You never know. Maybe I''ll reach Hanjian and Yu Zhen will grow bored of me. Then I will be cast aside whilst he entertains a younger, prettier, version of me."

    Li Chenyang''s brows creased together. "Xueyue, if he ever does that, I want you to notify us immediately. Don''t keep it all bottled up. Don''t be like Minghua."

    Li Xueyue knew it was a silly fear of hers, but she couldn''t help it.

    Yu Zhen was the Crown Prince of Hanjian. His aplishments as a Commander must have garnered him many suitors. And his new position would''ve reeled in even more women. It would be a bloodbath just to gain his attention.

    "Don''t worry, Chen-ge," Li Xueyue said. "If Yu Zhen does mistreat me, you will be the first to know."

    "And it''ll be thest time you tell me," Li Chenyang muttered under his breath.

    "Hm? Did you say something, Chen-ge?" Li Xueyue asked in confusion. She thought she had heard something¡­ Was it a figment of her imagination?

    Li Chenyang''s lips curled into arge smile. He reached over and fondly patted her cheeks. "It''s nothing that you should worry about, Yueyue."

    "Gosh, not that awful nickname again."

    "Hmph, you just don''t know how to appreciate creativity," Li Chenyang remarked.

    "What''s there to appreciate anyway¡­" Li Xueyue mumbled, even though a tiny smile rested on her face.

    Li Chenyang mischievously cupped his eras. "What was that, Yueyue? You''d like a good flick on the forehead?"

    "I-I said it''s a wonderful nickname!" Li Xueyue eximed. "The best of the best!"

    Li Chenyang loudlyughed at her tant dissing. He rubbed his nose and grinned. "I know, right? Your older brother is very artistic, isn''t he?"

    For the sake of his ego, she swallowed back a remark and nodded her head. "Sure!"

    "You''re supposed to say yes," Li Chenyang said. "Not ''sure''¡ª"

    "It''s gettingte," Li Xueyue pointed out. "Little kids shouldn''t stay up sote."

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. "And who are you calling a little kid?"

    Li Xueyue pointed at herself. "Me, myself, and I!"

    Li Chenyang chuckled. He supposed she wouldn''t be flicked on the forehead today¡­ Reaching out, he patted her on the cheek one final time before smiling.

    "Wise of you to say that," Li Chenyang retorted. He stood up and offered her a hand. She took it without hesitation.

    "Have a good night''s rest, Yueyue."

    "Sweet dreams, Chen-ge."

 Chapter 300 Difficult to Forgive

    <h4>Chapter 300 Difficult to Forgive</h4>

    Days trickled by, and soon, the day of Li Xueyue''s departure arrived.

    Li Xueyue told herself she wouldn''t cry, even when the servants packed her belongings, and she watched as Heiyue was led towards the carriage.

    Standing by the entrance of the Imperial Pce, she held her chin high and set her eyes forward.

    Li Xueyue told herself that if she cried, then so would the Li Family. But the problem was, Empress Wang Qixing was already in tears. She sniffled and wiped every droplet with a handkerchief.

    "Oh darling, please write to us," Empress Wang Qixing eximed. She rushed to her daughter and ignored all sorts of etiquettes. Reaching forward, she pulled Xueyue into a hug.

    "Of course, Mother," Li Xueyue managed to squeeze out a few words. Seeing her mother in tears like this hurt her more than anything.

    "Xiao Yue, make sure to eat at least five meals a day when you get to Hanjian," Li Wenmin stated when his mother pulled back, only for him toe and hug her.

    Li Xueyueughed at his words, though it sounded broken and distorted as her throat tightened.

    It was difficult to hold back her tears when the mood was so somber. She nced up at the sky where the sun''s bright rays were hidden behind thick curtains of clouds.

    "Xueyue," Emperor Li Shenyang addressed when his son released her. "It will be wise to understand that anyone who stands your way shouldn''t remain standing any longer."

    Li Xueyue nodded at his words, but deep down she had some doubts. After that night where her hands were tainted with blood, she wasn''t sure if she could ever do it again. The emotions she felt that night could never be forgotten.

    "Father, I want to ask you something in secret," Li Xueyue whispered. He raised a brow at her words, but gestured for her to take a few steps aside. They took a short walk towards the pce walls where no one could disturb them.

    The family gave them their much-needed privacy.

    "Are you havingst minute hesitations?" Emperor Li Shenyang asked.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "I''ve been meaning to ask, but did you know of my existence prior to meeting me?"

    "No," he responded. "Why do you ask?"

    "You used to threaten Li Taojun with a secret that''d ruin his reputation," Li Xueyue began. "Do you remember what it is?"

    In all honesty, there were many secrets that Emperor Li Shenyang had used as ckmail. He couldn''t remember all of them.

    "Which one are you referring to?"

    "Father, take a good look at me," Li Xueyue instructed. "Isn''t it strange that I resemble the Li family by the slightest bit?"

    The Emperor''s eyes widened. He was wise enough to know what she was implying. He pieced two and two together.

    Emperor Li Shenyang was rarely surprised by anything in life. He had always predict things before it happened. But this? Never in a million years would he think this would be possible.

    "It''s exactly as you think," Li Xueyue said. "I am indeed, Duke Li Taojun''s only daughter. The one you threatened him with."

    Emperor Li Shenyang had never felt so much more regret than this moment. He was well-aware of her horrific past. Guilt threatened to eat him alive. He had indirectly hurted Xueyue. It was unintentional, but his actions led to the horrific fate of a child.

    "Xueyue, I''m so sorry, I didn''t think it--" he paused. What could he say and do to amend the past? At that time, he had never met Xueyue. It was a difficult situation.

    "I know what you''re thinking," she said. "Perhaps if you hadn''t threatened Li Taojun, then I wouldn''t have lived through such an abusive childhood."

    Li Xueyue presented him with a gentle smile. "But nothing we say or do can change the past. Looking backwards will never take us forward."

    She grasped his weathered hands. "I think we can safely say your redemption was the kindness our family has shown me. You took me and offered me an opportunity I could never fathom."

    Emperor Li Shenyang was ovee with emotions. He had always known she was a mature young woman. But he had forgotten how wise she was. Her words deeply touched him.

    "Though," she added on, "I''m still bitter at your actions. It will be difficult to forgive you, but time will heal me. At least¡­ I hope it does."

    "And it shall," he firmly said, revealing a fond, gentle smile for her.

    - - - - -

    No one asked them any questions about the private conversation. They pretended it didn''t happen and things proceeded as usual.

    "And remember, Yueyue," Li Chenyang remarked whilst grabbing her elbow. "The Li family can afford to offend everyone and anyone."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked at his statement. It was true. She had learned it many times before.

    Li Chenyang gently smiled whilst releasing her elbows. "Write to me, even when you''re not in danger. Small talks are better than no talks."

    Li Xueyue''s lips curled into a grin. "Of course, Chen-ge."

    The sound of a horse neighing caught her attention. She turned her chin and saw the carriages. There was a small one in the front, a medium one in the middle apanied by a mediocre-sized one. Soldiers on horses surrounded the carriages.

    "It''s finally happening, isn''t it?" Li Minghua spoke up. She touched Xueyue''s shoulders and nced at thefortably dressed sibling. "Smart of you not to wear fancy attire. The ride would be dreadful if you were."

    "I sure won''t miss your remarks," Li Xueyue mused with a raise of her brow.

    Li Minghua revealed a small smile and brushed the strands of hair behind her ears. "Someone has to uplift the mood, don''t they?"

    "Perhaps so," Li Xueyue responded in a quiet voice. She examined the carriages a bit longer and realized there would be one or two maidservants apanying her.

    "Where did Heiyue go?" Li Xueyue asked. It would be difficult to not notice her midnight ck horse amongst the hues of brown, yellow, and white.

    Her mother was the first to speak up. "Heiyue was very¡­" she struggled to find the right words.

    "Rough," the Emperor stated. "The handlers attempted to have him ride at the front with the other horses, but it seems Heiyue will ept no other rider but you."

    Her father jutted his chin towards the back of the carriage where a ck horse was resisting the person tying his reins. "A wild one."

    Li Xueyue chuckled. "I always forget he has a bad temperament."

    Emperor Li Shenyangughed at her words. He was sure the stable boys would always remember the rebellious horse, even when it was gone.

    "I think he''d ride better if he was by my side," Li Xueyue stated. "If you could tie him to the center carriage, he would prefer that."

    Emperor Li Shenyang nodded. "Very well," he responded. He waved his hand and the Eunuchs apanying him quickly approached the handler. Words were exchanged, and hesitation was written on the man''s face. It didn''t take long for Heiyue''s reins to be guided towards the center carriage, but the stubborn animal bit and neighed in protest.

    "I''ll do it," Li Xueyue spoke up.

    "Princess¡­" the handler worriedly addressed her. His heart trembled at the thought of her getting trampled by this violent horse. Who would''ve thought such a well-mannered girl would be in charge of such a wild thing?

    "You''re such a spoiled brat," Li Xueyue started when Heiyue continued to throw his head against the tug of the reins. He didn''t realize it was her who was handling him. He could hear her voice, but couldn''t see her.

    "There, there, you baby." Li Xueyue patted his silky mane and Heiyue whined in response.

    Heiyue stomped the ground, but rxed at her gentle touch.

    She quietly and efficiently guided him near her carriage.

    Li Xueyue didn''t know where to tie his reins until finally spotting a hook to wrap the leather around. She quickly did so in a matter of seconds. It seemed the book of knots came in handy.

    Li Xueyue was so heavily focused on Heiyue, she didn''t realize everyone had been watching her. She turned around, only to be met with a long silence.

    "What is it?" Li Xueyue questioned.

    She flushed upon seeing an astonished expression on the servants and soldiers. Her family was proud of her, especially Li Wenmin who was the first to say something.

    "And here I was, worried that you won''t fit in Hanjian," Li Wenmin eximed. "I didn''t think you''d look so elegant when tying a horse, Xiao Yue!"

    "No, no, Heiyue was just well-behaved at that moment," Li Xueyue humbly said. She shyly smiled when he patted her cheek.

    Li Chenyang didn''t think he would be so relieved by his older brother''s words.

    Truth to be told, he, too, was terrified of Xueyue''s wellbeing in Hanjian. But seeing her expertly handling the horse, he knew there wasn''t a need to be such a worrywart.

    Hanjian valued capable women such as Li Xueyue. It would certainly exin their high poption of female soldiers, and some were even Generals. If he remembered correctly¡­ there was a female Commander of Hanjian.

    "There''s no need to be so humble with us, sweetheart," Empress Wang Qixing stated. She warmly grabbed her daughter''s hand and squeezed it.

    Li Xueyue merely smiled in response. She was surprised when she heard the quiet murmurs of¡­ a dove?

    "Father, is that¡ª"

    "A messenger dove," Emperor Li Shenyang stated. "It was a hassle to train this specific one, but she is young and will do the job fast."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted in shock. "Thank you, I don''t know what to say¡­"

    "Say nothing and ept this gift of mine," Emperor Li Shenyang said. He handed the caged bird to her to which she gratefully epted with two hands.

    "If there is ever an issue, I want you to write to me as soon as possible," he said. "I will not hesitate to send the entire Li army to Hanjian shall an issue arise."

    Li Xueyue could say nothing, but she spoke it through her actions. She settled the cage down and warmly embraced him, the first time in the years she had known him. Everyone was caught off-guard, even the man himself. He revealed a hearty chuckle and patted her upper back.

    "You will do well in Hanjian, I just know it, my dear child."

 Chapter 301 A Little Rain

    <h4>Chapter 301 A Little Rain</h4>

    Li Xueyue boarded the carriage with the help of her older brothers. She couldn''t stop blushing in embarrassment when they bickered their way to the steps, only toe to apromise. She wanted to hide her face when walking up the steps with one brother at each hand.

    The family bid their farewells to her as the carriage started moving. They settled on not saying goodbyes, for there was nothing good in departures.

    Instead, the Li Family decided to bid her off with "See you soon."

    The tears that Li Xueyue had held back finally began to pour out. She cried in her carriage all by herself, whilst lulled by the sound of turning wheels.

    When she nced out her window, she was greeted by the trees slipping by. This, however, wasn''t what caught her eye.

    It was the man on a horse who came to a slow run as he cupped his mouth.

    "Tell that stubborn Commander, I said hello!" he shouted.

    Li Xueyue let out augh of disbelief at the audacity of this man. Wen Jinkai was riding his horse to match her carriage''s speed just to see her onest time. She shook her head at his foolishness.

    She leaned out of the window and called out, "Both of you are the most hard-headed men I''ve ever met!"

    Wen Jinkai smiled at this. Even during theirst encounter with each other, she still felt that way about him. He could only raise his hand into the air and wave.

    Li Xueyue waved him goodbye, knowing this would be thest time she would see him for a while.

    The next time they crossed paths¡­ she hoped he would''ve started a family by then. And that his children would be friends with her brothers'' kids. Perhaps that way, the twins wouldn''t hate him so much.

    Li Xueyue craned her neck out of the window to see his figure grow smaller in the distance. She continued to look out the window as if memorizing each and every feature of the Capital.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue had known the carriage ride would take a while. She was prepared for that, and there were adequate supplies tost beyond the expected journey. What she wasn''t ready for was the bumpy roads and how tiring this journey would be.

    There were many stops that allowed everyone time to rest, eat, sleep, bathe, and so forth. Her sleeping situation was already arranged beforehand and soldiers took turns to guard her at every moment.

    Nheless, the shaking of the carriage during the ride made it distracting for her to do anything¡ªespecially reading books. There was nothing for her to do inside of the carriage.

    It was hard for her to get a wink of sleep during the ride. The only thing that kept her from dying of boredom was the scenic views. But after a while of looking at the same trees and sky, there wasn''t anything to keep her upied.

    "How boring," Li Xueyue sighed. Her shoulders were stiff from sitting upright the entire day. Everyone was polite and respectful to her, but no one dared to start up small talks with her.

    "At least this keeps my fingers upied," she murmured whilst stroking her fingers on Yu Zhen''s pendant.

    Despite the pendant in her hand, Li Xueyue felt isted from the world. Her onlypanion was Heiyue who was directly beside her window. Sometimes, she would stick her hand out and caress the impatient horse.

    Moreover, it rained for most part of the journey. On days when the angry clouds were simply too much, they were forced to stop in the forest ande to a rest.

    The dreary weather made everything unbearable, especially the chills.

    "It''s fine," she told herself whilst a nket rested upon her legs.

    Li Xueyue did her best to notin. She reminded herself that everyone had it much worse than her.

    But her luck took a turn for the worst. On the fifth day of travel, when the wheel of her carriage broke, her heart sank.

    Li Xueyue had beenzily ying with the tassel of Yu Zhen''s pendant when the carriage lurched and tilted to the side. She quickly slipped the pendant into her pocket just as a soft knock came on the carriage door.

    "We apologize for this inconvenience, Princess Li," one of the servants stated upon opening the door.

    "The soldiers are working hard to get the wheel repaired so that we can make it to the nearest town and get it fixed," he added on.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips and slowly nodded.

    The servant was fretful and misread the Princess''s emotions. "Don''t worry, Princess Li. If the soldiers take too long, we can always have someone quickly run off to the town and fetch for a cksmith."

    "It''s alright, no need to rush," Li Xueyue stated. It would be too much of a hassle if someone ran off. What if they got lost and couldn''t find their way back?

    Through the window, she noticed Heiyue had stomped the ground hesitatingly. The sudden noise of the broken wheel must''ve startled him.

    "I''ll step outside, it''ll be easier for them to adjust the wheel," she added on.

    The servant was hesitant. She didn''t want the Princess to be dirtied by the rough terrain. Certainly, there weren''t any strict orders to keep the Princess inside of the carriage while they were travelling, but most young maiden would hate the smell of the rain.

    "Princess Li, the pavement is still a bit muddy from yesterday''s rain," the servant said with a bow of her head.

    "A little dirt never hurt anyone," Li Xueyue responded. She stepped outside of the carriage with the help of her servant.

    Li Xueyue tensed a bit when her boots were met with the sticky ground. Her shoes left a footprint on the ground. She brushed off the squirmy feeling of walking on soft mud.

    Li Xueyue was wearing training robes that fitted her well, so everything was fine and dandy to her.

    It was by the second day of the journey when she had given up on the frills. It wasn''t like anyone else would see her throughout the entire journey. She might as well getfortable during the tiring ride.

    "A treat," Li Xueyue whispered upon approaching Heiyue. She lifted up her palms and Heiyue wasted no time in gobbling up the sugar cube. She had snuck some from the supplies and tucked it into her pockets.

    Li Xueyue noticed a small pouch attached to the saddle on Heiyue. She reached out and felt it. It was put in ce after that incident in the Capital''s stables with Zheng Leiyu and Bai Tianai. She had kept money inside of the pouch, in case anything were to go awry.

    "You''ve been very good throughout the journey," Li Xueyue praised whilst running her hands through Heiyue''s midnight coat. She was impressed by the healthy gleam that still remained, despite not being brushed.

    "I should properly tend¡ª" she was cut off by a loud scream behind her.

    Li Xueyue turned around in time to hear the clicks of swords being unsheathed. The blood drained from her face when she saw what had caused themotion. Crowds of men emerged from the dense forest, all of whom were heavily armed. They were bandits who clearly outnumbered her entourage.

 Chapter 302 In Hanjian

    <h4>Chapter 302 In Hanjian</h4>

    Li Xueyue knew this was a losing fight. At most, there were only twenty well-trained soldiers who apanied them.

    No one had expected that they would be attacked on this route since they stayed off the main paths where robberies were moremon.

    She nced around with uncertainty. Everywhere she looked, there were bandits upon bandits.

    "Get on your horse, mydy," one of the soldiers stated as the soldiers began to take slow steps backward. They entered a protective stance and surrounded the middle carriage.

    The soldiers were mindful of keeping her title hidden. If the bandits were to discover she was a Princess, then all hell would break loose in the form of kidnapping.

    "What a beautiful woman you have there," one of the burlier menmented. "Oh ho, look at that frigid re. Women like that scream the loudest in bed."

    Crudeughter erupted amongst the bandits. The mocking sound echoed throughout the forest.

    Li Xueyue''s stomach churned with difort. Her lips curled into a disgusted snarl. She touched her waist, grateful for the dagger that rested upon her hip. She wished it was a sword, much like the ones that the soldiers carried. She had left it in the carriage.

    "If youe with us obediently, we will spare some of your men, so that they can run back with their tails tucked in between their legs," one of the bandits sneered.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She reached for the small knife resting on her hip, which earned another round of sicklyughter.

    "We have our answer," another bandit spoke up.

    "Get ''em," the first thief demanded.

    And just like that, a bloody fight broke out.

    Li Xueyue had severely underestimated how many men were inside of the forest. She was confident enough that these well-trained pce soldiers would take out at least two or three men on their own. Who would''ve thought, this entire ce was swarming with people?

    She didn''t know who did it, but someone had grabbed her waist and forcibly lifted her onto the horse. "What are you¡ª"

    "Apologies, mydy," the soldier murmured. He raised his head and pleaded with his eyes. "Please be safe."

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. "What are you talking about, I want to fight¡ª!" she gasped when the soldier roughly pped Heiyue''s hind legs. Agitated, the horse raised his front legs.

    "Heiyue, no!" she cried out as Heiyue lurched forward. There were men blocking her path. Soldiers shed with the bandits as a rough brawl ensued.

    Li Xueyue had to do something, or else Heiyue would run directly into the fight. He would get himself injured in the process. With no other option, she loosened the reins of her horse and lifted her lower body, signaling for Heiyue to jump.

    The bandits near them were surprised when a shadow loomed over them. They nced up and to their pure shock, an enormous horse had leaped right above their heads.

    "Get her!" a voice demanded. "She will sell for a high price!"

    Heiyue didn''t give them a chance. The minute his hooves connected with the ground, he broke into a mad dash. It was as if he was able to understand the severity of this situation.

    The terrain slowed him down, but when his keen ears heard approaching steps, he picked up his pace.

    "I''m so sorry¡­" Li Xueyue whispered under her breath as she squeezed her eyes shut, unable to bear the sight of her soldiers being ughtered in cold blood. And for the first time throughout this journey, she shed a tear.

    Li Xueyue wept for the lives lost in order to ensure her safety. It was the only thing she could do for them.

    - - - - -

    "This must be the town that the servant spoke about," Li Xueyue softly said when Heiyue had raced out of the forest. In the near distance, she noticed a small town. She passed by the small sign that indicated the town''s name: Prosperity Vige.

    Li Xueyue was optimistic about this ce. With such an adorable little name, what could possibly go wrong? Turns out¡ªeverything could go wrong.

    Her heart spiked with fear upon riding through the vige.

    There wasn''t a single man in sight. Dark, hollowed eyes followed her everywhere she went. It lingered on her and the horse.

    Li Xueyue had an ufortable feeling about this town. It seemed far from safe, but nightfall was quickly approaching, and she needed a ce to sleep. Everywhere she looked, this town was ravaged by poverty.

    "Oh dear," she whispered.

    Not even children had the energy to run around. They sat outside of their creaky doors with hungry stares. When she made eye contact with one of the kids, her heart leaped. In his hand was a small stick sharpened at the tip to be a makeshift weapon.

    While she observed the surrounding, more and more women were exiting out of their houses. They watched her with hungry eyes, almost as if she was a piece of meat.

    It was then Li Xueyue realized exactly why there were no men here. The men were deep in the forest. They were hard at work as bandits.

    Li Xueyue wasted no time in leaning forward.

    "Let''s go," she stated.

    Heiyue started out in a small trot, but within a few seconds, had built up enough speed. Cries of protest emerged from the starving townspeople with hollowed cheeks and skeleton bodies.

    "Quickly!" Li Xueyue instructed as Heiyue''s hooves thundered upon the grounds. Its force was enough to shake the thin rooftops.

    She gasped upon seeing small children throwing themselves in front of her path, in an attempt to stop her from running away.

    "Jump!" Li Xueyue eximed to Heiyue and sure enough, the horse was able to leap over the children.

    Despite their seething res, she nced back to make sure none of them were injured in the process. To her relief, none of them seemed fazed.

    Even though Heiyue''s speed was like that of lightning, people still ran after her.

    "How frightening¡­" she whispered.

    Li Xueyue had never felt these types of emotions. It was fear mixed with pity and anger.

    Their men had already killed off her soldiers and were most likely in the process of raiding her carriage. Wasn''t that enough? Were things that bad here that they needed to chase her to steal any remaining profit?

    Li Xueyue ground her teeth and urged Heiyue forward. She never nced back again, not even once. She didn''t want to be reminded of the children''s thinning hair, sunken cheeks, and mothers with screaming babies, but no milk to feed them.

    Finally, when she entered another forest, did she slow Heiyue down.

    "Was that town truly a part of Hanjian''s territory?" she asked herself whilst guiding her horse forward.

    Li Xueyue swallowed. She had heard snippets of the soldiers'' conversion before the entire incident had urred. She had gathered enough to know they were near the beginning of Hanjian''s territory that bordered the end of Wuyi''s barriers.

    "There must be more towns like that," Li Xueyue whispered. "Was the barren vige the result of the frequent wars¡­?"

    Li Xueyue shuddered at the thought. Her assumptions must be true. Why else would the wealthy Hanjian have impoverished viges like that?

    Li Xueyue had always heard of the aftermath of wars. The loss of lives, mothers never getting to see their sons anymore, husbands separated from wives, children without parents, piged towns, deserted homes, and the list went on.

    On paper, the consequences were intense, but to experience it firsthand¡­ she had no words to describe it.

    Li Xueyue swore she would do everything in her power to stop any wars that threatened to break out. ncing back in the direction of the vige, she had decided the first impact she would make in Hanjian.

 Chapter 303 Help The Tiger

    <h4>Chapter 303 Help The Tiger</h4>

    Imperial Pce, Hanjian

    Yu Zhen solemnly sat in his private study, surrounded by stacks of neatly organized documents. The woody scent of the ck ink filled his nose with each stroke of the brush on the parchment. Light and fluid, he made no mistake in writing.

    He sat within the spacious room whose walls were lined with circr bookshelves and small, meaningful pieces ced upon the panels.

    From the y horse he had sculpted as a child to the broken arrow which he preserved to remind him of his first perfect shot, everything was arranged to his desire.

    This room was always known to be serene and quiet. No one dared to cause a ruckus in here, not even his advisor and right hand woman.

    The pleasant scent of eucalyptus with a hint of orange peel wafted in the air in the peaceful silence.

    However, things were different beyond the doors leading to this tranquil paradise.

    "Y-you tell him, Tiantian," Hu Dengxiao whispered in a panicked, and terrified tone. He didn''t want to raise his voice and catch the attention of the ferocious beast beyond the enormous doors.

    "No, you do it," Lu Tianbi hissed whilst pushing at his hands. He had grabbed her out of sheer terror.

    "Our Commander is the type of man to kill the messenger! Forget about shooting the poor man, the Commander will murder him!"

    "Really?" Lu Tianbi sarcastically bit out. "I didn''t know our fiery-tempered Crown Prince was like that!"

    "Please, please, please, I''m begging you, Tiantian. I''m so scared of being the one to tell him," Hu Dengxiao exasperated in a hushed whisper. He rubbed his palms together and bowed his head in a desperate plea.

    "Y-you should be the one to tell him, Tiantian. He''ll treat you much nicer!" Hu Dengxiao added on, ignoring the fact that she would really stab him in the eye if he continued to call her by that horrid nickname.

    Lu Tianbi firmly shook her head.

    "Be a man!" she exasperated in a quiet voice. "And you know he doesn''t show favoritism to any gender! Not even during the training of the female soldiers."

    "I''ll drop to my knees and beg you if I have to, Tiantian. You go tell him¡ª"

    "Don''t you have any balls?!" Lu Tianbi growled under her breath. "Gosh, I pity whoever you''re going to marry because your¡ª"

    Hu Dengxiao puffed out his chest. "I have the biggest¡ª"

    "Just go in!" Lu Tianbi huffed out whilst pushing at therge puppy in front of her. He loved to bare his teeth and bark, but where was his bite?!

    Hu Dengxiao''s shoulders quivered and all hope fled from his eyes. "N-no, actually, one time I had the misfortune of entering the bathing room where the Commander had unclothed himself, and I think he truly has arger set than me¡ª"

    "If this is your pathetic attempt of saying you''re the size of a pea¡ª"

    "I do not!" Hu Dengxiao gasped. "Do you want to see? I swear to you, it''s quite big and¡ª"

    "Yeah? Well it doesn''t seem that way right now, does it?!" Lu Tianbi quietly yelled as she shoved his hands. "What are you doing, are you trying to take off your trousers right here¡ª"

    "You know what?" Hu Dengxiao cried out, knowing he would lose this verbal argument. "Let''s do rock, paper, scissors, and then we''ll find out!"

    Lu Tianbi was infuriated by this manchild. She squeezed her eyes shut and breathed deeply through her nose, hoping to ease her anger. When her eyes snapped open, Hu Dengxiao jumped in fear.

    "O-one round," he stuttered out. "Please, Tiantian, you know I''ll never be able to win an argument against you."

    "You make it seem like there is a lion inside the room or something," Lu Tianbi snarled.

    "T-that reminds me of something terrifying, yet hrious, that I heard about," Hu Dengxiao nervously said. "The new soldiers were so terrified by our Commander that they made up this quote about him."

    "What is it?" Lu Tianbi asked, knowing this was an attempt to quell her anger.

    "If you see our Commander fighting a tiger, then you better help the tiger."

    Lu Tianbi let out a smallugh at his words. It was a mixture between a scoff and a chuckle. But then she wiped the smile off her face. The new soldiers were right. The lion would lose.

    Hu Dengxiao peered at her and noticed her face was less red with frustration.

    "So¡­" he trailed off in a child-like voice. "One round?"

    Lu Tianbi scowled. "Fine, one round," she said whilst sticking out her hand.

    "Okay, rock, paper, scissors, set shoot!" Hu Dengxiao called out whilst throwing out the paper only for her to sh him a very pretty middle finger.

    "Hey¡ª"

    "This is my version of scissors, so get your butt inside and be a man!" Lu Tianbi argued. She didn''t give him any time to rebut or beg for a rematch. In a rough shove, she sent her best friend through the doors.

    Hu Dengxiao stumbled through the door with an awkward smile. His eyes wererge with fear as he sped his hands together.

    "U-uhm¡­ Your Highness?" Hu Dengxiao addressed whilst lowering himself into a deep bow. He would rather remain close to the ground when all hell broke loose, which was precisely why he was kneeling before the Crown Prince, even though he didn''t have a hand in all of this mess.

    Yu Zhen didn''t lift his gaze from the parchment. He continued working.

    "P-please don''t kill me after I tell you this, please I beg of you, Zhenzhen!" Hu Dengxiao rambled out as his shoulders began to shake. He couldn''t bring himself to tell such terrifying news. Even his tongue started to tremble with fear.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen slowly said. He reluctantly paused, not because of his silly advisor, but because the ink had dried.

    Usually, the task of grounding the ink was reserved for a person Yu Zhen favored, but Xueyue wasn''t around, so he did it himself. At times, the person would patiently wait by his side and grind the ink.

    Often, Lu Tianbi did it for him, but she never waited by his side. She only grounded the ink when he needed her too and then she was off to do another errand.

    Of course, Yu Zhen could always ask for a servant, but he''d rather not give a specific one false hope.

    Yu Zhen calmly pulled back the sleeves of his ck robes embroidered with gold and silver. He lifted the small b of volcanic rock harvested not far from Hanjian.

    But at the exact moment, Hu Dengxiao chose to deliver a piece of startling news.

    "B-by the borders of Hanjian, a soldier had heard a ruckus but brushed it off as the nearby town was having their fun. That is until he decided to ride through the forest a-and discovered s-s-something."

    Hu Dengxiao nervously wiped the cold sweat that broke out on his forehead. He was about to die young from the stress ced upon his shoulders. He swallowed hard and eyed the rectangr grinder in the Crown Prince''s fingers.

    "T-there were t-three f-f-flipped," he said and gulped, "C-carriages."

    Hu Dengxiao cleared his throat, hoping to calm his racing heart. "And it seems like the carriages belonged to a wealthy family, so the soldiers wanted to check for any survivors, in case it was one of our aristocrats, b-but¡­"

    Yu Zhen wondered if Hu Dengxiao ate something that he was allergic to. It would exin the odd stuttering. He continued to peacefully grind the ink.

    Hu Dengxiao lowered his body into a deep bow until his forehead nearly brushed against the floor. He instinctively shifted into a position that would protect himself. Additionally, he wouldn''t have to see the look of pure wrath on his Commander''s face.

    "It was discovered the carriages actually belonged t-t-to¡­"

    Hu Dengxiao squeezed his eyes shut. He began to pray to the high heavens and every single god and goddess that could be recited within the few seconds of life he still had.

    He let out a shaky breath and cried on the inside. He was only two years younger than the Commander. Hu Dengxiao was too young to die!

    He held back a sniffle. He knew he should''ve written a will before bing an advisor even though there was no one to inherit his wealth.

    Maybe he could leave it to Lu Tianbi, but then again, the love of his life had sent him to his doom. Thus, maybe it would be better to leave all his money to the Commander, but then again, this man was going to kill him today.

    Hu Dengxiao had no one to leave his will too.

    "Hurry and spit it out. Which aristocrat died?" Yu Zhen murmured in a patient tone.

    Yu Zhen was in a pleasant mood today, especially because he had finished another stack of documents. Soon, he''d have an entire two weeks to spend with his beloved in pure bliss.

    Though, such a great mood would be ruined by an aristocrat''s death. He held back a sigh. It would be so troublesome to inform the aristocrat''s family of a tragic death at the hands of a bandit.

    Depending on how important this aristocrat''s family was, Yu Zhen would decide whether or not he''d inform the news in person.

    Yu Zhen nodded in satisfaction upon seeing the ink was to his preferred texture. He was about to ce the ink b down but was rudely interrupted by his advisor.

    Hu Dengxiao made onest prayer under his breath before blurting out the unfortunate news.

    "The carriages belonged to the Imperial Family of Wuyi. Princess Li was using one of them to travel to Hanjian."

    It took Yu Zhen less than a second to register what his advisor was implying. And it took less than a second for all hell to break loose.

 Chapter 304 Silent River

    <h4>Chapter 304 Silent River</h4>

    Hu Dengxiao held back a sharp gasp when the ink grinder was mmed onto the ground. The force was so hard that the hard wooden floor cracked and dented. He gulped, thankful that it had missed him, though he doubted the Crown Prince was aiming for him.

    "What are you waiting for?" Yu Zhen snarled in a low, ferocious voice.

    Hu Dengxiao hesitantly raised his head. Never had his heart plummeted so fast.

    The Crown Prince had reached the peak of madness that he was calm. Seeing the silent storm brewing in the Crown Prince''s eyes was more terrifying than a violent outburst. At least for thetter, the chaos would be predictable.

    "Send out our soldiers. I want the entire countrybed," Yu Zhen seethed as he rose to his feet.

    Hu Dengxiao gulped upon seeing Yu Zhen''s jaw tick from being clenched.

    Yu Zhen''s fingers curled into a fist so tight, thick chords formed on his muscr forearm.

    He would have the bandits hanged. No. He would take his sweet time torturing them before their wives and children. Only when he deemed their pleas were desperate enough, would he finish the bandits off.

    No one would go unscathed. Not until his Wangfei was found well and alive. Even then, he would not spare any mercy.

    - - - - -

    Lu Tianbi let out a shaky breath as she slowly pushed the doors open after a prolonged period of silence. But the second she did so, she pped a hand over her mouth in shock.

    Yu Zhen''s eyes¡­ She had never seen eyes that look so ferocious and cutthroat. A dark aura loomed over the Commander''srge figure. A violent death would be the most merciful act he could grant in this state. In fact, the room was so wide that she''d have to squint to see the end of it.

    Yet, his presence was so overwhelming, it filled up every nook and cranny of the room. The atmosphere was thick and suffocating.

    "Your Highness¡­" she trailed off in an awkward address.

    At this point, a rage-fueled destruction would be better than his silent-rage.

    What was his next move? Would he order the brutal ughter of each and everyone that breathed the wrong way? Would he work the soldiers to their deaths to find the Princess? Would he put down the Crown in exchange of his armor to search for the missing Princess?

    Or would he have the entire forest burned to ashes? It was a crazy idea, but Yu Zhen was a crazy man.

    This was what was so terrifying about that the eerie tranquility.

    "What is the progress?" he questioned in an eerily calm voice.

    No one knew what his next move would be. No one understood how drastic or underwhelming his next course of action would be. No one could predict what went on inside of the Commander''s head. And quite frankly, everyone was too terrified to know.

    "We''ve already sent out the soldiers," Lu Tianbi reported. "As we speak, they''re searching the kingdom far and wide. But the thing is¡­" Her eyestched onto the closed window of the private study.

    Lu Tianbi bit her bottom lip. The Crown Prince had spent his entire night and morning in this room.

    A day had already passed since the carriages were discovered. But with the windows tightly closed to prevent any disturbances, the Crown Prince didn''t realize the tormenting weather outside.

    "Go on," Yu Zhen demanded.

    Lu Tianbi wished she could do more than this. She knew how much Yu Zhen looked forward to seeing the Princess, but now, everything was ruined.

    "The carriages were discovered yesterday morning. It¡­ started to rain yesterday afternoon. The rain hasn''t stopped even as we speak."

    Lu Tianbi held her breath, but nothing prepared her for the loud crash of the table. She let out a yelp whilst watching in sheer horror as the work desk, which weighed more than a horse, was flipped to the ground.

    "Your Highness," Lu Tianbi whispered in a quiet voice. "Such violence will not bring the Princess any¡ª"

    "A whole night," Yu Zhen calmly muttered. His eyes grew wide with sheer fury. "A whole night out in the forest? With no food? No shelter? And rain beating down on her?"

    Lu Tianbi could only hang her head in shame. "D-despite that, we''ve still sent out soldiers to search for her, whether it was rain or shine, they''re working hard. There is nothing that we can do but wait and¡ª"

    Her eyes grew wide when he stormed towards her. But she didn''t flinch or cower back, for the Commander never raised his hand to women. Especially the ones he cared for.

    She thought he would stop in front of her and seethe out a quietmand, but he didn''t.

    He did something that terrified her even more than his apparent rage.

    He stormed out of the private study. His footsteps were loud and purposeful. Quiet, yet deadly, he was set on a mission.

    "Your Highness!" Lu Tianbi exasperated as she ran to the door, only to see he was already far down the hallway.

    "Where are you going?! There''s going to be a thunderstorm soon, if you go out right now¡ª"

    It was toote. Yu Zhen had already turned the corner.

    Lu Tianbi let out a frustrated scream. She angrily turned to Hu Dengxiao. "Are you just going to kneel there?!"

    "Why did you tell him half the truth?" Hu Dengxiao retorted. He rose to his feet and staggered to her like a man who was half alive and half dead.

    "Tiantian, have you lost your mind?!" Hu Dengxiao cried out, as he shook her shoulders in anxiety.

    "You make it sound like Iforted him with a lie or something. Besides, the Commander could''ve turned this entire pce upside down¡ª"

    He shook his head in disagreement. "You must hurt him with the truth. Our Commander epts no less than that."

    Lu Tianbi hugged her shoulders. "What are you even talking about? Look, it was not half the truth, it was the entire truth. I didn''t lie to our Commander, and I''d never do so¡ª"

    "You lied by telling him the soldiers are still searching as we speak. The rain outside is so heavy and ruthless that no one can even see beyond their outstretched hands. Even with the helmet''s eye guard, it would still be difficult to navigate the forest!"

    Lu Tianbi''s lips parted. What? "I know the rain is horrible right now, but that doesn''t mean the soldiers will give up on their task. They know my words are absolute."

    "Which ones did you send out?" Hu Dengxiao asked.

    "The best seekers and trackers are out¡ª"

    "From the Silent River Squadron?"

    Lu Tianbi cursed under her breath. The Silent River Squadron was a hidden force of men personally trained by the Crown Prince himself. They were beyond the cream of the crop. No words would be able to describe how powerful they were. No one knew of their identities, except for the trio themselves.

    But even to this day, Lu Tianbi had rarely seen them immobilized for something. At most, they protected the Crown Prince, and those he deemed valuable. But usually, the Silent River Squadron blended into the crowd like a regr soldier.

    "N-not them¡­" Lu Tianbi trailed off.

    "Then we''re in deeper trouble," Hu Dengxiao deadpanned.

    Lu Tianbi sullenly nodded. She knew she had made a horrible mistake when Hu Dengxiao took the role of being the responsible one.

    Seeing him so serious and stoic only meant she had dug a deeper grave for everyone.

    "We must call our Crown Prince back. It is a dangerous mission for him to search for her," Hu Dengxiao bit out.

    "I''ll go¡ª"

    Lu Tianbi was interrupted by the gush of air that went past her. She blinked and Hu Dengxiao was gone. She lifted her head to see he was making a mad dash down the hallways in hopes of catching up to their Commander

    Lu Tianbi could do nothing but stood in a daze. That was until a roaring thunder rumbled the skies. She ran deeper into Yu Zhen''s private study and flung the windows open.

    Her face paled as the strong wind blew rain into the room. She sank to her knees in utter fear. A storm this horrendous, and her Commander was rushing out? In nothing but his indoor robes and his horse?

    She let out a shaky gasp.

    "No¡­" she whispered.

    Lu Tianbi had greatly underestimated the severity of this mission.

    "This can''t be..." Lu Tianbi whispered whilst covering her mouth. The rain that entered the room through the window pricked her skin like thousands of needles.

    Searching for the Princess in this storm wasn''t just dangerous. It was a suicide mission.

 Chapter 305 Complete Darkness

    <h4>Chapter 305 Complete Darkness</h4>

    Li Xueyue realized exactly what a fool she had been for not stopping in any of the other towns she had seen along the way.

    On a few asions, she hade across signs pointing towards the different viges. But after her first encounter with the bandit town, she was too hesitant to venture anywhere else except to head in the direction towards Hanjian''s capital to the best of her abilities.

    Now that the rain wasing down more heavily and nipping at her skin like arrows, she had finally understood the stupidity of her paranoia.

    "You scaredy cat," she chided herself.

    If she had swallowed her fear earlier and stopped by a town, she wouldn''t be stuck inside of this tiny cave, shivering to death.

    Her teeth ttered from the frosty cold. She had barely managed to start a fire with the howling wind, but now the mes were growing smaller.

    Li Xueyue didn''t have any other kindling to stoke the fire. The sticks outside the cave would be soaking wet, and throwing them into the fire wouldn''t help at all.

    Heiyue quietly snuggled against her. The poor thing. Even with his coat of fur, he was shivering from the cold. Hisrge body couldn''t be warmed up by such a pathetic fire.

    "I''m sorry, Heiyue," she whispered whilst using one hand to hug her upper arm, and the other to caress her horse.

    He had folded his legs and was now seated upon the ground, but didn''t show signs of sleeping any time soon.

    Li Xueyue didn''t anticipate the rain to worsen so quickly. One minute it was a soft drizzle and the next, the droplets beat down upon them like cannonballs. She bit her bottom lip when her stomach growled in protest.

    "I should''ve eaten more before leaving the Pce..." Li Xueyue muttered.

    They had traveled for at least a day on their own now, and neither of them had a proper meal. She wanted to eat a few wild berries found in the forest, but was unsure if they were safe to eat. What if they were poisonous?

    But the spoiled Heiyue, who usually ate the best quality of feeds, was actually well-behaved.

    Heiyue had nipped and chewed at the grass in the forest to fill his stomach. She knew a horse''s favorite pastime was snacking on grass, but Heiyue was different.

    Prior to this travel, the pampered horse would refuse to eat anything but the premium blend of food given to him.

    Li Xueyue reached into Heiyue''s saddle, hoping to find some sort of treat for him. If she had brought a fruit, that would be better than nothing. Disappointment filled her when her fingers touched the rimmed edges of the coins inside and nothing else.

    "The one time money can''t solve my problems," Li Xueyue groaned.

    Without warning, she let out a sneeze that startled Heiyue. His ears were on high alert, set off by the unexpected noise.

    "I-it''s just me," Li Xueyue sniffed. She continued to stroke his head until he went back toy it down.

    "Oh no¡ª" she gasped when the me became smaller than the size of her hand.

    She let out a small curse and nced around, hoping to find any source of fuel. Her eyesnded upon her soaked robes.

    Li Xueyue weighed her options. If she cut off the sleeves, she''d lose the minimal warmth it provided her.

    If she let the me die out, they''d lose their heat source and be plunged inplete darkness. And nothing would be more frightening than that. The storm outside was already heightening her fear, but she tried her best to calm down.

    "Damn rain," she grumbled.

    Heiyue''s ears perked at the unfamiliar sound of a dagger cutting through a fabric.

    Li Xueyue had used the dagger strapped to her leg to cut the sleeves away, up to her elbow. Immediately, her entire body shuddered from the exposed skin. She sucked in a sharp breath and furiously rubbed at her goosebumps.

    "It''s so cold," she muttered whilst cing the wet material into the fire.

    She prayed the moisture from the sleeves wouldn''t kill off the me. To her dismay, the me only grew slightly bigger.

    "I''m so tired¡­" she trailed off before yawning. For odd reasons, the cold was lulling. Almost as if it was guiding her to death''s doors. Even Heiyue didn''t realize she was falling asleep.

    It wasn''t long before Li Xueyue''s eyes fluttered shut. She began to doze off, not realizing it was just a ploy of the weather. Her body leaned towards Heiyue as death slowly crawled from the shadows and towards her leg.

    - - - - -

    A few minutes went by and Heiyue was puzzled by the silence. He tilted his head, wondering exactly what happened to the soft, murmuring sound beside his ears. He let out a quiet neigh, hoping to hear something. But nothing, except for the quiet flutter of wind.

    Heiyue instantly knew something was amiss. He let out a louder neigh and shifted his neck, nipping and nudging in the air. What was happening? He could no longer hear the loving sound of a voice calling out for his name.

    Heiyue rose to his full height. He heard the ruffle of clothes before something thumped beside him. With one leg, he stomped the ground in protest, wondering if his friend heard the same thing. But he felt and heard nothing.

    At this, he began to panic. He stomped the ground again, letting out a protesting snort. He folded his ears and began to pace the cave, only to shy back from the heat emitted by the small fire Xueyue built.

    Heiyue prodded the floor, again and again, hoping to touch something. And finally, he did. The motionless body smelled familiar, sweet, and light. It smelled likefort, home, and kindness. The smell he was used to and loved. The only problem? She wasn''t moving.

    He poked at her again with his nose, wondering why the body wasn''t moving. What was happening to his friend? He heightened his senses and listened. Finally, he heard it. The quiet, chattering clinks sounded strange. The puffs of air were growing weaker and weaker¡­

    When a rough gust of wind blew past, he tilted his head out of curiosity. Abruptly, the heat he felt on his side was gone. He was perplexed, and for once in his life, he was scared.

    Heiyue let out a quiet snort. He paced a bit and continued to nudge at his friend with his muzzle. And little did the poor thing know, she won''t be making it until the next morning.

 Chapter 306 Search Elsewhere

    <h4>Chapter 306 Search Elsewhere</h4>

    Heiyue continued to nudge at the unmoving body. A few minutes of pure silence passed by before he grew terrified. He let out a frightened neigh when the sky rumbled and a loud bang echoed. He shivered in fear, unable to step outside of the cave and try to seek help.

    Anxiously, he paced about and continued to poke at his friend. When he was met with something cold, but familiar, like her soft caress, he licked at it. It was strange. Her touch was always warm, not cold.

    Minutes trickled by and the air around them turned colder. By now, he still hadn''t heard anything.

    All hope was lost.

    His friend was growing colder with each nudge he gave her. Help wasn''ting. He had a feeling that everything was going wrong. Unable to do anything, Heiyue folded his legs.

    He had felt this sense of dread before¡ªwhen his mother died. There was something so strange about this situation because he felt it again. This time from his friend.

    The onlyfort he could offer was to remain with his friend. He slowly sank to the ground until his body was directly touching hers.

    Heiyue slowly closed his eyes andid his head upon the person who gave him gentle touches.

    If she was going to die, he would go with her.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen let out all sorts of foul curses as he frantically turned from left to right. By now, thentern waspletely soaked through and the light had died. He was lost amidst the unrelenting rain.

    Xiao Lizi snorted in protest, stomping the ground, almost as if she was chiding him.

    "I know," Yu Zhen growled. He tossed the uselessntern to the ground, as well as the umbre he had brought. It was useless now. Both materials werepletely soaked through.

    Xiao Lizi whined at his response. She hesitatingly turned her body and began to walk in the direction they came from.

    "We can''t go back, you know that," Yu Zhen angrily bit out. His fingers tightened upon the leather reins. "Not when she??s out there."

    Yu Zhen let out a frustrated sigh. The rain was weighing down on him, but he paid it no mind. Even when it yanked at his hair and soaked his clothes. None of that mattered.

    If he was having it rough, it was hard to imagine what his woman was going through. His blood had boiled with rage, but now, it had gone cold with dread.

    He painfully closed his eyes when memories of her mmed into him. It hurt more than the prickling, violent rain. Her cheerfulughters and suppressed smiles. Her nimble footsteps, her thin fingers lifting a teacup daintily to her rosy lips.

    He sucked in a breath.

    He recalled her unimaginable strength when she wielded the sword against him, a sh so powerful, he had been caught off guard.

    And then he thought about her small stature. Her thin shoulders that looked like it would break any moment now. The look in her eyes when she panicked. And how much she resembled ss.

    "Fuck," Yu Zhen breathed out. Li Xueyue was in grave danger. He had given her his heart, it rested upon her hands. But now, she was slipping from his fingers.

    "We must go on," Yu Zhen demanded. He urged Xiao Lizi forward until she trotted a bit before breaking out in a full dash.

    He didn''t know where he was going. He couldn''t even think about anything except going deeper and deeper into the forest. All he needed was a sign. Anything. Please.

    Yu Zhen had calcted the distance from a day''s worth of travel from the border of his enormous country. The closest she could be would be at the outskirts of the Capital, and the farthest? The town before the Capital.

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. He had given her the most powerful item in the entire country. It wasn''t a weapon that could slice a man in half. It wasn''t poison that could massacre a town overnight. It was his pendant.

    The key to this country was that exact item. The use for it was limitless. All she had to do was show the pendant to a family and she would be treated as an honorable guest.

    Xiao Lizi abruptly came to a sharp halt.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen seethed. He didn''t have time for her tantrum right now. She was the fastest horse this entire country had ever seen. But like her Master, her temperament wasn''t the finest.

    His little ray of sunshine was out in the forest somewhere. For all he knew, she could''ve been in tears and pleading for help. The thought of that shattered him. His body went rigid with fear. Was she all alone and afraid? Was she wandering through the forest, on the verge of slipping off her horse due to fatigue? Was she starving?

    So many scenarios raced through his head.

    Yu Zhen had never felt this kind of terror before¡ªthe fear of losing someone he love. He didn''t think it was possible to feel this.

    "We must continue," Yu Zhen stated. He raised an impatient brow when Xiao Lizi ignored him.

    Xiao Lizi raised her head and nced around.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He began to examine their surroundings but couldn''t see anything. Did she hear the snap of a twig? He hadn''t heard anything nor did he feel the presence of someone.

    Xiao Lizi''s head turned straight, and so did he. Yu Zhen squinted. He couldn''t even see beyond his outstretched arms. Then he heard it. It was faint and barely audible.

    Originally, Yu Zhen thought it hade from Xiao Lizi. She loved to whine, but this one was unlike her. A neigh¡ªso tiny, he nearly mistook it for the howling wind.

    "I heard it as well," Yu Zhen informed his horse.

    Yu Zhen didn''t know where exactly he was.

    He had run for miles and rain drenched his body from head to toe. But one thing was for sure. He knew this country like the back of his hand.

    Yu Zhenn had stormed through thisnd, walked upon the soil to defend his homnd. To bring glory to Hanjian. To expand the territory. This country was rightfully his.

    Yu Zhen knew the way back, even if every direction looked the same. It was precisely why he urged his horse through the forest.

    "Let''s go," Yu Zhen instructed.

    Xiao Lizi didn''t need to be told twice. She broke into a thunderous run towards the ce his Master urged her to go.

    Half way into the run, things grew more difficult. The sound had faded. It was no longer audible. And there wasn''t a second sound.

    But Yu Zhen had already pinpointed the location. How could he have forgotten the cave? He was sure of himself.

    She would be there.

    He just knew it.

    So why was his stomach twisting ufortably?

    Yu Zhen had never felt dread. Never felt fear. Something was wrong. He had a feeling that everything had gone awry. As if there was no joy in this world.

    Yu Zhen refused to believe his instincts, but he knew. Every fiber of his body knew what was about to happen.

    The only joy in his life was Li Xueyue. To feel it was gone only meant one thing.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen always trusted in himself. His ns had never failed him, and it wasn''t about to start failing him now. Just as he had predicted, they reached a familiar sight¡ªthe small cave he had once stumbled upon.

    "As small as I remember," he muttered whilst climbing off his horse. He observed the small cave that was hidden amongst the thick trees of the drenched forest.

    There was something off about this ce. As he remembered, the opening was shorter than him by a tiny bit. It was the perfect size for Xiao Lizi, and maybe for a horse of a slightly bigger stature.

    "Xueyue?" Yu Zhen called into the cave, wondering if she was hiding in there, shuddering for her dear life. But no one responded. And the cave was too dark for him to see clearly.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. If she was in there, she would''ve already said something. He would''ve heard the stir of her clothes or the quiet breathing of her sleeping form. But nothing.

    There wasn''t a single sound.

    "Damn it," Yu Zhen cursed. He clenched his jaw and red at the ground.

    She wasn''t here.

    If not here, then where?

    The only shelter in this forest was this small cave. Where else could she have taken cover? Could she truly be in one of the neighboring sounds?

    Yu Zhen frowned. He didn''t think he would hear wrong.

    His ears were sharper than most people. He trained his body and sharpened his senses beyond that of an average man. But perhaps the rain was ying tricks on him, much like the heavens.

    His fingers tightened into a fist. If she wasn''t here, then where could she be?

    What if¡­ she was unconscious on the forest floor in the middle of god-knows-where? Just the thought of that was enough for him to shiver.

    Yu Zhen let out a shaky breath. He didn''t want to waste any more time by this useless cave.

    He needed to find his Xueyue. As soon as possible.

    Yu Zhen ignored the rain that blurred his vision. He ignored his soaked clothes. The howling wind didn''t affect him. Neither did the mud that weighed his boots down. He turned his back and approached Xiao Lizi.

    It was time to continue the search elsewhere.

 Chapter 307 Crown Princess of Hanjian

    <h4>Chapter 307 Crown Princess of Hanjian</h4>

    "We misheard," Yu Zhen informed Xiao Lizi. He approached his horse and reached for the reins but she snorted in protest.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen demanded in an impatient tone. He needed to find Xueyue as soon as possible. Even a minute in this rain was dangerous for her.

    Xiao Lizi cocked her head and approached the small cave a bit. Lowering her head, she began to nudge her face towards the entrance.

    "No, we can''t take shelter," Yu Zhen responded. With his gloved hands, he grabbed her reins and began to guide her away, but then he heard something. There was the slightest clink of metal, simr to the sound made by the pedals of a saddle.

    Yu Zhen felt like something was off. He was hesitant at first, but then decided to explore the small cave a bit more. The opening might be small, but he had ventured inside before.

    Holding onto the reins of his horse, he began to guide Xiao Lizi towards the entrance. Together, they climbed over the small step that led into the dark abyss.

    Yu Zhen rapidly blinked his eyes, hoping to adjust it to the darkness which didn''t take long to do so. He squinted his eyes. Suddenly, he smelled something. The scent of burnt wood and soot. Someone had set up camp inside of this cave.

    "Xueyue?" Yu Zhen called out when he saw a lump like that of a body in a close distance. Without wasting time, he instantly ran forward. His footsteps were loud and it thudded against the wet stone.

    "Sunshine?" he muttered upon touching an ice-cold skin. He couldn''t see the features of the person clearly.

    When something shifted beside him, he drew his sword. Who the hell was in the cave with her?

    He was surprised upon hearing a faint neigh. The animal sniffed the ground, turning his head in search of the noise.

    "Heiyue?" Yu Zhen addressed whilst slowly lowering his sword. The horse in question snorted in recognition.

    Yu Zhen reached a hand out until he felt the familiar wet sensation of a horse''s muzzle. The horse neighed at the foreign touch, shaking his head away from the contact.

    Yu Zhen appreciated that the horse was lying near Xueyue. At least she was a bit warmer. He reached out to grab her shoulders but with his quick reflexes, he yanked his hand back when Heiyue chomped the air¡ªalmost as if he was guarding her.

    "Don''t be stupid," Yu Zhen growled.

    Yu Zhen leaned forward and scooped Xueyue into his arms. He was rmed to discover she was much, much lighter than thest time she had ced her weight upon him.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t moving. Her body was as limp as a corpse.

    Yu Zhen had never felt more fear than at this moment. "Xueyue?!" he demanded. Herck of response terrorized him further. He needed her to respond. He needed to hear her voice.

    "Sunshine, don''t do this to me," he urgently whispered whilst settling her onto hisp. He adjusted her body so that she wasfortably resting against his chest.

    Yu Zhen touched her face. She was colder than ice. He let out a string of curses too foul for her ears. She was soaked from the rain. He could feel it from the water that dripped from her clothes. It would be a waste of time to start a fire and warm her up right now.

    "You''re going to be okay," Yu Zhen murmured despite the fear that gnawed at his heart. She''s going to be okay. She had to. He would ept no other conclusion. For the first time in his life, his fingers trembled with terror.

    Yu Zhen yanked off the leather cloak that was draped over his shoulders. It was wet, but at least it would provide her anotheryer of protection. He continued to take off his clothes and slip it onto her.

    Yu Zhen then picked her up with ease, ignoring the wet materials that touched his bare chest. He didn''t care about himself. All he cared about was sheltering her from the rain. He didn''t mind standing in nothing but his breeches.

    "Come," Yu Zhen muttered to her horse. He approached Xiao Lizi who cranked her head and observed her Master.

    Heiyue reluctantly trailed after the source of noise that had taken his friend. He galloped outside and shivered from the cold.

    Yu Zhen slid onto Xiao Lizi with slight difficulty, but he managed. With his womanfortably nestled between his arms, there was nothing he couldn''t do. He reached over and adjusted her position so that his head blocked the rain from hitting her hair.

    Yu Zhen tied Heiyue''s reins onto Xiao Lizi''s saddle. He urged Xiao Lizi forward into a small trot at first. Heiyue followed suit and eventually, they broke out into a run more thunderous than the lightning that loomed in the stormy clouds.

    It was time to bring his wife home.

    - - - - -

    Lu Tianbi paced back and forth at the back end of the Imperial Pce. It was where the stables were, and the closest shortcut to the forest. She was told the Crown Prince had run through here.

    Beyond the pce walls and through the gates was a path that led into the forest. This would be a favored spot for ambushes, no doubt, which was why guards always patrolled around here. Each and every inch of the grounds was covered. Except, no one was foolish enough to fight Hanjian soldiers head-on. They were the most violent people. Honor didn''t matter to them, victory did.

    "Get back inside," Hu Dengxiao sternly said from beside her. They stood beside the back entrance, but the enormous doors were flung open to give her a perfect view of the forest path.

    "All of this pacing will not bring Yu Zhen back," Hu Dengxiao informed her in a rough voice. He nned on epting no other answer except an obedient "yes."

    Hu Dengxiao grabbed her upper arm when she refused to listen. By now, the rain was sshing onto them as the winds blew towards them. Her clothes were beginning to get soaked. He worried she would catch a cold.

    "Why didn''t you chase after him?" Lu Tianbi whispered withrge, frantic eyes. "Our Commander is out there, in the middle of the god forsaken forest while we''re safe within the pce walls!"

    "If you''re too cowardly to go," Lu Tianbi angrily said whilst flinging his hand off of her. "Then you shouldn''t have held me back!"

    "Are you crazy?!" Hu Dengxiao roared. She was startled by his raised voice, which rarely happened. "This rain will kill you!"

    "Then it will also kill our Commander!" Lu Tianbi screamed back. "We''re his closest friends. He risked his life for us on the battlefield. The least we can do is have his back and ride out with him!"

    "Lu Tianbi, you forget exactly who I am," Hu Dengxiao snarled. "I dare to say the Crown Prince is like a brother to me, but before I am his loyal ally, I am your father''s servant."

    Lu Tianbi flinched at his words. She didn''t want to hear the truth about their situation. She couldn''te to terms that the Prime Minister, her father, owned the man who possessed her heart.

    "Your safetyes first," Hu Dengxiao seethed. "I am your personal bodyguard before I am anything else. And I''ll be damned if your life is risked before mine."

    Lu Tianbi pushed him away from her. She took a couple of steps back, angered at his badgering. "Then you should''ve gone after the Commander."

    Hu Dengxiao squeezed his eyes shut at her words. "I couldn''t go. Because I knew you''d chase after us."

    Lu Tianbi glowered at him. "I don''t have time to argue with you about this," she hissed.

    "Where are you going?!" Hu Dengxiao demanded when she ced a foot out of the door. One more step and she could run out of here.

    "To find¡ª"

    "No."

    "¡ªA doctor," she concluded.

    Hu Dengxiao didn''t believe her. She was the type of woman to lie through her teeth. "The royal physician is already summoned. He will be here any moment now."

    Lu Tianbi didn''t tear her eyes from the pce gates in the near distance. The cement pavement leading to it was soaked with rain, the color darker than the ash gray it used to be.

    "But our Commander won''t be here any moment now," she spat out.

    Hu Dengxiao gritted his teeth together. She could be so stubborn and vicious at times like this. "Give me your word," he seethed.

    "What?"

    "Swear to me you won''t leave the pce if I search for Yu Zhen," Hu Dengxiao demanded.

    In all honesty, Hu Dengxiao wanted to hop onto his horse the second he saw Xiao Lizi rush down the pavement and out the gates. He had never wanted to chase after his Commander more than today.

    But his duty held him back.

    His obligations to the Prime Minister was like a leash upon his neck. He couldn''t leave this ce without making sure Lu Tianbi wouldn''t do anything rash.

    Hu Dengxiao''s gaze sharpened. Her lips had trembled. She was going to present him with unfavorable words.

    Lu Tianbi dropped her chin. She couldn''t promise him such a thing. Not when her best friend was out there somewhere. It killed her on the inside that she couldn''t'' do anything for him.

    "The Crown Prince is the glory of Hanjian. He is the sun that brings prosperity to us all," Lu Tianbi coldly said. "His life matters more than mine."

    Hu Dengxiao opened his mouth but stopped. He felt it before he saw it. In the far distance, the metal gates were beginning to draw up. The ground might as well have been shaking. Xiao Lizi was just that powerful. But she wasn''t alone. And neither was the man who stormed through the pce entrance.

    Lu Tianbi''s lips parted in shock. Her eyes grew wide upon seeing him. Xiao Lizi was being guided off to the stables.

    The Commander was back. His walk was determined and powerful. She felt the power ooze from him, even from the daunting distance.

    In his arms was the Empress of Hanjian.

 Chapter 308 You Better Watch Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 308 You Better Watch Yourself</h4>

    "Commander," Lu Tianbi addressed when he finally reached them. Her eyes snapped to the pale woman in his arms and her heart sank to her stomach.

    Li Xueyue was blue and limp. She was paler than a ghost and her wet hair stuck to her forehead.

    Lu Tianbi couldn''t even meet the Commander''s gaze. It wasn''t that he terrified her, but he intimidated her. Everyone, but Yu Zhen, was willing to ept the fact¡ªhypothermia had gotten to Xueyue. She was at death''s doors by now.

    It was toote.

    Hu Dengxiao nudged Lu Tianbi. She shouldn''t look so heartbroken. Her eyes were trembling with the truth as her lips twitched to say it out loud.

    "Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao spoke up in an unwavering voice. "The Imperial Physician awaits in the Crown Princess''s Pce. The servants have already made all the necessary arrangements beforehand."

    Yu Zhen wordlessly nodded. He brushed past his advisor and right-hand woman.

    Hu Dengxiao bowed his head when Yu Zhen strolled past him. No matter what Hu Dengxiao wanted to do, he couldn''t lift his head. His hands shook at the?realization that the Crown Prince was in denial.

    "Let''s go," Hu Dengxiao said to Lu Tianbi.

    She pressed a quivering hand to her mouth. Her erged eyes trembled with unshed tears.

    "T-the Princess, she¡ª"

    "Let''s go," Hu Dengxiao repeated in a firmer voice. He shot her a warning look that forced her mouth to mp shut. She was usually not this obedient, but the situation calls for it.

    Lu Tianbi tore her gaze from the ground to the Commander''s silhouette. He walked with a purpose.

    His footsteps were heavy, like her heart. He was shirtless and his sunkissed skin was turning pale. His wet boots were leaving footprints on the ground. His breeches were soaked wet. His hair was limp.

    The odds were against him. He was next in line to catch a fever.

    But none of that mattered to him, did it?

    The only thing that he''d ever care about, from now on, was that quiet woman. Or perhaps, he had always cared for her, even before their first encounter.

    - - - - -

    Lu Tianbi''s eyes grew wide when she saw Yu Zhen wasn''t heading in the direction of the Crown Princess''s Pce which remained unupied. Instead, he was heading to the grandest pce in the center of the fortress.

    She heard Hu Dengxiao let out a sigh.

    "I knew he''d be like this," Hu Dengxiao muttered in defeat.

    Of course, he wouldn''t leave the Princess to reside alone in that pce. She already had a foot beyond death''s doors. The Crown Prince must''ve wanted more time with her before she would pass on.

    Hu Dengxiao grabbed Lu Tianbi''s wrist and began to tug her towards the pce grounds. She reluctantly walked with him but she was out of it. She was like a walking puppet¡ªnumb and speechless. They stopped walking when they met a Eunuch.

    "My lord," the Eunuch whispered. "Was that woman¡ª"

    "Inform the Imperial Physician of the change of ns. Rush him and the servants who were waiting with him to the Crown Prince''s residence. Then, get the servants to prepare a hot bath as soon as possible," Hu Dengxiao instructed.

    The Eunuch bowed his head. He excused himself in a hurry and quickly rushed off to fulfill the order. It must''ve been a serious issue if the gentle Advisor was so serious.

    Hu Dengxiao nced at the stupified Lu Tianbi beside him. His gaze softened and he ced a gentle hand upon her shoulder.

    "We have to prepare ourselves," he said.

    "For what?" she asked him, lifting her head.

    "In the event that the Princess doesn''t make it¡ª"

    "W-we should just head towards there now so we can provide him some form offort," Lu Tianbi stuttered out. She was still dumbfounded by the motionless body of Princess Li.

    Death was amon thing. Lu Tianbi had witnessed it multiple times on the battlefield. Decapitated bodies, rotting bodies, injured bodies¡ªshe had seen it all.

    When her soldiers died in front of her, she wept for them, but always recovered and moved on. Each and every life was precious; they all deserved a proper burial when they die¡ªenemy or not.

    Lu Tianbi was used to death. She was more familiar with itpared to regr women. But she was unable to ept it.

    She never could. She understood the pain of losing someone important. Yu Zhen did too. But no one had ever impacted his life like the Princess.

    It was precisely why Lu Tianbi was so scared for him. Princess Li was his entire world. If she dies, his world would crumble. What shall happen to their Crown Prince when that happens?

    "W-we need to be there for him," Lu Tianbi added on. She was choked up with emotions. Just imaging the heartbreak of her closest friend was enough for her to be in tears. She wanted to shoulder his pain in hopes of alleviating it.

    "And we will," Hu Dengxiao said. He pressed his hand into her shoulder and began to guide her towards the Crown Prince''s residence.

    "Let''s not waste anymore time," he added. "We should try and be optimistic for Yu Zhen."

    Hu Dengxiao reached out and wiped his tears before it fell. Seeing her so upset hurt him. He would''ve spent more timeforting her, but Yu Zhen''s sanity was at stake. He had to get there soon, to shelter the blow.

    Lu Tianbi shakily nodded her head. She held back a sniffle and lifted her head.

    Together, they walked towards the Crown Prince''s residence, knowing that nothing would ever be the same after today. Once they stepped through the entrance and beyond those doors, there would be no going back. Not that it mattered.

    - - - - -

    An ominous silence fell over the Crown Prince''s bedroom. No one dared to speak. No one dared to breathe the wrong way. The tension was thick.

    The Imperial Physician''s brows furrowed together as he examined the woman. With his fingers pressed on her wrist, he checked for a pulse. His gazended on her soaked figure that wetted the sacred bed.

    "Well?" Yu Zhen demanded in a dangerous voice.

    The Imperial Physician slowly shook his head. He rose to his feet and peered at the woman. Heavy nkets were draped over her body, providing her with the much needed warmth.

    "Your Highness," the Imperial Physician addressed whilst bowing his head.

    The Crown Prince was decades younger than him, but his title was far beyond the Physician''s dreams.

    The Imperial Physician had been serving the Imperial Family for years but the Crown Prince rarely called for him.

    Despite hearing rumors of the Crown Prince''s injuries due to his perilous training, the doctor was rarely called for him. It was so strange. The Imperial Physician has always wondered about the reason behind this.

    The Imperial Physician slipped his spectacles off as heposed himself to face the Crown Prince who was known to be ruthless.

    He, then, carefully contemted his response. He feared for his life, but told himself that he had already lived a long and fulfilling one. It was precisely why he had sacrificed it all toe here tonight, knowing the oue would be dangerous. And it truly was.

    "Your Highness, this woman is¡ª"

    Suddenly, loudmotions were hearding from outside which interrupted him.

    Yu Zhen''s stormy expression darkened. Who dared to cause a ruckus at such a moment? He stomped towards the doors, ignoring the fact that someone else was supposed to open it for him.

    He was furious.

    He swung the doors open. Someone was going to beheaded tonight. He let out a growl of irritation upon seeing the scene outside.

    "Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao addressed at the same time as Lu Tianbi.

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. He would deal with these twoter.

    Hu Dengxiao let out a shaky sigh of relief when Yu Zhen ignored them and sauntered back into the room, beyond the folded screen.

    In the meantime, Lu Tianbi shot the woman a dirty glower. How dare this weasel try to keep them out?

    "What are you doing here?" she demanded.

    Who the hell did this woman think she was? What gave her the right to follow the Crown Prince? How did she even get in here?

    Lu Tianbi''s eyes re. Just because the Crown Prince kept this woman by his side, did she think she was special?

    "Let''s just go. We''ll deal with herter," Hu Dengxiao muttered whilst tugging at Lu Tianbi''s wrist. He didn''t want an altercation to break out here. She looked like she was going to murder that woman.

    "You better watch yourself," Lu Tianbi seethed. "The next time you offend me, I''ll have you beheaded."

    The woman didn''t even flinch. She merely bowed her head in silence.

    Lu Tianbi''s lips curled in disgust. "She''s lucky the Commander is here," she muttered to Hu Dengxiao.

    He slowly nodded whilst pulling her inside the room. The doors were closed behind them. The two exchanged a meaningful nce.

    Judging by Yu Zhen''s temper, it only meant one thing: the physician hadn''t informed him of the Princess''s condition yet.

 Chapter 309 Dont Abandon I

    <h4>Chapter 309 Don''t Abandon I</h4>

    "Continue."

    The Imperial Physician raised his head. It was a single word, but it weighed so heavy on his heart. "Your Highness, this woman¡ª"

    Yu Zhen''s features darkened. "My Wangfei."

    The Imperial Physician readily nodded and opened his mouth but then paused. What? The Crown Prince''s Wangfei? As in¡­ the Crown Princess of Hanjian?

    His half-closed eyes widened a fraction. This woman was the Emperor of Wuyi''s daughter?! How did she end up in such a horrific state?

    When a dark aura loomed over him, the Imperial Physician quickly cleared his throat. The Crown Prince''s presence was bloodthirsty. He felt like the Crown Prince could reach for his throat at any moment.

    The Imperial Physician struggled to speak with the overwhelming pressure ced on him. He bowed his head.

    "My apologies, Your Highness," he stated. "It is with deepest regret that I inform you that the Princess of Wuyi is hanging on by a thread."

    A long pause ensued.

    No one spoke. No one moved.

    Finally, the shuffle of clothes could be heard. Lu Tianbi had stepped forward. This was unfortunate news, but it was better than what she had initially anticipated. So long as she wasn''t dead¡­ wasn''t this still great news?

    "Will she heal?" Lu Tianbi spoke up.

    Her eyes wandered towards Yu Zhen whose face was turned from her. She didn''t need to see his expression to know what he was feeling inside. A somber shadow was looming over his broad figure. His fingers were tightly clenched into a fist. His jaw ticked.

    "With proper care, I dare say it is possible, Lady Lu," the Imperial Physician said. "Her pulse is very faint right now, but there is still a beat."

    The Imperial Physician''s attention shifted to the pale woman on the bed. "The first step is to get her a change of clothes and then warm her up gradually."

    Lu Tianbi let out a shaky sigh of relief. She slowly approached the bed, but kept her gaze on the silent Yu Zhen. He hadn''t said anything for a while now. It was expected of him to behave this way, but she thought he''d at least show some reaction.

    "Do not give her a warm bath for the sudden change in temperature would shock her system. ce something warm near her stomach, underneath her arms, and even her neck to restore heat to her body slowly," he added on.

    The Imperial Physician''s gaze wandered to the Crown Prince. It was then that he realized the Crown Prince''s eyes never left the woman and he had been watching her all these while.

    His brows were furrowed together. Each time she drew in a slow, shallow breath, the Crown Prince''s gaze would widen a bit. It was almost as if he was anticipating for her eyes to open anytime.

    "The Princess should be regaining her consciousness within the night, or around tomorrow morning, Lady Lu," the Imperial Physician stated to Lu Tianbi. "If not, please call for me immediately. I can always be found within the pce."

    "And the medicine?" Yu Zhen demanded.

    "As of now, Your Highness, I will not prescribe any. It''s dangerous to feed her when unconscious."

    "Thank you, Doctor," Lu Tianbi replied. She jolted when Yu Zhen brushed past her, but he didn''t even cast her a nce. His attention had always been on the Princess.

    "That will be all," she added on. "You''re excused."

    The Imperial Physician nodded his head and bowed before her before turning to the Crown Prince. He dipped deeply. Then, he quietly left the room.

    "Your Highness," Lu Tianbi addressed. "There was a hot bath that was drawn for the Princess. Since the doctor advised against it, perhaps you could use it instead. You''re shivering."

    Lu Tianbi frowned when he ignored her. The Commander reached a hand out and gently pushed the wet hair away from the Princess''s forehead.

    Lu Tianbi did her best to not reprimand him. The bed of the Crown Prince was held in high regard for it was blessed by the Monks of the High Temples. Whoever slept upon it was supposed to be blessed and prosperous for generations toe. It was a tradition in Hanjian that the bed of the Crown Prince was blessed.

    And for the Commander to soil it with water and dirt¡­ She had no words for the offense.

    "Your Highness," she called out. Her eyes grew wide when he abruptly flung the nkets off of the Princess.

    "Wait!" she gasped when he began to take off the firstyer of wet clothes. She rushed forward and grabbed his wrist.

    "I know the Imperial Physician advised to change her into dry clothes, but please let the maidservants handle it," Lu Tianbi murmured.

    Yu Zhen finally steered his somber gaze away from Xueyue to Lu Tianbi. "I''m looking for wounds," he grunted.

    "O-oh," Lu Tianbi murmured. ''How silly of me,'' she thought to herself. The Crown Prince had more decency than to just strip Princess Li like that. She sighed in relief again.

    "How are you feeling, Commander?" Lu Tianbi asked in a quiet voice.

    "Don''t whisper around me," Hu Dengxiao spoke up as he approached the two of them. He was barely near the bed when the Commander abruptly stood up.

    Hu Dengxiao let out a quiet shriek, thinking the Commander was going to hit him.

    Lu Tianbi bit her bottom lip in response. She knew why Yu Zhen did what he did. It was one of the rare moments she had ever seen him react so possessively. Up until now, he had never shown such an emotion over someone.

    "Even if you''re checking for wounds," she stated. "It''s best to leave it to the maidservants. If they notice anything amiss, they''ll report it to you."

    Yu Zhen''s attention didn''t remain on Lu Tianbi for too long. He was distracted by Xueyue. Xueyue didn''t have to do anything, and his gaze still would be stuck onto her. He would never bring himself to admit it, but he had never felt so much relief in one night.

    Li Xueyue was alive. She was unwell, but alive, with a pulse. That was all that mattered.

    He clenched his fingers to prevent it from trembling. Despite hearing hopeful news of her current state, he was still terrified. And worried. These unfamiliar emotions were so rarely felt that he didn''t understand it at first.

    "Will she sleep in this room?" Lu Tianbi asked him in a skeptical voice. She hoped not. Tongues would start wagging.

    "I want to," Yu Zhen muttered. "But for her sake, I won''t."

    Lu Tianbi''s lips quipped into a smile. "Very well, Your Highness," she responded with a slight chirp in her voice.

    Lu Tianbi was delighted that he would maintain the Princess''s reputation. It was already bad that she hadn''t arrived in a carriage.

    Of course, the soldiers who were sent out to search for her had all sworn to secrecy. But it would be better if the Princess wasn''t rumored to have already spent the night with the Crown Prince¡ªeven if they were going to be married soon.

    "Before she wakes up, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi stated. "We will need to formte a n to introduce her to the country and pce courts."

    "I''d like more time with her alone first."

    Lu Tianbi rapidly blinked. "What do you mean by that, Commander?" She bit her tongue upon realizing the slip of tongue. But Yu Zhen ignored it.

    "You should know, Tiantian," Hu Dengxiao spoke up. He tried his best to not pout from their neglect. "Once the Crown Princess is introduced, she will have to work very hard, especially because she''s a citizen of Wuyi, not Hanjian."

    "But the Princess doesn''t have anypetitors," Lu Tianbi slowly said. "Of course, not officially, since the Crown Prince hasn''t taken interest in any other woman."

    Hu Dengxiao nodded in agreement. "Of course not, but you should already know, not many¡ª"

    "Yeah, yeah," Lu Tianbi retorted. "I''m a woman as well. I know of the gossip."

    She was a bit startled upon feeling the sudden dip in temperature. Yu Zhen was far from pleased.

    "Get rid of the gossipers," he instructed.

    "We wish we could, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi responded. "But it would be horrible for your reign and reputation if you murdered everyone who gossipped about the Crown Princess."

    "I don''t care," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    "But we do, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi argued. "Your regime matters to us all. We''d never want your name to be tainted¡ª"

    "It already is."

    Lu Tianbi held back the urge to re at him. Stubborn as always. "Let''s speak about this after the Crown Princess has woken up, Your Highness. But it''s best to introduce her to the courts as soon as possible. If it''s discovered that she didn''t get acquainted with others, despite residing here for a while, it won''t do her any good."

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. It was precisely why he hated this damn title. He made up his mind. Once Li Xueyue wakes up, he''d give her the option. If she doesn''t want to deal with the frills of a Crown Princess, he''d dly whisk her away.

    "I know what you''re thinking, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi spoke up. "But you must remember how hard your people worked to get you to this throne. Even if you do not want it, you must take it."

    Her gaze softened. "The throne is right in your reach. Don''t abandon it so quickly."

    Yu Zhen frowned. Who said he was going to revoke his title? He would simply just not marry anyone. He''d still take the throne, just without an Empress. And for Xueyue? She could live a life of bliss outside of the Pce, where he would spend every free moment with her.

    "Don''t rob her of the opportunity, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi added on. "I know you very well. We grew up in this horrid pce together. I can tell¡­ you''re nning on convincing her to not burden herself with the title of a Crown Princess."

    Yu Zhen???s gaze darkened in displeasure.

    "Give Princess Li a chance, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi stated. "She should have the opportunity to have her name written in history."

    Yu Zhen responded with a sharp turn of his back. He left the room without a word.

    Lu Tianbi revealed a slight smile. "You''ve already made up your mind, haven''t you?"

 Chapter 310 She Must Be A Crazy Woman

    <h4>Chapter 310 She Must Be A Crazy Woman</h4>

    It was hot. The heat was unbearable. Warmth ambushed her on all sides. It felt so suffocating. She found it difficult to breathe, but at least, the biting cold had stopped.

    Li Xueyue slowly opened her eyes. She blinked to adjust her blurry vision. Even so, it was hard for her to concentrate on anything. She wanted to rub at her eyes but found her arms were tightly tucked underneath something.

    "Where¡­" she trailed off.

    Li Xueyue was lost and confused. Even when her vision cleared, she couldn''t focus on anything. It took her a while of slipping in and out of consciousness to fully understand what had happened.

    She recalled falling asleep in the cave. The biting cold had lulled her to her death. But she wasn''t dead. Or was she?

    Li Xueyue''s eyes grew wide. Heiyue! Where was her horse? She mustered all of her energy to sit upright. Layers of nkets slipped off of her chest. She touched the soft fabric and examined her surroundings.

    This room wasrger and grander than the one she had in Wuyi. Muslin curtains, tiled borders framing the ceiling, and gold-embedded decor greeted her. The room was spacious and fully decorated. The design, the furniture cement, the colors, it was a beautiful room.

    "Where am I?" she wondered out loud.

    Li Xueyue didn''t remember much. But that didn''t stop her from slipping out of the bed. She was confused when something slipped from her body. She reached into the nkets, feeling something warm. Pulling it out, she was perplexed to see it was a stone wrapped with ayer of cloth. The stone was still hot to the touch, meaning it had been heated prior.

    "Did I catch hypothermia?" Li Xueyue asked. She nced down at her clothes. They were changed. She was dressed in a thick nightgown. The style waspletely different than the one in Wuyi.

    "Is this¡­ Hanjian?" she wondered to herself.

    Li Xueyue noticed the different types of shoes ced next to her bed. She concluded that the ce she was residing in, was undoubtedly not in Wuyi.

    Putting on the shoes, she headed towards what seemed like an enormous wardrobe. She numbly browsed through it until spotting a robe. Letting out a sigh of relief, she wrapped it out her nightgown.

    Afterwards, Li Xueyue headed towards the door.

    She needed to find out exactly where she was. If this was Hanjian, then how did she get here? She didn''t have a single recollection of meeting someone. Worst case scenario, she was in some random aristocrat''s house. But who could be so wealthy to afford an enormous house like this?

    Li Xueyue creaked the door open startling the guards stationed outside. They straightened at the sight of her before dropping to their knees.

    "Mydy, how may we help you?"

    Li Xueyue paused a bit. There was a slight ent. It was faint, but she heard it. It was simr to the one that Yu Zhen spoke with.

    "Uhm¡­" she trailed off, unsure of what exactly she wanted.

    "Where am I?" she finally asked.

    The guards were unsure of her identity. They weren''t informed of who she was. Suspicions were raised when she was moved to the Crown Princess''s Pce. They had their predictions but didn''t dare to think more of it.

    "Mydy, you''re residing within the Crown Princess''s Pce."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. So she truly was in Hanjian. In the Imperial Pce, it seemed. But how? Who transported her here?

    She opened her mouth, but closed it. Would it be improper for her to summon Yu Zhen? Wasn''t he the Crown Prince? Was it better for her to be led to him? She touched her waist and fear dawned onto her. Where was her satchel? Where was Yu Zhen''s pendant?!

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped back to the bedroom. It was sorge, with nooks and crannies she didn''t know of. Finding the pendant would be impossible.

    "Is there a problem, mydy?" one of the guards asked.

    The other guard felt like something was amiss. They had just begun their shift, after switching with their peers.

    None of them were informed of who was inside, except to guard the door with their lives. What were they supposed to do at a time like this? Inform the Eunuchs?

    The guards remembered hearing something about not disturbing the person inside of the room. There were also small talks that Lu Tianbi was supposed to stand-guard with them, which was strange, considering her newfound position. Of course, she used to be a soldier, but now, she was the Crown Prince''s right hand woman.

    The guards patiently waited for the youngdy to speak. She was beautiful, but they didn''t dare to take a second nce.

    Li Xueyue licked her bottom lip. "Will you take me to the Crown Prince?"

    The guards paused. The Crown Prince¡­? He was a man of high authority. Not just anyone could see him.

    To catch a peak at him, one would need to make a request, at least three days in advance, before they would be granted an audience with their Crown Prince.

    "Unfortunately, that is beyond our capabilities, mydy. The Crown Prince is not someone we can easily reach out to," the other guard said.

    Li Xueyue frowned a bit. "Then where is he right now?" she asked. Their antics were strange, but she brushed it off. They didn''t know who she was.

    Li Xueyue debated the idea of showing Yu Zhen''s pendant. It would cut to the chase and no one would deny her the request to see him. She was just hesitant about using it. It was something she had never done before.

    The guards didn''t know the answer. They averted their gaze.

    Li Xueyue crossed her arms. "Get a Eunuch."

    "Pardon, mydy?"

    "You heard me," Li Xueyue deadpanned. It seemed none of them knew who she was. Whether it was for her benefit or not, she didn''t care. Someone needed to exin to her exactly what happened.

    The guards wanted to reject hermand, but when they met her stony gaze, they couldn''t do so. There was something about her aura that made it simply too difficult to refuse.

    "Understood, mydy," the guard stated. He bowed his head and rushed off to find a Eunuch. But it was sote in the night. Who could be up?

    As the guard wondered and searched, he came up empty-handed. He cursed his horrid fate. Why was he assigned to such a troublesome duty tonight?

    He continued to wander around, until he finally spotted someone who could help. His eyes lit up upon spotting someone.

    Was that¡­ the Chancellor''s son?

    The guard stumbled over his footing. What was the Chancellor''s son staying up sote for? He noticed the man was walking with his servants who seemed to be carrying arge stack of parchment.

    "My lord," the guard stated. He approached the Chancellor''s son and bowed his head.

    The Chancellor''s son, a young man in histe twenties peered down at the unexpected guard. What was this man doing away from his post? Nheless, he raised a brow and waited for the guard to speak.

    "There is an¡­" the guard trailed off, unsure of what to address her. "There is a strange woman seeking the audience of the Crown Prince."

    "What?" the Chancellor''s son questioned in disbelief. "Turn her away," he snapped.

    "She must be a crazy woman. It''s the middle of the night," he added on.

    "The thing is, my lord," the guard began. He nced around, spotting the servants behind the influential Chancellor''s son. He lowered his voice, making sure the servants didn''t hear.

    "The woman is residing within the bedroom assigned for the Crown Princess," the guard whispered.

    At this, the Chancellor''s son''s brows shot upwards. Oh ho. How interesting. His lips curled into an amused smirk.

    The Chancellor''s son wanted to personally see the woman himself, but decided against it. The documents being delivered tonight were more confidential than usual. He''d need to do it in person.

    "Return back to your post," the Chancellor''s son instructed. "Inform thedy that her request to see the Crown Prince will be considered."

    The guard couldn''t do more than that. He just hoped the Chancellor''s son was a lot more understanding of the situation. The guard bowed his head and hurried back to the Crown Princess''s Pce to ry the message.

 Chapter 311 Execute The Chancellors Son

    <h4>Chapter 311 Execute The Chancellor''s Son</h4>

    The Chancellor''s son proceeded on his merry stroll to the Crown Prince''s private study. It was already deep into the night and a bright moon dangled upon the skies.

    He let out a quiet yawn and stretched. He didn''t care too much about the proper etiquette, especially when the only people who dared to judge him were buried in their wives'' arms.

    "Your Highness, you sure love to bully your subordinates, don''t you?" the Chancellor''s son said whilst pushing the doors open to the Crown Prince''s private study.

    He was so acquainted with the man that he didn''t bother knocking first. Besides, who else would be visiting the Second Prince sote at night?

    Lu Tianbi didn''t even lift her head to greet her cousin. She was burdened with a stack of Yu Zhen''s workload.

    Hu Dengxiao, on the other hand, was snoring away with a brush in hand. He had drawn fake eyes onto his eyelids as if anyone was stupid enough to fall for that trick.

    "As predicted," the Chancellor''s son said.

    As punishment for their failure to act ordingly by sending out the Silent River Squadron and proper seekers, they were being punished with mountain high of paperwork. Lu Tianbi was initially worried about taking this duty. Shouldn''t she be standing on patrol near Li Xueyue''s room?

    But darn that possessive Prince. He didn''t allow anyone inside of her bedroom in fear that they''d disrupt her rest. He only gave permission to allow some guards to be stationed there.

    "What do you want?" Yu Zhen coldly asked. He continued working on his document, but this time, he didn''t have to do much except stamping it.

    "Bringing you more work, Your Highness," the Chancellor''s son mused. "It''s sote in the night and you''re making all of us suffer. All for what, Your Highness?"

    "That''s a good idea," Yu Zhen dered. He raised his head with a scathing glower. "Wu Xiang, take a seat."

    Wu Xiang''s lips twitched in disappointment. He didn''t mean to dig himself a grave.

    "Y-Your Highness, you must be jesting," he teased.

    "That stack of documents is yours to finish," Yu Zhen instructed. He shifted his attention back to the document in front of him. He narrowed his eyes in displeasure upon seeing how stupid this particr one was. Without warning, he crushed it up and tossed it aside.

    "It''s time to dispose of the senile Minister Gu," he spat out.

    "You seemed upset, Your Highness. More than usual, of course," Wu Xiang murmured. He wanted to argue with the Crown Prince, but saw it was to no avail. When the Crown Prince''s temper reached its peak, nothing could change his mind.

    Wu Xiang began to settle into the room. He approached the Crown Prince, but paused beside one of the rectangr tables on the side. In silence, he shoved the table, startling the Advisor.

    Hu Dengxiao shot up from the table and the document he had drooled on. He tiredly wiped his mouth and continued working, as if he hadn''t just made a spectacle out of himself.

    Wu Xiang snickered in amusement. The Advisor didn''t even realize what had happened. He watched as Hu Dengxiao''s head began to droop a bit before he startled himself and continued working.

    "Oh, Wu Xiang," Hu Dengxiao murmured upon noticing the Chancellor''s son. He was surprised to see Wu Xiang''s decent-sized stature was able to tower over the table.

    "You''re here," Hu Dengxiao added on whilst dipping his brush in dried-up ink. "What for?"

    "To behave as a messenger apparently," Wu Xiang replied as a great idea came to mind.

    "A messenger?" Hu Dengxiao asked.

    His eyes wandered to Lu Tianbi and his mind recalled the argument they had yesterday. They were bickering about who would be the messenger who would be killed on the spot.

    "Yes, one of the guards from a supposedly unupied part of the pce told me something very interesting," Wu Xiang responded. He rested his hands behind his shoulders and took an airy step towards his dear friend.

    Yu Zhen didn''t show any interest in hearing his childhood friend out. He continued working but with ears perked.

    "Your Highness," Wu Xiang sang. "I should''ve known you weren''t celibate for all of these years. I mean, with so many beautiful women throwing themselves at your path, how could you not entertain a single one of them, Your Highness?"

    Hu Dengxiao tilted his head in confusion. He scratched his head and wondered what the Chancellor''s son was babbling about. Just then, something clicked and his eyes widened.

    But it was toote, Yu Zhen was the first to realize it.

    "Where was the guard from?" Yu Zhen demanded in a low, threatening voice.

    Wu Xiang raised a brow. Oh ho. So quick to respond. It was different from his usual behavior.

    Wu Xiang had grown up by the Crown Prince''s side. He was familiar with Yu Zhen''s aloof silence. But who would''ve thought the Crown Prince was so quick to react to this piece of information?

    He revealed a deep, wicked smile. "So my predictions were correct?" He let out a small ''tsk.''

    "Of course, Your Highness, you can take as many concubines as you please. But you''re marrying Wuyi''s Princess very soon. You should keep that concubine of yours hidden¡ª" Wu Xiang''s body swerved to the left when a de was tossed towards his neck.

    The knife grazed him and nearly stabbed one of his servants right through the eyes.?The servants behind him jumped back in fear, their lives shing before their eyes.

    "Violent as always," Wu Xiang breathed out. He tucked a strand of hair back into ce and chuckled. Had he hit a nerve?

    Seeing the Crown Prince''s vicious expression, he quickly added on, "I was joking, Your Highness."

    "Get to the point," Yu Zhen growled. His patience had reached its limits.

    Wu Xiang pressed his lips together. He nced at the spot that the knifended. Right upon the closed door. He touched his neck and saw blood staining his pale finger-tips.

    Tsk. The Crown Prince''s aim was perfect as always. If Wu Xiang hadn''t dodged, he would''ve dropped dead right here. But something about poking the lion was so fun¡­

    "The guard came from the Crown Princess''s pce. You should kick that concubine out very soon. Assign her elsewhere. That residence is made for Wuyi''s¡ª"

    Wu Xiang was interrupted yet again. This time, it was by Yu Zhen himself. His eyes grew wide when the Crown Prince stormed towards him.

    Wu Xiang flinched in fear and blocked his face. But Yu Zhen wasn''t going to hit him. No. The Crown Prince had shoved him aside. And quite frankly, bolted out of the room.

    "What just happened?" Wu Xiang wondered out loud. He had blinked once. And the Crown Prince was gone. Just like that.

    He tilted his head in confusion. "Hey Tianbi," he called out to his younger cousin. "Why is the Crown Prince in such a hurry?"

    Lu Tianbi finally registered that her cousin was in the room. She was so focused on her work to even realize he had stepped inside of here.

    "Oh, Xiang-ge," she acknowledged. "When did you get here?"

    Wu Xiang frowned at her words. "Was my presence that small that you didn''t notice me?"

    Lu Tianbi revealed an amused smile. She tucked strands of hair behind her ears to see him properly. Her head had been bent for so long, her hair was falling lower.

    "I was just distracted, that''s all," she said.

    Lu Tianbi blinked in confusion. That''s strange. Yu Zhen''s overbearing presence was gone. It was easier to breathe now. She searched the room for the Crown Prince, but didn''t see him.

    "Xiang-ge, did the Crown Prince leave just now?" Lu Tianbi questioned. She was perplexed by the Commander''s disappearance. He was the most diligent out of them all. The Commander wouldn''t just abandon his duties like this.

    "Ah yes," Wu Xiang nodded. "The Crown Prince just made a mad dash out of the door right now. Though, I don''t know why."

    "I know, I know!" Hu Dengxiao spoke up like an excited child. He was eager to lessen Lu Tianbi''s confusion. It was a rare opportunity to prove himself.

    "Wu Xiang just told Yu Zhen that our littledy is awake!" Hu Dengxiao eximed.

    Lu Tianbi stumbled out of her chair in shock. "What?!" she hissed.

    Hu Dengxiao nodded. "And Yu Zhen is undoubtedly rushing towards her as we speak. Isn''t it romantic?"

    "This is why I told him I should''ve stand guard!" Lu Tianbi huffed. "But nooo, he never listens."

    Hu Dengxiao blinked. "But if you stood guard, who would help me finish all of the work?"

    Lu Tianbi scowled upon seeing his stack of documents hadn''t reduced the slightest bit. Her''s were almost done now, so was the Crown Prince''s.

    "If he had just listened to me," Lu Tianbi bit out. "Then Wu Xiang wouldn''t have found out about her."

    Wu Xiang raised a brow. "Find out about who?"

    "None of your business," Hu Dengxiao chimed.

    "Really now?" Wu Xiang suspiciously asked.

    Hu Dengxiao rapidly nodded. "Wu Xiang, you should pretend tonight never happened."

    "And why''s that?" Wu Xiang questioned.

    Hu Dengxiao innocently blinked. He revealed a sweet smile. "Well, don''t you value your life?"

    Wu Xiang was surprised by the eerie chill that crawled up his spine. Threats like this rarely terrified him. But he had felt genuine fear just now. As if his precious life was about to end very soon¡­

    Why was that?

    "And who would dare to execute the Chancellor''s son?" Wu Xiang asked. He was entertained by the Advisor''s threat. This man was just an orphan. Did Hu Dengxiao dare to raise his sword against an aristocrat?

    "Silly boy, who else?" Hu Dengxiao teased. He cocked his head and let out a deep, humorless chuckle.

    "Yu Zhen will not hesitate to behead you if a word of this gets out," Hu Dengxiao deadpanned. He watched in satisfaction as Wu Xiang''s eyes grew wide. The Chancellor''s son gulped.

    Wu Xiang had understood the message.

 Chapter 312 All Nigh

    <h4>Chapter 312 All Nigh</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t know what else to do. She sat on the edge of the bed, swinging her legs out of pure boredom. This room was beautiful and perfectly furnished but it wasn''t to her liking. There wasn''t a single book to entertain herself with.

    She let out a quiet sigh and observed the rugs that covered the floor in the room. She had never seen rugs so elegantly designed, yet so colorful. She wondered if it was Hanjian''s specialty.

    Her arms rested on either side of her whilst she hummed a quiet tune to herself. Perhaps it would be better to sleep? At least, the morning would quicklye.

    She was startled upon hearing loud thuds outside the room. What was that? She had barely raised her head when the doors mmed open. A rush of cold air gushed inside, sending chills down her spine.

    Her eyes grew wide. She didn''t know how it happened, or why it happened. But she cried. The sight of him brought indescribable relief.

    "Yu¡ª" She didn''t even get to finish her sentence when he quickly stormed towards her. She let out a brokenugh when he embraced her tightly.

    Li Xueyue had never felt so whole¡ªas if the other half of her soul was found. He was here with her.

    Yu Zhen was actually here¡ªin person. Alive, and well. His hug was the same, despite the months that had passed. She was flushed against his chest, her ears rested against his rapidly thumping heart. He was as ecstatic to see her as she was to see him.

    "I''ve missed you," he murmured in a low, sullen voice. He hugged her tighter until she was pressed against him. He buried his face into the crook of her shoulders. Her scent was the strongest there.

    "I can tell," Li Xueyue whispered. She had been so shocked by his unexpected hug that her arms hung limply by her side. Hesitantly, she lifted it behind him. When he squeezed her, she settled her fingertips upon his broad upper back. She felt the clench of his muscles when he shifted.

    "Are you feeling alright?" Yu Zhen worriedly asked whilst pulling back a bit. He reached out and gently touched her cheeks.

    Li Xueyue barely got a word out when he abruptly brought her face closer. She flushed and closed her eyes. She held her breath, waiting for something that only he could give her. But it never came. Instead, she felt his fingers touch her forehead.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes snapped open in surprise. He bit his bottom lip. His body trembled whilst holding back augh.

    "Oh, shut up!" Li Xueyue grumbled when he smiled at her reddened face.

    "What were you expecting, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen retorted whilst dropping his hand. It seemed her temperature was back to normal. Not too cold. And not too hot.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes in irritation. "Nothing simr to what''s on your mind right now," she huffed out.

    Yu Zhen watched in delight as she crossed her arms. She reminded him of an agitated cub. He couldn''t resist wrapping his hands around her waist.

    With one tug, she was yanked towards his sturdy chest, her palms restedfortably upon it. She wanted to create distance between them, but he didn''t allow her to.

    Yu Zhen leaned down and pressed a chaste kiss upon her forehead. Her heart fluttered at the action. Even when he pulled back, she still felt the lingering kiss.

    "I''ve missed you, my Little Hamster," Yu Zhen murmured. He hoped this wasn''t a dream. If so, it would be the cruelest trick the Heavens yed upon him.

    Yu Zhen had lost count of how many times his dreams tormented him. She was always there¡ªso close but so far away. Beside him, but untouchable. And when he''d try to grab ahold of her, she''d disappear into thin air.

    "I''ve missed you a lot more," Li Xueyue whispered. She enjoyed howfortably their bodies were entangled together. He held her as if he was made to do it.

    Li Xueyue smiled when he kissed her again, this time, on the side of her head. "How did I get here?" she asked.

    Li XUeyue melted into his arms when he hugged her tighter.

    "Your horse," Yu Zhen responded.

    "Where is he right now?" Li Xueyue asked. Immediately, fear rushed to her system. Had Heiyue¡­ perished in the biting cold?

    Yu Zhen noticed the panic that shed within her eyes. He reached out and soothed the creases that had formed upon her forehead. She still loved to worry, didn''t she?

    "Safe and sound," he said in a mellow voice.

    Li Xueyue hadn''t realized how much she missed hearing him speak. His voice was deep and husky but filled her with warmth. He spoke as if nothing else mattered in this world, except the listener and him.

    "For the first time in my life, I felt fear," Yu Zhen said.

    Yu Zhen absentmindedly yed with the strings behind her back that held her nightgown in ce. Just a tug or two and it''de undone. Even now, he could feel the curves of her body. He squeezed her waist. Her skin was soft and he desired to run his fingers upon it.

    "I thought I lost you," Yu Zhen admitted. It had been difficult toe to terms with it. He was so weighed down by fear the night before that he was numb. He had tried everything to distract his mind.

    Sleep was an impossible task. He couldn''t sleep a wink, knowing she might never wake up. He couldn''t rest without thinking of her. He couldn''t think without remembering her shivering in the cave. She gued his thoughts¡ªday and night.

    It was toote for him to back out now. She was his drug, and he was addicted.

    "How could you be so foolish?" Yu Zhen demanded in a dark voice.

    Li Xueyue was caught off guard by the change in tone. He was so loving with her a second ago. Now, he was in a sour mood.

    "What are you talking about?" Li Xueyue asked. She was prepared to enter into an argument with him regardless of how early orte it would be. But then he took her by surprise.

    "I gave you my pendant. Why didn''t you find yourself a ce to sleep in any of the towns?" Yu Zhen questioned.

    Did he¡­ actually voice his concerns? Li Xueyue was surprised. He used to hold it all in. Had he changed when she wasn''t around?

    "I-I was scared," Li Xueyue admitted.

    "Of what?" Yu Zhen asked. This country was going to be hers soon. What could be so terrifying out there?

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth and exined what happened. From the bandits to the creepy town she stumbled upon. Realization flooded his dark eyes before it was overtaken with raw rage.

    "I''ll massacre them all," Yu Zhen seethed. He grabbed her shoulders and pulled her close. "Did they hurt you?"

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "No, they didn''t. Don''t hurt them, they''re your citizens."

    "They ambushed a royal carriage and murdered your soldiers. Yet, you have thepassion to forgive them?" Yu Zhen questioned in disbelief. Her duties hadn''t even begun yet, and she was already offering him advice.

    "I was furious with the bandits. I wanted them dead," Li Xueyue admitted. "But as I traveled and saw how ravaged the towns were, my anger was reced with pity."

    Yu Zhen red down at her. She was too kind-hearted. It would be a weakness that could be used against her. "Sunshine¡ª"

    "They have no choice, Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue dered. "The war must''ve left them famished. And they''re by the borders of the territory. They''re the first to be attacked by Wuyi or any other neighboring country."

    Yu Zhen had always known she was intelligent. She must''ve been if she talked her way out of being a candidate to be sent to Hanjian. But he didn''t think her wits would bebined with her emotions.

    Seeing the fear in her eyes, whether it was fear for the citizens of Hanjian, or fear of his rejection, he couldn''t help but reach a hand out andfort her. She blinked in surprise when he warmly caressed the back of her head.

    "Don''t panic so quickly," Yu Zhen said. "We have all night."

    A dirty thought instantly shed inside of her mind. All night, to do what¡­?

 Chapter 313 Naughty

    <h4>Chapter 313 Naughty</h4>

    Yu Zhen saw the dirty thoughts sh in her head. It was written all over her face. Her eyes had widened and her cheeks had turned red.

    The corner of his lips curled into a smirk. She was too mischievous for her own good. Who would believe that the face of an angel was actually hiding a dark heart?

    He lowered his head and gently brushed his lips against her ear. "What are you thinking about?" he asked in a low, quiet voice.

    Amusement filled him when her fingers clenched at his robes. She was hesitant about her response. To tease her a bit more, he nipped at her earlobe. She let out a quiet gasp and jumped.

    "I-I was just¡ª"

    "It must be naughty, judging from your reaction," he mused. His fingerszily twirled the strings that held her dress in ce. It was flimsy and he could easily tear it.

    "It wasn''t," she mumbled out, but her trembling voice said otherwise.

    "Really now?" he taunted. Her nails dug into his chest when he lightly pulled at the strings.

    "Really," she confirmed.

    Yu Zhen didn''t believe her. He doubted she even believed herself. Her breathing had be shallow. By now, her mind must''ve gone wild. He enjoyed teasing her. It was payback for all of the times she left him hot and bothered.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she trailed off as her fingers ttened into an open palm. He was caught off-guard by her low, seductive voice. They were music to his ears.

    Li Xueyue slowly ran her palms up his chest and settled it upon his shoulders. She reached upwards and stroked the side of his neck with her knuckles. She smiled in delight when he shivered. The hand resting on her hip had tightened.

    Two could y this game.

    She ran her fingers towards his nape. Her fingertips would softly touch him, but just when he thought she''d continue exploring, she stopped. He growled in warning, his chest rumbling.

    Delight shed in her eyes. She smiled against his chest, knowing he had lost the game he started. Her fingers traveled from his nape towards his jaw. He shivered under her ticklish caress.

    "Careful," he warned.

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue innocently asked with a tilt of her head. She traced the outline of his sharp jaw. Taking him by surprise, she stood on her tippy-toes and pressed a small kiss upon it.

    She gasped when he rested his hand upon her nape and then pushed her head towards him. He kissed her lips fervently. He was rough and domineering, as always, but she enjoyed the rush. He nipped and licked, taking everything that was his.

    He dug his fingers into her hip, squeezing it. She parted her lips for him, and he dove in without warning. His tongue was slick and hot.

    Heat pooled in her lower stomach when he lifted her legs. She straddled him in mid-air as his tongue explored her carefully.

    Yu Zhen savored her kiss and pulled back to let her breathe. He kissed the corners of her mouth, nibbling his way to her neck. He carried her with gentle urgency until her back was upon the bed.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she murmured in a desperate plea.

    Yu Zhen didn''t give her a chance to think properly. His lips trailed teasing kisses down to her neck. His hand slithered into her hair, holding it as he angled her face to reveal more skin. She let out a surprised gasp when he nipped at the skin. A quiet moan escaped her when he licked the spot and gently suckled, taking the pain away.

    It didn''t take long for a mark to form. Her eyeshes fluttered as he tugged the cor of her nightgown lower.

    His lips were soft, but his kisses were rough. Everywhere it touched, he made sure to leave a mark.

    Li Xueyue wanted more of him. In a daze, her eyes met his. Her stomach churned. Her heart flipped. He was hungry for her. Heat pooled in his eyes, rolling off of him in waves. Warmth gathered in between her legs.

    She saw the clench of his muscles when he raised his head and his eyes trailed from her exposed corbone to her lips.

    Her eyes closed when he kissed her again. His fingers massaged her scalp whilst angling her head. His lips were hot and the kiss was passionate.

    "Be a good girl," hemanded. "And open your legs for me."

    Yu Zhen gently urged her legs apart, growling in approval when she did so. He settled himself in between her. He was careful to not lower the tent between his legs. It''d scare her away. His size would break her.

    Eventually, he could no longer hold it in. He was reaching the end of his patience. He pulled back from her. Her lips were red and soon, it''d be bruised. She slowly opened her eyes. Her cheeks were flushed, the color spreading to her chest.

    Yu Zhen swallowed at the sight of her. When she nced up at him like that, how could he not want her?

    "Don''t." Yu Zhen grabbed her hands before she could reach for him. He held her wrists captive.

    Li Xueyue stared up at him wide-eyed. Her heart was racing. And there was an unfamiliar ache down there. She couldn''t understand it. But he seemed to.

    She didn''t know what had happened. All rationality had left her at that moment. She lifted her gaze and shivered upon seeing his expression. The heat in his eyes practically scorched her skin.

    "We can''t do this," Yu Zhen warned her. Yet, he raised her wrists and kissed each of her knuckles. He leaned down and brushed the hair away from her forehead.

    He ced a chaste kiss upon her forehead.

    Li Xueyue melted from the kiss. It happened yet again. She had lost herself in his passion.

    "Let''s stop here," Yu Zhen stated. He was frustrated, both sexually and physically. His control had nearly slipped. She was too tempting. A simple kiss from her and he already wanted more.

    Yu Zhen lifted himself off from her. He helped her into a sitting position whilst standing up himself.

    "But your little friend says otherwise," Li Xueyue innocently said. She pointed to therge tent that had grown itself.

    Yu Zhen nced down and noticed their height difference. He fought the urge to grin at her words. He curled a finger underneath her chin and used his thumb to lift her chin up, bringing her gaze upwards.

    "I can promise you, Sunshine. It''s far from little."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened at his suggestion. His lips curled into a devious smirk. His calloused thumb brushed against her lips. His pupils dted, but he tore his gaze away from her. It settled upon her exposed upper chest. The dip of her breast peeked out.

    She was surprised when he had the courtesy to adjust her clothes and close it properly. As he pulled his hand back, she boldly dered, "Why don''t you prove it?"

    Li Xueyue lifted her gaze to see his eyes had snapped to hers. She shivered at the look he was giving her. It promised a long, restless night.

    Yu Zhen caught her by surprise when he pushed her onto the bed. With one hand upon the side of her breast and the other upon her hip, he gave both a promising squeeze.

    "Don''t worry, Sunshine," he teased. "On our wedding day, we''ll go all night long."

    Yu Zhen gently pulled strands of her hair towards his lips and smelled it. His burning eyes met hers¡ªdark desires swirled from within. "And I won''t stop, not even if you beg me too."

 Chapter 314 Stay With Me

    <h4>Chapter 314 Stay With Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but blush at his suggestive words. She wanted to tease the beast, believing victory was hers. But yet again, he dominated her.

    She watched with curious eyes as he smiled down at her and kissed her hair that he held in between his fingers.

    He released it a secondter, reaching down to caress her face. His fingers traced over her features as if he was trying to memorize every inch of her. He stared at her so deeply as if he wanted to capture this moment while he could, before she would disappear into thin air.

    Li Xueyue reached up and cupped his chiseled face.

    He leaned into her touch, his upper bodying down on her hand. Her thumbs rubbed circles upon his cheeks. His eyes fluttered shut, his longshes framing his cheekbones. Everything about him was pure perfection¡ªeven the worst parts about him.

    "Stay," he softlymanded. "Stay with me."

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. His voice was a silent plea. He leaned down and rested his head upon her chest. It was something she had never experienced before.

    Instinctively, her arms circled around him. One rested upon his shoulder, her fingers lightly dancing upon the chords of his muscles. Her other hand weaved into his hair, caressing the luscious locks.

    Li Xueyue could feel his exhaustion before seeing it on his face. He had merelyid down for less than a second, but his breathing became shallow.

    Yu Zhen had fallen asleep on top of her.

    Li Xueyue smiled at this. She continued to fondly stroke his hair, hoping to lull him into a blissful dream.

    "If only you knew," she whispered. "If I were to live a thousand lifetimes, it would always be with you."

    Li Xueyue nced up at the ceiling. "By your side is the only ce that I''m willing to stay."

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen was startled when something whacked him in the head. He shot up in confusion. He was instantly on high alert, a vicious expression on his face. Who the hell interrupted his sleep? Did that person have a death wish?

    But his rage dispersed upon seeing her.

    Yu Zhen had finally registered his environment. Without knowing it, he had fallen asleep on top of her. How was that even possible? He had never fallen asleep so quickly.

    But none of that was his concern. She held the center of his attention.

    Li Xueyue was in tears. They trickled down the sides of her head whilst she thrashed and cried. She was experiencing a nightmare. This behavior of hers felt all too familiar. He had recalled the night he had trespassed into her room.

    "Oh, love," he muttered under his breath.

    Yu Zhen didn''t waste any more time. He reached down to touch her, but that single caress startled her.

    Li Xueyue''s moist eyes shot open in fear. A scream rippled through her but he reflexively covered her mouth with his hand, muffling the sound.

    Yu Zhen lifted her onto hisp. Whether it was by instinct or pure fear, she wrapped her arms around him tightly. He was caught off guard by how quickly she grasped onto him. Her legs rested on either side of him and she held onto him for dear life.

    "Shhhh," heforted.

    Li Xueyue shook in his arms. Sobs wracked her body and she couldn''t even breathe. Her chest struggled with each panicked gasps for air. "N-no more¡­" she begged him.

    "Never again," Yu Zhen firmly said, even though he didn''t know what she was referring to. He rubbed her trembling back up and down to soothe her. His other hand rested on the back of her head.

    Her face rested upon his broad shoulders. She cried into his clothes, her tears never stopping.

    "It''s going to be okay," Yu Zhen promised her.

    "I''m scared¡­" she blurted out amidst her frenzy for sanity.

    Yu Zhen stiffened at her words, but continued to soothe her. "I''ve sworn to you before, my Little Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen shifted his head to press a loving kiss upon the side of her temple. He tightened his hold of her.

    "As long as I am with you, all of your monsters will be in," he vowed.

    Yu Zhen leaned his face upon her head. Heforted her to the best of his abilities.

    Yu Zhen was unfamiliar with this behavior and action. No one in his life hadforted him the way he wasforting her. Not even as a child, when he ended up with scrapes and bruises from training. Or when he struggled with the demons under his bed.

    "Please don''t leave me," she pleaded.

    Yu Zhen''s heart was painfully squeezed by her words. He let out a small, humorless chuckle. She hugged him tighter upon hearing the sound.

    "Oh love," Yu Zhen mused. "I''d never leave you. Not even death will do us part."

    Whether or not the words registered in her head, she buried herself within his embrace. He was warm. His arms wereforting. His voice was soothing. Everything about him was enough to slow down her rapid heartbeats.

    Yu Zhen continued to pat her upper back. He hadn''t realized how tiny she was until now. She fitted in his arms perfectly, as if the spot was made for her.

    "Do you promise?" she asked. Her voice was meek and tiny like that of a hesitant child.

    Yu Zhen gently smiled at her words though she wouldn''t be able to see it. His hardened eyes softened for her¡ªand only her.

    "No, my Little Sunshine. Promises are meant to be broken," Yu Zhen said. "But I can swear to you."

    Li Xueyue felt like she was floating upon a cloud. She wondered how her nightmare became a daydream. Everything was a haze. But she felt safe, as if nothing in this world could hurt her.

    She felt her hand being moved as her fingers interlocked with ones much longer than hers. She shifted her head to rest her cheek upon the ''cloud''. Through her blurry, moisten eyes, she saw their entwined hands.

    "I swear to you, Li Xueyue, I''ll never leave you," Yu Zhen stated. "I won''t ept immortality, unless it''s spent with you."

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. She finally realized it wasn''t a cloud she was resting upon. It was Yu Zhen. His soft, husky voice was a luby to her ears.

    She hugged him dearly and continued to do so. His fingers worked wonders upon her hair. Afortable silence fell over them. Eventually, she was being soothed to sleep by him.

    "Good night, my Little Sun," Yu Zhen murmured. He pressed a final kiss upon the back of her head.

    He continued to hold her. When the moon disappeared behind the clouds, and the sun rose from the east, he remained in that position. He never stoppedforting her.

    Even when she was deep asleep.

    Even when his hands were sore from touching her.

    Even when the entire pce panicked at his disappearance.

    Yu Zhen remained seated. He''d stay as long as she wanted him to¡ªforever and always by her side. Just as she had sworn him a thousand lifetimes. He would take her word to heart. And if Heaven dared to object, he''ll wreak havoc. All to obtain the little ray of sunshine in his dark, depressing world.

 Chapter 315 Swear Secrecy

    <h4>Chapter 315 Swear Secrecy</h4>

    "Did you find him?" Lu Tianbi urgently asked when Hu Dengxiao rushed back to her. They stood outside of the Crown Prince''s private study which remained locked.

    Since the Commander didn''t return after storming outst night, the two thought it was best to finally call it quits. They remembered to lock the private study when they left.

    They had retiredte into their bedrooms and woken up early as always. Usually, Yu Zhen''s insomnia would keep him up for a while, and he was always the first to rise amongst them.

    "No, I didn''t," Hu Dengxiao breathed out. He was breathless after searching for the missing Prince in the entire pce.

    Lu Tianbi let out a disapproving sigh. She had predicted the oue would be this unfavorable. She rested her forehead on her palm.

    "That only means one thing," she stated. "The Crown Prince had spent the night with the Princess."

    Hu Dengxiao nodded. "This will create problems for the Princess if she''s caught with him. Our Crown Prince will never be ndered, but she will be¡ªeven if they''re going to get married soon."

    Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. She began to count on her fingers. "So far, you and I know where he wentst night. As well as the guards stationed at her door. Lastly, Wu Xiang."

    She scowled. There were at least five or six people who were aware of this issue. It wasn''t a lot, but might still pose a problem. Wu Xiang was a sneaky man. He knew how to use secrets like this to his advantage. Would he dare to betray his good friends? Only time would tell.

    "We''ll have to make sure the guards will swear secrecy," Lu Tianbi dered.

    "If they speak a word aboutst night," a voice said from the middle of the hallway. "I will cut off their tongue and behead their entire family."

    Lu Tianbi was startled by the threatening voice from behind her. She swiveled around, knowing exactly who it was. Only one person in the pce was sinister enough to say that without flinching.

    Relief flooded her at the sight of him, only for it to be reced with frustration and fear. The wind coursed through the open hallway, picking up the loose fabrics of their clothes. His ck and silver clothes swayed along with the breeze, like a grim reaper collecting promised souls.

    "Did anyone see you, Your Highness?" Lu Tianbi whispered when he stopped before them. Sunlight seeped around the pirs, making his silver embroidery shine with an ethereal glow. Sometimes she forgot how much the Heavens favored this man.

    "I left through the window. No one saw me," Yu Zhen responded.

    "You scared us to death, Zhenzhen," Hu Dengxiao said. "When I couldn''t find you, I thought you eloped with the Princess."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "There goes my n."

    Hu Dengxiao let out a sharp, dramatic gasp. He ced a hand upon his heart. "I will pretend that I did not hear that, Zhenzhen!" he exasperated.

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes at his antics. It was still early in the morning and he was already fooling around. She pped him above the head and forced him to be quiet.

    "We were unlucky," Lu Tianbi stated. She nced around and frowned a bit. "Word has gotten out that Princess Li Xueyue has arrived in the Pce. Moreover, the state of her arrival is shrouded in mystery. Before the rumors be tainted with lies, we have to address it."

    Yu Zhen''s mood worsened. A storm cloud rolled over his features.

    When were rumors ever truthful?

    "I''ll have the servants who bathed and dressed her beheaded," he growled.

    Lu Tianbi opened her mouth to object, but closed it. They need to set an example on the servants, to never gossip. The beheading would undoubtedly happen in the servants'' quarters.

    Despite the Princess''s arrival, the Crown Prince was still as heartless as ever.

    She decided to change the topic. This one was too dreary for the early morning. "Where is the Princess as we speak? She shouldn''t wander around. This territory is unfamiliar to her, Your Highness."

    "Getting dressed," Yu Zhen vaguely stated.

    "What?!" Lu Tianbi shrieked.

    "That fast?!" Hu Dengxiaoughed. Was that why the Commander ran out yesterday? To seal the deal?

    Lu Tianbi angrily kicked the Advisor. It was his duty to maintain the Crown Prince''s reputation. Not taint it!

    "Commander," she exasperated. "Please tell me you didn''t¡ª" She stopped herself when he quirked a brow. It was almost like he was saying, ''Are you really doubting my courtesy?''

    Lu Tianbi let out a sigh of relief. She felt like a decade was shaved off of her life. Thank goodness he hadn''t deflowered the Princess on the day of her arrival.

    "Since she arrived earlier than nned, we''ll have to adjust the wedding date," Lu Tianbi said.

    "The earlier the better," Yu Zhen stated. He saw the disagreement sh in her eyes. He shot her a dark glower.

    "Tiantian," Hu Dengxiao spoke up. "The Crown Prince is right. The Princess was supposed to get married to him the day after her arrival. The sooner we seal this alliance through marriage, the safer Hanjian will feel."

    Lu Tianbi reluctantly nodded her head. "You''re right, but the Princess''s carriage was ransacked. I''m sure the ceremonial dress was stolen."

    Yu Zhen pulled out a slip of paper and handed it to her. "Have the tailors prepare the dress by tomorrow morning."

    Lu Tianbi nced down at the folded parchment. Her lips went dry. The poor tailors. "Right away, Your Highness," she muttered before heading off.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her sleeves when she passed by him. He noticed Hu Dengxiao''s eyes darkened possessively.

    Yu Zhen nearly shook his head. These two were writing a love story of their own. "Before you run errands," he said and nced at Hu Dengxiao. "Have the two of you eaten breakfast?"

    Lu Tianbi smiled at his words. He was always vague with his affection. It was through small actions like this that reminded her of his concerns for his people.

    "Of course," she responded whilst jabbing her thumb over his shoulders. "You think that father of mine will let me out of the house without a meal?"

    Hu Dengxiao gaped at her words. "I am not your father!"

    "You nag like one," Lu Tianbi retorted.

    Yu Zhen''s lips twitched at their petty remarks. "Good," he stated whilst releasing her.

    Hu Dengxiao yet again nced at the Crown Prince''s hand. He dropped his head and pouted. ''If only I could easily grab Tiantian like that¡­''

    "Your Highness, what about the Princess?" Lu Tianbi asked. "Did she have her morning meal?"

    At the mention of Xueyue, Yu Zhen''s expression dimmed. If there was one thing he had noticed about her, it was how much weight she had lost. Her full cheeks were sunken. She weighed less than a feather. When he held her waist, he was also checking her body. She was bone-thin. Nothing like a well-fed hamster.

    "The chefs are currently preparing as many nutritious dishes as possible," Yu Zhen stated in an aloof tone.

    Lu Tianbi slowly nodded. She was also concerned for the Princess. She had remembered how thin Xueyue looked the night she was brought in.

    "Are you going to join her for the meal, Your Highness?" Lu Tianbi asked.

    Yu Zhen wordlessly nodded. He needed to make sure she was taking care of herself. Heaven knows she doesn''t.

    Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. "You''ll have to sneak around again, Your Highness. I know it''s frustrating, but please bear with it a little longer¡ª"

    "Gather all of the Ministers and aristocrats the day after tomorrow," Yu Zhen stated in a hard voice. It was time to announce Xueyue''s presence to them, whether he liked it or not.

 Chapter 316 What Will Bring You Joy?

    <h4>Chapter 316 What Will Bring You Joy?</h4>

    Lu Tianbi slowly nodded. "Very well, Your Highness."

    "D-don''t forget about me¡­" Hu Dengxiao whined. He felt like a neglected child interrupting the adults talking. His sagged shoulders straightened up when Lu Tianbi shed him a smile.

    "You heard the Crown Prince," she stated. "Go gather the Ministers and aristocrats. I''ll run this errand." She waived the folded parchment to indicate what she was talking about.

    It was a tiring chore to organize so many people at once in such a short notice. Hu Dengxiao reluctantly epted the task since it was his duty in the first ce. Tch, where was the sly Chancellor''s son when he needed him?

    "Also," Lu Tianbi spoke up. She shifted her gaze towards Yu Zhen. "Your Highness, remember thest time I spoke to Uncle and Wu Xiang?" she asked.

    Yu Zhen vividly recalled it. He was in the courtyard, gazing up at the moon, reminiscing of Xueyue.

    Hu Dengxiao was borderline throwing a tantrum because he had believed Lu Tianbi was having the time of her life discussing ns with the Chancellor''s son.

    "Well, Wu Xiang shared something interesting with me, Your Highness," she said. "Uncle is nning to retire soon. Now that Wu Xiang has children for him to y with¡ª"

    "I know," Yu Zhen stated.

    Wu Xiang had previously spoken of it before. Wu Xiang would soon take over the Chancellor position from his father. It would be a smooth transition. The man had been training for the title ever since he could talk.

    "That will be all then, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi stated whilst dipping into a bow. Despite the years she had spent with him, the rules of etiquette had been instilled into her.

    "Oh, Your Highness" Hu Dengxiao quipped. "Who is the main maidservant who will serve Xueyue?"

    Lu Tianbi''s attention shifted back to Yu Zhen. That was a good question. Who exactly would be attending Xueyue?

    "The Head Maidservant," Yu Zhen responded.

    Lu Tianbi''s eyes grew wide. Not even the Empress, Yu Zhen''s mother, had the privilege of being served by the Head Maidservant. The Head Maidservant wasn''t assigned to anyone in the pce mainly because the Emperor was the one who''d give the order.

    And since the Emperor''s rtionship with his wife was strained¡­

    Lu Tianbi shook her head, dispelling the thought from her mind.

    "That''s fantastic news, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi said with a proud smile. The Head Maidservant would be the perfect person to guide the Princess.

    Yu Zhen silently nodded. "You''re excused," he said to both of them. They bowed in response and began to head off.

    Yu Zhen watched as Hu Dengxiao attempted to get closer to Lu Tianbi, but she brushed him off. He shook his head at their antics before heading into his private study to finish upst night''s papers.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen finished the remaining paperwork in record time. He hadpleted the majority of itst night anyway. Rising from the chair, he headed out of the door and down the corridors.

    By now, Xueyue''s morning routine must''ve finished. She was likely being served her breakfast right now. He had to see her to make sure she wasfortable with the new cuisine.

    Yu Zhen noted the different variety of food between Wuyi and Hanjian. Whilst Wuyi''s dishes were light and simple, Hanjian''s dishes were stronger in vor, and many dishes were cooked with spices. The country''s soil was always fertile enough to grow all sorts of herbs, spices and crops. Hence it resulted in dishes with more vor.

    "Would it be too much for her?" he wondered out loud.

    Yu Zhen was worried that she wouldn''t be able to stomach the new food. He had specifically instructed the servants to make sure she had more than one simple dish so that it would be easier on her stomach.

    As Yu Zhen embarked the length of the hallway, he was spotted by someone¡ªthe only other woman in his pce who was allowed to call for him, aside from Lu Tianbi.

    "Your Highness¡­?" came a timid, hesitant voice.

    Yu Zhen came to a halt. He was not in the mood to entertain her today. Xueyue''s first meal in the pce shouldn''t be taken alone. She was so used to having her meals with her family. It would be lonely for her to sit in that room and have a meal all by herself.

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond to the woman who rose in ranks because of her intelligence and luck. He had given the fallen aristocrat another chance at life.

    "Good morning," she greeted. "Have you eaten your meal yet, Your Highness?"

    Yu Zhen turned his chin to nce at her briefly. Unlike most women who dressed themselves to the nines, she was dressed in a simpler outfit.

    There were only two hairpins in her hair. They were the ones given to her when she sessfully tricked the courts that morning.

    "No."

    The woman''s hope soared. Her eyes widened a bit. Her lips curved into a pleasant smile. Her smile had captured the hearts of most men.

    They offered her a helping hand, in hopes of keeping her as a mistress. But Yu Zhen wasn''t like most men. She knew that better than anyone else.

    "Would you care to join me for a meal then, Your Highness?" she asked in a hesitant voice.

    "I¡­ I used to enjoy cooking before the fall of my family. I''ve been honing my skills, and I''ve cooked extra food, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He had nearly forgotten how neglected the eldest daughter of the Xu Family was. She didn''t seem like a neglected daughter at all. Her voice was sweet and gentle, but she carried herself with confidence.

    "Enjoy your meal," was his cold response.

    He walked off without another word.

    Xu Jiaqi was not surprised by his behavior. The Crown Prince was heartless and nonchnt. She had opened her heart to him, hoping he''d take it. Nheless, she was pleased with this conversation. At least he had addressed her by her name.

    She smiled towards the floor and tucked strands of hair behind her ears. It was better than theirst encounter where he barely looked at her. Today, he was in a better mood.

    "Progress," she reminded herself. "I must be patient," she wondered out loud.

    The Crown Prince was likely not used to expressing his emotions. She recalled the rumors of his apathetic res.

    His rare smile forced others to vie for his attention and approval. Everyone wanted to be the one to make him happy. Everyone wanted to appease him. So many people fought to see that tiny lift of his lips.

    Xu Jiaqi vowed to see it for herself.

    "After all, the Crown Prince was the one who chose to save me from a generation of servitude. There must be a reason behind his intentions," she said.

    Xu Jiaqi nced out of the hallway where arge peach blossom tree could be seen. Its branches were filled with flower sprouts.

    Soon, summer would approach, and the flowers would bloom for her. The Crown Prince''s pce was always serene and beautiful. Everything here was meant to elude tranquility. Not many people had the luxury to walk here as they pleased.

    "I hope to see that smile myself," she whispered to herself. Staring down at her hands, she let out a small, sullen sigh.

    "What will make you happy, Your Highness? What will bring you joy?"

 Chapter 317 Only You

    <h4>Chapter 317 Only You</h4>

    Li Xueyue wasn''t surprised to see the wide variety of dishesid out before her. The maidservant was polite and courteous, never once saying a word.

    The food came in all shapes, colors, and aroma, but Li Xueyue wasn''t hungry. She drank the soup butcked the appetite to try the other dishes. It was so strange. She likely hadn''t eaten anything substantial since the bandit incident.

    "Princess Li, if I may speak," the maidservant in herte forties requested.

    Li Xueyue felt strange that someone so much older than her was showing this much respect. She had been telling herself to get used to it for a while now, but it was difficult to do so, even in Wuyi.

    "What is it, Yanxi?" she asked while lifting one of the leafy greens into her mouth. It was salty with a hint of sweetness that brought out the taste of the vegetable.

    Li Xueyue wanted to know Yanxi''s family name, but it seemed like the servants didn''t have one.

    She hade to learn Yanxi had grown up in the pce and lived here all of her life. Yanxi didn''t have a husband or kid but would help to take care of the children of the pce servants or cooks.

    "The Crown Prince had requested you must finish at least three dishes here, Princess Li," Yanxi respectfully said.

    She wondered if it was a new trend amongst youngdies to starve themselves despite being so skinny.

    The Princess in front of her was stunning, and it was easy to see why the Crown Prince chose her. An air of humble kindness floated around her. The Princess was graceful and elegant without even trying.

    "Is the food not to your taste, Princess?" Yanxi worriedly said.

    The only problem nagging at Yanxi was how thin the Crown Princess seemed to be. The beauty standards in Hanjian were very different. Women here were raised to be strong and sturdy. They were allowed to be soldiers, and many women prided themselves on their strength.

    "The food is good," Li Xueyue quietly said. "But my appetite hasn''t been greattely. Even when I was in Wuyi."

    Yanxi''s expression softened. She thought theck of appetite was because the Princess felt homesick.

    "Shall the Imperial Physician be called then, Princess Li?" she asked.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. She picked up her chopsticks and began to eat again. This time, taking a slightly bigger bite than the previous one. Even so, the amount of rice on her chopsticks was smaller than half a pinky.

    She ate in silence, chewing everything with care. It was a technique to make it look like she was eating when she didn''t feel like it.

    The food was warm and well-prepared. There wasn''t a problem with the food. She just felt¡­ lonely.

    Suddenly, the doors to the dining room opened without warning, startling her. She lifted her head from the barely-touched rice bowl.

    "Yu Zhen," she addressed, surprising Yanxi who had never heard someone call the Crown Prince by his name.

    Yu Zhen shot her a warning re. The Head Maidservant better not step out of line. No one should have the guts to correct Li Xueyue.

    "What are you doing here?" she asked him, settling her chopsticks down.

    "To join you for a meal, what else, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen mused with a slight smirk. He strolled towards her and pinched both of her cheeks. He wanted to pull it, but found nothing to tug on. His expression darkened. Was she starving herself?

    Yu Zhen''s gazended on the food. Nothing here looked touched. She had taken the smallest nibble out of the rice bowl. What happened to his Little Hamster that shoved buns into her mouth?

    "Is the taste not to your preference, Little Hamster?" Yu Zhen questioned whilst releasing her cheeks. He cupped her face and stroked her cheeks with his thumb.

    Yanxi''s eyes grewrger than the moon. She had watched the Crown Prince grow up.

    Never once had he spoken to someone in such a warm voice. Never once had he touched someone with this much affection. His rigid expression had softened just for the Princess.

    "The taste is fine, it''s just¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, unable to voice her problems with him. It would be strange to say she felt lonely. This pce was sorge and upied by many people.

    Yanxi had to hold back a sharp gasp when the Crown Prince bent down and pressed a chaste kiss upon the Princess''s forehead.

    "Don''t hold in your troubles, Sunshine," Yu Zhen murmured. "Tell me about your concerns."

    "I feel lonely," Li Xueyue confessed. She didn''t even realize her hand had tightly grabbed onto his sleeves until he slightly shifted his body. She was scared to let him go. Scared not to have apanion in this ce.

    "Everyone in the Li family made me feel weed, and I had a good appetite. But after their daughter returned, I don''t know why but I lost it," she added on.

    "It''s because you''re unhappy," Yu Zhen deadpanned. He was sure of it. The Li family''s long lost daughter had finally returned. Without a doubt, the daughter would''ve caused a ruckus that made Li Xueyue feel unweed.

    Yu Zhen frowned. "You''ve lost the light in your eyes."

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to ept that fact. The Li Family worked so hard to make sure she wasfortable with them.

    But she was depressed from not having friends. The twins were always at work, the Duchess was always upied with Matriarch duties, and the servants never talked to her.

    "It''ll be different here," Yu Zhen told her. He chuckled when she innocently tilted her head, like a lost bunny.

    "I will visit you everyday. You will make friends here. Perhaps that will uplift your frown," Yu Zhen stated.

    Li Xueyue blinked at his words. How did he know?

    "Your face is an open book when ites to me," Yu Zhen exined. "All of your desires are written on your forehead, Sunshine."

    "It''s not big enough to have so much written on it," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    "I beg to differ," Yu Zhen snickered whilst cing his fingers together and putting it on her forehead to measure it.

    "See, it takes this much to cover your forehead," he lied, showing her his five fingers.

    "They say a big forehead brings prosperity," she said.

    "That''s just a lie made up tofort people like you," Yu Zhen teased. He smirked in amusement when she glowered up at him.

    "Just sit down and eat your food," she demanded with a cross of her arms. She was well aware that this was a losing fight for her.

    "The Prince doesn''t just sit down for anyone," Yu Zhen mused. "You will have to do me a favor."

    "Then nevermind," Li Xueyue started with a shrug of her shoulders. She hadn''t noticed the surprised stare of Yanxi or her paleplexion.

    ''Princess, you are forgetting his title again! And this time, you''ve offended him!'' Yanxi screamed inside of her head. She lowered her chin and tried to not weep for the Princess. Poor thing¡­ She was surely going to be executed.

    But then, Yanxi heard an unfamiliar sound. Loud, confident, and warm. The Crown Prince had justughed. It was a genuine one. Nothing like the ruthless, humorless chuckle people heard in the court.

    Yanxi swallowed. Had she misheard it? She dared to raise her head for the briefest moment. Arge smile was resting on the aloof Crown Prince''s wless face. It was true. The Crown Prince hadughed. It was something that rarely happened.

    "Only you would be this bold," Yu Zhen chuckled. He pulled out a chair and sat down beside her. He ignored the maidservant who rushed forward with a bowl of rice and utensils.

    "Will it get me killed one day?" Li Xueyue asked. It was a genuine question, but he had the audacity tough at her again. The sound tickled her stomach. It wasforting to see him this carefree and all smiles. She had truly missed this sight.

    "Never," he firmly said.

    Yu Zhen reached out and fondly stroked her chin with his thumb. He pulled her closer and revealed a dark, wicked smile.

    "Whoever dares to touch my Wangfei, will lose their hand."

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure if he was joking or not. But she hoped so. Was he truly that mean?

    "Okay," was her simple response. She smiled a bit to show him the harsh words didn''t affect her. Not even the slightest bit. Especially after she hadmitted murder¡ªwith her own hands.

    Li Xueyue wondered if this fact would bother him. But then she thought back to the torture tent in the forest. Death didn''t faze him. She wondered what would...

 Chapter 318 I Want To See Him

    <h4>Chapter 318 I Want To See Him</h4>

    Li Xueyue ate as much as she could today. It reminded her of the good old days. She had never felt more full than this very moment.

    Yu Zhen was ruthless. He ensured she took a bite out of each and every dish. Each time she finished taking a bite, he would ce more food into her bowl.

    It was an etiquette that was frowned upon in Hanjian, and even Yanxi nearly spoke up about it. But one re from Yu Zhen was enough to silence her.

    "I can''t eat anymore," Li Xueyueined when he lifted the spoon to her mouth.

    "Just one more sip, Sunshine," Yu Zhen coaxed in a patient voice. She pouted but drank the soup anyway, her eyes widening in delight at the delicious taste.

    She was adorable. Yu Zhen didn''t think feeding someone was so interesting. He wondered if she realized her many expressions when eating.

    Yu Zhen had gotten full just by watching her chew and the little actions that showed her excitement. Her raised eyebrows and the joy in her eyes were more than enough for him to know she enjoyed the food.

    Yu Zhen had taken small bites here and there but didn''t eat much. He wanted to make sure she had her fill first.

    "Try the soup as well," Li Xueyue suggested in a more energetic voice.

    She lifted the porcin bowl in her hand. She carefully stirred the soup and blew on it, hoping to cool it down before lifting a spoonful to his lips.

    "It''s good," she eagerly said.

    Yanxi didn''t know what to do but panic. ''Princess, please! The etiquette of the pce states¡ª''

    Yu Zhen grabbed her wrist and eagerly drank the soup. He made sure there wasn''t a single drop left.

    Li Xueyue''s face flushed at his expression. He seemed like he was hungry for more than just food.

    "Just eat," she grumbled out, pushing his face away, earning augh from him.

    Li Xueyue finally noticed her anxious maidservant. She was perplexed by thetter''s expression. Did something happen? Was it her actions?

    Li Xueyue nced down at the spoon and bowl in her hands. Was she not allowed to do this¡­? She knew the proper etiquette in Wuyi, but maybe Hanjian was a lot different?

    "What''s running through your mind, my little overthinker?" Yu Zhen asked after finishing the food in his bowl. He took a sip of tea to wash the taste away.

    "Are the rules in Hanjian different from Wuyi?" Li Xueyue questioned whilst cing the items down.

    She intertwined her fingers together out of habit. She was caught off guard when he grabbed one of her hands and interlocked their fingers.

    Li Xueyue raised her head and saw he didn''t even realize what he had done. He was simply observing her. He stared at her as if nothing else mattered. As if she was the only person in this enormous pce.

    "Quite frankly, it''s a bit different, but not too much," Yu Zhen said.

    Yu Zhen didn''t want her to worry about these things but knew it would eventually affect her. Majority of their interactions that took ce in this dining room were frowned upon, especially cing food into someone else''s bowl, or spoon-feeding the Imperial Family.

    Since it happened within closed doors and during their private time together, nothing would happen to her unless the Head Maidservant wanted to lose her head.

    "What happens in here can''t ur elsewhere," Yu Zhen exined. "But I don''t want you to concern yourself with rules like this. Behave as you usually do."

    "What if people speak badly of me then?"

    "Then they will wake up without a tongue," Yu Zhen stated in a heartbeat.

    "I''m beginning to think you''re crazy," Li Xueyue mumbled under her breath.

    Why was he always so¡­ violent? She noticed the same trait in Wen Jinkai. Does joining the military desensitize them? It would exin their obsession with perfection.

    "The earlier you realize, the better," Yu Zhen mused. One would expect him to be offended by her words, but it was the contrary. He was highly entertained by herck of filter around him. It was refreshing.

    With Li Xueyue, Yu Zhen felt like he could be himself. It was aforting feeling, knowing he could take sce within her.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip but released it a secondter when his eyes instantly snapped towards it. She lifted a teacup to her lips and took a sip of tea. She wanted to distract herself from his brooding eyes. They peered into her soul and left a permanent mark.

    For some reason, a question came to her mind.

    "My little brother, what happened to him?" she asked.

    Li Xueyue purposely made it vague, so that Yanxi wouldn''t understand what they were discussing. Even if Yanxi did, Li Xueyue doubted the woman would share what happened inside of this room with others.

    "He''s safe," Yu Zhen stated.

    "But where is he?" Li Xueyue asked.

    If there was one thing that she didn''t want to happen, it was an innocent child being harmed. A child shouldn''t pay for the sins of their parents. Li Xueyue knew that best.

    "I don''t hurt children," Yu Zhen answered her in a low, solemn voice.

    Li Xueyue trusted him. She knew he would never do such an atrocious thing. "Is he in the Pce?" she questioned.

    Yu Zhen peered at her. It would be best if she didn''t see the little boy. What if she was hurt by the sight of him? The heir of the fallen Bai Family. The only remnant of the Bai Family resided in that small child who hadn''t registered what happened.

    "Can I see him?" Li Xueyue asked him.

    He immediately shook his head. "No," he asserted.

    "Why not?" Li Xueyue demanded. She couldn''t help the unsettling feeling that brewed in her stomach. Did something actually happen to the child?

    "When the incident urred, he was gagged, blindfolded, and deafened. I made sure he didn''t hear or see anything," Yu Zhen exined.

    "Yes, but I still want to see him," Li Xueyue stated. "Just to have a peace of mind."

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "Please?" she whispered.

    Li Xueyue grabbed his other hand that had been propping up his right cheek. She held his hand and leaned towards him. He was watching her. She presented him with a pout.

    "Please?" she asked again.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow at her expression. Without warning, he kissed her on the lips. It was just a small peck, but enough for her to blink in surprise.

    "Continue pouting, and I''ll kiss you again," Yu Zhen stated.

    Li Xueyue immediately fixed her expression. She leaned back a bit, but he came forward. He released their hands and curled a finger under her chin.

    "Or I should just kiss you again," Yu Zhen murmured. Before she could say anything, he captured her lips in a quick kiss. He pulled back a secondter. He smirked when she had leaned forward, obviously wanting more than that.

    Finally, he said, "I''ll take you there."

    Li Xueyue instantly brightened at his words. Arge smile broke out on her face and she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. His chest rumbled when heughed in amusement.

    Yu Zhen surprised her by lifting her out of her seat. Her little feet dangled off the ground when he tightly embraced her.

    "You''re very cute, I''ll give you that," Yu Zhen mused. He settled her down onto her feet. He was surprised when she abruptly grabbed his hand and held it.

    "I''m always cute," Li Xueyue retorted.

    "Sure," Yu Zhen sarcastically said. She scrunched her nose out of irritation and let out a quiet, "Hmph!"

    Yu Zhen chuckled a bit. She was more than cute. But he wouldn''t tell her that. Her ego was big enough.

 Chapter 319 Eldest Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 319 Eldest Daughter</h4>

    "You''ll be introduced as Hanjian''s Crown Princess before the entire Imperial Court tomorrow," Yu Zhen exined to her. "Afterwards, my parents will want to see you."

    He carefully examined her expression. "But if you don''t want to see any of them, that is also fine with me. It''s your choice."

    "I think we should stick to tomorrow''s ns then since I didn''t formally enter the Pce as expected," Li Xueyue stated.

    Yu Zhen nodded. He was impressed that she wasn''t nning on taking the easy way out. Tomorrow would be an eventful day and surely, she would be exposed to all sorts of people. But that was expected, wasn''t it?

    The position of the Crown Princess wouldn''t be easy. She would either be a painting in the background or an active member at the political table. Whatever she chose, he would stand by it.

    "I had your carriage checked," Yu Zhen stated. "There was a broken wheel, and it didn''t look like there was foul y."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. "The townspeople bordering Hanjian''s territory are starving. There must be a reason why every man in the town chose to be bandits. They had no choice."

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. "After the war, Hanjian had been focusing on rebuilding the military and strengthening the cities surrounding the Capital."

    "That''s understandable, but there should be a budget set for rebuilding the cities further away from the Capital as well, especially those near the borders of Hanjian''s territory," she said.

    Li Xueyue shifted her gaze to meet his eyes. "If those towns were strengthened, then they would be able to fend off any attacks from foreign forces and weaken them first before they could even proceed further towards the Capital."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow at her words. It had been less than three days since she came to this country, but she already had ns of reforming it. He reached a hand out and pushed strands of hair behind her ears.

    A small smile formed on his lips. She was as impressive as he hadst remembered her. Perhaps the Pce Courts would be where she thrived.

    "Let''s bring this discussion to the Round Table tomorrow," Yu Zhen stated.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She had never heard of the term before. "What is the Round Table?" she asked.

    "It''s where Hanjian''s most influential members of society are gathered to make ns for the country," Yu Zhen exined. "Representatives from every sector¡ªmilitary, agriculture, trade and so on would gather to meet every week."

    Li Xueyue nodded. She supposed Wuyi also had something like this. It was just the Li Family had never included her in any of their discussions, Minghua included. She assumed it was because they didn''t want to burden the women with such a task.

    In Wuyi, women were flowers meant to decorate the room.

    "Will you be interested in that?" Yu Zhen asked.

    Li Xueyue offered him a pointed smile. "You''re offering me such a great opportunity, how can I say no?"

    Yu Zhen''s smile widened at her words. "You''ll do well there."

    "I hope so," she stated.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue knew life in the Pce would be mundane. Shortly after their morning meal, Yu Zhen was excused for his political duties.

    Before leaving, he promised to have dinner with her, because he had a prior lunch engagement elsewhere. She didn''t mind, so long as he would apany her for one meal a day.

    Li Xueyue wondered if she was being needy, or if the Li Family had instilled the mentality into her. Wouldn''t it be better to eat with your family? The food tastes better that way.

    "Oh, I wonder who''s that," Li Xueyue spoke up.

    She had finished exploring the Crown Princess''s estate in the pce. Each room was fully furnished and well-kept. But she had grown bored of it and decided to explore the outskirts of her residence.

    Just then, Li Xueyue saw the side profile of a woman in the far distance. The woman was not dressed like a maidservant, but her outfit wasn''tvishing either. It was a perfect bnce of humble beauty.

    The woman seemed to be looking around as if she was lost. A troubled expression was on her face. She continued to survey her surroundings.

    "Yanxi," Li Xueyue stated. "Where are we right now?"

    "Answering the Princess''s question, we''re currently near the path that leads to the political courts of the Pce," Yanxi exined.

    "Then who is that woman?" Li Xueyue asked. She jutted her chin in the youngdy''s direction.

    Yanxi lifted her gaze from the ground. She observed the woman that caught the Princess''s attention. Her blood went cold at the sight of the woman. It was not a good time for either of them to meet.

    "She is the eldest daughter of a fallen aristocratic family, Princess Li," Yanxi responded.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. That sounded a lot like her. Minus the eldest daughter part. "If she''s from a demised family, what is she doing in the Pce?"

    Yanxi pressed her lips together. She stared at her hands¡ªits skin was tough from years of working on chores. How was she supposed to tell the Princess that Xu Jiaqi held the favor of the Crown Prince? After all, he had saved her life and even spared her the time of day sometimes.

    "Well?" Li Xueyue asked. She continued to watch that woman. Either the woman was lost, or she was waiting for someone.

    "The woman is Lady Xu Jiaqi. She was a servant a couple of weeks ago, but after helping the Crown Prince, her rank was moved up."

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up. "Help the Crown Prince? What do you mean?" she questioned.

    Yanxi was reluctant to say more. It would be wrong of her to exin this situation without the Crown Prince''s approval.

    Yanxi wasn''t present when the political marriage discussion had urred in the Pce Courts. But she had heard rumors of what happened.

    The Crown Prince had proposed to marry a mere servant, which caused an uproar in the courts. But then he countered with a much better proposal¡ªmarriage to the favored Princess of Wuyi, the daughter of a Prime Minister, and Duchess who were now the new ruling family of Wuyi.

    "I deeply apologize, Princess Li, but this is a question reserved for the Crown Prince to answer himself," Yanxi responded in a low, sullen voice.

    She was fearful of her life for disobeying the orders of her immediate authority, but she couldn''t risk a seven-generation elimination if she angered the Crown Prince by overstepping her boundaries.

    Li Xueyue''s brows scrunched together. How could it be so secretive that not even a maidservant can exin it?

    Li Xueyue decided to question Yu Zhen during dinner, but then she suddenly realized exactly why the woman was standing there. She wasn''t lost. She was waiting for someone.

    A formidable man strode down the hallway. His resting face was stormy and threatening. The people he passed by all bowed to him respectfully. His walk was powerful and eye-catching. He had the ability to attract people without even lifting a finger.

    It wasn''t difficult to tell who he was.

    He was apanied by two people. A man and a woman.

    "Well, this is a surprise," Li Xueyue said, much to Yanxi''s terror.

    Li Xueyue vaguely remembered their names. After all, they had tried their best to make her feel at home during her time with them in the forest in Wuyi where they had set up camp. If she recalled, the man was Hu Dengxiao and the woman was Lu Tianbi.

    Who else would they walk with? Other than Yu Zhen.

    Yu Zhen had stopped in front of the woman. Her face visibly lit up with joy, a smile rested upon her lips. She nced up at him. Even from afar, one could see the appreciation and adoration she had for him.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes narrowed into slits when she saw the woman reach for the Crown Prince''s sleeves and how Yu Zhen didn''t push her away.

 Chapter 320 Dont Touch Me

    <h4>Chapter 320 Don''t Touch Me</h4>

    Yu Zhen was finally done with the documents in his office. He was apanied by Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao as they prepared to take a routine tour of the Capital. They would periodically meet up with the Capital leader for a discussion afterpleting a round of analysis of the city''s activities.

    "Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi addressed the second she saw him.

    She dipped her upper body into a steady bow that highlighted the length of her slender neck. When he pardoned her, she raised her head and gently smiled.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen demanded in a frosty tone. He had ces to be, people to see.

    "W-well you see¡ª"

    Lu Tianbi narrowed her gaze.

    "Your Highness, we should get going," she spoke up. It would stir up unnecessary rumors for them to be seen together like this.

    There were already small talks of the Crown Prince''s favored treatment towards Xu Jiaqi. The man rarely interacted with women unless they were outstanding members of the court such as the only female Commander of Hanjian.

    Yu Zhen nodded at her words.

    He brushed past Xu Jiaqi but was forced to stop when he felt a small tug at his sleeves. He stiffened at the touch and nced down to see who had grabbed him like a fool.

    "I didn''t mean to grab you, Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi rushed out. "I merely wanted to obtain your attention. You see, the Empress has sent me out to request your audience."

    Yu Zhen''s brow etched together in discontentment. His mother? She had some guts to demand his audience.

    Thest time they chatted was a few weeks ago, when he had stormed out after she attempted to swindle him into epting an outrageous proposal to lower the tax imposed on aristocrats.

    "However, Your Highness, I don''t think you should see the Empress," Xu Jiaqi added on.

    Xu Jiaqi didn''t want to seem like she was taking the Empress''s side¡ªespecially when she knew how much the Crown Prince despised his own mother.

    "I was just caught in a fix. I was walking by her pce and one of her handmaidens waved me down to deliver this message, Your Highness. I apologize if it has inconvenienced you," Xu Jiaqi stated.

    Xu Jiaqi peered up at him through hershes. She wondered if he was looking at her. She hoped so. Her hand remained on his sleeves. She wasn''t sure if he was aware of that fact.

    But he hadn''t shaken her off. This only meant he didn''t mind her touch¡ªwhich was a rare thing. Not many people got to touch the Crown Prince. Muchless, be this close to him.

    "Don''t waste my time with stupid requests like this," Yu Zhen sniped.

    Yu Zhen frowned down at her. He had given her a new opportunity in life. He thought she was a lot smarter than this.

    She dared to have the guts to take the Empress''s side? Her excuses wereughable.

    "I''m so sorry, Your Highness!" Xu Jiaqi exasperated.

    Her eyes widened in fear for her life. She resisted the tears that threatened to spill. He was just too intimidating when angered. What will it take for him to smile in her way?

    "Pick your side wisely," Yu Zhen growled. He turned to his friends and nodded. "Let''s go," he stated.

    "A-as an apology, Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi rushed out. "M-may I cook you a meal? Perhaps lunch? I promise it will make up for my ipetency today."

    Lu Tianbi had never frowned so fast. What a brazen woman. It was no wonder why the fallen Xu Family had despised their eldest daughter. She wasn''t as smart as they expected her to be.

    If the Crown Prince was seen walking into Xu Jiaqi''s residence for lunch, gossip would spread like wildfire.

    Yu Zhen would be unscathed. But what about Princess Li? How would she react to this?

    It was then Lu Tianbi sensed something off. She hadn''t noticed it before, but now it was evident. Someone was watching them. Her head instantly snapped in that direction.

    It was just as Lu Tianbi had feared. A woman in the far distance had turned her back and was walking away in the opposite direction. Her figure was distinctive, and next to her was unmistakably the Head Maidservant.

    Princess Li Xueyue had seen everything unfold.

    From the start of the conversation to Xu Jiaqi''s hand upon the Crown Prince''s sleeves. From her perspective, Yu Zhen hadn''t rejected Xu Jiaqi''s advances.

    "Your Highness," Lu Tianbi spoke up. "Pardon my intrusion," she apologized. She quickly nced towards the spot that the Princess had walked off from.

    Yu Zhen was quick to catch on but he wasn''t able to see everything. The only thing he caught was half a body disappearing around a corner.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen questioned.

    "For a split second there, I think I saw someone. She was watching us," Lu Tianbi stated. She purposely left her message vague, hoping he''d catch on to her hint.

    "Oh, I noticed it too. Usually I''d scare eavesdroppers away, but since it was her, I didn''t say anything. She''s allowed to watch you, isn''t she?" Hu Dengxiao added on.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. She? Her? Only two people came to mind. The Empress. Or Xueyue.

    He hoped it was thetter.

    Yu Zhen wanted to see Li Xueyue once again. It would be nice to take her on a personal tour of the Capital since he had time today. It would give them some much-needed time alone. And she would get a change of scenery.

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes widened when she saw the ghost of a smile rest on his face. He had smiled. At her. For the first time since their encounter. It was a tiny one, barely noticeable, but a genuine smile nheless. Her heart had never soared so high.

    What influenced this reaction?

    "Let''s head to her ce first," Yu Zhen said. He took a step forward and finally registered the hand that was still gripping onto his sleeves.

    His lips curled in disgust. He shook off Xu Jiaqi''s hand without warning. "Do not touch me," he seethed.

    Her happiness was short-lived.

    Xu Jiaqi flinched at his harsh words. His tone was vicious. His dark glower threatened to tear her apart. He was furious by her action.

    Fearful of losing his favor, Xu Jiaqi immediately dropped to her knees.

    "I apologize, Your Highness, it won''t happen again!" she pleaded. She had bowed, hoping it would appease him.

    Yu Zhen red down at her. What an irritating pet he had unknowingly gained. He left her kneeling on the pavement. And never once did he look back nor did he excuse her.

    "Also, Your Highness, I think Xiao Juzi has been growing restless," Lu Tianbi whispered as they began heading in the direction of the Crown Princess''s pce.

    "Oh gosh, I agree, Tiantian!" Hu Dengxiao eximed. "Last time, he almost bit my hand off when I was trying to feed him!"

    "You''re just dramatic," Yu Zhen retorted. "But I''ll visit himter."

    Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. "Your Highness, he can''t roam around the pce grounds," she reminded him.

    "I know," Yu Zhen stated.

    Nheless, he would still give Xiao Juzi the privilege. Besides, the tiger rarely went anywhere without his Master. The most that Xiao Juzi had traveled in the pce was near the entrance of the Crown Prince''s estate.

    Yu Zhen didn''t have to worry about his pet biting people. And even if it did, that person probably deserved it.

 Chapter 321 Half Truths and White Lies

    <h4>Chapter 321 Half Truths and White Lies</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t know why she was rushing back to her residence so quickly. It was as if she was caught eavesdropping when that wasn''t really the case.

    Nheless, she continued advancing towards her bedroom. She recalled seeing books on the shelves. Perhaps there would be something interesting for her to read.

    "Prepare tea and snacks, please," Li Xueyue instructed Yanxi once they had reached her bedroom.

    Li Xueyue would hardly call this ce a bedroom with how grand and enormous it was.

    Yanxi bowed at Xueyue''s words and excused herself to fulfill hermand.

    Li Xueyue advanced towards the doors that led towards her personal library. Inside, there were rows upon rows of books.

    "There''s so many¡­" she trailed off.

    Curiously, Li Xueyue browsed the titles and was surprised to see so much variety. From recipes to fairytales, she found any genre she could think of.

    Was this Yu Zhen''s idea?

    Thinking about him, her lips curled downwards into a disapproving frown. What exactly happened back there? Was he keeping another woman on the side?

    They hadn''t even finalized their marriage. He wouldn''t be the type to keep a concubine. Right?

    "Don''t overthink it," she chided herself.

    Li Xueyue reached out to pick a book, but paused and began to overthink everything.

    That woman, she was stunning. Her simple clothes weren''t enough to diminish her beauty.

    Xu Jiaqi seemed meek and gentle. Her actions were soft and she had shown proper respect for the Crown Prince.

    Li Xueyue recalled that Xu Jiaqi kept her head low the entire time she spoke to Yu Zhen. Did Yu Zhen prefer that? A submissive woman who''d praise the ground he walks on? She bit her bottom lip.

    "That''s not you," Li Xueyue told herself. She straightened up and hugged the book to her chest. If Yu Zhen fancied a woman like Xu Jiaqi, he wouldn''t have chosen her.

    Li Xueyue let out a sigh. She didn''t want to continue pondering over this, but the boredom and silence forced her to consider everything.

    "Maybe she''s just a friend," Li Xueyue said.

    She absentmindedly touched the book, but found no interest to read it. There were too many questions going on in her mind.

    Li Xueyue jumped upon hearing a knock upon her door. She couldn''t see the main door of her bedroom from where she was because there were multiple doors that separated this part of the bedroom from the rest.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue called out, "Come in!"

    She hoped her voice would reach Yanxi.

    She looked around her personal library. There was a well-crafted circr table in here, as well as some chairs.

    But she wasn''t a fan of being surrounded by so many books. It would be better if Yanxi set the tea and snacks outside.

    "Yanxi, set the te of snacks near the gardens. I won''t be reading inside," she spoke up when the door slid open behind her.

    Li Xueyue turned around and was prepared to head out of the room when the book slipped out of her hands.

    Li Xueyue was surprised to see Yu Zhen. He was dressed in dark clothing as always.

    She realized he must''ve not liked vibrant colors. Her eyesnded upon his navy ck clothes and the golden embroidery. His clothes hugged his wide shoulders perfectly and entuated his lean waist.

    It wasn''t hard to see why he was so favored amongst women. Yu Zhen''s features should be captured in a painting and hung on the wall for generations toe.

    Without a doubt, when someone stumbled across his painting in the future, they''d stop and admire it in awe.

    "Your Highness," Li Xueyue formally addressed. It slipped out without thinking.

    His rxed expression stiffened into displeasure. His brows drew together at her words. His lips dipped into a frown.

    "Yu Zhen," he gritted out.

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked. She was perplexed by his sudden annoyance. She had called him with his proper title. What could be so wrong in that?

    "It''s Yu Zhen," he stated. "Not Your Highness."

    Li Xueyue slowly blinked in response. She pressed her lips together.

    Ignoring his words, she bent down and picked up the fallen book. Her eyes grew wide when a pair of ck boots stopped in front of her.

    She grabbed the book and straightened up,ing face to face with him.

    "You''re frustrated," Yu Zhen pointed out.

    It was unlike her to behave like this, so closed-off and cold. Something must''ve triggered her, what was it? What could he do to make it better?

    Li Xueyue didn''t even think she was mad. She was just¡­ irked. By something that she couldn''t describe. She touched her chest, feeling a sharp pain there. Was it jealousy?

    "Does it hurt somewhere?" Yu Zhen questioned upon seeing the small action.

    Li Xueyue was irritable around him but he was still showing concern for her. His voice was dripping with worry. His dark eyes wereforting.

    She jumped when he grabbed her waist and tugged her closer to him.

    "What are you doing?" she demanded, attempting to push him away. He grabbed the hand that rested on her chest.

    "Does it hurt here?" Yu Zhen asked in a soft, beguiling voice.

    Li Xueyue was entranced by him. His gaze was sweeter than honey.

    The grip on her wrist was gentle and loose. She could pull her hand back anytime she wanted but she didn''t. Her attention brieflynded upon his fingers, long and slender, but rough.

    He was doing so much to strengthen theirmunication. She couldn''t deny him now.

    "I saw you with that woman," Li Xueyue stated.

    She lifted her head to observe his expression, but he was already watching her. When their eyes met, he revealed a teasing smile.

    "Is this¡­ jealousy?" Yu Zhen mused.

    Li Xueyue blinked. Her face heated at his words and she rapidly shook her head.

    "Don''t tter yourself," she said.

    Her face became even more red when heughed. Her heart was tugged at the sound. It was music to her ears. If only he wasn''t mocking her.

    "It''s not funny," Li Xueyue grumbled out.

    She angrily pulled her hand away from his touch. He didn''t mind. In an instant, his freed hand had wrapped itself around her,nding upon her upper back.

    "It''s the first time you''re jealous," Yu Zhen stated.

    He stepped forward and enveloped her in a hug. A wide smile was on his face. He enjoyed this jealousy. Now, she knew how he felt.

    "I wasn''t jealous," Li Xueyue stated. She relished in thefort of his chestrge and sturdy. She always felt safe around him. It felt like nothing in the world could go wrong so long as they were together.

    He rested his chin upon the top of her head.

    When he kissed her hair, she melted against him. He always knew how to soothe her anger, didn''t he?

    "She''s no one that you should worry about," Yu Zhen mumbled against her hair. Her scent was heavenly and enticing. She smelled of jasmine and roses.

    Yu Zhen was never fond of flowers until he met her. There was something about her scent that feltforting to him. Her distinctive scent reminded him this was reality. It wasn''t a dream. Li Xueyue was truly in Hanjian.

    "Are you sure?" Li Xueyue asked. She pulled away from him to study his expression when she''d ask him the next question.

    "I heard she helped you with something, but I wasn''t told what it was," Li Xueyue said. "Doesn''t that mean you owe her a favor?"

    Yu Zhen paused at her words. How much did she know? He narrowed his eyes. Who dared to tell her of what happened? He was supposed to tell her in person, so that there wouldn''t be any misunderstandings.

    Li Xueyue shivered when the air became chilly. It was strange. He still had his arms around her body, his grip was possessive, but the embrace was no longer warm. He was upset.

    "It seems I''ve hit a nerve," Li Xueyue pointed out with a wry smile. "I wonder why."

    Yu Zhen frowned at her words. Was she trying to start a fight? What was wrong with her? He stared down at her.

    "What are you trying to imply?" he demanded in a low voice.

    Li Xueyue raised her brow. Was he warning her? There was an edge to his voice.

    Li Xueyue didn''t like that. She pushed him away and took a step back. This seemed to infuriate him even more. His fingers had curled into tight fists.

    "What did she help you with?" Li Xueyue asked. "I saw what happened. She grabbed your sleeves for a while. And you didn''t even push her away."

    "I didn''t realize she was holding onto me," Yu Zhen deadpanned. "I shrugged her hand off, shortly after the discussion ended."

    Li Xueyue frowned. She didn''t recall seeing that.

    But then again, she left shortly after seeing that ufortable scene. She didn''t want to stick around to see how the discussion would unfold. She disliked the thought of another woman touching what belonged to her.

    "I won''t repeat myself," she responded.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together.

    She wanted to hear what happened. But right now, she was upset. It would be difficult for her to think properly if she was unhappy.

    "You''ll jump to conclusions if I tell you."

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up. Was the situation so questionable that she''d misinterpret his words? Was it that scandalous? She scowled. Was he trying to stall time? Toe up with a story entangled with half-truths and white lies?

 Chapter 322 Are You Crazy?

    <h4>Chapter 322 Are You Crazy?</h4>

    "Tell me the truth," Li Xueyue demanded. "Who exactly is she to you?"

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. She was here for less than a couple of days, but their rtionship was already rocky. Did she not trust him? Was that it? His mood dimmed at this unwanted thought.

    "Well?" she demanded.

    "Prior to your arrival, I announced to the entire court I would take a servant as my wife."

    Li Xueyue was floored by his words. She felt like cold water was sshed onto her face. What did he just say?

    "Of course, it was a cover-up. A tactic to terrify the Ministers that I would be marrying someone of lower rank. That way, when I bring up marriage to you¡ªPrincess from a foreign country, they would be so happy I changed my mind, they''d ept the new marriage proposal. Which they did, wlessly."

    Li Xueyue ground her teeth. Did the Imperial Court of Hanjian abhor Wuyi so much that they only epted her as a second option? She didn''t like it one bit.

    "Xu Jiaqi, is nothing to me," Yu Zhen spoke in a menacing voice too serious for it to be a lie.

    He reached for her hand but she shifted it, pretending to adjust her sleeves. "Xueyue," he warned. Yet again, he moved to grab her but she took a step away.

    "It doesn''t seem like it to me," she said. "I saw the way she looked at you, with so much adoration in her eyes, I¡ª"

    "None of that matters to me," Yu Zhen deadpanned. He advanced towards her and she was courageous enough to stand her ground.

    Her eyes, though, were vicious. Her eyes were violent waves of earthy brown, colors so surreal, he didn''t think it was real. He had never seen eyes as light as hers, but dark when angered.

    "Trust me, my Little Sunshine," Yu Zhen reassured. He settled his hands upon the sides of her waist but she refused to look up at him. She refused to meet his gaze nor listen to him.

    "You can''t be so stubborn," he softly told her.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her fingers and swayed their hands. When she continued to burn a hole in his shoulder with her glower, his lips twitched.

    It was hard not to kiss her. She was cuter when angered. Perhaps it was because her small stature made it difficult toe across as threatening.

    "This side of you is cute too," Yu Zhen mused whilst lifting her fingers and pressing a kiss upon the tips.

    Li Xueyue pulled her hand back, but he retaliated. He yanked her towards him until their chests were pressed against each other.

    Her eyes widened when he craned his neck. His face was close to her. There was a familiar glint in his onyx eyes¡ªlike a predator watching their prey. His lips curled into a devious smirk.

    She tensed when he bent his neck. His soft lips brushed against her ear. She shivered against his touch, his hot breath fanning her ear lobe.

    "Yu Zhen," she called out in a threatening voice but he ignored it. Her eyes widened. Then he gently nipped at her ear lobes.

    "Let''s have some fun," he mused.

    "Are you crazy?" she hissed.

    "No, are you?" he retorted.

    Li Xueyue pulled away to see his teasing smile. His obsidian eyes had a twinkle in it.

    Upon noticing her reddened cheeks, Yu Zhen let out a chuckle. "What did you think I was implying?"

    Li Xueyue refused to fall for this game again. She crossed her arms and jutted her chin to the side.

    "Aww, is the Little Hamster angry?" Yu Zhen poked her cheek again and again. It was soft to the touch butcked the familiar bounce.

    "Leave me alone," she grumbled.

    "So she speaks!" Yu Zhen eximed as if she had performed a magic trick. Her?nose scrunched at his words.

    "Did that irritate you further?" he mused.

    She ignored him.

    "If you don''t talk to me, I''ll continue to annoy you," he promised. Her lips were firmly shut.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. A wry smile formed on his face. Fine then. He grabbed her cheek and tried to pull it, to no avail. He pinched harder and watched her eyes re. She wanted to say something. But didn''t.

    Suddenly, an idea came to mind. His smile widened deviously.

    Without warning, she was tugged towards him. Her arms remained crossed and she continued to stare towards the side, revealing her neck to him. He swooped in and pressed a kiss upon the exposed skin.

    She jumped in his arms, but he continued on. Nipping and kissing, he trailed open mouth kisses down her neck. When he found the spot where her shoulder met her neck, he suckled upon it. His grip on her tightened. Her knees buckled a bit, but he held her in ce.

    Li Xueyue bit down on her tongue. She tried to ignore the warmth that spread in her body. His hands began to wander and she let out a shaky breath. It was then she realized what he was doing.

    "You¡ª"

    Her eyes widened when he captured her lips. She refused to kiss him back, pressing her lips tightly together. But he was cruel.

    He bit her bottom lip, earning a gasp from her. And just like that, he was granted ess. His slick tongue dove in until she finally kissed him back.

    He moved her body backwards until her back was against a bookshelf. One hand mmed beside her neck as he stabilized both of them. A split secondter, his fingers dove into her hair, angling her head to deepen their kiss.

    Their lips molded together perfectly. He swirled his tongue against hers, easily dominating hers. The kiss was hot and passionate.

    He nibbled upon the corner of her lips, allowing her to suck in trembling gasps of air. But it wasn''t long before their lips crashed against each other again.

    As always, Yu Zhen was merciless. Biting, sucking, and licking as he pleased until she was puddy in his hands.

    He kissed her until she was on her tippy toes, unable to run, unable to resist. By the time he finally let her go, she was a panting mess. Her head fell upon his sturdy chest whilst she struggled to catch her breath.

    "Did you think this was the fun we''d have?" Yu Zhen teased her. He slowly pulled his hand out of her soft hair. Locks of it rested upon his fingers and he toyed with it.

    "That wasn''t fun," she lied.

    "Really now?" Yu Zhen spoke up, grabbing her chin. He lifted it until he was staring down at her. Her cheeks were flushed. Her eyes were hazy. Heat gathered below his stomach.

    Rosy red lips greeted him. He had done that to her. Caged between his warm body and the bookshelf, she had nowhere to run, but into his arms. She was utterly hopeless. He could do anything as he wished.

    She thought he would. But he didn''t.

    Instead, Yu Zhen caressed both sides of her cheek. Her eyes fluttered shut. Her heart skipped a beat when he pressed his lips to her forehead. It was a chaste, gentle kiss that left her wanting more.

    "You shouldn''t bite more than you can chew," Yu Zhen muttered.

    His hand trailed down her shoulders until it was nestledfortably on her lower back. She was nestled upon him, her weight fully supported.

    Li Xueyue rested her face against his chest whilst his other hand yed with her hair. She didn''t realize her hairpins had slipped out until she spotted it next to her shoes. Touching her bruised lips, she knew he was right.

    But she''d never admit it. Not because she was stubborn, but because it''d stroke hisrge ego.

 Chapter 323 The Duty of a Husband

    <h4>Chapter 323 The Duty of a Husband</h4>

    "Let''s go somewhere," Yu Zhen said.

    "Somewhere private¡­?" she hesitatingly said, ready to reject him.

    They were already in a private ce¡ªher bedroom, but she wouldn''t even count this personal library as part of her enormous bedroom. Arge waiting room furnished with tables and chairs separated the library from the area where her bed was.

    People would have to get through two doors to reach the library.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He already knew what was running through her head. She was an open-book, but perhaps only for him.

    "Did you have dirty thoughts, Sunshine?"

    Li Xueyue scowled. He was the one to me. She crossed her arms and stared up.

    "Only because you always speak your words as if they have a double-meaning."

    "It only has double-meaning because you think it does," he said.

    "No, I don''t," she argued.

    "Yes, you do."

    "I don''t."

    "You do."

    "I don''t."

    "You do."

    "I have all day to argue!" Li Xueyue snapped back. If she was bored enough, she''d continue this argument. She was petty and he knew it.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Why waste the day on arguing when we can go¡ª"

    "Yu Zhen," she warned.

    "¡ªgo to the Capital," he finished.

    Li Xueyue hoped her face didn''t warm at his words. He had done that on purpose. She was sure of it. Especially when he smiled down at her with an amused glint in his eyes. He knew what he was doing.

    Nheless, she was excited by his words.

    "When?" she instantly asked, eager to explore the new environment.

    Li Xueyue wanted to finally see a change of scenery. The pce was beautiful, but the capital must''ve been breathtaking.

    "Right now," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue perked up at his words. "Really?"

    "Have I lied to you before?" he retorted.

    "Really, really?" she double-checked.

    "I''m beginning to think you didn''t read any vocabry books during our time apart," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue smacked him on the chest,pletely forgetting the rule she broke.

    "I''m serious," she said.

    "And so am I."

    "Yu Zhen!" she exasperated, growing frustrated at his teasing.

    Yu Zhen grinned. His eyes danced with mirth whilst gazing down at her. "I prefer if you scream like that in¡ª"

    "I dare you."

    "¡ªin the carriage," he finished.

    "That makes no sense," she retorted.

    "Neither does your dirty mind," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    "I don''t have one!" Li Xueyue argued.

    Li Xueyue hadpletely forgotten the fact that she was supposed to address him with a formal title. But that never mattered to him before. And it wouldn''t start now.

    Li Xueyue was pretty sure Yanxi would have high blood pressure if the elderly maidservant was present in the room. But they were in the privacy of the library. No one would dare to eavesdrop inside of here.

    "Sure, you don''t," he sarcastically said.

    "I''m being serious here," she stated.

    "And so am I."

    "No, you''re not," she deadpanned.

    "And why do you think that?" he teased.

    Li Xueyue red up at him. Her neck was craned just so she could see his eyes. Seeing him have an advantage over her irritated her further and he knew it.

    Yu Zhen cupped his ear. He lowered his head, feigning ignorance. "What was that? You''re so short, I couldn''t hear you."

    Li Xueyue forced herself not to kick him even if she desperately wanted to. This man would be the death of her.

    "Hmph, if the sky falls down, you will die first."

    "The air up here is so crisp," Yu Zhen retorted.

    "I hope your neck hurts from looking down so much," Li Xueyue said.

    "I bet yours hurt a lot more from tilting it up," Yu Zhen snickered.

    Li Xueyue shut her mouth. She refused to engage in this conversation. They''d bicker until the sunes down. She just knew it. He was that petty. And so was she.

    "Do you have ns in the Capital?" Li Xueyue asked him, deciding to change the topic. She ignored the mischievous glint in his eyes. Yu Zhen knew he had won this round.

    "I will have to speak to the representatives of each ss whilst doing my usual tour of the Capital to ensure everything is fine," he told her.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. "Are we going to wear disguises?"

    "Preferably," he stated.

    It would be easier for him to walk around if no one recognized him. People were more reluctant to tell the truth in front of royalty.

    Besides, he had to ensure there wasn''t corruption. It wouldn''t be umon for aristocrats to wear a mask around the Imperial Family.

    "That''s fine with me¡­ Your Highness," she addressed. The title was familiar to her but foreign to her brain. She wasn''t used to calling him by his proper title.

    She was surprised when he stared at her with a disappointed re.

    "You already know my opinion on this," he sharply said.

    Li Xueyue nervously yed with her fingers. "I just thought it would be more proper¡ª"

    "Did I everin about this?"

    "No¡­" she trailed off.

    Yu Zhen shook his head at her. He grabbed her chin and forced her to peer up at him. She was suddenly sullen from being scolded.

    "Listen to me well, Li Xueyue," he said. "You may call me any name you wish, but Your Highness."

    "And what if the others frown upon it¡ª"

    "Then they won''t have lips to frown tomorrow," Yu Zhen said.

    "Why are you so violent?" she blurted out.

    "Why aren''t you violent?" he mimicked.

    "Because¡­ it''s just the right thing to do."

    "Says who, Sunshine?" he asked.

    "Moral and ethics?"

    "So, you decided to adhere to some made-up concepts?" he chastised.

    Li Xueyue faltered at his words. He just loved to win arguments. And here he was, calling her stubborn a few moments ago. Why did he like to bicker with her so much? She had never seen this side of him with anyone else.

    Yu Zhen revealed a dark, wicked smile before her. "No one should have the guts to insult you, and if they do, they don''t need their guts."

    "Yu Zhen," she stated in a stern voice.

    Yu Zhen''s smile widened. This time, it softened, much like his hard gaze. "Things work differently in Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue begged to differ. She knew it was only him who was violent like this. And without a doubt, his words weren''t threats. They were promises. She knew he was cruel enough to issue any forms of punishment.

    "Shall we get you ready for a quick stroll?" Yu Zhen questioned, knowing she''d want to change the subject. He yed with her face, pinching her cheeks between his fingers.

    Li Xueyue nodded. "Yanxi is most likely waiting outside. She will get me dressed in no time."

    "Do the servants of the pce treat you well, Sunshine?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue noticed there was an edge to his voice. As if he was going to hurt someone.

    "They''re nice but as quiet as the ones back home," she said.

    "Good."

    Li Xueyue disagreed with that statement. She wished they spoke to her more. Maybe then, she wouldn''t be so lonely.

    Yu Zhen observed her features. She was smiling, but her eyes were lonely. "Shall I have a younger handmaiden to serve you alongside Yanxi? One that''s your age and more bubbly?"

    Li Xueyue was pretty sure she had enough servants. Aside from Yanxi, there was always a small handful of familiar-looking but silent maidservants trailing behind the middle-aged woman.

    "That would be preferred," she said.

    Yu Zhen was d to hear her request. She rarely wanted something from him.

    "Wouldn''t that be too much of a hassle, though?" she asked.

    "No wish of yours is too difficult," Yu Zhen responded less than a secondter.

    "You spoil me too much."

    "It''s the duty of a husband to spoil his wife," Yu Zhen dered.

    Li Xueyue chuckled at his words. Grabbing his upper arm for support, she stood on her tippy-toes and kissed him upon the cheek, catching him by surprise.

    But before Yu Zhen could demand more, she ran to the other side of the room. Smallughter apanied her as she ran through the doors. They were sweet and airy, and filled his heart with warmth.

    Yu Zhen could do nothing but touch the spot. Unbeknownst to him, a small, foolish smile rested upon his lips.

 Chapter 324 Maybe Later

    <h4>Chapter 324 Maybe Later</h4>

    Li Xueyue stepped outside of her room in freshly changed clothes that were easier to move around in.

    Originally, Yanxi had nned to dress her in a simple-looking hanfu of lighter colors that wouldn''t make her stand out. But Xueyue specifically requested for horseback riding clothes that''d allow her to maneuver around easily whilst riding a horse.

    It was a startling request, but what surprised Yanxi even more was the fact that there were already training robes inside the closet.

    Oddly enough, all of the clothes inside the wardrobe fitted the Princess perfectly. It was as if the Crown Prince had gotten these clothes custom-made in advance prior to the Crown Princess''s arrival.

    "Ready?"

    Li Xueyue swiveled around. She was surprised to see Yu Zhen so soon. He had also changed clothes. As always, he was dressed in darker colors. To be specific, ck, and nothing more.

    "Here, wear this," he instructed her.

    Yu Zhen made it seem like amand, but he was the one who slid the cloak over her. She watched his long fingers work quickly to close the buttons near her neck. It provided her an extrayer of warmth, but she knew it was to help them not get recognized.

    "Is the public familiar with your face?" Li Xueyue asked him.

    Li Xueyue finally realized he was also wearing a cloak, but his was ck whereas hers was white. It matched her white and blue clothing.

    "Not really," Yu Zhen informed her.

    Li Xueyue knew it was because not many had the privilege to seek an audience with the Crown Prince. She wondered who''d deal with the issues faced by the less-fortunate civilians if they couldn''t present it to court.

    "Do you also have People''s Representatives who would present the current problems faced in theirmunity?" Li Xueyue asked him.

    "Yes, one for the upper-middle-ss aristocrats," Yu Zhen told her.

    He lifted the hood of the cloak so that her face was hidden from all sides, except the front.

    Li Xueyue adjusted it to stay in ce. Soon, they began walking down the halls.

    As they strode infortable silence, Li Xueyue couldn''t help but think of another idea for the betterment of this country.

    She wondered if being too ambitious would lead to a problem. There was so much she wanted to contribute, but was Hanjian ready to ept a woman''s opinion?

    Li Xueyue knew Wuyi would be hesitant too. But Hanjian had female soldiers. Perhaps the politics here would also be different. Or at least, she hoped so.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue let out a small gasp upon seeing the creature in front of her. The sunlight gleamed upon his midnight ck coat. He was as healthy as she hadst remembered him to be. A stallion of stealth.

    "Heiyue!" she eximed, running up to her horse.

    Heiyue was being guided out by Lu Tianbi who had another horse in her other hand.

    His head jerked at the familiar voice.

    Arge grin grew on her face.

    Heiyue was ncing all over the ce, trying to find her through the darkness of his ssy eyes. He was an amusing sight¡ªwalking in circles just to seek her voice again.

    "Here, boy," she stated.

    Heiyue didn''t need any more confirmation. He shook his head free from the hand grasping at his reins.

    "A little bit closer," she patiently urged, wanting him to grow more familiar with their surroundings.

    "Good boy," sheplimented when he was able to reach her without much trouble.

    Li Xueyue reached up and patted the side of his face. Her other hand stroked at his tangle-free mane.

    Li Xueyue was d to see him healthy as always. She had thought the worst happened to him. But now that he was in front of her, well-fed and alive, all of her worries melted away. He was as energetic as ever, snorting when she stopped caressing him.

    "I hope you didn''t cause any trouble,?? she remarked.

    "Oh trust me, Princess, he did," Lu Tianbi chuckled.

    "Yeah," Hu Dengxiao added on. "I heard he wouldn''t stop biting the stable boy. It took his younger sister to control the horse, Princess."

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched.

    "He''s just biased, that''s all," she stated, knowing his childhood had something to do with it.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to dwell on the thought of his neglected past. It was painful to even think about hers, much less, Heiyue''s abuse.

    "Hmm, reminds me of my own horse," Yu Zhen muttered under his breath. He grabbed the reins of Xiao Lizi from Hu Dengxiao.

    Xiao Lizi swayed her tail at his words. When he tried to pat her, she flicked her head away.

    Li Xueyue bit back a tauntingugh. She hadn''t forgotten how kind Xiao Lizi was. The horse had allowed her to ride it without troubles. If it was Heiyue, he''d thrash around and try to throw strangers off of him.

    "I don''t have a snack, stop looking," Li Xueyue chuckled when Heiyue pressed his wet nose into her palm, expecting something.

    "Maybeter," she fondly said. She gave him a final pat before sliding onto the saddle with ease.

    Unbeknownst to her, she had garnered the attention of Hu Dengxiao and Lu Tianbi. They didn''t think such a fragile girl could glide onto a horse so quickly.

    It was difficult to believe this was the same woman in the forest. The Princess''s confidence on top of the horse was equivalent to that of a female General.

    "Princess," Lu Tianbi gently said. "I''ve never seen you smile like this."

    Li Xueyue blinked. She didn''t even realize she was smiling. She let out a smallugh.

    "Heiyue has a special ce in my heart," she fondly said.

    "I bet our Crown Prince doesn''t have as good a spot," Hu Dengxiao snickered.

    A secondter, he cried out in pain.

    "My head, my head!" he howled after being struck by the back.

    "Shut up and get on your horse," Yu Zhen growled. He hopped onto Xiao Lizi without any qualms.

    "H-how can you bully¡ªno wait!" Hu Dengxiao shrieked in fear when Yu Zhen nearly jabbed him with an encased sword.

    "You''re so violent, Your Highness!" Hu Dengxiao wailed. "I''m going to cry to Tiantian about your abuse," he sobbed.

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes. "And Tiantian isn''t going to care," she remarked.

    Hu Dengxiao pouted at her words. "How can you just stand by and watch yourpanion get abused like this?"

    "Hmm, abuse, where?" Lu Tianbi ced a hand above her eyes. She scanned their surroundings.

    "I don''t see it," she dered.

    "You big meanie!" Hu Dengxiao huffed. He angrily crossed his arms and stomped the ground, like a big child.

    A few secondster, honey-sweetughter could be heard. It was soft and timid before growing a bit louder with amusement. Everyone was instantly in awe by the sound. It was refreshing, like a cold breeze during a hot, summer day.

    It was the first time Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao had heard the Crown Princessugh. It was an unfamiliar sound, but one that captured their hearts. Her clear eyes were curled and her lips were pulled into a grin.

    "You two remind me of my twin brothers," Li Xueyue stated.

    "Yes, I remember them," Lu Tianbi stated in a daze.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened. She was d to see the twins had left an impact, even upon people in Hanjian. It had been a couple of days since she hadst seen them. She dearly missed the twins but knew they had their own dreams to pursue and aplish.

    Perhaps, the next time they crossed paths, she would have nieces and nephews, whilst she would have some of her own with Yu Zhen.

 Chapter 325 Youre Scary

    <h4>Chapter 325 You''re Scary</h4>

    The tour around the Capital was as exciting as Li Xueyue imagined. The culture of Hanjian was simr yet different from Wuyi.

    Hanjian favored vibrant colors like ruby red, sapphire blue, emerald green, and so on. These could be seen from the decorations and banners hanging from poles, fluttering in the wind. Everywhere she looked, there was a symbol of the Imperial Family.

    "Wait for me!" a child eximed as it chased their friends.

    Kids whirled through the crowds as they yed with their toys. Little girls held wooden swords in their hands as they chased after their brothers who wielded shields and other forms of wooden weapons. Laughter could be heard all around, painting a lively scene.

    But what caught Li Xueyue''s eyes were the women in well-fitted training robes bustling around. Some of them even carried swords with them. They walked with a confidence that Xueyue fawned over and her gaze lingered on them.

    "It''s a lot different from Wuyi, isn''t it, Princess?" Lu Tianbi spoke up beside her.

    The group had dropped off their horses in the town''s stables and were almost reaching the People''s Representative''s house.

    "Yes. In Wuyi, you don''t really get to see many women who train their bodies and are physically active," Li Xueyue said whilst taking everything in front of her.

    "Our opinions hold as much weight as a man here," Lu Tianbi exined. "So, if you ever have any hesitations speaking up, don''t."

    Li Xueyue smiled at her words. She nodded in response and shifted her gaze to Yu Zhen. He was currently speaking to the People''s Representative near a secluded alleyway.

    Yu Zhen didn''t enjoy meeting in other people''s houses despite the privacy it offered. Strangers'' houses were unpredictable battlefields. Who knew what dangers could be lurking inside?

    "... Yes, there are noints as usual. Even themoners are epting of the war tax imposed and are actually happy to help."

    "And their supplies?" Yu Zhen questioned.

    "No need to worry, Your Highness. They have adequate food, shelter, and so on. The shaper of our future¡ªthe children¡ªare all well-fed. There is nothing to worry about, Your Highness."

    Li Xueyue intently listened on whilst keeping a straight face. She continued to observe the Capital through the narrow alleyway where Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao stood guard.

    Suddenly, something caught her eye: a small child dressed in thin clothes that made it hard to identify their gender.

    Li Xueyue had to squint and carefully judge the child''s features to figure it was a boy. He was standing by the entrance of the alleyway looking hesitant with a small object in his hands.

    "Are you certain?" Yu Zhen stated, though it came out as a demand.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head upon seeing the child''s anxious frown. She stepped out of the shadows and offered him a slight smile, beckoning him forward. Was his house beyond this alleyway?

    The child brightened at the sight of her encouraging smile. He waived the object, the item glinting under the sun.

    Li Xueyue touched her hair. Was it a hairpin she had dropped?

    She shifted her chin towards Yu Zhen and noticed he was still upied in the discussion. Lu Tianbi was also engrossed in listening in whereas Hu Dengxiao continued to stand guard on the other side of them.

    Not wanting to disrupt them, Li Xueyue stepped forward and approached the child.

    "Is that my hairpin?" she quietly asked as the child continued to wave the shiny thing in his hand.

    But the child seemed frightened by the crowd behind her. He inched towards the edge of the alleyway, peeking his head inside every few seconds.

    "It''s okay, I''lle to you," Li Xueyue told him whilst advancing forward. When she was approaching the corner, she stuck her hand out.

    "May I have it back¡ª" She didn''t get to finish her sentence when he sliced at her hand with the object in his hand.

    Li Xueyue let out a sharp gasp and retracted her hand just in time before it could cut her. But that was a mere distraction because another kid ran and sneaked up behind her. Without warning, she felt a tug at her waist.

    By the time she nced down, the pouch of coins resting on her belt was gone. She blinked and the little boy was gone.

    It was then Li Xueyue realized the item in his hand wasn''t her hairpin. It was a knife. He had meant to cut her.

    "Xueyue."

    Li Xueyue jumped at the displeased voice behind her. She turned around and bumped into Yu Zhen''s chest. He glowered down at her and grabbed her wrist.

    "You shouldn''t have wandered off without me." Yu Zhen examined her palms and let out a small sigh of relief when he saw no injuries on her fair skin.

    "It was a small child, I didn''t think he would hurt me," Li Xueyue exined. His eyes shed with irritation at her words.

    "You trust people too quickly," he seethed.

    "I know," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    Seeing she wasn''t going to argue with him, Yu Zhen dropped the subject. He ced a hand behind her waist and pulled her closer to him.

    "Go and find the brats," he informed a guard beside him.

    "No, don''t!" Li Xueyue argued, grabbing the soldier by his sleeve before he could head off.

    Yu Zhen''s face turned stormy at the sight. She dropped her hand a secondter, only for him to catch it and entwine their fingers.

    Li Xueyue sighed at his possessive nature. She realized he finally showed his true nature in Hanjian.

    "Let the children go," she said.

    "They stole from you."

    "They needed the money more than me," Li Xueyue exined.

    "Doesn''t change the crime."

    "They''re kids," she emphasized.

    "They''re future thieves," he snarled. "Like the bandits who¡ª"

    "Your Highness," she coldly interrupted with a frown of her own.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. "Is this how you want to behave? Resorting to calling me by a title when you''re angered?"

    "Yes."

    Yu Zhen let out a sigh through his nose. He was aggravated by her words and behavior. She was being so stubborn.

    "We should focus on the other pertinent issues at hand," Li Xueyue pointed out. She stepped away from him and red at the People''s Representative.

    "You said themoners have everything they need," she stated.

    "W-well, you see¡ª"

    "Why are there child thieves?"

    "It seems somemoners arecking resources, which is normal. Or perhaps, they''re orphans with nothing else better to do. Who knows? They''re nothing but peasants."

    Yu Zhen sharply turned around at his words. He stormed towards the man and grabbed him by the throat, surprising many.

    "You''ll speak to her with respect," Yu Zhen growled. He threw the man against the wall and wiped his hand with a handkerchief. He curled his lips in disgust.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes at the man. She didn''t like his tone but that didn''t bother her. His words did. Peasants were people too.

    "He seems corrupted," Li Xueyue pointed out.

    "You''re fired," Yu Zhen said without hesitation.

    "W-what? Your Highness, please¡ª"

    "Silence him."

    Yu Zhen grabbed Li Xueyue and covered her with his body before she was able to witness anything. He shielded her from seeing the grotesque scene behind them. But she heard it¡ªthe gurgling sound of someone choking on his blood.

    Her face paled and she nced up at him, wide-eyed. Her lips were parted out of shock.

    "Useless people should be disposed of," Yu Zhen told her. He showed no remorse for the murder. Instead, he reached for her hand but she stepped away. He tried again, but she eased her body back.

    "Sunshine¡ª"

    "The children," she deadpanned.

    "Forgiven and forgotten."

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. She grabbed his hand this time and held it.

    When Yu Zhen pulled back from her, her smile instantly dropped. That is until heced their fingers together and tugged her forward.

    "Hold my hand properly next time," he grumbled.

    Li Xueyueughed at his words but it came out awkward. Despite killing Li Taojun, the thought of death and murder still worried her.

    Yu Zhen must''ve noticed it as well. He said nothing but gently squeezed her hand. He hugged her with his other arm, pressing her face against his firm chest. She resisted. Lifting her head, she stared up at him.

    "We''ll have to discuss this during the Round Table as well¡ªabout the neglect of themoners," she said.

    "And how do you know they''re neglected?"

    "Oh, good point," she stated. "I want to personally talk to a few."

    "No."

    Li Xueyue frowned. "Why?"

    "It''s dangerous. I''ll handle it."

    "You''re scary," she deadpanned.

    "I''m supposed to be, my Little Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "They''ll be reluctant to talk to you."

    "I''m not going to take you to the areas that they live in," Yu Zhen sternly told her. He released their hands and brushed his thumb against her lips.

    "Don''t bite," he murmured.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even realize that habit of hers. But she reluctantly nodded as his thumb caressed the side of her face.

    "At least, let me talk to a few of them, whether it''s at the market stalls or¡ª"

    "I never said you couldn''t talk to them that way, Sunshine," Yu Zhen said. He smiled at her nk face and shook his head.

    "Did you think I was restricting you to that extent?"

    "Maybe¡­" she trailed off, scratching the side of her head. He grabbed her finger and brought it to his lips. An amused twinkle danced upon his eyes.

    "Your freedom matters to me, Little Hamster," Yu Zhen stated. "I only disapprove of things that will bring harm to you."

    Li Xueyue''s heart flipped at his deep voice, ever so gentle. He spoke to her with patience and understanding. He was so different from the man he was in Wuyi, yet so simr. It was hard to exin.

    "How cute," he teased when she sullenly nced at the ground. His hardened stare softened. She was adorable even when she was upset.

    "Let''s just go," Li Xueyue said, ignoring his taunting smile.

    "But stick close to me," he instructed.

    Li Xueyue blinked. His voice was rough. There was no room for arguments, and he made sure of that. Yet, she wasn''t riled up by him. They had settled on apromise, one that she waspletely fine with.

    "Okay," she said with a firm nod of her head.

 Chapter 326 Its Dangerous

    <h4>Chapter 326 It''s Dangerous</h4>

    "Hmm, aint about the country? Well, I''d say the taxes are too high and heavy on us. I heard from my sister living near the forest that her town has been offering a lot of their supplies to the soldiers. With little to none left for themselves, it''s been difficult for them to get by."

    "You want to know what angers me so much? How unfair it is that the rich and middle-ss can get their prissy little problems heard by the People''s Representative. We don''t have our own leader to talk to about issues, and that damn representative always ignores us."

    "Well, would you like the honest truth, littledy? What I struggle the most is finding a suitable ce for my children to spend their time meaningfully when I''m out in the stalls. My husband and I don''t want them to sit here and do nothing all day."

    The list of problems went on, from small requests torge ones. In particr, the peasants had the mostints about their living situation. Many were very reasonable and polite with their responses whereas some were more crude.

    Li Xueyue had to nudge Yu Zhen a few times to prevent him from ring at the majority of those who spoke brashly to her.

    "You heard it yourself," Li Xueyue told Yu Zhen outside the town stables. Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao had gone inside to fetch the horses.

    "The locals never tell me this when I do my rounds in the Capital," Yu Zhen grunted.

    Li Xueyueughed. He must''ve been irritated to know the people revealed more to her than to him.

    "As I''ve said, you''re scary. You have an intimidating face¡ªlike you''re angry or something," she teased.

    Yu Zhen scowled. He subconsciously yed with the ends of her ponytail. He refused to ept it.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she trailed off, eyeing him hesitantly.

    "Yes, love?" Yu Zhen responded in a heartbeat. He enjoyed the sound of his name on her tongue. He rested a hand upon her waist and squeezed it in assurance.

    "I want to visit the slums. Just to see the situation there and¡ª"

    "Absolutely not."

    "But you said you''d give me freedom¡ª"

    "It''s dangerous there."

    Li Xueyue frowned at his words. "I''m not frail."

    Yu Zhen held back a pointed look. It wasn''t that she was weak, but more of, he was worried for her. She was simply too precious in his life. He couldn''t bear the thought of her injuring herself or disappearing again. Her pain was his pain.

    "Just trust me," he told her. "I know my people best."

    "Doesn''t seem like it," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    "Every country has slums," Yu Zhen informed her.

    "Perhaps, more schools will prevent that," Li Xueyue told him. "And besides, I think we should increase the war tax on aristocrats."

    Yu Zhen nodded. Anything to change the topic. "Is that what you want?"

    "And lower taxes for everything else. Plus a representative for every social ss, not just the middle-ss and higher."

    "Anything else?"

    "And a kiss?"

    Yu Zhen''s face went nk.

    She let out a smallugh but was caught off guard by him. She was joking around but he clearly didn''t think of it that way. He grabbed her chin and brought her face up.

    "Zhenzhen, did we take too long¡ªoh."

    Yu Zhen frowned at the interruption. He dropped her chin and pulled her closer, knowing her face was red with embarrassment. Li Xueyue was bold with her words but always so easy to scare.

    "Shut up and get on with it," Yu Zhenmanded.

    Hu Dengxiao straightened up and saluted his Commander. "Yes, sir!"

    Yu Zhen reached out to smack him on the back of the head.

    Hu Dengxiao let out a sharp cry of pain, clutching the spot. "Zhenzhen, at this rate, I won''t have a brain!"

    "You already don''t," Yu Zhen snarled. He snatched Heiyue''s reins from his advisor and guided the horse to them.

    Hu Dengxiao pouted at his words. "But people have told me I''m the wisest strategist of my time¡­"

    Lu Tianbi chuckled at his behavior. "That''s because there''s not a lot ofpetition."

    She handed the reins of Xiao Lizi to Yu Zhen. The horse snorted at this and nudged at her.

    "Biased little thing," Yu Zhen muttered. At his words, Xiao Lizi trotted to him as if she could understand it.

    With him distracted, Li Xueyue easily slipped away from his hold. She wondered what it was with his obsession to always touch her. He hadn''t done it that much in Wuyi.

    Li Xueyue patted the side of Heiyue''s head. She hopped onto her horse without much trouble. Before she could quickly ride off, Yu Zhen grabbed the side of Heiyue''s reins.

    "And where do you think you''re going?"

    Li Xueyue red down at his hand. Why were his reflexes so quick? She thought he was distracted by Hu Dengxiao.

    "Don''t be stubborn," Yu Zhen demanded.

    "Just a look," she promised.

    "No."

    "But¡ª"

    "No."

    "I¡ª"

    "We''re heading back," Yu Zhen told her. In the blink of an eye, he was on top of Xiao Lizi.

    Li Xueyue''s shoulders dropped in disappointment. She yed with Heiyue''s mane, refusing to look at the stubborn mule beside her. He heard him sigh in aggravation. But she continued to ignore him.

    "I do this for your own good, Sunshine. You have to realize that."

    "I''m just worried about the people there, that''s all."

    "I''ve always done a tour of the towns," Yu Zhen informed her. "I''m aware of the situation there. However, things have drastically improved after I created more job opportunities in the form of reconstructing the buildings ravaged by the war."

    "But there are still children thieves¡ª"

    "I''ve said it has gotten better, not that it''s perfect. But with enough time and patience, there won''t be any more children on the streets."

    Li Xueyue''s head shot up. "Give more funding to the orphanages as well. Maybe that''s why they resorted to stealing."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Some things are easier said than done."

    "But you''ll make it happen, won''t you?"

    "If it pleases you, yes."

    Li Xueyue was caught off guard by his words. She didn''t think he wouldpromise yet again.

    Her heart skipped at the slow smile that spread on his lips. "I''m sorry for being stubborn," she stated.

    "At least you admit it," Yu Zhen retorted.

    Li Xueyue didn''t say anything.

    "And why do you look so surprised, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen said. "Did you think I wouldn''t agree?"

    "Well, it''s just, I didn''t think you knew how topromise," she truthfully said.

    Li Xueyue was surprised by the events of today. Of course, everything took a bit of arguing, but that was normal wasn''t it? As long as it wasn''t an actual fight. It was just a normal debate.

    "It''s because you informed me of your wants."

    Li Xueyue tilted his head. What did he mean by that?

    Reading her inquisitive expression, Yu Zhen''s smile became more wry. "I can''t read your mind, Sunshine. It''s just as you said,munication matters. So, continue voicing your thoughts to me."

    Li Xueyue was overwhelmed with emotions. She didn''t know what to say to that.

    Li Xueyue hadn''t realized she was beginning to voice her desires a lot more. Perhaps he brought that side out of her. There was something about the way he made her feel reassured¡­ she couldn''t ce a finger upon it.

    "But next time, you should also learn topromise with me. Only then would it be fair," he said.

    Li Xueyue nodded at his words. "Okay."

    Yu Zhen''s lips curled into a warm smile. "Now, let''s head home."

    "Oh finally," Hu Dengxiao stated. "I was wondering when they''d stop looking at each other with lovey-dovey eyes. Seriously, I think my teeth are rotting, Tiantian."

    Hu Dengxiao let out a small shriek when Yu Zhen shot him a dark glower. He immediately mped his mouth shut.

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes at herpanion. "Sometimes I wonder if you purposely want to get scolded by the Commander. You always speak whateveres to your mind."

    "Only because someone has to say the truth around here¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off. He was wary of what his Commander would do. In all honesty, he enjoyed getting the Commander riled up.

    The Crown Prince rarely showed his emotions. Everyone was familiar with his nk, apathetic expression. It was that or dark glowers of disapproval.

    Hu Dengxiao was just appreciative to see any other emotion, even if it was irritation or anger.

    Lu Tianbi let out a sigh. "I seriously don''t understand you."

 Chapter 327 Everything Will Be Okay

    <h4>Chapter 327 Everything Will Be Okay</h4>

    The moment they returned to the pce, Li Xueyue was rushed back to the Crown Princess''s estate as if they didn''t want anyone to see her. She knew it was because of her unexpected arrival in Hanjian''s Imperial Pce. Yu Zhen must''ve already nned for the day she would be officially announced to the courts.

    "Tomorrow," Yu Zhen told her on their way to her estate. "You will be presented before the Ministers."

    Li Xueyue was taken aback. That soon? She turned her head and noticed there was an abundance of maidservants waiting for her. Usually, it would just be Yanxi and a handful of handmaidens. Were the additional maidservants sent to help her get ready for tomorrow?

    "And two days after that, we will wed." Yu Zhen grasped her hands, forcing her attention back to him.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. "But the dress my mother had tailored for me¡ª"

    "I had a new one made for you," Yu Zhen informed. "Everything inside of the carriage was stolen."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She bit her bottom lip, wondering if the news of her mishap reached her parents. It was then she suddenly remembered the messenger dove that her father had given her. Where was the bird now? Had it escaped?

    "Please use your messenger dove and inform my parents that I''ve arrived safely. They must be worried," Li Xueyue said.

    "I''ve sent the message early this morning," Yu Zhen reassured her. "You''ll be fine."

    Li Xueyue let out a small sigh of relief. She was a bit stressed that they had been worried sick. Especially the twins. She shuddered at the thought of their expressions. Hearing the news of Xueyue being attacked by bandits must''ve given everyone a fright.

    "How will the procedure go tomorrow?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Well, you''ll be dressed in proper attire. The royal carpets will beid out before you. The Ministers will be gathered in the Throne Room and it will be simr to a coronation."

    Li Xueyue nodded at this. She had gone through one coronation before. It should be easy going through another one. Or so, she thought.

    "I will be heading back now," Yu Zhen softly told her. He squeezed her hands and presented a small smile to her.

    "I''ll see you tomorrow," he said.

    "Have a safe walk back," Li Xueyue said whilst dropping his hands. He bent down and kissed her upon the forehead, surprising many of the onlookers.

    The maidservants exchanged surprised nces with each other. They had never seen their Crown Prince so affectionate with anyone.

    It was rare for the Crown Prince to even touch a woman, much less kiss her. Was this truly a political marriage? Or had the Crown Prince already fallen for the Crown Princess prior to her arrival?

    They took another secretive peek at the Crown Prince. They were floored by their discovery. His permanent frown had softened into a smile. There was so much adoration in his dark eyes. It was difficult to believe this was the same ruthless ruler of Hanjian.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue thought everything would go smoothly, just like it did on the night before her father''s coronation. But it was even more hectic. The night before, she had to go through an intensive beauty routine.

    "Is it almost done yet?" she groaned when Yanxi washed off the current mask, only to put another type on.

    Li Xueyue had lost count of how many times she was pampered with skincare. It started with a milk bath, then a y mask, and then she was finally cleaned off. Next came the hair care routine.

    Her hair was thoroughly washed,bed, and sprinkled with some sort of aromatic oil. Her lips were rubbed with sugar crystals and lemon. The beauty steps went on and on.

    "Almost done, Princess," Yanxi patiently said whilst braiding the Princess''s hair to keep it in ce.

    After an incense stick had burned to the end, Yanxi proceeded to wash the face mask off of the Princess. Next, she ced a hot towel over the Princess''s face and the beauty routine continued onwards.

    By the time everything was finished, Li Xueyue was exhausted. Her skin was soft and dewy, much like the hazy moon on a quiet night. She let out a small sigh of relief when everyone finally left her room, except for Yanxi.

    "I just don''t understand how anyone can endure all of that," Li Xueyue mumbled to Yanxi who prepared the bed.

    Yanxi softly smiled at the Princess''s words. "The Crown Prince had ordered for us to prepare you to the best of our abilities, Princess."

    Li Xueyue blinked. She didn''t mean toin so much. Yu Zhen must''ve done it for her own good. He was always worried about her. It was strange.

    Why was everyone so concerned with her wellbeing? It wasn''t like she couldn''t take care of herself.

    She shook the thoughts out of her head and approached the freshly made bed. Li Xueyue slid in and a small sigh of pleasure escaped her. She sank into her bed, tired from such a long day.

    "Good night, Princess," Yanxi murmured.

    Yanxi approached the lit candles in the room and blew them out one by one, leaving only two litnterns at each door which would provide enough light in the darkness, but not enough to disrupt Xueyue''s sleep.

    Yanxi took a final nce in the Princess''s direction. Upon seeing the young woman was sound asleep, she quietly slipped out of the room.

    - - - - -

    In the dead of the night, a silhouette breezed through the Crown Princess''s estate. His footsteps were light, yet powerful.

    He moved with determined stealth. Not a single sound could be heard in the silent night. Not even the crickets chirped, or the trees swayed.

    Moonlight seeped through the open hallway, creating a path for the man to stalk through. The only thing that could be seen was his shadow. Not a singlentern was in hand.

    "Y-your Highness," the guards greeted in an astonished voice. They quickly bowed their head and dropped to their knees.

    "You didn''t see me tonight," Yu Zhenmanded.

    The guards rapidly nodded their heads.

    "We understand, Your Highness," they replied in unison.

    The guards were wise enough not to gossip, especially about the Crown Prince. Everyone knew he wouldn''t hesitate to cut off useless tongues.

    The guards opened the door for Yu Zhen who stepped inside and closed it. Through the darkness of her bedroom, he advanced forward, passing through one door after the other until he finally found her bed.

    A chilly breeze drifted through her open window. It wasn''t as cold as his frigid soul, that was for sure. But it was enough to make him frown.

    "You''ll catch a cold," he muttered under his breath.

    The pale moonlight shined upon Li Xueyue. She glowed like an ethereal being not meant for this world.

    Upon seeing she was peacefully asleep, Yu Zhen let out a sigh. He didn''t realize he had been holding his anxiety in. His intention for visiting her was no more than a simple check-up.

    "You''re sleeping well tonight," Yu Zhen said to no one in particr. His voice was barely above a whisper¡ªlike the spirits that wandered the halls during midnight.

    Yu Zhen was tired from the afternoon''s work but seeing her safe and sound was enough for him. He approached her bed and sat by the edge. The moonlight revealed her soft features perfectly.

    Then Yu Zhen frowned. She was crying.

    He reached down and brushed the hair out of her face, revealing her soft cheeks. It was moistened with tears. He thought she was peacefully asleep, but it seemed not. Her brows were pulled together, forming creases on her forehead. She didn''t sob or sniff.

    It was a silent pain reserved for the dead of the night.

    Yu Zhen wiped her tears away and adjusted her nkets.

    "Don''t¡­" she mumbled, pushing at the suffocating material.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her wrists before she did anything else. What was she dreaming about? Who dared to haunt her nightmares? He ced her hands into the nket and continued to tuck her in.

    "... touch me¡­"

    Yu Zhen''s expression darkened. Don''t touch me? Who the hell was in her dream? She struggled against the nkets, kicking and writhing.

    Yu Zhen didn''t know what to do. He could only watch as her face became more angst.

    "I''ll kill them," he seethed.

    She froze.

    He paused.

    Did that work? Yu Zhen peered down at her face. It had softened into confusion.

    "That''s right, my Little Hamster," Yu Zhen softly muttered. "Anyone who dares to touch you will be killed."

    Her brows knitted together at his words. Was she awake? Or was she slipping in and out of consciousness? None of that mattered to him.

    Yu Zhen slipped his thumb in between her clenched fingers. He grasped her hand between his. Bending low, he quietly whispered, "So tell me Sunshine, who exactly touched you?"

    Silence ensued. She didn''t utter another word.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. Was it a simple nightmare? Or a recollection of a memory? He didn''t know. But she was much calmer now. Her tense shoulders had rxed, much like her facial features.

    He let out a small sigh of relief. The nightmare had passed. She didn''t wake up in tears this time. Nor did she scream herself awake. He was fearful she would wake up all alone, in this dark, sullen room.

    "Everything will be okay, Sunshine," Yu Zhenforted. He lifted the nket up to her chin and patted her again and again until he was certain the nightmare would be a blissful dream.

    That night, he remained in her room, watching over her, making sure nothing went amiss. His sleep didn''t matter if she couldn''t have a peaceful one.

    Yu Zhen remained by her side, a silent silhouette in the darkness. He sat there until his shoulders were numb from peering down. The only time he moved was to readjust her nket.

    Only when the night dispelled into the morning, by the pale blue of the rising sun, did he finally slip out of her room¡ªunseen.

 Chapter 328 An Obsession

    <h4>Chapter 328 An Obsession</h4>

    The next day, Li Xueyue was dressed to the nines. Her hair was woven into an intricate style that resembled a blooming flower. Its beauty was enhanced by a variety of small hairpins ranging from emerald to pearls andrger ones in the form of flowers were shaped near the bun.

    Her hanfu was a fluttering white, woven with silver and gold but theyers underneath her sleeves were cerulean blue. With each step she took, it gave people a sneak peek of her matching-colored shoes.

    Li Xueyue felt her heart drum with anticipation. She took the first step upon the bright red carpet and advanced forward. Every step felt heavier than the one before. She was outside of the Throne Room but could feel everyone''s attention on her.

    "Announcing the arrival of Princess Li Xueyue of Wuyi," a Eunuch loudly announced.

    Li Xueyue kept her head up and eyes forward¡ªeven when the Ministers scrutinized her from head to toe, searching for a w. She raised her chin and continued advancing towards the throne.

    She met the steady gaze of Yu Zhen who revealed a smirk at the sight of her. She was stunning, even from afar¡ªa vision to behold, one that mesmerized anyone whoid eyes on her. Without a doubt, the Ministers were awestruck. But she wouldn''t have known that.

    "Greetings to the Emperor and Empress of Hanjian," she stated with a bow of her head. She was mindful to bow at the right angle¡ªneither too low or not low enough.

    Li Xueyue was surprised to hear a slight cough but didn''t raise her head.

    "Rise, Princess Li," the Emperor of Hanjian stated.

    He suppressed another cough but a small one slipped out.

    Li Xueyue lifted her gaze from the floor to look up at him. Unlike her father, the Emperor of Hanjian seemed exhausted and unwell. His skin was darkened with sickness and his voice slightly cracked.

    But Li Xueyue knew this man must''ve had a prominent presence in his youth. It must''ve diminished from whatever illness he was suffering with. Her gaze lingered upon his long beard that was well-kept.

    "Oh my, I can see why the Crown Prince stayed longer than anticipated in Wuyi," the Emperor said and chuckled, but it sounded like a chortle.

    Li Xueyue wondered if it was risky for him to be out here instead of resting in his bedroom. He seemed rather sick. From the corner of her eyes, she noticed someone standing at the end of the Throne Room. It was an elderly man dressed in humble attire. Perhaps the Imperial Physician?

    "I''ve heard many things about you, Princess Li," the Emperor of Hanjian stated.

    Li Xueyue''s expression didn''t change. It was calm and patient, waiting for his next words. But there was a slight curve to her lips¡ªnatural or not.

    "I am curious, of course, of how a littledy such as yourself was able to speak her way out of bing a candidate to be sent to Hanjian," he said.

    "Why are you so silent?" he wondered out loud, offering an amused smile.

    Li Xueyue could tell he was testing her. Hisments weren''t provocative but she heard the underlying threat from within it. The Emperor wanted to know if she was strong-natured enough to hold her tongue.

    "Hmmm¡­" the Emperor hummed, observing the young woman in front of him. Indeed, her beauty was just as the rumors had stated.

    But that wasn''t her best feature. It was her eyes, clear and keen, like a reflective pond. She allowed people to see only what she wanted them to.

    "Do you love the Crown Prince?" he abruptly asked, gauging her reaction. Not even a flinch.

    Instead, she reacted with her eyes that softened at the mention of him. The smallest smile formed on her face. She didn''t have to say it but it was written all over her forehead.

    The Emperor smiled at this. "What type of rtionship do you expect to have with the Crown Prince? Many women have said they have as much love for the Crown Prince as there are droplets in the ocean."

    Li Xueyue was caught off guard by these unexpected questions. It felt like she was being tested for the role of the Crown Princess. She knew Yu Zhen had many admirers but who was courageous enough to make that statement? Nheless, she pushed the thoughts out of her head.

    "Your Majesty, that is not love¡ªit''s an obsession. A love that drowns oceans is not my intent."

    She was surprised by a loudugh that rang throughout the Throne Room. The Emperor of Hanjian was amused, yet impressed by her words. It was the first time she had said something, yet it was poetic.

    He observed the reaction of his Ministers who were taken aback by her words. A few even seemed captivated by her voice, powerful and sure of herself.

    "As you know, Hanjian does not favor harems, but what if the Crown Prince takes another wife or two more after you, what shall you do?" he questioned.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. What else was she supposed to do?

    "Are you willing to be a flower that innocently dies in the pce after being reced by better ones?" he asked.

    "A flower does not die. They simply wilt and wait to regrow."

    The Emperor chuckled at her words. Now, he could see it; exactly what qualities made her shine.

    "I am pleased that someone as wise as you will be joining the family," the Emperor dered.

    Murmurs of agreement from the Ministers followed after. They quietly whispered amongst themselves. They were curious to see the limit of her wits.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened a bit. Did this mean he approved of her? Her gaze traveled to Yu Zhen who was the only one that read her expression. He gave her a nod so slightly, only she noticed it.

    "I hope you bear lovely heirs for the Crown Prince," the Empress finally spoke up.

    She scrutinized the woman in front of her. This girl was wise beyond her years as if she had experiences dealing with authoritative figures.

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched. She didn''t want to just be a birth giver. She wanted more than that.

    "You seem hesitant," the Empress coyly said. "Why is that?"

    "Your Grace, is that all a woman is worth¡­?" Li Xueyue''s tone was gentle as if she was hesitant to question such a thing. Even her features showed her uncertainty.

    The Empress saw beyond the act. She was stunned by the question, so much so, that she hadn''t realized how audacious Li Xueyue was.

    For some reason¡­ this Princess reminded her of herself¡ªwise, but washed away by the pce''s cruelty.

    The Empress''s red lips tilted into a smile. She was interested in seeing Li Xueyue''s capabilities.

    If the young Princess properly used the weapon between her legs to get what she wanted¡­ perhaps, Li Xueyue wouldn''t have to live the same life as the Empress who wanted to rule Hanjian through her children.

    "What a unique question to ask," the Empress stated.

    Li Xueyue smiled and bowed her head. "You''re too kind, Your Grace."

    The Empress raised a brow. She had purposely made a jab disguised as apliment.

    Did the Princess truly not realize the insult? But then realization dawned on her. When Li Xueyue raised her head, there was a fiery glint in her eyes as if she was ready to ept any challenge thrown her way.

    "I look forward to what you can offer besides heirs, Li Xueyue," she said.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened. She slowly nodded her head and dipped into a curtsey, knowing the discussion hade to an end.

 Chapter 329 Something to Protec

    <h4>Chapter 329 Something to Protec</h4>

    The Emperor peered down at the Crown Princess. She met all of his expectations, but more than that, he wanted to see exactly what she could offer.

    "You''ve been standing for a while now. Why don''t you take a seat?" It seemed like a suggestion, but it sounded more like amand.

    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Li Xueyue warmly said.

    Her eyesnded upon the empty seat beside Yu Zhen. It was then she noticed the First Prince and other Princesses weren''t present.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue made her way up the golden stairs. Guards were stationed at the first step, and another set of guards could be seen at the top of the stairs leading to the tform.

    The Emperor''s throne was right in the center of the tform and everyone else sat on either side of the throne. The seats were spaced out by about an arm''s length away from each other.

    "Here," Yu Zhen stated whilst offering her a hand when she approached him.

    A loud silence ensued in the court but the couple didn''t notice.

    "Thank you," she warmly responded.

    Li Xueyue smiled and slid her hand onto his open palm. She sat down with his help. Upon feeling the pressurizing stares upon the rest, she shifted her attention to the stunned Ministers who were watching her and Yu Zhen in silence.

    Did something happen?

    She blinked and in an instant, they were either looking at the ceiling or the floor. She turned her head and caught Yu Zhen sending the Ministers a scathing re. And if looks could kill, they''d be dead.

    "Ignore them," Yu Zhen solemnly said. Curiosity shed in her eyes and he smiled.

    Li Xueyue supposed nothing was wrong. She silently nodded,pletely unaware that the Imperial Family had their eyes on them.

    The Emperor had never witnessed this type of affection from his son. The brooding man rarely smiled unless it was with wicked intent. His re was always fierce and dark.

    But when the Crown Prince peered at the Princess, his gaze softened and adoration filled his expression.

    "Hmmm¡­" the Emperor hummed.

    It was a surprising turn of events, even to the Emperor. He continued to observe the pair. His stare shifted to his wife who was equally as surprised to see their son''s gentleness. Even now, Yu Zhen hadn''t released the Princess''s hand.

    "How interesting," the Emperor murmured before shifting in his throne.

    It would be a long day ahead of him and he''d need to getfortable. After all, this would be one of hisst few moments on the throne.

    The Emperor turned his chin to his side where a man of simr age stood. Chancellor Wu had grown up with the Emperor, just like their children had.

    "Let the appointments begin," he stated to Chancellor Wu.

    Chancellor Wu bowed his head, despite the years of familiarity between them.

    In a quiet, but firm voice, he said, "As you wish, Your Majesty."

    Chancellor Wu sharply turned to the Eunuch who announced the start of the court proceedings.

    - - - - -

    It was Li Xueyue''s first experience in an official court setting. As she observed how the Emperor managed the court, she couldn''t help butpare him to thete Emperor Fadong. Things were different around here. The workload wasn''t pushed onto the Prime Minister.

    "Is that so?" the Emperor said after listening to the problem. He rubbed his long beard and paused.

    She watched in awe as the Emperor thoughtfully listened to the troubles presented to him. He would spend a few minutes to seriously ponder about the issue ande up with a solution for the problem. Heughed when needed and frowned when expected.

    There was something else that Li Xueyue noticed. Sometimes, before the Emperor coulde up with a solution, Yu Zhen would''ve alreadye up with a written solution and present it to his father. He was a lot faster than his father and worked rather efficiently.

    When the Emperor had his reservations over certain issues, Yu Zhen would step in and offer his insights. The minute the Emperor struggled, Yu Zhen was there to offer his support.

    "I saw a different side of you today," Li Xueyue stated when the day finally came to an end. Her shoulders were sore from sitting in court all day.

    "Did you?" Yu Zhen mused.

    He reached out and fondly stroked the back of her head. He frowned when his fingers grazed upon her hairpin. He preferred her in a simpler hairstyle.

    "Is this heavy?" he asked, gesturing to her hair adorned with an assortment of hair essories. Some hung from the top of her head, cascading down.

    Li Xueyue slightly nodded. Her essories swayed with the small movement.

    "Next time, Sunshine, I''ll make sure you wear something morefortable," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue found it amusing that he seemed bothered when it was just a few hairpins. Nheless, she nodded in agreement.

    "Was it interesting?" a voice asked from behind them.

    Yu Zhen held back the frown on his face. He wanted to whisk Li Xueyue out of here as soon as possible but it seemed like they''d be dyed by the damn elders.

    He turned around and stood in front of Li Xueyue.

    "I see you''ve finally found something to protect," the Emperor stated.

    Yu Zhen felt a small tug at his sleeve. And before he knew it, Li Xueyue took the initiative to step out of his protective shadow.

    Li Xueyue was surprised to see the warm gaze of the Emperor settle upon her. He seemed like a stern man with a wrinkled face, but his eyes said otherwise.

    She wondered why there were so many rumors circting about his horrid treatment towards the two Princes.

    "She''s my Wangfei. If I don''t protect her, who else should I protect?" Yu Zhen coldly said, grabbing her wrist before she could dip in a greeting curtsey.

    Li Xueyue''s heart dropped. The rumors must be true. The second the Emperor nced at his son, his stare became stoic. It was then she realized the Emperor must''ve pampered his daughters, and disciplined his sons.

    "Your tone is as disrespectful as ever," the Emperor hissed.

    "I''d prefer not to put a mask around you."

    The Emperor pressed his lips together and narrowed his eyes. His second son had a point.

    The Emperor supposed this was one of Yu Zhen''s redeemable traits. His son never faltered for anyone. Never yielded. Never submitted. Not even to the Emperor of Hanjian.

    The Emperor decided to ignore his son for now. He shifted his attention to the Princess. He had noticed how inquisitive she appeared the entire time.

    Instead of boredly staring into space, daydreaming of a ce beyond the Throne Room, she was attentive and observant.

    "Did you enjoy today''s audience, Little Princess?" the Emperor questioned.

    "It''s my first time witnessing it," Li Xueyue responded. "It was thought-provoking, Your Majesty."

    The Emperor raised a brow at her words. She could''ve given him a nd response and called it a day. But she didn''t.

    He was entertained. The Little Princess sure knew how to spin things to her favor. Finishing the blow, her lips curved into a hesitant smile that softened her eyes.

    He wondered exactly who trained her to be like this. Li Xueyue was the daughter of a Prime Minister and a Princess.

    The world must''ve been her sandbox. It was strange. She was neither spoiled or haughty. It was a contrast to his daughters who were loud and demanding.

    "Really now? What did you learn from this experience, Little Princess?" the Emperor asked.

    "How to be a strict ruler."

    It was the first time the Emperor had seen a w in her. She had forgotten to address him with the correct title, but he brushed it off. Especially because of the looming tiger near her.

    The Crown Prince hovered near her, protective and possessive. Anyone that hurt his lover would be mauled.

    The Emperor almost found itughable. He had never seen his son like this. It was a new experience for him.

    "Your words sound like ndpliments," the Emperor deadpanned.

    Oh ho, ho, his son had glowered at him. Despite being so young, the Crown Prince''s presence was overwhelming. He could practically see the ck wisps circling around his son.

    "It wasn''t meant to be apliment, Your Majesty," Li Xueyue mused.

    The Emperor raised a brow. She was finally showing this side of her, bold and audacious. Instead of being offended, he wanted to hear more¡ªto see the extent of her wits.

    Instead of continuing, her lips pulled into a serene smile. She innocently blinked her eyes. It softened the blow of her words, soothing any ill-feelings the other person might have.

    The Emperor''s tired eyes widened a bit. He had just seen a different side to her. If the Pce had a harem, Li Xueyue would surely rule it.

    She reminded him of a type of nt called bedonna¡ªbeautiful on the outside, but deadly on the inside.

    "Now, I know why you are the favored Princess of Wuyi," the Emperor said with a loudugh.

    The Ministers were spooked by the sound. Their Emperor''sugh was warm and he sounded highly amused. It was one of the rare moments the Ministers saw the Emperor so happy over something. And the majority of them had worked with the Emperor for more than half of their lives.

    Their gazes traveled to who he was conversing with. Everyone was surprised to see it was the Crown Princess.

    The Ministers exchanged nces with each other as whispers began to erupt amongst themselves. Not only had the Crown Princess just gained the Emperor''s favor, but she was beginning to garner the respect of the Ministers as well.

 Chapter 330 Eating With Other People

    <h4>Chapter 330 Eating With Other People</h4>

    When the Emperor and the Empress finally left, Yu Zhen guided Li Xueyue back to her estate. They walked infortable silence, hand in hand.

    "You didn''t let out a sigh of relief," he pointed out.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She turned to look at him and shielded her eyes. The sun shoneshined directly upon him. The light cascaded upon him, bright and blinding, until everyone was forced to look away.

    Li Xueyue knew she would forever be awestruck of him. His prominent features were hard to ignore. He was truly a masterpiece.

    "I wasn''t anxious the entire time, so there was nothing to be relieved about¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off when he began to caress the side of her face.

    She blinked in confusion. For a split second there, she thought he was mesmerized by something. But she brushed it off. It must''ve been a trick of the light.

    "You look lovely, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped up at his words. She rarely heardpliments like this.

    "Pft," Yu Zhen let out a chuckle. He released her hand and pulled her close. "Why do you seem so surprised?"

    Yu Zhen was worried when he saw her nk stare. He wanted to grab her attention but her mind was elsewhere. He gave a harsh tug until her palm was pressed against his chest.

    "Are you just going to ignore me¡ª"

    "I''ve rarely beenplimented¡­" Li Xueyue murmured.

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, hating the fact that she had to admit to something so embarrassing. And even if people didpliment her, she wouldn''t believe it. The Bai Family had instilled those thoughts into her.

    "That''s impossible," Yu Zhen grunted. He grabbed her hand and pressed a small kiss against her fingertips.

    "Every part of you is wless. Don''t you realize it?" he demanded.

    Yu Zhen felt a strange ache in his chest when she slowly shook her head.

    Li Xueyue was a vision to behold. How could she not see it? The way people stopped to stare and admire her beauty. The rush in men''s eyes when she stepped into their line of sight. It was so obvious that even he noticed it.

    "No¡ª"

    "Well then, I''ll remind you every day of your beauty and perfection until you finally realize it yourself," Yu Zhen vowed.

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. She didn''t believe he would burden himself with this task. And if only she''d know, he''d do just that.

    - - - - -

    When Li Xueyue returned to her room, it was alreadyte in the evening. The audience in the throne room had taken up the entire morning and parts of the afternoon.

    "Finally." She let out a sigh.

    Yanxi removed thest piece of hair essory and helped release the Princess''s hair from the flower bun.

    The other maidservants rushed to prepare the Princess''s bath.

    Li Xueyue''s shoulder rxed upon stepping into therge wooden tub. One handmaiden massaged her tense body whilst the others sprinkled the rose petals and ensured the temperature was perfect.

    It didn''t take long for her to be cleaned, thoroughly dried off and changed into a sleeping gown.

    "Your dinner is ready, Princess," Yanxi stated just as the Crown Princess emerged from the bathing station.

    The doors behind her were closed by a maidservant.

    "The Crown Prince isn''t joining me?" Li Xueyue asked.

    She stepped forward and peered down at the dishes. Delectable scents filled her nostrils but she wasn''t hungry.

    Li Xueyue had a big lunch with Yu Zhen. Once they took a break for lunch in the afternoon, he ensured she was eating sufficiently. In front of him, she returned to her usual glutinous self.

    But now that she was eating alone, it was different. She was no longer hungry.

    Li Xueyue wondered exactly why. She thought back to the times she''d eat more than two bowls of rice.

    A smile formed when she recalled fond memories of fighting Li Wenmin. Oddly enough, they shared the same taste in food and favorite dishes. She supposed eating with other people made the meal enjoyable.

    "Unfortunately not, Princess Li," Yanxi responded.

    Yanxi was worried for the Princess. She noticed the Princess always had a great appetite around the Crown Prince.

    But when alone, the Princess would take small nibbles of food, then dere she was full.

    Often, the Princess would tell the servants to take the dishes and share it amongst themselves. It was a kind and thoughtful gesture, but it made Yanxi fret over the Princess''s wellbeing.

    Tonightday was no different. A few minutes after eating, the Crown Princess settled down her utensils.

    "I''m full," Li Xueyue stated. "There is still a lot of food left behind. Please have the maidservants enjoy it amongst themselves."

    "Princess¡­" Yanxi trailed off. "This morning, the Crown Prince has ordered us to make sure you to finish at least one bowl of rice."

    Li Xueyue''s lips curved downwards. But she wasn''t hungry. Her rice bowl was still full and she had mainly drank the soup.

    "I''ll speak to the Crown Prince about this," Li Xueyue said.

    "Please, Princess, this bowl of rice must be emptied or else all of the servants will be thoroughly punished," Yanxi pleaded.

    Li Xueyue scowled at this. Yu Zhen, that brute! She red down at the bowl of rice, her stomach churning ufortably.

    "Where is the Crown Prince?" Li Xueyue questioned whilst standing up.

    "Princess, he''s currently upied with work," Yanxi responded with sped hands.

    She took a nce towards the slightly touched bowl of rice. Not even children ate that little.

    Yanxi wasn''t just worried about the servants'' lives, but also the Crown Princess. Yanxi had always ensured everyone was well-fed, especially the children.

    She felt like it was her duty to ensure the Crown Princess wouldn''t go hungry, even if it was an unlikely possibility.

    "Take me to him," Li Xueyue stated.

    Yanxi hesitated. "The food¡ª"

    "It''s alright, Yanxi, I''ll make sure he doesn''t touch my people," Li Xueyueforted. She didn''t know she had misunderstood Yanxi''s concern.

    "If we visit the Crown Prince, he will surely question whether you ate properly or not. Before we give him a reason to deny your request, wouldn''t it be best to address the problem first?" Yanxi offered.

    Yanxi knew her life was at risk for being bold with her words today. She had ignored themand of an authoritative figure.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to argue any longer. She knew Yanxi would continue to fret and worry. She held back a sigh and sat down, finishing half the bowl of rice, plus another bowl of soup.

    Yanxi wasn''t satisfied by the amount of food consumed but didn''t want toin any longer.

    At least the Princess had two bowls of the nutritious broth. Yanxi had specifically made sure the chef added all sorts of nutritious ingredients into the soup, hoping that it would replenish the Princess''s strength.

    "Alright, let''s go and see him," Li Xueyue said after taking a sip of the Jasmine tea. It cleaned her palette until she tasted nothing but the sweet flower.

    "Oh wait," she spoke up.

    Yanxi was surprised when the Princess suddenly stood up and left the dining room. A minuteter, she returned.

    "Alright, lead the way," Li Xueyue said.

    Yanxi reluctantly guided the Crown Princess to the Second Prince''s private study. It was a ce that seemed empty to the eye where only a handful of guards could be seen. But there was much more than what meets the eye.

    Yanxi knew there were many more guards hidden in the shadows. Whether it was upon the ceilings, hidden in the darkness, or between the walls.

    "No need to announce my arrival," Li Xueyue told the Eunuch. "I''ll surprise him."

    The Eunuch hesitated. He was supposed to knock first, then enter the room to check if the guest would be allowed in. Not many people were granted ess to the Crown Prince''s heavily-guarded private study.

    "I apologize, Princess, but the protocol¡­" the Eunuch trailed off, his eyes growingrger than the moon outside.

    He couldn''t help his jaw from dropping in pure shock.

    Dangling between the Crown Princess''s fingertips was a prominent b of obsidian. To be exact, the Crown Prince''s pendant.

    The Eunuch bowed as deep as his upper body would allow him to. Words couldn''t describe just how powerful the item she possessed. The Eunuch didn''t dare to deny her of the request to enter without permission.

    After all, she possessed the Crown Prince''s pendant. Not even the Emperor himself had given his namete to the Empress. Though Hanjian didn''t have this tradition, it was still a momentous course of action.

    "V-very well, Princess Li," the Eunuch stuttered out. He had always regarded her with respect, but seeing the pendant solidified it.

    The Crown Princess was not someone to be trifled with. She wasn''t the Crown Prince''s fiancee in name.

    Li Xueyue didn''t think the pendant woulde in handy but was grateful for it. Before leaving the room, she had a suspicion she''d need it. Thus, she had taken it from the drawers prior to exiting the room.

    Li Xueyue nced up at the enormous doors looming over her. There was a tiger head on either side of the door, meant for knocking.

    "How pretty," shemented.

    Pretty? The Eunuch was thrown off by her words. What could be so pretty about freightsome tigers? They were beasts who could tear the limbs off of people!

    Nheless, the Eunuch bowed his head.

    "Princess, let me help you open the doors," the Eunuch offered.

    The Eunuch was mindful of his tone, never daring to raise it in fear of disturbing the Crown Prince or ruining the surprise.

    After receiving a solid nod from the Crown Princess, the Eunuch opened the door. He was surprised when a loud thud was heard throughout the hallways. The pendant had slipped out of the Crown Princess''s hand, falling onto the floor.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t control her face, nor her reaction. When your lover''s face was close to another woman''s, who could?

 Chapter 331 Seen Everything

    <h4>Chapter 331 Seen Everything</h4>

    Yu Zhen frowned down at the book in his hands. He knew he shouldn''t have trusted Hu Dengxiao with things rted to understanding women.

    Letting out an irritable sigh, Yu Zhen mmed the book onto the table. What a waste of time. Reading love stories? Maybe that was why Hu Dengxiao wasn''t able to win Lu Tianbi''s heart.

    "I don''t have time for this," Yu Zhen seethed, even though no one was in the room.

    Yu Zhen had finally finished thest piece of work, thereby freeing up his schedule for the next two weeks.

    Originally, he thought reading the book would give his mind a break, but he found himself worked up over how stupid and unrealistic the story was.

    "Did she eat already?" he thought out loud.

    Yu Zhen wondered if it was time for Li Xueyue''s dinner. By now, she should be mid-meal, shouldn''t she? At the thought of her, his worries went away. She was eating well nowadays. Or at least, in front of him, she was.

    An abrupt knock on his door interrupted his thoughts. His lips curled into a permanent scowl.

    "What?" he demanded.

    The door opened slowly and a Eunuch stepped inside. He got to his knees and kowtowed, his forehead nearly touched the floor.

    "Your Highness, Lady Xu Jiaqi is urgently requesting your audience," the Eunuch announced, his voiceing out slightly muffled.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. What the hell did she want from him?

    "Don''t let her in."

    The Eunuch didn''t hesitate. He nodded his head, but it was toote. She had ignored the protocols and pushed her way through the door, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "Lady Xu!" the Eunuch eximed, horrified at her audacity.

    The guards stepped forward, prepared to grab her. But the Crown Prince lifted his head and waved his hand. It wasn''t an exact invitation for her toe inside, nor was it amand to drag her out.

    The guard wondered if the Crown Prince was just pitying this woman who had the guts to barge in like this. They saw the wave as a dismissal.

    They bowed their heads and respectively closed the door behind them.

    "Is it true, Your Highness?" she asked. Her voice cracked and she seemed to be on the verge of tears.

    Yu Zhen glowered at her. He hated crying women. He hated their nasal voice, the sobs and sniffs. All of it irritated him.

    So many have cried to him, hoping he''d have a soft spot for them. It wasn''t until he met Li Xueyue that he found himself softening for a woman. Everything felt natural when it came to her.

    His hands always moved on its own, his mouth whispering sweet words on its own ord.

    "I''m so sorry for barging in, Your Highness, b-but I heard an urgent piece of information," Xu Jiaqi blurted out.

    She gathered the ends of her heavy hanfu and stepped forward, her eyes moistened.

    Yu Zhen was slightly intrigued. "What did you hear?"

    "I-I didn''t think it was true," Xu Jiaqi whispered. She nced towards the floor, despite having predicted the oue of this situation.

    Xu Jiaqi knew she was being used by Yu Zhen. For heaven''s sake, she was there to witness it herself. She knew Li Xueyue would be the Crown Princess, but a small part of her had hoped thetter wouldn''t.

    Xu Jiaqi came to know about the events that happened today¡ªhow the Emperor and Empress tested Li Xueyue and how Li Xueyue had passed their test with flying colors. It is without a doubt that Li Xueyue would be the Crown Princess of Hanjian.

    "Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi stated as she stepped forward.

    She shuddered at the murderous re of the Crown Prince. It was enough for her to be frozen to the ground. Chills crawled down her spine.

    "Allow me to abandon my dignity and pride for you," Xu Jiaqi whispered. She continued walking towards his workspace.

    Abruptly, she dropped to her knees.

    "Your Highness, I am willing to devote my life to you, for you have saved me from a life of despair," Xu Jiaqi boldly articted and ced a hand upon her chest, ignoring the fact that he was ready to kill her.

    "Please¡­" Xu Jiaqi lowered her head. "Take me as your concubine."

    Yu Zhen''s mood worsened. A snarl formed on his lips. Concubine? This woman had truly lost her mind.

    And then she huped.

    He scowled. Was she drunk?

    Xu Jiaqi raised her eyes, revealing the sincerity that poured from it. "I am not a greedy woman for power, Your Highness. I only want to be of use to you."

    Yu Zhen was repulsed by her confession. She wasn''t in the right state of mind. Neither did he need a concubine to satisfy him. Li Xueyue was far more than enough.

    Besides, Xu Jiaqi''s face was flushed red, indicating the influence of something on her gutsy confession.

    "Get out."

    "Your Highness¡ª"

    "You can leave on your own." Yu Zhen slowly stood up.

    Xu Jiaqi felt her heart drum in anticipation. What was he going to do? She watched as he stepped away from his workspace.

    Her stomach churned at the sight of him. He was handsome beyond words¡ªeven when a dark shadow danced over his features, and indignation shed in his eyes.

    Xu Jiaqi shivered when she met his gaze for the briefest of seconds. She stared up at him, helpless and weak, like a trampled flower dreaming of the sky.

    "Or," he mused. "You''ll be dragged out of here, screaming and kicking."

    Xu Jiaqi''s throat dried at his words. He was ever so cruel, wasn''t he? But she had heard the rumors.

    The Crown Prince was capable of showing affection. She had heard the servants'' gossip of his gentle gaze for the Crown Princess.

    "I''m willing to do anything for you, Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi whispered. "Whether it''s ying the double agent for the Empress, or¡ª"

    "You''re drunk."

    "A drunk mind speaks a sober heart, Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi rushed out.

    Was she drunk? She wasn''t sure. Her body hummed and her brain tingled. But it was a normal reaction around him. Wasn''t it?

    Yu Zhen couldn''t be more repulsed at this sight.

    The eldest daughter of the Xu Family was willing to give her everything to him, but he didn''t want it. Perhaps, a year ago, he would''ve considered it. She was a tempting offer, a pawn in his game.

    "I won''t repeat myself," he growled.

    "Then let me repeat myself, Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi stated. She refused to leave this room without taking a yes for an answer.

    Xu Jiaqi had made up her mind. She wanted to stay by the Crown Prince''s side. Even if he had forgotten her, she would still do it. Even if he had forgotten their childhood, she would still do it.

    Xu Jiaqi wanted the Crown Prince. No one else. Not because he treated her differently, but because he had saved her life three times. Wasn''t it fate? Wasn''t it destiny?

    Xu Jiaqi knew she had a duty to save her family line. To bring honor back to the Xu Family name. But they had never cared for her. So why should she care for them?

    "Please take me as your concubine, Your Highness. Please allow me to stay by your side. Dignity and pride do not matter to me," Xu Jiaqi said.

    She rose to her feet, her heart skipping when she saw his expression shift. Was he surprised by her determination? Surprised that she had stood up so quickly?

    "Please consider¡ª" Xu Jiaqi''s voice died in her throat.

    Yu Zhen roughly yanked her by the cor, pulling her forward. He red down at this despicable woman. Tomorrow, she would forget this ever urred. She''d wake up puzzled. Her life would resume as usual.

    The Crown Prince never owed favors to anyone. He never lent a helping hand unless it was beneficial to him.

    Yu Zhen only pardoned Xu Jiaqi because her circumstances reminded him of Li Xueyue. That was the only reason why he''d spare Xu Jiaqi another look.

    "Do you not value your life?" Yu Zhen snarled.

    "No," Xu Jiaqi whispered with a shake of her head.

    Her hands trembled at the intensity of his re. Her knees threatened to give out from under her.

    Xu Jiaqi had never been this close to the Crown Prince before. She couldn''t even see the specks of color in his eyes. He looked inhumane.

    The eyes of a monster stared back at her. Even so, her heart skipped a beat and her gaze shifted to his lips, perfect and smooth.

    "You may not care or remember it, but you have saved my life three times now, Your Highness. The only reason I am still alive to this day is because of you," Xu Jiaqi whispered.

    Whether it was the effects of the alcohol or her blind courage, she boldly rested her hand upon his chest.

    "If I can''t be of use to you, Your Highness, then please dispose of me. I will not yearn for power or wealth. I want nothing but your attention, even if it''s as brief as petals cascading to the ground."

    Yu Zhen grabbed her wandering hands. "You repulse me¡ª"

    A loud thud interrupted his words. His infuriated re instantly snapped to the door.

    His eyes grew wide when he saw her. She was pale and her eyes were wide, trembling in disbelief. And it didn''t take long for him to realize howpromising his position was. But all of that was toote, wasn''t it?

    Li Xueyue had seen everything.

 Chapter 332 Stay

    <h4>Chapter 332 Stay</h4>

    Li Xueyue felt a familiar ache in her heart. It reminded her of the time she found Bai Tianai and Zheng Leiyu together. Years have passed since that incident, but the pain could never be forgotten. It crawled out from the depths of her mind, gnawing at her trembling heart.

    She let out a shaky breath and took a hesitant step backward. She wanted to run, but where? She wanted to yell, but how? When her eyes met his eyes, he dropped his hands.

    "Well, this is an interesting sight," Li Xueyue wryly said. She hugged her stomach and stared at the familiar woman.

    "Sunshine," Yu Zhen murmured.

    Yu Zhenpletely abandoned Xu Jiaqi. He rushed to Xueyue who stood by the entrance. He reached out to grab her, knowing she must be shocked by this scene.

    Li Xueyue let him touch her. She could see the hope soar in his eyes, only to die down.

    "Let me exin," Yu Zhen muttered. His hands rested upon her shoulders, hoping tofort her. She seemed cold, despite the heavy shawl she wore over her hanfu. He pulled her into the room and closed the door behind him.

    "Don''t look so heartbroken, Sunshine," Yu Zhen stated. She stared at him nkly, her eyes numbed with pain.

    "How many concubines will you take?" Li Xueyue coldly asked.

    "None."

    "Yeah right."

    Yu Zhen frowned. "Have I ever lied to you?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. Had he? She wanted to peer over his shoulders, but couldn''t. Hisrge frame towered over her. He was her shield, but also the barricade that held her back.

    "Then, who is she?" Li Xueyue asked, pointing to Xu Jiaqi who was in shock. Taking Li Xueyue by absolute surprise, the beautiful woman lowered her head in a bow.

    "Crown Princess," Xu Jiaqi greeted as she sank onto the floor in greeting. "It is unfortunate that we have to meet like this."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She could see right through this woman''s act. Obedient for now, but untamableter.

    "My name is Xu Jiaqi. I didn''t mean for us to meet in such an awkward manner, but next time, your eyes won''t be sullied¡ª"

    "Next time?" Li Xueyue sharply repeated. "Raise your head."

    Xu Jiaqi did so with confusion. Why did the Crown Princess sound so irritated? She slowly raised her head. People have whispered of the Princess of Wuyi''s beauty but she didn''t see it. In her eyes, Li Xueyue paled inparison to herself, especially when she''s standing next to Yu Zhen.

    "If you value your life," Li Xueyue slowly said. "Then get out."

    "I don''t understand, Crown Princess¡­" Xu Jiaqi trailed off, her browsing together. She was conflicted by this.

    Why was Li Xueyue so unwilling to share? It shouldn''t be a surprise if the Crown Prince took a concubine, especially with her nd looks and small frame. Surely, such a thin little thing wouldn''t be able to satisfy the Crown Prince?

    Xu Jiaqi wondered if those hips could even bear children. Could Li Xueyue even handle the Crown Prince? The Princess looked like she would shatter just from his touch.

    "Even dogs understand themand of ''get out''," Li Xueyue stated.

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes widened at the offensive words of the Princess. She concealed a gasp and nced towards the floor.

    "Princess, I''ve never wronged you¡ª"

    "Enough," Yu Zhen seethed.

    It took a simple word to shut Xu Jiaqi up. Her lips mped shut and she remained on the floor. She wanted to get up to take a peek, but couldn''t do so. The Crown Prince''s stare was just that intimidating. It felt like a mountain was weighing down upon her.

    "Scram," Yu Zhen growled.

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes watered at his words. She didn''t want to leave the Crown Prince alone with that woman. She slowly rose to her feet and raised her head.

    "I''m sorry, Your Highn¡ª" Xu Jiaqi''s body lurched forward and she covered her mouth, a sudden urge to puke. She felt the contents of her dinner threatening toe out.

    And in the midst of her panic, she saw it. The Crown Prince had protectively pushed Li Xueyue back a bit. The Crown Prince was more concerned about Li Xueyue to care about her sickly state.

    Xu Jiaqi knew this was expected. Li Xueyue would alwayse first, wouldn''t she? Except in bed. Exactly. That was when the Crown Prince would prefer someone else, like her.

    "P-please excuse me, Your Highness," Xu Jiaqi mumbled out. She rushed for the door, but a stormy voice halted her.

    "Stop."

    Xu Jiaqi paused and slowly turned around, one hand over her mouth. She swallowed back her fears and shakily lowered her palm. She was ovee with joy, thinking everything would y out in her favor.

    "Properly bid the Crown Princess goodbye."

    Xu Jiaqi''s hope died just like that. Her lips twitched. She thought he wouldn''t care, but it seemed like he did.

    Reluctantly, Xu Jiaqi bowed her head towards the Crown Princess. "May you have a restful night, Princess."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know why, but she felt a chill. Goosebumps rose at the same time Xu Jiaqi lifted her head. The woman then slipped out of the private study without another word.

    "Let me exin," Yu Zhen repeated, grabbing Li Xueyue''s attention before she jumped to a conclusion. Knowing her, she was already on her way to overthinking.

    "She''s pretty," Li Xueyue suddenly said.

    Yu Zhen blinked. "She''s annoying," he deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue averted her gaze from him. She attempted to step out of his grasp, but he tightened his grip.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "Why are you wearing so little?" he worriedly asked.

    Li Xueyue didn''t get to respond when he abruptly released her. She watched as he adjusted the shawl which was basically a long fabric worn around her upper body. He made sure it covered her upper arms and not just her shoulders.

    "Are you cold?" Yu Zhen questioned. He didn''t wait for an answer before slipping off his robes and wrapping it around her.

    "Next time, wear more clothing. Hanjian is colder at night," he stated.

    Li Xueyue pursued her lips. Was this a tactic of his to change the subject? She jumped when he grabbed her hand, pulling her forward.

    She yanked her hand back, and to her surprise, he allowed her to do so.

    "Come with me to the desk, it''s warmer there," Yu Zhen patiently told her.

    Li Xueyue expected him to cross the lines like Wen Jinkai did. But he didn''t. Yu Zhen respected her boundaries.

    "Whatever you want to know, I can tell at my desk," Yu Zhen told her. He waited as she observed the private study, noticing the firenterns ced around his table. They were made of metal and conducted heat well.

    "Will you have a harem?" she blurted out.

    Yu Zhen stiffened at her words. "Why are you asking this?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. This wasn''t the answer she wanted. "Call me selfish, but I don''t want you to have anyone else but me."

    Yu Zhen''s hardened gaze became gentle. He reached out and this time, she didn''t reject him. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer.

    He opened his mouth to speak, but she interrupted him.

    "When you held me in your arms, each word and vow you said was so clear that I believed everything you said. Promises are sweet lies, but you make it sound like truths," she whispered.

    Yu Zhen felt a prickling pain in his chest. She was terrified of losing him as much as he was fearful of losing her. He hugged her tighter until she couldn''t move.

    "To me, you are the only one. I''m scared that¡­ to you, I am just one out of many women," she said.

    Yu Zhen knew she wasn''t doing this on purpose. But he was overwhelmed with guilt. She was confident of his words but hesitant about his actions. He wanted to hold her tighter, but that was impossible. She was already pressed against his chest, where his erratic heart beated for no one else but her.

    "I''ll only have you, Li Xueyue. No one else," he vowed.

    Li Xueyue believed him, she truly did, but a part of her was terrified of losing him. She could do nothing but lean her head against his chest. She prayed he''d remain by her side when age takes a toll, and she was no longer young.

    "I will never leave you, Sunshine. And if death dares to take you from me, I''ll wrestle for immortality with you."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes watered at his words. In his arms, she felt safe andforted. In his arms, she felt like nothing could go wrong. His words seemed absolute, and she trusted it would be.

    "Don''t you know what you possess?" Yu Zhen whispered. He let out a smallugh when she shook her head.

    "My heart, you fool."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened.

    "You can break my heart, shatter it a thousand times, and do as you please with it. It was always yours to begin with."

    Li Xueyue could no longer hold it back. Tears spilled from her eyes. Her hesitant heart was finally reassured by him. She realized his words weren''t promises meant to trick the soul.

    "So stay by my side, Li Xueyue. And I''ll stay by yours. For the rest of our lifetime, and the ones beyond that."

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but mutely nod her head. She hoped it was enough.

    She wondered if he knew that he, too, possessed her heart. They had unknowingly given it to each other. She didn''t even remember when or how it happened. But it did. And it was the only thing that mattered.

 Chapter 333 This Argument Will Stretch For Days

    <h4>Chapter 333 This Argument Will Stretch For Days</h4>

    Li Xueyue was sure Xu Jiaqi would cause problems in the long run. It would be as easy as telling Yu Zhen to dispose of the woman.

    He had promised her before that he would eliminate every obstacle in their path. But what would the people say? What will the Emperor and Empress think especially after she had gotten on their good side today?

    Li Xueyue frowned. In high society, words were weapons. She should use it instead of actual knives.

    She couldn''t change the fact that she killed her birth father with her bare hands. She was now a monster¡ªone that''s desperately grasping onto humanity.

    "She will be punished," Yu Zhen abruptly said. "On the grounds of disobeyingmands and storming into my private study without permission."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She remained motionless in his arms.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to have a single part in any of this. She thought these types of petty drama were beyond her. She didn''te to Hanjian to throw mud at others. Her lips curled downwards.

    How many more Xu Jiaqis were there in this pce? How many more women would throw their life away for the Crown Prince? How many of them didn''t value their dignity, their pride, and worth?

    "You don''t have to worry," Yu Zhen soothed.

    He released her from the hug and grasped her hands. Li Xueyue''s silence worried him. And her silence confirmed his suspicions when she stared nkly at him.

    "You look like your world has been shattered," Yu Zhen whispered.

    He tugged strands of hair away from her face, but it fell back in ce, framing her small head.

    "I''ve been betrayed once before," Li Xueyue stated. "I saw history repeating itself."

    "It was a misunderstanding."

    "I know."

    "Then why do you look so devastated?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. He couldfort her with as many vows as he''d like and she''d listen to it, repeating it inside her brain, but her heart would never listen.

    "Actions speak louder than words," Li Xueyue said.

    She lifted her stare to meet his and felt the wind knocked out of her. He stared at her with so much adoration in his eyes as if she was his muse. Concern seeped from his warm, obsidian gaze.

    "You don''t trust me," Yu Zhen used.

    Li Xueyue instantly shook her head. "It''s not that¡ª"

    "It is."

    "No, listen to me¡ª"

    "No matter how much I''ll promise you that there is no other woman in my life, you won''t believe it until you see to it that all of them are gone," Yu Zhen pointed out.

    Li Xueyue shut her mouth. It was true. It was a selfish, delirious wish of hers that''s hard to fulfill, especially with his position.

    Everyone would vie for his attention, everyone but her. She refused to praise the ground he walked on, refused to bow her head, refused to be treated less than his equal.

    "Is it wrong to be possessive?" Li Xueyue argued. "You do the same for me¡ª"

    "Because I know how men look at you!"

    "And you don''t think I realize how women stare at you?!" she exasperated.

    "They don''t matter¡ª"

    "And neither do other men!"

    Yu Zhen gawked at her like she was crazy. "And Wen Jinkai? He didn''t matter? Are you telling me that the Commander who ced his feelings for you before his family, didn''t matter at all?"

    Li Xueyue''s voice died in her throat. Was this how he viewed her? A woman at a crossroad, uncertain of her lover?

    "We''re being hypocrites," she harshly argued.

    "Really?" Yu Zhen bit out. "I couldn''t tell."

    Li Xueyue deeply scowled. The sarcasm was uncalled for.

    Li Xueyue red up at him, anguish and irritation shing on her face. She saw the same emotion stered on his wless features. His eyes had darkened and his jaw was clenched. A muscle ticked.

    Finally, she tore her gaze away from him and stepped back. She hugged her stomach and sighed.

    "Do we have to bring up the past?" she muttered.

    Yu Zhen frowned. He looked away and held back a sigh. The past should remain behind them.

    Yu Zhen didn''t mean to bring up Wen Jinkai. He couldn''t help it.

    The jealousy that another man had intrigued her before irked him. He knew it was foolish of him to be jealous. What was there to worry about?

    At the end of the day, Li Xueyue belonged to him. Just as he did to her. Wasn''t that the bigger picture here?

    A long silence ensued. Outside the window, a petal fluttered in the wind. A breeze shook the candlelight. An echo drifted through the trees, carrying with it the sounds of the forest. The world brimming with life, louder than the stubborn lovebirds.

    "It''s gettingte," Yu Zhen finally said. "You should head back to your room."

    Li Xueyue dug her finger into her palms. So this was how he wanted it to be between them. She ground her teeth and turned around. Without another word, she approached the door. But then she paused.

    She let out a shaky breath. The second she''d walk out of this door, their usations would remain in the air. Their problems would be brushed under the rug, forgotten until someone tripped over it and injured themselves.

    "Let me ask you this," Li Xueyue said. She slowly turned her head to face him. "Did you ever feel anything for Xu Jiaqi?"

    "If I said yes, what would you do?"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "If I said I liked Wen Jinkai, what would you do?"

    Yu Zhen''s gaze hardened. He took a step forward. A chill entered the room. Somewhere, a candlelight was blown out. Darkness seeped from the corners.

    "Exactly," Li Xueyue muttered. She crossed her arms and headed towards the door.

    "And if I said no, what would be your reaction?" he growled out.

    Li Xueyue stiffened.

    "Will you continue to doubt me? Continue to question my sincerity? What will you do?"

    Li Xueyue red at the ground.

    "Good night," she harshly said, cing one hand on the door.

    "If you walk out right now, I''ll take it as a yes."

    Li Xueyue''s grip on the door tightened. She didn''t want to face her insecurities. She didn''t want to acknowledge her trust issues. So many things gued her thoughts, the majority of which were unfavorable to Yu Zhen.

    "I always make the first initiative, don''t I?" Yu Zhen suddenly said. "From chasing you to stopping you from running, I''m the first to do everything."

    "You want something in return for that," Li Xueyue stated. "What is it?"

    "How many times do you want me to prove it? That my feelings for you are sincere when you''ve never done your part in the chase?"

    Li Xueyue angrily turned around. The words, ''I never asked you to chase me,'' rested on the tip of her tongue. She hated that the thought even crossed her mind.

    "I''ve never done my part?" Li Xueyue repeated. "Oh, as if traveling to the other side of the country amidst horrid weather just to marry you isn''t doing anything."

    "All because of a marriage proposal initiated by me."

    "Are we really the type to keep scores of who did this and who did that?" Li Xueyue argued.

    "Yes, we''re petty enough to do that, and you know it."

    "No, actually, I don''t," Li Xueyue said. "If we keep track of every little thing, we''ll go crazy from it. This is a rtionship, not apetition."

    Li Xueyue pinched the bridge of her nose. "I don''t even know why we''re having this argument. You wanted me to go to bed. So I am. But then you stopped me and¡ª"

    "All because this argument will stretch for days on end if we don''t conclude it tonight."

    Li Xueyue shut her mouth. "And what is the oue you have in mind? That we kiss and makeup as if our trust issues weren''t revealed just now?"

    "What do I look like? A mirror?" Yu Zhen stated.

    Li Xueyue was taken aback by his words. She was provoked and irritated. She wasn''t the type to enter screaming matches. It wasn''t in her nature to do so. But she was so ready to argue his head off.

    "I don''t have trust issues¡ª"

    "You do."

    "I don''t."

    "You do."

    "I really, really don''t!" Li Xueyue yelled.

    "Then why do you seem so hesitant?"

    "What are you even talking about?" she harshly asked, wishing this conversation would just end.

    Yu Zhen stared directly into her eyes. He held her attention with ease.

    "Then why do you hesitate to fall in love? Why are you so terrified of letting people in? Why do you shy away from those who adore you? Why are you so ufortable with sharing your thoughts?"

 Chapter 334 Worth The Wai

    <h4>Chapter 334 Worth The Wai</h4>

    Li Xueyue''s throat went dry with his words. She didn''t think he was observing her to such an extent. He knew of her childhood, yet, he continued to ask sensitive questions that forced her fears to the forefront of her mind.

    Everything she wanted to bury away had resurfaced¡ªher inability to trust people, to open up, and to tell people anything.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize a drop of tear had escaped, not until he stepped forward and stroked the other one that fell. It didn''t take long for the rain to be a storm. And droplets of tear fell, one after the other.

    "What should I do with you?" he softly whispered, embracing her without hesitation.

    His arms came around her yet again, one on the back of her head, and the other upon her shoulder.

    "You bottle every emotion until the ss shatters and you''re left a crying mess," Yu Zhen muttered. "I knew it would be like this."

    Li Xueyue''s fingers dug into his robes, balling the silk in her hands. She hated how urate he was. She hated how he affected her in ways that no one else could.

    Li Xueyue knew she was a crybaby, but never wanted to admit it. Everything was always held in: her frustrations, fears, and pains¡ªall of it. Not because she wanted to, but because she couldn''t help it.

    It was too difficult to voice everything.

    "You said it yourself," Yu Zhen said. "Communication matters in a rtionship. Yet, you give me none of it whilst expecting all of mine in return."

    Despite his harsh words, his voice was soft¡ªgentle even, as if he wasforting her instead of scolding her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t understand how he could have so much patience.

    Was that argument all a ploy by him? Did he purposely bicker so she would break down like this? So that all of her pent-up emotions would flow out, and she''d have a new bottle to shove everything into?

    "I''m sorry," she suddenly confessed.

    Li Xueyue felt the quiver of his body when he let out a humorlessugh¡ªcold and unforgiving. It was a stark contrast to his warm actions.

    He doted on her but there was a limit to his kindness.

    Li Xueyue never wanted to see that limit. She was frightened of the day when he would stop caring about her.

    What if he grew tired of all their fights and decided to find someone easier to live with?

    Li Xueyue wrapped her arms around him, hugging him tightly. She felt the hand patting the back of her head pause.

    His body stilled as if he was beginning to question everything. As if the tables had turned, and he was the one who''s hesitant to love.

    "I''m afraid," she whispered.

    "Of what?"

    "Of revealing my thoughts. I''m scared that they''d judge, scared they''ll leave, and that they don''t care. I didn''t want to burden others with my feelings, especially when everyone has their own troubles to worry about," she said.

    "If everyone bottles up their emotions, we''d go insane."

    Li Xueyue blinked. What did he mean?

    "It''s human nature to rant and vent our frustrations. Our pent-up anger leaves through our mouths. We don''t have the space to hold everything in. There is a reason why we make friends¡ªto share our problems and to share the good times of life."

    Li Xueyue''s shoulders dropped. "But I don''t have friends¡­"

    "And what am I? A potato?" he snorted.

    Li Xueyue''s head shot up. She was startled by his joke, a smallugh eased out of her. He peered down at her with a wry smile and quirked brow.

    "I''ll listen to your problems, Yu Zhen," she stated. "If you listen to mine."

    Yu Zhen gave her a pointed stare. "That was all I wanted from this argument."

    Li Xueyue''s sullenly nodded. "I didn''t mean to bicker with you."

    "Neither did I want to be so petty, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "Then¡­ are we even?"

    Yu Zhen let out a smallugh. When she stared up at him, with thoserge, shimmering eyes of hers, how could he say no? She looked too hopeful for him to deny her¡ªnot that he could.

    "Of course we''re even."

    - - - - -

    When Li Xueyue stepped outside of Yu Zhen''s private study, she felt like a tremendous amount of weight was lifted off of her shoulders. She didn''t think the oue of their conversation would turn out like this.

    "Next time, don''te rushing here in such thin clothing. What if you catch a cold?" he nagged from beside her.

    Li Xueyue was surprised he was actually keeping his hands to himself¡ªfor once. She turned her head to observe him. She wondered if his favorite color was ck since he always wore dark clothing that also entuated his features.

    It made him more intimidating. Combined with his usual stares¡ªbrooding and displeased, it wasn''t a surprise that many people avoided him. Everyone was too afraid of offending him.

    "Looked long enough?" Yu Zhen asked. He nced down at her.

    "Unfortunately, there''s nothing to look at," Li Xueyue snubbed.

    "Look at that, Sunshine," Yu Zhen said whilst tapping her nose.

    "At what?"

    "Your nose is growing long from your lies."

    Yu Zhen smirked at her disgruntled re. She scrunched her nose and turned her chin away from him.

    "Is that why you have a big nose?" she asked.

    "I don''t have a big nose," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue snorted. "I bet you dug your nose as a kid. It''d exin your abnormallyrge nostrils."

    She peered at him and snickered at his irritated expression. He red at her, daring her to continueughing.

    Li Xueyue had to admit it. She was lying. His nose was a decent shape, prominent and pleasant to look at. It suited his sharp features perfectly.

    His face was angr as if carved from a b of marble. A man whose statue would bring many admirers from looks alone.

    "The hole can probably fit a brush," she added on.

    "I know another hole that can be filled," Yu Zhen muttered.

    Li Xueyue''s mouth gaped up at him. "Why do you always have to make such crudements?"

    "I meant the hole in your dimwit brain," Yu Zhen mused.

    Li Xueyue wished she could wipe that arrogant smirk off of his face. He sure had a lot of fun teasing her.

    "What were you thinking about, Sunshine?" he teased. "Something dirty again? I wouldn''t be surprised."

    "Maybe if you stopped saying double meaning phrases, then I''ll stop," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "So you admit it."

    Li Xueyue red at the floor. ''Great, just great. Now he''ll tease you about it for the rest of your life!''

    She was grateful when they suddenly stopped walking. They had finally reached the front doors of the room that led to her bedroom.

    Li Xueyue was surprised when he suddenly grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him. Her voice was caught in her throat. His face was close to hers, his lips just a whisper away.

    Did he not care about the audience watching him? The servants who shyly stared at the floor, and the guards who pretended to be deaf and blind?

    Yu Zhen brought her face forward as his lips brushed against her ears. "Don''t worry, Sunshine. Soon, your dirty fantasies will alle true. And when they do, it''ll be worth the wait."

 Chapter 335 Make An Enemy

    <h4>Chapter 335 Make An Enemy</h4>

    After Yu Zhen left, Li Xueyue finally decided to sleep. His words had put her at ease, but she''d trust his actions more.

    Unfortunately for Li Xueyue, sleep eluded her once again, and she tossed and turned all night. She let out an aggravated sigh with an arm slung over her eyes. The ransacked carriage contained the herbs she needed for her sleep-inducing tonic.

    "I should ask for the Imperial Physician when I have the chance to," Li Xueyue grumbled.

    She recalled thest time she had fallen asleep, which took a great deal of effort by lying still like a corpse.

    Li Xueyue had no choice but to do the same. She tried to push out the nagging thoughts in her head. Falling asleep was a chore in itself, but the nightmares apanying it were much worse.

    - - - - -

    "Oh, Princess¡­" Yanxi murmured the next morning.

    Yanxi worriedly touched up the Princess''s haggard eyebags with powder. It had lightened the dark circles but didn''t help her exhausted expression. She continued to focus on applying the makeup whilst another handmaiden thoroughlybed the Princess''s hair.

    "I have horrible insomnia," Li Xueyue grumbled. "Get the Imperial Physician to prescribe herbs for a sleep-inducing tonic."

    "As you wish, Princess," Yanxi said. There was a tinge of concern in her voice. She debated whether to inform the Crown Prince about this request or not.

    The morning went by in a whirl¡ªof changing clothes, hair styling, makeup, and so on. By the time breakfast came around, Li Xueyue waszily lifting her chopsticks to pick up the food. She felt more tired than usual, but it wasn''t a surprise to her.

    Li Xueyue ate in silence and boredom. Yu Zhen hadn''te to join her for a meal. She didn''t know why, so she decided to ask himter when she''d disguise her "morning walk" as a beeline straight to the Crown Prince''s private study.

    Li Xueyue had memorized the path leading to that ce from yesterday''s walk.

    "You''ve eaten well today, Princess," Yanxi warmly stated when the maidservants came to collect the half-touched food. It was a lot better than usual¡ªa progress.

    Li Xueyue hummed in response as she walked purposefully towards the doors. It didn''t take long for the Crown Prince''s enormous estate to appear before them. No one saw it as a surprise that the Crown Princess''s estate was so near it.

    Along the way, Li Xueyue saw an irritating woman. The woman''s gaze was fixated upon a chrysanthemum flower, bright as the sun. The chrysanthemums were in full bloom, its glorious yellow a sight to behold.

    Xu Jiaqi touched the petals of the chrysanthemum flower, her eyes filled with longing.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She understood the indirect message behind Xu Jiaqi''s actions. It irked her, but to many outsiders'' perspective, Xu Jiaqi''s actions were beautiful¡ªlike a scene out of a painting.

    "What a horrible way to start my morning," Li Xueyue grumbled under her breath.

    She decided to ignore Xu Jiaqi even though she wanted to give the woman a piece of her mind.

    "Shall we have her removed from your line of sight, Princess?" Yanxi whispered, knowing it would be possible with the Crown Princess''s status.

    "No need to waste our time," Li Xueyue replied.

    She advanced forward, treading down the hallways without a care in the world.

    Xu Jiaqi, however, seemed to have all the time in the world. She instantly spotted the eloquent Princess. Her steps were light and airy but filled with a purpose.

    It made Xu Jiaqi frown. What was the Princess showing off for? Was that why the Crown Prince chose her? Because she was elegant to look at from afar?

    Xu Jiaqi wondered if the Crown Princess preferred a in woman like Li Xueyue. Her essories kept to a minimum that alwaysplemented her outfits. Shouldn''t the Crown Princess wear more hairpins and jewelry to show off the wealth of her husband?

    Nheless, Xu Jiaqi walked forward, stopping directly in front of the Crown Princess. She tucked her hands in opposite sleeves and politely bowed in greeting.

    "It is always a good morning toy eyes upon you, Crown Princess," Xu Jiaqi stated.

    Li Xueyue was appalled by the sudden greeting. It was suspiciously sweet. She questioned the purpose of Xu Jiaqi''s words that could''ve been shortened to a simple ''Good morning.''

    "Princess, I didn''t mean to offend you¡­" Xu Jiaqi trailed off when she was met with silence.

    Li Xueyue hadn''t spoken a word, but her eyes told a different story. The Crown Princess was the least fazed by Xu Jiaqi''s presence. It was almost as if Xu Jiaqi wasn''t even standing there.

    "Please pardon my shameless words, but I was hoping we''d get along, Princess," Xu Jiaqi stated.

    "And why''s that?"

    Xu Jiaqi tried not to be irked by the Princess''s nonchnce. She wasn''t just a simple woman now. Her rank was at least that of a Lady. The Princess should have the correct etiquette to acknowledge her properly.

    "You see," Xu Jiaqi started, cing a hand upon her chest and smiled.

    "We might be the Crown Prince''s lovers. Isn''t it better for both of us if we were friends? That way the Crown Prince wouldn''t be burdened by our disagreements. A happy husband equates a happy¡ª"

    The Princessughed.

    Xu Jiaqi paused. She blinked in confusion. What was so funny? She watched as the humorlessughter died down. The Crown Princess''s expression morphed into an apathetic stare.

    "Are you alright, Princess?" Xu Jiaqi said with obvious confusion on her face.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t believe how crazy this woman was. She shook her head in disappointment and continued onwards. But to her surprise, Xu Jiaqi was bold.

    Xu Jiaqi grabbed onto her sleeves.

    Li Xueyue nced down at the hand on her sleeves. Her lips curled in dissatisfaction. She flicked the hand away as if disgusted by the touch.

    "Don''t touch what you can''t afford," Li Xueyue coldly said.

    She watched as Xu Jiaqi''s eyes widened in shock.

    "Princess, that is very impolite!" Xu Jiaqi eximed in a low voice, almost as if she was reprimanding her.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "Are you scolding me?"

    Xu Jiaqi hesitated on how to respond. She was beyond annoyed by how bratty the Princess was. Had no one raised her right?

    Xu Jiaqi ground her teeth and resisted the urge to re. Herck of filter had gotten her in trouble before. She could still remember the irritable stares her father gave her.

    But he was dead now. Buried six feet under just like her mother. She didn''t feel an ounce of guilt towards them. They were more useful dead than alive. Because of their demise, Xu Jiaqi was able to gain the Crown Prince''s attention.

    "Of course not, Princess. I was simply reminding you of themon etiquette. The future Empress of Hanjian should have apassionate heart, one that is able to understand the principles of how to treat people with love," she said.

    Xu Jiaqi lifted her gaze without being told to do so. "The Empress is the mother of our country. If our mother doesn''t treat us well, how else can we respect them? Respect is earned, not given."

    Li Xueyue''s lips curled in amusement. She had finally seen Xu Jiaqi''s true nature. Xu Jiaqi was an intelligent opponent, albeit delusional.

    Xu Jiaqi purposely masked her words with intentions that benefit others, when in reality, she only wanted it to help herself.

    "And do you criticize your mother?" Li Xueyue retorted.

    Xu Jiaqi''s mind went nk. "What?"

    "You had the audacity to ignore the rules of hierarchy, and now, you try to criticize the position of an Empress. I hope you understand the consequences of your actions."

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes went wide. Had she insulted the Empress?

    "No, Princess, I didn''t mean to judge the Empress. I was just¡ª"

    "Your opinions have been heard loud and clear by me, and my servants," Li Xueyue mused.

    Li Xueyue reached a hand out and patted Xu Jiaqi''s shoulder. "Don''t worry, little one, your stupidity today will be ignored."

    Xu Jiaqi''s head shot up. Dismay filled her eyes that moistened with unshed tears. If one was to look from the outside, they''d think she was bullied.

    "Princess¡ª"

    "But not forgotten," Li Xueyue finished. "There are many people who would be interested in your opinions. Why don''t we share it with them?"

    Xu Jiaqi''s throat went dry. She rapidly shook her head in response, knowing the threat behind the Crown Princess''s words. Even if the opinions of a normal servant didn''t matter, the ones of a Head Maidservant would¡ªespecially the respectable Yanxi.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She revealed an innocent smile that softened her eyes.

    "It wouldn''t be wise to make an enemy of me," she whispered.

    With that said, Li Xueyue walked off.

 Chapter 336 Interesting Gossip

    <h4>Chapter 336 Interesting Gossip</h4>

    "Wow, you''re really mean," a young woman said from the end of the hallway.

    Li Xueyue didn''t think anyone was eavesdropping on them. She had left Xu Jiaqi behind her but didn''t notice the presence of the woman until she stepped out of the shadows.

    Her eyes widened at the woman''s stark resemnce to Yu Zhen. Except, thedy was a lot more approachable and¡­ energetic?

    Li Xueyue wondered if there was something in the water. Every woman she had encountered was beautiful.

    "Hmmm¡­" the woman trailed off, tapping her lips.

    Li Xueyue watched with scrunched brows. What was it? Was this woman a friend or a foe?

    "I like that!" the girl eximed. She bounced forward and without warning, grabbed Li Xueyue''s hands.

    Li Xueyue was taken off guard. She warily eyed the woman, wondering if the youngdy was crazy. Why was the woman grabbing the hands of a stranger?

    "Aren''t you going to fake a smile and try to brush my hands off?" the woman whined. "I''ve seen you do it before, so why not now?"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. Who exactly was this woman? She turned her head the slightest bit and Yanxi stepped forward.

    In a low whisper, Yanxi stated, "This is the second-youngest Princess of Hanjian, Princess Yu Lingluo. She''s one year younger than you, Princess."

    "You ruined the fun, Yanxi!" Princess Yu Lingluo huffed. She crossed her arms and frowned towards the ground as Yanxi bowed apologetically.

    "I wanted to make you guess who I am," Princess Yu Lingluo said. "I was so curious about the Crown Princess, so I wanted her to share the same interest in my identity!"

    Li Xueyue blinked. Their age difference was only one year apart, but Yu Lingluo behaved much younger than that.

    Yu Lingluo gave off an innocent, almost naive vibe to her personality. Her voice was high-pitched, but not irritating to the ears. She was almost¡­ cute?

    Upon noticing the silence, Princess Yu Lingluoined, "Aren''t you going to say something? I was told by many people that the Crown Princess is wise for her age... Why are you ignoring me?"

    Li Xueyue didn''t even know what to say. Yu Lingluo''s emotions had changed too quickly. It was difficult for Li Xueyue to determine exactly how to speak to the youngdy.

    She had to admit it Yu Lingluo was nothing like Yu Zhen despite the stark simrity in features. Yu Lingluo''s eyes stood out the most but in an energetic manner. Her nose was sharp like Yu Zhen''s but in a soft, endearing way.

    Yu Lingluo wore her emotions on her sleeve¡­ or so she wanted other people to believe.

    Li Xueyue wanted to know if this bubbly behavior was an act or her actual personality.

    "I came all the way from the Empress''s estate which is far from here. The least you can do is say hi," Yu Lingluo said and pouted.

    She yed with the ends of her long sleeve, ncing from the ground to Li Xueyue.

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. The Princess was suddenly resembling a saddened puppy.

    "I was simply¡­ surprised by you, that''s all," Li Xueyue responded. She jumped in surprise when Yu Lingluo trotted forward, like an excited puppy.

    "So she speaks!" Yu Lingluo giggled. "People say my Zhen-gege [1] treasures you. There''s a lot of interesting gossip about you."

    Li Xueyue blinked. Gossip¡­? Already? Brushing that aside, something else stood out to her. The nickname that Yu Lingluo had for Yu Zhen.

    "Of course, you can rest assured. No one dares to directly bad-mouth you. Zhen-gege made sure of that!" Yu Lingluo exasperated.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. There it was, that nickname again. She knew this youngdy wasn''t just a simple Princess.

    "Do you want to know what people are saying about you?" Yu Lingluo whispered. She purposely lowered her voice to make this conversation more secretive.

    Li Xueyue chuckled in amusement. "Sure," she said.

    Yu Lingluo rapidly nced to her left and then her right. She covered the side of her mouth and leaned in.

    "Everyone is saying you''re too thin, meaning my brother will probably break you in bed and¡ª"

    "Xiao Ling!"

    Yu Lingluo let out a shriek. Her heart raced at the familiar voice. Easygoing, but stern¡­ She turned around, a soft sigh leaving her lips at the sight of him.

    Hu Dengxiao was advancing down the hallway, a disapproving stare on his face. He should''ve known the loud noises wereing from her¡ªthe Princess with too much energy in her system.

    "I hope you''re not bothering the Princess. Zhenzhen will be furious if he finds out you are," Hu Dengxiao scolded Yu Lingluo once he reached them.

    Upon seeing Li Xueyue, he bowed his head in greeting. "Princess," he addressed.

    "Howe you bow to her and not to me?" Yu Lingluo huffed, crossing her arms only to earn a pinch on her right cheek. She yelped in pain, smacking at his hand.

    "Because you don''t behave as a proper Princess should, you little troublemaker," Hu Dengxiao teased.

    "I do behave like one!" Yu Lingluo shouted, angrily stomping on his foot, earning a groan from him.

    "Brat," he grumbled, shoving her by the shoulders.

    Li Xueyue watched with wide eyes as the Princess pushed him back. And to her surprise, Hu Dengxiao stumbled a bit. Whether it was on purpose or not, she couldn''t help butugh a bit.

    This scene felt too familiar. It warmed her heart.

    "See, the Princess isughing at you," Hu Dengxiao snorted. "Wouldn''t have happened if you weren''t making a fool out of yourself."

    "Or she could be smirking at the fact that a grown man like you lost your footing," Yu Lingluo said.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. She noticed Hu Dengxiao was different from how he usually behaved. If she properly recalled, he was more naive around Lu Tianbi. But maybe it was because they were friends?

    From her perspective, Hu Dengxiao viewed Princess Yu Lingluo as an obnoxious younger sister. It was strange to see that¡­ especially when Yu Lingluo nced up at him with awestruck eyes.

    But this was none of her business. She decided to not pry.

    "Let''s just ignore this little dumpling, Princess," Hu Dengxiao said. "I was actually supposed to bring you to the Crown Prince''s private study."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. Did something happen?

    "The Round Table discussion was supposed to happen today, but since everyone was upied, it has been pushed to next week, Princess," Hu Dengxiao exined.

    Li Xueyue was grateful for the news. She hadn''t properly prepared for it yet. There was a list of ideas she wanted to jot down first before meeting the people there.

    "I think the Crown Prince wants to discuss the subject of that meeting with you, Princess," Hu Dengxiao said. He decided to address the Commander by his title, mainly because Li Xueyue was apanied by servants and guards.

    "I see," she responded.

    "Maybe Yu Zhen wants to discuss the wedding details before it''s finalized," Hu Dengxiao said.

    He watched with amusement as her eyes widened. "Didn''t you see it, Princess?" he mused. "Many servants have been rushing around, preparing for the big day."

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. She didn''t hear a single thing about it.

    "Well, that''s not a surprise, Princess," Hu Dengxiao said and shrugged. "The Crown Prince didn''t want to burden you with decision making. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the preparations."

    He hummed, "But I''m sure he also wants your input."

    Li Xueyue nodded but wasn''t sure what he meant by ''preparations.'' She brushed it off, thinking it might be the same intensive skincare as the one she went through the night before she was announced to the court as the Crown Princess.

    "Or, my brother just wants to spend some time with her, you idiot," Yu Lingluo said.

    "Who are you calling an idiot, you dimwit?!" Hu Dengxiao scolded, reaching out to pinch her cheek again.

    Yu Lingluo dodged it.

    "You misbehave too much," Hu Dengxiao stated.

    Yu Lingluo stuck out her tongue and crossed her arm. "So?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head a bit. For a second there, she saw pain in Yu Lingluo''s eyes. Oh dear¡­

    Li Xueyue had an inkling of their dynamic, but hoped it wasn''t true. If so, it would be quite heartbreaking. Literally.

 Chapter 337 I Have A Niece?

    <h4>Chapter 337 I Have A Niece?</h4>

    "Are you sure about this, Your Highness?" Wu Xiang questioned with uncertainty. He tightly clenched the folded fan in his hands.

    "Even the Empress herself has never sat in any of the Round Table discussions. Of course, the Empress is supposed to watch over the country, but let''s be honest, her days are supposed to be spent catering to her children, Your Highness," Wu Xiang added on.

    Wu Xiang watched his friend with a frown. The Crown Prince continued to ignore him.

    Wu Xiang held back a groan ofint when his friend turned the page of the book he was reading.

    "I know the Crown Princess is wise, but you should reconsider it, Your Highness. It might take a toll on her," Wu Xiang stated.

    Yu Zhenzily read the passage. The Art of War. He hoped Li Xueyue had read through it before.

    "Your Highness¡ª"

    "Your voice is more irritating than the women in a brothel collectively," Yu Zhen murmured. He flipped the page, despite already memorizing everything in the book.

    Wu Xiang scowled at this. "I am trying to help you as a friend, Your Highness. My wife hates politics, she''d rather much spend her time tending to social outings and having tea with her friends. I''m sure the Crown Princess¡ª"

    "What my Wangfei enjoys has nothing to do with you," Yu Zhen interrupted.

    Wu Xiang opened his mouth to argue, but closed it a secondter. He could tell how irritated his friend was. Wu Xiang couldn''t help his nagging. He inherited the unfavorable trait from his father.

    The Chancellor of Hanjian had also spent his entire life worrying about another family that wasn''t his. He had stressed over every decision made by the Emperor, despite the man''s wless execution.

    "Your father is stepping down soon," Yu Zhen coldly said. "Why don''t you go and learn something from him?"

    Wu Xiang rolled his eyes. In a flick of his wrist, the paper fan spread. "I spent my entire life learning how to be a Chancellor, waiting for the day he retires with your father, the Emperor."

    Wu Xiang watched as the Crown Prince paused. It was for a brief moment and he nearly missed the small action.

    Yu Zhen settled the book down. He threw Wu Xiang a disgruntled look, simr to the one that a knowing father would give to their misbehaving son.

    "I know, I know," Wu Xiang sighed. "You dislike His Majesty¡­ But Father has always told me His Majesty frets about you more than all of his children. His Majesty is stern to you because he wants you to be better than him."

    Yu Zhen took a calm sip of his tea.

    Wu Xiang anxiously stared down at his friend. Why was it always so hard to gauge what the Crown Prince was thinking? It was so annoying. Yu Zhen looked rxed even when frustrated.

    "As much as we don''t want to admit it, His Majesty is reaching his final months¡­ He ns to step down from the position instead of leaving it to you after death. You know what this means, don''t you, Your Highness? The Emperor wants to see the day you seed."

    Yu Zhen ced the teacup down and picked up his book again. He didn''t care what his father wanted. That man never cared for what his son wanted.

    Why did everyone want to justify the actions of an abusive father? Tough love, they called it? It was humorous. Does a father beating his son count as love? Does a father neglecting his son count as love?

    "And well uhm¡­" Wu Xiang trailed off. He wanted to see a hint of emotion on the Crown Prince''s face. The only expressions Yu Zhen wore were multiple forms of irritation, boredom, and disgust.

    An idea instantly came to mind. "Hey, hey, you want to know what thedies have been talking about regarding the Crown Princess?"

    At this, Yu Zhen lifted his gaze from the book. He raised a brow.

    Wu Xiang chuckled. "Ah-ha, I knew that could get your attention!" He smirked in triumph and spontaneously fanned himself.

    "I am the keeper of knowledge you know. All of the pce gossip reaches my ears," Wu Xiang boasted.

    Yu Zhen impatiently glowered at his friend.

    "Heh, seeing you so riled up like this is kind of fun, Your Highness," Wu Xiang smugly said. He slowed down the speed he was fanning himself and took a couple steps back.

    "You see, many have wondered how exactly she captured your attention. I mean, she''s lovely but¡ª"

    Wu Xiang jumped when he saw a ghost of a smile on the Crown Prince''s face. Did¡­ the Crown Prince enjoy it when peopleplimented his woman? It was strange. Wasn''t possessive men supposed to scold anyone who dared to look at their wife?

    Wu Xiang blinked. Oh right, that was just his crazy nature. The Crown Prince must''ve been confident enough to not feel that sort of jealousy.

    "But well, not many women have suited your fancy. I mean, there are a lot of women willing to marry a dashing young Commander who isn''t only good with his hands, but also his¡ª"

    Wu Xiang shrieked when a teacup was hurled at him. He threw his hands in the air.

    "What?! I wasplimenting you, Your Highness! Don''t you want to know what other women think of you?"

    Wu Xiang angrily closed his fan again. "They have wild fantasies about your capabilities because you''re so damn healthy all the time. How do you even have the time to train with all of this paperwork?"

    "For your sake, I''ll pretend not to have heard that," Yu Zhen responded.

    Wu Xiang rolled his eyes again. He couldn''t believe the Crown Prince. Harems were frowned upon, but so what? Who''d dare to talk about the Crown Prince having a handful of affairs on the side?

    "I heard you keep on rejecting Xu Jiaqi, even though she''s beautiful. Even my wife was astonished to hear you wouldn''t be taking any concubines, especially after you showed Xu Jiaqi some attention."

    "Using her is called showing attention? Is the expectation that low?" Yu Zhen said in a monotone voice.

    Wu Xiang struggled toe up with something. "Wouldn''t one partner bore you? You have a lot of stamina. What if the Crown Princess can''t keep up?"

    "I''ll make sure she does."

    Wu Xiang nearly cried for the poor Crown Princess.

    "Does your wife bore you?" Yu Zhen added on.

    "What? Of course not!" Wu Xiang eximed. "I''d never have an affair, you know, so stop looking at me like that. I love her and our children too much to even fathom such a thing. She keeps me on my toes and¡ª"

    "You have your answer." Yu Zhen stood up, wondering what was taking Li Xueyue so long. Could something have happened along the way?

    Yu Zhen frowned a bit. He wasn''t able to watch over her sleep at night. There was too much on his te, especially since he was urging the wedding nning to go on even at night.

    Did she have another nightmare? Was she sick from herck of sleep? He regretted not eating breakfast with her. Xiao Juzi was being fussy all morning, baring his teeth at any servant that approached¡ªeven if they carried meat to feed him.

    "What''s wrong?" Wu Xiang said when he noticed a shift in emotion. It was rare to see a different expression this time.

    Wu Xiang had finally understood the meaning of the Crown Prince''s words. But now, he was puzzled by something else.

    Why did the Crown Prince suddenly look so concerned?

    Wu Xiang couldn''t remember a single moment in time when the Crown Prince cared about something. Well, maybe when his horse or tiger was ill. But aside from that, it hadn''t happened before.

    "Are you feeling unwell?" Wu Xiang wondered, despite the possibility of that being low. The Crown Prince was always known to be healthy and strong.

    People always credited it to the Commander''s rigorous training on the fields or his great diet. But the truth was¡­ the Emperor used to feed the Crown Prince poison to strengthen his antibodies.

    "Could it be the food, Your Highness?" Wu Xiang breathed out in fear. That should be impossible. The Crown Prince was immune to a wide variety of well-known poison.

    "Do I need to summon the Imperial Physician, Your Highness?" Wu Xiang stated.

    Yu Zhen blinked. The Imperial Physician? "Yes, call for him," he said.

    "Okay, I''ll tell my servant outside to fetch¡ª"

    "Zhen-gege!" a chirpy voice eximed from outside of the tall, looming doors of the private study.

    "You irritating Eunuch, there is no need to announce my presence," argued the loud voice.

    "Third Princess, please¡ª"

    Yu Lingluo barged in without another word. She nearly fell on her face but continued trudging onwards.

    "Guess who I found on my way to your private study!" Yu Lingluo happily said as she stepped aside.

    "Zhen-gege, you weren''t lying all along! The Crown Princess really is beautiful. I really think my niece and nephew will be stunning and¡ª"

    Yu Zhen didn''t pay any mind to his younger sister''s rambling. She hadn''t stopped. But the background noises drowned out when he saw Li Xueyue. She was as captivating as always, despite only smiling.

    "¡ªWell, what do you think of the name Yu Luoluo if I have a niece? Of course, it''s a bit simr to my name, but I think it''s adorable. Oh wait, for a boy, you can name him Yu Zhenzhen or something like that," Yu Lingluo concluded.

    She nced around in confusion, noticing her brother wasn''t listening to her at all. She pouted and followed his line of sight.

    Yu Zhen''s attention was solely focused on Li Xueyue who was attentively listening to Yu Lingluo.

    Yu Lingluo blinked in confusion. It was so strange¡­ Yu Zhen was looking at Li Xueyue as if she was the only person in the entire room.

    It was a strange sight, but one that made Yu Lingluo realize the exact position Li Xueyue had in the Crown Prince''s heart.

 Chapter 338 Saving That Stamina

    <h4>Chapter 338 Saving That Stamina</h4>

    Yu Zhen instantly approached Li Xueyue, ignoring his sister. He grasped both of Xueyue''s hands and squeezed it whilst looking over her carefully. No one dared to abuse the Crown Princess, but it was better safe than sorry. Seeing as there weren''t any visible injuries on her, he nodded in satisfaction.

    "You look lovely," Yu Zhenplimented under his breath so that only she heard it.

    He watched in amusement as she blinked in surprise. She peered up at him with slightly parted lips. She always looked at him like that as if she was astonished by the sight of him. He wondered why.

    "I should be saying that," Li Xueyue responded.

    "Lovely isn''t a word to describe me," he mused, chuckling when she bit her bottom lip and averted her gaze.

    Yu Zhen wondered if this was also ''a calcted move''. He couldn''t help but think of that phrase each time she did something. But he had a feeling that everything she showed him was natural and not forced.

    "What did I tell you about biting your lips?" Yu Zhen stated as he grabbed her chin and lifted it up.

    Li Xueyue released her lip but it was toote. He had leaned in and pressed a quick kiss upon her lips. Her eyes widened in surprise and she instantly nced around, knowing there were people present. But they were equally as shocked as her.

    Yu Lingluo was the most obvious one, her jaw dropped so wide, flies could fly in. She rapidly blinked and rubbed her eyes, not believing what she saw.

    "I...you¡­ he¡­" she stuttered, unable to say something. It was the first time in her life that she had seen her cold-hearted brother kiss someone.

    Hu Dengxiao, on the other hand, smirked in response and nced away, as he attempted to hide his reaction.

    Li Xueyue could only cover her mouth in disbelief and flush in embarrassment. Yu Zhen obviously didn''t understand her panic as he leaned in for more. She smacked a hand over his lips, pushing his head away.

    Her heart skipped when he grabbed her wrist. Staring deeply into her eyes, he kissed her palm before moving to her fingertips. She yanked her hand back, but his grip tightened.

    Mischief glinted in his hardened gaze. His lips curled into a sly smirk.

    "Gosh, you''re making me miss my wife and it''s only morning," Wu Xiang spoke up, hoping to break the silence. He fanned himself and tried to steer away from the lovebirds. The atmosphere around them was too intense for him.

    "And don''t do this in front of children. Look at our Third Princess, she''s pale with horror," he added on.

    Li Xueyue nodded in agreement, despite not knowing him. "I-I agree with the man in white," she concurred.

    Yu Zhen snapped his head to the side, ring at his friend. Wu Xiang might as well have been a foe.

    "I''m upied. Get out," Yu Zhen snarled.

    Wu Xiang loudlyughed. "upied with what? Don''t scare your wife so early on." He held up his hands in defense when the Crown Prince narrowed his gaze.

    Wu Xiang snickered at how frustrated the Crown Prince seemed. "The wedding is in two days, have some patience."

    "I hope your will is prepared," Yu Zhen hissed.

    "Why?"

    "You''ll need it after I''m done with you," Yu Zhen dered.

    Wu Xiang raised a brow. "You should save that stamina for the wedding night¡ª" He narrowingly dodged the dagger aimed at his head.

    Wu Xiang let out a huff and continued fanning himself as if his life hadn''t shed before his eyes. "Ever so violent, my dear Crown Prince."

    Nheless, he peered over his shoulders. Behind him, a sharp dagger was wedged into a tall pir. He chuckled, highly entertained by the Crown Prince''s irritation.

    He felt a curious starending upon him. Wu Xiang''s lips curled at the sight of her. It seemed she was the crazy woman who demanded the Crown Prince''s audience.

    Wu Xiang hadn''t forgotten what happened that day. It was the middle of the night, and she wanted to see him.

    He wondered what they were doing all alone in a room¡ªhopefully, not ruining her reputation.

    "Crown Princess," he greeted with a polite bow of his head.

    Wu Xiang observed her carefully. It seemed the gossip betrayed the truth. She was as beautiful as the rumors stated, but no one spoke of her eyes¡ªclear as day, sharp as daggers, all of her thoughts were reflected within it.

    The Crown Princess seemed so naive and innocent¡ªlike a baby deer walking in the forest on shaky legs. She''d make a good picture in the background.

    "My name is Wu Xiang. In the future, I will be the Chancellor guiding your brute of a husband," he said.

    Wu Xiang closed his fan and winked. "If you''re bored with the Crown Prince, I can¡ª"

    He sharply turned his body, narrowingly missing another knife that was aimed at his heart.

    "¡ªintroduce you to my wife," he concluded.

    Wu Xiang shed the Crown Prince an arrogant smile. "What did you think I was going to say?"

    "You better hug your children tighter tonight," Yu Zhen growled. "It''ll be thest time they see their father."

    Wu Xiang chuckled, despite the quiver in his eyes. Sometimes¡­ he couldn''t tell if the Crown Prince was joking or not. This time, it seemed particrly serious.

    To his pleasant surprise, the Crown Prince wrapped a possessive arm around the Crown Princess''s waist. It was an action that Wu Xiang had nearly missed but didn''t.

    Wu Xiang raised a brow, a knowing look shing upon his face. His gaze met Yu Zhen''s briefly. Then he lowered his eyes and smiled towards the ground. He had finally understood what kept the Crown Prince in Wuyi.

    "Women are repulsed by violent men, Your Highness," Wu Xiang said with a slight chirp to his voice. He was highly entertained today, especially after riling up the Crown Prince.

    "Isn''t that right, Princess?" Wu Xiang added on, directly staring at Li Xueyue. He expected her to fluster under his intense gaze, but she didn''t. He was caught off guard when she lifted a brow.

    "Your sources have lied to you, Wu Xiang," she retorted.

    Wu Xiang was taken aback but he quicklyposed himself, revealing a cunning smile. That was strange. Women in Wuyi were as weak as a willow branch. They swayed in the wind, a beautiful sight to behold, but useless in every aspect.

    "I see we''re on a titleless basis, Princess," Wu Xiang pointed out. "Then, do you mind if I call you by your name?"

    "No."

    Wu Xiang was surprised yet again. "What¡ª"

    "As a matter of fact, you should address me by Crown Princess."

    Wu Xiang paused. He stared at her with disbelief. Perhaps she truly was crazy. Where did she learn to have such confidence? But then she slowly smiled as herughter filled the room. It tickled his ears, like music.

    "It was a joke," she mused. "You look like a deer struck by arrows.??

    Wu Xiang let out a smallugh, knowing he had just been yed like a fiddle by her. It was rare for him to be startled by a woman, especially by meek little girls from Wuyi.

    He was no stranger to the way women behave in that country. They were docile and ignorant, knowing nothing but the arts. He had never once encountered a female soldier from Wuyi, nor seen any women in power there.

    "Very funny, Princess," Wu Xiang said.

    He watched as she innocently batted hershes as if she hadn''t put him in an ufortable situation, just as he had done to her with his questions.

    The Crown Princess had surpassed his?expectations. But he was the more easygoing person of the bunch.

    Wu Xiang wondered if the Crown Princess would be able to withstand the re of multiple men, twice her size, and triple her strength. If not, she''d get eaten alive at the Round Table discussion.

 Chapter 339 Innocent Bystander

    <h4>Chapter 339 Innocent Bystander</h4>

    "You''ve looked long enough," Yu Zhen harshly said.

    Wu Xiang quirked a brow and closed his fan. He folded his arms and smiled. "As if I''d dare to take the Crown Princess from you."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. He had faith Wu Xiang wouldn''tmit a crime worthy of death by torture. The two had been friends for as long as he could remember. Their days of mischief certainly hadn''t died off in Wu Xiang.

    "Why are all of you gathered here in the first ce?" Yu Zhen demanded, turning to his younger sister and Hu Dengxiao.

    "Well¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off. "This ce seemed lively, and I was bored¡ª" He paused upon noticing the Crown Prince''s dagger re.

    "And¡­ I didn''t want to be buried under a mountain of responsibilities just because Tiantian is upied by her father," Hu Dengxiao admitted.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. Lu Tianbi was conversing with her father? This certainly wasn''t good news.

    "Go and get Lu Tianbi," he instructed.

    Hu Dengxiao''s shoulders dropped and he pouted to the ground. "The Prime Minister will never allow me to take his daughter away."

    "I''m telling you to bring her here, not ask for her hand in marriage," Yu Zhen snapped.

    Hu Dengxiao awkwardlyughed and scratched the back of his neck. "Haha¡­ y-yeah, I knew you meant that."

    Yu Zhen shook his head, knowing his intelligent advisor was equivalent to the town''s fool when it came to matters involving Lu Tianbi. He tightened his hold on Xueyue, fearing she would feel neglected. He snuck a nce at her and noticed she was watching the conversation unfold.

    "She''s probably with a suitor right now¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off, his wagging tail lowered and bottom lip jutted out.

    "I heard the Prime Minister wants her to get married soon, now that she is the only unwed daughter of the Lu Household," he added on.

    "That old man wouldn''t dare to question my authority. So go," Yu Zhen retorted.

    Hu Dengxiao perked up in an instant. "I can use your name?"

    Yu Zhen stared at Hu Dengxiao with a look that said, ''Are you deaf?''

    "Thank you, Zhenzhen, you''re the best!" Hu Dengxiao eximed, turning around so quickly, he swept up a gust of air.

    "Wait, where are you going?" Yu Lingluo demanded, stomping her foot and ring up at him.

    "To fulfill your brother''smand, Princess!" Hu Dengxiao eagerly said as he opened the door, only to feel a rough tug on his sleeve.

    "No, you''re staying here," Yu Lingluo harshly said.

    "What? Why?!" Hu Dengxiao argued.

    Li Xueyue watched as the two began to bicker. She turned to Yu Zhen who watched them with an irritated stare.

    "I think¡­" she whispered to him.

    Yu Zhen bent down a bit to hear her properly. She muttered her discovery into his ears, cupping her mouth with her hand. He smiled at the small action, his fingerszily ying with the hem of her clothes.

    "Is that so?" Yu Zhen said.

    She eagerly nodded her head, her gaze wandering back to the argument.

    "I already know that," Yu Zhen informed her.

    "Aren''t you going to stop them?" Li Xueyue asked, confused by hisck of action. He simply shook his head.

    "They should figure it out themselves," Yu Zhen reassured.

    Yu Zhen knew better than anyone else how foolish this love triangle was. An orphan boy in love with the Prime Minister''s daughter, and a Princess in love with the orphan. What a mess it was.

    "Why did you call for me?" Li Xueyue said, ignoring the dispute beside her.

    "I wanted to make sure you ate well. I was informed that you''ve eaten more than usual."

    Li Xueyue shook her head in amusement. "I think I''m beginning to return to my normal weight."

    Yu Zhen hummed in response, touching her cheeks. Her brows came together in confusion. Without warning, he pulled on both of them. He chuckled when she kicked his shin. For once, it finally hurt. He med it on her pointed shoes.

    "Doesn''t feel like steamed buns yet," he said.

    Li Xueyue frowned. What was that supposed to mean?

    "That hurts," she grumbled out.

    Yu Zhen smiled at her words, tugging her cheeks farther apart, earning another harsh kick.

    "So violent," he chuckled.

    Yu Zhen was highly entertained by the sight of her pulled cheeks. They were malleable, like rice cakes. But seeing her pale skin turn pink, he dropped his hand. Slowly and softly, he massaged the pain away.

    "I remember seeing you stuff two steamed buns into each cheek like hamsters do with their food," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue was lulled by his gentle tone. For odd reasons, it sounded gentle, despite his husky voice.

    "I don''t understand why you''reparing me to a rat," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "Is that all you heard, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen chuckled.

    Li Xueyue''s heart flipped at the sound. He was even more handsome when heughed. It was deep andforting, like sinking into the tall grass on a summer day.

    "Obviously," she said. "It is."

    Yu Zhen shook his head at her.

    "And besides, I didn''t put two buns into my mouth, it was one at a time. I ate in moderate amounts."

    Yu Zhen stared at her with a pointed look. He didn''t believe it. "I don''t believe that, Sunshine."

    "That''s because you''re delusional," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "Like someone else we know."

    Her eyes widened at thest part that slipped out. She bit her tongue and restrained her sigh.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to bring up Xu Jiaqi but involuntarily did so. She couldn''t help it. Didn''t Yu Zhen state he would punish Xu Jiaqi for trespassing? Or something along those lines?

    "Who are you talking about?" Yu Zhen gently asked.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together and averted her eyes. She concentrated on the ins of his shoulder¡ªstraight and broad.

    "Sunshine," he warned.

    Would it be petty if she brought it up? She didn''t want to deliberately target Xu Jiaqi, but that girl had to be taught a lesson.

    "Li Xueyue," he stated.

    She let out a puff of air. "I was just thinking about Xu Jiaqi."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Why worry about someone so insignificant when you have someone of importance right here?"

    Li Xueyue weakly smiled at his words. "I just¡ª" She fell silent. Did he forget to punish Xu Jiaqi?

    Li Xueyue faltered a bit. He was never the type to forget something. She knew that much. Was Xu Jiaqi pardoned? Did Xu Jiaqi hold that much weight on Yu Zhen''s conscience?

    Dubious questions ran through her hesitant mind, all of which soured her mood.

    Li Xueyue pulled away from him, creating visible distance. She didn''t want to look up at him; to see the disappointment in his frown, and the confusion in his knitted brows. She''d spill out all of her concerns at that sight and then he would be thrown off guard by herints.

    "Sunshine¡ª"

    "Enough, you little brat!" Hu Dengxiao exasperated. He grabbed the fingers that were firmly grabbing onto his sleeves. With great care not to hurt her, he pushed her away.

    "No, someone else can do this task for you!" Third Princess Yu Lingluo shouted. She angrily turned to Wu Xiang and pointed a finger at him.

    "You have nothing to do, Xiang-gege. Why can''t you go get Lu Tianbi?" she hissed.

    Wu Xiang nced around in confusion. He pointed a finger at himself with a perplexed look on his face. Why was the third Princess trying to drag him into the conversation? He was just an innocent bystander!

    How interesting it was, that there were two groups of people having their arguments in front of him.

    Wu Xiang only wanted to sip a cup of tea and watch the mess unfold. But the Third Princess just had to ruin the fun, didn''t she?

    Wu Xiang offered her a warm smile. "Princess Lingluo, the task wasn''t assigned to me."

    "Yeah, you heard your Xiang-gege. Now let me go!" Hu Dengxiao demanded in a harsh voice. His patience had reached its limits.

    What if he waste to the tea party and Lu Tianbi was already taken by another man? What if Lu Tianbi''s hand in marriage was already promised to a random bastard?

    Noticing the prolonged silence, Hu Dengxiao let out a small gasp. His attention snapped to Yu Lingluo who had flinched at his loud voice. He had rarely raised his voice at her.

    "Luoluo¡­" Hu Dengxiao trailed off, guilt filling him. He didn''t like to yell at her. Despite the drastic difference in their ranks, he had viewed the Third Princess as a younger sister.

    Even to this day, he recalled the little girl who chased after him with a wooden sword.

    "Hmph!" Yu Lingluo threw his arm to the side, finally letting go. She angrily crossed her arms and red to the ground.

    Hu Dengxiao let out a small sigh. He didn''t have the time tofort her, but he did. Putting a hand upon her shoulder, he tried to exin.

    "I''ve been very busy ever since your brother gave me this high position. But I''ll y with you next time, okay? This task is important and¡ª"

    "Whatever," Yu Lingluo seethed. She turned around and blindly grabbed someone, thinking it was her brother.

    Except, a hand had gripped hers instead. Quite painfully, at that. She winced and nced up with wide eyes. The concept of physical pain was foreign to her.

    Yu Lingluo sucked in a sharp breath. Her brother seemed furious and he was tightly clenching her hand. She had never seen him so possessive before. His arm hade around the Crown Princess''s body, enveloping her against him.

    "What are you doing?" he demanded in a frigid voice.

 Chapter 340 The Things on My Mind

    <h4>Chapter 340 The Things on My Mind</h4>

    Yu Lingluo gulped as she stared down at her hand that was turning white from Yu Zhen''s tight grip.

    "O-ouch! It hurts!" sheined.

    No less than a secondter, he released her.

    Yu Lingluo sighed in relief and rubbed the throbbing spot. In the midst of her distraction, Hu Dengxiao had slipped away. But she was upied with something else now.

    She had always known her brother had a short temper. But he rarely lost it in front of her. Today was different.

    A thunder cloud had rolled over his face, creating a deep scowl. Lightning crackled in his eyes, vicious and stormy. He was deeply irritated. The temperature around them dropped, but his anger wasn''t directed towards her.

    "What''s wrong?" Yu Lingluo asked in a sullen voice. She pouted, despite knowing he wasn''t mad at her.

    "Nothing, go." He flicked his wrist.

    Yu Lingluo''s shoulders dropped in disappointment. She opened her mouth to protest, but Wu Xiang came forward and shook his head.

    "Come, Princess. Let''s visit my wife. I''m sure my children will love to see you," Wu Xiang gently said.

    Paradise hadn''t even begun, but there was already trouble brewing. He took a hesitant peek at the quarreling couple whose silent glower thickened the tension.

    Wu Xiang shook his head, knowing it wasn''t his ce to chime in.

    "But¡­"

    "Don''t be stubborn, Princess," he encouraged whilst opening the door to give the couple some space.

    Yu Lingluo reluctantly nodded her head. She peered at her older brother and saw his attention had shifted elsewhere. She knew he didn''t mean to vent his frustration out on her. But it still hurt to see him ruthlessly grab her like that.

    Yu Lingluo wondered what provoked him. He was never this possessive with any other women. Usually, a woman touching a woman was fine. Right? She didn''t have a chance to ask before shuffling out of the room with Wu Xiang.

    Wu Xiang closed the door behind him and began to guide her down the hallways.

    "Was my brother arguing with the Crown Princess?" Princess Yu Lingluo quietly asked whilst tugging at the edges of her sleeves.

    It was a force of habit that she had picked up on as a child. Whenever her mother scolded her for misbehaving, she would pluck at her sleeves. Someone had told her it was a coping mechanism, but she didn''t understand it.

    "There is no need to worry about them, Princess," Wu Xiang stated, despite the anxious look in his eyes.

    Wu Xiang was hesitant to leave them alone. He didn''t want to see a battered woman. But then again, Yu Zhen would never strike a woman. It was just¡­ everyone knew the Crown Prince''s temperament wasn''t the finest.

    Wu Xiang worried if the Crown Prince would be too harsh to his fiancee. The possibility of that was highly likely¡ªeven if Yu Zhen was fond of her.

    "Then why do you look so concerned, Xiang-gege?" Princess Yu Lingluo asked.

    "I believe my wife baked green bean pastries. You''ll enjoy them, she added extra msses. You have the same sweet tooth as my children," Wu Xiang said.

    Yu Lingluo was young, but she wasn''t stupid. She knew he was deliberately trying to change the subject. She held back a sigh. She just wished everyone around her would stop treating her like a child. She was sixteen, not six.

    "Really?" Yu Lingluo forced herself to say, hoping to sound excited.

    Wu Xiang knew she was faking it. Regardless, he smiled and nodded his head.

    "Yes, I''m sure everyone will be ecstatic by your arrival."

    Yu Lingluo revealed a dubious smile. She wondered if everything was fine in the Crown Prince''s private study¡­

    - - - - -

    "What is wrong with you?" Li Xueyue demanded, pushing his hand away. "You''re riled up all of a sudden."

    "We had a promise," Yu Zhen seethed. "Why are you suddenly shutting me out?"

    Li Xueyue scowled.

    She didn''t voice herints because she didn''t want to burden him. He should be appreciative of this. Besides, it wasn''t like she could tell him anything and everything that came to mind or he''d view her as a whining child.

    "Why are we arguing again?" she asked. "This is the second or third argument we''ve had since my arrival."

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. He red down at her in disbelief. She was the one provoking him, not the other way around.

    Li Xueyue angrily shook her head. "I''m going back."

    Li Xueyue turned around and approached the door. It barely opened a crack before it was closed shut. She gasped as two arms mmed onto the door, caging her in. She could feel the warm oozing off his heated body. Her eyesnded upon his hands that tightened into fists. Chords of veins revealed itself on his tanned skin.

    He was furious.

    "Let me out," she demanded without facing him.

    Li Xueyue knew the second she turned around, she''d regret it. If there was one thing that was intimidating, it would be his eyes. When he was enraged, his gaze was as menacing as a beast.

    "No. We''re going to solve this."

    "I don''t want to," she gritted out.

    She pressed her body closer to the door when he inched closer. His presence was too difficult to ignore.

    "Li Xueyue. My patience has its limits," he calmly said.

    Li Xueyue frowned at his tone. She was worried about his health. He was beyond the point of rage. His tranquility scared her. When a livid man was calm, that was when people should brace for their lives.

    "You''re throwing a tantrum," he softly stated.

    "I''m not¡ª"

    "Turn around when you talk to me," he demanded in a chilling voice.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "No, you''re¡ª" He didn''t care for her excuses. He forcibly grabbed her chin, turning her around without warning.

    Li Xueyue lost her voice. It was just as she had predicted. His re was fierce. His brooding eyes could tear her apart without trying.

    "Tell me, Li Xueyue, why are you upset?"

    Li Xueyue threw him off guard when she reached up and touched his jaw. It was clenched and tightened.

    "You''ll hurt yourself," she muttered.

    Yu Zhen watched her like she was crazy. One minute she was mad, the next, she was concerned about his well being. What the hell was going on inside of her head? He was willing to buy out a kingdom just to take a peek of her thoughts.

    No matter how frustrated he was with her, he couldn''t deny her touch. She rarely initiated it. He let her fingers gently rest upon his jaw, her thumb caressing his throat. She had no intention of teasing him, but his body hummed with heat. Whether it was from his irritation or the effect of her touch, he didn''t know.

    "You''re right," she suddenly said.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze snapped to her. He certainly didn''t expect to hear that from her.

    "You''re always the first to do everything. The first to ask me what''s wrong, the first to chase when I run¡­" Li Xueyue muttered. "It''s because I''m a coward. I''m unable to do the same because I worry about the factors holding me back."

    Yu Zhen watched with hawk-like eyes when her hand trailed to the side of his neck. Her fingertips on his skin felt ticklish. He wanted more of her touch. It enthralled him.

    "There are so many things I want to say, but I''m frustrated when I can''t voice my concerns. You''ve worked hard to make sure I tell you everything, but I just can''t¡­ Some things are easier said than done," she whispered.

    Yu Zhen didn''t understand what she was doing to him. Her hand had traveled to his chest, her fingers grasping at his clothes. She pulled him closer without much effort.

    "But won''t you chase me a little bit more?" Li Xueyue whispered. "Until I''m no longer afraid of telling you the things on my mind?"

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. When she nced up at him, eyes filled with earnestness, how could he deny her wish? He rested his palm upon the hand that was touching his chest.

    He dropped his head in defeat.

    "The race has yet to end," he muttered. "Of course I''m going to continue running after you."

    He frowned upon meeting her stare. Her shoulders were so frail, yet she shouldered so much burdens. What exactly was burdening her? What exactly kept her up at night? Who was guing her nightmares? Who was hurting her?

    "Won''t you tell me all of your worries?" Yu Zhen quietly asked.

    "Soon¡­" she said. "Soon."

 Chapter 341 Everyone Will Know

    <h4>Chapter 341 Everyone Will Know</h4>

    Yu Zhen stared down at her with a conflicted expression.

    "How soon is soon?" he softly asked, his hand tightening over hers.

    Her eyelids fluttered downwards, unable to admit the truth.

    "I don''t know¡­" she whispered.

    He let out a small sigh and pulled her close, hugging her without qualms. When it came to her, Yu Zhen knew he would be treading in troubled waters. Yet, he still allowed himself to fall helplessly for her.

    Yu Zhen could''ve left for Hanjian and never looked back. But he didn''t. He wrote letters to her that demanded replies. He worked hard to ensure the political marriage would proceed. He finished documents weeks in advance, just to be able to spend time with her after the wedding.

    "The things I do for you¡­" he murmured, shaking his head.

    He felt her grip on his clothes tighten. To his pleasant surprise, she wrapped an arm around his waist and embraced him back. Her other hand rested upon his middle-back as she leaned against him.

    "Will you pay me back for it?" he teased.

    Yu Zhen said it as a joke, but she obviously didn''t see it like that.

    "What would you like in return?" she mumbled into his clothes, refusing to meet his intense gaze.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He let out a hum and pretended to think about it.

    "Allow me to have a harem of flowers to decorate my pce¡ª"

    Her head snapped up, her eyes wide with disbelief.

    Yu Zhen''s lips curled into a satisfied smirk. He could see it, the shards of amber swirling in her eyes¡ªHesitance, anger, fear. They were truly the windows to her soul.

    "I''ll poison your flowers until they wilt and never regrow," she retorted.

    Yu Zhen wagged his fingers in front of her face, like a master disciplining a pet.

    "Flowers are receable. One wilt, and two more grows in its ce," he said.

    Yu Zhen peered in amusement as her nostrils red with a temperament fierce enough to match his. He could picture the gears turning in her head. And without warning, she angrily stomped on his foot.

    He let out a sharp hiss in pain, not expecting a sneak attack like that. She shoved him away and crossed her arms.

    "If you''re going to have a harem of women, I want my fair share of boy toys," she stated.

    Li Xueyue realized Yu Zhen was fickle as parchment against the wind. His easygoing smile morphed into a murderous glower. He revealed a wicked smirk, a crazed look in his obsidian eyes.

    "Go ahead," he whispered.

    Li Xueyue certainly didn''t expect such an answer. His smirk deepened until it was sinister and dangerous.

    "Buy out an entire brothel of men if you wish."

    Li Xueyue''s brows came together. She was puzzled by his eptance of her proposal. She gulped when he took a slow step forward. She held her breath when he lifted strands of her long hair in between his calloused fingers.

    "But I must warn you, Li Xueyue," he mused. "They won''t have body parts to please you with."

    Li Xueyue thought it was a joke, but the chilling calmness in his eyes said otherwise. She shivered. Heughed. He brought the strands of hair to his lips, pressing a kiss upon it.

    "They''ll be dead before you have your fun with them."

    Li Xueyue''s frowned. "I can say the same about your puny little flowers."

    Her heart skipped when he nced up from her hair. His eyes were sharp, like a predator watching his prey. He was too intense¡ªtoo mesmerizing. He held her attention for the longest time. She couldn''t look away¡ªnot even if she wanted too.

    Yu Zhen''s beauty was likened to nightfall. Cool as the night breeze, mesmerizing like stars, and mysterious like the moon.

    She flinched in surprise when he reached out. She hoped her reaction didn''t offend him. It didn''t. He dropped the locks of her hair and in the blink of an eye, he was in front of her.

    Li Xueyue was trapped between him and the doors. She had nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide.

    "Jealousy is a lovely shade on you," Yu Zhen murmured, grabbing her chin and lifting it up.

    "You should see yourself first," she softly said, her feet moved on their own and rose to stand on the tippy-toes.

    Li Xueyue closed her eyes, waiting for a kiss that never came. A second or two passed but she felt nothing.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª" He pressed a chaste kiss upon her forehead. Even when he pulled back, she could still feel its lingering warmth, warming her heart as well.

    "You just love to tease me, don''t you?" Li Xueyue grumbled, as her foot ttened onto the ground.

    Then without warning, he bent down and captured her lips. She was caught off guard by the gentle kiss. It started off soft and slow, for he was careful not to hurt her. Then after a few seconds went by, their lips moved faster. Feverishly, he kissed her with a passion unlike before.

    Li Xueyue''s body hummed when he pressed open mouth kisses on the corners of her lips. He went lower and lower, his teeth skimming her jawline beforetching upon her neck.

    Her fingers dug into his upper arm when he suckled upon the same spot. The faded mark was beginning to show itself again.

    "Everyone will know," she said in protest, pushing at his chest, but he grasped her wrist and pinned it against the door.

    She used her other hand to cover her mouth, suppressing a moan when he blew on the bruised spot.

    "Let them know," he retorted, prying her hand away to seal his lips upon hers.

    His slick tongue dove into her mouth, wet and hot. He pressed his body against hers until he felt everything. He slowly released her wrist.

    Li Xueyue''s heart flipped when he let out a sound of pleasure. She unknowingly clung onto him, a hand upon his jaw, and the other on his back.

    "The things you do to me," he groaned, finally pulling back to let her breathe. A couple of secondster, his tongue dove back inside, tasting her carefully. She tasted sweet, like jasmine tea.

    "Soon, you''ll bepletely mine," he asserted against her lips. He straightened up as her body slumped forward. He could feel her ample chest rising against his, greedily sucking in air.

    Li Xueyue''s shakingly nodded her head, knowing what was toe. Quite literally.

    His thumb brushed against her swollen mouth. How was this possible? That a man as cruel as him was capable of soft actions like this? His temper was hot, his personality was fearsome, and he was merciless. Yet, he caressed her with love and adoring eyes.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but confess her worries to him. "I saw Xu Jiaqi before I came here."

    His body went as stiff as a tree. He waited patiently for her to voice out her concerns.

    "She was unscathed from her actions yesterday," she pointed out. "Which is quite interesting, considering your reputation for punishing rulebreakers."

    Li Xueyue grabbed the hand that caressed her face. She prevented him from touching her anywhere else.

    "Care to exin?" she asked, but it sounded like amand.

 Chapter 342 Good News

    <h4>Chapter 342 Good News</h4>

    Yu Zhen finally understood what was bothering her today. She thought Xu Jiaqi walked away unscathed. He revealed a dark smile and released her from the embrace. Disappointment instantly flooded her face as he walked off.

    He approached his desk, knowing she was watching his every move. He picked up a rolled-up parchment and approached her again. He tipped the scroll in her direction.

    Li Xueyue stared down at the object. She was curious about what it was. She took the scroll from him and unraveled it. Immediately, the seal of the Imperial Family could be seen. She quickly skimmed the contents. It didn''t take long for her head to shoot up.

    "Is this a punishment for her or me?" she stated.

    "For her," he chuckled.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "No, I don''t want her as my maidservant."

    Yu Zhen wrapped his hand around her fingers. "Consider this offer carefully," he said.

    Li Xueyue knew her anger was misced. She was being ungrateful of his gift. She knew the benefits of having Xu Jiaqi as her handmaiden. It would put the woman in her ce.

    Xu Juaqi would bemanded around like a servant. Whatever Li Xueyue wanted, Xu Jiaqi would have to do.

    "Do you want me to be suffocated in the morning, poisoned in the afternoon, and killed during my sleep?" she said.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He hadn''t seen this dramatic side to her before.

    "Xu Jiaqi is of noble birth. Waiting upon you and getting her to tend to your every whim will tarnish her reputation beyond repair," she said.

    Li Xueyue''s fingers tightened on the piece of parchment. "There are more consequences than benefits in this."

    "Lu Tianbi told me something amusing this morning before she left to see her suitor," he said.

    "What is it?" she asked.

    "Xu Jiaqi is one of the more well-known women vying for my attention."

    "And yet you still keep her around," Li Xueyue gritted out, stepping to the side and escaping from him.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to be near him. She knew he''d try to kiss and caress her into agreeing.

    "You want me to use her as an example," she stated. "To the other womenpeting for you."

    Li Xueyue understood where this conversation was going. Right now, all eyes were on her and Xu Jiaqi. She hadn''t realized this sooner. The people of the pce would be curious to see where this rtionship would go.

    She ignored his smile¡ªproud, and wide.

    "You''re wise beyond your years, Xueyue. You''ll know what to do," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue sighed through her nose. Was this her first challenge in the pce? To find the biggest fish, gut it, and hang it up as an example? If she was able to turn the crazy Xu Jiaqi into a pawn, it''ll scare away otherpetitors. Though, she had yet to meet them.

    Li Xueyue focused on Yu Zhen''s reassuring smile. He was willing to give her a way out. But that meant giving up before she even started. In all honesty, Xu Jiaqi seemed like a decent woman. She was just a bit delusional and shameless¡ª that was all.

    Would that woman be crazy enough to kill the Crown Princess?

    Li Xueyue would have to find out. "And Yanxi?"

    "Yanxi will stay by your side. Xu Jiaqi will also follow her orders," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue looked at the scroll again. A few seconds of silence passed by. "Fine, I''ll allow Xu Jiaqi to serve me."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue knew Yu Zhen was looking out for her. He always was. It would exin his decision. She would be taming Xu Jiaqi whilst warning other women to stay away. It was killing two birds with one stone.

    Li Xueyue wouldn''t be surprised if there were people eying her current position. She was a Princess from a foreign country. Up until recently, Wuyi was regarded as an enemy kingdom. Of course, there would be many women believing it would be easy to rece her.

    "Are you hungry?" Yu Zhen asked, distracting her.

    Li Xueyue was prepared to deny him, but her stomach loudly rumbled. "S-seems like it."

    Yu Zhen warmly smiled. "It''s time for our afternoon meal then."

    He approached her and took the scroll from her hand. He shook his head in amusement. The parchment was crumpled up from her tight grip. He''d have to rewrite it and hand it to Lu Tianbiter.

    "Can we dine near the gardens?" Li Xueyue asked. "I think I saw a pond with a gazebo in the center."

    Yu Zhen vividly recalled that ce. He frequented it due to the tranquil silence it offered him.

    "If that is your wish, then it shall be fulfilled," Yu Zhen said. He walked back to the desk, ced down the scroll, and went back to her.

    "Is there a specific dish you''d like to eat?" he asked whilst cing a beckoning hand on her lower back, guiding her out of the door.

    Once the doors were opened, the Eunuchs outside instantly bowed, alongside the guards.

    "Hmmm¡­" she trailed off, pondering which dish stood out to her the most. But then she was distracted by something. An older man dressed in white and blue was taking long, formidable strides towards them.

    Li Xueyue recognized him. He resembled Wu Xiang in every aspect. This must be the Chancellor.

    "Chancellor Wu," Yu Zhen coldly addressed.

    The Chancellor bowed his head in greeting. He seemed a bit out of breath from?speed-walking here. He rarely rushed for anything but, the Emperor''s estate was a bit far from here and time was pressing.

    "Your Highness," he said, lifting his head. He turned to the quiet woman beside the Crown Prince. "Princess," he greeted.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen demanded.

    Li Xueyue noticed the Chancellor was nothing like his son. Wu Xiang was all smiles and jokes, whereas Chancellor Wu was stern and unforgiving.

    His forehead had worry lines and despite his age, there weren''t wrinkles anywhere else on his face besides the area near his eyes. It seemed the Chancellor rarely smiled.

    "I apologize for this short notice, but there is an urgent issue we must discuss, Your Highness," Chancellor Wu stated.

    Yu Zhen didn''t want to part from Xueyue so quickly. Especially after they had just made up. But it must''ve been an important issue if the Chancellor himself came here.

    "That''s alright," Li Xueyue said. "Go."

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He reluctantly dropped his hand and turned to the nearest Eunuch.

    "Bring my Wangfei to the gazebo. Have her afternoon meal thoroughly prepared," he instructed.

    The Eunuch instantly nodded his head. He would carry out the Crown Prince''s request with great care. The Crown Prince was a man who expected no less than perfection. And if expectations weren''t met, the consequences would be dire.

    "Please follow me, Princess," the Eunuch stated with a lowered head.

    Li Xueyue obliged and apanied him down the hallway. The servants she left outside of the door began following her, including Yanxi.

    She curiously looked back, wondering what was the pressing issue that she couldn''t learn about.

    Li Xueyue could only see Yu Zhen''s shoulders, not his face. But the Chancellor''s face was on full disy. The men privately conserved amongst themselves. And judging from the Chancellor''s displeased expression, it wasn''t good news.

 Chapter 343 Unsettling Rumors

    <h4>Chapter 343 Unsettling Rumors</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t believe the twist of fate until she turned the corner and was forced to stop walking. She lowered her legs and tucked her hands to the side for a bow.

    "Greetings, Your Grace," she stated, keeping her eyes to the ground until the Empress pardoned her.

    Li Xueyue was well aware of the prying stares. They were scrutinizing her, from her head to toe, even her clothes.

    They were searching for visible ws totch onto and tear her down. She could see their eagerness to gossip and predict how tongues would wag after this encounter. Rumors would spread like wildfire at the expense of a woman''s reputation; once tarnished, could never be restored.

    "Hmm, you may rise," the Empress finally said. Her voice was light and airy, like a patient mother.

    Li Xueyue felt like something was off, but she lifted her chin.

    The giggles finally had died down. The hallway settled into a tense silence.

    She observed the group of girls that apanied the Empress, all of whom were young and beautiful. By physical appearance alone, none of these women had ws. Subconsciously, they were filled with jealousy.

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to confirm it to know. She could just feel it in the way they masked their hatred withrge smiles. They hid their true emotions behind wooden fans crafted from colored parchment.

    "Oh my, the Crown Princess is very different from the other candidates," a voicemented.

    "Pft¡­" Another suppressed theirugh and hid behind their fan.

    Li Xueyue''s gaze sharpened upon realizing none of them bowed to her in greeting. They revealed bright smiles¡ªso sweet, they could give you cavities.

    "Yes, the other candidates were¡­ questionable," someone added on.

    Smallughter chimed in agreement. The Empress made no moves to control herdies-in-waiting [1]. Neither did she bother to put leashes on them. Of course, none that were visible.

    Amongst the small crowd, Li Xueyue saw Xu Jiaqi who stood the closest to the Empress.

    "Well, not very different if you consider how fragile girls from Wuyi are," Xu Jiaqi added on, her lips curled into a concerned smile.

    Li Xueyue already knew where this was going. She hadn''t forgotten Xu Jiaqi''s audaciousments from this morning.

    "Your Grace, as a result, many women struggle during childbirth. Their mortality rates are much higher¡­ Children without mothers are pitiful," she whispered.

    The Empress nodded in response. She carefully watched Li Xueyue''s reactions to these provocativements. And to her disappointment, the Crown Princess neither smiled nor frowned.

    Li Xueyue''s face was nk and apathetic. It was like she didn''t hear thesements. She continued standing there, with her chin raised and shoulders back. Her eyes were filled with boredom as if she couldn''t be fazed by anything.

    "Didn''t you hear, Your Grace?" anotherdy spoke up. "One of Wuyi''s candidates that was pregnant¡­ supposedly she''s bedridden. The physician is warning the servants that the Madam might not live to hold her baby."

    Li Xueyue wondered what else these women did aside from spreading gossip like this. They were all women. Why tear each other down to build themselves up?

    Her attention shifted to the Empress. On the surface, she seemed to be attentively listening to thements. But Li Xueyue knew better. The Empress was watching her, carefully observing every reaction.

    "Oh no," Xu Jiaqi whispered, covering her mouth in horror. "That poor General¡­ He will have to live with a firstborn child who killed their mother at childbirth."

    Li Xueyue knew thesements were directed at her. Rece the General with the Commander, and everyone would understand the message. They were publicly attempting to convince the Empress to reconsider having Li Xueyue as the Crown Princess.

    If the Crown Princess died at childbirth, what shall happen to the Crown Prince? Would he go through the difficulties of remarrying?

    How pitiful would it be if his first wife died at childbirth? A child without a mother is a pitiful one. What if the Crown Prince''s son ended up motherless?

    It was easy for these types of doubts to harbor in the Empress'' heart.

    "We shouldn''t generalize. Everyone is different," the Empress finally said.

    The Empress was severely disappointed by Li Xueyue''sck of response to these insults. Was the girl deaf? Or just stupid?

    "Of course, Your Grace," a woman gently said.?Agreement buzzed through the crowd, as more people murmured their support.

    "It would be a shame if the Crown Princess''s name was dragged through the mud just because of the other candidates. They mighte from the same country, but maybe they''re different?" another one said.

    Li Xueyue blocked out thesements. She hadn''t finished analyzing the situation yet. Slow and steady wins the race.

    Something about the Empress stood out. It wasn''t heryered clothing of deep purple, pure white, and glistening gold. Her dress was elegant and suitable for her age.

    However, Li Xueyue wasn''t focused on silk and embroidery. What mattered the most was the Empress''s essories.

    ''What is that¡­?'' she thought to herself. Then, it suddenly clicked.

    Her ne wasn''t crafted from fragile gems. It was made of steel. The edges coiled downwards, forming a sharp arrow that pointed to her corbone. The jaggard rings on the Empress''s folded hands didn''t seem like any ordinary piece of jewelry.

    "Please pardon my impudence for speaking out of turn, Your Grace," Xu Jiaqi whispered. She took a pause, waiting for the Empress''s approval.

    "You may continue, Lady Xu," the Empress stated.

    Xu Jiaqi bowed her head, concealing her excitement. She didn''t want to seem too eager to speak. She shuffled her feet and slowly lifted her chin.

    "From my previous encounters as a lowly servant before the generous help of the Crown Princess, there were a lot of unsettling rumors that I believe should be brought to light," she said.

    The Empress hummed in response, encouraging the suddenly-talkativedy to continue speaking.

    The Empress had rarely heard the sweet voice of Xu Jiaqi as the woman was shy and timid.

    But when the Empress did hear Xu Jiaqi speak, there was always a sense of tranquility she felt from the soft, soothing voice.

    "It''s just¡­" Xu Jiaqi trailed off, fear shing in her eyes when she snuck a nce at Li Xueyue before quickly looking away.

    Everyone noticed her hesitation, as many came forward to encourage her.

    "Oh Lady Xu, is something wrong? You''re trembling¡­" Ady dressed in chiffon pink stepped forward, wrapping aforting arm around Lady Xu Jiaqi. She looked down with worry written all over her face.

    "It''s alright, Lady Xu, you don''t have to force yourself to remember such an unsettling experience," someone encouraged. She reached a hand out and grasped Lady Xu Jiaqi''s palms, squeezing it in reassurance.

    A woman in yellow quickly nodded her head. She nced towards the Empress whose gaze was upon Xu Jiaqi.

    "That is right, even Her Grace would prefer it if you don''t strain yourself," she said.

    The samedy in pink added on, "I''ve never seen you so terrified before, especially when you''re with us, Lady Xu. Who is instilling such fear upon you?"

    The Empress shifted her attention to Li Xueyue again. What would the Crown Princess do now? The insults were bing more prevalent. Li Xueyue had to say something. It was either now or never.

    Would the Crown Princess remain still as a tree, quiet as a leaf? Or would her true nature unearth before them?

    Well, Li Xueyue? What shall you do now?

 Chapter 344 Report To The Crown Prince

    <h4>Chapter 344 Report To The Crown Prince</h4>

    "Perhaps," Li Xueyue finally said.

    In an instant, everyone''s attentiontched onto her¡ªlike mosquitoes on flesh. It was almostical that these women were attempting to insult her. Her thick skin was too tough to be cut by their words.

    "You have trauma after the Crown Prince kicked you out from this estate yesterday," Li Xueyuemented.

    She ced a hand upon her chest as her brows came together in worry. Her eyes softened and she nodded in understanding.

    Li Xueyue watched in satisfaction as Xu Jiaqi stiffened, her eyes snapping upwards.

    "N-no, the Crown Prince doesn''t frighten me¡ª"

    Li Xueyue offered the quivering woman a gentle, sympathetic smile. "Then, were you worried about people finding out that you werest night even though you weren''t summoned?" she added on.

    Xu Jiaqi''s throat went dry at Li Xueyue''s words. Truthfully, she wasn''t scared of anything.

    She was in this estate just this morning but these women didn''t know that. Most certainly, the Empress also didn''t, whose gaze sharpened at the newfound knowledge.

    "What were you doing here yesterday, Xu Jiaqi?" the Empress questioned, turning to the shivering woman. Her lips curled upwards in encouragement.

    "Your Grace¡­" Xu Jiaqi trailed off, her voice dying off towards the end.

    What was she supposed to say? She couldn''t remember much about her drunken night, except begging for the position as a concubine¡ªa title that everydy-in-waiting wanted.

    Xu Jiaqi''s attention briefly drifted to Li Xueyue. She could do nothing but gawk at the unwavering woman. A white lotus. That was exactly what the Crown Princess was.

    "I wanted to¡­" Xu Jiaqi paused, unable toe up with a response that wouldn''t put her in jeopardy. She pressed her lips together and stared at the floor.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. She expected more of her opponent, but it seemed Xu Jiaqi was just a small fish. She was instantly bored of this conversation. Her time could''ve been spent elsewhere.

    "But, Crown Princess," a woman quickly spoke up. "How did you know our Lady Xu was excused from the estate? Were you also there?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. Why did it matter? She was the Crown Princess. Did she need a reason to visit her soon-to-be husband? Her face said it all. Disappointment reflected in her eyes.

    She merely gave the woman a look and kept her mouth shut. Her silence must''ve made them nervous for they quickly spoke up.

    "Of course, I assume your presence is always weed here, Princess," the woman stated. "It''s just¡­ we wouldn''t want illegitimate heirs running around the estate."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. These women were brazen. It was broad daylight and they were in a public area. Anyone could overhear this conversation.

    She merely crossed her arms and kept quiet. Her attention shifted back to the Empress. Li Xueyue noted the Empress had been watching her for a while now.

    As another woman of high power, Li Xueyue hoped the Empress understood the meaning of her actions.

    "There is no need to stand around here," the Empress lightlymented. "The sun is high above us. Let''s enjoy tea in the gardens."

    The Empress decided this conversation would go nowhere. Li Xueyue remained unprovoked to all of the shamelessments. She wanted to know why Li Xueyue refused to fight back. In high society, words were weapons. Did shee unprepared to argue?

    But then, she saw it.

    The smallest lift of her lips. For a split second there, the Empress saw a genuine smile.

    "Thank you for your generous offer, Your Grace," Li Xueyue answered without hesitation. "I''m afraid I will have to refuse."

    The Empress was shocked by her outright refusal. "And why is that, Crown Princess?"

    Li Xueyue briefly nced at all of thedies-in-waiting. Her intentions were clear. She didn''t want to dine with these bbering women.

    "Too many voices in a discussion will drown out the purpose," Li Xueyue exined.

    The Empress fondly smiled at her words. She knew the real reason why. It was the rules of etiquette. Masters do not dine with their servants. Nor, do the higher ss answer to the lower ranks.

    It seemed her predictions weren''t off. Li Xueyue exhibited great decorum. She was wise with her words, responding only to people she had to.

    The Empress realized Li Xueyue had purposely refused to say anything to these rotten women. She concealed her amusement. The Crown Princess was bold and reminded the Empress of her younger self.

    "Very well," the Empress stated in a light, airy voice. Her anger was long soothed, and she nodded in approval.

    Li Xueyue felt relieved. It seemed the Empress had not misunderstood her intentions.

    "I look forward to conversing with you again," the Empressmented.

    Li Xueyue simply smiled. She folded her hands to one side and dipped in a curtsy, bidding the Empress goodbye.

    The Empress hid her amusement and turned on her heels. She walked off, knowing exactly who had won this fight.

    On the surface, it seemed thedies-in-waiting had done the most damage. But in reality, these jabs didn''t even faze Li Xueyue. The Crown Princess answered to no one but her higher-ups.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue waited for them to all leave before she went in the other direction. She didn''t want to run into them again. Well, the Empress seemed fine. But thosedies were irritating.

    Li Xueyue finally knew what irked these women. Silence. When she didn''t respond, these women were forced to scramble for something else to say to prolong the conversation and keep it going. They had expected her to argue back and make a fool out of herself.

    But she didn''t.

    Li Xueyue had purposely let the argument die down. It forced them to rethink their words and realize the stupidity of their actions.

    They had spoken directly to a Crown Princess, someone ranks above them and hoped for a response? It was a foolish thing. They had forgotten their ce in the social hierarchy.

    Nothing was better than making someone doubt themselves. By then, they would be arguing with their subconsciousness and not the intended target.

    "That was interesting, wasn''t it?" Li Xueyuemented, mainly to Yanxi who was a step behind her.

    Yanxi concealed a smile. She had never served anyone, but had witnessed how vicious these women could be.

    There were many women who had lost their prestige and reputation when they vied for the position of the Empress''sdies-in-waiting. There were even more who had lost their identity chasing after an unattainable dream.

    So many have tried to win the Crown Prince''s heart, but none have seeded.

    It took more than beauty to please the Empress. Wits were also important. As well as knowing your ce.

    "You did very well, Princess," Yanxi warmly said.

    Yanxi was reassured today. She hadn''t served the wrong Master. It seemed this Crown Princess was here to stay¡ªfor good.

    "Shall we report this to the Crown Prince?" Yanxi questioned.

    The Pce was cold to people without backings. It would benefit the Crown Princess if she had the ultimate support system.

    Some would say the Emperor was the most powerful man, and the Empress was the most influential woman, but they had all forgotten who called the final shots.

    "It''s fine, I can handle it, " Li Xueyue said.

    Today was a small victory. She didn''t need Yu Zhen to intervene unless it was necessary.

    She nced towards her left. Flowers bloomed before her eyes,rge and beautiful. The morning sun reflected off the dewy petals as a sweet, floral scent filled the air. The flowers were a whirlwind of beauty, but there was no one to appreciate it.

    "I assume this is only the beginning of my troubles," Li Xueyue murmured.

    Li Xueyue he was fine with that. In the end, she had pleased the only woman that mattered¡ªthe Empress of Hanjian.

    Everyday would be a battle, but she wouldn''t go down without a fight.

 Chapter 345 Too Much To Ask

    <h4>Chapter 345 Too Much To Ask</h4>

    Yu Zhen vowed to tear down the Emperor''s estate once the man dies. Despite the grandeur of shimmering gold and crimson red, everything here was dreary. There were simply too many haunting nightmares created here.

    Yu Zhen abhorred this ce with a burning passion. He''d personally destroy this ce, bit by bit, and have it rebuilt to his liking.

    Despite the airy hallways that provided ample sunlight, it was incredibly dark here. The atmosphere that lingered in the Emperor''s estate was an unfavorable one. Shadows lingered in corners, waiting to grab helpless souls.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen demanded upon entering the Emperor''s bedroom.

    Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw the Imperial Physician taking a step back along with a deep bow. Everyone had grim looks on their faces. You''d think the Emperor died or something, but s, the man let out a wet cough.

    "You rascal¡­" the Emperor breathed out, tossing the blood-coated handkerchief aside.

    "Is this how you greet your ill father?" he snarled just as a Eunuch came forward with a clean handkerchief made of silk. It didn''t take long for the material to be clenched and wrinkled.

    Yu Zhen didn''t bother responding. He approached the bed, his nose twitching at the scent of the incense. He hated the smell of eucalyptus. It reminded him of the medicine his father always took.

    This man was already on his deathbed. What was the point of prolonging life? The Grim Reaper was already awaiting the Emperor. There was no need to make that man wait.

    "Bah, you disappoint me," the Emperor scoffed even before his son said anything. He wiped the blood from his lips.

    "The wedding is... in two days," he said with great trouble. He rubbed his chest upon feeling sharp pains there.

    "I expect heirs soon," he stated.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. ''What makes this old man think he will ever see his grandchildren? Especially after his treatment towards his own sons?''

    "That little Princess¡­" he heaved, patting his chest.

    The Eunuch took that as his cue?to rush forward with a tray of freshly poured herbal tea. The Emperor took it without hesitation and drank the medicine down. His scowl deepened at the bitter taste that overwhelmed his senses.

    "Her body is weak," he muttered.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. Li Xueyue''s body had nothing to do with the Emperor. This ancient tortoise should just lie in bed and peacefully die.

    "Be careful not¡­ to hurt her," he coughed out.

    Well that was unexpected. Yu Zhen thought his father would be stupid enough to criticize his Xueyue in front of him. His cruel expression softened the slightest bit.

    "She seems frail," the Emperor added on. He could no longer endure sitting upwards. With a wave of his hand, people came forward to lower his body onto the bed.

    "Is that all?" Yu Zhen demanded in a monotone voice.

    It was strange to see his father like this. The man who used to be all big and mighty couldn''t even lie down on his bed without help. The Emperor used to smell of spices and blood, but now his scent was of pungent herbs and incense.

    Yu Zhen didn''t think he would ever live to see the day that his father''s health deteriorates. But he enjoyed every moment of it. His father never showed him sympathy, so why should Yu Zhen give it?

    Yu Zhen would never forget the day his father tried to kick Xiao Juzi to death. The reason why? Yu Zhen smiled around the animal. Or, the afternoon that the Emperor ordered the near-execution of Hu Dengxiao upon seeing his son was genuinely enjoying life.

    "The pce is cruel," the Emperor murmured.

    He stared up at his ceiling, where canopies of muslin hung. Dark like midnight, the curtains were slowly draped over his bed, until eventually, he could no longer see the features of his son.

    The Second Prince''s appearance was a blurry silhouette. ck, hazy, and wavering¡ªlike the shadows of a flicking candle in the dead of the night.

    "Keep her safe," the Emperor whispered. He was beginning to grow drowsy. His eyelids felt heavy. The medicine was finally kicking in.

    Yu Zhen''s fingers curled into fists. He didn''t need to hear such words from his own father.

    "If she does not¡­" he sighed. "Give you a son. Do not pressure her."

    The Emperor felt so weak, he couldn''t even lift a limb. Nheless, the pain had subdued a bit.

    "Wives are meant to be cherished¡­ Mistresses are meant to be mistreated," the Emperor said.

    He could no longer keep his eyes open. Slowly, quietly, he drifted off to sleep.

    And without another word, Yu Zhen exited the room. He mmed the door shut behind him and stormed off. His mood was already soured twice this morning. And the day was barely beginning.

    - - - - -

    "I want him," Princess Yu Lingluo said the second she entered her older brother''s private study.

    Yu Lingluo tucked her hands behind her lower back as she strolled into the room without a care in the world. If her actions were done by anyone else, that person wouldn''t have been able to take another step. How could one walk without a head?

    But this was Yu Lingluo, the favored Third Princess of Hanjian.

    "Who is it this time?" Yu Zhen said without lifting his head from the calligraphy he was working on.

    Yu Lingluo pouted at his words. Why did he make it seem like she was gathering a harem of men? Well, that certainly would be fun¡­

    "Aren''t you going to reprimand me?"

    "..."

    "You know, for being so shameless," Yu Lingluo stated. She stopped before the enormous parchment that was spread onto the floor mat. As expected of him, the calligraphy was bold and powerful. His strokes were fierce and unique.

    "You just want attention," Yu Zhen said.

    Yu Lingluo huffed at his words. She crossed her arms. "That''s because you''ve been neglecting me recently."

    "It''s not my job to entertain you," Yu Zhen boredly responded. He stared at the enormous calligraphy. Without warning, he tossed therge brush onto the ground, surprising her.

    "Zhen-gege¡ª" she couldn''t finish her sentence before her eyes widened in horror.

    Yu Zhen ripped the calligraphy in half. He crushed it between his fingers, crumbling the parchment in disgust. He had haphazardly written whatever came to mind. This time, it was a quote about fathers.

    "But it was beautiful¡­" Yu Lingluo whispered. He scrambled up the parchment and tossed it to the corner of the room. She didn''t need to read the calligraphy to know the gist of it.

    "Father is sick. Go see him."

    Yu Lingluo pressed her lips together. "I just saw him this morning. He told me to go out and take a walk under the sun because his room was too dreary for me."

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond to her words. He turned his back to her and approached his desk.

    "Won''t you spare me some of your time?" Yu Lingluo huffed. She was familiar with his cold-shoulders andck of responses.

    Her brother was always nonchnt and apathetic. She was used to that. But sometimes, she wished he would smile. Just a little bit was fine. All she wanted was for him to be happy. Was that too much to ask for?

 Chapter 346 Slacking Off

    <h4>Chapter 346 cking Off</h4>

    Yu Lingluo wanted to bother her brother for a little while longer. She was bored and he seemed lonely. She opened her mouth to say something but was interrupted by the sound of rapid clicking. She didn''t recognize the sound but noticed it came from the window.

    "Uhm, Zhen-gege¡ª"

    "I know."

    Yu Zhen sharply turned towards the source of the noise. He walked towards his window without hesitation and heard a familiar coo.

    Taken by surprise, he pulled the window open, and sure enough, there was a dirty white pigeon perched in front of him.

    "You obviously don''t belong to me," Yu Zhen muttered as he curled a finger outwards for the bird. There wasn''t a message attached to the bird''s legs.

    "How pretty!" Yu Lingluo eximed with a p of her hands. She was intrigued by the bird that had interrupted their conversation.

    "It''s not mine."

    "Oh, whose is it then?" Yu Lingluo asked as her brother closed the window and allowed the bird inside.

    To their surprise, the little pigeon was quite obedient and remained perched upon Yu Zhen''s fingers.

    Yu Zhen shrugged in response. He had a suspicion about who this bird belonged to. Especially with its sullied feathers.

    "Why is it so dirty?" Yu Lingluomented, scrunching her brows.

    She approached her brother''s desk. The white coat of feathers was stained with dust which resulted in an ashen color.

    "Why don''t you ask the bird?" Yu Zhen retorted.

    He headed towards the empty cage on the other side of the room. Usually, it was reserved for his messenger pigeon, but the little thing was outside delivering a note.

    "She or he seems well-trained," Yu Lingluo said. The bird had hopped into the cage without much trouble.

    Yu Zhen nodded in response. He closed the door of the golden cage before grabbing it by the top handles.

    "Where are you going?" Yu Lingluo asked when he brushed past her and headed for the door. She trailed after him like a lost puppy even when he didn''t tell her anything.

    "Well?" she asked, continuing to walk by his side. It was a privilege that not many had.

    When he came to an abrupt halt, so did she.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together and turned his attention to Yu Lingluo. She was eagerly staring up at him with wide, curious eyes. He couldn''t help but sigh. She needed more friends.

    "I have an important meeting to attend."

    Yu Lingluo wore her emotions on her sleeves. Disappointment was evident on her face. Her lips trembled and she sullenly nodded.

    "Okay, I''ll go bother Xiao Juzi then¡­" she trailed off, knowing the animal was the only one who''d keep herpany.

    Xiao Juzi was kind to her, but he loved to nip at her dress thinking it was food.

    Yu Zhen didn''t want to leave her all alone. She was young and mischievous. He was certain she''d go around and cause trouble again. He had already lost count of how many times she ran wild in this pce, pulling pranks on unsuspecting people.

    "I''m certain Hu Dengxiao has returned," he stated.

    Yu Lingluo instantly perked up at his words.

    "Really?" she whispered, excited to seek her friend out.

    "Yes. Go find him." Yu Zhen closed his fingers and waved his hand, much like a person would shoo away a pet.

    Yu Lingluo didn''t need to be told twice. She abruptly hugged her brother before skipping off to find Hu Dengxiao.

    Yu Zhen watched as she giddily hopped down the hallway. He shook his head in amusement. It must''ve been nice to live such a carefree life. He was relieved by the fact that she wasn''t a candidate for Wuyi.

    Yu Lingluo was simply too young. On top of that, she was also everyone''s favorite. The Empress doted on her, and the Emperor adored her.

    If there was one thing Yu Zhen had hoped for, it was for Yu Lingluo to remain as naive as she was now. Everyone had always tried their best to shield her from the cruelty of the pce. At the least, shouldn''t one flower bloom peacefully?

    - - - - -

    Yanxi couldn''t help but sigh in relief when she noticed the Princess had fallen asleep. The Princess was resting her cheek upon a propped up arm. Her other hand rested upon the unturned pages of her book.

    "I''m d you''re taking a nap," Yanxi whispered to the Crown Princess, even though no one was here to listen to her.

    She quietly approached the sleeping Princess and draped a nket over her shoulders. Amusement spread on her face as the Princess''s head began to drop lower and lower until her head was upon the table.

    Yanxi had never seen the Princess take a nap. She must''ve been beyond tired today. It was alreadyte in the afternoon¡­ Perhaps this extra few hours of sleep would help the Princess replenish her energy.

    "Should I wake her up?" Yanxi asked herself, suddenly hesitant of the decision.

    If the Princess slept now, will she be able to fall asleepter?

    Unfortunately, Yanxi couldn''t explore her options. There was an abrupt knock that echoed in the room. But before she could respond, the doors opened. She was greeted by a formidable presence.

    Yanxi wasn''t surprised to see the Crown Prince. Only he would be gutsy enough to trespass without warning.

    She bowed her upper body.

    "Your Highness," she addressed right as he stepped past the screen separating the entrance from the living room.

    "You''re excused," he stated.

    Yu Zhen brushed past the Head Maidservant who bowed at his words and began heading for the door. It didn''t take long for the middle-aged maidservant to leave.

    Yu Zhen was briefly surprised by the sight before him. Li Xueyue was fast asleep on the table, an open book beside her arms.

    "You''ve been cking off," Yu Zhen mused as he peered over her shoulders.

    The book was only on the third page. He held back a smallugh.

    He ced the cage upon the table. The bird instantly shifted positions on the branch, almost as if it recognized someone.

    "I knew this would be your owner," Yu Zhen stated in a quiet voice. He was careful to not disturb her.

    Yu Zhen gently stroked Li Xueyue''s cheeks with the back of his fingers. He didn''t want to awaken her. But he couldn''t help it. As always, her flesh was soft and smooth.

    "You''ll catch a cold," he scolded. "And wake up sore."

    Yu Zhen reached down and took off her shoes, abandoning it at the foot of the table. With a hand resting upon her upper back and the other hooked under her knees, he lifted her with ease.

    In an instant, Li Xueyue stirred in his arms. "Hmm¡­ who?"

    "Go back to sleep, Sunshine," he whispered.

    Yu Zhen tightened his grip of her until her head was resting upon his chest. He watched as her eyes opened and closed,zily, slowly, until her body slumped.

    An abrupt warmth spread through his chest. He couldn''t pinpoint the exact emotions. That is until she shifted in his arms, nuzzling her face against him. His heart was abnormally squeezed.

    "Sleep well, Sunshine," he said whilst settling her onto the bed. He shifted the nket until she was thoroughly covered by it.

    Yu Zhen could''ve left right then and there. But he couldn''t. It was strange. He sat by the edge of her bed, rhythmically patting her chest through the nket.

    He had to make sure she was sleeping soundly andfortably. And only when he deemed she was fine did he finally exit the room.

 Chapter 347 Another Trap

    <h4>Chapter 347 Another Trap</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up feeling lost and confused. She blinked her eyes in pure confusion. She looked around and sat up, wondering what exactly happened. She was confused.

    "I was sleeping on the table. How did I end up on the bed?" she asked no one in particr.

    Li Xueyue slipped off the nkets and realized her clothes hadn''t been changed, but that was fine with her. She got out of bed and opened the door leading to the living room of her estate. She jumped upon hearing a small ''coo.''

    "Oh my¡­" she trailed off. There was a golden cage resting upon her table with a light grey pigeon perched on a thick branch.

    Li Xueyue instantly recognized the bird. She rushed forward, her lips parting in surprise.

    "How did you get here?" Li Xueyue asked whilst checking the birdcage to ensure there was food and water inside it. Indeed, the bird feeder was filled with food and there was a cylinder filled with water for the pet. There was also a bathing station prepared.

    "Well, I''m d to see you again," she stated whilst stepping back from the cage. She was unsure what to do with the pigeon. It seemed quite dirty inparison to the cloud-white bird from a few days ago.

    "I''ll have the servants clean you," she said.

    Li Xueyue advanced towards the window and pushed it open. To no one''s surprise, it was already nighttime. The moon was high in the sky and the stars were already out.

    "Well, it''s veryte," she pointed. She closed the windows and headed for the main doors of her bedroom.

    "Princess," the guards outside greeted with a bow.

    Li Xueyue nodded in response as she looked around, realizing there wasn''t a single servant around.

    "Howte is it?" she questioned.

    "It is well into the middle of the night, Princess," a guard answered.

    "Shall we call forth a servant?" the other guard asked.

    Li Xueyue shook her head.

    "No need," she said.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to disturb the servants'' rest. It wasn''t their fault that she had slept for so long. She felt strange. This time, she didn''t experience a nightmare. Instead, it was a blissful dream.

    She could vaguely recall soft caresses upon her face but concluded it must''ve been a figment of her imagination.

    Li Xueyue headed back into her room. She didn''t have an exact n in mind but decided it was better not to disturb anyone. She closed the doors behind her and headed for the table.

    "I should write a letter to my family," she decided on a whim.

    Li Xueyue would send out the letter tomorrow once the messenger dove was thoroughly cleaned.

    - - - - -

    The next morning came and Li Xueyue didn''t sleep a wink the entire night¡ªnot that she tried. Her time was spent writing individual letters to each and every member of her family, including Li Minghua.

    "Hmm, this seems like too many for you to deliver," Li Xueyue mused to the bird.

    This morning, the servants were startled to see her awake so early but they quickly got to work.

    Whilst Li Xueyue had her morning meal, the bird was taken out of her room to be thoroughly cleaned. It was returned to her by the time she was done eating. Yanxi had yet againplimented her appetite¡ªgrateful for the improvement.

    "You did a good job in returning to me," Li Xueyue whispered with her head turned to the bird.

    Yanxi wasbing through her hair whilst another maidservant applied powder on her face. It wasn''t long before the Crown Princess was properly dressed.

    True to Yu Zhen''s words, she was made to wear lighter essories and her dresses did not weigh her down like before. She could move with ease without straining her body.

    "All set, Princess," Yanxi warmly said as she took a step back. The maidservants fawned over their masterpiece.

    Today, the Princess was dressed in richer colors, consisting of purple and white. She was the epitome of beauty, resembling wisterias¡ªsoft and graceful.

    "You''ve outdone yourself, as always," Li Xueyue happily said. She caught a reflection of herself in the mirror. Everyday, she was dolled to utter perfection.

    "Only the best for my Wangfei," azy voice drawled from behind the screen.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even have to turn around to know who had entered her room without permission. Only he would have that privilege.

    "You''re excused," Yu Zhenmanded the maidservants. They quickly dispersed from the room like a flock of birds. The doors were shut behind them, and soon, it was just the two of them.

    "People will think we''re doing questionable things all alone in my bedroom," Li Xueyue mumbled when a hand slithered around her. She was softly pulled against his chest.

    "Not many have a mind as ambiguous as yours, Sunshine," Yu Zhen mused and chuckled. He bent down and kissed the top of her head.

    "Did you sleep well, Little Hamster?" Yu Zhen asked whilst ying with the flowy ends of the silk strings that tied her clothes shut.

    Li Xueyue nodded. "Did you?"

    "Sadly, no."

    Li Xueyue lifted her head a bit to nce up at him. She turned around in his arms, wanting a proper view of him.

    "Why not?" she worriedly asked. Subconsciously, her hand reached for his face.

    Li Xueyue was surprised when he leaned his cheek against her hand. She was concerned that he too, had unruly nightmares. She didn''t want him to go through the same troubles as her.

    "Because I slept alone."

    Li Xueyue''s cheeks heated at his word. This pervert. She pulled her hand back but he grabbed her wrist and kept it in ce. She red up at him. He smirked down at her.

    "What?" he asked.

    "You can''t just¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off. It was another trap. She refused to fall into it this time.

    She saw the excitement in his eyes. He was ready to tease her again. The mischief was too hard to ignore.

    "Oh nevermind," she huffed, bringing her hand back to his face. Without warning, she pulled at his skin, only to grow irritated.

    "Howe your face doesn''t stretch," sheined, annoyed at how perfect he was. His chiseled features were something she envied. How could one look so handsome early in the morning?

    "Because I don''t stuff my cheeks with food, unlike a certain hamster here," Yu Zhen said and chuckled. He grabbed the hand resting upon her cheek and brought it to his lips.

    "Did you eat plenty today?" he murmured against her fingertips.

    "No."

    Yu Zhen paused mid-kiss. His lips curved downwards in disapproval. "Why not?" he asked. "Is the food not to your liking?"

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth to respond but he interrupted her.

    "Shall I have the chefs prepare lighter food? Or should they be executed for their ipetence?"

    Li Xueyue gawked at him. She almost scolded him. He can''t just run around killing people! Was that why everyone seemed on edge around him? But she didn''t want to change him into something he wasn''t.

    "I was just teasing you," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    "You''re bad at it," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. Was that a challenge?

    "What?" he chuckled upon seeing a glimmer of passion in her eyes.

    Li Xueyue lifted her hands and brought his face down to hers, catching him by surprise. She was delighted to see his parted lips and focused eyes. His attention was solely on her, and no one else.

    She stood upon the tip of her toes and leaned her face up. She could see a fire begin to ignite itself. And all she did was pretend to kiss him. Her lipsnded on the corner of his mouth teasingly.

    "Sunshine," he impatiently growled with his hands resting upon her waist. He squeezed it out of retribution but she continued to test his patience.

    Li Xueyue kissed the other corner of his mouth, enjoying the way his fingers dug into her waist. She continued downwards until her teeth teasingly grazed his jawline before slowly making its way down his neck.

    She suckled and kissed, using the same technique he had done to her. Her fingers trailed down the other side of his neck, her actions purposely slow and light. She felt his skin warming underneath her fingertips as he grunted for more.

    And then, Li Xueyue found the spot. His breath hitched and without warning, he grabbed her by her nape. Her eyes widened as he pulled her upwards, his lips crashing down upon hers. But she was quick to turn her head and he kissed her cheek instead.

    "Li Xueyue," he warned.

    Li Xueyue let out a small, teasingugh. In one rough shove, she pushed him off of her.

    "That reminds me," she abruptly said. "I haven''t seen my horse in a while. Bye bye!"

    With a wave of her fingers, she dashed for the door. Li Xueyue nced back to see him standing there with a nk, puzzled look on his face. When he finally registered what had happened, his head instantly snapped towards her direction.

    But it was toote. She had flung the doors open and was a step away from leaving the room.

    "You damn tease, get back here!" Yu Zhen growled, storming to the door, but she mmed it shut and ran down the hallway.

    Yu Zhen yanked it open only to be greeted with bursts of giggles echoing down the hallway. He rubbed his chest, feeling a slight tickle in his heart. The sound, ever so lovely, taunted him from afar.

    Yu Zhen could do nothing but helplessly stare as she ran off. He narrowed his eyes onto the whirlwind of purple disappearing down the hallway.

 Chapter 348 Yuyu

    <h4>Chapter 348 Yuyu</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t know where she had run off to. She eventually came to a stop and nced around her. She saw one hallway after another, so much so, that it was confusing.

    She hadn''t realized how long she ran for. Without a doubt, she was lost. Pressing her lips together, she decided it was best to retrace her steps and walk down the route she came from.

    A few minutes passed and after continuously turning corners after corners, she was deeper in the pce and even further away from her estate.

    Eventually, she threw her hands up in defeat.

    "Why is my luck so horrid?" she sighed, turning around. This ce wasn''t asvished as the rest of the pce. The wood here seemed a bit older and less polished.

    "Oh, I see someone," she said to herself.

    Li Xueyue noticed a small silhouette in the distance. The body was squatting on the ground, hunched over a bush.

    "Is this the servants'' quarters?" she wondered out loud, ncing left and right. It would exin theck of decorations andndscaping.

    Li Xueyue found it strange there wasn''t anyone here. But then again, it was morning, and all of the servants must''ve rushed off to do their chores. There were many things to get done daily in this enormous pce.

    It didn''t take long for her to reach the person. Upon closer inspection, she noticed it was a little boy. His hair was messily cut, and it reminded her of an upside down bowl. She peered over his shoulders, wondering what he was doing.

    Upon noticing a shadow looming over him, the small boy jumped and turned around. His eyes were wide with fear and he fell t on his butt.

    "U-uhm¡­" he stuttered out. He could do nothing but gawk up at the woman staring down at him.

    Li Xueyue blinked. Was she that scary? She scratched the side of her head and offered a gentle smile.

    "Hi there," she said. "What''s your name?"

    The boy nervously looked around. His eyes darted to the left and then the right. He didn''t mean to wander off, but the little butterfly had lured him to do so. He was engrossed watching the small creature in the bush.

    "I¡­ I¡­" he trailed off, unable toe up with a sentence. He was frightened by her. It wasn''t that she looked mean. It was just... strangers were scary.

    "Are you lost?" Li Xueyue asked, even though it was a stupid question, considering the fact that she too, was lost.

    Li Xueyue felt something was off about this child but she brushed it off. He must be the son of a servant. He seemed no older than the age of three, but something about his eyes made her think otherwise.

    Contrasting his youthful figure, his eyes were dull and hopeless. It was as if he had experienced great pains in his life.

    "My name is Xueyue," she said, hoping this interaction would soothe him.

    "What''s yours?" she asked.

    The little boy still didn''t respond. He quietly scooted backwards¡ªalmost as if he wanted the bush to swallow him alive.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She took a step backward to give him some space. Maybe the shadow she created over his trembling body terrified him. He was still shivering on the ground with a frantic look on his face.

    "I won''t hurt you," she mumbled, watching as he hesitantly looked around him. Her eyes widened when he grabbed a rock.

    Abruptly, he tossed it at her. "G-go away!" he cried out in fear.

    Li Xueyue caught the rock in her hands. She let out a low whistle. "Wow, this is jagged," she said.

    If it hadnded on her, it would''ve done some damage. She tossed the pebble aside. Were all of Hanjian''s children so scary?

    Li Xueyue swiped her hands together to rid her hands of dust. She decided it would be best not to bother with the little boy any longer. It was evident he didn''t want her to be near him.

    "I hope you know your way back, because I certainly don''t," Li Xueyue remarked. She turned around and began to approach the hallway again.

    Li Xueyue heard the shuffle of his clothes as he scrambled to stand up. She looked over her shoulder and saw him staring towards the ground. He was gripping the ends of his clothes, his head hung low

    "Chen-ge is right," she sighed to herself. "You''re too damn nice."

    Li Xueyue faced him again. She kept her distance so that he wouldn''t do anything to her. Even from afar, she saw his pout.

    "You''re lost, aren''t you?" she stated.

    Slowly, but surely, he nodded to the ground.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "Well, you''re out of luck. I''m also lost."

    The boy''s head shot up, disappointment written all over his face. His brows were knitted together, forming creases on his pale forehead. He seemed to be on the verge of tears.

    "Why don''t we search our way out together?" she said, offering a hand out for him. "Once I see a servant, I''ll have her bring the both of us back."

    ?Servant¡­?" he repeated the unfamiliar words.

    Li Xueyue nodded. For such a small kid, his pronunciations were amazing. Was he actually four or five years old and his growth spurt was just slower?

    "Yes, they''ll guide us back," she said.

    "Back¡­ to where?" he hesitantly asked.

    Li Xueyue wondered if every kid was this cute. Now that she had a proper look at him, he was quite adorable with his chubby cheeks and tiny hands. But he seemed ufortable with her, which was understandable. Kids were usually shy.

    "Back to wherever you came from," Li Xueyue responded. The little boy scratched the side of his head and lowered his eyes to the ground.

    "So, why don''t youe with me?" she stated.

    He raised his head again whilst shuffling his feet.

    "Trust me," she said whilst reaching a hand out for him to grab onto. He stared intently upon it. Slowly, but surely, he trotted forward with his little feet.

    Li Xueyue had a better glimpse at him. She felt a tug in her chest. Something was off, but she couldn''t pinpoint it.

    "What is your name?" she asked for the third time just as he slipped his tiny hand into hers.

    He blinked at her words before staring towards the ground. She bit her bottom lip. It was an easy question that he should be able to answer. Well, every kid is different.

    "Then, what is your mother''s name?"

    She was yet again, met with silence.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She rattled her brain, searching for another question to ask him. She couldn''t think of much.

    "Well then, what is your father''s name?" she asked.

    "Father¡­?" he repeated the unfamiliar word.

    "Yes," she said and nodded. "A father is a man who takes care of you, and has equal responsibility in giving birth to you."

    At this, he lifted his head. A man who takes care of you¡­ He tried to think of someone like that in his life, aside from the kind women who always brought him food.

    "Yu¡­" he whispered.

    Li Xueyue blinked. What? She cupped her ears and leaned downwards, wondering what he had said.

    "Can you repeat that?"

    "Yu¡­Yu¡­"

    YuYu? Who was that?

    Li Xueyue bit her lips. It sounded like a surname. "Yuyu, is that the name of your father?" she asked.

    The little boy nodded. "Yuyu."

    Li Xueyue frowned. Wait a minute. Was this little boy actually the son of a Prince?! She tilted her head, wondering how old the First Prince of Hanjian was. Could he have fathered an illegitimate son?

    Li Xueyue carefully observed her features. If this kid was the First Prince''s son, wouldn''t it make him Yu Zhen''s nephew? Therefore, their facial features should''ve slightly resembled each other, right?

    "Yuyu sounds like his surname," Li Xueyuemented. "Does your father go by another name?"

    "Father¡­?"

    "Yes, the man in your life who raised you or took care of you, either way works," Li Xueyue said with a shrug.

    Li Xueyue realized his bangs were quite long. It covered his eyes a bit. She wanted to push the strands away so that he''d see clearly, but she didn''t want to frighten him.

    She was just d he was holding her hand. It would be troublesome if he ran off.

    "Well?" she softly asked, waiting for him to say anything.

    The little boy blinked. Father¡­ Only one other name came to mind.

    "...Zhen," he whispered.

    "Hmmm, what was that?" she asked, bending down again. She cupped her ears as he shyly whispered something.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" he murmured. "My father is Yu Zhen."

 Chapter 349 My Child

    <h4>Chapter 349 My Child</h4>

    Li Xueyue''s mind went nk. Her smile froze and she stared at the child in utter disbelief. Did¡­ did this little boy, no more than the age of three, dere Yu Zhen was his father? As in, Crown Prince Yu Zhen? As in, that brute of a Commander?!

    She blinked¡ªonce, twice¡ª before doing a double-take and letting out an awkwardugh. She was dumbfounded by the little boy''s words. A

    t what age would Yu Zhen have fathered a child? But he was older than her by five years. It wouldn''t be surprising if he had a child this young.

    "Uhm," she struggled to find her next words.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even know?what to say. She could only force her smile and try not to overthink the situation.

    Who was this child''s mother? Was she still around? Howe no one told her about this little boy? She was going to be his step-mother. Wouldn''t it have been better to introduce this kid earlier to her?

    "Are you alright?" the little boy sullenly asked.

    Li Xueyue rapidly nodded her head despite the anxiety she felt.

    "Of course, don''t worry," she responded.

    Li Xueyue cleared her throat. "W-well, why don''t we take you to your father right now?" she said.

    The little boy blinked at her words and squeezed hand in response.

    Li Xueyue''s lips felt strained from the smile. She wanted to frown but couldn''t. It wasn''t in her nature to me a child for their parents'' sins¡ªespecially when the same thing happened to her.

    She held back a sigh and straightened up. Together, they walked down the stone pavement that led back to the wooden structure of the hallway.

    They turned a corner and found a guard who pointed them towards the right direction back to the Crown Princess''s estate.

    The guard gawked at the child but said nothing. He even offered to take them back there himself but the little boy was terrified.

    "No¡­" he whispered, clinging onto Li Xueyue''s leg in fear.

    Li Xueyue carefully reached a hand out to pat the top of his head, hoping it would soothe him.

    "That''s alright," she said. "I can get back on my own."

    The guard bowed in response. "Very well, Princess."

    Li Xueyue caressed the little boy''s head again, assuring him that everything would be fine. He merely stared up at her withrge eyes. It hurt to see such a young boy lose faith in the world.

    She wondered exactly what happened to him.

    It didn''t take long for Li Xueyue to eventually spot a maidservant. The maidservant deeply bowed at the sight of the Crown Princess.

    "Princess," the maidservant greeted in a respectful voice.?But her eyes couldn''t help but wander to the little boy apanying the Princess.

    "Guide me back to my estate," Li Xueyue instructed just as the child clung onto her legs again. His tiny hands grabbed at her clothes, wrinkling every part he touched.

    But Li Xueyue didn''t mind. The wrinkles in silk would always go away. She fondly stroked the back of his head again, brushing strands of hair out of his face. He seemed morefortable with her now.

    "Understood, Princess," the maidservant said.

    Together, they walked to the Crown Princess''s estate. Everywhere they walked, people stopped and bowed to show the Princess respect. A few even stared at the child. They were startled to see the little boy, for many recognized him. Who wouldn''t?

    "We''re here, Princess," the maidservant stated.

    Li Xueyue nodded in response. She was grateful to see the familiaryout in front of her.

    "Let''s go," she whispered to the boy as they walked hand-in-hand down the hallways.

    His curious eyes took everything in, watching the grandeur with awe. Once upon a time, he, too, lived in such a ce.

    But he couldn''t remember the specifics of it. Everything in his mind was a blur. He recalled the tender hands of a woman, but her face and name were long gone from his memory.

    "Your father has a lot of exining to do," Li Xueyue mumbled under her breath. Without hesitation, she walked in the direction of Yu Zhen''s private study.

    "Greetings, Crown Princess," the Eunuch said with a deep bow. "How may I assist you, Princess?"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. The pendant she had droppedst time was safely inside her pocket. That day, she had picked it up shortly before entering his private study.

    Li Xueyue debated the idea of surprising Yu Zhen, but then again, what could be a bigger shock than seeing her with his child?

    "Is the Crown Prince inside?" Li Xueyue asked.

    The Eunuch slowly shook his head. "I''m afraid not, Princess. The Crown Prince hasn''t returned here ever since he left moments ago."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. Did that mean Yu Zhen was still searching for her? She wondered if she should head back to her room.

    But then, she saw him, out of the corner of her eye. She opened her mouth, ready to call out to him, but paused. Xu Jiaqi was making her way towards Yu Zhen.

    Li Xueyue observed the encounter. Xu Jiaqi lowered herself into a bow but Yu Zhen walked past her. He treated her like air. The satisfaction of seeing that lifted the corner of her lips.

    A momentter, she frowned. Jealousy was not a good color in her. She couldn''t help it. He brought out the worst from her.

    "Crown Prince," Li Xueyue coldly addressed when he was close enough to see her. She released the child''s hand and ced her hands to one side, dipping into a curtsy of her own.

    She could feel his glower before seeing it. He was furious at her greeting. But she didn''t care. How could he have kept the existence of this child from her?

    "Princess."

    Li Xueyue raised her head, but his attention was no longer on her. It was on the child who clung at her legs and hid himself behind it.

    "Get inside," he harshly said, gesturing to his private study.

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to be told twice. She red back at him and ced an encouraging hand upon the child''s upper back. She guided him inside with Yu Zhen closely following behind her.

    The child jumped when the doors were loudly mmed shut. He let out a small whimper and clung onto her legs, hiding behind it.

    "Whose child is that hiding behind you?" Yu Zhen demanded. He reached a hand out to grab the child''s shoulder but she pped it.

    Li Xueyue turned around. She nearly stumbled as the child shifted to match her movements. He continued to hug her leg, using it as a barrier against the frightsome man.

    "You mean to tell me you don''t even recognize your own son?" Li Xueyue bit out.

    "What the hell are you talking about?"

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She gestured to the child behind her. "This little boy said you''re his father."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. "I have never fathered a child."

    Li Xueyue crossed her arms. "Children do not lie."

    "Children say whateveres to mind," Yu Zhen gritted out. "You''re mad at me again. Why?"

    Li Xueyue couldn''t believe he was asking such a foolish question. Why else wouldn''t she be mad? First, he had a son, and secondly, he outright lied to her face.

    Yu Zhen looked down at the child who hid himself behind Li Xueyue. A small little bean like that was causing him this much trouble? He would not have it. Without warning, he approached her and grabbed the child.

    She gasped, reaching for his wrist. "You''ll hurt him!" she eximed. She was toote.

    Yu Zhen had pulled the child by his shoulders. The little boy cried in response, fighting against his hand.

    "Stop it!" Li Xueyue scolded, rushing forward to the child''s aid. She shoved Yu Zhen''s hand away and kneeled to the child''s height.

    "Does it hurt?" she whispered, gesturing to his shoulders. Without warning, the boy threw his arms around her.

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. She slowly patted his upper back as he wrapped himself around her neck.

    "This isn''t my child."

    Li Xueyue scowled. "How can you handle him like that? Kids are fragile!"

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. It was such an endearing moment for him to witness. She would be a great mother. But that wasn''t the main point of this discussion.

    "Do you know who that child belongs to?" he hissed.

    "You, obviously."

    "No, my little fool."

    Her head snapped up at his words.

    "The child in your arms belongs to Viscount Bai Sheng and Viscountess Mu Yihua."

 Chapter 350 Shut Up

    <h4>Chapter 350 Shut Up</h4>

    Li Xueyue was stunned to pure silence. She didn''t even know what to say or do aside from continuing to hold the little boy in her arms. She lifted her head only to be met with Yu Zhen''s infuriated gaze. She rapidly blinked and nervously licked her lips.

    "He said¡­" she trailed off, pulling back from the hug. She gently grasped both of his shoulders.

    "Little One," she muttered, "You said Yu Zhen was the name of your father."

    The child slowly nodded his head. "He takes care of me."

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up as realization kicked in. He must''ve thought a father was simply a man who helped care for him.

    "No, a father is¡ª" she paused. Wait a minute. Wasn''t he separated from Viscount Bai at the age of two? Shouldn''t he have the slightest recollection of his parents?

    "Memory loss," Yu Zhen said upon noticing her visible confusion.

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked, unable to wrap her head around the startling fact.

    "It''s possible," he said. "Enough trauma during childhood can cause memory loss."

    Li Xueyue sucked in a shaky breath. She nced down at the boy. It would exin why his eyescked luster and joy.

    He stared up at her with a nk look to his youthful face. He was well-taken care of. That much was evident in his healthy weight and decent clothing.

    "I¡­" she trailed off, unsure of what to say to him. It was partially her fault that his parents were gone.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even know the name of her younger brother. He was thest descendant of the Bai Family, but the boy didn''t even know it. Or perhaps he did, and it was better not to think too much of his different surname.

    "What is your name, Little One?" she gently asked.

    Li Xueyue struggled to adjust herposure.

    It was difficult not to break down in tears knowing that she had robbed this innocent kid of his childhood. He could''ve lived a life of bliss with loving parents in a grand house filled with servants and wealth. But that dream was crushed by her.

    "Bai Yihao," he reluctantly told her. "But uhm¡­" he fiddled with his fingers. "Father calls me Haohao."

    "I''m not your father," Yu Zhen hissed. He ced a hand upon the child''s head, forcibly turning it so the child would look at him while he exined.

    "Don''t get the wrong idea," he scolded. "I''m your benefactor. Nothing else."

    Bai Yihao didn''t even seem taken aback by Yu Zhen''s behavior. He numbly peered at the stern big brother in front of him.

    Despite the pain due to this man''s fingers pressing on his head, he didn''t flinch and continued to observe.

    Why? Because he felt safe, despite his previous fear. Initially, he was frightened to see Yu Zhen angered. Though Yu Zhen had never lifted a hand against him, it was strange¡­

    Bai Yihao didn''t like loud noises or angry faces looking at him. It was scary.

    "You''re hurting him," Li Xueyue argued. She shoved Yu Zhen''s fingers away, but he abruptly grabbed her wrist.

    "Where did you find him? He''s supposed to be under someone''s care when Yanxi is tending to you."

    "Well, I got lost when I ran off¡ª" she paused. His words had sunken into her. "Yanxi is his caretaker?"

    Yu Zhen pulled her to her feet. "Don''t kneel in front of this child."

    "You didn''t answer my question," Li Xueyue said. She kept a restful hand upon Bai Yihao''s shoulder so that he wouldn''t feel left out.

    Yu Zhen was reluctant to speak more¡ªespecially with the kid between them. Bai Yihao seemed to have unknowingly soughtfort in hisst remaining rtive. His tiny arms were securely wrapped around her leg, almost in fear.

    He let out a sigh. "Yes, Yanxi is usually in charge of raising this child. But her duties have changed now that she is with you."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted in horror. Not only had she taken Bai Yihao''s parents away, but now, she had separated him from his sole caretaker.

    Guilt flooded her veins. What else had she stolen from this child? He clung onto her legs without knowing the crimes she hadmitted against him.

    "Can you assign Yanxi so that she only takes care of Bai Yihao and no one else?" Her voice trembled, much like her eyes.

    Yu Zhen''s heart softened at her words. Why was shepassionate to a younger brother that she had just met? Had she forgotten what the Bai Family did to her?

    He shook his head at how silly she was. Li Xueyue''s kindness was always misced.

    "What should I do with you?" he muttered, stepping closer to her.

    Li Xueyue sullenly stared towards the ground when he caressed the side of her face. The back of his fingers were rough but she didn''t mind.

    His thumb brushed the corner of her mouth. Without warning, his fingers seized her chin and forced her to look up.

    "Look at me when you talk to me," he said. His lips curled into a smile. "Especially if you want something."

    Li Xueyue scrunched her nose and bit his fingers, but he pulled it back before she could do anything. Her heart flipped when he let out a deepugh. Even Bai Yihao was startled. His head shot up in awe, his eyes widening.

    "I already have a biting pet, I don''t need another one," he mused.

    Li Xueyue snorted at his words. She felt a tug upon her dress and looked down.

    "Will I see Xixi soon?" Bai Yihao whispered.

    Li Xueyue realized he was bunching the materials of her dress. Nheless, she shed a fond smile and nodded her head. She gently stroked the back of his head.

    "Yes, you''ll see her more frequently now," she whispered.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. When did he say yes?

    "Really?" Bai Yihao breathed out, as joy filled his dull eyes.

    Li Xueyue''s heart was squeezed by his tender expression. It was the first time she had seen him smile.

    It had been less than a day since she met him but she was willing to give him anything. Not because she felt guilty, but he was her younger brother¡ªeven if he was the son of dreadful parents. A child shouldn''t pay for their parents'' sins.

    "Yes," Li Xueyue reassured him.

    His lips pulled into a gigantic grin. Without warning, he buried his face into her legs, rubbing it out of happiness.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened when she chuckled. It was a beautiful sound that he wished to treasure for the rest of his life. It tickled his soul and found a safe spot in his heart.

    The sight of her with a child made Yu Zhen realize how desperately he wanted one with Xueyue. But he didn''t have to wait for too long, for the wedding was tomorrow and he''d have all the time in the world to make one.

    "I''ll have to find another mature servant for you," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue lifted her gaze and presented him with a warm smile. "What happened to the cheerful maidservant you promised me?"

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow. He brought her hand to his lips and teasingly kissed the tip of her fingers.

    "Is that a wish?"

    "Yes."

    "Then it is mymand," Yu Zhen said against her hand.

    Li Xueyue nervously smiled. He spoiled her too much.?Yet again, Bai Yihao tugged at her hanfu to grab her attention.

    "Will I see you again?" he asked in a quiet voice.

    Yu Zhen''s brows shot up. "No¡ª"

    "Yes," she said in a heartbeat, ignoring the dumbfounded expression of Yu Zhen.

    "Sunshine," he warned. "This child is¡ª"

    "I know who he is," she deadpanned.

    "If your guilt is speaking for you, then you better tell that thing to shut up."

    Li Xueyue ignored his words. She bent down again until she was at Bai Yihao''s eye-level.

    "Little One, do you know who I am?" she asked.

    Li Xueyue patiently waited for Bai Yihao to ponder his next words. She could practically see the gears churning in his head. She realized the tip of his tongue stuck out when he was lost in thought.

    "Uhm¡­" he finally said, "I-I don''t know."

    Li Xueyue warmly smiled. She grasped his little hands. "I''m your older sister."

    Bai Yihao''s eyebrows scrunched together. He observed her features, from her gentle smile to her hands that held onto his. He was unsure of what to say. He felt like¡­ he had an older sister before.

    "My name is Li Xueyue," she whispered. "But once upon a time, it was¡ª"

    "Don''t," Yu Zhen growled. "It''ll bring up traumatic memories."

    Li Xueyue was hesitant, but then she saw the look on Bai Yihao''s face. His eyes were filled with dread, as if he was trying to remember something, but to no avail. She could see the struggle he had with his identity.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered to the child.

    Bai Yihao gawked at her, unsure of what to say. Why was she sorry? He was even more perplexed when she gently touched his face.

    Not knowing what else to do, he leaned into the touch, cherishing how warm and kind it was. His little hand grasped onto her wrist, not wanting her to stop.

    Li Xueyue''s heart prickled with guilt. He seemed starved of love.

    "You won''t be alone once Xixi returns," she said to him, hoping Yanxi would take proper care of him. She had faith in Yanxi.

    She was startled when a hand rested upon the top of her head. She wasn''t sure if he was caressing her like a pet or not.

    "I want children," he told her, catching her off-guard.

    "What?" she whispered. Had her ears yed tricks on her?

    "Lots of them," he added on. "Little Princesses and Princes who resemble you in every aspect."

    Li Xueyue was at a loss for words. She could only stare at him like he was crazy. What resulted in such a thinking?

    Li Xueyue didn''t even bring up the idea of daughters or sons. But she shook her head. It would be impossible to predict the wild thoughts that ran through his mind.

 Chapter 351 I Cant See

    <h4>Chapter 351 I Can''t See</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize how much emphasis Hanjian ced on skincare until she started living here. The night prior to her wedding, she went through another intensive round of skincare routine when she had already gone through it once not too long ago. She could do nothing but silently go through the entire process again.

    The next morning, she was awakened just as the sun began to rise in the sky. Hordes of maidservants entered her room and she was barely awake as they started to dress her up for the wedding.

    A traditional wedding headdress rested on her head with strings of beaded gold that dangled in front of her eyes, concealing her features. Her vision was blurred by it.

    "This is tradition, Princess," one of the maidservants exined as they ced another hairpin into her hair designed like the feathers of a phoenix. Golden flowers bloomed upon her head, as all sorts of jewels adorned each piece.

    Li Xueyue didn''t ask anymore questions afterward. She had lost track of time, as she resigned herself to a lengthy preparation session to get her ready.

    Time went by, and eventually, the festive music could be heard in the air. Finally, when the sun was high in the sky, she was fully dressed.

    "Oh my¡­" A few maidservants sucked in sharp breaths as awe filled their faces. They had never seen anyone more beautiful than the Crown Princess.

    Li Xueyue stood up, and she too was mesmerized by the woman in the mirror. Her lips were painted ruby red as kohl rimmed her eyes, sharpening the edges into a fierce, butpassionate stare.

    The hanfu she wore was a passionate red. Golden flowers bloomed upon the edges of her sleeves, as chrysanthemums branched upon the bottom of her long dress. Rubies were strategically ced which glistened every time she moved.

    When Li Xueyue turned, she could see it: the fluttering feathers of a phoenix opening its wings, preparing to take flight. It was embroidered onto the back of her dress.

    "The finishing touches," one of the maidservants stated as three came forward.

    A long, sheer cape was draped over her shoulders. It touched the floor and created a train of fabric behind her.

    Rings of golden leaves lined the edges, like swirls of fire. It gathered at the center of the cape and climbed its way up, creating a dazzling design.

    "This dress is clearly made for you, Princess," a handmaiden eximed.

    Li Xueyue merely smiled in response. She was too overwhelmed with emotions toprehend all of this. As a little girl, she didn''t dare to dream of marriage. But look at her now; she was soon to be wed.

    - - - - -

    A long, red carpet lined the pavement leading to the Throne Room. Many servants and Eunuchs were all gathered there and together, they bowed at her arrival. Some held up long umbres that shielded her from the ring sun.

    A sheer veil was ced over the Crown Princess''s head so no one was able to see her face. But everyone knew¡ªshe was a great beauty. From her confident footwork, and the gentle sway of her clothes, she was a vision to behold.

    Despite the excited murmurings, the festive music, and the background noises, Li Xueyue heard nothing but the loud thumping of her rapidly beating heart.

    Firecrackers went off in the streets of the Capital to celebrate the wedding. The pce walls were also lined with red wedding decorations.

    But the beauty couldn''t be admired by Li Xueyue. The red veil over her head made everything blurry. She couldn''t even see ahead of her.

    "One step¡­ two step," Li?Xueyue whispered to herself, terrified of tripping and making a fool out of herself.

    A long trail of fabric followed behind her, so much so that the end of it barely touched the bottom steps when she was already halfway up the staircase.

    Suddenly, a rough wind picked up, and her cape caught flight.

    "Oh dear¡­"

    "How could this be?"

    ??Impossible¡­"

    "How beautiful!"

    Murmurings and astonished gasps could be heard from the guestsposed?of Ministers of the Courts, influential aristocrats and elites of their society. There were even foreign envoys who had traveled from all parts of the country to bring forth exotic and expensive gifts as a diplomatic gesture.

    For a split second, people thought they saw wings of fire, like that of a soaring bird. And if only these people knew¡­ the little sparrow had finally learned to take flight.

    It didn''t take long for them to realize how auspicious that moment was. It was as if Heaven itself was dering Li Xueyue as the next Empress of Hanjian.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t see much, but she could feel every pair of eyes watching her. It only added to her anxiety.

    At a time like this, she desperately missed the twins. They would''ve whispered words of encouragement to her prior to this momentous event. Or perhaps, her mother would''ve reassured her that it is but a walk. And her father would make a small joke to ease her anxiety.

    None of the Li Family members could make it, and she didn''t me them. She was finally an adult now.

    And then, the unthinkable happened. As Li Xueyue neared the top of the staircase, her shoes were caught in her dress and she nearly tripped.

    Her heart had never plummeted so fast. Miraculously, she didn''t fall forward, nor did her knees buckle. Instead, a pair of sturdy arms grasped upon her elbows, steadying her.

    "Yu Zhen¡­?" she whispered, unsure of who else it would be.

    Her stomach churned when she heard a deep, mellow chuckle. He helped her with the final step.

    "Who else would dare to touch you?" Yu Zhen mused.

    Li Xueyue blinked. She heard the tremor of his voice, breathless and astonished. She didn''t understand why until he stepped closer to her.

    "I have never seen anything so stunning," he murmured.

    "Well¡­ I can''t see anything," she mumbled.

    "Pft," a smallugh escaped from his mouth.

    A silence fell over the crowd of people. They had rarely seen the Crown Prince smile, much less grin like now. His eyes twinkled with mirth that many had never seen.

    "A little longer," he reassured her with the gentle squeeze of her hand.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She was aware of the hundreds of pairs of eyes set upon her. Now that Yu Zhen was beside her, she was no longer nervous. He gave her the confidence she couldn''t find.

    "Announcing the arrival of His Highness, the Rising Sun of Hanjian, Crown Prince Yu Zhen and his Wangfei, Princess Li Xueyue of Wuyi!" a Eunuch loudly dered.

    Li Xueyue''s heart lurched. Her palms turned mmy and she knew it was time to embrace her new life. She tucked her hands in opposite sleeves until the edges of her sleeves met.

    "I''m right here, Sunshine. Everything will be alright," he whispered as they took the first step forward, then another, and soon, they were in front of the throne.

    Li Xueyue bowed before the Emperor and Empress at the same time that Yu Zhen did. Her heart prickled with the thought that neither of them would be able to bow to the Li Family. She was regretful that they couldn''te, but understood the reasons why.

    Her mother and father couldn''t just up and leave the throne all at once. Neither could the Crown Prince of Wuyi risk his life to travel to Hanjian. Li Wenmin was also upied with his duties as the Military Head of Wuyi. They were all weighed down with their respective responsibilities and work.

    "You may rise," the Emperor stated.

    Li Xueyue did so.

    And soon, the wedding ceremonymenced. First, they kowtowed to the Heavens, then the parents, and then, the Jade Emperor. Afterwards, the tea ceremony was performed. Tea was served with two red dates, dried longyan, and lotus seeds brewed in the cup.

    Servants assisted in preparing the cups of sweet tea and they were brought forward in four individual trays.

    "Breathe," Yu Zhen reminded her in a low murmur.

    He was well-aware of how nerve-racking all of this must''ve been. He sensed her fear of making a mistake, especially in front of so many watchful eyes.

    "Thank you¡­" she responded in an equally quiet voice.

    Yu Zhen presented the Emperor with the first cup of tea. Once he finished it, Li Xueyue also presented the Emperor with a cup of tea. In a simr fashion, the tea was offered to the Empress.

    Next, the Emperor and Empress gave their blessings to the newlyweds which included gifts of gold, precious jewels, rolls of silk, jadeite essories, and the list went on. The worth of these giftsbined was equivalent to the ones that the Li Family had sent over recently.

    "You''re doing very well, Sunshine," Yu Zhen assured her after the tea ceremony was finished.

    Li Xueyue nodded at his words, the beads of her headdress swayed with her small movement. His presence wasforting to her racing heart.

    Once the most nerve-racking moments were over, the enormous celebration began. Music yed asughters and cheerful conversations filled the hall. Baijiu and a wide variety of dishes were served, from abalone, lobsters, sea cucumbers to bird''s nest soup [1] and the list went on.

    People came to congratte her, all of whom were friends of Yu Zhen. There were also many aristocrats who stepped forward withpliments and well wishes.

    "You look very beautiful today, Princess," Lu Tianbi stated.

    "I agree! I wonder which realm of Heaven you escaped from to bless my brother," Yu Lingluo eximed.

    Li Xueyue was grateful to see Yu Zhen''s acquaintances. Without a doubt, if the Li Family were here, they would''ve been emotional.

    She was deeply touched by everyone''s words, but she couldn''t focus. Why? The sun was rapidly setting in the sky, painting it with hues of orange and pink.

    The wedding night was approaching.

 Chapter 352 Pure As Snow

    <h4>Chapter 352 Pure As Snow</h4>

    While Yu Zhen was distracted and mingling with the guests, Li Xueyue was taken away.

    "Careful," Lu Tianbi whispered as Li Xueyue nearly tripped over her long dress. She patiently walked beside the Princess with a guiding hand upon her elbow.

    Several maidservants apanied them, all of whom were suppressing smiles and whispers. There was an air of excitement amongst the women, except for Li Xueyue who was puzzled.

    "Where are we going?" Li Xueyue asked as they turned a corner. She could be kidnapped for all she knew. But she doubted Lu Tianbi would do such a thing to Yu Zhen.

    "You''ll find out soon enough, Princess," Lu Tianbi stated as they slowly walked onward. It was custom in Hanjian for the bride to be led away as the groom stayed behind to entertain the guests.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t quite see anything ahead of her. Due to the red veil over her head and the dangling beads of gold, everything was blurry. She had to rely on the patient guidance of Lu Tianbi to continue walking forward without colliding into something.

    "There''s a step here, Princess," Lu Tianbi informed her. She crossed over the small ledge first and then helped the Princess into the room.

    "It smells nice in here," Li Xueyue murmured.

    "It''s the scent of the dragon and phoenix candles that is currently burning," Lu Tianbi agreed. She grasped the Princess''s hand and together, they walked towards the far end of the room.

    Li Xueyue heard the doors close behind her, but she still couldn''t register their current location. But she had a vague idea.

    "If you may," Lu Tianbi said, as she helped the Princess to a seat.

    Li Xueyue slowly sat down as her fingers brushed against something soft and plush. She hoped it wasn''t Xiao Juzi. She lifted a hand to adjust the veil, but Lu Tianbi grabbed her hand.

    "Please don''t remove it yet, Princess," Lu Tianbi mused. She didn''t think Li Xueyue could be so impatient.

    Lu Tianbi nced around the room. She probed the nooks and crannies and turned over the curtains to make sure there wasn''t anyone hiding in here.

    "Where are you going?" Li Xueyue softly asked when she heard Lu Tianbi''s footsteps growing faint.

    Lu Tianbi was surprised that the Princess had heard her. Not many people could detect her silent walk.

    "Please wait, I will return in less than a minute," Lu Tianbi said. She noticed the Princess''s head was tilted towards her direction.

    Lu Tianbi turned to the servants who stood guard at the door. She lowered her voice and instructed, "Don''t let her take off her veil."

    The handmaidens obediently bowed their heads in response.

    Lu Tianbi hid her smile and quietly slipped out of the room. It seemed the Crown Princess was too innocent. Hadn''t the Princess''s mother prepped her about the wedding night?

    "Oh well¡ª" Lu Tianbi''s voice died in her throat.

    She was startled to see the Crown Prince storming down the hallway, a purposeful look on his face. His bright red clothing was a contrast to his dark, brooding eyes.

    Lu Tianbi closed the distance between them, stopping a few feet away from the door.

    "Your Highness, you''re breaking tradition," Lu Tianbi said and chuckled. "You were supposed to wait until all of the guests leave beforeing here."

    Lu Tianbi was certain the celebration was still ongoing. As a matter of fact, it was barely time for the party toe to an end.

    The Crown Prince ignored her and continued walking forward. His stride was powerful and filled with intent. After tonight, Li Xueyue would be his forever.

    Lu Tianbi held back aint. She wondered what the Emperor and Empress would think of this. The Crown Prince wasn''t supposed to be here for a while longer. But then again, nothing could hold him back. If he wanted something, he''d get it.

    She just didn''t think he would be so impatient. Or perhaps, it was ack of care for the endless traditions. Regardless, he must''ve been the only shameless groom in the entire country to do such a thing.

    "You need to be gentle with her, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi reminded him.

    He paused for a brief second before continuing onwards.

    Lu Tianbi gaped at being given the cold shoulder. She swiveled around and frowned. "Your Highness¡ª"

    "She''s a lot more promiscuous than you think," Yu Zhen said with a turn of his head.

    Lu Tianbi blinked at his words. What was he talking about?

    From what she recalled, the Princess seemed nervous and hesitant. It was as if the youngdy didn''t even know what would happen tonight.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue anxiously nibbled at her bottom lip. She knew her lip stain might be ruined from this action, but she couldn''t help it. Her fingers trembled and she was forced to intece it together. Nothing could be heard over the sound of her thundering heart.

    She squirmed in her chair, wondering exactly what was going on. It had only been a minute or so since Lu Tianbi left, but it felt like an eternity. With nothing to upy her, she could onlye up with dubious scenarios.

    Just then, the door creaked open. It was a sound so quiet, she nearly missed it.

    "Lady Lu, is that you?" she hesitantly asked, but was met with silence.

    Li Xueyue nced downwards. Maybe Lu Tianbi didn''t hear her?

    "Leave us."

    Li Xueyue''s heart skipped. Her lips parted. She knew that voice.

    "Yu Zhen¡­?" she murmured.

    Li Xueyue was startled when arge hand grasped her fingers. His thumb gently caressed her knuckles. She was hesitant as he brought her hand to his lips.

    Yu Zhen noticed she was trembling. His gaze softened at this.

    "What dirty thoughts are running through your mind this time?" Yu Zhen mused as he slowly kneeled before her.

    "For thest time, my mind is as pure as snow!" she exasperated, jumping when a hand touched her knees.

    She was puzzled but realized he was slipping her shoes off. It was a duty meant for maidservants, but he had excused all of them.

    "Are you sure it''s not as pure as ash?" Yu Zhen teased. He settled both of her pointed shoes beside her.

    Li Xueyue tried to concentrate on his words but every spot he touched was beginning to warm up, just like her cheeks. She sucked in a shaky breath when his hand slipped under her gown. He teasingly touched her leg, his palms gently caressing her smooth skin.

    "Of course not," she told him.

    Li Xueyue''s heart was racing so fast, she was certain he could hear it. Despite all the times she had teased him, she was overwhelmed with anticipation and fear. She tried to pay it no mind. It wasn''t a difficult task, especially with his distracting hands.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she was standing now. He had already taken off her heavy cape and the firstyer of her dress.

    "Hmm, somehow I don''t believe you," Yu Zhen whispered.

    Li Xueyue turned her head. His voice was suddenly very close to her as if his lips were directly beside her ear. She was surprised when anotheryer of clothes slipped off of her shoulders.

    Yu Zhen''s fingers were very fast.

    "How can I prove it to you?" Li Xueyue muttered, despite the lie written all over her face. She was grateful that he couldn''t see her stained cheeks¡ªor not. He had finally lifted her veil.

    "Prove what?" he murmured, his voice silky smooth.

    Li Xueyue''s blush deepened when their eyes met. His gaze warmed her body. Desire. Adoration. Lust. So many emotions coursed through his eyes. Wild thoughts ran through her mind when he tossed the red fabric aside.

    "T-that I only have pure thoughts."

    Yu Zhen grasped her chin and pulled her close. His lips curled into a mischievous smirk.

    His other hand began to slip the hairpins out of her hair.

    "After tonight, you will no longer have pure thoughts."

 Chapter 353 Swee

    <h4>Chapter 353 Swee</h4>

    Warning: the following scene contains 18+ content.

    - - - - -

    In silence, Yu Zhen''s fingers worked to remove Li Xueyue''s clothing. It didn''t take long for him to reach thestyer of her clothing that was held together by red strings.

    Yu Zhen finally did what he always wanted to do when he yed with her ribbons. In one rough yank, the strings came undone and her dress parted in the middle, revealing her bare body.

    But she was too self-conscious and she immediately hugged her body.

    "You''re very beautiful, love," he murmured, bringing her closer.

    Yu Zhen brushed stray hairs away from her face with one hand as the other hand gently cupped her nape, angling her head towards him. The lit candles by the bed entuated her soft features, the exact ones he tried to memorize by heart.

    Li Xueyue blushed at hispliment and nced to the side, but he forced her to look at him.

    "We don''t have to continue if you''re ufortable," Yu Zhen reassured. He saw her eyes widen with surprise as if saying no wasn''t an option.

    He brought her hands to his lips, kissing each finger until her heart was squeezed with the action.

    Then, she took him by surprise. Li Xueyue leaned up and kissed him.

    Her stomach fluttered when a deep chuckle rumbled from his chest. She felt his hand squeeze her nape as he closed the small distance between their bodies.

    When she didn''t pull back, Yu Zhen pressed his lips firmly against hers and slid his tongue into her mouth. Her quiet moans were enough for him to continue.

    Li Xueyue was familiar with his addictive kisses as her tongue met his in a fiery dance.

    "I will thoroughly love you tonight," he muttered as he?slowly lowered her on the bed. With a flick of his sleeves, the candlelights were blown out.

    They were supposed to be lit longer, but he couldn''t care less. Traditions didn''t faze him. He didn''t need imaginary luck from random objects. Though, she must''ve mind, for her eyes snapped up to him.

    Moonlight seeped through the open window as a breeze drifted into the room. He could see all of her features perfectly.

    Yu Zhen''s warm body covered hers before he stole another kiss from her. He kept their mouths locked together as he slowly pushed her robes apart.

    Hisrge hands thoroughly explored her body, enjoying her smooth skin. Her back arched when his hands teasingly brushed against her exposed breasts.

    "Now is your time to say no," he whispered against her skin.

    Li Xueyue simply responded by pulling him closer. Their lips met again, and soon, she was lost in the sensation of their kiss. Warmth pooled in her lower stomach. She could feel it, the heat of his skin, and his tense body.

    Her fingers quivered as she began to undress him, but he grasped her hand.

    "No, love," he stated. "Tonight will be about you."

    Yu Zhen pulled back briefly to slip off his clothes. She touched her lips, as her head slowly tilted to the side. She could not meet his gaze despite being straddled by him.

    Yu Zhen took off his clothes in record time. He tossed it onto the ground where her bridal dressid in heaps.

    In the small amount of time, she had subconsciously covered herself. Her arms covered her breasts and a blush spread across her chest.

    He licked his lips. Without warning, he grabbed both of her wrists and pinned them above her head. Her eyes widened in surprise, her body trembling with anticipation.

    "Don''t be scared," he whispered, leaning down to softly peck her lips. "I will take my time."

    Li Xueyue''s cheeks heated up and grew redder. He was staring down at her with hungry eyes as if he was going to devour her. And he was.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t stop her wandering eyes as she took everything in. From his beautiful body, chiseled and hard, to the carved lines of his abdomen. She gawked at the length of him, thick and powerful.

    Almost as if he was reading her thoughts, he smirked. "It''ll fit."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped up at him. ''There was no way¡ª'' Her thoughts were interrupted when he gently cupped her cheeks and pressed a kiss upon her chin.

    "At any time," he murmured as his hands slowly traveled downwards, exploring the sides of her body.

    "If you''d like to stop, tell me."

    Heat spread everywhere he touched as an unfamiliar sensation coursed through her.

    Li Xueyue gasped when he cupped the side of her breast and dove down. His lipstched upon her neck, pressing open mouth kisses upon the exposed skin. He nipped and suckled, creating even more marks.

    When Yu Zhen found the previous one fading, he paid more attention to it.

    Even when her legs shifted in protest, he continued to kiss on that faded spot until a bright red mark could be seen.

    Li Xueyue could feel the curl of his lips when he smirked in satisfaction. She let out a shaky breath when he cupped her breast, gently squeezing it.

    Then, without warning, his mouth was upon her. He twirled his tongue upon the pearl, her body warmed in seconds.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" Li Xueyue moaned when he teased the orb with his teeth, gently pulling at it. She clung onto him, hoping to suppress the pleasure, but it was impossible.

    "You just love to tease me, don''t you?" Yu Zhen rasped when their eyes met. Her eyes were so tender, so moist, that he couldn''t stop himself from teasing her other breast.

    His hot, wet tongue was simply too much. Her body ached for him, wanting more and more. She couldn''t stop the moans that came out. She tried her best to suppress it, but he''d suck harder when she did.

    "Don''t hold it in," he warned. "I want to hear all of you."

    Li Xueyue shakily nodded her head. He smiled at her obedience as his head moved lower. Her stomach clenched when he kissed a path downward. His lips were warm and slick.

    "W-what are you doing?" she whispered when one hand gripped her waist and the other grasped her inner thighs.

    "Getting a taste of my wife."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened when he settled in between her legs. She tried to close it, but he didn''t let her. He spread her legs, his thumbs pressing into the sensitive flesh of her inner thighs.

    He kissed both of her knees, humming as his lips wandered to the side of her legs. It was ticklish and it distracted her from her fear.

    He slid forward and made eye contact as his tongue rolled over her clit.

    Li Xueyue gasped, the sensation too surreal for her to say anything. Her breathing becamebored as he twirled his tongue and without warning, took the bead into his mouth. He hummed, as if he tasted something sweet.

    "Such a good girl," he growled when she attempted to close her legs in fear.

    "Yu Zhen¡­ I¡­ I can''t¡­" she moaned as the vibration of his growl drove her crazy.

    Yu Zhen sucked and licked until she was a writhing mess, her fingers tightly clenching the sheets. She was beginning to see stars as he swirled her clit in between his heated lips.

    "P-please dont," she begged when hezily dragged his mouth lower.

    Her eyes widened when the tip of his tongue slipped inside. His tongue, hot and wet, dove?inside whilst his thumb circled around her clit. He picked up his speed until she was shaking, her eyes going wide.

    Li Xueyue felt her body reaching the peak of her high. Her mouth was agape as she panted.

    "Yu Zhen!" she cried out his name, her hips jutting against his mouth. A rush of euphoria crashed through her, her body tensing.

    Yu Zhen smirked in satisfaction as hepped the juices that flowed from her.

    "So sweet¡­" he groaned.

    Li Xueyue''s body fell t on the bed. Her chest heaved with each pant. But he didn''t stop there. She let out a whimper when he greedily licked her clean and began to spread her legs fully.

    Li Xueyue''s lower body arched when he licked his lips as if he had enjoyed a great meal. She didn''t think it was possible for him to look even more handsome. But the desire dripping from his eyes said otherwise.

 Chapter 354 Control

    <h4>Chapter 354 Control</h4>

    Warning: the following scene contains 18+ content.

    - - - - -

    "You''re trembling," Yu Zhen whispered.

    "Are you afraid?" he gently asked whilst tossing the final piece of clothing aside until she was fully naked.

    "No¡­" Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "I''m just¡­ worried about disappointing you. T-this is my first time."

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened. The back of his fingers gently brushed against her cheek.

    "Sunshine, you are also my first," he muttered, catching her by great surprise. Before she could get over the shock, he positioned the tip of himself at her wet and hot entrance.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened as she met his obsidian gaze. With one hand holding down her waist, and the other gripping her thigh, she had nowhere to run. He thrust his hip forward and she cried out in pain.

    "I-it hurts¡­" she pleaded, as he let out a sharp chuckle. It was just the tip.

    They were finally joined together, as husband and wife.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue pushed against his chest, but he was too powerful. Yu Zhen thrust again as she choked in pain. She could feel his throbbing length inside of her, pulsating and hot.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she was crying until he bent down and kissed her tears away.

    "Shhhh¡­ it''s going to be okay," he reassured her in a voice tight with restraint. He clenched his jaw, not believing she was this tight. It was difficult not to move inside of her, especially when she gripped him so.

    Yu Zhen slowly moved his hips, sliding deeper into her.

    Li Xueyue could feel his slick member, hard as stone. Her body was hot as the initial pain faded away and slowly shifted to pleasure.

    "Sunshine," he softly growled. "Breathe."

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she was holding her breath. She sucked in shaky mouthfuls of air. Without warning, he slid deeper into her. He could feel the ridges of her insides as her legs raised to wrap itself around his hips.

    "You''re lovely, Sunshine," he murmured before moving his hips again. This time, she responded with a quiet moan.

    Li Xueyue''s hand traveled up his muscr back, clenching onto him as her other hand dug into his hair. He thrust deeper into her as he muffed her cries with his mouth. He kissed her deeply as he rocked his hips into her.

    The more she begged, the harder he gave it to her until she could do nothing but let out shaky gasps.

    Yu Zhen''s hand supported her waist upward, forcing her to meet his rhythm.

    "Y-Yu Zhen, please¡ª" She couldn''t finish her sentence as he rammed into her.

    Her eyes widened with pleasure as her mouth remained agaped.

    Li Xueyue was reaching her climax soon, as ck spots dotted her vision. Her chest rose and fell with each pant.

    She desperately clung onto him, her fingers wing at his back. He buried his face into her shoulder.

    Yu Zhenn bit and kissed her neck whilst rocking his hips against hers.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t even think straight. Her eyes rolled back. Her toes curled. She was too overwhelmed with pleasure to say anything.

    Li Xueyue dug her nails into his back muscles hard, marking him. She moved her hips against him, meeting each thrust. She no longer had control of her own body.

    Yu Zhen was cruel. It was her first, yet he was fierce.

    "You''re mine now, Li Xueyue," he growled as he slowly slid out of her, only to harshly enter again. He thrust deep into her, forcing her to take all of him.

    Li Xueyue''s legs tightened around his hips. Her body tensed. Her lower back arched.

    "Yu Zhen!" she cried out. Another wave of pleasure rammed into her.

    He let out a string of curses.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. Something thick and hot filled her insides. He slowly lowered her hips whilst continuing to move inside of her. Slowly, but surely, she waspletely filled with his seed.

    Li Xueyue took in everyst drop he gave her. Her body copsed onto the bed in response as he lowered his body on top of her.

    Yu Zhen raised his head. Her eyes were hazy and moist. He swooped down and gently kissed her upon the lips. One hand brushed the strands of hair sticking to her forehead.

    "You did very well, Sunshine," he murmured, kissing her again.

    Li Xueyue let out a shaky breath.

    "How can you be so ruthless¡­?" she whispered as he let out a small chuckle and fondly caressed her cheek.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t even protest when he kissed a trail to her chin. His hands explored the sides of her body before settling upon her hips. His thumb brushed circles upon her flesh.

    She closed her eyes, thinking this was the end of it. But little did she know, it was only the beginning.

    "W-what are you¡ª" She gasped when he started to move again.

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize he was still inside of her. She suppressed a moan, believing this would stop him. But it only provoked him.

    "Xueyue," he whispered, leaning down to capture her lips in a slow, passionate kiss.

    "Say my name¡­" He licked her mouth. He tugged her bottom lip with his teeth.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she moaned, "You''re being so cruel."

    Yu Zhen smiled against her lips. "And you''re too sweet."

    "I already came twice, I can''t do it again," she moaned in protest.

    He chuckled at her words. "You will."

    Before she could respond, he began to move his hips again.

    Yu Zhen gripped her bottoms. He brought her hips higher so that she could take all of him.

    It didn''t take long for her body to be heated again. She gripped the nkets for relief, but he wouldn''t allow it. He entwined their hands together. Her other arm wrapped itself around him.

    "My sweet, sweet, Xueyue," he murmured.

    Warmth spread through her. His hot member thrust into her. In and out.

    Yu Zhen showed her no mercy.

    Tonight, Li Xueyue learned something new. Yu Zhen was a beast.

    It was her first time, but Yu Zhen continued to take her again and again, until she could no longer move.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue was taken in every position possible. She was beyond exhausted. Her throat was hoarse from moaning, screaming, and calling out his name. He was wild, but she had matched him.

    No matter how many times she wanted to stop, Li Xueyue couldn''t. She, too, wanted more and more. The pleasure he gave her was too addictive.

    He was cruel in bed, but gentle afterwards. After finishing inside of her so many times, he finally cleaned her off with a towel.

    "You''re a beast," she grumbled against his skin.

    Her face was resting upon his hard, muscr chest. She had one legzily thrown over his torso. She could feel the arm wrapped around her waist clench.

    Yu Zhen held her against him. His fingerszily stroked her hips.

    "I know," he murmured.

    Yu Zhen had never lost so much control of himself. He didn''t know what happened.

    The more she moaned, the more he wanted her. Her body was intoxicating, and her cries were so sweet. She continued calling his name, and he couldn''t deny her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She nuzzled her face into his chest. She adored the warmth of his body. In his arms, she felt so secure andfortable, her eyes were beginning to flutter shut.

    "Will you¡­ be here when I wake up?" she quietly asked.

    Yu Zhen wanted tough. Was that an actual question?

    "Where else would I go?" he teased.

    Li Xueyue''s heart fluttered. She smiled against his skin.

    He pulled the nkets up to cover their bodies.

    Li Xueyue Let out a satisfied sigh. She snuggled against him and wrapped one arm around his chest.

    His other hand gently yed with her hair and stroked the back of her head. She didn''t want to be anywhere else in the world.

    "Hmmm¡­" she hummed in response as her eyes slowly closed.

    Li Xueyue tried to fight it, but couldn''t.

    Yu Zhen smiled down at her. She was endearing, even when asleep.

    Yu Zhen shifted his head and kissed her forehead. He reached a hand out and shifted the nkets higher until it covered her exposed shoulders.

    When she had writhed underneath him, he had forgotten how fragile she was. But now, he realized how tiny she was¡ªwell, inparison to him.

    It only made Yu Zhen want to protect her even more.

    "Sleep well, Sunshine."

 Chapter 355 Will You Kiss Me

    <h4>Chapter 355 Will You Kiss Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up to the sunlight pouring in through the windows. Her vision was still blurry as she scooted closer to the warmth beside her. She let out a contented sigh and hugged him tighter, not seeing the amused smile on his face.

    Li Xueyue felt a sense of tranquility unlike any other. It was rare for her to wake up feeling well-rested. But that meant yesterday must''ve taken a toll on her, for she had the best sleep of her life.

    When the arm around her waist pulled her closer, Li Xueyue realized he was awake. She attempted to prop herself up on her elbows, but it trembled and gave out from under her. She didn''t expect her whole body to be so sore.

    "Good morning?" she mumbled. He caressed her cheek.

    Li Xueyue leaned into his gentle touch as his thumb stroked her skin.

    "It''s a very good morning," he reassured her.

    Yu Zhen''s fingers hooked under her chin, bringing her face up for a kiss. But she turned her face away and his lips brushed against the corner of her mouth.

    "Uhm¡­ my breath," she whispered, covering her mouth, knowing it wasn''t pleasant. His chest rumbled from underneath her and her heart fluttered in response. He was highly entertained by her reaction.

    "You''re too adorable for your own good, Sunshine," Yu Zhen mused. His handzily grabbed the back of her head as he kissed her nose.

    "Does it hurt anywhere?" he gently asked, as his fingers massaged her scalp. She closed her eyes in pleasure, relishing in his touch.

    "Mmhm."

    Yu Zhen had expected as much. He wasn''t able to control himselfst night. Once he had a taste of her sweetness, there was no holding back. He wanted her. And she wanted him. What more could he say?

    His eyes trailed down her body covered with bruises and love bites. Perhaps¡­ it was too much for her, but she didn''tin as much.

    "Shall I draw a bath for you?" Yu Zhen asked.

    He quite enjoyed their position. She wasying on top of his chest, her hair sprawled out on his upper arm. He could feel her perky breast pressed against him. He wanted to do nothing more but take her again and again.

    On second thought¡­

    Yu Zhen grabbed her thigh, the one closest to his hardening member. She was such a tease.

    "No¡­" she mumbled, just as she buried her head into his shoulder.

    "No?" he repeated, waiting patiently for her to respond.

    "I-I''m still sore," she shyly said as his rough hand explored downward to her knees. A blush stained her cheeks. She didn''t know why, but it was hard to meet his gaze, especially after the noises she made yesterday.

    ''Gosh¡­ he must think I''m wanton [1],''?she thought to herself, worried about his reaction.

    Li Xueyue felt guilty for denying him, but she simply couldn''t handle it.

    "I''m sorry," she added on, knowing it was a wife''s duty to please her husband. But that duty felt unfair, didn''t it? What about the wife''s condition and thoughts?

    Li Xueyue regretted her words in an instant. ''Would this make him think¡ª''

    "That''s alright, Sunshine," Yu Zhen reassured. He could''ve sworn he felt her heart race, but it must''ve been a figment of his imagination.

    "Really?" she whispered into his neck, enjoying the scent of him.

    "Really."

    "Really really?" she asked.

    Li Xueyue smiled against his skin when she felt his body shaking. Heughed. It was a sound that tickled her stomach and filled her with warmth.

    "We''ve been over this discussion, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue quietly nodded her head. But the smile quickly disappeared when he untangled their bodies.

    "Where are you going?" she sullenly questioned.

    It was only for a moment, but she terribly missed his warmth. It was cold without him, despite her silky robes and the nkets covering her.

    "To personally draw you a bath, Sunshine," Yu Zhen told her. It took everything in his will power not to join her in bed. Sheid on her side, with pleading eyes, watching his every move.

    Yu Zhen leaned into the bed and pulled the nkets higher. He was worried she would feel cold.

    The windows were left openst night. It was a habit of his, despite the clear warnings of Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao to close them. But then again, who would dare to attack Hanjian''s Commander?

    "Come back soon," Li Xueyue said.

    Li Xueyue watched him saunter to the other side of the room. Her eyes feasted upon his broad shoulders¡ªhis muscles rippled with each movement. His backside caught her attention the most.

    "Of course," he told her whilst slipping on his robes. He tied it loosely around his body, revealing a little of his firm chest.

    Li Xueyue smiled when he returned to bed. He brushed locks of hair away from her face, which made her heart skip a beat. Then he kissed her on the forehead.

    "Don''t miss me too much, love," he teased.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes at him but smiled nheless. "That should be my line."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she had fallen back asleep. She was awakened by the startling discovery that it was airy underneath her. Her head snapped up, and she directly made eye contact with him.

    Yu Zhen was carrying her bridal style. He smiled down at her. "We''re almost there."

    Almost where? Li Xueyue could vaguely recall snippets of their endearing conversation the night before, which made her blush. She turned her head and noticed the hallway was empty.

    "Every servant and guard was pardoned."

    Li Xueyue blinked, and a puzzled expression shed on her face not realizing the reasons behind the trivia. She noticed his freshly washed face. There were still droplets of water from the hairs that framed his face.

    "Where are we going then?" she asked him.

    "To the bathhouse."

    Li Xueyue blinked. Was there such a thing in the pce? Her question was shortly answered when they stopped in front of a thick metal door. She was certain no one would be able to hear anything inside even if they stood right by the door.

    Yu Zhen pushed the door open with his shoulders. Instantly, warm gusts of air enveloped them. In particr, Li Xueyue.

    Li Xueyue was amazed by the size of the bathhouse. It must''ve been a part of the Crown Prince''s estate.

    The walls were lined with a white stone she was unfamiliar with. There was a tall bamboo screen in the center of the room, and she could hear the water pouring from somewhere. The room was steamy butfortable.

    "Howe I didn''t know of this ce?" she wondered out loud as he carried her towards the bamboo screen.

    "Because you never asked," Yu Zhen responded.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened upon seeing the enormous pool of water built underneath the floor. It seemed shallow and a sweet, calming scent diffused from the moving waters. Beautiful tiles lined the walls of the underground structure.

    "Do you like it?" Yu Zhen asked. He carried her towards the steps and descended into it.

    Li Xueyue instantly nodded. Once her body was submerged in the warm water, a satisfied sigh left her mouth. The water soothed her sore muscles as he carried her to a corner.

    "My clothes¡­" she mumbled, realizing they had both gotten it wet.

    "The water isfortable, isn''t it?" Yu Zhen asked her as he sat down in the water. He could see the surprise in her eyes. She was straddling him, her knees resting upon the small seat built into the structure.

    "Yes, very."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head as he pulled the clothes off of her. He tossed it behind him, the itemnding in a heap on the edge.

    "I''ve washed my mouth," Yu Zhen whispered as one arm snaked around her lower back, his fingers spread when he pushed her against him.

    "Will you kiss me now?" he teased, just as one hand grasped her nape.

    "Well, I didn''t¡ª" She was distracted when he shifted his body.

    Li Xueyue watched as his long arms grabbed the wooden tray beside the edge of the pool. She was caught off-guard when he ced a teacup to her lips.

    "Drink."

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. It seemed he had nned this in advance. She drank from the teacup, her eyes widening at the taste. The tea was sweet and fragrant. She noticed hints of¡­ rose and honey?

    But before she could wrap her head around it, a pair of lips captured hers. Her eyes fluttered shut as she relished in his attention. The kiss was soft and gentle. He was pampering her as his other hand gently massaged her shoulders.

    "You brute¡­" she whispered against his lips, finally realizing where this was going.

    Yu Zhen let out a darkugh. "Did you just realize, Sunshine?"

 Chapter 356 Make Love

    <h4>Chapter 356 Make Love</h4>

    Li Xueyue eyed the other side of the pool a distance away¡ª she''d never be able to escape from him. It was as if he knew what ran inside of her head.

    "Good luck running," he murmured.

    Within the next second, his finger gripped her chin and pulled her closer. His lips crashed upon hers, the kiss started off slow, gentle, and patient. It was sweet. Until it wasn''t. Soon, his hunger for her was revealed.

    He licked her lips and dove his slick tongue into her mouth. She moaned in response, her hand resting upon his jaw. She traced the length of it with her fingers as he tightly gripped her hips.

    Yu Zhen pulled back to let her breathe, but continued his assault upon her. Now that they were husband and wife, he would stop holding back. He pressed open mouth kisses on the corner of her mouth. He trailed lower and reached one of the marks upon her neck. It was growing faint.

    "W-wait¡ª" She let out a startled gasp when he kissed the sensitive spot, only to nip it. Then, he gently blew cold air upon it, his hands roaming down her arms. His mouth followed suit, kissing the edges of her shoulders.

    Li Xueyue was flushed against his body. The water was warm, but his body was hotter. Everywhere his hands touched, her skin burned. She felt heat gather in her lower stomach as a familiar sensation kicked in.

    His hungry lips sought for more than just a simple kiss. He hoisted her higher and squeezed her breast. Just as he dove in, a loud knock echoed through the bathing house.

    And just like that, the magic died down. Her eyes flew open in fear. She shoved him away, but his arms were sturdy. He held her against him, whispering soothing words in her ears.

    "It''s okay, shhh," he hushed when she hesitantly trembled.

    "Zhenzhen! I know you''re in there!" a hurried voice cried out, as the banging continued.

    "I''ll kill him," Yu Zhen growled.

    Yu Zhen could sense her uneasiness. He knew she didn''t want to be caught in such an intimate position. However, they were husband and wife. She''d better get used to these positions. There was more he wanted to try with her.

    "We should leave," Li Xueyue whispered. She reached for her robes, but he grabbed her wrist.

    "We should stay in here until night time approaches," Yu Zhen mumbled, earning a startled stare from her. He chuckled at her reaction.

    "You''re a beast," she hissed.

    Li Xueyue attempted to escape from his clutches, but his grip was too tight. Luckily for her, she was straddling him with her knees. Had her intimate part brushed against him, everything would''ve escted.

    "Only for you." Yu Zhen''s thumb brushed her bruised lips.

    Li Xueyue nipped at his finger. His eyes darkened. In an instant, he was close to her again.

    "Pets shouldn''t bite at their masters," he mused. "You should be punished."

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes.?He leaned forward for another kiss and she smacked her palm onto his mouth.

    "You''re a disobedient pet," Li Xueyue retorted. "Now let me go."

    "Hmm, I don''t know¡ª"

    "Listen, Zhenzhen, as much as I want a niece running around, the Emperor and Empress areing to your estate any minute now!"

    At this, Li Xueyue''s body tensed. In one rough push, she shoved herself off of him. Terror clouded her clear eyes. She rushed to the steps of the pool. In an instant, he was behind her.

    "Breathe," he warned.

    "We have to be presentable and¡ª"

    "We just had our wedding night. They''ll cut us some ck," Yu Zhen reassured her. He gingerly grabbed her elbow from behind.

    "You have to calm down first," Yu Zhen whispered. He knew her heart must''ve been thundering against her chest. When she looked up at him, he felt warmth spread through his body. She was so delectable¡­ he wanted more than just a kiss.

    But she seemed too distracted to be in the mood. Yu Zhen held back aint. He bent down and scooped her into his arms. She let out a startled breath at his action.

    "I-I can walk on my own," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    "Really now?"

    "Really."

    "I must remedy that tonight," Yu Zhen mused.

    Li Xueyue gasped at his words, knowing exactly what he meant. "I''m still sore!" she exasperated.

    "You said you can walk on your own."

    "Yes, but not without difficulty¡ª"

    "The goal was making sure you couldn''t even lift a limb," Yu Zhen chuckled.

    Li Xueyue gaped up at him. Did he want children so soon? Each time he reached his peak, it was always inside of her. It would be a miracle if she wasn''t pregnant!

    "Don''t look so horrified," Yu Zhen teased. He bent down and pecked her lips. "I held backst night. It seems I shouldn''t have."

    Li Xueyue flushed at his words. After so many rounds, he dared to say he had held back? She was surprised her voice wasn''t hoarse from calling out his name in ecstasy.

    "Prepare yourself," he whispered.

    "F-for what?"

    "We''ll make love all night long. And this time, I won''t stop."

    Li Xueyue''s jaws dropped open at his words. Why¡­ why was he so damn virile?! She med his status as a Commander. He had more stamina than a regr soldier. She should''ve known better.

    "Now, let''s get you dressed," Yu Zhen stated with a smile. He was highly entertained by her horrified expression. It was as if she didn''t believe in his words. Did she think he was joking? That''s adorable. He was far from teasing.

    Li Xueyue wobbly stood on her legs. She felt the blood rush back to her sore limbs, but it took a few seconds for her to be ustomed to walking on the ground again. He grabbed a white robe that was neatly folded upon a table.

    "Thank you," she whispered as he helped her put it on. It was made of a thick, breathable material that was soft to the touch, despite how wet she was.

    "You should show your sincerity."

    Li Xueyue''s face reddened from his words. There was a mischievous glint in his eyes. He tied the strings of her robes into a bow.

    "Well?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue red up at him, hoping her aggravation would hide her embarrassment.

    "Just get dressed," she said.

    In an instant, he pulled her close. She nearly tripped over her footing, but he caught her in no time.

    "This feels like deja vu," he murmured, bending his neck.

    Li Xueyue knew exactly what he was talking about. It was their first encounter all over again.

    "By luck, you''ve managed to find a husband," he teased. "Despite not knowing the basics¡ª"

    "I know how to dress a man," she snapped.

    "Right."

    "I really do."

    "I don''t doubt you."

    "You''re doing exactly that!" she groaned.

    "Am I disagreeing with you?" he retorted.

    Li Xueyue scowled at his words. She angrily yanked the other robe off of the table. She held it open and gestured for him to put it on.

    "Tsk, I wouldn''t call it luck, but more of a miracle you found a husband¡ª"

    "Oh shut up." Li Xueyue reached behind him and offered the sleeves to him. She ignored his gloating smirk. He was watching her carefully. Her face was too close to his chest. She tried to ignore the heat oozing off of him. He snickered at her irritable expression.

    Finally, he ced one muscr arm into the sleeve, and then the other. She grumbled insults under her breath whilst tying the belt.

    "See, that wasn''t so hard, was it?" Yu Zhen jabbed.

    Li Xueyue angrily yanked the belt tighter, hoping it would cut off his airways. He merelyughed at her feeble attempts. She red at his firm chest that quivered withughter.

    She was even more aggrieved when he hoicked her into a hug. He rested one hand upon the back of her head, and the other upon her lower back.

    "Why are you so endearing, Sunshine?" he whispered as she pouted against him.

    "Why do you find joy in angering me?"

    "Because your reactions are adorable. You''re a little cub who thinks she''s a tiger."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. Just you wait, Yu Zhen¡­ One day, she''d w him so hard, he wouldn''t be able to call her a cub anymore. But that was too much of a far-fetched dream.

    The only thing she could do was struggle in his arms and push him away like an irritable cat who refused hugs.

    Li Xueyue let out a huff when he loudlyughed again. Despite the heartwarming sound, her blood pressure rose.

    "Too cute, Sunshine," he stated. "Just too cute."

 Chapter 357 A Miracle

    <h4>Chapter 357 A Miracle</h4>

    Hu Dengxiao stood impatiently outside of the door. He hadn''t said anything for a while because he knew the Crown Prince was smart enough to be getting dressed. But the clock was ticking and he hadn''t stepped out yet.

    "Are you done yet, Zhenzhen?!" Hu Dengxiao called out in an eager voice.

    The Crown Princess had just earned the Royal family''s favor. It would be troublesome if she abruptly lost it.

    Of course, it was normal for newlyweds to share at least a week together by themselves, but they were royalty. And one important thing had to be proven.

    "Come on, Zhenzhen¡ª" Hu Dengxiao was interrupted by the door opening. His eyes lit up only for him to instantly regret it.

    "Ow!" he cried out, clutching the back of his head. It was burning with pain, and he could''ve sworn he saw double.

    "What was that for, Your Highness?" he sobbed. By now, he was certain there would be a massive dent at the back of his round head.

    "You''re lucky I didn''t kill you," Yu Zhen growled.

    Hu Dengxiao pouted. "But you have the rest of your life to spend with the Crown Princess! Making nieces and nephews can wait, Your Highness."

    "You certainly don''t have to wait for your execution," Yu Zhen hissed.

    Hu Dengxiao yelped at his words. He jumped a few steps backward and shifted his attention to the small woman beside the Crown Prince.

    Every time Hu Dengxiao looked at Li Xueyue, he couldn''t believe how frail she seemed. But the Crown Princess was in one piece wasn''t she?

    That, by itself, was a miracle, considering the stamina of their Commander.

    "Good morning Princess!" Hu Dengxiao chirped. "Do you think we can expect little Princes and Princesses to run about these halls soon?"

    Li Xueyue chuckled at his words, much to the aggravation of Yu Zhen. For some reason, Hu Dengxiao reminded her of Li Wenmin. Perhaps it was their unexpectedly wholesome antics or their pure foolishness.

    "You''re certainly energetic in the mornings," Li Xueyue stated.

    "Well, not as energetic as our dear Crown Prince here¡ªstop that!" Hu Dengxiao eximed as he narrowingly dodged another smack to the head.

    "Zhenzhen, if you keep hitting me, my brain will get smaller and smaller!" Hu Dengxiao groaned.

    "It''s already the size of a peanut," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Hu Dengxiao sharply gasped. He ced a dramatic hand upon his chest and scowled. "That''s a lie, Your Highness. My brain is at least the size of a chestnut!"

    "Said no one ever."

    Hu Dengxiao wanted to cry in a corner. The Crown Prince was a bully.

    "I''m not going to bicker with you anymore, Zhenzhen," Hu Dengxiao huffed and pouted. He wished he had made Lu Tianbi deliver the message instead.

    "I''vee to warn you that the Emperor and Empress areing soon. By now, they should be at the entrance of the estate," he added on.

    Yu Zhen scowled at the news. He had almost forgotten the horrid tradition that was practiced in the pce. You''d think with how progressive Hanjian was, the Royal family would no longer practice that ritual.

    "How irritable."

    Li Xueyue blinked up at him in confusion. She hadn''t gotten the chance to ask exactly why the Emperor and Empress wereing to his estate so early in the morning.

    "Let''s not keep them waiting, Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao stated.

    Yu Zhen nodded. The sooner they greet his parents, the quicker they''d leave. He grabbed Li Xueyue''s hand.

    "Come," he murmured. "Let''s go meet your horrid inws."

    - - - - -

    They had barely made it back?when a knock sounded throughout the room. She held back a sigh and knew what was toe.

    "They move too quickly for their age," Yu Zhen bit out. He waved his hand. It was a signal for the Eunuch to open the doors.

    "Announcing the arrival of His Majesty, the Great Sun of Hanjian, and Her Grace, the Benevolent Moon!" the Eunuch loudly announced just as the doors were slowly opened to reveal the Imperial Family.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t prepared for this mental battle. Nheless, she cupped her hands to the side and dipped into a bow.

    "You may rise," the Emperor stated with a slight cough.

    Li Xueyue lifted her head to see an interesting sight. The Emperor was apanied by a servant or two. His weight was ced upon them, and he seemed exhausted.

    She was worried for his health. She had predicted he was sickly but didn''t think it was to this extent.

    On the other hand, the Empress seemed healthy. Without a doubt, she would outlive her husband.

    "It seems we''ve interrupted something," the Empress pointed out with a smile. Her expression was pleasant, just like her small talk.

    Li Xueyue was surprised when Yu Zhen ignored his mother. He didn''t even spare her a nce, despite the gentle gaze of the Empress. Her lips parted in confusion. Did Yu Zhen?dislike his mother?

    Her attention wandered back to the Empress. Sure enough, she seemed disappointed¡­ but there was a tinge of understanding on her face. It was almost as if she knew Yu Zhen would react this coldly.

    "Did you sleep well, Crown Princess?" the Empress asked, deciding to turn her attention elsewhere. If her son wouldn''t respond, she''d target the closest thing to his heart.

    "Too well," Li Xueyue replied with a slight smile.

    The Empress was caught off guard by the blunt response. In a pce of exaggeratedpliments and false smiles, Li Xueyue''s honesty was refreshing. A smallugh escaped her.

    "It seems I will be expecting grandchildren too," she teased.

    Li Xueyue was d the Empress understood the meaning behind her words. It sounded brazen, but it was what the Royal family wanted.

    Li Xueyue knew they were having doubts about her. Especially after that encounter a few days ago, where thedies-in-waiting questioned the candidates'' ability to give birth.

    "I do hope for healthy babies¡­" the Empress trailed off, eyeing the Crown Princess''s thin figure.

    Li Xueyue smiled in response.

    "Well, only one way to find out," the Empress said as she gestured for a maidservant to step forward.

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. What did the Empress mean by that?

    "Empress," Yu Zhen warned, taking a threatening step closer.

    The Empress pressed her lips together, almost disgruntled by his expression. "It''s tradition, my beloved son. You know I have no choice," she softly said.

    Yu Zhen sharply red at her. That tradition could''ve ended with her generation.

    "Besides, Son, what is there to hide?" the Empress added on. "Your reluctance is suspicious."

    Li Xueyue was puzzled by their internal conflict. What exactly happened between this mother and son? The Empress seemed like a loving mother¡­

    "Step aside, Yu Zhen," the Emperormanded in a stern, but wavering voice. His illness had taken a toll upon his body, but not his features. He was still the stern, cruel father.

    "Make me."

    At this, the room turned chilly. The temperature dropped as a gust blew into the room.

    Li Xueyue shivered at the tension created by father and son. She noticed the Empress''s worried stare. For once, there were wrinkles on the woman''s face. It formed on her forehead and the corners of her mouth. The Empress was frightful of the oue.

    "Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue whispered, cing her palm upon his sleeve. But he surprised her by shaking off her gesture. She tried her best not to look disappointed. That was until he grabbed her hand and entwined their fingers.

    "The practice is disgusting," Yu Zhen spat out.

    "Your attitude is even worse," the Emperor retorted. His body heaved as he held back a wet cough.

    "Now go," hemanded the maidservants.

    The pretty servants took timid steps forward but hesitated.

    When one was being red down by a tiger, how could they move? The maidservants were worried for their pretty little heads.

    Disobeying the Emperor meant a whipping, but crossing the Crown Prince meant torture. They were stuck between a rock and a hard ce.

    Li Xueyue was perplexed. What was happening? She saw the fear in their eyes and understood who caused it. She grasped Yu Zhen''s arm, almost as if holding him back.

    "It''s alright," she suddenly said. "Go."

    Yu Zhen''s head snapped down at her. Was she serious? What if they didn''t find what they wanted? What shall happen to her? His grip on her hand tightened considerably. He was protecting her. But she had voluntarily entered the lion''s den.

    "It''s tradition," she stated, offering him an understanding smile.

    Her eyes were soft and clear. She genuinely didn''t mind his parents'' behavior.

    Yu Zhen''s brows etched together. He wanted to argue with her, but couldn''t. Especially when she was putting her reputation on the line. He knew he should''ve checked prior to picking her up.

    "Fine."

    He reluctantly nodded his head, sighing in defeat. He could easily win this argument but chose not too. Instead, he lifted their tangled hands and kissed her knuckles.

    The action surprised many, including the Emperor and Empress. They were speechless. It seemed their eyes hadn''t yed tricks on them. The affections that Yu Zhen felt for Li Xueyue was genuine. It was the first time they''ve seen himpromise like this.

    And everyone else must''ve thought the same, including the maidservants who dropped the nkets.

    "Well?" the Empress demanded, after getting over the shock.

    Li Xueyue was equally as confused as them. Except, it was for different reasons. Why had the maidservants pulled the sheets off of the bed? What exactly was happening?

    "Is the Crown Princess a virgin or not???? the Empress questioned.

 Chapter 358 On Second Though

    <h4>Chapter 358 On Second Though</h4>

    Li Xueyue was not aware that Hanjian had this type of tradition. She heard this practice was prevalent in Wuyi but didn''t think it would ur in Hanjian as well. She could do nothing but mutely stare as the maidservants brought the white sheets forward.

    Yu Zhen squeezed her hand in reassurance. If there was foul y, he would protect her. If she had lied to him yesterday night, he would still protect her.

    If anything, confrontations should ur in private, not in public, and definitely not in front of the inws.

    The maidservants bowed their heads. The white sheets were strategically folded to reveal what was needed to be seen without a mess.

    "Your Majesty, Your Grace," they addressed. "The Crown Princess was pure. She has bled."

    Li Xueyue saw the satisfaction on the Imperial Family''s faces. They nodded in response and turned to her with a pleasant smile. In particr, the Empress expressed her sympathy.

    "The first night is always hard, Crown Princess. Hopefully, it will get better," the Empressmented.

    Li Xueyue tried her best not to gawk. She didn''t think the modest Empress would talk so brazenly about something so private.

    "Do not worry, Your Grace," Li Xueyue responded. "My body can handle it."

    Li Xueyue understood what the Empress was implying. She supposed the rumors about Wuyi''s candidates had bothered the Empress.

    "Hmm, seeing as you''re standing without support, my son must''ve failed his duties," the Empress chided.

    Yu Zhen opened his mouth, but Li Xueyue was quick to salvage the situation.

    Li Xueyue interrupted him with a smallugh. She shyly stared to the ground. "If it wasn''t for the warm bath from earlier, I would''ve had difficulties walking, Your Grace."

    The Empress hummed. She was impressed with Li Xueyue''s exnation. It was not too vivid, and not too vague. It was good to see that Li Xueyue recovered fast.

    "My second son was a Commander before he was a Crown Prince," the Empress said. She waved her hand and handmaidens dressed in in colors came forward carrying trays of food.

    "His stamina might''ve hurt you," the Empress said and chuckled. "I''ve prepared nutritious dishes and soups to replenish both of your energy."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head and offered a pleasant smile. It seemed that they wanted heirs; and quickly.

    "They''re much appreciated, Your Grace," Li Xueyue responded.

    "A week from now," the Emperor finally spoke up after analyzing the small Princess. "The Imperial Physician will visit you."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded at his words. Without a doubt, it was to see if she was with child or not. But a week would be too soon¡­

    "Do not fret," the Emperor warmly told her. His breathing grewbored but he trudged onwards.

    The Crown Princess seemed so endearing, her eyes so clear and bright, he was reminded of his favorite daughter, Yu Lingluo. He didn''t want either women to be pressured into doing something they didn''t want, even if it was their duty.

    "It is a mere check-up," the Emperor reassured her.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened. She bowed her head and nodded.

    "That is all," the Emperor said. He threw a re at his son and turned on his heels. The servants helped him out of the bedroom, with the Empress following a few steps behind him.

    Li Xueyue held back a sigh of relief. They weren''t alone yet. Their servants were still here setting the table.

    "Make it quick," Yu Zhen barked. His voice was rough and dark. There was no room for arguments.

    Terrified of angering the Crown Prince, the handmaidens picked up their pace and quickly set the table. It didn''t take long for the dishes to be arranged neatly on the table and the rice to be served. Once they finished their duties, the handmaidens rushed out of the room, not wasting a single second.

    "You must be hungry," Yu Zhen said. He grasped her hands and pulled her close. There was a worried look on his face.

    "Come," he whispered.

    Li Xueyue''s head shot up.

    "Let''s eat," he finished, his lips curling into a smirk.

    Yu Zhen grasped her small chin and bent down, his mouth brushing against hers. "Or perhaps, you can be my meal."

    Yu Zhen wanted to see her flustered and red. The color of her stained cheeks was his favorite color. He had never seen anything more exquisite than her flushed body when she climaxed.

    But then she took him by surprise.

    "I would prefer that as well," she whispered. His dumbstruck expression amused her, especially when she wrapped an arm around his neck and kissed him.

    Yu Zhen responded in less than a second. A grunt of satisfaction came out. He rested a palm upon her lower back, fingers spread. The distance between them was closed when he kissed her back. She tasted sweet. Like a bee drawn to honey, he greedily captured her lips.

    Li Xueyue thought she was in the lead but was severely proven wrong. His hot tongue dove into her mouth. She was forced to take a step back until eventually, her knees buckled.

    Yu Zhen pushed her onto the bed. He straddled her, his fingers expertly taking off her dress.

    "O-on second thought¡­" she trailed off, knowing he was far too stimted.

    His dted pupils stared down at her¡ªraw hunger in his eyes. He was a craving nothing but her.

    "I''m hungry for food," she said, but her hands implied otherwise. It ran up his chest, feeling the pinch of his muscles when his fingers balled into fists. He had just reached the limit of his self-control.

    "Then let''s eat," he gruffily said.

    Li Xueyue was pleasantly surprised by his words. She thought he was joking. Did he¡­ truly take her words into consideration? His actions proved it. Yu Zhen pulled her up so that she was sitting upon the bed.

    His standing figure towered over her. But he didn''t seem intimidating. Instead, it feltforting and safe.

    Li Xueyue could feel the heat of his warm body, tingling with desire. She saw the lust in his eyes, an emotion reserved only for her.

    "Well?" he stated whilst curling a finger under her chin. "Shall I carry you to the table?"

    Li Xueyue allowed him to lift her head. She met his burning gaze. He was hungry for more than just a kiss.

    "I was just teasing you¡ª" The words barely left her mouth before he joined her on the bed. Her back was flushed against the bed as he kissed her again.

    "You''ll be punished for that."

    Li Xueyue didn''t understand what he meant until his kiss turned passionate and rough, much like the hands parting her robes. He yanked it open, exposing her to the cold air. She shivered, her hands shyly covering her breast and the intimate features.

    "Don''t hide from me." Yu Zhen grasped both wrists and pinned it on either side of her.

    Li Xueyue''s cheeks grew heated when his gaze wandered all over her body. She was too self-conscious, her legs closing. But he kept it open with his knees.

    "What did I say?" he said and chuckled, the sound dark and cruel.

    Li Xueyue shivered at his tone. For odd reasons, it sent delight into her bloodstream. His stare was so hot that everywhere he looked burned.

    Yu Zhen took his sweet time admiring her, from the rosy buds to the clench of her lower stomach as she squirmed under his stare.

    Yu Zhen licked his bottom lip. "I will thoroughly enjoy this meal."

 Chapter 359 Something Else To Ea

    <h4>Chapter 359 Something Else To Ea</h4>

    Yu Zhen certainly did not lie. His tongue had brought her to the peak of ecstasy not once, but twice. Li Xueyue thought that was the end of it, but it wasn''t. He continued to ravish her. He did under false ims of making it up for the lost time in the bath.

    Regardless of his reasons, Li Xueyue was beyond exhausted. By now, she''d need another bath. Her body was covered in sweat, but he didn''t seem to mind.

    "Tired?" Yu Zhen mused from beside her. She was lying on the bed, her body turned to him. He sat beside her, running a hand through his hair.

    Yu Zhen let out a smooth chuckle when she red at him. Her chest was still red from their heated passion. He reached a hand down andzily caressed her cheek.

    "You shouldn''t have provoked me," he soothed.

    "You''re just a bully," Li Xueyue grumbled.

    Despite her words, Yu Zhen pulled the nket higher up to cover her body, fearing she would catch a cold.

    "The food is cold," she added on.

    "I can give you something else to eat."

    Li Xueyue nced up at him, smiling in amusement. Was he finally going to let her do it? She had felt guilty he was continuously pleasuring her, whilst she didn''t give any in return.

    During their lovemaking, she had asked him if she could also pleasure him, but he said it wasn''t necessary, iming entwining their bodies was enough.

    "Perhaps I should just eat you," Yu Zhen murmured, as his fingers touched the corner of her mouth. It was bruised from his kisses¡ªsome rough, some gentle.

    "Or you can let me eat in peace," Li Xueyue retorted, despite the burst of desire entering her system. His thumb rolled her bottom lip down, his eyes darkened.

    "No, I don''t think so."

    Yu Zhen bent down to capture her lips again. She dodged, and his lipsnded upon her cheek. He didn''t mind, as hevished more kisses upon her. She giggled in response, pushing at him.

    Li Xueyue''s effort was futile. He was simply too strong. She couldn''t believe her years of training were useless against him.

    "It tickles."

    "Really now?" Yu Zhen mused, pulling back to let her breathe.

    Yu Zhen''s heart raced when he saw her bright smile. There was a twinkle in her eyes. They resembled shimmering stars at midnight. He could do nothing but admire it.

    "I want another bath," Li Xueyue stated.

    Yu Zhen supposed she was right. They had a strenuous exercise. Well, not too strenuous for him, but certainly for her.

    "Does it hurt anywhere?" Yu Zhen asked whilst scooping her into his arms, nket, and all.

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. "Just a bit tender down there."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Why didn''t you say so?"

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to respond. She covered her face and looked away from him. How could she voice her concerns when it felt so good in the heat of the moment?

    "Well?" he pressured on whilst carrying her outside.

    When Yu Zhen passed a servant who had her head bowed. Hemanded for the food to be reheated and the bedsheets changed. The servant nodded at themand and scurried off without another word, all the whilst keeping her eyes to the ground.

    "Are we going to sleep in different bedrooms?" Li Xueyue suddenly asked, hoping to change the topic.

    His grip on her tightened. His jaw clenched and his eyes were set aze. He stared into the distance, not wanting to look at her.

    "Sure."

    Li Xueyue was confused by his sudden irritation. Did something happen? "It''s just, there are two estates. One for the Crown Prince, and the other for me."

    "Right."

    Li Xueyue was infuriated by his curt responses. Was it something she said?

    "We''re married," she added on.

    "Really?"

    "Yu Zhen!" Li Xueyue exasperated.

    She didn''t like this side of him. She hated the silence, the cold shoulders, and the simmering rage. She preferred his gentle gazes and his uninhibitedughter, though thetter was rare.

    "What?" he demanded.

    Li Xueyue gritted her teeth. "You can''t tell me to voice my concerns and not do the same!"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened when his head snapped down to her. They had stopped in front of the bathhouse, but he didn''t make any move to enter.

    Yu Zhen bit back a reply. It''d hurt her. He could already see it¡ªthe anguish in her eyes. She was upset by his reaction. Did she finally understand how he felt?

    "If you wish to sleep in different estates, that is fine with me."

    Li Xueyue''s shoulders dropped in disappointment. In the pce, it wasmon for wives and husbands to sleep apart. The reason was that it''d be easier for the husband to please his concubines. But he didn''t n to take any¡­ right?

    "But I don''t want that," she whispered.

    Li Xueyue liked sleeping with him in both senses of the word. The night spent in his arms was the best one she had in awhile.

    She was frightened by his apathetic behavior. Did he not want to sleep with her? What could be the cause of that? Was it because she moved too much? Or maybe, she snored?

    "In that case," he slowly said. "Every morning, I expect to hear your snores, and every night, to see your face."

    Li Xueyue gaped up at him. "I don''t snore."

    "Was that all you heard?" he mused.

    "Practically, yes."

    Yu Zhen let out augh. A strange weight on his shoulders was lifted. "You can''t take back your words, Sunshine."

    He shifted his gaze to her. "My estate is your estate now. Even after we have heirs. I want you to wake up in my room, and go to sleep in my room."

    Li Xueyue smiled. She reached up and hugged him. "That''s all I wanted."

    - - - - -

    After their dispute, Yu Zhen finally entered the bathhouse with her.

    "We''ll strictly bathe," she sternly said as he lowered them into the enormous pool of water.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow at her words. He submerged both of them whilst bringing both of their bodies to the same corner as they were at previously. When he pulled back to admire her beauty, she clung onto him.

    "What is there to be shy about?" he softly asked. "I''ve already seen everything."

    Despite his words, Yu Zhen loosely wrapped an arm around her. How could he not? She hugged him so tightly, her legs on either side of him.

    "Still," she mumbled, resting her face upon his broad shoulders. His hand weaved into her hair, his fingers massaging her scalp. She let out a sigh of pleasure, melting against his body.

    "But you''re so beautiful," Yu Zhen stated.

    "You should see yourself," Li Xueyue said. She chuckled when his body tensed at her words.

    "And what do you think of me?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. She pretended to think for a while. "I think you''re very pretty. In fact, you''re also cute."

    "I''m not cute," he scoffed.

    "You are."

    "Am not."

    Li Xueyue refused to engage in this silly argument with him. Instead, she hid her smile in the nook of his neck. He smelled delectable. Like herbs and spices.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue whispered when she felt something graze her back. It was wet and soft.

    "Just rx," he said, pressing a kiss upon the side of her head.

    Li Xueyue was skeptical of his words. Nheless, she obliged.

 Chapter 360 Feed Me

    <h4>Chapter 360 Feed Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue shifted back a bit, wanting to see what he was doing. Their eyes met and he continued the motion. It was then she realized he was cleaning her with a cloth. Slowly, he brought the cloth down her back. Her breath hitched.

    Li Xueyue was mesmerized by his stare. Like the gentle flicker of a burning candle, he was watching her every move. His other hand grasped her thigh. She pressed it together, hoping to conceal the warmth pooling below.

    "What''s wrong?" Yu Zhen whispered. Her pupils had dted. Her cheeks were beginning to stain pink. He could see the desire dripping her eyes.

    "Don''t tease me¡­" she trailed off.

    Yu Zhen moved the cloth to her lower stomach. His fingers grazed the soft flesh. She clenched it as her hips naturally jerked forward.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she mumbled, wanting more than just a simple touch.

    "Yes, Sunshine?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes shut tightly when he slid the warm cloth to her breasts. His knuckles grazed the buds of her breasts. Her chest was rising faster than normal. Her body hummed with want.

    "Please," she whispered.

    "You''re too tender," Yu Zhen responded. Yet, he bent his neck and kissed her shoulder des, enjoying the shiver of her body.

    "I don''t care."

    Li Xueyue didn''t want his kisses there. She wanted it elsewhere. Her eyes shot open when the cloth brushed her private part. Pleasure jolted through her body as he slipped a finger inside.

    Yu Zhen curled his finger and inserted another one. She instantly clenched onto him, her nails digging into his shoulder.

    Slowly, he pumped his fingers, watching as her eyes closed. Her lips were slightly parted and her hips began to move on its own. He captured her lips and swallowed her pleasured cries.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t even think straight. His kisses were addictive, and his touches were intoxicating. She rolled her hips against his fingers as he picked up his pace.

    She began to see stars again. Her toes curled and the next thing she knew, his name left her mouth.

    Li Xueyue let out a shaky breath. Was it always going to be this pleasurable?

    "Still tender?" he teased.

    Li Xueyue instantly shook her head. "No."

    Yu Zhen smiled in response. He lifted her trembling hips and she did the rest.

    Li Xueyue was hesitant. It would be the first time she rode him. She didn''t know what to do. Nheless, she slowly lowered herself onto the tip of his manhood. Her mind went nk with the arousal that was beginning again.

    "Does it hurt?" Yu Zhen asked her as she tested the waters.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. And without warning, he roughly pulled her hips down. Her back arched at the full length of him pulsating inside of her.

    "You can''t just¡ª" She didn''t finish her sentence when he thrust into her.

    A moan left her mouth, one after the other as he forced her to match his rhythm. His fingers dug into her waist, pulling her down with each of his upward thrusts. She was forced to take all of him. Her cries of pleasure only fueled him more.

    Yu Zhen passionately kissed her as her hands wed at his shoulders. He swallowed all of her pleas that begged for more and more. Soon, her eyes rolled back and her body tensed. He, too, had reached the peak of climax. And up they went, only toe down together.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue wondered if Heaven was unfair. Her energy was depleted as she sat at the dining table whereas Yu Zhen''s skin was glowing. He seemed full despite not taking a bite.

    "Drink this," Yu Zhen said whilst blowing upon the steaming bowl of soup. He lifted the spoon and waited for it to cool down some more. He fed it to her and she drank it withoutints.

    "How can you look so energetic?" Li Xueyue asked as he lifted another spoonful to her.

    "You didn''t even have your meal yet," she added on.

    His eyes shed with amusement. He smirked. "Trust me, Sunshine, I''ve had my meal."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes.

    "And it was delicious."

    She didn''t even want to humor him.

    Li Xueyue diligently ate her meal whilst encouraging him to take a bite. He was simply watching her with an easygoing smile. Her heart flipped every time she snuck a peek at him. Why was he just watching her?

    "Aren''t you going to eat?" she asked.

    Yu Zhen reached a hand out. Li Xueyue thought he would caress her cheek, but he actually picked a piece of rice from the corner of her lips.

    "Don''t eat it!" she groaned when he ced it into his mouth.

    "Like I said, I''ve already eaten."

    Li Xueyue suppressed another groan. She settled down her finished bowl of rice and picked up a clean bowl.

    "I can do it for you," Yu Zhen said when she picked up thedle. She scooped the soup into the bowl.

    "The food is getting cold, and you''re not eating," she said.

    Li Xueyue brought the spoon to him. "So what else does it look like I''m doing?"

    Yu Zhen wanted to kiss her right then and there. Only she would be bold enough to feed the future Emperor of Hanjian. She stared at him expectantly, gesturing to her raised hand. It was an adorable sight.

    Yu Zhen chuckled when she impatiently red at him. He grabbed her wrist and drank the soup.

    Li Xueyue peered at him expectantly like a puppy waiting for her treat. He held back augh.

    "It''s good," he curtly said.

    "Then drink more," Li Xueyue urged.

    "Only if you feed me."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. If that was the only way he''d eat, then she''d diligently do so.

    - - - - -

    "You''re not busy today?" Li Xueyue asked when he joined her in bed. It waste in the afternoon, and she was worried about distracting him.

    "I won''t be busy for the next three weeks," he gloated.

    Li Xueyue was puzzled by his words. She was lying upon his chest whilst staring out the window. One of his hands waszily ying with her hair.

    "What do you mean?" she questioned.

    "You don''t have to worry about it," Yu Zhen reassured her. He didn''t want her to be concerned with the logistics. She would surely overthink it.

    Yu Zhen enjoyed how long her hair was. It was simr to other girls and reached down to her lower back. But something about the way she wore it pleased him more. He enjoyed gathering strands of her hair and watching it fall down.

    "What about the days after the three weeks? Will I still see you as often?" she asked, her voice growing fainter with each word.

    Yu Zhen had a way with his hands. This time, it was lulling her to sleep. There was something about him that made it easier for her to close her eyes.

    "Of course," Yu Zhen whispered.

    "You promise?"

    "We don''t make promises," he reminded her.

    Li Xueyue smiled against his chest.

    Afortable silence settled in between them. As the curtains fluttered, a gentle breeze danced throughout the room. Their breathing became steady, and soon, they fell into a slumber.

 Chapter 361 Trying My Bes

    <h4>Chapter 361 Trying My Bes</h4>

    A turbulent gust of wind whizzed through the air. Trees roughly swayed as leaves tumbled and took flight. des of grass sliced through the quiet night.

    During the peace of midnight, a bloodcurdling scream rippled through the pce. A chill drifted through the empty corridor. Pleas and cries arose. nkets shuffled, clothes crinkled, as bodies lifted from the bed.

    "No! Please, make it stop!" she shrieked, pushing against the hands grabbing at her. She pped it away, but missed, as her palm connected with a face.

    "Get off of me, I don''t want it! Please don''t," she wailed, her voice crazier than a ghost wandering the night.

    "I hate it, don''t... Not there, don''t touch me!" she coughed out, struggling in a tight grasp.

    Yu Zhen didn''t know what to do. His heart lurched at the maniac sight of her. What went wrong? They were peacefully sleeping a minute ago, and now, she was losing her mind. She viciously fought in his arms, his left cheek burning from her p.

    "Shhhh," he whispered, hugging her tighter. She punched and kicked, attempting to get him off of her.

    "It''s me, Xueyue, it''s Yu Zhen!" He embraced her, despite her writhing body.

    Yu Zhen always knew she was physically strong. Even with her tiny frame and frail shoulders, she had the muscles to punch a man to the ground. He didn''t think her tiny paws could ever injure him¡ªuntil tonight.

    "Don''t touch me! Get off me!" she screamed, kicking him right in the stomach, not realizing who was holding her.

    "I''ll be good, I promise. So please, not there, not here. Not anywhere. My lord, I am only a child!" she pleaded, shaking him off of her.

    Yu Zhen gritted his teeth. He refused to let her scratch him with tiger paws. In one hand, he captured both of her wrists as one leg pinned her knees down. With his other hand, he forcibly grabbed her chin. She was forced to look at him, her eyes clouded and wide.

    "Who am I?" he demanded, his voiceing out in a low rumble. It was intimidating and dark, a tone meant to scare people. Yet, it forced her to listen, her ears on high alert.

    "I-I-I don''t know¡ª"

    "You know."

    "No, my lord, please¡ª"

    "Answer me."

    Yu Zhen glowered down at her, refusing to let her look away. Tears filled her eyes and she began to shake. It didn''t take long for waterworks to happen as realization finally clicked in her. She shook her head, turning back into her crazed state.

    "Li Xueyue!" he hissed, finally realizing it must''ve been a traumatic nightmare of her past.

    "L-Li?" she whispered, suddenly pausing.

    "Yes, Li. Not Bai. I''ve brutally ughtered them. Their bodies were fed to pigs."

    She slowly blinked her eyes, confusion filling it.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened. He slowly released her hand and wiped the tears away. She seemed so lost and bewildered, he could do nothing but stroke the side of her face. She was in a daze, watching him.

    "I am not your lord," he gently said. "I am your husband."

    Yu Zhen brushed the stray strands of hair away from her forehead. His voice was low and soothing, like a luby she had always craved to hear.

    "Husband," she repeated. The title effortlessly rolled off her tongue, as rity slowly entered her system.

    "The love of your life," he added on, waiting for her to say it.

    "Love¡­" she mumbled, her eyebrows pulling together.

    "Of your life," he added on.

    Yu Zhen watched with eagerness, wanting to hear it from her mouth. But she didn''t say it. Instead, her hand slowly lifted. He thought she would smack him out of confusion. But she didn''t. Her fingers slowly, almost hesitatingly touched his jaw.

    Yu Zhen stayed still as she explored his face in the darkness. Her hand caressed under his chin. What was she looking for? A double chin?

    "What are you doing, Sunshine?" he patiently asked.

    "It''s cold," she abruptly said.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He had forgotten she didn''t put on any clothes. He picked up the nket and covered her body with it. Warmth weighed down her shoulders.

    "Better?"

    She nodded her head.

    Yu Zhen smiled in response. He pulled the nket tighter around her, worried she''d get sick.

    "Will you tell me?" he questioned.

    "Tell what?"

    Yu Zhen saw the same fog pass over her head. She was going to slip into that crazed state again.

    "My name," he said, changing the topic. "Who do you think I am?"

    "Yu Zhen," she stated. Her voice was low and inquisitive, almost bewildered he''d ask such a thing.

    "And what am I to you?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. She tilted her head, wondering the reason for this foolishness. Was he worried she''d forget him?

    "My husband."

    "And?"

    "And what?" she murmured.

    "What else am I to you?"

    Li Xueyue couldn''t see his face in the darkness. But she could picture his teasing smile, and the squint of his eyes when he was humored.

    "The leech of my life?" she said, but it came out like a question.

    Yu Zhen chuckled in response, finding it amusing that she dared mock him. Abruptly, he jumped on top of her. She yelped in response, attempting to escape, but couldn''t.

    "Why are you as heavy as a whale?" she groaned, feeling his entire weight on her. She could feel the ridges of his hard body, and the tightening of his abdomen when he bnced his weight.

    "And why are you as light as a feather?" he retorted.

    "I''ve gained weight!" she argued.

    Yu Zhen had always fed her well, ensuring she ate more than she could during every meal they shared. Everyday, there was a wide variety of dishes. Some suited her taste, some didn''t. The ones that didn''t suit her taste always suited his taste and vice versa.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he had abhorred the food in Wuyi. Hanjian''s food was spicier and more vorful in contrast to the light and mild-tasting dishes in Wuyi.

    "Doesn''t seem like it," he said.

    Li Xueyue sulked at his words. "I''m trying my best, you know."

    She flinched when he patted her on the head. She angrily swatted at his arms. "I''m not a pet."

    "I didn''t say you were." Yu Zhen nted his head on top of hers, his fingers spread. He wasn''t patting her, but he just felt like cing it there.

    "Besides," he continued. "I like aggressive animals."

    "I''m aggressive," she argued.

    "Aggressively cute," he scoffed.

    "Still aggressive though."

    "Sure."

    "I''m serious."

    "I know you are," he said.

    "You don''t sound like you believe me," she argued.

    "Sounds like a personal problem, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue red at him. She grabbed his head and angrily yanked his hair. He snorted at the small attack.

    "Go ahead, pull it."

    "Get off of me, you''re so heavy," she grumbled.

    Yu Zhen responded by hugging her. Their bodies sunk into the bed, but he remained that way. He breathed in her scent, floral and light. It tingled his senses and tickled his heart.

    "Will you tell me?" he questioned.

    Li Xueyue''s smile slipped. She yed with his hair, her fingers running through the silky strands. His voice was patient and filled with understanding, almost expecting her to say no.

    "Only if you''re ready," heforted, knowing it must''ve been a serious issue for her.

    Li Xueyue weighed her options. Was she ready for it? Would opening up about this issue soothe her soul? Or would it make things worse?

 Chapter 362 A Humble Life

    <h4>Chapter 362 A Humble Life</h4>

    "You don''t have to if you don''t want to, Sunshine," Yu Zhen murmured. It was a sensitive topic. He didn''t want to pressure her or force her to exin. It would make the situation ufortable for her.

    She silently yed with his hair. It was a soothing action. His shoulders rxed with her touch. There was something about the way she touched him that soothed his soul. He continued hugging her, knowing it would bring herfort.

    "Just remember," he said. "They will never hurt you again. Not if I can help it."

    She let out a smallugh, her heart swelling with his words. She believed him. He vowed to y her monsters. When had he vited this vow? But she was afraid.

    What if Yu Zhen was caught? What if all of his hard work came tumbling down all because of her?

    "I''m worried," she said. "What if you''re dragged down because of me?"

    "Then we''ll live a humble life, far, far away from the pce."

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. She could picture it: a small hut in the forest. Their life would be simple, but well-lived. There would be moments they''d struggle, but at least, they''d be happy.

    "It happened when I was a child," she suddenly said.

    Li Xueyue felt her anxiety rise. She continued running her fingers through his hair, hoping it''d distract her trembling heart. It worked, only by a bit.

    "A-and I was hungry," she mumbled. "He was always at my parents'' house. I didn''t know why. It might''ve been because he was a big investor in the business, or a close family friend."

    Li Xueyue tugged the ends of his hair as her breathing became shaky, much like her trembling fingers.

    "He touched me."

    Li Xueyue felt him stiffen under her fingertips. His muscles went rigid, hardening with each passing second, but he urged her to continue.

    "Who?"

    "I-I don''t know his full name¡ª"

    "That''s fine," he instantly said.

    "The Viscount would call him Earl Qin."

    Yu Zhen had never heard of an Earl Qin. But then again, aristocrats never interested him. They had their own faction in court, but the ruling members of the court were higher ranked people, such as Dukes and Duchesses.

    "Was he from Wuyi?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue hesitated. It was so long ago. She couldn''t even remember his voice and face. But she would forever remember the crimes that manmitted against her. Everything was ingrained into her heart. It would be a memory she''d carry for the rest of her life.

    Li Xueyue was surprised that she had even allowed Yu Zhen to touch her naked body. There was no other exnation for it, except the fact that he made her feel safe andfortable.

    "I don''t know¡­" she sullenly said.

    "That''s alright," Yu Zhen muttered. His voice felt like a warm nket during a bitter winter.

    He was her sanctuary¡ªone that she wanted to keep for herself.

    "Are your nightmares always about him?" he calmly asked.

    Li Xueyue was always amazed by his manner of speech. He always knew how topose himself despite the fury that burned within him. Even now, his body was tense. His arms were flexed, ready for a fight.

    "Yes¡­ the Viscount a-allowed the Earl to touch me whenever he came over. And he was always in the house."

    Li Xueyue''s lips trembled. "I was hungry. I wanted to hide in my room, but the Viscount lured me out with food."

    "It''s not your fault," he instantly said, knowing she was the type to me herself.

    "Yes but¡ª"

    "You were a hungry child. They lured you with food," he deadpanned. "You didn''t ask to be hungry."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. It would take more than one conversation to convince her that she was meless in this. She had faith he would work with her despite the difficulties of it.

    "I will find him," he abruptly said. "And once I do, you can do as you please."

    Li Xueyue weakly smiled. She wasn''t sure what she''d do. But would it give her closure knowing he would never do the same thing to another child? From the bottom of her heart, she''d hope so.

    - - - - -

    Simr to yesterday, Li Xueyue woke up next to his body. That night, they had talked about anything and everything, as a way of distracting herself. Eventually they talked and talked until sleep finally took over.

    This morning, she woke up to his sleeping form. Somehow, their position had changed and she was lying upon his chest again.

    Li Xueyue rested her face upon her hands and just watched him. He was angry even in his sleep. His brows were scrunched today, his nostrils red.

    Yu Zhen looked like he was ready for a fight. She suppressed augh and reached a hand out towards him. She traced her fingers over his features, mesmerized by the beauty of him. No matter how many times she looked at him, it felt like love at first sight all over again.

    "Why are you so handsome?" she mumbled.

    Li Xueyue ran her fingers over his eyebrows before trailing to his angr nose. She leaned over and kissed the spot, wondering how it felt. A warm, fuzzy feeling began to pool in her stomach. But when she pulled back, it was reced with horror.

    Yu Zhen was awake now. Or perhaps, he was up this entire time and pretended to be asleep. Nheless, he was aware of the kiss. His lips curled in satisfaction.

    Before she could run off, his arms came around her stomach. He yanked her down, until her breasts were flushed against his chest.

    "Good morning, my wife," he whispered. He pushed hair away from her eyes, enjoying the glimmer of it.

    Li Xueyue smiled at the title. "Did you sleep well¡­ my husband?"

    Her heart jumped when his eyes shed. She could practically feel him brimming with joy.

    "Very well," he reassured, bringing her closer to him. He pressed an endearing kiss upon her forehead.

    Li Xueyue wished they could stay in this moment for the rest of their lives. Waking up beside him felt so surreal¡­

    "I hope yesterday night didn''t trouble you," Li Xueyue said. She gingerly touched the side of his face, vividly remembered smacking him.

    He leaned into her touch, his dark eyes peering deeply into hers. Her heart raced from the contact. He turned his head and kissed her palms.

    "It never did, and never will."

    "Why are you so good with your words?" she grumbled.

    Li Xueyue lowered herself onto him, as her ears rested upon his chest. She was worried he would be burdened by the baggage of her nightmares.

    "Like you''re one to talk," he scoffed. "You have my parents smitten with your wits."

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. Were they smitten? She didn''t think so. But then again, the Emperor and Empress of Hanjian had never treated her wrongly.

    "When is the Round Table Discussion?" she curiously asked.

    "In a few days from now," he stated.

    Li Xueyue nodded in response. She wanted to prepare for it by writing a list of the things that must be addressed.

    "What is your pretty little head thinking about?"

    Li Xueyueughed. Her head wasn''t little. She thought it was toorge for her body. "I was thinking of what to write in my list of changes."

    "Changes?"

    "Yes, for the betterment of this country."

    A ghost of a smile rested upon his lips. "What are your ns? I''d love to hear it. We can discuss it."

    Li Xueyue pondered the idea before shaking her head. "Let me gather all of my thoughts onto parchment first and then I can read it out to you."

    Yu Zhen nodded. "In that case¡­"

    He flipped their position until she was underneath him. The corner of his lips lifted into a mischievous smile.

    "Let''s have some fun," he whispered in a low, husky voice.

 Chapter 363 She Could Bark

    <h4>Chapter 363 She Could Bark</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t think he would have so much energy in the morning. Red marks were found on her body, and she could do nothing but lie in the bed for a few more minutes and wait for those red marks to fade a little. It didn''t help that she loved to provoke him in bed.

    One round turned into three, and by now, she was certain it would turn into a routine.

    He was the first to leave the bedroom. There was a healthy glow to him whereas she felt like her energy was greatly depleted.

    When the maidservants came in, Li Xueyue wasn''t surprised to see Xu Jiaqi with them. Yu Zhen gave her a heads-up earlier when he was getting dressed by Eunuchs.

    Li Xueyue suppressed an amused smile when Xu Jiaqi''s eyes red. What a sight this must''ve been for thetter. Contrary to what all of thedies-in-waiting believed, the Crown Prince took a great liking to her, especially in bed.

    "Good morning, Crown Princess," the maidservants greeted with their heads bowed, Xu Jiaqi included.

    Li Xueyue found it interesting that Xu Jiaqi stood in the front as if she was the leader of the pack.

    "You may rise," Li Xueyue mused. She was highly entertained by the scorned look on Xu Jiaqi''s face. The woman couldn''t decide if she was horrified or surprised.

    When they made eye-contact, Li Xueyue wiped her mouth with her thumb where her lips were still bruised red from Yu Zhen''s kisses. The intent behind her action was obvious to only Xu Jiaqi.

    As the maidservants dressed Li Xueyue, they couldn''t help but blush red. There were love bites all over the Crown Princess''s body. Without a doubt, the Crown Prince had thoroughly enjoyed his time with her.

    And Xu Jiaqi knew it, her eyes darkening at the sight.

    "Ow," Li Xueyue hissed when Xu Jiaqi brushed through her hair with excessive force. Nheless, she gritted her teeth and bore with it. She''d deal with this bratter.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even flinch when Xu Jiaqi "identally" pricked her with the hairpin. She smiled through it all, knowing this would eventually build up into a mountain of issues that could be used against that insolent girl.

    "My apologies, Crown Princess. I am quite new to serving," Xu Jiaqi sullenly stated, her face softening with worry.

    She had indirectly reminded the maidservants that she was of noble blood. She was once a Master, not a servant¡ªtherefore she was more powerful than them.

    "You were that low in the servant''s hierarchy that you weren''t even allowed to serve royalty before?" Li Xueyue innocently asked with a bat of her eyes.

    She heard the maidservants snicker in response. They hid their smiles with bowed heads, but nothing would close their gossiping mouths. Once they were pardoned, they would mock Xu Jiaqi for days on end.

    "N-no, it''s just¡ª"

    "Oh nevermind," Li Xueyue said with a roll of her eyes. She examined her nails, pretending to be disinterested in Xu Jiaqi.

    Xu Jiaqi gritted her teeth and red to the ground.

    Whilebing the Crown Princess''s hair, she irritably tugged at a knot when she should''ve carefully brushed it out, for every strand of the Crown Princess''s hair was precious¡ªas stated by the Crown Prince. But none of it mattered to her.

    She watched in satisfaction as a few strands of hair fell to the ground. ''The Crown Princess was all talk. She could bark all she wants,'' she thought.

    Xu Jiaqi continued to provoke the Crown Princess again and again while serving her. She served the Princess boiling tea that burned her tongue, gave icy cold water for the Princess to wash her face with, and dressed the Princess in colors that do not match.

    Despite it all, Li Xueyue kept it all in and maintained a neutral expression.

    "I''m so sorry," Xu Jiaqi would say again and again.

    Li Xueyue contained her anger, but was mindful to voice herints to the other maidservants. It would serve as evidence against Xu Jiaqiter on. Testimonies were better than nothing.

    With great difficulty, Li Xueyue was finally prepared for the day.

    The other maidservants tried their best to dress her to perfection but it was hard to work with Xu Jiaqi whose color choices were horrible. For goodness'' sake, that woman tried to dress the Crown Princess in horrid grey and brown¡ªcolors of peasant clothing since dyed textile cost a fortune.

    "You''re excused," Li Xueyue finally said to Xu Jiaqi.

    Li Xueyue examined herself in the mirror and hid her smile. Perhaps next time, she should let Xu Jiaqi get her way. Wearing the colors of peasants and walking directly into Yu Zhen''s private study¡­ what a sight it would be.

    "But all of you," she pointed to the other maidservants. "Stay."

    Xu Jiaqi worriedly nced at the ground. "But Crown Princess, I am instructed to stay by your side at all times. The Empress herself gave thismand."

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up. She knew exactly what Xu Jiaqi was doing. She was using the Empress''s name as a shield. How stupid of her. Xu Jiaqi just revealed she was a spy.

    "Very well then," Li Xueyue mused. "Get to the back of the line."

    Xu Jiaqi''s head snapped up, disagreement was on the tip of her tongue. "Crown Princess, I am still ady-in-waiting for the Empress. Inparison to these lowly maidservants, I deserve to be in the front of the line!"

    Li Xueyue wondered who trained Xu Jiaqi. She had hoped her opponents would be better than this. They were such easy prey that she found it humorous.

    "Are you disobeying themands of your Master?" Li Xueyue demanded in an unforgiving voice. She lifted a brow, daring Xu Jiaqi to argue back.

    "No, Crown Princess, I am just¡ª"

    "And now you talk back." Li Xueyue let out a wistful sigh. "You just love to drag the Empress''s name through the mud, don''t you?"

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes widened. Her face flushed red when the maidservants behind Li Xueyue whispered amongst themselves.

    Xu Jiaqi knew what Li Xueyue was implying. Since the Empress had sent her, Xu Jiaqi must''ve been trained by the Empress''sdies-in-waiting. Not only had Xu Jiaqi misused the Empress''s name, but she also soiled it.

    What shall she say now?

    "I-I deeply apologize, Crown Princess!" Xu Jiaqi stated. She dropped to her knees and bowed, hoping it would fix this issue.

    Li Xueyue nced back at the mirror. She examined the cakey powder on her face that made her paler than a ghost. She touched her lips which was a horrid shade of plum red.

    "Continue kneeling there," Li Xueyue said. "And learn from your mistakes."

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes widened in response. She was not used to kneeling for this long.

    Even when her status was reduced to less of a servant, prior to the promotion of Yu Zhen as Crown Prince, Xu Jiaqi was still treated better than others.

    It was because of her noble blood. And if only these people knew, her background might''ve seemed prestigious, but it wasn''t.

    Xu Jiaqi was the eldest daughter of the Xu Family but she was greatly neglected.

    Her world was bleak and she wanted nothing in life, but then a miracle happened.

    The Crown Prince saved her life¡ªon more than one asion too. He had given her a motivation to live.

    Even if the Crown Prince didn''t acknowledge her, even if he ignored her, even if he was aggravated by her presence, she still wanted him. It was a foolish obsession, she knew that much.

    But he was aware of her presence. Xu Jiaqi knew that much. Why else would he save her from a life of servitude? Why else would he keep her in mind when choosing ady-in-waiting for Li Xueyue? Why else had he not punished her for trespassing into his private study?

    "Very well, Crown Princess. If this action allows me to atone my sins, then I shall bear the punishment with dignity," Xu Jiaqi eloquently said whilst cing a dutiful hand upon her chest.

    Xu Jiaqi would bear all kinds of difficulties if it meant being closer to the Crown Prince. After all, the Crown Princess was always in his private study.

    If Xu Jiaqi served the bratty Princess, then she might catch glimpses of the Prince who smiled for no one else but his wife.

 Chapter 364 Already Occupied

    <h4>Chapter 364 Already upied</h4>

    Li Xueyue left the room without another nce back. But she stood outside for a brief second and turned to a maidservant.

    "Watch over her," she instructed, purposely keeping it vague.

    The maidservant bowed her head in response, understanding the meaning of the Crown Princess''s instruction.

    Li Xueyue nodded in acknowledgment. Without a word, she walked off. She was heading in the direction of Yu Zhen''s private study but then paused. A n suddenly came to mind¡­

    She retracted her steps and began heading towards a pavilion.

    Li Xueyue was certain that the woman would be there. She didn''t forget their encounter in Yu Zhen''s hallways.

    "Bring parchment and ink to the Thousand Lotus Pavilion," she told a maidservant. The servant nodded her head and quickly rushed off to fulfill the request.

    Li Xueyue continued her way to the pavilion. Sure enough, it was empty. Upon seeing the blooming lotuses, she understood why this ce was named as such. It certainly was a mesmerizing sight to behold. There was a sweet fragrance in the air that wasn''t overpowering.

    "It''s beautiful," she murmured, reaching towards the pond.

    Li Xueyue gently touched the petal of a lotus, her lips curling into a smile. She saw a small koi fish in the pond, swimming with ease.

    "But the sun is too bright, don''t you think so?" she said to her maidservants who nodded in agreement.

    "Indeed, Crown Princess. Your fair skin might be harmed."

    Li Xueyue hummed. With this much powder on her face, she wondered if the sunlight would even graze her actual skin. Regardless, she stepped onto the bridge that led to the green and red pavilion.

    "What a nice breeze," shemented upon sitting down.

    Li Xueyue sat with poise. She lightly rested her chin upon a propped up arm and observed the view.

    Lotuses could be seen as far as the eyes could see. For some reason, this many flowers brought a sense of dread. There were more white lotuses than pink.

    "Crown Princess," a voice addressed from the side.

    Li Xueyue turned her head to see the maidservant from earlier. In her hand was a crafted wooden tray filled with parchment, brushes, and ink.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened in satisfaction. The maidservant bowed her head and stepped forward to set up the table. She neatly arranged a smooth mat underneath the parchment. Then, another servant began to grind the ink.

    "You''ve also brought tea, how thoughtful," Li Xueyue warmly said.

    The maidservant was caught off guard by thepliment. She had served in the pce for all of her life but had never heard such praises from a higher-up. She shyly smiled to the ground.

    "And it smells delightful," Li Xueyuemented.

    "T-thank you, Crown Princess," the maidservant whispered. She was evidently touched by the Crown Princess''s generosity.

    All of the maidservants nced at each other. They too, wanted to hear such praises. It was rare.

    Li Xueyue watched as everyone quickly worked harder to please her. From diligently grinding the ink till it was perfectly smooth to twisting the ends of the brush for neater writing, they worked hard.

    Everything was going ording to n. She would slowly win over these maidservants until they were fully on her side, serving as her eyes and ears around the pce.

    "This should be fine," Li Xueyue said.

    The maidservants quickly stepped back and allowed her to write in peace. They stood to the side and patiently waited for the nextmand.

    Li Xueyue held the brush with one hand, then pulled back the sleeve with the other. She breathed through her nose and cleared her thoughts. It was time to get to work.

    She began to write down all of the things that needed to be brought up during the Round Table discussions. From her observations in the town to some general ideas, all of it was written.

    Li Xueyue was halfway into writing down her ideas when the pitter-patter of footsteps could be heard. She hid her satisfied smile. They hade just in time.

    "Oh my, it seems this ce is already upied."

    Li Xueyue lifted her head at the familiar voice of the Empress. She pretended to be shocked, her eyes widening the slightest bit. She lowered herself into a graceful curtsy.

    "Good afternoon, Your Grace," she said.

    The Empress nodded. "You may rise, Princess Li."

    Li Xueyue lifted her head, her eyes wandering to thedies-in-waiting that trailed behind the Empress.

    "Greetings to the Crown Princess," thedies-in-waiting reluctantly said with a small curtsy.

    Li Xueyue ignored them. Instead, she shifted her body a bit so that her face would be brightened up by the sunlight, revealing her cakey makeup. Murmurs arose in the background like bustling bees.

    "Oh dear¡­" the Empress trailed off, her lips curled into a frown. What a horrid sight!

    Li Xueyue feigned ignorance. Her brows came together. "Is there a problem, Your Grace?"

    "Yes, your face."

    Li Xueyue didn''t think the Empress would be so blunt. But it was something new she learned about her.

    "Is there a problem with my makeup?" Li Xueyue asked, her voice filled with confusion. She touched her cheek just as thedies-in-waiting began to speak up.

    "Crown Princess, it seems you''ve been using expired powder. Goodness¡­ to think your maidservants would be so horrible to use it on you."

    "Yes, it is quite a pity. Right now, your wrinkle lines are deeper than the lotus pond."

    "Well¡­ you know what they say about Wuyi women. They''re too self-conscious, so they always cover all of their ws with manyyers of powder."

    Li Xueyue let out a wistful sigh. "It seems mydy-in-waiting has failed me."

    The Empress quirked a brow. "Oh?"

    "Yes, Xu Jiaqi has been recently assigned to me," Li Xueyue muttered. Another sigh escaped her.

    "Lady Xu insisted on being in-charge of dressing me, and since she mentioned Your Grace, I trusted her judgment," Li Xueyue exined in a light, airy voice. Concern filled her eyes as she nced at the Empress.

    The Empress was offended. Not because of Li Xueyue, but of Xu Jiaqi. She had told Lady Xu to be careful with her words. On top of that, Xu Jiaqi had misused the Empress''s name without permission.

    "Is that so?" the Empress sharply said. Disappointment was written all over her face, overpowering the dissatisfaction in her eyes.

    Thedies-in-waiting quickly exchanged horrified nces. They had unknowingly fallen into the Crown Princess''s trap. Their mouths were suddenly sealed shut. In an instant, their eyes were averted to the ground.

    Suddenly, the polished stone tiles were far more interesting than ever.

    "Oh no," Li Xueyue whispered, covering her mouth. "I didn''t mean toin, Your Grace."

    The Empress slowly shook her head. "That''s alright, Princess Li. You were merely sharing your opinion."

    Li Xueyue offered a timid smile. She wrung her fingers together and stepped to the side, seemingly hiding something.

    "What brings you here, Princess Li?" the Empress asked with suspicion in her voice.

    "Well¡­ it''s just," Li Xueyue trailed off.

    The Empress was even more curious. It was rare for the headstrong woman to be so timid. She had never seen this side of the Crown Princess. But her acting needed a few adjustments. It might''ve fooled thedies-in-waiting, but the Empress was unfazed.

    "I wanted a quiet, peaceful ce to write my ideas, Your Grace. I didn''t mean to intrude here."

    "I''m sure you didn''t," the Empress chuckled. She nced to the side. "What are the ideas for?"

    "The Round Table discussion, Your Grace," Li Xueyue said. Suddenly, sharp gasps could be heard. Thedies-in-waiting quickly whispered amongst themselves.

    Li Xueyue was puzzled. What''s wrong?

 Chapter 365 Plans to Harm

    <h4>Chapter 365 ns to Harm</h4>

    The Empress couldn''t help but stare at Xueyue in disbelief. She was usually skilled at hiding her emotions, but this time she was caught off-guard.

    The Crown Prince was truly going to let a foreigner voice her opinions? And at the Round Table of all ces? For all they know, Li Xueyue''s ideas could be shaped by the morals she grew up with in Wuyi. It wouldn''t be wise to let a foreigner intervene in the discussions.

    "Are you certain of this?" the Empress questioned. "That the Crown Prince has given you such permission?"

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked. She slowly nodded her head. "If you''re concerned that my opinions will have a bias from Wuyi, you can rest assured, Your Grace. My intentionsy with the greater good of the people of Hanjian."

    The Empress patiently smiled in an attempt to hide her hesitation. "The men of the Round Table are brutal. Are you sure you''re able to handle such scrutiny?"

    Li Xueyue blinked again. Wasn''t the Empress also going to contribute to the Round Table discussions? She had high hopes that someone like her wouldn''t have any qualms handling the talks.

    "I''m grateful for your concern, but there is no need for it," Li Xueyue stated.

    "And how can we be so sure that you won''t make ns to harm our country?" ady-in-waiting spoke up as chimes of agreement resounded.

    "Precisely. I wouldn''t be surprised if you gave ideas that seemed like advice, but in reality, is a ploy to hurt Hanjian."

    "There must be a reason why Wuyi doesn''t let their women have the freedom to talk as they please."

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched but she nced to the side, ignoring the snide remarks. She noticed there were actually lily pads on the pond. She admired the small ripples in the water when a fish came close to the surface.

    It was such a lovely day outside. Too bad it was ruined by squabbling birds.

    Upon seeing herck of response, thedies-in-waiting hesitated before hounding in.

    "Princess Li, it''s rude to ignore those who speak to you¡­"

    "Precisely," one of them said and turned to the Empress. "Your Grace, I fear her silencees from a guilty conscience. Princess Li truly has these ns of harming Hanjian."

    The Empress eyed the quiet Princess. She could understand her son''s favor towards this girl. The Crown Princess seemed weak but she was resilient. Even in the face of a storm, she maintained her peace.

    "I have faith that it wouldn''t be so easy to sway the members of the Round Table," the Empress finally said.

    The Empress was tired of hearing herdies-in-waiting speak. For some reason, she missed the quiet, demure voice of the Crown Princess.

    But she understood the concerns of thedies-in-waiting. It would be dangerous if an outsider infiltrated Hanjian, especially from the inside.

    "I agree, Your Grace," a tiny voice finally said.

    Li Xueyue was surprised to hear this. From the corner of her eyes, she saw someone new. This woman wasn''t present during her previous encounter with the Empress and herdies-in-waiting. Her breath hitched. She felt the wind knocked out of her body.

    Never had Li Xueyue ever seen anyone so mesmerizing. This woman had the voice of a siren luring men to their deaths. It was mature, yet youthful.

    Her silky hair was loosely braided to the side, revealing how healthy and shiny it was. Flower hairpins were strategically ced, enhancing her ethereal face.

    "The people that made up the Round Table are wise and skilled. We mustn''t forget Your Grace is also part of the discussion. Nothing can ever get past Your Grace," she thoughtfully said.

    Li Xueyue didn''t even know what to say or how to react. She had nned out her next words, but suddenly, her mind went nk. It was difficult to concentrate when the other person was so enthralling.

    Li Xueyue wouldn''t be surprised if this woman held the title of ''The Beauty of Hanjian''.

    "Indeed, Lady Ge," the Empress stated with the fondest of smiles. "When did you arrive?"

    Lady Ge bowed her head. "Just now, Your Grace. I recalled you enjoyed tea here, and well," she said and smiled.

    The Empress sped her hands together. "You always brew the best teas."

    Lady Ge blushed at the Empress''s words. "Please, you humbled me, Your Grace."

    The Empress let out a smallugh at Lady Ge''s reply. Her attentionnded upon the tray in thetter''s hands.

    "Let thedies-in-waiting handle this," she said as one of them stepped forward to take the burden off of Lady Ge''s hands.

    All the while, Li Xueyue watched as Lady Ge pulled away.

    "That''s alright, Your Grace, I made the choice to bring this all the way here. I should carry the burden," Lady Ge mindfully said. She presented thedies-in-waiting with a grateful smile.

    "Kind as always," the Empress chuckled. She turned her head and suddenly recalled the Crown Princess standing there with them.

    "Oh dear, it must be my old age, but I had forgotten to introduce both of you," the Empress stated.

    She gestured to Lady Ge. "Princess Li, this is Lady Ge Beining. She is the daughter of my closest friend."

    Li Xueyue tried to ovee her shock. Lady Ge Beining bowed her head and picked up one side of her dress before lowering herself.

    "It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance, Princess Li. I have heard so much about you," Lady Ge Beining said.

    Li Xueyue smiled as she nodded. The only people she had to bow to were the Emperor and Empress.

    "And since you''re already here, Princess Li," the Empress said. "You should enjoy a cup of Lady Ge''s tea. Her technique is unlike any other."

    Li Xueyue wanted to deny the offer but it would be the second time she told the Empress "no." If she denied again, the Empress would suspect something. Thus, she forced herself to nod.

    ?Then, I must give it a try," Li Xueyue responded.

    "I deeply apologize, Princess Li," Lady Ge Beining said with a sullen voice. "I only brought enough teacups for the Empress anddies-in-waiting."

    Li Xueyue was embarrassed. She should''ve let Lady Ge Beining offer first instead of seeming so eager. Whether this was intentional or not, she maintained her smile.

    "That is alright," she said. "I have to finish writing down my suggestions."

    "Oh, but." Lady Ge Beining suddenly perked up. "Princess Li, you can have my cup of tea, since this will be your first time trying it out."

    Li Xueyue felt like Lady Ge Beining was talking in circles. But maybe it was just her paranoia talking. She brushed it off and shook her head. She preferred not to be here.

    "Do not worry, Lady Ge, there is always next time," she stated.

    Li Xueyue found it difficult to maintain her smile, especially when the Empress was staring her down. It was as if the Empress wanted to know what went on inside of her head. She didn''t understand the reason for this.

    "I deeply apologize, Princess Li," Lady Ge Beining stated with a worried expression. "It is my fault for noting prepared. Please, let me make amends."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "Do not fret over this."

    "Oh but¡­"

    "It is fine, Lady Ge," the Empress reassured. She ced an understanding hand upon Lady Ge''s shoulders.

    "It was an unintentional mistake," she continued. "The Crown Princess has already pardoned you. You''re always so stubborn."

    Lady Ge shyly smiled to the ground. "Yes, Your Grace has always said it is a bad habit of mine."

    The Empressughed. "Yet, you never change. Dear me, what shall I do with you?"

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but feel awkward. It was like she was intruding into a private conversation. She gestured for the maidservants to pack everything up.

    "Until next time, Your Grace," Li Xueyue asserted.

    "Ah yes," the Empress said, almost as if she had forgotten they weren''t alone.

    It was difficult to focus on something else, especially with Lady Ge present. Everyone was always captivated by a beautiful woman. Even thedies-in-waiting didn''t dare to interrupt. They kept their heads low and nced away.

    Li Xueyue found all of this to be odd. How was it that all of these women were suddenly quiet just by Lady Ge''s presence? Were they all intimidated by her? Regardless of the reason, it wasn''t her interest to continue being curious.

    "I look forward to your performance in the Round Table discussion, Princess Li," the Empress said.

    Li Xueyue nodded in response. She curtsied again and left without looking back. And for once, thedies-in-waiting didn''t watch her like a hawk.

 Chapter 366 Eyes For You

    <h4>Chapter 366 Eyes For You</h4>

    Li Xueyue tried not to think too much of Lady Ge Beining, but she felt ufortable. She couldn''t pinpoint the exact issue. It was hard to exin. Whilst lost in thought, pondering over Lady Ge Beining''s identity, Li Xueyue nearly bumped into someone.

    "Be careful, Princess Li," said the concerned voice that reached out to steady her.

    Li Xueyue lifted her head. She was pleasantly surprised to see Lu Tianbi. Thest time she had seen Lu Tianbi was during the wedding night.

    "Are you alright?" Lu Tianbi asked, wondering what could''ve distracted the Princess. Luckily, she had spoken up sooner, or else there would''ve been an unwanted collision.

    "Oh yes, I was just thinking about something," Li Xueyue stated.

    Lu Tianbi nodded in response. She nced around, searching for an irritating face. To her relief, none was seen. What happened to Xu Jiaqi? Seeing the Princess''s troubled appearance, Lu Tianbi didn''t have to guess further.

    "Well, what has been upying your mind, Princess?" Lu Tianbi questioned in a polite voice. "Perhaps I can offer you assistance."

    Li Xueyue hesitated. Although Lu Tianbi was always friendly and kind, she was still one of Yu Zhen''s friends. Would he think any less of Li Xueyue if she asked about a randomdy-in-waiting?

    Seeing the clear reluctance on the Princess''s pale face, Lu Tianbi offered a knowing smile.

    "Do not worry, Princess. My lips are sealed."

    Lu Tianbi wondered what type of matters must''ve been so pressing that it needed to be kept a secret. But then again, Princess Li seemed to be the type to overthink everything. She had witnessed it happened on more than one asion, all of which had happened in the forest behind the Li Family''s manor.

    "I had an encounter with the Empress today," Li Xueyue finally said. "I met a newdy-in-waiting. Her name is Ge Beining."

    Understanding filled Lu Tianbi''s eyes. It was without a doubt, that the Princess was intimidated by Ge Beining. Who wouldn''t be? She was one of the most beautiful women in the Capital. Denying her beauty was lying to oneself.

    Many men have courted Lady Ge Beining, but none have seeded. But instead of tly turning them down, she offered them valid excuses. Though, Lu Tianbi was never able to learn the true reasons.

    "Yes, she is the only child of the deceased Madam Jing," Lu Tianbi informed. "Because Madam Jing had been the closest friend of the Empress, it is without a doubt that Lady Ge Beining is favored by the Empress."

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up. Somehow, Lady Ge Beining''s background was simr to Wen Jinkai¡­

    "And at one point¡ª" Lu Tianbi cut herself off. No, it was best to not mention that part.

    "Anyway," she said and cleared her throat. "It is best to not get on Lady Ge Beining''s bad side. She has a way with her words."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "I thought I was the only one who noticed¡­"

    Lu Tianbi''s smile softened with sympathy. It was hard for her not to reveal the truth, especially to someone as defenseless as the Princess.

    It would be better for the Princess to be acquainted with the cruel reality of the pce. But then again, it would create too much stress for her.

    "At one point," Li Xueyue stated. She decided not to beat around the bush anymore.

    "Was Lady Ge Beining interested in the Crown Prince?" Li Xueyue asserted.

    Lu Tianbi''s smile slipped. This wasn''t a question meant for her to answer. "Perhaps, it would be best to ask the Crown Prince."

    Li Xueyue didn''t even need to say anything else. The answer was clear. It seemed the real opponent of the pce had stepped forward. Xu Jiaqi and the otherdies-in-waiting were nothing but decoys.

    "It was wrong of me to assume," Li Xueyue said with a chuckle. She waved off the air after noticing it had gotten too awkward for her liking.

    "No offense taken, Princess Li, do not worry," Lu Tianbi instantly answered. She didn''t want to upset the Princess in any way. Heaven knows the Crown Prince would kill that person.

    "Besides, Princess Li," Lu Tianbi said. "The Crown Prince''s attention is solely upon you. It doesn''t matter who fancies him if he only has eyes for you."

    Lu Tianbi''s words went through one ear and out from the other. Li Xueyue was well aware of this but still fretted nheless. It wasn''t that she was worried someone else would whisk Yu Zhen away.

    Li Xueyue just wanted to live the rest of her life in the pce in peace. The only way to do so was by removing all of the weeds that got in the way.

    "That wasn''t my concern, but thank you for the advice," Li Xueyue said with a grateful smile. She turned her head to the side.

    "It is gettingte," she said. "I don''t want to distract you from your duties."

    Lu Tianbi regretted her words. She had made an assumption. Nervously, she nodded her head and bowed.

    "Until next time, Princess Li."

    - - - - -

    After Li Xueyue''s encounter with Lu Tianbi, she decided to head back to her own estate. She wanted a quiet ce to gather her thoughts and finish writing down her list of ideas for the betterment of Hanjian. Eventually, she settled in her bedroom and continued jotting down her ideas.

    Li Xueyue was so immersed in the task that she wasn''t aware of the setting sun or the rush of maidservants that ran through the corridors.

    Everyone was desperate and in a rush. They were attempting to find the Crown Princess whose face had not been seen the entire afternoon.

    "And done!" Li Xueyue sighed in relief as she held up the piece of parchment.

    The servants who stood by the door whilst she worked let out a small sigh of relief. They had been standing for a while now and couldn''t wait to move their legs.

    "It took so long¡­" she mumbled.

    Li Xueyue rubbed her sore shoulders whilst stretching her neck side to side.

    Upon seeing the Princess fatigue, the maidservants quickly came forward. They began to massage at her tired shoulders, their eyes growing wide with shock. The Princess had so many knots in her muscles!

    "That feels nice," Li Xueyueplimented. Her body rxed. She sighed again, enjoying the magic fingers of her maidservants.

    All the while, people panicked down the hallway. That was until someone spotted the lighting from the Crown Princess''s estate. It didn''t take long for a servant to run back to report to the Crown Prince.

    "Please refill the teapot," Li Xueyue instructed one of the idle handmaidens.

    The handmaiden bowed in response.

    "As you wish, Crown Princess," she said. Quietly, the handmaiden slipped out of the door to fulfill the Crown Princess''smand.

    In the meantime, Li Xueyue leaned back and closed her eyes. She gave in to the pleasing sensation of the massage. It was desperately needed. Maidservants even massaged her hands and fingers.

    Although there were many servants in the Li Manor, none of them thought of massaging Li Xueyue. Of course, there wasn''t any reason for them to do so. She was young and didn''t really need it.

    When the door opened, Li Xueyue kept her eyes closed. She debated the idea of just falling asleep right then and there. But the tea would go to waste, wouldn''t it?

    "Set it on the table," Li Xueyue instructed the handmaiden.

    "Get out," he demanded.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes snapped open at the frigid voice. The massaging stopped, just like the rest of the world. Standing by the entrance of the bedroom was Yu Zhen. His lips were curled into a scowl. His eyes were set aze.

    It didn''t take a genius to figure out the obvious¡ªthe Crown Prince was furious.

 Chapter 367 Like A Bra

    <h4>Chapter 367 Like A Bra</h4>

    Li Xueyue sat up ramrod straight. Who wouldn''t? Yu Zhen''s wrath was not one to tread lightly on¡ªeven if it happened on a daily basis.

    "Go," she instructed the maidservants.

    All of them rushed out of the bedroom, like flocks of birds after a disturbance. The doors were closed behind them. Silence engulfed the room. Rage simmered on the surface, outweighing the bewilderment.

    Li Xueyue continued to sit, unsure of what happened. She raised a curious brow and patiently waited for him to blow up at her.

    "What were you thinking?" he finally said. His voice was barely above a whisper. He was infuriated that he couldn''t even look at her.

    "I¡ª"

    "You weren''t even thinking, were you?"

    Li Xueyue was taken aback. She was so shocked by his words that her mouth fell open.

    "Can we backtrack this conversation?" she cautiously said. "Because I''m confused."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes onto her. His fingers curled into fists. At a time like this, she still sat there like a fool. He couldn''t believe the audacity of her behavior. The least she could do was stand up to talk to him.

    "Of course you are," he spat out.

    At this, Li Xueyue''s patience snapped. She stood up with a re. "What is your issue, Yu Zhen? Youe storming into my estate, berating me with your words on what grounds?"

    "Your foolishness."

    Li Xueyue held back a scoff at his words. "Being vague doesn''t help with anything. It only makes things even more perplexing."

    She crossed her arms and stood her ground. No matter the reason, she refused to give in unless she was in the wrong.

    At this moment, Li Xueyue couldn''t understand him. Why was he livid? What did she do wrong? She tried to think of a reason but came up empty-handed. It wasn''t like she skipped a meal or something. And even if she did, he wouldn''t be this irritated with her.

    "Even when you''re in the wrong, you continue to be stubborn. Why am I not surprised?" Yu Zhen hissed.

    Li Xueyue had to do a double-take. What did he just say?

    "I''ve had enough of this conversation, Your Highness," she hissed.

    Li Xueyue didn''t have the patience to tolerate this anymore. "If you have nothing better to do but insult me, then get out."

    Her eyes grew wide when he did the pr opposite of that. He stormed towards her and grabbed her wrist.

    Li Xueyue tugged her hand back but he yanked her close. His grip was tight and it forced her to look up at him.

    "You said you''d never hurt me."

    "I''m not¡ª"

    "My wrist hurts."

    In an instant, he let her go.

    Li Xueyue rubbed the spot, but he grabbed it again. She didn''t want to guilt trip him but it happened regardless.

    "Let me see," he muttered. Upon seeing there wasn''t any bruise there, he let out a sigh of relief.

    Not a secondter, he was furious, yet again. "You were behaving like a brat. I had to get your attention somehow."

    Li Xueyue ground her teeth. She finally knew what it was like for him to deal with her frustrations. He must''ve felt the same way when she?refused to get to the main point quickly during their arguments in the past.

    "Can''t you just tell me what''s wrong?" Li Xueyue said. "And stop insulting me."

    "I''m not insulting you¡ª"

    "Yes, you are."

    "I am pointing out the obvious. If it''s offensive, it''s not my problem."

    "Then you better get out because I will not tolerate this behavior," Li Xueyue snapped.

    "Is this how you treat your husband?"

    "Is this how you treat your wife?" she retorted.

    "I¡ª"

    "I worked hard all day to finalize my ideas so that I can show it to you as soon as possible. And the first thing you do when youe in is to insult me."

    "Xueyue¡ª"

    "No, I don''t want to talk to you. Get out."

    "You can''t tell me to get out of the pce that I own."

    Li Xueyue red up at him. Oh, so this was how he wanted to y. She let out a cynicalugh. Itcked humor.

    She picked up the parchment and rolled it up. With a shrug of her shoulders, she shoved past him and headed for the door.

    "Where are you going?" he growled.

    Li Xueyue ignored him. She flung the doors open and strutted out.

    "God damn it, Li Xueyue!" he hissed, instantly going after her.

    Before she could make it far, he grabbed her by the shoulders and turned her around. "Do not walk away from me¡ª"

    "Or else what? You''re going to punish me? Throw me in prison? Continue to assault me with your words? What is it going to be, Your Highness?"

    Yu Zhen was beyond the point of anger. She just loved to frustrate him further, didn''t she?

    Yu Zhen always knew how to control his indignations. It was easy for him to keep hisposure. The calm before the storm was his preferred tactic. It created more fear than a mad man flipping over tables.

    The majority of those times that he had lost his control was always around her. She brought out the worst in him, just as he brought out the best. His heart was rapidly beating as his blood pressure increased.

    "Do you want to be punished so badly?" Yu Zhen demanded as he took a threatening step in her direction.

    "Do not mess with me," he hissed.

    "Or else what?"

    In the blink of an eye, he grabbed her nape. She sharply gasped when he pulled her close. His breath fanned her face as his breathing grew harsh. The fire in his eyes could burn her alive.

    Before Li Xueyue could say anything, he crashed his lips on hers in a brutal kiss. She tried to pull away but he forced her against him. Her breasts were pressed against his chest and he could feel all of her curves.

    When Yu Zhen finally released her mouth, he moved onto her neck. He kissed the area, biting it, and then suckling upon the spot¡ªbranding her as his.

    And in the heat of the moment, he did not see it: the swing of her hand as she pped him across the face.

    His patience snapped. He reached out to grab her, but then he saw it. Tears. Hatred. Fear.

    "I''ve had enough," Li Xueyue hissed.

    Before she let her tears fall, Li Xueyue turned on her heels and walked off. She never looked back. Not even when his eyes burned a hole through her skull.

    Li Xueyue continued walking onwards until she reached the pce stables. The people there were shocked to see her. She didn''t give them a reason.

    Li Xueyue browsed through the stables. "Heiyue," she called out. In an instant, thuds could be heard.

    Heiyue grew restless at the sound of his master''s voice. He was initially resting andzily munching on hay, but upon hearing her voice, his heart leaped. It had been a few days since he hadst seen her.

    "There you are," Li Xueyue said. She tried her best to suppress the anger within her that threatened to show in her voice.

    "You''re certainly living a life of luxury," Li Xueyuemented upon seeing the size of hisrge stable and the ample resources he had.

    "Princess, your hands!" a servant pleaded upon seeing her pick up the heavy saddles.

    "No need," Li Xueyue stated. She ced the nket onto Heiyue''s back before adjusting the saddle onto him.

    Li Xueyue guided her horse out of the stables, ignoring the curious and worried stares of the servants. Dusk was vastly approaching. What was the Crown Princess doing here sote? Where was she going?

    Before anyone could voice their protest, Li Xueyue slipped onto her horse. It was difficult to do so for her legs were caught in the long dress. But she still managed to climb on.

    "Let''s go," she said as Heiyue began to trot.

    And soon, the horse was stepping out of the stables, eager to feel the grass upon his hooves. Every day, he was brought out to exercise, but nothing would ever match the thrill his master gave him.

    Li Xueyue urged Heiyue to go faster. Eventually, his slow walk turned into a jog, and then a vast sprint forward. She rode as the horse galloped until the pce was nothing but a blur.

 Chapter 368 Cold and Gentle

    <h4>Chapter 368 Cold and Gentle</h4>

    Li Xueyue never had more freedom than right now. Wind rushed through her hair, sending the heavy hair essories flying in the air. It didn''t take long for the night breeze to run through her silky hair. She could feel the rush of her thundering heart that pumped adrenaline into her system.

    At this moment, nothing mattered anymore. No more etiquette. No more rules. No more worries. It was just her and Heiyue¡ªnothing else. And she was deeply grateful for it.

    Li Xueyue didn''t care that they were running into the dark night. She didn''t care that they would get lost or that the moon was high in the sky and stars were beginning to make themselves known. The moonlight guided her to wherever she wanted to go.

    Heiyue ran and ran, his powerful hooves thundering upon the ground, it sounded like an earthquake. His body blended into the darkness. He dashed so quickly that no one was able to detect them.

    "Let''s take a break," Li Xueyue dered when he stopped in front of a stream of water. It was in the middle of nowhere.

    Li Xueyue slipped off the horse and touched the flowing water. It was cold upon her sweaty palms. She let out an irritable sigh when her long sleeves got wet.

    "I''ve always hated you." Li Xueyue angrily peeled off the multyered hanfu.

    Li Xueyue tossed it to the ground, ring down at it. They reminded her of the insufferable pce. She didn''t want to go back there. She didn''t want to fight anymore. She didn''t want to be under watchful eyes.

    They were lies and she knew it.

    Li Xueyue was just tired of being inside of that suffocating pce. She had missed her days of freedom. It had been a while since she was allowed to do as she pleased.

    "No, don''t eat that," Li Xueyue grumbled upon seeing Heiyue nibble at some daisies. He neighed at her words and went back to drinking the water.

    Li Xueyue remained in her bent position. She was wearing nothing except for twoyers of clothing. It was her undergarment and the decorativeyer of her hanfu¡ªthe one with expensive embroidery that she didn''t dare to lose.

    It was toote for that now, wasn''t it?

    Her hairpins were lost, somewhere in this meadow. Nheless, no one would dare toin.

    If only Li Xueyue knew the art she had created. The scattered hairpins formed a path of glistening jewels. When the moonlight danced upon it, a shimmering trail formed behind them.

    "You might get food poisoning," Li Xueyue warned Heiyue when he nipped at another kind of flower.

    She plucked it from the ground, staring at the pale, white petals.

    "The life of an idle flower is not made for me," Li Xueyue mumbled to herself.

    Heiyue snorted in agreement. He nudged her with his head, almost curious about her emotions.

    "I hate doing nothing but sit around and read. I hate writing poetry. It''s boring. I hate taking strolls in the garden every few hours. And if I have to sit another minute in that room, I will kick the chair to the ground."

    Heiyue tilted his head at her words. Why couldn''t she just¡­ up and leave? She could take him. He''d bring her anywhere she wanted to. It was as simple as climbing back onto him.

    "But I love him."

    Li Xueyue nced at the ground. She plucked the weeds that surrounded a tiny bud of flowers.

    Heiyue tilted his head as he patiently listened to her rant.

    "I love his smile, hisughter, his soul. I love everything about him, even that horrid temper."

    Li Xueyueid upon her back and sighed. She looked towards the sky where stars twinkled like his eyes. The small pebbles of light winked back at her, much like his yfulness.

    Even in the wilderness, she was reminded of him. From the dark night, the color of his eyes, to the flutter of grass des, soft like his touch.

    "I love him so, so much," she whispered.

    "He''s the only reason I tolerate all of this," Li Xueyue said to Heiyue.

    Heiyue nudged the side of her face in encouragement, wanting to hear more of her soft voice.

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut. She slung an arm upon her forehead and listened to the rustle of nature. She could feel a sudden glow emerge in the darkness.

    And when Li Xueyue opened her eyes, she couldn''t breathe. She was staring into beads of obsidian ck. He stood over her, antern in hand. However, that wasn''t where the light came from.

    It was the fireflies that crept out of the shadows. One by one, they lit up the dark meadow. Sadly for them, their glow could never outmatch the shine of jewels. Despite that, this scene was the most beautiful thing she had witnessed.

    "You''re here."

    Li Xueyue knew he''d never let her go. She knew he''d find her. He always did.

    Yu Zhen said nothing. He took a seat beside her. He said nothing. Despite the tremor of his erratic heart, and the words resting upon his tongue, not a sound came from him.

    He watched as she reached a hand out. She wanted to touch the fireflies but her hand touched him instead.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened. How could he not? He was still furious at her. She had ran off in the dead of the night. It was dangerous.

    If it weren''t for the fallen essories, he''d never be able to find her. But he did. This simple fact was the sole reason his anger was slowly simmering away.

    That, and the fact that he had overheard her confession. She loved him. Li Xueyue loved him. The words repeated in his head, over and over again.

    He would never forget the sound of it. The words had rolled off of her tongue without hesitation. She truly loved him.

    "It''s beautiful, isn''t it?" Li Xueyue quietly said, referring to the fireflies that grazed her fingertips, yet they never stayed long enough.

    Li Xueyue wanted to capture their light in her palms. She knew that would be impossible.

    Li Xueyue wanted to put the fireflies in a bottle and keep it with her forever but it''d meant caging their beauty. And she didn''t want that.

    "I should do the same to you," Yu Zhen muttered when she closed her fingers around a lone firefly. It glowed brighter than the rest of its peers.

    "But you won''t."

    Yu Zhen revealed a slow, tired smile.

    He reached a hand out and caressed her cheek. It was cold to the touch. He slipped his robe off of him and ced it across her chest like a nket.

    "But I won''t," he confirmed.

    They didn''t say anything else after that. They continued to remain in the meadow, watching hundreds of fireflies take flight. The breeze was gentle and cold. Yet, neither of themined.

    A silence washed over them.

    Li Xueyue and Yu Zhen continued to watch the fireflies. Even when the moon rose higher in the sky, revealing specks of gray, they remained seated. Words didn''t have to be exchanged for them to have a mutual agreement.

 Chapter 369 Running Away

    <h4>Chapter 369 Running Away</h4>

    After a long while, Li Xueyue decided to break the silence. She turned her attention from the night sky to his face. There was a ghastly glow upon his seated form. His dark clothes and sharp jawline gave him the appearance of the keeper of souls. Well, he wasn''t the Grim Reaper of the Battlefield for nothing.

    "Are we going to have a civilized discussion now?" she asked in an amused voice.

    Li Xueyue suppressed a chuckle when his jaw clenched. It seemed this petty man was still mad. Over what? She didn''t know.

    "We were having one in the pce before you ran off," Yu Zhen retorted.

    Yu Zhen nced to the side where Xiao Lizi was nipping at the grass. She stood beside Heiyue and the two ignored each other''s presence¡ªmuch like their masters a few minutes ago.

    "You knew exactly why I ran off," Li Xueyue coldly told him. Her hardened voice left little to no room for discussion. He had done something to her that she didn''t appreciate. Her p was the result of that.

    "I was hoping for a better oue," Yu Zhen exined.

    Granted, her reaction was within his expectations but he didn''t think it would actually happen. All he wanted to do was make her stay. She was always charmed by his kisses. Naturally, he had hoped for the same.

    "I didn''t like it."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "The kiss or the intent?"

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. Of course he''d ask such a thing. It was very like him.

    "Nevermind," she stated.

    Something about his arrogant smile told her he already knew the answer to the question.

    "Are you going to tell me then?" she asked.

    "Tell you what?"

    "The reason for your anger," Li Xueyue said. "You were so insulting towards me. I must''ve done something wrong."

    Yu Zhen''s gaze softened. In the heat of the moment, he wasn''t thinking properly. It was strange. He rarely lost his temper like that. He''d seethe in silence. Yelling and insulting people weren''t his style.

    She turned to him, revealing the disappointment in her eyes. She was aggrieved by his words, his reaction, and his actions.

    Yu Zhen couldn''t bring himself to apologize. They were both in the wrong. "You made a grave mistake."

    "What is it?" she questioned.

    "Youmanded Xu Jiaqi to kneel the entire day."

    At his words, her irritation rose faster than she could think. He had insulted her for Xu Jiaqi''s sake? He hadshed out on her because of Xu Jiaqi? Unbelievable. She opened her mouth, ready to argue, but he cut her off.

    "In our bedroom. A private ce where one or more secrets are hidden. Do you realize how dangerous it is?" he reprimanded in a soft voice.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. So, it wasn''t the punishment she gave. But more of the location of it.

    "You''re lucky I found her before she could look around."

    "I had a maidservant watching over Xu Jiaqi, making sure¡ª"

    "Regardless," he sternly said. "I do not want anyone in our bedroom. Unless it''s us¡ªin bed."

    Li Xueyue ignored thest part. "You could''ve just told me that in my estate, instead of insulting me."

    Yu Zhen slowly nodded his head. Guilt gnawed at his chest, prickling him. He, too, wished he hadn''t insulted her. The words were blurted out irrationally.

    "I won''t do it next time," he said.

    Li Xueyue hummed in response, believing his words. He had never lied to her nor given her a reason not to trust him.

    "We should resolve our problems peacefully next time," she suggested. "No more insults, running away, and bottling our emotions."

    "We should," he agreed. "But will we actually remember that when we are blinded by rage?"

    Li Xueyue''s lips went to one side. Perhaps that was easier said than done. "Then, we should try to," she corrected.

    Yu Zhen let out a smallugh at her words. He reached a hand out and pushed her hair away from her forehead.

    "Let''s hope we''re rational enough for that," he stated.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head in agreement.

    "Now, shall we return home?" Yu Zhen asked. His tone was filled with patience for her. If she wanted to spend more time in the meadow, then so be it. He''d join her.

    Li Xueyue sat up from her lying position. She turned her head to him and nodded. "It''s veryte. We should quietly sneak back to prevent any issues."

    Yu Zhen smiled in amusement. "We''re married adults. Who''d dare to question us?"

    Li Xueyueughed. He was always so bold, so confident, that she wanted to rob him off those emotions. How nice does it feel to have so much confidence in oneself? She wouldn''t know¡­

    "You''re right," she mused.

    Yu Zhen pinched her cheeks. "Also, if you''re bored in our estate, don''t just sit there."

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked, wondering if he had heard her confessions.

    "You''re allowed to take Heiyue on frequent outings, as well as practice archery," Yu Zhen said with a smile. He hadn''t realized these hobbies of her were robbed in the Pce.

    "What about sword fighting?"

    "Who shall you practice with?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "You''re telling me that out of the thousands of soldiers in the pce, there isn''t one to spar with me?"

    "It''d be improper," he said.

    Yu Zhen wanted it toe out as a joke. But the thought of her struggling against the weight of another man gued his mind. Until eventually, he was angered by his own imaginations.

    He recalled the sword fighting session they had. Her flushed cheeks, panting chest, and tight robes. All of it was provocative, even if she didn''t mean for it. He only wanted her to struggle against him and no one else.

    "But¡ª"

    "That reminds me," Yu Zhen stated. "I will have a Master cksmith craft you a suitable set of bow and arrows."

    "We''re not going to gloss over the sword fighting discussion," she deadpanned.

    "No is a no."

    "You don''t get to control me."

    Li Xueyue crossed her arms. She refused to give up that part of her life just for him. What could be so wrong with sparring? For goodness'' sake, she could just wear a mask or a helmet¡ªanything to hide her identity.

    "I say it for your own good," he said.

    "No, it''s out of possessiveness."

    "Just a tad, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. It was certainly more than just a tad. "What about Lu Tianbi? I can train with her. Whenever she practices, maybe I can tag along."

    Yu Zhen suddenly wished he''d never introduced the two of them. It was a loophole and she knew it. He red at her.

    "Must you be so stubborn?" he demanded.

    "You''re the same," she retorted.

    Yu Zhen pinched her cheeks again out of irritation. She had a sharp tongue on her. Sometimes, he admired it. Other times, he was aggravated by it. In the end, he still loved her for it.

    "Just get on your horse," he finally said.

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched. She suppressed a victorious smile.

    Yu Zhen got to his feet. He dusted himself off before offering her a hand. She took it without hesitation.

    "Don''t stray too far from me," Yu Zhen told her as they walked towards their horses.

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She merely swung their intertwined hand. Her gaze wandered to the discarded clothes.

    "Shouldn''t we pick those up?" she said, pointing down at it. "As well as my hairpins?"

    Yu Zhen didn''t even spare a look. "A servant will fetch it for us."

    "But my scattered clothes will give the wrong impression."

    "I know."

    Li Xueyue gaped up at him. Was that his intention all along? She quickly bent down to pick up theyers of clothes but he yanked her upwards, his arming around her waist.

    "Leave it."

    "But¡ª"

    "It''ll be fine," he reassured.

    "They''ll think less of me."

    "They won''t."

    "It''ll look like I''m so promiscuous, I allowed you to do it in the middle of a field," Li Xueyue stated.

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow. "As if running away from the pce, and returning in the middle of the night won''t damage your reputation."

    Li Xueyue groaned at his words. "Don''t change the subject on me, Yu Zhen."

    "I''m not."

    Li Xueyue ignored him. She shoved his chest, thinking he would budge. But his strength overpowered her. He didn''t even budge.

    "I''m serious," she said.

    "So am I."

    "Yu Zhen," she hissed.

    "And if I don''t?" he teased, leaning down.

    "Don''t be a child. Just let me go, Yu Zhen!"

    Yu Zhenughed upon seeing her aggravated re. She was so cute when she was angry. In her eyes, she must''ve resembled a tiger. But in reality, she was too short and tiny to be considered one.

    Finally, he released her.

    Li Xueyue bent down to pick up the scattered clothes but he was faster than her. Yu Zhen swooped low, and in the blink of an eye, picked up all of the soiled clothing.

    Yu Zhen gathered it in one arm.

    "You didn''t have to," she said.

    "You''ll dirty your hands," he exined before grabbing the closest one to him. He was entertained by her disbelief. The shock was written all over her face.

    Yu Zhen shook his head and smiled. She was cute, even when puzzled.

    Yu Zhen pulled her close and kissed her on the forehead. "Nowe," he urged her. "Let''s head home."

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but oblige. Together, they approached the horses. And soon, they were dashing into the night.

 Chapter 370 Failed Duties

    <h4>Chapter 370 Failed Duties</h4>

    Yu Zhen and Li Xueyue were able to return to their room undetected. Granted, the servants at the stable caught sight of them but they had been sworn to secrecy. Everyone was simply too terrified of the Crown Prince to betray his trust for mindless gossip.

    Upon arrival at their room, Xu Jiaqi and the rest of the servants were nowhere to be found. It wasn''t a surprise since it was sote at night.

    "I just remembered," Li Xueyue groaned. "The parchment with my ideas. I don''t know where it went."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He continued to undress in front of her. His long fingers tossed aside the decorativeyer of his clothing.

    "Well, if you hadn''t ran out, maybe you wouldn''t have misced it," he mused.

    Li Xueyue red at him only to quickly avert her eyes. He was wearing nothing but a looseyer of clothing. His broad, muscr chest was revealed. The ridges of his abdomen peeked out whenever he moved.

    "What is there to be so shy about?" Yu Zhen teased.

    He stepped forward and approached her. She could do nothing but stare as he sauntered without a care in the world. What was he doing?

    Yu Zhen touched her chin, curling a finger underneath it. "We''re husband and wife, Sunshine."

    "That shouldn''t be an excuse to be so shameless¡­" she trailed off, the voice dying in her throat.

    Yu Zhen''s other hand had roughly tugged the strings of her ribbon away. Instantly, the second-tostyer of her clothes parted in the middle. Her undergarments were revealed.

    Li Xueyue yanked her clothes shut but he gently grabbed her wrists.

    "There is nothing I haven''t seen or tasted before," he chuckled, much to the dismay in her eyes. He enjoyed the blush that rose to her cheeks.

    "Can''t you be more prude?" sheined.

    Yu Zhen leaned in and kissed her upon the nose. "No."

    He released her wrists only to slowly ease off their clothing. It dropped to the ground.

    "Why not?" she asked in an irritable voice.

    Yu Zhen took another step forward, his lips curling into a wolfish smile. He touched the thin strings of her undergarment. His fingers twirled around the feeble material.

    "If I''m prude, then we''ll never get to see our children," he said in a low, husky voice.

    Yu Zhen ced both hands upon her hips. His fingers brushed against the revealed skin of her waist. Passion filled her eyes, as hunger oozed from his. He yanked her forward until she copsed against his chest, her palms resting on his bare skin.

    "Nowe, Sunshine," he whispered. "It''s time to please your insatiable husband."

    - - - - -

    After several intensive rounds of lovemaking, Li Xueyue was too tired to keep her eyes open. Lying on her sides, she was deep asleep.

    Yu Zhen sat on the edge of the bed, still naked from their previous exercise. The candlelight flickered in the bedroom as shadows cast on his sharp features. He grabbed a discardedyer of clothes off the ground and slipped it on, loosely tying the belt.

    "So lovely¡­" he murmured uponying eyes on her sleeping form.

    Li Xueyue was curled into a small ball. A thick nket hung off her waist, revealing her bare chest. Even now, he could see the marks he inflicted upon her. It was speckled throughout her body, like petals in drawn water.

    Unbeknownst to him, there was a ghost of a smile on his face. She had always managed to satisfy him, whether it was her sweet cries or the passion of her body.

    Though, he could never have enough of her. When she gripped him so tightly, clinging onto his shoulders, how could he?

    Each time she reached her climax, he wanted to see it again. The flush of her chest, the widening of her eyes, it was for his viewing pleasure.

    "You''re sleeping so well," Yu Zhen mused. She didn''t flinch when his fingers brushed hair away from her face.

    It was the n all along. He wanted to tire her out so that she''d sleep peacefully. Nightmares couldn''t arise if one was too tired to even think.

    Yu Zhen brushed his car,thumb over her bruised lips. Perhaps he had been too rough. But she seemed to enjoy it as there wasn''t a singleint.

    "How can you be so beautiful?" Yu Zhen muttered.

    The longer he stared at her sleeping face, the more his heart clenched. He wanted this sight to belong only to him. No one should see this side of her, so vulnerable and peaceful. Every waking moment she had, he wanted it to be spent with her.

    Was that so wrong of him?

    "Hmmmm¡­" she grumbled in her sleep, turning to the other side, revealing her bare back to him.

    Yu Zhen chuckled at this. It seemed he had disturbed her sleep. He brought the nkets higher, so that it covered her shoulders. His heart would break if she caught a cold on his watch.

    Yu Zhen pressed a palm upon the bed and leaned down. He fondly kissed her upon the top of her head.

    "Good night, Sunshine," he whispered.

    Yu Zhen ran a hand through his hair and stood up. He wanted to join her, but he needed to make sure everything was in order. He had stormed out of his private study upon hearing words of someone kneeling in his bedroom which meant important documents were left in the open.

    Of course, no one could trespass into his private study but it was better to be safe than sorry.

    Yu Zhen approached the doors of his bedroom. He had barely touched the knobs when something reached his ears.

    "Yu Zhen¡­?" Her voice was sweet like honey. His heart clenched at how lost and puzzled she seemed.

    "Where are you going?" she tiredly asked.

    Yu Zhen turned around to see she was wide awake now. The weight shift on the bed must''ve startled her. There was terror in her eyes, believing he would run off or something. It was a foolish fear.

    "What are you doing awake?" he softly demanded. Nheless, he approached the bed.

    The nket had slipped off of her, pooling near her waist. Strands of hair cascaded down her shoulders, covering her breast.

    "I was cold¡­" sheined, noticing his clothes.

    Yu Zhen smiled at this. He cupped her face and bent down to kiss her nose. "I will join you soon, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue''s heart skipped at his tender voice. Affection dripped from his words. She leaned into his touch, so soft and loving. She hoped this wasn''t a fervid dream. She hoped this was reality. It would break her to think all of this was just a figment of her imagination.

    "You didn''t answer my question," she whispered.

    "I needed to organize my documents in my study," Yu Zhen stated. His lips tilted into a smirk.

    "But seeing as you''re awake, I suppose not."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head at his words. What did he mean by that? Her heart lurched when he pushed her onto the bed.

    "It seems I''ve failed my duty," Yu Zhen whispered. His lips brushed against the corners of her mouth.

    Li Xueyue''s breath hitched, knowing exactly where this would lead to. Her predictions came true when he climbed on top of her. His muscr calves came on either side of her.

    Slowly, he took off his robes, tossing it aside.

    "Let me redeem myself, my lovely wife." With that said, he captured her lips.

 Chapter 371 Prepare Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 371 Prepare Yourself</h4>

    Days trickled by, and eventually, the day of the Round Table Discussion approached.

    Li Xueyue had woken up earlier than usual but Yu Zhen was one step ahead of her. For the first time since their wedding night, she had woken up alone.

    Li Xueyue touched the other side of the enormous bed. It was cold. It seemed Yu Zhen had been awake for a while. It was a wonder how he had the energy to be up so early, especially after how many times they''ve made love the night before.

    "Where does he get all of that stamina from?" Li Xueyue grumbled under her breath. She struggled to get out of bed, her legs shaking.

    No matter how many times they did it, her body was still unused to his pure strength.

    Li Xueyue was certain there were bruises on her inner thighs. He loved to grip there, his thumb pressing into the sensitive skin whenever he had a meal from her.

    Even now, she could remember his burning gaze when their eyes met. She''d blush red, and he''d only tease her further.

    "G-good morning, Princess Li," the maidservants greeted. They bowed their heads, hoping to conceal their reddened face. They too, couldn''t get used to the sight of the love bites on the Crown Princess.

    It seemed the Crown Prince simply couldn''t get enough of his wife. By now, rumors have spread like wildfire. They spoke of the Crown Prince''s affections towards the Princess.

    The majority of gossip was about his stamina. There were talks of the candles in their room being lit?until the next morning. It was a miracle that the Crown Princess could even walk afterwards.

    "Draw the baths," Li Xueyue instructed. Even though Yu Zhen had cleaned her the night before, she still felt sticky.

    "As you wish, Princess," the maidservants responded. Two of them left the room to fulfill hermand.

    Li Xueyue was unfazed by the absence of Xu Jiaqi. After the incident a few days ago, thedy-in-waiting had surprisingly disappeared. Without a doubt, it was the doing of Yu Zhen or the Empress.

    "Is that the morning tea?" Li Xueyue asked when one of the maidservants carried a tray forward with a teapot and teacup.

    "Princess, this is a gift from the Empress," the maidservant said in a soft, meek voice.

    Li Xueyue didn''t need any further exnation. It was most likely tea meant for boosting fertility. Yesterday, the Imperial Physician came along to examine her.

    She couldn''t forget the disappointment on the Empress''s face when he announced the Crown Princess wasn''t with a child.

    The Emperor on the other hand seemed unbothered by the news. There was a sh of patient understanding in his eyes when he reassured her that everything would be fine.

    "Very well," Li Xueyue responded.

    She took a nce at the freshly poured tea. Steam rose from the teacup as an unpleasant scent reached her nose. The tea smelled medicinal. It was difficult to ignore the strong herbal smell.

    Li Xueyue held her breath and drank the tea in one gulp. She winced at how bitter it was. But it was a good thing for it was a testament to its quality¡ªhigh quality medicines usually taste bitter.

    The Empress must''ve really wanted grandchildren.

    Li Xueyue took a bite of the dried plum that apanied the tea. However, the drink was so bitter that it was overpowering. Even the sweet and sour juices of the dried plum couldn''t wash the bitterness away.

    "There''s more?" Li Xueyue said when the maidservant poured her another cup.

    "Yes, Princess," she responded.

    Li Xueyue held back a grimace. She didn''t dare toin even if the maidservants were loyal to her. The Empress was doing this for her own good.

    Just as Li Xueyue finished thest drop of the tea, the maidservants from earlier entered her room again.

    "Princess, the bath has been drawn."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head as she ced the teacup back onto the tray. She hoped the pungent taste would go away or else breakfast would taste horrible.

    - - - - -

    After Li Xueyue was thoroughly cleaned, she was rushed off to be dressed.

    "Keep it simple today," Li Xueyue instructed the maidservants. They were perplexed by her words.

    "No fancy gold or jewels," she added on when someone approached her with hairpins.

    Despite their initial bewilderment, the maidservants obliged with hermand. They didn''t dare to disobey the Crown Princess, especially when she had the strongest backing in the pce.

    Who else could be more powerful than the crude Crown Prince?

    Li Xueyue sat there patiently as the maidservants dressed her in a more humble attire than usual. She ensured the theme would be elegance and nothing more. There was no need to show off today.

    "Yes, the silver is fine," she said when the maidservants presented her with two options.

    "No, this rogue is too red," Li Xueyue stated. "Remove it. The makeup should be more natural."

    Li Xueyue smiled when the maidservants presented her with a peachy pink. She allowed it to be applied. Minutes went by, and soon, she was all dressed.

    Li Xueyue stood up to check on her appearance. In contrast to the other days, she felt much lighter. It was mainly because her jewelry was kept to a minimum.

    Her clothes were airy and lightly colored. She was dressed in all white, except for the light blue ribbon on her waist, and the peek of color under her sleeves. The edges of the hanfu were rimmed with the cerulean blue, adding yet another touch of grace.

    Li Xueyue nodded in satisfaction. "This is perfect," she said.

    Surprise filled the maidservants'' faces, yet again. This was one of the rare times the Crown Princessplimented them. It was short but they treasured it. The rarity of such a thing made them work harder, to hear more of it.

    Perhaps¡­ there could be a favourable oue to her words.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue hadn''t seen Yu Zhen all morning, but it was fine. He had prepped her the day before of what was toe. Despite that, she felt her heart beating faster with each step. The closer they approached the meeting room, the more nervous she felt.

    From what she was told, the most important people of the country would be gathered in that room. There would be a representative from each faction and sector of the country, ranging from trade to military to agriculture.

    "Just breathe," she reminded herself in a small voice that only she heard.

    "You''ve prepared yourself for this," she added on.

    Turns out, the first draft of ideas was found in the meadow. It was handed back by the servants who were sent out to retrieve her fallen hair essories.

    Li Xueyue was worried that someone else might have read what was written on the parchment before it was handed back to her.

    Even if the servants swore they brought it here without showing anyone, Li Xueyue was still uncertain. She was just d that everything written was vague and her handwriting resembled chicken scratch.

    "It''d be a miracle if someone could read my messy handwriting," she whispered to herself.

    Yu Zhen said the same thing. He had taken one nce at her first draft and returned it. He couldn''t read a single thing she wrote. He thought back to the letters he received from her and wondered how many times she had rewritten them just so that they were legible.

    It might''ve been more than five times¡­ but that wasn''t the point was it?

    "Princess, we have arrived," the maidservants informed her.

    Li Xueyue snapped back to reality. She was now standing before two sets of looming doors that were much taller than her. They were painted a bright red, warning trespassers to turn the other way.

    Guards lined both sides of the hallway.

    The Eunuchs pushed the doors open, revealing the loud argument taking ce around the enormous table.

    "Announcing the arrival of Crown Princess Li Xueyue of Wuyi!" he announced.

    Every pair of eyes darted to Li Xueyue.

 Chapter 372 I Do

    <h4>Chapter 372 I Do</h4>

    Silence ensued for a few seconds before everyone went back to bickering. They were disinterested in everything but the argument at hand.

    "Are you out of your mind?!" a man dressed in green called out whilst pointing an using finger at someone dressed in red.

    "That is a horrible idea!" someone else chimed in agreement.

    "Are you crazy, Duke Han?!"

    "At least I passed the Imperial Exams with a full score, you dimwit! Don''t call me crazy when you''re stupid!" Duke Han retorted, ignoring all of the irritable men in front of him.

    "Bah! We all saw the answers you wrote on your wrist!" the man in green stated. "You damn cheat!"

    "That is a sorry excuse of aw, you must be out of your mind!" he added.

    "How dare you! Don''t you dare question my decision when you didn''t get a perfect score!" Duke Han seethed.

    Arguments and roars of displeasure continued onwards.

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but gawk.

    Sitting before an enormous round table were people of all shapes, gender, and sizes.

    Her eyes trailed over the group of grown adults who were bickering like children. They were unlike her expectations.

    There wasn''t a single guard in the room despite the amount of high-profiled people gathered here. Or perhaps, there were soldiers and they were simply hidden in the darkness. There wasn''t a window in this room. Every measure was taken to ensure secrecy.

    Abruptly, a scroll was thrown onto the floor by the same man in green. He mmed his hand onto the table, rage in his eyes.

    "I told you Duke Han, this idea would never work!"

    "Just like your peanut sized brain!" Duke Han scoffed whilst resisting the urge to roll his eyes.

    Li Xueyue''s attention drifted to Yu Zhen and the Empress. He sat there,pletely unbothered by the men throwing insults at each other. He seemed disinterested in whatever they had to say.

    The Empress had her red lips pressed into a thin line. Her brows were scrunched together, revealing the only wrinkle on her face. She was displeased by this argument but not surprised.

    "Well, this is embarrassing," Li Xueyue finally said.

    At her provocative statement, everyone''s eyes went to her. They were shocked that a woman, much less a Princess, would have the audacity to raise her voice in here.

    "What did you just say?" Duke Han demanded in a low, intimidating voice.

    "Watch your tongue, Duke," Li Xueyue warned whilst walking into the room. Despite the glower from these men, she refused to cower back.

    Li Xueyue would ept nothing but respect. And getting them to acknowledge her title was the first step.

    Despite how progressive Hanjian was, the men in here had a traditional mindset. In their eyes, women weren''t supposed to speak unless spoken to¡ªespecially Princesses. They were supposed to be beautiful decorations that lined the pce walls, and nothing else.

    It was precisely this reason that many were stunned by Li Xueyue''s words. They didn''t think a foreigner of this country would keep a leash on a high Duke of Hanjian.

    "Princess," a voice spoke up, filled with amusement. His eyes curled when he smiled. It was the man in green whose behaviorpletely changed at the sight of her.

    "You look rather dashing this evening, Princess," heplimented.

    Li Xueyue''s emotionless eyes shifted to him. It seemed he had a death wish, much like Wu Xiang''s yful behavior which had gotten him into trouble on numerous asions.

    Laughter erupted at his words. Judging by the Empress''s face, this was amon urrence. As a matter of fact, she received a simr treatment the first time she walked in here, young and naive.

    Yu Zhen''s face darkened at Representative Wu''s words. The man was young, unwed, and an eligible bachelor.

    Yu Zhen''s mood soured. He opened his mouth, ready to silence his men, but his wife was quicker than that.

    "I wish I can say the same to you," Li Xueyue mused.

    Yet again, she was met with shocked silence. They gawked at her like she was an unidentified species of animal. People had expected her to cower back in embarrassment but she didn''t.

    When she revealed an innocuous smile and batted hershes, a few looked away. She was unfazed by all of them.

    "Well, I am certainly offended," the man joked. "But I will acknowledge your clever taunt."

    He ced a hand upon his chest, revealing his bare fingers. "It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. I am Representative Wu. I''m in charge of agriculture."

    Li Xueyue held back ament about his entirely green robes. She wondered if it was a coincidence.

    Her response was the mere nod of her head.

    Li Xueyue entered the room without another word. She approached the table and was well aware of everyone''s gaze. They were watching. Waiting. Expecting. What would she do now?

    The Crown Princess was full of surprises. Some thought it was pleasant, others though it was rude.

    But then again, she didn''t seem to care.

    Li Xueyue hoped her head wouldn''t shake, but it did. When she picked up the few scrolls that were scattered on the table, her fingers trembled with anxiety. She tried her best not to be intimidated but her heart was uneasy.

    Nheless, she forced herself to focus on the task at hand.

    "Hmmm¡­"?Li Xueyue was able to understand the gist of their argument. It was a petty one.

    "Aw that peasants shouldn''t wear colorful clothing that disguises their rank," she read out loud, her lips curved downwards.

    She lifted her gaze from the scroll. Everyone was looking at her. They wanted to hear her judgement.

    "It''s an interesting idea," shemented.

    Duke Han was instantly impressed with her words. He smiled in agreement, his morale lifting a bit.

    "However," she added on. "It is an unfairw."

    "Only because you''re toopassionate, as most women are," Duke Han retorted with a scoff.

    "Do you pride yourself on being heartless?" Li Xueyue mused with a shake of her head.

    "You¡ª"

    "Riots. Chaos. Uprisings. All of this will happen if we control themoners'' clothing choices," she exined. "If we control their clothes, whates next? Limiting the type of food they eat? Controlling the material they could use to build their houses? Forbidding certain names for their children?"

    "Obviously, I am not suggesting that," Duke Han retorted. "You''re unable to understand things from my perspective. It makes an awful leader. I am beginning to doubt the future of Hanjian if you are to be an Empress."

    Duke Han gestured to the men surrounding him. "Leave the decisions of this country to men, Princess." Duke Han had said the title as if it was a joke.

    "Why don''t you focus on¡­." he trailed off, pretending to ponder his words.

    "Oh, I know! You should concentrate on the type of clothes that women are allowed to wear. Now that it''s summer, many women are wearing lesseryers. With the already well-fitted robes, it is certainly uneptable!" he eximed.

    Li Xueyue wondered what Lu Tianbi had meant when she said women were allowed to freely express their thoughts here. Her attention drifted to the woman in question.

    Lu Tianbi seemed apologetic, but not surprised.

    "Do you prefer that women die from heat strokes then?" Li Xueyue finally said. She settled the scrolls back onto the table.

    Li Xueyue recalled what Yu Zhen had told her. After the "discussion" concludes, every member here would then vote in agreement or disagreement. In theory, it was a fairly simple procedure.

    "I prefer women to have some dignity and pride."

    "We maintain dignity at the cost of health. We lose pride by allowing a country to dictate our clothing," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    She heard a high-pitchedughter. Her attention snapped to Representative Wu who smiled upon meeting her eyes.

    "I must admit your responses are very witty, Princess," heplimented.

    A sharp clear of the throat was heard. His gaze quickly traveled to the Crown Prince whose eyes dripped with murderous intent.

    Representative Wu awkwardlyughed and wiped the smile from his face. He didn''t think the rumors were true. The Crown Prince was in fact, possessive of his wife. It was a funny thought, considering hisck of interest towards everything else in life. No one believed he was capable of caring for something.

    "Duke Han," Yu Zhen finally said. His voice came out in a low rumble. He sounded calm, but not really.

    "You have presented your argument," he said. "And the Round Table has given their opinion."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes met Li Xueyue''s eyes for a brief second before he looked away.

    "Considering the opinions of both sides, it is time toe to a decision," he stated.

    Representative Wu wanted to make anotherment about the fact that the only voice of reason was the Crown Princess. Prior to her arrival, there wasn''t a strong argument for the opposite side, aside from people voicing out their disagreements.

    But he kept his mouth shut. Interrupting the Crown Prince was like asking for a death sentence.

    "All of those in favor of thew, may raise their hands," Yu Zhen stated.

    Only two hands went up, Duke Han''s and another man''s. But the attention wasn''t on them. It was upon the Crown Princess who had fearlessly voiced her opinion. It was a daring decision that would win her an adequate amount of supporters, as well as enemies.

    "The Round Table has spoken." Yu Zhen turned his head to Duke Han. "The suggestion you''ve brought forth is denied."

    Duke Han glowered at the table before stiffly nodding his head.

    Yu Zhen decided to deal with this scuffling ancient tortoiseter. His attention shifted directly to Li Xueyue. A ghost of a smile rested upon his lips. The sight created a sense of uncertainty in the room.

    The Crown Prince never smiled. And if he did, it was for all of the wrong reasons. Suddenly, everyone pitied the Princess. It seemed he didn''t favor her as much as everyone had thought. It was a good thing, for showing too much bias would not be a good thing.

    "Now, does anyone else have other matters to raise about Hanjian''sws?" he asked.

    No one said anything. Especially after Duke Han''s embarrassing defeat to a woman, much less, a Princess meant for decoration.

    In all honesty, this silence wasn''t a surprise. Talks aboutws were rarely initiated. The main discussion was usually about the betterment of Hanjian.

    Everyone was prepared to move on until the Crown Princess spoke up.

    "I do."

 Chapter 373 Loyalty

    <h4>Chapter 373 Loyalty</h4>

    Before anyone else could speak, Li Xueyue unrolled the scroll in her hand. She opened her mouth and continued.

    "After exploring the Capital with the Crown Prince, there are rming matters that were brought to our attention," Li Xueyue stated.

    "Oh?" Representative Wu said with the raise of his brow.

    He leaned forward, curious to hear what she had to say. What amused him the most was how the Crown Prince''s face became gloomier at his small action.

    "I was informed that Hanjian supports themoners a lot better than Wuyi," she began, her eyes surveying the people in the room. They watched her, daring her to object.

    She revealed a smile. "I agree with that aspect."

    Li Xueyue saw the approval in their eyes, but that was expected wasn''t it? Everyone wanted to hear about how great their birth country was.

    Who didn''t? It was best to start on a positive note, then bring forth the issue, and finally end off with anotherpliment so that it would appease them.

    "However, support for themonwealth can be improved," Li Xueyue added on. "For example, if the orphanages received more funding, or if schools were built to keep little boys and girls off the streets."

    "And why exactly should the peasants be educated?" Duke Han retorted. "It is a waste of resources. Thesemoners are stupid. They will think a book is food and ink is a drink."

    "Because these children are the future of our country," Li Xueyue said. "Whether they''re of noble ormon birth or not, they will y a crucial role in shaping the society."

    "Little Princess," Duke Han addressed in a disappointed, yet highly entertained voice. "The people leading the nation for generations toe would be the sons and daughters of high-birth. They are the ones with the necessary qualifications to lead the courts. Not offspring of lowly servants."

    Murmurs of agreement arose with his words. The government was already offering hundreds of new jobs to peasants andmoners. Why should they provide them with more opportunities? It would take up too many resources.

    "Besides," Duke Han said. "What if the peasants rebelled with their newly gained knowledge? Now that they can read and write, surely, they''ll think they''re mighty enough to overthrow the Imperial Family."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "Well, what''s stopping the aristocrats from doing the same thing? You have more wealth, knowledge, and resources to usurp the throne. What is stopping you?"

    Duke Han was taken aback. He didn''t expect such a sharp jab from her. Truthfully, he thought she would sumb under his scrutinizing gaze. The Crown Princessmanded the attention of everyone in this room but that didn''t mean it was all good.

    "Loyalty," he chuckled. "Something that you obviouslyck towards your birth country."

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh, cold and heartless. "Wanting to improve the condition of the country I am supposed to lead in the future doesn''t mean ack of loyalty towards Wuyi."

    She nced at him with a cunning stare. "Where is the loyalty of aristocrats towards the dutiful servants that dress you, take care of your children, feed you, serve you, and heed your every word?"

    Duke Han scoffed. "I pay them. I brought them. They belong to me. Money should be enough to please them."

    "Wouldn''t you want your servants to be morepetent?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "They do not need to be intelligent," Duke Han spat out. "They only need to know how to work their hands and feet."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. Arguing with him was like talking to a wall. This conversation would go nowhere. If one wasn''t open to change, they''d forever counter every suggestion andment.

    "And increasing the funding of orphanages?" Duke Han lightly said, his lips pulling into a sly smile. "Is the most foolish idea I''ve ever heard. We have already given them enough money. Why waste the yearly budget on useless children?"

    "Because it is the country''s duty to take care of their citizens," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "We wouldn''t want a rebellion breaking out, much like what happened in other countries."

    Duke Han narrowed his eyes. "You speak as if you know of a rebellion taking ce. I suppose you do, since you''re¡ª"

    "Enough." The voice was barely above a whisper, yet, it silenced the entire room.

    A storm brewed over the Crown Prince''s head. His eyes burned with fury. He was far from pleased.

    "Insult my wife again, and you won''t have a tongue to do so," Yu Zhen seethed.

    In an instant, Duke Han closed his mouth. He was deeply disappointed with the Crown Prince''s reaction. If the woman decided to fight for her opinions, she should fight alone. How lowly of the Crown Princess to rely on her husband''s powers.

    "I was merely offering my opinions, Your Highness," the Duke said. "I didn''t mean any offense¡ª"

    "You irritate me."

    Duke Han nched at the Crown Prince''s words. When he heard snickers around the room, he awkwardly cleared his throat. It seemed everyone was siding with the Crown Prince today.

    "It wasn''t fair that you hogged the entire discussion with the Crown Princess, Duke Han," Representative Wu stated.

    "I heard from my dear cousin of her wits and have been meaning to engage in a conversation with her. But you continued rebutting everything without taking others into consideration," Representative Wu sighed.

    "How greedy of you, Duke Han," he concluded.

    Duke Han scoffed. "If you want to argue with that stu¡ª" he paused.

    The temperature in the room suddenly dipped.

    Duke Han, despite being triple the age of the Crown Prince, shivered at the frightening sight. The Crown Prince''s expression was deadly. One more word and heads would fly.

    "I-I deeply apologize, Your Highness. It was the slip of the tongue," Duke Han stuttered out. The Crown Prince didn''t have to point out what was wrong as the mere sight of his displeased face was enough.

    When the Crown Prince continued sitting there, his expression growing dimmer, Duke Han panicked. He loosened the cor of his robes.

    "It was just¡ª"

    "Bah, you must not want your tongue." Representative Wu snorted with a wave of his hand. "Just shut up and sit back down. You''re irritating all of us."

    Duke Han scowled at this. With great reluctance, he sat back down, mindful not to make another sound. Everyone had heard the rumors about the Crown Prince. Whether you''re a high aristocrat or not, if you cross him, he would finish you off in a heartbeat. No one was spared. And no one dared to call him a tyrant even if the Crown Prince was worse than that.

    "So," Representative Wu said with a p of his hands. He turned to the Crown Princess and presented her with arge, yful smile.

    "Is that all, Princess? Or do you have more to say?" he asked.

    "Aside from taxes being too high onmoners and the fact that they don''t have a representative from their own ss to speak up for them, I believe I don''t have much to add on," Li Xueyue mused.

    Representative Wu nodded his head. "Well, those are certainly lengthy topics of discussion. But the rule of our discussion is that everyone must have a turn to say something."

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to be informed of that. Yu Zhen had already told her. "Yes, I know."

    "In that case, I''m sure you also know that each member must be given the chance to share any suggestion they have prior to another issue being brought up by the same person."

    Li Xueyue blinked. She had forgotten that one.

    "R-right," she muttered.

    Representative Wu''s smile became more understanding. "Luckily for you, Duke Han has already given his suggestion, so you won''t have to hear his annoying voice for a while now."

    Li Xueyue wryly smiled in response, but didn''t say anything. She wasn''t fond of insulting people who opposed her. Wordlessly, she approached the empty seat beside Yu Zhen and sat down.

    To her surprise, the next person presenting their idea was none other than Representative Wu.

    He stood up, empty-handed.

    Li Xueyue was confused. She thought he would be prepared to give a suggestion or two, since he was the Representative of Agriculture.

    If she remembered correctly, Hanjian''s resources had greatly dwindled because of the war. Many crops were burned to the ground.

    "I don''t have much to say today," Representative Wu began. "Aside from a progress report about the current agriculture situation and a suggestion I had in mind."

    Representative Wu paused for a while before continuing onwards. "As you know, Hanjian''s soil has always been fertile."

    His smile slipped a bit to match the somber mood of his next statement.

    "Even though our crops were badly affected because of the war, new ones are being quickly regrown."

    Then he perked up again. "And by the end of summer, our resources should have a sharp increase!"

    A happy buzz erupted in the room. Many people were happy at the news.

    Li Xueyue as well. With the war called off, wouldn''t that mean soldiers would stop upying the towns? With the increase of resources, then manymoners wouldn''t go as hungry¡­

    "Well, my next suggestion is different from what I initially have in mind," Representative Wu said.

    He made eye-contact with the Crown Princess and grinned. "Our citizens have worked hard to provide housing and food for the soldiers who fought to keep our nation safe. They gave away what little resources they had."

    Representative Wu nced around the room yet again. He tried to read the expression on everyone''s faces but the majority of them were difficult to decipher.

    "As a reward for the citizens'' loyalty to this country, I will have to agree with the Crown Princess. Their taxes should be lowered."

 Chapter 374 Wise Decision

    <h4>Chapter 374 Wise Decision</h4>

    Li Xueyue was stunned by Representative Wu''s support. She suspected it must be because he was rted to Wu Xiang, the Chancellor''s son. Was this Yu Zhen''s doing?

    She frowned at the idea of this. Her eyes briefly jumped to her husband only to notice he was also surprised.

    His brows were raised but he seemed satisfied by this twist of events. There was suspicion brewing within his eyes. It narrowed a secondter, questioning the reason behind Representative Wu''spliance.

    "This is a twist of events..." the Empress trailed off in utter disbelief. She had spoken for the first time since her arrival in this room.

    "Not quite, Your Grace," the Representative refuted. He ced a hand upon his chest, a look of worry on his face.

    "Themoners have done their duty to the country by contributing their scarce resources when they were asked. On top of that they''re also heavily taxed. It would be a wise decision to relieve them by lowering their taxes," he exined.

    The Empress''s attention shifted to the Crown Princess. Was this the Crown Princess''s doing? Perhaps time had changed these people. She recalled the first time she had walked into this room.

    The Empress could barely get a word in, and when she did, it was met with snorts and eye rolls. No one would agree with her suggestions, not even the Emperor himself. Speaking of her husband, he was reaching hisst breath soon.

    "Did the Crown Princess influence you in any way?" the Empress asked with a curl of her lips. She cunningly smiled as doubt danced in her eyes.

    "It''s so strange for you to support someone, Wu Shiming."

    Representative Wu chortled at her words, hisughter filled with amusement. "I recognize a great idea when I see one."

    He shrugged his shoulders. "Besides, I only enjoy bickering with the aging Duke Han. It is so interesting to see him riled up, don''t you think so, Your Grace?"

    The attention shifted to Duke Han who had straightened up upon hearing his name.

    "What did you just say, you rascal?" he demanded, finally realizing what was said.

    Li Xueyue took the opportunity to scan the rest of the room. She noticed Lu Tianbi was seated on the other side of Yu Zhen. The Empress was at the head of the table but she seemed out of ce. Perhaps, that seat was meant for the Emperor¡­

    There were other people in this room she didn''t recognize. She turned her gaze to therge, burly man seated beside her.

    He was dressed in a full set of armor whose sterling silver contrasted with his dark, bushy beard. A scar ran down the side of his cheek.

    When he noticed her curious stare, the man red at her. It was an intimidating stare, one that made soldiers shake in their boots. But she wasn''t a soldier. And neither did she wear boots.

    "Can I help you, little girl?" the man gruffly said. His voice was rough, and strained, like the growl of a bear.

    "You must be a Representative of the Military," she pointed out.

    "Really now? What gave it away? Was it my clothing?" he sarcastically bit out, with a roll of his eyes. He muttered something under his breath and scoffed.

    The man sneered at her, clearly not enjoying her presence. It was the Crown Princess''s first time at the Round Table Discussion and she had already created problems.

    "Best you keep your eyes to yourself¡ª"

    "I can say the same, Commander Han."

    Commander Han''s attention snapped to the Crown Prince. Thetter was half his age, but was twice his strength. Even though Commander Han had more experience on the battlefield with an endless list of achievements, none couldpare to the victories of the young Crown Prince.

    "You should discipline your wife. She stares too much," Commander Han said without hesitation. He was the one who trained the fine soldier in front of him.

    "Don''t be jealous just because you lost one of yours," Yu Zhen calmly said.

    It was then Li Xueyue realized the zed left eye of Commander Han. Now that he had shifted his position, she could see him clearly now. Sure enough, he was blind in one eye.

    "Like my horse," she mumbled.

    "What was that?" Commander Han barked, clearly offended by her words. Did this little girl call him an animal?!

    "My horse, Heiyue," Li Xueyue said. "He is blind in both eyes, but he''s twice the speed of a regr horse of his breed."

    Commander Han wasn''t sure if it was supposed to be apliment or not. She hadpared him to a horse, but a ster one at that. Was she saying that he must''ve been strong, despite his disability?

    Commander Han grumbled to himself. What a strange little girl. She was simr in age as his granddaughter and both of them talked too much.

    "Your words are strange," were his final words before turning back to the discussion at hand.

    Li Xueyue watched as Duke Han continued to go back and forth with Wu Shiming.

    "You rely on nothing but your connections to get your position," Duke Han angrily pointed out.

    "Hah! You should look at yourself, you old geezer," Wu Shiming taunted with a smirk.

    "But you agree then," Duke Han concluded.

    "So did you," Wu Shiming pointed out.

    Li Xueyue didn''t think the Round Table Discussion would go on like this. She thought it would be more formal. She had expectations that everyone would speak politely to each other, with asional jabs here and there. But this? It was like watching children fight over a toy.

    "Are they always like this?" she whispered to Yu Zhen. Subconsciously, she leaned towards him.

    Yu Zhen smiled at the small action. It disappeared a secondter. He preferred not to reveal his thoughts and feelings here. Nheless, he grabbed her hand under the table.

    "Yes, Wu Shiming always picks a fight with Duke Han even though thetter is old enough to be his father."

    "Oh, why do they argue like this?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Yu Zhen turned to look at her. Unfortunately, she was too engrossed in the discussion, rather than him. He frowned at this.

    "Well?" Li Xueyue said when he didn''t respond.

    Yet again, she was met with silence.

    Li Xueyue shifted her head to see he was ring at her. Was he¡­ sulking??She couldn''t tell.

    "What''s wrong?" she whispered. "Did I present badly? I thought I did great¡ª"

    "You should look at me. And no one else."

    Li Xueyue''s brows came together in confusion. She didn''t understand the intent behind his words.

    "That is very possessive of you," she said.

    "I don''t care."

    Before Li Xueyue could say anything else, a bang was heard. She was startled by the abrupt noise. But it was just the sound of a hand pping the table.

    "Oh give it a rest! Just because I offended your uncle one time, you love to nitpick at everything," Duke Han hissed. "Besides, the Chancellor is your uncle, not your father."

    Wu Shiming red at the Duke. "Do youck that much family honor to not care about those who share your family name?"

    "You brat¡ª"

    "Quiet down," Yu Zhen snapped.

    Instantly, both parties mped their mouths shut. They weren''t surprised to see his usual glower. There was a permanent frown on the Crown Prince''s face. He never seemed pleased.

    "Crown Princess," Yu Zhen addressed, catching her off-guard. "You have presented your suggestion for further funding the orphanage and creating schools for children."

    She nodded.

    "Those in favor of the suggestion, raise your hands."

    Li Xueyue turned to them, hoping that her efforts paid off. Unfortunately for her, Duke Han had presented more valid points. Those who supported her were outnumbered by those who didn''t.

    "The Round Table has spoken. Your suggestion is denied."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head again. For odd reasons, she wasn''t disappointed. As a matter of fact, it made her more passionate. The next time she woulde in here, she wouldn''t make the same mistakes again.

    "You''ve also brought forth another suggestion that was supported by Representative Wu," Yu Zhen stated.

    "Those in favor of lowering tax imposed on Commoners, raise your hands."

    There was a moment of hesitation before hands eventually went up. It was an event that shocked Lu Tianbi and the Empress who had also supported this decision. It was the Crown Princess''s first time here and she had sessfully gotten her suggestion approved.

    Nothing like this had happened before.

    Despite that, Li Xueyue didn''t im the full victory. She had the help of someone else, whether she wanted it or not.

    "The Round Table has spoken. The suggestion is approved, and will be in effect soon."

    Li Xueyue could hear the pride in Yu Zhen''s voice. He was proud of her. But she was an overachiever. Getting one out of three suggestions approved wasn''t the oue that she had in mind.

 Chapter 375 Run Away

    <h4>Chapter 375 Run Away</h4>

    A few other suggestions were approved, though a majority?of them were denied, but that seemed to be the norm especially when the group was big¡ªit wasn''t easy to get the support of everyone.

    The entire time, Li Xueyue was observing the tactics being employed by these people. It wasn''t that she wanted to learn from them or copy their methods¡ªshe was just curious.

    Once the meeting was concluded, everyone left without another nce towards each other. It wasn''t difficult to see that the rtionships formed amongst the people in this group were strictly business and nothing more.

    Li Xueyue was heading down the hallway in the opposite direction of the meeting room when she felt a presence behind her. Before she could turn around, he was already in her line of sight.

    "Yu Zhen," she mused, knowing it was him before she even saw him.

    "You could''ve waited for me Sunshine," he said.

    "I wanted to wait around the corner where there is more privacy."

    Yu Zhen smirked at her words. He grasped her chin and pulled her close. "Privacy to do what?"

    "Talk."

    His thumb brushed her jaw. "Just talking?" he teased.

    Li Xueyue tried to look away from him. His eyes were too alluring. It mirrored his emotions, darkening with desire.

    "Preferably not," she said, catching him off guard.

    Yu Zhen let out a deep chuckle. He wrapped an arm around her and took a step towards her.

    "I went easy on you yesterday night," he whispered, brushing his lips against her mouth.

    "So you''d have the energy to walk." Yu Zhen caressed her cheek with the back of his finger. Hershes fluttered at his words, remembering the passion they sharedst night.

    Her palms rested on his chest, her fingers gripping his robes in anticipation.

    "Let''s change that," he murmured. His voice dripped of sinful promises, all of which, she''d dly ept.

    Yu Zhen captured her lips. Before she could protest, he deepened the kiss.

    Li Xueyue''s lower stomach clenched with familiarity. His fingers dug into her waist when he kissed her harder. Not a secondter, his lips were skimming the side of her jawline. Her eyes widened in surprise as realization sank in.

    They were in public.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "I know."

    Yu Zhen lifted his head away from her neck. He was amused by her high cors which evidently hid one of his marks.

    "You look lovely today," he said whilst adjusting her hair in ce. It didn''t matter to him but it certainly did to her. It was enough reason for him to soothe her racing heart.

    "It''s not too simple?" she asked.

    "No." Yu Zhen shook his head. "It is the perfect bnce between grace and wealth."

    "I was hoping for that look," Li Xueyue stated. "So that it wouldn''t give anyone the wrong impression."

    "Many were in awe of your performance, Sunshine. You did very well," he reassured.

    Li Xueyue was conflicted. With how critical everyone''s statement was, she began to doubt his words.

    "Trust me," he said whilst lifting her chin. She was forced to meet his burning gaze.

    "They''re usually a lot worse than today. Silence rarely happens, but it urred on more than one asion with you."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "I thought they were quiet because they didn''t like my suggestions."

    "Nonsense. Everyone was caught off guard by you."

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but trust his words. She knew he was kind to her, but he wasn''t the type to lie for false reassurance.

    "Now," he whispered, bringing her fingers to his lips. "Let''s finish what we started."

    - - - - -

    They had barely made it past the doors before his lips were onto hers again. She stumbled on her footing but he caught her with ease.

    "I-in the afternoon?" she whispered when he pulled her dress lower, revealing her neck. His kisses trailed a path from her jaw down to her corbone.

    Li Xueyue felt hazy. She couldn''t think straight as his mouth and tongue worked magic upon her skin. Her breath hitched when his teeth grazed a sensitive part on her shoulder.

    "And night time," he promised.

    That wasn''t what she meant, and they both knew it.

    Yu Zhen lowered her onto the bed. Before she could say anything, he captured her mouth again. His hand wove into her hair, fingers spread when he gripped her head. He angled her neck, deepening the kiss.

    Li Xueyue stifled a moan when his fingers slipped underneath her dress. He softly touched her thigh, purposely teasing the skin. His featherlight touch was ticklish, but ignited a fire within her.

    "Don''t hide that sound from me."

    She couldn''t respond. A gasp left her mouth when he inserted a finger. She clenched, but he inserted another finger and her hand flew to cover her mouth.

    "You love to disobey me, don''t you?" Yu Zhen murmured, grabbing her wrist. He pressed it onto the bed and curled his fingers, pressing inside of her before picking up speed.

    "N-no¡­ I just¡­" She moaned when his mouth was upon her neck again. He smiled against her skin, enjoying the sight of her breathless pants.

    His mouth, hot and wet, trailed to her chest still covered by her clothes. With one yank, she was exposed before him. Her eyes shot open and he inserted another finger.

    Li Xueyue writhed underneath him. Her hips moved on its own. It rolled against his fingers as it entered her deeper. She felt a familiar ache in her lower region. His movements were merciless, much like his wandering mouth.

    It didn''t take long for her to see stars. Her eyes rolled back. Her back arched.

    Li Xueyue''s body tensed as ecstasy rushed through her. She let out a shaky breath, slowlying down from the high.

    "Good girl."

    Through her hazy vision, she saw him bring his fingers to his mouth. Her heart skipped when he licked it.

    "Sweet like honey."

    Li Xueyue flushed at his words. He didn''t give her time to react before diving back down for more. But she was surprised when he flipped their position.

    Confusion filled her. She was now on top of him, her knees straddling either side of hisrge, powerful body. She rested her palms against his chest.

    "Ride me."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. She was nervous. This was all too new for her. But he didn''t seem to mind. His hand gripped her hip whilst the other traveled up her thighs.

    Yu Zhen enjoyed this sight of her. Her hair cascaded down her back, a few strands escaping forward. He could see her clearly. Her flushed face enthralled him, much like her reddened lips. She was glorious. Every adjective of beautiful was meant to describe her.

    He didn''t think such a cliche thought would run through his mind, but it did.

    "Will you teach me?"

    Yu Zhen''s heart trembled at her voice. She stared down at him with wide, curious eyes. She looked too innocent for her own good. He felt an urge to take control of her instead of giving this leverage.

    "Do as you please. Whatever feels right," he reassured.

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to hear anything else. She parted his robes until her hand rested upon his bare chest.

    Li Xueyue removed his clothes. He lifted his shoulders to slide it off of him. And before she could run away, he captured her hips. Yet again, she straddled him, but this time, there wasn''t a barrier.

    Yu Zhen''s mouth went dry. Layers of her clothes had slipped off her shoulders. It pooled at her arms and waist. Her breasts were revealed. He reached up to caress it, but she caught him by surprise.

    "You''re only allowed to watch."

    What?

    Yu Zhen stared in surprise when she pushed his arms onto the bed. She raised her hips and eased herself upon him.

    Li Xueyue remembered thest time they were in this position, he was in charge. This time, she wanted to be the one who leads. Before he could say anything, he was inside of her. She could feel his length, pulsating and warm, much like the heat pooling in her stomach.

    Confidence burst forth within her when he sucked in a raspy breath. "Sunshine, you¡ª"

    Li Xueyue slowly rolled her hips forward, testing the waters. He squeezed his eyes shut, lost in the pleasurable sensation. He was being tortured by her slow movements until?she abruptly swirled her hips and increased speed.

    Yu Zhen grunted in pleasure, agreeing with whatever she was doing. "Goodness, what are you doing to me?" he breathed out as his body burned to control her.

    Li Xueyue drove him insane. She would ride him at an adequate speed until he couldn''t breathe. Each time he was near, she would slow down, forcing him to match her rhythm.

    "That''s it," he growled.

    In an instant, he grabbed her hips and brought her down onto him. She couldn''t help the moan that escaped as he lifted his waist and thrust forward.

    "T-this is unfair¡­!" She couldn''t finish her sentence when he flipped them around.

    Yu Zhen had his way with her. He thrust deeply into her, fast and rough, but it was what she loved. She struggled to say something, her breathsing out in pants.

    Li Xueyue''s heart lurched when he grabbed the headboard above her. His muscr arms flexed. She couldn''t even think straight now. He pumped faster into her until her legs buckled and rose on its own. Her back arched off the bed.

    Yet again, she reached an ecstasy that only he could give her. And when she came tumbling down, her mind was in shambles.

    "You damn brute¡­" she said.

    Yu Zhenid beside her andughed. "You shouldn''t have teased me, Sunshine."

    "I only wanted to torture you," she innocently said.

    Yu Zhen smirked at her words. He brought her closer, wrapping his arms around her body. He held her tenderly.

    "Trust me, Sunshine. Everything you do to me is torture as it is."

 Chapter 376 Disrespect The Imperial Family

    <h4>Chapter 376 Disrespect The Imperial Family</h4>

    The next morning eventually rolled around. After a breakfast shared with Yu Zhen, Li Xueyue decided to take a stroll in the pce in search of a private space to practice archery.

    As promised, Yu Zhen had ordered a set of weapons for her, all of which would be delivered soon. Before that, she wanted to find the perfect spot to train.

    "Is it this way?" Li Xueyue questioned one of the maidservants who was trailing behind her.

    "Yes, Princess. It is said there is a private training ground located at the side of the pce."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head and continued walking in that direction. She stopped before an enormous door withrge and tall fences surrounding it. There were guards stationed outside.

    "Crown Princess," they greeted with bowed heads.

    The ground slightly rumbled when the door slowly opened for her.

    Li Xueyue was astonished by the sheer size of this ce. The ground was even and the wind was blocked off by the fences despite?it being an open space.

    ''Howe I''ve never heard of this ce before?'' she thought to herself whilst walking through the small passage leading to the training ground.

    It was then she heard the familiar whizz of an arrow. Li Xueyue made it out of the passage in time to see the arrow strike the target¡ªexcept, it was a little bit off the center mark.

    "That was impressive," Li Xueyue couldn''t help but said. She turned her head, wondering who had such a good hand.

    To her bewilderment, it was Lady Ge Beining. Unlike most archers, she was wearing her regr hanfu. It appeared lighter than the normal attire, but nheless, there were still long, dangling sleeves. The bottom of her skirts fluttered when she turned around to see who it was that spoke.

    "Oh, Crown Princess," Lady Ge Beining said with a smile. She curtsied in greeting.

    "I didn''t know you were also skilled in archery," Li Xueyue mused.

    "I didn''t think you practiced archery either, Princess," Lady Ge Beiningmented. Her voice was airy, almost as if she was always breathless.

    She ced a hand upon her chest. "Pardon me, but I had always thought Wuyi women were too¡­ docile to lift a weapon."

    Li Xueyue heard the hesitation in Lady Ge Beining''s voice. It was apparent that another word could be uttered in ce of ''docile''.

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond. She simply smiled and nced around. She tucked her arms behind her and began to freely explore this ce. Out of the corner of her eye, something caught her attention.

    It was a heavily guarded tent.

    "Ah, Princess, you shouldn''t approach that area," Lady Ge Beining said upon realizing the Crown Princess was heading towards the forbidden area.

    "Why not?" Li Xueyue called back whilst continuing onwards. She was curious about what could be inside such a ce.

    Lady Ge Beining opened her mouth but hesitated. The Crown Princess was already close to the tent. There was no point in warning her anymore. She saw no benefit in arguing with the Princess.

    Thus, Lady Ge Beining stood to the side, watching with a frown. The same expression formed on the Crown Princess''s face.

    "I warned you," Lady Ge Beining softly said under her breath, knowing what was toe. Perhaps the Princess deserved it for not heeding caution.

    Lady Ge Beining''s frown deepened when she saw the Crown Princess searching her pockets for something.

    "How stubborn," she grumbled before shaking her head in disappointment. Just another spoiled Princess, that was all.

    Lady Ge Beining had seen her fair share of people on imaginary high horses. They believed their authority could grant them any wish.

    "Well, it''s not my concern," she added on.

    Lady Ge Beining reached into the quiver slung across her back. She pulled out an arrow and positioned it. However, she was distracted by the sound of shuffling clothes. Or was it¡­ the shuffling of curtains?

    She lowered her bow and arrow. A peculiar sight happened. The Crown Princess was gone. And the guards? They continued to bow their heads in respect even after the Crown Princess was no longer in sight.

    - - - - -

    "Oh my," Li Xueyue breathed out upon seeing the impressive collection of weapons. The tent was muchrger than it seemed.

    "Now I know why there was more than one guard stationed at either side of this tent."

    Li Xueyue ran her fingers upon a bow made of wood and gold. There was an enormous ruby embellished on either side of the bow''s arch. The jewel was shaped to resemble mes. Without a doubt, when sunlight pierced the equipment, the gem would give the illusion of fire.

    "This should be stored elsewhere instead," she wondered out loud. It was?unwise to have something so expensive out in the open, even if the tent was guarded.

    "How pretty," sheplimented whilst lifting one of the arrows. She ran a hand over the red feather trimmed with yellow and orange. This too, would give an illusion of trailzing mes.

    Li Xueyue wondered if the bow would be heavy. She picked it up and examined it, and was surprised by how light it was.

    "Hmmm, I wonder how¡ª"

    "Princess!"

    Li Xueyue nced back and noticed a figure standing near the entrance of the tent. She pressed her lips together, knowing whose voice it was.

    With the bow still in hand, Li Xueyue headed towards the entrance of the tent. Lady Ge Beining was standing there with a concerned expression.

    "It is dangerous, Princess," she said. "If the Crown Prince finds out you''ve trespassed into this ce, he will not spare you."

    Li Xueyue shrugged at her words. What was the most that Yu Zhen would do? Punish her in bed? She''d look forward to it.

    "Please, return to the training grounds with me," Lady Ge Beining warned. "You mustn''t disrespect the Imperial Family like this¡­" she trailed off.

    Lady Ge Beining sharply gasped. She finally noticed the weapon in the Crown Princess''s hand.

    "Oh no!" Lady Ge Beining eximed, stepping forward, only to be blocked off by the guards.

    "Halt! Not another step!" they barked out.

    Lady Ge Beining was irritated by them. No one would stop her if the Crown Prince was here. He''d let her do as she pleased. But he wasn''t here right now, was he?

    "You should put that back, Princess!" Lady Ge Beining exasperated, her eyes wide with fear. She shook her head to emphasize her point.

    "What gives you the right tomand me around?" Li Xueyue finally said. She was disgruntled to hear the scolding.

    "What do you mean, Princess...?" Lady Ge Beining trailed off. "All I''m saying is that the Crown Prince will not take this offense lightly. Not everyone is out to harm you, Princess."

    Li Xueyue ignored her words. It seemed the Lady was as stubborn as her. It wasn''t rude, neither was it polite.

    Li Xueyue returned deeper into the tent. She heard the aggravated sighs of Lady Ge Beining. Oh well.

    "Let''s see¡­" she trailed off, attempting to remember where she found the bow.

    Upon seeing the fiery arrows at a corner, she approached it. Li Xueyue then hung the bow in the way that it was found.

    "The guards mentioned this is Yu Zhen''s private tent," Li Xueyue mumbled. "But this bow is too small for his frame."

    Nheless, Li Xueyue shrugged her shoulders and continued exploring the tent, observing the various weapons around. Everything here was mainly designed for airbat. For example, throwing spears made from exotic materials, boomerangs crafted from the lightest wood, and the list went on.

    "He sure is a fan of weapons," shemented. Everything here must''ve cost a fortune. Perhaps, enough to buy out a small kingdom.

    All of that wealth could''ve gone towards funding themon people...

 Chapter 377 First Achievemen

    <h4>Chapter 377 First Achievemen</h4>

    Li Xueyue wondered about the possibility of privately funding the orphanage herself, or perhaps, opening schools on her own. But it would be a difficult task.

    The best way to go about this was to raise the issue before the Round Table again via a different approach.

    "I should be thinking about my next n," she sighed. "Instead of standing here and admiring weapons."

    Li Xueyue abandoned the tent and went outside. She wasn''t surprised to see Lady Ge Beining had disappeared from this guarded part of the training ground. A simple nce to the right told Li Xueyue that Ge Beining hadn''t left yet.

    Lady Ge Beining was still training diligently. She carefully lifted the arrow, set it against the bow, and aimed.

    She pulled the strings, her eyes focused on the target straight ahead. Without warning, she unleashed the arrow. It pierced through the target,nding straight in the center.

    Arge smile formed on Lady Ge Beining''s face. She shyly nced at the ground, feeling proud of herself.

    ''It would be difficult not to fall in love with her,'' Li Xueyue thought to herself. She noticed the guards visibly tensed up, obviously thinking the same thing.

    Lady Ge Beining was practically all alone, except for her maidservants who lined the walls. She was a daisy swaying in the wind, blooming for no one else but herself.

    "You''ve finally hit the center, Lady Ge," Li Xueyue said with a p of her hand.?There were multiple arrows that almost hit the red dot but didn''t.

    "Yes, Princess. It took a few tries." Lady Ge Beiningughed it off. "It seems my skills have gone rusty from neglect."

    Li Xueyue was worried that the same thing would happen to her. It had been a few weeks since she lifted a bow and arrow. And she couldn''t even remember thest time she picked up a sword. It had truly been too long.

    "Princess, I''ve spent so much time learning so many other things, I''ve neglected my true hobbies," Lady Ge Beining said. She turned to face the Princess.

    Lady Ge Beining grasped another arrow from the quiver and set it in position with lowered hands. "Well, it''s not bad to have more than one interest right, Princess?"

    Something about her wording felt off. Li Xueyue went on high-alert, her shoulders tensed up.

    "Too many hobbies will dull your passion." Li Xueyue noticed another set of bow and arrows lying on the table beside Lady Ge Beining. It seemed she was testing the different?bows to see which suited her best.

    Lady Ge Beining lifted the bow, her hands set in position. "Indeed, but having a variety of interests will stimte your life a lot more."

    Lady Ge Beining released the arrow. It whirled through the air, spinning with speed. In an instant, the object pierced the left side of the red dot. It had grazed the arrow stuck in the center. She shifted her chin in the Crown Princess''s direction.

    "Too much of something is never good." Li Xueyue picked up the bow, testing its strings. She picked up a spare arrow from the table.

    "Of course, Princess," Lady Ge Beining softly said. "Reality is cruel. It is unfair that we can''t enjoy everything in life."

    Li Xueyue chuckled at this. She set the arrow against the bow and angled her elbow. "If everything makes us happy, then people will crave sorrow."

    Lady Ge Beining''s lips twitched. When they told her the Crown Princess was intelligent, she didn''t think the woman was also philosophical. She despised how arrogant the Princess sounded. Women should be humble and poise. Showing off is meant for men.

    "Life would be boring if we didn''t have many hobbies," Lady Ge Beining chided. "Imagine honing a skill so much that it''s perfected. What now? Should we continue to practice it, again and again just to remember it?"

    Li Xueyue felt like the conversation was getting out of hand. She didn''t feel like responding. She pulled the string back, ready to fire the arrow when Lady Ge Beining suddenly spoke up.

    "I heard something interesting today," Lady Ge Beining said. She lowered her voice and approached the Crown Princess. To her surprise, guards instantly came forward, blocking her path with crossed swords.

    "Under the Crown Prince''s orders, no one shall touch the Crown Princess."

    Li Xueyue was surprised by this. The guards were never this protective of her. What changed Yu Zhen''s mind? Was it after yesterday''s discussion? She guessed he was worried she had made too many enemies.

    "I merely wanted to have small talk with the Crown Princess," Lady Ge Beining softly said. "Lady tody."

    Li Xueyue saw the effect that Lady Ge Beining had on men. Her beautiful face reminded people of an innocent bunny perched upon a soft mound of grass. She was harmless and endearing, her eyes wide with curiosity.

    "You must pardon them," Li Xueyue chuckled. "Yu Zhen is quite protective of me.??

    Lady Ge Beining''s lips twitched at the mention of him. She had rarely heard anyone call him by his full name, much less, with this much ease. The words rolled off of Li Xueyue''s tongue as if she had always called him that.

    The Crown Prince''s name was sacred. Only his parents were allowed to say it. And even then, they used it sparingly.

    "Do not fret, Princess. I understand you meant no harm," Lady Ge Beining concluded. "If my husband was from Wuyi, I''d do everything in my power to keep him safe as well."

    Li Xueyue''s gaze sharpened. Yet another stereotype about Wuyi. Just when would they stop? It was the judgement she''d have to face again and again, as a foreign Princess.

    "Some things are too precious to lose," Lady Ge Beining added on, upon seeing the displeasure on the Crown Princess''s face. She didn''t think someone so wise would be angered that easily. Well, she supposed not everyone can be as perfect as her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t respond to Lady Ge Beining. She didn''t see the need to. Silence would force Lady Ge Beining to rethink her words. Of course, this method would only work if the opponent had doubts about their thoughts.

    From the looks of Lady Ge Beining''s unfazed expression, it seemed she didn''t mind.

    "Oh, that isn''t the right position for a bullseye, Princess," Lady Ge Beining gently pointed out. She came forward again, hoping to show the Princess the proper posture.

    "I''d understand the posture is difficult to memorize. I hear Wuyi doesn''t encourage women to excel in?sports, Princess." Lady Ge Beining nced at the guards who continuously looked her way.

    "Let her through," Li Xueyue said.

    Simultaneously, the guards stepped aside. Lady Ge Beining was finally given the perfect view of the Crown Princess.

    Lady Ge Beining was all smiles again. She took a rxed step in the Princess''s direction. "Here, let me guide you, Princess¡ª"

    Lady Ge Beining didn??t get to finish her sentence. The Crown Princess had released her arrow.

    Everything happened too quickly. One minute the arrow was flying through the air, and the next, a crack was heard. Following after it was the sound of wood splitting into two.

    The Crown Princess''s arrow had struck the center, going through Lady Ge Beining''s first achievement of the day.

 Chapter 378 Escaped

    <h4>Chapter 378 Escaped</h4>

    Lady Ge Beining didn''t know what else to say. She took a hesitant step backward, suddenly feeling the desire to be somece else. She no longer felt weed, especially because of the uncooperative Princess.

    Lady Ge Beining was also raised in the Imperial Pce. She had every reason to be spoiled, but wasn''t.

    Instead, she prided herself on elegance and grace, everything that the Crown Princess was rumored to possess. For some reason, Lady Ge Beining couldn''t see it.

    In her eyes, the Crown Princess was too confident of herself.

    "Well done, Princess," Lady Ge Beining finally managed to say.

    "Beginner''s luck," Li Xueyueughed off. She realized too much showing off wasn''t any good. For a split second, her pride had gotten the best of her.

    Li Xueyue lifted another arrow and set it into ce. She adjusted her elbow to the same angle that Lady Ge Beining had criticized earlier. Except, she aimed significantly to one side, though it wouldn''t seem that way to the naked eye.

    Li Xueyue pulled the arrow back until the string reached its limit. She yanked harder and tilted her body, purposely making beginner mistakes. Her body went tense, as her knuckles turned white from the tight grip.

    Finally, Li Xueyue let the arrow fly. It started off strong, butnded weakly to the ground, directly under the center dot.

    "Oh dear¡­" Lady Ge Beining murmured. She ced a pitiful hand upon her chest and offered the Princess a smile.

    "Perhaps the wind isn''t to your favor," Lady Ge Beining pointed out. Her tone was sympathetic.

    Li Xueyue let out a soft, pitiful sigh. "Seems so¡­ Let me try again."

    Lady Ge Beining nodded her head. Maybe this would be the Crown Princess''s redeeming shot. She patiently stood by the sidelines and watched as the Princess loaded another arrow. This time, the arrow flew above the target before hitting the ground.

    "Well, this is no fun," Li Xueyueined.

    Lady Ge Beining struggled to conceal her widening smile. She pulled her brows together and came forward.

    "Shall I pray for the same luck to happen, Princess?" she asked.

    Lady Ge Beining was suspicious of the Crown Princess. Her posture was exactly the same as when she managed to hit the bullseye earlier, but why was she making so many mistakes now? Was it truly beginner''s luck?

    "No need."

    The Crown Princess sullenly ced the bow onto the table, a bit too hard that there was a thud. Irritation shed in her eyes as she turned to face Lady Ge Beining.

    "It is time for my afternoon meal with the Crown Prince."

    Lady Ge Beining''s smile nearly slipped. She forced herself to nod her head, holding back a stutter.

    "I hope you enjoy the meal, Princess. If you ever need someone to practice with, please allow me to volunteer for such an opportunity," she said.

    The Crown Princess nodded her head. Disappointment was written all over her face. "I''ll consider your thoughtful offer."

    Lady Ge Beining lifted the side of her dress and lowered her legs into another curtsy. She bid the Princess goodbye, watching as her small silhouette disappeared into the distance.

    Finally, she let out a sigh of relief. Without the watchful eyes of a higher up, Lady Ge Beining could finally practice in peace.

    "How tiresome," was the only thing she said before lifting her bow.

    Unfortunately, with the Crown Princess''s?interruption, Lady Ge Beining was no longer in the mood to practice. She warily nced at the arrow that pierced through hers. The corner of her lips curved down.

    "Beginner''s luck¡­" she trailed off, pondering over the Crown Princess''s words.

    "Why do I doubt that?" Lady Ge Beining asked herself. She vaguely recalled the Princess''s words.

    "I didn''t know you were also skilled in archery," were the Crown Princess''s exact words.

    Lady Ge Beining touched her bottom lip, lost in thought. Was the Crown Princess pretending to be weak? What for?

    She couldn''t wrap her mind around such stupidity. It was better toe off as a strong woman, especially if one was meant to rule this nation.

    ''This is a warning sign that should be brought to the Empress''s awareness¡­ It will be pitiful if the Crown Princess can''t even master such a useful skill.''

    Lady Ge Beining nodded in satisfaction. The Empress was always curious about rumors surrounding the Princess. Any new pieces of information were greatly weed.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue slipped behind a pir and hid there. It didn''t give her a decent view of the entrance of the training grounds, but it was close enough for her to keep a lookout. She waited for a few minutes. Just then, a familiar tremor shook the ground..

    Someone had exited the training grounds.

    Li Xueyue didn''t need to look. She already knew who it was. A small smile formed. Everything should go ording to the n.

    Without another word, she disappeared down the hallways. It was time to take a small tour of Yu Zhen''s estate. Well, it also belonged to her, but it felt weird saying that.

    "I heard the Crown Prince''s estate is quiterge," Li Xueyue remarked to one of the maidservants.

    "Are you familiar with his estate''syout?" she asked.

    The maidservant became anxious. She bowed her head to the ground, her shoulders shaking. "T-this servant apologizes, Princess, but she does not know. There was never an opportunity to serve him."

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. That was fine. It would make the exploration even more fun. After walking for a bit, she finally reached his estate. As usual, it was quiet and peaceful here.

    It seemed Yu Zhen wasn''t fond of flowers. In its ce were white pebbles neatly arranged on the ground. Small, wooden structures like miniature houses andnterns were strategically ced. Bamboo stalks were neatly trimmed and grew in favorable ces.

    ''It''s rxing here,'' she thought to herself whilst touching the leaf of a bamboo.

    Li Xueyue noticed a bridge leading to a spot she had never seen before. Curiosity got the best of her, as she set foot on the wooden path.

    She peered over the edges, noticing a long stream of water. It was a man-made river, going from one end of the estate to the other. Fishes of different breeds could be seen, swimming about. It was a beautiful sight of white, red, orange, and ck.

    "The view here is a lot better than most," Li Xueyue said to herself. She was appreciative of the estate''s beauty, a contrast to the rest of the Imperial Pce.

    Li Xueyue was bored with the flowery gardens. They came in all shapes and sizes, but eventually, everything looked the same.

    Despite the grandeur of the Crown Prince''s estate, there were soft touches of nature in the form of?wooden structures and bamboo. She was appreciative of the greenery found within this part of the pce.

    Yu Zhen''s estate was much more tranquil. The air here felt different. To her, the air was crisp and cool. But to others, it was chilly and dreary. Of course, it would be, considering the man who resided here.

    "I wonder where this leads to," Li Xueyue said to her maidservant who nodded in agreement. She crossed the bridge and heard a slightmotion.

    What was going on?

    ''I sure love to get into sticky situations,'' Li Xueyue thought to herself. Without hesitation, she directly headed in the direction of the noise. Sure enough, she understood the cause of it.

    A tiger was roaming about. His strut was filled with pride. His coat of fur glistened under the sun, a healthy sheen upon him. One thing that stood out the most was the broken chain he was dragging along on the floor.

    Xiao Juzi had escaped from his cage.

 Chapter 379 Bite

    <h4>Chapter 379 Bite</h4>

    Li Xueyue abruptly halted. She averted her eyes and walked the other direction, pretending not to see Xiao Juzi. Maybe if she ignored the tiger, it''d leave her alone. Besides, there was no way he''d recognize her. Right?

    Wrong.

    A small growl could be heard. Xiao Juzi warned her not to take another step away from him.

    Li Xueyue groaned inside of her head. His instincts were sharp, much like his Master. She turned her chin and nced back.

    Hisrge, golden eyes watched her, curiosity written all over his intimidating face. His tail swished back and forth, indicating the good mood he was in.

    "Shoo, shoo," she muttered, fluttering her hand at him.

    Xiao Juzi came forward, thinking it was a beckoning call. He recognized the scent. This human smelled like his Master. Without a doubt, she''d know where he was.

    "No, go away," Li Xueyue huffed, irritated that he was approaching her. "I won''t taste good."

    Xiao Juzi scoffed. As if he''d eat low quality meat.

    Li Xueyue pulled her dress back when Xiao Juzi sniffed at it. He stopped directly in front of her. She took a step back, wondering if outrunning a tiger was possible. It obviously wasn''t. He bared his teeth and growled. Xiao Juzi was frustrated.

    She cursed his name. It sounded so adorable. Little tangerine.

    How ironic for Yu Zhen to name Xiao Juzi that. The tiger was anything but little. He wasrger than his average peer.

    "How did you even break your chain?" Li Xueyue asked, despite the quickening of her heartbeat. He didn''t seem pleased by her, but he wouldn''t eat her, right? Surely, she wasn''t attacking him.

    Li Xueyue was pretty sure that predators like Xiao Juzi only attacked herbivores¡­ Hopefully.

    "Stay put!" Li Xueyue groaned when Xiao Juzi walked towards her. He was so close that her dress swayed a little when he breathed out.

    "P-Princess¡­" her maidservants weakily said. "S-shall we call for the Crown Prince?"

    Just then, Xiao Juzi''s face became more vicious. He let out a roar and leaped forward, scaring the living daylights out of everyone.

    Li Xueyue gasped as she shielded herself with her arms in fear. But he didn''t attack her. Instead, he lunged at the soldiers behind her. They had raised their swords.

    "No, no, don''t eat my guards!" Li Xueyue cried out in horror as a man tumbled onto the floor. He came face to face with Xiao Juzi who had him pinned to the ground.

    "Who even keeps a tiger as a pet?!" Li Xueyue loudlyined, not sure what to do. She could only stand there and watch as Xiao Juzi suddenly lifted his head. He sniffed the air, a familiar scent reaching him.

    "G-good¡­tiger?" she stuttered out, wondering if her words did anything.

    Xiao Juzi continued to visibly sniff around, his nose high in the air. He detected something.

    Li Xueyue nced around her, realizing exactly why Xiao Juzi had attacked the guards. They had unsheathed their swords and came prepared to kill.

    "Lower your weapons," she instructed them, despite her shaky voice. "The tiger won''t hurt us if we don''t hurt him."

    The guards were hesitant. They nced at each other, worried about the safety of their Princess. Nheless, the swords were ced back into its sheath. Many of the maidservants were severely impressed by the Crown Princess, especially the onlookers who gawked at her.

    No one could make this beast behave. Except the Crown Prince himself. Many people believed his intimidating aura was the cause of the tiger''s obedience.

    But the Crown Princess had a soft, gentle aura. It was awespring and confusing at the same time. How exactly did she manage to tame this beast?!

    "See, we''re harmless," Li Xueyue informed Xiao Juzi.

    Hisrge frame was still pinning the fallen guard to the ground. By now, the poor soldier had already passed out from shock.

    However, Xiao Juzi''s attention was no longer on keeping her safe. He had spotted a familiar figure in the near distance. He attentively stared as the shadow approached. Tall, powerful, and intimidating, his Master had presented himself.

    "This is the third time you''ve done this."

    Li Xueyue heard the shuffle of clothes as servants quickly lowered themselves in greeting. They bowed before the Crown Prince who stood behind the Princess. He brushed past her and stopped before the tiger.

    She was horrified to see Yu Zhen sternly reach a hand out and touched the broken chain.

    "How did you even break the metal?" he murmured, curious about the strength of the tiger.

    "It''s flimsy," Li Xueyue responded, peering over his arm. She hid behind him, one hand upon his bicep to steady herself.

    Yu Zhen''s lips twitched in amusement. He wondered what she''d do if he took a step to the side. Almost as if she knew what he was thinking, Li Xueyue''s fingers dug into his clothes. She clung onto him.

    "Maybe if you don''t keep him locked up and put him in a secured ce to roam freely, he wouldn''t feel trapped."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. She was criticizing his behavior as a Master whilst hiding behind him? What a ssic move.

    "Xiao Juzi has an enormous yard to roam around in. The chain is long enough for him to do as he pleases without exiting the fences."

    "The chain might be too ufortable," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    "Why don''t you say it to my face?"

    Li Xueyue red at hisrge shoulders whilst tightly clutching his clothes. This brute loved to tease her, didn''t he?

    "You know why," she retorted.

    "Xiao Juzi will not bite you."

    "You never know."

    "I do, I own him."

    Li Xueyue''s heart jumped when he grasped her fingers. His thumb gently brushed her knuckles.

    The action was so sweet that the onlooking servants couldn''t help but swoon. It was so rare to see the Crown Prince so kind. His usual scowl was reced by a tender smile. They had never seen his gaze filled with as much warmth as now.

    "You''re shaking." Yu Zhen looked down to see the fear in her eyes. Suddenly, he brought her hand towards Xiao Juzi.

    Li Xueyue screamed in protest, pulling her hand back, but he firmly grasped it. No matter how much she tried to run, he wouldn''t let her.

    "No, don''t!" she hissed, her eyes widening with fear. She needed her fingers, even if they wrote messy words!

    Yu Zhen ignored her protest and forcibly ced her fingers in front of Xiao Juzi. She pushed at his shoulders, struggling to break free.

    Xiao Juzi sniffed her hand and grimaced. She didn''t smell savory at all. Like the spoiled pet that he was, Xiao Juzi jutted his chin to the side, refusing to take a bite. He''d rather not have an upset stomach.

    "See, he''s harmless."

    "I''ll hurt you," she threatened, smacking him on the arm.

    "You already torture me everyday," Yu Zhen mused. He brought her hand up to his lips and kissed her knuckles.

    "How?"

    "By breathing."

    Li Xueyue gaped at him, wondering if he had lost his mind. What did he even mean by that?

    "I don''t get it."

    Yu Zhen gave her a wry smile. All she had to do was breathe around him and he would be enticed to hear more. Just seeing her excited him.

    He pulled her close and brushed strands of hair away from her face. He didn''t like the styles that hid the corners of her forehead.

    Yu Zhen leaned down, his lips brushing against her ears. She shivered in response. By instinct, she moved closer to him.

    "Believe me, Sunshine. It''s best for you not to know." His voice was throaty and deep as if restraining something.

    Li Xueyue could only blink at his words. She knew, very well, what he meant. But it was simply too fun teasing him¡­especially the consequences.

 Chapter 380 Bloodthirsty

    <h4>Chapter 380 Bloodthirsty</h4>

    Li Xueyue began to doubt whether she should provoke him or not. Thest time it happened, she struggled to climb out of bed. Thinking about her wobbly legs, she decided to behave.

    "Are you finished with your work?" she asked, knowing he must''ve been upied prior toing here.

    Xiao Juzi obviously didn''t seem to mind as he climbed off the unconscious man. He approached Yu Zhen and obediently sat down. He rubbed his head upon Yu Zhen''s leg.

    Xiao Juzi''s only intentions were to get snacks in the form of animal bones.

    "Not quite, but it''s fine," Yu Zhen reassured her.

    He was already weeks ahead when it came to his work. There was plenty of time for him to take breaks, but it made him ufortable to be idle.

    His body always craved for something to do. Sitting idly in a pavilion and enjoying the finer things in life wasn''t something he preferred.

    "Are you certain?" she asked.

    Li Xueyue was worried about Xiao Juzi being a distraction. Yu Zhen responded by resting a hand behind her head, stroking it.

    "You worry too much." He smoothed out the creases between her brows. "If there is something that bothers me, I will inform you."

    Li Xueyue reluctantly nodded her head, knowing he was right.

    "But there is something you need to know."

    "What is it?" she asked.

    Li Xueyue noticed he seemed upset by something. His brows came together, irritation shing in his eyes.

    "How good are you with geography?" he began.

    Li Xueyue nodded. She had read many geography books back at the Li Manor. They were quite helpful, and she knew of the kingdoms bordering Hanjian.

    "Pretty decent, if I do say so myself. Why do you ask?"

    Li Xueyue wondered if something had happened. It must''ve been dire, judging from his irritable re. His face was colder than usual.

    Yu Zhen nodded. "There is a neighboring kingdom to the east of Hanjian. We''ve been on neutral terms with them."

    Li Xueyue nodded again. If she remembered correctly, it was the Kingdom of Nanhui. Their territory was smaller than Hanjian, but their physical geography was great. The country was surrounded by mountainous terrains that made ambush difficult.

    "What about them?" she questioned. Did something happen to Nanhui?

    Yu Zhen red at the ground. "Nanhui wants to strengthen their rtionship with Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue figured as much. It would be beneficial to both countries to be on friendlier terms.

    Hanjian and Nanhui were located right next to each other. It would create too much conflict if they went to war. Besides, if there was an alliance built, then they would be the fastest aid for each other.

    "That sounds like a great n, but you seem upset. What''s wrong?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "Nanhui has sent their favored Prince and Princesses to bring forth gifts, whilst a few of my siblings are doing the same."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. Wouldn''t that mean both countries were already on great terms? She figured there must''ve been talks of an alliance long before she arrived in Hanjian.

    "I''d assume the Emperor will greet them," she said.

    Yu Zhen wryly smiled. "If it was just him, I couldn''t care less."

    "Then what''s the issue?"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. He hated the idea of having her burdened by something.

    "We will be present as well."

    Li Xueyue blinked. She didn''t see the harm in that. "Oh, that should be fine, isn''t it? We''re just epting gifts, that''s all."

    Yu Zhen shook his head. "If it was just that, it''d be fine. But it''s not."

    "I don''t understand¡­?"

    "There is a reason Nanhui has sent their favored daughters and only one son."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted, fully realizing what he meant. Nanhui wasn''t just sending jewels and silk, they were also giving away royalty, in particr, Princesses.

    It seemed Nanhui was hoping their Princesses would catch the attention of royalty, or perhaps, the other way around.

    All of a sudden, Li Xueyue feared the life of her future daughters. Would they suffer the same fate?

    "But Hanjian doesn''t support harems. Neither does the Emperor seem to want more." Li Xueyue didn''t have to question Yu Zhen''s opinion on this.

    He had already reassured her he wouldn''t create a harem. She believed he wouldn''t go back on his word. After all, Yu Zhen was a man of his word.

    "The Empress thinks otherwise."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She thought the Empress would''ve been appeased by now. What more did the Empress want to see?

    "But do not fret."

    Yu Zhen grabbed both of her hands, squeezing it with reassurance. "You will not see them. I''ll have them dismissed the second they set foot in the pce."

    "No."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. He thought this was what she wanted. What was going wrong? Her reaction wasn''t what he had expected.

    "The Empress and the Courts would have expected us to react this way," Li Xueyue stated. "This is another test."

    Yu Zhen''s expression became grim. He knew this was the truth, but he didn''t want her to find out. She was the type to tire herself out without care. He was worried about her body and the state of her mental health.

    Li Xueyue was witty and intelligent, but not by default. Yu Zhen knew she would stress herself in search of a perfect response.

    "I will deal with my mother, do not worry," he reassured.

    "I don''t want to solely rely on you," she whispered. "I can handle my own battles."

    "That''s not what I meant."

    "Have some faith in me."

    Yu Zhen was displeased by her refusal. He offered her the easy way out, but she refused to ept it. Why not?

    "Everyone thinks I''m weak," she muttered, so that only he could hear her. "We don''t need another reason for them to nitpick on me."

    "Who are the people stupid enough to believe that?" he asked in a calm andposed voice.

    Li Xueyue shivered at his tone. His silent rage did not go undetected. The air around them became frigid.

    Even the servants cowered back in fear. Everyone was well-aware of the Crown Prince''s horrid temper. Once enraged, there was no going back. Nothing would soothe him except the sight of spilled blood.

    "I won''t tell you."

    "Why not?" he demanded, his lips curling into a snarl.

    "You''ll kill them."

    "I won''t."

    Li Xueyue''s head shot up. Hope filled her. "Really?"

    "Yes."

    She smiled, only for it to drop a secondter.

    "I''ll tear off their tongues."

    "Yu Zhen!" she exasperated, knowing it was the truth. If he could get his hands on them, anything was possible.

    He smiled down at her, his hand resting on the side of her face. "No harm wille to you."

    "That isn''t what I''m worried about," Li Xueyue exasperated in an urgent voice. She rested her palm upon the hand touching her.

    "What if people call you a tyrant? What if there is an uproar and people demand for your disposal? I''m terrified of the day you get hurt," she whispered. Her voice cracked towards the end as dread filled her.

    Li Xueyue could not imagine a world without him. It would be so bleak and depressing¡­ She could already picture how lonesome it would be. Her heart would crumble into dust, carried away by the wind, much like the ashes of their love.

    "I don''t want to lose you," she confessed.

    "You won''t."

    Li Xueyue nced at the ground. She knew he was a strong fighter. The tales of his battlefield achievements weren''t fables to scare children into obedience. It was true. He was a vicious soldier and a bloodthirsty Commander.

    But what if all of his sins came back to haunt him? What if karma demanded its due? There were so many things that could go wrong if he took the wrong turn.

    Li Xueyue jolted when he cupped her face. He tilted her head up, forcing her to look at him.

    She felt her heart being squeezed by him. There was a tender look in his eyes. Yet, he seemed so upset, as if nothing was going right for him. Why did he appear so mncholic?

    "Why do you worry about others, more than yourself?"

    Was that the cause of his displeasure? Li Xueyue didn''t like to see him burdened by her. "Because you matter more than myself."

    Yu Zhen''s frown deepened. He firmly shook his head. "We need to change that trait of yours."

    "It''s fine."

    "It''s not."

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to argue with him. There was plenty of that already. "I just like to overthink, that is all, Yu Zhen."

    "You''re putting too much stress upon yourself."

    Li Xueyue wryly smiled. "It''s a bad habit of mine."

    "I''ll help you change it."

    Her eyes widened in surprise. "No, you''re already busy with work, and I don''t want you to be weighed down by my problems."

    Yu Zhen let out a coldugh. Was that how he thought of their rtionship? "I am not weak, Little Hamster. I can handle everything you throw my way."

    "But Yu Zhen¡ª"

    He responded by pushing her cheeks together until her lips were puckered like a fish. She looked up at him, wide eyes and shocked.

    Yu Zhen chuckled at her morphed features. "Like I said, Sunshine, it''s fine."

    She red up at him, obviously disagreeing. He responded with a smile.

    "We''ll go through this together, Sunshine."

    He could see the reluctance in her eyes. Nheless, sheplied, showing it with a nod of her head.

 Chapter 381 I Want You

    <h4>Chapter 381 I Want You</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t expect the foreign envoys from Nanhui to arrive so quickly.?Less than a week after her discussion with Yu Zhen, they presented themselves.

    The Emperor held a private gathering in arge space near the pce. Behind the gathering was an enormous field of well-kept grass. Beyond it was a heavily-guarded forest.

    "This feels familiar," Li Xueyue mumbled to herself.

    Theyout was very simr to the Spring Tournament, in that the Imperial Family was seated on a raised tform that overlooked two rows of tables and chairs.

    Large umbres suspended over the table provided ample shelter from the sunlight.

    There was arge gap between the two rows of tables, enough for a line of five people walking side by side to pass through. Many people were invited, ranging from the Ministers of the Courts, to highly influential aristocrats.

    The atmosphere was?lively as excited chattering filled the air. Conversations flowed like water, and everyone''s spirits were high, despite the heat.

    Yu Zhen seemed far from pleased. He sat underneath the scorching sun with a deeper scowl than usual. He despised the heat and frivolous giggling from the Princesses.

    "I want to make him mine."

    Yu Zhen''s expression didn''t change. He lifted the cup of baijiu to his lips and drank from it. His frigid eyes shifted to Li Xueyue, mindful of what she ate.

    "Hush, little sister, you can''t just say those kinds of things around here," a Princess whispered to a younger woman.

    The Little Princess pouted. She turned to her older brother and tugged on his sleeves. She liked his height and wide build that shielded the sun from her face.

    "Father said if I fancied a man here, I can marry him¡­" she trailed off.

    The Prince of Nanhuiughed at her words. She was the youngest Princess, barely over the age of sixteen, yet she was so bold already. He patted her head affectionately.

    "Indeed, Father promised such a thing."

    The Little Princess perked up. She pointed a finger to the handsome man who caught her eye.

    "I want him."

    The man''s emotionless gaze intrigued her. His eyes were vicious¡ªlike a storm ready to tear people into pieces.

    Despite that, it was difficult to deny his prominent features. He was handsome, even from afar. Whether it was his long fingers holding the baijiu or the narrowing of his dark eyes, everything about him was perfect.

    His dark clothing did nothing to hide his masculine body. The ck clothing he wore was lined with gold, enhancing the air of mystery around him.

    "Do you think he is the First Prince? The one who isn''t as important, despite his status as a firstborn?" The Little Princess turned to her older sister with eager eyes.

    "If so, then I want him," she added on.

    At this, her older brother couldn''t help butugh again. She was so confident, despite being on foreign soil. His gaze met the Emperor''s.

    "My younger sister has spoken, Your Majesty," the foreign Prince said, amusementced his words. "May I inquire about your son?"

    The Emperor held back a cough. He patted his chest and allowed the Empress to speak in his ce. Except, her words were the pr opposite of his thoughts.

    "Of course you may, Prince of Nanhui,," she said and chuckled. "My firstborn is not present here, but I can bring him."

    "That man isn''t the First Prince?" the foreign Prince questioned with a raise of his brows. He was disgruntled at the fact. He would only ept the best for his precious little sister¡ªand that would be the First Prince who would naturally be the Crown Prince.

    "Which one?" the Empress asked, highly entertained by the crudeness of Nanhui''s women. She had never heard such a bold deration from a Princess, much less, the youngest one.

    She supposed it was normal in Nanhui. In her eyes, Nanhui was a country of savages. But they were great fighters, and this was something she liked about them.

    "That one," the foreign Prince said with a jut of his chin.

    Silence ensued. The servants held their breath and the Ministers looked away. No one wanted to make a single sound.

    "Well, this is quiteplicated." The Empress lightlyughed.

    "I would not ept the marriage," Princess Yu Yingluo quickly said. She nervously nced at her older brother, noticing hisposed face. Despite that, the air around him was cold and tense.

    The Empress was surprised her younger daughter would voice her opinion on this matter. She turned to her left, where Princess Yu Yingluo was seated. Beside?Princess Yu Yingluo was Lady Ge Beining who calmly sipped her tea.

    "Why not?" the foreign Princess demanded. "I am the most favored Princess of Nanhui. Marriage with me will guarantee an alliance between Hanjian and Nanhui."

    "Xiao Mengjie," the foreign Prince said whilst cing a hand upon her lower back, hoping to calm her down. But she was already aggravated.

    Princess Mengjie turned to the handsome man and presented him with a beautiful smile.

    "I want you. So, be mine."

    Lady Ge Beining nearly choked on her tea. She quicklyposed herself. Luckily, no one saw the elegant woman make a mistake. She drank from the cup again, hoping to hide an entertained smile.

    What a foolish Princess.

    The Crown Prince turned a deaf ear to her. Instead, he nced at Li Xueyue''s empty te. He frowned at this, his attention drifting to the assortment of pastries presented in front of him.

    Why wasn''t she eating? He knew she was fond of sweets. Thus, he grabbed a cookie shaped like a rose and ced it onto her te.

    Li Xueyue stared up at him, surprised by his action¡ªso was everyone else.

    It was rare to see the Crown Prince show any affection. However, for the handmaidens serving the Crown Princess, this was nothing new.

    "Thank you," Li Xueyue muttered. She picked up the cookie, not noticing the ghost of a smile on his face.

    Just then, someone stormed up to them. Before she could take a bite, the cookie was snatched from her fingers. She stared at her empty hand, blinking to make sure that it wasn''t just her imagination.

    But then she heard a hand m on the table. Li Xueyue jumped at the noise, raising her head to see Yu Zhen had shot up from his chair.

    "Do you have a death wish?" he hissed, glowering at the foreign Princess.

    It was then Li Xueyue realized the cookie had been stolen by the foreign Princess. Additionally, it had crumbled onto the ground. A perfectly good pastry had gone to waste. Some servant must''ve spent the entire morning carving the mold to make it...

    "I asked you a question, don''t ignore me," the Little Princess mumbled, cowering back a bit. She didn''t expect his presence to be so intimidating. From afar, he was so suave¡­ Why was he so intimidating in person?

    "How dare you?" the foreign Prince demanded, standing to his feet. "A threat towards my sister is a threat against Nanhui!"

    Yu Zhen''s sharp gaze snapped to the foreign Prince. "So be it."

    The Empress gasped at this. She turned to the Crown Princess, severely disappointed that thetter was the cause of this disaster.

    Li Xueyue didn''t think a piece of pastry would result in a conflict. She stole a quick nce at the Empress. To her surprise, Lady Ge Beining had leaned close to the Empress, whispering something.

    "It''s fine," Li Xueyue finally said.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her hand around Yu Zhen''s sleeve. "It''s just a pastry. There are many more."

    Princess Mengjie red at the woman touching her future husband. She hoped that hand would be chopped off. Who was daring enough to touch what belonged to her?

    "Why are you like this?" Princess Mengjie asked the man. "I came here to help with the peace treaty so that Hanjian will prosper alongside Nanhui. Why are you so cruel to me?"

    Princess Mengjie ignored his re and looked straight at him. She felt the rug being pulled from under her feet. He was gorgeous up close, so much so, that she nearly forgot to think.

    "Why won''t you ept my hand in marriage? Don''t you want to bring prosperity to your country?"

    "I already have a wife."

    Princess Mengjie blinked. Oh. Was that the problem? "So?"

    "Have some decency," he snapped.

    Princess Mengjie flinched at his cold words. His features became vicious, like the storm in his eyes. But gosh, why was he even more handsome when irked? She pressed her lips together and turned to her brother.

    "If you ept my younger sister as your first wife, then your threat against Nanhui will be forgotten," the foreign Prince stated with a smile.

    Li Xueyue''s brows shot up. Were these people not aware of who the Crown Prince was? As in, they didn''t know anything about Hanjian at all? Surely, they would be more informed than this?

    Everything was happening too quickly for Li Xueyue. She was perplexed by this conversation but began to backtrack to how it all began. The Empress entertained this mindless talk, but¡­she had a suspicion that someone else was enjoying it more than anyone.

    True to Li Xueyue''s predictions, Lady Ge Beining was watching everything unfold. Her keen eyes didn''t miss a single detail whilst sipping her tea.

    When Lady Ge Beining was caught by Li Xueyue, she quickly averted her eyes, leaning away from the Empress.

    What was going on?

    "My threat still stands."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped back to Yu Zhen. She was horrified he''d say such a thing. But so was everyone else. They intently stared at her, believing she was the cause of this problem. After all, she was his wife¡ªthe one preventing the Crown Prince from having a harem.

 Chapter 382 Preferred Concubine

    <h4>Chapter 382 Preferred Concubine</h4>

    Li Xueyue could feel the scrutiny upon her. People were waiting for her to do something. Anything would be appreciated at this point. No one else knew how to deal with the ill-tempered Crown Prince.

    But before she could say anything else, Princess Mengjie cut in. "Who is your wife?"

    Princess Mengjie nced around, ignoring his initial threats. Words were just words. Real men talked with swords. Someone caught her attention. There was a beautiful woman invender and cerulean blue sitting beside the Empress. She was effortlessly one of the prettiest girls here.

    "I see, it must be that woman right there," Princess Mengjie dered, pointing a finger at the woman.

    Li Xueyue''s brows drew together. She was puzzled as her head turned to looked towards the far left, where Princess Mengjie had pointed at.

    Princess Mengjie thought Lady Ge Beining was the wife.

    Lady Ge Beining was seated besides the Empress, despite her lowly rank. The Empress'' favoritism was tant, but no one med her. One nce at the beautiful Lady Ge Beining was enough to make people hopeful.

    A murmur fell over the court, as people pitied the Crown Princess. She was beautiful, but none couldpare to Lady Ge Beining.

    "Do not put mydy-in-waiting in an ufortable situation." The Empress chuckled with a smile. She shook her head at the young Princess''s ruthless statement.

    "She is not the Crown Prince''s wife."

    "The Crown Prince?" Princess Mengjie repeated, her eyes going wide with the information. The man who she had fallen in love with was the Crown Prince?

    The news should''ve terrified her, for his wife must be the Crown Princess. But it didn''t. She was overjoyed that her heart fell for someone like him.

    "Well, whoever his wife is must bepatible with the Crown Prince in terms of status and capabilities," Princess Mengjie stated. She revealed a haughty smile and turned to the man in question.

    "If I beat your wife, you''ll marry me."

    The Emperor frowned at this. What a ruckus! He had hoped the Princesses who were sent to Hanjian were not this embarrassing. Then again, this type of behavior was weed in Nanhui, where everyone spoke their mind.

    "Princess Mengjie, this behavior of yours is quite disappointing," the Emperormented, despite the amusement on everyone''s face. The people were entertained by her words, believing it was a joke.

    "Emperor, my younger sister means no harm," the foreign Prince quickly exined. "Nanhui naturally prefers strong, capable allies, whether it''s at the present or the future."

    The foreign Prince revealed arge smile. "Whoever is the wife of the Crown Prince will one day be the mother of Hanjian. We would be assured that Hanjian is a dependable ally if the Crown Princess is capable enough to win a match against Nanhui''s youngest Princess."

    It was a trap. The Emperor was able to see right through this man. Was this Nanhui''s way of forging alliances? By embarrassing the future rulers of Hanjian? He refused to stand for it.

    But his wife had other thoughts. The Empress cared about what other people thought of Hanjian. If the Crown Princess was weak, then the future of Hanjian was weak.

    As much as the Empress was impressed by Li Xueyue''s words, she wanted to see if the Princess was truly capable. ''If I recall correctly¡­ Ge Beining was also worried about the Crown Princess''s capabilities. She''s horrible in archery.''

    The Empress nced at Li Xueyue who had failed to subdue the Crown Prince. "What match do you have in mind?" she spoke up with a weing smile.

    Instantly, Princess Mengjie perked up. "Archery and sword fighting. As you know, Nanhui specifically trains their women in these, since our terrains are mountainous."

    Lady Ge Beining couldn''t believe her luck. She shyly smiled at the floor, her lips twitching with amusement. It would be her victory. She prepared to stand up, but the Empress stopped her.

    "And who would you like to challenge?" the Empress asked.

    "Whoever is the wife of my man."

    Li Xueyue''s grip on Yu Zhen tightened. She knew he would take a step forward and end it all.

    "I''ll ept your challenge."

    Yu Zhen''s attention snapped to her. He grabbed her hand that held onto him, squeezing it. He didn''t want her topete. It would be dangerous. She could get hurt. But the determination in her mellow eyes was difficult to ignore.

    "Hah, I thought you were a concubine. Who would''ve thought you''d be the first wife?" Princess Mengjie sneered. "Do not mock me, I will notpete against such a tiny woman."

    "Well, Princess," the Empress softly said. "This is the Crown Princess of Hanjian. If you wish topete with anyone, it is her."

    "Then what about that girl right there?" Princess Mengjie demanded, with her finger still pointed at the pretty flower beside the Empress.

    "Is she the preferred concubine?"

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "Only when the sky falls."

    Lady Ge Beining nced away, sorrow in her eyes. She knew he was harsh, but she didn''t think he would embarrass her like this publicly. It truly hurt her that he''d never look her way anymore. But that was only because of the Crown Princess¡­

    Princess Mengjie was satisfied with his words. Good. If the beautiful woman was truly his wife, it would make thingsplicated for her.

    "Well, Princess Mengjie. What shall you do?" the Empress asked. "The Crown Prince will only take one wife."

    Princess Mengjie red at the Crown Prince''s "wife". Why did he marry such a small little thing? Was this woman even capable of lifting a sword? She scoffed. This would be an easy battle.

    "Fine, I''ll fight with you."

    Li Xueyue frowned. "Are you certain?" she gently asked.

    "Of course I am. What? Are you that afraid to lose?"

    "No, I''m worried you''d make a fool out of yourself. Well, more than you already have."

    "Pft," the Emperor restrained hisughter. He didn''t think the Crown Princess had such a sharp tongue. He always knew she was wise, but this? Who would''ve thought she was also petty?

    The more he was in her presence, the more he liked her. She was unfazed by the foriegn Princess''s remarks. Some saw it as a weakness, others praised her for it. Silence is a virtue. Her ability topose herself was a remarkable trait.

    "I''ll make you swallow those words," Princess Mengjie snapped as she angrily turned around.

    "Help me prepare my horse¡ª" Princess Mengjie paused. For the first time in her life, she saw her brother awestruck by something.

    Her older brother, Prince Zhaoyuan was mesmerized. Whilst the other woman beside the Empress was beautiful, thisdy was something else. She was bold, yet beautiful. Two traits that he admired.

    "Brother!" she hissed, grabbing his arm to capture his attention.

    Prince Zhaoyuan snapped back to reality. He was met with the narrowed gaze of the Crown Prince.

    "Y-yes, I''lle," Prince Zhaoyuan murmured. He allowed his younger sister to pull him away, but nothing could tear his eyes away. He nced over his shoulders, but to his disappointment, she was hidden from view. What he saw was the Crown Prince''s broad shoulders.

    But when Prince Zhaoyuan walked down the steps, he saw her at a different angle¡ªone that squeezed his heart. The Crown Princess had made eye contact with him, revealing a pair of sharp, clear eyes.

    Not a secondter, she looked away, smiling up at her husband.

    "...And I will be using the sword that you gifted me for my sixteenth birthday. Brother, are you listening to me?!" Princess Mengjie demanded.

    Prince Zhaoyuan wondered why he didn''t see her sooner. He had heard her speak, but the sight of her was blocked by the Crown Prince.

    "Brother!" Princess Mengjie whined.

    "Yes, yes, I''m listening."

    Prince Zhaoyuan was not. He couldn''t look away from the Crown Princess. A strange emotion coursed through him when he saw the Crown Prince gently touch her face. Her smile became timid and hesitant as she leaned into his hand.

    "Who are you looking at?" Princess Mengjie hissed, finally deciding to look in the direction that captured his attention.

    "Oh, are you itching to spar against the Crown Prince? If so, don''t do it. I won''t want you to hurt my future husband," Princess Mengjie said.

    Suddenly, a brilliant idea came to Prince Zhaoyuan''s mind. "You must win."

    "I know that." Princess Mengjie crossed her arms. "Do you think I am a fool?"

    Prince Zhaoyuan shook his head. "You were always an excellent fighter, Xiao Mengjie. But this time, I don''t want you to y dirty. Do you hear me?"

    "What are you talking about, Brother?" Princess Mengjie mumbled.

    "Don''t hurt the Crown Princess. Make sure that you do not¡ª"

    "You like her," Princess Mengjie gaped up at him, a realization dawning on her.

    "This isn''t the important discussion at hand."

    Princess Mengjie red at him. Not wanting to talk to him anymore, she turned her back to him and stormed off. A fair fight? Not if she could help it!

 Chapter 383 Behave.

    <h4>Chapter 383 Behave.</h4>

    Li Xueyue realized how simr the archerypetition was to the Spring Tournament in Wuyi.

    y tes would be tossed in the air, and each shattered te was worth one point, but the flying pigeons were worth three points. She just wished the tournament would allow them to bring in horses, as it would make everything easier.

    Running on point with a bow and arrow made it very challenging. But to Princess Mengjie, it was nothing.

    No matter where Li Xueyue walked or turned, y tes would shatter on top of her. Pieces fell down, and she tried her best to avoid them and not get a cut. It was a dangerous situation, especially when it felt like the Princess was targeting her.

    It had gotten to the point of where Li Xueyue was able to detect when a te would shatter.

    "That was close," she breathed out when a sharp piece nearly grazed her face.

    Li Xueyue had allowed this attack to continue instead of calling foul. It didn''t matter to her.

    The Princess''s shots meant nothing if she only aimed for the y tes whereas Li Xueyue went straight for the pigeons. Guilt filled her each time she shot them down.

    Though it was a painless and swift death for those birds, she hoped the animal didn''t have to die in vain.

    "Ow!" she hissed in pain when a broken piece of ynded directly on her head.

    But before she could touch the burning spot, another te shattered near her, dropping close to her shoulders.

    Murmurs were heard amongst the onlookers. Everyone could see the foul y of the foreign Princess who dominated the tes.

    "Last ten seconds!" a voice called out from somewhere.

    Li Xueyue gritted her teeth and aimed. She was constantly moving her feet, trying to dodge the tes. Subconsciously, her body twirled and turned, her dress elegantly spinning with her.

    She was unaware of the eyes trained upon her. Everyone was mesmerized by the sight of her twirls, so elegant and beautiful, they could not look away. Despite the viciousness of her determined eyes, she was stunning.

    Each time the Crown Princess loaded her arrow, a bird went down. She would aim for less than a second, and it would be a perfect shot.

    "Who would''ve thought women from Wuyi were capable of this?" someonemented as chimes of agreement surfaced.

    No one was aware of how great the Crown Princess''s archery skills were. Especially her precise, clean kill. She ignored all of the distractions.

    Li Xueyue finally saw it. Amidst the whirl of y tes and pigeons being tossed, she noticed the one thing that''s worth the most points.

    A small ball, less than a fist was tossed into the air. It was blue and matched the sky, nearly blending into the canvas.

    Li Xueyue immediately reached for another arrow but discovered her quiver was empty. She cursed under the breath and quickly swooped down to pick one up from the ground. But the arrow was wedged into the ground, making it difficult to yank it out.

    "Come on..." she groaned, irritated that things weren''t going in her favor.

    "Crown Princess, be careful!" a voice cried out just as Li Xueyue heard it. It was quiet and barely audible¡ªthe ping of an arrow as it tore through the air.

    Li Xueyue saw it. An arrow was flying straight towards her. Whether it was intentional or not, it was toote. She couldn''t drop to the floor in time. But she didn''t need to.

    Seconds before the arrow could pierce her, Li Xueyue caught it with her hand. She sucked in a breath,ing eye to eye with the sharp piece. The drums went off in the distance, signaling the end of thepetition.

    "Li Xueyue!"

    She didn''t get to respond, for two hands forcibly lifted her to her feet. Li Xueyue wasn''t fazed by the arrow. She nkly stared at Yu Zhen. He seemed the least bit out of breath, despite running here from the top of the golden staircase.

    "Does it hurt anywhere?" he demanded, brushing off the crumbled pieces of y off her shoulders.

    "That wretched Princess." Yu Zhen snapped his head to the side where Princess Mengjie hesitatingly stepped back. If looks could kill, she would''ve dropped dead.

    "I''m fine," she reassured him whilst cing the arrow down.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He was a hair away from dering war with Nanhui. An eradication of their people, starting from the Imperial Family.

    "Truly," she added on, seeing the bloodlust in his eyes. His jaw was clenched. It ticked with irritation.

    Li Xueyue watched as the foreign Prince came forward. Princess Mengjie seemed excited at the sight of him, thinking she had won the tournament. But her smile quickly faded.

    The foreign Prince was furious. He seemed to be harshly scolding her. Princess Mengjie slowly lowered her head.

    "Don''t look at him."

    Yu Zhen gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his stare. He was enraged by the event, but seeing her attention on another man soured his mood. She innocently blinked up at him before wincing.

    "It hurts."

    Li Xueyue touched her head, pouting a bit. Indecision shed in his eyes. He was conflicted about what to do at the moment: dering a war on Nanhui or soothing her. In the end, Yu Zhen reached a hand out and pushed hers away.

    Yu Zhen slowly rubbed the top of her head, a worried look on his face. "We can''t have your brain getting any smaller now."

    Li Xueyue gaped up at him. There wasn''t a hint of amusement in his eyes. He was being serious! "My brain is not small," she hissed, pping his hand away, but he firmly ced it there.

    She ignored his re. "This is not how you treat a wounded person."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. He furiously rubbed the top of her head. "You should''ve stayed put."

    "As if I''d let some random woman take you away."

    Yu Zhen finally stopped frowning. His lips twitched. "Did you truly think I''d let you go?"

    "Oh shut up," Li Xueyue mumbled, ignoring the twinkle in his stare. His hatred was reced with happiness.

    Yu Zhen stepped closer to her as he wrapped an arm around her waist. "I''ve said it before, I will take no one but you, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue''s heart fluttered when he adoringly stroked her cheek. When he treated her like this, how could she protest? She could feel everyone''s stare, watching their every move.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t pull away even if she wanted too. It was simply too difficult. Not because he was strong, but because he was gentle. He treated her with so much care, like a sandcastle ready to crumble.

    "We shouldn''t stand here for too long. I have to prepare for the sword fighting tournament."

    "Over my head body."

    Li Xueyue was conflicted by his words. He was already upset from the archery tournament. The injury on her head was light. The pain had long gone away. But she knew he wouldn''t budge once he made a decision.

    Li Xueyue was well-aware of the fear that ran through his mind. He was worried for her life.

    "I will win."

    "I know that." Yu Zhen wiped the final piece of y off her shoulders. She was so small in his arms, he couldn''t help but be extra careful.

    "I won''t get hurt."

    "Yes you will."

    "Yu Zhen, the people need to know," Li Xueyue whispered. "Hanjian will need a strong leader and¡ª"

    "I am a strong leader."

    Li Xueyue threw him a pointed look. He knew what she meant, but continued to argue.

    "They need two."

    "You don''t need to prove anything to anyone." Yu Zhen''s caress on her cheek became a pinch.

    "Listen to me, my dear wife."

    "Not this time."

    "When have you ever listened?"

    Li Xueyue lowered her head. She was unable to meet his gaze. Yu Zhen had rarely tried to control her.

    "Just this time, behave."

    "But¡ª"

    "Please."

    Li Xueyue found it even more difficult to object. His voice was soft and desperate. It was the first time he had requested something from her.

    "Everyone is already impressed by you."

    Li Xueyue nibbled her bottom lip. She raised her eyes and looked around, finally noticing the expressions on the Imperial Family and Minister''s faces.

    The few aristocrats who were invited to be spectators were astonished. No one thought the small Princess from Wuyi was capable of archery, much less, skilled in the sport.

    "There is no need to demonstrate further."

    Yu Zhen turned her chin toward the Imperial Family. There was a satisfied look on the Empress''s face. Even the Emperor himself was pleased by what he had witnessed.

    Li Xueyue was already points ahead in the tournament shortly after itmenced. She didn''t have to endure the shattered y tes falling on her. She should''ve pointed out Princess Mengjie''s wrongdoings and forced the tournament toe to a stop.

    The authority that came with her title was limitless. But she didn''t exercise any of it.

    Li Xueyue stayed until thest second, bracing through the torture just to score the final points. Victory already belonged to her. But aiming for the small ball target showed her clear determination.

    "That''s more than enough," he softly said.

 Chapter 384 Disappointmen

    <h4>Chapter 384 Disappointmen</h4>

    Despite the urgency and gentleness in Yu Zhen''s words, Li Xueyue refused to yield. She was stubborn, and it was a dominant trait in her. She wanted to change for his sake, but couldn''t.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want people to pity Yu Zhen for having an "ipetent" wife who was too weak to stand by his side. She didn''t want to tarnish his reputation by having a public image of someone who was weak.

    "The crowd is only slightly impressed," Li Xueyue responded. She took his hand and held it tightly. "I''m sorry."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes hardened. He was well-aware of her disobedience. She was free-spirited and had a strong will that refuses to yield to anyone. She was like a sparrow meant to fly higher than a phoenix.

    But this was who he had fallen in love with. This was who he would bargain his life for. If Heaven granted him immortality, he would not ept it unless she, too, gained it.

    "You¡ª"

    "Winning the sword fighting match will solidify our standing." Li Xueyue tenderly held his hand with two of her own.

    "I do not want them to belittle you in any way," she whispered. "I will show them that I am worthy enough to stand by your side as your wife."

    Yu Zhen was taken aback by her words. It almost felt like a wake-up p. How was it possible for her words to affect him this much? He felt a thrill in his heart, ever so subtle.

    When she was doing it for his sake, how could he deny her? How could he not love her even more? It was inevitable that he fell under her spell.

    When he saw the red dust of the y tes settling, he snapped back to reality.

    "It''s dangerous." Yu Zhen nced down her hands. Inparison to his, hers were tiny and delicate. He didn''t feel a single callous, despite the weapons she had gripped during her training.

    Yu Zhen didn''t want her topete with a random bow and arrow. He wanted her to use the one crafted specifically for her. But people would''ve pointed out the unfairness or biasness. He would silence them all. However, she was the type to listen to the voices of others, even if they shouldn''t matter.

    That was how Li Xueyue behaved. It was a trait that made herpassionate and sympathetic. This quality was a double-edged sword, for she was sensitive to criticism when it came in masses.

    "Choosing this path is dangerous," she whispered. "Yet, here I stand before you."

    Li Xueyue saw his lips curling downwards. His brows came together, forming creases on his forehead. This was a sight she did not enjoy seeing.

    "Have faith in me." Li Xueyue squeezed his hand. "I will not disappoint you."

    "It''s not the disappointment I care about, it''s you." His delivery was harsh and firm. Almost as if he was angered by her stubbornness.

    Li Xueyue wanted to say more, but she noticed the foreign Prince and Princessing forward. She was forced to face them.

    The foreign Prince pushed his sister forward, surprising her. He had a stern look on his face, like that of a disapproving parent.

    "What do you have to say for yourself, Xiao Mengjie?" the foreign Prince coldly said.

    Princess Mengjie gritted her teeth. She abhorred this public humiliation. Everyone was watching her. How could her own brother do this to her? She could not wait toin to her father.

    "I was wrong."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "For?"

    Princess Mengjie''s eyes sharpened. This wench was provoking her! "I shouldn''t have released my arrow without a proper prediction of where it wouldnd."

    "Xiao Mengjie!" The foreign Prince turned her around, ring down at her but she refused to acknowledge his frustration. This was not what they discussed!

    "Wait until Father hears about this!" she bickered. "You''re forcing me to lower my head¡ª"

    "I am teaching you manners that you seeminglyck!"

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. She didn''t think he would take her side.

    Princess Mengjie ignored her brother. Sometimes, he liked to y the father figure, just because he was older than her. Prince Zhaoyuan was always controlling of his younger sisters, for no apparent reason. It was unfair.

    "Look here," Princess Mengjie said. She turned to the Crown Princess. "I will only apologize if I acknowledge you as a proper opponent. You have only won one of the two challenges."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. This little girl was much more spoiled than everyone initially thought. When Yu Zhen took a threatening step forward, Li Xueyue grasped his hand. She knew of his temperament.

    If Yu Zhen wanted to, he could burn Princess Mengjie to ashes. The weapon of choice? Words. For that was how aristocrats fought with grace.

    "If you manage to beat me in the sport that Nanhui''s women are most known for, then I will even hang my head in shame and apologize wholeheartedly, for you are truly an impressive foe."

    "Do you truly think such meager prizes interest me?" Li Xueyue mused with a cunning smile.

    Princess Mengjie''s eyes shed. What a greedy little thing! She could not believe her older brother, Prince Zhaoyuan was defending Hanjian''s Princess! She angrily turned to her brother, expecting him to respond.

    Instead of doing so, Prince Zhaoyuan watched her with admiration. He was impressed with the Crown Princess''s personality¡ªrighteous as an unwavering tree in the face of a storm.

    "Well, what would you like, Crown Princess?" Prince Zhaoyuan questioned in a luring voice.

    Li Xueyue was surprised by how smooth his tone was. He spoke slowly, in a lower octave. For odd reasons, it almost sounded¡­seductive? But it must''ve been a figment of her imagination.

    "If I win this match," she loudly said. "I want the alliance to be set in stone. No more neutrality, no more bad blood. I expect Nanhui to be a trustworthy ally of Hanjian."

    At this, the Emperor straightened up. His tired eyes widened a bit, filled with interest at her words. He didn''t think the Crown Princess, so tiny and feeble, would make such bold and courageous demands.

    Her intentions touched his tainted heart. The Crown Princess was notpeting for personal gains. She was risking her reputation for the sake of Hanjian. It was truly admirable.

    And for once, his wife was on the same page.

    The Empress''s lips parted in delightful shock. She was pleasantly surprised by Li Xueyue''s statement.

    "How thoughtful¡­" she whispered to her husband who nodded at her words.

    "Like I''ve said¡­" he heaved, taking a quick sip of the tea. "For once, that useless son of mine did something correctly."

    "And that is?" the Empress muttered. She tried her hardest to mask the irritation in her eyes.

    "Picking the right Crown Princess."

    At his words, whispers surfaced amongst the Ministers and aristocrats. The Emperor was a loudspeaker, despite his deteriorating health. His lungs were in horrible condition, but there was still an air of authority in his voice. It was very clear that the Emperor favored this foreign Princess.

    The Ministers and aristocrats conversed amongst themselves.

    "Did you hear that?"

    "Of course¡­ Who could''ve guessed?"

    "I knew I saw something good in the Crown Princess when she was introduced to the entire court and the primary members of the Imperial Family."

    "The Emperor is the son of Heaven, he must''ve received word from the Gods. It seems this Crown Princess will truly bring prosperity to us all!"

    Agreements chimed through the air, like bells amidst a strong breeze. Even the Empress was slowly being convinced, more than she usually was.

    It seems for once, Lady Ge Beining had lied to her. The Empress was informed that Li Xueyue was horrible at archery. But the skills demonstrated today, in front of the entire court, were not childsy.

    The Crown Princess of Hanjian was skilled in archery. So much so that her skills could surpass the Empress herself. In her youthful days, the Empress of Hanjian managed to acquire the Emperor''s heart not because of her beauty, but because of her strength.

    The Empress was one of the first female Commanders of Hanjian. She favored strength above beauty. To her pleasant surprise, Li Xueyue possessed both of these qualities.

    "It seems your eyes have betrayed you, Lady Ge Beining." The Empress turned to her beloveddy-in-waiting.

    Lady Ge Beining nced at her hands. "Yes, I should get my eyes checked by the Imperial Physician. How could I have been so blind to the Crown Princess''s talent?"

    The Empress hummed in response.

    "It''s my fault," Lady Ge Beining dered. She kept her voice low and pitiful, for she had wronged the most powerful woman of this country.

    "I am worthy of punishment."

    The Empressughed at this. How could she ever punish this beloved girl of hers?

    The only consequence of Lady Ge Beining''s actions was not something physical. It was a loss of trust. Bit by bit¡­ the Empress would slowly question everything Lady Ge Beining had said to her.

    A small lie could topple a mountain of truth.

    "Rest assured, Lady Ge Beining. No one shally hands upon your delicate features," the Empress softly said.

    It seemed like apliment, and even the maidservants thought so too. They fawned amongst themselves, ready to praise their master, Lady Ge Beining. But the woman in question was pale with worry.

    It was not apliment. It was far from it. Lady Ge Beining was well aware of the underlying message. A delicate face¡­ raw from wearing a mask of deceit.

    "I''m deeply sorry, your Grace."

    But before Lady Ge Beining could hear a response from the Empress, the foreign Princess had made her decision.

    "Fine then!" Princess Mengjie finally dered. "If you manage to beat me, the greatest female fighter amongst my siblings, then I shall do everything in my power to deliver your wish!"

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. There was more to this.

    "However!" Princess Mengjie stated. "For your defeat, I want something."

    "What is it?" Li Xueyue patiently asked.

    "I want you exiled from Hanjian."

 Chapter 385 Burned

    <h4>Chapter 385 Burned</h4>

    The air around them turned chilly. An emotionless mask slid over Yu Zhen''s face. Calm,posed eyes greeted the people, but this terrified them more. It was never good to see the Crown Prince this peaceful. A terrible storm was brewing. It''d wreak havoc upon pitiful souls¡ªstarting with Nanhui.

    His fingers curled into fists. But he felt something soft and gentle upon it. Li Xueyue wrapped her fingers around his knuckles and stepped in front of him.

    "I''ll ept your terms."

    Princess Mengjie let out a darkugh at the Crown Princess''s determination. What a fool!

    The Crown Princess had just bargained away her husband and livelihood.

    She would never get to see him again. The titles she had obtained, the aplishments she worked hard for, everything would be taken away from her and she would be a nobody.

    Exiling a person was an irrevocable matter.

    "Wise decision," Princess Mengjie said and giggled. She hid arge, evil smile behind her hand.

    "Brother," she said, turning to him. "Prepare my sword¡­" Her haughty voice died off when she saw his stormy re.

    Prince Zhaoyuan was furious. No. He was beyond furious. It was the third time that his younger sister had disobeyed him. The first was when she yed dirty and the second was when she did not apologize properly.

    "A word." Prince Zhaoyuan didn''t wait for her to respond.

    He grabbed her wrist and yanked her forward, storming towards the rest of the Princesses. He would make sure she gets an earful from everyone.

    "That brat likes to y dirty."

    Li Xueyue nodded at Yu Zhen''s words. "Yes, I noticed it with the y tes. It''s a miracle that she was able to time her shots so well¡ªexactly when I would be standing under one."

    "You''re letting her get away with this."

    Li Xueyue lifted her head to look him in the eye. "And what do you expect me to do? Publicly punish her in front of everyone?"

    "You''re right," he suddenly said.

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. It seemed he was changing.

    "I will kill her myself."

    Or not.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "No one will get away with insulting you. I''ve tolerated enough of this."

    Li Xueyue was conflicted about what to say. She wasn''t aware that he had been holding back his anger. "We can''t incite a war with Nanhui."

    "We can start a war with anyone I please." Yu Zhen found her frightened expression to be humorous. Had she forgotten what his initial status was? He was a Commander before he was a Crown Prince.

    "War is horrible," she whispered.

    "Sunshine¡ª"

    "Little boys torn from their families, little girls screaming for their brothers and fathers whilst bidding them goodbye, mothers weeping for their sons. Ravagednds, dested viges, and a decade of rebuilding."

    Li Xueyue refused to let this country go to war¡ªnot as long as she could have a say in it. The events of the bandit vige had traumatized her enough.

    "So please," she firmly said. "Let me deal with this."

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He didn''t think she was capable of a fierce glower. There was a spark in her eyes, too bright to die down. It burned like the dazzling sun.

    Standing before him, she wasn''t just a Princess. She was also a fighter, one who had gone through many troubles in life.

    In the end, he finally relented. "Come, let''s pick your sword."

    Li Xueyue nodded. She followed after him, wondering if he even knew her sword preference. She enjoyed wielding saber-style swords that were thin and light, making it easier to quickly dodge attacks. Heavy swords dealt a lot of damage, but thinner swords were meant for striking the body.

    "What is this?" Li Xueyue mumbled when he brought her back to their table. There was a long wooden case lined with dense velvet.

    "Your sword."

    Li Xueyue was perplexed by this. She unsped the metal lock and opened the lid. A sharp gasp escaped her. She lifted her eyes to him, not believing what she just saw.

    Sitting inside of the case was an iron saber. Its hilt was made of gold and steel, but that wasn''t the most important point.

    There was the metal rose sitting at the center of the sword, thorny vines branching into rings around the bottom of the hilt. There was a ruby resting inside of the rose, like a hidden treasure.

    "This is beautiful." Li Xueyue lifted the sword from the case. She was surprised by how light it was, despite the decor.

    The rings of thorns didn''t interfere with her fingers at all. It didn''t even brush her skin. When she rubbed her thumb over it, she realized the thorns were smoothened into round points, instead of sharp ones that drew blood.

    Yu Zhen was mindful of its design. He didn''t want her injured.

    "Do you like it?" Yu Zhen asked, leaning closer to her. He enjoyed the smile that broke out on her face, whether she realized it or not.

    "How can I not?" Li Xueyueughed as she picked up the sheath. This too was a masterpiece. The sheath was red, with green vines wrapped around it in strategic ces. The design was so intricate, that it seemed real.

    "I also ordered a bow and arrow for you, but it was hidden on the other side of the pce."

    "I think I saw it," Li Xueyue remarked. "I was wandering aroundst time, looking for a ce to practice archery. There was a tent that I came across, but it was closed off."

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow.

    "The guards said only the Crown Prince was allowed inside. But I showed them your pendant and they parted like the sea."

    Yu Zhen chuckled at this. "You''re putting my pendant to good use."

    Li Xueyue nodded at this. She didn''t enjoy using it, as it felt like an abuse of power. But at times, the pendant was a useful tool.

    "I will win and bring glory to the sword."

    "I have no doubt you will."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue stepped onto the battlefield. She was confident in her skills. None of the pressuring gazes of the onlookers affected her. She had faced a muchrger crowd during the Spring Tournament.

    "I hope your servant loaded the carriages already," Princess Mengjie stated whilst advancing towards her.

    The drums went off in the distance, loud and hollow, signaling the start of thepetition. The rules were simple. The first person to tap out loses.

    "Are the treaty papers already crafted?" Li Xueyue lightly said with an entertained smile. Despite how young this Princess was, her tongue was quite sharp.

    "Signed and ready to be burned."

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh. She didn''t feel like responding anymore. Her attention drifted to the Princess''s outfit. To no one''s surprise, neither of them wore armor tes, not even a small one to protest their chest.

    Both of them had entered the battlegrounds bare of any forms of protection, except their sword. Except, Li Xueyue didn''t change her clothes into something more fitting.

    Princess Mengjie certainly did. She wore body-hugging clothes in a style starkly different from Hanjian. She was dressed in short sleeves and pants that reached her knees, making it easier for her to run about.

    "An advantage, huh?" Li Xueyue whispered to herself. Of course, the Princess would do anything to be in the lead.

    But that didn''t matter to Li Xueyue. Long dress or not, she was determined to win.

 Chapter 386 Give Up

    <h4>Chapter 386 Give Up</h4>

    Li Xueyue had never engaged a stranger in a swordfight before. All of her matches were either with the twins or her instructor. Well, there was also Yu Zhen¡­but he was too tough of an opponent.

    Aside from that, she didn''t have much experience in the sport.

    It was unnerving to grasp the sword tightly in her hand. Her desire for victory was strong. But her anxiety was hard to ignore.

    "Focus," she told herself whilst advancing forward.

    Li Xueyue got into position. She drew in a breath, and Princess Mengjie charged forward. The sword used by Princess Mengjie resembled an enormous butcher knife, except the tip of it was split.

    It was a wonder how Princess Mengjie managed to wield such an exotic weapon. A loud sh could be heard when Li Xueyue blocked the attack. She gritted her teeth, surprised by Princess Mengjie''s strength.

    "Give up, Princess," Princess Mengjie said with a chuckle. "You''ll never be able to win against me."

    She was met with silence.

    To Li Xueyue, not giving a response was also a response. Her arms trembled under the weight of Princess Mengjie. There was no fairness in thispetition¡ªthe words ran through her mind.

    It was precisely why Li Xueyue suddenly side-stepped, watching as Princess Mengjie nearly fell to the ground.

    Princess Mengjie caught herself at thest minute. But as she raised her body, a foot reached out. She couldn''t react in time as a kick was delivered straight to her chest.

    Martial arts. It was something that Princess Mengjie would''ve never expected, not even in her wildest dreams. She choked at the impact, her feet faltering.

    "You let your guard down," Li Xueyue murmured as she swept her leg under Princess Mengjie.

    To Li Xueyue''s surprise, Princess Mengjie jumped. It gave her a leverage as she swung her sword down.

    Li Xueyue met the weapon with her own. She was surprised by the raw excitement in the foreign Princess''s eyes¡ªwide and manic. As if thispetition gave her a thrill.

    "What an interesting person you are!" Princess Mengjieughed as Li Xueyue threw her off.

    Li Xueyue avoided the sword when it swung for her head. She was surprised by this direct attack, but quickly recovered by striking her sabre forward. It grazed Princess Mengjie''s clothes, but didn''t draw blood.

    "Who would''ve thought you knew martial arts?" Princess Mengjie lunged at her opponent but was met with defense yet again.

    "Is this the best you can do?" she demanded, striking again and again.

    Li Xueyue blocked all of the attacks, whether it was aimed at her head or her torso. Princess Mengjie was adamant on injuring her.

    This didn''te off as a surprise to anyone. Until Li Xueyue slipped. Her foot was caught on her long dress. The sky came to view as she fell backward, her eyes widening.

    She didn''t have time to moan over the pain spreading through her back. Li Xueyue quickly dodged the sharp point of the sword that aimed for her neck.

    Princess Mengjie didn''t give her a chance to recover. She continued attacking Li Xueyue, forcing thetter to remain on the ground.

    Li Xueyue decided to forsake grace. She quickly rolled to the side and got to her feet. Everything was going ording to n.

    "Look at you," Princess Mengjie scoffed. "All dirtied and a mess. If you had just allowed me to¡ª"

    "Less talking, more fighting."

    Princess Mengjie was beyond infuriated. She narrowed her eyes. She didn''t tolerate disrespect¡ªespecially interruptions. Aggravated, she jumped at her opponent, swinging her sword down.

    Li Xueyue had already predicted her opponent''s move. She had memorized Princess Mengjie''s tactic. She stepped to the side and Princess Mengjie followed after her.

    Their swords met in another sh, but this time, the impact wasn''t as great.

    ''She''s growing weak,'' Li Xueyue thought to herself. She hid a smile and threw her opponent off, smiling in satisfaction.

    Princess Mengjie was panting. Sweat trickled from her forehead as she struggled to maintain her energy level. Right when she sucked in a breath, her opponent finally attacked.

    Li Xueyue raced forward and swung at her opponent. Their weapons shed loudly, but she didn''t mind.

    "As I said," Li Xueyue mused. "Your guard is lowered."

    Li Xueyue twisted her body, throwing Princess Mengjie off, yet again. This time, the foreign Princess didn''t have time topose herself quick enough. She was too tired.

    Princess Mengjie tripped forward a bit and choked when a sword came swinging at her feet. She could do nothing but roll onto the ground, protecting the vital limb.

    Li Xueyue had her pinned. Before Princess Mengjie could stand back up, a sword was pointed at her throat.

    "Another movement, and I''ll cut through you."

    Princess Mengjie stared up at Li Xueyue, wide-eyed at this defeat. She still had her weapon in hand, but it would be futile. The tip of the Crown Princess''s sword was too close to her neck. She had to stretch her neck to the side to prevent a cut.

    "You win."

    Li Xueyue smiled at this. She rxed her grip on the sword, lowering it to the side. Without warning, she offered a helping hand to Princess Mengjie.

    "Here," Li Xueyue stated, surprising everyone.

    After the foreign Princess''s spoilt behavior and her horrid treatment towards the Crown Princess, thetter was still beingpassionate?! They were highly impressed by her magnanimous act, though a few viewed it as a weakness.

    "Don''t pity me," Princess Mengjie spat out as she pped Li Xueyue''s hand away.

    "It''s courtesy," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "Also, something that youck."

    Princess Mengjie red at the Crown Princess but kept her mouth shut. She got onto her feet, ignoring the tears that burned her eyes. She had suffered not one defeat, but two¡ªback to back.

    "Keep your husband, I didn''t want him in the first ce." Princess Mengjie stormed off, refusing to say another word to the Crown Princess. Despite that, a sense of appreciation bloomed in her chest.

    Instead of relying on her skills, the Crown Princess had also employed strategy. It was something that the Emperor of Nanhui always taught his daughter, but she always forgot.

    "Consider the peace treaty signed and set in stone."

    Li Xueyue instantly turned around. She didn''t expect Prince Zhaoyuan to present himself personally. Her attention drifted to the item in his hand¡ªa scroll.

    "I apologize for my sister''s poor behavior," he softly stated. "Princess Mengjie is still a child at heart. Everyone in the Imperial Family favors her, thus, she thinks the world spins for no one else but her."

    "You shouldn''t create excuses for a spoiled child. It''ll only further indulge them."

    Prince Zhaoyuan smiled at her words. They sounded insulting, but he believed she meant no harm. Especially when her disposition was calm, like des of grass on a sunny day.

    "Please," he warmly said. "Let Nanhui make it up to you."

    Prince Zhaoyuan reached into his sleeves and pulled out an envelope. "This is a formal invitation to the Imperial Pce. With this, everyone will view you as an honorable guest."

    Li Xueyue could feel Yu Zhen''s pressing re before she saw him. Before she could even react, a shadow loomed over her figure.

    "Thank you," Yu Zhen gritted out. He snatched the envelope and crumbled it in one hand.

    Prince Zhaoyuan''s friendly smile disappeared. "Your temperament is like that of my younger sister."

    Yu Zhen let out augh. He wrapped an arm around his woman and pulled her against his chest. "Insulting your own sister. Very wise decision for you."

    Li Xueyue looked down at his arm. It was wrapped around her waist, holding her in ce.

    "Nheless," Li Xueyue softly said. "Hanjian will value this treaty with Nanhui. I expect the feeling will be reciprocated."

    Prince Zhaoyuan straightened up. A smile formed on his face. "Rest assured, Princess Li, I will do everything in my power to ensure nothing can evere between Hanjian and Nanhui. Especially after the spectacle my sister made."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. He struck his hand out, giving her the scroll. She reached for it, but at thest moment, his fingers brushed against hers. She jolted in surprise.

    Prince Zhaoyuan''s smile widened, much like her eyes. "And Princess, if you ever feel lonely, Nanhui is but a week of travel. We will always wee you with open arms."

    A cold, cunning chuckle could be heard. Li Xueyue shivered at the sound, so intense, she felt her fingertips turn blue.

    "You can rest assured. All of my wife''s needs will be met," Yu Zhen stated as he took her other hand and brought it to his lips. His eyes shed.

    Prince Zhaoyuan''s smile became forced. The meaning was clear. This rare gemstone belonged to no one else but the cruel beast.

    Prince Zhaoyuan curtly nodded his head and walked off, irritated by the arrogant Crown Prince. Nheless, there wasn''t anything to be done.

    The treaty was set in stone. Prince Zhaoyuan was a man of his words.

 Chapter 387 It Doesnt Matter

    <h4>Chapter 387 It Doesn''t Matter</h4>

    The second Prince Zhaoyuan was gone, Yu Zhen swiveled Li Xueyue around. Arge smile rested upon his wless features.

    He stroked her cheek, brushing away the stray strands of hair. She had gone through a scuffle, but he still found her beautiful, dirt and all.

    "I shouldn''t have worried so much." Yu Zhen neatly tucked her hair behind her ears. He knew she was self-conscious about her appearance. He would do anything that would put her at ease.

    "You''ve sparred with me before." Li Xueyueughed, touching his hand.

    Everyone was watching them, and she became self-conscious about their behavior. Was it truly alright for them to be like this in public? Obviously, Yu Zhen didn''t seem to mind, but what about the others?

    Li Xueyue knew it was better not to pay so much attention to this, but women had to be mindful of their reputation, or else¡­

    "That was different. We fought fair and square, but the foreign Princess liked to y dirty." Yu Zhen adjusted the cor of her clothes.

    Despite her rolling on the ground, her clothes weren''t as dirty as he thought.

    "Nowe, let''s get you cleaned up." Yu Zhen grabbed her hand and led her away from the venue.

    Li Xueyue nodded wordlessly. For a brief second, she couldn''t help but look at their entwined hands. It was nice to see him so carefree about their rtionship in public. He didn''t hesitate to show her off.

    "People were already impressed by your archery skills. Your victory in the sword fightingpetition impressed them further. I''m sure by now they are all convinced by your strength and capabilities," Yu Zhen informed her.

    Li Xueyue could hear the pride in his voice, and her heart skipped a beat. Hopefully, this would put a stop to all the stupid rumors about Wuyi''s people.

    She abhorred how people judged her based on her background. It blinded them to her true capability. One shouldn''t determine a person''s nature by their country of birth.

    She tightened her hold on the treaty scroll. "Who should I give this to?"

    Yu Zhen looked down at what she was referring to.

    "Me."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head, surprised by his words. Shouldn''t something as important as this be given to the Emperor? Since he was the one making decisions for the country?

    She turned her attention to Yu Zhen, wondering if he was going to serve as a messenger. But something about his regal walk and powerful presence told her otherwise.

    Yu Zhen was in control of making decisions for Hanjian. The Emperor was no longer in charge despite the title he possessed.

    Whether or not the Emperor willingly relinquished his power, this country now belonged to Yu Zhen. Every major decision would go through Yu Zhen and no one else.

    "Are you a ruler behind the curtains?" Li Xueyue asked. Though it was more of a joke. He peered at her, an amused smile breaking out.

    "Perhaps."

    "My father did the same."

    Yu Zhen nodded. "I predicted as much. The coincidences were simply too hard to ignore."

    Li Xueyue supposed he was right. Wuyi only flourished after her father returned back to the Capital. Originally, Wuyi was struggling, but it was mainly because itcked a Prime Minister.

    "I miss them," she suddenly said.

    Yu Zhen nced at her again. He already knew who she was referring to. It had been weeks since she hadst seen her family.

    Li Xueyue was all alone on foreign soil. She had little to no friends, but her responsibilities were here, in Hanjian.

    "Would you like to visit them?" he gently asked.

    All she needed was to say the word, and he''d arrange for her to return to Wuyi.?Her happiness meant more to him¡ªregardless of the consequences.

    Yu Zhen would not mind staying in Hanjian to hold down the fort. He would dispel each and every rumor that dared to surface. Ruling with an iron fist would be too kind a description for him.

    "I''m not sure," Li Xueyue admitted.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Visiting my family too often will make it look like I am unhappy in my marriage," Li Xueyue exined.

    Yu Zhen disliked that mindset. Daughters were meant to forever reside in their husband''s homes.

    If he ever had daughters, he would surely request for them to return home often. Even if they were to wed royalty, he would still want to see them often.

    "At the least, we can arrange for your siblings toe."

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. "I''ve been writing letters to them frequently too. Both of my brothers are busy. They don''t even have time to find a wife."

    Yu Zhen wasn''t surprised. With the sudden usurp of the throne, the Li Family must''ve been scrambling to ensure they had a good session n.

    Yu Zhen had caught wind that Li Chenyang was now a Crown Prince. The young man was raised to be a Minister, not a Prince. Thest-minute training and preparations must''ve been rigorous.

    "It will be fine," Li Xueyue whispered. "Just writing to them is enough for me."

    "When all of this mess brews over, we will pay them a visit. As many times as you please."

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. "I would like that very much."

    - - - - -

    "No, are you crazy?" Li Xueyue groaned as she shoved Yu Zhen in the direction of the door. At the very least, he could have waited behind the changing screen!

    "We''re husband and wife," he deadpanned. Amusement danced in his eyes. His face, on the other hand, was filled with disbelief.

    It was fun to rile her up. Teasing her had always been a hobby of his, especially when her expressions were so entertaining.

    "It doesn''t matter!" Li Xueyue continued to push him away. She wanted to wipe that darn smirk off of his face!

    "I''ve already seen and explored everything."

    At his words, the handmaidens severely blushed. They lowered their heads further, hiding their smiles. A few nudged each other with hope-filled eyes. Perhaps an heir wouldn''t be a far-fetched thought from now on.

    By now, many people knew of the Crown Prince''s affection for his wife. Not many royalties slept together in the same bed, much less, every day. He was never seen with a concubine, and he didn''t look like he had the thought of entertaining one.

    "That doesn''t justify anything." Li Xueyue finally managed to push him beyond the changing screen. He had given in to her feeble actions, walking off on his own ord.

    "I would''ve thoroughly enjoyed the show."

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. She gestured for the handmaidens to start undressing her.

    "I''m sure you would have."

    "Even more than the ones in the morning."

    Li Xueyue was left speechless. How could someone be so shameless?! She could already picture his smile. It would be tiny, almost like a smirk. That was how he looked like whenever he was able to fluster her.

    "I wish I can say the same."

    Li Xueyue was met with his stunned silence. She snickered at his reaction, knowing it must''ve aggravated him.

    Not a secondter, the screen was parted open by him. She let out a horrified shriek, her first reaction was to cover her exposed chest.

    "Everyone get out."

    Li Xueyue gaped at him. The servants hurriedly rushed out of the room, shutting the doors behind them.

    "I''m tired," she whispered, taking hesitant steps backward. He stalked towards her with narrowed eyes.

    "Well,?you shouldn''t have been a tease."

 Chapter 388 Gentle

    <h4>Chapter 388 Gentle</h4>

    Warning: The following content contains 18+ material.

    "I''m covered in sweat." Li Xueyue tried to reason with him. She shivered under his burning gaze. Wherever he looked, her skin would heat up, already craving his touch.

    "And I don''t smell good," she added on.

    Eventually, her lower back came into contact with arge piece of furniture. His arms came on either side of her, gripping the wood. His muscles flexed from the small action. He was so close that she could feel each exhale of his.

    "Nonsense," he said.

    Yu Zhen swooped down and kissed the corner of her mouth. Her heart skipped, wishing it was her lips he kissed instead. His lips skimmed her jaw, trailing to her neck. He found the spot that made her suck in a breath.

    Yu Zhen nipped the area before pressing an open mouth kiss upon it. "Everything about you is always so intoxicating," he murmured against her skin before suckling on the sensitive spot. The mark he made on her in the morning was fading.

    Li Xueyue trembled, grasping his arm for support.

    "Like alcohol?" she joked.

    He chuckled at her words, not expecting the humor.

    Li Xueyue could feel his smile against her skin. He lifted his head and brushed his lips against hers.

    "A lot more addictive than that," he corrected her. Not a secondter, he kissed her.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes fluttered shut. He settled a hand upon her buttocks and effortlessly lifted her up. All the while, their lips remained interlocked. Her hands rested upon his cheeks, grasping him desperately.

    He lowered her onto the bed, allowing her to breathe in once before kissing her again. He nibbled at her bottom lip, tugging it before diving his slick tongue into her mouth.

    Li Xueyue was beginning to see stars. Whether or not it was intentional, he took her breath away.

    Yu Zhen settled himself in between her propped up legs. He pulled away for a brief minute and stripped off his clothes effortlessly.

    Li Xueyue watched as he did so, gulping upon seeing his honey-tanned body. His muscr abdomen always captured her attention. It clenched when he leaned down.

    "Please be gentle," she whispered when he came for her lips.

    Yu Zhen slid his hand under her head. His long fingers grasped her hair, bringing her up to him.

    "You shouldn''t have provoked me then, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue didn''t get to protest when he captured her lips again. Her fingers brushed upon his hard chest. She felt a strange pulse below her stomach.

    Yu Zhen loved to push her to her limits, even in bed.

    When his hot tongue explored her mouth, she couldn''t stop a moan from escaping. He grunted in approval and slid a hand down her body, enjoying the way her belly clenched.

    "I¡­ I didn''t mean to," she gasped out when his hand stopped directly upon her womanhood. His thumb parted the folds, finding the orb without troubles.

    "Didn''t seem like it."

    Li Xueyue moaned when he drew circles on it with his thumb. Pleasure coursed through her. Her eyes shot open when he inserted a finger, then another, all the while fondling her clit.

    "I-I won''t do it again," Li Xueyue lied as her legs writhed. She tried to push him away, but he let out a dark chuckle and gripped her inner thigh.

    "Where do you think you''re going?"

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut. His fingers did wild things to her. He curled it, pressing against a sensitive spot. She could feel herself reach a familiar peak. He thrust his finger, watching her body flush with pleasure.

    Li Xueyue could feel it. She was so close now, the heat spreading everywhere. She clenched upon his fingers. But then, without warning, he stopped.

    "Yu Zhen¡­" she whispered, her attention fully on him.

    "Yes, love?"

    Li Xueyue nearly cried. Damn him. He was giving her a taste of her own medicine. She was unfamiliar with this type of torturing arousal.

    "Why did you¡ª"

    "Hmm¡­ Did you want something, Sunshine?"

    Li Xueyue rapidly nodded her head. She gulped when he leaned down and brushed his lips against her mouth.

    "Please," she whispered, wanting him inside her. She could think of nothing else but him. She wanted to feel it, the force of his body, and his asional grunts of approval.

    Her body was so warm, and only he could give her salvation.

    "Please, what?"

    Li Xueyue pleaded with her eyes. She hoped he would spare her mercy. Yu Zhen merely smirked at her. A jolt went through her body when he teased her clit.

    "What do you want, Sunshine? I don''t know if you don''t tell me." His voice was a seductive lull that churned her stomach.

    "I¡­ I want¡­" she trailed off, unable to finish her words as he continued to fondle the pearl. It was so difficult to think, much less speak.

    "Hmm?"

    "I-I want you inside of me," she finally breathed out.

    "That''s a good girl."

    Li Xueyue didn''t even have enough time to register his words as something hard slid into her. She covered her mouth, suppressing a moan.

    "Don''t," he warned. "I want to hear all of you as you take all of me."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. Before she could say anything, he slid out slowly, only to quickly thrust into her. She clenched the nket, hoping it would distract her.

    But Yu Zhen was cruel. He grabbed her wrists, pinning it on her sides as he pounded into her. She cried out, both in pleasure and shock. The sensation was too much for her.

    Without warning, he turned her around, her breasts pressing onto the bed. Yu Zhen lifted her hips, hisrge hands tightening around it.

    "I-I-I don''t think I can¡ª" Li Xueyue didn''t get to finish her sentence as he slid deeper into her.

    Li Xueyue''s legs gave out, but he didn''t mind. Yu Zhen had her where he wanted. He continued thrusting forward, faster and harder the more she begged for him.

    The only sound that could be heard was flesh against flesh and her pleas. It was music to his ears.

    Li Xueyue could feel it. She was reaching the peak of pleasure, her palm sliding up the nket, attempting to run from it. She held her breath, for each gasp of air shocked her with even more pleasure.

    "You''re not getting away from me this fast," Yu Zhen growled. His hand covered hers, pinning it down, as the other kept her waist in ce.

    Li Xueyue could no longer think properly. Her eyes rolled back as she tightly clenched. Not a secondter, she started seeing stars.

    His name left her mouth, the exact time as something warm filled her.

    Li Xueyue let out a sigh. Her hips were finally lowered onto the bed as he came down with her. She felt his lips upon her shoulder, kissing and nipping. She was beyond exhausted as her eyes fluttered close.

    Yu Zhen moved her hair away, exposing more of her neck. He enjoyed branding her with kisses and seeing the rosy marks on her pale skin.

    "The banquet¡­" she whispered, believing they should return.

    "Can wait."

    Li Xueyue''s heart raced when he suddenly turned her around. She was met with his piercing gaze, burning with intensity. His hands ran down her sides, stopping at her thighs.

    "You have lovely legs." Yu Zhen leaned in, pecking her softly upon the lips. He parted her legs.

    "I''m tired," she weakly protested.

    "But not exhausted."

    "You insatiable beast." She groaned, heughed.

    "I will be more gentle this time, Sunshine."

 Chapter 389 What Could Go Wrong?

    <h4>Chapter 389 What Could Go Wrong?</h4>

    Li Xueyue couldn''t move a limb. Sheid upon her side, barely able to keep her eyes open. He stayed true to his words and finally did what he said he would do.

    Yu Zhen had stopped shortly after their second round. But she knew it would be much different tonight. No matter how many times they did it, his stamina never depleted.

    She wondered if that was even humanly possible. Where did he get all his energy from? She noticed he glowed with health whereas she was beyond exhausted.

    "Sleep, Sunshine. I will handle the rest." Yu Zhen sat on the edge of the bed, gently stroking the back of her head.

    "I don''t like to rely too much on you¡­" she trailed off, her eyelids growing heavier with each passing second.

    There was something so tranquil about his actions. The way his fingers touch her hair, the way his powerful body hovered over her¡­ She felt safe and loved.

    "You have me at your disposal, yet never use me." Yu Zhen shook his head. Her antics were so strange. People would do anything and everything to have him as an ally. It happened naturally for her, yet she didn''t think much of it.

    "That''s not true." Li Xueyue was beginning to get distracted by his hands, as she always did. "I¡­used your pendant¡­"

    "And?"

    "And your bedroom¡ª"

    "Our bedroom," he corrected.

    "Our bedroom¡­" shezily repeated as sleep began to take over her.

    "I want you to rely on me a lot more."

    "But¡ª"

    "My shoulders are sturdy, Sunshine. Nothing will weigh me down. Not even your biggest problems."

    Li Xueyue weakly smiled at his words. She peered at him, reaching her hands up. He responded immediately, bending down. She hugged him deeply, bringing his upper body down with her.

    "How do you always know the right thing to say?" she whispered, kissing the side of his neck.

    Yu Zhen was mindful not to crush her body. He leaned his head in her direction. "When I''m with you, the words juste out."

    Li Xueyueughed. "There you go again."

    Yu Zhen smiled. "Sleep, Sunshine. You will need your stamina for tonight."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t even protest. She craved his touch too much. Who would''ve thought making love was so pleasurable?

    "Where do you get all of that energy?" Li Xueyue mumbled. He lowered her back onto the bed and pulled the nket to her chin.

    "I was born this way."

    "It''s unfair."

    "Life is unfair."

    Li Xueyue red at him. His smile widened, reaching his eyes. She decided to change the topic, knowing this discussion could continue all day.

    "When will you return?"

    "Before you know it, Sunshine." Yu Zhen pushed the hairs away from her forehead. He wondered if it was irritating her since it did for him. He hated it when his hair tickled the side of his face. It only made him crave her touch, feather-light and warm.

    "I''m scared of nightmares¡­" Li Xueyue let out a small yawn. Her eyes grew more and more tired of staying open.

    "I will chase them away."

    It was her turn to smile.

    "How so?"

    "I will not reveal my secrets."

    Li Xueyue turned her head in his direction. He was still sitting on the same spot, his attention fully on her.

    "Husbands and wives should not have secrets."

    "Tiny ones are fine," he reassured her. "Now sleep, Little Hamster."

    Li Xueyue was too exhausted to even argue about that nickname. Little Hamster. What part of her resembled that small creature? She couldn''t figure it out. Whilst lost in thought, her eyes slowly closed.

    "Sleep well, Sunshine," Yu Zhen murmured, bending down to kiss her on the forehead. And he would remain in that position for the next few minutes.

    Yu Zhen watched over her, making sure she did not toss or turn. Only after she began to quietly snore did he rest assured. There was a reason why he depleted her energy before sleeping. She would be too tired to even experience a nightmare.

    "As many times as it takes," Yu Zhen mused, even though she was unable to hear him.

    Yu Zhen rose to his feet. He straightened out the cor of his robes only to pause for a brief second. His attention drifted back to her, specifically the hands that peeked out of the nkets.

    Yu Zhen grasped her hand and softly kissed her knuckles. "If only you knew, Sunshine¡­ How much I love you so."

    - - - - -

    "You''ve seen her capabilities," the Emperor sternly said to his wife as everyone began to exit the venue. The party finally concluded and Nanhui''s royalties were preparing to head home.

    "Do you still doubt her?" the Emperor questioned, turning to the smiling woman beside him.

    The Empress shook her head. "I merely wanted to see her skills in person. That is all."

    The Emperor let out a "hmph," at her words. He was never the biggest supporter of both of their parenting styles. His wife favored sons. He favored daughters. What could go wrong?

    "You must enjoy seeing me in such a weakened state," the Emperor said. A Eunuch came forward, offering him a cup of freshly brewed eucalyptus tea.

    The Emperor could still remember her re, filled with pure hatred. When had she shown him such a disgruntled stare? He searched through his memories. Ah yes, it was when Yu Zhen was beaten to a pulp for neglecting a day of studies.

    "You are my husband and the ruler of this country. I do not have the heart to see you in pain. My heart hurts each time you wince."

    "Hah." The Emperor drank the tea in one long gulp. He settled the cup down, knowing the medicine was next.

    "You don''t even have a heart in the first ce. How do you feel pain?" the Emperor mused.

    He grasped the newly poured cup of medicinal tea. The eucalyptus was meant to clear the airways and confuse his taste buds.

    The Empress revealed a thin smile. She should''ve been aggravated by his words but she wasn''t. It felt too familiar. He loved to provoke her, and she''d do the same.

    "You should get rid of the decorative flowers," the Emperor suggested. In reality, it was amand. His eyes lingered upon Lady Ge Beining, the onlydy-in-waiting present.

    "They keep me sane."

    "As if you have that trait in your cold-blooded veins," the Emperor sneered. He mmed the cup onto the wooden tray, visibly showing his displeasure.

    Unlike the past, the Empress didn''t even flinch. Once upon a time, she was terrified of his wrath and anger.

    The Empress could still remember the days she trembled whilst protecting her sons. There was a particr moment where she hugged her first son in her arms, vowing to take the punishment in his ce.

    No one believed her, not even her first son who felt the intense shudder of her body.

    "She reminds me a lot of my younger days," the Empress suddenly said. "She did well on proving her capabilities to everyone."

    "She performed a lot better than expected." The Emperor rose to his feet. He refused to tolerate this irritable heat for another second.

    The Empress didn''t respond. She faintly nodded her head, not believing her own eyes sometimes. When Lady Ge Beining told her the Crown Princess possessed little to zero talent, the Empress believed it.

    Nheless, Lady Ge Beining wouldn''t intentionally lie to her. She had merely voiced her opinion.

    "Hah, herees my irritable son, ready to ruin my afternoon," the Emperor drearily said. He was forced to acknowledge the immense presence on the other side of the field.

    From the distance, the Crown Prince was as tiny as an ant. But his strides were too powerful to ignore.

    There was more than one reason that the Emperor chose his second son over the first. It wasn''t merely because of Yu Zhen''s aplishments as a Commander, though it did help his case.

    The real reason was clear as day. Everyone saw it.

    The Crown Prince had the aura of a thousand men. His stare, his walk, his aura, they were intense and powerful. Everything about Yu Zhen was befitting to be an Emperor.

 Chapter 390 Self-Worth

    <h4>Chapter 390 Self-Worth</h4>

    Yu Zhen presented the scroll to his parents. There was a dark glint in his arctic eyes. "Anotherint about her, and that person will be disposed of."

    Yu Zhen was tired of these petty political games. He didn''t have the patience to deal with his problematic mother and aggravating father. If he could have it his way, both of them would''ve been long gone. But not dead, of course.

    It''d be great for his children to have their grandparents. At least, someone would be able to have fond childhood memories¡ªsomething that both Li Xueyue and Yu Zhen didn''t have.

    "Threatening your own father," the Emperor scoffed. "You''ve gotten bold."

    Yu Zhen didn''t even blink. He simply gave the scroll to the Eunuch who took it with two hands.

    He then turned to his mother. His lips curled into a snarl. "You better keep yourdies-in-waiting in their ce."

    "What are you talking about?" the Empress gently asked, confusionced her voice. She was bewildered that he was even aware of thedies-in-waiting. But getting his attention was what they longed for all along.

    "Don''t make me repeat myself," Yu Zhen seethed. His mother knew exactly what he was talking about. "If you couldn''t tolerate a harem, don''t try to create one for me."

    The Empress gaped at him. She sputtered over her next words, unable to find it in herself to refute him.

    "I merely¡­wanted to keep the options open for you in case¡ª"

    "Father should''ve done the same for you," Yu Zhen spat out.

    His mother visibly gasped, disbelief written all over her face. She could not believe her own son would turn on her like this.

    "Making an enemy out of me is not the wisest decision, my son. I still hold influence in court."

    "Not for long." Yu Zhen was well aware of the eyes watching him. A pair of soft, familiar ones. Coy yet innocent, sweet yet bitter. He knew who it was.

    His fingers tightened into fists. His jaw clenched. His patience had already ran out from the morning stunt. Too many people were out to get his woman. He would no longer allow her to deal with the issue by herself.

    Yu Zhen made ns to remove all the weeds in the pce. That way, his flower would bloom the brightest.

    "Contrary to your beliefs," the Empress seethed. "I actually support your wife. She is a well-breddy of fine background. There is not much to hate about her."

    "Yet you ce obstacles before her."

    "Do you think I had it easily?" the Empress retorted. "The Pce life is not for the weak-hearted like many of those women from Wuyi. I needed to see if the Crown Princess was capable."

    The Empress took the scroll from the Eunuch''s hands. She unrolled it, not caring about her husband''s glower. Obviously, he didn''t like her intruding in court politics. But it was toote to feel disgruntled. She had already sunk her ws deep into this country.

    "She performed well beyond my expectations today. Truly, you are my favorite son. How wise of your decision to provoke Nanhui."

    If it was even possible, Yu Zhen''s mood soured even further. Favorite son? Who was this crazy woman lying to? He wasn''t even considered her son for the longest time. He was the legitimate child of the Emperor and Empress, yet he was treated worse than an illegitimate son.

    "You seem so aggravated whenever I speak," the Empress lightly said. She let out a small sigh of disappointment whilst shaking her head. Her hairpins swayed with her, creating the illusion of raining gold.

    "This was one of my final tests for her. And you already know the Crown Princess had passed with flying colors on almost all of them." The Empress rolled up the scroll and handed it back to the Eunuch.

    True to the foreign Prince''s words, the treaty was finalized. It ensured Nanhui and Hanjian would be on the best of terms, and neither country should wage war against each other. If one was to strike Nanhui, they were to strike Hanjian. And vice versa.

    It was an alliance that the Ministers couldn''t form with Nanhui, no matter how many times they''ve tried to convince the other. Yet, it took the simple actions of their Crown Princess to set everything in stone.

    "The Crown Princess''s actions today gained her many supporters. I''m sure you congratted yourself more than her," the Empress mockingly said. There was a knowing look in her eyes as she took in his slightly disheveled hair.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes into slits, daring her to continue.

    "Quit glowering at your mother," the Emperor sternly said. "As much as it aggravated me to say that, you need to start having respect for your parents. What happened to fulfilling filial piety?"

    Yu Zhenughed. It was a cruel, cold sound. One that trembled the heart of onlookers.

    In particr, Lady Ge Beining whose heart fluttered. She feared him, yet admired him. How could she not? The Crown Prince was supposed to be hers¡­ Before he departed for Hanjian, there were already talks of an arranged marriage.

    "Your jokes have gotten better, Emperor."

    Lady Ge Beining worriedly nced at the Crown Prince. Such dangerous words he uttered¡­they were worthy of the most severe punishments. Yet, he stood there, unfazed, like a mahogany tree against a storm. How could he remain so calm in the midst of this tension?

    "Hm, your foolishness has inspired me," the Emperor deadpanned. His attention drifted to the polished wooden tray. Emptied cupsid upon it. He had finally finished drinking his medicine.

    "Now that we have all gotten what we wanted from this discussion," he said. "I expect no one to disturb me any longer."

    The Emperor didn''t wait for anyone''s response. He didn''t even spare Lady Ge Beining a nce before walking off, apanied by his guards and people. He could feel the watchful eyes of his wife, hoping that he would drop dead right then and there. She should pray harder.

    "Have you introduced the Crown Princess to your brother?" the Empress asked the minute the Emperor was out of the vicinity. The topic of their first son was always difficult to deal with¡­especially after the public humiliation that urred on the day of the coronation.

    Everyone had held their breaths in anticipation, waiting to hear the announcement of their Crown Prince. No one knew who would be crowned. Not even the people of the Round Table.

    It was quite an embarrassing defeat for the First Prince whose grandiose outfit reflected the status of a true Crown Prince.

    Yet, everything else about him was severely outmatched against Yu Zhen who had strutted inte. He had a bored expression the entire coronation as if it didn''t concern him.

    "As if he would want to see me." Yu Zhen couldn''t care less. Though, he was quite suspicious of how quiet the First Prince had been.

    "The First Prince is your older brother, of course, he would love to have your presence every once in a while. You know, he was the only Prince sent to Nanhui¡ª"

    "That is because you only birthed two sons."

    The Empress held back a sigh. Must her second child be so stubborn? Talking to him was more difficult than her younger self in the pce. Things were much rougher back then, especially for her, who came from a foreign country. She, too, had to earn her worth.

    "I dearly pray your wife can provide more."

    Yu Zhen''s eyes darkened. "Do not fret."

    The Empress raised a brow.

    "I will ensure she doesn''t measure her self-worth by sons."

    The Empress sharply gasped at his words. She opened her mouth, ready to reprimand him, but he turned his back and stormed off.

    "This unfilial son of mine!" she scoffed.

    The Empress crossed her arms, shaking her head in disapproval. Perhaps it would be better to speak to the Crown Princess about this. It seemed the youngdy had the ability to tame a beast.

    "If only I had babied him a lot more¡­" the Empress sighed again. She was severely disappointed in herself for showing favoritism. But a mother could never love another as much as she loved her first child.

    The Empress shook her head. It was best not to think about the unchangeable things of the past. Everything had already happened.

    "Do you think the Crown Princess is¡­ infertile?" Lady Ge Beining whispered thest word as if it was a forbidden curse. Her eyes quivered with the thought, fear filling her body.

    "Enough," the Empress snapped. Thement had hit a nerve. "Go make me tea. I wish for an afternoon nap."

    Lady Ge Beining bit her tongue. She scolded herself for being so hasty. How could she have forgotten? The Empress had struggled to give birth to her first child.

    Despite the Empress''s cold treatment, Lady Ge Beining bowed her head. Before she could even excuse herself, the Empress walked off. Irritation hung in the air, stimted by both women.

 Chapter 391 The View

    <h4>Chapter 391 The View</h4>

    Yu Zhen had lied. Li Xueyue woke up in the bedroom all alone. It was dark in here, the candle lights blew out. She rapidly blinked, adjusting her vision in the pitch-ck darkness.

    "Howte at night is it?" she mumbled under her breath.

    Li Xueyue touched the spot beside her. It was cold. Which meant Yu Zhen hadn''t returned at all.

    Reluctantly, she slipped out of bed, shivering when the cold nipped at her skin. Goosebumps arose but she quickly covered herself with a piece of Yu Zhen''s clothing she picked up at the foot of the bed.

    "It must be midnight by now," Li Xueyue added on. She quickly tied the belt of the robe together, her legs wobbling with each step.

    She ran a tired hand through her hair. "Perhaps he''s busy with work."

    Li Xueyue unlocked the windows, pushing it open. To her delight, the moon was high in the sky. It was a perfect circle, high up in the sky, lighting up the paths for lost wanderers. Crickets chirped in the distance as the leaves rustled from gusts of wind.

    It was a calm, tranquil night. Such a shame that she was enjoying it all alone.

    "I should visit him."

    Li Xueyue went back to the bed, where she found her shoes neatly tucked at the corner. She slipped it on and made her way to the door, dressed in nothing but the decorativeyer of his clothing. Much like his obsidian eyes, the robe was ck as midnight but decorated with gold embroidery.

    Li Xueyue pushed the doors open, poking her head outside.

    "Good evening, Crown Princess. Is there a problem?" one of the guards hurriedly greeted her. After all, they were stationed near the door. Per the Crown Prince''s orders, no one except him shall enter.

    "Not really," Li Xueyue stated. "Howte in the night is it?"

    "Crown Princess, the sun had set quite a while ago. It''s almost midnight and many people have retired to their beds."

    Li Xueyue nodded. She was grateful for their trained eyes. None of them gawked or stared at the visible markings on her neck. They remained respectful, pretending not to have seen anything at all.

    Wryly, she remembered ament once made about the guards and servants. Li Xueyue was initially worried that they might''ve overheard her. But Yu Zhen reassured her that everyone evacuated from the premises. Only he had the privilege to hear her.

    "I n to take ate-night walk," she suddenly said.

    The guards exchanged nces with each other. They received explicit orders to make sure no one entered the room. But there was nothing said about the Crown Princess leaving.

    "You can apany me if it would put you at ease." Li Xueyue stepped out of the bedroom, deciding to head to Yu Zhen''s private study.

    "Crown Princess," a guard spoke up. "If it''s the Crown Prince you seek, we can send a servant to inform him."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. It would be a lot easier to do that, wouldn''t it? But she didn''t want to pull him away from work. She only wanted to make sure that everything was fine.

    "I assume he''s finishing some documents in the private study?"

    "We apologize, Crown Princess. As of right now, the guards are unaware of his whereabouts. However, we will dly dispatch people to find him and report back to you."

    Li Xueyue smiled a bit. "It seems everyone is keen on keeping me out of trouble," she mused.

    They bowed their heads in response. Evidently, the guards were caught red-handed.

    "I see he has heightened the security around me," Li Xueyue added on. Her voice was light and airy, showing no signs of irritation. With his protective nature, such behavior was expected.

    She was just surprised that it didn''t happen a lot earlier. Perhaps the Round Table Discussion triggered something.

    "In that case, have him brought to me."

    The guards'' eyes widened in horror. They didn''t have the guts to request such a thing from the Crown Prince. Not many people had the authority to make him move. None, except the Emperor.

    "Rest assured, the only head he wille for is mine." It was a joke, but they believed it.

    "Crown Princess¡ª"

    "Or I can search for him."

    "N-no need, Crown Princess," the guards stuttered out.

    Li Xueyue smiled in satisfaction. "That is good to hear." She nced around, in search of antern and spotted one hanging at the side of the door.

    She picked up thentern and brought it inside with her.

    "And tell him to bring food, I''m hungry."

    Li Xueyue shut the door on their faces. But the sight of their skin turning pale was imprinted into her mind. Everyone was scared out of their wits, believing tonight would be thest night they drew a breath.

    How silly of them.

    If only the guards knew, the first one to inform the Crown Prince would receive a reward.

    "How could he not have woken me up for dinner?" Li Xueyueined whilst cing a hand upon her empty stomach. Automatically, it growled in protest, grumbling for food.

    Li Xueyue figured he probably wished for her to rest as much as possible. It was a thoughtful wish. Except, he hadn''t predicted the consequences. Her sleep cycle was all messed up. She would have to stay up all night now, unable to sleep any longer.

    "Well, more time to cuddle," she reassured herself.

    Li Xueyue headed towards the vanity where she had the perfect view of the scenic night sky. She sat down, cing thentern beside her feet. Resting her cheek upon her palm, she gazed up at the moon.

    During their separation, there were so many nights she''d look up to the sky, wondering if Yu Zhen did the same. She found it interesting that they were all under the same moon, yet, countries apart. The distance between them was wide, but their hearts were never far from each other.

    "You will catch a cold."

    Li Xueyue wasn''t startled by his sudden appearance. He was always stealthy¡ªmoving quietly and keeping silent. Even now, he was approaching her without a sound.

    "I was admiring the moon."

    His hands rested upon her shoulders. She could feel the heat rolling off of him. He was so close. Enough for her to feel the thrill in her heart.

    "Or, you can admire the view that is directly beside you."

    Li Xueyueughed at his words. She kept her eyes forward. Aggravated at theck of attention, his hand slid down, parting the cors of the robe on her.

    "I quite like you in my robes." His fingers brushed against her exposed chest. A smirk formed when she trembled at his touch.

    "But I like it better when it''s off."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. He had slid off the robes off her, leaving her shoulders bare. "What happened to catching a cold?"

    Yu Zhen''s hands instantly roamed her body, spreading warmth all over. His hands were warm, much like the rest of his sturdy body.

    "I will do the job in its stead," he whispered.

    Li Xueyue shivered at his voice, low and seductive. His mouth brushed against her ears.

    "You won''t get your meal if I don''t get mine," she retorted. "I''m hungry."

    Yu Zhen''s thumb brushed her lips. "I can give you something else to eat."

    Her cheeks heated at his words. Despite having zero experience in it¡­she understood his intentions.

    Li Xueyue had read enough books to know. "Is this why you allowed me to sleep sote?"

    Yu Zhen chuckled in response. He nced at their reflection in the vanity mirror. Her breasts were exposed, the buds perked from the cold. He stepped closer to her until her back was flushed against his body.

    "So you can keep me up all night?" she concluded.

    Li Xueyue''s breathing turned shallow when he stroked the side of her breast. It ached to be properly touched by him. He cupped her breast while the other hand turned her chin, forcing her to look at their reflection.

    If it was even possible, she became redder than she already was. There was something alluring about seeing their promiscuous position. He had ess to nearly every part of her. He brushed a finger upon her lips, parting it for him.

    Slowly, he slipped his thumb inside. She teasingly licked it, watching the fire ignite in his eyes.

    "Believe me, Sunshine. I intended to keep you up, whether or not you would have slept this long."

 Chapter 392 Blame You

    <h4>Chapter 392 me You</h4>

    Li Xueyue thought Yu Zhen was joking. She truly did. Until the sun began to peek through the horizon, as the ck hues turned into lighter shades of blue. She was snuggled against his side, a hand upon his chest.

    "Don''t you have a lot of work today?" Li Xueyue mumbled.

    She was tired, but was able to keep her eyes open. It was a different kind of exhaustion, one that she didn''t know was possible.

    Yu Zhen shook his head. He could take a three-week break right now, and everything would still be fine. Being this far ahead in his work had its advantages, but also its problems. He was slowly getting addicted to working.

    "I have all day to apany you."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. They had juste out of the bathhouse where he properly cleaned her up.

    Seduction came easy for him. It must have been with how handsome he was. They even had fun in the water before he carried her back to the bedroom.

    "Does that mean you will sleep-in with me?" Li Xueyue asked. She peered at him and propped her body up with an elbow.

    Yu Zhen took azy nce at her. Her robes had slipped, revealing the dip of her chest. Silky locks of midnight hair cascaded down her shoulders. He took strands of hair in between his fingers and yed with it.

    "Of course."

    "And just sleeping. Nothing more."

    Yu Zhen chuckled at this. "Hmm¡­ Are you able to walk?"

    "Is that a trick question?"

    Yu Zhen merely smiled in response. It reached his eyes, but it came off as cunning and sly.

    Li Xueyueid her head upon his hard chest. He slithered an arm around her whilst the other stroked the back of her head. With her finger, she drew circles upon his flesh, mesmerized by his smooth skin. It was sun-kissed and golden, glowing with health.

    "What are you thinking about?" he murmured.

    Li Xueyue was spacing out, her gaze elsewhere. But his attention had always been on her and nothing else.

    "Well?" he asked when met with silence. There was a soft edge to his voice, wondering if she had fallen asleep. Her tiny actions indicated otherwise.

    Yu Zhen enjoyed her mindless drawings. Her hair was sprawled upon his arm, but neither of them minded. He adored the idle mornings spent with her. Bit by bit, sunlight slowly poured through the windows.

    "We''ve done it so many times already."

    Yu Zhenughed. He nced down at her. "Really now? I didn''t know," he sarcastically said.

    Li Xueyue buried her face upon his chest. He could feel her tiny smile. She was humored by his words. Yet, he felt the pull of her eyebrowsing together in worry.

    "I¡­fear the day that you grow bored of me."

    Yu Zhen''s hand paused. He was no longer affectionately caressing her hair. His fingers gently gripped her chin, forcing her to look up at him.

    "Never."

    "But¡ª"

    "How would you like me to prove myself?" Yu Zhen asked.

    Yu Zhen brought her face closer, his thumb brushing the corner of her mouth. Her lips were rosy red from his kisses. Marks of his love were found on her corbone. He had branded her as his in so many ways, yet she uttered nonsense like this.

    "Don''t mind me, I just like to think of the worse scenarios." Li Xueyue softly sighed.

    "You still have the energy to overthink?" Yu Zhen brought her closer until his lips brushed against hers.

    "I''ll fix that for you." Yu Zhen captured her lips in a slow, sensual kiss. He was mindful not to hurt her, his tongue gently licking her bottom lip.

    Li Xueyue pulled her head back, turning her chin to the right when he attempted to kiss her again.

    His grip on her tightened. "What''s wrong, Sunshine?"

    "I don''t know why I''m babbling so early in the morning. It''s probably theck of sleep the entire night."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. It was an excuse. He could see right through her.

    Without warning, Yu Zhen sat upright, forcing her to rise with him. He slid her onto hisp, a hand firmly holding her in ce. She straddled him, yet he was still a bit taller than her.

    "But I liked lying on your chest," she said.

    "Well, aren''t you spoiled?" Yu Zhen remarked.

    He preferred this position, where he could see her eyes. They were bright, like the morning sun. But a fog of sorrow was beginning to shroud the light.

    "What''s wrong?" he demanded in a low, solemn voice. This time, he would not ept her distractions.

    Fear shed in her eyes. Abruptly, shetched onto him, desperately hugging his shoulders. She felt his hand crawl towards her upper back, patting and soothing her.

    "Do you think I could be infertile?"

    Yu Zhen froze.

    Not a single sound could be heard. Nothing except for her shaky breaths. Hisck of words terrified her. But she didn''t want to be greedy. She didn''t want to shackle him down like this.

    Li Xueyue''s hands dropped to his sides. She pulled back from the hug, but a secondter, he pushed her against his body.

    "Yu Zhen¡­?" Her voice was small and hesitant. His fingers were sprawled wide upon her back, forcing her to be much closer. He wrapped another arm around her.

    "What made you think that?" There was an edge to his words.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t read his emotions. And perhaps he intended for it to be like that. She couldn''t even see his face. Whether he was angered by this news, she did not know. It was her assumption, but who could be happy at the news of infertility?

    "Did the Imperial Physician tell you that?"

    Li Xueyue rested her chin upon his shoulder. She closed her eyes and told herself to cherish this moment. It might be herst.

    "No. I don''t think he checked for it either."

    "It''s difficult to check something like this." Yu Zhen realized she was shaking.

    Her trembling fingers were wrapped around his shoulders again. He only held her tighter, refusing to let go. If he did, something would break.

    Had someone spread false information like this, he would''ve ensured the cruelest of deaths. Luckily for the Imperial Physician, his life was just spared a moment ago¡­at least, for now, it was.

    "Then what made you think of such thoughts?" he asked, though the tone was rough.

    Li Xueyue''s fingers dug into his body. She needed to get a grip over herself, but a wave of mncholy washed over her. What if she would never get to see a baby in Yu Zhen''s arms? What if they don''t get the chance to be parents? What shall happen then?

    "T-the beatings¡­ There were many asions where the Viscount had kicked¡ª" Li Xueyue''s voice was stuck in her throat.

    Yu Zhen held her closer until there wasn''t a gap between them. "It''s going to be alright, Sunshine. Just breathe."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t continue her sentence. She squeezed her eyes shut, wishing the atmosphere between them wasn''t so depressing. But she med herself for voicing this opinion.

    "There must be other signs of infertility," he reassured her. "If you''d like, I shall have the Imperial Physician summoned."

    "I-I don''t want to see him¡­"

    "Then we won''t."

    Li Xueyue felt selfish. She immediately regretted her words. "Actually¡­please invite him."

    "Xueyue¡­"

    Li Xueyue gulped. He rarely called her by her name. Not unless it was a serious discussion or if he was angered.

    "We will get through this obstacle. Together."

    Li Xueyue hid her face in the crook of his neck. If she truly was infertile as a result of the beatings¡­

    She wanted to see him happy. She wanted him to experience the happiness of being a father. It would be too painful to see him struggle with her. To see him childless and grow old without heirs of his own.

    "You''re overthinking again."

    "I''m not."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "I can practically feel your stress increasing by the second."

    Yu Zhen always found it odd. She was so strong in front of others, but when it came to him, she was docile. Which was the real side of her? This gentlemb? Or the glower of a tigress?

    He couldn''t recall a single moment where she was weak in public. Li Xueyue had always carried herself with strength and pride. Confidence oozed off of her in waves. Yet, here she was, in his arms, cowering and afraid.

    Did she only show this side of her to him?

    Yu Zhen began to pat the back of her head again. He was never good with words. Comforting people wasn''t his specialty. He had grown up without experiencing theforting actions of either parent.

    "Even if you are, I will not me you." The words came out of his mouth before he could help it.

    She hugged him tighter, unable to say anything.

    Yu Zhen wasn''t bothered. He continued caressing the back of her head, for as long as she needed him too.

 Chapter 393 Jaded Overthinker

    <h4>Chapter 393 Jaded Overthinker</h4>

    "Call for the Imperial Physician," Li Xueyue finally said after a long silence. She pulled her head back, wiping her eyes. She didn''t want to sit around and cry. Though, there would be plenty of opportunities for tears.

    "He will keep everything confidential, right?" she quickly added on, not wanting this weakness of her to be discovered.

    "If he values his wife and children, then yes." Yu Zhen moved the hair away from her forehead. He loved the fringes that framed her face but would be irritated by it sometimes. They fell over the jewel of her eyes too often.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. "Then, I''d like a visit."

    Yu Zhen cupped her cheeks, catching her by surprise. He leaned close and kissed her upon the forehead.

    "I am not going away, Sunshine. Not even if you chase me off."

    Li Xueyue felt his lips linger on her head. Not a secondter, he rested his forehead against hers, his thumbs stroking her cheeks.

    "I didn''te this far, only to run off because of an obstacle," he softly said. "Whether you like it or not, I''m here to stay."

    Li Xueyue could feel tears fill her eyes again. Her heart ached at his words. Not because it was cruel, but because it hurt her. He was willing to sacrifice this much for her and do it without hesitation. It was a selfless act of his.

    "How is this possible?" she whispered. "Every time I think I''m deeply in love with you, you go ahead and say something like this, and I fall even deeper."

    Yu Zhenughed. The sound clenched at her heart. If only he knew the effect he had on her¡­

    "I am an obsessive man, Sunshine. You should''ve ran for the hills upon hearing my words."

    "I don''t think you understand how crazy I am¡­" Li Xueyue mumbled.

    The memories of the coronation banquet shed in her mind. She would never forget it--the terrors of taking another person''s life.

    Li Xueyue would never forget the fact that she took Duke Li Taojun''s life. It was either his or hers. And she chose herself. At the risk of someone else''s happiness.

    Her attention quickly snapped back to Yu Zhen.

    "I don''t need to understand. I just know, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue gaped up at him. "I thought it was kept well-hidden."

    Yu Zhen gave her a pointed look. "Says who?"

    Li Xueyue red. "Me."

    "Not a very credible source, is it?"

    Li Xueyue didn''t think it was possible for her to experience so many emotions at once. She was appreciative of his humor, even in the most bizarre of moments. Was this his way of uplifting her spirits? She couldn''t tell, for Yu Zhen loved to tease and poke any chance he got.

    "Just go and call the Imperial Physician," she grumbled out, unable to find a way to refute his words.

    Yu Zhen smirked at her defeat. "So quick to give up?"

    "I''m tired," she deadpanned.

    "I wish I could say the same."

    "That''s because you''re not human."

    Yu Zhenughed. Being called a monster never fazed him. There was too much blood that stained his hands. A river of it could flow from the Imperial Pce. It wasn''t something to brag about. But he did what he had to.

    "Always pleasant to hear those words from my wife."

    "I''m sorry," she instantly said.

    Yu Zhen shook his head. "There is no need. I won''t deny the truth."

    Li Xueyue looked up at him rmingly. Was this how he viewed himself?

    "Don''t look so concerned, I truly do not mind. It takes more than words to hurt me." Yu Zhen was amused by her widening eyes. He had heard much worse. Her words didn''t even graze him, much less wound a hole in his chest.

    "You had to protect your country," Li Xueyue firmly said. "It wasn''t a matter of choice. It was an obligation."

    Yu Zhen could''ve sworn warmth spread through him. He was touched by her words but would never admit it. Instead, he responded with another kiss upon her forehead.

    "Do you me yourself?" Li Xueyue worriedly asked. "Yu Zhen, we''ve always discussed my problems. But rarely do we talk about yours."

    "That is because nothinges to mind."

    "No one is truly emotionless," she stated.

    Yu Zhen pinched both of her cheeks at once. "If I have an issue with something, you''d know it."

    Li Xueyue didn''t believe him. No one had a perfect life. Worrying was part of human nature. It would be incredulous to believe he didn''t face any difficulties.

    "Yes, but¡ª"

    "There are childhood memories that leave a bad taste in my mouth but I''ve learned to move on from it."

    Li Xueyue closed her mouth. She patiently waited for him to continue. She was willing to hear his problems out. Big or not, she would give all of her attention to him. He had done the same for her. It was only fair she did the same and beyond.

    "My days are nd, except for the moments spent with you. Nothing fazes me that much anymore. Soldiers learn that from early on."

    Li Xueyue continued to listen. It was rare for him to express his problems like this. She was prepared to listen, even if it took an entire day.

    "Once a soldier has faced the brutality of war, every big problem seems like a small one inparison to the days on the battlefield."

    Yu Zhen would never forget the gruesome image of war. Bloodied bodies, corpses of friends, torn limbs¡­ And the list went on.

    He was not repulsed by the battlefield, for a part of him had always belonged there. He had grown up learning to fight, for fun, and for this country.

    Yu Zhen never expected to be the Crown Prince. He thought he would live a life of fighting and training. Nothing more. Nothing less. But the responsibility of the crown was ced upon him at the age of sixteen when everything was slowly, but surely, tipping to his favor.

    "That is why I am not fazed by many problems. Big or small, it will eventually pass. No matter how stubborn a problem is, I will force a resolution."

    "Isn''t it tiring though?" Li Xueyue finally asked. "To carry the burden of a country upon your shoulders?"

    "That is the price we pay for a dynasty of luxury."

    Li Xueyue examined his face. From up close, she could see the faint marks of dark circles. Now that she remembered¡­his eye bags were a lot worse. But recently, they were improving, bit by bit.

    "If you ever stumble across a problem, you''ll tell me, right? You won''t hold it all in?" she asked. Eagerness reflected off her eyes, impacting him in ways she would never know. And he''d keep it that way.

    Yu Zhen pinched her nose. "I am not foolish enough to keep my emotions bottled up, unlike a stubborn woman whom I am acquainted with."

    Li Xueyue scoffed. Acquainted. Sure they were.

    "Now, will you give your heart a rest and stop worrying about me?" Yu Zhen remarked.

    Li Xueyue shook her head.

    "You make it seem like I will lose my mind."

    "At some point, everyone will lose it."

    "Well, we can address that issue when we get to it," Yu Zhen reassured.

    "It''s a lot better to n ahead¡­so that we wouldn''t have to scramble forst-minute solutions," she responded.

    "It''s a lot better to live in the present, than worrying about the unpredictable future."

    Li Xueyue revealed a tight-lipped smile. "We can avoid the unpredictable by thinking of the worst scenarios and finding ways to address it before it happens."

    "Hmmm, I finally have a glimpse inside your head." Yu Zhen always knew she was the type to overthink, but who would''ve thought, it was to this extent?"

    "If I hadn''t known better, Sunshine, I''d think you''re a pessimist."

    "You don''t have to predict it. I know I am."

    Yu Zhen patted the back of her head. He ran his fingers down her hair, only to repeat it from the roots.

    "A jaded overthinker¡­ What a trait to have," Yu Zhen teased.

    Li Xueyue rested her palms upon his shoulders. "Someone has to be realistic."

    "And delusional," he added on.

    "Better than temper issues."

    Yu Zhen heartilyughed. This was a statement he could not argue with. It was within his blood to have an atrocious behavior. After all, he inherited the worst traits from his parents. By now, he wasn''t sure if they even had decent ones.

 Chapter 394 I Dont Believe You

    <h4>Chapter 394 I Don''t Believe You</h4>

    Eventually, their usual bickering came to an end. She found it intriguing that there was never any resentment between them after that. Perhaps it was because he had always emphasized on dealing with the issue the minute it arose instead of pushing it back.

    Why simmer in rage for weeks on end, when they could just deal with it on the spot? This was a wless mindset in theory. But in reality, it was difficult.

    "I will have a servant fetch the Imperial Physician," Yu Zhen informed her. He settled her back onto the bed.

    "Wait, Yu Zhen!" Li Xueyue called out. She rose to her knees and adjusted his robes. They were loosely worn, revealing the toned lines of his body and his eight packs.

    "Always the worrywart," he chuckled. Truthfully, this wouldn''t have bothered him. It never did before.

    Li Xueyue fixed everything so that he was decently covered.

    "Yet again, you only care about others and not yourself." Yu Zhen shook his head at her.

    "What do you mean?" Li Xueyue asked, tilting her head in confusion. Shebed a hand through her hair, wondering if he was referring to her messy hair.

    Yu Zhen brushed the silky strands of hair behind her shoulders. "There, all fixed."

    Li Xueyue was puzzled. Was there something in her hair? She tilted her head down and gathered strands of it, searching for imperfections.

    He pushed her chin up. "I adjusted it for you. Do not think about it any longer."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. She trusted his judgment. Without another word, she sank into the bed, sitting upon the edge of it.

    Yu Zhen exited the bedroom room. He walked beyond a partition screen and headed for the door, throwing it open.

    Sure enough, there was no one here. As expected. He had pardoned all of them the night prior. No one should hear her sweet cries, except him. And he had greedily listened to his heart''s content.

    "Right on time."

    From the corner of his eyes, Yu Zhen caught sight of the usual group of servants and guards approaching down the hallways. As usual, they came at the same hour, ready to perform the usual routine.

    His servants were smart enough to know when to enter and when not to.

    "Get the Imperial Physician," hemanded a maidservant who bowed her head. She immediately scurried off, ready to fulfill his orders.

    Yu Zhen didn''t spare the other servants a nce. He shut the doors on their faces and walked through the set of doors that lead to the bedroom.

    Li Xueyue rested her hands on either side of her as shezily swung her legs upon the edge of the bed. Her hair was slightly gathered to her side. A small breeze drifted through the room, and strands of her hair caught flight, revealing her neck.

    "If there is one thing I worry endlessly, it is you." Yu Zhen headed towards her and lifted the corners of the nket. He adjusted half of it across her thin shoulders, ensuring she would be warm.

    "The feeling is mutual."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "It is not something to be proud of when you do it too frequently."

    Li Xueyueughed. "I can say the same about you."

    "Really, now?"

    "Yes."

    "Provide an example then, Little Hamster."

    Li Xueyue stared at him with a dumbfounded look. She could''ve sworn his memory was a lot better than this. Or perhaps his inability to ept the truth blinded him.

    Regardless of the reason, she nced at her fingers. "Well, let''s see¡­" she hummed.

    One by one, she started to list down the examples with a show of her fingers to keep count.

    "Just now. And the night before. As well as the other ones where you fret over my appetite and¡ª"

    "Surely you are turning my concerns for your well-being against me?"

    Li Xueyue closed her mouth. She had directly fallen into his trap, yet again. Somehow, her wits managed to escape her whenever she was with him. It was primarily because her guard was always lowered, for he''d never vite her trust.

    "You did that on purpose," she pointed out.

    Yu Zhen revealed a sly smile. There was a glint in his eyes, like a predator stalking his prey. He approached her and gathered all of her hair in one hand.

    "And if I did?" he murmured. His tone was husky, low, and lulling. Her eyes fluttered.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue mumbled when he grabbed one of the strings that tightened her robe. In one yank, the string unraveled itself, dangling in between his fingers.

    "Yu Zhen, the Imperial Physician will be here and¡ª" Li Xueyue blinked. Oh.

    Yu Zhen tied the string around her hair in a low ponytail. He ced it behind her, smiling at the fine piece of artwork in front of him. She was getting redder but she wouldn''t know it, not until her cheeks burned red with embarrassment.

    "Must you tease me so?" Li Xueyue whined, knowing it was the second trap she fell for in the day. Without a doubt, there was a lot more toe.

    "I don''t have the slightest inkling to what you''re implying, Little Hamster."

    Li Xueyue red at him. If he continued to call her that horrid nickname, she''d bite him. "I still don''t understand the reason behind this nickname."

    Yu Zhen''s lips twitched. He suppressed the smile that threatened to break out. The name came to mind after having watched her stuff her cheeks with food. He still recalled the joy in her eyes as she carelessly munched upon tworge buns.

    Those tender memories were like that of the spring breeze, soft and gentle, but never longsting.

    Now, her thoughts were upied with staying afloat in a pce bent on drowning the strongest of swimmers.

    "That reminds me," Yu Zhen coldly said. His joy was short-lived. "You didn''t have dinnerst night. Nor breakfast this morning."

    "I can eatter."

    Yu Zhen scowled. He thought they were making great progress with improving her appetite back to normal.

    It had been a while since she ate as much as that morning when he was invited to have breakfast with the Li Family. He had personally witnessed her finish more food than men twice her size.

    Had all the hard work gone to waste?

    "The servants can have the food brought in the second we conclude with the Imperial Physician," she reassured him.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he made it a personal duty to make sure she ate. If it wasn''t for him and the servants, she would''ve forgotten about eating. Sometimes, she was just too upied with her thoughts and next ns.

    "You neglect yourself too much. It will not do you any good."

    "I will try not to."

    "Somehow, I do not believe you." Yu Zhen crossed his arms and red down at her, knowing her stubborn personality.

    "How can I prove it to you?"

    "By proving it with your actions."

    Li Xueyue suppressed a roll of her eyes. "Why does it feel like the tables have turned?" she asked.

    Just to tease him, she reached a hand up and squeezed his firm biceps. They were hard as a boulder.

    "It''s soft."

    "It''s not."

    Li Xueyue squeezed it again. "Who lied to you and said that it was?"

    "You little tease¡ª"

    A knock interrupted him. Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. All of his people had the worst of timings.

    "Come in," Yu Zhen called out.

    He heard the sound of approaching footsteps. Another knock echoed, this time, upon the doors of their bedroom.

    "Stay out there," Yu Zhenmanded.

    Li Xueyue rose to her feet. He slipped an arm around her. Before she could even take the first step, he pulled her close.

    "No matter what the Imperial Physician says, nothing will change between us," he softly reassured her.

    Li Xueyue was amazed at how quickly his emotions changed. Nheless, she forced a smile and nodded her head.

    "I will hold you to that promise."

    "No."

    "I beg your pardon?"

    "Not a promise, but a vow," Yu Zhen reminded her.

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. He remembered the smallest details about her. She could only widen her smile until it finally reached her eyes.

    "A vow it is," she whispered. Softly, slowly, her words were carried by the wind and sealed within their hearts.

 Chapter 395 How Horrendous

    <h4>Chapter 395 How Horrendous</h4>

    A few minutester, the Imperial Physician knocked on the door. He was told to wait outside of the bedroom.

    The Imperial Physician recognized the Crown Princess. Who wouldn''t? It would be difficult to forget such a mesmerizing face.

    Even he had heard of the rumors about her despite his old age and wrinkled ears. There were hardly any bad things to be said about her, and the majority of the issues were always resolved by her, one way or the other. It was truly apudable.

    However, there was something that made everyone a bit embarrassed. It was the visible love marks on her neck. And her obliviousness towards it made her even more endearing.

    "Get out," Yu Zhenmanded the servants.

    The Imperial Physician waited a second and everyone flocked out of the room. His apprentice stood by the side, carrying arge case of things ranging from medicinal herbs to tools.

    "Including you."

    The apprentice blinked in surprise. He wanted to protest for there were duties to be fulfilled. Then again, this was the Crown Prince. Telling him no was asking to see the Underworld.

    He ced the case onto the table and ran out of the room, tail tucked between his legs.

    "I expect the utmost loyalty."

    The Imperial Physician didn''t question the order. He simply bowed his head. "Understood, Your Highness."

    "If word gets out about today''s check-up, your family will be tortured before you."

    Li Xueyue gawked at Yu Zhen. Must he terrify every single soul in this pce? By now, who had he not threatened? Or were they promises? She couldn''t tell.

    "O-of course, Your Highness," the Imperial Physician stuttered out. He knew, without a doubt, that the Crown Prince meant every word. The rumors of his cruelty were not all baseless. They were retellings of the truth.

    "My Wangfei is curious about her fertility."

    The Imperial Physician nodded his head. He finally understood the reason for this summon.

    "If I may then, Crown Princess," the Imperial Physician stated. He gestured for her to take a seat to make things easier.

    Li Xueyue approached the chairs, but a hand stopped her. She stared down at the familiar, calloused fingers in confusion. They gripped the back of the chair, pulling it out. Bewildered, she approached the other chair and sat down.

    "What is it?" she said when he threw her a brooding re.

    "This chair was meant for you." He gestured to the one that his hand was upon.

    "Oh, I thought you were going to sit there."

    Yu Zhen sighed. "You make it seem like I''ve never treated you well."

    Li Xueyue smiled. "Don''t be so melodramatic, dear husband. Sit."

    To emphasize her point, Li Xueyue patted the pulled out chair. He continued ring at her. Nheless, he begrudgingly sat down.

    "You may examine me now," Li Xueyue said to the Imperial Physician, wondering how it would be done.

    "Do not worry, Crown Princess, it will be a few questions and a quick examination."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head.

    First, he checked her pulse. It was a bit faster than normal, but since she was a bit nervous, it was expected. Next, he examined her tongue, checking the color and health. Finally, he began asking the questions.

    "If you do not mind, Princess, please allow me to take out a parchment so that I can take notes. It would be easier for me to remember¡ª"

    "You are to remember it in your head." Yu Zhen''s intense glower left no room for any arguments.

    To be an Imperial Physician was no easy feat for they specifically served the leaders of the nation. It took more than skills and expertise to earn this honorable title.

    The tests for this position were demanding, and it often took half a decade to pass them all. The selection process was rigorous.

    Having a good memory was expected of any physician. If the current Imperial Physiciancked it, then it meant he had to be reced.

    After all, the Pce only employs the best; the rest are dispensable.

    "As you wish, Your Highness," the Imperial Physician answered. He cleared his throat and opened the wooden case of supplies, in case it was needed.

    "I will inquire about your monthly cycles of bleeding," he began. Bowing his head, he added on, "This conversation might not be suitable for the ears of husbands. If Your Highness wishes to not hear¡ª"

    "I don''t care. Just ask the damn questions," Yu Zhen snapped. He was irritated by the Imperial Physician''s flowerynguage.

    Was it so hard to get the point? It was exactly why he liked the military more. Everyone was blunt and straightforward. There was no need to overlyplicate things and dy time.

    "My sincere apologies, Your Highness," the Imperial Physician quickly said in a lowered voice. He was astonished that the Crown Prince was willing to stay behind and listen.

    Often, discussions of a woman''s menstrual cycle were taboo. No man wanted to hear about the gross things that came out of their woman.

    It was a known fact that the husbands who witnessed the birth of their child were often too repulsed to touch their wives ever again. This was precisely why men were forced to wait outside, as the midwives did their thing.

    "Have your cycles been regr, Crown Princess? As in, the bleeding happens on the same day every month? Additionally, when was thest time you bled?"

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "No, it''s quite irregr and difficult to predict." For thetter question, she touched her chin and tilted her head.

    "I¡­ don''t really remember when. Often, my maidservants keep track for me," she added on. It had been a few weeks since her marriage to Yu Zhen. But she was still uncertain of when herst cycle was.

    The Imperial Physician thoughtfully nodded his head. "I see, Crown Princess." He rubbed his long, white beard and hummed.

    "And the pain? How horrendous is it?"

    "It''s not that horrible. I''m still able to take small walks in the garden."

    The Imperial Physician made a mental note, though it was getting difficult for him. The skill had deteriorated with age. Sometimes, he would forget what he entered a room for.

    "Pardon my wording, but what is the color of the blood, Crown Princess? Bright like roses, or dark? Also, are there any clotting?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She couldn''t remember it quite well. "I''m not sure."

    "Do not worry, Crown Princess. How often do you have to change the cloth?"

    Li Xueyue understood what he meant. The more often a woman changes their cloth, the heavier the bleeding.

    "I would say it''s at the normal frequency as most women."

    The Imperial Physician nodded. He continued stroking his beard. It helped him think. "Do you experience any pain during the process of making love, Crown Princess?"

    Li Xueyue flushed at this question. She could no longer meet his gaze as embarrassment filled her.

    Yu Zhen smirked at this. "She does not," he answered for her.

    Li Xueyue discreetly nudged him with her elbows. The least he could do was be less shameless about this!

    Yu Zhen threw her a pointed look. Did she want to hear something worse? For he had a lot of ideas¡­

    "That is fantastic news, Your Highness," the Imperial Physician respectfully said.

    His wrinkled face showed no signs of surprise or bewilderment. Everyone knew the Crown Prince alwaysvished his wife. Attention or adoration, she received it all. And many knew¡­the most of his love urred at night.

    "And the final question," the Imperial Physician stated. "Is there a lot of pain prior to the cycle? For example, near the lower stomach, Crown Princess."

    Li Xueyue touched her stomach, suddenly feeling a bit queasy at the thought of cramps.

    She slowly nodded her head. "Sometimes, there is a sharp pain, but it''s simr to the ones I receive during the cycle."

    "Hmmm¡­" The Imperial Physician stroked his chin. "It is quite difficult to determine your fertility, for your responses tick off a few problems, but the majority of it also doesn''t."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t understand him. Did that mean she had a higher possibility of being infertile than most women?

    "Have you ever recounted moments where wounds might''ve been inflicted upon your stomach or¡­ pardon me, your womanhood?"

    The air turned chilly. The question was right on the mark.

    Li Xueyue''s heart dropped. She hugged her stomach and scrambled her brain for an excuse. "Yes, in my adolescence and childhood, I¡­was an energetic child. There were many asions that I took martial arts training and sword fighting too far," she lied.

    The Imperial Physician was rmed. The Emperor and Empress of Wuyi had allowed their daughter to run amok like that?!

    Well, it would certainly describe the widely spoken events of yesterday. One couldn''t raise such a talented daughter without sacrifices.

    "For now, Crown Princess, you might have a higher chance of infertility than most women, mainly because of the injuries, whether minor orrge, sustained by your body."

    Li Xueyue expected as much. Yet, her shoulders still dropped in heavy disappointment. A cloud of somberness suddenly drifted over her.

    "Despite the uncertainty of this, I will still prescribe you herbal tonics to aid fertility, Crown Princess. The tonic is concocted from herbs known to increase¡ª"

    "Just make it and get out."

    The Imperial Physician wasn''t rmed by the Crown Prince''s temperament. He had treated this young man from birth to now.

    At this point, not much would faze him. Besides, the Underworld must''ve frozen over if the Crown Prince was suddenly kind. It was not a behavior that people expected from him.

    Kindness does not move mountains. Brute force does.

    "As you wish, Your Highness," the Imperial Physician said peacefully.

    The Imperial Physician quietly gathered the herbs. Luckily, he had expected these types of requests. He hade prepared with the right things.

    Working quickly, he packed the right amount of medicinal herbs. Everything was neatly wrapped to perfection in small parchment pouches.

    "Please have the servants boil two of this every day. Once in the morning, and once at night. Preferably, take this tonic a few minutes before an act of love."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. She saw therge quantity of pouches and cringed at the thought of its bitterness.

    "The taste will be nasty, so it is rmended to drink it with something sweet and sour, such as dried plums coated in sugar, Crown Princess."

    The Imperial Physician neatly organized everything before her, separating the medication to be taken by day and night.

    "Is this all of it?" Li Xueyue asked.

    "We will have to wait for the results. If there is none, even after a month, then I will prescribe a stronger prescription."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. By results, what did he mean? Could it mean pregnancy?

    "Do you have any other concerns, Crown Princess?" the Imperial Physician asked.

    Li Xueyue debated the idea of asking for sleeping tonics. Buttely, falling asleep was not a problem. Especially when all of her energy was drained and she felt beyondforted.

    Li Xueyue smiled. "That will be all."

 Chapter 396 You Win

    <h4>Chapter 396 You Win</h4>

    Once the Imperial Physician left, Yu Zhen ordered the servants to bring in their morning meal. It quickly came for no one dared to starve them. After a joyous meal, the tonic was boiled and served to Li Xueyue.

    "It seems bitter," Yu Zhenmented. He lifted the teacup, examining the pungent drink.

    "Really? I couldn''t tell," Li Xueyue remarked. She watched as he blew on the drink, cooling it down for her.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "You decide to be sarcastic as I''m helping you?"

    "But I didn''t ask for your help," she snapped, suddenly irritable by his question. She took the cup from his hand and ced it down.

    Not a secondter, she felt remorse for her abrupt attitude.

    Li Xueyue turned his hand over to reveal his palm."What if you burn your fingers?" she worriedly said.

    Her forefinger traced over the prominent lines, knowing they meant something.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "It takes more than boiling tea in a cup to hurt me."

    Li Xueyue nodded. She closed his hand into a fist, admiring the veins that popped out. The guilt went away. It seemed he had not noticed her anger. She was d.

    "You''ll need this." Yu Zhen ced something into her mouth. It was sweet, but when she bit into it, it was sour.

    Li Xueyue recognized the vor of dried plums.

    "Thank you," she said whilst sucking the fruit.

    She held her breath and brought the teacup to her mouth, drinking it all in one gulp. By now, the tonic had greatly cooled. The taste was overwhelming. The plum was no longer sweet. It tasted bitter upon her tongue.

    Li Xueyue grimaced whilst cing the teacup down. At least it was only one cup of it. For now, at least.

    "You don''t have to drink it if you don''t want to." Yu Zhen did not enjoy the sight of her in pain like this. Especially if she would have to drink it every day, morning and night.

    "We can hold this off for a few months," he added on. "Since it is uncertain that you''re infertile."

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "It''s fine. I''ll view it as a nutritious drink that will benefit both of us."

    "It does not benefit me to see you suffer." Yu Zhen turned to her maidservants who stood in the corner of the room, awaiting further instructions.

    "Starting from now, you will no longer bring the tonic¡ª"

    "I expect to have the drink every morning and night."

    Yu Zhen sharply turned to her. "Why are you so disobedient?"

    "A wife is not something to be tamed," she teasingly said.

    Li Xueyue understood how lucky she was to have someone so understanding. Often, her words could''ve earned her a rough p on the face. She touched his hand, it was tightly clenched into a fist.

    "Please do not worry so much about me, I am fine¡ª"

    "I will stop when you are."

    Li Xueyue frowned. "That is unfair."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "Everything in this world is unfair, starting from birth."

    Li Xueyue ran her thumb over his knuckles. There were small scars, most likely from fights. She was hurt at the thought of his injured body.

    "You know what I meant," she said in a low, sullen voice.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her chin, lifting it. He didn''t enjoy the sight of her lowered head. "Because you do not worry about yourself, I do it in your ce. Just as you do for me."

    Li Xueyue squeezed his hand. She was ovee with emotions. They clogged her throat and made it difficult to speak.

    Yu Zhen stroked the back of her head. "That is why, you should not reject my advice, just like how I listen to yours."

    "You''re being unfair again," she mumbled, her bottom lip jutting out.

    Yu Zhen''s hand shifted to the side of her face. She expected him to caress it. Instead, he pulled on it, testing the sticity of her skin.

    "You already know my answer to that, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue pushed his hand away, rubbing the sore spot. Surely, it would be an irritable shade of red soon.

    "Don''t you have better things to do than tease me so early in the morning?" she said whilst standing up.

    Li Xueyue had spent far too long in her nightclothes. Afternoon was swiftly approaching. It wouldn''t do her well to idle around in a simple robe.

    Yu Zhen stared at her. If only she knew that her teasing began the moment she woke up. He was always tortured by her. Her rosy lips¡ªluscious and sweet¡ªher natural curves, supple and smooth¡­ She didn''t do much and he was already hardened.

    He reached a hand out and caressed the side of her neck, his thumb brushing a pink mark. She shivered at his touch, her eyes fluttering. She was enjoying it.

    "I believe you are the thing I am supposed to do."

    Li Xueyue reddened at his words. She tried to pull away, but he grabbed the back of her neck. In an instant, he pulled her close. She could see his dark, glimmering eyes in perfect detail. It was so dark, she couldn''t see the rings of his iris.

    "Speaking of which, I should begin."

    He leaned in for a kiss but was met with her palms.

    "I-I''m tired."

    "You had the energy to bicker with me, Sunshine."

    "Yes, but¡ª"

    "Do not worry, my dear wife, I will do the work this time."

    Li Xueyue wanted to protest, but he sealed his lips over hers. All the while, he also sealed her fate.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize she had fallen asleep until she woke up in bed, stark naked. She tiredly turned her head, noticing he was directly beside her.

    The setting sun spooled over his perfect features, creating haunting shadows on his face. Hisshes were long and beautiful, like the rest of his marred body.

    "You''re a beast, my dear husband."

    Li Xueyue gingerly touched his jawline. How was it humanly possible to be this handsome? She had only taken one glimpse at him but felt like she had fallen in love all over again.

    "Why do I sleep so well when I am with you?" she wondered out loud.

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. His chest steadily rose and fell, indicating he was still asleep.

    Li Xueyue smiled in triumph, knowing she was correct. He was finally exhausted enough to not be awakened by the slightest sound or movement. She recalled he was a light sleeper.

    She turned her head towards the open window. They had slept through the entire afternoon, after a session of thorough lovemaking.

    Despite the fact that she mentioned her tiredness, he was still rough with her. She didn''tin, for it was too pleasurable.

    "I will fetch a snack," she informed him, even though he would not be able to hear her.

    Li Xueyue tried to slip out of bed but to no avail. His hold on her was so strong. His arm was slung over her lower stomach, and when she moved, it would only tighten.

    She attempted to wriggle out of it. Not a secondter, he began to stir.

    Li Xueyue instantly froze. She didn??t want to wake him up. Yu Zhen was always thest to sleep, and first to rise. She was hoping he''d sleep longer so that he was well-rested.

    "Are you awake?" she whispered.

    A quiet snore was the response.

    Li Xueyue let out a small sigh of relief. She attempted to move again. To no avail. He shifted with her body.

    "Oh no!" she yelped when he forcibly turned her to the side. He was hugging her now as a child would of a doll.

    Li Xueyue was trapped. He had adjusted their legs, tangling it further. Her lower stomach clenched. There was something pressing into her tailbone. And she knew exactly what it was.

    "Fine, you win," she finally huffed out, deciding to remain in this position.

    If Li Xueyue dared to wriggle again, who knows what the oue might''ve been¡­ Certainly, it would be one that instantly woke him up.

 Chapter 397 To Serve You

    <h4>Chapter 397 To Serve You</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t realize it, but she had fallen asleep yet again. The second time she woke up, it was to an empty bed.

    Tiredly, she sat up, bewildered and confused. How long had she slept for? Subconsciously, she touched the spot beside her. It was slightly warm, which meant Yu Zhen had left only just a while ago.

    Li Xueyue let out a yawn and stretched her limbs whilstying on the bed. She noticed there was no one in the bedroom except her which wasn''t a surprise. Yu Zhen always made everyone wait outside of the bedroom.

    "Hmm, what time is it?" Li Xueyue asked when shezily strolled out of the doors.

    Her usual maidservants lined against the wall. Everyone instantly perked at the sight of her. They had been standing there for a while now with not much to do.

    "It is quitete in the morning, Princess, but not quite the afternoon," a familiar voice said.

    Li Xueyue stiffened. Her gazended upon Xu Jiaqi. What the hell was she doing back here?

    "Who sent you here?" Li Xueyue said. She did best to keep her voice down. There was no need to be agitated so early in the day.

    "Princess, the Crown Prince himself had assigned me to serve you. Did you forget already?"

    "And where were you the past few days?"

    "Training to serve you better, Princess."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She noticed Xu Jiaqi certainly seemed more obedient. Though, someone needed to teach her how to speak better. Even now, Li Xueyue could still hear the slightest attitude in Xu Jiaqi''s voice.

    "Shall I begin by drawing you a bath, Princess?" Xu Jiaqi whispered whilst lifting her eyes.

    Li Xueyue didn''t bother responding. She shooed Xu Jiaqi with a wave of her hand as one would to a pet. She saw the re in Xu Jiaqi''s eyes. Controlling a re must''ve been hard.

    Xu Jiaqi lowered her head. "I will be back soon, Princess. Please wait." With that said, she quickly left the room.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She hoped Xu Jiaqi never returned.

    "Prepare the morning meal," Li Xueyue told the other maidservants. She preferred eating first. Sending Xu Jiaqi out was just an excuse.

    When it came to meals, Li Xueyue preferred it to be delivered by someone else.

    A handmaiden came forward with a porcin bowl of water, tea, and a variety of other things meant to help Li Xueyue freshen up. Li Xueyue performed the routine without any problems, and soon, her morning meal was served.

    Li Xueyue sat down as the maidservants ced arge variety of dishes onto the table.

    "Did the Crown Prince have his meal yet?" Li Xueyue asked one of her maidservants.

    "Yes, Princess. His Highness had his meal while you were still?asleep."

    Li Xueyue nodded. It seemed his morning must''ve been busy if he didn''t wake her up to eat together.

    When a bowl was settled in front of her and uncovered, Li Xueyue stared at it in confusion. She thought the herbal tonics were no longer being brewed.

    "This is¡­?"

    "Princess, the Empress herself specifically requested this soup to be made for you. It is made with the highest quality of ingredients, all of which are difficult to source."

    Li Xueyue instantly knew what the maidservant meant. It was likely a nutritious soup meant for boosting the body''s immune system or something along those lines. It was very simr to the tonic tea from a few days ago, bu this time, there were things she had to consume instead of drink.

    She held back a sigh.

    Gestures like this were kind, but it felt very pressuring. It seemed the Empress wanted to see grandchildren as soon as possible.

    Li Xueyue wondered if there was any other motive. Could the Empress actually be on her side? Perhaps having a child first would secure the marriage?

    She couldn''t pinpoint the exact reason.

    "I should express my sincere gratitude to the Empress, then," Li Xueyue spoke out. She decided to drink the soup first. After all, who knew how many of her maidservants were the Empress''s people?

    Li Xueyue lifted the spoon to her mouth, but paused. Was it truly from the Empress? Could there have been a possibility that her food was poisoned?

    Dread filled Li Xueyue. She eyed the drink, suddenly losing her appetite. But there were simply too many servants in this room.

    "Everyone is excused," Li Xueyue said.

    Uncertainty filled the room. Was there something wrong? The Crown Princess rarely excused them during a meal.

    "Every servant here has worked hard. Please take a break outside, to stretch your legs, and sit down. It must''ve been difficult to wait that long for me to rise," Li Xueyue gently exined. She wore a soft smile on her face, her eyes shing with serene understanding.

    No one could deny her now that she had spoken such kind words. One by one, everyone exited from the room.

    Li Xueyue waited until they were all gone. Once she was certain no one else was in the room, she stood up and approached her vanity. As always, the essories were neatly organized and thoroughly cleaned.

    Li Xueyue picked up a silver hairpin. She went back to the table and dipped the end of it into the soup.

    "If I recall correctly, Jiangsu always did this¡­" Li Xueyue pulled out the hairpin and examined the color. The silver was still shiny. There wasn''t a hint of ck.

    The soup was not poisoned.

    Li Xueyue was still uncertain. Silver detected arsenic. But she shouldn''t continue to doubt the Empress like this.

    "I should inform Yu Zhen about the soup," she finally decided.

    Li Xueyue headed back to her vanity drawers and pulled out a handkerchief. "I''m too paranoid," she chided herself.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue began to individually take out all of the visible ingredients in the soup. She ced it onto the handkerchief, mindful to even pour a bit of soup onto it. That way, the smell would stick.

    Afterwards, Li Xueyue was left with nothing but the liquid. She picked up the bowl of soup and hairpin, then approached a nt. Midway there, she halted.

    "The bedroom would be better." It was a ce that no servant dared to snoop in.

    Li Xueyue headed into her bedroom and found a small nt in the corner of the room. She poured the soup onto the soil, and watched it sink down.

    "Next¡­" she trailed off, heading back to the dining table where she tied the ends of the handkerchief together.

    Li Xueyue loosely picked up the handkerchief and wrapped it in another one. Next, she approached one of the bookshelves in the bedroom.

    "This should be fine," Li Xueyue stated, stepping back to see if the item looked out of ce. It certainly did. She adjusted the position of the pouch, deciding to hide it behind one of the decorative pieces.

    "A tiger paperweight of gold¡­ It must''ve been a gift." Li Xueyue wondered out loud. She picked up the item, examining it, before putting the tiger back into ce.

    Afterwards, Li Xueyue headed back to the table. By now, the food was cold. But she didn''t mind. So long as she would be safe.

    "It''s partially my fault as well," she added on.

    Li Xueyue realized her habit of talking to herself. She let out a sigh and picked up the chopsticks.

    Her horrible habit was the result of not having many friends.

    "If only I was better at socializing¡­" she trailed off.

    Li Xueyue had lived the majority of her life being locked up in the Bai Manor. She didn''t have frequent opportunities to have human interaction. It was difficult for her to even think of something to discuss, much less, have the guts to make friends.

    By now, Li Xueyue was too used to her life of solitude. However, having a friend or two wouldn''t have been such a bad idea.

 Chapter 398 Indulge

    <h4>Chapter 398 Indulge</h4>

    After Li Xueyue finished her meal, it was time for her morning bath. Surprisingly enough, Xu Jiaqi was more patient this time.

    "Hmm, nevermind," Li Xueyue suddenly said as Xu Jiaqi entered the room with the hot water. All of a sudden, she felt queasy and touched her mouth.

    She med it on the nauseating sight of Xu Jiaqi''s irritable face and presence.

    "I''d like to take a dip in the bathhouse," Li Xueyue stated. She could practically feel the irritation radiating off of Xu Jiaqi. By now, thedy-in-waiting could burn a hole through the ground.

    "But, Princess, I specifically drew this water¡ª"

    Li Xueyue brushed past Xu Jiaqi. She sauntered out of the estate without another word, as maidservants hurriedly rushed after her.

    She refused to be burned by the boiling water again.

    Li Xueyue was certain that no amount of training would prevent this mischievous woman from ying dirty tricks. She turned her chin and saw Xu Jiaqi was pitifully trailing behind the group of servants.

    Soon enough, they reached the enormous doors of the bathhouse. The doors were pushed open for her, as familiar steam rushed over them.

    There was a woody scent in the air. It smelled like a forest, the day after it rained. The scent was quite musky¡­ enough for her to feel the same urge to throw up her breakfast.

    Li Xueyue didn''t know why. She suppressed the sensation and tried to focus on something else.

    "Princess, please allow me to check the temperature," a maidservant quietly said.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head as the doors closed behind her.

    She allowed another maidservant to help her undress.

    "Hmm, the water is colder than usual, Princess. If you don''t mind, the temperature must be adjusted," the same maidservant reported back.

    "Very well." Li Xueyue only wore a thinyer of linen.

    Li Xueyue hugged her body and curiously peered around the room, wondering how the system worked. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the maidservants were gathered around a long, heavy rope.

    It took more than one person to organize everything.

    She watched in amazement as a slot in the wall suddenly opened, revealing a square. Water gushed from it, so warm that there were wisps apanying it.

    But from the corner of her eye, she saw Xu Jiaqi with a woven basket.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue demanded as Xu Jiaqi began to sprinkle something into the water.

    Without warning, she was ovee with a surprising wave of rage. Her fingers itched to snatch the basket out of Xu Jiaqi''s hands just to personally examine it.

    But then Li Xueyue blinked, and she was back to normal.

    "This isvender, Princess. It is supposed to help relieve stress and tension," Xu Jiaqi patiently exined as she held up the beautiful violet flower. Not a secondter, she ced it into the water.

    "Additionally, this is peppermint harvested from the Imperial Gardens. It will soothe the body and leave a cooling effect upon the skin." Xu Jiaqi lifted the bright green leaves from the basket.

    Li Xueyue felt as if her worries were unwarranted. Nheless, she reached into the woven basket where three ss bottles could be found.

    "That isvender oil, to enhance the scent," Xu Jiaqi coyly said as the bottles were uncapped. Her lips twitched in amusement. How uncultured was the Princess to not know what the bottle contained?

    "And that is peppermint oil, Princess."

    Li Xueyue''s brows crinkled. She felt like there was something amiss¡­ What was it?

    "Ah, how can I forget?" Xu Jiaqi perked up, reaching into the basket. "Among the presents from Nanhui, there was a rare oil not found in Hanjian."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. She was intrigued, for Yu Zhen didn''t disclose anything about the gifts from Nanhui. Well, she didn''t ask about it either, since jewels and silk never interested her.

    "It is a unique blend of Jasmine and Rosemary oil. It is difficult to acquire, for the slightest mistake in temperature during production would ruin this fine bath oil,?Princess."

    Li Xueyue nced at the bottle. The design of the bottle was exactly like the ones used in Hanjian. She supposed the simrities were a result of Nanhui''s influence given their close proximity.

    She took the bottle from Xu Jiaqi and uncapped it. Instantly, a heavenly aroma filled the air. The scent was sweet with undernotes of warm, oaktrees.

    Li Xueyue resisted a gag. The smell was beautiful, but she didn''t feel well. She brushed off the feeling. Maybe it was something she ate this morning. Perhaps the food was truly tampered with.

    "The peppermint andvender oils are meant to soothe the skin, whereas this oil can cleanse the skin. Isn''t it fascinating, Princess?" Xu Jiaqi rambled.

    Li Xueyue wordlessly nodded. She watched as Xu Jiaqi poured the first two bottles into the water. The scent was so fragrant, it tempted her into the water.

    She reached into the pool and tested the temperature. "It''s perfect," she murmured.

    Li Xueyue saw the maidservants wiping their brows. They rolled their shoulders a bit, and let out sighs of relief. Adjusting the water must''ve been difficult for them...

    Like a snap of her fingers, Li Xueyue suddenly felt sympathetic. She was worried about their health, even though it shouldn''t have been her concern.

    "Lady Xu will bathe me. I am curious about her training," Li Xueyue informed her maidservants in a louder voice that would reach the corners of the room.

    The servants didn''t dare to protest. They bowed their heads, grateful for the rare break. From a far distance, they were unable to indulge in the fragrant scent.

    However, they watched with curious stares, wondering if Lady Xu Jiaqi''s training was that different from the rest of the maidservants'' lessons.

    To be a servant of the Imperial Pce was no easy feat. The selection process was rigorous.

    Every three months, thousands ofmoners would try out, and only a handful would be chosen. Only the most beautiful ofmoners were considered, and beyond that, were even more challenging tests to measure their worth and capabilities.

    "Don''t you think it''s unfair that Xu Jiaqi''s punishment was receiving more training?" a maidservant whispered amongst themselves. "If a normal servant had angered the Crown Prince, she would''ve been beaten and kicked out of the pce."

    "Well, Lady Xu Jiaqi is ady-in-waiting. She is one of the Empress''s people. I believe the Eunuchs were more lenient on her."

    "Hush," an older maidservant hissed. "If Lady Xu hears us, she will tattle on us."

    The maidservants grumbled and reluctantly shut their mouths. They lifted their gaze and observed Lady Xu Jiaqi.

    Xu Jiaqi helped the Crown Princess out of the finalyer of clothing. Naked bodies didn''t faze the maidservants. But everytime their gazended on the Crown Princess, the maidservants'' faces would flush red.

    The Crown Prince truly adored his wife.

    The marks that used to be fading had now be prominent. Needless to say, he was thoroughly attentive in bed.

    "A-are we even allowed to watch?" a timid maidservant squeaked out.

    "Xiao Hua, we need to learn one way or the other, don''t we? Wouldn''t it be better to study Lady Xu''s tricks?"

    Maidservant Xiao Hua hesitatingly nodded her head. Everyone watched as the beautiful Princess slowly dipped into the water, her shoulders rxing. Lady Xu Jiaqi sank to her knees as she poured something onto her hands.

    "I don''t see anything different from what we used to do¡­" Xiao Hua shyly whispered, noticing Lady Xu was massaging the Princess. She started with the shoulders before trailing up the neck. A different bottle was used to massage the scalp.

    "Hmmm, it might be the way her finger moves," anothermented.

    "Notice how the Crown Princess''s eyes are closed? She seems to be enjoying this more than usual¡­"

    Li Xueyue didn''t think Xu Jiaqi truly changed. But the technique employed on her sore body felt different. Her tense muscles slowly rxed.

    Suddenly, her brows were pulled together. She felt pain in her pelvic bone, as sharp, tingling sensations jolted upwards from her lower back. Her stomach ufortably churned, much like cramps from her cycle.

    "When was my previous cycle?" the words slipped out of Li Xueyue''s mouth without much thought.

    Was her cycle starting soon?

    "Xiao Hua," she called out to the maidservant. "When was my previous cycle?"

    "W-well¡ª"

    Xu Jiaqi sharply gasped. Her hand froze. Her lips parted.

    "What is it?" Li Xueyue said as she grimaced in pain. Finally, she opened her eyes and horror filled her. Blood. Not a secondter, it dispersed into the water, turning the herbal green water into a floral pink.

 Chapter 399 Where Are You Going?

    <h4>Chapter 399 Where Are You Going?</h4>

    Li Xueyue was numb. Her vision was suddenly blurry, as ringing began in her ears. A part of her knew. She knew what had happened. It wasn''t the start of her cycle. It was much more than that.

    An unprecedented wave of mncholy washed over her, threatening to drown her in the pool of her loss.

    Something wet trickled down her cheeks, like water droplets falling from her wet hair. Her proud shoulders dropped as she hugged her lower stomach, mourning for a loss Li Xueyue didn''t know she had.

    Li Xueyue could not focus on her surroundings. Her heart hurt more than her lower regions. She could hear the initial confusion from the maidservants, believing her cycle had started.

    But then it clicked inside of their heads. The Crown Prince''s passionate love for his wife¡­every morning and night.

    The possibilities were higher than ever.

    "Call for the Imperial Physician!" a panicked voice called out in the background. But it sounded faint, like an echo in a cave.

    "What are you doing, Lady Xu? Get the Princess out of the water!" another person demanded as shoes pped upon the wet tiles of the bathhouse.

    Xiao Hua couldn''t focus on so many things at once. There was too much chaos in the room, as the maidservants frantically searched for the bathrobe. But to their horror, they had forgotten to bring it along.

    Since the Crown Princess had abruptly left the estate, the maidservants quickly followed after her and no one remembered to grab a change of clothes. Thus, one of them had to rush out and fetch the clothes, whilst another hurriedly ran out to summon the Imperial Physician.

    "Princess, the water is contaminated, please¡ª" Xiao Hua could no longer continue.

    Her voice was caught in her throat. She didn''t want to believe it. None of the maidservants wanted to. It was precisely why they focused on different tasks at once, hoping to distract themselves.

    "Princess¡­" Xiao Hua whispered, stepping towards their numb leader. There was a faraway look in her eyes when she turned her head.

    Lady Xu Jiaqi was already helping the Crown Princess step out of the water. "T-the steps are this way¡­" she stuttered out.

    The Crown Princess was guided out of the water. She was moving but her footing was strange. She was physically present yet mentally absent¡ªa shell of a body.

    "The Crown Prince s-should be on his way, Princess," Xiao Hua exined. She held a linen robe in her hands¡ªthe closest item of clean clothing she could find.

    "Please, if you may¡­ The clothes shall be put on now." Xiao Hua bowed her head as she slipped the clothes on the Princess.

    Often, the Crown Princess would respond by moving her arms. But this time, Xiao Hua felt as if she was dressing a porcin doll¡ªlifeless and unmoving.

    Xiao Hua was too concentrated on the Princess to care about anything else. All of the maidservants were doing other things. Most likely, they didn''t dare to handle the Princess when she was in such a fragile state.

    They lined the walls, ready to serve her at any moment''s notice.

    "Princess, w-we can have another bath drawn for you," one of the maidservants spoke up, hoping this would distract her.

    The Crown Princess did not respond. She stared ahead, her attention on the door. Finally, she looked around, her eyes out of focus.

    "I want to be dressed."

    Lady Xu Jiaqi pressed her lips together. "The maidservants haven''te back with your clothes. You will have to wait, Princess."

    Xiao Hua fiddled with her fingers. She didn''t know what to do aside from frantically looking around. She was thrown off by the impatient voice of Lady Xu, but not surprised.

    Everyone knew of Lady Xu''s temperament. Her status asdy-in-waiting must''ve gotten inside of her head.

    Xiao Hua suddenly decided it was better to lead the Princess away from the slightly pink water.

    "If we can, this way, Princess," Xiao Hua gently asked. She guided the Princess to the other side of the enormous bathhouse, separated by a partition screen.

    It was a lot warmer in this corner for some reason. But as Xiao Hua looked up, she realized it was because of thenterns hung on the walls.

    Not a secondter, the doors opened again and the maidservant who left earlier returned. Xiao Hua quickly helped her peers. In no time, the Crown Princess was dressed and ready to head back to her estate.

    The Crown Princess took the first step outside but tripped a bit.

    "Lady Xu!" Xiao Hua frantically whispered. "You were supposed to guide the Princess over this step."

    Xu Jiaqi glowered at the maidservant. She was many ranks above them. What gave Xiao Hua the right to speak like that?

    "My apologies, Princess. The steps here are slippery," Xu Jiaqi exined. She helped the Crown Princess by her elbow.

    "Don''t touch me."

    Xu Jiaqi narrowed her eyes. She was only trying to help. Without another word, she dropped her hand. Fine then. ''Trip all you want,'' she sourly thought to herself.

    Xiao Hua grumbledints inside of her head. She anxiously walked behind the Crown Princess, mindful of everything in their path. Luckily, the hallways were evenly paved, and there is nothing that could hurt the Crown Princess.

    "Lady Xu, where are you going?" Xiao Hua asked when she saw the woman trailing behind.

    "The maidservant who is seeking the Imperial Physician still hasn''t returned to inform us that he is waiting in the estate. I will look for her and make sure she didn''t get lost."

    Xiao Hua didn''t bother to ask another question. She didn''t want to deal with the irritatingdy-in-waiting.

    "Please, allow us, Princess," Xiao Hua stated when they finally reached the doors of the main room in the estate.

    Xiao Hua pushed the doors open. The Crown Princess stepped inside. Despite her wet hair and the clothes that stuck to her body, she headed straight to the bedroom.

    "Princess¡­" Xiao Hua worriedly said. It would be disastrous if the Crown Princess fell asleep with wet hair and clothes.

    "The Imperial Physician should be here soon." Just as she said that a small knock came at the door.

    Xiao Hua perked up. She rushed to the door, opening it. But disappointment flooded her. It was just Lady Xu Jiaqi carrying a tray of freshly brewed tea.

    "Where is the Imperial Physician?" Xiao Hua asked. She eyed the tea, as the sweet scent of chamomile filled the air.

    "He is a few steps behind. That stupid maidservant. She was supposed to get the Imperial Physician and have him brought here immediately, but as he was gathering the supplies, she also went to fetch tea."

    Lady Xu Jiaqi red at Xiao Hua. "Why are you asking so many questions? Don''t you know servants are supposed to be still and silent? You talk too much."

    Xiao Hua''s shoulders dropped. Lady Xu was right¡­

    Xiao Hua averted her eyes to the ground. In a moment of panic, she had forgotten her ce. She was simply too concerned about the Crown Princess.

    "Close the door," Xu Jiaqimanded. She ced the tray onto the table.

    "You didn''t let the Princess go into the bedroom, right?!" she hissed. "If she lies on the bed¡ª"

    "I tried to stop her. We''re not foolish, Lady Xu. We understand going to sleep in with wet hair is not good."

    "¡ªNo, I meant the bed. There is an envelope blessed by the highest monks of the temple ced under the bedding, and under no circumstances should it get drenched," Lady Xu Jiaqi snapped.

    ''Must I do everything around here?'' Xu Jiaqi thought to herself.

    All Xu Jiaqi wanted to do was go back to living afortable life. She hated serving someone. It was a lot more fun being around the Empress. She could not wait to fail her duties as the Crown Princess''s servant.

    Xu Jiaqi believed her pathetic attempts at serving would irk the Crown Princess enough for thetter to send her away.

    ''With enough frustration, the Princess will surely send me away. When that happens, I can return to the Empress and enjoy the frequent tea outings,'' she thought to herself.

    Just then, the door opened again, revealing the Imperial Physician.

    "Well, what are you waiting for? Go greet him¡ª" Xu Jiaqi stopped talking. Where did that tiny servant run off to? She looked around, and sure enough, the maidservant was gone.

    Xu Jiaqi was startled to see the maidservant was now inside of the bedroom. Did that stupid woman not value her life?! She narrowed her eyes.

    "Tch, she''s finally drying the Princess''s wet hair, but what good is that going to do now? The bed is already wet."

    Xu Jiaqi held back an aggravated sigh. "Be patient¡­ be patient¡­" she reminded herself.

    Xu Jiaqi quickly nced around. No one was watching her. Everyone''s attention was towards the suddenly closed bedroom doors. It was then she realized the other maidservant was still inside.

    With such a perfect opportunity, Xu Jiaqi scurried to the doors. She opened it, only to see nothing but ck.

    Huh?

    A chill ran down Xu Jiaqi''s spine and her heart started racing faster than an arrow shooting across an open field. She lifted her eyes, only toe face to face with the love of her life.

    The Crown Prince was here. A storm brewed over his head. The air was cold, much like his menacing eyes. His overwhelming presence filled up the entire estate.

    "Y-your Highness¡­" Xu Jiaqi whispered, as she quickly bowed her head to greet him. She could feel her heart thumping wildly against her ribcage, like a wild horse galloping in the fields.

    Likewise, the other maidservants quickly lowered their upper body into a deep curtsy. Everyone was terrified of breathing the wrong way for they had failed hismands. No one dared to raise their heads, even when the Crown Prince brushed past them.

    The promise of murder dangled in the air. Despite hisposed facial features, everyone knew¡­the Crown Prince was beyond the point of fury.

 Chapter 400 Everyone Had Hoped

    <h4>Chapter 400 Everyone Had Hoped</h4>

    "You''re being unnecessarily impatient," Yu Zhen snapped the moment he stepped out of the bedroom shared with his wife.

    If it wasn''t for Lu Tianbi''s persistence of having him awakened, then Yu Zhen could''ve spent his morning teasing Li Xueyue.

    Instead, she would have to wake up alone and bewildered. He preferred the sight of her snuggled against him, instead of the nkets.

    "Only because we have finally acquired the list you''ve asked for, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi exined. She raised her eyes from the floor and wryly smiled.

    A dark scowl marred his perfect features. His brows were scrunched together, displeasure was written all over his face. There was a healthy glow to him. Without a doubt, someone elsecked the same energy.

    "We''ll discuss it in my private study," Yu Zhen said.

    Lu Tianbi nodded in agreement and hastily followed after him. They walked in silence, so quietly, the rustle of branches could be heard. What a peaceful morning... The birds were chirping, and the breeze was gentle.

    "How have your matchmaking sessions been going?" Yu Zhen finally asked.

    Lu Tianbi''s shoulder dropped. Her attention went elsewhere. Suddenly, the fluttering leaves of summer intrigued her. They were vibrant and green, filled with life, unlike her eyes.

    "There are many suitors," she whispered. Her voice was meek and small, unlike her true personality.

    Lu Tianbi wrung her fingers together. With each passing second, her lips began to lower.

    "But you are unhappy," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Lu Tianbi slowly nodded her head. It was a tiny action, one that almost went unnoticed. She pushed the doors of the study open, darkness greeting them. Wordlessly, she approached the windows and pushed it open. As sunlight flooded the room, she adjusted the curtains.

    "Father said something startling," she confessed.

    Lu Tianbi didn''t know where to begin. She leaned against the wall. A soft thud echoed in the room when the Crown Prince stepped inside. It was the only sound, aside from the doors being tightly shut.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen asked.

    Yu Zhen approached his desk, untouched, and disorganized. It was exactly how he left it yesterday. Not a single brush was misced.

    "For Hu Dengxiao''s years of servitude to the Lu family, Father is thinking of rewarding him with a woman of a suitable rank."

    Yu Zhen lifted his head from the desk. It was surprising news, since Hu Dengxiao was his advisor¡ªsomeone that belonged to Yu Zhen.

    News as big as his advisor being promised ady should have reached Yu Zhen''s ears. Who gave the Prime Minister the permission to order Hu Dengxiao around?

    The audacity of that man¡­ But Yu Zhen was highly intrigued and amused. Without making ament, Yu Zhen took a seat. Not a secondter, Lu Tianbi was speaking again. It was unusual for her to rant, but he weed this tangent.

    "Of course, Hu Dengxiao used to be a strategist, and now an advisor. He has climbed high in the ranks, but thedy would at most be the daughter of a Viscount."

    Yu Zhen remained emotionless at her words. His expression didn''t change. His fingers simply ced the brushes back into the holder.

    "And well, I suggested to Father that with Hu Dengxiao''s title and achievements, perhaps marrying a Marquis''s daughter could also be considered."

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow. For someone so intelligent, she sure was slow at times. It was such an obvious hint. The wise Prime Minister must''ve caught on in a heartbeat.

    "Father was furious," she whispered. "It feels like¡­like he''s purposely doing this."

    "Your father should know by now," he said.

    Lu Tianbi''s head snapped up. As she met his solemn gaze, dread filled her. She knew exactly what he was talking about.

    "He would never ept it, Your Highness," she sighed.

    Lu Tianbi reached into herrge sleeve and pulled out the concealed slip of parchment. It was rolled up, and barelyrger than her hand. She approached his desk and ced the item down.

    "I meant, he is aware of the mutual feelings you two share."

    Lu Tianbi''s head snapped up. She was frantic at his words, her hands retracting too quickly. The wooden brush holder crashed onto the table. She cringed at the noise but wasn''t distracted by it.

    "Who told him, Your Highness? No one knows aside from¡ª"

    "Everyone knows."

    Lu Tianbi gaped at him. "But¡ª"

    "Both of you were so obvious, even a child can figure it out."

    Lu Tianbi rapidly blinked. She hesitatingly bent down to pick up the fallen items. "W-what do you mean ''both of us''? Besides, the feeling isn''t mutual. He prefers demure girls, one who doesn''t hit him every second, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. He rolled his eyes and lifted the parchment she had ced in front of him. As always, her handwriting was neat and near perfection. It was very simr to the temte that teachers would give to their schrs.

    "Hmm¡­there are no Earls with the surname Qin?" Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He was certain Li Xueyue mentioned the scum was an Earl.

    "Indeed. However, we found there were two aristocratic families with that surname. Perhaps the Earl received a promotion in ranks?"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. The parchment crumbled under his fingertips. If so, it must''ve been the Emperor''s doing. That old man used to?reward those who heavily funded the war between Wuyi and Hanjian years ago.

    "I wouldn''t be surprised." Yu Zhen pushed out of his chair. His mood was further ruined by the unexpected turn of events.

    "Have Hu Dengxiao conduct an investigation on both families," he instructed.

    Yu Zhen lit a candle standing on a small table. The mes flickered and danced, creating a wispy silhouette on the surface. The fire consumed the corners of the parchment until nothing but crisp ash remained.

    "But Father has already scheduled a matchmaking session for Hu Dengxiao, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhenughed at her words. It was empty and humorless. "If the Prime Minister has a problem, he should speak to me directly."

    Lu Tianbi perked at his words. A slow, energetic smile bloomed on her lips. She was satisfied at hismand, rapidly nodding her head.

    "Oh and," Yu Zhen mused. "Our dear advisor is quite an airhead. Go and make sure he does a decent job."

    Lu Tianbi chuckled at hisment. Everyone knew that was false. Despite Hu Dengxiao''s bubbly and joking nature, he was quite intelligent. Every task of his was performed to utter perfection. There was not much toin about his work ethics.

    "Alright, I will¡ª"

    A sharp knock interrupted her. Not a secondter, a louder knock was heard. Urgency bounced off the walls.

    Yu Zhen scowled. "What?" he demanded, loud enough for the people on the other side to hear.

    Lu Tianbi stealthily approached the door. She pulled it open, a stern look on her face. It was aplete switch from her true personality.

    "Lady Lu!" a maidservant eximed. She quickly bowed as far as her upper body allowed.

    Her breathing came out in panicked pants. She did her best to control it, but her heaving chest implied otherwise.

    "T-The Crown Princess¡­ she¡­ she¡­" the maidservant trailed off, her body trembling in fear.

    Yu Zhen appeared directly behind Lu Tianbi. She stepped aside for him, but her eyes widened when he yanked the maidservant close.

    "Speak," he demanded.

    "The Crown Princess is unstable. W-we don''t know what happened, but there was blood in the water. M-many of the maidservants believe it is not the cycle starting¡ª"

    The maidservant wasn''t able to finish her sentence. She was shoved aside as the Crown Prince stormed out the door. She shakily adjusted her crumbled cors where he had tightly gripped.

    Less than a minute had passed, and he was already down the hallways. When it came to the Crown Princess, nothing else mattered. It was too difficult to ignore the urgency in his heavy footsteps. They echoed in the corridor. It waspletely unlike him to make so much noise.

    "How can otherdies dream ofpeting for his attention when he is so smitten by her¡­" the maidservant whispered to herself.

    She sighed at her foolish thoughts. Picking up her dress, she quickly ran after the Crown Prince. He would know what to do. He always did.

    And perhaps, just perhaps, things weren''t as bad as it seemed. Or so everyone had hoped.

 Chapter 401 Care To Explain?

    <h4>Chapter 401 Care To Exin?</h4>

    Yu Zhen flung the doors of their estate open. The first thing he saw was the opened doors of their bedroom. Had the Imperial Physician only just arrived? What had taken that man so long?

    He stormed into the room, shoving everyone aside. He could''ve sworn his hand came in contact with some sort of fabric, but it didn''t matter.

    "What happened?" Yu Zhen demanded. He set foot into the bedroom, mming the doors shut. The force was so strong, it rattled the walls.

    Yu Zhen''s heart was racing with too much anxiety to care about small details like this. When he saw the maidservant''s frantic state and heard her exnation, he knew something horrible must''ve happened. And judging from everyone''s pale expressions, his predictions were not wrong.

    There was no one else in this room except the Imperial Physician, a maidservant, and his wife, who was curled under the nkets¡ªher face and body hidden. If it wasn''t for her curled up position creating a bulge on the bed, he would''ve thought she was asleep.

    "It is grave news, Your Highness¡­" the Imperial Physician worriedly said. He was standing by the foot of the bed.

    He had just finished examining the Crown Princess. He checked her temperature, pulse, and the color of her tongue. He also asked her pertinent questions.

    "Spit it out then." Yu Zhen closed the distance from the door to the bed. He stopped directly over Li Xueyue''s fetal position. She didn''t even want to look at him. The second his clothes came into sight, she turned her body and faced the other direction.

    "What''s wrong?" Yu Zhen asked.

    The Imperial Physician was befuddled by how quickly the Crown Prince''s voice changed. It was cold and bleak, filled with an ultimatum just a while ago. However, the authority in the Crown Prince''s voice had faded. His tone was much kinder when speaking to his wife.

    "What are you hiding from me for?" Yu Zhen teased, hoping to reel her close. He ced a hand upon her shoulder, but she wriggled away.

    "It is best if we leave the Crown Princess be¡­after this morning''s incident, she needs rest."

    "What exactly happened?"

    Yu Zhen finally noticed the wet splotches on the nkets and pillow. He was furious.

    Without warning, the heavy duvet was yanked off of her. She didn''t even protest. Her only response was to bury her face into the pillows.

    Yu Zhen''s scowl deepened. He tossed the nket aside and reached to grab her. But she rolled farther from him.

    He held back a sigh. What had gotten into her?

    "Your hair and clothes are all wet. You will have a fever by tomorrow morning if you don''t dry your hair and change into dry clothes. Don''t be stubborn,e now," Yu Zhen murmured. He patiently touched her hair, which was still dripping with water.

    "Just leave me alone!" she cried out, her voice cracking towards the end.

    Before he could even react, she sniffled. "Please¡­"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. When she was like this, how could he? Li Xueyue looked like she needed him now more than ever.

    "Not until you tell me what happened."

    Li Xueyue stopped responding. She continued hugging her stomach, refusing to look at anyone.

    Yu Zhen was disappointed by her actions. Nheless, he ced the nkets back onto her.

    "Go get a towel," he ordered.

    The only maidservant in the room quickly scurried out to fetch a towel. She had been meaning to thoroughly dry the Crown Princess''s hair, but the Imperial Physician arrived before she had the opportunity to do so.

    Before leaving, she closed the doors behind her.

    Once there were only three people in the room, Yu Zhen finally turned to the Imperial Physician. It was time to get to the bottom of this story.

    "What exactly happened to my wife?"

    The Imperial Physician lowered his head. It was never easy passing on such news, no matter howmon it was.

    "The Crown Princess had a miscarriage."

    Yu Zhen was floored by the news. It felt like cold water was poured over him.

    "This is quitemon, especially during the early stages, Your Highness. This is very disheartening news, but please be assured that many women go through it."

    Yu Zhen turned to Li Xueyue. Slowly, he sat upon the edge of the bed.

    "Does it hurt anywhere?" he asked in a low, patient voice.

    She didn''t say anything.

    Yu Zhen was unfazed. He would patiently remain by her side until she was ready to speak. Seeing as she was unresponsive, he turned to the Imperial Physician.

    "Prescribe some tonics that would help to build up her body. Then, leave."

    The Imperial Physician didn''t need to be told twice. He walked away from the bed and approached his wooden box resting on the table. As he began to take the trays of neatly organized herbs out, the scent in the air changed.

    "Strange¡­" he murmured.

    There was a strong smell in the air prior to opening the box. But the Imperial Physician had brushed it off initially. He thought the distinct and familiar scent was emitted from the wooden box.

    "Princess, if I may inquire," the Imperial Physician said whilst turning around. Not a secondter, he turned back and faced the table again. Even at this age, he felt embarrassed.

    The Crown Prince had kissed his wife upon the head. It was a fluid action that must''ve urred many times before. Nheless, it was still too intimate for his eyes to see.

    "Lavender¡­" he mumbled to himself whilst preparing the herbs.

    The Imperial Physician ced all sorts of different herbs together. He grumbled random observations under his breath.

    "Jasmine¡­"

    When he ced the dried red dates onto the parchment, he muttered, "Peppermint."

    In no time, he finished packing the herbs together in several pouches. "I''ve prepared medicine that willst for a week. Please make sure the Crown Princess takes this medicine twice a day and finishes it. It is meant to strengthen the body and remove blood clots. I wille back again a weekter to check on her and adjust the medication ordingly, Your Highness."

    The Imperial Physician decided upon a week, since it would be enough time to gouge the body''s reaction towards the medicine. If the condition is stable, and there aren''t any issues, then he would prolong the treatment a bit, and create more medicine for her.

    The Imperial Physician ced the pouches neatly onto the table. Once it was organized, he began to ce the trays of herbs back into the box.

    "Rosemary¡­" The Imperial Physician hummed to himself, whilst continuing to put things away. He felt like there was something forgotten¡­ What was it?

    Shaking his head, the Imperial Physician closed the wooden box. He had been contemting this for a while now. Perhaps, it was time for his apprentice to begin taking the cement exams.

    "Will that be all, Your Highness?" the Imperial Physician politely asked whilst bowing his head.

    The Crown Prince rose from the edge of the bed. He took his sweet time approaching the Imperial Physician.

    "If word of this spread, you can hug your family goodbye."

    The Imperial Physician gulped. It would be an impossible task to keep this matter on the down-low, especially when so many maidservants had their suspicions.

    "You will go out of here, mumbling about the cycle beginning and there was nothing to be concerned about. Is that clear?"

    Relief flooded the elderly man. He rapidly nodded his head, grateful for the advice.

    "I will not fail you, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhen didn''t respond. He went back to the bed, ready to keep his wifepany. There were still many documents to get through today, but she came first.

    The doors softly clicked shut behind him. The Imperial Physician had left.

    "You heard the Physician," he softly said. "This ispletely normal."

    Yu Zhen approached the bed, this time, he sat down on the side of the bed that allowed him to see her face. She had finally stopped hiding her face.

    "Truthfully¡­it was quite the grim news." The bed slightly dipped with his weight. He tried tofort her again, this time, cing a hand on her shoulder.

    "But it will be fine. I do not mind. No one will me you for this. They will never know." Yu Zhen''s hand slid to her cheek, moist with shed tears. She shifted her body a bit. He thought she would pull away, but Li Xueyue inched closer to him, seeking hisfort and affection.

    "It''s alright," he whispered. "I am not angered by the news."

    Yu Zhen peeled back the nkets. "Now, let''s get you dried. Sleeping with wet hair and in wet clothes will be detrimental for your health."

    He touched her thick strands of hair, clumping together from the moisture. "You smell different. Did you try out a new bathing oil?"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. "Yes¡­ I¡ª" Her blood went cold.

    Her head shot up. "The Imperial Physician was mumbling something, wasn''t he? When he was preparing the herbs?"

    "He is old and sometimes talks to himself. There have been talks of his retirement. Do not worry."

    Li Xueyue abruptly sat up from the bed. She wiped at her face, and hurriedly slipped out of bed.

    "Where are you going?" Yu Zhen demanded, grabbing her wrist.

    He was astonished to see her mood change so quickly. There was fury in her eyes, muddled with confusion and pain.

    "H-how could he have not picked up on it?" she demanded.

    "On what?"

    "Where is Xu Jiaqi?"

    She was speaking in circles. Her thoughts were incoherent. Her eyes were frantically searching the room, a wild look on her face. She took a shaky step forward, searching for thedy-in-waiting.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her shoulders, forcing her to look at him. He pulled her close and worriedly pushed the hair away from her eyes.

    "Sunshine, you need to exin it to me from the very beginning. What are you trying to imply?"

    "I¡­ I don''t know yet, but I have a spection. I feel like I''ve read about it before in a book a long, long time ago in the Li Manor."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. Could it have been poisoning? But that should''ve been impossible. She might''ve not known it, but her food was always taste tested by a servant before it was served to her. So far, none of them had dropped dead, which meant no one was foolish enough to poison her food.

    Suddenly, horror shed on her face. She grabbed onto his cor, yanking him down. "Where. Is. Xu. Jiaqi?"

    Yu Zhen ced a hand on her wrist, perplexed by her sudden strength. "She is supposed to serve you, so she should be outside¡ª"

    Li Xueyue didn''t wait for him to finish speaking. She released him and swung the doors open. It loudly banged against the walls.

    The maidservants perked at the sight of her. But she wasn''t focused on them. She frantically searched the room, searching for thedy with a death wish.

    "She''s not here."

    Yu Zhen came to her side. "I will have her brought here."

    "Do it now."

    Yu Zhen approached the door and waved his hand. A figure jumped down from the ceiling outside, startling everyone. But when they saw his fully ck clothes, and the small symbol on his chest, no one questioned the identity of this man.

    "Find Xu Jiaqi."

    The man bowed his head. Not a secondter, he disappeared into the distance.

    Yu Zhen closed the door and turned to his wife. She was now standing by the entrance as well.

    "Care to exin?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. She refused to tell him. Not until she personally got to deal with Xu Jiaqi.

 Chapter 402 Covered in Blood

    <h4>Chapter 402 Covered in Blood</h4>

    Yu Zhen was too concerned about Li Xueyue''s behavior to realize the sorrow that hung over him. He approached her, sping their hands together. They had just lost what could''ve been their first child¡­but there would be many more toe, and he was hopeful.

    It felt strange. He was always a pessimist, much like her. But at times like this, he was forced to adapt so that she doesn''t go down the rabbit hole.

    "You''ve yet to tell me how you feel," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue wasn''t paying attention to him. Her eyes were fixated on the doors, waiting for it to open. Once Xu Jiaqi gave her exnation, Li Xueyue would deem the appropriate punishment.

    "My unruly wife," he called out, teasing her. His taunts always provoked a reaction from her. He was certain that it would work.

    But she didn''t even hear him. Distraught danced in her eyes, as she nibbled on her bottom lip. She was with him, but consciously, she was elsewhere.

    "Sunshine," he deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue continued ring at the door. She didn''t want to exin to him. All she wanted to do was hit something or someone. The revtion of what happened to her made her so furious that it overcame the sorrow of her loss.

    Her fingers curled into a fist. She would make everyone pay. All of them. No matter what happens, no matter the consequences.

    Li Xueyue knew it wasn''t her fault. She was mindful of the risk of being poisoned, mindful of taking good care of her body. But external forces were out of her control. These thoughts continuously ran through her mind, ringing like temple bells. But no matter how many times she tried to convince herself that she did nothing wrong, a part of her med no one but herself.

    "Li Xueyue," he snapped, finally capturing her attention.

    "I''m sorry," was the first thing she said.

    Yu Zhen forced himself to be more patient with her. They had both suffered a tremendous loss, and neither of them were prepared for it.

    "Why do you want to see that wench?" Yu Zhen demanded.

    "Why not?" she argued, ring up at him. What? Was he too reluctant to see his favorite servant harmed?

    Li Xueyue grimaced at her impulsiveness. ''Since when did I have such ugly thoughts?'' she asked herself.

    "You have to be logical, Little Hamster¡ª"

    "Logical?" she hissed. "I ampletely sane right now."

    "I didn''t say you were crazy. I am merely reminding you that this might not be the best way to deal with Xu Jiaqi."

    Li Xueyue scoffed. She took a step back, shaking her head in disbelief. Without knowing it, her hand had touched her stomach, almost as if there was more than one person that was offended by his words.

    His gaze immediately averted to her hand, lying upon the t belly. His glower softened. "Sunshine, do not jump to conclusions so quickly."

    She dug her fingers into her palms. Her attentionnded upon the maidservants in the room. They kept their heads low, not daring to make eye contact.

    "Everyone is excused," she stated.

    Li Xueyue barely kept her voice in control. It was difficult not to sound frustrated with them when she was angry at the world.

    They looked up, confused, and bewildered by her request. The maidservants shuffled their feet but hesitated to leave. Nheless, they slowly departed the room, one by one, closing the door behind them.

    Silence engulfed the room. The tension was so thick, it could be sliced by a knife.

    Yu Zhen tried to reason with her again¡ªeven when his mood was worsening. But at times like this, what could he do? Anger and screams would do nothing to help.

    "You have to tell me the reason you''re summoning Xu Jiaqi. I will support everything you do, Sunshine."

    Guilt began to nibble at Li Xueyue''s broken heart. Yu Zhen was always so understanding and patient???but all she did was take, take, and take. Her eyes watered as she looked away.

    There was too much remorse consuming at her. First, it was the loss of the child. Second, it was her temperament and how Yu Zhen always got the short end of the stick.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. Perhaps she truly was losing her mind. Her heart ached too much for her to respond to him.

    "Well?" he pressed on.

    Li Xueyue hugged her stomach, only to drop her hands a secondter. Prior to the miscarriage, she didn''t feel anything there. But now that their child was gone¡­ it felt even more empty.

    "Am I talking to my wife or a wall?"

    Li Xueyue''s head shot up. His words were offensive, but his tone wasn''t. Yet again, he was attempting to lighten up the mood.

    "Perhaps both, for my wife is as t as the wall."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t evenugh or get angry. All she wanted to do was curl up in a ball and sleep. What kept her standing was the motivation to take vengeance.

    "You''re breaking my heart here. At least chuckle at my joke, even if it was a forced one." Yu Zhen approached her. He hesitatingly grabbed her shoulders. Finally, she stood still for him.

    "It would do you well to rest." Yu Zhen''s arm slithered to her back, pushing her close to him.

    "The confrontation can wait. Your health matters more." Yu Zhen stroked the side of her face. She flinched, her lips trembling.

    "Don''t."

    Yu Zhen was caught off guard. She acted as if he had struck her. At this, his patience began to shrivel.

    Li Xueyue saw the irritation sh in his eyes. She ced a trembling hand upon his chest. "D-don''t be so kind to me after what I did¡ª"

    "What did you do?"

    "..." Li Xueyue lowered her head. She could do nothing but think about what had happened in the bathhouse. The thought gued her mind, but her tongue refused to move. She couldn''t even utter the loss.

    "Lose our child?" he finished for her.

    At his blunt words, Li Xueyue shoved him away, but his grip was strong. "How can you just¡ª"

    "This is not like you," Yu Zhen growled. He grabbed her chin, pinching it tightly as he forced her to look up.

    "Remember who you are, Li Xueyue. Remember the battles you''ve fought to reach where you stand. Fumbled thoughts and trembling lips is not your nature. You are much stronger than that, and you know it."

    His words felt like a p to the face. She glowered up at him. "Am I not allowed to feel these emotions? Am I not allowed to wallow in sorrow when we have experienced such a loss?!"

    "I am not trying to dictate your emotions. I am merely preventing yourself from spiraling into madness."

    Li Xueyue frowned a bit. Was she going crazy? She didn''t think so. "I just want to go back to bed and sleep for days on end¡­ I don''t want to see the real world for a while."

    Yu Zhen stroked the back of her head affectionately. "If that is what you truly desire, I do not me you."

    Li Xueyue weakly smiled. "But not now."

    Yu Zhen frowned. "Tell me what must be done. I will do it for you. Do not dirty your hands like this."

    Li Xueyue''s smile slowly slipped away. Hesitation arose in her eyes, much like the walls being built around her.

    "My hands are already covered in blood."

 Chapter 403 Little Girl

    <h4>Chapter 403 Little Girl</h4>

    Yu Zhen was caught off guard. He blinked in disbelief. When did this happen? The hollow look in her eyes heightened his worry.

    "With whose blood?" he asked in a low,posed voice.

    "My birth father."

    It was almost as if lightning had struck him. He was beyond the idea of shock. Li Xueyue was not only capable of murder, but?towards a loved one at that. She said it with so little emotion that he had to pause and reconsider her personality.

    Yu Zhen recalled her origins. Her birth father had supposedly raped Viscountess Bai Yihua. It was a crime worthy of death, especially when it was the reason for Li Xueyue''s misfortunes.

    "And how did that make you feel?" Yu Zhen said.

    "I felt guilty, but relieved. After ruining my life before it even began, he tried to ruin my future as well. What a coward he was, attempting to use me as leverage against his own brother."

    Understanding dawned on him. He recognized the reasons behind her actions. She was scared. And her natural instinct was to kill¡­ What a woman he had married.

    "I fought for my survival all my life," she slowly said. "That was why¡­fighting to secure my future did not faze me."

    Yu Zhen did not believe her words. He could see the guilt that threatened to consume her.

    "Then, why do you look so hurt?"

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. Was she hurt? Li Xueyue rubbed her aching heart.

    Li Xueyue didn''t have to search long and far for her answer. It was always at the tip of her tongue, but she never voiced it. There was no one that would listen to her with unjudging ears.

    But Yu Zhen was different. He had walked a life simr to hers, with varying levels of cruelty. He won''t turn her words against her.

    Not because he couldn''t, but because he wouldn''t. She had that much faith in him, but at times, forgot this crucial detail. At times, she was too lost in her fears. He could always reassure her, but only time could heal her wounds.

    Li Xueyue licked her lips. Finally, something else had distracted her more than her anger did.

    "It hurts because¡­he didn''t hesitate to drag me to the depths of hell with him. As my birth father, shouldn''t he feel some remorse, sympathy, or pain? I even pitied him over the greed he showed that night. Anything would have been better than nothing at all."

    Li Xueyue was startled when Yu Zhen suddenly patted the back of her head again. Almost as if he was praising her for voicing her thoughts.

    "It must''ve been difficult to share," Yu Zhen fondly said. "But I am d you told me."

    Li Xueyue stared at his chest with widened eyes. This¡­was not the reaction she had in mind. A part of her had expected for him to be repulsed. She had a lot of baggage , but he never batted an eye. Why was that?

    Why exactly did he love her? Sometimes, this question would nag in the back of her mind. What did she offer him, for him to love her so much?

    "Everything will be fine, Sunshine." Yu Zhen brought her close. He embraced her tightly, hoping to squeeze the pain out of her.

    The pain slowly left from her eyes. Her eyelids fluttered shut as she relished in hisfort. A part of her was still angered by Xu Jiaqi, but it will be dealt withter.

    "Why do you love me?" The words left her mouth without a second thought.

    "And why do you love me?" he countered, cing emphasis on ''you''.

    "I have so much to say, but they''re all cliche and cringeworthy. You''d probably bully and tease me afterwards," Li Xueyue mumbled.

    Li Xueyue hugged him tighter. A moment ago, she wanted to be all alone. She wanted to lie down on the bed, and cry her sorrows away. She wanted to bury herself under the nkets and nevere out for a while.

    But now, Li Xueyue craved something else. She yearned for hisfort, his warmth, and his attention. It distracted her from the pain, until eventually, the ache went away. However, it woulde back. It always would. How could it not?

    What could''ve be a part of their lives was gone.

    "You know me so well, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyueughed. It was faint and small, but nheless, augh. His arms tightened around her.

    "But do you truly want to know, Sunshine?" he whispered.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. "I don''t need to know because you''ve already proven it countless times."

    Yu Zhen ran a hand through her hair. It was no longer dripping with water, but damp to the touch. He embraced her dearly, in fear she would catch a cold.

    "It''s so strange how much turmoil I could be in, yet you remain so peaceful¡­ How do you do it?"

    "Someone has to be the voice of reason around here, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know whether she shouldugh or cry. "I am reasonable."

    "To a certain extent."

    "The same can be said about you."

    Yu Zhen did not respond. He simply smiled, for it was the truth. Their rtionship was intriguing. He was calm when she was angry. And she was tranquil when he was raging. At least, theyplemented each other, in their own, crazy way.

    He continued fondling with the ends of her hair, hoping this would distract them from their pain. They might have lost something precious today, but they haven''t lost each other. And this kept them going.

    - - - - -

    Xu Jiaqi ran for her life. She didn''t think her heart would ever be relieved to be ignored by him. But just this time, she did. When he didn''t even acknowledge her, and stormed into his bedroom, more time was created for her getaway.

    "She said to turn towards the left, then the right, and the left corner again," Xu Jiaqi breathed out as she hurried down the corridors. The path was getting dimmer with each second as she dashed towards a dark part of the pce.

    Just then, she felt it. A presence directly behind her.

    Xu Jiaqi swiveled around, horrified at the thought of being caught. But there was no one there. It was just her shadow, long and narrow, slithering upon the floor. She shakingly touched her chest, attempting to catch her breath.

    "Fool."

    Xu Jiaqi shrieked. She turned again, this time, catching sight of who was chasing her.

    "Did you truly think you could outrun the Crown Prince?"

    "Who are you?!" Xu Jiaqi demanded as her hand reached for the dagger. Her eyes widened in surprise. There was only one person standing in front of her.

    Xu Jiaqi almostughed out loud. The Crown Prince cared so little for his wife, that he only sent out one guard? Perhaps all of those rumors about his affections were truly just rumors. Nothing more. Nothing less.

    "If you''re going to capture me, there is no use," Xu Jiaqi boldly said. "I did nothing wrong. I have people who can attest to that. It is for your best interest to turn around and pretend you didn''t see me."

    Xu Jiaqi jutted her chin in the air. "If so much as a strand of hair goes amiss, my benefactor will have you, your family, and even your children hanged."

    The man did not respond. He merely tilted his head. He didn''t move, even after seeing the obvious knife hidden behind her waist belt.

    Suddenly, he revealed a cold, cunning smile, like that of his Master.

    Xu Jiaqi narrowed her eyes. What was with that creepy expression? Was he hoping to scare her? It was never going to work, especially after she had been dragged through hell and back.

    "What a foolish little girl¡­" he murmured.

    And before Xu Jiaqi could respond, something grabbed her wrists. Abruptly, a cloth was tightly wrapped over her eyes, just as a pungent thing was shoved into her mouth. She was bound and dragged to a ce that would send her to hell again.

 Chapter 404 Horrendous

    <h4>Chapter 404 Horrendous</h4>

    Li Xueyue heard the protests before she saw themotion. A knock echoed in their room, followed by a curt response from Yu Zhen.

    The doors opened as a group of men in ck entered. Her eyebrows shot up at the sight of them,rge and intimidating, much like their Commander.

    "Your Highness, we have found the woman you''ve requested."

    Li Xueyue thought only one man was sent out. Seeing the handful of them caught her off guard. She eyed the small circr sigel on their chest. It was unlike anything she had ever read or seen.

    "Who are they?" she whispered.

    "My personal soldiers."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. Like private guards? She couldn''t imagine someone like Yu Zhen needing any protection. Then again, he had more foes than friends.

    It put her heart at ease that taking his life would be much more difficult than people would''ve predicted. That is, if they dared to raise a sword against him.

    "Good job. You are dismissed." Yu Zhen nodded in approval.

    The men ced a hand upon their chests and deeply bowed. Not a secondter, they closed the door and disappeared.

    "Can she even hear us?" Li Xueyue muttered.

    A ck cloth covered Xu Jiaqi''s eyes, a ball of dirty linen was ced into her mouth, and something seemed to be stuffed into her ears.

    Unsurprisingly, her hands were bound behind her, much like her knees and ankles. She was forced into a kneeling position, leaving her lost and bewildered.

    Despite that, Xu Jiaqi still managed a way toin. She was saying or screaming something.

    Li Xueyue took a step forward, then another, until her quiet footsteps stopped in front of Xu Jiaqi. In one rough yank, she pulled off the blindfold.

    Xu Jiaqi seemed the least bit surprised by the sight of Li Xueyue. It was almost as if she had expected this.

    "You''ve looked better," Li Xueyuemented.

    Xu Jiaqi flinched at her words. She lowered her head as tears pooled in her eyes. She had noticed the Crown Prince who always had a soft spot for her.

    Something about Xu Jiaqi''s behavior intrigued Li Xueyue, much more than it angered her.

    Then, without warning, Li Xueyue struck Xu Jiaqi upon the cheek. The smack echoed inside the room, loud and clear. Xu Jiaqi''s face turned to the side, her jaw going ck from the force.

    "Mmmph!" Xu Jiaqi cried out, her voice muffled by the disgusting linen. It tasted sour and bitter upon her tongue. She couldn''t even grit her teeth to suppress the pain.

    "It hurts, doesn''t it?" Li Xueyue whispered.

    "On the first day of your servitude, my scalp was also in pain when you yanked my hair and jabbed me with hairpins. And my skin? It was scalded by the boiling water you used to bathe me."

    Xu Jiaqi vigorously shaking her head, denying everything. Her eyes wererge and frantic as she pleaded for mercy. She was so good at acting that for a split second, Li Xueyue almost felt bad.

    Xu Jiaqi jolted when Li Xueyue grabbed her chin. A hand stroked the left side of her face, where it burned bright red.

    "Where do I even begin with the wrongdoings you''vemitted against me?" Li Xueyue mused.

    Xu Jiaqi cringed back, hoping to escape from the dreadful touch of the Crown Princess. There was something terrifying about the Princess... Her eyes, they were too calm. Much like her hands, caressing the stinging cheek. The featherlight touch should''ve soothed the pain, instead, it heightened it.

    Before Xu Jiaqi could react, another strikended upon her the same exact spot as before. She cried out in pain, her body shaking with each sob.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. Her hand was burning. But she couldn''t even register it inside of her mind.

    "You believe Wuyi women are weak, so why are you crying like this?" Li Xueyue eerily asked.

    Xu Jiaqi trembled. She whimpered and cowered back, purposely trying to appeal to the Crown Prince. He was watching all of this go down. Surely¡­he''d react to the cruelty of the spoiled Princess.

    When their eyes met, it was fire against water. Tears stained her vision, but even then, she saw the raging mes that burned within him.

    He was disgusted with the Crown Princess. Xu Jiaqi was certain of it.

    "I''ll ask you just this once," Li Xueyue calmly exined. "Who gave you those bathing oils?"

    Xu Jiaqi tensed. So, the Crown Princess knew. Hah, look at this white lotus¡­

    Xu Jiaqi would bet her life that the Crown Princess willingly allowed the miscarriage to happen. It seemed she knew the dangers of the bathing oils, yet didn''t protest. Not even a single bit.

    ''This crazy woman. She is willing to sacrifice her firstborn child just to get back at me because the Crown Prince showed me an ounce of affection.'' Xu Jiaqi could not believe how petty this little brat was.

    Suddenly, the cloth was taken out of her mouth. Xu Jiaqi instantly began to beg. "I do not understand what you''re saying, Crown Princess! Please, I did nothing wrong. I''ve served you with every fiber of my body, there is a misunderstanding here!"

    Xu Jiaqi lowered her head until it nearly touched the ground. "You must believe me, Crown Princess. How could I dream of harming you? You are the apple of the Crown Prince''s eyes. The entire pce adores you. Who could be so foolish to go after you?"

    "Lavender to relieve stress. Peppermint to soothe the skin. Jasmine and Rosemary from Nanhui¡­ Who gave you all of these?"

    Xu Jiaqi narrowed her eyes. Her predictions were right. This Crown Princess was insane!

    "T-the maidservants suggested it¡­ We are all worried about you, especially after your failure to conceive, thus, we believe such a treatment would make you happy!"

    Li Xueyue let out a long, tired sigh. She ran a hand through her hair.

    Xu Jiaqi rxed a bit, believing the Crown Princess had given up. Not a secondter, she was smacked in the face again. This time, the force was so strong, she nearly toppled to the ground.

    Her eyes widened at the pain. By now, her skin was tender and bruised. One more p, and ruby dews of blood would form.

    But Xu Jiaqi did not have to suffer anymore.

    A dark, chilling voice echoed in the room. "That is enough."

    Xu Jiaqi remained in her position, with her head hung in respect, and her body trembling in fear. She could feel her heart leaping with hope and joy.

    The Crown Prince hade to her aid again. How many times has it been already?

    Certainly, it was far more than the times that he had shownpassion to Lady Gu Beining¡­ Or any other woman for the matter.

    "Y-your Highness¡­" Xu Jiaqi whimpered. She sounded so terrified, and sweet, any man would bend backward to help her.

    She didn''t even lift her gaze. Instead, she kept her head bowed, to hide her crying face. But droplets of tearsnded upon the wooden floor, staining it dark brown. One could tell how hard she held in her sobs.

    "How horrendous of you," he coldly said.

    Xu Jiaqi slowly lifted her chin to sneak a peek. The Crown Prince had said such words to the Crown Princess, his wife. He was reprimanding his own woman in front of someone else.

    Just the thought of this made her lips twitch. This foolish Princess¡­ She had revealed her true, disgusting nature to her husband. And no man would want somebody so horrid.

 Chapter 405 Never Dream Of I

    <h4>Chapter 405 Never Dream Of I</h4>

    If there was one thing that kept Xu Jiaqi going, it was the Crown Prince. No man had ever yed her heart like him, tickling and crushing it without qualms. In his eyes, everyone was disposable. But she wanted to be the one thing he could never discard.

    The Crown Prince had saved her life three times now. It belonged to him. She''d do everything in her power to ensure he realized that. Even if it meant taking a life.

    So, when he didn''t even spare her a nce, Xu Jiaqi was floored. She saw his shoes, ck like his soul, stop directly in front of her, but not pointed at her. Instead, his boots were facing Li Xueyue, the crazy Princess.

    "Your palm is bright red," Yu Zhen chastised. He gingerly grabbed her wrist, flipping it over to reveal her burning hand.

    "How can you treat yourself like this? It is horrendous," he added on, gently blowing upon the skin.

    A breeze drifted through the room. Xu Jiaqi''s hair swayed, like the flicker of candlelights. Despite the strands of flyaway hair that framed Xu Jiaqi''s forehead, blinding her vision, she watched on.

    Seeing his treatment towards the Crown Princess, a part of her knew. She refused to acknowledge or believe it, but she understood. His frigid heart melted for no one but the Crown Princess, a woman so vile, she would run this country to the ground.

    Yu Zhen''s attention was all over Li Xueyue. His brows were wrung together, forming temporary creases upon his forehead. His gaze was concentrated on her fleeting pain.

    "I will handle the rest. You should not tire yourself like this." Yu Zhen tucked her hand towards the side of her body, holding it in ce.

    Li Xueyue could feel the glower of Xu Jiaqi, who dreamed to be in her position. Vinegar seeped from her very being. The stench of jealousy was too difficult to ignore.

    Yet, Li Xueyue pushed his hand away. She walked past him, much to his displeasure and surprise.

    "Don''t be so foolish," Li Xueyue mused. She reached a hand down, skimming Xu Jiaqi''s jaw. Thedy-in-waiting flinched at the touch as if it had frozen her skin. It might as well have, for the Crown Princess''s touch was icy cold.

    Without warning, Li Xueyue painfully gripped Xu Jiaqi''s jaw, her fingers pressing into the delicate bones.

    "I won''t ask you again," she whispered. "For the next time I do so, you will be hanging from your hands."

    Xu Jiaqi''s eyes widened in sheer horror. This woman was insane! She rapidly shook her head, refusing to part with her stubborn ways. The Crown Princess loved to bark, but she would never bite. She never had fangs in the first ce.

    "Like I''ve said, Princess, I don''t have the slightest inkling to what you''re talking about¡ª"

    PAK! Another smack sounded through the room. This time, it was on the other side of Xu Jiaqi''s face.

    She trembled under the sheer force, as blood formed in her mouth. The crimson liquid dribbled from the corners of her mouth, much like the tears flowing down her cheeks.

    Li Xueyue, on the other hand, stood there ipletely unscathed. She didn''t even blink. The pain in her palm never registered in her. Her foot remained nted in the same spot.

    Sadistically, she lifted Xu Jiaqi''s head by her chin. Her nails dug into the sensitive flesh, as a Cheshire smile formed.

    "Such a beautiful face you face," she murmured, turning Xu Jiaqi''s head side by side. "What a shame it''ll be skinned off."

    A chill ran down Xu Jiaqi''s spine. The Crown Princess was far moreposed than anyone had ever expected her to be. Xu Jiaqi''s teeth chattered, but they could shake all they wanted. She''d just clench it and suppress the pain.

    "P-please have mercy on me, Princess! The Empress will not be pleased by such violence!" Xu Jiaqi shrieked, cing down her trump card.

    "You must listen to me, Princess. We can fix this. We can silence the maidservants who will speak of this morning''s incident. No one will know. It is not toote to prevent this from reaching His Majesty and Her Grace''s ears!"

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow. Such confidence¡­

    "If you do not silee the maidservants right now, everyone will be rushing here, Princess! Once word spreads, everyone will know! There is already a stigma against Wuyi''s women, and now news of your miscarriage will spread. People will point fingers, ming you for being careless, for being?weak¡ª"

    "But that''s what you wanted, isn''t it?" Li Xueyue mused.

    Xu Jiaqi rapidly blinked her eyes. She was stunned by the Crown Princess''sck of reaction. She thought the Crown Princess would have?panicked in fear. Maybe, even stagger backward a step or two.

    But there was none of it. Li Xueyue remained rooted to the ground, sturdy as a tree.

    "You''ve heard her motives, Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue said, turning to her husband. There was a silent rage in his eyes. A vein popped on from his neck, as his fingers curled into a fist.

    "And now she wants to stir a battle in the pce," Li Xueyue murmured. "Well, aside from the war she attempted to spark between Nanhui and Hanjian."

    "A-a war between N-Nanhui and Hanjian?" Xu Jiaqi feigned confusion. She ced a shaky hand upon her chest and rapidly shook her head.

    "Princess, I would never dream of it!" Xu Jiaqi pleaded. Her voice was hoarse and broken, so believable that Li Xueyue pitied her for a brief second.

    "What did you say again?" Li Xueyue hummed. She ced a finger upon her chin,?pretending to ponder.

    "Oh right, you said, and I quote, ''Among the presents from Nanhui, there was a rare oil not found in Hanjian.'' Isn''t that right?"

    Xu Jiaqi paled. Her lips quivered, thinking of a way to refute this statement. She hadn''t thought this far in advance about what she would''ve done when the Princess realized this crucial w in her act.

    Xu Jiaqi didn''t think this was serious enough to dere a war between Nanhui and Hanjian, but it would''ve broken down the hard work of the Crown Princess on the day of the foreign envoy''s arrival.

    Like killing two birds with one stone, but now, it seemed the bird being killed would be her.

    "P-Princess¡­"

    Li Xueyue knew no amount of beating would satisfy her thirst for blood. Even if Xu Jiaqi was executed before her, there would be no happiness. She wouldn''t even find closure in it¡­ For how could one do so? Only time would heal the stolen piece of her heart.

    She wasn''t even able to affectionately touch her belly before the little bundle of hope was robbed from her.

    "Please, you have to believe me¡­ Like I said, it will not be toote to fix all of this mess before it reaches the ears of the Imperial Family!"

    Even if Xu Jiaqi was tortured to no point of return, it would not bring back what was lost. But the thought of seeing her in pain¡­ Li Xueyue wanted that.?She never believed she was the type of sadistic, crazy woman to enjoy the sight of someone screaming for their dear life, but for the life that Xu Jiaqi had taken¡­ Li Xueyue was willing to watch.

 Chapter 406 Too Careless

    <h4>Chapter 406 Too Careless</h4>

    Yu Zhen knew Li Xueyue''s conscience was spiraling, much like her thoughts. It would be best to take a break before she truly injured her hand just to harm someone else.

    He would personally deal with Xu Jiaqiter. Right now, he was focused on bringing her back to sanity.

    "She will be personally dealt withter," Yu Zhen assured and worriedly nced at her.

    Yu Zhen had never seen this side of her and didn''t know how to react, especially when she was so tranquil in the face of anger.

    "For now, let''s get you some rest." Yu Zhen slipped a warm hand around Li Xueyue''s shoulders, bringing her closer to him.

    He was worried that something might happen if he were to look away, especially when her emotions were unstable.

    His wife was doing so well topose herself but he could see it in her eyes.

    Yu Zhen had studied her long enough to see through the masks she wore, and the emotions that were kept at bay. Including the ones hidden from the world, for she was too scared of showing it, believing it to be a sign of weakness when it really wasn''t.

    "I''m fine," she stated.

    "Then, join me," Yu Zhen said. "I am not."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped to him. She had been too focused on herself and getting revenge. It was for a split second that she had forgotten he was also in the picture, and he too was hurt.

    Yu Zhen was partially lying. He didn''t need the externalfort of others to heal. He had learned from an early age to pick himself up, even when it was hard to do so. Seekingfort and reassurance from another person was not his forte, much like howforting was never his specialty. Things like this could be picked up, right?

    "I will have her brought to a jail cell, where my men will keep a strict watch over her," Yu Zhen informed her.

    Li Xueyue nodded. She had gotten enough smacks in to feel satiated for one day, but only one.

    There was a lot more pain in her mind. But she would need to do an internal investigation on who exactly gave Xu Jiaqi the bathing oils.

    The ingredients in those oils could trigger unwanted side effects in pregnant women. And with so many deadly thingsbined, the miscarriage was inevitable¡­

    "Or perhaps I was too careless¡­" she quietly whispered to herself, suddenly feeling guilt for the passion they shared at night. Had Li Xueyue known, she would''ve been more careful.

    ''But there weren''t any symptoms¡­ like morning sickness and other things," she added on, suddenly lost and confused.

    There had been many rare cases where women did not experience the symptoms of early signs of pregnancy until it was at least a few months in, and the belly was bulging a bit.

    Li Xueyue touched her belly. She didn''t even notice a bump, but then again, it was not like her to look at her body as it was being dressed in the mirror.

    "I want all eyes on her."

    Li Xueyue snapped back to reality, just in time to see the shadow guards enter the room.

    They came in with the same things they had brought Xu Jiaqi in with, ribbons for her eyes, a gag for her mouth, and ropes to bind her limbs. All of this, just to prevent her from escaping.

    "No one is to give her food or talk to her," Yu Zhen strictly instructed.

    His men bowed their heads.

    "Your Highness, please! I am wrongly used," Xu Jiaqi pleaded and begged as she grovelled at his feet. "I would never ever, not even in my wildest dreams, have thoughts of hurting the Crown Princess, much less, the child in her womb!"

    Yu Zhen sharply glowered at her. "So you knew?"

    "W-what?"

    "That the Crown Princess was pregnant."

    "No, of course not, Your Highness!" This time, Xu Jiaqi was truthful. Too bad, none of it mattered. It took one lie to question a thousand truths.

    Yu Zhen couldn''t even be bothered to look at her anymore. The sight of her disgusted him. She said he had saved her life. He wished he didn''t. Having her gone would be getting rid of one nuisance in his life.

    Her newfound status was the result of his kindness but look at where it hadnded him. He knew there was a reason he shouldn''t have been so benevolent to random people. When was thest time it brought him something good?

    "Please, spare me a second of your time, my side of the story will prove my innocence!"

    Yu Zhen''s lips curled into a snarl. All of this squabbling was beginning to irritate him to no end.

    It would be best to dispose of her as soon as possible, but in the most horrific and painful manner as possible. If there was someone to be hanged as the big fish, it would be Xu Jiaqi.

    "Get this vermin out of my sight."

    His men did not waste time. They stepped forward, and that was when her protest and shrieks began.

    "Your Highness, please!" she begged. "The Empress, she will be furious to hear of this!"

    Yu Zhen threw her a pointed look. Truly, she was not foolish enough to believe his mother would scare him? If he was not even scared of her as a child, what would change his mind now?

    "I was framed!" she readily added on, but her attempts were futile.

    Yu Zhen turned his back to her.

    Xu Jiaqi could feel her heart splitting into pieces right in front of her. Pain prickled at her chest, spreading throughout her body. Her fingers and toes were numb. She could not stop the quivering of her lips as tears continued to flow.

    She hadn''t predicted this far into the future. In the heat of the moment, all she wanted to do was sabotage the Crown Princess. It was just one pregnancy. Only one miscarriage. What was so difficult to get over? They had years to make more babies¡­

    Unable to understand her mistakes, Xu Jiaqi gaped helplessly up at the Crown Princess. "It was unintentional, Princess¡­ W-why would I go through all of that training just to hurt you?"

    "Resentment from being sent to be retrained," Li Xueyue effortlessly pointed out. There were simply too many motives for Xu Jiaqi to be innocent.

    "I¡ª"

    "Seize her," Yu Zhenmanded.

    The men didn''t need to be told twice. They approached the thrashing woman.

    Yu Zhen attempted to block Li Xueyue''s view. He didn''t want her to see such a violent thing, but she peered over his arms and watched.

    In no time, Xu Jiaqi''s mouth was gagged, blindfolded, wrists bound behind her, as well as her knees and ankles. Yet, it was not enough. The stubborn woman struggled and fought against her captors, but nothing would work.

    "Let us get some rest," Yu Zhen said. It was mainly for her to sleep it off. She would be more clear-headed after a nap. That way, she would have the energy to prevail through the troubles bent on arising.

    It would be inevitable that word would get out about the miscarriage. And when the storm happens, he would prefer for her to be mentally prepared.

 Chapter 407 Strongest Woman In The World

    <h4>Chapter 407 Strongest Woman In The World</h4>

    "This should conclude our profiling of both Qin families on the list, Tiantain," Hu Dengxiao said. He nced down at the scrolls under his arms. They were light, but the words felt heavy.

    Lu Tianbi nodded. "I heard there was amotion in the pce," she informed.

    "When is there not a problem in the pce?" Hu Dengxiao snorted, as he stretched his neck side to side. "With so many women vying for our Zhenzhen, I''m surprised there wasn''t a bloodfest already."

    "I wouldn''t be surprised if there is one soon," Lu Tianbi said. She reached forward, grabbing for the scrolls.

    At thest minute, Hu Dengxiao turned his body and her handsnded on his arm. Before she could say anything, he spoke up first.

    "What do you mean by that Tiantian?" Hu Dengxiao asked. When she attempted to take the scrolls again, he swiveled in the other direction whilst shooting her a dirty re.

    "The maidservants urgently requested the presence of the Commander before I left to give you themands." Lu Tianbi stuck her hand out, palms facing up. "Just give me some of the damn scrolls already. There''s so many under your arms, they''re going to drop."

    Hu Dengxiao pouted at her words. "What? Do I look weak to you, Tiantian?"

    Lu Tianbi scoffed. "As weak as a child. Now give it to me, don''t be so stubborn."

    Hu Dengxiao stuck out his tongue.

    "You brat¡ª"

    "I''m a child. Not a brat," he mocked.

    Lu Tianbi rolled her eyes at him. He was so impossible to deal with, as most men were.

    "Besides, you should rely on me a little bit more, Tiantian. I am a lot stronger than I look. I promise." Hu Dengxiao nudged her shoulders. He took in their surroundings, which was an empty street. Not many people frequented this part of the Capital since it was where the rich and elite resided.

    "When you behave like a kid, I don''t believe that," Lu Tianbu grumbled under her breath. ???Besides, I just wanted to read the profiling to make sure you have everything written correctly."

    "I''m smarter than you think," Hu Dengxiao mused. He approached the carriage awaiting them. "Luckily, they both live in the Capital. It would''ve been so irritating if they lived outside the Capital, because then, we''d have to travel¡­"

    Then he paused and considered his words. He nced at her and hid a smile. "On second thought, maybe it wouldn''t have been so bad if we had to stay a night or two at some fancy inn."

    Lu Tianbi snorted at his words. She rubbed her nose and crossed her arms, hiding the blush that threatened to rise. "Just get into the damn carriage. We can''t have both of the Crown Prince''s trusted people stay out of the pce for longer than a night."

    Hu Dengxiao''s pout deepened. He jutted his chin into the spacious carriage. "Ladies first."

    "Hah, since when did you consider me as ady?" Lu Tianbi retorted. Nheless, she headed inside of the carriage. She folded her skirts but didn''t realize he was already standing behind her, blocking anyone from looking while she was settling down inside the carriage.

    At his silence, she turned around. He was contemting something, his brows wrung together. Hu Dengxiao leaned into the carriage and one by one, ced the scrolls onto the seat opposite Lu Tianbi.

    Finally, he slid inside and sat down next to her. She nced up at him wide-eyed, not expecting this. They had travelled here seated on opposite sides.

    Lu Tianbi jumped when he abruptly pinched her chin. She blinked rapidly, caught off guard. It was the first time he had ever done something like this. Her breath hitched when his finger caressed the side of her face, brushing her hair behind her ears.

    "I''ve always considered you as a woman, Tiantian," Hu Dengxiao muttered. His thumb brushed her bottom lip as she stiffened.

    "But it''d be better if I consider you otherwise."

    And then, he was gone.

    Lu Tianbi stared ahead at the velvet seat in front of her. Her lips parted out of sheer shock. The Crown Prince truly wasn''t lying¡­ She lifted her gaze and turned her head.

    Hu Dengxiao was now seated opposite her on the right. He acted as if nothing had happened. A scroll was unrolled in front of him as he read through the notes taken.

    "I wonder what made the Crown Prince want to investigate families with the Qin surname," hemented, without looking away from the scroll.

    "The first Qin family has a history of Ministers in the family. While the second Qin family rose in ranks into aristocracy. I suspect that thetter bought the position with wealth, rather than loyalty.

    Lu Tianai nodded at his words, but her thoughts were upied by what had happened a few moments ago. How exactly was she supposed to forget something like that?

    But Hu Dengxiao seemedpletely unfazed. That is, until she noticed the tremble of his fingers that tightly gripped the scroll.

    "Well, regardless," Hu Dengxiao concluded. "We have finished our task."

    Lu Tianbi eyed his shaking hands. Not a secondter, she focused her attention at the view outside the window. The quiet streets of the elite part of the Capital rolled past them. If she looked far enough, her father''s estate could be seen.

    "You mentioned there would be trouble in the Imperial Pce, what happened?" Hu Dengxiao questioned. He tore his eyes away from the scroll, only to focus all of his attention upon her.

    Even Lu Tianbi''s side profile was beautiful. Flyaway hairs danced with the wind, swaying fiercely. She was concentrating on something, a faraway look in her gaze.

    "I''m not sure, but it involved the Crown Princess. And you know how the Commander gets when ites to her," Lu Tianbi said. It felt strange to hear him so??serious. He was often cheerful and on the mischievous side.

    Lu Tianbi supposed it was because of what happened just a few minutes ago. Did he regret it? She certainly didn''t. By now, her heart had calmed down. However, it skipped whenever their eyes met. It was precisely why she was focused on the scenery.

    "I don''t understand why he treats her like she''s a porcin doll. I mean, after all of the times she has demonstrated her strength, you''d think he would fret less over her."

    Hu Dengxiao rolled up the scroll, his eyes never left her all this while. She tucked hairs behind her ears but to no avail.

    "Especially after the tournament with Nanhui''s Princess. By now, the Crown Prince''s Wangfei has already made a name for herself in the pce. Many people respect her, many fear her. Luckily for her, there is more of the former than thetter," he added on.

    Hu Dengxiao tried to follow her line of sight. What could be so interesting about blurry buildings? He couldn''t pinpoint the thing that she was so concentrated on.

    "Because he dotes on her," Lu Tianbi said. "She can be the strongest woman in the world, and he would still protect her."

    Hu Dengxiao hummed in response. He leaned his head back, but frowned. The swaying of the carriage would soon give him a headache.

    "Well, whatever trouble is stirred up in the pce today, I hope she will remain as fierce as ever," he said.

 Chapter 408 Too Quie

    <h4>Chapter 408 Too Quie</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn''t know how it happened, but she had fallen asleep in his arms. There was something about the way he soothed her¡­ His words were like a luby. He had stroked the back of her head whilst hugging her close and reassuring her that nothing was her fault.

    But why did she sit up in an empty bed in a daze with a hand upon her empty belly? If it wasn''t her fault, why did guilt prick her heart. Her shoulders caved in as she dropped her head.

    The room was quiet except for her shaky exhale. She had already cried enough upon his sturdy chest. She had promised him that there would be no more tears. But hot tears still filled her eyes, blurring?her vision.

    "Since when were you a crybaby?" she chided herself, rubbing her suddenly stuffy nose.

    Li Xueyue touched the empty spot beside her. It was cold. When did he leave? She wiped at her eyes, slowly at first, before angrily doing so when more tears threatened to slip down her cheeks.

    "It''s going to be alright¡­" she whispered the words he had repeatedly told her.

    Li Xueyue gripped the cor of her loose robes, hoping for anything to distract her. Unfortunately, what reced her despair was rage. Even now, she was still furious at Xu Jiaqi''s actions.

    ''I can''t be like this,'' she thought to herself.

    Li Xueyue irritably ran a hand through her hair, angrily gripping it at the roots. "If you let empty hatred fill your heart, you''ll wither with malice," she chided herself.

    A sigh escaped. Li Xueyue didn''t want to throw a pity party in an empty, deste room. She slipped out of the bed without any numbness in her legs. Sometimes, they''d wobble and tremble when she tried to stand up, no thanks to her insatiable husband.

    Li Xueyue pushed the windows open. "It''s morning."

    The sun peeked through the horizon, but the day was still young. Seeping in the shadows were traces of the night sky, refusing to part.

    "Did I sleep fromst night till now?" Li Xueyue ran her hand through her hair again. She was surprised she had a peaceful night of sleep despite the tragedy that happened.

    Li Xueyue wrapped the robes tighter around her body. It was strange. She hadn''t lost any weight, but a part of her felt hollow. She nced down, noticing it was his clothes she was wearing. The navy silk brushed upon her skin, cold yet smooth, much like Yu Zhen''s touch.

    "When did this happen¡­?"

    She vaguely recalled that he had woken her up in the middle of the night to change out of her clothes that had already dried. He seemed to have told her that he preferred if she slept in fresh, clean clothes, so that it would be morefortable¡ªor something along those lines.

    "I should find him," Li Xueyue told herself. She quietly trudged towards the doors of the bedroom. Pushing it open, she wasn''t surprised to be met with grim silence.

    "It''s too quiet." Li Xueyue opened the doors of the estate, turning her head left and right in confusion. She saw the usual guards who took the morning shift, but something was different.

    The air was eerily still. There wasn''t a single soul roaming the hallways for as far as the eyes could see.

    "Where are my maidservants?" Li Xueyue asked the guards. She knew the servants woke up even before the sun did. The second it was twilight, they would slowly rise, one by one.

    When none of the guards answered her, Li Xueyue shifted her body to face them. A dreary expression was on their faces.

    At this, Li Xueyue straightened up more. "Don''t make me repeat myself."

    "Princess¡­" a burly guard spoke up. "The maidservants are currently under the?watchful eye of the Crown Prince."

    "Pardon?" Li Xueyue was confused. She thought Yu Zhen had left for his morning training, or to attend to some urgent business.

    Li Xueyue tightened the silk belt of his robes. A chill crawled up her spine, goosebumps rising at the guard''s words. There was something ominous in the air but she couldn''t pinpoint it. What exactly was going on?

    "Take me to him."

    The guards stiffened.

    Li Xueyue suppressed a sigh. How many times must they have this conversation? By now, they should be used to her bizarremands. Was it so strange for a wife to look for her husband?

    Without another word, she closed the doors and entered their bedroom. Li Xueyue grabbed the nearest cloak she could find. Luckily for her, it was thick and heavy. She was thrown off by the ck but didn''t notice the golden tiger that roared from the bottom of the cloak.

    Not a minuteter, she opened the doors of the estate again. "Lead the way." Li Xueyue stepped out of the estate whilst tightening the first button of the cloak. It was warm and smelled familiar.

    "C-Crown Princess, u-uhm¡ª" the same muscr guard stuttered out. He wondered if the Crown Princess had permission to wear something like this.

    The skinnier guard next to him stomped on his peer''s toes. It wasn''t their business whether or not the Crown Princess broke the rules. Besides, how stupid was his friend? Was there a single thing that the Crown Prince''s wife couldn''t touch or take?

    "If that is your wish, Princess, then it shall be dly granted," the thinner guard spoke up. He bowed his head and true to his words, began to direct her.

    However, he was mindful of the rules of the pce. Even if he was the one guiding her, he remained two steps behind the Crown Princess. Not only was it the rules, but the Commander would be furious if any lone man approached her.

    "It''s suspiciously quiet today," Li Xueyue murmured her breath. She was surprised by how cold Hanjian was. Autumn was quickly approaching, but the temperature was much lower than Wuyi.

    "Did the Empresse yesterday?" she asked the guards.

    Thenky guard bowed his head and nodded. "Indeed, Princess. Her Grace had requested entrance to the estate but the Crown Prince had refused to let her inside."

    "Did¡­they at least have a little discussion?" Li Xueyue asked. She couldn''t remember Yu Zhen leaving her side, it must''ve happened when she was too deep in sleep.

    "Yes, Princess."

    "About?"

    "I am afraid it did not reach the ears of us guards¡­"

    Li Xueyue heard the remorse in his voice. He was hurt by failing to carry out his duties. "That''s fine," she gently reassured.

    "I will find out for myself." Li Xueyue adjusted the cloak upon her shoulders. It wasrge, the cors brushing upon her jawline.

    Li Xueyue pulled it closer when a strong wind howled through the open hallways. For some reason, the cloak feltforting, and not because of the protection it offered from the freezing weather.

    With each step closer to their destination, her heart wearily sank to her stomach. The air was crisp and cool, but it stung her throat. Her fingers trembled without a reason. She had to grip the cloak to keep her jitters at bay.

    Each step felt heavier than the previous one. And when they finally reached the courtyard, Li Xueyue knew exactly why.

    Blood drained from her face, her eyes shaking from the sight. What exactly was going on here?!

 Chapter 409 Faith

    <h4>Chapter 409 Faith</h4>

    The stench of blood was heavy in the air. Birds chirped in the background, its notes were eerie and grim. asionally, a maidservant would whimper, and another would sob. All of them were kneeling, but some were sprawled on the ground for their legs had given out.

    "What is the meaning of this?" Li Xueyue breathed out, her eyes taking in the dreary atmosphere.

    In the center of the open courtyard was a wooden tform. Blood dripped off the sides, as a brutalized body was bound to a wooden pole.

    Li Xueyue hadn''t had breakfast but felt the urge to vomit. She didn''t need to ask who was on the podium. Especially, when the color of the discarded clothes on the podium was exactly what Xu Jiaqi wore yesterday.

    There was so much blood that Li Xueyue almost did not see the rags worn by Xu Jiaqi. It seemed Xu Jiaqi had been stripped in public and forced to wear humiliating rags...

    "Yu Zhen?" she softly demanded, uponying eyes on him. He was just a few feet away, his chair positioned away from her. It faced the wooden tform, and she wasn''t able to see his expression.

    At the sound of her voice, he slowly turned around. A slow, sinister smile spread on his lips.

    "You''re up early. Did the screaming wake you up?" He reached a hand out, beckoning for her toe forward.

    Li Xueyue took a step in his direction but paused. At the far end of the courtyard, she could see a group of people approaching.

    "Your mother¡­" she shakily said, knowing the oue of this event would be far from favorable.

    "You''re trembling." Yu Zhen stood up. He approached her and looked down, admiring the sight of her.

    "My robes and cloak look divine on you." She flinched when his icy fingers brushed her cheek.

    Yu Zhen''s mood dimmed. He had prepared a present for her. Did she not like it? He narrowed his eyes. Even if she didn''t, the deed was done.

    Xu Jiaqi had been whipped and beaten until she was nothing but a bloody mess. Her elegant clothes were stripped, and she was made to wear dirty rags.

    Li Xueyue''s maidservants were made to watch the punishment take ce. They would probably have nightmares of this event for a long time. It was difficult to ignore the howls, shrieks, and pleas of Lady Xu Jiaqi. They thought she was the most dignified of servants, despite her haughty demeanor. But the consequences of her actions changed everyone''s perspectives of her.

    "Your hands are so cold," Li Xueyue shakily said. She touched hisrge, calloused hands, pale and purple.

    "How long have you been out here for?" she gently asked, breathing hot air upon his palm. Without warning, he grabbed her nape, yanking her close.

    "Y-Yu Zhen?"

    Yu Zhen peered into her eyes, viciously searching for fear. He once believed her eyes were forged of stars and dusk, brilliant hues of hazelnut brown. His judgment was not wrong. He saw his reflection in her clear, autumn orbs.

    "You didn''t have to do all of this," she whispered, referring to the public torture that took ce. When she made eye contact with one of her maidservants, Li Xueyue''s heart ached. These poor things¡­they had to witness the pure brutality of their Crown Prince.

    "Hanging a big fish like this¡­ It will cause a ruckus," Li Xueyue added on. She wasn''t sure what he was looking at but his re seemed so irritated, his lips were thinning by the second.

    "Why are you trembling?" he demanded, grabbing her hand before it touched his chest.

    "Because I''m cold."

    Yu Zhen''s thumb touched her fingers. She wasn''t lying. "Are you scared of me?"

    "I''ve seen what you did to the Viscount and Viscountess. If I were terrified of you, I would have ran for the hills."

    Yu Zhen''s uncertain heart was soothed by her words. Everyone in this pce was terrified of him. They quivered at the sight of him, their gazes glued to the ground. People flinched at his presence, and no one dared to oppose him.

    Yu Zhen didn''t need his wife to do the same. He blinked back to reality when she reached up and caressed his jawline. He naturally leaned into her hand. Her touch, hesitant, and soft.

    "Is she alive?" she murmured.

    "On the inside or outside?"

    Li Xueyue''s throat dried. She tilted her head to the side. Xu Jiaqi''s body was so mangled, it truly was nothing but flesh and skin. Her head was hung low, blood dripping from her wounds. There was something on the ground¡­it rolled when a strong gust of wind roared through the courtyard. It was severed fingers¡ªmissing nails.

    "Lovely sight, isn''t it?"

    "I sometimes forget you are crazy." Li Xueyue ced a hand upon her mouth, suppressing the need to gag. Instead of chastising her for looking, he wrapped a hand behind her head and pressed his body closer to hers.

    "Who did this?" she asked, wanting to look around, but his chest blocked her view.

    "My men."

    "You said you''d let me handle it," she said.

    "You must''ve dreamed of such words."

    Li Xueyue frowned. He had dirtied his hands for her, yet again. What was with peoples'' tendency to help her? It wasn''t the fact that she didn''t appreciate the help, but more of, she wanted to do things on her own.

    "All of your maidservants watched with wide, open eyes. They know to never harm you, for they will suffer the same fate, if not, worse."

    Li Xueyue didn''t even know where to begin. There was so much to be said, so much to be felt, that she was overwhelmed. Her hands tightly gripped upon his clothes.

    "This wasn''t what I had in mind."

    "I''m certain it is."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped upwards. She opened her mouth, but he gripped her chin and pressed a thumb to her lips.

    "Do not lie to me. I saw the bloodlust in your eyes when the wench was pped silly by you."

    Yu Zhen revealed a crude smile. "Your hands are already covered in blood, but no need to dip it in some more."

    "Isn''t this satisfactory?" he added on, turning her head in the direction of the wooden tform.

    Xu Jiaqi couldn''t even stand on her own. Her body had slumped forward, only held up by the ropes tied around her body.

    Li Xueyue finally noticed the men in ck clothes standing beside her. They held whips in their hands. In the far corner, there was a burner with hot burning coals and metal rods beside it. A branding had taken ce¡ªin more than one spot on her body.

    Her legs nearly gave out, but he caught her.

    Li Xueyue didn''t hear Xu Jiaqi''s screams, but surely, it would''ve sounded animalistic and high-pitched. The torture endured was not for the faint of heart.

    "She loved you." The words came out before she could control it.

    "Many people love me. Does that mean I should love all of them back?"

    Yu Zhen did figure it was strange that Xu Jiaqi had pleaded with him with eyes more hollow than any women he had met. Who would''ve known it was heartbreak? He certainly didn''t. Nor, did he care.

    Thinking back to it, Xu Jiaqi only showed him those eyes after he had her clothes stripped in front of everyone. And when she begged, "Your Highness, please spare me some mercy!" he hadughed. Right in her face.

    The darkest glower was shown to her. She wasn''t crying when her clothes were yanked off. But she was crying when he watched her with eyes of pure hatred. And maybe, her heart shattered then.

    Perhaps the best torture for Xu Jiaqi was to break her heart. Xu Jiaqi was beaten until she became unconscious. Up until thest moment, she had faith in him.

    That is, until he yawned at the sight of her desperate screams for mercy. Just like that, the light had fleeted from her eyes, as more and more tears gushed out.

    "I should have known it was a bad idea to fall asleep so quickly," Li Xueyue muttered.

    Yu Zhen merely smiled. He cupped her face and pressed a kiss upon her forehead. "I''ve said it before, Li Xueyue. I will y all of your monsters until there is no one left to haunt you. I will not take back such words."

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but squeeze her eyes shut. She had fallen in love with a monster. But that never bothered her in the first ce, did it? She willingly walked into his arms, willingly set foot in his territory.

    When a loud silence consumed the courtyard, Li Xueyue knew who had finally arrived. But she was surprised, for the Mother of Hanjian did note alone. She was apanied by His Majesty, the Emperor of Hanjian.

 Chapter 410 Tied Hands

    <h4>Chapter 410 Tied Hands</h4>

    The Empress always knew her second son was considered one of the cruelest men in the pce, if not, his generation.

    It was a miracle that his horrid deeds garnered so many followers. Many praised his strength, othersplimented his intelligence. He had the presence of a leader and the aura of a ruler.

    "So early in the morning and you''re causing this ruckus," the Empress chastised. She took a step into the courtyard, but immediately wished she didn''t.

    From the corner of her eyes, she saw the mangled body of herdy-in-waiting. The Empress''s lips dipped into a frown. She observed the courtyard, where maidservants were kneeling in fear, heads bent in greeting.

    "You said the punishment would be lenient," the Empress deadpanned. She knew it was unwise to trust her son''s words.

    "This," Yu Zhen said and gestured to the unconscious Xu Jiaqi. "Is mercy."

    "This is an immoral punishment!" she snapped, all the whilst standing by the entryway of the courtyard.

    The Empress was not able to stomach the horrid sight. It was a wonder how the Crown Princess could remain standing. She was safely tucked in the Second Prince''s arms. Safe and protected. But nowhere to run.

    "I did not raise you to be a tyrant," the Emperor heaved out. He shifted his entire weight upon a cane forged of oak and gold. His eyes were squinting, the bags underneath it were darker than usual. His skin resembled aged leather, wrinkled, andcking luster.

    "Yet, here I stand." Yu Zhen shrugged. He adjusted the cloak around Li Xueyue''s shoulder, fastening it correctly.

    "That cloak¡­" the Emperor frowned. It swallowed her alive. The Crown Princess seemed incredibly tiny in his son''s clothes. The sight was amusing, but he couldn''t ignore the rules of etiquette.

    "It suits her," Yu Zhen answered for his father. He arranged it carefully upon her shoulders, making sure she was warm underneath the heavy item.

    "The cloak was specifically made for the Crown Prince," the Empress hissed.

    She could not wrap her head around her son''s doting ways. He was never like this before.

    Possessiveness was a trait that she didn''t think he had. But it was publicly disyed before the entire court when the Prince of Nanhui extended an invitation to the Crown Princess to visit Nanhui.

    "It''s just a piece of clothing." Yu Zhen frowned when Li Xueyue hesitated. Not a second went by before she began to unbutton the top strap that held the cloak together.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her wrist, forcing her to stop. "I like it on you." He lightly pushed her hand away and continued to button the strap close.

    "But¡ª"

    "I rarely wear this anyways," Yu Zhen said. "I discarded it in the closet because it''s of no use. So, stop worrying."

    "Discard it in the closet? My son, that cloak possesses the sigil of the Yu family!" The Empress advanced in her stubborn son''s direction. Her frown had deepened, much like her displeasure.

    "First, you brutally torture mydy-in-waiting, and now you''re insulting the Yu family name." If she could punish him, she would.

    Unfortunately, her hands were tied. Not because she was a mother unwilling to harm her children, but because no one possessed the strength to hold him down for a beating. Men would drop dead even before the wooden paddle was brought out.

    However¡­there was one way to get through this man, and it was through his wife.

    The Crown Princess seemed like she was fragile, but everyone here knew better. She stepped forward, ced her hands upon her side, and dipped into an elegant curtsy.

    "Your Grace," she murmured, before turning to the Emperor. "Your Majesty."

    "Now, now¡­" The Emperor mused, "I was supposed to be greeted first."

    For the first time, the Crown Princess lost herposure. Her chin abruptly lifted, surprise written on her face. Her eyes gently widened a bit before she lowered her head again.

    The Emperor smiled at the tiny action. It reached his eyes, softening at the sight of her. Her clumsiness reminded him of Yu Lingluo who energetically ran through the pce, only to trip on thin air.

    "You shouldn''t be out of bed," the Emperor reprimanded her in a stern, but kind voice. He had heard the upsetting news. Almost everyone had.

    "But it seems my son''s unwarranted actions¡­" he said and patted his chest, "...dragged you out here, to witness a disturbing sight."

    "He''s doing this for me, your Majesty. I should be here to witness the hard work," Li Xueyue exined.

    The Emperor''s parched lips parted. He let out a small sigh and folded his hands upon the cane. She always knew how to catch him off-guard. He had expected her to agree with him, but she took her husband''s side instead. It was the right thing to do, but often, everyone agreed with the Emperor before the Crown Prince.

    "Well, you''ve seen it," the Emperor muttered. "It is time to return. There is no need to sully your eyes any further."

    Li Xueyue was touched by the Emperor''s words. He was wise and respectful. What more could someone ask for in a father-inw? She was just perplexed by Yu Zhen''s dark glower. Even with his father''s affectionate words, Yu Zhen was disgruntled by the mere sight of the Emperor.

    What exactly went wrong in their rtionship?

    "Do not re at me as such," the Emperor scoffed. A secondter, he patted his chest again. The small action caused an unwanted ache.

    "I came out of my death bed to see you, and you''re already unhappy," he snapped.

    "No one asked you to crawl out of the grave," Yu Zhen retorted.

    The Emperor narrowed his eyes. "After all these years¡­" He continued rubbing his sore chest. "You still hold a grudge, like a spoiled child."

    Li Xueyue slipped her hand around Yu Zhen''s hand. She entwined their fingers, hoping to distract him. Everyone knew he would say something disheartening.

    "If you had treated me properly like any normal father would, then perhaps, I wouldn''t feel this resentment."

    "I raised you¡­" He breathed in deeply, but it stung him. "To be strong¡­a man that?can protect his family."

    "Don''t humor yourself, no one raised me but the ever-changing caretakers." Yu Zhen could not tolerate the sight of his father anymore. As much as he enjoyed his father''s sickly state, he could not tolerate the contrast.

    What happened to that stern, intimidating man of his youth? The one who would lock him in the cold pce, rumored to be haunted with ghosts and spirits? The man who had his son beaten to a pulp for talking back? The father with wide, powerful shoulders and a vicious re?

    All of it seemed like a distant memory. Before Yu Zhen was a man that was half a head shorter. The Emperor had lost a tremendous amount of weight, no matter how much he tried to hide it underneath his padded clothing.

    "Hah," the Emperorughed. "Who do you think hired those people?"

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. If only this damn old man could drop dead right here.

    "Do not pity yourself, it is revolting," the Emperor sneered. He turned his head in the direction of the woman slumped on the floor. With her chopped off hair, and brutalized skin, would she even be considered a human?

    The Emperor was not repulsed. He felt a strange sense of pride, that the little demon had finally grown into a monster. His lips twitched, threatening to smile in satisfaction. The Crown Prince could despise him all he wants, the Emperor would not care. Sons never bothered him.

    "Do not take pity on that thing," the Emperor told his wife. "The runt deserved it."

    The Empress silently stared at her husband. Was he out of his mind?!

 Chapter 411 Scarecrow

    <h4>Chapter 411 Scarecrow</h4>

    "You heard me," the Emperor coldly said. He spared his wife a nce before looking away.

    After experiencing the same unfortunate thing in her youth, she had sympathy for the perpetrator? The extent of her hypocrisy was humorous.

    Sometimes, the Emperor wondered if he married the wrong woman. She was so different in her youth, a refreshing breeze from a foreignnd¡­

    At the time, he had viewed her as an exotic treat, but now, he had grown bored of her, especially after marrying her for nearly three decades.

    "The times have changed¡­" he whispered to himself.

    When she was an?innocent maiden, the Empress was much kinder and?her smiles were ever so gentle. What exactly changed her?

    When did her grins be smirks? When did herpassion turn into cunningness? Was it the brutality of the pce that changed her¡ªa defenseless woman whocked a benefactor and shoulder to rely on?

    The Emperor would admit:he had neglected his wife when she first came to the pce. But that was because he was young and naive.

    ''I had to defend myself first,'' he thought to himself.

    Bing the Emperor was not easy, he was solidifying his spot on the throne. There was not enough time to help someone else, even if it was his wife.

    It was precisely why the Emperor trained his sons to be much wiser, crueler, and sinister than he could ever be. It was just a shame that the First Prince had a heart too tender to handle the brutality of the pce.

    "It is excessive to leave mydy-in-waiting hanging there like a scarecrow," the Empress finally said.

    She could not clench her hand into a fist, or dig her nails into her palm.

    Today, the Empress wore long, golden talons upon her fingers, an essory meant to showcase the wealth and status of a woman in high society. It was a symbol of a blessed life, that they didn''t need to lift a finger.

    "If you take her down, you''re pardoning what happened in the past." The Emperor did not need to say anything more. He turned his back fast enough not to see his wife''s face crumble.

    His heart had long been hardened with hatred for her to care about her tears. It wasn''t that he did not love her, but he was tired of the turmoil she stirred amongst the women of the pce.

    His wife was well aware that harems were not tolerated, but she was creating one for her son. She didn''t want a harem but considered one for the current Crown Prince. She was a warrior but ced down her sword tomit mischief. What had happened to the woman he chose as his wife?

    "Even now, after I birthed you two sons, and three daughters, you still resent me for..." the Empress trailed off.

    The Emperor halted. His re softened. Turning around, he offered her a grimace of a smile.

    "Crazy wife of mine, I never once med you for it¡­" He coughed, patting his chest. "But you had med yourself, finding so many faults with everything until you believed that other people were pointing fingers at you."

    Her eyes glistened with tears. They weren''t filled with sorrow, but hatred¡ªmuch like the emotions reflected upon his heart of stone.

    Despite his irritation, the Emperor waved for her toe closer. He epted the hot tea offered by a Eunuch, drinking it in one gulp. It soothed his aching airways, the warm liquid quelling the pain.

    "Come close," hemanded.

    Fury danced upon her zing re. She hated to bemanded around. It wasn''t in her fiery nature to obey. Such a shame, the mes had died with age. She was no longer stoking the fire within her, for the pce possessed the power to drown her.

    She finally approached her husband. He leaned close, his voiceing out much gentler than she expected.

    "You and the Crown Princess have so much inmon. Instead of trying to push her around like a rag doll, perhaps you should consider bing friends."

    At his words, she gasped and took a step back. "What did you think I''ve been doing the whole time?" she demanded.

    The Emperor sneered. "We have been married for more than two decades¡­" He patted his chest. "I see you for who you truly are."

    The Eunuch brought him another cup of tea but he ignored it. He turned his shoulders and left for sure this time. Even when his wife red daggers into his shoulders, praying for his death, the Emperor continued to trudge onwards.

    Seeing theck of love between the Emperor and Empress, Li Xueyue suddenly realized Yu Zhen didn''t grow up in a warm and loving family. It was a miracle that he even knew how to love someone, much less, so tenderly.

    "Your hands are growing colder by the second. Let''s bring you back to our estate," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue''s attention was upon the Empress. The confident woman seemed to be on the verge of letting out a scream of frustration. She wouldn''t me her. All these years in the pce must''ve worn her out.

    "Your Grace," she whispered.

    The Empress snapped back to reality. She turned around, noticing the Crown Princess''s attention was on her and not on that needy son of hers.

    "Thank you for the tonics and nutritional soup that you''ve sent over in the past. It is a shame that the positive effects it had made to my body were probably nullified," Li Xueyue slowly said.

    The Empress let out a small sigh. Even at a time like this, the Crown Princess knew the right things to say.

    "Seeing as it worked so well, I will continue having it brought to you."

    Li Xueyue held back a protest. This wasn''t her intention. Perhaps her wording was off.

    "There is no need," Yu Zhen stated. His mother had been giving his wife too much nutritious tonics. He could not be certain that they weren''t poisoned.

    Li Xueyue''s grip on his hand tightened in warning. She knew he was going to say something cruel again.

    "You¡ª???

    "I''m healthy. You do not need to worry," Yu Zhen interjected. "You will see your grandchild soon. Just wait."

    The Empress was surprised for the second time in the early morning. She didn''t think her cold-blooded son would regard her as a grandmother. He didn''t even see her as a mother.

    Just that small thought from him was enough to wash away her anger. She revealed a small smile, pain, and joy reflecting in her eyes.

    "Truly, I look forward to seeing them."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know what to say. Had yesterday''s incident not happened¡­the Empress would be able to see her grandchild much sooner.

    "But only when the Crown Princess is ready."

    Li Xueyue''s head snapped up, surprise written all over her face. She quicklyposed herself, forcing a grateful smile.

    "If the same mistake does not ur, then there is nothing to worry about," Li Xueyue hesitatingly said.

    Li Xueyue was just d that there was a small light at the end of the dark cave. This incident, didn''t it prove her fertility? That she was able to conceive?

    The Empress warily smiled at this. She nced around her, where maidservants and Eunuchs yielded to her and waited on her every whim.

    Today, thedies-in-waiting weren''t present because they were all still asleep. The only reason the Emperor and Empress had arrived was because a Eunuch had frantically ran to alert them, in fear they would be targeted next.

    "I will ensure the same mistakes do not happen again," the Empress said. "This, you can rest assured."

    Li Xueyue genuinely smiled. She believed the Empress had a good heart, it was just hardened due to the malice of the people around her.

    "I believe in you, Your Grace," Li Xueyue truthfully said.

    The Empress''s smile widened at this. She nodded and swiveled on her heels, deciding it was time to have a small discussion with herdies-in-waiting.

    "Have them brought here."

    The Empress paused at her son''s voice. She turned her chin, raising a brow.

    "Those pesky women surrounding you. I want them dragged here to see the effectiveness of my ''scarecrow.''"

 Chapter 412 Everyday Occurence

    <h4>Chapter 412 Everyday urence</h4>

    Li Xueyue was not bewildered by Yu Zhen''s request. Instead, a bizarre sense of satisfaction sank into her.

    She had been wanting to say something like this but believed she was in no position to override the Empress''s authority. Those women would be a bigger problem eventually. It was better to get rid of the weeds before it became an infestation.

    "You have lost your damn mind, my bloodthirsty son," the Empress snapped. "It was one small fish in the entire ocean. Must all of them suffer?"

    "You don''t want to do it?" Yu Zhen eerily asked, his voice as serene as the clear skies. His coldposure with underlying darkness terrified many people. No one could predict his next move.

    "That''s fine." Yu Zhen chuckled, the sound raising goosebumps.

    "What are you nning?" the Empress harshly asked. To say his anger was terrifying was an understatement. To obtain his goal, everything in his wake would be destroyed.

    Yu Zhen did not respond. He wrapped a protective arm around Li Xueyue. "We''ve stood out here all morning. Let''s get you fed, my Wangfei."

    Li Xueyue made eye contact with the Empress. She was surprised that the Empress didn''t use her authority to control Yu Zhen.

    Then again, was it truly possible to control a bloodthirsty beast? Chains and cors would never work. Xiao Juzi''s multiple escapes were evidence of that.

    "Hah, you must be tired from dealing with a man as stubborn as my son," the Empress sighed. She cast him a displeased side-eye.

    "Remember to take good care of your health, Princess," the Empress said. She folded her hands together, tucking it in between her long sleeves.

    "Likewise, Your Grace," Li Xueyue said.

    The Empress nodded. Then, she walked off, without another look back. Her amiable expression disappeared, as a dark look crossed her eyes.

    Li Xueyue waited for all of the Empress''s people to leave until there was no one left in therge courtyard, except her maidservants, and Xu Jiaqi. She faced them, her heart prickling.

    Everyone seemed so relieved to see her as if they had met their savior. They had hopes that she would know how to tame the brute next to her. All of the servants were still on their knees, but with newfound joy glistening in their eyes.

    "You may rise," she said.

    They slowly did so whilst ncing at their acquaintances, wondering if everyone was doing the same thing. No one wanted to be the oddball out.

    "Return to your posts," she added on.

    Their legs wobbled. Not because they had kneeled for so long, but because one look from the Crown Prince was enough to freeze them on the spot. He was carefully watching them with narrowed eyes, thin and sharp.

    "Go on," Li Xueyue encouraged in a soft, gentle voice.

    The majority of them didn''t have any faults. Many did their duties well and acted ordingly, but everyone was punished¡ª but nothing too physical.

    Watching Xu Jiaqi getting tortured was enough to serve as a warning. Her screams would permanently ring their ears, reminding them to never harm even a hair upon the Crown Princess''s head. An injury as small as a papercut could result in their heads rolling.

    - - - - -

    "I didn''t mean to suspect the Empress¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off once they were in thefort of their own bedroom.

    She approached the bookshelf and pulled out the wrapped handkerchief. The material was stiff after the soup had dried, but the smell was still pungent.

    "I didn''t drink her soup yesterday because I was too paranoid. But who would''ve known I would be attacked by something else¡­" Li Xueyue brought the wrapped handkerchief to him. The ingredients were still neatly wrapped inside.

    "Let me see." Yu Zhen struck a hand out and she ced the small item onto his palm. He settled it onto the table, unraveling it. A herbal smell came out, pungent and strong.

    Yu Zhen lifted one of the roots, bringing it to his nose. Individually, he smelled all of the ingredients, searching for a distinctive scent. If it was poisonous, he would know, having dealt with a fair share of it in the past.

    "The Empress has suffered multiple miscarriages after she was pregnant with her first son," Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue nodded. She had figured as much¡­especially after the conversation that went down between the Emperor and Empress. At that time, the tension in the air was high, and she was forced to read in between the lines.

    Li Xueyue found it strange that Yu Zhen rarely addressed his family members by kinship terms such?as "father," "mother," "brother," or "sister." It was always Emperor or Empress, First Prince, and so on.

    Thinking back to her childhood, Li Xueyue could not me him. Sometimes, it was better to address them in a way that didn''t seem intimate.

    "She would be wise enough not to poison your food.?? Yu Zhen securely wrapped the handkerchief.

    All of the ingredients truly seemed beneficial. But, just to be sure, he would consult the newly appointed Imperial Physician.

    This morning, Yu Zhen had fired the previous one. The old Imperial Physician was useless with age. He had experience, but was getting forgetful. Yu Zhen had no use for ipetent people.

    He had been kind enough to let the Imperial Physician go without punishments. Though, his severance pay was reduced, and he would not get any bonuses for failure to act ordingly.

    "If there is one thing that I am certain of," Yu Zhen said. "It is the fact that she would not voluntarily cause a miscarriage unto others."

    Li Xueyue dutifully nodded. She was confused when he slipped the handkerchief and it''s contents into his pockets.

    "However, it is better safe than sorry. I will keep more spies around her," Yu Zhen said. "I will arrange for a tester to test your food for poison in your presence so you could have a peace of mind"

    Li Xueyue had heard of servants who would test the food for poison prior to serving it to their masters. If she recalled correctly, this was a practice in the Imperial Pce, but only reserved for the Emperor and Empress.

    "I should''ve done this sooner," he sighed.

    Yu Zhen had nearly forgotten how paranoid she was. Seeing the food directly tested in front of her will result in many reassurances.

    Li Xueyue ced a hand over his and stepped closer to him. His eyes widened a bit in surprise before returning to normal.

    "Yes, my Wangfei?" he murmured, setting a hand upon her lower back.

    Li Xueyue was hesitant about what she nned to say. It was a sensitive topic. He knew almost everything there was to learn about her, however, she didn''t know much about him.

    Li Xueyue rested her hand upon his chest, the other wrapping it around his waist. She peered up at him, curiosity in her tired gaze.

    "Well, this isn''t an everyday urrence, Sunshine," Yu Zhen teased. He leaned down, pressing a quick kiss upon her forehead. It was tempting not to do so when she was right underneath his chin.

    Li Xueyue''s heart fluttered at his actions. It had happened so many times before but she still couldn''t get over it.

    Her eyes briefly snapped to their bed, unmade and unkept, for the maidservants weren''t granted entry. He hadn''t touched her yesterday night, nor this morning.

    Li Xueyue didn''t have to question the reason. She wasn''t in the mood for it, and he was fine with that.

    "Will you tell me?" she suddenly asked.

    "About?"

    "Your childhood."

 Chapter 413 All I Need

    <h4>Chapter 413 All I Need</h4>

    Yu Zhen was thrown off by her question. His childhood? Where shall he even begin? He knew hers was equally as horrible, if not worse.

    The problem was, he liked to forget what had happened in the past. There wasn''t a reason for him to continue thinking about it, or keeping it in mind. Such grim experiences shouldn''t be kept in his memories.

    Nheless, Yu Zhen thought it was only fair for him to share some snippets of his childhood. He wasn''t fazed by what he had gone through, for the same thing happened to his older brother too. Except, the First Prince was lucky enough to be the Empress''s favorite child.

    "What would you like to know?" he calmly asked her, curious as to what could''ve inspired such a question out of the blue.

    Yu Zhen was just surprised that she didn''t beat around the bush. It was a direct question that resulted in a direct response.

    "Well, I don''t really know," she admitted.

    Li Xueyue nibbled her bottom lip and tried to think of what she was curious about. She unconsciously tapped her chin. A few secondster, an idea came to mind.

    "Perhaps, the dynamic of your rtionship with your parents?" she asked.

    Yu Zhen chuckled. He caressed the side of her face, a smile hanging from his lips. "You''re usingplex words today, I am impressed," he teased.

    Li Xueyue scoffed in response. She smacked at his chest, knowing it was a joke meant to distract from the question.

    "I''m serious," she deadpanned.

    Yu Zhen grasped the hand that had hit him. She had gotten stronger, despite the things that have been happeningtely. Her smack had finally felt a bit heavy.

    "Well?" she eagerly said.

    His smile widened upon seeing she was peering up at him, like an intrigued little pet.

    "My parents, as you can tell, didn''t have the best of rtionships. I don''t remember when their rtionship started breaking down."

    Li Xueyue nodded. It was interesting to hear this, especially when she took into ount that he had a handful of siblings. Though, she had only met one in the form of?Yu Lingluo.

    "Perhaps it began when the Empress took the First Prince''s side during beatings, protecting no one else but him, and not me."

    Li Xueyue''s heart was squeezed at his words. She had lived the same childhood as him, where favoritism was too tant to ignore. The thought of a young Yu Zhen, wide-eyed and terrified, with no one to protect him?made her feel distressed.

    "The Emperor favored his daughters, the Empress favored her first son. They didn''t give me any attention or time of the day. Of course, with such a grim childhood, I was bound to grow up hating them. And I did."

    Yu Zhen decided the word "hate" was too kind to describe the emotion he felt for his parents. It was resentment.

    All of his life, he would never forget the beatings that toughened his skin, the scoldings that belittled him. It was funny that these were the very things that made him the aplished man today.

    "There was certainly a handful of abuse, maybe enough to equate to yours. The Emperor enjoyed tormenting his sons, believing it would turn boys into men, but in reality, it only turned his sons into viins."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know where to begin. She had figured the Emperor must''ve done something cruel to produce such hatred...but abuse never crossed her mind.

    He continued onwards, speaking with a calmness that worried her. It was as if he had moved on from the traumatic experiences, or simply didn''t care for it.

    Maybe it was abination of both, or this was his coping mechanism¡ªnot to pay a mind to all of the troubles that burdened his shoulders.

    "There was not a day that either I or the First Prince did not get the short end of the stick. But the First Prince had the protection of the Empress who believed he would be the Crown Prince. She ced all of her hopes and aspirations on him."

    Yu Zhen paused. Now that he thought about it... "Or simply put, the First Prince resembled her the most. In every aspect, whether it was his personality, or his small habits. His eyes were exactly like that of the Empress."

    Yu Zhen wryly smiled. "Meanwhile, everything about me resembled the Emperor. She must''ve thought that looking at me was like looking at the man she despised."

    Li Xueyue was confused. "I thought...at a certain point in time, Her Grace loved the Emperor? If not, how do you have so many siblings?"

    Yu Zhen let out augh. "They loved each other at the start of their meeting. It was an arranged marriage, they had no choice but to get along. However, when the Empress gave him what he wanted, the neglect began."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head.

    "The Empress was fine with that. She knew her responsibility in the pce was to give him as many children as possible, but she had also expected his protection."

    "Protection?" Li Xueyue asked without thinking too much about it. An Empress was the Mother of a Country. There should''ve been many guards in her life, much like the ones Yu Zhen ced around her.

    "Yes, pce life during my parent''s generation was a lot worse. They weren''t so weing towards foreigners, which was exactly what the Empress was at the time¡ªthe favored Princess of an enemy nation, sent off as a sacrifice to build an alliance."

    Li Xueyue was astounded by the simrities she had to the Empress. It was as if she was hearing her love story with Yu Zhen y out.

    "In some sort of way, the Empress paved a path for you. Because of her aplishments and tight reign upon the women of the pce, she was able to slowly dispel the stigma around foreigners."

    Yu Zhen didn''t want Li Xueyue to think she was like his mother, heartless and crude. But the simrities were too difficult to ignore.

    "Unfortunately, she eventually became power-hungry. It happened around the time she failed to give birth to what could''ve be my older brother."

    Li Xueyue''s lips parted. A miscarriage.

    "As well as another older brother, then maybe even an older sister or two..."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened with horror. She looked up at Yu Zhen, astonishment was written all over her face. She didn''t think the Empress had suffered that many miscarriages after the birth of the First Prince.

    "The loss of something so tremendous, again and again, must''ve felt as if her life was spiraling out of control. As a result, she had to control something else. The pce. The servants. Eventually, it became every little thing that the Emperor was in charge of."

    Li Xueyue''s breath hitched. "Byck of protection¡­did the Emperor not shield her from the malicious gossip? Was she thrown into the lion''s den, forced to survive?"

    Yu Zhen solemnly nodded. "Yes. I''ve heard tales of how tenderhearted she was, until my father failed to fulfill the responsibilities of a husband."

    Li Xueyue could not imagine how difficult the Empress''s life must''ve been. A young maiden forced to live on foreignnds, with a husband she barely got to spend time with, in a pce filled with people who were bent on putting her down.

    Yet, the Empress did not sumb to the obstacles. She triumphed through, but lost touch with her children.

    "It would exin her favoritism," Li Xueyue blurted out only to p a hand over her mouth. "No, wait I don''t mean it like that¡ª"

    "I do not mind." Yu Zhenughed. "Favoritism is exactly what she had for the First Prince. To her, the First Prince was perfection personified. Every time a miscarriage happens, she would hug him dearly, iming he was a gift from Heaven."

    Li Xueyue couldn''t wrap her head around it. After so many failed attempts, Yu Zhen was born¡­ If she was the Empress, she would''ve embraced Yu Zhen just as much as the First Prince. After so many losses, there was finally the light at the end of a dark cave.

    "The Empress resented me, not only because my eyes were like that of my father, but because she didn''t know what to do with me. She had given the First Prince so much love, there was no room in her heart for someone else, for she believed there would be no other children."

    Li Xueyue''s heart ached for him. She could do nothing but lean close and hug him tightly. Growing up without love whilst watching someone else receive it¡­ The prickling pain of jealousy and self-doubt. All of it was too familiar.

    "Don''t cry for me," Yu Zhen muttered. He had forgotten she didn''t know anything about her childhood. It was strange for someone to cry over it. He thought it was normal?to grow up without loving parents.

    Li Xueyue responded by hugging him tighter than before. "You had no one."

    "It made me more independent," he whispered, affectionately caressing the back of her head.

    "Children do not need to be independent. They need to be loved."

    Yu Zhen could only gentlyugh at her words. She was toopassionate. It didn''t hurt him, truly. He had gotten over that stage of his life. Now, the only emotion that remained was resentment.

    "You have me now."

    He smiled at her words. He didn''t think it was possible to fall even more in love with her. "And you''re all I need, Sunshine."

 Chapter 414 Under Her Control

    <h4>Chapter 414 Under Her Control</h4>

    Lady Ge Beining pped a hand over her mouth, her eyes widened with terror. She couldn''t stop the trembling of her fingers, but her reaction was a lot more graceful than her peers.

    Suddenly, she was d she had not consumed breakfast yet. Unfortunately, the same couldn''t be applied to the otherdies-in-waiting who were gagging or had already thrown up beside her. Some had fainted,?only to be caught by a maidservant.

    "T-this is so horrible¡­" one of them managed to choke out, only to look away a secondter. The sight was too unbearable. Her stomach ufortably churned, threatening to spill the morning tea she drank a few minutes ago.

    "I-I can''t stomach this¡­" she added on, turning her back on someone she once called a friend.

    "How can the Crown Prince be so cruel?" a differentdy-in-waiting asked whilst whipping her mouth with a handkerchief. She had finally finished throwing up, her nose scrunching in disgust.

    Lady Ge Beining ground her teeth. "The Crown Prince is not cruel. He dished out a punishment that he deemed to be fitting," she snapped.

    The minute she said these words, Lady Ge Beining regretted it. Her palms were mmy with anxiety. Seeing the sight of Xu Jiaqi''s mangled body was enough to warn her to be even more cautious moving forward.

    "I-I mean¡­" She struggled to regain her elegance. "The Crown Prince is just a doting husband, that''s all. Any man would protect his wife."

    "I-it doesn''t justify this type of protection¡­" someone said.

    Lady Ge Beining couldn''t even turn to face her friends. The fearful expression on her face was not something she wanted the others to see.

    To others, she seemed horrified at Xu Jiaqi''s punishment, but that was not the full picture. She was scared of facing the same thing.

    Lady Ge Beining touched her smooth face, free from powder, yet she was more dazzling than any other woman here. She gulped. Just the thought of her face being marred like Xu Jiaqi was enough for her skin to crawl with goosebumps.

    "H-how long were we supposed to stand here for?" someone asked.

    Lady Ge Beining pressed her lips together. She subtly nced around her surroundings. There were more Eunuches than usual today. No doubt, it was to make sure thesedies-in-waiting would remain here for a while.

    "Hook a big fish and hang it," she muttered under her breath, knowing this technique.

    Lady Ge Beining swallowed back a gag. The smell here was putrid¡ªespecially with the contents of someone''s stomach a few feet away from her.

    "Not for long," Lady Ge Beining responded. "Lady Xu was one of our treasured friends. Let''s lower her from this misery and help her down."

    "Was?" someone repeated. "You''re speaking in past tense as if Lady Xu had already passed, Lady Ge¡­"

    Lady Ge Beining''s gaze sharpened. These backstabbers. Even at a time like this, they still had the time toe at each other''s throats. Grinding her teeth, she dug her nails into her palms.

    Keeping her emotions at bay, Lady Ge Beining turned around with a forced smile. It never reached her eyes, impatient and irritated.

    "We should focus on helping our dear friend, don''t you think so, Lady Han? Certainly, you aren''t cruel enough to nitpick at words when our beloved peer is suffering?"

    Lady Han flinched back. As always, she could not argue against Lady Ge Beining. It wasn''t because she didn''t want to. It was because Lady Ge Beining had one of the strongest supporters in the entire pce¡ªthe Empress herself.

    How nice it must''ve been to be born with a golden spoon and a future already set in stone¡­ Not everyone had the privilege of having a mother who was great friends with the Empress herself.

    "I-I believe we shouldn''t touch Lady Xu¡­" Lady Han finally said.

    Lady Ge Beining tried her best not to re. These cowards. They talked kindly with Lady Xu Jiaqi, but when their friend fell, none of them would help her up. So much for considering them as allies¡­

    If only Xu Jiaqi hadn''t rushed things. If only she hadn''t gotten ahead of herself and took action without the support of the otherdies-in-waitings. Maybe then, she wouldn''t have gotten into this mess.

    "What are you saying, Lady Han? Xu Jiaqi was close to all of us, this is the least we can do." Lady Ge Beining directed a hand in the motionless woman''s direction.

    "Can''t you see, putting her there on disy is killing her twice?" she added on.

    "But Lady Xu isn''t dead." Lady Han was bewildered as to why Lady Ge Beining seemed to insist that Lady Xu was dead. It was almost as if¡ª

    "Lady Han is right," anotherdy in waiting said. "The Empress only told us to take a good look at Lady Xu, so that we aren''t foolish enough to harm the Crown Princess."

    She paused, before quickly saying, "Not that we would ever dare to harm the gentle Crown Princess."

    Lady Ge Beining''s blood boiled. She used to have such a tight rein on these women. Now, they''re running amok, ignoring her words, and acting on their free will. All because of Xu Jiaqi''s current state. These women were too cowardly for her taste.

    ''I have no use for them anymore,'' she angrily thought to herself. ''They can''t even be trusted asrades.''

    For some reason, her temper was threatening to surface. She was usually not like this. Being poise and calm was her specialty.

    Lady Ge Beining supposed seeing Xu Jiaqi had frightened her too much. Her brain was in shambles, too worried to take a wrong step and fall to her demise. By now, she knew these women would be happy to see her fail.

    "How can we dare to call ourselvesdies-in-waiting if we are unable to even help each other?" Lady Ge Beining demanded in a soft voice. She did her best to contain herself, despite wanting to yell and scream at their cowardly behavior.

    "Well, we serve the Empress," Lady Han slowly exined, as if speaking to a child. "And the Empress didn''t specifically inform us to help Xu Jiaqi down."

    "You''re speaking as if Lady Xu is no longer one of us," Lady Ge Beining impatiently said. She tried her best to ignore the betrayal happening directly in front of her.

    It was bound to happen. Lady Ge Beining had already prepared herself for it. Now that she was experiencing it in real time, Lady Ge Beining realized she wasn''t as prepared as she initially thought.

    "With her horrid crimes," Lady Han haughtily said whilst revealing a grim smile. "I do not think the Empress will even consider her as ady-in-waiting any longer. We all know the troubles that had gued our dear Empress."

    "Yes but¡ª"

    "And for Lady Xu to have purposely caused something like that to happen¡­ it must''ve brought up horrible memories for our beloved Empress. Do you think you can forgive her for her crimes, Lady Ge?"

    Lady Ge Beining''s eyes red. At times, she wished her eyes could kill. If so, these women would drop dead and no one would bother her anymore.

    Previously, all of thesedies-in-waitings would heed her every word, believing it was the best of advice. But now, they wouldn''t even lend a listening ear.

    "Don''t you think it is only honorable that we make sure she gets the proper medical treatment, friend to friend?" Lady Ge Beining slowly said, despite their visible reluctance to even look at Xu Jiaqi for a minute longer.

    Lady Ge Beining prided herself on being different from the rest. Unlike them, she actually had a heart. Xu Jiaqi was once her friend. Lady Ge Beining would not abandon a peer so quickly, even if they miserably failed¡­at life.

    "Her dishonorable crimes do not allow for such a thing," Lady Han instantly said. "Besides¡­the Crown Prince might even punish us for taking her down."

    At this, thedies-in-waiting began to whisper amongst themselves. Suddenly, Lady Han''s words were making even more sense than ever. Everyone had finally witnessed the full extent of the Crown Prince''s cruelty.

    No one dared to oppose him before this incident¡­but now, everyone would never dream of opposing the Crown Princess as well.

    Everyone, but Lady Ge Beining. "Fine then," she softly sighed. cing a hand upon her chest, she looked at them with visible disappointment on her face.

    "I suppose we should at least send our prayers to Lady Xu in hopes for a fast recovery."

    "Hah, good luck recovering from such a beating. If I were to heal from it, I would hang myself from the ceiling," Lady Han muttered.

    Lady Ge Beining bit back an insult. Right now was not the time to reprimand these women, especially her reign on them was weakening. She would need to give an incentive to reel them back under her control.

 Chapter 415 Eager To See You

    <h4>Chapter 415 Eager To See You</h4>

    The Empress quietly sat in the garden. It had been a while since she was truly alone. The air was chillier than usual, but never enough to match her icy heart. She lifted the hot cup of tea to her lips and drank it, even when it burned her tongue.

    "I never wanted this to happen." The Empress nced towards the side, where an exotic species of flower was recently nted. It used to bloom so brightly that everyone wouldpliment it. But now, the flower was wilting, its petals turning brown.

    "I should''ve protected you better." The Empress settled the teacup down as she let out a quiet sigh. No one had protected her when she was freshly nted in this pce. Everyone did their best, hoping she would wither off somewhere and die. But look at where she stood now.

    "Then again, it would be unfair, wouldn''t it?"

    Tired of doing nothing but sitting there, she finally rose to her feet. The Empress approached the flower, reaching a hand out to pull away the dying petal.

    "Though, you''re already living a much better life than the one I had." She plucked the petal, crushing it in her hand.

    Holding back a sigh, the Empress peered down at the exotic flowers. The ones surrounding it were beautiful, but never enough to match the glow of its foe. "The pce is not a ce for flowers like us to bloom without troubles."

    She touched the stem. "Foreign soil, foreign waters¡­"

    The Empress plucked the stem. She nced down at the flower, remorse in her eyes. "It is best that you bloom elsewhere."

    - - - - -

    Lady Ge Beining irritably stormed through the hallways. She grumbled insults andints under her breath. Those hateful women! All of them had scrambled away, doing nothing but creating excuses for how busy their day was. In reality, the majority of thedies-in-waiting didn''t have anything on their schedule.

    "Useless, all of them are useless!" she harshly whispered to herself, grounding her teeth.

    Lady Ge Beining thought Xu Jiaqi would be a lot wiser than this. "How did she even gain the Crown Prince favor before when she is that stupid? Was it just pure luck?"

    The more she thought about this issue, the more her blood boiled. "I always put my trust in the wrong people."

    Lady Ge Beining blew out a frustrated sigh. She squeezed her eyes shut, and tried to calm herself down.

    "This isn''t like you," she reprimanded herself.

    Lady Ge Beining lifted her gaze from the ground. She was ady-in-waiting, a favorite of the Empress, and one of the most beautiful women in the country. She refused to lower her head just for a small incident like this. If so, how can she ever wear a crown? How would she ever take the throne in the future?

    The odds had been in her favor most of the time. "This must be a test from Heaven," she thought to herself.

    "It would be too boring if everything always went my way¡­ This must be why I am being tested by that subpar Crown Princess."

    Lady Ge Beining crossed her arms. She had seen the Crown Princess''s capabilities but so what? "Not only can I do archery, but I am also a Master in embroidery and other feminine skills."

    Lady Ge Beining continuedforting herself with such words. It reminded her of who exactly she was¡ªa woman made to seed.

    Why else was she born under such favorable circumstances and with a beautiful face? Women like her were meant to get everything they wanted.

    "Now, no more self pity," she sternly told herself. "It is time to face the Empress¡­"

    She took a step forward but all of her previous resolve came tumbling down. The confidence she had shattered without hesitation. In the far distance, a man caught her attention. And not just any man, but someone who could end her reputation with just a few words.

    "Out of all times, I have to run into him now!" Lady Ge Beining cried out in frustration.

    Lady Ge Beining quickly looked around, hoping to find a spot to dodge and hide from him. She was not in the best of mood to entertain such a cunning pervert.

    He was old with many grandchildren, but that did not stop his frivolous eyes from greedily taking in everything a woman had to offer. They could be clothed, but with his gaze, it felt like they were naked.

    "What horrid luck I have today," sheined upon realizing there was nowhere to run. It was an open hallway, and the only way out of here was to turn on her heels and turn the corner.

    Lady Ge Beining didn''t waste any more time. She hurriedly lifted her heavy skirts and turned around, but it was toote. He had already caught sight of her beautiful figure, which could be admired even from a distance.

    His voice, stern yet cherry, drifted from one end of the hallway to the other.

    "My, if it isn''t Lady Ge!" he loudly greeted, forcing her to halt.

    "What luck I have today!" he added on, quickly advancing towards the beautiful, ripe maiden with a face and body sweeter than any fruit he had ever tasted. It was such a shame that he was never able to sink his teeth into her.

    But with the amount of favors he was giving out, it would only be a matter of time.

    "Where are you heading to, this fine evening, Lady Ge?" he asked, stopping directly in front of her.

    Lady Ge Beining slowly turned around, forcing her eyes to widen briefly in surprise. She was repulsed at the sight of him, her lips almost curling in disgust. Just being near him was a lot worse than witnessing what had happened to Xu Jiaqi.

    Even now, he was undressing her with his slimy eyes. His attention drifted to her ample breasts, wrapped nicely by her high-quality clothes. How could such a lovely creature not have a suitor?

    His breathing grew heavy, as a familiar feeling stirred in his groin. But then, she distracted him, as her lovely lips moved to say something.

    "I was on my way to greet Her Grace," she answered him in a bold, confident voice.

    Lady Ge Beining nearly squirmed in disgust. She pitied all of the women under him. Even though they were in public, he didn''t hesitate to eye her like a piece of fresh meat. She was suddenly repulsed by these clothes she''s wearing. Now that he had shown approval for it, Lady Ge Beining had an urge to burn the hanfu on her.

    "Yes, yes, Her Grace must be so eager to see you, as anyone would be." He let out a boisterousugh, as if his own words amused him.

    "Oh please, if you say these words, it''ll get to my head." Lady Ge Beining didn''t even want to breathe around him. The air was now contaminated by him.

    "Hah! I''m sure you get thesepliments everyday, Lady Ge. No need to y so coy. We are good friends, aren''t we?"

    Lady Ge Beining would rather fling herself off a cliff than be friends with him. Especially when he eyed her with a look that meant more than that. For heaven''s sake, this man was just a few years older than her father if he was still alive.

    "Of course we are," Lady Ge Beining mused.

    "Ah, but you don''t even address me with a title, Lady Ge," he snickered. "Does that mean we are so acquainted, that titles are uncalled for?"

    Lady Ge Beining dug her fingers into her palms. She almost pped him. This delusional buffoon!

    "I apologize¡­" she whispered, forcing a smile. "An unfavorable event had urred, so I was too distraught to address you¡­ Marquis Qin."

 Chapter 416 Invitation

    <h4>Chapter 416 Invitation</h4>

    Lady Ge Beining couldn''t be more irritated to call him with such a formal title¡ªa Marquis. She still remembered the days he''d follow her around, when she was but a young child, and he''d tease her as a friendly uncle.

    Back then, he was still a lowly Earl whose wealth came from being a merchant. Now, he had the favor of the dying Emperor.

    "Oh dear, an unfortunate event? What could be troubling that pretty little head of yours, Lady Ge?" Marquis Qin asked with a slow smile, revealing his yellow teeth.

    "I-I wouldn''t dream of bothering you with my problems," Lady Ge Beining stuttered out. She cursed herself foring off as weak. It wasn''t her specialty and having to act in front of him was such a waste of her talent and time. He must''ve enjoyed the sight of her, demure and timid.

    Lady Ge Beining wondered how old and senile he must''ve be to be this delusional.

    "Well, Lady Ge," he chuckled, taking a step closer to her. His eyes raked from her breast to her face, his tongue darting out. What a sight for the sore eyes¡­

    "You came to me with a small issue before, and I''ve helped you, haven''t I? My resources were strained to get you that¡ª"

    "Of course, you''ve been very helpful, Marquis Qin. I truly appreciate that, from the bottom of my feeble heart." Lady Ge Beining ced a hand upon her heart to show that she was genuine. But the small action only brought more attention to her breasts.

    No doubt, he drank in the sight of her. Just being in her presence with her flowery, feminine scent was enough to drive him insane. She was so close, but never enough for him to get a hold of.

    "But I can''t forever rely on your help, Marquis Qin. You have always been a guiding uncle in my presence¡­ I do not want to burden you." Lady Ge Beining forced another smile.

    She took a step back, and dipped into a slight bow. "I believe time is fleeting me, for the Empress might grow impatient at my tardiness."

    "The Empress¡­?" Marquis Qin tore his gaze away from her bountiful assets.

    Marquis Qin would buy out a Kingdom just to spend one night with a fruit as sweet as Lady Ge Beining. It was precisely why he took pains to fulfill the first ever thing that she had requested from him, and damned, did she have a greedy hand.

    She was insistent of acquiring something from the one country he couldn''t easily trade in. But now that there was a treaty, he was finally able to get his hands on the item for her.

    "Yes, she has been urgently calling for my presence for a while now. I''m afraid I do not have the time to entertain you today, Marquis Qin."

    "Please, I was just jesting with you about the title. I preferred it when you called me Uncle Qin. You were such an adorable child¡­" he trailed off, suddenly reminiscing the days she would sit upon hisp and smile up at him, with those naive little eyes of hers.

    Lady Ge Beining gritted her teeth. She wished she had never met this slimy man. He had watched her grow up into ady, and now he viewed her as a woman. Uncle?

    Hah! It would be a cold day in Diyu before she would ever call him such a thing. Especially when she was more than a "junior" in his eyes.

    Nheless, she maintained her image and widened her smile. The more she hated someone, therger her smile.

    "I would never insult you in such a manner, Marquis Qin. You are a well-respected aristocrat, how could a lowly woman like myself call you something as familiar as ''Uncle''?" she said.

    At her joke, Marquis Qin loudlyughed. He patted his belly and wiped a tear away. Lowly woman? She was one of the most beloved women of this country, the jewel of the Empress''s eyes, and so much more.

    Any man would kowtow to Heavens every morning and night just to marry her.

    "You are always excellent at jokes like this," Marquis Qin marveled.

    Lady Ge Beining let out a smallugh. "As much as I would love to make more, Marquis Qin, it is time for me to depart."

    Marquis Qin dully nodded his head. He was in no rush to keep her in front of him. He was a loyal servant of the Emperor, and coulde and go as he pleased. The reason? He was one out of the two suppliers of the Emperor''s rare medicine.

    "Of course, of course," he readily said.

    Lady Ge Beining lowered into a bow yet again. "Have a good day, Marquis Qin."

    "Oh, it is certainly a good day, whenever Iy eyes upon you, Lady Ge."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue shivered. Something felt different in the air¡­she couldn''t pinpoint it. But her fight or flight senses were activated. Her heart lurched as her fingers trembled. Even her stomach churned ufortably.

    "Is it too cold in here, Crown Princess?" Xiao Hua whispered from beside her. As of right now, she was the only maidservant allowed inside of the bedroom.

    Xiao Hua didn''t even know why. She was grateful for the opportunity, but terrified of making a mistake.

    "Yes."

    Xiao Hua lifted her head from the hairstyling. She looked around the room, deciding that more clothes wouldn''t suffice. It would be better to cut off what was causing this problem in the first ce.

    "Please excuse me¡­" she whispered, before slipping away to close the window. Out of sheer paranoia, Xiao Hua locked it too, but then unlocked it. Was she being too paranoid? No, no.

    Xiao Hua locked the windows again. She stepped away for a single second, only to hesitate. Not a secondter, she walked back to the window to make sure that it was locked.

    "Is there a problem?" Li Xueyue asked, after hearing the lock click in and out of the catch so many times. She turned her chin in time to see Xiao Hua shyly smile to the ground, her tiny shoulders caving in.

    "I apologize, Crown Princess¡­ T-the window was locked, but I thought it wasn''t, so I went to a check if it was still working fine."

    Li Xueyue found this amusing. She softly smiled and nodded her head. "Did it pass your tests?" she asked, highly entertained when Xiao Hua''s headshot up. Her eyes widened before she rapidly nodded her head, like a toddler eager to showpliance.

    "Yes, Crown Princess." Xiao Hua hurriedly walked back to her master. With shaky hands, she began braiding her master''s hair for a simplistic style, since the Crown Princess seemed to be a fan of such things.

    "Crown Princess, your skin is very fair¡­it is as pure as snow, and your lips so naturally rosy." Xiao Huaplimented.

    Li Xueyue chuckled. "I''ve never heard that before."

    Xiao Hua almost seemed horrified at the revtion. Her mouth dropped open in shock, her eyes naively widening.

    "B-but you''re so beautiful¡­" she mumbled to herself. "How can no one praise your beauty?"

    Li Xueyue half-heartedlyughed. It was because there were always other women that outshined her. First it was Bai Tianai¡­and now??well, she didn''t want to think about the "now".

    "This is quite a beautiful hairstyle," Li Xueyue praised.

    She touched her finished hairdo, which was braided down her shoulders, resting upon her chest. Tiny hair clips were ced into it, made of pearls and opal, making it look as if snow was sprinkled upon her.

    "You look like a Fairy of Winter, Princess," Xiao Hua eagerly exined. It was the concept she was going for. Pure and innocent, like the Crown Princess''s smiles. Or so, she had naively believed.

    "Well, it would certainly exin the white and blue," Li Xueyue mused, referring to her intricately designed hanfu.

    Xiao Hua nodded her head out of joy. She had rarely gotten apliment from anyone before, much less from someone as highly ranked as the Crown Princess. Her heart swelled in joy.

    "Perhaps tomorrow," she shyly whispered. "A Fairy of Spring?"

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. How many times had she been dressed in pastel clothes now? But nheless, she nodded her head.

    Li Xueyue noticed Xiao Hua had a better understanding of her personal taste. And who knows? Maybe Xiao Hua would surprise her.

    "Now," Li Xueyue said as she rose to her feet.

    Xiao Hua instantly took a step back, but kept a keen, watchful eye over the Crown Princess. She didn''t want to treat the Princess as if she was a sick and frail patient¡ªwhich was exactly what the other maidservants wanted to do.

    Li Xueyue nced in the direction of the closed doors. "We shall spare the lives of the Empress''s maidservants, and ept this invitation to see her."

 Chapter 417 Practice Day and Nigh

    <h4>Chapter 417 Practice Day and Nigh</h4>

    Lady Ge Beining had lied. The Empress wasn''t seeking her presence that urgently. Truthfully, she wasn''t even sure if the Empress wanted to see her face today.

    When miscarriages were involved, the Empress would be glum for a while. She would not smile or entertain anyone''s presence. Nothing would bring her out of that dreary mood. Only time would heal.

    "I don''t me her," she muttered. "After so many miscarriages, the Emperor didn''t even botherforting her. Instead, heforted himself with a random concubine."

    Lady Ge Beining''s hands suddenly trembled. She would not forget the look of sheer terror on that poor concubine''s face. Her skin had paled, her veins turning ck, as foam started forming in her mouth.

    The one and only concubine of the pce was poisoned to death, shortly after giving birth to a useless Princess¡ªthe one who had fled from the honorable position as a candidate of Wuyi.

    "Now that I think about it, it is that damned exchange that started all of this mess," Lady Ge Beining glowered to the floor.

    If the Crown Prince hadn''t gone to Wuyi, perhaps they would be married by now. If only he hadn''t set foot in Wuyi, everything would be fine. The puzzles would all fall into ce, and her fate would have been entwined with the Crown Prince.

    "If only that wretched Crown Princess was gone¡­" Lady Ge Beining trailed off. She let out a tired sigh, and hugged her stomach. What a dream it would be.

    "Now, I can''t even fathom such a thing with Xu Jiaqi gone. Ugh." Lady Ge Beining didn''t want to indulge in such depressing thoughts anymore. She continued sauntering down the hallways, with one destination in mind.

    The Empress''s corridors.

    Lady Ge Beining had no choice. She had nowhere else to turn to, nowhere else to go. Her life belonged to the Empress, just as the Empress''s darkest secret belonged to Lady Ge Beining.

    "That''s right," she whispered to herself, suddenly paranoid. "The Empress will not easily discard me. After all, I got rid of her troubles¡ªliterally or figuratively. My hands are stained because of her. She would not simply abandon me."

    Lady Ge Beining confidently stopped in front of the garden gates. This was the Empress''s favorite ce to pass time. There were many beautiful gardens in the pce, but no flowers would bloom brighter than the ones that the Empress had handpicked to be grown in this particr garden. The flowers here got to live because of the Empress, they got to bloom because of her graciousness.

    "I will just have to tolerate her somber res for a little while. Once all of this mess brews over, things will return back to normal," Lady Ge Beining reassured herself.

    She sucked in an encouraging breath of air and took a step forward. The heavily armed guards parted for her. They had long known the protocols. No one could pass here but Lady Ge Beining wasn''t just a nobody.

    "Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining gently greeted.

    She lifted the edges of her dress and dipped into her signature curtsy. Truthfully, she had given the Crown Princess''s signature greeting a try, when conversing with Marquis Qin. But Lady Ge Beining did not like it, and her knees hurt.

    "What are you doing here?" the Empress snapped in an impatient tone.

    Lady Ge Beining''s eyes widened out of shock. The Empress had never spoken to her in such a rough, irritable tone. She lifted her head, bewildered at what could''ve caused the Empress to act this way.

    "I was just¡ª"

    "Oh nevermind," the Empress sighed. Her voice was airy and high-pitched, as she feigned normalcy.

    "I didn''t summon you, did I?" the Empress asked, before waving her hands. "Do not answer that."

    Lady Ge Beining rapidly blinked her eyes. She nced towards the table, wondering if there was alcohol somewhere. Maybe a baijiu or plum wine. Nothing at all. Except for an unfamiliar pot of tea.

    Lady Ge Beining tried her best not to frown. It wasn''t like the Empress had promised to only drink Lady Ge Beining''s tea. But Lady Ge Beining was still irritated. Who the hell made that pot of tea? Why didn''t the Empress call on her to make some?

    Did something happen? Was the Empress no longer entertained by her presence?

    "This tea is cold," the Empress suddenly said, gesturing to the teapot.

    "I shall make you a fresh batch right away¡ª"

    "I actually enjoy the bitterness of this cold tea," the Empress finished.

    She cast a frown towards Lady Ge Beining. Why was thedy-in-waiting so eager to please people today? It was usually not that obvious, but today, Lady Ge Beining seemed desperate.

    Almost as if there was something upsetting Lady Ge Beining. But what could it be? Only two things came to mind, neither of which, the Empress wanted to think about.

    "If you prefer cold tea, Your Grace, then I have a few recipes in mind, though they''re mainly too fruity and sweet," Lady Ge Beining patiently said with a polite smile.

    "Hmmm¡­" the Empress trailed off. For some reason, she wasn''t that happy to see Lady Ge Beining.

    "No need," she finally said. "It is best for you to return to your room and embroider something, or you could even practice archery."

    The Empress examined the nail extensions over her delicate fingers. They were long and sharp, like the ws of a tigress. Life was so idle now¡­well, except the fact that her second son despised her, and her youngest daughter was in love with a peasant.

    "And who knows? Maybe with enough training, you will not remain as weak as the Crown Princess, as you so lovely put it that day."

    Lady Ge Beining wondered if there was actually alcohol in the tea. The Empress must be drunk out of her mind. Why else would she say something so insulting?

    Lady Ge Beining thought she was already pardoned regarding the incident about the false report. The Empress wasn''t usually this petty, so why did she suddenly bring this up?

    "I will do as you wish, Your Grace, and practice day and night, until I master the arts of archery."

    "You''ve already mastered it," the Empress abruptly said. She had changed her mind again, after suddenly feeling guilty towardsdy Ge Bening. The Empress had raised this woman.

    Lady Ge Beining was the elegant and dutiful daughter that the Empress always wanted, but never had. Her youngest was loud and loved to cause a ruckus. While?her other two daughters were quieter inparison, they had both already married off. They had found great, suitable partners, but none had visited her in a while.

    "Oh nevermind, my brain feels so jumbled today. I do not know why," the Empress lightly said. "Well, despite how I feel, I still sent out a Eunuch to fetch her."

    The Empress took a seat and poured herself another cup of the cold tea. She lifted it to her lips, fully aware of the tant curiosity in Lady Ge Beining''s gaze.

    "You are excused, Lady Ge."

    Lady Ge Beining tried not to focus on the fact that they''ve not had a long enough conversation, and it was the first time since that the Empress had properly addressed her since they started talking.

    "Very well, Your Grace¡­" Lady Ge Beining reluctantly said. She performed her signature curtsy, then excused herself. But just as she turned around, her eyes widened.

    Standing directly at the gates was none other than Li Xueyue.

    Lady Ge Beining''s head snapped back to the Empress. What was the meaning of this betrayal?!

 Chapter 418 Dutiful Wife

    <h4>Chapter 418 Dutiful Wife</h4>

    The Empress settled her teacup down. She was pleasantly surprised by Li Xueyue''s attire. The simplistic hairstyle paired with her flowy white and light blue clothes truly enhanced her natural features.

    "Ah yes, the Crown Princess and I will be having a discussion," the Empress exined, even though she didn''t have too. Lady Ge Beining was many ranks below her, but for the sake of that woman''s sanity, the Empress gave a simple exnation.

    "I-I see," Lady Ge Beining stuttered out. She didn''t want to just stand there and gawk. Thus, she turned upon her heels and approached the entrance, which served as the only exit to this ce.

    Unfortunately for her, she was forced to cross paths with the Crown Princess. Lady Ge Beining strained her lips for a forced smile. She bowed her head in greeting, "Greetings Crown Princess. Everyday you seem to glow brighter."

    Li Xueyue wasn''t sure if that was an indirect insult. Didn''t they say pregnant women had a healthy glow to them? Nheless, she responded with a genuine smile of her own.

    "Such a good morning to run into you, Lady Ge," Li Xueyue pleasantly said. "Now, if you''ll excuse me¡­"

    Li Xueyue brushed past Lady Ge Beining without another look in the ethereal woman''s direction. She wondered what type of food Lady Ge Beining consumed to be so pretty. When all of thedies-in-waiting must still be frantic and traumatized by what happened this morning, Lady Ge Beining was as calm as a drifting leaf riding the wind.

    "Your Grace," Li Xueyue cupped her hands to one side and dipped into a curtsy.

    "You''ve requested my presence?"

    "Please, have a seat," the Empress gestured to the chair beside her.

    Li Xueyue took a seat. She admired the pavilion erected in the center of his magnificent garden, filled with flowers that she had never seen before. She was certain these flowers weren''t native to Hanjian.

    "How are you feeling?" the Empress asked. She poured a cup of tea for the Crown Princess but paused. The teapot was cold as ice. She turned the lid to its side, signaling for her maidservants to bring a new batch of tea.

    The maidservants hurriedly came forward, taking the teapot away to make a fresh batch of tea. They were bewildered with the task, for Lady Ge Beining always brewed the Empress''s teas. Did something happen between them? Perhaps a fallout? It would make for great gossiping content.

    "I feel a lot better than yesterday," Li Xueyue said.

    "Even after the events from earlier?"

    Li Xueyue blinked a few times. She wasn''t sure if the Empress was targeting her, or just asking a genuine question. Perhaps, she was overanalyzing everything again.

    Li Xueyue smiled a bit. "The events from this morning did not bother me at all."

    "Hah," the Empressughed. She shook her head in amusement. This was the first time she had heard someone say they were able to tolerate the Crown Prince''s cruelty.

    "Even though he had punished your servants without warning by having them kneel and watch the torture? Even though you had to see the mangled body ofdy-in-waiting who once served you?"

    Li Xueyue admitted she was not happy her people were punished without a warning in advance, but it was just kneeling and watching. At least they weren''t subjected to the same torture as Xu Jiaqi.

    Xiao Hua who was usually shaken and easily scared didn''t seem the least bothered. Except, her eyes and hands would tremble when she made the smallest of mistakes.

    Li Xueyue supposed the public viewing of the torture had a huge impact upon the maidservants, who seemed to work extra hard to ensure everything was perfect.

    "Even with everything I witnessed," Li Xueyue confirmed with a nod of her head.

    "What a dutiful wife you are," the Empress murmured. She was certain the Crown Princess did not have a timid heart, but also, not a strong one. There was truly no woman in this country who could tolerate the Crown Prince''s cruel methods. Some people even called him a sadistic monster¡­

    "I would''veined about my husband, even if he was the Emperor of this country. Yet, you sit here, smiling at the horrific deeds of my son." The Empress let out a small sigh and shook her head.

    "You know, you''re wee toin about my second son to me. I know he does not favor me, so whatever we talk about here shall stay between us."

    Li Xueyue felt the Empress''s words were genuine. It was true that Yu Zhen didn''t like his mother.

    Even so, Li Xueyue truthfully didn''t have much toin about Yu Zhen. Well, except the fact that he always took away the satisfaction of revenge from her hands. He wanted to help her, but she didn''t like that.

    Surely, thisint would sound vain and selfish. Thus, Li Xueyue curbed her tongue and widened her smile.

    "If there is aint, it is that he''s eager to see a son or daughter," Li Xueyue coyly said.

    At this, the Empress let out a peal of delightedughter. She had understood the double meaning of the Crown Princess''s subtle words.

    "All men are impatient," she mused.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head, grateful that the Empress had understood the underlying message. But then, why did the Empress suddenly seem so upset with the world? Her brightened eyes had a dull glimmer to it, concealing the mncholy drowning her.

    "I would know¡­" the Empress added on with a somber sigh. She turned her attention towards the garden. Despite the gruesome event that urred in the morning, the sun was high in the sky, glistening brighter than ever.

    A warm glow drifted through her garden. Everywhere that the sunlight touched, sparkled, and gleamed. The freshly watered flowers were like gemstones under the morning sun.

    The Empress couldn''t help but think about the troubles she went through to acquire all of these exotic flowers. She had to meet up with Marquis Qin and the two had to work out how to bring the foreign flowers to Hanjian.

    The long journey would''ve damaged the flowers, whether it wasck of sunlight from being ced in a carriage, or over-watering since traveling merchants did not know how to properly take care of flowers.

    In the end, it was all worth it. The exotic flowers were alwaysplimented and praised for its beauty, much like the Empress. Everyone had believed she would be too much trouble, and that there would not be enough benefits for the Emperor in marrying her.

    How wrong they were¡­

    Suddenly the Empress spoke up. "Would you like to hear a story, Crown Princess?"

    Li Xueyue was curious about this question that came out of nowhere. It was abrupt, but she didn''t mind. There wasn''t anything in her schedule anyway.

    Besides, was this going to be the main topic of their conversation? As in, was this the reason why Li Xueyue was called to this garden?

    Li Xueyue noticed the Empress''s attention wasn''t upon her. The Empress was fixated on the flowers closest to them, her eyes zed over.

    Before Li Xueyue could even respond, the Empress added on, "It is a very interesting one that will benefit you to hear."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She was instantly curious about what it could be. Thus, she smiled and said, "Of course, Your Grace, I would be delighted to hear your story."

 Chapter 419 Outrageous Reques

    <h4>Chapter 419 Outrageous Reques</h4>

    "The Emperor was also impatient." The Empress was d when a pot of freshly brewed tea was brought to the table. She waved the maidservants away and poured a cup of tea herself.

    With a beckoning smile, the Empress offered the first cup of tea to Li Xueyue, surprising thetter

    "You know, I went through greatplications to birth the First Prince," the Empress murmured. She poured herself a cup of tea before cing the porcin pot down.

    "But the Emperor did not seem to care. Shortly after the First Prince was born, he wanted more."

    The Empress lifted the boiling liquid to her mouth. From the corner of her eyes, she saw the Crown Princess protest, but it was toote, the Empress drank a sip without flinching. The pain didn''t bother her, she was used to it by now.

    "But for some reason, my body could not give him any. After my first childbirth, my body became weak and frail."

    The Empress settled the teacup down. "It''s normal. Every woman would be tired after going through pregnancy for the first time."

    Li Xueyue felt like there was more to the story. She patiently sat there and listened, though it felt strange that the Empress was suddenly revealing so many secrets.

    Was it because they were simr to each other? They both married into a foreignnd and suffered a miscarriage before?

    "After my firstborn, I went through one miscarriage after another. I''m sure you can understand my suffering. It felt like I failed my duty as a woman."

    The Empress let out a small sigh. "I was the most unhappy woman you''d ever meet, but my only child at that time brought light into my gloomy world. I treasured him with my entire being. I thought¡­he would be the only child I would ever have."

    Li Xueyue was empathetic of the Empress. To be alone in this enormous pce,rge as a city¡­it must''ve been lonely. The Empress''s onlypanion must''ve only been her son, the only person on her side regardless of the troubles that she went through.

    "But did you know how cruel my husband was?" The Empress darkly chuckled, her eyes shing with pure hatred.

    "After my second miscarriage, he had impregnated another woman. A lowly servant who dreamed of obtaining power through her child."

    Li Xueyue''s breath hitched. If she remembered correctly, one of the candidates sent to Wuyi was Yu Zhen''s half-sister. What was her name again?

    Princess Yu Xiyan, the runaway candidate who fled from Wuyi with her maidservant. There hadn''t been a word of her even till now¡­ Without a doubt, the Princess had either perished, or, she was simply living a secluded life far from the judging eyes of the pce.

    "And do you want to know who that maid was?" the Empress murmured.

    Li Xueyue rapidly nodded her head.

    "My personal maid. The one that has always served by my side, caring andforting me through my mncholy. That whore. While I slept, she slept with my husband."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes bulged. She couldn''t help her reaction.

    "It was only after she gave birth to a daughter that my miscarriages stopped, for she was whisked away to a different part of the pce."

    Li Xueyue''s heart fell to her stomach. She knew where this story was going.

    "Could you believe it, Li Xueyue?" The Empress tightly gripped her porcin teacup. She ground her teeth and red into the tea.

    "The coincidences were too difficult to ignore, don''t you think so?"

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. She was grappled by this story, listening with open ears. Surely, there must be a resolution?

    "Funny enough, she died under mysterious circumstances a few weeks before Hanjian''s selected candidates would be sent to Wuyi."

    Li Xueyue gulped. Mysterious circumstances? She didn''t need to predict what had happened. As a revenge, the Empress had poisoned the maidservant.

    "But I was kind-hearted enough to inform her of the fate of her lovely daughter," the Empress mused. A sinister smile rested upon her face, her eyes glistening with amusement.

    "She was so horrified that her only child, beautiful and charismatic, would be the second-wife of a mediocre General from a foreignnd. Her daughter, a Princess of Hanjian¡­reduced to the rank of a second-wife. You should''ve seen her horrified face."

    The Empress cackled so loudly, the maidservants flinched. It had been a while since they''d heard such a crazyugh from her.

    The Empress expected the Crown Princess to be mortified, with pale skin and widened eyes, as if the Crown Princess wanted to be anywhere but here.

    To the Empress''s pleasant surprise, the Crown Princess was engrossed in the story, listening with rapt attention. This was strange. Why wasn''t the Crown Princess terrified?

    "It must''ve been satisfying."

    The Empress''s face went nk out of bewilderment. Not a secondter, she grinned.

    "Indeed it was! That whore finally received a punishment worthy of her crimes. She died all alone in her pce, without thepany of her daughter. She died knowing everything that she had worked for, to ensure her daughter''s perfect future, would be useless!"

    Li Xueyue wondered if the Emperor had a say. Surely, the only concubine of Hanjian would''ve pleaded her case with him?

    "And did you know how stupid she was? That woman begged my husband for mercy, dering that she only has one child, and I had many more! She said that it was only fair that Princess Yu Xiyan stayed in Hanjian."

    The Empress sneered at the repulsive memory. That whore wanted her youngest daughter, Princess Yu Xiyan to be pardoned from the candidacy selection.

    ''Hah! If my youngest daughter had to leave, then that illegitimate Xiyan MUST also go!'' she thought to herself.

    "My dear husband was furious at her outrageous request. It only made this revenge much more sweeter. That damned concubine was so heartbroken, and dismayed, she cried in her pce day and night."

    Li Xueyue was beginning to think this entire family was insane. At first, she thought the Empress was normal, but it seemed not. Speaking of the concubine''s death, there was a joyous gleam in the Empress''s erged eyes and a gleeful smile on her face.

    "Then, strangely enough, she passed away¡­" The Empress let out a sigh as she frowned into her cup of tea. "What a poor thing, don''t you think so?"

    "Indeed." Li Xueyue had nothing else to say, except such a nd response.

    At a time like this, how was she supposed to react? Be happy for the Empress that her only foe was eliminated in the pce? Or, pity the concubine who moured for an impossible dream, only for her hard work toe tumbling down?

    "Do you understand what I am trying to tell you, Crown Princess?" the Empress asked.

    Li Xueyue had a small guess but wasn''t too certain of her answer. Regardless, she responded.

    "Your Grace, do you mean all of my foes should die under mysterious circumstances?"

    The Empress loudlyughed at the Crown Princess''s words. For everyone''s sake, she would treat it as a joke.

    "Something along those lines," the Empress mused. She lifted her teacup and drank from it, concealing an amused smile.

    Li Xueyueughed in response, pretending it was a joke. She too brought the teacup to her lips and took a sip, hiding a sinister smirk. If only, the Empress knew¡­ All of those who have wronged her, they would pay with their lives.

 Chapter 420 Will You Teach Me?

    <h4>Chapter 420 Will You Teach Me?</h4>

    Afterward, the conversation was steered away to something less serious. They talked about the weather, the flowers, and even Li Xueyue''s current body conditions. And soon, enough time had passed for Li Xueyue to be excused. She bid the Empress a good day and went off on her merry way.

    However, life doesn''t go as nned. It never did. Shortly after Li Xueuyue had departed from the garden, she caught sight of a familiar figure at the end of the hallway.

    Li Xueyue suppressed a tired sigh. She was not in the mood to speak in circles. Nheless, her shoulders straightened and her chin was lifted.

    "Crown Princess, we meet again," Lady Ge Beining greeted with her usual curtsy. She presented the Crown Princess with a bright, cheery smile, despite theziness in her gaze.

    "Yes, what a coincidence," Li Xueyue stated. She did not look forward to this small talk since it wouldn''t provide her with any benefits at all. Well, except mindless and spiteful banter concealed under peels of sweetughter.

    "I wish you a good day," Li Xueyue added on when silence settled over them. She nodded her head and brushed past Lady Ge Beining.

    Unfortunately, Lady Ge Beinig opened her mouth and asked a question. "Crown Princess, if I may inquire about something¡­" she trailed off, turning around to face the Crown Princess.

    Li Xueyue raised a curious brow. She was intrigued about what Lady Ge Beining had to ask.

    "How is your health faring? I hope you are healthy and alright, especially with the¡­" Lady Ge Beining struggled to find the right word. "...incident."

    Li Xueyue chuckled in amusement. She offered Lady Ge Beining an entertained smile and forced it to reach her eyes.

    "You can rest assured, Lady Ge. My body has recovered very well."

    "Well, I meant your mental health. I know miscarriages take a toll on women."

    "How do you know?" Li Xueyue mused. "Have you personally gone through it, Lady Ge?"

    Lady Ge Beining''s eyes widened. She wasn''t expecting such bold and audacious words that questioned her innocence. This conniving little Princess¡­ She ground her teeth.

    Even the Crown Princess''s maidservants nced at each other, eager to gossip about this conversation.

    Lady Ge Beining was forced to remain civil, even when she wanted to scream and yell at the Crown Princess. Her luck was too rotten today, and all she wanted to do was climb back into bed and have a lovely nap.

    Her morning was ruined by Xu Jiaqi and the otherdies-in-waiting, then the Marquis decided to make his presence known, and finally, the Empress had practically kicked her out of the garden. Now, she had to grapple with her sanity while talking to the Crown Princess.

    "I was just making a guess based upon observations of the people in my life, and the books I read," she said.

    "Oh, you read?"

    The maidservants snickered.

    Lady Ge Beining''s hands twitched to punch something. Why was the Crown Princess so bent on making more enemies in the pce? Wasn''t Xu Jiaqi enough? Was one miscarriage not enough?

    "Wait, I do not mean it that way," Li Xueyue coyly said with a slight smile. "I meant, what kind of books interest you, Lady Ge?"

    Lady Ge Beining didn''t know why she was put on the spot so many times today. She tried her hardest to not re at the ground. How nice it must be to talk freely without a care in the world, and know that every word you say has weight to it.

    If only¡­if only, the Crown Prince was not bewitched by this irritable woman. Then perhaps, the person wielding such a power would be her and not this random Princess from Wuyi.

    "I read books of all genres. Anything that piques my interests, I will read it," she said.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. Wouldn''t that mean Lady Ge Beining''s interests were just spread out? She supposed they shared some simrities to each other.

    "What about you, Crown Princess? What interests you?"

    "The same applies to me," Li Xueyue vaguely said. She didn''t need Lady Ge Beining to know anything about her personal preferences.

    Any word said here could be used against each other. After all, words were the weapons of high society. The sharper a tongue, the sharper the sword, until it drew blood from clenched fists and bit tongues.

    "I recall you excel in sword fighting and archery," Lady Ge Beining abruptly said. "Your technique was truly outstanding, will you teach me, Crown Princess?"

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. What a peculiar remark, out of nowhere too¡­ She couldn''t conclude that the other had any ulterior motive just yet, but she didn''t want to waste her time being near Lady Ge Beining any longer. Then again, it would be wise to keep friends close, but enemies closer.

    However, not everything was not worth the hassle. Li Xueyue slowly shook her head with a remorseful smile as her brows drew together. She ced a hand upon her stomach.

    "I''m afraid strenuous exercise will not do for the time being to prevent unfortunate incidents from happening again in the future¡­" Li Xueyue said, but it was just an excuse.

    "Well," Li Xueyue suddenly added on with a cunning, sheepish look in her eyes. She peered around their surroundings, as if ready to tell a secret. Then she urged Lady Ge beijing toe closer, and thedy-in-waiting did so without qualms.

    Li Xueyue cupped her mouth and whispered. "Truthfully, there are tiresome exercises that can be done every morning and night, but those are for a great cause don''t you think so?"

    Lady Ge Beining stiffened. Her pupils dted and it took everything in her power not to scream.

    A vein popped out as her fingers dug into her palms. Suddenly, she found the excuses for her actions. Initially, she only wanted to warn the Crown Princess. But now that they had both revealed their weapons, why not put it to good use?

    Lady Ge Beining tried not to concentrate on the fact that it could''ve been her who was receiving pleasure from the Crown Prince. It could''ve been her sitting upon a throne. It could''ve been her receiving gentle smiles and loving caresses upon the back of her head.

    "I-is that so, Crown Princess?" Lady Ge Beining stuttered out, for the first time in their encounter.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes twinkled. So this was what made theposeddy twitch in fury. She could practically see the bloodlust in Lady Ge Beining''s fierce eyes. The facades were dropped now, weren''t they?

    "So, you must pardon me, I do not have the time to entertain you with archery and sword fightingpetitions," Li Xueyue concluded.

    She took a step back and widened her smile, pretending that nothing happened between them.

    Li Xueyue peered towards the side, where the sun was high in the sky, zing hot despite the ushering of autumn.

    "Well, would you look at that?" she faked a gasp. "Time went by so quickly."

    "Yes, it did¡­ Princess," Lady Ge Beining gritted out. She didn''t even want to address this wanton woman by her title as a Princess. Who proudly announces the promiscuous things that happened in bed between husband and wife?

    Lady Ge Beining certainly didn''t want to hear about any of it. Especially when she knew who should have been by his side. She might have not been raised to marry the Crown Prince, but he had humored her before with meager attention and grunts, but they were still something.

    "Since that is all, I will excuse myself," Li Xueyue mused. She enjoyed the barely contained rage in Lady Ge Beining''s eyes.

    Li Xueyue turned on her heels, ready to hurry off. But then something caught her attention. In the far ends of the hallway, she saw him.

 Chapter 421 To See You Again

    <h4>Chapter 421 To See You Again</h4>

    The bad memories had resurfaced, violently mming into Li Xueyue like a sword piercing through flesh. She felt her palms turn mmy, her eyes moisten with tears.

    Li Xueyue''s heart froze with terror for a split second before it suddenly thumped against her chest. Ba-dump. Ba-dump. Like the sound of drums during a ceremony. Her foot was rooted to the wooden floor. Any second now, she would break into tears.

    Li Xueyue did not think her worst nightmare would be walking towards her. One grimy step at a time. In her eyes, he wasn''t even human. He moved like a monster of the night,rge and terrifying, nothing but contours of shadows stalking through the forest.

    She didn''t realize her hands were shaking until she hugged her stomach out of fear. It felt like bugs were crawling upon her skin, creating goosebumps.

    "Heavens no¡­" she breathed out, believing this must''ve been a wicked dream of hers.

    Li Xueyue''s knees nearly gave out from underneath her. Then, one thing happened after the next, and she blinked rapidly. One second her eyes were upon the monster, and the next, she was looking up at the ceiling.

    Horrified gasps could be heard, as maidservants quickly surrounded her. What had happened?

    "Crown Princess, are you alright?!" Xiao Hua urgently asked, as her gentle face came into view. She was kneeling upon the ground, preventing the Crown Princess''s head from hitting the floor.

    Xiao Hua couldn''t believe her eyes when it happened. The Crown Princess was standing firm as a tree, then the next, she had fainted backward.

    No one was prepared for it to happen. It was a miracle that they even caught her in time before her head hit the floor.

    "Y-yes, I''m fine. I am just dizzy from forgetting about my afternoon meal," Li Xueyue lied. She stood up with the eager help of Xiao Hua.

    Xiao Hua''s hands trembled when the Crown Princess got back onto her feet. Her eyes darted from Lady Ge Beining to the mysterious man who had approached him. Both of them wore rmed expressions on their faces.

    Xiao Hua hated the fact that they witnessed the Crown Princess at such a lowly point. The Crown Princess could''ve walked away with a victory, but now she was put in a sticky situation.

    "Oh my," Lady Ge Beining worriedly said. "Does the Crown Prince starve you? I didn''t know he preferred his woman to be thin as a twig."

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched. She had barely rposed herself, and Lady Ge Beining was already starting the second battle.

    And if this was the Li Xueyue from months ago, she would''ve believed in Lady Ge Beining''s words like an insecure little girl. But Li Xueyue knew better.

    "It seems your sources have lied," Li Xueyue shakily said. She turned around, doing anything to distract herself from the disgusting man behind her.

    "The Crown Prince prefers some meat to grip upon¡­" Li Xueyue surveyed Lady Ge Beining from head to toe. She pretended to suppress a smile, and hid her mouth behind her hands, before letting out a snicker of amusement.

    Lady Ge Beining''s haughty smile threatened to slip away. The audacity of the Crown Princess! Everyone knew Lady Ge Beining was the most beautiful woman of the pce, if not, in the entire Hanjian!

    There was no one who could match her beauty, in terms of bountiful assets in the front and back. Her waist was slim, which enhanced her perfect figure even more.

    What the hell was the Crown Princessughing at?

    "Please pardon me." Li Xueyueughed. "I suddenly thought of a funny joke when Iid my eyes upon you. But, believe me, the joke wasn''t about you."

    Lady Ge Beining did her very best not to re. So much so, that she smiledrger than before and turned her attention to the man who had approached the both of them. And the poor thing. He didn''t know who to look at first, his eyes darting frantically for one woman to the other.

    "Marquis Qin," Lady Ge Beining deadpanned. "It is a pleasure to see you again."

    Li Xueyue''s confidence threatened to shatter. So, he was no longer an Earl, but a Marquis. It was a considerable rise in rank, for the title of Marquis was just one step away from bing a Duke.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but wonder if all of the high-ranking aristocrats in Hanjian consisted of lowly and irritable men, for example, the disagreeable Duke Han.

    "Yes, Lady Ge, it always brings me immense pleasure toy eyes on you," Marquis Qin happily said. His smile wasrge and excited, not believing his luck today. There were two beautiful women in front of him and he didn''t know who to admire first.

    "Ah, forgive old, deary me, Crown Princess!" Marquis Qin suddenly said. He was so distracted by Lady Ge''s ethereal and blinding beauty, that he had forgotten who else was present.

    Marquis Qin cupped his hands together and presented the Crown Princess with a grand bow.

    He wasn''t able to fully see her face, but just from her side profile alone, he knew she was beautiful. The Crown Princess truly lived up to the rumors of a splendid, yet delicate beauty.

    "May the Heaven shine upon you, Crown Princess," Marquis Qin coyly said. It came out so effortlessly and fluent, one would think it was a sincerepliment. After all, he was always the sweetest of talkers.

    Li Xueyue suppressed a shiver. Her skin crawled with disgust. Just hearing his voice was enough for her eyes to tear up again. She tried to not remember it. Tried not to acknowledge it. The cause of her nightmares, tremblings, and screams. All of it was caused by him.

    Nheless, she forced herself to turn around and acknowledge him. After all, he was a Marquis and someone who had influence in the court.

    "And who might you be?" Li Xueyue asked. She was immensely proud of not?stuttering. Her voice was on the verge of breaking, but she was able to suppress her nerves by focusing on her breathing.

    Marquis Qin chuckled at her frigid words. Truly, she was gorgeous¡­ He loved a challenge. Wooing a cold-hearted woman to be kinder to him was a learned skill. After all, it had worked upon the icy Empress.

    "I believe we have never met before¡­" Marquis Qin trailed off when she finally turned around, revealing her full face.

    His eyes briefly widened.

    Li Xueyue''s heart dropped.

    She had never wanted to curse so much in her life. Seeing him up close again, Li Xueyue felt the bile rise to her throat. This morning''s breakfast threatened to resurface. She was forced to hold her breath, forcing the gag to go down.

    But this wasn''t the biggest issue at hand. He had recognized her, didn''t he?!

    What overcame her fear was the sudden fury that filled her veins. He was smiling so innocently at her as if he was not a monster that preyed upon children. He was standing here, dressed in fancier clothes than decades ago.

    Whilst she suffered from insomnia and nightmares, he slept soundly and perfectly. Just looking at his pristine eyes,cking from eye bags or dark circles...she knew. His life was perfect. Despite ruining so many.

    "My, Princess¡­" Marquis Qin breathed out in astonishment. Where would he even begin with the Crown Princess?

 Chapter 422 Duties I Must Tend To

    <h4>Chapter 422 Duties I Must Tend To</h4>

    Li Xueyue''s heart plummeted all the way to the ground. She wrung her fingers together to prevent them from shaking. Had Marquis Qin recognized her?

    Li Xueyue didn''t look that much different from the young girl she used to be. Well, except the fact that she was now well-clothed and fed.

    "Princess¡­you, you¡­" he trailed off before his lips pulled into arge smile. "You truly fit the image that the rumors portrayed you to be!"

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. What?

    Marquis Qin sped his hands together and heartilyughed, revealing his teeth. The Crown Prince was a lucky man! He had all of these spectacr beauties to himself, and everyone knew how possessive he was. It was no wonder why.

    There was something special about the Crown Princess. Perhaps it was her soft and gentle presence that never matched her fierce, clear eyes. It was difficult to read her true intentions, much less, gauge her thoughts.

    "Gosh, I usually enjoy rmending beauty products to all of the aristocratic women I''vee across, but you truly do not need anything, Princess!" he merrily said.

    Marquis Qin rubbed his hands together, revealing a sly grin. He couldn''t imagine what could be rmended to someone so beautiful such as her. It was as if he had met Lady Ge Beining all over again. The thrill in his heart was too difficult to conceal, in particr, an opportunist gleam in his eyes.

    "You see, Princess, I''m sure you are unaware of me, for you are new to this country. I specialize in trade across the entire country. Anything that your heart desires can be brought through my men''s frequent travels."

    Li Xueyue didn''t know whether she should be surprised or disgusted that he didn''t recognize her. How many young children had he touched to not recall her? She was horrified that he was still alive, well and healthy, living afortable life. She wanted to see him suffer a life worse than death.

    "I hear you are from Wuyi, a lovely country it is. I fear you might miss certain things from your hometown. If you ever want something to be bought from Wuyi to Hanjian, then I am the person you should inform, Princess."

    Marquis Qin rubbed his hands again, eager to please her. She might''ve not had a lot of wealth, but her husband did. Everyone knew the Crown Prince was easily one of the wealthiest men in this country. With a pocket so deep and a frigid heart melting for his wife, surely, he would buy anything that her heart desires.

    "Whether it''s local snacks, the exquisite jewelry there, or the current trend of folding fans¡ªanything you can think of, Princess!"

    Li Xueyue was tongue-tied. She always knew one day they would cross paths. It was inevitable, with her fate now entangled in Hanjian. However, Li Xueyue didn''t think it would be so soon.

    Sometimes, she would sit back and think about all of the horrible things she''d do and say to him when they meet again. But now that he stood in front of her, her mind was nk. She had so much to say to him, to the point of where her brain was jumbled with insults.

    "Oh, but if there is a foreign trend you are curious about. For example, the ones in Nanhui, I will also be pleased to bring them to you!" Marquis Qin excitedly said.

    Seeing as the Crown Princess was silent and nkly staring at him, he wondered if she was a bit¡­daft.

    Marquis Qin quickly backtracked the thought. A dumb customer was a great customer. They''d take the merchant''s word for it, and buy, buy, buy, especially if they''re wealthy! With a bit of smooth-talking, maybe she would be stupid enough to buy out a kingdom!

    "I¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off, as she controlled her emotions. "I appreciate your kind thoughts. There are certainly things that would interest me."

    Li Xueyue had finallye up with a concrete n out of the hundreds of ones she had formted. It was so simple to fulfill, yet, required the most of patience to carry out.

    "Oh!" Marquis Qin perked, his eyes shining with opportunity.

    Despite being in histe fifties, he was still brimming with energy and life. How could he not? His job was not stressful, he had a harem of beautiful, youthful maidens to entertain him, and he lived in pure bliss!

    "What could it be, Princess?" he quickly asked, licking his bottom lip at the thought of overcharging her.

    Marquis Qin had to reel back his greed for taking advantage of the slow and stupid. He suddenly recalled all of the gossips of her intelligence.

    Some say the Crown Princess was able to talk her way out of bing a candidate, and others dered her wits were the reason why the Emperor and Empress approved of her.

    The rumors spoke well of her. No doubt, people were too terrified to spread malice about her. One knew of the beast lurking in the shadows¡­

    Li Xueyue nced towards the neglected Lady Ge Binieng who stood there silently, watching the entire conversation unfold. Her eyes were narrowed in concentration, but when Lady Ge Beining noticed she is being watched, she quickly fixed her expression.

    "Perhaps, it is a discussion¡­" she trailed off, upon finally meeting his gaze. "F-for next time."

    Li Xueyue instantly bit on her tongue. She had stuttered out of nervousness from being around him. Even now, her fingers had not stopped shaking like a brittle leave hanging for dear life on a dying branch. She was a few minutes away from trembling out of anxiety.

    "Oh, sure, sure! Take your time, Princess. I will patiently wait for your letter," Marquis Qin hurriedly told her. He stopped rubbing his hands, disgruntled that she was nning on stalling.

    Li Xueyue felt satisfaction fill her. The sight of him glum and displeased was a sight she wanted to see more often. No¡­she wanted to see him suffer, and beg for his meager life.

    Surely, there would be many people who would be d when he is gone. For example, all of the young women in his household, not much older than her whom he had bought with money from underprivileged families.

    Li Xueyue wondered if he was still harassing little girls at midnight. Her body shuddered in disgust. His hands were something she looked forward to cutting off.

    "Until next time then," Li Xueyue finally managed to say. If she wanted her n to work, it would need to be carefully thought out.

    For a split second there, she had nearly blurted it out. And in front of a crowd too. Li Xueyue chided herself for being foolish.

    "Leaving so soon, Princess?" Marquis Qin glumly said. His shoulders sagged in disappointment as his brows drew together. He frowned a bit, the first time he did so in her presence.

    Usually, Li Xueyue enjoyed seeing her enemies suffer. For example, Lady Ge Beining being ignored. But today, she was bothered by it. She abruptly wished that he would shower all of his attention upon Lady Ge Beining instead.

    "Yes, there are duties I must tend to." Li Xueyue pressed her lips together and cast a final nce.

    Li Xueyue didn''t give him the opportunity to respond before turning upon her heels and walking off. Even so, she was cursed to hear his voice.

    "I look forward to receiving your letter, Princess! Please have a safe journey back!"

    Li Xueyue suppressed the urge to turn around and slice off his slimy tongue. His voice was enough to make her blood boil. If there was one thing she wanted to ruin with her own hands, it would be Marquis Qin.

 Chapter 423 Make Them Wai

    <h4>Chapter 423 Make Them Wai</h4>

    Li Xueyue did not rush her footsteps. She did not flee from the scene like a scared little rabbit.

    Li Xueyue walked at the same pace as she normally did, so that it would not arouse suspicion. If she ran out of here as if spirits were chasing her, then it would definitely arouse too much suspicion. She didn''t needdy Ge Beining to sniff her nose everywhere.

    "Yu Zhen should hear about this," she whispered to herself, thinking out loud. When she turned the corner, she hesitated. If she told him about this, surely, he would take matters into his own hands.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want him to act on his own. He would not listen to her if she would tell him she wanted to handle it by herself.

    She bit her bottom lip. Dread made her footsteps slower, heavier, until she came to a stop around the corner. She was torn about whether to tell him or not.

    "I don''t like keeping secrets¡­" Li Xueyue mumbled, her voice so low, that no one was able to hear her. Her servants nced at her, wondering if it was the wind that made the noise.

    "Is everything alright, Crown Princess? Shall we fetch the Imperial Physician? There is a new one who was recently appointed. He is much younger and reliable. Supposedly, he passed the tests with flying colors¡­" Xiao Hua quietly remarked, not wanting to raise her voice and startle the Crown Princess.

    "I am not made of ss," Li Xueyue chuckled. Why did everyone seem to treat her that way? It was just one crying session¡­okay, well, more than one. But still.

    "Crown Princess, you are precious to us all. When we worry about you, it''s not out of obligations, but because we''re truly concerned for you. You have been so kind to us," Xiao Hua softly said whilst cing a tender hand upon her chest.

    She nced up at the Crown Princess with adoration in her eyes. The Crown Princess was not only kind and understanding¡­but thoughtful. Her contribution to this country would not be forgotten.

    Many of themoners were grateful to the Crown Princess for pushing the Round Table Council for tax relief that prevented a protest from erupting.

    Additionally, the Crown Princess had helped Hanjian create alliances with Wuyi and Nanhui¡ªtwo countries which Hanjian had always had conflict with. It was more than anyone could ever ask for of a Crown Princess during her first year in power.

    "You are too kind¡­" Li Xueyue trailed off. She presented Xiao Hua with a tired smile before walking again.

    "It is not kindness, but the truth, Crown Princess," Xiao Hua thoughtfully said with an endearing smile. She had always known the Crown Princess was a gentle soul, but seeing her so humble¡­it was very inspiring.

    Xiao Hua did not have a doubt in her heart that the Crown Princess would go on to do great things once she bes Empress, and gains more powers.

    "Your sweet words will give me a cavity," Li Xueyue joked. She continued walking to Yu Zhen''s private study, deciding to see him. Even if she was getting cold feet about telling him about Marquis Qin, there was something else in mind that she wanted to discuss with him anyway.

    Li Xueyue hade up with an idea to get funding to build more schools and orphanages for the children. The solution was so simple, she couldn''t believe it hadn''t crossed her mind.

    Xiao Hua smiled at the ground, so wide that she had to contain herself from grinning. If only the Crown Princess knew¡­how much Xiao Hua loved and appreciated her.

    Despite the punishments inflicted by the Crown Prince, the maidservants still respected the Crown Princess, for she was their saving grace. They were meant to kneel the entire day, but she cut their punishment short by pardoning them. It was more than the servants could ask for, especially when no one would defend them.

    In some sort of way, the Crown Princess was a voice for the voiceless.

    - - - - -

    "A Marquis and a Minister?" Yu Zhen murmured.

    Yu Zhen looked over the profiling presented to him. It was delivered a day ago, but he didn''t get the chance to look over it until the afternoon, when he was finally done with a meeting with the Ministers about the kingdom''s budget for next year. It was finalized, and Yu Zhen only needed to stamp the document with the Imperial Seal.

    "Neither families are rted though, Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao said. He stood on the other side of therge mahogany table where the Crown Prince was seated. The windows of the private study were opened, letting in a gentle wind that fluttered the parchments.

    "I thought they would be, Your Highness, since they shared the same surname, but I guessed not. It''s also not a surprise, given howrge Hanjian is."

    "These are the Qins living in the Capital?" Yu Zhen asked.

    "Yes¡ª"

    "Search the other towns and cities as well, we''llb the entire country for that man."

    Hu Dengxiao nearly cried at the impossible task. It would take at least months to gather the information, much less travel there for personal profiling! He bit back aint, but opened his mouth to offer a suggestion.

    "What upation did you mention Earl Qin had? Maybe we can narrow down the search that way, Crown Prince."

    "It has been years, surely, he would''ve retired the business to his heirs," Yu Zhen said. "We will be thorough with this search."

    Before anyone could respond, a knock sounded throughout the private study, bouncing off the mahogany walls. He lifted his gaze from the parchment, not a secondter his attention was back onto it.

    "Tell the Eunuch to make them wait. I am busy."

    Hu Dengxiao nodded at themand. He hurriedly ran off, like an excited puppy eager to fulfill themands of his master. He was hoping for another treat, in the form of Lu Tianbi being apanion on the mission¡­

    Hu Dengxiao slipped outside and cleared his throat, ready to tell the guest to leave. But then he was shoved to the side. His lips parted in absolute shock. Who the hell had the strength to push him aside like this?!

    "You can''t just trespass¡­" Hu Dengxiao paused. His eyes brightened upon seeing the Crown Princess.

    "Come in,e in, dear Princess!" Hu Dengxiao excitedly said as he held the door open for her. She stepped inside, smiling in amusement.

    Hu Dengxiao closed the doors behind him. He rubbed the spot that he was shoved at and eagerly called out, "Zhenzhen! Look who is here to see you!"

    Yu Zhen gritted his teeth. This friend of his was as persistent as Xiao Juzi. Now that Xiao Juzi was no longer chained¡ªunder themand of Li Xueyue¡ªthe damn beast was roaming everywhere around the estate, giving everyone a fright. There were even reports of Eunuchs fainting in the hallway.

    Yu Zhen would need toe up with a new solution. Cors didn''t work. Fences were useless. Hah. What a troublesome pet, much like its Master.

    "Didn''t I tell you to tell them to scram?" Yu Zhen demanded, not lifting his head from the parchment. Hmmm¡­this Marquis, it seemed he was a merchant. Didn''t his Wangfei mention something like that?

    "Well, that''s one way to greet your wife."

    Yu Zhen raised his gaze and chuckled upon seeing her smirk. His anger was washed away. "I know of another way, my little Wangfei."

    "Do I want to know?" she mused.

    "You do." Yu Zhen beckoned her toe closer with the wave of his hand. "Come, Sunshine. I will show you."

    Li Xueyue chuckled at his words, already knowing what was toe. She approached him and he instantly stood up, wrapping an arm around her waist. He pulled her close and leaned down.

    Her eyes automatically closed, waiting eagerly for his kisses. But it never came. Her brows drew together in confusion. Before she could protest, he pressed a soft, tender kiss on her forehead. It lingered there, her heart swelling.

    "You look lovely as always," Yu Zhen murmured upon her forehead. He pressed his lips together, hiding an amused smirk. She was always expecting a kiss. It was fun teasing her.

    "Well uhh¡­ I''ll just, uhm, leave." Hu Dengxiao nodded towards the door, silently taking steps backward.

    "I-I think the kingdom would prefer if the future Princess or Prince was conceived in bed¡­but, no worries!" Hu Dengxiao eximed just as he reached the doors.

    "But good luck!" Hu Dengxiao hurriedly dashed out of the door before Yu Zhen could murder him with a re.

    "How mean of them to rub their lovey dovey rtionship in my face¡­" Hu Dengxiao grumbled. He quickly perked up upon seeing a familiar figure in the distance. And just like that, he ran for her, as he always did, chasing after a requited love that could nevere true.

 Chapter 424 Suggesting Something Promiscuous

    <h4>Chapter 424 Suggesting Something Promiscuous</h4>

    "Well, what brings you here today, Little Hamster?" Yu Zhen curiously asked. He pulled her close, hoping she would sit on hisp. But she narrowingly escaped his grasp, fleeing to the other side of the table, as if she was a mere guest in the private study.

    "I''vee with an idea for the Kingdom''s budget," Li Xueyue stated.

    Li Xueyue didn''t want to sit on hisp and convince him that way. It felt wrong¡­ Besides, being so close to him was distracting. He''d y with the ends of her clothing, or strands of her hair, and she would lose her train of thought. It was inevitable. His fingers always worked magic upon her.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. Everyone seemed to have an idea, but not many were smart. He gestured for her to take a seat. She did so with ease, sliding into the curved wooden chair with elegance.

    "What do you have in mind?"

    Li Xueyue noticed he had dropped the nicknames. It was time for a serious discussion.

    "Now that the war between Hanjian and Wuyi has ceased, what is going to happen to the budget allocated to fund the war?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Yu Zhen hummed. He had an inkling about where this would go. He rested his chin upon a propped up hand, watching her with great interest.

    "Why do you ask?"

    "If I am going to be Empress, it would benefit us both if I am acquainted with the financial situation of our country."

    Yu Zhen smiled at this. She hade a very long way. Now, she was including both of them in the picture, instead of solely focusing on her own things.

    "The previous war budget was in fact a small reallocation of funds from other ounts, umted over time. Now that the war has been called off, the collected funds will naturally return to its original sources."

    Li Xueyue hadn''t expected that. She thought it came from the military reserves. Hmm¡­ "In that case, were the other factions affected by the small decrease in budget?"

    "I''d say not drastically, since it wasn''t an enormous chunk taken out."

    "In that case, I propose the funds collected for the war budget shouldn''t return to its origin. Instead, it can be used for building schools and educating themonwealth. That way, the future generation will be wiser and more efficient, for almost everyone will be literate."

    "I could''ve sworn the idea of helping the peasants was put down during the Round Table discussion. It is quite unfair to bring it up again, in private too," Yu Zhen said and chuckled.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She had seen the mischievous glint in his eyes, dark and devious. He had ulterior motives.

    "I do hope, Crown Prince, that you are not suggesting something promiscuous."

    "Dear Crown Princess, I would never." Yu Zhen ced a hand upon his chest, feigning offence at her words.

    Li Xueyue scoffed. "The suggestion I''ve made at the Round Table Discussion was to increase fundings for the orphanages and to build schools for themoners, but I never mentioned where the funds woulde from. So the aristocrats must''ve thought the money woulde from them, by increasing their taxes."

    Yu Zhen''s lips twitched. So, she had realized her mistakes during her first Round Table Discussion.

    "Now, a budget has already been allocated, and there are unused war funds," she concluded.

    Yu Zhen hummed in response. Absolute power could be exercised, and he''d have this change done by the next sunrise. But did she realize this was going through the backdoor?

    "Xueyue, this idea¡ª"

    "Will be presented during the next Round Table Discussion. I just wanted to get your feedback on it, if you have the time to do so."

    Yu Zhen was stunned by her. She had certainlye prepared. So this was why she avoided his touch, for she could''ve easily gotten her way. He was wrapped around her little pinky, and even he knew that.

    Augh escaped from him. She was caught off guard, her eyes briefly widening in surprise and confusion. Abruptly, Yu Zhen leaned closer to her, an entertained smirk upon his wless features.

    "Duke Han will argue with you again."

    "This time, I will not take up the majority of everyone''s time arguing with him. After I address his concerns once or twice, I will open the floor to everyone else for their opinions and feedback. So that everyone will feel included in the conversation, unlikest time, where all of my attention was solely on him."

    Yu Zhen considered her approach. She had pinpointed another crucial mistake that was made then. Then again, Representative Wu had done the same, and spent his entire time arguing with Duke Han.

    However, the difference between Representative Wu and Li Xueyue was that he had more experience, he had spent more time in the discussions, and people knew him personally, whereas she was still a stranger to them.

    Luckily for her, Li Xueyue had made quite the name for herself with the solidification of Nanhui''s alliance, and proving her worth as a warrior. Now that Li Xueyue made a new name for herself in Hanjian, things would be alot easier.

    "It is definitely a better approach than before," Yu Zhen said and nodded. "However, since you are talking about the war budget, Commander Zhang will object."

    "Oh, he is the Representative for the military," Li Xueyue said. She recalled therge, burly man. He was old, but strong, with a scar running down the left side of his face, blinding his left eye.

    "Yes, he will argue that the war budget should remain untouched, for in case a war breaks out in the near future."

    "Do you anticipate another war?" Li Xueyue remarked. "The strongest Kingdoms of this enormous continent are already allies with us. Jiangsu, Wuyi, and Nanhui."

    "Jiangsu is suspicious, especially after their previous encounter with thete Emperor of Wuyi."

    "Yes, but Jiangsu is not stupid. They know an attack on Hanjian is also an attack on Nanhui. Both Hanjian and Nanhui are Warrior Kingdoms with efficient fighters and arge military."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "Additionally, Wuyi will not join Jiangsu''s side, so even if Jiangsu wants to be mischievous, they will have no one to support them."

    Yu Zhen fondly smiled in her direction. She knew so much¡­ People truly underestimated her, didn''t they? Li Xueyue was full of surprises.

    "Indeed."

    "Which means there should be no anticipation of war, at least for the current generation," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    "I''m afraid you''re right."

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched. It was with great difficulty that she suppressed a triumphant smile. And now that this problem was out of the way¡­

    "We should discuss Duke Han now," she said.

    Yu Zhen frowned. "Or, we should take a break, and do something much more fun."

    Li Xueyue threw him a pointed look. He raised his hands in defense, smiling in amusement.

    "I was merely joking, Crown Princess."

    Li Xueyue snorted. As if anyone would believe him. Especially with his ploys of keeping her out of the frontlines, worrying that it would burden her.

    "I know you''re worried about me," she said.

    "I always will."

    "But keeping me as an idle woman by your side will drive me insane. Tasks like this do not burden me at all," she said.

    "Yes, but you are the type to not voice yourints. I can never be reassured you are truly fine."

    Li Xueyue was touched by his sincerity. "The same can be said about you."

    She interlocked her fingers and folded her hands in front of herp. "How about this?" she suddenly suggested.

    "We should, quite frankly, share our thoughts and feelings more often. For example, if we''re truly burdened by something, we will work hard on voicing it. That way, it is easier for us to be more aware of what''s going on with the other."

    "Ah, yes,munication¡ªsomething we''ve always emphasized, but forget," Yu Zhen remarked. "If we swear on this, will you uphold it?"

    "Will you?" she shot back.

    Yu Zhen let out a darkugh. "Then, let us swear on this. There is no going back."

    Li Xueyue chuckled in amusement. "You make it seem like I am swearing my life away."

    "And to seal the deal¡­" Yu Zhen tapped his lips, a devious glimmer in his eyes, dark like ash.

    Li Xueyueughed again. Even at a time like this, he enjoyed cracking jokes. What a man she had married. Somehow, this little quirk of his made her love him even more, if that was even possible at all.

 Chapter 425 Growing Senile

    <h4>Chapter 425 Growing Senile</h4>

    Li Xueyue simply smiled at his words. Years ago, if someone had told her that?she would be the Empress of a flourishing Kingdom, she would think that person was deranged. But here she was, in a pce that she would soon rule over.

    "Did you just realize?" Li Xueyue teased whilst continuing to scribble her ideas down. She didn''t pay any mind to?her messy handwriting. The more illegible it was, the less likely that people would be able to read what she wrote. This was simply an excuse, or she hadn''t?perfected her penmanship since about two and a half years ago, when the Li Family hired instructors to teach her.

    "Where is mypliment?" Yu Zhen grumbled whilst crossing his arms like a spoiled child. She was too focused on writing her ideas down to even cast him a nce.

    Yu Zhen tapped the table, on?the empty spot next to her parchment. Believing he was lonely, she slid her palm on his hand and caressed it with her thumb.

    "I''m busy," she calmly exined, as an adult would to an impatient kid. She continued writing, even when he gawked at her.

    "I''m busy too, before you came in to have a chitchat, my Wangfei."

    "My dear husband, it was a discussion about the well-being of this country."

    "I was still busy."

    "You''re always busy." Li Xueyue pretended she was still writing, when in reality, she was done when she touched his hand. But he was being so persistent to get her attention that she wanted to tease him a bit.

    "But I always have time for you."

    "I never said you didn''t."

    "You made it sound like it."

    "It only sounded like that to you."

    Yu Zhen glumly stared at her. His attention drifted to her parchment, his eyes squinting. He could not read her illegible chicken scratches. What was she even writing that took this long?

    "I need another parchment," Li Xueyue lied. She released his hand and ced a hand out, waiting for the parchment. But she was met with his fingers interlocking with hers, and a rough yank.

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched in amusement. He was such a child¡­ "Yes, my dear husband?"

    "Read to me what you wrote," Yu Zhen said.

    "It was the gist of our discussion,"?Li Xueyue exined.

    "I still want to hear it."

    "You already heard it."

    "Well, tell me one more time."

    Li Xueyue snorted. "Should I worry that you are growing senile at the young age of twenty-five?"

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "And should I be worried that you are losing your mind at such a young age?"

    Li Xueyue smiled at his words. At times, she seemed quite crazy, didn''t she? But his entire family was insane. It would not be long for them to influence her.

    A different topic came to mind. She ced her brush down, resting it upon the ink b.

    "I have not seen my younger brother in a while," Li Xueyue abruptly said. She lifted her gaze and focused it upon him. He leaned over the table, curling a finger under her chin, pulling her closer to him.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes briefly went to his lips before she quickly averted her gaze. Ever since the incident, he had not touched her. Not even a kiss upon the lips. She wondered if he no longer found her attractive.

    "It would be better not to see him, Sunshine."

    "Why not?" Li Xueyue instantly asked. Bai Yihao must''ve been lonely in this enormous pce, all by himself.

    "He is under the supervised care of Yanxi. That child will be fine."

    "I still don''t understand why I should not see him," Li Xueyue interjected. She wrapped her fingers around his wrist and pulled back from his touch.

    Yu Zhen was not bothered by this. He flicked his wrist and seized her hand, fondly stroking her knuckles. His touch was light and teasing, like the caress of feathers.

    "Rumors will stir that you are tending a child who resembles you."

    Li Xueyue''s heart quivered at his words, knowing exactly what he was implying. People would talk. They would think Bai Yihao was an illegitimate child of hers.

    "The servants are too terrified of you, especially after the stunt from this morning. They will not gossip."

    "They will harbor that thought in the back of their minds, and each time they look at you, they would be reminded of such precarious beliefs," Yu Zhen warned her in a low, quiet voice.

    Li Xueyue''s shoulders sagged in disappointment. He was right. She glumily stared down at the floor, wishing it was not true. Wishing words weren''t so vicious, and gossip wouldn''t ruin the life of a woman. But these were the sacrifices she had to make.

    "Yihao is well taken care of. He smiles a lot moretely, and has been attending school. The instructors speak highly of him, and many believe he is the nephew of Yanxi, despite theck of resemnce."

    Li Xueyue numbly nodded her head. He touched her chin, lifting it for her.

    "Do not lower your head, my Wangfei," he softly said. "There are risks that are not worth taking."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. His thumb brushed against her mouth, forcing her to release her bottom lip.

    "I know, I know." Li Xueyue sighed. She only wanted to get a bit closer to Bai Yihao. But it would ruin both of their reputations. Additionally, her slight resemnce to thete Viscountess Bai Yihua might trigger something within him¡­

    "Besides, Sunshine," Yu Zhen cupped the side of her face. "If it is children that you want, we can make¡ª"

    "Aren''t you repulsed by me?" she suddenly blurted out.

    Yu Zhen was taken aback. He gawked at her as if she was stupid. Then, his confusion morphed into anger.

    "Who was stupid enough to tell you that?" he snapped, standing up in a heartbeat.

    "No, it was just¡ª"

    Li Xueyue jumped. She had blinked and he was standing directly in front of her. Yu Zhen pulled her to her feet and wrapped a protective arm upon her waist. He peered down at her, observing her face for a brief second before shaking his head.

    "You are so wise, yet so foolish," Yu Zhen muttered. He ced his hand on the back of her head and pressed her against his chest. She relished in his embrace, warm andforting.

    "It''s just¡­" Li Xueyue''s voice suddenly dried up. She would sound desperate. Quietly, she hugged him back, her grip tightening upon him.

    "Just what?" he demanded in a low, patient voice. Though, she heard the underlying rage.

    Yu Zhen had thought someone no longer wanted to live. How could she not understand it? Yu Zhen was mesmerized?by her, intoxicated even. He had always been, ever since their first encounter. And everyday, he would fall deeper in love with her, a little bit more than the day before.

    Herughter was his symphony, and her smile was a masterpiece. Yu Zhen loved every bit of her, even when she was stubborn, even when she refused to be tamed. Of course, there were times that she pissed him to no avail, and there were tiny things he disliked about her, but this was normal. There was no such thing as a perfect rtionship, only the wed ones were real.

    "Nothing," Li Xueyue peacefully said. She heard the skip of his heart, racing furiously for her. Yu Zhen hugged her as if his life depended on it.

    "Are you sure?"

    Li Xueyue smiled. "Truly."

    "Really sure?"

    "Yes."

    "Really, really sure?"

    Li Xueyueughed. "If I hadn''t known better, I''d think you were turning into me."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "If I hadn''t known better, I''d think you are delusional."

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head at his words. It was moments like these that she would forever cherish, even in the distant future when only one of them was left in this world...

 Chapter 426 Writing History

    <h4>Chapter 426 Writing History</h4>

    Despite Yu Zhen''s great suggestion about sealing the deal, there were more pressing issues at hand. Li Xueyue knew they were too indulgent. A small kiss would turn into a heated one. It would not take long for the things on his desk to be pushed aside, and lovemaking to follow right there and then.

    "Back to Duke Han," she said, much to Yu Zhen''s dismay. He grumbled under his breath.

    Li Xueyue smiled at this. He was always so solemn in front of others, surely no one would believe there was actually this side to him.

    "What about that senile man?" Yu Zhen grunted, irritated that she had rejected him so many times. What could possibly go wrong from having a bit of fun during serious talks?

    Yu Zhen did not think his patience would be tested to such an extent. Li Xueyue was tempting, even when she argued against him. Somehow, it enticed him further¡­especially seeing her pursed lips and concentrated expression.

    "For Duke Han, he will likely make the same argument that this would be a waste of resources and money," she said.

    Yu Zhen nodded in response. This was the tricky part. Duke Han was old and conservative. He wasn''t inclined to listen to the voices of youngsters, especially women.

    "Yes, you mentioned building schools and increasing funding for the orphanages will better the lives of themoners," he stated. "But how will it benefit us, aristocrats? For self-centered people like Duke Han, you must find a way to please his greedy needs."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She had already made the argument that his servants would be morepetent, but that did not entice him. Then, what would?

    "Do we need everyone to agree with an idea for it to be passed?"

    "No."

    "In that case, it would be fine if it is only Duke Han who disagrees," Li Xueyue said.

    Yu Zhen shook his head in disagreement. "He is an influential man whose opinion is often valued. The other people in the room might have the same thoughts as him. How will building schools for themoners help them?"

    Li Xueyue could not run away from this problem. It must be faced head-on. She couldn''t just ignore Duke Han.

    Suddenly, an idea came to mind. "Hanjian has always been progressive in terms of its treatment towards themoners. To improve their lives, we went as far as lowering their taxes."

    Yu Zhen slowly nodded. He was even more intrigued than before. "Go on."

    "Why don''t we set an example for our allies?" Li Xueyue suggested. "Hanjian could be history makers. We would be the first country to build schools formoners, and if this brings us benefits in the form of more loyal subjects, then undoubtedly, other countries will follow suit."

    Yu Zhen hummed. This was indeed a great idea, but he needed to continue ying devil''s advocate [1], so that she would be more prepared.

    "And what if it fails? Instead of writing history, we will be aughing stock," he remarked in a disapproving voice. Even so, she did not falter.

    "What could go wrong in providing education formoners?" she demanded. "If they protest and revolt, then it means the Imperial Family havd failed to meet their needs. A country is nothing without its loyal subjects."

    "The current method of instilling fear in your subjects has worked for decades.

    "But too much fear will spark a desire for change. People will no longer want to be oppressed by an absolute power."

    She was correct, of course.

    "The oppressed can only take so much. Soon, they would harbor hatred from maltreatments, and many would rise against the Kingdom." Li Xueyue added on.

    She gauged his reaction. He was deep in thought and so she continued.

    "Of course, Hanjian could handle the protests, but what if the soldiers turn against us and defend their fellow countrymen? Soldiers are mostlymoners and the middle-ss."

    Yu Zhen hummed. "Go on."

    "Thus, improving the living conditions of their families will create more loyalty in everyone."

    "And the instructors?" he asked. "Who shall teach in the school?"

    Li Xueyue touched her chin and thought deeply. "Great question," she slowly said to buy herself a few more seconds of thinking time. Just then, an idea popped into her mind.

    "We will find outstanding students from the lower-ss who have enrolled in the private schools attended mostly by the aristocrats. I think there are a few schrs in there who are intelligent, bute from a more humble background."

    Yu Zhen lifted a brow.

    "We will train them as instructors, and offer incentives. For example, with enough years in public service, they will receive a big promotion?or something along those lines, until we have enoughmoners who can teach their own."

    Yu Zhen wondered if this was all nned out from the start. This time, Li Xueyue had an air-tight n. "Did youe up with this new idea on the spot?"

    Li Xueyue sheepishly smiled. "Perhaps."

    Yu Zhen chuckled at her expression. "It doesn''t seem like it at all."

    Yu Zhen quietly nodded his head. He had thought in the mindset of Duke Han and other aristocrats. These would be the main points of their objection. And now that Li Xueyue had it all covered, her sess would be guaranteed. Unless Li Xueyue suddenly loses her confidence, she would be fine.

    "You''ve done an outstanding job," Yu Zhen finally said after a few seconds in contemtion. His heart swelled with pride. She had changed so much¡­ It was difficult to believe this was the same girl from months ago.

    Li Xueyue held her breath, awaiting for the final verdict.

    "It seems you''ve won this argument, Crown Princess."

    Li Xueyue perked up, a grin breaking out on her face. "So, when is the next Round Table Discussion?"

    "Very soon, in less than two days'' time."

    Li Xueyue rapidly nodded her head, ready to get everything written down onto a piece of parchment, so that she would not forget this discussion.

    "May I?" she asked, pointing to his brush and parchment.

    "You didn''t even have to ask."

    Yu Zhen ced a nk parchment in front of her. Then, he presented her with a brush already dipped in ink. Though, the ink had dried up on the b.

    "Here, let me grind the ink," Li Xueyue said. She was feeling excited, fearing a detail might be left out if she took too long to get started.

    "Focus on writing, Sunshine. I will do it for you."

    Li Xueyue was too eager to get started to even realize the significance behind his words. She had forgotten that the task of grinding ink was never the husband''s job, but a job for the dutiful wife, if she had time. But none of this mattered.

    Yu Zhen was just happy to see her so happy. It filled him with even more joy knowing that she was flourishing so well. Despite the troubles she had experienced, Li Xueyue had triumphed over them all.

    Yu Zhen watched her messily scribble her ideas down. He pulled back his sleeves, and ground the ink for her. She was so concentrated on the task, that her eyes never left the parchment.

    Not even for a second.

    "You will make a great Empress."

 Chapter 427 Ill Do It Alone

    <h4>Chapter 427 I''ll Do It Alone</h4>

    Li Xueyue felt foolish for even thinking he would be disgusted, just because of a mistake that wasn''t even her fault. She exited his private study, wondering if it was simply because he wanted to give her a much-needed break.

    Li Xueyue quietly walked down the hallways, apanied by Xiao Hua and the rest of the servants. Their footsteps were light and soft, so much so that she didn''t even think they were still following her.

    ''I didn''t tell him¡­'' she held back a sigh.

    Li Xueyue was reluctant to share the information about Marquis Qin. She wanted to be the one to deliver the final blow. She wanted to make him as miserable as she had been.

    The first step was to irritate him to no avail. "And I know exactly what to do."

    - - - - -

    "Xu Jiaqi most likely had an aplice," Lu Tianbi exined. She ced the confiscated oils on the table. She pointed at the bottle of Jasmine and Rosemary oil.

    "I thought it was strange that the bottles are all in the exact same style as the ones you can find in Hanjian," she said.

    "So, I consulted a merchant friend of mine, and confirmed that this particr oil is extremely expensive and difficult to obtain. They''re only sold in Hanjian, but there are so few bottles being sold, it''s easy for Xu Jiaqi to lie."

    Yu Zhen curtly nodded his head. "I am already aware of this."

    Yu Zhen picked up the bottle. Holding it in his hands fueled his rage. It took everything in him to not smash the evidence into pieces. Calmly, he ced it back down, deciding it was better not to touch it.

    He peered at the bottle, seemingly harmless, but took a life. "Saying this was a gift from Nanhui is practically asking for a deration of war."

    "Yes, I agree," Lu Tianbi said. "Her statement alone would be enough to provoke you. Everyone knows you cherish the Crown Princess, so much so that starting war for her sake would not faze you."

    Her eyes drifted to Hu Dengxiao who was seemingly focused on a scroll. He was leaning against a bookshelf, pretending to read. But she was certain he had fallen asleep.

    Lately¡­both of them had been losing sleep. It was more evident on him, given the dark circles under his eyes.

    "And if we had dered a war, then all of the Crown Princess''s hard work that day would''ve gone to waste. Thepliments about her would die down, and eventually, she would''ve been med for the war."

    Lu Tianbi hated to admit it, but it was a strategic n. Just a simple lie like "a present from Nanhui," could potentially cause this butterfly effect.

    "But back to my first point," Lu Tianbi said. "The Rosemary and Jasmine oil, like I said, is difficult to get your hands on. With Xu Jiaqi''s meager ie as ady-in-waiting, she would have to work for at least five years and save up all of her money to afford this."

    Yu Zhen didn''t need her to borate, he already knew this.

    "It could''ve been the coborative work of thedies-in-waiting," Lu Tianbi whispered. She cupped her chin, lost in thought. "But we don''t know who."

    "I doubt it."

    Lu Tianbi was startled by the voice of Hu Dengxiao. He was now standing near them, but with an exhausted look on his face. He let out a loud yawn before stretching his tired limbs.

    "You said it yourself," he said. "It would take five years of ie to even afford the oil, which means at least fivedies in waiting must ce a year''s worth of savings into buying this bottle."

    Lu Tianbi slowly nodded at his words, her brows knitting together. "Go on."

    "I doubt all of them were eager to go along with this n, much less, have the guts. And Xu Jiaqi wouldn''t risk her life to tell everyone about this n."

    "Hu Dengxiao is right," Yu Zhen stated. "However, not all of thedies-in-waiting rely solely upon their ie for their needs, for the majority of them hail from wealthy families."

    Hu Dengxiao was so tired, he couldn''t even perk up at beingplimented by the Crown Prince. He scratched his nape. It felt like there was a missing piece of the puzzle.

    "The thing is," Lu Tianbi interjected. "Even if you have the money to buy this, it is still difficult to ce an order for it. Not many regr merchants have this in stock. Connections must be strained just to source for it."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. It was just a bathing oil. Why did people prize it so much? "In that case, Xu Jiaqi would need the backing of a powerful and wealthy merchant."

    "I agree," she said. "But the thing is, how could Xu Jiaqi even have ess to these types of connections? She is just a simpledy-in-waiting, and the daughter of a fallen aristocratic household. No one would be willing to be acquaintances with her since there are no benefits in doing so."

    "Hmmm¡­" Hu Dengxiao tilted his head. "Then, Xu Jiaqi would need the help of an influential, yet wealthydy-in-waiting."

    A name instantly came to mind. But he briefly nced towards the Crown Prince, wondering if he should say it.

    "And who else would that be but the one closest to the Empress who has ties with nearly every powerful official of the Kingdom?" Lu Tianbi spoke up.

    Hu Dengxiao''s lips curled downwards. He did not like where this conversation was going¡­especially when Yu Zhen had grown up with thatdy-in-waiting.

    Many peopleplimented that Yu Zhen and that woman would make a great couple, should they ever marry in the future. She was stunning, even at a young age, captivating many adults. At that time, her personality was a lot more genuine, and she was a much more energetic woman.

    "We shouldn''t make assumptions so quickly," Hu Dengxiao hurriedly said for the sake of the Crown Prince. Everyone knew he had a soft spot in his heart for her. When his childhood was grim, that woman made it a little bit better.

    Hu Dengxiao recalled a story he had overheard from Lu Tianbi, who had grown up in the pce as well, but just not alongside Yu Zhen until a few yearster.

    Lu Tianbi had mentioned the woman would share pastries with Yu Zhen, forcing him to eat it when he was glum after a beating. The little girl had imed sweets would make anyone happy, so Yu Zhen had quietly ate it. Ever since then, she would bring him a pastry daily, hoping to make him happy.

    It was a sweet story. Too bad, they would never get together and have their happily ever after.

    "I already know whom both of you are suspecting." Yu Zhen''s attention drifted from the conflicted Hu Dengxiao to the hesitant Lu Tianbi. Both of them knew the impact that she had upon their childhood.

    But what they had forgotten was¡ªYu Zhen hated sweets. He hated it as a kid, and still hated it as an adult.

    "Don''t be hasty and capture her without evidence," Yu Zhen concluded. He knew his mother would cause a ruckus, and then Li Xueyue would somehow be dragged into this.

    If he''d have it his way, Yu Zhen would keep her away from the pce until the Emperor finally drew hisst breath. That way, Li Xueyue would be safe. She wouldn''t be subjected to so much trouble and pain. But she would not have it. As well as many other people.

    "Instead," he said. "Bring me a list of the most influential merchants of our time. One who would be powerful enough to obtain this oil."

    Lu Tianbi didn''t need to be told twice. She nodded her head and nudged Hu Dengxiao to do the same.

    "I will do it," Hu Dengxiao volunteered before she could say anything. Lu Tianbi gaped at him, offended that the mission was snatched away in front of her.

    Hu Dengxiao took a step to the side, creating a distance from her. "I''ll create the list."

    "No, give me this mission¡ª"

    "I''ll do it alone." Hu Dengxiao could feel her furious re. She was not going to forgive him for this. But it was his intention.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together, ncing from his advisor to his right-hand woman. They were such a troubling pair. He knew what was running through Hu Dengxiao''s mind. An orphan and a Prime Minister''s daughter. It was a pairing that would cross the Heavens.

    "You''re excused."

    Hu Dengxiao bowed his head "Thank you, Crown Prince." Without another word or nce in Lu Tianbi''s direction, he hurried out of the private study, as if chased by evil spirits.

 Chapter 428 Guard Dog

    <h4>Chapter 428 Guard Dog</h4>

    Lu Tianbi could do nothing but stand there and stare as the love of her life fled from her. Her heart ached at the sight of the mmed doors, where he had stormed out of, as if the room was on fire. He didn''t even look back at her.

    What exactly happened? She could not picture what upset him like this. Now that she had thought about it, Hu Dengxiao was originally speaking to the Crown Prince. But when she came in, Hu Dengxiao had suddenly walked off to the bookshelves, seemingly fetching the Crown Prince something.

    "Your Highness, why did he just¡ª"

    "It pains him to do this." Yu Zhen could feel the usation radiating from her eyes.

    Lu Tianbi gaped at him. "I¡­don''t understand."

    Yu Zhen settled his parchments on the table. He firmly nced at her. "You know exactly what I mean."

    Lu Tianbi''s heart sank. She shook her head, suddenly regretting asking him. "Nevermind, Your Highness, I do not want to know."

    Yu Zhen calmly met her gaze. He spoke in a low, collected voice. "Let him go, Lu Tianbi."

    "You were supporting us just a few days earlier!" Lu Tianbi eximed, turning to him in pure disbelief. "You are a man of your words, Your Highness. So, why are you doing this?"

    Yu Zhen''s cold gaze melted a bit. Her voice had cracked. "Think about this carefully. You are the Prime Minister''s daughter. You are considered the sole heir to his position."

    Lu Tianbi''s eyes red. So what? So what if she was the Prime Minister''s daughter? She did not behave and live like one! Unlike her peers in high society, she did not spend her childhood learning poetry, art, and instruments.

    Her father had trained her to be a warrior. She was forced to pick up the sword when she wanted to learn the brush, and was forced to lift a spear when she wanted to learn embroidery. There were so many aspects of her life that were shaped by the Prime Minister.

    Yet, Lu Tianbi did not let the title of a Prime Minister''s daughter hold her back. He wanted her to settle down and get married the second blood stained her pure, white bed sheets for the first time. But what did she do?

    Lu Tianbi ran off to join the military, earning a name for herself as the most outstanding female General of the current generation.

    "Hu Dengxiao is an orphan from the slums, picked up on the sidewalk like a pet, by the graciousness of your father."

    "I¡ª"

    "Your father treats Hu Dengxiao as a guard dog. His sole purpose was to protect you."

    "But¡ª"

    "Hu Dengxiao is the heir to nothing. You are the heir to the Lu fortune."

    Lu Tianbi gaped at him. "For his contributions in the military and to the country, Hu Dengxiao is now a respectable man praised by many! His annual ie from being your advisor is more than enough, Your Highness!"

    Yu Zhen folded his hands in front of him, like an older brother ready to chide his younger sister. "This rtionship will harm you both."

    Lu Tianbi''s face grew warm with irritation and pain. She turned her back to him, hiding the tears that had streaked down her face. "Father told you, didn''t he? That he had a conversation with Hu Dengxiao in the dead of the night."

    "Yes, and I know you are well aware of the topics that were discussed."

    Lu Tianbi gritted her teeth. The orphanage¡ªthe one that Hu Dengxiao came from¡ªwas under the management of the Prime Minister, who was their biggest benefactor.

    "If you want Hu Dengxiao, then seed your father."

    Lu Tianbi furiously turned around, her bottom lip trembling out of frustration. "I never said I wasn''t nning on it."

    "He will never let you seed him without a husband."

    Lu Tianbi let out a shaky breath at his words. "I will speak to him."

    Yu Zhen pinched the spot between his brows. It was not his ce to intervene. But he was their friend, and his goal was to guide them to a happy future. It was his repayment?towards her for being one of the most royal people he knew.

    "Marry a weak, lower-ss aristocrat who would never dream of power," Yu Zhen said.

    "My father will never ept that."

    "So make him ept it." Yu Zhen gave her a stern re. "You are no longer that weak little girl of the past who does not have the courage to go against her father."

    Lu Tianbi slowly nodded her head. She wiped her tears away, knowing he was right. As always. But sometimes, she would forget her strongest qualities.

    "Now go," he mused. "Enjoy your argument."

    Lu Tianbiughed in response, the sound broken, but happy. "Thank you, Your Highness."

    Lu Tianbi hurriedly walked out of the private study, ready to hail down her father for a civilized discussion. Well, as civilized as a Lu can manage¡ªwhich consisted of a few minutes of civil discussion before voices were raised and hands mming on the table.

    Yu Zhen refocused his attention on the task at hand, but was eventually distracted by the rtionship between his closest friends. He let out a sigh. What a pair of star-crossed lovers these two were. They had all grown up together, training side by side. In the blink of an eye, they were now grown up, and living lives of their own.

    "I suppose love brings out the stupidity in people," Yu Zhen murmured, knowing the statement also applied to him, who remained in Wuyi even after the copse of the Emperor.

    Even when the letters urgently imed the Emperor would die any day now, Yu Zhen had remained in Wuyi, just to court Li Xueyue a little bit longer. All of his responsibilities were temporarily forgotten when he was around her.

    "At least, Hu Dengxiao will be more level-headed." Yu Zhen shook his head and decided to shift his attention to the documents at hand. This wasn''t his problem to shoulder, nor solve.

    - - - - -

    "A-a dagger shaped like a crescent moon?" Marquis Qin sputtered out in disbelief. Just a few moments ago, he was surprised by the abrupt invitation from the Crown Princess. But who would''ve thought, there would be an evenrger surprise.

    "I¡­ I do not understand, Crown Princess," Marquis Qin breathed out in confusion. With shaky hands, he wiped the sweat gathered on his brows. They were under the shade of a gazebo located in the middle of a pond. One misstep near the edge and one would fall into the waters.

    Marquis Qin lifted his gaze to the beautiful, and poised Princess. She calmly sipped her tea, her longshes lowering when she focused her attention upon the jade teacup. She was so stunning that his breathing becamebored. Such a perfect, graceful thing¡­all of her beauty was surely wasted on that brute of a Crown Prince.

    "Crown Princess, I do not believe there is a dagger like a crescent moon," Marquis Qin added on in a shaky, dubious voice. He was often calm and collected when it came to business trades like this.

    Scamming people was his specialty, after all. But there was something unnerving about being in the center of a deep pond, in a gazebo supported only by four pirs. There wasn''t a fence surrounding them to keep them from falling into the water. He could drown to death here.

    "How about this?" Marquis Qin anxiously said. Herck of responses were beginning to displease him. But she was silent and demure.

    Marquis Qin preferred those types of women, for they screamed the loudest in bed. Speaking of¡­he suddenly recalled a little girl, the quietest and most obedient he had ever seen. Her pleas for him to stop still rang in his ears, sweet yet ear piercing. It was where his theory was confirmed.

    "Crown Princess, I will have my people scourge thends for the finest cksmith, and he shall decorate the hilt of a normal dagger with designs of the midnight sky?"

    Marquis Qin carefully analyzed her expression, but was disappointed to be met with literally nothing. She didn''t have any trace of emotion on her face. It was unnerving. His heart was racing at the thought of displeasing the wife of one of the wealthiest men in this entire country.

    With the Crown Prince''s deep pockets, his Wangfei can buy out a small Kingdom if she wishes, with a lot more money to spare.

    "What do you think of that idea, Crown Princess? Since the design would be unique, and not many would decorate a weapon this way. You will be starting a trend in Hanjian."

    Marquis Qin studied her expression as he grew more and more nervous of her silence.

    "You would be a trendsetter, Crown Princess. How delightful would that sound?"

    The Crown Princess ced her teacup down.

    Marquis Qin held his breath, hopeful and eager for what she was going to say. He could not believe that a young woman about half his age was bringing him to the edge of his seat.

    Marquis Qin did not care if she was the cause of his cold sweat. All he cared about was making a business connection with the Crown Princess, the future Empress of this Kingdom.

    If he was the first to bite into the fruit, no one else would dare to take her business from him. All of the other merchants would be warned off, once they discovered her preferred trader was Marquis Qin himself.

    When she pursued her rosy red lips, his attention fell to it in a heartbeat. His mouth went dry at the sight of her sudden smile. It softened her entire appearance, giving off the illusion of a goddess escaping heaven.

    "S-seeing your satisfaction, I will inform my men to hurriedly look for¡ª"

    The Crown Princess lifted her gaze and uttered two words that caught him off guard.

    "How disappointing."

 Chapter 429 Just A Joke

    <h4>Chapter 429 Just A Joke</h4>

    Marquis Qin''s excitement died down. His smile slowly slipped away. W-what?

    The Crown Princess widened her smile, seemingly innocent and harmless. But her gaze was filled with disgust and irritation. Without warning, she stood up.

    "W-wait, Crown Princess," Marquis Qin hurriedly said as he also stood up, worried she was going to leave just like that.

    Marquis Qin could not let her go like this. If so, she would be his first unhappy customer. He might''ve worked all his life to build his current reputation, but all of this coulde tumbling down if the Crown Princess was dissatisfied.

    "If you are unable to give me what I want, then there is no use for you," she coldly said.

    Marquis Qin cursed himself. He hade off as too eager to please her. And now, she most likely thought it would be easy to take advantage of him. He narrowed his eyes.

    Marquis Qin reminded himself that he served the Emperor, his prized customer. He was one of the two merchants that supplied the Emperor''s expensive and heavily researched medicine.

    "Please do not be so hasty, Crown Princess," Marquis Qin quickly said. "Let us sit down and have a better discussion."

    The Crown Princess considered his words. She paused a bit, and cast a nce. His heart soared, hoping she would take her seat. But she didn''t.

    The Crown Princess waved her delicate hands in front of her, and a dainty maidservant came forward. The servant was pretty, her fingers thin and nimble.

    Marquis Qin licked his bottom lip. The hands of a maidservant were hard and calloused, adding an interesting texture when touching him.

    "Wait, Princess, what are you doing?" Marquis Qin snapped out of it. He finally saw what the maidservant was doing. She was wrapping a muslin blue cloth around the Crown Princess''s shoulders.

    "Leaving." The Crown Princess did not cast him another nce as she approached the bridge leading to the pavilion.

    "S-so soon??? Marquis Qin questioned as he remained by the foot of the table. If he chased after her now, he would look like a desperate dog. And Marquis Qin was no starved animal. His pockets were heavy, his belly full, and his housevished.

    Marquis Qin was conflicted about what to do. On one hand, he did not want her to go, but on the other, he did not want to swallow his pride. ''Hmph! Fine, she can leave as she pleases!''

    Marquis Qin made up his mind. He sat down, wondering where exactly she would even find a merchant as knowledgeable and powerful as him. Anything was obtainable, as long as it wasmissioned by him.

    The Crown Princess was just too greedy, that was all. Plus, impatient¡­ He licked his bottom lip, bitter from the tea. Greedy and impatient. Who would''ve thought the docile woman possessed these traits?

    How could he have forgotten? The prettiest of faces hid the cruelest of hearts.

    "And here I thought¡­"

    Marquis Qin perked his ears, eavesdropping on the words she passed to her maidservant.

    "The merchant would not disappoint me," she sullenly sighed.

    Marquis Qin red down at his tea. It was tempting to stand back up and convince her not to leave. But his pride was too big for it to be trampled by a customer, much less, a woman.

    "Princess¡­ I hear the Emperor is a frequent customer of the Marquis."

    Marquis Qin quietly nodded to himself, basking in thepliment. It seemed the servant was a lot wiser than her Master.

    "Oh no," the Crown Princess suddenly gasped.

    Marquis Qin flinched. He nearly turned around in curiosity, wondering what could''ve disturbed her. Nheless, he lifted the teacup and took a drink.

    "I must inform the Emperor then."

    "O-of what, Princess?"

    "That his merchant is getting ipetent."

    Marquis Qin spat out his tea.

    He hurriedly stood up, as if the furniture had burned him. He spun around in disbelief, his eyes growing wide with horror. T-this Crown Princess, she was also in favor with the Emperor?!

    If she truly had ess to that closed-off room, then it would be dangerous for Marquis Qin and his entire business. He prided himself on the fact that the Emperor was his customer. It made every aristocrat and merchant jealous of him. This was the leverage he had amongst all of the aristocrats.

    Even Duke Han was envious of Marquis Qin. The biggest contributing factor to Marquis Qin''s booming business was having the Emperor on his side. His customers trusted him because the Emperor trusted him. His customers brought from him because the Emperor brought from him.

    If Marquis Qin was to lose the Emperor''s favor¡­he could not fathom the issues that would arise.

    "Please, wait a minute, Crown Princess!"

    Li Xueyue''s lips curled in satisfaction. Her tactic had worked. He was panicking now, wasn''t he? She turned her chin the slightest bit, giving him no more than a glimpse of her side profile. It made her seem reluctant to listen, but she did so for his sake.

    "It would be difficult to find a dagger that''s shaped like a moon, especially from that country. It''s overseas, and their citizens are extremely reluctant to trade with us."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. A merchant who can''t trade overseas? What good was his title then? She let out a mellow sigh, shaking her head.

    "It''s alright, Marquis Qin," she lied. "A task like this is too difficult for the likes of you to handle."

    Marquis Qin twitched at her words. Difficult? For the likes of him? He was one of the best merchants in this country! The only one who had risen so high in his ranks. What was the Crown Princess babbling about?

    You see, this was why women shouldn''t speak. Only foolishness and stupidity came out of their mouths. He missed the women who entertained him in Wuyi. They kept their mouths shut and did as they were told.

    The Crown Princess was from Wuyi. Why couldn''t she follow the standards of her birth country?

    His admiration of her was beginning to diminish¡­ He thought back to the other beautiful women of Hanjian, like Lady Ge Beining for example. Lady Ge Beining was worldly, but at least she knew how to speak to men.

    "It seems this discussion hase to an end," Li Xueyue pointed out, in a tranquil andposed voice. She turned on her heels and took a step forward.

    "Princess," Xiao Hua whispered. "How upsetting that you were not able to find your exclusive merchant."

    Marquis Qin''s eyes widened a bit. Exclusive merchant?

    "I suppose I''m too picky, Xiao Hua¡­" Li Xueyue purposely trailed off whilst touching the side of her face in dismay. "I only wanted to find a capable merchant that I will keep by my side for a while¡­"

    Keep by her side? Capable merchant? Marquis Qin''s head snapped to her. He was tempted by this offer. Did that mean she would use no other merchant upon choosing one to her liking?

    A big customer who would always buy from him was one he was willing to make sacrifices for, even if it meant straining all of his resources and having his men die at sea.

    Marquis Qin swallowed his pride and dignity for the sake of money. "Please spare me a few minutes more of your time, Princess. I will help you!"

    He perked up a bit when she fully turned around this time. She raised a brow, an interested look on her face.

    "Truly?" the Crown Princess gushed, sping her hands in front of her chest, revealing her concealed essories.

    Marquis Qin''s eyes were glued to her hand. How had he not seen it sooner? The wealth upon her hands was enough to buy his current house, his ancestral home, and beyond. At this, excitement filled him. She wore the gold, silver, and gemstones with elegance, almost as if wealth did not faze her. Which meant, she must''ve been used to this life of luxury...

    If she had this much money, surely, the Crown Princess would not be stingy with it¡­

    And before he knew it, Marquis Qin blurted out, "I will sincerely fulfill your request, Princess, this I swear!"

    "On what?"

    "P-pardon?" Marquis Qin whispered, his brows tugging together.

    "You swore¡­" the Crown Princess trailed off, almost bewildered by his confusion.

    "Yes, I did," Marquis Qin said with heavy reluctance, finally registering the meaning of her words. Goodness, what kind of situation was he getting himself into?

    "On what?" she asked again.

    "Uhm¡­" he trailed off, thinking it was a joke. "My life!" Then, Marquis Qin loudlyughed, his body shaking with the motion. But when hisughter died down, he saw that she wasn''t following suit.

    Instead, there was something presented to him. An unrolled scroll spread wide between the pretty maidservant''s hands. Marquis Qin hesitantly nced down, his eyes shaking upon seeing the scroll and contract.

    "I will believe your sincerity if you sign this with your thumbprint."

    Marquis Qin looked back at her, wondering if she was crazy. But there was a pleasant and friendly smile on her face, her eyes crinkling as if she was close toughing. So, she was holding back herughter.

    It was just a joke.

    Marquis Qin chuckled at her strange humor. She went this far for a joke? Just to entertain her a bit more, he pressed his thumb upon the ink box offered to him, then stamped his thumbprint onto the scroll.

    Not a secondter, Xiao Hua rolled it up and approached the Crown Princess.

    "Marvelous," Li Xueyue mused, sping her hands together. "You swore on it, Marquis Qin. There is no going back now."

    Marquis Qin''s smile was beginning to slip, like his sanity. He felt like the rug was yanked from underneath his feet. He had been waiting for her to chuckle and conclude this was just a joke. But she didn''tugh.

    Marquis Qin''s heart stopped right then and there, for he had literally signed his life away.

 Chapter 430 Helping Hand

    <h4>Chapter 430 Helping Hand</h4>

    Li Xueyue wondered if Marquis Qin had grown senile with age. She thought he was a lot wiser than this, considering the rtionship the man had shared with Viscount Bai Sheng. The Viscount was shrewd and very picky about the people he partnered with, and Marquis Qin was someone that the Viscount highly respected. But the man standing before her did not meet those standards.

    Everything was going along so smoothly that she wondered if he was tricking her. But when the scrollnded in her hand and she unrolled it, Li Xueyue knew this was not a trick. His thumbprint was on the scroll, which quite frankly meant his life was now hers. If he did not fulfill this end of the bargain, she could kill him.

    Li Xueyue didn''t think the scroll woulde in handy. She hadzily written it in Yu Zhen''s estate.

    "Your cooperation is much appreciated, Marquis Qin," she coldly said whilst rolling up the scroll.

    Marquis Qin rapidly blinked his eyes. He was bewildered by the sudden change in her expression. She was no longer smiling, nor did she seem kind and timid. Her stare was frigid and she turned around without another word.

    "T-that''s it, Princess?" he warily asked, wondering if there was any other catch to this scheme that he had fallen into.

    The Crown Princess continued walking off without a single nce back at him. Marquis Qin was forced to watch her retreating form until her dainty shoulders eventually disappeared in the distance. His bewilderment turned into frustration.

    "Had the Princess just tricked me?" Marquis Qin murmured under his breath, wondering what exactly just happened.

    "Goodness gracious, what had I gotten myself into?" he groaned.

    Marquis Qin had signed the scroll with his thumbprint. There was no backing out of this deal now. It was either he risked the life of his men to travel overseas to obtain that crescent-shaped dagger or he would risk his own life if he disobeyed her.

    "What is with the women of this generation? They have all gotten so bold!" Marquis Qin irritably said. He retreated back to his seat and picked up the teacup, deciding to take one final sip of it before leaving. But the teacup was empty.

    Marquis Qin ground his teeth and mmed the teacup back down. His eyes had been blessed by a marvelous sight today, but his day was cursed with bad luck. He would have to go through great troubles just to convince a servant to travel overseas, much less, try to bargain, and buy a dagger without knowing the nativenguage of that country.

    The Crown Princess''s task was not an easy one. The chances of failure were much higher than the chances of sess.

    - - - - -

    When Li Xueyue returned back to Yu Zhen''s estate, the first thing that she did was hide the scroll. She tucked it somewhere safe and out of sight so that he would never find it. Besides, she doubted he was the type to search through his room for something that he didn''t even know existed.

    But then a voice interrupted her thoughts. "What are you doing?"

    Li Xueyue swiveled around, her heart caught in her throat. She did not expect to see him. His voice was low but filled with curiosity. His gaze wandered to her crouch position, directly beside a pile of decorative scrolls on the bookshelf.

    "Well, my Wangfei?" he asked, taking a step closer to her.

    Li Xueyue instantly stood up, scroll still in hand. She decided to pretend that everything was fine and that this was just one of his decorative scrolls. If she faked it enough, he would not suspect her. After all, it was just a scroll, and she had never betrayed him before.

    "You''re back earlier than usual today," Li Xueyue said. She rose to her full height and presented him with a slight smile.

    "You don''t seem happy by that," Yu Zhen mused with a slight smirk. She was acting too suspiciously, he could see in the way her hands slightly yed with the scroll.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes and approached him. "Which wife would not be happy to see her husband has returned home early?"

    Yu Zhen scoffed. He pulled her close, his hands grasped her wrists. She slightly jerked her arm, as if his touch had hurt her.

    "A wife with secrets to hide from her husband," he responded.

    Li Xueyue took a step back and dodged his grabbing hands. It was a close call there. She nearly dropped the scroll.

    His easygoing smile died down, a cold stare in its ce. "What is it?" he demanded, reaching for the scroll again.

    "What? Did you think I stole this from you?"

    "With the way you''re hiding it, I would assume so."

    Li Xueyue gaped at him. She suddenly wished he had not returned so early. "It''s great to see my husband has so much trust in me."

    Yu Zhen let out a bark ofughter. It was dark and sinister. "If I did not have trust in you, I wouldn''t have allowed you to set foot anywhere near my estate."

    Li Xueyue was visibly offended. Her brows came together, her lips turning down. "Our estate," she corrected.

    Yu Zhen softly chuckled. "Of course."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She nced to the side, seeking a ce to escape from him. He would eventually corner her. She knew it. But her reflexes were too slow, for he had stopped directly in front of her. And before she could run off, his arms were around her.

    Her palms rested upon his chest to create distance. Scroll still in hand, she red up at him. "It''s truly nothing that you should worry about," she said, referring to the scroll.

    "I wouldn''t worry at all, if I did not love you so much, Sunshine," he softly said.

    "I have it handled."

    "I know you do, you always do."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "Then why are you trying so hard to interrogate me about it?" It didn''t feel like he knew. It felt like he was doubting her words, as if he did not believe in her capabilities.

    "Sunshine, trouble follows you everywhere you go. I must interrogate so that I can be prepared for any curveball that is thrown my way."

    Li Xueyue could not find fault in his words. He was right, as always. She didn''t know why trouble was so attracted to her.

    "If I need your help," she slowly said, softening her stare. " I will not hesitate to ask you. Is that fair enough, Yu Zhen?"

    Yu Zhen frowned. He preferred to just help her without being asked. That was all he wanted to do¡ªoffer guidance. Yu Zhen wanted to keep her safe, her smiles genuine, and her heart steady. He did not want her to feel abandoned and neglected, like the lonely Empress.

    It was so strange¡­ He was always ready to lend her a helping hand, but she would never ept it. Why not? Why must she be so adamant on proving her worth to people who did not deserve it? She had already made a name for herself in this country, why do more?

    "I just want you to live a blissful life in the pce, sipping tea and reading books. That??s all," Yu Zhen admitted.

    She reached a hand up and tenderly touched his cheeks. "I know, my stubborn husband, I know." Her voice was soft, filled with patient understanding. It was as if the tables were turned on him.

    "I will hold you to your word then," Yu Zhen stated. "You''ll tell me if you need my help."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head, smiling because he had agreed.

    "If it''s the slightest inconvenience, I want to hear of it. If you are struggling, I want to hear of it. If there is any mishap¡ª"

    "You will hear of it," she finished for him with a teasing smile.

    Li Xueyue caressed his face, standing upon her tippy toes to kiss the corner of his mouth. "I understand it fully."

    She pulled back, but a secondter, his fingers were wrapped in her hair. Her eyes widened in surprise as he yanked her face up to him.

    "One kiss is not enough," he said in a husky voice.

    Li Xueyue gulped. He was so close that she could smell his breath, woodsy from the ck tea he drank earlier. Without warning, his lips were upon hers, and the rest was history.

 Chapter 431 Dressed Decently

    <h4>Chapter 431 Dressed Decently</h4>

    Yu Zhenzily rose from the bed. His attention drifted to the tiny woman lying beside him, curled up on her side. Her chest rose steadily with each breath she drew in, her eyes closed shut.

    Li Xueyue''s hair was sprawled out, dark as the midnight against her pale skin. She slept without a fear for vulnerability, her shoulders rxed around him.

    Yu Zhen brought the nkets up to her shoulders, covering her body. His attention drifted to the red marks on her neck. His lips twitched in amusement. If she didn''t clench the nkets so much and tried to run from him, then perhaps, he wouldn''t have captured her and gifted love bites. s, Li Xueyue never listened, did she?

    "You''re sleeping a lot easier now," Yu Zhen fondly said. He reached a hand out and stroked her sleeping face with the back of his fingers.

    His heart warmed when she subconsciously leaned into the touch, her body tilting forward.

    "Hmmm¡­ Yu Zhen?" Li Xueyue stirred as her eyes fluttered open and she saw his naked form. Her gaze drifted to his ripped chest and the ridges of his abdomen.

    "Go back to sleep, Little Hamster. When it''s time for dinner, I will wake you," Yu Zhen whispered. He bent down and kissed her on the forehead as she reached for his hand.

    "And where are you going?" she tiredly asked with heavy eyelids that were barely able to stay open.

    Li Xueyue was exhausted, yet he was glowing. She half-believed he had sucked the energy directly out of her. Each time they finished a passionate session, he would be brimming with energy whilst she could barely move a limb. It was almost as if his intent was to tire her out always. She did not know why.

    "To feed Xiao Juzi before he feeds on a servant."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. She let out a quiet yawn before snuggling into the bed, burying herself under the nket. "I thought Xiao Juzi didn''t eat humans?"

    Yu Zhen chuckled.

    Li Xueyue felt warm and fuzzy from the sound. It always tickled her heart in the right ces, making her fall for him deeper than ever.

    "He doesn''t. I was merely jesting." Yu Zhen left the bed and stepped toward the closet.

    Li Xueyue should''ve covered her eyes. She should''ve yed the role of an innocent wife. But when her husband looked like a War God, who couldn''t help but stare? She quickly regretted her actions when something familiar came into sight, long and thick. A blush rose to her cheeks and she buried her face into the pillow.

    "What''s wrong?" Yu Zhen slipped on a silk robe and loosely tied it around his waist, revealing part of his chest.

    Yu Zhen briefly turned around when he heard so much shuffling behind him. She was lying on her stomach now, and motionless. His brows wrung together. Had she fallen asleep?

    "Put on more clothes." Her voice was muffled, almost as if she knew his habit of wearing only one decorativeyer of clothing.

    Yu Zhen let out augh. But for her sake, he slipped on anotheryer of clothes, inky ck, like her sprawled out hair. He had always enjoyed the way it felt on his fingers, smooth as silk, and delectably sweet.

    "Are you dressed decently now?" she asked, but still raised her eyes from the pillow. A sigh of relief left her.

    "Why do you ask?" Yu Zhen mused. He walked back to the bed and ced a hand upon the top of her head, wondering what caused her blush. His favorite color was fading now, but he knew of ways to provoke her.

    "J-just go feed Xiao Juzi," she grumbled.

    Yu Zhen gently smiled down at her. She peered up at him, withrge, shimmering eyes of chestnut ck. Under the sunlight, it was bright as amber, but in the shadows of their room, it was dark as oak. All she had to do was look up at him with that tiny smile resting upon her lips, and he was prepared to sacrifice the entire Kingdom for her.

    "What is it?" sheughed.

    And without knowing it, the words left Yu Zhen''s mouth. "I love you, my stubborn Wangfei."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked. She hadn''t expected this confession. Nheless, her smile widened and she sat up on the bed. She reached her arms out for him and he instantly came closer to her.

    Li Xueyue hugged him dearly, burying her face on his shoulders. "I love you too, crazy husband of mine."

    Yu Zhen tightened his grip on her, his fingers sprawled upon her upper back, as his arms came around her tailbone. He breathed in her scent, sweet and floral. It was addicting, just like her lips.

    "Now sleep," he whispered against the side of her head, kissing it.

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. He lowered her onto the bed, but she did not let him go.

    "Xueyue¡­" he warned, just when she pressed her breasts upon his chest.

    "O-one more time?" she shyly whispered whilst hiding her blush upon the crook of his neck. He was warm. She loved this part of him, and thefort it provided. There was no other ce she wanted to be in this world, aside from his arms.

    A dark, chilling chuckle escaped past his lips. "It seemed I did not tire you out enough."

    "W-well¡ª"

    "Do not worry. This time, I will make sure you are unable to walk."

    Li Xueyue''s eyes widened. She did not expect that, but it was toote. His lips were upon hers, his hands slithering up her nape. He gripped her head, deepening the kiss. His lips were hot and his tongue was slick. A familiar feeling churned in her lower stomach, for she knew what was about toe.

    - - - - -

    This time, Yu Zhen was certain she would not wake up, not even at midnight. He had taken her to Heaven and back more times than she had predicted.

    Li Xueyue was so deep in slumber, that she barely moved, even when he fondly touched her hair. His thumb brushed upon her bruised lips. Her voice would be hoarse tomorrow, from all of the screams and moans.

    Yu Zhen smirked. He would have it no other way next time. "Sleep well, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen rose from the bed and nced out of the window, realizing it was nightfall. Regardless, he left the bed. There was something that she was hiding from him. And he knew exactly where the scroll was.

    "It''s best not to keep secrets from your husband, my dear wife," Yu Zhen muttered. He apathetically strutted to the bookshelf and bent down to thest row where a pile of decorative scrolls remained. It was an assortment of colors, but he had memorized every inch of his bedroom, enough to know the top one was misced.

    "Let''s see¡­" he trailed off, picking up the odd scroll.

    Yu Zhen wondered where she got this scroll from, since she didn''t leave his private study with one.

    "A maidservnat probably got it for her when Xueyue returned to the estate," Yu Zhen concluded with a shrug. It would exin the different quality of the scroll in his hand, inparison to the decorative ones here. Well, as decorative as the Imperial Family''s official scroll could be.

    "She could''ve just asked me for a scroll," he chuckled, wondering why she was being so secretive about it. He preferred her to have the highest quality of something, and the Imperial Family''s scroll was exactly that.

    The Imperial Family''s official scroll was a deep blue, with streaks of white, much like the strikes of thunder in the distance. The edges of the scroll would be rimmed with gold, making the simple item expensive.

    "Silly girl, you could''ve just asked me for a scroll." Yu Zhen shook his head at her foolishness. Was this such a deep secret that she didn''t even want to ask him for guidance?

    Yu Zhen unrolled the scroll. His eyes quickly scanned over every word until it directly stopped in front of one name. And it was the only one he needed¡ªMarquis Qin Weizhang.

 Chapter 432 Eighteen Levels

    <h4>Chapter 432 Eighteen Levels</h4>

    Yu Zhen''s grip tightened upon the scroll, so tightly that his knuckles turned white. If Li Xueyue possessed a man''s name on this scroll, it meant she found him¡ªthe man who was the cause of her nightmares. The remaining monster in her life. The one that he would take his sweet time ying, but would not be thest monster she''d meet.

    Yu Zhen read on. He continued doing so until he understood the content of the scroll. Marquis Qin Weizhang had swore upon his life that he would present Li Xueyue with a weapon shaped like a crescent?

    His brows came together in confusion. Was there even a de like that? He could not picture it, and he was an avid collector of many, many weapons. Yu Zhen even had a dedicated room to store all of the exotic and rare weapons he hade across.

    He was so puzzled that his rage was momentarily forgotten. But then it came back, in stronger waves than before. There was a fingerprint under his name, no doubt, belonging to Marquis Qin. Which meant¡­

    "This little fool!" Yu Zhen gritted his teeth, knowing exactly how she obtained it. She had encountered the demon that lived under her bed but didn''t even bother telling him. On top of that, she had risked her safety to meet him.

    Yu Zhen resisted the urge to throw the scroll to the ground. Li Xueyue just loved to get herself into trouble, did she not? He stormed towards the bed, deciding to wake her up. His hand hovered over her shoulder, as hesitation shed in his eyes.

    Li Xueyue was sleeping too soundly. Her nose had adorably twitched before she abruptly sneezed.

    Yu Zhen''s fingers curled into fists. He tried to be rational. There must be a reason why she kept this a secret from him. His jaw tightened.

    Yu Zhen reached towards the bed again, wanting to wake her up. But his hands moved on his own and brought the nket up to her chin. Instead of shaking her awake, he proceeded to ensure she wasfortable. He brushed the hair away from her face even though his fingers were trembling with rage.

    "Are you that worried I would kill him without hesitation?" he growled, irritated that she had kept this hidden from him. The one man that his hands itched to kill. The one bastard that should go into the Underworld screaming for mercy, only to realize, the Eighteen Levels [1] of Torture was mercy.

    Yu Zhen''s gazended upon her face, docile and harmless. Even in her sleep, she was beautiful. He loved her, so much so that he was willing to overlook this scroll.

    He breathed in through his nose and let out a sigh through it. She would always have a way with him, didn''t she? Likewise, he also always had a way with her.

    "A secret this will remain," he gritted out, holding the scroll to her face.

    Yu Zhen walked back to the bookshelf and slipped the item back in ce. He did not know why she was so foolish to ignore his help. But she must''ve had her reasons. She must have. Or else, she wouldn''t have risked losing his trust.

    Without another word, Yu Zhen slipped out of the bedroom. He nned on entertaining Xiao Juzi for a little bit. Or maybe for a while, until his anger was soothed by his attention-seeking pet.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue woke up to a cold bed. She sat up, puzzled at the cause of it. Had she slept until the afternoon? Was that why Yu Zhen was not here? But when she looked out the window and saw the sky was the palest shade of blue, Li Xueyue knew the sun was just rising. Which meant he was gone since midnight.

    "That''s strange¡­" she trailed off with a bewildered voice.

    Li Xueyue patted the space beside her. Noticing it was colder than ice, she could not help but frown. "Where could he have gone off to?"

    "What could have distracted him?" Li Xueyue slipped one leg out of the bed, then the next, before nearly copsing onto the ground. She let out a shaky breath, surprised that her legs had wobbled.

    "Why am I not surprised?" Li Xueyue groaned out as she sat upon the edge of the bed, kicking her legs awake. The morning or night after was always the hardest. Next time, she would remind him to curb his hunger, for not everyone can withstand his stamina¡ªher included.

    After a minute or so, Li Xueyue finally stood up. She pushed the windows open, and then walked towards their enormous closet on the far end of the room. It was full to the brim with their clothes. She vaguely remembered a conversation they had before she had fallen asleep, that he nned on emptying an entire room to store all of her essories and clothes.

    Li Xueyue was confused as to why, until she realized it was an excuse for him to buy her more things. But she had fallen asleep on his chest and she couldn''t even recall if she had denied his suggestion or not.

    "Did he leave shortly after I entered a slumber?" Li Xueyue asked herself before putting on at least threeyers of clothes. Autumn was in full swing, and winter was approaching. She didn''t think that Hanjian''s summer would be swelching hot, and their winters biting cold.

    "Wuyi''s weather was a lot kinder," she thought to herself.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t help but fondly smile at the memory of the twins. During winter, when the snow was thick on the grounds, they used to build strange things with it. Sometimes, it would be snowballs to throw with, or even little snow bunnies on the ground.

    "I miss them¡­" Li Xueyue wistfully sighed, knowing it would be selfish of her to return back to Wuyi. She hadn''t even been married to Yu Zhen for more than a year. If she returned this quickly, people would think there was trouble in paradise or something stupid like that.

    "But maybe, Wen-ge can visit me, if he isn''t too busy¡­" Li Xueyue forced herself to stop thinking such thoughts. He must''ve been busy working hard to rise through the ranks so that he could be a Commander.

    Li Xueyue wondered what Li Minghua was up to. In the letters that Li Xueyue had frequently sent to her family, they rarely talked about Li Minghua. But there were snippets that spoke about her rekindled rtionship with Wen Jinkai, and the two had never been happier.

    Li Xueyue could not help but smile. Even though they had both given her mischief, she still viewed them as friends. It was great that they would have their happily ever after.

    "Well, time to fetch mine," she thought out loud, deciding to search for Yu Zhen.

    Li Xueyue stepped outside of their bedroom, but this time, the guards did not stop her, for they did not know where the Crown Prince had gone off to. However, a few followed after her wordlessly after greeting her.

    "Hmm¡­he''s not in his private study," Li Xueyue concluded when she found the room was empty. There were not many ces in mind where he could be. Thinking he could be at the training grounds, she trekked there. But he was nowhere to be found.

    "This is so strange." Li Xueyue sighed whilst folding her arms. She boredly walked back to their estate, disappointed that her search was futile.

    But then she saw him, standing in front of the estate''s main entrance. A grin broke out, as she prepared herself to call out to him. However, hesitation sank in. There was a dark glower on his face, his lips twisted into a deep scowl.

    "Well, that isn''t good," Li Xueyue wryly said, knowing what was toe.

 Chapter 433 Freedom To a Beas

    <h4>Chapter 433 Freedom To a Beas</h4>

    Yu Zhen leaned his head against the wall, sighing in irritation. After Xiao Juzi had his meal, he plopped his head on Yu Zhen''sp and fell asleep shortly after. Itsrge, heavy head was beginning to frustrate Yu Zhen who had been in the same sitting position for hours since midnight. By now, his backside was sore, and he was debating whether or not to wake the big cat up. What an obnoxious little pet Xiao Juzi was!

    When the sun peeked through the horizon and light returned to the world, Yu Zhen decided it was time for his pet to stopzing around all day eating, sleeping, and repeating it all over again.

    "Alright, get up and go take ap around the pce," Yu Zhen grunted out. He shifted his legs, forcing Xiao Juzi to wake up.

    Xiao Juzi let out a small growl in warning, raising his head only to re at Yu Zhen.

    "You''ve been sleeping all your life. Why don''t you go hunt me a prey," Yu Zhen snapped. He stood to his full height, dusting off Xiao Juzi''s fur. The bright orange fur was stuck to his ck robes, prominent as ever.

    Xiao Juzi tilted his head. Prey? Like the little rabbit that was always near him?

    "Winter is approaching, you need to stay in your den like a good boy." Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes when Xiao Juzi sat on his legs and licked his paw, ignoring his Master''s words.

    "Are you listening?"

    Xiao Juzi continued licking his paws before letting out a loud yawn. He opened his mouth, teeth bared, and tongue out. Not a secondter, he plopped his paws on the ground andid on it.

    "Hah." Yu Zhen shook his head at the stubborn beast. "Fine then, tonight, you won''t get a juicy piece of the freshly butchered cow."

    At this, Xiao Juzi raised his head. Juicy? Freshly butchered? Cow? The human had his attention now!

    Yu Zhen snorted in response. He turned his head and began walking off, only to pause a few stepster. Xiao Juzi tilted his head, one ear folded.

    "Go back to your den."

    Xiao Juzi snorted in response beforezily getting up on all fours. Hezily walked in the opposite direction of his master, following a familiar scent of his marked territory.

    Yu Zhen watched Xiao Juzi disappear into the distance. At least the servants were not awake yet. Or else they would get a fright seeing a tiger walk around without any leash and chains.

    "Giving freedom to a beast¡­how foolish she is." Yu Zhen shook his head in disappointment, mainly at himself for allowing her to convince him so easily.

    Yu Zhen continued walking again. It didn''t take long for him to reach his estate only to discover the main doors were partially opened and the usual guards weren''t around. His heart plummeted to the ground.

    Yu Zhen had never ran so quickly. He yanked the doors open violently that it nearly caused a dent in the wall. The bedroom doors were wide open, revealing the empty bed and opened windows.

    Fear gripped at his heart, squeezing it tightly. Where did she go? His thoughts raced at the possibilities of something happening to her. No one would be foolish enough to capture his Wangfei right under his watch. Who would dare to snatch the beast''s woman?

    Li Xueyue must''ve left on her own ord. But why now, when she should''ve been sound asleep in bed? His eyes narrowed.

    Had someone guided her somewhere on the pretext of bringing her to him? Who would be so stupid to carry out the order, knowing their entire family would die a painful death?

    "Yu Zhen?" A voice too sweet for this world filled the hallways. It was mellow and curious, he swore his heart flipped.

    Yu Zhen''s gaze snapped to his left. In the near distance, she was approaching him. She was apanied by the guards that abandoned their post to protect her.

    "You¡ª"

    "Where did you go?" she tiredly mumbled, reaching her hands out to grab his sleeve.

    Yu Zhen''s heart melted at her small action. She peered up at him with thoserge, innocuous eyes of hers. She was truly good at hiding her true colors. No one would ever believe the gentle Crown Princess had a tainted heart and blood on her hands.

    Yu Zhen wanted to scold her for wandering around when the sun had barely risen, and the air was still cool. He was still infuriated by the secrets she kept from him. He did not feel like arguing with her so early in the morning when she still bore the marks ofst night''s passion evidently on her fair skin.

    Yet, his body moved on its own. Yu Zhen shook her off. Not a secondter, regret nipped at his chest. Guilt prickled his heart, gnawing at his conscience.

    Hurt shed in her eyes. She rapidly batted her pretty littleshes at him, only to look away in confusion. Her brows came together to form small creases on her forehead.

    "Why are you angry?" she asked.

    Yu Zhen could see the gears in her head turning to formte a conclusion or two. No, scratch that. He could see her began to overthink every little thing that happened. But then she seized him by surprise.

    "I should be angry at you as well," she snapped at him.

    Yu Zhen blinked hard. He incredulously peered down at her, as if she had gone crazy.

    "What did you just say?" he coldly demanded, taking a threatening step in her direction.

    Li Xueyue jutted her chin up as her eyes red with irritation. A fire burned from within, tiny like her silhouette. She must''ve thought it was a me that could burn down the forest, but in his eyes, it was a meager little thing. Just a gust of wind could extinguish it. Or so he thought, for she stood her ground, even in the face of danger. She always did, didn''t she? And it was one of the reasons why he loved her so much, enough for his thoughts to be consumed by her and only her.

    God damn it. They were supposed to be arguing, and he was already thinking about those traits of hers that captured his heart¡ªsomeone that he did not know existed until she came trailzing into his life.

    "I woke up, cold and exhausted, only to find the spot next to me to be even colder. Where were you?" she harshly questioned him.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. By now, they were standing chest to chest, hers huffing with anger. He dared her to continue, and she did so with ease.

    "I was tired out because someone decided one round meant three," she snapped, poking at his chest with each word.

    Yu Zhen''s eyes were fixated on her. She was so beautiful when angered, her wordsing out breathless as a means ofposing herself. She flicked her hair behind her shoulders, revealing the spot he loved to nip and nuzzle on.

    "I went off to find you, and you have the audacity to be mad at me as if¡ª"

    "Get inside," he growled.

    She gaped at him. "Make me," she bit out.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. It seems three rounds were not enough. He did not need to be told twice. Yu Zhen hauled her on his shoulders, knocking the wind out of her stomach.

    "What the hell are you doing?!" she shrieked, kicking her feet as if it would ever do anything.

    Yu Zhen was d the pce had not woken up yet. He did not need people seeing him carry his wife like a sack of potatoes¡ªespecially when she wriggled about, and his hands itched to smack her bottom.

    "What does it look like I''m doing?" he bit out, storming into their estate.

    "Being a damn brute that''s what you''re doing!" she hissed, as he mmed the doors shut.

    Yu Zhen strolled to their bedroom, locking the doors behind him. He tossed her on the bed, her body slightly bounced on it. Her hair was sprawled out, her wristsnded near her head¡ªshe was unguarded. Her lips parted in surprise when he instantly climbed on top of her.

    "A brute?" he viciously repeated, grabbing her chin.

    Li Xueyue red up at him. "You have temper issues."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes at her. "And you are stubborn. But s, here we are, husband and wife."

    Li Xueyue licked her bottom lip, his eyes instantly following the action. "Tell me why you''re mad."

    Yu Zhen clenched his jaw. He did not want to tell her anything. The only thing he wanted to do was make her scream again, but this time, forpletely different reasons.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    That''s it. Yu Zhen crashed his lips upon hers, and unsurprisingly, she kissed him back with equal fervor. He yanked off the ribbon that held her clothes in ce. And before she could protest, he captured her wrists and pinned them on the bed and kissed her harder. There would be no means of escape. This time, he would show her no mercy, even if she would beg him.

 Chapter 434 Another Tantrum

    <h4>Chapter 434 Another Tantrum</h4>

    Li Xueyue''s mind was in daze, cloudy and incoherent. She could not speak in between his rough, punishing kisses. She tried to run from his cruel, yet passionate lips, but he had her wrists pinned on the bed. Her breathing came out shaky when he released her mouth, only for his lips to skim along the cor of her hanfu.

    "You look lovely in this dress."

    Li Xueyue did not get to respond when his middle finger ran down the center of her breasts, parting the hanfu open for him. The cold nipped at her skin, her orbs tightening. She bit her bottom lip, stifling a moan when his slick, wet tonguetched upon it. He rolled it in his mouth, the hot sensation of his twirling tongue sent her eyes rolling backward.

    "I-I haven''t recovered," she lied, despite the ache that pooled in her lower stomach.

    "Too bad."

    Li Xueyue tried to protest, but his fingers were already travelling lower and lower, until it stopped on her moist opening.

    "Brute," she gasped out when he inserted his middle finger into her. Her hips jerked against him when he curled it, pressing upon a sensitive spot.

    "Yu Zhen, p-please, I¡ª"

    He inserted two more fingers, watching as she writhed and heavily breathed out, her mouth slightly open. She let out a moan when he began to move his fingers, repeatedly hitting the same spot that made her cry out in pleasure. She gripped the nkets, her head tilting back in pleasure.

    Li Xueyue was beginning to see stars. Hershes fluttered as he let out a dark chuckle of approval. She could barely keep her eyes open enough to see his dark, taunting smile that did wild things to her heart.

    "What happened to not recovering?" he muttered, his voice low and seductive.

    Li Xueyue tried to respond, but he only increased the speed of his fingers, bringing her to the peak of ecstasy. He bent down and captured her lips, sealing a moan that sent jolts down his body. She could feel iting, building up from within her, a release that she had anticipated the second his hot mouth was upon hers.

    Just as her hips lifted off the bed, he stopped. The pleasure, his fingers¡ªeverything disappeared.

    Li Xueyue''s eyes snapped open in protest, filled with usations. He pulled out his fingers and tilted his head, as if he had not just brought her to the peak, only to let her down. Her chest was flushed, heaving with frustration. There was a mischievous glint in his eyes, highly entertained by her reaction.

    "What''s wrong?" he taunted.

    Yu Zhen was heated by her burning gaze, filled with aggravation at what he had just done to her. She was so enthralling when angered.

    "You irritate me, that''s what''s wrong!" Li Xueyue hissed. She propped herself up with her elbow, but was pushed back onto the bed.

    "Stop teasing me¡ª" Yu Zhen captured her mouth hungrily, like a man starved of touch. Their lips feverishly moved against each other, as she attempted to match his pace. The kiss was so suffocating that she could no longer think properly. She couldn''t form sentences by the time he released her mouth.

    Yu Zhen grazed his moist lips on her neck, teasing yet another sensitive spot. She unknowingly turned her head, giving him more ess. He lowered himself onto her, pressing something warm and stiff upon her lower stomach.

    Li Xueyue was intoxicated with him. And he knew it. She pulled him closer, wrapping one hand on his nape.

    "I don''t think so, love," Yu Zhen murmured, grabbing her hands, but she rested a palm on his chest.

    "Why not?" she mused, her fingers parting his clothes.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes at her. Her hands teasingly lowered itself. He watched her with hawk eyes, distracted by her teasing smile. His skin warmed with her touch, and it did not take long for her to find the source of hisrge tent.

    Yu Zhen hissed when she suddenly wrapped her fingers on it. Her touch was cold, yet he was on the brink of euphoria.

    "My fingers aren''t closing around it," she softly whispered, tilting her head.

    "Really, Sunshine?" he gritted out, "I couldn''t tell."

    Yu Zhen nearly lost it when she identally grazed the tip.

    "I''m surprised it even fits."

    My god, she was trying to kill him. Yu Zhen was sure of it. She locked eyes with him, licking her bottom lip. And he swore, it took everything within him not to yank her onto her knees.

    "Li Xueyue," he growled. "I swear if you¡ª"

    She dropped her hand.

    Yu Zhen gawked at her in pure disbelief. The rush of his blood should''ve died down, but it didn''t. She had turned the tables on him, but forgotten exactly who she was dealing with. A dark, cruelugh escaped him.

    "So, this is how you want to y."

    Li Xueyue did not understand his words, until he suddenly flipped her around. A gasp escaped her when she was brought to her knees. His rough actions only sent a thrill to course through her, her body heating from his touch.

    When he brought his hard tip towards her opening, she pleaded, "P-please wait, I¡ª"

    "Oh, Sunshine," he cruelly said. "You shouldn''t have tempted me then."

    And without warning, he thrust into her. Li Xueyue sucked in a breath, nearly passing out from his taking his full length. He was never this rough to her, forcing her to take all of it in one go, when he usually started off small.

    And before she could say anything, Yu Zhen rolled his hips, hitting the exact spot that made her cry out in shock.

    "Y-Yu Zhen, I''m sorry¡ª" he thrust harder, deeper, his pleasure growing when she tightly gripped him. Her arms gave out, but he grabbed her hair, yanking her head back as he pushed into her, then slowly pulled out, only to m right back into her.

    "Love, you should''ve apologized a lot sooner," he cooed as he firmly grasped her hips, thrusting faster, quicker, matching the pace of her erratic pants.

    Li Xueyue couldn''t even register his words. She was focused on nothing but his thrusts, her eyes rolling backward. She felt more pleasure than pain. It felt so good that tears gathered in her eyes, as she rolled her hips, desperately trying to meet his speed.

    "I-I can''t¡ª" she whispered. He chuckled at her words and sank deeper into her until she had forgotten her own name.

    Yu Zhen leaned down and grasped one of her breasts, softly fondling it, his fingers pinching at her pearl.

    Li Xueyue could no longer hold on. His hand was much more gentler than his stamina, the contrast bringing forth much more pleasure. She felt too good to even say anything else. Her legs gave out before he could finish, but he released her hair and ced his palm at her bottom, holding her up.

    "Not so fast, love."

    Li Xueyue could think of nothing but him and his asional grunts of pleasure. When he groaned in pleasure, she knew he was close, much like her. And together, they climbed towards their peak. Heat rushed to her face as her eyes went wide. Her insides gripped him tightly, as he released inside of her, the same time she found her relief.

    Li Xueyue copsed onto the bed, exhausted, her face pressing into the nkets. Her vision was blurry with tears, but not from pain or fear. She felt his lips brush against her shoulders, her breathing slowly returning to normal.

    "Are you trying to kill me?" she weakly asked. He kissed her shoulders. Then, moving her hair aside, he peppered her back with kisses, gentle andpletely different from before.

    Then, without warning, Yu Zhen suddenly flipped her onto her back. She peered up at him, her throat went dry. His eyes were ignited, burning with desire for her. He was far from satisfied.

    LiXueyue did not realize a tear had rolled down her cheek until he brushed it away, softly smiling down at her.

    "Is this another tantrum?" he teased.

    Yu Zhen brushed her messy hair away from her eyes. She was a mess, but he loved it. Her legs were still trembling as they tightly pressed themselves together. He was highly amused. As if that could ever work on him.

    "How can you have so much stamina?" Li Xueyue whispered when he bent down to gently kiss her bruised lips.

    "There is no limit to my greed for you, Li Xueyue. You should''ve known¡­" Yu Zhen murmured as he slid his fingers down her body. Goodness, he loved the color of rosy pink against her flushed body.

    "Now, be a good girl, and part your legs for me."

 Chapter 435 Are You Crazy?

    <h4>Chapter 435 Are You Crazy?</h4>

    It waste in the morning, yet they were still lying in bed, watching the sun reach its peak in the sky. Li Xueyue was exhausted, her body covered in sweat. Their bodies were still joined as one, as sheid on her side. He rested an arm over her stomach, their fingers entwined together.

    Her heart swelled when he shifted and kissed her on her head. The kiss lingered, warm and loving.

    "Shall I draw a bath for you, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen murmured into her hair. He breathed in her scent, sweet and musky, mixing with his.

    Li Xueyue wondered what had triggered him a few hours prior to this. But he seemed fine now¡­ She nced at their entwined fingers. Her other hand brushed on his knuckles that had tiny scars that had faded over time. She could not help but kiss the tiny scars, knowing he must''ve gotten them during his childhood¡ªa little boy who was constantly pushed to his limits.

    "Don''t do that," Yu Zhen muttered, as he hugged her tighter.

    "Why not?" she asked in a tiny voice, turning her head to look at him. Her heart leaped. They had just finished, but he was suddenly hungry for more.

    "Because I will want more than just a kiss."

    "O-oh¡­" she stuttered out, knowing what he meant. Then, in a smaller voice, she whispered, "I''d like a bath then¡­"

    Y Zhen smiled against her hair, dark as a raven. She was beginning to smell like him. "Hmmm, I think I''d like something else."

    "Yu Zhen!" she protested.

    "Yes, love?" he teased.

    Yu Zhen enjoyed ruffling her feathers. Her reactions were just too adorable. If she didn''t fall into his traps so quickly all the time, perhaps he wouldn''t tease her so much. But who was he kidding? He loved making her heart race.

    "Don''t be mean," she mumbled, turning in his arms to face him.

    Yu Zhen simply widened his smile. Did she think he was mean? Even though she had provoked him first? He leaned closer and kissed the tip of her nose. She crinkled it before scooting closer to him.

    "Yu Zhen?" she suddenly whispered, as her eyes darted from the left to right, like a shy little maiden.

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow, wondering what could''ve been the cause of her sudden mischief.

    "Yes?"

    She brought her lips close to his ear, as if whispering a forbidden secret. "I love you."

    Yu Zhen could''ve sworn his heart soared higher than the heavens. Then, she let out a breathless giggle, burying her face in the crook of his neck. He squeezed his eyes shut, praying to the heavens for his sanity. This woman would be the end of him.

    Yu Zhen did not know what to do with her. She was resting on his chest now, and he could do nothing but hug her tightly, closely. He had never felt so much warmth in his chest that burst forth and bloomed from the inside.

    "Sunshine, when you say things like this, I want to marry you all over again."

    Li Xueyueughed at his words, as she wrapped her arms around his neck. She squeezed him, as his hands slithered around her body. He embraced her tightly.

    "I''m never going to let you go, Li Xueyue."

    "Good, because you will never be able get rid of me," she said.

    Yu Zhen loudlyughed, his chest rumbling from the sound. He turned his chin and pressed a firm kiss on the side of her head. The poor thing, she must''ve said it as a joke, but he was the kind to take it to heart.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen quietly left the bedroom, where she was still deep asleep, and he decided to leave her there, unbothered. This time, he will keep quiet and watch her from the shadows as she deployed her revenge upon Marquis Qin. Only when he deemed it was necessary you step in, he would.

    Yu Zhen set foot into the hallway, where his servants hurriedly followed after him.

    "Instruct Hu Dengxiao to return," Yu Zhen informed one of his men.

    Yu Zhen was on his way to another ministerial meeting to inform them there was a change of ns and the finalization of the kingdom''s budget would be postponed until the next Round Table Discussion. It would be a reasonable exnation given the importance of this matter.

    His servant, dressed in full ck from head to toe nodded in response. Silently and stealthily, he disappeared from view.

    Yu Zhen was certain that he had dispatched many of these well hidden servants around Li Xueyue. In public, she would be seen with two or three guards, but in the background, concealed away from in sight, there were many more guarding her.

    ''Perhaps they could serve as more than just his eyes and hands but also his ears¡­'' Yu Zhen thought to himself. Her servants were surprisingly loyal, refusing to open their mouths about the Crown Princess''s encounters and such¡ªnot that he often asked.

    Yu Zhen decided against the idea. It would vite her privacy and she would be upset. Having protection around her was enough. She had sworn to tell him of any conflicts that should arise and he''d hold her to that vow.

    The only exception was Marquis Qin. Li Xueyue had unknowingly distracted Yu Zhen from this crucial bit.

    Yu Zhen''s usual scowl deepened. He knew the reason that Marquis Qin''s presence was kept a secret. She wanted to get her own revenge, to taint her hands in blood onest time.

    ''Why does she want to be so independent when there are resources at her disposal for her to exploit?'' he angrily thought.

    "Is Lady Lu present today?" Yu Zhen demanded from a Eunuch. He wondered about the oues of her conversation with the Prime Minister.

    "Y-Your Highness¡­" the middle-aged Eunuch dressed in green could not meet the Crown Prince''s ferocious re.

    "There were multiple reports that the Prime Minister''s office is a mess."

    Yu Zhen stopped walking. Was Lu Tianbi alright? He knew the Prime Minister was a stern man who raised his voice more than his hands. As a matter of fact, the Prime Minister had never striked his daughter and any man who would hurt even a hair on her head would be brutally punished.

    Even so, Lu Tianbi had quite a mouth on her. Now that she was an outstanding warrior with a name for herself, it is certain that she would not back down from her father''s thunderous voice.

    "Then, where is Lady Lu?" Yu Zhen snarled.

    "I-in jail."

    Yu Zhen''s gaze snapped to the Eunuch who let out a small shriek before quickly bowing his head.

    "You''re telling me," he growled, "My right-hand woman is in prison and no one has informed me of this until now?"

    The Eunuch couldn''t even swallow his saliva. He shakily nodded his head, his eyes shaking so much he was beginning to see double.

    Not knowing what else to do after displeasing the Crown Prince, the Eunuch lowered himself to the ground and kneeled.

    "Your Highness, I was wrong! I deserve a p and¡ª"

    "Kneel here until sunrise." Yu Zhen did not have the time to stand here and roast the man with his words.

    Lu Tianbi was in a jail cell, rotting away all night long for heaven''s sake!

    Yu Zhen wasted no time getting there. The prison was located near the outskirts of the pce. Its walls were lined with guards, but even so, the actual location was underground.

    No one dared to stop him when Yu Zhen strolled through therge metal doors. He rushed downstairs, his nose unbothered by the horrid scent of this ce. Prison life in the first few cells was a lot better than in the cells deep, deep in the prison where unspeakable crimes took ce.

    "... are you crazy?!" she yelled.

    Yu Zhen had to do a double take. He could not believe his eyes, and there were not a lot of things that surprised him.

    Kneeling before Lu Tianbi''s cell was Hu Dengxiao with a ring in between his fingers.

 Chapter 436 Ambush

    <h4>Chapter 436 Ambush</h4>

    Yu Zhen could not help but wonder if he had chosen the wrong subordinates. They were both his most trusted people, the wisest and strongest of his squadron, but at this moment, they were the dumbest people he hadid eyes on.

    Where should he even begin on the wrongdoings of this situation? Was it the grimy grounds that the Prime Minister''s daughter was seated on, or the orphan who was reaching for someone beyond his ranks?

    Perhaps, it was how a marriage proposal took ce in a ce where people were sent to die a gruesome death. Restless spirits crept through these hallways at the dead of the night, where echoes of their haunting lingered into the morning.

    "Hah," he sighed, pinching a spot in between his brows, not believing both of them had failed him at the same time.

    "We can run away," Hu Dengxiao urgently said as he stared down at her with pure earnestness. He continued to me himself for epting and carrying out the mission alone. He knew it would''ve been better if she was dragged along, even if his heart would be dragged through the fire, and his sanity tested.

    "Oh my goodness, when you woke up this morning, you must''ve forgotten to bring your brain out the doors!" Lu Tianbi cried out in disbelief.

    "Zhenzhen is someone that I consider my closest friend, and this betrayal will ruin us both. But he will understand. For us, I do not mind kneeling before the pce grounds for weeks just to receive his forgiveness."

    "Well, I''m d you''re already kneeling then."

    Hu Dengxiao could''ve sworn he saw his entire life dance by. From the days in the slums, dipping moldy bread hard as rocks in dirty water to soften it, to the mornings he trained his life away, to the nights where he saw glimpses of Lu Tianbi''s sleeping face in the tent.

    The Crown Prince''s aggravating voice was that terrifying. He could not for the life of him bring his gaze to the man he had nearly betrayed. The man who ced him in his shiny new position, with an ie more than anyone of his rank could''ve asked.

    "Both of you are worse than the town fools," Yu Zhen snapped.

    Hu Dengxiao bowed his head in shame, the ring still in his hand. Despite the reprimand, Hu Dengxiao heard empathy in his tone, an emotion that no one thought the Crown Prince was capable of.

    "Get up, you lovesick puppy," Yu Zhen demanded of his advisor.

    "And you," he angrily turned to Lu Tianbi. "Who the hell gave you permission to sit here pitifully?"

    Lu Tianbi rapidly blinked her eyes. She nced away, unable to voice the petty crime that got her in the situation in the first ce. She didn''t mean to flip the furniture, shatter the teacups, and yank bookshelves to the ground, but that was how the Lu Family talked¡ªwith violence and insults.

    Yu Zhen could not believe his good morning was ruined so quickly. It went by so well, with his beloved Wangfei, albeit she had also irritated him just as the sun peeked from the horizon. But she was dealt with¡­well, they were both dealt with.

    Seeing as Lu Tianbi did not n to respond, Yu Zhen turned towards the person who would. He nudged Hu Dengxiao with his foot. A disapproving scowl was on his face, his lips thinned.

    "Exin," hemanded the puppy.

    Hu Dengxiao nearly pouted. He clenched the ring, wrapping it between his fingers. What was he supposed to even say? That he had threatened the soldiers to let him pass, that he nned to elope with the Prime Minister''s daughter, that he nned on ruining two decades of friendship for one week of bliss?

    "I''m sorry," were the only words that came out.

    "You''re not a child anymore. Get up," Yu Zhen growled.

    Hu Dengxiao slowly rose to his feet, his eyes trained to the ground. If he had a tail, it would droop, like his lips, and if he had floppy ears, it would be tucked in like a neglected little pet.

    "I don''t even know what to do with you two," Yu Zhen sighed. When had the situation escted to this extent? He could''ve sworn Hu Dengxiao was sent off on an important mission yesterday. Who would''ve thought he had sidetracked and wandered into a jewelry store?

    "Firstly," Yu Zhen said and waved his hand towards the jail doors. "Open it."

    The closest soldier to the cell quickly rushed forward, the keys jangling off his belt. He didn''t even question themand, even when the Prime Minister said to keep her there until the first sunrise of the next week.

    "I threw a tantrum."

    Yu Zhen threw Lu Tianbi a distasteful look. She did what?

    "I didn''t mean to, but¡­" Lu Tianbi picked up some straw from the ground and plucked at it, hoping to distract her from fidgeting.

    "He kept on saying he''d marry me off."

    Yu Zhen''s brows crinkled. The Prime Minister had always used that as a threat, at least once a day. He had already lost count of how many times these threats were uttered.

    ?But this time, he meant it, Your Highness," Lu Tianbi muttered. "He brought in the man that I was forced to drink tea and go on an outing with before."

    Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. She still recalled that man''s face, gentle and filled with understanding. Everyone could see she was not in love with him, but with the little orphan boy who used to follow her around. Almost everyone in this pce knew of her close rtionship with the advisor.

    "I refused, and well, the next thing I knew, Father threw a teacup at me. So I tossed the teapot."

    Yu Zhen did not need to know what else happened. He had personally witnessed the chaos of Lu Family arguments. It was as if they had a superstition in the family, that during disputes, if there was not one porcin item smashed, then the family was doomed to an eternity of shame.

    "And well, I might''ve¡­knocked the suitor unconscious because it smacked him right on the head."

    Yu Zhen dully nodded his head in doubt. She could fool anyone but him.

    He knew of her excellent aim, for her hobby during training and in the battlefield was tossing small daggers. And it''dnd on the target with perfect precision. Who was she kidding? Lu Tianbi had meant to injure that man, hoping he would be scared away.

    "But I did not realize. I continued my rampage, yanking the bookshelves to the ground, flipping over tables, as Father screamed he would just marry me off to the farmer''s son."

    Lu Tianbi let out a sigh. He always said those kinds of things to her. The Prime Minister would consider the farmer''s son as a choice, but not Hu Dengxiao, who had enough prestige to overlook his less than ideal childhood.

    "Eventually, the man dropped to the ground, blood trickling down his face. And well, Father had his men drag me here."

    "You knew how to fend them off," Yu Zhen deadpanned. He had witnessed her single handedly fighting her way out of a circle of enemy soldiers that ganged up on her.

    "I do."

    "Yet you let them capture you."

    "I did."

    "Why?"

    Lu Tianbi plucked at the straw. "Because Father threatened to hurt Hu Dengxiao if I did not willinglye here and take my punishment."

    "You did what?!" Hu Dengxiao hollered. And here he was, hoping, praying that she had killed a man. At least, that way, the punishment might''ve been worthwhile.

    "It is far too early in the morning for this," Yu Zhen shook his head. "Get up."

    Lu Tianbi did so with heavy reluctance. The door was unlocked for her and all she had to do was step outside. But this would be another act of disobedience towards a father who loved her with all of his heart. His intentions were in the right ce, but his mind was not.

    "Both of you," Yu Zhen coldly said. "Go and speak to the Prime Minister again. Present the ring if you must. Threaten with elopement if it fancies you. Just don''t pull this kind of foolish stunt in front of my face again."

    Yu Zhen nced at Hu Dengxiao and for a split second, his heart faltered. What was he going to tell Yu Lingluo now, his precious little sister whose eyes followed no one but this man?

    "Now go."

    Yu Zhen shooed them off, knowing this approach would be the only one that would lead to somewhere. The Prime Minister had always privately discussed their rtionship with just one of them, and never with both of them together. This time, their ambush should yield something.

 Chapter 437 Worth The Climb

    <h4>Chapter 437 Worth The Climb</h4>

    "Well, this was certainly worth the climb through the window." The First Prince cranked his neck to the side before massaging his tense shoulders. It had been a while since he had been through such a rough scuffle. The soldiers stationed by the walls near the window were quite the experts, but they weren¡¯t the elite forces personally trained by the Second Prince.

    "Hmm...drawn muslin curtains around the bed," the First Prince remarked and stroked his chin, wondering when his younger brother had developed a preference for these things. It was a striking red that lightened up the dark, ck wooden frame of the bed.

    "Heh, I wonder what his expression would be if I wake him up right now." The First Prince mischievously crept closer to the bed, his lips curling into a devious smile. It was the only reason why he worked so hard to enter here undetected.

    The First Prince had just returned from Nanhui, not more than an hour ago. It had been a while since he had seen his grouchy and stern younger brother.

    "Hah, I wonder how his deep scowl even attracted his Wangfei." The First Prince was extremely curious about his sister-inw. Many praised her beauty and intelligence, bragging and whispering that she would not be the forgotten wife of an outstanding Emperor.

    "Too bad my brother is too heartless to even let a woman sleep in his bedroom, much less let her warm his bed long enough."

    The First Prince eyed the bloody red curtains. A new quirk, perhaps? Or just a change of look? With a shrug of his shoulders, he decided to hurry up and pull the prank. It would be bad if the other soldiers patrolled the hallway and saw their unconsciousrades.

    The First Prince was quite an excellent fighter if he must say so himself and ording to his beloved mother. He had expectedly knocked the soldiers out cold without making too much noise. It was great that the wind was howling today, warning of a rainstorm and muffling the noises.

    And without further ado, the First Prince yanked the curtains open. "Good morning, dear brother!" he hollered, knowing the man would be woken up by the noise.

    But to the First Prince¡¯s absolute horror, it was not his younger brother lying on the bed, shirtless, and scary even in his sleep. Oh Heavens, it was quite the opposite.

    The doors of the estate mmed open as soldiers rushed into the room upon hearing themotion. But they could not enter the bedroom that was locked. It could only be unlocked from the inside or with a key that only the Crown Prince possessed.

    "Crown Princess?!" one of the soldiers called out, his voice filled with panic. "Are you alright? Did something happen?"

    "Sir!" another soldier called out. "W-we just found our men, unconscious, beside the window! I think someone trespassed into the bedroom."

    "What?!" the first soldier roared in pure disbelief. "Who could¡¯ve had the strength to knock out the Imperial Pce¡¯s guards?"

    The First Prince gulped. He was worried about themotion outside, and the soldiers who could break down these doors any moment now if the situation called for it. But this was not his biggest concern, it was something else.

    "I am going to be a dead man by the next hour," he muttered under his breath, as the naked woman stirred in the bed.

    "Oh heavens..." He nced to the left and right, wondering if he should run out the same window he climbed in.

    "Yu Zhen...?" she groggily whispered, turning her head to the side.

    Li Xueyue was awoken by an irritablemotion. There were men screaming in the distance, probably outside of the bedroom. Who wasing in to disturb Yu Zhen so early in the morning? O was it still morning?

    "I-I¡¯m afraid not."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes snapped open. That was not Yu Zhen¡¯s voice. Blood drained from her face when she saw the strange man beside her bed. He was dressed in white clothes, with rolling clouds of gold.

    She shakily brought the nkets up to her chest, sitting up with a nk mind. What was she supposed to say and think in this situation?

    She screamed.

    He screamed.

    "Wait wait!" he suddenly said, realizing it was not the best idea to create even more panic. "Hear me out!"

    Li Xueyue fumbled under the pillows, searching for a weapon, knowing Yu Zhen slept with a knife. She was going to sh this man¡¯s eyes out. She did not care who the hell the other was, but he was obviously asking for a death wish when he crept into the Crown Prince¡¯s estate.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s fingers grazed something familiar, cold, and metallic. She instantly pulled out the dagger, the size of her forearm.

    "Oh my god, you are a violent little thing," he muttered, jumping back in fear when she brandished the weapon, pointing it directly at him.

    "Who the hell are you?" she growled out, clenching the nkets close to her.

    If Li Xueyue would be forced to climb out of the bed, she would truly blind him before he could see anything. Despite her fierce determination, her heart was racing, lurching, and thundering inside her chest. She was frightened and in a deep panic about her current situation.

    "Your husband¡¯s older brother, the First Prince," he quickly exined, holding up his palms in defense. "L-listen, I didn¡¯t know he slept with you or even allowed a woman to stay the night, so I thought about surprising him and¡ª"

    "Get out."

    "dly!" the First Prince whispered, dashing towards the window, fleeing for his dear life before word of this gets out.

    The First Prince made a mad dash out of the window, hopping over the wooden boards, before ncing left and right. He continued to run blindly for as long as his lungs would allow him to, and it brought him far, far away from the chaos.

    "I barely ran away with my life," he huffed and puffed by a wall in the courtyard that was lengths away from the Second Prince¡¯s estate.

    The First Prince gulped as he leaned against the wall, catching his breath. For a split second there, he thought it was hisst day in this world. His younger brother might not have killed him yet, on the ount of their mother, but this offense would have definitely drawn the line.

    "What am I going to do? What am I going to say?" the First Prince shakily thought out loud. His harmless prank was going to harm his life. It was times like this that he wished he had brought Yu Lingluo along. It was usually when his mischief happened¡ªwith an equally mischievous little sister.

    The First Prince could not help but smack his forehead, cursing and grumbling. "What a great way to meet my sister-inw... I won¡¯t even be able to live long enough to see my future niece!"

    The First Prince suddenly wished he did not return from Nanhui. The foreignnd with its strange, and scantily-dressed women, would¡¯ve been a much safer ce than the Imperial Pce, where he was born and raised.

    "How??exactly am I going to exin this to that crazy younger brother of mine?"

    The First Prince squeezed his eyes shut and let out a long, heavy sigh, knowing his death was near. The only thing he could do now was to pray and beg the Heavens that the rumors of the Crown Princess¡¯spassionate soul heart were true, for he would need all of the help he could get...

 Chapter 438 Bad News

    <h4>Chapter 438 Bad News</h4>

    Li Xueyue had never dressed so quickly. She grabbed three pieces of clothing from the closet, cing it on without hesitation. With shaky hands, she frantically tied the ribbons of her hanfu closed, so that everything was covered before finally opening the door.

    The guards did not dare to rush in, but they did look around with urgency, searching, and seeking for the thing that caused such a loud scream. Everyone was relieved to see there wasn¡¯t anyone inside, but then, what could¡¯ve caused such a loud scream? The guards could¡¯ve sworn they had heard a male voice...

    "Someone intruded through the window," Li Xueyue harshly said. "How could so many of you fail at following the safety protocols?"

    They flinched at her cold words, not expecting thepassionate Crown Princess to ever raise her voice at them. Well, she hadn¡¯t screamed or yelled, but the ruthlessness of her words was more than enough.

    "We are so sorry, Crown Princess, this will not happen again!" the guards hurriedly said.

    Li Xueyue did not present them with a glimmer of approval. She curled her lips and red. "The perpetrator was dressed in white and gold, he escaped through the window. Go find him," shemanded.

    The guards looked at each other before rapidly nodding their heads. They had never seen her so disgruntled and upset. It was a strange feeling that worried them to no avail. The wrath of a gentle woman...it was quite terrifying.

    Not wanting to face the brunt of her full wrath, they wasted no time in running off in the direction she pointed at.

    Li Xueyue watched with narrow, displeased eyes as they ran off. The few that lingered behind shuffled in their feet, bowing their heads in apology.

    "What are you guys waiting for? Go!"

    The guards were affected by her icy tone. It was too unfamiliar and made them strive harder to hear the same patient, and empathetic voice she always used.

    "We are so sorry, Crown Princess, I will have my men find the perpetrator¡ª"

    "Go and find him with your men," Li Xueyue growled. The captain looked at her in shock. When she raised a threatening brow, he hurriedly dipped his head lower.

    "A-as you wish, Crown Princess!" The captain bowed again, as his people did the same. Not a secondter, they rushed out of the door, on a mad dash to find who had the guts to sneak into the Crown Prince¡¯s estate.

    Everyone had been on high-alert, and the soldiers were exceptionally trained. Whoever got past them must¡¯ve excelled at martial arts.

    Once everyone was gone, Li Xueyue grabbed a sturdy ribbon and exited the estate. She walked quickly whilst tying her hair loosely beside her, letting it sit upon her shoulders, so that she looked slightly presentable.

    Li Xueyue nned to inform Yu Zhen of this mess. And he would be far from happy.

    - - - - -

    The First Prince anxiously paced around. He chewed at his nails, wondering what his next n should be. When he heard thundering footsteps, his eyes widened.

    Had the Crown Princess dispatched the soldiers so quickly? But how? Yu Zhen¡¯s men only followed his orders! Did that mean the rumors were true? The Crown Prince had given his Wangfei liberties far beyond what was expected?

    "Oh dear, oh dear, this is bad news," he breathed out, knowing the rest of the gossip must¡¯ve been true as well.

    The First Prince wasted no time in running off to Yu Zhen¡¯s private study, knowing it was the one ce that his younger brother was always found in. It was that or the training grounds, where men were carefully surveyed.

    "I have to get there first!" he anxiously whispered under his breath. He quickened his footsteps and ran down the hallways, but bumped into the guards.

    "First Prince!" they greeted, bowing their heads in urgency. "By chance, did you see a man dressed in white and gold..."

    Their eyes centered upon his clothing. Pristine white robes, spotless, and clean. Golden clouds rolled upon his sleeves, a few climbing up the edges of his cor. White. Gold. usations filled their eyes, but they were also uncertain and a little apprehensive.

    Had the First Prince broken into the Crown Prince¡¯s estate? It would not be a surprise if a man of his skills were able to do so. Especially since he was trained by one of the best fighters of this country, alongside the Crown Prince.

    "Who sent you?" the First Prince asked whilst hiding his hands behind him. The guards had keen eyes, and if they saw his bitten nails, it would indicate his anxiety.

    "The Crown Princess¡ª"

    "Well, go back to her."

    "We can¡¯t, First Prince, it was an order. Have you seen that man?"

    The First Prince scowled. So his younger brother¡¯s wife truly had such powers ofmanding the Imperial Soldiers. It was a power that not many had.

    "Guide me back to your Princess," the First Prince sniped. "Causing so much ruckus in the morning, she will get in trouble."

    The guards were severely puzzled. Get in trouble? With who? The Crown Prince who adored her to no avail? The Empress who couldn¡¯t even hurt a hair on her head? The Emperor who favored her? Who could dare to punish her?

    "I might have seen the perpetrator¡¯s face with my very own eyes and recognize him, I can offer her assistance," the First Prince added on. "Do not look at me like that. Hurry and take me to her."

    The guards were extremely reluctant to follow his orders. They had never suffered from the Crown Princess¡¯s full wrath before... but today, they were close. If all of them went back empty-handed, she would be furious and things would escte. No one wanted that.

    The captain jutted his chin to the side, notifying a few men to continue the search.

    "First Prince," the captain slowly said. "If I may, please allow me to guide you to her."

    The First Prince was toote to protest. The other guards had run off, searching for a man who would never be found. He held back a sigh. If only these idiots had listened to him.

    "Just take me to her. The longer we stand here, the more time we waste," he said.

    The captain bowed his head. He was heavily suspicious of the First Prince, but could not voice it yet, not unless the Crown Princess was present. She was powerful and wise. She would know what to do.

    Thus, they started the trek to the Crown Prince¡¯s estate. But when they reached there, they were met with locked doors and absolute silence.

    "First Prince, it seems the Crown Princess is not here."

    The First Prince rolled his eyes. Really? He couldn¡¯t tell!

    "Do you have any inkling as to where she might be?" the First Prince asked with urgency in his voice. He clenched his fingers together to prevent it from quivering out of nervousness.

    "As to where she could¡¯ve gone, there is one ce in mind. It is the only ce since His Highness will always know what to do. It can be concluded that the Crown Princess is on her way to His Highness¡¯s private study."

    Well, there goes the First Prince¡¯s life. He wept on the inside, knowing his time in this world was ticking and limited. It would not be long before word travels to his younger brother, and havoc is wrecked in the pce.

    "Very well. Stay here, Captain. I will go find her myself."

    The Captain opened his mouth in protest, but the First Prince was already dashing down the hallways. He was not surprised by the First Prince¡¯s stealth and speed, for the man was nimble and thin.

    "What sort of mess have I gotten myself into? And I¡¯ve only returned from Nanhui just this morning!" the First Princeined to himself as he quickly ran down the hallways.

    The Crown Princess nned toin to the Crown Prince? ¡¯Not if I can help it!¡¯ he thought to himself whilst picking up his pace.

    The First Prince ran as fast as his legs could carry him. Even when he shoved past servants who were startled to see him, even when he ran past Yu Lingluo who had paused to greet him. Nothing else mattered than getting there first.

    "My life depends on it!" he cried out, whilst struggling to catch his breath.

    The First Prince was suddenly forced to stop. His lungs were threatening to give out. A cough choked through him, just as he was prepared to turn a corner.

    The First Prince leaned against the wall, grabbing it tightly whilst heaving over, entering a violent coughing fit. His eyes watered from the intensity of the coughs rattling his body, as his chest stung.

    "If only..." he groaned, "if only I did not inherit this illness from Father¡¯s bloodline..."

    The First Prince anxiously patted at his chest, forcing air into his tightened lungs. He breathed in deeply, knowing it was a mistake to have sprinted this quickly, given the state of his feeble body.

    "I can¡¯t waste any more resting time!" he dered. "I have to get there soon!"

    The First Prince surveyed his surroundings, making sure it was the right ce. Seeing the sereneyout of stones organized in circr patterns, neatly trimmed bamboo stalks, and peaceful ponds, he knew the Second Prince¡¯s private study was here.

    "It¡¯s now or never..." he muttered to himself.

    The First Prince turned the corner and ran down the hallways, only to notice the doors opening and closing. No one had exited. Which meant two things¡ªeither the Crown Princess got here first, or the Second Prince just entered his private study.

 Chapter 439 Equally Crazy

    <h4>Chapter 439 Equally Crazy</h4>

    Yu Zhen entered his office and took a seat. He shook his head at the ruckus caused by his dear friends this morning. This was why work and romance should not mix. Too many problems would arise from this, but then again, he med himself. He had known of their feelings for each other but continued to allow the indulgence.

    "Xiao Ling is going to cry until next year," he muttered to himself whilst massaging his forehead. A headache was bound to kick in, especially with theplicated web of rtionships.

    Yu Zhen would give his younger sister a week to cry her heart out before reprimanding her for falling in love with a man out of her grasps.

    Yu Lingluo was one of the luckier Princesses who found a safe haven in everyone¡¯s hearts. She was lucky enough to not be married off to a man of the Imperial family¡¯s choosing. And who did she choose? A man ranks below her.

    "She shouldn¡¯t have gotten so attached in the first ce," Yu Zhen bit out. He lifted his brush and peered at the ink b, his lips twitching a bit. He recalled grinding the ink for Li Xueyue.

    But then his thoughts wandered back to Yu Lingluo. She was a wild-spirit with a soft heart. Her emotions were worn on her sleeves, and she was too naive. Everyone sheltered, protected, and cherished her. She was a treasure in everyone¡¯s eyes.

    "The Emperor would be furious if he learns of her feelings..." Yu Zhen trailed off, his eyes crinkling.

    If there was one thing that would trigger the Emperor, it was the wellbeing of his daughters. The Emperor had dly and readily given all of his daughters away, except for one. And there was a good reason for it.

    Yu Lingluo was always by the Emperor¡¯s side, tending to him, reading his books, and fetching his tea. She was a filial daughter with a tender heart of gold. She was not meant for the harsh environment of a foreign country, a foreign man of her parents¡¯ choosing, and so on.

    "He might even die earlier out of anger if he knows..." Yu Zhen curled a finger around his chin, deep in thought, weighing the costs and benefits of this event. The moment the Emperor dies, Yu Zhen would be crowned as the ultimate leader of the nation. No one would be higher than him in terms of ranks. Li Xueyue would be Empress, and then, no one would dare to cause trouble for her.

    "Hmm, I don¡¯t see the harm in telling him that his favorite daughter is madly in love with Hu Dengxiao then." Yu Zhen decided this would be the n. He wondered how Li Xueyue would react. Surely, she would be d to be the Empress where her troubles would go away, and she¡¯d no longer have to stress herself out whilst conversing with the current Empress.

    But then something incredulous happened, something he had never seen before. A miniature little figure popped up on his shoulders, a conscience he never considered¡ªthe angel.

    "Then, your children will never understand the love of a grandfather..." the small angel whispered.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes out of irritation. Since when did he have this soft side to him? It disgusted him to have a conscience that was actually mindful of his parents. Who brought out this strange side to him?

    "My children do not need grandparents. The love of Xueyue and I is enough." Yu Zhen began to organize the parchments, getting them ready to be addressed. Oh right, there was a meetingter on.

    "Well, you can¡¯t entertain the child every waking moment, but grandparents certainly can..." the angel nagged in a voice that sounded awfully simr to Li Xueyue¡¯s.

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. He mmed his hands on the table, wondering if he was developing hallucinations. The child would not need thepany of his grandparents when nannies and caretakers could quench their need for attention.

    "I wouldn¡¯t like that..." the angel whispered, now developing an image of Li Xueyue¡¯s face.

    Yu Zhen wondered if he was losing his mind. He rubbed at his eyes, knowing hisck of sleep was finally catching up to him. He couldn¡¯t help his bad habits. He enjoyed watching Li Xueyue sleep, enjoyed going to bedte, and waking up the earliest in the entire pce.

    Yu Zhen pinched the bridge of his nose before taking a seat again, deciding to just focus on the task at hand before the ministerial meeting began. The Emperor was supposed to attend, but he was always stuck in bed.

    Yu Zhen always attended such meetings in his ce, long before he became the Crown Prince. At a certain point, the Ministers got so used to it that they started to expect his presence instead of the Emperor¡¯s. And perhaps, this was how the Ministers slowly became morefortable with the idea of him inheriting the throne.

    When a knock sounded through the room, he let out an irritable sigh. Who was it now?

    Before Yu Zhen could tell that person to scram, the doors opened, and a head popped in. Instantly, his tiredness washed away.

    "Sunshine," he murmured, seeing her long hair cascade over her shoulders.

    Yu Zhen waved for her toe in, knowing she was the only one who was allowed to enter like this. She approached him, revealing her simple attire. Theyers on her were sheer and multicolored of white, blush pink, and sky blue, but they blended well, creating a lovely illusion.

    "What¡¯s wrong, Little Hamster? You¡¯re supposed to be asleep for a little while longer. I kept you up all morning long."

    Yu Zhen saw the urgency on her face and instantly stood up. He approached her, but her words rmed him.

    "Someone broke into our estate."

    Like a snap of a finger, he saw red. "What?" he hissed, storming to her.

    Yu Zhen firmly grabbed her shoulders whilst quickly looking over her, searching for any visible wounds on her.

    "Are you hurt?" he growled, lifting her chin to examine her neck. Had someone attempted to take her life? Who was stupid enough to pull such a daring stunt?

    "No, but¡ª"

    Yu Zhen yanked her towards him, hugging her. It reassured him to have her in his arms, tightly pressed against him. It reminded him that she was alive and in front of him.

    "I will find them and¡ª"

    "He looked like you," she blurted out.

    Yu Zhen froze. "How so?"

    "I don¡¯t know, he just resembled you and he was dressed in white and gold. I¡¯ve already sent the guards out, they¡¯re searching for him as we speak." Li Xueyue could see the violent storm brewing in his eyes.

    Li Xueyue decided to leave the part where she was still unclothed. But when the pieces were being ced together in Yu Zhen¡¯s head, she knew it was only a matter of time before he realized it.

    "I forgot what he said, but it seemed like¡ª"

    "Were you in the same state I left you?"

    And there it is. The part that she did not want him to focus on. Li Xueyue subtly nodded her head. It was a small action, barely noticeable but his hawk eyes had seen it.

    "Death will be too light of a punishment," he growled.

    Yu Zhen would need to heighten the security measures around her, including his estate. No one should¡¯ve been able to get inside without the proper identification, much less get past the guards. How was it possible that someone trespassed, unless...

    Just as he began to reach a conclusion, a sharp knock interrupted his thoughts.

    "What is it?!" he loudly demanded, his voice filled with fury.

    The door opened by a small crack, revealing a Eunuch who was shaking with fear. His head was attached to his body, but currently, it did not feel like it...

    "Y-your Highness," the Eunuch weakly said. "The First Prince is here to see you."

    The First Prince? Li Xueyue¡¯s eyebrows suddenly shot up. She had nearly forgotten about Yu Zhen¡¯s older brother. What kind of man was he? And howe it was taking so long for the First Prince to show his face around here?

    Li Xueyue had never met the man before curiosity got the best of her, distracting her from this morning¡¯s ordeal.

    "Let him in," she said whilst detangling herself from Yu Zhen.

    Li Xueyue did not make it very far. Hisrge hands grabbed her wrist, pulling her back to him, but not behind him. He needed to keep her close, or else his thin patience would snap.

    She knew it. He knew it. Everyone knew it. What kept this man sane was an equally crazy woman.

 Chapter 440 Ah-Zhen

    <h4>Chapter 440 Ah-Zhen</h4>

    Standing outside the private study, waiting for the Eunuch to finish speaking to the Crown Prince was the First Prince.

    The First Prince¡¯s palms felt mmy, as a droplet of cold sweat trickled down his forehead. He nervously licked his bottom lip whilst wiping his hands on his sides. What was he supposed to say to his younger brother?

    "Oh hey, I knocked out your guards, crept through your window to scare you, but walked in on your naked wife in bed, even though she was covered up to her shoulders, but still?"

    He nearly facepalmed himself. Such words would earn him an instant execution, that not even his mother and father could prevent. When Yu Zhen was out for blood, he would not stop until it was spilled.

    When the First Prince heard a quiet "Come in," he began to pray to the Gods internally. He pleaded with every God that he knew, regardless if they were worshipped in this country or not.

    "First Prince, His Highness has granted you entrance," the Eunuch informed with a bow of his head. He was curious as to why the First Prince¡¯s skin was so pale, as if the life was sucked out of him. His pupils were shaking and he was ready to pass out any minute now.

    "R-right," the First Prince said.

    The First Prince was well aware of his younger brother¡¯s horrid temper that was without a doubt, inherited from both parents. Many maidservants¡ªsome dead¡ª had gossipped that the Crown Prince inherited the worst of traits from his parents.

    The First Prince would like to think differently if it weren¡¯t for the dead bodies piled up. Even the King of Diyu [1] would personally wee Yu Zhen with open arms formitting so many sins, he would go down there as a legend.

    "Deep breaths, deep breaths," the First Prince whispered to himself.

    He wiped his sweaty palms together and strolled inside the private study. The doors were closed behind him.

    "My dear, beloved, fantastic, benevolent, kind, younger brother,?? the First Prince nervously babbled. "I¡ª"

    "YOU!"

    The First Prince¡¯s gaze snapped to the source of the loud, horrid scream that sounded oddly familiar. When his gazended on the woman, he nearly fainted on the ground. So the person that just entered the private study was not his younger brother, but the Crown Princess.

    "You p¡ª"

    "M-my, if it isn¡¯t my beautiful Sister-in-Law who¡¯s rumored to have a heart of gold!" the First Prince loudly dered with open arms, stepping forward with pleading eyes.

    "You are even more stunning in person!" he added on, whilst pleading for his dear life.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes at the First Prince. She could not believe the pervert was Yu Zhen¡¯s brother. Of course, how could she not have known? The only people that resembled Yu Zhen were his immediate family members. She felt like a fool for not realizing it much sooner.

    But when Li Xueyue saw the desperate look on the First Prince¡¯s face, she had a n in mind.

    "Who allowed you back into the country, Shisheng?" Yu Zhen snapped. He was hoping for Yu Shisheng to fall in love with a woman in Nanhui and stay there for the rest of his life.

    "Oh Ah-Zhen [1], we haven¡¯t seen each other in weeks and this is the loving greeting you give your older brother?" the First Prince said with a hand upon his chest.

    "This is as loving as I can get with you," Yu Zhen hissed.

    Yu Shisheng snorted at this whilst cing his shaky hands on his hips. He wasn¡¯t offended in the least by the pure arrogance and hatred disyed by his younger brother.

    Yu Shisheng was well aware of their horrible childhood that made the man that Yu Zhen was today. It was just Yu Shisheng¡¯s luck that his mother¡¯s kindness gave him empathy and kindness.

    Yu Zhen on the other hand... He received little to no love. He wouldn¡¯t understand that emotion, not even if it was defined or demonstrated to him.

    "I¡¯vee back to Hanjian, bearing bountiful chests of gifts for you and your wife, but you still treat me like a stranger, Ah-Zhen!" Yu Shishengined, crossing his arms.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes at his brother¡¯s clothing. White. Gold. It was needless to say his suspicions were right. He pointed to his older brother and nced down at his wife.

    "Does this ugly bastard look familiar to you?" Yu Zhen asked Li Xueyue. She jolted at his attention, lifting her head.

    Li Xueyue warily nced at the First Prince, then back at Yu Zhen. But the entire time, Yu Zhen was focused on her.

    Yet again, she looked back to the First Prince, but this time his expression had changed. He cupped his hands together, widening his eyes, and pleading with her yet again. He mouthed, "Please please please, spare me sister-inw, please!"

    Li Xueyue tore her eyes back to Yu Zhen. She didn¡¯t want to lie to him, but also didn¡¯t want to cause problems between the siblings...

    "You yelled out ¡¯you¡¯ when my brother stepped in here," Yu Zhen added on in a low,posed voice.

    When she turned to look at the First Prince again, Yu Zhen turned her around, blocking her line of sight.

    What was so interesting about his older brother anyway? If you asked Yu Zhen, he would just say his older brother was one of the ugliest men in this entire country, and that everyone should pity him.

    "Don¡¯t be afraid to tell me the truth, Sunshine. In this kingdom, no one will dare to hurt you." Yu Zhen lovingly touched the side of her face.

    His heart swelled when she leaned into his touch, savoring it. Then, her arms came around him, slowly, softly, her fingers rested on his lower back.

    Yu Zhen was puzzled when she came forward and hugged him deeply, her arms tight as a restraint. What was going on?

    "I can practically see the gears spinning in your head..." Yu Zhen muttered whilst resting his other hand on her waist. She rarely hugged him unless she wanted something.

    Li Xueyue bowed her head and fiddled with the edge of his belt. Her fingers ran over the silk, embroidered with intricate details, the depiction of a tiger wandering through a forest.

    "Do you recognize him?" he repeated the question, not understanding why it was taking so long for her to respond.

    "Uhm..." Li Xueyue licked her bottom lip whilst continuing to anxiously y with his belt. He shifted his hand, grabbing her chin and forcing her to look up. This was unlike her.

    "Well?" he urged in a soft voice.

    Li Xueyue knew she had a choice to make. To lie or not to lie. To break his trust or not to break it.

    If she lied, then some innocent soul would be captured and punished. Then again, who in the entire pce could afford gold clothing and embroidery threads except for other aristocrats? She didn¡¯t want an innocent life to be taken.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced with uncertainty. At times like this, she wished she wasn¡¯t so indecisive. Maybe then, she wouldn¡¯t have stressed herself out to the extent of having double visions. Her eyes began to shake and her breathing grew shallow.

    "U-uhm..." Li Xueyue swallow. "You see..." she trailed off, her eyes jumping from Yu Zhen¡¯s warm gaze to the First Prince who stood by the side still begging her to keep quiet about this matter.

    "I just..." Li Xueyue suddenly felt suffocated. She didn¡¯t realize her head was hurting until it began to throb. Her throat dried, and suddenly, her vision was blurry.

    "I-I," she whispered, her heart racing with stress.

    Yu Zhen watched in sheer horror as she slowly blinked, and just like that, her body went limp. Her knees gave out from under her, and she nearly copsed backward, if it was not for his fast reflexes.

    "Sunshine?" he whispered whilst slowly lowering himself onto his knees with her body.

    When her eyes remained close, Yu Zhen panicked. He shook her body, but she did not respond. He could feel his hands tremble to brush the hair away from her face. She was pale. Very, very pale. How had he not realized it sooner?

    "Xueyue?!" he demanded, but her eyes remained shut. Motionless and still.

    Yu Zhen hasn¡¯t felt this amount of fear and dread in a while. His heart had never fallen so fast. It was happening again¡ªstrange emotions that gripped him. It was simr to how he felt on the night he discovered her in the cave, where she was unconscious and on the brink of death.

    "What the hell are you waiting for?!" Yu Zhen roared at his older brother. "Go get the Imperial Physician and send him to my estate!"

    The First Prince gaped at his younger brother, and then at the unconscious woman in his arms. He had been rooted to the ground when he witnessed the most unbelievable thing¡ªthe heartless Yu Zhen caring for a woman.

    The rumors did not lie. Yu Zhen had truly fallen in love.

    The First Prince didn¡¯t need to be told twice. This scene alone was enough for him to know the severity of this issue.

    "R-right away, Ah-Zhen!" The First Prince ran out of the room as if it was on fire.

    Yu Shisheng could not believe his luck. Whether or not it was intentional, he had narrowingly escaped with his life! And because of that, the First Prince ran faster than ever to fetch the Imperial Physician. It was a job reserved for a servant, but for the benevolence of the Crown Princess, he ran like his life depended on it. In some sort of way, it truly depended on it.

 Chapter 441 Fleeting Momen

    <h4>Chapter 441 Fleeting Momen</h4>

    The new Imperial Physician carefully examined the unconscious Crown Princess. Sheid on the bed, unmoving, except for the steady rise of her chest. Her breathing had returned to normal but her temperature is on the higher side, warning of an impending fever.

    "Your Highness," the Imperial Physician slowly said. He rose from the chair and tucked her wrist back under the nkets.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen demanded. "What happened to my Wangfei?"

    "It seems the Crown Princess has either overworked herself or she was under too much stress which resulted in her losing consciousness."

    "What?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s brows were knitted together in worry. He peered down at Li Xueyue who had not woken up while she was being moved from the private study to the bedroom. He was the one who settled her onto the bed, took off her shoes, her socks, and even fluffed the pillow for her. He had performed the misceneous tasks usually done by servants.

    "Has the Crown Princess been under a lot of stresstely? Additionally, the miscarriage that happened a few days ago had already put a strain on her body. If she had been under a lot of stresstely, then these issuesbined could¡¯ve caused this reaction."

    Stress? Yu Zhen thought back to the scroll he found, but his thoughts kept on drifting to something else¡ªtheir passionate times in bed. How many times had they done itst night and this morning? If he recalled correctly, she was kept up all night...

    Yu Zhen cleared his throat. "Will she recover?"

    The Imperial Physician immediately nodded his head. "Your Highness, without a doubt, she will, since the Crown Princess is young and healthy. However, it seems her temperature has risen above normal, so we have to monitor her the entire afternoon and morning so that a fever would not break out."

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. Had he overdone it this morning? She was still recovering, and he did not mean to... But he could not help it. Her reactions were too erotic for him to ignore.

    Yu Zhen knew he had to be careful from this point on. However, he didn¡¯t think her body was so strained to the point of losing consciousness and developing a fever.

    Yu Zhen had so much stamina that he had forgotten not everyone was like him¡ªcertainly not his wife who was thin and frail. At least, in his eyes, she was made of ss, easily shattered and broken.

    "Since you are a very busy man, Your Highness, we can have the servants watch over her closely, and have them check on her periodically to make sure her temperature does not continue to rise."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. "No need, I will watch over her."

    The Imperial Physician nched in response, his eyes nearly popping out of his sockets. He scratched his ears, wondering if he had heard incorrectly.

    The future Emperor of this country, the leader of this kingdom, a man whomanded over hundreds of thousands of soldiers was willing to sit like a log and watch over his wife?

    The Imperial Physician nervously chuckled. "I-I beg your pardon, Your Highness?" he stuttered out, wondering if he had misheard the Crown Prince.

    "What are the measures to take to prevent a fever?" Yu Zhen asked, but his stern voice made it sound like amand.

    The Imperial Physician wondered if it was snowing in Diyu [1]... Or perhaps, there would be a blizzard in the middle of autumn. The urrence of these impossible events would be less shocking than the Crown Prince¡¯s words.

    "It is best to wait it out, Your Highness. If her temperature does rise, we will have to monitor the symptoms. For example, if she is experiencing chills, nkets should be ced on her, but if she is sweating profusely, then a cold cloth must be ced on her forehead and feet."

    Yu Zhen nodded. As far as he remembered, no one had everforted him when he was sick in his youth. The servants took care of him, but nothing cured a sick patient faster than love in itself.

    Yu Zhen did not know how tofort Li Xueyue at a time like this. Staying by her side was the only thing he could think of, for it was something he yearned for during childhood.

    "If that is all," Yu Zhen said without lifting his gaze from Li Xueyue. "Then get out."

    The Imperial Physician bowed low. "If anything does happen, please let me know, Your Highness." With that said, he hurriedly left the room whilst closing the doors behind him.

    Afterwards, the Imperial Physician stood outside briefly for a few seconds, wondering if this was real, and everything he had witnessed truly happened. People weren¡¯t allowed to spread gossip, but what he saw should never, ever get out.

    The Crown Prince finally had a weakness. And it was in the form of a tiny woman with skills of a fighter, but a woman nheless, and they were easy to ruin. Killing a woman from the inside out was a lot easier than hurting the Crown Prince himself.

    "I will vow silence," he muttered to himself, knowing his family was on the line. "And bring this secret to the grave."

    The Imperial Physician was well aware that many people were already specting, but his words could confirm their hypothesis. He decided that if anyone were to ask, he would deny the truth to Diyu and back.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue felt like she was drifting in nothingness. Her body was light and her actions were restricted. The only thing she could see was bleak darkness no matter how much she blinked her eyes and observed her surroundings.

    asionally though, she would feel a gentle caress on her head, as if someone was adjusting her fringe. Then, she would feel a loving touch on her cheek. After a while, the touching would stop, and she was left with nothing.

    Li Xueyue did not know how long she was stuck in the darkness. Before she knew it, she woke up to a blurry setting. She tiredly rubbed her eyes but found one of her hands being weighed down by something heavy.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head to the side, where she saw a familiar head of ck hair, beautiful as the midnight, healthy and shiny, like the stars.

    Yu Zhen had fallen asleep by the bedside whilst holding one of her hands. He gripped it tightly as if frightened she would slip from his fingertips.

    "What time is it...?" she whispered, careful not to wake him.

    Li Xueyue slowly sat up in bed whilst being mindful not to move her other hand. She knew he was a light sleeper and any jerk or movement would startle him awake.

    Li Xueyue winced at the hoarseness of her voice. Her throat was parched and she nced around, wondering if there was anything to drink. Her eyes brightened at the sight of a pitcher of water beside the nightstand. Without wasting time, she hurriedly poured herself a cup of water with one hand and drank from it.

    Instantly, she found her relief, as her shoulders sagged in satisfaction. Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh and ran a hand through her hair. The windows were tightly shut, so she didn¡¯t know whether it was day or night.

    "You look so stern even when asleep," Li Xueyue whispered whilst reaching a hand out to stroke the top of his head. Her palm gently rested on his hair, fondly stroking it.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart swelled when his nose twitched. She wondered if he was cold and ufortable. Sleeping in a position like this must¡¯ve been difficult. But she couldn¡¯t find it in herself to wake him up, knowing he rarely slept.

    Li Xueyue was just worried about him, that¡¯s all. She bent down and kissed the back of his head, hoping, wishing, she could just relish in this moment a little while longer. She couldn¡¯t help but smile a bit.

    Yu Zhen was not just a fleeting moment anymore, he was her forever. And it was more than she could ever ask for.

 Chapter 442 Worried Sick

    <h4>Chapter 442 Worried Sick</h4>

    Li Xueyue eventually managed to escape from Yu Zhen¡¯s deadly grip. It was a miracle in itself, considering how strong his grip was, but she supposed he was simply too exhausted. The dark circles under his eyes were telling enough.

    She quietly approached the window and pushed it open, a chilly air drifted into the room. Her attention was the sky, bright and clear. It was morning. Did that mean she slept through the entire night? She supposed so. But then, what happened?

    "I could¡¯ve sworn I was in Yu Zhen¡¯s private study," she mumbled to herself.

    Li Xueyue recalled the events that took ce prior to her fainting. What could¡¯ve caused it? She was uncertain of it. One minute she was overwhelmed with decision making, and the next, she woke up in utter darkness.

    "Hah, my life is a mess again," she sighed whilst running a tired hand through her hair. The First Prince was the one who had broken into the bedroom, but why?

    Li Xueyue couldn¡¯t evene up with a reason for the First Prince¡¯s action. She didn¡¯t know the brothers had such a closely-knit rtionship. Then again, she didn¡¯t ask Yu Zhen about it, in fear it would trigger unhappy memories.

    "The First Prince seemed quite kind, albeit very yful, much like Hu Dengxiao and the Chancellor¡¯s son, Wu Xiang," she observed.

    Li Xueyue was familiar with these types of men, for Li Wenmin was one of them. She just wondered if they had ulterior motives when they behaved like that, or was it just their personality?

    Li Xueyue had expected the First Prince to be a lot more stern or strict, maybe even resentful and sardonic. But it seemed he was far from that, considering his behavior in the private study.

    "Was it a prank?" she wondered out loud. It was the only exnation with the highest usibility.

    Li Xueyue hadn¡¯t given Yu Zhen a response that day. Even now, he must be uncertain of who the perpetrator was. Given his temper, she wondered if someone was already punished for the crime.

    Li Xueyue quietly fiddled with the ends of her sleeves and continued to contemte whether she should tell him or keep it a secret. If she kept it a secret, then the First Prince would owe her a favor. But keeping it a secret also meant an innocent life might be taken. In the end, she was still stuck. Though, having the First Prince owe her one would be quite a powerful card to pull out in the future.

    Lost in thought, she did not hear themotion outside of the bedroom until someone knocked on the doors. Instantly, Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes snapped to Yu Zhen, wondering if he was awakened by the sound. Usually, the slightest noise could stir him awake.

    "Yu Zhen?" she whispered.

    He did not respond. Li Xueyue blinked at this. ¡¯He¡¯s not dead, is he...?¡¯

    Li Xueyue chided herself for asking such a stupid question. Of course not. If he had been dead this whole time, his grip on her would not have been so tight.

    "Your Highness,??? a low, shaky voice spoke from outside the door, certain that the Crown Prince was the only one awake. "The First Prince is outside and he insisted on seeing you. He imed he has seized the medicine from the Imperial Physician and would not hand it over unless he sees your face."

    Li Xueyue raised her brows. The First Prince was bold. Even if he was the eldest son, there were not many people who would threaten Yu Zhen like this. Curiosity got the best of her, as she pulled the doors open.

    The servants flinched back as if they expected to be scolded. But relief quickly filled their eyes when they saw who was standing at the door. The Crown Princess, she was awake and well!

    Whispers quickly erupted, as many people rushed forward to greet her.

    "Keep quiet," Li Xueyue instructed whilst shutting the doors behind her. "His Highness is asleep."

    The servants were instantly thrown off by her unexpected words. He was still asleep? But the knock...it should¡¯ve woken him up. A few people exchanged knowing looks with each other.

    The Princess had been unconscious for the past three days, burning with a fever that finally subdued the midnight prior. Everyone knew the Crown Prince did not sleep during those three days. He stayed up, from morning to dusk, watching over her with sharp, keen eyes, changing the towels on her forehead diligently.

    No one was allowed to enter the bedroom except for the Imperial Physician and his apprentice.

    People had expected the Crown Prince to throw a severe tantrum at the fact that his Wangfei was ill. But no. He took his position beside her bedside like a worried wife. It was almost as if he didn¡¯t have the time to get angry¡ªwhich was a bewildering thought.

    Everyone thought he would murder someone, or even harrass the Imperial Physician. He certainly did thetter, but he didn¡¯t blow up on them as anticipated.

    "Where is the First Prince?" Li Xueyue asked. She looked around and fixed her eyes ahead, where everyone was gawking at her, including the man in question.

    Li Xueyue was puzzled. Why did her maidservants seem so relieved to see her? She had only slept through the night.

    "Oh thank goodness you are awake," the First Prince breathed out in pure relief.

    The First Prince took a step into the room, rubbing a spot on his chest, his heart feeling at ease.. Now that the Crown Princess is awake, his younger brother could finally take his position in the private study again, tackling the important paperworks, and managing the country.

    "Did you know how worried sick my brother was because you would not open your eyes for three days straight?" the First Prince informed her, shaking his head in pure disbelief.

    "Three days?!" she eximed, her mouth agape, wondering if he was lying.

    "Yes, three days!" he emphasized with a nod of his head.

    The First Prince impatiently tapped his foot and ced his hands on his hips. "I thought he would die from the amount of stress he was cing on himself just to watch over you, barely getting a wink of sleep."

    Suddenly, a lonely image shed in Li Xueyue¡¯s mind. In that image, Yu Zhen was quietly seated at the foot of her bed, his spine rigid, his face stoic, almost like a human doll.

    But there was intense mncholy in his eyes, his perfect brows slightly pulled together. His attention was solely on her, and only her, nothing else for the entire day and night.

    Even when his spine grew stiff, he continued sitting there, only moving to feed her a bit of medicine and change the towel on her forehead. He would asionally adjust her nkets, even if she did not move.

    The moonlight would flood through the window, turning his honey gold skin a pale, depressing shade of white.

    "I didn¡¯t know," was the only thing she managed to say.

    Li Xueyue did not want to dwell on such a depressing image. It hurt her heart too much, aching with disbelief and love for him. She did not think he would be this dedicated to her, which was a foolish thought, considering Yu Zhen¡¯s obsession...

    "But aside from that..." Li Xueyue lifted her gaze to him, her face turning serious and cold. "Let¡¯s discuss the events that happened in Yu Zhen¡¯s private study."

 Chapter 443 A Favor

    <h4>Chapter 443 A Favor</h4>

    The First Prince nervously gestured for his servant to set the medicine onto the table. It was practically useless now since the Crown Princess was awake, but the tonic was still hot and could still provide her body with some important nutrients.

    "Why don¡¯t we sit down?" he offered.

    Li Xueyue briefly nodded her head. She pointed towards the other side of the room, closed off by a bamboo screen. "The seats there are much morefortable," she stated.

    The First Prince nodded. He directed his people to bring the medicine to the ce she had suggested, before excusing his servants.

    Li Xueyue did the same and excused her servants. Usually, the servants would be wary of leaving the Crown Princess all alone, but her husband was less than a few feet away. All she had to do was scream, and he would be up in no time, sword at hand, and ready to kill.

    Additionally, this was the First Prince that they were talking about. He might¡¯ve not won the throne, but he was still a respectable man in this country.

    When everyone was out of the room, Li Xueyue approached the other side of the bamboo screen. She took a seat, without being mindful of the First Prince because quite frankly, she was still disgruntled by his actions.

    Who in the right mind would sneak through the window just to sneak up on their younger sibling? Li Xueyue was certain that her own brothers would not do that, even Li Wenmin would scoff at the stupid idea.

    "It was a mistake," the First Prince instantly said when he took a seat at the far end on the opposite side.

    He couldn¡¯t help but warily look at her. She was still pale from the fever, her lips blue and purple. He was surprised she even had the energy to walk and chat, especially after going through such a tiring thing.

    The First Prince thought Wuyi¡¯s women were a lot weaker than this. It wasmon knowledge that women there were treated like porcin dolls¡ªdocile, and breakable. Just a small illness like a minor fever could kill them since their bodies were not strong enough to handle the strain ced upon them.

    Hanjian was a lot different, for it was the culture for the little girls to be trained in at least one kind of sport, whether it was simply horseback riding or dancing. This helped to strengthen their bodies.

    "I didn¡¯t know you slept in my brother¡¯s room," the First Prince added on. "I had intended to surprise him with the hopes of scaring him, since he never gets frightened by anything."

    The First Prince awkwardly looked at her. "But instead of him, I scared you. I deeply apologize."

    Li Xueyue cupped the warm bowl of medicine. The smell was horrendously bitter, her nose crinkled a bit. But this only speaks of the quality, for the more bitter the medicine was, the higher its concentration and quality. She didn¡¯t really want to drink it, but wanted the bowl to heat up her cold fingers.

    "I see," was her only response.

    "Y-you won¡¯t tell him that it¡¯s me, right?" the First Prince nervously whispered, lowering his voice to the extent that she barely heard it.

    Li Xueyue observed him. She was beginning to see Yu Shisheng was a lot more timid than his younger brother. She supposed that was why the Emperor did not choose him to be the Crown Prince. He had the friendliness of a leader, but not the presence and aura of one.

    "What would you give me if I don¡¯t?" she sweetly asked.

    For a split second there, Yu Shisheng was nearly distracted by her voice. It sounded gentle and meek, whichpletely undermined her lethal prowess.

    "What do you mean, sister-inw?" the First Prince hesitantly asked, wondering if he had made the correct assumptions or not.

    Li Xueyue innocently batted her longshes at him, widening her smile. "You know what I mean."

    Yu Shisheng nervouslyughed. His fingers itched to lift a cup of tea to distract him, or at least stall time for a few seconds to contemte her words. But theck of a drink before him forced him to answer on the spot. When he saw her tilt her head harmlessly, he knew this was intentional. She did not ask for tea to be served for this exact reason.

    Yu Shisheng reluctantly chuckled, the sound brittle and defeated. He had indirectly walked into a trap. Shaking a finger at her, he couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    "You are quite wise, aren¡¯t you?"

    Li Xueyueughed at his words. The pitiful thing he was. She had a means of stalling time, he did not.

    She lifted the spoon of medicine to her mouth, blowing on it. From the corner of her eyes, she saw him slowly tense up and getting more anxious with each passing second. She wondered if he knew his legs were shaking under the table, tapping up and down on the balls of his feet.

    The First Prince was nervous.

    Li Xueyue utilized that to her full advantage. The longer he was forced to wait, the more anxious he would get. So, she took her sweet time cooling the medicine.

    "And cruel, it seems," he added on with a dry smile. "People truly underestimate you, don¡¯t they?"

    She still did not respond.

    Li Xueyue quietly drank the first spoonful. His shoulders rxed slightly, thinking she would respond. But Li Xueyue continued to stall the time. She already had a response in mind, but she wanted to see him struggle and fidget. That way, he would be more inclined to weigh on her every word.

    "Your innocent face is but a mask. A tigress pretending to be a kitten. How scary..." the First Prince muttered whilst watching her lift the next spoonful of medicine.

    In other circumstances, he could have the opportunity to nitpick. But she was a sick woman who had just woken up after three days of feverish nights.

    How could he sit back and tell her to stop drinking the medicine and answer him? It would be too scornful of him, and her husband would surely rage if he finds out.

    The First Prince enjoyed taunting his little brother with harmless pranks because anger was better than aloofness. Yu Zhen always had an emotionless face and unnervingly calm eyes.

    Yu Shisheng only wanted to see more than that singr emotion. He had already witnessed anger, but fear? Not once. That is until the Crown Princess fainted in Yu Zhen¡¯s arms. And for the first time in a while, Yu Shisheng saw it¡ªraw fear, the type to consume a man¡¯s rationality.

    "I will turn a blind eye to you," she abruptly said.

    Yu Shisheng nearly sighed just at hearing her speak. He was on the edge of his seat, wondering what she would say.

    "But," she curtly said.

    Yu Shisheng¡¯s brows scrunched together. He had sighed in relief far too early. There was a but to this? But he was her brother-inw!

    "You owe me a favor," she concluded.

    Yu Shisheng¡¯s jaw dropped open in surprise. He was the First Prince of Hanjian and the son of the fierce Emperor Yu Huoqin! The First Prince owed no one favors. Especially not to someone who married into the family.

    "No way!" he argued.

    Yu Shisheng wondered if the fever ruined her brain. What an audacious request she had just made!

    "Fine then," she wistfully said.

    Yu Shisheng raised his brows. Wait, it was this easy arguing with her? Hah, then why were thedies-in-waiting so worried about her as an opponent?

    Yesterday, he had overheard one of thedies-in-waiting whispers to each other about joining the Crown Princess¡¯s side, since there would be no way anyone would ever beat her powerful backings and wits. She was an intimidating opponent who loved to feign weakness.

    "I¡¯ll cry to my dear husband," Li Xueyue mused.

    "Y-you wouldn¡¯t."

    "Oh, but I would." Li Xueyue stirred the bowl of medicine. "And I will be mindful not to leave out the part that his poor, defenseless wife¡¯s naked body was exposed."

    The First Prince gaped at her with pure horror. She was a monster! "But my eyes weren¡¯t even blessed by the slip of your nkets!"

    "And I certainly won¡¯t forget the fact that it happened early in the morning, which tired me out even more. Theck of sleep had triggered something, causing me to faint..."

    Li Xueyue finally nced up. To her pure amusement, the First Prince was paler than the moon. His eyes were trembling at the mere thought of what Yu Zhen could, and would do to him.

    "I-if you behave like this, I will think you¡¯re as cruel as my brother."

    Li Xueyueughed at his words, cold and frigid. "I shall take that as apliment."

    The First Prince nervously gulped. He reached for a teacup, but nearly groaned. Right, there wasn¡¯t one. He could not quench his frustrations with a gentle sip of tea, his favorite beverage.

    Seeing the First Prince was still reluctant to agree, Li Xueyue raised from the table. "As a matter of fact, I will inform Yu Zhen right now."

    At this, the First Prince mmed his hand on the table and jumped up from his seat. "No need, dear sister-inw!" he blurted.

    The First Prince knew he was a fool toe to this meeting unprepared. His father would be furious to learn a mere woman had outsmarted him in every aspect. This was unlike the man he was raised to be, but then again, was that man truly there in the first ce?

    "I-I¡¯ll ept your offer," the First Prince whispered. "A favor it is."

 Chapter 444 Overstepping Boundaries

    <h4>Chapter 444 Overstepping Boundaries</h4>

    Li Xueyue believed in the First Prince¡¯s words, but she was not a fool. Words were meaningless and held no weight. Anyone could always take it back, iming it never happened.

    "Alright, please wait here," Li Xueyue stated.

    The First Prince scrunched his brows and scratched the side of his head in confusion. "Why?" he asked.

    "You¡¯ll see."

    He opened his mouth to ask more questions, but she exited from the bamboo screen. The First Prince suddenly realized she did not address him with a proper title. It felt weird. Everyone always treated him with respect, regardless of the position he had lost. But she didn¡¯t.

    "She¡¯s bold." The First Prince peered at her bowl of medicine, which was still full, but with less steam rising from the top. It was just a drink, yet it was used against him like this. He could not believe she had used this to her advantage.

    "Maybe that¡¯s why Ah-Zhen likes her so much...hah, probably not. He does not tolerate disrespect, even if it¡¯s from a beautiful woman like her." The First Prince leaned his chin upon his propped up palm.

    "He was friends with Lady Ge for so long, yet he would still look at her with disdain when she identally slipped with her address," he mumbled to himself, wondering exactly what the Crown Princess did to win Yu Zhen¡¯s heart.

    What made Li Xueyue so different? Was it because she was a foreigner, therefore, an exotic fruit? Or was it because she didn¡¯t grow up in Hanjian and had a soft touch to her unlike many women here? Maybe it was because of convenience? After all, Li Xueyue did not grow up around the superstitions and horrid whispers involving Yu Zhen.

    "Beauty never fazes him, neither does a tender heart." The First Prince was intrigued. It certainly couldn¡¯t have been intelligence either, since Lady Ge was often praised for her tenacity when it came to studies. However, being book smart and street smart waspletely different.

    Yu Shisheng massaged his head. He was getting a headache from thinking of the possibilities. Why not just ask Yu Zhen himself?

    "Mother and Father seem to favor her too. Hmm..." Yu Shisheng stroked his imaginary beard, wondering how the Crown Princess managed to sneak her way into so many frigid hearts. What a skill she possessed.

    "So many people are kind to her here, it lowered her guard, and that¡¯s why she went through the miscarriage," Yu Shisheng pointed out. He tapped his fingers on the table, wondering if he should warn her that not everyone would watch over her with a smile.

    Yu Shisheng wondered why the Crown Princess suddenly reminded him of Yu Lingluo. She too had mastered the secret art of worming into cold, stone hearts. Both of them were naive, believing this world was kind.

    "It¡¯s not my ce to intervene," he finally concluded. "Especially after she tricked me like this, hmph!"

    Yu Shisheng angrily crossed his arms, scowling at the table. His mother was right. He was too kind. If he was a monster like Yu Zhen, then no one would dare to take advantage of him like this!

    "But I don¡¯t want people to think of me as a monster..." Yu Shisheng let out a mellow sigh. "I prefer them to think kindly of me. I¡¯d hate it if everyone flinches and cower in fear whenever I¡¯m near."

    Yu Shisheng knew his father would heavily disapprove of this, but he did not care anymore. He was tired of fighting for a throne that once belonged to him. He was tired of ruining the rtionship with his only brother. Tired of being used by his mother and the Ministers.

    Just as he was lost in thought, the Crown Princess came to view. He jumped when she ced something in front of him. Where did she go for so long?!

    "You sure know how to keep people waiting!" Yu Shisheng huffed whilst snatching the parchment from her hand.

    "What¡¯s this?" he curiously asked.

    "You¡¯re not shaking anymore. I hope that¡¯s a good sign," Li Xueyue mused. She took a seat and presented him with a thin, rectangr box.

    "A...contract?" Yu Shisheng rapidly blinked his eyes and did a double take of the parchment, wondering if he had misread it. He was dumbfounded. How...? Who...? There were so many questions running through his mind. She wanted a written contract about a favor? Gosh, who hurt her?

    "If you will..." Li Xueyue opened the t box, revealing the bright red pigment.

    "Crazy and bold," he dryly said.

    The First Prince peered at her as understanding filled his eyes. "You know, sister-inw, this type of behavior will get you in trouble."

    Nheless, he took the box from her and ced his thumb firmly on the ink. "Not every man will tolerate arrogance, especially from a woman."

    "Well, that is going to change soon." Li Xueyue carefully watched as he stamped his thumbprint onto the parchment.

    She was still surprised that he was able to read her handwriting. The reason Li Xueyue took so long to give this to him was because she took her time to carefully, neatly write each character so that it was legible.

    "You speak so strangely too... Do all women in Wuyi have the liberty to not use flowerynguage? I thought it was only Hanjian who dropped that tradition," the First Prince mused. After his thumbprint dried on the parchment, he slowly moved it to her.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips twitched. Did people in Wuyi use flowerynguage? She did not know. Even with the etiquette instilled into her, she could not change the way she spoke. She had grown up all her life without being taught what was considered an eptable manner of speech. Sure, she understood the rules of using titles and bowing when needed, but this was the extent of it.

    "Well, you grew up in a life of luxury¡ªyour father was the previous Prime Minister. You must have been like a cherished flower in your family, so I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if many people pardoned your way of speaking."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. It seemed no one knew of her past, even now. She preferred it this way. Bai Xueyue died in the forest during a rainstorm. What is the point of bringing up the dead?

    She refused to let her past define her anymore. Refused to let it weigh her down, keep her up at night, and taunt her to no avail.

    "Here, this is what you wanted isn¡¯t it?" The First Prince tapped the thumbprint on the parchment, wondering why she was spacing out.

    "Yes, thank you," she firmly said.

    Yu Shisheng watched her roll up the parchment and tuck it in a pocket. He wondered if she only revealed that quiet, gentle side to her when she knew it served as an advantage.

    "I¡¯ve known you for less than a week, and I can already tell you are a woman of many faces."

    The Crown Princessughed. "Are you even human if you do not change your mask based on the people you converse with?"

    Yu Shisheng¡¯s lips parted. "I would prefer it if people showed me their true self."

    The Crown Princess shook her head, almost in disappointment. "You will be hurt if you think people will show you such kindness. The world is cruel, and people would be a fool to show you their bare face."

    Yu Shisheng¡¯s eyes briefly widened. She stood up and presented him with a nod of her head.

    "It was great conversing with you..." She kindly smiled. "Brother-inw."

    Yu Shisheng watched as she exited from the bamboo screen. He ran out of his chair, rushing to her. Without warning, he grabbed her wrist, forcibly turning her around.

    "You¡ª" He red down at her. "Are you tricking my brother by not showing him your true colors? If so, you shouldn¡¯t have gotten married to him¡ª"

    "Yu Zhen knew whom he married," Li Xueyue interrupted him. She nced down at the hand holding her wrist.

    "And I¡¯d appreciate it if you know not to overstep your boundaries," she snapped.

    Yu Shisheng immediately released her hand. He was caught off-guard by her sudden change in behavior. What just happened? She was kind a few seconds ago, but now, she was ring at him.

    "Who exactly are you?" he whispered.

    The Crown Princess cast him a side-eye before her lips twisted into a sarcastic smile. "I am just a weak woman from Wuyi, that¡¯s all."

 Chapter 445 Will You Sleep With Me?

    <h4>Chapter 445 Will You Sleep With Me?</h4>

    Yu Shisheng could not believe his eyes. It had been a while since he had seen a woman who was as cunning as his mother. They were so simr, it was too difficult to ignore. Or maybe, because their situations were too alike, thus, their lives sort of intertwined.

    Regardless, not many women had earned this much respect from him. Not even the beautiful and intelligent Lady Ge had managed to do this, despite them knowing each other for so long.

    "Right, you are just a weak woman from Wuyi," he repeated her words, his voice heavy with mirth. His eyes crinkled with a smile, as he slowly jutted his chin in the direction of the bedroom.

    "My brother tired himself out by looking after you the past three days, to the extent that tiny noises no longer startle him awake. I don¡¯t know if I should be amused or worried," he added on.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s attention shifted to the closed doors. She also didn¡¯t think Yu Zhen would sleep for this long, but it seemed he was truly exhausted.

    "Perhaps both," she responded before slowly nodding her head again. "Well, it was pleasant conversing with you, First Prince."

    The First Prince scoffed at her words. "It was far from pleasant, especially after I was swindled by you."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips twitched. At least he was being honest. "Have a good day, First Prince," she said whilst guiding him to the door.

    The First Prince curtly nodded his head. "You too, I suppose." He exited out of the estate and shut the doors behind him.

    Li Xueyue let out a small sigh of relief. She approached her bedroom, and quietly slipped inside. She was surprised to see Yu Zhen was still asleep. He remained in the same position as before¡ªhe was seated on a chair, his head resting on the edge of the bed.

    "I wish you will sleep for this long all the time," she whispered.

    Li Xueyue approached the closet and pulled out a thick cloak lined with fur on the inside. She folded it over her forearm and brought it to Yu Zhen. Slowly, gently, she draped the cloak over his shoulders. But this tiny action, unlike her caress before, was enough for him to snap his eyes open.

    Li Xueyue yelped when his hands roughly grabbed her wrist, holding it in ce as he clenched upon it.

    "How dare you¡ª" Yu Zhen¡¯s voice died off.

    Li Xueyue blinked once and he was out of the chair. There was a bewildered, disoriented look on his face. His eyes shook with disbelief.

    "Xueyue," he whispered.

    Before Li Xueyue could speak, he was already standing in front of her.

    Yu Zhen yanked her into a rigid hug, holding her dearly against him. Her entire body was enveloped by his arms.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s face was pressed against his chest, her arms hanging loosely on her sides. He had moved so quickly, she wasn¡¯t able to react in time. He was shaking. She could not recall a moment when he seemed so terrified like this. Her heart ached for him.

    Slowly, surely, she wrapped her arms around him. Li Xueyue hugged him tightly, her palms pressing onto his upper back. She knew he needed this hug more than anything else.

    "And before you ask," she whispered. "This is not a dream."

    His chest rumbled with a small, low chuckle. "You know me so well, don¡¯t you, my Wangfei?"

    Li Xueyue could do nothing but smile. Her eyes gently fluttered shut and she held onto him. "It is something I pride myself on."

    Yu Zhen could feel his heart quickening at her words. She was proud of knowing so much... No one ever wanted to know much about him, for they couldn¡¯t even get close enough to him, much less, strike up a conversation about his personal life.

    "You must¡¯ve been so worried," she quietly said whilst stepping back a bit.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s heart lurched. He tightened his grip on her, worried that she would slip through his fingers, like the nightmares that tormented him.

    There were too many times that fate yed a cruel trick on him. He hade too close to living in a world without her. He could not fathom a life in this world without her. Life would be so bleak and colorless again, a world of grey and ck.

    "I don¡¯t even know if I should scold you, or feel relieved," he bit out whilst settling both hands on her hips, squeezing it.

    Yu Zhen peered down at her. She was pale and thin, but she had always been like this, giving the appearance of a ss castle threatening toe tumbling down. But there used to be a lot more color in cheeks, filled with life when she smiled.

    "How about neither?" Li Xueyue whispered. She rested a palm on his shoulder and gently cupped the side of his face with the other.

    Yu Zhen leaned into her touch. She always had a way of soothing him without knowing it. It was small actions like this that reminded him she was very much real, and it was not a dream.

    "Just pretend that this is another morning as usual, and nothing happened." Li Xueyue¡¯s fingers trailed over the small stubble growing on his jawline.

    "Well, this is certainly different..." she pointed out.

    Yu Zhenughed. He ced his palm over her knuckles, knowing it must¡¯ve tickled her. "I was too upied with you," he exined.

    She pressed her lips together and curled it into a frown. "I appreciate that you stayed by my side during all this time, but please don¡¯t do it again. It ces so much strain and stress on you."

    "I will continue doing it¡ª"

    "Then, let¡¯spromise, please? Seeing you in pain hurts me. My heart also aches when I see you so exhausted."

    Yu Zhen held back a sigh. Why did she always know how to deal with him? She was getting better at it, it would have scared him if she wasn¡¯t his beloved wife. From knowing the right actions to calm him, to saying the right words during a negotiation, she had already learned all of his in and outs.

    "Please?" she muttered, leaning closer to him.

    "You can¡¯t just seduce me when I can¡¯t do anything to you," he grumbled out.

    Yu Zhen was too consumed by fear to do anything for the past three days, except sitting here and watching over her. He was aggravated that she had pushed herself to this extent without telling him about any of her troubles. But something about her naivety told him she was ignorant of her own body.

    "I¡¯m not seducing you," she shot back, despite resting her head on his chest.

    Yu Zhen cradled her head, his thumb stroked her hair, soft and silky, despite being unwashed for three days. Her roots were a bit oily, but it didn¡¯t even faze him. He was d that she¡¯s awake and well now.

    "And pigs fly," he scoffed.

    "I¡¯m sure there is a way of making them fly," Li Xueyue responded with augh. "Maybe in the future, someone will figure out a way."

    Yu Zhen snorted at this. "I doubt it."

    Instead of retorting, she peered up at him and shed a smile that reached her eyes.

    Yu Zhen could¡¯ve sworn his heart leaped. Everytime he was with her, his heart would do strange things. It was indescribable, and he did not like how cliche it made him feel.

    "Since you¡¯re so fond of taking care of me, and not yourself, whilst it¡¯s vice versa for me, how about you let me take care of you now?"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. "What are you nning?"

    Li Xueyue grasped his hand and brought him towards the bed again. She took a seat and patted the spot beside her. "I¡¯m certain you did not sleep for long. You should take a nap."

    Yu Zhen firmly shook his head. "No, you have not eaten a decent meal for a while. I need to ensure you consume at least a few spoonfuls of porridge."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head a few times. "That is doable. Afterwards, will you sleep with me?"

    Yu Zhen would have normally teased her for saying something as suggestive as this. But he didn¡¯t want to rile her up too much, especially when she had just recovered.

    "My dear Wangfei, I will always sleep with you."

 Chapter 446 If The Moon Was Split In Half

    <h4>Chapter 446 If The Moon Was Split In Half</h4>

    After Li Xueyue shared a meal with Yu Zhen, she was able to convince him to go back to bed. He tried to get her to sleep first, but she refused to buy any of his excuses. She went as far as staring nkly at the ceiling in defiance.

    Finally, Yu Zhen gave in and closed his eyes as well. Li Xueyueid on her side, watching him slowly, but surely drifted off into dreand. And soon, she joined him as her eyelids shut and she, too, fell asleep.

    And without realizing it, both of them slept until the next morning.

    Li Xueyue sat up in bed, puzzled and bewildered by the change of day. "He¡¯s always gone before me," she mumbled, touching the empty spot beside her. It was slightly warm which meant he had just left.

    "Maybe he didn¡¯t want to disturb my sleep," Li Xueyue concluded, knowing he preferred for her to rest more. But if she did that, then her ns would be dyed by another day.

    Li Xueyue slipped out of bed and began her morning routine. First, she took a bath, then ate her breakfast, and now, she sat by the vanity as the maidservants prepared her for the day.

    "It¡¯s already been three or four days, the dagger should be ready," Li Xueyue whispered to herself.

    "Pardon, Princess?" Xiao Hua hummed as shebed Li Xueyue¡¯s hair, careful not to roughly tug at thetter¡¯s long, silky hair.

    "Nothing you should worry about," Li Xueyue said with a slight smile. She peered at the vanity mirror and saw Xiao Hua¡¯s thin fingers slowly tuck away flyaways.

    "All set?" Li Xueyue asked when Xiao Hua took a few steps back to admire her work.

    "Almost, Princess. We just have to put in a few hairpins and you will effortlessly be the most beautiful woman in the pce," Xiao Hua calmly said with a smile, believing it was the truth.

    Li Xueyue did not respond. She fondly smiled and allowed Xiao Hua to adorn little pearls into her hair.

    "It¡¯ll look like snow is falling upon you, Princess," Xiao Hua exined in a low, collected voice.

    Li Xueyue couldn¡¯t help but be soothed by Xiao Hua¡¯s tone. The handmaiden didn¡¯t force herself to sound energetic and bright, nor did she try so hard with thepliments. It was as if Xiao Hua truly meant all the words that came out of her mouth, which made her seem more earnest.

    Regardless of the reasons, Li Xueyue preferred Xiao Hua as the closest handmaiden to her. It also helped that Xiao Hua had taken great initiative during the bathhouse incident to help her.

    "There, we are all finished, Princess," Xiao Hua whispered. She stepped back and watched with awe as the Crown Princess stood up. Other maidservants came forward withyers of clothes for the Princess to slip on, toplete her look.

    Li Xueyue was dressed in a hanfu, blue like the ocean, withplementary colors of white and light grey like the skies before a storm.

    "Are you certain we should wander so much?" Xiao Hua worriedly asked in a tiny voice. She yed with her fingers and bowed her head knowing she was overstepping her boundaries as a mere servant. But she couldn¡¯t curb her tongue, especially when she was so worried for the Crown Princess¡¯s wellbeing.

    "It¡¯s fine, I will just have a small talk with the merchant and nothing more," Li Xueyue stated.

    Xiao Hua firmly bobbed her head, hoping this was the case. The Crown Prince had given strict warnings that his Wangfei was to remain in their bedroom, undisturbed. But Xiao Hua didn¡¯t want to force it upon the Princess to remain in the estate, especially with how easily she gets bored of everything.

    As Xiao Hua was lost in thought, she had not realized she had automatically followed the Crown Princess out. They were now outside, and leisurely walking down the hallways.

    Xiao Hua wondered if the Crown Princess knew the trespasser from that morning had been caught. There was a servant who had been dragged into the jail cells, but the punishment was currently unknown. They said the servant was wearing the colors white and yellow, which was a bit peculiar, but many said it was because the servant was known to be a thief...

    "I am thirsty," Li Xueyue murmured as she turned to Xiao Hua. "Prepare tea that¡¯s suitable for the weather."

    Xiao Hua rapidly blinked her eyes. She was confused, until she saw the leering merchant from a few days ago out of the corner of her eyes.

    "Right away, Princess," Xiao Hua mused with a slight smile. She bowed her head and scurried, already knowing the n.

    The Crown Princess was apanied by too many people for her to sabotage the merchant on purpose. But Xiao Hua knew the Crown Princess was not that fond of the merchant. What better way to ruin that elderly man than to serve him tea that¡¯s unsuitable for his age?

    - - - - -

    "Ah, Crown Princess!" Marquis Qin readily greeted her. He instantly stood up from his chair whilst forcing his brows together. He ced a hand on his chest and softly frowned.

    "I heard you had a fever and was bedridden for three days! I hope you have recovered, Princess," he urgently added on. Sympathy oozed from his expression, but it never reached her.

    Li Xueyue stood there and nearly rolled her eyes. For someone who had lived this long, she was expecting a better performance from him.

    "The new Imperial Physician was very peculiar. I have connections to acquire some highly effective medicine from Nanhui that I thought would help you but he did not want to ept my help," Marquis Qin irritably said just as the Crown Princess took her seat.

    Even now, Marquis Qin ridiculed the young Imperial Physician. He wanted to prove himself to be of even more use to the Crown Princess, especially with her husband present.

    "As you know," Marquis Qin said. "I supply the Emperor¡¯s much needed medicine that preserves his life at least a month longer each time he takes the pills, but it seems the new Imperial Physician is too inexperienced to know that!"

    Marquis Qin quickly looked at her, wondering if she was disinterested in the topic. But her indifferent expression was enough encouragement for him to rattle on.

    "Only I have ess to such progressive medicine that would have woken you up in half the time! Princess, I believe it would be better to rece that useless physician with someone of my rmendation who has a better supply of medicine!"

    He peered at her again, but her expression didn¡¯t change. She just sat there, as tranquil as a woman could be. He licked his bottom lip. Wuyi women...they just knew how to present themselves in the most elegant way possible!

    "And because he took so long to heal you, Princess, yourplexion was ruined by him. How about I rmend you a few products¡ª"

    "Where is my dagger?"

    Marquis Qin¡¯s mood soured at the question. That pesky dagger! He fumbled with his next words, careful not to make a fool out of himself.

    He went through great pains to acquire the damn de. It had been a little over a week since his previous discussion with the Crown Princess, but the dagger was still not in his hands!

    "You see, Crown Princess. That foreign kingdom is just too ruthless! I¡¯ve sent my people there and they have all returned with their heads shipped in boxes, it was quite a gruesome sight."

    Marquis Qin slowly shook his head in disappointment. So much manpower was wasted just to acquire the dagger.

    There were even threats that if the kingdom spots his ship again, they would burn it to crisps. And seeing what happened to his servants, Marquis Qin knew it was not a threat but a promise.

    "I see."

    Marquis Qin frowned a bit. She was so calm despite hearing the tragic news. How could she be so heartless? He thought she was a lot morepassionate than this!

    "Yes, my pitiful people..." He let out a dramatic sigh and looked to the side.

    Marquis Qin had wasted so much resources just to locate the kingdom that sold the dagger shaped like a crescent moon. He knew the kingdom was wary of strangers, but didn¡¯t know it was to this extent! He was deeply offended by them.

    "Those people are barbarians, Princess! I¡¯ve never seen a country so damn wary of trade. Don¡¯t they know it would improve their economy?" he huffed.

    Marquis Qin was reluctant to give up, but with so much losses, he knew it was time to put a halt to this task.

    "However," he said, with an energetic smile and change of his tone. "I was able to get my hands on a lovely pair of earrings."

    Marquis Qin waved his hand and sure enough, his men came forward carrying a box with gloved hands. They set down the satin box, red like apples. He pushed the box towards the Crown Princess and prayed to the Heavens she would ept it.

    "What do you think?" Marquis Qin eagerly asked as the Crown Princess gestured for a maidservant to pick up the box.

    Marquis Qin held his breath when the maidservant slowly opened the box. He could feel his heart rise with excitement when the earrings were presented to the Crown Princess.

    "Look at how beautiful the topaz is! It appears as if the moon was split in half and ced into the jewelry!" Marquis Qin excitedly boasted.

    He grinned. "Lovely, isn¡¯t it?"

    Marquis Qin readily watched the Crown Princess, eager to see her astonished expression. And when her gazended upon the item, she did something he did not expect.

    The Crown Princess turned to a handmaiden who appeared behind her. A cup of tea was poured for her, and him.

    Without saying a single word, or acknowledging the essories, the Crown Princess took a sip from the teacup. And that was it. Nothing else, nothing more.

 Chapter 447 My Sincerity

    <h4>Chapter 447 My Sincerity</h4>

    Marquis Qin wondered if the Crown Princess was trained in the art of making people wait¡ªbecause the Crown Princess excelled at it. She sat there, unbothered and unfazed at the shiny gems presented to her. As a matter of fact, she even seemed bored with the items.

    "How is the tea?" she mused.

    Marquis Qin lowered his head and peered down. There was an aromatic drink presented to him in a blue teacup rimmed with pure gold.

    What an expensive tea set this was¡­ He wondered how she got her hands on it, or if it was just one of the Crown Prince''s many possessions, much like she was.

    "It smells¡­" he trailed off. He took a whiff and nearly winced. "Delightful," he lied.

    Marquis Qin did not fancy sweet or floral teas unless they were bitter chamomile or earthy chrysanthemum. But the drink offered to him was everything he despised.

    Nheless, he lifted the teacup to his mouth and took a sip. His taste buds protested when the overly sweet tea touched his tongue. It was rosehip with way too much sugar.

    "Lovely, isn''t it?" Li Xueyue repeated his words with a tight smile.

    Marquis Qin''s palms suddenly became sweaty. What was this feeling? Was he ufortable in her presence? It was a hrious thought! Him? Ufortable? Because of her? She was just a woman! A teeny tiny one inparison to his big frame.

    Her bones looked as if they were made of twigs and ice, easily breakable under his fingertips. She looked fragile that a child could smack her, and her jaw would shatter.

    But Marquis Qin knew better than to think that way. He was there when she pointed a sword at the Princess of Nanhui. He was there when she lifted her arrows and shot a bird dead in the eye. He was not a fool, but with age, his sharp mind was bing dull.

    "You expected to be served tea that would suit your taste," she muttered. "Instead, you get a disappointing and subpar drink."

    Marquis Qin knew what she was implying. The beautiful Crown Princess, dazzling as she was, had the tongue of a snake. It was sharp and it stung him. He felt like a fool for forgetting the first rumor that floated about her: the candidate who talked her way out of Hanjian.

    The Crown Princess was an intelligent and witty woman.

    He sneered on the inside. He hated it when women learned to read and write. What was the point of it when they were bred to be wives? It would''ve been a lot better for them to learn how to please their husbands, and look pretty instead.

    "It seems I''ve ruined your mood with this horrible tea," she said.

    Li Xueyue ced her teacup down and shed him with a disapproving frown that hinted she expected better from him. Letting out a wistful and disappointed sigh, she rose from her seat.

    "Next time, I will keep in mind to bring you what you like to drink," Li Xueyue apologetically said. She turned on her heels, concealing an amused smile. She could feel Marquis Qin''s re burning a hole through her head. And he must be wishing she would drop dead right then and there.

    "Such a shame, Princess," Xiao Hua softly sighed with a shake of her head. "It seems this merchant has grown too senile and unaware of the trends."

    Li Xueyue''s lips twitched. "Hush now, I am sure the Marquis has his reasons," she whispered, pretending to keep her opinions on the down-low.

    "You''re right, Princess! Since this encounter was an utter disappointment, I must remind you of the next appointment with the merchant who has been eager to meet with you?"

    At the handmaiden''s words, Marquis Qin''s head snapped up. He didn''t want to give up on the Crown Princess''s request, but with the troubles he was forced to go through just to acquire a damn knife, he was beginning to have doubts about fulfilling her request.

    Yet again, she had provoked him with words that did note directly from her mouth. Marquis Qin ground his teeth. What made her so cunning and sly? Howe a girl as young as her was this conniving? Who taught her to be this way?

    s, Marquis Qin decided not to speak about it. She was just taunting him again. His morale was already low from experiencing great difficulties with this trade.

    Truthfully, he was uncertain of whether or not the deal would actually go through.

    The benefits were immense, but the costs? Was it truly worth his valuable resources?

    "Ah yes, the other merchant who supplies the Emperor''s medicine," the Crown Princess responded. "Please inform him that I wish to see no one until my body has fully recovered."

    Marquis Qin jolted at her words. His head snapped up in surprise. Was he overthinking everything? He was surprised. For a split second there, Marquis Qin thought she would ept the offer in front of him¡ªwhich would be a big p in his face.

    "Wait, Princess!" Marquis Qin suddenly blurted out. She couldn''t leave empty-handed, could she? It was unlike him not to bring small gifts or trinkets for all of his customers. They wereplementary, of course, for everyone loved free things, even the rich and wealthy.

    "I was rambling so much, I almost forgot," he continued and cheerfullyughed, pleased that she was still on his side.

    "Since your Imperial Physician is so stubborn, I must personally present this medicine to you. You do not need to consume it. All you need to do is just to rub it on your temples and it will relieve any aches and pain."

    Marquis Qin dug into his pockets and presented a small, metal box to the Crown Princess. It was smaller than the size of her palms, but the design of the box was beautiful.

    Li Xueyue eyed the item before her lips curled in a soft smile. "I''ve already troubled you with my request for a special dagger, I couldn''t possibly ept this¡­"

    Li Xueyue knew he must''ve been frustrated by her difficult request. Truthfully, she knew it was difficult to acquire the dagger since it was too rare for him to get his hands on it. Seeing him struggle and stress like this brought her great satisfaction.

    But if he suffered too much, then he would be too aggravated and eventually give up on this request. She couldn''t have him doing that. It would ruin her ns.

    Thus, this tiny glimmer of hope should be enough for him. Li Xueyue had already pointed out the wrongdoings of his actions¡ªrecing her dream dagger with other things.

    "Oh no no, Princess, you must ept this, I insist!" Marquis Qin hurriedly stated. "You see, I give small gifts like this to thank my customers for their precious time."

    Li Xueyue forced herself to look a bit glum. "I see¡­" she trailed off.

    Shebed back her stray hairs, her smile slipping a teeny tiny bit. "And here I was," she said andughed, "believing it was just a gesture reserved only for me."

    Marquis Qin resisted the urge to p his mouth. He had been too talkative and eager to please her but it backfired on him. As a result, she was far from happy with his actions.

    The Crown Princess began to turn on her heels again. She gave him a curt nod and bid him goodbye. For a split second there, her mask slipped, and she seemed a little upset.

    Marquis Qin was worried. He couldn''t have this new customer walk out on him so unhappy and have an unpleasant memory of theirst encounter.

    "W-wait, Crown Princess!" he called out whilst carefully looking around for something to make up for his second mistake.

    "You are one of my priority customers, far more special than the majority of them," he exined.

    Marquis Qin gulped when his eyesid on nothing else to give her but the earrings. It was supposed to be his way of speaking between the lines¡­ He was hoping for her to take the earrings and forget about the dagger. However, that hope was crushed by his next set of words.

    "To show my sincerity towards you, how about you ept not only this medicine, but also the topaz earrings?"

    Marquis Qin watched with keen eyes as her lips parted in shock. She was taken aback and nced at him for a brief second before looking at the medicine in his hand.

    "Well then," she lightly mused. "If you insist so earnestly, I''ll have no choice but to ept both of your gifts."

 Chapter 448 All Alone

    <h4>Chapter 448 All Alone</h4>

    Li Xueyue nced down at the satin box in her hands, closed and t as before. She passed it to Xiao Hua and smiled at Marquis Qin onest time. Then without another word, she walked out of the pavilion, and headed down the hallway that led to her estate.

    She could barely contain her victorious smile. Her lips twitched, and she worked hard to maintain herposure. Biting down on her bottom lip, her mouth still curved into a satisfied smile.

    Wordlessly, everyone entered the estate. Li Xueyue took a seat near one of the tables which had a vase made of ss with fresh flowers in it.

    "Hydrangeas?" she murmured, touching the petals.

    Suddenly, Li Xueyue was glum. Her high spirits fell to the ground, her attention drifted elsewhere. These hydrangeas reminded her of her mother. She missed the Li Family dearly, so much so, that her heart ached a bit at the thought of them. She wished to see them soon, but there were too many social repercussions.

    Yu Zhen would probably say "To hell with them, let''s go to Wuyi," but she had to be mindful of the rumors. After all, if she were to visit Wuyi, he would surely want to tag along, despite her protests. And if she went alone, people would think something happened to their marriage.

    ''It''s not good for wives to visit home so early¡­'' Li Xueyue let out a sigh.

    "Princess, shall we ce this box near the vanity?" Xiao Hua piqued, noticing the Princess''s glum face. She hoped to distract the Princess from her mncholy, even if it was for a split second.

    The Crown Princess''s attention snapped to the box. For a brief moment, Xiao Hua saw confusion in her eyes, as if the Princess was unsure where she was.

    "Are you feeling alright, Princess?" Xiao Hua whispered. She took a step closer to the kind woman. "If needed, the Imperial Physician is onemand away, Princess."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She had been lost in thought and forgotten where she was. She didn''t know why, but the thought of the Imperial Physician irritated her. Everyone treated her as if she was a fragile flower. Sometimes, she did not mind it, but other times, she felt suffocated. So many people were watching her, even though their eyes were glued to the floor.

    She pulled at her cor a bit, suddenly wanting to be alone. It was strange. She generally preferred to be near people, since it was less lonely.

    "No need," she finally said.

    Li Xueyue rose from the chair. She turned her back to the hydrangeas and proceeded to the bedroom. Abruptly, she halted. Her gaze brieflynded on the box.

    "Xiao Hua," she mused.

    "Yes, Princess?" Xiao Hua instantly said.

    "Keep it."

    Xiao Hua rapidly blinked her eyes out of shock. Her friends behind her gaped in response, their mouths falling open in disbelief. Everyone looked at each other, wondering if they were to believe their ears.

    Xiao Hua peered down at the fancy box in her hands. Suddenly, the item felt heavy, much like her shoulders.

    "Princess, I couldn''t possibly ept this¡ª"

    "You acted well very early on when I was struggling," the Crown Princessplimented.

    "But¡ª"

    "It''s a gift for your wits and quick thinking. I hope you like it," the Crown Princess calmly

    added on in a light and airy voice. She gingerly opened the doors to the shared bedroom.

    "No one is to bother me unless I call for Xiao Hua," she softlymanded before shutting the doors behind her.

    A few seconds of pure silence passed before Xiao Hua''s friends quickly hounded her. They excitedly crowd around her before pulling her out of the doors, and into the hallways, where the Crown Princess wouldn''t be disturbed by their excitement.

    "Oh my goodness, Xiao Hua, you are so lucky!" her friend rushed out, grasping her hands out of awe. "You''re always so quiet, who would''ve thought it was to hide your intelligence from us?"

    Another quickly chimed in, "Now that you have gained the Crown Princess''s favor, don''t forget about us!" she joked with arge grin. "You must tell us your secrets, Xiao Hua."

    "Ah-Ting is right! What did you do to make the Crown Princess like you so much? It seems like she speaks to no one but you nowadays. Well, she used to converse with our Head Maidservant Tianxi a lot¡­"

    Xiao Hua was overwhelmed with their endless questions. Her palms became mmy, as a cold sweat broke out. She was unnerved by their behavior. All of them were her peers, but it wasn''t like she was particrly close with them.

    She nced down at the box in her hands, wondering if this was more than a simple gift. It had to be, right? Which aristocrat would give their servant something as expensive as this?

    Xiao Hua nervously licked her lips, which were suddenly dry and parched. She was a lot smarter than the majority of her friends who only cared about climbing the socialdder, instead of focusing on the job they were blessed to have.

    When Xiao Hua looked at the satin box again, she instantly understood. By giving away this priceless gift in front of so many servants, the Crown Princess was setting an example. Loyalty, intelligence, and diligence will be rewarded with gifts.

    "Don''t get so mesmerized by this gift, Xiao Hua! Come,e, you must tell us how you won our Crown Princess''s heart! We''ve served her all this time, but she never acknowledged us to this extent."

    Xiao Hua''s thumb brushed on the tiny, golden lock of the box. She lifted her eyes from the item.

    "It seems like the Crown Princess is resting," she finally said in a low, collected voice. "It''s best for us to keep our voices low to not wake her."

    Her friends moaned and groaned theirints. "Don''t be so unfair, Xiao Hua. We are friends, we should help each other. Remember when I nudged you during the bathhouse incident?"

    "Yeah, I even helped take over your chores for half a day when you had to urgently visit your family¡­"

    Xiao Hua felt burdened by the Crown Princess''s generosity. She couldn''t even force a smile, much less, address their whines all at once. They made it seem as if she never helped them before, whether it was lending her ribbons out, or covering for any sick servant.

    Now that she had a small taste of sess, everyone was suddenly reminding her of every little deed they did for her.

    "Well¡­" she trailed off, unable to speak when their eyes snapped to her. All of them looked so eager, they reminded her of baby chicks.

    "You just have to serve the Crown Princess with earnesty and sincerity, instead of dreaming beyond your position," she eloquently said.

    Murmurs arose at her words as they whispered amongst themselves before their lips broke out in gigantic smiles.

    "Xiao Hua, it seems you''ve grown a lot wiser these days! We remember when you were shy and scared of everyone in this pce."

    Xiao Hua nodded her head. And before she could say anything else, the servants hurriedly conversed amongst themselves, digesting and breaking down her advice.

    Xiao Hua tuned out their chatter. All of them were talking to each other, finding ways to serve the Crown Princess even better than they''ve already been doing. The thing was, no one dared to ck on the job, especially after the public torture of Xu Jiaqi. Thus, it was difficult for everyone toe up with ways on being even more diligent.

    However, Xiao Hua didn''t want to contribute to their conversation. Whilst everyone talked amongst themselves, busy as bees, she worriedly nced at the closed doors of the estate.

    "I''m worried¡­" she whispered to herself, not even bothering to open the box. "The Crown Princess slept so well, why is she suddenly retreating into the bedroom?"

    Xiao Hua tucked the box under her arms, and wondered if it would be wise to enter the room, just to check up on the Crown Princess. ??She''s all alone in there¡­"

    Xiao Hua knew it would be difficult for the Crown Princess to call for one of them if it was only her inside of the bedroom. Should something happen to her, and she couldn''t climb out of bed, what then? The Crown Princess would be forced to yell for someone¡­it would hurt her throat.

    "I will be punished for this, but it''s better to take my chances¡­"

    Xiao Hua slipped away from her friends and towards the doors of the estate. The guards exchanged nces with each other before letting her through without any difficulties. She wondered why¡­but didn''t have to think for long.

    It might''ve been because everyone was now aware of Xiao Hua''s position. She wasn''t just a simple maidservant that served the Crown Princess. Xiao Hua was now one of the Crown Princess''s people.

 Chapter 449 A Book About War

    <h4>Chapter 449 A Book About War</h4>

    Xiao Hua quietly slipped into therge room and closed the door. She nced around and ced the satin box on the table where the hydrangeas were.

    "Did the Crown Princess not like hydrangeas?" Xiao Hua wondered out loud whilst tilting her head. It was a beautiful flower, full of colors and life. "I think it was a gift too, but I¡¯d have to ask the other maidservants who sent these."

    Xiao Hua decided to save that task forter. She departed from the table and walked to the other side of the room. Lifting her wrist, she knocked upon the bedroom door.

    "Crown Princess, are you alright?"

    Xiao Hua heard a faint response that sounded simr to "Come in." Without wasting any more time, she wrapped her hand on the door handle and opened it.

    Stepping into the room, her eyes did a quick sweep, in case something needed to be addressed. s, nothing was out of ce, except the Crown Princess who sat by the vanity with an open book.

    ???What are you doing in here, Xiao Hua?" Li Xueyue asked without lifting her eyes from the book page. She ran a finger on the thin paper, memories of the main houseing back to her.

    "You should be showing off the earrings to your friends, to let them praise you in awe," she added on whilst flipping to the next page.

    "It¡¯s out of my ce to do so, but I was worried... Princess," Xiao Hua whispered. She closed the doors behind her, but stayed by it.

    "Come closer," Li Xueyue said. She didn¡¯t have to turn her head to know Xiao Hua was too obedient to approach without amand. However, sometimes, the maidservant would act on her own, much like now, where she entered the estate even though Li Xueyue didn¡¯t call for her.

    "Everytime I look at you, your brows are knitted together..." Li Xueyue muttered whilst ncing at Xiao Hua for a brief second. "You¡¯re young, but if you keep stressing your body like this, you will get wrinkles."

    Xiao Hua touched her forehead, almost as if she was surprised to feel the soft ridges of her knitted brows forming a crease on her head.

    "Have you ever read a book about war, Xiao Hua?" Li Xueyue asked. She returned her attention back to the book in her hand. She hid the amusement in her eyes. For a moment there, Xiao Hua had the appearance of a puzzledmb tilting her head.

    "No, Princess... Servants are not allowed to own such violent books."

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. It was understandable, since these books could give them unwanted ideas. "Well, this isn¡¯t just a book about killing people," she said with augh.

    From the corner of her eyes, she saw Xiao Hua blush in embarrassment whilst she anxiously pressed her thumbs together.

    "It¡¯s called The Art of War," Li Xueyue said whilst showing the open book to the handmaiden. "My father had rmended for me to read it a few years ago. I¡¯ve finished it within the first week, but it¡¯s nice to reread it again."

    Visible curiosity was on Xiao Hua¡¯s face, but she nodded her head nheless. She pressed her lips together, seemingly wanting to say something, but the rules of the pce held her back.

    "When you¡¯re with me, speak freely. But only you are allowed that privilege," Li Xueyue said.

    She could see Xiao Hua¡¯s body jump in surprise, her head snapping to her. Li Xueyue continued reading. Her fingers flipped to the next page, but her attention wasn¡¯t focused on the words.

    Li Xueyue hadn¡¯t read this book in a while, but pulled it out for old time¡¯s sake. The hydrangeas had reminded her of the Li Family, and this book was one of the few connections she had to them. That, and her pendant, which was safely tucked inside the vanity.

    Li Xueyue let out a quiet sigh. If only the bandits hadn¡¯t attacked her...then she would have a bit more items from the Li Family. But she¡¯d like to believe the bandit and their families had suffered too much cruelty from war, which influenced their actions.

    Of course, she always exchanged letters with the Li Family, with the bird that her father had gifted her, but no amount of writing would beat physical connection.

    "I-I will try too, Princess," Xiao Hua said in a voice soft and calming.

    Li Xueyue was intrigued by how quiet this maidservant was. All of the servants rarely spoke to her, but this one seemed very different. It was like Xiao Hua wasn¡¯t forcing herself to be demure and quiet, thus, everything always came off as more genuine.

    "You must find it so strange that I am reading this book," Li Xueyue mused.

    "Not at all Princess, you are one of the cleverest women in the pce, it¡¯s normal for you to enjoy this book," Xiao Hua stated.

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. Now, it was no longer part of her nature to rejectpliments just to humble herself. It was just Xiao Hua and her, no one else.

    Eventually, afortable silence passed over them. Xiao Hua stood beside the vanity with her hands tucked in front of her.

    Li Xueyue continued reading, with one finger resting on the next page. She didn¡¯t mean to engage so deeply in the materials written here, but they were too helpful and she wanted to absorb more knowledge. A few of the tactics listed in the book could prove useful to the Round Table Discussion.

    "I should ask Yu Zhen when the next one is going to be...the earlier we act on my suggestions, the better," she mumbled to herself.

    Li Xueyue nced at Xiao Hua for a brief moment and decided standing there would be too tiring.

    "Prepare the tea and afternoon snacks," Li Xueyue instructed Xiao Hua who bowed her head in response.

    Li Xueyue read onwards, even when she heard the quiet click of the doors being shut behind her. Yet again, she was alone in this bedroom, with the only source of noise being the asional turn of pages.

    Consumed by the words and details, she didn¡¯t realize how much time had passed. Until, eventually, the doors opened again, and someone stealthily entered.

    "ce everything over there," Li Xueyue mindlessly said whilst pointing to the small, round table that faced the bed, but was near the window.

    Li Xueyue decided it was better to enjoy tea and pastries by the open window, where a refreshing breeze would blow upon her. Though, she wasn¡¯t sure if the unruly wind would be appreciated, since it often flipped the pages.

    Li Xueyue heard a heavy thud. She frowned a bit. That didn¡¯t sound like a tray with tea and pastries being ced down. But she flipped the leaf to the other page, her eyes glued to the book.

    "Is everything alright?"

    No response.

    Li Xueyue settled the book onto the vanity. She turned around, her eyes filled with uncertainty. But then she saw him, and the corner of her lips lifted.

    "What are you doing here?" she asked in a voice more cheery than anticipated.

    "Do I need a reason to see my wife?" Yu Zhen teased whilst approaching her.

    "What¡¯s in the box?" Li Xueyue inquired. She pointed to the spot near the table, where tworge chests could be found.

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow. "Your husband is here and that¡¯s the first thing you care about?"

    She rolled her eyes at him. "Are you going to return all of my questions with another question?"

    "Would you like that?"

    Li Xueyue resisted the urge to chuck the book at his head. She usually enjoyed their yful banter, but in the spur of the moment, she wanted to hit him.

    "Just answer my questions," she sighed.

    Yu Zhen ced both of his hands on her shoulders. His touch was warm and she leaned into it.

    "You seem disgruntled," he murmured whilst bending his upper body for her. His lips brushed against her ears.

    "Why is that?" he asked whilst kissing the side of her head.

    Li Xueyue yed with the edges of the book. She was mindful of his heated gaze that watched her fingers.

    "Well?"

    Li Xueyue shivered at his voice, deep and velvety. She could never get enough of him, could she?

    "I don¡¯t know," she admitted in a tiny voice, her lips pulling into a pout.

    Li Xueyue could not understand how quickly she shifted from irritation to begrudgement.

    "You¡¯ve learned to whine more," Yu Zhen pointed out with a slight smile. His fingers grazed her jawline, skimming it carefully.

    "I know," she sighed. "I used to not whine at all... I¡¯ve changed too much since meeting you."

    Yu Zhen widened his smile. How was it possible that he was entertained by herints? "It¡¯s because you¡¯ve grown morefortable with me, enough to cry and whine."

    "Is that a bad thing?"

    "In normal circumstances yes," Yu Zhen said. "But you¡¯re far from normal, so I¡¯d say no."

    Li Xueyue scoffed in response, but could not hide the smile on her face. She found it was strange that even with the Li Family, she rarelyined... It wasn¡¯t because they didn¡¯t allow her to do so. She was just worried about burdening them. Her fear of disappointing them also didn¡¯t help.

    But in Yu Zhen¡¯s presence, she felt toofortable and secured to hold back her thoughts. Li Xueyue would never believe, not even in her wildest dreams, that there would be a life like this...

    And without knowing it, she whispered out, "I¡¯m so d to have you in my life."

    Yu Zhen let out a smallugh. "And the rest of this pce is grateful to have you in mine."

 Chapter 450 Heart and Soul

    <h4>Chapter 450 Heart and Soul</h4>

    A few days went by in the blink of an eye, and soon, it was the day of the Round Table Discussion. Li Xueyue had woken up earlier than Yu Zhen, for she wasn¡¯t able to sleep the entire night. But that wasn¡¯t what bothered her the most.

    She had an upset stomach all night long, and when the morning came, everything spiraled out of control.

    Her dinner from the previous night came back up and she threw up first thing in the morning. The sound instantly startled Yu Zhen awake. He shot up from bed, holding back her hair before calling for a maidservant to fetch the Imperial Physician.

    "No!" she protested whilst sharply turning to the maidservant. "I¡¯m fine, just clean up this mess."

    The maidservant worriedly nced at the Crown Prince, uncertain of who she should obey. His Highness had always instructed every single servant that the Crown Princess¡¯s orders were the final...but now that they had contradicting orders, who should she follow?

    "Go," the Crown Princess demanded.

    Since the Crown Prince had been silent, the maidservant hurriedly ran out to grab the cleaning supplies and inform the other servants.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes at his wife. The contents of her stomach were literally a step away from their bed. And she didn¡¯t want to see a doctor?

    "I just ate too much yesterday night, that¡¯s all," Li Xueyue whispered. She tightly gripped his sleeves and wiped her mouth with a handkerchief.

    "And after eating so much, we made love for half of midnight, s-so it must¡¯ve been that," Li Xueyue exined.

    "Exercising on a full-stomach would make anyone sick," she added on in a low, urgent voice.

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. She just loved to neglect herself didn¡¯t she? His Wangfei was made of ss, but she acted like she was forged from metal.

    "How can you be so damn stubborn?" he growled, irritated that she was behaving like this. His eyes shed with sadness when her lips trembled a bit and she frowned at the bed. Suddenly, she was upset. What happened?

    "The Round Table Discussion will start soon," she muttered. "We shouldn¡¯t be arguing like this."

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t know what to do with her. She was always concerned about other things but not herself. Why was she like this? It was a trait he despised in her. She waspassionate towards everyone but herself.

    "You shouldn¡¯t neglect your health like this," he coldly told her. "Or else you will get a fever again."

    "I only got it because you tired me out!" she protested, her head shooting up. usation burned in her eyes, bright like the sun.

    Yu Zhen let out a small sigh. "My stubborn Little Hamster..." he bit out whilst pulling her to him. She was effortlessly lifted and ced on hisp. She leaned and rested the side of her head on his shoulder.

    Yu Zhen could not argue against her words. He had always overworked her in bed, but it was for a good reason.

    He had noticed that she didn¡¯t experience a nightmare the night after they consummated their marriage. So he decided to confirm his theory by tiring her out in bed a few nights in a row and he noticed the pattern right away.

    "You¡¯ll have to swear you¡¯ll see the Imperial Physician shortly after the Round Table Discussion, is that clear?" he firmly ordered.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her arms around him, wounding one around his neck and the other around his shoulder. She rested on him, her legs straddling either side of him.

    "Sunshine."

    "I just love you so, so much Yu Zhen..." she whispered whilst nudging her face into the crook of his neck. "Thank you for caring about me when I forget to..."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s heart clenched at her words, his chest warming up. He let out a small sigh. What exactly was she doing to him? He never thought this feeling was possible.

    Even so, he couldn¡¯t help but find the humor in her words. He cared for no one but her, to the point of where he neglected himself. But she was right there to pick him up, and care for him. The irony was simply too evident to ignore.

    "You can¡¯t just say things like this and expect me not to love you even more," Yu Zhen muttered. He stroked the back of her head, his other arm resting on her upper back.

    When she didn¡¯t respond, and simply hugged him tighter, his gaze softened. And without warning, he stood up with her in his arms, earning a sharp gasp from her. She was forced to wrap her legs around him, holding on for dear life.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "You¡¯ve yet to swear to me, Sunshine," he mused whilst carrying her out of the room. The maidservants had entered to clean up the mess she made, and he¡¯d prefer for her to be elsewhere.

    "I¡¯ll call for the Imperial Physician immediately afterwards," she told him.

    Yu Zhen slowly nodded his head. He approached a polished wooden bench in the other room, with a firm cushion topping the seat.

    "I don¡¯t see why you can¡¯t see him now," he said whilst settling down onto the new chair.

    Yu Zhen made sure she wasfortable by adjusting her position on hisp. She was no longer straddling him, which was a relief.

    He had been tortured by her previously, when she identally rubbed against a tender spot that hardened instantly from her touch. Even though they both wore ayer of silk robes, it still felt as if he was naked.

    "I just don¡¯t want the Imperial Physician¡¯s diagnosis to linger on my mind and distract meter, that¡¯s all," Li Xueyue exined to him. She lifted her head from his shoulder and frowned a bit. Even though she wasfortably seated on hisp, he was still half a head taller than her.

    "You¡¯re frowning again," he pointed out. His thumb brushed the corner of her mouth, curious about what¡¯s on her mind.

    "Why is that?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue rested her palm on his face, only to angrily pull at his cheeks. She was aggravated when her fingers were met with skin, and no meat or fat to yank.

    "Why are you still taller than me?" she demanded.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyebrows shot up in surprise, before he burst outughing. She groaned in irritation, as he hoisted her closer to him, hugging her even more. She was so endearing that he could not help but want to squeeze the life out of her.

    "What am I supposed to say to that?" he retorted with a roll of his eyes, despite therge smile resting on his lips. He could not wipe it away, no matter how hard he tried.

    "Our children better inherit your height," she huffed out whilst crossing her arms.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s smile widened at this, his eyes crinkling with joy. She had thought about his children? Even at a time like this? He could not help but lean forward and cup her face.

    "I would not mind if theye out miniature-sized like you," Yu Zhen teased.

    She gaped up at him, highly offended and astonished. "You bully!"

    "There, there," Yu Zhen chuckled whilst kissing her forehead. "I¡¯m sure our little Princesses wille out just fine."

    "Princesses?" she repeated. "What about Princes?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips twitched. He had just confirmed she wanted more than one child... He was ted by the news, his heart racing a bit.

    "Princes and Princesses," he corrected himself. "They¡¯ll alle out perfectly fine, so don¡¯t fret so much, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen noticed her skepticism and smirked. "But if not, I¡¯ll just me you." Heughed when she angrily smacked him on the shoulder before grumbling under her breath about his bullying.

    "You¡¯re mean," she snapped.

    "dly," he teased.

    Li Xueyue scoffed at his words. She crossed her arm and jutted her chin to the side, refusing to talk to him anymore.

    "And I¡¯ll also pray they do note out as stubborn and childish," he added in a yful voice.

    "Hah, that might be hard when you¡¯re also stubborn and childish!" she scoffed in an irked voice.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s smirk deepened. "Hopefully, they¡¯ll also know bigger vocabry words so they don¡¯t stealebacks."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. "And hopefully, they have enough manners to not taunt their partners."

    "Taunt?" he repeated, his thumb caressing the side of her face. "I am merely stating the facts, Sunshine."

    "Your facts are wrong."

    "Perhaps you think that, but I beg to differ," he mused.

    "I¡¯m done arguing with you," Li Xueyue huffed out. She climbed off of hisp, but her feet barely grazed the ground before his arms slithered around her waist. Her back was pulled to his chest as he rested his chin upon her shoulders.

    "Such a grouchy Wangfei I have..." he teased with a slight smile before kissing the side of her face. "But I love her regardless, don¡¯t you think so?"

    Li Xueyueughed in response and reluctantly nodded her head, knowing it was the truth. He loved her despite all of her faults, just as she loved him with her entire heart and soul.

 Chapter 451 Ugly Ra

    <h4>Chapter 451 Ugly Ra</h4>

    Li Xueyue was feeling as nervous as the first time she stepped into the spacious meeting room. The same table greeted her, round andrge. No one was in attendance yet. She came together with Yu Zhen this time, unlike the previous time when she came alone and everyone had arrived earlier than the meeting time and was already seated.

    "Don¡¯t be nervous, I¡¯m right here," Yu Zhen said from behind her. He ced a hand on her lower back, and guided her to her seat.

    "I thought this was Representative Wu Shiming¡¯s seat," Li Xueyue said when he forced her to sit down beside him. At the memory of the snarky man dressed in green robes, her lips twitched. He was difficult to read. His yful nature made it hard for her to gauge his true personality.

    Were all of the people in the Wu Family like that? She recalled Wu Xiang, the Chancellor¡¯s son, was also very yful with Yu Zhen despite how dangerous it was.

    "He¡¯s probably too worried about his agriculture ns to care about a mere seat," Yu Zhen said. He sat down at the head of the table which was directly beside her.

    "You spoke too soon, Your Highness," a voice spoke from the door.

    Li Xueyue shifted her head to see the Representative of Agriculture step through the entrance. As always, he was dressed in green, but this time, there were subtle yellow trimmings on his clothes.

    "My favorite seat is usually one that¡¯s beside you..." Representative Wu Shiming trailed off, his eyes twinkling when it met with the Crown Princess¡¯s.

    "But since such a beautiful backside is upying it, I do not mind giving it up," he concluded. The Representative eagerly nced at the Crown Prince, expecting a juicy reaction. But the Crown Prince merely scoffed whilst a Eunuch poured him a cup of tea.

    "Aren¡¯t you going to show your possessiveness, Your Highness?" Representative Wu Shiming glumily said. He could¡¯ve sworn his cousin, Wu Xiang had mentioned the Crown Prince was quite possessive of his wife. Evidence of that was showcased during thest meeting.

    "Aren¡¯t you scared someone is going to charm your wife away?" he added on in a teasing smile. "Someone like me...?" he trailed off, cing a hand on his chest before winking in the Crown Princess¡¯s direction.

    Li Xueyue responded by lifting the cup of tea to her mouth. She turned a deaf ear to his cheekyment.

    His lips twitched. Both of their reactions were so nd! He wanted to see some anger, some irritation, but s, there was none! Why were both of them so calm today? It was boring.

    "The tea is good," Li Xueyue said to YuZhen with a slight smile.

    Representative Wu Shiming¡¯s mouth dropped open in surprise. Had both of them just ignored him?! He was quite offended by this.

    "It¡¯s bitter," Yu Zhen pointed out with a slight frown.

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. Wasn¡¯t he a fan of bitter teas? "Yes, but it¡¯s oolong, so that¡¯s not a surprise."

    In a low voice, he muttered, "I know you do not enjoy oolong."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips parted.

    Before she could say anything, Yu Zhen turned to the same Eunuch and in a quiet voice,manded, "Prepare chrysanthemum tea."

    "I like chamomile more..." she told him in an equally low voice.

    Yu Zhen firmly shook his head. "Chrysanthemum is healthier for you."

    Li Xueyue couldn¡¯t figure out why. Don¡¯t they have the same health benefits? But something about his darkened gaze made her question her thought. Did he know something that she didn¡¯t?

    "It¡¯ll also taste better," Yu Zhen told her. "Chamomile will make you sleepy."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head, but she felt as if it wasn¡¯t the main reason. She turned her eyes in time to see Representative Wu Shiming had taken the seat directly opposite of her. When their gazes met, he winked again, but she ignored it.

    Were all of Hanjian¡¯s men this yful? She noticed not many of the younger generation were stern...but maybe all of them were an expert at concealing their actual faces.

    "You didn¡¯t get jealous this time," Li Xueyue whispered to Yu Zhen, realizing he hadn¡¯t lost his temper. "I like that."

    Yu Zhenughed at this. He brought the teacup to his mouth, enjoying the woody taste of the oolong.

    "I know you only have eyes for me, there is no need to upset you with my jealousy," Yu Zhen mused.

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow. That wasn¡¯t what happenedst time. But she kept her mouth shut and focused her attention back at the door. It had opened again, this time, revealing Duke Han and Commander Zhang.

    Duke Han bore his usual scowl that revealed the deep lines on his face. His eyebrows, bushy and white, shot up at the sight of her. It was almost as if he didn¡¯t expect her.

    "Your Highness," Duke Han greeted with a bow of his head. Without another word, he walked into the room, only to freeze. The Crown Prince had a dark, threatening glower on his face.

    Duke Han jumped at the sound of ravens. He looked behind him, wondering if he was hearing things. Upon seeing there was nothing there, he awkwardly cleared his throat. Whenever the Crown Prince seemed that irritable, it wasn¡¯t difficult for people to hallucinate of death, for it was not a threat, but a promise.

    "Crown Princess," Duke Han finally addressed. She caught him by surprise when her lips pulled into a slight smile as she nodded her head.

    Duke Han¡¯s lips twitched. He had expected for her to be childish and bratty by ignoring him and looking away. Somehow, it was a pleasant greeting, but he¡¯d never tell anyone that.

    "Hmph," he muttered under his breath before he reluctantly walked to his usual seat only to halt. Why the hell was that damn Representative Wu Shiming sitting next to him?! He could¡¯ve sworn this man was always seated beside the Crown Prince!

    But before Duke Han could protest, he earned a slight shove from Commander Zhang. "Don¡¯t just stand there, old friend, take your seat. It¡¯s not going to bite."

    Duke Han¡¯s frown deepened. He grumbled unpleasant things under his breath and angrily pulled out the chair. He plopped himself down and glowered when Representative Wu Shiming leaned close.

    "Trust me, you old hag, I also don¡¯t enjoy sitting here beside you. Had I remembered this was your seat, I would¡¯ve moved," Representative Wu Shiming said.

    "You can still move," Duke Han barked out. "There are no assigned seats here, even if people usually sat in the same spot."

    "Ah, but knowing I can rile you up from directly beside you is too much fun to be ignored!" Representative Wu Shiming stated, with a p of his hands. "But of course, old hag, you can sit somewhere else, though I doubt anyone would appreciate you taking their seat!"

    "As if you aren¡¯t stealing someone¡¯s seat!" Duke Han shouted with a rough re. Old hag? This brat was getting more and more gutsy by the day!

    Representative Wu Shiming shrugged his shoulders. "People won¡¯t mind. You¡¯re the only one who likes to stick to your usual seat, as if it would bring you good luck or something."

    "Just get away from me, you ugly rat," Duke Han barked.

    Representative Wu Shiming snickered. "As if anyone would want to get close to you."

    "You¡ª"

    "Announcing the entrance of Her Grace!" the Eunuch loudly dered, startling everyone.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart sank. What happened to the Emperor? Was he alright? Did his health worsen? She feared so... No one seemed surprised by the Emperor¡¯s absence, almost as if they had expected it. It was then she realized Yu Zhen was seated at the head of the table, which was a spot usually upied by the Emperor.

    Even Yu Zhen knew the Emperor would not be here. Li Xueyue pressed her lips together a bit, lost in thought. It seemed this time, the Emperor was truly too sick toe out of bed.

    Li Xueyue nearly jumped when the Empress took a seat beside her. She was confused, but not repulsed. Shouldn¡¯t the Empress sit near her son?

    "You seem to be glowing..." the Empress pointed out with a slight smile. "That is good to see, especially after the incident a few days ago."

    Incident? Li Xueyue¡¯s brows lifted a bit. Did she mean the fever? Nheless, she smiled. "Thank you, Your Grace."

    "The men are back at it again, aren¡¯t they?" the Empress mused whilst turning her attention to the bickering Duke Han and Representative Wu.

    Li Xueyueughed. "And they say women are too emotional to lead."

    At her words, the Empress¡¯s smile widened, reaching her eyes. "Indeed."

 Chapter 452 Little Kids

    <h4>Chapter 452 Little Kids</h4>

    Eventually, more people trickled into the room. And when nearly all of the seats were filled, except one, therge doors were closed, a low rumbling sound apanying it.

    Representative Wu Shiming was the first to speak. He gave a long-winded report about the performance of their agriculture sector, and stated that their budget this year was sufficient, but it¡¯d still be nice to get a slice of the war budget. His words earned a sharp protest from Commander Zhang.

    It was today that Li Xueyue learned he wasn¡¯t a gentle giant. His voice was curt and cruel, but his words were sharper than his sword.

    "You useless baboon!" Commander Zhang roared, mming his fist onto the table. "Why the hell does the agriculture sector need more money when Hanjian¡¯s soil is fertile as it is, and the crops are plenty?!"

    Representative Wu Shiming flinched back a bit as he touched his ears, wondering if it had bled from the roaring bear. "L-let¡¯s all be civilized here, Commander Zhang," he said.

    Representative Wu Shiming was not afraid of arguing with his seniors, but Commander Zhang was always difficult to deal with. Many people found it difficult to go against him, since his voice was louder than thunder, and his re fiercer than the brightest mes.

    "This is why little kids like you should go back into the yard and y instead of disturbing us adults!" Commander Zhang growled. "Now sit back down you babbling baboon!"

    Representative Wu Shiming groaned on the inside. Out of all the people he had provoked, it just had to be Commander Zhang. Usually, the old and wise Commander was quiet. He preferred to be in the background, talking only when necessary.

    But whenever the discussion involved the military, Commander Zhang would spring up and intimidate everyone into submission.

    "No need to yell at me as if I am a child..." Representative Wu Shiming muttered whilst reluctantly taking a seat. His well-thought out n was sted to smithereens, just like this. He didn¡¯t even know what else to do or say aside from obeying the fearsome Commander.

    "Hmph, youngsters these days are getting dumber and dumber," Commander Zhang barked out. "They need more education!"

    "Precisely, Commander Zhang," a sharp voice spoke from close to him.

    Commander Zhang did not expect the feminine sound, soft like cotton. He turned his head, and saw who had agreed with him. It was the same little girl fromst time, the Crown Princess. She was as tiny as he had remembered, but with the same guts as before.

    "It¡¯s precisely why I would like to conclude Representative Wu¡¯s presentation with an idea of my own."

    Representative Wu Shiming didn¡¯t even bother to look at the Crown Prince and ask for the voting process to proceed. Commander Zhang had already seized control of the situation. People would be more likely to agree with him, since arguing with him would be too difficult.

    "And what do you have in mind, Princess?" Commander Zhang said in a low, rumbling voice.

    "Instead of pouring the war budget in the agriculture sector, we should allocate it towards education," Li Xueyue spoke up.

    She saw Duke Han narrow his eyes, almost as if he already knew what she was going to suggest.

    "Bah! Not this idea again!" Duke Han scoffed whilst rolling his eyes. "Do you hear the Princess, Commander Zhang? Wasting the precious war budget on educating themoners, what an atrocious suggestion!"

    Duke Han leaned forward and interlocked his fingers together. "I agree with Commander Zhang, the war budget should remain as it is, and should not be diverted anywhere. It is better to put it in the reserves and let it build up in case there is another war."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She didn¡¯t think Duke Han would be the type of man to not touch the war budget. He seemed far too greedy. She thought he would suggest the budget would be spent on the kingdom.

    She didn¡¯t have to think too far out to know what Duke Han was doing. He was purposely siding with Commander Zhang, since thetter was currently one of the strongest voices in the room. Siding with the strong was not a surprising tactic, especially from the cowardly Duke Han.

    "So you suggest we should just let the war budget rot in a closet room, forever untouched until we need it again, Duke Han?" Li Xueyue said.

    "Precisely, Princess!" Duke Han agreed in a loud voice. For once, he sounded pleasant. "You understand my ims quite well, Princess. I am very proud of you!"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. She had fallen directly into his trap. "Do you want to ruin the economy of Hanjian?"

    Duke Han¡¯s brows shot up in surprise. What did she mean?

    "Year by year, we let that money go untouched and unused, but still gather..." Li Xueyue ominously shook her head. "I can¡¯t imagine what would happen to the value of Hanjian¡¯s money."

    Duke Han fumed at her words. How dare she use him of having heinous thoughts against Hanjian! He had devoted his entire life for this country and wouldn¡¯t mind sacrificing it for the benefit of the Kingdom.

    "I object! What an absurd im you make!" Duke Han growled. He didn¡¯t want her to continue speaking, because the more she did so, the higher chances she¡¯d have at convincing the people.

    "Listen to me, Princess, I¡ª"

    "Furthermore," Li Xueyue nced around the table, her attention upon Commander Zhang. She was surprised he was actually letting her speak, instead of belittling her into nothingness.

    She continued, "Hanjian is allied with all four surrounding nations of this massive continent. Why should we allocate the war budget annually only for it to go waste?"

    The Crown Princess nced around the table, making direct eye-contact with each and every person, which forced them to pay even more attention.

    She added on, "Of course, umting it there does have its benefits. But the cost of not using the funds immediately severely outweighs the benefits of storing them."

    "I am still talking to you, Princess," Duke Han seethed. He scowled at her. How dare she interrupt a man when he¡¯s talking? Did her parents teach her nothing?! Bah, some Princess she was!

    He shot out of his chair and loudly said, "The taxes on the aristocrats have been too high. If anything, the money should be returned to us, aspensation for all of the money that we¡¯ve been contributing to the Kingdom!"

    "You¡¯re suggesting we should make the rich, richer, and the poor, poorer?" the Crown Princess deadpanned in utter disbelief, her eyes widening a bit at him, as if she could not fathom such atrocity coulde out of someone¡¯s mouth so confidently.

    "Yes, Princess, I¡¯ve always emphasized that, if you couldn¡¯t tell," Duke Han scoffed.

    He crossed his arms and tried not to insult her directly. Thest time he did that, he earned warning re from the Crown Prince. No doubt, this time, it could be something much worse.

    Duke Han was also careful not to roll his eyes, or else it would roll to the ground, and all because of the Crown Prince. Of course the man couldn¡¯t just capture a Duke without reason, but offending the Imperial Family was certainly a crime that the Duke could be punished for.

    "Then you should no longer remain in power, Duke Han," the Crown Princess coldly said. Her cruel words were met with a dead silence.

 Chapter 453 Win the War

    <h4>Chapter 453 Win the War</h4>

    "Do you realize you just offended all of us, Princess!" Duke Han argued in a loud, taunting voice. He turned to the other people in the room, all of whom came from aristocratic families.

    Hah, this stupid Princess! She was implying he was greedy, but forgot, almost every human, by nature, were greedy people¡ªincluding the people in this room.

    People all greed for something, whether it was more wealth or power, there was still greed. Even desiring something good such as the improvement of the world could turn into greed¡ªwhen they want it so desperately that it consumes them.

    "Then all of you should be offended," the Crown Princess deadpanned. "The privilege of being born into aristocracy is not to indulge in your limitless wealth. It is to provide aid to the people who live on yournd, so that they have provisions for food and other resources."

    Her attention fell on each and every person in the room. "Everyone sits here today, for one reason or the other, whether it¡¯s for your own benefit, or the benefit of your faction. However, all of it boils down to the fact that we want to improve our country."

    A silence fell amongst the ministers and representatives, all of whom, were watching her. She had their undivided attention now¡ªsomething that had also happenedst time. But this time, she held their attention longer. Thest time, she made the mistake of bickering with Duke Han for so long that they got bored.

    "Making our pockets heavier does not improve the state of our country," she dered in a bold, determined voice.

    "But helping the citizens will," she argued.

    "How so?" Commander Zhang finally said in a controlled voice. "Maintaining this war budget will ensure that our citizens have protection when they have no one but their kingdom to rely on. This war budget will fund any battles, and offer them new jobs should the situation require."

    The Crown Princess narrowed her eyes. "And what did we do with the war budget when the towns bordering our Kingdom starved? When little boys became bandits, and little girls became beggars? When mothers wept over their sons¡¯ graves, and fathers farmed alone?"

    Another heavy silence ensued, this time, thick and unnerving. The imagery of her words were too much.

    "When I came to Hanjian, I saw the atrocity of war," she said in a low voice. "I personally witnessed the cmity that had befallen towns which worked so hard to stay afloat during a war that drowned them in bloodbath and scarce resources."

    "This is the sacrifice they must make for our nation!" Commander Zhang deadpanned, his voice growing louder.

    "Sacrifices?" she repeated in a dark voice.

    "Our country was being threatened, their home was being threatened! People are bound to die for this country if they are truly loyal to it!" Commander Zhang growled.

    People flinched at his voice, gnarly like a bear, and rough like its roar. His words were sharp like a bear¡¯s w and many people expected the Crown Princess to cower back and cry. It would not be a surprise.

    As a matter of fact, people expected that reaction, since grown men had been rendered silent, and even sniffled at Commander Zhang¡¯s frightsome voice.

    Hemanded people with not just respect, but also through fear and taunts. When he was aggravated, no one could scream louder than him or match his ferocity. No one except the Crown Prince himself.

    "Little Princess, you should be aware of this when you set foot into Hanjian and be a sacrifice for your Kingdom," he seethed.

    "Funny how this sacrifice earned you more than one treaty," she mused.

    A vein popped out on Commander Zhang¡¯s face. Her humor was unappreciated by him, and it ruined his mood further. He slowly rose to his full height, revealing his broad shoulders were not just a bluff.

    "What did you just say?!" he shouted, his lips curled in anger. One more word, and he would not be afraid to strike her, even if her husband was seated directly beside her.

    The Crown Prince¡¯s gaze darkened. If need be, blood would be spilled in this room, and someone would never leave¡ªnot with his head intact, that is.

    Everyone¡¯s attention snapped to the Crown Princess. They held their breaths, waiting, watching, just to witness her reaction. Was she going to tear up? Was she going to shrink back? Was she going to cry? The majority of them didn¡¯t have high expectations for the Crown Princess.

    If she did break down, no one would me her. Commander Zhang was a frightening man. If she did cower, no one would chastise her. Commander Zhang was an intimidating man.

    But she took them all by surprise when she slowly shook her head.

    "Is this what you view the people that your men have sworn to protect?" she whispered.

    Her words caught everyone off-guard. Suddenly, she was sympathetic? But everyone blinked a bit, realizing it was not sympathy, but pure disappointment.

    "What are you talking about?" Commander Zhang retorted.

    "Are the citizens nothing but sacrificialmbs to you? Are children supposed to thank the kingdom for taking their parents away?"

    Commander Zhang¡¯s eyes widened in shock. He was momentarily paralyzed by her words.

    "The people pay taxes because they have faith that we will keep them safe. That we will feed them, clothe them, and provide them with a better prospect and future than anywhere else. Tax is not the money they pay to remain in this kingdom."

    Commander Zhang nched at her words. He was astonished that she was able to twist her words so well that he was beginning to see things from her perspective.

    "War is a treacherous thing," she slowly said. "Even after leaving the battlefield in victory, soldiers still cry themselves to sleep, only to wake up in cold sweat during midnight, shaking, shivering from the horrors they had witnessed."

    Commander Zhang narrowed his eyes. Where was she getting at?

    "But at the least, shouldn¡¯t we give back to them? Shouldn¡¯t we give their little brothers or sisters the chance to have a better education, now that we have created a safer future for them? Shouldn¡¯t their children get a chance to learn something other than how to fall on their swords when captured by the enemies?"

    No one spoke. No one moved. The ministers and representatives waited with bated breaths for Commander Zhang to say something. Anything. Even just a small grunt of protest would suffice.

    But the loud and proud soldier did not utter a single word. He stared at her with his parched lips parted in shock. It was almost like he was struck by lightning, unable to move or blink.

    And before everyone¡¯s eyes, Commander Zhang lowered himself back onto his chair. His hands gripped the handles of the chair, almost as if he needed the support of it just to sitfortably.

    Everyone was baffled by this reaction, especially Duke Han who had supported his opinion.

    "Good friend, she is just ying you! Do not falter just because your soldiers were brought into this conversation," Duke Han whispered to his friend. "We must¡ª"

    "Keep your mouth shut, old friend," Commander Zhang growled. In an instant, Duke Han mped his mouth shut and red at the table.

    Commander Zhang silently contemted her words a bit. They were redundant, but that was the best way to get the message across wasn¡¯t it? She had mentioned the wellbeing of the citizens so many times in great earnest that even he was forced to consider her suggestion carefully.

    Commander Zhang was forced to think back to his little soldiers. They entered the military as mere boys, but under his guidance, became outstanding men, only for the majority of them to crumble after witnessing the brutalities of war.

    Sure, many of them were awarded with promotions and bonuses, but at the end of the day, they were superficial happiness.

    When his men returned home, they would be forced to face the ghost of the crimes they had witnessed andmitted. But who kept them going? Who kept them alive? It was evidently their families.

    "Hah..." he let out a small sigh, shaking his head in pure disbelief.

    Commander Zhang turned his attention back to the Crown Princess. Suddenly, her thin shoulders didn¡¯t look so small anymore. She had the figure of a weak soldier, but her determination was like that of a female Commander.

    "You¡¯ve finally won the fight, didn¡¯t you, Princess?" Commander Zhang murmured with heavy reluctance.

    She simply smiled in response. "I might¡¯ve won the fight, but I¡¯ve yet to win the war."

    And with this, he let out a great, boldughter that surprised many. It was a sound as rare as his smile. No one had heard hisughter in a while...not since he lost his wife.

    "If you are as determined as today, perhaps winning the war might not seem like a far-stretched n," Commander Zhang informed her.

    Commander Zhang ignored the gawking re of his old friend, who could not believe that he had changed his tune. His lips pulled into a soft, reluctant smile that shocked everyone even more than hisugh.

    "Building schools is not your sole proposal, is it?" Commander Zhang added on. "You kept on mentioning the children who lost their parents."

    The Crown Princess firmly nodded her head. "They should receive something too, more specifically, a safe, warm ce to stay aside from school."

    Her eyes moved to everyone in this room. She hadn¡¯t realized in her passionate argument, she had captured everyone¡¯s attention. It was a daunting, yet satisfying feeling. They were all looking at her as if they couldn¡¯t fathom her courage to go against a Commander who scolded grown men.

    "The orphanages are currently filled beyond the optimal capacity," she said. "If we¡¯re going to be building schools, we should also build more orphanages to house the children."

    Commander Zhang¡¯s brows wrung together. "You know, Princess, one day, that gentle heart of yours will be crushed in this pce, and you will understand why flowerse here to die."

    Instead of being offended by his words, she merely smiled. "Flowers only die because they could not adapt. But those who adapt will bloom the brightest."

    The Empress¡¯s tired eyes widened. She had always been watching her son¡¯s wife, but now, the Crown Princess had earned herself more respect than anyone could even imagine. Li Xueyue¡¯s words resonated deep within her, so much so, that her eyes teared a bit and she had to look away.

    And finally, the Crown Prince said something. In his deep,manding voice, he addressed, "Crown Princess, you have presented your suggestion for allocating the war funds to benefiting the lives of themonwealth."

    She nodded her head.

    The Crown Prince solemnly nced around the room. "Those in favor of this suggestion, raise your hands."

    No one moved. Everyone was slowly digesting her words, her convictions, her reasoning...

    It was pure silence for a few seconds before Commander Zhang raised his hand, followed by the Empress. Then, one by one, hands slowly raised, and soon, the table was filled with agreements.

    The Crown prince firmly nodded his head. "The Round Table has spoken. Crown Princess, your proposal has been approved."

 Chapter 454 Save You From Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 454 Save You From Trouble</h4>

    Li Xueyue could barely contain her smile. She didn¡¯t want to seem too arrogant by smiling so widely. This was one of her first victories without any external help.

    At the previous Round Table Discussion, her proposal of lowering taxes uponmoners was approved partly because there was Representative Wu Shiming who supported her idea. Her sess then wasn¡¯t entirely her own. However, today, she had won over everyone by her own merits.

    Her eyes shed with determination, as there were a lot more to changes she wished to make in Hanjian. But she was still young and her future here was bright.

    ¡¯One step at a time,¡¯ she reminded herself as the corner of her lips lifted up a bit, brightening her expression.

    When she made eye contact with a disgruntled Duke Han, Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head in acknowledgement. He narrowed his gaze, but nodded back. He was still a powerful man, and she knew it would be unwise of her to make an enemy out of him.

    Quietly, the Empress turned to Li Xueyue. "You¡¯ve been here for less than a year, yet you¡¯ve made such an impact upon this country," she said and chuckled. "When I was your age, it took me a year just to get a few words in."

    Li Xueyue widened her smile a bit. From the corner of her eyes, she saw one of the ministers preparing himself to speak. "It¡¯s because you¡¯ve paved the way for me, Your Grace, to which I will be eternally grateful for."

    The Empress¡¯s rogue painted lips parted in surprise. It was crimson red like that of blood.

    "Such wisdom from such a young girl," the Empress murmured under her breath with an amused smile. "I remember being this witty when I was a young maiden, though, that fire had long died down..."

    "Really?" Li Xueyue asked, her voiceced with disbelief. She covered her mouth with her hand to hide her smile, but her crinkled eyes gave it away.

    "I still see it, Your Grace, a fire that burns bright enough to burn down the entire pce," she said.

    The Empress raised a skeptical brow. To which Li Xueyue continued, "Perhaps it¡¯s because you¡¯ve kept it so expertly hidden, that even you don¡¯t see it yourself."

    The Empress saw the Crown Princess in a new light. Her words were always well-said, but sometimes they didn¡¯t seem genuine. Giving emptypliments was every aristocrat¡¯s speciality. The Empress had heard enough in her life that it was difficult for her to ept anypliments at all. Thus, she was initially dubious of the Crown Princess¡¯s words.

    "How so?" she asked, highly intrigued by what Li Xueyue said.

    "Don¡¯t you realize it, Your Grace?" the Crown Princess whispered, dropping her hands, as her face became even more serious.

    The Empress tilted her head, urging her to continue.

    "Your Grace, whenever you speak to the Emperor, I see an ember that can only burn from a fiery soul. The need to argue against prejudice, the will to disobey orders... Surely, they can¡¯t havee from nowhere."

    It had been awhile since the Empress¡¯s heart was moved. So much time had passed that she was unfamiliar with the feeling in her heart swelling with joy. Yet, it happened twice today, and all because of the same person.

    Without knowing it, a fond, gentle expression formed on her face. It was a tender look that only a mother could possess towards their children. Under the table, she patted the Crown Princess¡¯s hands.

    "I see your best asset is not your face," the Empress whispered, "but your tongue, sharp as a sword, sly as a snake, much like the mask of deceit you wear."

    And the Crown Princess took her by surprise again. Instead of frowning, she smirked. "Only a fool steps onto the battlefield without weapons."

    The Empressughed under her breath. "Indeed, Princess."

    - - - - -

    Suggestions came and went, but all of them were denied. Li Xueyue discovered from Yu Zhen that this was a normal urrence. Usually, it was a miracle if one or two suggestions were approved during a discussion. And today, only her suggestion was approved.

    Despite that, Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced with excitement. Just this one was not enough...

    "I can already see you¡¯re brainstorming more ideas," Yu Zhen mused from beside her.

    Together, they strolled down the hallways, with their servants trailing a few feet behind them, as instructed. He preferred for them to have their privacy, and a distance where no one would be able to eavesdrop on his conversation with Li Xueyue.

    "Is it that obvious?" Li Xueyue breathlesslyughed. Had herposure faded that quickly? It always happened around Yu Zhen. To others, she seemed kind andpassionate, nothing more than that. But only with Yu Zhen was she truly an open book.

    "Very much so," he said.

    "I¡¯m just distracted, that¡¯s all," Li Xueyue exined.

    Li Xueyue turned her head to him and shed a small smile, happy that he was well-behaved and kept his hands to himself. He was touchy a few minutes ago, with his arms wrapped around her waist.

    However she had warned him of the need to follow the rules of etiquette when they are in public, to which he rolled his eyes and scoffed. Nheless, he obliged without much protest.

    "Don¡¯t forget, Sunshine," Yu Zhen suddenly said. "An eye for an eye."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. What was he talking about?

    "I dutifully listened to your request to keep my hands away from you," Yu Zhen exined with mischiefcing his voice. "It¡¯s your turn to respect my wishes."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s brows shot up. "I¡¯ve always respected your wishes, but I just never obey them, that¡¯s all." Her lips twitched in amusement when his eyes narrowed.

    "And each time you don¡¯t listen, all I can think of is punishing you."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s cheeks burned red as her heart skipped a beat. She forced herself to look away, so that Yu Zhen wouldn¡¯t see the effect he had on her. But he knew, he always did, for he slithered an arm around her waist and pulled her close.

    "What¡¯s wrong, darling?" Yu Zhen teased whilst leaning close to her, now all she could see was his face.

    "I wonder..." he muttered, his fingers trailing down her cheek and towards her neck, his touch teasingly light. "If this blush traveled to your chest in the same flush as the night prior..."

    Li Xueyue swallowed at his words, knowing exactly what he was talking about. Whenever her eyes rolled back, and her back arched up for him, a light pink blush would seep from her cheeks down to her chest.

    "We¡¯re in public," she reminded him.

    "We can do it against a tree and I would not mind," Yu Zhen teased.

    "But someone could see us."

    "All the more exciting."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips curled into a smirk when her lips parted, interest shing within the pool of her heated eyes. She was curious but hesitant. He nced around them, his eyes brieflynded on the servants before he continued looking around. A sturdy tree was all he needed.

    "Oh right," she breathed out. His groin tightened at the delectable sound. She didn¡¯t say or do much, but he was already provoked to do much more than stand here and talk.

    "W-weren¡¯t we supposed to see the Imperial Physician?"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his gaze, his jaw tightening. She always knew how to torture him, didn¡¯t she? She left him high and dry, hanging here whilst she seemed unfazed.

    Li Xueyue batted her pretty little eyshes at him. "Well? What are we waiting for?"

    She ced a thinking finger on her lips. In a heartbeat, his eyes snapped towards her lips, pouty and soft as he always remembered.

    Li Xueyue added, "I don¡¯t mind seeing him in our estate, to save us the trouble."

    An idea instantly came to mind. "Yes," he readily agreed in a cunning whisper, his lips twisting into a smirk.

    "Though, seeing him in our estate will certainly not save you from any trouble..."

 Chapter 455 Little Mouse

    <h4>Chapter 455 Little Mouse</h4>

    Li Xueyue was fully aware that Yu Zhen was aggravated to no avail. She saw the mes dancing in his eyes and whenever their gazes met, her body would heat with anticipation. It was always like this. One look was enough for her to yearn for him, and one touch was enough for her to plea for more.

    What exactly was he doing to her poor soul? She wondered if he knew, just how much he affected her.

    She had unknowingly ced her heart in his palms. He had the ability to shatter her into nothingness. And when it happens, her heart would never recover. She would never be able to pick up the broken pieces, like she had done so in the past.

    Yu Zhen hadpletely bewitched her, so much so that she would never be able to run from him.

    "Instead of idly standing here, I know where else you can be idly¡ª"

    But before he could finish his sentence, she mped both of her hands over his mouth, ring at him with a warning.

    She didn¡¯t have to see his lips to know his smirk had deepened. He was entertained by her reaction, as he did with the majority of their teasing.

    "We shouldn¡¯t dy seeing the Imperial Physician," Li Xueyue mumbled. "The earlier we see him, the more time you will have to do your duties."

    Yu Zhen quirked a brow at her words. He pulled her hands away from his mouth and chuckled. Hisughter was deep and warm, tickling her heart.

    "The only duty I will do is you, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue groaned at his words. She could never win against his teasing, could she? "Must you be so aggravating?"

    "Must you be so tempting?" Yu Zhen muttered.

    "I¡¯m just behaving as I usually do," she slowly said whilst shooting him a dirty look.

    "That¡¯s the problem," he said.

    "You¡¯re the problem," she retorted.

    "Says the one who enjoys torturing me in broad daylight."

    Li Xueyue gasped at him. "I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about," she deadpanned.

    "I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t," he scoffed.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips twitched. She knew exactly what he was talking about, but it was just so fun to see him losing his control. He always enjoyed taunting her in bed. What was wrong in taunting him in broad daylight? It was her only opportunity to tempt him, as he did to her.

    But before she could even respond, a servant came rushing down the hallways. She turned her head, confused by what the rush was for. To her surprise, the servant stopped before them and lowered himself to a deep bow.

    Li Xueyue had never seen this servant before. All of her servants were female, and the only male servants around her were castrated Eunuchs.

    Li Xueyue was fairly certain that this servant was not one of Yu Zhen¡¯s men, since she had memorized a few of their faces by now.

    "Your Highness," the servant addressed the Crown Prince, before turning to his wife. "Crown Princess," he rushed out.

    "Pardon this lowly servant¡¯s insolence, but I bear good news that will please your eyes, Crown Princess," he exined in a low, controlled voice that quivered towards the end of his speech.

    Li Xueyue noticed he was visibly shaking. Without a doubt, it was because of Yu Zhen¡¯s dark glower. His face twisted into a deep scowl.

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen barked out in a tone that nearly resembled a growl.

    The servant flinched back. If it wasn¡¯t for the fact that his head was bowed to the grounds, and his eyes glued to it, he would¡¯ve squeaked in fear.

    It was difficult to look at the Crown Prince, even if he was one of the most handsome men in the entire Kingdom. Being in his presence was too suffocating, for the air around him was always thick and vicious.

    "I-I bear message from¡ª"

    "Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue suddenly said and forced a lightugh. "You¡¯re scaring him."

    Yu Zhen was not buying her diversion. He trained his eyes on the servant, analyzing every single detail to this man. The servant was not dressed in the usual attire worn by the pce workers, which meant he served someone outside of the Imperial Pce. But who?

    "Why don¡¯t you head back to our estate first?" she offered. "You can have the Imperial Physician brought there and I will join you shortly afterwards."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze snapped to her. She wasn¡¯t fooling anyone, especially with her poor acting today. He centered his sight on her interlocked fingers. He recalled this was a small habit of hers whenever she was nervous.

    It seems his Wangfei was withholding another secret from him. One became two. It would not take long for two to be four, then eight, until there was a mountain of unsaid truths separating them.

    Did she truly want that?

    "Please?" she whispered to him.

    "You¡¯re going to tell me everythingter," he growled.

    Yu Zhen sent a scathing re towards the servant before storming off with his men silently trailing after him. He ground his teeth and turned the corner, turning his chin for the slightest bit. He was able to see the small exchange that had urred.

    The servant had passed along a yellow envelope, the color of chrysanthemum. It was his favorite color because it reminded him of her. She was always warm and cheerful, fully concealing her deceit and jealousy.

    "Find out which aristocratic family uses yellow as their signature color," he instructed a servant near him.

    The servant was dressed in full ck from head to toe, concealing everything but his face, like the rest of the Crown Prince¡¯s men. They often wore masks to hide their features, but since they had been in the presence of the Crown Prince¡¯s Wangfei, the servants were instructed to walk around without it.

    "Right away, Your Highness." The servant stepped backward, and disappeared into the distance.

    Yu Zhen continued walking onwards, knowing his men would never fail him.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue did not need to examine the family crest imprinted on the letter. She already knew where it came from. She nced down at the letter with great disinterest.

    "Next time you interrupt my time with the Crown Prince, you won¡¯t be able to walk away alive," Li Xueyue stated. It wasn¡¯t a threat, but a warning to him. This was the basic rule and he had deliberately broken it.

    "T-this foolish servant apologizes, Crown Princess," the servant whispered with his head bent and his tail tucked in between his legs. He looked like he was on the verge of copsing.

    Li Xueyue nced at him. He was twice her size, but seemed so small. She could not show himpassion, even if he was so well-behaved. He had narrowingly escaped death just now.

    Without saying anything else, she opened the envelope and slipped out the neatly folded parchment. The handwriting was beautiful. Without a doubt, this person had great penmanship, which was something the older generation had always practiced to perfection, but not something the youth cared for. She pressed her lips together.

    It was a miracle that such a horrid man had the ability to write this neat.

    ¡¯Dearest Crown Princess,

    I hope this letter finds you well. Since your time is more precious than the pearls found in the depths of the ocean, I shall keep my message short. As promised, your wish for a crescent moon dagger is fulfilled. If you have time to spare, please grace me with your presence.

    Warmly,

    Merchant Q¡¯

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. What was the point of hiding his identity when no one but her would read this letter? She nced at the servant. It seemed the Marquis was a paranoid man.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue tucked the parchment back in the envelope. "Inform your Master that tomorrow is fine."

    The servant bobbed his head so hard, she wondered if it gave him a headache.

    "Understood, Crown Princess. M-may you have a blessed day!"

    Li Xueyue scrutinized him a little bit more. This servant¡¯s cowardice resembled the Marquis. When her eyes lingered on his ash-colored clothes, her lips curved downwards. With this much wealth, the Marquis couldn¡¯t even afford to dress his people better?

    Li Xueyue kept her thoughts to herself. "You¡¯re excused."

    The servant cupped his hands and bowed. Not a secondter, he scurried off, like a little mouse being chased by a lion.

 Chapter 456 What Is The Purpose of My Existence?

    <h4>Chapter 456 What Is The Purpose of My Existence?</h4>

    The next morning approached too quickly. Li Xueyue had woken up earlier than Yu Zhen. She squinted at the sunlight that poured over the floor and nced towards the window, where a bird was perched upon a branch. Not a secondter, the sparrow spread its wings and took flight.

    "Ever so violent," she muttered upon seeing the light bruises on her wrists. They had tried out something new and exciting yesterday, but as always, they got carried away.

    Li Xueyue turned on her side so that she could look at him. She was relieved that his arm around her was no longer an iron grip. When she saw his face, stern even in his sleep, her lips twitched.

    She slowly inched her way into a seated position, his arm sliding down to herp.

    Li Xueyue quietly lifted a finger and poked his cheek, smooth and beautiful. His skin was always glowing a lovely sun-kissed color.

    "Heh, it seems your stamina is finally decreasing," she whispered and snickered to herself.

    Li Xueyue trailed a finger up his face, tracing over his perfect features. His brows were taunt and dark, with a few strands of hair falling over his head. Her lips twitched. It was unfair that he slept while looking like a picturesque portrait, whereas she felt like a bird was nesting on her messy hair.

    "We drink the same water, eat the same food, yet you¡¯re always glowing," she mused.

    Li Xueyue observed his face a little bit longer. Her thumb skimmed his jaw, sharp and prominent, as if it could cut through stone. For once, he seemed more rxed in his sleep, as if content with everything he had.

    "If only I can stay here a little longer..." she sighed.

    Li Xueyue retracted her hands and slowly slipped out of bed. When her foot grazed the ground, an arm roughly pulled her back by the waist. Her eyes widened when she was yanked backward,nding directly on a sturdy chest.

    "Y-you were awake the whole time?" she asked with astonishment in her voice.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head back, only for it to rest near his shoulder. He was seated on the bed, his palm resting on her stomach, his legs were on either side of her.

    "No, I just woke up," he said.

    Li Xueyue snorted at his words. "No one can have such fast reflexes just after waking up."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes crinkled as he smiled down at her. There was a tired, yetzy smirk resting on his lips. "Why are you up so early?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue averted her gaze. She stared down at her fingers, suddenly finding it even more interesting. But then she saw his other hand, resting on herp, and she found it to be intriguing. With her forefinger, she poked at his hand. Not a secondter, he wrapped his fingers around hers.

    "I couldn¡¯t sleep," she lied.

    "You¡¯re a horrible liar, Sunshine," Yu Zhen muttered in a low, disappointed voice.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart clenched at his words. He dropped his head and rested it on her shoulder, nuzzling his face into the crook of her neck. He breathed in her scent and she felt the flutter of hisshes when his eyes closed shut.

    "Why don¡¯t you tell me what¡¯s really going on, Li Xueyue."

    She gulped. He rarely used her full name, especially with an edge to his voice. Her heart raced, worried that he had caught onto everything.

    "You¡¯re mad at me," she pointed out.

    "It doesn¡¯t take a prodigy to figure that out," he whispered against her neck.

    Li Xueyue shivered when his hot breath blew against her sensitive skin. She jumped when he tightened his hold on her. There was no escape from this. He was simply too strong for her to overpower.

    "Why is your rage always so silent?" Li Xueyue asked. "It¡¯d be less scary if you were violent and crashed things to the ground."

    Yu Zhen responded by ying with the silk ribbon that held her thin clothes together. His retreat made her even more anxious.

    Li Xueyue nervously licked her bottom lip, suddenly parched. She didn¡¯t realize he had slipped clothes onto her naked body after she had passed out from their passionate night.

    "Can¡¯t I keep this secret a little bit longer?" she shamelessly asked.

    A cold, darkugh rang in her ears. She trembled at the sound, his chest shaking.

    "You¡¯ve kept it long enough, Li Xueyue."

    Li Xueyue couldn¡¯t recall a time he had used such a cold, detached voice towards her. Sure, there were times that he had been infuriated by her, to the point of where he pretended not to love her. But this time, she had crossed the lines, didn¡¯t she? Lines that she had drawn and instructed him to never cross.

    "I¡¯m sorry, Yu Zhen," she whispered. She truly meant it, from the bottom of her heart, but knew he would not view it through the same lens as her.

    Li Xueyue turned around, knowing it was better to have this conversation face to face. But she immediately regretted the decision.

    He lifted his face from her shoulders, revealing a deste, indifferent stare. His eyes resembled a deep pool of ink. The longer she peered at it, the more she was lost within it, and soon, she was drowning within it.

    "I only kept it a secret because you always acted of your own ord," she exined.

    When he remained silent, Li Xueyue awkwardly looked around them, but her stare would always return to him. Her attention never lingered too far, for he was the center of her world.

    "From the bottom of my heart, I will always appreciate your help, Yu Zhen. You¡¯re selfless in that aspect, and I love that part about you," Li Xueyue said. She rested her palms on his chest, sliding it up to his nape, intertwining her fingers together.

    "However there are times when I must take my own revenge. You don¡¯t want to stain my hands with more blood, but I do not mind. I can never wash the blood off, so why not dip it in some more?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s re hardened. His jaw clenched and he attempted to push her away, infuriated by her words.

    Li Xueyue had already anticipated that. She held on and slipped onto hisp, resting her face on his shoulders. A part of her knew he had looked at the scroll. It was ced in the same exact position as before, but it was simply too conspicuous to ignore.

    "He tormented me even in his absence," she muttered. "He haunts my dreams every single night."

    Li Xueyue felt his arms slowlye around her, yet again. Eventually, her legs straddled either side of him, and her body was flushed against his chest. Their bodies were so close together, that not even a piece of parchment could be wedged between them.

    "It¡¯s only right that I make his waking life a living nightmare. It is my duty, my responsibility, and mine alone. No one else¡¯s."

    Absolute determination lingered in her voice. She left little to no room for discussions orpromises. This time, she would not allow him to intervene. This time, she would be the one to deliver the final blow.

    "What happened topromises?" he seethed.

    "Not this time."

    "Li Xueyue."

    "No is a no."

    Li Xueyue pulled away from him, revealing the frown on her face. "You care about me, so you¡¯re worried I will get injured in the process of harming others, but have you ever fathomed what it¡¯s like to sit back and let someone else do the dirty work?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s re deepened. "You make me sound like an antagonist when I only want to help you. How is that fair to me?"

    "That¡¯s not what I meant, and you know it," she calmly said.

    "No, I don¡¯t," he spat out.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "Something is bothering you. What is it?"

    When he remained silent, she pressed on, "Is it because I kept this secret from you? Because if so, I¡¯m sorry, I really am¡ª"

    "Why can¡¯t you rely on me more?" he demanded, grabbing her shoulders tightly. "I offer you a life of peace, but you want to run head-first into demise."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s brows came together out of frustration.

    "An Empress¡¯s role is to manage the harem," he growled out. "Is theck of concubines boring you? Do you feel as if there is nothing for you to do in this pce, so you must cause trouble upon yourself?"

    Li Xueyue could feel an argument simmering. And if she allowed him to talk, it would boil, much like their blood.

    "You¡¯re being unfair," she coldly said.

    "Unfair?" he demanded. "Unfair is keeping secrets from your husband after swearing to always be truthful. Unfair is lying to my face and hiding your emotions. If I am unfair, then you must be the very embodiment of prejudice."

    Li Xueyue calmly looked up at him. His words were offensive, but it came from a dark ce. He was upset, and rightfully so. Li Xueyue wasn¡¯t hurt by his insulting words.

    Yu Zhen wanted the best for her, and she understood that wholeheartedly, even if she could not feel that way for herself.

    She stood upon her tippy-toes and cupped his face, gently and gingerly, as if holding a treasure in her palms.

    "I finally understand," she patiently said.

    "Understand what?" he growled out in disbelief. How had the tables turned so quickly? Now, he was the one huffing and puffing, whilst she was as tranquil as the trees on a mellow day.

    "You¡¯re unfamiliar with this feeling," she uttered.

    Yu Zhen was bewildered by her bizarre words. It must¡¯ve reflected on his face, for she smiled up at him. Her expression was filled with understanding, like that of a teacher who believed in her troubled students.

    "In your childhood, there wasn¡¯t anyone who relied on you, and no one believed in your capabilities. As a result, you developed apulsion to be helpful to others. And ever since you rose to power in the military, everyone has been relying on you. The soldiers looked up to you, the trainees needed you, and the Generals required your guidance.."

    His eyes widened and before he could speak, she continued onwards.

    "That happened in yourte-youth, but now that you¡¯re an adult, there are even more people relying on you. This time, they are the servants who weigh on your every word, the people of your country, the pce ministers, your siblings, your friends, and almost everyone that has crossed your path."

    Li Xueyue rested her forehead against his. "You have grown too familiar with the feeling of people needing your guidance, that when someone rejects your help it worries you even more, especially when it¡¯s from someone that you desperately want to extend a helping hand to."

    Li Xueyue saw the gears turning in his head, the realization in his eyes as everything clicked into ce. The truth was hard to acknowledge, but he had done it wlessly. With her thumb, she gently caressed the side of his face. If time could stop, she wish it would do so now.

    "I can stand on my own two feet, Yu Zhen. I know it doesn¡¯t burden you to help me, but it burdens my conscience. What is the purpose of living when everything is alreadyid out for me? What is the purpose of my existence if I sit back and do nothing all the time?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile became warmer. She gently kissed his lips. "But isn¡¯t it tiring? Your shoulders can only handle so much, before it gives out."

    She pulled back, but he surprised her by tightly embracing her. She slid her hand up his upper back, knowing he was never the type to speak of his feelings through words. And she hade to ept that. Thus, she hugged him with equal ferocity and adoration.

 Chapter 457 As You Wish

    <h4>Chapter 457 As You Wish</h4>

    Li Xueyue and Yu Zhen left their bedroom together. After their embrace, they didn¡¯t say a word to each other, but that was fine with them. It was afortable silence, instead of a suffocating one.

    But now, Li Xueyue was faced with another dilemma. He was blocking the doorway with his body, refusing to let her out.

    "What are you doing?" she asked, bewildered by his actions.

    "Since you did not see the Imperial Physician yesterday," he said with a disapproving frown. "You will see him right now."

    "But I have ces to be, people to ruin," Li Xueyue argued. She folded her arms across her chest. "It wasn¡¯t like I refused to see the Imperial Physician either, I just forgot to summon him."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. "You will see him now."

    Li Xueyue let out a sigh. "I am alreadyte to the meeting."

    Yu Zhen shrugged. "That sounds like a personal problem."

    Li Xueyue scowled. "I really, really don¡¯t have the time to see him now."

    "This is a matter that concerns your health," Yu Zhen pointed out. "Your health is the topmost priority."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders sagged. She knew he was right. Being worried about her health wasn¡¯t a bad thing. "I¡¯m scared," she admitted.

    "Of?"

    "I don¡¯t want bad news to ruin my day so quickly, especially when it is barely starting."

    "Why would it be bad news?"

    "Because every time the Imperial Physician sees me, it always feels like he¡¯s going to deliver unfortunate news," Li Xueyue said.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He reached out and pinched her cheeks. "Bad news is better than death."

    Li Xueyue gawked at him. "It was just one time that I fainted!"

    "One time too many."

    "Well, not everyone is blessed with a healthy body that never gets sick," she grumbled out before finally thinking of a solution.

    "Since you have to be present in the throne room, and I have a meeting, why don¡¯t we both see the Imperial Physicianter? That way, you will be present during the examination and diagnosis," she offered.

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "That was supposed to happen yesterday before you demanded me to leave, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue unwillingly nodded her head. "I panicked yesterday, I¡¯m sorry."

    Yu Zhen pulled her cheek again. "You¡¯ve already apologized twice in one day. Enough."

    Li Xueyue wondered if her bad habit had returned. But she decided not to think too much of it, or else it would stick inside of her head for a while.

    "If you linger here any longer, then you will bete," she urged him.

    Li Xueyue pushed him out of the way and stepped out right after him. She wondered if it was her strength that was able to nudge him, or his willingness to move along. For the sake of her pride, she decided it was the former.

    Her lips twitched. She found it amusing that she was always so weak around him, but she was also his weakness.

    "What are you smiling about?" Yu Zhen muttered. "Are you that eager to get rid of me?"

    "I¡¯m d you¡¯re able to realize that on your own," she teased.

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "Don¡¯t tter yourself, Sunshine. You can never get enough of me."

    Li Xueyue snorted. "I guess you haven¡¯t woken up yet, since you¡¯re still dreaming."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue wouldn¡¯t say she looked forward to this meeting, but she certainly felt that way. She felt a strange sense of eagerness to see the man who gued her nightmares. It was so bewildering that she once feared him with every fiber within her body, but now, she was someone he had to bow down to.

    "Xiao Hua, make sure the tea is lukewarm today," Li Xueyue said. ¡¯Just like his performance,¡¯ she thought to herself, wondering if he truly found the desired dagger shaped like a moon.

    Xiao Hua nodded her head. She stepped back, careful not to show her back to the Crown Princess, since it was considered a vition of the rules of etiquette.

    But then, a bewildered voice asked, "Where are you going?"

    Xiao Hua blinked in confusion. She naively tilted her head. "To fetch tea, Princess...?"

    "Xiao Hua, you¡¯re one of my people now," the Crown Princess deadpanned.

    Xiao Hua instantly recognized the meaning. Her cheeks flushed a bit from being ced on the spot, but she dutifully nodded her head. No wonder a new set of clothes was delivered to her today. She wore a hanfu that was of higher quality, more colorful and beautiful that set her apart from other maidservants.

    Xiao Hua turned to one of her friends and hesitantly cleared her throat. This would be the first time shemanded someone, but knew it would not be thest. Soon, she would have to take the responsibility of keeping every servant in check.

    "As instructed by the Crown Princess, prepare lukewarm tea."

    The maidservant was stunned speechless. Nheless, she bowed her head, but never the upper body, for that deep of a bow was reserved for the Crown Princess. However, a bow of the head was more than enough for a handmaiden.

    "And make sure it¡¯s ck tea, but do not steep it for too long," Xiao Hua instructed. She already knew what the Crown Princess had in mind, but that was only because she had always observed her.

    The maidservant obediently nodded her head. "Yes, Head Handmaiden."

    Xiao Hua was caught off-guard by the title. She hesitantly looked at the Crown Princess, wondering if she was getting too ahead of herself. But she was met with an encouraging smile.

    As the maidservant hurried off, the Crown Princess began to walk again. This time, Xiao Hua was only two steps behind, inparison to the three steps maintained by the other servants. The first step behind was reserved for aristocracy.

    "You did well," the Crown Princessplimented. "But next time, do not show hesitation. You need to be stern and firm."

    Xiao Hua bowed at the Crown Princess¡¯s words. "As you wish, Princess."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue turned the corner but stopped. She wasn¡¯t surprised to see Lady Ge Beining since this ce was near the Empress¡¯s Estate. But it was astonishing to see the man apanying Lady Ge Beining. She seemed upset by his words, her brows wrung together as her lips curled into a soft scowl.

    ¡¯Even when she¡¯s upset, she¡¯s beautiful,¡¯ Li Xueyue thought to herself. She could not believe that someone of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s beauty was not married off to the most eligible bachelor already. By now, there were probably enough men to form a line around the enormous Imperial Pce.

    "It seems they are engaged in a thoughtful conversation," she muttered to Xiao Hua.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s eyes lingered upon the silent guards that lined the hallways near Lady Ge Beining and Marquis Qin. She, too, was curious.

    "I knew Lady Ge Beining had a close tie to Marquis Qin, considering the fact that I met him when they were both present," the Crown Princess said.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s ears heightened at the Crown Princess¡¯s words. She moved her eyes left and right, wondering if the other servants had caught onto the hidden message. None of them did, for their heads were still lowered towards the ground.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s attention returned to Lady Ge Beining and Marquis Qin. As if they had gotten into a dispute, Lady Ge Beining angrily stormed off, which waspletely unlike her nature. If she recalled correctly, Lady Ge Beining never had a temper. She rarelyshed out on people, much less, strut with this much force and hatred.

    ¡¯I wonder what happened...¡¯ Xiao Hua thought to herself. She cast one final look towards the quiet guards that bore the emblem of the Imperial Family. Then, without another word, she silently apanied the Crown Princess.

    There was a single intent in Xiao Hua¡¯s mind, and it was only known between two people.

 Chapter 458 Guilt Tripping

    <h4>Chapter 458 Guilt Tripping</h4>

    Li Xueyue continued walking down the hallways, her eyes brieflynded on the guards closest to Lady Ge Beining and Marquis Qin when an argument broke out between them. Not a secondter, she looked away as if nothing about them interested her in any way.

    "Oh no!" Xiao Hua suddenly gasped as she anxiously looked up at the Crown Princess. "I have forgotten to¡ª"

    "Go," Li Xueyue excused without another word. She continued walking even when Xiao Huagged behind and disappeared down the corner.

    But Li Xueyue knew better. Xiao Hua was only carrying out their n. Once every servant was out of sight, Xiao Hua would slip back into view and speak to the guards.

    "I hope I didn¡¯t keep you waiting, Marquis Qin." Li Xueyue set foot into the familiar pavilion that she always saw him in.

    Marquis Qin was standing beside a pir at the edge of the open pavilion, watching the koi swim about the pond. It was so deep that he saw nothing but murky death beneath his feet. He gulped.

    "Certainly not, Princess," Marquis Qin stated with a deep bow of his upper body.

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t bother responding. She approached the table where a maidservant had already pulled out a chair. Without another word, Li Xueyue sat down.

    From the corner of her eyes, she saw Marquis Qin¡¯s servants lining the wall. She found it interesting that he finally came with his people, considering the fact that he was always alone when they met. She wondered what could be the reason until she noticed their bodies covered with bandages.

    ¡¯A guilt-tripping tactic,¡¯ she realized.

    They must¡¯ve been the servants who had narrowly escaped with their lives with the dagger they managed to acquire from the foreign country.

    "As you¡¯ve requested, Princess," Marquis Qin said in an exhausted voice. He gestured for his servant toe forward with a slow flick of his hand. A heavy, silver box was ced on his worn out palms.

    Li Xueyue saw the eye bags under his eyes. She wondered if he had worn himself out in fulfilling her request, or he was troubled by the argument that took ce with Lady Ge Beining¡ªor maybe abination of both. Nheless, her enemy¡¯s unhappiness was her joy.

    "It is quite amusing that people could create weapons out of something so beautiful, Princess," Marquis Qin muttered as he ced the box on the table. He wondered what inspired the foreign kingdom to shape this dagger in a curve, sharp and rounded, much like a crescent moon.

    The Crown Princess merely smiled in response. "Open it," shemanded him.

    A nerve ticked from within Marquis Qin. He hated these types of women the most¡ªthe ones who ranked above him, who thought they were far more superior just because of the power given to them by husbands or fathers.

    Hmph, these arrogant women! They acted as if they had obtained this amount of wealth and status with their own two hands.

    s, he forced himself to oblige, for she was ranked above him, and the future Mother of this nation.

    Marquis Qin slowly opened the shiny box filled with swirls, a delicate design of a rose garden. It was truly a beautiful encasing for an equally dazzling weapon.

    He set the lid beside the box, revealing a ck dagger lined with gold and tiny, white beads of silver. There was a majestic bird embedded on the center of the sheath, with its wings spread wide open. But the most-eye catching detail was its deadly shape, curved like the fangs of a snake.

    "It was with great difficulty that I was able to obtain this de, Crown Princess. It belonged to a Prince and my men had to wager with their lives to obtain such an item, for they were nearly killed in the process of pleading for an audience with their royalty."

    Marquis Qin looked up from the weapon, with hope in his eyes. He wanted to see her delighted smile, and her bright eyes. Maybe she would even swoon or breathe out in shock, for the beauty of this weapon had knocked the air out of her.

    His heart raced at the idea of seeing a genuine smile from her. He had never witnessed it before, except for her cunning, sickening sweet expressions. He had heard great tales of her beauty, and how delicate she looked when she revealed an earnest smile.

    But as always, she shattered his expectations. Her doe-like eyes were dull, her face bleak, and her lips taunt. She seemed to be suppressing a frown, for creases formed on her forehead.

    "Princess, is there a problem?" Marquis Qin hoped not. He prayed to the High Heavens and every single deity he knew, across all of the different cultures he hade across.

    This dagger had nearly cost the lives of one fourth of his men, and could¡¯ve been even more.

    But for once, his servants were smart, and fled the country the minute they got their hands on the weapon, instead of lingering behind for a day, only to be ughtered in their sleep with their money robbed, and the dagger taken back by the same people who sold it to them.

    "J-just for you, Princess, I had urged the boat to sail back as soon as possible. The foreign kingdom is at least a week¡¯s worth of travel, but for your sake, I purchased a faster, sturdier boat that cut the travel time short."

    Marquis Qin¡¯s heart drummed against his chest. He broke into a cold sweat, his palms turning mmy and moist. He was so unnerved by her unimpressed expression that he literally felt his blood pressure rise. Why did she seem so disappointed?

    Wasn¡¯t this what she wanted in the first ce?!

    "Why does it look like this?" she spat out.

    "What?" he breathed out.

    Marquis Qin rubbed his hands together and analyzed the dagger again. What did she mean by that? The weapon was wless and expensive! It once belonged to the Royal family, thus, every detail about this was perfect.

    "How many times will you disappoint me, Marquis Qin?" she demanded in an eerily calm voice. She didn¡¯t even sound angry, but more of, dissatisfied, like a mother scolding her child.

    Marquis Qin ground his teeth. He tried his best not to shake with fury, his fingers digging into his palms. There should be a limit to how horrid a woman was! This one seemed like the worst of them all!

    She was many years his junior, so young, that when her father was born, the Marquis would be older than him! How could she speak to him so impudently, even if she was the Crown Princess of Hanjian?

    It wasn¡¯t like she was born in this country, raised with the food grown here, and yed within Hanjian¡¯s grounds. She was just an exotic flower that captured the Crown Prince¡¯s fancy, and nothing else.

    "What do you mean by this, Crown Princess? Isn¡¯t this exactly what you wanted, a dagger shaped like a crescent moon?"

    The Crown Princess tilted her head and looked at him as if he was absurd and crazy. Her lips were curled in disgust. "Crescent moon? Whoever said anything about a crescent moon?

    Marquis Qin gawked at her. "The first time you seeked an audience with me, Princess, you requested for a dagger shaped like the moon."

    The Crown Princess slowly nodded, as if chastising him for how dumb he was. "And what is the shape of the moon, Marquis Qin?"

    Marquis Qin rapidly blinked his eyes. Was she fooling him? "A circle¡ª"

    "And is this a circle, Marquis Qin?" The Crown Princess seethed whilst pointing at the dagger with a deep scowl.

    "N-no, but¡ª"

    "Then it is not the shape of the moon."

    Marquis Qin¡¯s eyes widened. It was as if the rug was yanked from underneath him, and cold water was poured over him. This...this entire time, he thought she meant a crescent moon. But all along, she had never disclosed to him what phase of the moon she wanted. s, now he knew. It was the full moon.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s head began to spin, his patience spiraling out of control. All this time, he had worked himself to the bone, stressing day and night, just to acquire this dagger, much less, one of such high quality.

    His people died, his resources were strained, and he had to utilize his connections, owing favors along the way¡ªall to fulfill her request.

    All of his hard work, his worries, his rising blood pressure meant nothing at this moment. He had sacrificed so much, only for him to miserably fail like this.

 Chapter 459 If You Kill Me

    <h4>Chapter 459 If You Kill Me</h4>

    Marquis Qin felt as if his vision was blurring. He had reached such a high point of rage that a vein popped on his forehead, yet he could do nothing to her. He clenched his fingers together and gritted his yellow teeth so hard, it was going to crack and shatter.

    From all of the stresstely, he hadshed out more than usual at his concubines and children. As a result, they became a bit detached from him. So many things were put on the line just to please the Crown Princess.

    And after everything that he had lost, she sat before him, unbothered and unyielding. She sat with poise, her head as raised as he had remembered, her eyes as bright as ever. There was not a single change in her appearance that glowed with youth, her skin smooth and free from worry-lines.

    The Crown Princess had been flourishing whilst he had been suffering.

    "I don¡¯t understand..." he finally breathed out in a deep, irritated voice. It took everything not to re at her. "I didn¡¯t sleep f-for the entire two weeks since the first time you made this request, all because I was so worried of failing you, Princess."

    Marquis Qin was d there was not a teacup ced in front of him or else, he would have lost his control and hurled it at her. It would be a crime punishable by death, but he was so infuriated that the thought crossed his mind.

    "So?" she mused. "How is that my problem?"

    At this, Marquis Qin snapped. He stood up from his chair, breathing heavily as his hands itched to grab her by her slender, pale throat, and m her on the ground. He envisioned choking her out, pping her in the face, and watching tears fill her eyes, like many of his concubines who infuriated him.

    "Oh dear, are you leaving already, Marquis Qin?" she asked.

    Marquis Qin narrowed his eyes into slits. Her light and airy voice once sounded like music to his ears, but now it resembled a dark and insulting curse.

    "I deeply apologize, Princess," Marquis Qin heaved out through gritted teeth. His fists trembled from how tightly he clenched it. Red clouded his vision, but he was not a raging bull. That was not how he held himself around his customers.

    "But it seems we have too deep of a misunderstanding to find a solution," he said. "It is with great regret and heavy guilt that I must abandon this request of yours."

    The Crown Princess raised a brow. Her lips curled in amusement. And in the exact moment, a pretty maidservant stepped into the pavilion with gentle, quiet footsteps.

    Marquis Qin watched with enraged eyes as the maidservant bowed her head and ced the wooden tray filled with tea and snacks on the table. He breathed out through his nose, wishing for a much-needed patience that would nevere.

    All these years, he had remained unfazed, even with the most troublesome and tedious customers.

    But today, the Crown Princess was too much and had crossed the line. He could handle her asional jabs, for she was but a tiny kitten exercising her meager ws. He could smile during her scowls, for she was a wealthy person. But he could no longer tolerate her disrespect anymore, for she was a woman.

    "Really, now?" she whispered whilst resting her fingers on the teacup. It was almost as if she was upset to see he didn¡¯t sit down for a cup of tea, that was no doubt, cold like her frigid heart.

    Marquis Qin was already familiar with her tactics. She was always going to mess with him, wasn¡¯t she? How many times must he fall for her tricks and traps for her to be satisfied? He could not understand what personal vendetta she had against him.

    As a matter of fact, Marquis Qin had stimted Wuyi¡¯s economy through consistent trade with them. Though, one of his more useful trading partners had suddenly disappeared off the map. It was such a pity, considering the fact that their youngest daughter used to be such a delight.

    "Is that all you have to say?" the Crown Princess asked. She didn¡¯t bother to lift the cup of tea to her mouth or spare him the decency to look him in the eyes.

    "Yes, Princess," Marquis Qin said. Her royal title tasted bitter on his tongue. "Now, if you will allow me the liberty to be excused."

    Marquis Qin adjusted his clothes and bowed his head. He brushed past her, grumbling inside of his head. He would never ept her invitation again. He made up his mind to never see her again. Sure, the Crown Princess would¡¯ve made for an exceptionally wealthy customer, but her demands outweighed the benefits.

    "I see."

    Marquis Qin wondered what she meant by that, but didn¡¯t indulge his curiosity. That is until he heard the tinkle of her bracelets when she waved her wrists, and armed men and guards came dashing into the pavilion.

    One by one, they surrounded the circr structure, forming a human barrier. The entrance was blocked off.

    Marquis Qin frantically turned around, looking everywhere. He seeked for an escape. His face paled. His blood turned cold. His fury was reced with fear and disbelief.

    "Master!" his servants cried out in fear when weapons were turned towards him.

    Marquis Qin could not fathom this oue. He could not believe that such a teeny tiny woman held this much power. Shemanded the Imperial Soldiers, the most elite group of fighters in the entire Kingdom. Who gave her such a privilege? He thought it was just the guards, but who would¡¯ve thought, soldiers were also under her control?

    Since when were they present? Were they always apanying her, but just far, far behind, and hidden from in sight?

    "What is the meaning of this, Princess?!" Marquis Qin barked out in a horrified voice. He turned on his heels, desperately seeking an opening. But there was none.

    It was an ambush on all sides.

    "If you hold me hostage here like this, I can only assume your conscience has fleeted from you, Princess!" he argued.

    Marquis Qin was afraid, but he was confident she would not have the guts to kill him. He was a high-ranking aristocrat whose title was just a rank below that of a Duke. He had connections in the pce, from the affluent Lady Ge Beining to his ultimate trump card, the sick Emperor.

    Without Marquis Qin¡¯s crucial aid, the Emperor would die. His Majesty had only been able to live this long because of Marquis Qin¡¯s medicine. There was one more merchant, but he had never been able to produce the pills that quickly.

    "If you kill me right here, Princess, blood will forever stain this floor, and everyone will think less of you," he said.

    "You do not desire that Princess, especially after all of your hard-work. You did note this far only to be sent back," he reasoned with her.

    Marquis Qin faced her, but she showed her back to him. At a leisure pace, she brought a cookie to her lips and bit into it.

    In the heat of the moment, all of his displeasure and wrath resurfaced. He trembled, not out of fear, but out of sheer rage.

    In a low and barely controlled voice, he hissed out, "Princess."

    The Crown Princess continued ignoring him. She rested her chin upon a propped up arm and looked to the side, almost as if she was seeking for the lovely view of a pond. She was met with the view of nothing but her men, dressed in armor, sword in hand.

    "Crown Princess," he gritted out. "Harming me will not bring you any benefit. It will only harm you further, Princess. Please think of your reputation and the things at stake here."

    Marquis Qin jumped when she suddenlyughed. It was high-pitched, and filled with amusement. She turned her head, revealing the tiny smile on her face.

    "Did you think I would hurt you, Marquis?" she teased.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s brows wrung together. He tilted his head towards the heavily armed soldiers. "Certainly, these men did not bring their swords to have a ydate, Princess."

    "I wouldn¡¯t hurt you, Marquis, goodness no," sheughed.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s shoulders sagged in relief. He let out a sigh that he did not know he was holding in. She turned in her seat and crossed one leg over the other, an action that revealed the smallest glimpse of her slim ankle.

    He stared in confusion as she stuck a hand out. Immediately, a maidservant stepped forth and ced a scroll upon the Crown Princess¡¯s palms.

    "As you promised," she mused, "failure to meet my request results in death by your own two hands."

 Chapter 460 One Step Ahead

    <h4>Chapter 460 One Step Ahead</h4>

    Marquis Qin narrowed his eyes. He did not believe her words. But he took a shaky step forward and stretched a hand out. "I didn¡¯t have the opportunity to carefully read the scroll the first time you showed it to me, Princess. May I have the liberty to look through it better?"

    The Crown Princess tilted her head as if contemting his words.

    "Hmm..." Li Xueyue hummed. She studied the material of the scroll. The bottomyer was made of linen, the middleyer was the parchment, with the finalyer being a border of sturdy cloth to hold down the parchment. No matter how hard he¡¯d rip the scroll, it would never tear.

    Li Xueyue looked down at the silver box. It would be the only item he had that could rip this scroll. Well, aside from the sword of her soldiers, but he¡¯d never have the confidence to steal that.

    "Of course, Marquis Qin," she finally said. "After all, your name and handprint are on this scroll."

    Marquis Qin¡¯s hands trembled when he took the scroll from her hands. His eyes haphazardly read through the contract he had signed.

    The handwriting was messy, but legible. He was not surprised. Women were often uneducated, and it would be a miracle if they could read, much less, write.

    "T-this..." he breathed out, horrified. "P-Princess, I was not aware¡ª"

    "That you would be disemboweling yourself should a failure ur?" she finished for him. Her lips twisted into a smile, as she innocently batted hershes.

    "I¡¯d say that is a light punishment." Then, sheughed. "Well, only if you have the guts to do it."

    Marquis Qin swallowed. He did not appreciate her joke. At such a serious moment, she still had the ability tough? What a crazy woman she was. If he was her husband, he would¡¯ve sent her to the Cold Pce, where she would live out her entire life in a freezing cold room with nothing but a single nket that¡¯d keep her alive, but not long enough to kill herself with.

    "So," she said and sped her hands together. "Will I get my dagger or not?"

    Marquis Qin tightly gripped the scroll. If he could, he would run away with it. No wonder she had soldiers surround the entire pavilion. There was no way in, no way out. He waspletely trapped in the lion¡¯s den. And a woman held the key to his freedom.

    "Princess, carrying out this request of yours will cost me my entire fleet and possibly all my servants!" Marquis Qin cried out.

    The Crown Princess tilted her head. "How is that my problem?"

    Marquis Qin gaped at her. How many times was she going to give him a heart attack? How could sheck so muchpassion? For someone who would rule this country someday, the least she could do was show some empathy!

    This...this heartless wench!

    "Princess, Ie from humble beginnings. My father and mother were nothing but pitiful peasants with nothing but soil to their name! I have risen from the dirt, and worked through blood and sweat to get to where I am today," he whispered.

    Marquis Qin swallowed. "Please, Princess, if my resources all dwindle to nothing, t-then, all of my hard work¡ª"

    "Like I asked," she slowly said each word, as if speaking to a child. "How is that my problem?"

    "Princess!" he emphasized, desperation dripping from his eyes. "As the future Mother of our nation, you must be the exemr of kindness and sincerity. This is not how a future Empress should act!"

    The Crown Princess¡¯s light-hearted expression turned viciously cold. The warmth fled from her face. "For someone who has disappointed me time and again, you sure have the guts to reprimand me."

    "Princess¡ª"

    "That¡¯s alright," she suddenly said. "Soon, you won¡¯t have those guts anymore."

    The Crown Princess rose to her feet. "Literally, of course."

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue set foot into her shared estate and nced around, searching for Xiao Hua. After walking for a few minutes, she finally saw the familiar silhouette, standing by the doors of the bedroom.

    Her lips twitched. It seemed Xiao Hua had finished her task much earlier than expected. Li Xueyue wasn¡¯t sure if this was a good or bad thing. It¡¯s nice that Xiao Hua was efficient with her work, but what if she wasn¡¯t able to get it done properly?

    "There you are," Li Xueyue mused. "I was beginning to wonder if you had lost your way to the pavilion."

    Xiao Hua was initially confused, her brows tugging together. Suddenly, it dawned on her. ¡¯Oh right, I said I was off to fetch or do something...¡¯ she thought to herself.

    Xiao Hua tucked her hands in front of her and remorsefully bowed her head. "I am deeply sorry, Princess. This mistake will never happen again."

    The Crown Princess hummed at this. She approached the doors, and a servant quickly came forward to open it. Once she set foot into the room, she said, "Everyone is excused. Except for Xiao Hua."

    The maidservants deeply bowed in response. They took dainty steps backward, careful of their postures.

    Once the doors were shut, and Li Xueyue was seated on the other side of the room, she turned to Xiao Hua. "Did you find out anything?" she asked with a tilt of her head.

    Xiao Hua rapidly nodded. She kept her head low and spoke, "Princess, the guards shared valuable information with us, but it wasn¡¯t sufficient enough because Marquis Qin and Lady Ge Beining spoke in hushed whispers, and were standing near the pirs, a distance away from them."

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow. It seemed she had guessed incorrectly. Xiao Hua was actually quite thorough, and a lot chattier than she initially thought.

    "What did the guards say?" she asked.

    "The guards barely caught snippets of the conversation, Princess, but it seems they were arguing about acquiring something... Though, it was difficult to say, because they continuously repeated ¡¯goods¡¯ or ¡¯product,¡¯ instead of the actual item."

    Li Xueyue inquisitively tilted her head to the right, as she thought about what item Lady Ge Beining wanted to acquire so badly. It couldn¡¯t have been essories or dresses, since Lady Ge Beining had plenty of those.

    "Princess, the guards said Lady Ge Beining desperately wanted it as soon as possible. But Marquis Qin repeatedly told her that it would take a week¡¯s worth of travel, additionally, it is difficult to acquire which would take even more time."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s brows shot up. A week¡¯s worth of travel and difficult to acquire? But then, an abrupt, and strange idea came to mind. What if...the argument was fake? As in, Lady Ge Beining purposely seemed disgruntled, so that suspicion would not be raised that they were in cahoots?

    "Then, Lady Ge Beining stormed off in a fit, and the Marquis let out a sigh before walking to meet you," Xiao Hua concluded. "I¡¯m really sorry, Princess, I was unable to capture the most essential piece of information."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. Was she overthinking it again? It was just so bizarre...

    "Xiao Hua, you¡¯ve grown up in the pce, right?" she suddenly asked.

    Xiao Hua rapidly bobbed her head. "Yes, Princess."

    "Have you frequently seen Lady Ge Beining around?"

    "Usually not, Princess, since Lady Ge Beining stuck close to the Empress¡¯s estate, whereas I served the Emperor."

    Li Xueyue was not surprised by this piece of information, except for thest part. She didn¡¯t know Xiao Hua served the Emperor previously. "In the few times that you¡¯ve seen her, what do you think of Lady Ge Beining?"

    Xiao Hua hummed a bit. She pressed a finger on her lips and looked towards the ground, lost in thought. A minuteter, she spoke up.

    "Every servant speaks highly of her. They alwayspliment her beauty, grace, and elegance. There is never a moment where her face is marred with displeasure or irritation. She is either calm or happy and never in between, Princess."

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. "Isn¡¯t it strange then, that she suddenly loses her calm in public?"

    Xiao Hua hesitated. Her brows came together in concentration. She always thought over her responses carefully when it came to the Princess. But she was extra careful when it came to answering a question, since she did not want to say the wrong things.

    "Princess, perhaps the incident with Xu Jiaqi is still lingering on Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mind. Many people say Lady Ge Beining shared a close tie with almost all of thedies-in-waiting, so witnessing her friend¡¯s mutted state might¡¯ve traumatized Lady Ge Beining."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She had nearly forgotten about this possibility. "I see," she calmly said with a warm smile.

    She leisurely sat there, contemting, nning, and deciding her next ns. Butpletely unbeknownst to her, her enemies were always one step ahead than her.

 Chapter 461 A Child

    <h4>Chapter 461 A Child</h4>

    "M-Master are you certain of this?" the servant frantically whispered, his eyes wide as a hunted deer, and shaky as a trapped rabbit. He nervously licked his bottom lip, wondering what could¡¯ve caused his Master to behave like this.

    "If you¡¯re not going to use these ears, just cut them off!" Marquis Qin roared at his useless servant, his face twisted into a deep scowl. His heart was set aze, his blood boiling with impatience. What a bunch of ipetent fools he had raised!

    His servants flinched back in fear, despite being ustomed to his rage-fueled remarks.

    Everyone knew their Master was a tender-hearted man. But when his temper got the best of him, he could think of nothing else but ruin everything in sight. Roaring like a lion, cursing like a sailor...these things didn¡¯te out that often, but when it did, he was scarier than the monsters that hid under the bed.

    "Even if it will cause me an arm and leg, I will make sure to get it for her," Marquis Qin growled out. He stormed down the hallways of his estate whilst grinding his teeth.

    "And once I do, I will make certain to get my payment. My hard work will not go in vain, or else..."

    - - - - -

    Lady Ge Beining nced around the empty hallway. Suddenly, she did not know where to go. Her ce had always been by the side of the Empress¡ªquiet and obedient. It had been her spot for years.

    Lady Ge Beining still remembered her days as a child, where she sat on a chair toorge for her tiny frame. There were many aristocratic women gathered, all powerful and influential, but none of them were seated as close to the Empress as she was.

    "I was just a child then..." she murmured to herself. It was one of her favorite memories. She was years younger than those women, but none of them would evere close to the prestige she bore.

    "I miss you, Mother," Lady Ge Beining said wistfully. She nced up at the sky, wondering if her mother¡¯s sacrifice was truly worth it. Maybe if her mother was still alive, then she would know what to do in a situation like this.

    "I¡¯ve been by Her Grace¡¯s side all of my life, but I had forgotten it was a given spot... not an earned one."

    It was precisely why Lady Ge Beining did not know what to do. It seemed the spot, reserved solely for her, was now "upied". The seat wasn¡¯t taken by anyone, but no one dared to approach it anymore as if terrified of touching the spot.

    "Her Grace is neglecting us again," she whispered under her breath. It had been days since the Empress called for herdies-in-waiting, and everyone was eager to meet her.

    Lady Ge Beining nced around the hallways that she had found herself standing in. Her fingers reached out to stroke the golden pirs, bright and dazzling, a sharp contrast to the Crown Prince.

    "Is this how it is from now on?" she sighed, her shoulders sagging in disappointment. "Now that Your Grace realized none of her well-breddies-in-waiting will catch the eye of His Highness, we are all abandoned?"

    Lady Ge Beining was not distraught by this idea, for she had a bright future. Even so, she couldn¡¯t help but drop her head a bit and observe the smooth wooden floors.

    "I can marry the wealthiest and powerful suitor knocking at my doors..." Lady Ge Beining tried to imagine such a future. She would be happy, rich, and free from the shackles of the pce.

    Lady Ge Beining shakily revealed her palms, flushed pink with life. "But my hands are already tainted in blood, and there is no going back."

    She tucked her hands back into her sleeves and decided to try and find her way out of here. "Where is this ce?" she asked herself.

    Lady Ge Beining had nothing to do the entire day, so she had decided to blindly turn the corners, one after the other, and walk down paths that were semi-familiar but not really.

    "A life away from the pce..." Lady Ge Beining nearly gagged. It was a repulsive idea. All of her life, she had walked down these corridors, smelled the flowers in the air, and breathed in the extravagance. All she had known in this lifetime was the Imperial Pce.

    "I was born here, I grew up here, I was educated here." Lady Ge Beining ground her teeth. She refused to part from this ce, all because someone else had taken her spot in his life.

    "Why should I let a foreign weed overgrow me?" Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart clenched with hatred. She could feel her mncholy wash away as her anger surfaced.

    "I refuse to live anywhere else but here," Lady Ge Beining decided. She refused to eat in a house lesser than the pce, sleep under a roof lesser than the golden tiles of the pce, or seek shelter in anywhere but these familiar red walls.

    Lady Ge Beining spun on her heels, taking in every nook and cranny of her surroundings. These corridors were unfamiliar, but she knew it like the back of her palm. The pce was her home, her birthce, and her entire life.

    She refused to part from it. Refused to give up this fight, refused to yield, for it was never in her nature to do so.

    "No matter what," she whispered to herself. "I will reside within the pce walls and nowhere else."

    With that said, Lady Ge Beining stormed down the hallways. She continued onwards, even if she was not sure where she was going. Eventually, she came to a familiar ce. It was then she knew, her foot had done the walking, but her head had done the leading.

    In the far distance, she saw an unmistakable silhouette. Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart skipped as her body hummed.

    There he stood, proud and confident, aplete parallel to the child he used to be. His shoulders were broad and strong. It was a ce her head desperately wanted to rest on, and her hands to hold onto... Yu Zhen had embraced her before as a child, when she wept for her mother. It was the first time he had everforted her and thest.

    A numb little boy with careful, tender hands patting her little back. Even then, he did not know whatpassion was, yet heforted her in a time where everyone expected her to smile.

    The Empress¡¯s favorite. Everyone expected Lady Ge Beining to be the happiest person in the entire pce, for she had the protection of the most powerful woman in the entire Kingdom. But it was difficult to be happy when there was so much pressure upon her shoulders.

    "I should¡¯ve known," she whispered. "That I would have arrived here."

    Lady Ge Beining wished her eyes did nottch onto him. Whenever he was present, the world was a blur, and she saw no one but him.

    "What changed?" she asked. "Why did you stop looking my way? Why did you stop seeing me? Why did you stop caring about me?"

    Thousands of needles pricked at Lady Ge Beining¡¯s chest. Her heart threatened to rip apart. She did not want to hear the answer to these questions. She already knew.

    From the corner of her eyes, something flickered. She turned her chin in time to see an unwee figure walking down the hallways. Mindful of her footsteps, mindful of the watchful eyes, was the Crown Princess herself.

    "I gave you my heart, hoping to fill the void in your chest, but you gave it to someone else. How can you be so cruel?"

    Lady Ge Beining watched as he nced to the side. She watched as his frown slowly pulled into a smile. Watched as he wrapped his arms around a woman who stole her spot. He tenderly touched her face, bending down to whisper something into her ear. Sheughed, her eyes crinkling, as she held onto his upper arms, a bright carefree smile on her face.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s vision blurred. Heat flushed on her cheeks, as her fingers trembled. Something wet trickled down her face. It was warm, like her boiling blood, and thin like her patience.

    "Soon," she whispered to herself. "Soon, my spot will not be the Empress¡¯s side, but the Crown Prince¡¯s."

 Chapter 462 Welcoming the Darkness

    <h4>Chapter 462 Weing the Darkness</h4>

    "Well, this is certainly unexpected," was the first thing Li Xueyue said when she entered a bamboo garden with Lady Ge Beining. Bamboo lined along the white walls, and short brown fences lined on either side of the pavement leading to the pavilion with a forest green tiled roof.

    Li Xueyue hated to admit it, but Yu Zhen would love this ce. Everything about the tranquil white pebbles lining the paths to the gentle sway of the bamboo leaves would have appealed to him. He enjoyed simplistic, yet graceful architecture.

    "Unexpected, Princess?" Lady Ge Beining repeated in a light, airy voice. "What do you mean?"

    Li Xueyue lifted her eyes from the circr entryway to Lady Ge Beining who took tiny, elegant steps.

    "I didn¡¯t think you would enjoy my presence, Lady Ge Beining," Li Xueyue said with a slight smile on her peony pink lips.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s attention centered upon the natural lip shade which was undoubtedly painted on. She wondered if the Crown Princess knows her husband was not a fan of makeup. As a kid, he had once told her he would hate it if something stained his lip or face, just because of a kiss.

    "Anyone would be delighted to have you in their presence, Crown Princess," Lady Ge Beining said.

    They paused to observe a short tree. Now that autumn was in full swing, the emerald green was nowhere to be seen. In its ce was dazzling hues of sunset orange and crimson red.

    Li Xueyue suddenlyughed. "That is a lie, and we both know it, Lady Ge."

    Lady Ge Beining held back a sigh. She wasn¡¯t in the best of mood to praise thepliment-fishing Princess.

    "So, why don¡¯t you tell me the real reason you¡¯ve invited me?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Lady Ge Beining touched the branches of the tree, frowning when the leaves dropped to the ground and onto her palm. The tree was dying, and it wasn¡¯t because of the change of seasons.

    "Princess, when I was thirteen, I received this tree as a gift," Lady Ge Beining abruptly said.

    She could sense the Crown Princess¡¯s confusion from her raised brows. "You see, Princess, I am fond of any pastry that contains nuts like chestnuts, walnuts, or even peanuts. So, I was given this tree that¡¯s not native to Hanjian and was known to produce a fragrant type of nut that¡¯s most suited for baking. The other part of the world calls it a hazelnut."

    Lady Ge Beining let out a small sigh. "The tree was beautiful in its prime¡ªcolorful and vibrant, Princess."

    She held out her palm, where the wilted, brown leaf had crumbled into pieces. "s, this gorgeous tree, praised and admired by many for her great beauty could not survive in foreign soil."

    Lady Ge Beining pitifully shook her head. "Princess, no matter how much the servants tended to it, bringing it the best fertilizer in thend, watering it with mineral and nutrient-infused water, the tree never bore anything."

    She frowned at the ground and turned her palm over, watching as pieces of the dead leaf slowly fell to the ground. "And it will be uprooted soon, for people have no use of a useless tree beyond its prime years, Princess."

    Lady Ge Beining turned towards the Crown Princess with a bright, innocent smile. When she saw the Crown Princess¡¯s slight frown, her smile widened.

    "The Crown Prince was a considerate man, even in his youth... No one knew I enjoyed pastries with nuts except for him. Which was why he gave me such a lovely present, Princess."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s gaze sharpened. Her frown deepened.

    "You are very lucky, Princess," Lady Ge Beining wistfully sighed. "You¡¯re with such an understanding man..."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She was well aware that Lady Ge Beining made it seem as if Yu Zhen and her had never gotten married in the first ce.

    ¡¯With an understanding man?¡¯ she thought to herself. ¡¯It should be ¡¯married to an understanding man,¡¯ this brat.¡¯

    "Princess, the Prince was such a lonely boy. He did not have many people on his side," Lady Ge Beining whispered.

    Lady Ge Beining peered up at the barren tree with its tiny, dark buds that seemed hopeful to the eye, but would never bloom.

    "Everyone expected him to have arge harem to meet his needs. It¡¯s difficult to believe just one woman could satisfy him, Princess."

    "And I¡¯m sure you believe you can satisfy him."

    Lady Ge Beining was startled by the Crown Princess¡¯s brash words. She turned her chin, revealing an astonished expression. Her heart raced at the erotic thought that came to mind.

    Satisfying his needs...she would do it well. At least, exceptionally better than the Crown Princess who had wed the Crown Prince for nearly half a year now, but yet to carry his child. Everyone knew the Crown Prince was healthy and fertile, so the problem must be with the Crown Princess. What exactly was wrong with her womb?

    "It is not what I believe, Princess," Lady Ge Beining whispered. "But what the Kingdom is whispering about."

    Li Xueyue chuckled at her words. She turned towards the lifeless tree. "By all means," she mused. "I wee you to satisfy my husband."

    Again, Lady Ge Beining was mortified by how blunt the Crown Princess was. She gaped at her with parted lips before quickly regaining herposure. She was used to dealing with shameless women, but never one who was shameless to this extent.

    "That is, if you can even capture his attention."

    Lady Ge Beining glowered at the tree. Suddenly, she wished it could be uprooted from its spot, directly in front of her¡ªboth the tree and the Princess

    "That shouldn¡¯t be too hard, considering the childhood we¡¯ve spent together, Princess," Lady Ge Beining fearlessly said with determination fueling her heart.

    "And despite the childhood you¡¯ve spent together, you know nothing about him."

    Lady Ge Beining angrily snapped her head to the Crown Princess before she quickly regained herposure and reminded herself that it¡¯s not worth it.

    "What do you mean, Princess?" Lady Ge Beining asked. She knew everything about the Crown Prince, whether it was his favorite color or his favorite food. She even knew the ce he went to cry like a boy, before his eyes suddenly dried up and he never showed up in that corner again.

    "Surely, if you knew him, you¡¯d be able to hold his attention long enough for affection to grow." Li Xueyue turned to her. "Yet, here you stand,menting a dying tree as yourst connection to him."

    Lady Ge Beining might as well have been pped. Her fingers trembled with controlled rage. She shakily sped her hands in front of her to prevent it from clenching into a fist.

    "Poor thing," Li Xueyue sighed. She gingerly touched the branches and slowly shook her head in disappointment. "If this was a gift from the Crown Prince, you should¡¯ve cherished it."

    Lady Ge Beining saw red. She ground her teeth, her eyes burning with pure hatred. She rarely hated people, but this woman, she despised with her entire being.

    "Princess¡ª"

    "You bore me."

    Lady Ge Beining rapidly blinked. Was the Crown Princess drunk or in stupid? Saying things like this without thinking it through was foolish.

    "This type of behavior is strictly against the rules of etiquette, Princess," Lady Ge Beining slowly said. She wondered if the Crown Princess was even educated on the rules of etiquette. It would not be a surprise if she wasn¡¯t.

    Lady Ge Beining mentally jotted down today¡¯s conversation. She was nning on sharing it to the Empress, to once again remind her that the Crown Princess was acting ranks above what she actually was.

    That is until something caught her attention out of the corner of her eyes. A familiar silhouette yet again, but this time, it was someone she didn¡¯t want to see. He repulsed her physically and mentally, but she needed him one way or another. And there he stood, with the box that she wanted, but he had told her was too difficult to acquire.

    Nothing in this world was too difficult to acquire, as long as one had money.

    "If I bore you to this extent, Princess, then I apologize," Lady Ge Beining said with an edge to her tone. She bowed her head and decided to just leave. "If you may excuse me¡ª"

    "Off you go," the Crown Princess said with a shoo of her hand, as if telling a fly to leave.

    Lady Ge Beining swallowed her pride and did her little curtsy. Then, she walked off, even though this was her garden, and the Crown Princess was supposed to be the one leaving. But she did not mind.

    Lady Ge Beining took slow, hesitant steps forward, pretending to admire the rest of her garden when in reality, she did not want to draw attention to herself. She turned her head, watching her shadow, long and slim, reflect on the walls.

    Only when she saw the shadows of the Crown Princess disappear did Lady Ge Beining finally rush forward. She had felt slight remorse prior to their encounter, but now that she saw how horrible and spoiled the Princess was, Lady Ge Beining made up her mind.

    "I will have no regrets," she said to herself. "Not for before, not for today, and especially not for tomorrow."

    Lady Ge Beining jutted her chin in the air. To climb the steps of this pce, she would step on the backs of anyone she had to¡ªbe it friends, family, and so forth. She did not care anymore.

    Anything to maintain her status in the pce, anything to bring her closer to him, anything to remain in this country. She was willing to take every measure, even if it meant turning her back to the light and weing the darkness with open arms.

 Chapter 463 Whats Wrong?

    <h4>Chapter 463 What¡°s Wrong?</h4>

    Lady Ge Beining ced the wooden box down on therge table in her bedroom. There was an empty vase resting on the table, so beautiful that it could overshadow any flower ced in it.

    "Lady Ge..." a small voice whispered from behind her.

    Lady Ge Beining instantly turned around, covering the box with her body. She forced a smile, realizing it was just her loyal servants.

    "What is it?" she asked in the same, patient and kind voice. Even so, the maidservants bowed their heads.

    "Her Grace, the Empress, is requesting your presence."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart soared. Did that mean the Empress had a change of heart? Had she finally gotten over the pain?

    ¡¯Of course, she did, it was only a matter of time!¡¯ Lady Ge Beining thought to herself. It was just a small mention of miscarriages, that was all.

    Many women go through it, so why was the Empress stillmenting about something that happened so long ago? What¡¯s the point of crying over spilled milk? There were already flowers nted in ce of the children that she had lost. All that was needed to be done was done.

    ¡¯If it was me, I¡¯d cry for less than a week, and then move on with my life. After all, I would still have the opportunity to make more,¡¯ she added on.

    "Lady Ge?" the maidservant gently called out.

    Lady Ge Beining snapped back to reality as she smiled at the servant. "Give me a moment please, all of you," she said.

    The servants bowed at her words. They slipped out of the room whilst closing the doors behind them.

    Lady Ge Beining opened the wooden box and took out the item she had eagerly wanted to get her hands on for the longest time now.

    Initially, she was hesitant about getting it, since it was not certain whether or not the item would be effective. It was pricey and definitely cost a significant amount of the inheritance she got from her mother.

    "You better work so I wouldn¡¯t have stressed myself out for nothing." Lady Ge Beining walked towards her vanity, where different bottles of perfumes were on disy. She settled the bottle onto the table, tucking it behind an unopened bottle of perfume. Then, she left the box on the table and left the room.

    "Alright, let¡¯s greet the Empress," Lady Ge Beining informed her servants in a contained voice. Her face reflected her happiness, even when she didn¡¯t dare to show it too much. It wasn¡¯t her personality to do so.

    As Lady Ge Beining walked down the hallways, she could not help butment over the memories spent in this pce. When she crossed the circr entryway that led to the Empress¡¯s estate, a tiny smile began to form on her lips.

    "I still remember running down this path, only to be scolded a minuteter," Lady Ge Beining joked with the maidservant standing closest to her. "I always thought it was strange, considering other little girls of aristocrats were allowed to do it..."

    Lady Ge Beining recalled a memory of the Empress catching her, and scolding her for behaving so unruly.

    At that time, the Empress had said her future status did not allow her to be so wild. It was only after Lady Ge Beining grew up that she realized the Empress was hinting at her future as ady-in-waiting.

    "Her Grace always had my best interest in mind, so I always listened to her," Lady Ge Beining whispered. She stopped before the grand pce of the Empress¡¯s estate, with its golden roofs curved towards the high heavens, and its crimson pirs.

    "It¡¯s so strange how quickly time has passed." Lady Ge Beining touched her chest that slightly ached with the remembrance of the past.

    Lady Ge Beining had grown up without a mother. Thus, she hadtched onto the only figure in her life who fit the role¡ªthe Empress. And the Empress did not seem to mind. During that time, the Empress had informed Lady Ge Beining that the more daughters, the merrier.

    ¡¯Yet, she treats me a lot differently,¡¯ Lady Ge Beining bitterly thought to herself. Not a secondter, she regretted harboring such malicious opinion towards the Empress.

    ¡¯I was the one who requested to be herdy-in-waiting, as a way of getting closer to her,¡¯ she reminded herself.

    Even so, Lady Ge Beining could not help but want to run back to her room. She chose that position because she thought it woulde in handy in the future.

    If the Crown Prince wanted her to, she could easily spy on the Empress for him. She was willing to sacrifice that much just to gain his affection.

    "Well, let¡¯s not keep Her Grace waiting any longer now," Lady Ge Beining said.

    She approached the small staircase and continued walking until she was near the garden where the Empress always held an audience with her. It was their little private spot, unbeknownst to any of the otherdies-in-waiting.

    "There she is," Lady Ge Beining whispered upon seeing the familiar figure d in emerald green with silver trimmings. Elegant and bold, as always. The Empress¡¯s maidservants outdid themselves each and every day in choosing her clothing.

    Lady Ge Beining excitedly approached the gazebo. She loved the vines that swirled from the ground and up the wooden pirs. It added more depth and character to this ce, regardless of how unkempt it seemed at first nce.

    "Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining addressed in her usual voice, light and airy, like the soft caress of a feather.

    Lady Ge Beining grabbed both sides of her hanfu and dipped into a curtsy. She had picked up this odd habit from a picture book she had read in her youth. It was a book gifted by the Emperor, after acquiring it from a merchant overseas.

    "You have called for me, Your Grace?" Lady Ge Beining whispered whilst her gaze drifted towards the empty table. There wasn¡¯t a teapot or any teacups in sight.

    "I apologize, Your Grace," she worriedly said. "It was such short notice that I wasn¡¯t able to prepare your favorite tea and snacks."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s brows pulled together. "But if you will pardon me a few minutes, I will immediately do so, Your Grace."

    Lady Ge Beining was often not in this much of a rush but it had been a few weeks since she hadst seen the Empress, that all of her excitement came back at once.

    "No need, Lady Ge," the Empress lightlyughed. She gestured towards the wooden chair in front of her. "Take a seat."

    Lady Ge Beining blinked a bit. The sound of the Empress¡¯sugh was less pleasant and gentle than it had been in the past. Her smile, though warm, never reached her eyes.

    Did something happen?

    It was then Lady Ge Beining noticed the abundance of maidservants today, more than usual. They carried wooden trays with them, each with three to four scrolls resting on it.

    "Is everything alright, Your Grace?" Lady Ge Beining blurted out when she took her seat. The second she did so, the Empress waved her hand and the maidservants came forward with the first tray.

    "Everything is splendid, Lady Ge," the Empress answered in an ted voice. She grabbed the first scroll. It was the color of the splendid sun, bright and yellow.

    "You must be wondering why it took me so long to call for your presence," the Empress said. She settled the scroll in front of her and with a flick of the wrist, unraveled it. The ends of the scroll rolled down the table, stopping directly in front of Lady Ge Beining who¡¯s eyes widened in horror.

    "Your Grace, I¡ª"

    "Hush now, I am speaking, child." The Empress presented Lady Ge Beining with a smile. She wondered exactly why her favoritedy-in-waiting¡¯s expression had paled.

    "I was initially angry at your failures. Don¡¯t get me wrong, I am still infuriated, but what kind of mother would I be if I held this against you?" the Empress said and chuckled. She was not the type to hold a grudge against the people she favored.

    "I have raised you as my own daughter, despite theck of blood we share," the Empress slowly said. She smoothened down the t parchment, her smile widening at the lovely memories of raising a wild child to the graceful maiden she was today.

    "It is precisely why I decided to do this for you," the Empress said whilst gesturing towards the scroll. She lifted her eyes from the parchment and was astonished by the tears in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes.

    What¡¯s wrong?

 Chapter 464 Become a Princess

    <h4>Chapter 464 Be a Princess</h4>

    "Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining shakily whispered. "Have I offended you so deeply that you must get rid of me?"

    The Empress was confused. She turned to Lady Ge Beining with a questioning stare. "You¡¯ve indeed offended me, but my punishment was not to see you for a while, that is all."

    The Empress looked down at the scroll again, wondering what went wrong. The first tray contained paintings of the best Princes that this entire continent had to offer, for example, the Crown Prince of Nanhui.

    The Crown Prince of Nanhui was an eligible bachelor who was just three years older than Lady Ge Beining. Though he was ranked above her in status, Lady Ge Beining¡¯s years as ady-in-waiting would count for something.

    Because Lady Ge Beining was the closest woman to the Empress out of everyone in this pce, her unofficial rank was equivalent to that of a Princess. After all, she was raised like one, even if the Emperor did not grant her an official title.

    "Is he that ugly for you to react like this?" the Empress asked.

    She looked down at the painting of the Crown Prince of Nanhui. He was quite the looker if she did say so herself. Of course, his Kingdom was a lot more savage for the likes of the conservative Lady Ge Beining, but she mightplement him.

    "No, Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining said. "I just..." she trailed off with uncertainty in her gaze. "I just didn¡¯t think you would want me to depart from your side so quickly, Your Grace. I was under the assumption I¡¯d serve you for my entire life, for that is something that brings both of us joy."

    The Empress gently smiled at this. She had also thought the same thing, but knew it would be too selfish. She, too, wanted to keep this little canary beside her for as long as possible, but life was not that sweet.

    "It seems you have outgrown the walls of the pce, Lady Ge," the Empress said. "This is your home, and the ce that you have grown up in, but it is not the ce I envisioned your future to be."

    The Empress reached a hand out and pointed at the title written on the portrait. "He is the Crown Prince of Nanhui. You will wed him as an Imperial Consort, but if you y your cards right and I know you will, for you are intelligent and strong, you can eventually be the Crown Princess."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face turned even paler, like the first fall of snow. With great velocity, she shook her head. "This offer is greatly appreciated, Your Grace, but I¡ª"

    "Hmmm, it seems you are too humble to reach beyond your status, my child," the Empress murmured. She rolled the scroll up and grabbed another one from the tray.

    "If you are hesitant about bing the Empress of a foreign Kingdom, much like I have done, then you can be the First Wife of a Third Prince. The politics will be equally as rough, but the weight will be much lighter upon your shoulders."

    The Empress grabbed another scroll from the tray,ying both of them onto the table. "Or, if you¡¯re not interested in the politics of the pce, which I would not me you, then you can marry a Duke, who is someone of your pedigree, but slightly above you in status."

    Lady Ge Beining suddenly found it suffocating to be here. The Empress was so excited to list out the potential suitors, that she could not help but be repulsed.

    In the past, even when many men begged for Lady Ge Beining¡¯s hand in marriage, the Empress had denied them all, dering that it was not the time.

    But now, out of all times, was the right time? It was too suspicious. Unfortunately, she could voice this thought, no matter the circumstances.

    "Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining whispered. "I do not want to wed the Crown Prince of Nanhui, a Third Prince, or even a Duke..."

    At this, the Empress¡¯s warm expression turned freezing cold. Her smile flipped into a deep scowl. "Ge Beining," she viciously addressed in an unforgiving voice. "You can¡¯t have him."

    Lady Ge Beining flinched as if she was pped for the second time today. "Why not, Your Grace?" she whispered as her voice cracked towards the end.

    "Isn¡¯t this what I was raised for?" she pitifully said. "Ever since I came under your care, I was raised to be a Princess. I was taught the duties of a wife, the duties of a woman in power, I¡ª"

    "You were taught to be a Princess, but not the Empress," the Empress reprimanded. When Lady Ge Beining¡¯s expression crumbled and her eyes watered, the Empress was forced to look away.

    "I know, I know," she sighed. "You thought your fate would be entwined with the Second Prince. We all thought it would, and that your red string of fate were tied to his pinky, but s, it was not."

    The Empress could not forget the expression her son had for his wife. During the Round Table Discussion, he looked absolutely awestruck by her words and performance. It was as if no one else existed in the room but her. He watched her with a gentle gaze, filled with pure love and adoration.

    The Crown Prince was smitten by his Wangfei. Conquered, even. His heart was so filled with feelings for her, there was no room for anyone else.

    "The Crown Prince has eyes for her alone and no one else. The sooner you realize it, dear child, the better," the Empress dered.

    "Although His Majesty does not have a harem anymore," the Empress began, "we all thought my second son would have one, despite hisck of emotion for women."

    She let out a small sigh. "I believed he would¡¯ve considered what was the best course of action for the betterment of Hanjian and marry for the benefit of this country. But then he went along and fell head over heels in love with his Wangfei, so much so, that he smiles for no one but her."

    The Empress could not help butugh a bit. How nice it must be to be young and in love... She had forgotten how it felt like, for her heart had long frozen over from the Emperor¡¯s years of neglect. When she was a young maiden herself, she had dearly loved the Emperor with her heart.

    At first, she was captivated by his great looks, but then, she was enthralled by his rare, asional smiles.

    He had herpletely wrapped around his fingers during the first month or so of their marriage. That is, before he tossed her into the lion¡¯s den and told her to survive on her own.

    "I thought my son would be like his father," she concluded. "But they are worlds apart, despite being raised the same way."

    The Empress looked Lady Ge Beining in the eye. "You are the dreams of many men. The famed Beauty of Hanjian. Whoever you set your eyes on, you shall have. But the Crown Prince is not one of those men."

    Lady Ge Beining, for the first time in her life, showed a defiant gaze to the Empress. She remained in her seat, hands clenched on herp, as she slowly shook her head.

    "The Crown Prince is the only man I am willing to wed."

 Chapter 465 Bad News

    <h4>Chapter 465 Bad News</h4>

    The Empress was not surprised. She didn¡¯t even blink at the confession. She maintained her current posture and expression.

    "Lady Ge, you are no longer a child. You can¡¯t expect to get everything that you desire at your whim and fancy," the Empress softly said. She reached a hand out and sped it over Lady Ge Beining¡¯s hands.

    The Empress¡¯s heart stung when she saw the tears in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s gaze. Thedy-in-waiting rarely cried, and if she did, it was for an exceptional cause. "You can¡¯t have him, child."

    Lady Ge Beining rapidly shook her head. She rose to her feet, her lips trembling like her watery eyes. "I¡¯m so sorry, Your Grace," she whispered as she approached the Empress.

    Not a secondter, Lady Ge Beining dropped to her knees as she sped her hands over the Empress in a desperate plea. "This heart of mine beats for no one but the Crown Prince, Your Grace! I do not want anyone but him¡ª"

    "Then, you will learn to." The Empress did not bother to help the young woman up. Lady Ge Beining knew better than to kneel and beg like this.

    "I-I can¡¯t¡ª"

    "You will."

    "I truly can¡¯t¡ª"

    "Then you will wed another man whether you love him or not."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes widened at the Empress¡¯s words. She tightened her grasp and blinked once, the tears trickling down faster than rain.

    "Then you are sentencing me to a life worse than death and torture in itself, Your Grace!" she eximed.

    The Empress let out a small sigh. She pulled her hand back and stroked the side of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face.

    "Why do all of my daughters yearn for a man that they can¡¯t have?" the Empress whispered, as she recalled Princess Yu Lingluo who had locked herself in her room. It had been nearly a week now, and she never stepped outside her pce. She even banished all the maidservants from the premises and refused to eat.

    "Begging in a pathetic state like this does not work on me, you should know that the best, Lady Ge," the Empress sniped.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart clenched. Even now, she could remember the deceased Imperial Consort kneeling, screaming, crying, and begging for mercy upon the only illegitimate daughter of the Emperor. In the end, the Imperial Consort died pitifully, without her only daughter by her side.

    "And I should know that it didn¡¯t work because not a dayter, she dropped dead under mysterious circumstances that can only be exined as heartbreak, Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining slowly said. Her words seemed light, but the intent was poisonous¡ªand the Empress knew it.

    The Empress shot out of her chair, a dark and fierce glower in her eyes. They burned brighter than ever, like the fire in her soul. "You dare to bring her up in front of me?"

    "Yes, Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining whispered as she revealed her palms, pale and pink like cherry blossoms. "For my hands are too stained for the incident to be forgotten."

    The Empress narrowed her gaze. She sharply turned to her servants. "Lady Ge Beining has lost her mind, have her stand up."

    The maidservants immediately came forward but Lady Ge Beining shook them off. She stood up on her own, but still bent her head in obedience.

    "Your Grace, for all of my life, I¡¯ve served you and no one else. I¡¯ve stood by your side, through the storm and hurricanes, with a smile. Never once have I asked anything of your benevolence," she slowly said. "But just this one, just this once, please give me the impossible."

    Lady Ge Beining shakily grasped the Empress¡¯s sleeves. "And that will be all. I will ask for nothing else from you after this, Your Grace. I will never lower myself to this extent, never embarrass you, ever again. I will carry our secrets, from the smallest to the darkest, to my grave."

    Lady Ge Beining sucked in a trembling breath. She felt her heart begin to rip open with pain. Even breathing was difficult. "S-so... can¡¯t I have the Crown Prince? Even if it costs me my freedom?"

    The Empress¡¯s frigid expression melted. She let out a small, heavy sigh. "Even if it costs you your pride?"

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s throat tightened. "Y-yes¡ª"

    "Even if it costs you your dignity?"

    "O-of course¡ª"

    "Then you are not worthy to be the Imperial Consort of the Crown Prince."

    The Empress could see the light fleeting from Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes. Her heavenly gaze was reced by malicious greed. Her heart, soft and beating, was slowly turning cold like ice.

    Lady Ge Beining swallowed her sobs and sniffles. She wiped her tears away and hung her head lower, never daring to raise it. Slowly, and softly, she sank to her knees, like a dying flower. With her palms nted on the ground, she bowed her head.

    "I understand, Your Grace."

    - - - - -

    "Princess, we mustn¡¯t dy the Imperial Physician any longer now!" Xiao Hua urgently whispered from two steps behind the Crown Princess.

    "I¡¯m walking back to my estate already," the Crown Princess said and lightlyughed. "It was a simple detour I took."

    Li Xueyue nced around her surroundings. The sun was high in the sky, but arge, gloomy cloud was slowly covering it. She watched as the light was eventually swallowed by the darkness until the afternoon was bathed in dreariness.

    "Is he already there?" Li Xueyue asked Xiao Hua. Now that she had set foot in her estate, she felt at peace.

    "Yes, Princess, he has arrived earlier than expected after being summoned by the Crown Prince," Xiao Hua responded in a small voice.

    Li Xueyue nodded. Without a doubt, Yu Zhen had urged the man to wait outside, no matter how long it¡¯d take for her to arrive. She pitied the Imperial Physician, but knew she was partially to me.

    When she turned the corner, Li Xueyue saw the young Imperial Physician. He was apanied by an apprentice and a servant. Suddenly, she was hesitant and nervous. What if the Imperial Physician would bring her another piece of bad news?

    "Princess?" Xiao Hua whispered when the Crown Princess came to an abrupt halt. All of the servants behind them also paused when she did so and nearly bumped into each other.

    "Is everything alright, Princess?" Xiao Hua worriedly asked. She lifted her gaze to where the Crown Princess was watching. Her brows crinkled in confusion when she noticed it was just the Imperial Physician standing there and not some evil spirit.

    "You¡¯re pale, Princess," Xiao Hua said. She wondered what could¡¯ve been the cause of this. Not a minute ago, the Princess seemed just fine. In fact, she was in high-spirits the entire day, as she usually was.

    "Nothing," Li Xueyue responded in a shaky voice. The Imperial Physician¡¯s examination did not hurt, nor did his questions seem malicious. But she always dreaded seeing him, for nothing good coulde out of his visit.

    "Let¡¯s not keep him waiting any longer now," Li Xueyue reluctantly said. She could feel the confusion amongst her maidservants and the concern from Xiao Hua.

    Li Xueyue took the first step, then another, and then another until eventually she was approaching the Imperial Physician. Her footsteps felt heavy, much like her heart.

    What bad news would he tell her this time?

 Chapter 466 Marry Me

    <h4>Chapter 466 Marry Me</h4>

    "Hm, this is quite strange..." The Imperial Physician tilted his head at the curious case before him. It wasn¡¯t impossible, but certainly was not thatmon. But he could not be too sure yet.

    "Is there a problem?" the Crown Princess asked. She had been watching him the entire time with a worried look on her face.

    The Imperial Physician shook his head. "Certainly not, Princess. Though, something I didn¡¯t predict seems to be taking ce."

    "You¡¯re talking in circles," the Crown Princess stated. "Please be more precise."

    The Imperial Physician was hesitant in sharing his diagnosis since he wasn¡¯tpletely certain of her condition. He pressed his lips together and peered down at the Crown Princess, searching for what they called a "glow." She was certainly beautiful, but the sun was beginning to set now, and sunlight was seeping through the window.

    There was a warm hue to her skin, turning it a fine shade of gold. He nced towards the side, where the windows were wide open, and the curtains did nothing to block out the light.

    "You are healthy as any woman can be, Princess," the Imperial Physician finally said. "However, there is something that is bothering me, but I can¡¯t be certain for now."

    The Crown Princess pulled her brows together. "What do you mean?"

    The Imperial Physician slowly shook his head. "For your sake, it is best that you do not know. But soon, Princess, you shall."

    - - - - -

    "Are you sure it¡¯s alright to let the Imperial Physician leave just like that, Princess?" Xiao Hua asked the second he was out of the door. She was standing beside the seated Princess who seemed to be lost in thought.

    "My husband only wanted to make sure I am healthy," Li Xueyue said. She cupped her fingers around the turquoise blue teacup. "And we received word that I am fine."

    Li Xueyue tried to make sense of the Imperial Physician¡¯s reaction. Why did he say that it would be better for her to remain in the dark? Was there something so important that he couldn¡¯t tell her yet?

    The Imperial Physician mentioned he woulde back and visit her in three weeks, but before then, she could request to see him as many times as she pleased.

    "I heard the Imperial Physician passed the exam with flying colors," Li Xueyue added on. "He must have a concrete reason for being so secretive about my condition."

    Li Xueyue lifted the teacup to her lips and was surprised by the taste of chrysanthemum. She settled the teacup down and peered at it.

    Her favorite drink was always chamomile. Why had it been reced with chrysanthemum? Not that she wasining, but chrysanthemum tea was rare and expensive, especially the ones brewed for her.

    "Did the Crown Prince tell you to brew chrysanthemum?" Li Xueyue asked Xiao Hua.

    Xiao Hua softly nodded her head. "The Crown Prince instructed this since it is much healthier for your body, Princess."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She brought the teacup to her mouth again and took a quiet sip of it. "I finally have time for myself, but I don¡¯t know what to do with it," she sighed.

    "Hmmm..." Xiao Hua trailed off as she nced around the room. "Princess, by chance, did we bring back the item you have requested from Marquis Qin?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips twitched, threatening to break out into an amused smile that would make her a sadist. She had enjoyed seeing the panicked expression on Marquis Qin. He had tried so hard to hold back his hand before it would p her across the face. He looked like he was ready to murder her.

    "No, I did not," Li Xueyue responded. "It would just add more to the costs."

    Xiao Hua slowly nodded her head. Suddenly, she thought back to the topaz earrings that were gifted to her. She quietly gulped. "T-then, the earrings"

    "Was a gift," the Crown Princess concluded. "Don¡¯t worry, Xiao Hua. You can wear it as you please."

    Even so, Xiao Hua dared not to. "It is a precious gift, Princess... If worn, then it might get dirty or damaged."

    The Crown Princess gently smiled at this. She turned her head and nced at her. "Xiao Hua, you are too precious."

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen¡¯s scowl deepened. Kneeling before him was a servant whose forehead touched the ground. He was dressed in light pink clothes, the signature color of his Mistress¡ªPrincess Yu Lingluo.

    Dusk was rapidly approaching, and Yu Zhen had just finished his work when this servant risked his life to visit his private study. Yu Zhen rarely allowed anyone in here, much less a random servant sent by his sister.

    "Inform your Mistress that the next servant she sends to me will be returned with his head in a box," Yu Zhen growled.

    Yu Zhen nced toward the window, where the pale moon was high in the sky. He narrowed his eyes. A thick cloud rolled over the dazzling moon, covering it in somber grey.

    "T-the Princess begs of you to reconsider, Your Highness..." the servant trailed off in a shaky voice. His entire body was trembling, like a dying leaf hanging onto a barren branch.

    Yu Zhen saw the cold sweat that tricked down the servant¡¯s back. His lips curled in disgust. That damn brat!

    Without warning, he stood up from his chair. The servant flinched back in fear, a tiny whimper escaped from his lips. Cowardly, just like his Mistress.

    Silently, Yu Zhen walked around his desk. He stormed out of the door and slipped into the brightly lit hallways. Lanterns greeted him every few steps, and soon, he found himself in a ce too feminine for his taste.

    Thenterns here were different. They were shaped like flowers¡ªroses, peonies, and so on. The ones ced in the open garden were shaped like tiny animals such as rabbits andmbs.

    It was so childish that he scoffed. He expected no less from his childish little sister who¡¯d risk her reputation and status to be with an orphan boy.

    "Y-Your Highness!" the guards greeted in astonished voices and widened their eyes. They knew their Princess had sent many servants to the Crown Prince¡¯s private study, but none of them were sessful in escorting him here.

    "You are beyond the age of pathetic tantrums," Yu Zhen barked towards her door. The guards beside the double doors cowered back, bending their upper bodies in greeting.

    "Now open up, you brat." Yu Zhen stood there and waited for three seconds. When he was met with pure silence, he narrowed his eyes. His jaw tightened.

    "If you¡¯re waiting for Hu Dengxiao to show up here, he never will. He is getting married to the love of his life soon."

    Yu Zhen heard a violent crash. He rolled his eyes at this. It was exactly like her exuberant nature to break things out of rage. It was what the Emperor and Empress loved to do. What could he say? Yu Lingluo learned from the best.

    "Open up, I do not have all night to wait for your tantrum to finish."

    Yu Zhen gave her three more seconds. When he didn¡¯t hear anything, he took a step backward. Apathetic and cruel, he turned on his heels and walked off. Only when he reached the end of the hallway did he hear wood rattling against metal?

    "Zhen-gege..." a soft, hoarse voice filled the air, apanied by the shuffle of clothes.

    Yu Zhen turned his head. Even when he saw her pitiful expression of tear-filled eyes and parched lips, he did not blink.

    "I will behave, so won¡¯t youe in?"

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t have the intention of staying for long. He nced up at the sky again, this time, the moon waspletely gone. Midnight was quickly approaching, and his Wangfei would be lonely without him.

    "Please?" she whispered, taking a step outside of her bedroom.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze zeroed in on her feet. He clenched his fist and red. This idiot. Shattered porcin and ss littered across her bedroom floor, yet she still walked around barefooted?

    He held back the urge to scold her in public. Without another word, he stormed down the hallway and pushed her into the bedroom. Not a secondter, he mmed the doors shut behind him.

    But before he could say anything, she crashed her body against him. Yu Zhen stiffened. His arms hung on his sides. Loudly and violently, she sobbed and sniffled against his chest, crying over her first heartbreak.

    "You know I don¡¯tfort anyone," Yu Zhen muttered. Despite his cold words, he lifted his hand and gently patted her on the back of her head. She cried louder, clutching tightly onto his lower back, for that was all that she could reach.

    "C-can¡¯t y-you just force him to marry me?" she begged.

    "Sure."

 Chapter 467 Cry Her Heart Ou

    <h4>Chapter 467 Cry Her Heart Ou</h4>

    Yu Lingluo instantly raised her head at his response. Did she hear him correctly? Had he just agreed to her request?

    "You can have Hu Dengxiao," Yu Zhen coldly told her. "But are you ready to face the consequences of your actions?"

    Yu Lingluo¡¯s lips parted in response, ready to foolishly agree to it, but he interrupted her.

    "Are you ready to kneel before Father and beg for mercy when he captures Hu Dengxiao? Are you ready to watch Hu Dengxiao get whipped to death until his face is disfigured, and he is a bloody mess?"

    Yu Zhen cocked his head. "Do you have the guts to go against Lu Tianbi, both mentally and physically? Are you willing to abandon your pride and dignity for a man who will never love you the same way you do?"

    Yu Lingluo pushed him away as she took staggering steps backward. She stared up at him as if he was a monster. Hatred and anger dripped from her eyes, more than her tears.

    "Zhen-gege, you¡¯re being cruel!" she cried out.

    Yu Lingluo gasped when she nearly tripped over something that could¡¯ve injured her foot, but narrowly dodged it.

    "Cruel?" he repeated with a scowl. "If I am cruel, then what are you? You¡¯re making an audacious request that will split the rtionship between my closest friends."

    Yu Zhen stalked towards her with a disapproving look on his face. "You can force Hu Dengxiao to physically be by your side, but his heart and attention will never belong to you."

    Yu Lingluo shook her head at him, refusing to listen as she cupped her ears and continued walking backward.

    Yu Zhen cared too much about her for her to stupidly injure herself. He angrily gripped her wrists, just before she would step onto a shard of porcin.

    "Xiao Ling, don¡¯t be a fool," he gently coaxed. "You have a bright future ahead of you. Don¡¯t throw it away for a man who will never look your way. Don¡¯t make the same mistake as the Empress."

    At this, Yu Lingluo was forced to pause. She shakily looked up at him, astonished that he would say such a horrible thing. "Mother never made a mistake with Father, she¡ª"

    "She is in a loveless marriage."

    Yu Lingluo¡¯s lips trembled. The air was frigid, but his gaze was colder. He red down at her with disappointment in his eyes. Violent tantrums like this was a normal urrence. She had destroyed many things in her youth whenever she threw a tantrum, and he had always indulged her when it happened, only to scold her a day or a weekter.

    "You¡¯ve seen how much it tore her apart, Xiao Ling." Yu Zhen released her wrists and guided her towards the door, which seemed to be the only spot free from sharp objects that could hurt her feet.

    "Do you really want to make that same mistake, just because you foolishly listened to your heart, instead of your brain?" Yu Zhen asked in a hardened voice. He forced her to stand by the door whilst ncing around the room for a pair of slippers or shoes.

    "C-can¡¯t you be nicer to me, Zhen-gege..." she huped out whilst looking at him as if he had wronged her. She was in tears and heartbroken, but he still spoke to her as if she was his worst enemy.

    Yu Lingluo could not understand why he was so mean to her tonight. He should beforting her, offering sweet words, promising the world, and giving her everything that she wanted. It was what everyone else would¡¯ve done for her...but he never did that.

    "If you only listen to sweet nothingness, you will get spoiled rotten," Yu Zhen spat out. He noticed a pair of slippers by the door. Pointing down at it, he urged her to put it on. She reluctantly did so whilst holding onto his arm for support.

    "Besides," Yu Zhen said and turned to her with a slight frown. "It¡¯s unlike me to do that. You should¡¯ve asked for the First Prince."

    Yu Lingluo pouted at the ground. Her tears had dried up, but her cheeks were still wet.

    Yu Zhen patted the top of her head, as if caressing a lovely pet. "Don¡¯t throw your entire future away like this."

    Yu Lingluo sulked beside him. She sullenly grabbed onto his belt, her frown deepening. "What are you talking about, Zhen-gege?"

    "Don¡¯t you realize how lucky and blessed you are?"

    Yu Lingluo shook her head, despite knowing what he meant. Everyone loved her. From the pce servants to her cold-hearted parents.

    Everyone in this pce would smile warmly at her. Even Hu Dengxiao loved her...but she knew it was not the same type of love that she had for him.

    "You¡¯re thest Princess in our family who still resides in this pce, the pearl of Father¡¯s eyes. You won¡¯t be married off to a foreign Prince for the sake of forming alliances, and you won¡¯t be forced to marry for the benefit of the family. You have more freedom than anyone in this pce."

    Yu Lingluo hung her head lower. It felt too heavy to lift it up, especially when she was practically drowning in guilt. Her head hurt at how much she was forced to contemte.

    More freedom than anyone in this pce...she knew that by heart. All of her sisters were married off, even her younger sister. They were dragged away by force, with tears in their eyes, and a forced smile on their lips.

    The title of a Princess sounded lovely in theory until they were pawned off like an object, sold to the highest bidder, just to bring benefit to their kingdom.

    Yu Lingluo was different. She was too beloved by everyone to go through such a treacherous thing.

    Yu Shishing would never allow her to be dragged off, Yu Zhen would kill the suitor, the Empress would demand the gates to be shut, and the Emperor would never dream of sending her away.

    Everything was in her favor, but she wanted something that could ruin her for the rest of her life.

    "If you choose Hu Dengxiao, the most merciful thing the Emperor would do is to send you out of this pce. The worst? Having Hu Dengxiao tortured before your very eyes, and afterward, the Emperor will force you into a loveless marriage, Xiao Ling."

    "Any marriage I have without Hu Dengxiao will be a loveless one," Yu Lingluo whispered. She tightened her grip on him, refusing to lift her head even when his fingers mped down on her skull.

    "Your first heartbreak will hurt the most, but you will move on," Yu Zhen emphasized. He forced her to look up at him, by pushing her head up.

    "No matter what, you have to move on. Not only for your sake, but for Hu Dengxiao¡¯s."

    Yu Lingluo¡¯s eyes watered again. Her lips quivered and her face became scrunched up, as she held back her tears.

    "Okay?" he gently asked, finally softening his tone. She didn¡¯t move her head, so he did it for her, forcing her to nod.

    "O-okay..." she reluctantly said.

    Only then did he show her a ghost of a smile. It wasn¡¯t wide and weing, but it was warm. His eyes were gentle and kind, which made her tear up even more. She could do nothing but hold onto his sleeves and cry into it a little longer.

    Yu Zhen allowed her to do so. He knew she was the type to cry her heart out, but never over the same thing again.

 Chapter 468 Leave Me.

    <h4>Chapter 468 Leave Me.</h4>

    In the dead of the night, a quiet figure treaded down the eerie hallway where a path of pale, white moonlight guided his way.

    The soft, glow of thenterns had long died down, but he didn¡¯t mind. He sought tranquility from the silence as crickets hummed, and des of grass swayed in the background.

    The moon was high in the sky, and he stopped to observe it. The stars had dimmed in the background, letting the moon shine its brightest. Not a secondter, he tore his gaze away from the sky and continued sauntering down the hallway. His footsteps were light and quiet, like the whispers of ghosts lingering in the corridor.

    "Your Highness," the guards greeted with bent bodies. They were wide-awake and on high-alert, after switching shifts with the previous batch of guards.

    Yu Zhen pushed the doors open, and stepped inside the room. In the far end of the room, he saw the double doors leading to his shared bedroom. Through the paper windows, he saw the flickering me of a candlelight.

    His cold, frigid eyes narrowed. It was deep into the midnight, and she was still awake? Even if she was waiting for him, he would not allow it.

    Without looking back, he closed the doors behind him. Then, Yu Zhen approached the bedroom and pushed the doors. His gaze instantly searched for her, and he saw where the light came from. There was a thin and tall candle holder beside his nightstand.

    "Well, this isn¡¯t a sight I see everyday," Yu Zhen murmured. He closed the distance between them and peered down at her with both of his hands tucked behind his back.

    Li Xueyueid upon her side, her hair sprawled out beside her. She had a palm resting under the pillow, and another on the top of an open-book. From her soft, quiet snores, and the evening breath, he concluded she was deep asleep.

    "Let¡¯s see..." Yu Zhen trailed off as he picked up the book, slowly and softly, careful not to disturb her wonderful sleep.

    "The Art of War." Yu Zhen raised a brow and nced down at her. He didn¡¯t think she was interested in such topic. With one hand, he mped the book shut and ced it on the nightstand.

    "You¡¯re sleeping so well." Yu Zhen let out a small sigh of relief. "Good riddance, and here I was, thinking of punishing you for staying up sote."

    Silently, he took a seat on the edge of the bed. Yu Zhen reached a hand out and fondly stroked the side of her face with the back of his curled fingers. Hershes fluttered, but didn¡¯t open.

    "The Imperial Physician said you¡¯re as healthy as can be." Yu Zhen brushed away the strands of hair covering her face. "He better be correct, or else I¡¯ll have his head."

    A dark, cruel smile spread upon his lips. But then she sneezed, and he panicked like never before.

    Yu Zhen looked upon her sleeping body, curled into a small ball. She was under the nkets but was still cold? He surveyed the room, and noticed the window was open by the tiniest crack.

    The bed dipped when he stood up. With his back turned, Yu Zhen firmly closed the window behind him. In a quiet click, he locked the windows. Just then, the sound of shuffling clothes could be heard.

    Yu Zhen turned his upper body and noticed his Wangfei was awake now. Tiredly and sullenly, she rubbed her eyes, moist with sleep. They twinkled like topaz under sunlight, his heart clenched when she lifted her tired gaze at him. Ever so slowly, a tiny smile spread on her lips.

    "You¡¯re back," she whispered.

    "Did I startle you, Sunshine?" he asked.

    Yu Zhen walked towards the edge of the bed and finally realized she was upying the left side, where he usually slept since it was closest to the door.

    It would provide him an advantage if any intruder was foolish enough to trespass here. Speaking of which...the servant who trespassed here was suddenly pardoned by the First Prince. It was all too suspicious.

    "No, I was just waiting for you to return," Li Xueyue said with a loud yawn. A secondter, she stretched her arms out for him, like a child wanting a hug.

    Yu Zhen chuckled at this. He never enjoyed physical contact as a child, mainly because he was envious of the children that received them.

    But now that he had grown older, he came to love the ones that came from her. Whether it was the curl of her fingers around his upper arm¡ªout of fear and hesitation¡ªor her warm embrace, he weed them all.

    "Waiting for my return?" Yu Zhen asked. "How do you wait for someone in your sleep?"

    "By dreaming of them."

    Yu Zhenughed at her words as he took off the decorativeyer of his clothes. His sleeves were still moist from Yu Lingluo¡¯s tears.

    It had taken a while to convince her to sleep, even if it was for a short duration. But because of the mess she made in her room, Yu Lingluo had to sleep in another room.

    "Are you sure you weren¡¯t dreaming about food?" Yu Zhen teased whilst climbing into bed, and allowed her to slip into his embrace.

    Yu Zhenid upon his side with one arm serving as her pillow, and the other loosely nestled on the curve of her waist. Compared to hisrge frame, she was so tiny, that he was reminded of a fable where a tiny mouse trapped the magnificent lion.

    It was precisely what happened to him. She must¡¯ve trapped him with magic. What other exnation could there be to exin how bewitched he was? Whenever she was around, his heart would swell, and when she was hurt, his chest would burn.

    "Maybe that too..." she sheepishly responded whilst snuggling into his arms. A tiny, rxed sigh escaped her lips. She slipped a hand under his arm and rested it under his upper back.

    Yu Zhen was wrapped in her heavenly scent, sweet like the breeze of spring, and light like summer rain. He loved her scent, but loved it even more when mingled with his. It often happened the morning after he made love to her.

    "I always love how warm you are." She buried her head into his chest, only to hear the quickened pace of his heart.

    "Only you would say I¡¯m warm," Yu Zhen scoffed. Instead of responding, she pressed a small kiss upon the exposed skin of his cors. His jaw tightened, as a small fire burned from within.

    "That¡¯s because not many people have the privilege of your embrace," she responded in a drowsy voice.

    Yu Zhen debated whether or not he should keep her up all night long. She had enough rest whilst waiting for him...

    "Why did you take so long toe?" she mumbled. Her lips tickled his skin, and he tensed, as his body began to hum with warmth.

    "Sunshine¡ª"

    "Why do you leave me every morning?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze softened. "I didn¡¯t want to disturb you." He caressed the back of her head, his fingersbing through her hair, watching in awe as it stretched as long as his arm.

    "I don¡¯t like waking up cold, and without you. Especially after you tired me the night before."

    Yu Zhen tilted his head and gently kissed the top of her head. His lips lingered there, affectionate and gentle.

    "Rest, my love," he whispered upon her hair.

    "Will you be here when I wake up?" she sullenly asked.

    Yu Zhen was puzzled by her abrupt somberness. Nheless, his lips curled into a smirk. When she was so vulnerable like this, he was torn at a crossroad. To tease her or to love her? He decided to do both.

    "Do you want me to be here?" Yu Zhen slipped his fingers under her head, and pressed her closer to him. He was unaware of the heat that rolled off of him until she let a sigh of content.

    "Of course," she retorted. "Where else would I want you to be? The couch?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes crinkled when his smirk became a smile. She had turned his own opinions against him. Stupid questions were answered with stupid responses.

    "Then sleep, Sunshine." Yu Zhen kissed her on the forehead. "And I shall be here when you¡¯re awake."

 Chapter 469 Arrogan

    <h4>Chapter 469 Arrogan</h4>

    True to his words, Yu Zhen was by Li Xueyue¡¯s side when she woke up. She was caressed by the scent of the forest after it rained. She felt the powerful ins of his chest, hardened with muscles, yet his embrace was always soft and gentle.

    Li Xueyue had never felt moreforted than in his arms¡ªstrong and protective. Even now, he was holding her by the waist and pressing her tightly against him. Somehow, their position had changed, and he was lying on his back with her pressed against him.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head and felt something holding her legs down. Without a doubt, their legs were entangled.

    "Well, well, if it isn¡¯t an early bird," Yu Zhen teased. "With a nest for her hair."

    Li Xueyue gaped at him, just as he slipped his fingers through her hair and ruffled it even more.

    "What are you doing?" she demanded, as a mischievous smirk curled on his lips.

    "Searching for the sparrow eggsid upon your nest."

    Li Xueyue red at him. She sat up on the bed as his hands slid down to her lower back. He held her close to him as if she was going to disappear any moment now.

    "As if you look like a knight in shining armor," she lied.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes into a slit. Why was he so damn handsome first thing in the morning! She swore he woke up an hour earlier and had his hair brushed and everything.

    There was not a single w on his sharp, angr features. His lips were full, and despite sleeping all night, didn¡¯t even look parched.

    "From your awestruck expression, I believe I look like a dashing Prince on a dark horse," Yu Zhen remarked. His chest tightened when she blushed and looked away, hiding the spark in her eyes.

    Yu Zhen had lied. Despite her messy hair, and the strands that stuck up everywhere. He loved this side of her. It made her even more surreal and endearing.

    When she hid her blush, he smiled. He reached his other hand out and cupped the side of her face. She leaned into his touch, closing her eyes when his thumb caressed her cheek.

    "I take it back, your hair doesn¡¯t look like a bird¡¯s nest," Yu Zhen murmured. "We¡¯d offend the birds too much."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes snapped open. She gaped at him and smacked his chest, as his body shook withughter. It bounced off the walls and directly into her ears, where her heart unwillingly skipped for him.

    "Alright, alright, I won¡¯t tease you anymore, Little Hamster," Yu Zhen remarked when she scrunched up her face and began to plot his demise. His hand dropped from her face and sped over her hand resting on his chest.

    "Who raised you to be such a bully?" she bit out.

    Yu Zhen brought her fingers to his lips and kissed her knuckles. "I don¡¯t have the slightest inkling as to what you¡¯re talking about."

    Li Xueyue scoffed in response as she rolled her eyes. "One day, I swear..." she mumbled. "You¡¯re going to wake up in the middle of nowhere covered in bug bites."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes twinkled with amusement. "I¡¯d rather give you more love bites."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes danced with mischief. "Then you better go back to sleep and continue dreaming."

    Yu Zhen let out a tauntingughter. With one rough yank, he pulled her down onto the bed, her back flushed against the mattress. In the nk of an eye, he was on top of her, a cunning, dark smirk on his lips.

    Yu Zhen leaned down, his lips brushed against her ear. She shivered in response, as her hand slid up his chest, feeling the clench of his muscles when he lowered himself on top of her.

    "Why dream, when I can sleep with you right now?"

    Yu Zhen kissed her slowly and steadily. She tilted her head, deepening the kiss. She slid one knee up as his fingers slipped up her leg, gripping her mid-thigh. She hummed in response when he parted her legs and settled in between it.

    Li Xueyue knew what was toe. She attempted to sit up, and escape from his grasp, but he pinned her down with his lower body.

    "And where do you think you¡¯re going?" he whispered in a low, throaty voice.

    "I¡ª"

    "You won¡¯t be leaving this room, not until I¡¯m satisfied," he growled upon her lips.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lower stomach clenched. Her heart raced from his words. He captured her lips again, this time, in a warmer, passionate kiss. He licked her bottom lip and plunged his slick, hot tongue into her mouth. Her eyes fluttered shut, as his fingers caressed her sensitive, inner thigh. Not a secondter, he plunged into her.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes shot open in shock, not expecting this rush. He buried his head in her neck, breathing hard.

    "Since you teased me so, I won¡¯t be merciful with you." He slowly pulled out, only to thrust deeper into her heat.

    Li Xueyue slipped her arms over his upper back, her fingers tightly clenching his silk robe. "But you..." she gasped as her head rolled back in pleasure. "But you teased me first."

    "Did I now?" he chuckled, low and dark, as her body became even hotter.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her legs around his hips, as Yu Zhen held up one of her thighs, the other gripping upon the headboard. He rolled his hips and thrust harder, as his hunger for her grew.

    Li Xueyue moaned, as she desperately clung onto him, hoping, begging for salvation that only he could give her.

    "You tease me everyday, Sunshine, with your presence alone," he gently murmured on her skin.

    "T-that¡¯s not fair," she breathed out, squeezing her eyes shut as she drowned in his pleasure. He let out a smallugh, as her heart ached for more, much like her lower region.

    Teasingly, he rolled his hips to a slow, sensual wave that sent her eyes rolling back. Her lips parted as her toes curled.

    "You never y fair, Sunshine, it is only right I return the favor," Yu Zhen murmured as he picked up his pace, and thrust deep into her sweet, tender heat. She cried out in response, only for him to kiss her cheek tenderly, and whisper praises.

    "Please," she begged. He brought her to the edge, only to abruptly slow down when she was near the peak.

    Yu Zhen chuckled. The sound of her pleas, like music to his ears. "Please what, Sunshine?"

    Li Xueyue moaned in response. She grasped tightly onto him, burying her head into his shoulders, broad and powerful. He suddenly sank into her, and she gasped, her eyes widening. Her legs were shaking now, unable to hold on, as she tried to pull away from his pleasure, but he tightened his grip on her thighs, and yanked her harder against him.

    "Y-Yu Zhen, I-I can¡¯t¡ª"

    "Just a little longer, love," Yu Zhen teased.

    She trembled under him, moaning and writhing in pleasure. She was so tight, that he nearly broke the wooden headboard with his grip.

    "Don¡¯t be so cruel," she pleaded.

    "I did say I wouldn¡¯t be merciful," Yu Zhen remarked. Nheless, he quickened his pace and found the right spot. She instantly cried out, her fingers digging into his upper back. She tightened around his shaft, her eyes squeezed shut, as her body tensed, and she cried out his name.

    Not a secondter, Li Xueyue copsed weakly onto the bed. Sweat clung onto her as her chest raised up and down. She panted, attempting to catch her breath, but he leaned down and captured her lips.

    Li Xueyue was light-headed from his kisses and the pleasure he had given her. When she turned her chin, he gripped her jaw and smiled at her.

    "Such a lovely sight early in the morning," Yu Zhen murmured. His thumb brushed her bottom lip, bright red from his assault.

    "How splendid you are, Sunshine..." Yu Zhen raked a hand down her chest, parting her clothes. "But I prefer these to be off."

    Li Xueyue squeezed her legs together, only to realize he was still in between her thighs. She was still warm from his touch, her womanhood burning with heat.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Yu Zhen gently asked, despite the wicked intent in his eyes.

    Yu Zhen cupped her breast with one hand, his thumb brushing upon her pearl. He twirled his thumb upon it, flicking it as her hips lifted off the bed. She bit her bottom lip, holding back a soft moan he loved dearly.

    "I don¡¯t think I can take it anymore..." she whispered.

    Yu Zhen raised his brows. He leaned down and kissed her again, this time, more gentle and sensual.

    "Don¡¯t tell me," he rasped against her lips. "That you¡¯re tired already?"

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head, only to be greeted with his tauntingughter.

    "That¡¯s too bad, Sunshine. I¡¯ve yet to be satisfied."

    Yu Zhen brushed the hair away from her face, a wicked smile on his lips. With the flick of his fingers, he parted her hanfu. "So, behave for me, Sunshine. There¡¯s more from where that came from."

    Yu Zhen leaned down and captured her mouth, diving his tongue inside. Her hand shakily clenched the nkets, knowing what was toe. She hoped to find a distraction from the pleasure, by grabbing onto anything that she could hold.

    But if only he was that merciful. Yu Zhen sipped his hand under her fingers, forcing her to grip onto him.

    "You brute," she whispered.

    "dly, Sunshine," he chuckled. With that said, he flipped her over, and brought her to her knees and hands. Slowly, he thrust into her as she whimpered in response.

    But her legs were still shaky from the first round. Eventually, it gave out from under her, but he held her hips in ce, his legs going beside her knees.

    "Yu Zhen, I-I really don¡¯t think I can do it any longer¡ª"

    "You will."

    "A-arrogant rogue," she gasped out.

    Yu Zhen made sure to thrust even harder into her until she was nothing but a moaning, pleading mess.

    "Don¡¯t worry, Sunshine, I¡¯ve got you," he teased. Yu Zhen knew she was trying to escape from him, thus, he mmed her hips back, forcing her to take his full-length.

    Li Xueyue whimpered as the pleasure overcame her. She was so overstimted, that tears came to her eyes. Even so, her mouth betrayed her, as breathless moans escaped.

    At this point, she couldn¡¯t even think or speak properly. Her thoughts were overwhelmed with his scent, his SWEAT, and his asional grunts.

    "Would you like me to stop?" Yu Zhen teased, but before she could even respond, he pounded harder into her until she jolted, and squeezed her eyes shut.

    It did not take long for her breathing to be shaky, and his brows to wrung together. Yu Zhen gritted his teeth, and brought her closer to him. He grunted one final time before thrusting deep into her, and not leaving until he was fully satisfied.

    Only once he was done, Yu Zhen gently lowered her onto the bed. Careful not to put pressure upon her sensitive womanhood, he slowly turned her around, so that she was flushed against his chest, and in the same position that they started out this morning.

    "Tired?" he asked in a soft voice, almost like a caress.

    Li Xueyue shakily nodded her head and buried her face into his shoulders. "I-I might need a minute."

    Yu Zhen smiled. He turned his chin and kissed the side of her head. "Take as long as you need, Sunshine. I will be right here when you wake up."

    Li Xueyue snuggled against him, as she attempted to sling one leg over the defined ridges of his abdomen. But for a split second, her leg felt like water.

    "Was I so foolish to think you¡¯d spare me this morning?" Li Xueyue teased.

    Yu Zhen loudlyughed, his chest rumbling at the sound. Instead of responding to her question, he gave her a quiet suggestion.

    "Sleep, Sunshine."

    She dly did so, her eyes slipping shut.

    Yu Zhenid there for a while, awake and watching as she peacefully slept. Unbeknownst to him, there was a ghost of a smile resting upon his lips. She was fully his, in this lifetime and the next.

 Chapter 470 The Battle

    <h4>Chapter 470 The Battle</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up in the afternoon feeling more alert and energetic. To her disappointment, Yu Zhen was nowhere to be found. She was irked but knew she had no reason to me him for leaving her side. It waste in the afternoon, and he must¡¯ve had things to do.

    At the least, he had left a note by the nightstand. She clenched the parchment, ring at how neat and perfect his handwriting was. It looked like the ones printed in books and shown to children as reference.

    "You can yell at me for leaving you aler, there was urgent business calling for me," Li Xueyue read out loud. "But I ordered the servants to prepare you a nutritious meal, more nutritious than usual. You¡¯d need the energy, especially forter tonight."

    Her cheeks stung red with thest line. They had just finished making love all morning! And he wanted more? Just where exactly does he get all of this energy from?!

    Nheless, she looked forward to it. Li Xueyue slipped her legs out of the bed, and for once, it didn¡¯t feel weak.

    "Xiao Hua?" Li Xueyue called towards the door, wondering if the maidservants were just outside of the bedroom, or further out, where the guards were stationed. Knowing Yu Zhen¡¯s paranoia, it would be thetter.

    When she was met with silence, Li Xueyue had her answer. She left the bed and slipped on the slippers. Wordlessly, she approached the closet but blinked in surprise. There was an extra closet.

    "Am I seeing double?" she mumbled, rubbing at her eyes.

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise to see there were indeed two,rge wardrobes. She wondered what was inside, thus, opened both of them. And to her surprise, a world of color greeted her. Both of these closets were hers.

    "Oh, these are winter clothes," she said. The closet on the left held spring and summer wear, whereas the other one held autumn and winter wear. But then, where did his clothes go?

    Li Xueyue reached a hand out and touched the silk that was cool and smooth. "There it is," she pointed out upon turning her head and noticing the other closet to the other side of the room.

    "It wouldn¡¯t be strange if we have an entirely new room just for storing clothes," she said andughed to herself.

    Li Xueyue stepped back to admire the autumn and winter wear. Fancy essories and dresses never interested her, but her lips parted. Her heart clenched at the gesture. She was surprised he had thought this far in advance and had this many hanfu made for her size.

    "When did he even prepare this for me?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Nheless, she pulled out a randomyer of clothes and slipped it on, loosely tying the strings near her waist. Then, she walked towards the main door and opened it by the smallest crack.

    "You maye in now." Li Xueyue stepped away from the door. Heads bent and eyes lowered, the maidservants walked in. Leading them was Xiao Hua who was dressed in a different color and a dress of higher quality than the rest of her peers.

    "There you are," Li Xueyue said with a slight smile.

    "Good afternoon, Crown Princess," Xiao Hua greeted with a deep bow, as the maidservants followed in line.

    "Since you¡¯re awake, we will start preparing your meal whilst we help you into your attire, Princess," Xiao Hua quietly said, her voice light and gentle.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders felt at ease around Xiao Hua. She did not know if it was naivety, but she trusted this demure maidservant.

    "Alright then," Li Xueyue said as a few maidservants slipped out of the room, most likely to fulfill the given tasks.

    When Xiao Hua stepped forward with a small basin of water, Li Xueyue knew the same routine was going to start again.

    - - - - -

    "An invitation from Lady Ge Beining?" Li Xueyue echoed Xiao Hua¡¯s words. She had just finished taking a bath, gotten dressed, and eaten her morning meal. Now, she was seated on the vanity chair, as Xiao Hua slowly braided her hair.

    "Yes, Princess," Xiao Hua said.

    "So soon?" Li Xueyue wondered out loud, with a curious look on her face. She thought thest encounter with Lady Ge Beining had ward her away.

    Li Xueyue wasn¡¯t even sure how many days had even passed since theirst encounter. Lady Ge Beining was just that insignificant in her life.

    "Mmhm, it seems Lady Ge Beining wants to invite you to a tea appreciation viewing, Princess," Xiao Hua exined. "At least, that¡¯s what she had personally told me."

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. She noticed Xiao Hua had just finished the two braids that were wrapped at the back of her head before the ends were twisted into a tiny flower whilst the rest of her hair was let down.

    "You¡¯re as lovely as a ca lily, Princess," Xiao Hua breathed out, in awe at her mistress¡¯s beauty.

    Li Xueyue nced down at her dress, realizing today¡¯s theme was the rolling clouds of the morning sky, soft and flowy. She loved the subtle shade of grey undertones, mixed in with bright white. But that was not what caught her eye, it was the familiar gemstone sitting on her finger. The topaz that Yu Zhen had given her was turned into a ring.

    Li Xueyue was unsure when it happened. She had woken up one day, and miraculously found the ring in her jewelry box. Coincidentally, the gem he had given her was gone as well.

    "This is lovely," Li Xueyue said whilst touching her hair. "You¡¯ve outdone yourself again, Xiao Hua."

    Xiao Hua shyly smiled and bowed her head in response. "P-please, Princess, any more sweet words, and I will blush."

    Li Xueyueughed at her modesty. She stood up and turned around, giving Xiao Hua a soft pat on her shoulders.

    "Let¡¯s go and see what the troublemaker has nned out for us," Li Xueyue mused.

    Together, they stepped outside of her bedroom, where the other maidservants were already waiting.

    Li Xueyue retraced the path to Lady Ge Beining¡¯s residence by memory. If she remembered correctly, it was near the Empress¡¯s estate which was all the way on the other side of the enormous pce grounds.

    "The sun seems to be setting soon," Li Xueyue pointed out when she nced upwards. A gloomy nket of grey clouds covered its glow. The sun had already reached its highest peak and was beginning to set in the east.

    "Yes, it seems so, Princess," Xiao Hua agreed as she also looked up. Her lips curved into a slight frown.

    The weather was so lovely in the morning, but now it looked like the sky was going to cry at any moment now. She just hoped it would not cry into the night time, where the beauty of the moon would be concealed by a dreary gloominess.

    "Well, we should hurry back then," Li Xueyue said. "My husband would want to share at least one meal together."

    Xiao Hua bowed her head in response, knowing it was a signal for her to keep track of the time.

    Li Xueyue wondered if she would even be able to eat dinner. The lunch that Yu Zhen had the servants prepare for her was simply too much.

    There was a wide variety of dishes, ranging from soup to porridge to heavily seasoned vegetables. It was as if he was worried she¡¯d starve or something. But with how much he fed her, those days would nevere.

    Li Xueyue touched her stomach, revealing her wrist. She noticed it was not as thin and frail as it used to be.

    Unfortunately, no matter how strong Li Xueyue had gotten, she would never be fully prepared for the battles that woulde her way.

 Chapter 471 If Anything Happens

    <h4>Chapter 471 If Anything Happens</h4>

    "I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d see you again," Li Xueyue said the minute she set foot in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate.

    She nced around, slightly intrigued by theyout of her estate. It wasrge and spacious, with three more doors on the inside¡ªone towards the left, and the two towards the right side of the room.

    "Everyone is excused, excluding Xiao Hua," Li Xueyue informed her maidservants, knowing this was not going to be a conversation meant for their ears.

    The guards nced at each other and peered around the room, searching for visible weapons that could hurt the Princess. When Li Xueyue flicked her wrist, they took it as a sign to do a perimeter search of the area.

    "Princess, what are you doing?" Lady Ge Beining curiously asked in a baffled voice. She watched as the guards walked around the room as if they owned it. Then, they went along and opened two of the doors on the right, revealing her closet, and the bathroom. As they made their way to thest door on the left, they were blocked by a maidservant.

    "You¡¯re trespassing my mistress¡¯s bedroom, how insolent!" a maidservant cried out as she blocked the door with her body and frowned at the guards.

    The guards glowered at the maidservant who stood her ground. She cowered back a bit when their hands went to the sword resting upon their hips.

    "It¡¯s fine," Li Xueyue said. "Wait outside. If anything happens, you will know."

    The guards bowed at her words. Everyone shuffled out of the room except for Xiao Hua who remained by the Princess¡¯s side. They knew as long as the maidservant was present, she could yell out for help if the need arises.

    Besides, this estate was close to the Empress¡¯s estate. And the Imperial Pce was the Crown Prince¡¯s battlefield. Only a fool would dare to harm his Wangfei in a pce he knew like the back of his hand.

    "Let¡¯s make this meeting short," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "What did you want to see me for?"

    "It seems I have offended you thest time we spoke, Princess," Lady Ge Beining slowly said. She sped her hands together and peered up at Li Xueyue with an earnest expression.

    "Princess, I was hoping to resolve any bad-blood between us before I depart for Nanhui," she confessed.

    Li Xueyue was surprised by her words. Nanhui? Why was Lady Ge Beining being sent there? She observed Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face whose face was an open book.

    Lady Ge Beining seemed upset. She tried her best to hide it with a weak smile, but her eyes implied otherwise. There were sorrow and guilt swirling in it and she was unable to lift her chin.

    "Princess, t-the Empress has given me the greatest of opportunities to marry the Crown Prince of Nanhui... However, I am to be his Imperial Consort and not his wife," Lady Ge Beining softly said.

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. That was certainly a better bargain than what any of the candidates received. Marriage to the Crown Prince of Nanhui...it seemed as if the Empress still cherished thisdy-in-waiting, despite all of her faults and mistakes.

    She supposed the love of a mother was overpowering, even if the Empress never gave birth to Lady Ge Beining. Well, she was raised under the Empress¡¯s guidance and care.

    "I see," Li Xueyue said emotionlessly.

    "I am departing soon, Princess," Lady Ge Beining added on. "So before I leave, I was hoping to enjoy tea onest time with you, Princess. Let us part as friends, and not enemies."

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh. "Oh please, you weren¡¯t even considered worthy of an opponent for me to think of you as an enemy."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s smile thinned. She gestured to the table where a tea brewing set was already prepared. "Please, take a seat, Princess."

    Li Xueyue observed the room. The table was ced in the center of the room, directly beside an open window. When she approached the table, with Lady Ge Beining a step behind her, she was surprised by the lovely view from the table.

    The yellow, muslin curtains softly swayed from the breeze that blew in. When she came closer to the window, she noticed the lotus pond was quite close, about three footsteps away.

    "It is quite a lovely view when it rains, and the droplets dance across the pond, Princess," Lady Ge Beining said from beside her. "Look at how the lotus blooms for you, Princess."

    Li Xueyue gazed at the thickyer of lotus and lily pads that covered the pond. She wondered if the koi fish would even be visible.

    "When the wind blows, the lovely scent circtes through my room... I will miss it here, Princess."

    Li Xueyue hummed in response. She watched as Lady Ge Beining generously pulled out the seat for her.

    "I remember our first encounter, Princess... You were so beautiful then, that I could not believe my eyes," Lady Ge Beining spoke as Li Xueyue took her seat. Lady Ge Beining remained standing and briefly nced at the dainty maidservant standing behind the Crown Princess.

    "That time, I was bringing tea for Her Grace, but unfortunately, Princess, I did not have enough cups for you..."

    Lady Ge Beining slowly lifted her hand and elegantly pulled back her sleeves, revealing her thin, pale wrist. Then, she opened a gorgeous tea box stored in a golden tin, with a familiar flower carved into all four sides.

    Li Xueyue nced at the yellow box and admired it for a brief second. She wondered what made Lady Ge Beining so amiable all of a sudden, but supposed the departure was affecting her mood.

    ¡¯I¡¯d be upset too if I was sent away against my will,¡¯ she thought to herself.

    Li Xueyue nced towards the entrance a distance away. She reassured herself that her guards had a great hearing. All it took was a little noise for them to burst through the doors.

    "But today, Princess, I hope you can enjoy my tea to the fullest," Lady Ge Beining said. She revealed a small, silver spoon and dipped it into the tea box, then pulled out a spoonful of fragrant tea.

    "This is raspberry leaf tea, Princess, with dried lemon and orange peels. I hear it¡¯s great for pregnancies," Lady Ge Beining spoke up.

    Li Xueyue stiffened. Her face paled as the memories came rushing back to her. She nced at Xiao Hua whose eyes were thinned into slits. Finally, a secondter, Xiao Hua gave a subtle nod that Li Xueyue nearly missed.

    The tea was safe.

    Li Xueyue was also aware that silver could detect poison. Thus, she carefully watched as Lady Ge Beining poured the tea leaves into the teapot. Then, she dipped the silver spoon into the water and pulled it out, revealing the same shiny color.

    "Do you see the steaming off of this, Princess?" she asked, only to earn a faint nod from the Crown Princess.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders slightly dropped in relief. The tea was not poisoned, neither was the water. But she could not let her guard down just yet. After all, she was in the enemy¡¯sir.

    "It shows the water is boiling hot to thoroughly cleanse the tea. You will know what I mean in my next step, Princess."

    Lady Ge Beining lifted the porcin jug of boiling water. She poured the boiling hot water into the teapot but did not close the lid.

    "Now, this is the part that makes everyone think I brew the best teas, Princess." Lady Ge Beining gentlyughed. She settled the lid directly beside the teapot with a soft thud.

    "Every Kingdom prepares their tea differently, and my method is a slight variation from the one practiced in Hanjian," Lady Ge Beining said.

    Li Xueyue had seen her mother prepare tea many times. The Duchess would wait for the tea to steep a bit before stirring the pot and pouring the tea into the teacup. Then she would dump the tea in the cup which supposedly got rid of the bitter part. Finally, the tea would rest for another minute in the teapot, before it¡¯s served.

    "Indeed, it¡¯s different," Li Xueyue said when Lady Ge Beining followed none of these steps. The tea wasn¡¯t even steeped.

    Lady Ge Beining poured the tea into the teacups. Then, she gently swished the tea in the cups and poured it out into a small basin near her.

    "This way, the teacup is kept warm, and there is a lingering scent of the raspberry in it," Lady Ge Beining said.

    Next, Lady Ge Beining swished therger teapot and poured all the tea out into the basin. Her maidservant came forward and brought the basin away whilst pouring more water into the porcin jug.

    "The first round removes the bitterness from the tea, lemon peels, and orange peels, Princess, as well as any unpleasant woody taste," Lady Ge Beining exined. "Only then, will we finally taste the delicate notes of raspberry, lemon, and orange."

    Lady Ge Beining lifted the porcin jug and poured more water into the teapot. This time, she closed the lid, trapping in the sweet scent, only to be released when the tea was poured.

    "Now, we wait a little while, Princess," Lady Ge Beining said.

    Li Xueyue noticed there were three teacups. If one was for her and one was for Lady Ge Beining, for whom was the third teacup for? Was there a third guest?

 Chapter 472 What Do We Have?

    <h4>Chapter 472 What Do We Have?</h4>

    "For whom is the third teacup for?" Li Xueyue asked.

    Lady Ge Beining brightened her smile. She briefly nced at the maidservant that apanied the Crown Princess.

    "I prepared a cup for your maidservant to test the tea out, Princess. Before the Empress eats or drinks anything, she has her most loyal servant try out the food. I¡¯d assume the same applied for the Crown Princess."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. It seemed Lady Ge Beining was prepared. She nced down at the silver spoon, as shiny as ever indicating the absence of any poison. Silver turned ck from poison.

    Suddenly, Lady Ge Beining sniffed the air, her eyes widening with delight. "Oh, I closed the lid, but the scent is so strong and sweet, it still came out!"

    Lady Ge Beining calmly stood up and poured the tea from therge teapot into a smaller tea pitcher that was light and could be held with one hand.

    "Look at how lovely this color is, Princess!" Lady Ge Beining said with delight. "Usually, raspberry leaf tea is a light yellow, but the orange peels turned it into a lovely amber color."

    Lady Ge Beining poured the tea into the three teacups, filling them up in the exact amount.

    Truthfully, Li Xueyue was slightly impressed. It was difficult to pour it all to the same amount. The tea smelled amazing as if she was stepping into an orchard.

    Lady Ge Beining ced one cup in front of the Princess, then herself, and then the maidservant.

    "I will understand if we can¡¯t be friends, Princess..." Lady Ge Beining lifted the teacup.

    "But at the very least, I hope we can end on a better foot, Princess," Lady Ge Beining softly said. "For one day, the Crown Prince of Nanhui might be swayed by the decision of his wife... which in this case, would be me."

    Li Xueyue refrained from making another snarkyment. Pillowtalk would work too well for Lady Ge Beining.

    "I do not mind being acquaintances, nothing more, Lady Ge Beining," Li Xueyue finally said. She wrapped her fingers around the teacup, seemingly warming up her hands. Then, she lifted it briefly.

    Xiao Hua picked up the teacup, lowered her gaze as she turned her head to the side, and drank it as politely as possible, like that of a poison tester.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s stomach clenched at the sight. She did not want Xiao Hua to be a food tester. It was not her responsibility, but another handmaiden¡¯s. s, nothing happened to Xiao Hua.

    "The tea is fine, Princess... You might enjoy it, for it has a hint of sweetness," Xiao Hua whispered.

    Li Xueyue peered down at the amber color tea. The smell wafted into her nose, shrouding her in warmth. She was curious about the tea, thus, lifted the teacup and drank half of it before her eyes widened in surprise.

    "Delicious, isn¡¯t it, Princess?" Lady Ge Beiningmented in a cheerful voice, her smile widening, but it didn¡¯t reach her eyes.

    "You first taste the raspberry and lemon, but then the orange lingers behind," Lady Ge Beining exined. "I was quite impressed by this blend of tea, Princess."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. The tea filled her with a strange heat that spread throughout her body. It nearly made her tear up a bit for the Duchess¡¯s tea always brought a calming sense of warmth.

    "Here, try it with sugar now, the taste will bepletely different, Princess!" Lady Ge Beining eagerly said. She ced her teacup down and opened a small, short bowl covered with a wooden lid, with a small opening for the handle of the spoon.

    Li Xueyue noticed how excited and passionate Lady Ge Beining was when it came to the conversation of tea.

    Li Xueyue was always intrigued by the drink and all of its wonders. Duchess Wang would often go on excitedly about how amazing tea was¡ªit can be made into a dessert, cold drink, added to the liquor, and even be medicine! The versatility of it was immense.

    And it seemed Lady Ge Beining shared the same passion.

    "Just a small amount and you can taste the difference, Princess," Lady Ge Beining exined. She opened the lid for the Princess and offered the bowl of sugar to her.

    Li Xueyue lifted the teeny tiny spoon that was the size of her finger. She poured in a little bit of sugar into her teacup, then settled the utensil down. Then, she nced around, confused as to how she was going to stir her tea.

    "Oh, I almost forgot to give you another spoon. I¡¯m so sorry, Princess!" Lady Ge Beining exasperated in a worried voice. She hurriedly handed a small white porcin spoon to the Princess.

    Li Xueyue took the porcin spoon and stirred the sugar, watching as the white particles slowly melted from the heat and got mixed into the tea.

    Lady Ge Beining held her breath in excitement, her eyes widening. "Do you smell it, Princess? The scent of the lemon weakens, it brings out the notes of the raspberry more. It will have a different taste this time."

    Li Xueyue lifted the teacup to her lips again. She sipped from it, and was yet again, surprised. So much so, that she finished the entire cup. A stronger warmth settled within her as she let out a small, contented sigh.

    "This time, you should have tasted the raspberry and orange, instead of raspberry and lemon! Thus, instead of orange lingering on your tongue, it should be the slight sourness of the lemon, Princess."

    Li Xueyue nodded. "You are right yet again, Lady Ge," she pleasantly said with a slight, fond smile on her face.

    Li Xueyue was only in a good mood because Lady Ge Beining¡¯s love for tea reminded her so much of Duchess Wang Qixing. She could still recall her mother eagerly urging her to try out her newest blend of tea, no matter how strange it was, for example, cinnamon and roses.

    Distracted by her thoughts, Li Xueyue suppressed a smallugh. She had the blunt end of the stick, whereas Duke Li Shenyang and the twins had the worst end. They were often forced to taste the most bizarre creations, like eucalyptus tea mixed with bitter oolong and eight-point anise.

    She could still remember their scrunched up faces and deep scowl as they tried to lie to the Duchess that the disgusting tea was the best that they¡¯d ever tasted. Theirpliments would be great-lengths of exaggeration, and the Duchess would roll her eyes in response, but arge, amused smile would be on her lips.

    Li Xueyue was so lost in her daydream that she suddenly saw Duchess Wang Qixing in front of her.

    "Huh...?" she breathed out, as her vision became hazy.

    Li Xueyue tried to rub her eyes but found her limbs were heavy and slow. Her hands trembled just to reach her face.

    "W-what...?" Li Xueyue thanked the heavens that she was seated, or else her legs would¡¯ve given out from underneath her. Her body was warm and hot, so much so, that she weakly pulled at her cor line.

    "What¡¯s wrong, Princess?" Lady Ge Beining calmly asked as she remained seated.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s hazy vision was growing blurry with moisture in her eyes. It was hot. So much so, that her eyes stung. But she could still see Lady Ge Beining.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s soft smile was now eerily still as she innocently tilted her head. Her hands were tucked on herp, and for once, her smile reached her eyes.

    "Princess, are you alright?" she gently asked, almost puzzled by the Crown Princess¡¯s reaction.

    "You..." Li Xueyue breathed out. "What did you do to¡ª"

    Before she could finish her sentence, Xiao Hua copsed onto the ground. But her body never slumped onto the floor, nor was there a loud thud, for a pair of grimy, muscr hands caught her body.

    And it was only then that Li Xueyue realized thest room that her guards did not check was the one that was most dangerous. It might¡¯ve been Lady Ge Beining¡¯s bedroom, but it was where five muscr men strolled out of.

    "O-oh no, who might you be?" Lady Ge Beining breathed out, almost in shock. She rapidly stood up, her eyes trembling. She took a hesitant step back and nced at the Princess.

    "P-Princess, what are you waiting for? We must try to escape," Lady Ge Beining squeaked out.

    Li Xueyue reached out, attempting to stop Lady Ge Beining, and ask for help. But it was toote. Lady Ge Beining had rushed towards the window and jumped out of it, disappearing into the distance.

    "No..." Li Xueyue choked out as she attempted to move her limbs, but found that they were as heavy as a boulder. It was as if her body was not her own. It burned with an unquenchable heat that desired the cooling touch of another.

    "My, my, what do we have here?" a voice snickered from beside her.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart sank to her stomach. She knew what was toe. When she¡¯d had the chance to leave the room, she would no longer have her dignity and pride intact. Her heart and soul would be ripped to pieces. And she would be vited in every way possible.

 Chapter 473 Her Clothes Were Gone

    <h4>Chapter 473 Her Clothes Were Gone</h4>

    WARNING: THE FOLLOWING CONTENT INCLUDE TRIGGERS. Please read at your own risks.

    - - - - - - - - - -

    Lady Ge Beining cast the pitiful Princess onest look. They made eye contact, and she saw the horror in the prideful Princess¡¯s gaze. And without another word, Lady Ge Beining turned her back and retreated to her bedroom. Thest thing she heard was the tearing of clothes from behind her.

    She locked the doors behind her, and headed towards the window, which was low enough for her to climb out, and take a detour to the garden that was far, far away from the promiscuous people.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue could feel her heart shrivel up in fear. She knew what their intention was. Yet, she could not protect herself. Not even when the firstyer of her clothes was yanked off from her.

    They had the gaze of hungry wolves and approached like leering ones.

    Li Xueyue could not think properly. Her body burned with a feverish heat as tears filled her eyes. Memories of the past came rushing to the surface. Marquis Qin¡¯s wandering hands, the lick of his lips, and her silent sobs. Now, it was happening all over again, but it was five men instead of one.

    "Careful, don¡¯t make too loud of a noise," one of the men hissed when they nearly knocked into the chair, out of sheer excitement.

    "We should remove the cloth in her mouth, to hear her pleasured moans," another spoke up with burning eyes. It lingered on her exposed leg, creamy and smooth. She was pressed on the table, her arms held down, as her hip was pushed onto the surface.

    The Crown Princess was exactly what the rumors painted her to be. Pure and docile, she resembled an outworldly being. The thought of ruining something so precious enthralled these men, but no more than the thought of her curvaceous body.

    "Yes, with the aphrodisiac that crazydy fed her, no matter if she doesn¡¯t want it, she will scream for us," someone else eagerly spoke up.

    Li Xueyue blinked once, and a single droplet of tear rolled down her cheek. To her sheer horror, one of the men wiped it away, then licked his lips that twisted into a sinister smile.

    "Even her tears are sweet."

    Li Xueyue attempted to writhe and struggle from their grip. But it was no use. The tonic fed to her was too powerful. Her limbs were heavy, and she felt sluggish. Even when she tried to kick her legs, and hoped to knock some teeth out, she could not even lift her toe.

    "Mmph!" Xiao Hua cried out from the floor, as she gawked at the Crown Princess, wide-eyed and terrified. She knew there was no escape from this. Even though she had consumed a weaker dosage, her body still felt weak. It was as if a mountain was crushing her body.

    Xiao Hua had never felt this type of terror before. She knew that pce life would be dangerous, but not to this extent. She thought the men here were less feral, for the eunuchs were castrated, and the male servants were kept far away from the handmaidens.

    "There¡¯s two of them, and five of us," the same person said. "How about the two of us give a go at the Princess, and you three can deal with the maidservant?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s body jolted, but it was to no avail. She wanted to protect Xiao Hua, for she was an innocent bystander in all of this mess.

    Her heart trembled with fear, but also ached with guilt, knowing someone was dragged into this mess because of her uncurbed tongue.

    "Hmmm, sounds like a n," someone chimed in.

    And then, all five pairs of eyesnded on the Princess. Three diverted towards the maidservant. Slow, quietughter could be heard. Then, came the sound of ripped clothes, and a soft cry.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s face paled. She heard it, the unbuckle of belts, and clothes being parted. She heard the footsteps that approached her and Xiao Hua.

    Li Xueyue knew she had to do something...anything! She strained her eyes, looking to the side. It was as if cold water was poured over her. Xiao Hua was pinned on the ground, her face pushed into the wooden floorboards, as the top part of her clothes were gone, leaving her bare and naked from the waist up.

    Li Xueyue saw so much and could do so little. Until she noticed the teacup that was just an inch away from her fingers. All she had to do was knock it off the table. That sound alone would notify the guards outside. That action alone could save them all.

    "I¡¯ve never filled a well-bred wench before," someone spoke from over her. "You reckon she¡¯d feel much different than the brothel whores?"

    His question was met with suppressedughter and snorts. The men tried to keep quiet, for they knew of what was to happen.

    The job was simple¡ªthey get to enact their revenge against the Imperial family whilst getting paid to ruin a Princess. Their means of escape was out of the window in the bedroom, where tiny stone paths would guide them to a garden with a secluded bamboo path that would guide them to freedom.

    "I hear only the Crown Prince has had a taste of this beauty," a man whispered. "Quite unfair if you¡¯d ask me. Something so delicate should be shared, perhaps with a close friend, like that advisor of his."

    "Hah, I¡¯d kill any man who dares toe near my wife," someone chimed in. "Princesses like her are bred for one thing only¡ªto provide offspring. Then, their husband will discard them for a newer, younger version."

    His friend snorted. "I doubt the Crown Prince will even care if she¡¯s vited by us. He can always find another ripe maiden to vite."

    His joke was met with muffledughter and ps on the back.

    "Enough talking," he added on, "Let¡¯s have our fun before it¡¯s toote."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders stiffened. She felt like her body was on fire, a me so strong it burned her alive. She felt hands upon her, and everything came crashing down.

    Li Xueyue screamed, even when the cloth in her mouth was muffling her screams. Tears flowed like a river, as she yelled at the top of her lungs, but it sounded like the mere squeak of a mouse. She writhed, cried, and tried to move, but it did not work. The hands traveled until eventually, her legs were parted.

    "Well, this will certainly feel better than the brothel whores."

    Her eyes widened. And in her panic, she felt it. The cold touch of cold porcin. She wriggled her fingers and kicked at her legs, but nothing moved in her favor. Nothing at all. Except, her finger that grazed the teacup.

    It all happened so slowly. The parting of her clothes, the approach of a foreign man, the touch of a man that was not Yu Zhen. Quiet, tauntingughter surfaced in the background, only to be muffled by their hands over their mouths.

    Even before it happened, she felt like her soul and heart were stabbed to pieces. Again and again, the knife was dug into her until self-loathe and disgust remained in its ce.

    Suddenly, it stopped. Everything stopped. For her fingers flicked at the teacup. Slowly, it rolled and tumbled, as the men rushed forward to stop it from falling off the table. The teacup grazed her finger, much like how their hand grazed her inner thighs. s, it slipped through their hands.

    A crash echoed through the room. And everyone stilled.

 Chapter 474 I Beg Of You

    <h4>Chapter 474 I Beg Of You</h4>

    "Huh, Zhenzhen, what are you doing here?" Hu Dengxiao remarked upon seeing the Crown Prince standing in front of his private study. A secondter, he flinched back and cursed inside of his head.

    On the spur of the moment, Hu Dengxiao forgot where he was. There were guards stationed outside of the private study. The nickname he had for Yu Zhen could only be uttered in private.

    The Crown Prince shot his friend an irritated glower before mming the doors to his private study open.

    "Where else am I supposed to be?" he snapped.

    Hu Dengxiao hurriedly ran after his friend like they did in their youth. Even now, he could still remember it.

    Lu Tianbi walked a step behind the Crown Prince, making small jokes as Hu Dengxiao trailed behind them with a bounce to his footsteps. Despite being thest in line, he was still excited to see them, for they were his only friends.

    "Wasn¡¯t Your Highness supposed to be in a meeting with the Emperor? Did it conclude so quickly?" Hu Dengxiao asked whilst closing the doors behind him.

    He nced at the small hallway that separated the first entrance from the second one that actually led to the study.

    The Crown Prince paused for a brief second before continuing to walk to his desk. He took his seat, revealing the dark, gloomy expression on his face.

    "If you brood so much, no one will like you, Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao warned with an amused smile. He was familiar with the Crown Prince¡¯s permanent glower. It was as if nothing in this world pleased the Crown Prince.

    "Good."

    "I still think it¡¯s a miracle that you were able to capture the heart of the Crown Princess, Your Highness," Hu Dengxiao said and snickered. He noticed his friend touching the first parchment of the stack.

    "Here, let me grind the ink for you, Zhenzhen!" Hu Dengxiao cheerfully said as he skipped forward, eager to help.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. His friend was in a great mood. But at the expense of Yu Lingluo. It wasn¡¯t Hu Dengxiao¡¯s fault. Even so, Yu Zhen was still irked.

    "Oh, I almost forgot to tell you, the Crown Princess¡¯s autumn and winter clothes have arrived! We had the new closet brought to your bedroom yesterday when no one was in there, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s finger twitched. "You know the rules."

    Hu Dengxiao¡¯s shoulder slumped. "Y-yes... But you wanted to surprise her. The only way to do it was putting the closet there when no one was around, that way¡ª"

    "Your Highness, there is an urgent issue!" a voice called from outside of the door.

    "Come in!" Hu Dengxiao called out, wondering what could be so important for a person to sound so stern, but worried.

    Yu Zhen tensed. What could be so urgent thiste in the afternoon? Did the Emperor finally pass? From their discussion this morning, Yu Zhen was certain the old man was hanging onto thest thread of his life.

    Yu Zhen swore that man was a cat with nine lives. By now, death must¡¯ve been the Emperor¡¯s old friend. They¡¯d greet each other at the gates of Diyu, but the Emperor would never enter.

    "The Crown Princess has been drugged!"

    Yu Zhen flew out of his chair. He stood up and stormed toward the soldier that entered the room. Not a secondter, the soldier dropped to his knees and cupped his fists, bowing low.

    "Drugged?" Yu Zhen viciously repeated in a voice barely above a whisper. He yanked the soldier by his shoulder.

    "By whom?" he growled.

    The soldier could not look the Crown Prince in the eye. He did not shake in fear, for he no longer felt such emotions.

    From a young boy, he was bred for war. Bred to kill. Bred to protect the Crown Prince. He had trained from dawn to midnight, with only meals as break time. But his life history was not unique or umon, for there was an entire squadron who did the same.

    Even so, he nearly shook in his boots. The presence of the Crown Prince was lethal. The air was thick and choked at him. A cold chill wafted through the room, and it was not because autumn was approaching.

    "We do not have clear evidence yet, but the Crown Princess was in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s hands trembled with rage. His eyes narrowed into slits.

    "Find her."

    Yu Zhen tossed the soldier aside. He stormed out of the room. It was as if the room was on fire. His blood boiled. His jaws clenched. He tookrge footsteps down the hallway. He walked as if he was on his way to murder someone. And he might as well have been.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen stepped into his estate. It was deathly quiet. No one spoke. No one breathed.

    Everyone saw the Crown Prince, and they parted for him like the red sea. Heads bowed low, tails tucked in between their legs, they tried their best to not faint from nervousness.

    Yu Zhen heard nothing until he approached their shared bedroom. It was as silent as a mouse. So, where was she? It was only after he pushed the doors open did he hear her screams.

    His heart plummeted.

    Yu Zhen rushed into their bedroom, and the cries were much louder now. She yelled as if she was being murdered. Wailing, screaming, she sounded so desperate, so terrified of everything in this world.

    "Princess, Princess, please!" a maidservant called out as she held the Princess down on the bed.

    The Crown Princess, elegant and beautiful, was a crying mess. She fought for her life on the bed, despite the numbness of her limbs, and the tears that never stopped.

    "They¡¯re gone, those men are gone! So, Princess, I beg of you!" the maidservants pleaded, as two held down her arms, and another two held down her legs. She struggled as if she was possessed, thrashing about.

    Her words were a jumbled mess, but one phrase rang like bells.

    "I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry!" she repeated, again and again, her body choking with hups. Suddenly, she coughed, choking on her own tears.

    The maidservants gasped, as they wondered if they should help her up or not. Her entire body was trembling from the violent cough.

    "Everyone, get out!" Yu Zhen roared, as he rushed to the bed.

    The maidservants held back their sighs of relief. They stepped away from the bed, shaken and traumatized by what they had witnessed. Who exactly was that woman in the bed? Where did their graceful and gentle Crown Princess go? Who was that maniac in her ce?

    They did not dare to voice their questions. Everyone ran out of the room. They closed the doors behind them, but saw a glimpse of the Crown Prince approaching the Crown Princess.

    What took four people only took the Crown Prince¡¯s two arms. He had the Crown Princess on hisp, embracing her tightly, despite all of her heartbreaking screams.

    "I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry!" she repeated again and again, like a sinner before the shrine, begging for forgiveness.

    "Let¡¯s go," a maidservant whispered as the doors were fully shut behind them. And then they were met with stunned silence, as everyone nced at each other.

    If the Crown Princess was like this, then what about Xiao Hua?

 Chapter 475 Skinned Alive

    <h4>Chapter 475 Skinned Alive</h4>

    Li Xueyue could feel it¡ªhands that touched her everywhere. It covered every inch of her body, moving like slimy bugs on her skin.

    Crawling and wriggling, every part of her was vited. She screamed, and cried out in fear, fighting everything off, but could not move. Sobs choked her body, as she fought against the people holding her down, the people ruining what was left of her heart.

    She cried and screamed for Yu Zhen, the only thing on her mind. ¡¯What would he think of her now? How should she view herself now? What¡¯s left of her dignity and pride? What¡¯s left of her heart and soul?¡¯

    "I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry!" she repeated, again and again, hoping, wishing Yu Zhen would hear her sincerity. She tried. She truly did. She crashed the teacup, it shattered on the ground, but then everything was a blur, and she felt more hands on her.

    Like a never-ending nightmare, she was back there again¡ªin that room, held down onto the table. Her ears rang and the sound of her dress being ripped could be heard. It repeated, over and over, until she was close to losing her mind.

    "Xue..."

    "¡¯Please," she begged, "I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m so...so, sorry!"

    "...Yue!"

    Li Xueyue cried and cried until her throat was hoarse, and she could no longer say anything. Every word hurt, every breath tasted like blood. But she continued uttering the words, "I¡¯m sorry," as if it could turn back time.

    "Drugged..." a voice whispered in the background.

    And slowly, but surely, she lost consciousness once again.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen stiffened when her body went limp. She was thrashing about in his arms a second ago, refusing to be hugged or held by him. Even so, he had kept her on hisp, hugging her fiercely. He would never let her go. He refused to.

    "Your Highness, it seems the Crown Princess was drugged with a heavy dosage of aphrodisiac, more than what a tiny woman like her can possibly handle."

    The Imperial Physician examined the teapot that was brought to him. He found it strange. The aphrodisiac scent was strong, but the dosage in the tea didn¡¯t seem that heavy. Even if she drank one cup, it shouldn¡¯t have caused such a violent reaction.

    Did the Crown Princess identally consume more than just the liquid version of the aphrodisiac?

    It was difficult for a person to get their hands on it, but there was a powder version of aphrodisiac that was no longer being manufactured, after being banned in every corner of the continent. The powder was often mixed with sugar, to keep the aphrodisiac fresh and effective.

    "The Princess was likely struggling for her life, even in your arms, because the dosage was so high, that she is delirious. It seemed she was hallucinating, andpletely unaware of what is currently happening, Your Highness."

    The Imperial Physician settled the teapot onto the wooden tray held out by his apprentice. This was going to be a messy problem to cure.

    "As of now, there is no known cure for aphrodisiac, since the tonic was banned in every part of the continent. Thus, not many physicians had the time to research a remedy for the tonic, Your Highness."

    The Imperial Physician took a worried nce at the Princess. It seemed like she had finally calmed down, after tiring herself out so much, her own body decided to give up on her.

    "However, there is one way to lessen the side effects," the Imperial Physician slowly said, as if it pained him to say it. "Her body will feel like it¡¯s burning. She¡¯ll think the mes will consume her from inside out."

    The Imperial Physician waved his apprentice off, urging everyone to go outside. Only when the door was firmly shut, did he take off his spectacles and turned to the Crown Prince with a grave expression.

    But when he saw the murderous re of Yu Zhen, the Imperial Physician dropped to his knees in fear. He swallowed.

    "The Princess will need to be bathed with cold water from head to toe, and after a count of ten, she will have to be brought out, so that her inner qi [1] is not harmed. Then, she will need to be ced back into the cold water, and taken out again, then back in there, until she finally calms down, Your Highness."

    The Imperial Physician bowed his head low as if he had failed the world. "But this will have to take ce when she is awake, or else she might go into a greater shock, Your Highness."

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. He would have Lady Ge Beining skinned alive and burned at a stake.

    His arms tightened around Li Xueyue who was slumped in his arms. But even in her sleep, she was crying. Her tears stained his shoulders, but he couldn¡¯t care less. She was calm before the storm.

    "B-but that is not all... Your Highness." the Imperial Physician quivered out. He tried his best to remain calm, but could not when the Crown Prince looked like he was ready to massacre everyone in the pce.

    "Her head will also have to be totally submerged during the cold bath. The Crown Princess will feel as if she¡¯s drowning, and on the brink of death, only to have relief for ten seconds before being forced to drown again, Your Highness."

    The Crown Prince mmed his hand on the nightstand. The Imperial Physician flinched. He took a shaky nce at the nightstand and saw a crack. He squeezed his eyes shut in fear, knowing the Crown Prince was going to murder anyone in his sight.

    "T-there is no other way than this, Your Highness," the Imperial Physician squeaked out. In all his twenty-five years of life, he had never felt this much terror. His legs were frozen in a permanent kneel.

    The Crown Prince shot the Imperial Physician a scathing re.

    "GET OUT!" he roared.

    The Imperial Physician scrambled to his feet. Without turning his back to the Crown Prince, he took quick steps backward until his hand grazed the door handles. He pushed it open and slipped outside, letting out a massive sigh of relief that he had been holding in.

    "S-sir, are you alright?" his apprentice shakily asked.

    The Imperial Physician mutely nodded his head, as he could not speak. It felt like a lump was stuck in his throat, choking at him. And he knew it was because the Crown Prince¡¯s menacing presence was seeping out of the room.

    "Sir, you¡¯re shaking, your face is pale, and you¡¯ve broken into a cold sweat. Are you sure you¡¯re alright?" the apprentice whispered.

    Eventually, the Imperial Physician¡¯s legs gave out from underneath him. He sank to his knees in front of the bedroom door, as his chest shook from another sigh.

    "I...barely escaped with my head intact," he whispered to his apprentice.

    The Crown Prince didn¡¯t make a single threat, but his gaze said a thousand words. His re was as ferocious as a tiger, his roar as lethal as a lion.

    The Imperial Physician had never seen or met someone so intimidating, yet so young. It was an unworldly experience. What a terrifying presence the Crown Prince had...

    "H-help me to my feet," he ordered his apprentice. The thin man quickly came forward and helped him up.

    "Let¡¯s leave quickly before the Crown Prince changes his mind and ughters all of us," the Imperial Physician shakily said.

    The apprentice didn¡¯t need to be told twice. Together, they ran out of the estate. Much like the rest of the servants who stood outside, they were all awaiting their impending doom.

 Chapter 476 Save Me

    <h4>Chapter 476 Save Me</h4>

    Yu Zhen¡¯s heart felt like it was being shredded to pieces. His eyes burned as he pushed her head underwater whilst the other hand held her shoulders down. She thrashed and screamed underwater, as he counted to ten before he yanked her out of the icy cold pool, where she choked and coughed for her life.

    And when ten seconds passed, he submerged her underwater again. His teeth clenched so tight, it could¡¯ve shattered. Water sshed on the stone pavement of the bathhouse. He was wet from head to toe, much like her.

    "It¡¯s okay, Sunshine," he repeated after pulling her out again. She was seated on the floor, sobbing and choking.

    "It hurts, please, make it stop!" she tried out, reaching for anything to hold onto.

    "I know, Sunshine, I know," Yu Zhen said. He gently patted the back of her head, and brought it close to his shoulders, forgetting about the count of ten. She grabbed onto him. Her tears, hot and infinite, practically burned his shoulders.

    His soul was shredded to pieces by her wail. She begged for mercy. He was willing to give her the world, the kingdom, but not mercy this time. No, never mercy¡ªno matter how much he wanted to.

    Yu Zhen was left with no choice. He pushed her back into the water.

    "Yu Zhen!" Li Xueyue screamed for him, but did not know he was directly in front of her.

    No one else was in the bathhouse to witness one of the worst moments of her life.

    "Yu Zhen, save me!" she cried out, fighting against his arm, her sharp ws digging into his skin.

    Yu Zhen would rather go through a decade of war than to hear her desperate pleas. It shredded him to pieces. His chest burned with an unfamiliar pain. It ached for her, ached to pull her into his arms and reassure her the world.

    Ice floated on the surface of the water. Even underwater, Li Xueyue was crying. He could see her eyes squeezed shut, and the bubbles that left her mouth.

    Ten secondster, he pulled her out again. Li Xueyue spat out the water and tried attacking him. Her arms, tiny and feeble shoved him away, but he held her close and whispered reassuring words into her ears.

    For the brief ten count, heforted her, like no other. She did not hear him.

    "Chen-ge, Wen-ge, anyone, please!" Li Xueyue cried out, shrieking when he tried to push her head under the water again.

    "Hush, it¡¯s alright," Yu Zhen whispered.

    Li Xueyue pped his hand away, catching him by surprise. She finally had the strength to cause damage. Did that mean the aphrodisiac wore off?

    "Sunshine?" Yu Zhen murmured, bending down to gently cup her face.

    Her eyes were still zed over. Her wet hair stuck to her forehead, and droplets of water trickled down her face. Despite the life that shed before her eyes, her eyes still burned with lust and she yearned for onest night of passion.

    "Yu Zhen... where are you?" she wept.

    His Wangfei cried out for him. Yu Zhen was standing in front of her, but she did not seem to know that. It tore his heart to pieces.

    At the moment Li Xueyue needed his help the most, he could do nothing but hurt her.

    "No more... please..." she begged whilst clutching onto his hands.

    Yu Zhen felt something warm trickle down his fingertips. Her tears had never dried up.

    "Please," Li Xueyue whispered whilst sobbing over him.

    Suddenly, she jolted. Almost as if horrified her that she was seeking salvation from a stranger, she pushed him away.

    "Who are you?" she whispered, her eyes trembling.

    Seizing her chance to escape when he was momentarily stunned, Li Xueyue waddled to the center of the pool, where his hands could no longer push her underwater.

    "Sunshine¡ª"

    "It¡¯s hot," she shakily said whilst peeling off ayer of her clothes. "It¡¯s so hot..."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s softened gaze hardened. The aphrodisiac hadn¡¯t worn off. And instead of convincing her to return to the edges of the pool, he kicked off his shoes and entered the icy cold water to join her.

    The water was so cold, it felt like thousands of bees stinging him. But he continued walking, even when his legs were beginning to feel numb.

    "Come here, Sunshine," Yu Zhen muttered. "I¡¯ll cool you down."

    But she refused. His Wangfei let out a horrified shriek and tried to waddle backward.

    "D-don¡¯te near me! Where is my husband?!"

    Without warning, her legs gave out from underneath her, and she slipped on her long dress.

    Yu Zhen caught her just in time.

    "Just once more, Sunshine," he reassured her.

    When she blinked up at him, dazzled and confused, Yu Zhen grounded his teeth and held her head under the water. His legs were numb, but he did not blink. His limbs could fall off from the cold for all he cared. As long as she was going to be cured, then he would not mind.

    Suddenly, she stopped fighting. She stopped struggling. The water stilled, like his heart.

    "Sunshine?" Yu Zhen whispered as he grabbed her armpits and yanked her up. She was limp. His face paled. In an instant, he hooked one arm under her knees, and another on her back. He lifted her out of the water and trudged towards the small staircase in the pool.

    Each step hurt him. He could feel the frostbite developing, but didn¡¯t even blink.

    "It¡¯s going to be alright, Sunshine," he whispered to her whilst stepping out of the icy pool. "Everything is going to be alright."

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen settled her onto a mahogany chair, gently tilting her body so that she would be morefortable. He approached the closet and brought out a set of dry clothes for her. With great diligence, he dried her off, changed her clothes, and helped her onto the bed.

    Her hair was soaking wet but wrapped in a towel. Thick strands stuck to her forehead, to which he gently pushed it away.

    "Yu Zhen... Where are you?

    Yu Zhen was stabbed, for the second time tonight. Even in her sleep, she was crying, and for him, nheless. He touched her fingers that tightly clenched the nket, as her head tossed and turned.

    The pillow was wet from her hair, but it was soaked with her tears. Yu Zhen slipped his hand underneath her fingers, and she tightly gripped onto him.

    "Save me," she pleaded with disorientated eyes. She did not know where she was, who she was, and who he was. But her heart was familiar with thefort of the first person that came into me.

    "Save me, Yu Zhen" she repeated, "Like you swore to."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes shed with determination. "I will, Sunshine. Even if it costs me this throne."

    And despite his vow, she continued to weep in her sleep, weep for a virtue that she thought was robbed from her. She wept for a dignity she maintained, but did not believe she had. She wept, for she thought this would be herst day in the pce¡ªthest day with him.

    "Shhh..." he softlyforted her whilst his other hand patted her chest, hoping to lull her into a deeper sleep.

    Her cries tore his soul to pieces, and her tears stabbed him.

    Even so, Yu Zhen remained by her side. From midnight to dusk, he watched over her with an unwavering gaze. He continued watching over her, even when the moon disappeared and the sun slowly rose from the west.

 Chapter 477 Do You Swear?

    <h4>Chapter 477 Do You Swear?</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up with puffy eyes and parched lips. When her eyes peeled open, Yu Zhen was still on high-alert, as he had been the entire night.

    "Sunshine?" Yu Zhen gently murmured as he softly caressed the side of her face. Had the storm passed? Was the sun peeking out of the horizon now? But she terrified him by breaking down, yet again. She pped his hand away and curled into a tiny ball.

    "Yu Zhen, I-I tried, I tried so hard I¡ª"

    "Shhh, it¡¯s alright." Yu Zhen slipped under the nkets. In an instant, she flinched away, recoiling in fear.

    "No, I was vited I¡ª"

    "The guards made it in time before you were. The same for your little maidservant." Yu Zhen remained seated on the bed. He reached down and pulled her into his arms. She was shaking. Her fingers trembled as they dug into his shoulders.

    "You¡¯re safe and sound, Sunshine," Yu Zhen whispered against her hair. He embraced her tightly, pressing her head onto his shoulder, as she hid her tears from him. Her knees were pressed together, her entire body quivering.

    "N-no, I know I was vited. I felt their hands touching me everywhere. They held me down on a bed, I could feel the material... My wrists and my ankles, they¡ª"

    "It was the maidservants."

    "They were trying to drown me."

    "I did it."

    His Wangfei stiffened in his arms. But Yu Zhen held her tighter. He kissed the side of her head, his lips remaining there.

    "I had to, Sunshine," Yu Zhen said. "It was the only way to quell the heat. Your entire body was burning, worse than a fever. The ice bath was the only way to force you awake from your high."

    Yu Zhen stroked the back of her head, his fingers caressing her long hair. "Each time, I made sure to pull you out in time so that your body would not be hurt."

    Li Xueyue faintly nodded. She said nothing, for guilt nipped at her. Instead of saying something, her actions would speak for her.

    Li Xueyue hugged him back. She hugged him with as much strength as she could muster. Her limbs were still heavy, but it was a lot more manageable than the terrors of yesterday.

    "My maidservant," she whispered. "My Head Maidservant, Xiao Hua, is she alright?"

    His hand froze. Li Xueyue prepared herself for the worst. She squeezed her eyes shut, waiting for the bad news.

    "Even at a time like this," he coldly said. "You¡¯re worried about others?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart quivered at his words. He sounded furious. She pulled back, but he pushed her head back onto his shoulders. Her eyes softened.

    "Xiao Hua is my servant," she slowly said. "I should care for my people."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s jaw clenched. "And what about you? When will you care for yourself?"

    Li Xueyue nudged her head into the crook of his neck. He was warm. His heat was nothing like the mes that licked her skin yesterday.

    "And when will you care for your wellbeing?" she softly said.

    "When you start caring for yours."

    Li Xueyue pressed a kiss on the side of his neck. His body tensed, and she smiled. "We¡¯ve already had this discussion, my beloved husband."

    "Then you should already know what I am going to say, my stubborn wife," he snapped.

    Li Xueyue leaned back, and this time, he finally allowed her to do so. His hand slid down to her upper back, cupping it. His arm was wrapped around her lower body, holding her in ce.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile dipped into a frown. His dark circles had worsened, but he seemed the least bothered by it. Had he stayed up the entire night, worrying over her again?

    She hesitantly touched his face, where a ghastly shadow lingered. "You¡¯re not angry with me," she pointed out.

    Li Xueyue already knew the truth. "You¡¯re angry at yourself."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze darkened. Instead of responding, he yanked her back to him, this time, bringing her down onto the bed.

    "I failed to protect you."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s head was pressed against his chest¡ªfirm and strong. He bore the world on his shoulders, yet, he never uttered a singleint.

    Instead of lying there, where she sought the mostfort, Li Xueyue rose to sit up. She peered down at him with a slight frown.

    "You said it yourself, your guards made it in time." Li Xueyue¡¯s breath was swept away by him. She rarely gazed down at him, for she always craned her neck to look up at him. He was so heartbreakingly beautiful.

    Li Xueyue touched his face, ghastly and intimidating, but so handsome. She could see the pain behind the anger. It must¡¯ve hurt him as much as it hurt her to go through such an experience.

    "I was foolish," Li Xueyue sighed.

    Yu Zhen scoffed.

    "I thought the least that the guards could do to protect a woman¡¯s chastity was to not search Lady Ge Beining¡¯s bedroom. I believed that as long as the guards were outside, with their ears perked, I would be safe."

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. Perhaps it was not the best of time to tell her they were in the prison cells, awaiting their final judgment for failure to obey his orders.

    "So, please don¡¯t be mad at them, be mad at me¡ª"

    "I¡¯m already furious with you."

    Li Xueyue lowered her head and fiddled with the edges of his cor. "I know."

    Yu Zhen nced at her fingers, flushed pink with life, but thin and weak. It always fascinated him that these very hands had gripped a sword like a warrior, and fired arrows like a soldier. If she were to join the military, she would be on the frontline as a dashing Commander.

    "You already know who did it," Li Xueyue muttered, knowing what was toe. "But you should know, there are people who will defend Lady Ge Beining."

    Yu Zhen grasped her fingers, and slowly entwined it with his. His lips curled into a smirk. "So?"

    When he saw her uncertainty, he chuckled. "Anyone that hurts you will leave without their head intact."

    Li Xueyue leaned down and pressed her lips together. "And what are you going to do to them?"

    Yu Zhen chuckled. His chest rumbled with the small action, sending jolts down her body. He reached out and took strands of her long hair in between his fingers before bringing it to his lips.

    "You don¡¯t have to worry about it." Yu Zhen admired her long hair that cascaded down. She peered at him, like a curious little fairy studying a human being.

    "Do we have evidence?" Li Xueyue whispered, knowing it would not be an easy fight. "The teapot and teacup should still have remnants of whatever she fed me."

    Li Xueyue tried to think of what was said in the room. But her head throbbed in pain and she winced. The more she tried to think about their conversation, the more jumbled up it was in her mind. She remembered snippets of what happened yesterday, but they were the worst bits.

    Li Xueyue remembered nothing of the conversation. But her body remembered the terrors it felt, the fear as hands wandered all over her. Whether they were figments of her imagination or the cruel reality, she did not know. And she didn¡¯t want to know either.

    Yu Zhen curled his fingers under her chin, forcing her to look at him again. "Instead of worrying about her, let¡¯s focus on you. How are you feeling, Sunshine?"

    Yu Zhen pulled back the sleeves of her dress and noticed there were slight bruises on her wrists.

    Li Xueyue shivered at the drop in temperature. It was suddenly chilly, and she couldn¡¯t pinpoint it. She pulled her hands back, and pushed the sleeves back down.

    "Aside from visible bruises, I¡¯m just shaken up," Li Xueyue exined. "I-it¡¯s not like..."

    Li Xueyue nced away. "It¡¯s not like something like this has never happened to me before."

    She touched the edges of his cor, her thumbs skimming the silk as a means of distracting herself.

    "I just need time to heal," Li Xueyue admitted. "Just like before."

    Yu Zhen slowly nodded. He wanted to help in her healing process, but did not know how.

    "Don¡¯t worry too much, Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue said. She softly smiled down at him, as her fingers skimmed his jawline.

    "I am a lot stronger than I look. I¡¯ll get through this, even if it takes a while." Li Xueyue slowly lowered herself until she was lying on his chest again.

    This time, her ears were resting where his heartid. She heard his heartbeat, loud and wild.

    "If there is anything I can do to help, anything at all, tell me," Yu Zhen strictly said. He adjusted his arm so that she would not slide off of him.

    "I will."

    "Do you swear, Sunshine?"

    "Of course, Yu Zhen."

    Yu Zhen kissed the top of her head. "Good."

    "It¡¯s still early in the morning," she suddenly said whilst tilting her head up at him. She touched his cheek, her thumb skimming under his eyes.

    "These have gotten worse," Li Xueyuemented. "At this point, pandas won¡¯t be a match for you."

    Yu Zhenughed at her words. He gripped her tighter and turned them on their side. Her back was pressed against his chest, as sheid on his arm.

    "Then, let¡¯s sleep a little bit longer," Yu Zhen said. He kissed the top of her head and rested his chin there. "Will that make you happy?"

    "Very much so, it would make me happy."

 Chapter 478 Bruises

    <h4>Chapter 478 Bruises</h4>

    "Your Grace!" A handmaiden dashed down the hallways before dropping to her knees in fear. The double doors to the Empress¡¯s estate parted open, but the entrance was blocked by a maidservant.

    "Such insolence and this early in the morning too!" the Empress¡¯s maidservant barked out irritably. "Speak! What do you want?"

    "L-Lady Ge Beining, s-she has been poisoned with aphrodisiac!" Lady Ge Beining¡¯s handmaiden pleaded out with shaking eyes. "Lady Ge Beining saw the five intruders in her room and escaped from her bedroom window to search for help, but then someone came up from behind her and force-fed her aphrodisiac!"

    "What did you just say?" the Empress harshly demanded from the doorway.

    The Empress glowered at the handmaiden. She was informed of the unfortunate incident yesterday and how the Crown Princess was poisoned at Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate. If Lady Ge Beining was also poisoned yesterday, then why didn¡¯t she hear about it?

    "Why is this only reported now?" she bit out.

    "Your Grace, We found Lady Ge Beining at the edge of her pond this morning, where she nearly drowned herself to get rid of the heat. She could have been there since yesterday afternoon and have been trying all night..."

    The Empress¡¯s gaze turned frigid. This sequence of events was too conflicting and confusing.

    How was it possible that Lady Ge Beining was not spotted near the pond of her own estate the day before? If Lady Ge Beining was terrified of the intruders, all she had to do was scream and the guards outside would rush in. What exactly was going on?

    "Bring the Imperial Physician to her estate," the Empress coldly said.

    Without another word, she backed into her bedroom, where her maidservants hurriedly dressed her. Despite the rush, she was dressed to perfection. There wasn¡¯t a single strand of hair that was out of ce.

    Once the Empress was dressed and presentable, she immediately made her way to Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate. It was not far from hers.

    When the Empress set foot into Lady Ge Beining¡¯s room, she already heard the hushed whispers of the Imperial Physician.

    The Empress was more worried than she was upset. Initially, the primary suspect for the Crown Princess¡¯s poisoning was Lady Ge Beining. After all, the aphrodisiac was found in the teapot served by Lady Ge Beining herself. But what if...just what if...the gentledy-in-waiting was framed.

    The Empress¡¯s heart raced with anticipation. She could not have such a malicious rumor tainting Lady Ge Beining. When that happens, who shall marry her? Who shall take care of the beautiful Lady Ge Beining?

    The entire country would turn their back on her if they found out she had poisoned the Crown Princess and purposefully tried to ruin an innocent woman¡¯s reputation.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s maidservants opened the door for the Empress. They took timid steps backward and deeply bowed their upper bodies when the Empress stepped into Lady Ge Beining¡¯s bedroom.

    "What is the meaning of this mess?" the Empress sharply said with her hands folded in front of her stomach. She nced around the bedroom where shattered vases littered the edges of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s bed.

    "Answering your question, Your Grace, out of pure agony, Lady Ge Beining had identally knocked over the vases, as she struggled and grappled with her sanity," a timid handmaiden whispered.

    "Sanity?" the Empress narrowed her eyes. Aphrodisiac was a tonic that stirs up immense desire, so much so, that the taker would be hallucinating about their beloved. They would yearn for lustful touches and promiscuous positions.

    The Empress turned to the Imperial Physician who had deeply bowed upon seeing her. He stood by the foot of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s bed with a bothered expression.

    "What is the diagnosis?"

    "There are bruises on Lady Ge Beining¡¯s wrists, as if someone held her down, and poured the aphrodisiac down her throat. Most likely, she was ambushed from behind by the same intruders who dared to hurt the Crown Princess, Your Grace," the imperial Physician informed.

    "And did anything happen to Lady Ge Beining?" the Empress demanded. "Is she still ripe and untouched? Or, has she been used?"

    The Imperial Physician bowed his head. "Currently, there isn¡¯t a way of examining whether her dignity is intact or not. Lady Ge Beining has been slipping in and out of consciousness, and each time she is awake, she cries and screams incoherent things."

    The Empress cast a pitiful nce towards Lady Ge Beining. Three women, all harmed in the span of one afternoon. They had barely escaped with their reputation intact. Who could¡¯vemitted such a heinous crime?

    "Y-Your Grace..." Lady Ge Beining pitifully croaked out from the bed. She had finally regained consciousness, her eyes barely peeled open.

    "Oh, dear child," the Empress softly said. She approached the bed where Lady Ge Beiningid, with tears trickling down her eyes.

    "Your Grace, am I going to die?" Lady Ge Beining sobbed out, her body trembling. "I-I can¡¯t move my limbs, and it is so...so hot."

    Lady Ge Beining turned her head as tears stained the pillow. "This heat...it is worse than a fever. It feels as if I am being burned alive, from the inside out."

    The Empress¡¯s brows scrunched together in confusion. She leaned down and grasped Lady Ge Beining¡¯s hand.

    "Aside from this heat, do you feel something strange?"

    Lady Ge Beining blinked back her tears. Even nodding her head was difficult. "Yes, I-I feel a wanton thought of...of..." she struggled to finish her sentence as pure embarrassment shed within her eyes.

    The Empress curtly nodded. "You do not need to exin yourself, Lady Ge Beining. I know the effects of this aphrodisiac."

    "I-I tried so hard, Your Grace. I dragged my body to the pond, wing at the dirt and all. I tried to quench this fire with the pond water, but it didn¡¯t work. I nearly drowned myself in the process, for I couldn¡¯t lift a single finger shortly when I made it to the pond."

    The Empress¡¯s gaze softened. She took off the long-w like essories [*insert reference photo*] ced over her nails and handed it to a maidservant, knowing this would hurt Lady Ge Beining. Then, she ced a cooling touch upon Lady Ge Beining¡¯s warm face.

    "You will get better, I¡¯m certain of it," the Empress gently cooed. She turned to the Imperial Physician. "Prescribe a medicine for mydy-in-waiting."

    The Imperial Physician bowed his head. "Unfortunately, Your Grace, there is no cure for aphrodisiac. The tonic was banned in every corner of the continent, thus, none of the Physicians were able to research the aphrodisiac in time to find a cure."

    "Then what shall be done?" the Empress demanded. She bore a deep, disgruntled scowl on her face. This Imperial Physician was quite useless! Aside from this obvious diagnosis, he couldn¡¯te up with a medicine to cure Lady Ge Beining?

    "Your Grace, it would be the same thing that the Crown Prince has done for his Wangfei..." the Imperial Physician hesitantly said with lowered eyes.

    "Which is?" the Empress pressed on.

    "Lady Ge Beining will need to have her entire body submerged, from head to toe, in icy cold water, then taken out. The process will have to be repeated again and again until her body temperature has returned to normal, Your Grace."

    The Empress¡¯s heart sank. She turned to Lady Ge Beining and noted her frail appearance, pale skin, and gentle demeanor. Such a violent treatment...

    "Lady Ge Beining would not survive it."

 Chapter 479 Youre Right.

    <h4>Chapter 479 You¡°re Right.</h4>

    Yu Zhen was the first to awaken. It waste in the afternoon, and the world outside was calm. He could see the setting horizon in the distance. A beautiful palette of rosy pink, pearl white, and vibrant orange.

    He shifted his head and nced down, noticing their position had shifted in their sleep. She was curled on her side, her head resting on his bicep whilst she ced a palm on his chest. Coincidentally, it was where his heart beat for no one but her.

    Li Xueyue was sound asleep, her eyelids were softly closed shut. Throughout the entire morning, she did not toss and turn in his arms, but he was not relieved.

    The nightmares woulde to haunt her again. But Yu Zhen would not let her experience it alone. No matter how many times she¡¯d wake up in tears¡ªscreaming, and crying¡ªhe would be with her. Even if his sleep had to be sacrificed, he wouldfort her. They swore to each on their wedding day that they would stay together through thick and thin.

    "Sleep well, Sunshine." Yu Zhen caressed the side of her face and pressed a chaste kiss on the crown of her head. She mumbled incoherent things before snuggling closer to him. She shifted her legs and slung it over his body.

    It was difficult not to love her even more than he already did. Yu Zhen was a fool for her. He loved her enough to sacrifice the world for her. It was precisely why he detangled himself from her.

    Yu Zhen gently lowered her face on the pillow. She grumbled something before turning to her other side.

    "Such an endearing little thing you are." Yu Zhen caressed her cheek before leaning down to kiss it gently.

    "All of your monsters..." he gently said whilst pushing the hair away from her face. "I will y them all. One by one, until there is no more left."

    - - - - -

    The Empress could not bear to watch it any longer. She stared with wide eyes as three maidservants shoved Lady Ge Beining¡¯s head underwater. Lady Ge Beining gurgled and choked, screaming for mercy when she rose to the surface.

    Lady Ge Beining reached for the Empress, but was pushed underwater again and again until her body was a shaking mess. Lady Ge Beining was drenched from head to toe in therge, wooden bathtub as maidservants crowded the sides, preventing her from escaping.

    "Help me, Your Grace, help¡ª" She was pushed underwater again.

    "I can¡¯t, child," the Empress gently murmured from the corner of the bathroom. Her heart was threatening to be ripped to pieces by the sight of this horrific torture.

    Lady Ge Beining was a well-breddy from a prestigious background. This torture was beneath her. This punishment was sentencing her to hell. There was a possibility that she would die from this treatment.

    The Empress¡¯s heart raced at the horrid thought. She could no longer tolerate this. "Enough."

    The Empress approached the foot of the bathtub. The maidservants had taken a step back, with their heads bowed and eyes lowered.

    "Is she still warm?" the Empress gently asked.

    Lady Ge Beining was dripping wet. She coughed and choked, wheezing for air. Hitting her chest, she tried to force the air into her lungs.

    Lady Ge Beining resembled a river ghost. Her wet hair clung to her face, and her pained expression did not help. Her chest was exposed, shivering and trembling like her fingers. Her skin, pale as snow, was turning blue and purple.

    "I-it¡¯s cold," she whimpered out.

    The Empress touched Lady Ge Beining¡¯s cheeks. It was cold as ice. She took a step back and gestured towards the bathtub.

    "Pull her out."

    "Yes, Your Grace," the maidservants obediently said. They came forward and helped Lady Ge Beining out of the bathtub.

    Lady Ge Beining struggled to get out. The bathtub stopped a bit over her belly button, but her limbs were numb. When she tried to stand, her legs gave out. She sobbed in pain, as needles shot up her body. The ice was too much for her.

    If the drowning did not kill her, the frostbite would.

    "Hurry!" the Empress demanded. These ipetent servants! Who allowed them to pass the Imperial servant examination? She would have that Eunuch whipped!

    The maidservants reached into the bathtub and worked hard to hoist Lady Ge Beining out of the bathtub. Finally, her foot touched the wooden tform. Not a secondter, she copsed onto the ground.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s teeth chattered. Her legs were bent underneath her, like a fallen swan. The maidservants instantly came forward with multipleyers of clothes to cover her naked body.

    "It seems the aphrodisiac finally wore off." The Empress let out a small sigh of relief. She peered out the circr window and noticed the sun was high in the sky. It had taken them the entire morning, andte into the afternoon for this treatment to finish.

    The Empress hadn¡¯t had her morning or afternoon meal. But after witnessing Lady Ge Beining¡¯s horrendous screams and wails, the Empress could not stomach food.

    "Oh dear," the maidservants whispered. "Y-Your Grace, Lady Ge Beining¡¯s toes have turnedpletely purple!"

    The Empress¡¯s attention snapped to Lady Ge Beining. Sure enough, her exposed toes, tiny and cute, were bruised purple like morning orchids.

    She ground her teeth and shot dangerous res towards the maidservants. "Didn¡¯t I say to be careful with her?!"

    The maidservants whimpered in fear. They dropped to their knees and begged for forgiveness. "We¡¯re sorry, Your Grace! We deserve to die for this failure. Our life is futile, for this mistake is dire!"

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart ached at the sight. She turned to the Empress but flinched back out of embarrassment. Lady Ge Beining was seated on the ground, like some kind of dog.

    "We deeply apologize, your Grace! Please spare us, please forgive us! We plea for your benevolence!" the maidservants cried out in fear.

    "Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining said in between chattering teeth. She hugged her trembling body and peered up at the Empress. Suddenly, the Empress seemed so tall, her figure looming over them.

    Lady Ge Beining felt like she was forced to look up and worship a Goddess from Heaven. She hated that feeling. She hated being beneath someone who was not the Crown Prince. She hated serving this heartless woman.

    "Please spare my maidservants, Your Grace! I will ensure they do not make the same foolish mistakes, ever again."

    The Empress sneered towards the maidservants. "I¡¯ve always told you, dear child, your heart is far too kind for this world. You will get hurt."

    Lady Ge Beining frowned. "Your Grace, I¡ª"

    "Eunuch!" the Empress called out. In an instant, two men dressed in navy blue entered the room. They lowered their eyes and heads, careful not to look at Lady Ge Beining. Failure to look away would result in horrible consequences.

    "Have these useless maidservants dragged to the servant¡¯s corridor and whipped 20 times for their stupidity."

    "Your Grace, we were wrong! Your Grace, please!" the maidservants shrieked and begged as they crawled to the Empress, hoping for her mercy.

    Lady Ge Beining sat there, numb and shocked. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she looked up at the Empress.

    The Empress peered down at thedy-in-waiting who sat near her feet. "These maidservants failed to protect you when you were poisoned. Now, they failed to prevent your injuries. 20 whips is already showing mercy."

    Lady Ge Beining rapidly shook her head. She grabbed the bottom of the Empress¡¯s skirts. This was not supposed to happen. Her people were not supposed to be harmed and punished. These maidservants, she knew them quite well. She had treated them with decency, and they were loyal to her.

    The maidservants were Lady Ge Beining¡¯s people. If she failed to protect them, then they would turn their backs on her.

    "Your Grace, they¡¯re young and inexperienced. Please spare them just this once, just for me¡ª"

    "Drag them out."

    The maidservants cried out in fear as they were yanked to their feet and pulled out of the room. Their eyes met their Mistress, who was seated on the ground, with a pale, horrified expression.

    "Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining breathed out in great astonishment. "W-why?"

    The Empress softly frowned. "This gentle heart of yours is the exact reason why these maidservants managed to sneak the aphrodisiac into the Crown Princess¡¯s tea. They must¡¯ve put it in the boiling water that they fetched for you."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face paled. It was either her or the maidservants. And despite the years of friendship that she had with these servants, despite their gentle smiles and loyalty, Lady Ge Beining kept her mouth shut. She chose to save herself.

    "Had your people been more careful, these intruders wouldn¡¯t have been able to sneak into your room through the low windows of your bedroom. But these maidservants were toocent that they did not bother checking the perimeters before they left you alone."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s fingers shook. This time, it wasn¡¯t because she was cold. She lowered her eyes. Her heart pricked with this betrayal. How many people must be hurt for her to achieve her goal?

    First, it was Lady Xu Jiaqi, and now it was her maidservants.

    Lady Ge Beining clenched her fingers. With trembling lips and heartless eyes, she nonchntly smiled. Hesitation was a weakness. Guilt was stupidity. None of these emotions would bring her closer to her goal.

    Lady Ge Beining had vowed to do everything it takes to reach her goal. If she could not have the Crown Prince, then she would just ruin the Crown Princess. She would ruin that woman so horribly, he would not be able to stomach the sight of his own wife. Only then, would Lady Ge Beining have a possibility to be with the Crown Prince.

    "You¡¯re right, Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining finally said. "As always, you¡¯re right."

 Chapter 480 I Must Confess

    <h4>Chapter 480 I Must Confess</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up in a daze. Her head was throbbing a bit, but at least, she no longer felt like her body was on fire. She wryly nced around the bedroom, suddenly wanting to do nothing but sleep all day. She was not in the mood to see anyone today, much less, act regal, and proper.

    Wordlessly, she flopped back onto the bed and brought the nket to her shoulders. Sheid on her side and nced at her fingers.

    "What exactly happened..." Li Xueyue murmured. Her mind felt hazy as if a fog was blocking her memories. She was familiar with this feeling. It happened during her childhood when she wanted to forget the heinous things in her life.

    Li Xueyue only remembered entering Lady Ge Beining¡¯s tea room. Then, the rest was foggy. She recalled the guards rushing into the room after the teacup shattered. But then, her vision blurred, and she recalled hands roaming all over her body.

    Li Xueyue recalled she was burning with heat as if she had set foot near a volcano. Her body yearned for a cooling touch...yearned for someone to take the heat away.

    Lost in thought and in her own little world, Li Xueyueid there blissfully ignorant of the chaos outside of this estate. As she slowly closed her eyes, soon, someone would be drawing theirst breath.

    - - - - -

    "Be careful," the Empress coldly addressed the new batch of maidservants that were brought into Lady Ge Beining¡¯s room. They were helping thedy-in-waiting onto the bed, slowly lowering her down.

    Lady Ge Beining let out a small, contented sigh. Her nket were cold, but it was more than enough. After the frightening cold bath that felt like sheer terror, Lady Ge Beining was more than grateful to be back in her room.

    She snuck a nce at the worried-faced Empress. The Empress herself was personally closing all the windows.

    ¡¯She doesn¡¯t know yet.¡¯ Lady Ge Beining looked away from the Empress and towards her palms. Her fingers were shaking, and she clenched it together.

    Aftermitting two crimes, Lady Ge Beining didn¡¯t think she would still be so frightened of being caught. Lady Ge Beining pressed her lips together and pulled the nket up to her chin.

    Lady Ge Beining was certain this was a fool-proof n. No one would suspect her now that she had consumed the poison. No one should dare to. Who would point their fingers at a sick woman, who went through the same torture as the Crown Princess?

    "Everyone is excused," the Empress said to the servants. They nodded at her words, bowing low before quietly slipping out of the room.

    Soon, only Lady Ge Beining and the Empress were left behind.

    Lady Ge Beining could see the Empress¡¯s suspicion. The Empress kept her facade up, but the gears inside of her head were spinning. The Empress was a cunning and sly woman. She was likely predicting who caused this problem.

    "Mother..."

    Lady Ge Beining carefully watched the Empress¡¯s expression. If she was upset, then Lady Ge Beining would not continue uttering this unspeakable title. But the Empress¡¯s face became more gentle.

    "Are you missing your mother?" the Empress gently murmured.

    The Empress closed the distance between them and took a seat on the edge of the bed.

    Seeing Lady Ge Beining snuggled under the nket, her heart clenched with adoration. It reminded the Empress of the past when Lady Ge Beining was a child experiencing night terrors. At that time, to lull Lady Ge Beining to sleep, the Empress would tell wild stories of an even wilder Empress during her youth.

    "I¡¯ve never met her," Lady Ge Beining whispered. She slipped a hand out and gently grasped the Empress¡¯s hand.

    A gentle, innocent smile softened Lady Ge Beining¡¯s tired face. "But I am told she is a great woman with a gentle heart, much like you, Your Grace."

    The Empress¡¯s chest pricked with pain. She dearly loved Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mother.

    At that time, the Empress had no one in the pce. There was not a single person she could call a friend or family. That is until Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mother appeared. Both of them were a wild spirit concealed under demure smiles. Soon, they became the best of friends.

    The Empress would share all of her troubles with Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mother. And thetter would always provide the best advice. In the time of loneliness, a single friend felt like a hundred.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mother was all that the Empress needed.

    "Indeed," the Empress quietly said in a low whisper. "Your mother was a woman many admired for her intellect and kindness."

    Lady Ge Beining squeezed the Empress¡¯s hands. "I¡¯ve always considered you as my mother, Your Grace... It is wrong of me to reach above my ranks, but I believe my birth mother would not mind."

    The Empress gently smiled. All of her life, she had viewed Lady Ge Beining as her own daughter. She had personally raised the little girl to thedy she is today. Lady Ge Beining had been an obedient and wise child who always knew what to say.

    "Did you know?" the Empress mused. "When your mother took herst dying breath, shortly after giving birth to you, shemanded me to raise you as my own. It was audacious of her tomand me, the Empress, of such a thing, but I epted without hesitation."

    The Empress reached a hand out and stroked Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face. "Despite all of your ws and threats, I see them as mere tantrums to gain my attention. Am I wrong, Xiao Ning?"

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart ached with the nickname. It had been years since she hadst heard it. Thest time the Empress called her by such an affectionate title was the day her cycle started, and Lady Ge Beining was finally a woman.

    "I am a greedy child, Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining admitted. "I want your attention to be on me, and no one else. Is it wrong of me to want such a thing, Mother?"

    The Empress pressed her lips together. In her eyes, her children could do no wrong. Even when the First Prince took his loss without a fight, even when Yu Zhen banned her from seeing his Wangfei yesterday, even when Yu Lingluo wrecked her bedroom, the Empress could not bear to hold a grudge against them.

    She loved her children, all in different ways. Sometimes she was cruel, sometimes she was kind. Like her children, she, too, was human and had too many ws.

    "No," the Empress finally said. "You are not wrong to be possessive of my affection."

    The Empress peered down at Lady Ge Beining. She resembled her mother from head to toe. Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes would crinkle the same way as her mother, revealing a tiny dimple when she smiled. She even inherited her mother¡¯s tea brewing style without ever meeting the woman.

    Sometimes, the Empress believed Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mother had reincarnated into her own daughter. It would be the only usible exnation for their striking simrities.

    "I didn¡¯t mean to threaten you, Mother,?? Lady Ge Beining pitifully said. She tried to sit up in bed, but the Empress forced her back down.

    "What are you doing?" the Empress said with a frown.

    "Apologizing properly, Mother," Lady Ge Beining responded.

    "You were poisoned by some awful servant. Of course, I will pardon you for this informal apology," the Empress scolded.

    "But that horrible servant is still out there, Mother," Lady Ge Beining sobbed out. "I-I feel so horrible..."

    The Empress¡¯s brows knitted together. Lady Ge Beining was not a cryer. Her tears had long dried up in childhood. Buttely, she had lost herposure too often and was more irritable.

    "You should rest and wait for my people to capture the perpetrator. There is nothing you should be doing, except trying to remember the face of the person who did such a heinous thing to you and the Crown Prince¡¯s dear Wangfei," the Empress scolded.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s gaze sharpened, but a lone tear rolled down her cheek. Dear Wangfei? Since when was the Empress so affectionate towards that schemer?

    "M-Mother," Lady Ge Beining whispered with tear-filled eyes. She tightly grasped the Empress¡¯s hands and bent her head over it. Droplets of warm tears fell upon the Empress¡¯s fingers.

    "I must confess to you," she shakily said.

 Chapter 481 Bickering Ministers

    <h4>Chapter 481 Bickering Ministers</h4>

    The Empress raised a brow. A confession? Out of the blue? What could¡¯ve triggered Lady Ge Beining? Why was she in tears as if the world was going to crumble any minute now?

    "Confess to what?" the Empress curiously asked.

    Lady Ge Beining lowered her head. "Y-Your Grace, I do not deserve this kindness of yours. I am nothing but a coward..." she whispered. Her voice cracked toward the end, for she was overwhelmed with unsaid emotions.

    "You¡¯ve provided me with so much, and all I do is get into sticky situations like this one, Mother," Lady Ge Beining sniffled out.

    The Empress¡¯s gaze softened. She didn¡¯t think Lady Ge Beining would say such heart-wrenching things.

    All of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s life, the Empress had taught her to value herself in the ranks of a Princess. Lady Ge Beining did not have to be useful. All she needed to do was live a blissful and happy life. That was all that the Empress wanted as a mother.

    "Sweet child," the Empress gently murmured as she reached a hand out to caress Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face. "There was nothing you could do to prevent this. Your servants tried to harm you despite the fact that you¡¯ve treated them so well."

    Lady Ge Beining weakly dropped her gaze to the nket as if mesmerized by the intricate embroidery.

    The Empress quietly ced a hand upon Lady Ge Beining¡¯s shoulders. Lady Ge Beining slowly raised her head, like a sullen child being scolded by their mother.

    She directly looked Lady Ge Beining in the eyes. "But answer one question of mine."

    Lady Ge Beining rapidly nodded her head. "As you wish, Your Grace. I am willing to answer as many questions as you please."

    "Why did you run from the intruders, instead of screaming out for the Crown Princess¡¯s guards who were just outside of the door?"

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face crumbled. It was as she had anticipated. She had prepared herself for this startling question as it was the only loophole in her story.

    "I panicked, Your Grace. When my life was in danger, my mind went nk, and the only thing I could think of was running out of the room. I am a coward who thought of no one else but herself..."

    The Empress¡¯s face stiffened at this. She pulled her hand back and rose to her feet. "You chose your own life over the Crown Princess¡¯s, who will be the future Empress?"

    "I¡¯m a coward, Your Grace. For this, I deserve punishment, but anyone in my shoes would¡¯ve done the same. Humans are inherently selfish by nature, and they value their own lives above all."

    The Empress pressed her lips together. She was torn at a crossroad. She wasn¡¯t sure whose side to choose. One was the Crown Princess, her daughter-inw. The other was Lady Ge Beining, the child she had raised since birth, and cared for as one of her own.

    "But I did not run out in vain. When I climbed out of my window, I was trying to go through the other side of the house and make my way back to the guards, and notify them of what was happening, Your Grace."

    Lady Ge Beining reached a hand out and daintily grabbed onto the Empress¡¯s sleeves. "They had the Crown Princess pinned down on the table and I was worried that if I screamed, they would¡¯ve killed her on the spot. The only option was for me to run away and secretly get help, Your Grace."

    The Empress nced down at Lady Ge Beining. Conflict danced in her eyes. She needed more time to think this through. Holding back a tired sigh, she gently pushed off Lady Ge Beining¡¯s hand.

    "You¡¯ve had a troubling day," the Empress slowly said. "It is best for you to rest. I wille back for you when you are awake."

    Lady Ge Beining tried her hardest not to frown. She knew the Empress was hesitant about who to side with. It seemed the Crown Princess had infiltrated the Empress¡¯s heart more than she had expected...

    But Lady Ge Beining was not that worried. Aside from the Crown Prince, the person with the most power was the Empress. The Emperor was a sickly man who had been bedridden for a while now. It wasn¡¯t like he was going to make his appearance before the entire court anytime soon, when he could barely walk.

    Eventually, Lady Ge Beining revealed a tiny, endearing smile. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears and she obediently nodded her head.

    "Thank you, Mother," Lady Ge Beining softly said.

    The Empress¡¯s heart was squeezed by Lady Ge Beining¡¯s gestures. It would have been a lot better if Yu Lingluo had an ounce of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s grace. Perhaps, thedy-in-waiting could teach the young Princess some manners.

    "Sleep well." Without another nce, the Empress strolled out of the room. She watched the doors shut before walking down the hallways. This time, she hoped that the brute of a son wouldn¡¯t be in his estate.

    That way, the Empress could finally visit the Crown Princess and hear her side of the story. Initially, the Empress wanted to visit the Crown Princess as soon as she had heard of the atrocity that urred. But her son was so infuriated by the incident that he did not allow anyone to set foot on his estate.

    Regardless if she was the Empress or not, no one would be able to truly defy the absolute order of the Crown Prince. Now that he had taken control of the majority of the courts, it would be difficult to oppose him.

    "She needed rest as well," the Empress quietly said to herself. The only reason she didn¡¯t argue with the ruthlessmand was because she sympathized with the Crown Princess. It would be difficult to see or visit anyone, especially after going through such a traumatic thing.

    The only thing that reassured the Empress was the fact the Crown Princess was supposedly untouched. All of the guards vouched for her innocence. The men were in between her legs, but their pants had not dropped yet, and their hands were nowhere near her womanhood. And before they could take another step, they were quickly apprehended by the guards.

    "I can only hope her sanity will have a safe recovery, for she must¡¯ve been so traumatized..." the Empress quietly murmured to herself.

    She turned to her servants and was prepared to order a nutritious soup boiled for the Princess, but then hesitated.

    Right now, the Crown Princess would be distrustful towards everyone. Most likely, she would not eat anything unless she knew it was prepared by her faithful servants. Even so, there would be no guarantee that the food was safe.

    "Did you receive word of where the Crown Prince was?" the Empress said to the closest Eunuch.

    "I was unable to verify the exact location, Your Grace. However, following his previous schedule, the Crown Prince should be in the courts listening to the bickering ministers who will have their doubts and suspicions of the Crown Princess¡¯s virtue."

    The Empress halted in her footsteps. She pressed her lips together. The Crown Princess was so young, and it had been less than a year since she set foot in the pce. Yet, her pristine reputation was tarnished this quickly.

    Whoever the culprit was, they would be severely punished. She would make sure of it.

    "I see," the Empress coldly said. She continued walking down the hallways, in the direction of the Crown Prince¡¯s estate, directly opposite of where her son was.

 Chapter 482 It Has Begun.

    <h4>Chapter 482 It Has Begun.</h4>

    Lady Ge Beining slipped under her nkets, ready to fall into a blissful sleep. She let out a small sigh from the warmth of the nkets. Her fingertips were cold, but it was slowly beginning to heat up. She pulled the nkets to her shoulders with a tired frown. It was such a long day...

    Lady Ge Beining did not think she would be subjected to such horrible torture. It would¡¯ve been better if she was able to get her hands on a tonic that would help quell the heat, rather than let herself be drowned in cold water. But she did what she had to do.

    "It was the only way for me to maintain my innocence," Lady Ge Beining told herself whilst closing her eyes.

    Soon, sleep overtook her. It was an effortless transition, and she would have a peaceful sleep, free of terrors, for the only problem in her life would soon be gone.

    - - - - -

    Lady Ge Beining was startled awake by a loudmotion outside. She looked towards her windows where it was firmly shut. But through the paper screen, she could see the sun was still out.

    "What¡¯s going on?" Lady Ge Beining murmured when she heard something nging in the background. She looked towards her doors, awaiting her servants toe in and inform her of the cause of themotion outside.

    Soon, she heard the quiet click of the entrance doors. The footsteps were loud and powerful, a thud that shook her heart. It was a familiar sound that made her heart race with anticipation.

    Lady Ge Beining sat up from her bed¡ªcurious and trembling. She knew this presence even behind closed doors.

    The doors opened, revealing a face that sent her heart into a frenzy. Finally, he set foot into her bedroom.

    The Crown Prince was mesmerizing. He calmly closed the doors behind him, revealing the bloody sword in his hand. His icy gaze surveyed the room before it finally settled upon her.

    "Y-Your Highness..." Lady Ge Beining breathed out. She shakily slipped out of her bed and grabbed the edges of her nightgown before dipping into a beautiful curtsy for him.

    Lady Ge Beining was in awe of him. It had been a while since she was physically so close to him. He was handsome despite his frigid presence. A dark aura surrounded his ethereal features, but she loved him nheless.

    Lady Ge Beining heard his footsteps brush past her. She raised her head and admired him from afar. He was everything she had ever wanted. Her heart yearned for him. Just a single gaze would be enough. Just a single smile would kill her. She loved him to that extent.

    "What brings you here at such odd hours?" Lady Ge Beining asked. She watched him casually walk around the room before turning to face her.

    When Lady Ge Beining met his brooding stare, she nearly swooned. His eyes were aloof and cold as ice. She wanted to see it melt with warmth and adoration for her. She wanted to see his eyes soften, and his smile gentle. She begged the Heavens, pleading with them onest time.

    Lady Ge Beining would be willing to sacrifice everything just to hear him call out her name. Wasn¡¯t that why he came to her bedroom? Was he finally disgusted with his wife, whose legs were parted for another man that was not him?

    "I heard you were poisoned," he finally said.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She could not believe this incident inclined him toe here. It was killing two birds with one stone!

    It seems the Crown Princess truly had disappointed her husband! It would not be long before her chastity was questioned, and she was tossed aside. The Crown Prince must¡¯ve lost all feelings for her.

    It would exin his presence inside of her bedroom.

    "Drink."

    Lady Ge Beining blinked when a ss bottle the length of her palm was presented to her. She nced down at the strong, calloused hands that held it. She longed to touch him, thus, took the bottle, her fingers brushing on his skin.

    Lady Ge Beining shivered. He was warm. "What is this??? she hesitantly asked.

    "Medicine."

    Lady Ge Beining warily nced down at the brown liquid. It looked like a herbal tonic. She uncapped the bottle and took a whiff of it, her brows raising in surprise. It smelled...sweet?

    Lady Ge Beining lifted her attention towards the Crown Prince. When their eyes met, she saw a sh of emotions. He was watching her every move, with a burning gaze. Her fingers trembled with delight, believing it was desire.

    He had brought her medicine...just the thought of that was enough for her to shakily smile.

    "Thank you, Your Highness," Lady Ge Beining shyly said. She brought the bottle to her lips and hesitated. The blood-stained sword in the Crown Prince¡¯s hand was catching too much attention. But when she nced towards the doors, it was firmly shut.

    "Whose blood is that?" Lady Ge Beining asked whilst pointing towards his sword. Fresh blood trickled down the silver de, dripping onto her wooden floor.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s heart ached. She wished he did not look so devilishly handsome. He presented her with a slow,zy smile.

    "Do not worry about it," he said in a calm,posed voice.

    Lady Ge Beining pressed her lips together. She was hesitant. But then he stepped closer to her. She felt her heart giddily race like a horse on an open field.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s breath hitched when he grabbed the bottom of the bottle and brought it to her lips again.

    "Drink the medicine."

    He was so close... Lady Ge Beining¡¯s gaze flickered. His scent had changed. As a young boy, he smelled of the wind and earth. But now, his scent was that of a forest the day after it rained.

    Lady Ge Beining wanted to please him. She could not find it in herself to disobey him. Everything that she had worked so hard for was right in front of her. All of her efforts were not in vain. It bore fruit.

    "As you wish, Your Highness..."

    Lady Ge Beining took a sip of the medicine. In an instant, she tried to move it away. She knew that familiar taste. But then, he grabbed her by her nape and forced the bottle into her mouth.

    "Y-Your High¡ª!" She choked as he forced the medicine down her throat. She tried to fight him, her palm pushing at his chest. But he was strong. His grip was tight. He tightly fisted her hair, forcing her to take in everyst drop.

    Eventually, he tossed her to the ground. Lady Ge Beining loudly coughed, banging at her chest for air. She sat on the ground, trembling in response.

    The Crown Prince had given her a taste of her own medicine.

    Lady Ge Beining didn¡¯t have enough time to react when a sword was a hair away from her throat. She gasped out, as the cold de touched her chin, staining it red.

    The Crown Prince lifted her chin with the tip of his sword. He cocked his head, with an eerily calm smile.

    "I should just kill you right now."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes widened. Her heart was gripped with fear, but her body felt like it was burning, and it was not the pleasurable kind. Instead, it was as if a fire was ignited within her body, attempting to crawl out of her skin. She gasped at the intensity of the pain, her eyes watering.

    Her body felt like it was licked alive by an intense fire. But that was not the end of it. Her muscles were aching, and simply holding up her body hurt her.

    "Your Highness..." she weakly pleaded whilst ncing up at him with moistened eyes. Even so, she couldn¡¯t help but swoon at the sight of him. She craved his touch. She craved for his fingers, his lips, and his seed. Perhaps then, her pain would not be so intense.

    "But that would be too easy, wouldn¡¯t it?" Yu Zhen coldly said.

    Yu Zhen stalked towards her. Slowly, he lowered his sword and pulled out a scroll from his sleeve. She crawled towards him, panting and whimpering with lust.

    "Why did you do this, Your Highness?" Lady Ge Beining pleaded. "I am a victim as well... I was assaulted from behind and also fed aphrodisiac. The Crown Princess was not the only victim!"

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "You¡¯ve mistaken me for someone who cares."

    Lady Ge Beining grasped onto the ends of his robes. But her fingers felt as if it snapped in half. She howled in pain, her body copsing forward. She fell t on her chest, writhing and gasping out of pure shock. It felt like every bone in her body was snapping into two.

    It was the most intense pain she had ever felt.

    But then, the Crown Prince took her by surprise. He gently grasped one of her hands. In an instant, her fingers curled around his palm. Just this tiny touch was enough for her to seek the slightest bit of relief.

    Without a doubt, when he made love to her, she would be overwhelmed with relief. "I do not understand...your Highness."

    The Crown Prince wordlessly brought the sword close again. She tried to pull back, but his palm seized her wrist in ce.

    "Your Highness!" Lady Ge Beining cried out with wide eyes. She attempted to run from his de, but he slit her forefinger. Blood gushed out from the cut, as he forced her forefinger to rub against her thumb.

    Lady Ge Beining watched with pure horror as he flicked the scroll open with one hand. Then, he brought her thumb to the scroll and forced her thumbprint on it.

    Not a secondter, she was tossed to the ground again. "What was on that scroll?" she weakly asked.

    The Crown Prince rolled it shut and slipped it back into his pockets. He nonchntly looked down at her.

    His eyes were lifeless and frigid. It was dark and obsolete. Lady Ge Beining cowered back in fear, terrified of his vicious aura. He looked like he was ready to kill someone.

    "To think I would abandon my Wangfei over this simple incident..." The Crown Prince coldly chuckled.

    "You should be grateful my beloved Wangfei is alive."

    The Crown Prince¡¯s lips spread into a cruel smile, just as her face paled in horror. "After today, you will wish you had drowned in your cold-bath treatment."

    "Your Highness!" Lady Ge Beining shrieked as he headed for the door. Her body was burning with unspeakable pain. Each step felt like she had stepped in shards of ss. The agony was too hard to describe.

    "Your Highness, help me, please!" she loudly cried out for him. She writhed on the ground, gasping and screeching in pain. It felt like a thousand knives were plunged into her body, and her inner organs were melting into a puddle of flesh.

    A horrid sound came out of her mouth, like a monster being strangled. She began to violently cough as snot dribbled down her nose, followed by blood.

    "H...help..." she wheezed out, before her voice turned into a gurgle as the pain intensified.

    The Crown Prince did not even spare her a nce. He stepped out of the room. The doors were closed behind him. He took a single step and heard it¡ªa bloodcurdling scream.

    His smile widened. So it has begun.

 Chapter 483 Incense Sticks

    <h4>Chapter 483 Incense Sticks</h4>

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t realize she had fallen asleep until the next morning arrived,pletely unaware of the chaos that happened yesterday. She was dazed and confused, feeling something was strange. Her eyes were heavy and she could barely open her eyelids.

    There was an unfamiliar scent in the room. It was heavy and was luring her back to sleep.

    "Hmmm...?" Li Xueyue touched the empty spot beside her and groggily sat up with shut eyes. She patted the spot again, realizing it was cold as ice. Where exactly was Yu Zhen? Did he not return the entire night?

    Li Xueyue was tired. What exactly was happening? She nearly couldn¡¯t even open her eyes out of sheer exhaustion. Finally, when she did so, she saw something burning beside her nightstand.

    Li Xueyue rubbed at her heavy eyelids. Finally, her vision sharpened and she saw it. There was a small circr pot crafted of metal. Its legs were curled inwards, a design of a forest and cliff was carved into the pot.

    "Incense sticks...?" Li Xueyue noticed there were quite a lot of incense sticks stuck into the ash-filled pot. The majority of it was almostpletely burned down to the end. She took a deep breath and nearly went back to sleep.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart dropped. This incense, it was drugged! In an instant, Li Xueyue reached forward and blew it out. She slipped out of the bed and flung the windows open. The wind quickly gushed into the room, howling like a wolf during a full moon.

    Li Xueyue peered out the window and saw the clouds, grey and gloomy. It was the early morning, she was certain of it. But a fog had shrouded the pce, warning of a terrible storm.

    "What exactly is going on?" Li Xueyue murmured under her breath. She nced back at the pot, knowing it was intentionally ced there so that she would sleep for a while.

    But who would have the audacity to do such a thing? Li Xueyue pressed her lips together and put on her slippers. Then, she rushed out of the bedroom, where her maidservants were nowhere to be found.

    Li Xueyue headed towards the estate¡¯s entrance. She flung the doors open and in an instant, everyone turned to her. The guards and servants were surprised to see her, but nheless, bowed their heads.

    "Who put the incense sticks in my room?" Li Xueyue demanded in a cold, ruthless voice. She glowered at each and every one of them.

    No one dared to raise their heads, but a bold soul stepped forward. "Princess, His Highness, the Crown Prince did so."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s gaze sharpened. He did what? All for what? She pressed her lips together. "Finish dressing me. The Crown Prince has a lot of exining to do."

    - - - - -

    The next time Li Xueyue left her room, she was dressed to sheer perfection. She was initially dressed in white, but refused to put on that color. It was the same color she wore the day Lady Ge Beining tried to taint her sleeves.

    Li Xueyue stepped out in a light green dress, paired with jade and gold. She breezily walked down the hallways, already knowing where he would be.

    "How is Xiao Hua?" Li Xueyue abruptly asked one of her maidservants. "Has she healed?"

    The maidservant was astonished by the question. She drew in a startled breath, wondering if her ears had heard correctly. There were not that many Mistresses who cared about their servants.

    Aristocrats always viewed servants as disposable pawns. If one dropped dead, there would be two who were eager to fulfill their ce.

    "Responding to your question, Princess, Xiao Hua is recovering quite well after receiving the cold bath treatment. However, she could note today because¡ª"

    "That¡¯s alright," Li Xueyue instantly said. She didn¡¯t want to be provided with a reason. "Inform Xiao Hua she is wee to rest for a while longer."

    The maidservant mutely nodded her head. She was bewildered by this kindness that no other Mistress has shown towards them. "A-as you wish, Princess."

    Li Xueyue firmly nodded her head. She decided it would be better to set foot in the servants¡¯ quarterster to pay Xiao Hua a proper visit, and bring her some nutritious food.

    Li Xueyue understood that servants were supposed to remain loyal to their Master until the end of time. Their lives did not matter, for their Master¡¯s life always came first.

    Despite that, Li Xueyue¡¯s heart ached with guilt. It nibbled at her conscience. She didn¡¯t mean to drag Xiao Hua into this mess.

    Xiao Hua was an innocent maidservant, worried for Li Xueyue¡¯s wellbeing, thus, drank the tea. It was not Xiao Hua¡¯s position to test for poison.

    "When did the Crown Prince bring in the incense?" Li Xueyue asked. She didn¡¯t know an incense for sleeping even existed. It seemed like only Hanjian produced it.

    Li Xueyue knew that Li Chenyang would¡¯ve bought her plenty if he knew the incense existed in Wuyi. Besides, with the incense, she had slept from the early afternoon to the early morning. It was a miracle that she didn¡¯t even wake up to eat or use the bathroom.

    "Yesterday, in thete afternoon... Her Grace, the Empress, tried to visit you, but left upon hearing you were asleep. The incense sticks must¡¯ve been burned prior to her visit, Princess," the same maidservant answered from three steps behind.

    Li Xueyue stiffened. The Empress came to a visit? And no one woke her up?

    "The Crown Prince gave direct orders that no one is to disturb your sleep, Princess. However, Her Grace did not argue or cause a scene, and peacefully left with great understanding that you¡¯d needed to rest."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded. She was not surprised by the Empress¡¯s visit. "Did something else happen when I was asleep?"

    The maidservants hesitated. They shared nervous nces with each other, wondering if the Crown Princess was aware that Lady Ge Beining, too, was poisoned with aphrodisiac.

    The Crown Prince had also not returned the entire night, which made it curious as to where he could¡¯ve been, if not in his bedroom. The timeline was simply too suspicious...

    "W-well, Princess, a lot has happened," the maidservant admitted. "When you were asleep yesterday, Lady Ge Beining was discovered by the edge of a pond. She was also poisoned by aphrodisiac, and rumor has it that she was attacked from behind by an unknown intruder."

    Li Xueyue froze. Suddenly, her blood boiled and she ground her teeth. ying the victim, and pushing the me on someone else? It was a great tactic. She had to give it to Lady Ge Beining for thinking this far ahead of herself.

    "A-and uhm..." The maidservant bowed her head. "The Crown Prince did not return for the entire night!" she squeaked out.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s head whipped around. Her eyes widened a bit before she suddenly fixed her expression and curtly nodded. She decided it would be better if the maidservants were not aware of her anger and irritation.

    "I see." Li Xueyue picked up her footsteps.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes and sauntered down the hallways. If he did not return for the night, where the hell would he have gone to?

    Where else would he have slept? In the bed of another woman? Or...stealing the satisfaction of revenge from her? Neither of these options seemed appealing to Li Xueyue.

 Chapter 484 Where Is Your Master?

    <h4>Chapter 484 Where Is Your Master?</h4>

    Li Xueyue continued walking down the hallway until she finally stopped at Yu Zhen¡¯s private study. He was always in his study, he might as well live there!

    Without permission from the Crown Prince, the guards wouldn¡¯t let anyone in. But no one dared to stop her. They already knew she was an exception.

    Li Xueyue set foot into the room. Two guards dutifully followed after her and would only leave when they confirmed the Crown Prince was present. Everyone knew the Crown Prince would risk his life to protect her.

    "He¡¯s not here." Li Xueyue frowned.

    Where could he be?

    Her thoughts wandered to the words of the maidservants. The Crown Prince did not return the entire night. Their words were troubling, yet her heart never dropped. Her eyes did not flinch with uncertainty.

    Li Xueyue trusted him. However, she did not trust the flowers that flock to him. Thus, she turned on her heels and left the study. There was only one location in mind¡ªLady Ge Beining¡¯s estate.

    Li Xueyue set foot into the hallway, closing the doors behind her. As she began to walk down the corridor, she realized Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate was farther than anticipated.

    But then, a group of servants rushed past her, only to freeze upon hearing a sharp clear of the throat. The guards ran ahead and pointed their swords at the group of servants. Had they continued running, they would¡¯ve literally ran to their deaths.

    "What is the cause of this rush?" Li Xueyue calmly asked. She saw the fear in the servants¡¯ gazes when their lives shed before their eyes.

    "C-Crown Princess, we did not see you here! Please pardon our insolence!" The servants hurriedly lowered their bodies into a deep bow.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. "Answer the question."

    One of the servants nervously licked his lips. He kept his eyes and head lowered. It was either that, or he would lose them. "T-there was an urgent situation at Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate."

    "Oh?" Li Xueyue curiously said. She nced around her surroundings and noted that they were not that far from Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate.

    "What happened?" she added on. Her eyes twinkled with amusement, wondering what could¡¯ve caused the guards to be out of their breaths.

    "Y-you see¡ª"

    "T-turn back now!" a servant cried out from behind them. He blindly ran towards the group, clutching one arm. His sleeves were covered in blood. He had been stabbed on the arm.

    "There are s-strange men stationed outside of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate. No one can enter. No one can leave. They were dressed in ck, revealing nothing but their l-lifeless eyes!" he stuttered out, his eyes shaking with each word. He was visibly terrified, withbored breaths that tired him out.

    "C-Crown Princess!" he gasped out, horrified and surprised by her presence. Despite his bleeding arm, he quickly lowered onto his knees and kowtowed to her. He was ranked below the other servants and was already terrified of offending her with this grim sight.

    "Strange men?" Li Xueyue repeated.

    Li Xueyue nced behind her. There were beautiful maidservants and handsome guards. None of them wore ck from head to toe. But she looked beyond them. Finally, the sun was high in the sky, shining down on the crimson pirs. Long, dark shadows formed in the distance. She knew what lurked in the darkness.

    Not a secondter, the sunlight slowly disappeared as another looming cloud of grey swallowed the light.

    "Y-yes, Crown Princess! They bear different types of weapons. We shouldn¡¯t try to cross them."

    Li Xueyue had a hunch who those strange men were. But the servant didn¡¯t need to know that. Thus, she vaguely nodded her head, with a disturbed look on her face.

    "In that case," she slowly said. "I must investigate."

    "W-what?" the servant gasped. His lips parted in horror, his eyes growingrge. He ced a hand on his chest. "Princess, you mustn¡¯t! It is dangerous and your life could be at risk."

    Li Xueyue presented him with a tiny, wry smile. "Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate is located close to the Empress. It would be dangerous if these men were to wander and hurt Her Grace."

    The servant gasped at her words. He bowed once again, this time, out of sheer gratitude. The Crown Princess...what a tender heart she possessed! To ce her life below the Empress, that was to be expected. But to actually act upon it was a different story.

    The Crown Princess¡¯s life had just begun. To risk it all for someone triple her age... The servants began to view her in a different light.

    "Y-you are too gracious, Princess," the servant murmured with his lowered head. "However, we are your humble servants, so there is not much we can do to stop you. Please be safe, Princess, and may the Heavens shine brighter on you."

    Li Xueyue wondered what caused the change in heart. She noticed the servants¡¯ gaze towards her had changed. Initially, they were terrified of her, but now they were in awe. Why was that? She could not understand why.

    Without another word, Li Xueyue brushed past the servants and treaded towards Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate. If she had not known these men, Li Xueyue would¡¯ve gone the other way.

    ¡¯Danger is attracted to me, even when I am careful,¡¯ she thought to herself.

    But judging from the description, she was certain of the guards¡¯ identities. Dressed in ck, from head to toe, carrying weapons of varying styles...they could be no one but the Crown Prince¡¯s Shadow Guards.

    They lurked in the shadows and rarely came out in the day. For them to be publicly seen, it must¡¯ve been for a good reason.

    Dead silence.

    When Li Xueyue stopped in front of the tall, rectangr archway leading to Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate, there was not a single sound except the rustling of leaves in the wind.

    In the distance, she saw them. Men dressed in ck, with nothing but their eyes revealed. Lifeless and bleak, she could feel their deadly presence from afar.

    However, it was nothingpared to Yu Zhen¡¯s. Yu Zhen¡¯s presence was even more intimidating. Looking him in the eye was equivalent to staring into a lion¡¯s gaze. Fear and death were the only oues.

    "Step aside." Li Xueyue held up Yu Zhen¡¯s pendant. Nowadays, she always carried it with her. Most of the time, it was tucked in the pocket near her waist. The pocket was a small slit that was not visible to the eye unless they were standing close.

    The men did not even move. They acted as if they didn¡¯t see her. Chins up, eyes forward, they were on high-alert, ready to kill anyone but her.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. It seems there were some things that this pendant could not do.

    But then things changed. In the blink of an eye, they stepped to the side and parted for her. She was surprised when they bowed their heads, eyes closed, like an obedient pet.

    "Where is your Master?"

    No one answered her. They remained in their position¡ªarms firmly tucked to their sides, and upper body slightly bent.

    Li Xueyue shrugged. Where else could he be but inside of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate? She set one foot forward and then another.

    Abruptly, the men moved back to their position. They formed a barrier, cutting off her guards and servants from entering.

    "A fair warning, Mistress," one of the men said. "Master is not inside."

    Li Xueyue sharply turned her head to them. Then, where was Yu Zhen? Was he ying hide and seek or what? She pressed her lips together and wondered why these men even let her through then.

    "Then where is he?"

    Li Xueyue nced towards Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate. If Yu Zhen wasn¡¯t here, then why were they guarding this ce so heavily? Who were they preventing from entering?

    Unless...they were actually preventing someone from leaving.

    Her body jolted with suspicion. Was Lady Ge Beining inside, being tortured to death? Li Xueyue swallowed. It was something Yu Zhen would do. But she did not want to believe he would personallyy a hand on a woman. However, someone else would do it for him.

    "We do not know, Mistress."

    Li Xueyue turned around. Immediately, they parted like the Red Sea. They stood in a straight line formation, like a human barrier. She walked past them, where the guards stared at her with wide and worried eyes.

    Li Xueyue knew they had been puzzled about what to do. It was difficult to stand properly in the presence of these heartless men, much less go against them. After all, they were simple guardspared to the barricade of men who were clothed in ck.

    The actual demons were lurking in the shadows, studying each and every danger before it ever happened.

    Li Xueyue wondered why they did not show up when she was in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s room. Was it because the Shadow Guards had never studied Lady Ge¡¯s corridors before? It would make more sense, since this was a part of the pce they were never expected to set foot in.

    "In what direction did he walk off to after giving you themand to stand guard here?" Li Xueyue asked whilst facing them.

    They did not raise their heads. Obedient and sharp as always.

    "You will never get an answer out of them."

    Li Xueyue jumped at the voice. She turned around, her face paling at the sight in front of her. She was not prepared to see them this early in the morning. Although Li Xueyue would never show it, uncertainty shrouded her heart.

    After getting through her initial shock, Li Xueyue sped her hands towards the side of her hips and curtsied.

    "Your Grace."

 Chapter 485 Land of Savages

    <h4>Chapter 485 Land of Savages</h4>

    The Empress lifted her hardened gaze towards the Crown Princess. What was such a delicate thing doing out of bed? Lady Ge Beining couldn¡¯t even walk on her own without feeling shaken up and in tears.

    But the Crown Princess stood before her with defiant eyes and an aloof expression. Her guard was up, so were her shoulders and chin. Despite the troubles she went through, her confidence was not hurt. She was still the same Crown Princess¡ªdetermined and strong.

    Lady Ge Beining and the Crown Princess had suffered the same ordeal, yet their behaviors were worlds apart.

    It was refreshing.

    "You shouldn¡¯t be walking about, Princess," the Empress finally said. Her gaze softened when the Crown Princess wryly smiled.

    "Yu Zhen would¡¯ve said the same thing," the Crown Princess stated.

    The Empress noted that the Crown Princess didn¡¯t even hesitate to call the Second Prince by his actual name. Everyone knew it, but no one dared to whisper it.

    The Crown Princess had said it with such boldness that the Empress stifled augh. This girl was certainly a match for him. Despite the dangers that crossed her path, she walked through the fire with a smile.

    "I heard you received a higher dosage of the drug, Princess. It is a miracle you were able to recover from it so well and without any injuries."

    The Crown Princess chuckled a bit. She brushed away the short strands of hair that framed her face and tucked it behind her ears.

    As she was doing so, her long sleeves slipped down her elbow a bit, revealing the horrible yellow and green bruises. Not a secondter, she dropped her hand and interlocked her fingers together.

    "It is because I do not support theatrics, Your Grace," the Crown Princess said.

    The Empress¡¯s stare sharpened. The insult... she would let it slide just this once. It was because she shared the same thoughts. Lady Ge Beining¡¯s behavior was a bit suspicious yesterday. Thetter was rarely this tender-hearted.

    Lady Ge Beining had always been a well-behaved and well-bred girl. But nowadays, she has been rebelling a lot more. First, it was the threats, then the slyness, and now she had gotten herself into such a mess.

    The Empress had watched Lady Ge Beining grow up. It was not difficult to read her.

    "You always know the right things to say and do, don¡¯t you?" the Empress mused. She stepped closer to the Crown Princess.

    The men in ck did not move, but their eyes did. They were watching everything unravel. And when the time calls for it, weapons would be drawn. Except, it would never be pointed towards the Crown Princess, for she was the beloved wife of their stern Master.

    "The pce life forces that out of us," the Crown Princess softly said.

    The Empress pressed her lips together, concealing the twitch of her lips. She nearly broke out into an entertained smile. Poise yet petty,posed yet coy, it was everything that the Empress could ask of her sessor.

    Lady Ge Beining embodied these qualities, but in the end, she crossed the stars and sealed her fate.

    "My daughter is behind those doors," the Empress slowly said with a jut of her chin. "But these men will not step aside. They are your husband¡¯s pets."

    She nced at the Shadow guards. "Won¡¯t youmand them aside?"

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t even blink at the Empress¡¯s words. She had always known Lady Ge Beining held a special spot in the Empress¡¯s heart.

    Once, when Xiao Hua was brushing her hair, the former had told the story of how well-loved Lady Ge Beining was by the Empress and all of the maidservants. She was gentle and kind to everyone in her life, but chose the wrong people to offend.

    "As you said, Your Grace," Li Xueyue mused. "These are my husband¡¯s men. Not mine."

    A stifling silence passed through them. Without warning, gentleughter rang through the crowded corridor. The Empress wore arge smile on her face, her eyes crinkling with amusement.

    "You are one of the lucky people who have disobeyed me and will walk scot-free from it, Princess," the Empress mused. She stepped forward and ced a warm hand upon the Crown Princess¡¯s shoulder.

    "How many people know?" Li Xueyue suddenly said. She looked the Empress in the eye, seeking for the truth. Certainly, the Empress would have an answer.

    "In terms of servants, not many. Your guards would keep their mouths shut, however, the maidservants that serve Lady Ge is a different story, Princess."

    Li Xueyue turned her head away from the Empress. She nced back at the close-knit line of shadow guards. She had seen the Empress¡¯s love and adoration, but it was directed over Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders, and towards Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate.

    Li Xueyue did not me the Empress. The love of a mother was powerful. Duchess Wang Qixing would¡¯ve done the same and protected Li Xueyue until the very end, even if it was not good for her. She nced down at her hands that shook at the memories of the Li Family.

    She had set foot into the real world now, away from their sheltering hands. Reality was cruel, but she was crazy.

    "You have to be aware, Crown Princess, that although rumors of your chastity being preserved have spread far and wide, there were conflicting rumors as well. You can imagine many people are torn at a crossroad."

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. "And what do they say of our second victim, Lady Ge?"

    The Empress¡¯s grip on Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulder tightened. "They had the same doubts."

    Li Xueyue could sense the Empress¡¯s rage and anger. It was not directed at her, but it might as well have been.

    Li Xueyue had tested the Empress¡¯s loyalty. It had not changed, despite all of the great achievements Li Xueyue had done. It was not easy for a mother to pick the side of anyone that was not her child. Now, the better question was, would she choose the side of her birth son or a fostered daughter?

    "Would you like to know what happened to Lady Ge, Princess?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her chin back to the Empress. This time, both women had each other¡¯s full, undivided attention.

    "Of course, Your Grace. After all, she is your beloved daughter," Li Xueyue softly said. "However, only, if you would like to know the treachery of Lady Ge¡¯s actions."

    The Empress¡¯s smile slipped, first from her eyes, then from her lips.

    Li Xueyue had hit a nerve. She was aware of it. The wavering confidence in the Empress¡¯s eyes. The uncertainty of betraying her daughter. The fear of losing what she held dear. It was alling to light, unlike her crimes.

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t even blink. She held the Empress¡¯s fierce gaze. The times had changed. She would no longer back down and bow her head in obedience.

    "You are a wise woman who has survived the horrors of the pce," Li Xueyue softly whispered.

    She sped her palm over the Empress¡¯s hand. "When a young and foreign flower was nted in poisoned soil, instead of dying, it blossomed into the most beautiful flower of all."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile slipped. "Her roots spread, and she gave birth to lovely seedlings, many of whom have drifted away with the wind, but the ones that stayed have forgotten their origins."

    The Empress sucked in a breath. "You¡ª"

    "Sacrifices must be made to get what we want."

    Li Xueyue slid the Empress¡¯s hand off of her shoulder. She wrapped her fingers around it. The ball was now in the Empress¡¯s court. It was her turn to make the decision.

    To lose a daughter, or to lose a son and a daughter-inw.

    The decision was so clear. The scale was imbnced. It was not fair. But nothing in life was fair.

    The young Princess from a foreignnd of savages knew that the best. The wounds in her heart, the bitter tears at midnight, and the intoxication of liquor was the evidence of her battle.

    "I still remember the day Iid eyes on that baby," the Empress softly said. She looked at the Crown Princess in the eyes. "You would not know the feeling yet, but the first time you look into the eyes of a baby, it is an overwhelming emotion that warms your body from head to toe."

    The Empress squeezed the Crown Princess¡¯s hand. "Especially when you are determined to not let that baby girl walk the same, painful steps as you."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s face fell. It was the first time she had lost like this. It was the first time she touched the Empress¡¯s hands, and the first time the Empress pushed her hand away.

    "You¡¯ve yet to be a mother, Princess. You would not understand the love mothers have for their children... especially daughters who would experience the same hardship in life."

 Chapter 486 Big Sister

    <h4>Chapter 486 Big Sister</h4>

    Li Xueyue let out a shaky breath of disbelief. Even so, she did not dare to question the decision of the Empress. For, she too, was a fostered daughter who had the guidance from a loving family. Her fingers curled inwards, digging into her palm. This defeat was not what she had expected.

    She dug her fingers into her palms until crescent moons formed on it. She clenched her teeth.

    At the worst of times, the sun decided to escape the gloomy clouds. Ever so slowly, rays of sunlight shone upon the Empress¡¯s shoulder des. Taller than the Princess, she cast a shadow over her.

    "Empress..." Li Xueyue trailed off, an edge to her voice. It wasn¡¯t threatening, nor was it filled with warning. Dread filled her, for she knew the Empress had made the wrong decision.

    But in the eyes of the Empress who had gone through so much trouble in her youth, and sought thefort of a single woman, this was the right decision. In her eyes, there was no other choice aside from this one.

    She loved Lady Ge Beining despite all of her ws. Just like how she loved Yu Zhen, despite all of his insanity. She loved all of her children, some more than the rest, but in the end, it was still love.

    "It is best for you to return to your estate. Your body is strong, and you are a woman of many talents, but the heavens will still find a way to trick you, Princess."

    Li Xueyue breathed out through her nose. Her sigh was a mixture of pain and of uncertainty. She could not read the Empress¡¯s face. She could not guess what was on the bewildering woman¡¯s mind.

    The Empress¡¯s gazended on Li Xueyue for a brief second. It softened, almost as if pained by her choices. Then, she turned her back to Li Xueyue and sauntered off.

    Li Xueyue watched as the Empress slipped out of the sunlight, and into the darkness of the hallways. Soon, she felt the warmth of an undeniable glow. She was shrouded with the gentle rays of sunlight, and she was reminded of the nickname that Yu Zhen loved to call her, but she did not think it suited her.

    In her eyes, Yu Zhen was the sun. And she was the lonely moon.

    "When did I start to think like this?" she murmured under her breath.

    Li Xueyue remembered just a few months ago, she was just a tiny, blue flower on the ground, dreaming of the day she would flutter to the sky. Now, she was in a position higher than any woman could possibly dream for.

    Now, she was the moon looking down on the flowers that eagerly waited their turn. So much so, they released poisonous fumes, hoping to conceal the pale, glistening moonlight that guided wanderers.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue left Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate with an aching heart. Her chest burned with uncertainty of the future. Now that the Empress had made her alliance clear as day, she was forced to think of a new n. But where would she even begin?

    She decided to think of thatter.

    Li Xueyue walked down an unfamiliar hallway. Trailing after her were maidservants carrying trays of things ranging from medicine to food.

    Li Xueyue did not need to ask where Xiao Hua¡¯s room was. Since Xiao Hua was the Crown Princess¡¯s Head Maidservant, her room would certainly be one of therger rooms with the best view. Soon enough, a door unlike the rest came to view.

    This was the servants¡¯ quarters, where all of the pce servants resided, regardless of whom they served. Well, unless their Master or Mistress was inside of the Cold Pce, a ce where even ghosts would not set foot in. Then, the servants would share the same cruelty.

    The Cold Pce was dark and dreary there and meant to resemble the bleak underworld. Light rarely entered that part of the pce, shrouding it in eternal coldness, regardless of the weather.

    "Big sister, big sister!"

    Li Xueyue jolted at the familiar voice. Without warning, she pushed the doors open and stepped inside, just as one of the servants loudly announced her presence. But she ignored her eunuch and hurriedly walked in.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s room was decent-sized. It was airy, especially from the open windows. She had afortable bed, and ample furniture that met the standards of a Head Maidservant. This bedroom was the dream of every maidservant, who¡¯d stop to gape in awe, and wish the same thing for themselves.

    "Look at what Ah-Hao made you, look look!" Bai Yihao giddily bounced towards the edge of his Xiao Hua, big sister¡¯s bed.

    He excitedly presented her a piece of parchment with crumbled edges due to his strong grip. He bore a wide smile on his chubby little face, his eyes brightened with an eagerness to make her happy.

    Li Xueyue did not know what to say. Her eyes were glued on Bai Yihao. He was nothing like the little boy from months ago. There was finally meat to his bones, and a lovely glow to his cheeks.

    Despite the bundle of joy beside her, Xiao Hua¡¯s attention was glued to the door. She was seated on the bed, but hurriedly scrambled to climb out of it.

    "Princess!" Xiao Hua urgently greeted. She attempted to lower herself into a bow, but Li Xueyue hurriedly came forward.

    "No!" Li Xueyue shouted. "Stay in bed."

    Xiao Hua was already on her feet. Unable to ignore the orders of the Crown Princess, she hesitantly lowered herself back onto the bed. She remained in a demure, seated position. Nervously, she nced at Ah-Hao beside her.

    For some reason, Ah-Hao resembled...

    "Princess," a mature voice spoke up.

    Yanxi stood in front of Bai Yihao, blocking the maidservants¡¯ view of him. They had already seen glimpses of him, for he always freely ran about in the pce corridors, with other boys of his age. The maidservants loved Little Yihao and would always sneak him snacks and pastries, after finding out that he was the distant nephew of Yanxi. Or so, everyone was told.

    Everyone was familiar with the face of Yihao. When he was standing alone, he was just like any other little boy.

    The Crown Princess¡¯s maidservants had seen him before, when she guided him to the Crown Prince¡¯s study. When that had happened, he was a skinny little boy with no joy or happiness in his sunken cheeks.

    But now that he was well-fed and taken care of, the resemnce between him and the Crown Princess was difficult to ignore. Yanxi was certain of that, thus, had hid Little Yihao behind her body. That way, the maidservants would not look from Yihao to the Crown Princess and put the pieces together.

    "Princess, it is not in your best interests to visit the servants¡¯ quarters," Yanxi gently scolded. She bowed her head in greeting, even when Li Xueyue was evidently shaking her head.

    "ce the trays onto the table," Li Xueyue instructed her maidservants. Once they did so, she smiled and nodded her head. When all was done, the maidservants slipped outside the door and closed it shut.

    Once it was only the four of them in the room, Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders dropped in relief.

    "Some traditions are meant to be broken," Li Xueyue responded to Yanxi. She turned to Xiao Hua with a worried look on her face.

    "Xiao Hua, how are you feeling?" she asked.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s jaw dropped open a bit, but she quickly closed it. With a bow of her head, and a warmed heart, she demurely smiled to the floor. She was touched by the Princess¡¯s actions, but was too shy to show it.

    "Much better now upon seeing your safe recovery, Princess," she whispered.

    Xiao Hua heard approaching footsteps. Then, a gentle finger lifted her chin and examined her face from side to side. Next, the Crown Princess grabbed a hold of her hand and pulled up the sleeves.

    "P-Princess, I¡ª"

    "Just as I thought," Li Xueyue murmured. She saw the tender flesh of Xiao Hua¡¯s bruises. "The same as mine."

    "W-what?!" Xiao Hua shrieked, terrified that the Princess¡¯s beautiful skin would be marred. "Oh dear, Princess!"

    "W-we have to inform the Imperial Physician. Your hands are much more precious¡ª"

    "Xiao Hua," Li Xueyue sternly said. "I am fine."

    "But Princess¡ª"

    "And what about you, Xiao Hua?" Li Xueyue gently asked. She released Xiao Hua¡¯s wrist and took a step back.

    "How are you feeling?"

    "Much better after resting, Princess... But I missbing your lovely hair in the morning, and making you the brightest flower in the pce."

    Li Xueyueughed at this. Even after going through an ordeal, Xiao Hua was still positive and herpliments were plenty and kind.

    "Are you certain, Xiao Hua?" Li Xueyue pressed on.

    Xiao Hua rapidly nodded her head. She squared her tiny shoulders and widened her innocent smile.

    "Yes, Princess, I am as fine. It is because of your guards that I was able to escape with my chastity intact."

    Li Xueyue let out a small sigh of relief. Yu Zhen had said that Xiao Hua was fine. But she was still worried. Now that Xiao Hua herself had said it, Li Xueyue¡¯s heavy heart became a bit lighter.

    "That is great to hear," Li Xueyue said. She turned to the table, and gestured to the trays. "Even so, I havee with medicine and nutritious food to strengthen your body."

    Xiao Hua gaped at the wooden trays, polished and shiny, with an abundance of gifts. Touched at the action, tears filled her eyes as she ced a hesitant hand upon her chest.

    "P-Princess..."

    "It¡¯s alright, you do not have to tell me," Li Xueyue softly said. She pulled Xiao Hua out of the bed and toward the table.

    Li Xueyue knew the incident must¡¯ve been hard on an innocent, young woman like Xiao Hua who had never experienced such a terrifying event before.

    Li Xueyue hoped to alleviate the pain with these gifts, wishing that it would cheer up Xiao Hua. But it seems Xiao Hua had recovered quite well, with her usual smiles and lowered eyes.

    It was more than Li Xueyue could ask for, as a small sigh of relief escaped her. But her relief was short-lived, for Bai Yihao stared directly up at her.

    Suddenly, he blurted out, "Why do you look like me?"

 Chapter 487 Living Well

    <h4>Chapter 487 Living Well</h4>

    Li Xueyue¡¯s mind went nk at Yihao¡¯s question. Her smile slowly slipped and she blinked. "Well..."

    "This is the Crown Princess, Ah-Hao, you shouldn¡¯t talk to her like that," Xiao Hua quickly scolded. She pulled Yihao forward and ced a hand behind his head, forcing him to bow.

    "I deeply apologize, Princess, his name is Xiao Yihao, and he¡¯s Yanxi¡¯s nephew," Xiao Hua quickly exined.

    Yihao lifted his chin despite the force pressing his head down. "I¡¯ve seen you before. You¡¯ve even brought me to see Yuyu..."

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth. She desperately wanted to talk to him, but mped her lips shut. Yu Zhen had warned her to stay away. It would be for the best.

    "It seems you¡¯re healthy now, Xiao Hua," Li Xueyue said whilst turning away from Yihao. She saw his bottom lip jut out in response as he pouted towards the ground. Her fingers twitched to do something, but it was not her responsibility to do so.

    "Yes, Princess! Strangely enough, I don¡¯t really remember what happened aside from entering Lady Ge¡¯s room..." Xiao Hua mumbled whilst scratching underneath her ears.

    "You see, Princess, I was a bit conscious when my head was repeatedly dunked underwater, but after my delirium, my mind has been foggy."

    Li Xueyue sucked in a breath. She had experienced the same thing, but believed it was just a coping mechanism. Nheless, she forced a smile and nodded her head.

    "Surely, it is for the best if you do not remember it at all," Li Xueyue told her.

    Xiao Hua obediently nodded her head, with a determined look on her face. "You¡¯re right, Princess. I will try to focus on something else..."

    "Yes, your recovery is the most important part," Li Xueyue said. She felt guilty for keeping Xiao Hua in the dark, but it would be better for the young maidservant not to have a single recollection of the traumatizing event. People dealt with trauma differently.

    Li Xueyue was certainly never going to hold this against Xiao Hua.

    Yanxi could sense that continuing this conversation would not be good for either of the women. She stepped forward and offered both of them a tight-lipped smile.

    "The sun is setting, Princess. It would be best for you to return before dusk falls, and the weather turns chilly," she said.

    Yanxi was d to see the Princess was well. She thought both women would break down in tears at the sight of each other, but they remainedposed. She didn¡¯t have to wonder why their reactions were like this. It would be for the best if neither of them tried to think about what had happened.

    It was a terrifying situation, moreover, so many servants had suddenly disappeared. Yanxi suspected the Crown Prince was behind this. He was sadistic and sinister, but he had a good-heart...only towards certain people.

    "Well, I won¡¯t keep you from your meal any longer, Xiao Hua," Li Xueyue said. She gestured to the dishes on the table that were still covered by bamboo covers that trapped in the heat.

    "Please enjoy," she added.

    "Thank you, Princess," Xiao Hua shyly said. She bowed and forced Ah-Hao to do the same.

    Yanxi guided the Crown Princess to the door. But the Crown Princess turned back with a slight smile.

    "I am happy to see you¡¯re living well, Yanxi," Li Xueyue genuinely said.

    Yanxi softly nodded at this. "Yes, I enjoy raising children, Princess. It fills me with joy to hear theirughter."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile widened. She was relieved that Yanxi found what made her happy. It was all that she wanted for one of her first, loyal servants.

    She stepped close and whispered to Yanxi. "Please continue to take care of Yihao as if he was one of your own, Yanxi..."

    Yanxi tucked her hands in front of her and bowed. "Always, Princess. Always."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart was at ease by her words. She stole onest nce at Yihao. He was scrunching the ends of his shirt and peering at her, withrge, doe eyes of pure innocence and curiosity. s, he was much more different than the little boy she had stumbled upon months ago.

    Li Xueyue smiled in his direction and gave a little wave. He waved back with a tiny smile on his face, giddy with excitement. Then, she turned her back to him and exited the door.

    - - - - -

    When Li Xueyue returned to the estate, she was surprised to see there were already people gathered at the entrance. Only one person was allowed into their estate.

    Without warning, Li Xueyue broke into a sprint, fueled with rage and irritation. She pushed the doors open and stormed inside, only to smell a freshly cooked meal.

    "You!" she fumed whilst pointing an using finger at him.

    "Me?" he responded with an amused smile.

    Yu Zhen handed the bamboo covers to his servants. They quickly took it from him with two hands and then rushed out of the room without needing to be told.

    "Who else would it be?" Li Xueyue angrily bit out whilst stomping towards him.

    "The ghost behind me?" Yu Zhen retorted whileughing at her frustration.

    Her maidservants quickly left the room as well, not wanting to disturb them. After all, the faster they flee, the longer they get to live.

    "Come closer, Wangfei," Yu Zhen patiently said. He sped his hand over her forefinger that was pointed at him, then pulled her towards him. He slid an arm around her waist and gestured to the food.

    "It is time for your afternoon meal," he informed her.

    Li Xueyue gaped up at him as if he had lost his sanity. He might as well have. She was brewing with rage, and he was weing her for a meal. Didn¡¯t he realize that right now was not the best time to eat?

    "You¡¯ve infuriated me so much that I don¡¯t have the appetite to eat," she gritted out.

    "I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t," Yu Zhen sarcastically said. He picked up a pair of chopsticks, then picked up a piece of winter melon braised in soy sauce, sugar, and star anise.

    "Where have you been¡ªmmf!" He shoved the winter melon into her mouth.

    "Good, right?" Yu Zhen teased. She red up at him, cursing at him with her eyes. Yet, she moved her mouth and chewed the food, her lips twitching at the delicious taste of it.

    "You didn¡¯t let me finish my question¡ª" He shoved more food into her mouth.

    Instantly, her face scrunched up in disgust. She stared at him as if she had been wronged by him.

    "That was bitter melon cooked with eggs and scallions, it is healthy." Yu Zhen patted the back of her head when she reluctantly chewed and swallowed the food.

    "Now drink," Yu Zhen said. He lifted a spoonful of soup to her mouth and she tried to move her head away.

    "No, it¡¯s bitter melon with abalone."

    "Just a little bit, Sunshine," Yu Zhen reassured her. She opened her mouth, ready to argue, but he forced the spoon into her mouth.

    Li Xueyue kicked him.

    Yu Zhenughed at her.

    "Such a violent little thing you are." Yu Zhen settled the jade spoon back onto the table. His hands slid to both of her shoulder des as he guided her towards one of the chairs.

    "Sit and eat, Sunshine. I hear you skipped your morning meal."

    "I¡¯m not done talking to you."

    "You can interrogate me over a cup of tea and a bowl of rice."

    "You will just distract me with food!"

    "I can¡¯t promise that I won¡¯t," he teased.

    "Then I don¡¯t want to eat."

    "Then I won¡¯t answer your questions."

    Li Xueyue red down at him. But he ignored her and took his seat directly beside her. It was an odd gesture, since the Crown Prince should be seated at the head of the table. But he always allowed her to sit at the head of the table.

    "Don¡¯t be so petty," Yu Zhen teased her. He grabbed her fingers and pulled it to his lips, gently kissing her knuckles.

    "I will only give you what you want when you please me."

    Li Xueyue gaped at his words. She yanked her hand back. He taunted her with a mockingughter.

    "What are you thinking, Sunshine? Nothing too promiscuous I hope?"

    "You¡¯re insensitive," Li Xueyue chided him. Much to her dismay, her stomach growled, which forced her to take a seat at the table.

    "Someone has to lighten up the mood, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She didn¡¯t mean to scold him, but it came out naturally. Holding back a sigh, she turned to him with doubt.

    "Do you promise to answer my questions?"

    "We don¡¯t make promises to each other, remember?" Yu Zhen said.

    Li Xueyue huffed at his words. "You know what I meant."

    Yu Zhen chuckled at her frustration. "Of course I do, but it¡¯s fun to see you riled up like this."

    Li Xueyue scoffed with a roll of her eyes. Only he would find something like this interesting.

 Chapter 488 Beloved Wangfei

    <h4>Chapter 488 Beloved Wangfei</h4>

    Li Xueyue picked up her chopsticks. She picked up a chunk of steamed fish cooked in piping hot oil, soy sauce, and sliced scallions then ced it onto the small te beside his bowl of rice.

    "You need to eat as well," Yu Zhen patiently told her whilst bringing the fish into his mouth.

    "Where were youst night?"

    Yu Zhen nearly choked.

    Li Xueyue calmly smiled. She picked up another piece of fish and ced it on the te.

    "Eat."

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t think she would start off with the highlight question. But it seemed his Wangfei came prepared for battle. She wore her smile like a threat.

    "If I told you, you would not be pleased," Yu Zhen said. He ate the thick chunk of fish that she gave him. It was one of the boneless parts that many enjoyed eating. He watched with amazement as she expertly deboned the fish for him.

    Yu Zhen suddenly remembered the meals he had in the Li Manor. The Li Family would do this for each other. It was endearing.

    "Then, tell me so I will not be pleased."

    "I don¡¯t want to ruin your meal with unpleasant talk," Yu Zhen retorted.

    "You¡¯re already ruining my meal by not saying anything," Li Xueyue sniped.

    "I am saying things to you."

    "You¡¯re saying useless things."

    Yu Zhen lifted his gaze towards her. She sat there, unbothered and aloof. Her nimble shoulders slightly moved as she deboned the fish for him. If she was angry, she concealed it well.

    Li Xueyue had changed.

    It happened day by day, subtle and graceful, that he did not realize it until now. She was a lot more mature, but just as witty.

    Yu Zhen smiled. "I merely want to enjoy a meal with my beloved Wangfei. Is that such a sin?"

    Li Xueyue red. "Only if it¡¯s to prolong this conversation, so that you have an excuse."

    "You know I would never trick you with excuses," Yu Zhen said. He pushed the dishes closer to her and gestured for her to eat.

    "But if you don¡¯t listen, and fulfill your end of the bargain, then I am forced to be cruel," Yu Zhen teased. He was briefly irked when he noticed her untouched bowl of rice. The steam had died now, leaving only the center bit warm.

    "You¡¯ve always been cruel," Li Xueyue grumbled. Nheless, she began to eat the meal, bit by bit, testing out each dish. She found it amazing that everyday, there seems to be a new dish.

    Today was the winter melon, which she had not eaten before. She never knew the vegetable could be so soft, yet firm in the mouth. It burst with vor from the way it was cooked.

    "Only in bed," he teased.

    "And outside of it as well."

    "Only because your reactions are so adorable."

    Yu Zhen pushed the winter melon dish closer to her since she seemed to be taking more bites of that dishpared to the others. He didn¡¯t know she enjoyed the winter melon to this extent. To him, he found the vor to be too light, for he preferred something hot and spicy to warm his frigid heart.

    "You¡¯re avoiding my question again," Li Xueyue deadpanned. She moved on to another dish that was anything but the bitter melon and eggs. Her mouth puckered up at the thought of consuming the disgusting vegetable.

    Why would someone voluntarily eat something bitter?

    "If I tell you, then you will create your own scenarios," he said.

    "Maybe if you stopped avoiding the question, I will not."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow at this. He noticed the untouched dish of bitter melon and eggs. He had requested it just for her to eat, but she neglected it the most.

    "I was in Lady Ge¡¯s estate."

    "Really now? And what did you do there?"

    "Murdering her guards and poisoning her."

    "I see."

    Li Xueyue continued chewing. What an interesting discussion to have over a meal.

    "You¡¯re not surprised?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head.

    Surprised? Certainly not. She knew he would do something unsettling. It would exin the shadow guards ced near her estate.

    "I hope she¡¯s not dead..." Li Xueyue wistfully said.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s face darkened at her words. The temperature lowered, like his deep scowl.

    "This better not be another spur of the momentpassion."

    "No, it¡¯s not," Li Xueyue mused. She nudged him to eat a bit more, since he stopped touching his food after he pushed the bitter melon dish towards her direction.

    "If she died so easily, then I won¡¯t be able to take revenge for Xiao Hua and me."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s mood shifted back to normal at her words. "I only fed her a poison that would make her wish she was dead."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "Which poison is it?"

    "It¡¯s called ¡¯A Thousand Needles¡¯. At first, your body will feel warm, only for the heat to intensify as if you¡¯re burned alive at a stake. Then, the pain will momentarily go away, providing a bit of relief, before your bones will feel like it¡¯s being grinded into dust, as needles prick your skin."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s jaw dropped open. She had never heard about this type of poison before.

    "The pain will continue for a maximum of three days, but it will feel like three eternities."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. She was surprised that she hadn¡¯t heard any screaming from within Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate. Maybe Lady Ge Beining was locked deep inside of her room, where no one would be able to hear her horrific wails and pleas for mercy.

    Li Xueyue couldn¡¯t even fathom the type of pain Lady Ge Beining was currently feeling. But she could picture it, the image of her curled up on the floor, shrieking like a pig during ughter.

    - - - - -

    "Save me...! Save me!" a banshee [1] screamed in the dead of the night. She wed at the floor, her delicate nails chipping as wooden splinters dug into her fingers. s, even this pain could not distract herself from the pain she felt internally.

    Lady Ge Beining was a mess. She was writhing on the floor, moaning and yelling in sheer agony whilst naked and afraid. Even eighteen levels of torture in Diyu [2] would be a lot better than this pain.

    "Someone, a-anyone!" Lady Ge Beining begged as a sob rattled her shaking body. Drool dribbled down the side of her parched lips as her throat stung with pain. She had been screaming and wailing for heaven knows how long, without a gulp of water or food.

    Lady Ge Beining felt like her limbs were being torn apart. It was as if her wrists and ankles were tied to four horses that ran in different directions as it yanked her arms and legs off of her body.

    But then suddenly, it stopped. Everything stopped.

    "F-finally..." Lady Ge Beining gasped out, as she stopped writhing and struggling on the wed up floor. Relief coursed through her as she closed her eyes in sweet salvation.

    Without warning, the pain began again. This time, it was tenfolds the torture.

    "NOOOOOOO!" she wailed whilst furiously rubbing her arms. It started off with tiny pricks all over her body before the thorns became needles. The slightest movement pained her.

    The worst part of it all was not the pain, but the fact that she was disfiguring her beautiful face and body. Her hair was torn out in some parts after she had gripped it so tightly. Her nails were raw from scratching the floor.

    "Help me, help me!" she screeched.

    "PLEASE!" Lady Ge Beining begged, but the sound came out like an animal being strangled.

    Lady Ge Beining had screamed until her throat could not handle it anymore. She¡¯d try to speak, but she¡¯d break into a coughing fit until she tasted blood. She would try to move her body, only to wail in despair from the pain.

    And as she went through the effects of the poison, a pale trail of moonlight washed over her. The moon was high in the night sky, watching over her, its body shaped like a crescent smile.

 Chapter 489 Promised to Stay

    <h4>Chapter 489 Promised to Stay</h4>

    In the dead of the night, a lone silhouette sat by the window sill. Dusk had fallen, and the world was a mncholy shade of blue. Her thin, nimble fingers held a cup of rice wine, bitter like her heart, sweet like her lies.

    The Empress was unwilling to acknowledge the truth.

    "A life without regret was all I¡¯ve ever wanted," she softly whispered to the ghosts. They sat by the corner of her room, watching her with keen, tired eyes.

    The moonlight basked her body, but she bent her head and hid her face from it. It brought her too much guilt.

    "Why did you have to leave?" she muttered to the spirit beside her.

    They used to sit like this, in the still of the night, drinking liquor together whilst reminiscing of a life outside the pce. But now, her body was covered in ashes and dirt.

    Memories came and went, like a tidal wave reeling in and out as she drowned herself with rice wine. A lone tear slipped down her face as she suppressed a sob. It was chilly outside, as her shoulders shivered.

    The flower had withered, and she refused to bloom again. It had been too long, and her roots were poisoned with hatred.

    "You promised to stay." Her voice cracked towards the end.

    The Empress decided to quench her thirst with another cup of rice wine. This time, she lifted the cup to the window, and towards the gardens, where night orchids bloomed for her. Their fragrance was bittersweet.

    "You promised we would be friends forever..."

    The Empress squeezed her eyes shut and downed the cup. She poured another cup and lifted it to the sky whilst her other hand tightly gripped the chair.

    "Here¡¯s to three decades of friendship, wise one."

    One final teardrop, one final goodbye.

    The Empress did not drink. She shakily brought it to her lips, only to smash the jade cup onto the ground. It shattered into pieces, like her scattered heart. Even now, she could still feel it. The ghost of a hand resting on her upper back, asforting words were whispered into her ear.

    "Nothing you do or say will turn back the clock," the Empress whispered to no one. She lifted her head and peered up at the moon. It had been a while since she was this upset.

    The Empress had found the loophole in Lady Ge¡¯s story. It did not make sense that Lady Ge was poisoned in thete afternoon only to be discovered early in the morning. If she was by the pond for that long, one of the patrolling guards would¡¯ve seen her at night. She was found near her estate as well. Who¡¯s to say the maidservants wouldn¡¯t have searched there first?

    "You gave birth to something so precious." The Empress shakily bent down to pick up the broken jade. She flinched when it sliced her finger, as crimson red drops fell onto the forest green.

    "Yet, I tainted it with sins and lies."

    The Empress could never forget the look of horror on Lady Ge Beining¡¯s face the night she was tasked to poison the Imperial Consort. It was the first time her hands were stained with unwashable blood.

    "You wanted her to grow up living a sheltered life outside of the pce, and away from the schemes... Yet you birthed her in the very ce you despised."

    The Empress felt something brush her cheeks. It was cold as ice and light as a feather, a fingertip she had dearly missed. If she squinted at the right time, she could see her.

    Lady Lin Bingbing. Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mother was as beautiful as the day she died, with a sweat-drenched face, and flushed cheeks. The color slowly left her face shortly after she caressed her daughter¡¯s head.

    "She wanted a life you could never live. I had raised her in that lifestyle you dreamed so dearly. I gave her the education of a Princess, taught her the elegance of ady, and shaped her etiquette."

    The Empress leaned closer to the window, with one knee bent on the chair. How long had it been since shest wept like this?

    "But she goes along and creates havoc, just as we used to do in the Imperial Pce."

    "Forgive her, please. She is but a child," a familiar voice whispered from beside her ears.

    The Empress¡¯s eyes blurred with even more tears. Even in her death, Lady Lin found a way to influence the Empress¡¯s life. Even in her grave, she held a presence in this bedroom.

    "Forgive her, as I have forgiven you for taking my beloved."

    The Empress¡¯s head dropped low. She could never forget the day that Lady Lin stepped through the pce¡¯s corridors and captured the hearts of everyone she crossed.

    And it just so happened, she had captured the heart of the Emperor. At that time, he was the First Prince of Hanjian, weak yet handsome, and she was the second daughter of a warlord, beautiful yet coy.

    They were a match made in heaven. But Lady Lin¡¯s red string of fate was never tied around the Emperor¡¯s. She was just the daughter of a barbarian who lived inrge, colorful tents.

    "You were jealous of me," Lady Lin said. "The freedom to marry as I please...tease as I please...unt as I wish. So, you decided to take what was dear to me."

    The Empress ground her teeth. She could still remember the days she ran after the free-spirited Lady Lin, who was as elegant as a swan and sharp as a snake. Back then, the Emperor favored Lady Lin for her beauty and wits. But the Empress was his destined partner. Yet, he yed with Lady Lin, up until the day he was forced to marry the Empress.

    It was when everything stopped. The affair, the sneaking, the lies.

    "You took my beloved, and now my daughter," Lady Lin leaned her head upon the Empress¡¯s shaking shoulders. She closed her eyes and softly smiled. "The least you can do is take care of what you¡¯ve stolen."

    The Empress covered her face and continued weeping. Today was not the death anniversary of Lady Lin Bingbing, yet her presence still lingered in this bedroom. The bedroom wasrge andvish, spacious enough to hold a gathering. Out of every ce Lady Lin¡¯s spirit could havetched onto, it was this very bedroom.

    "You¡¯ve dirtied her hands, and ruined her future with that man. You let it get stolen by a foreign Princess, much like how you¡¯ve stolen the Emperor from me."

    The Empress could not bear to hear it any longer. Her heart was already broken into pieces, but this time, it would crumble to dust. It was just her guilty conscience talking, that was all. It was just the rice wine muddling her thoughts.

    And when she stood up, Lady Lin Bingbing was gone. She came and left as she pleased. It was what she always loved to do in the pce. Lady Lin would strut down the hallways as if she owned it, as if thisnd belonged to her. And everyone loved her too much to correct her.

    Everyone loved the highly-opinionated Lady Lin, whose tongue knew no bounds. She said things that could¡¯ve gotten her killed, but people admired her beauty far too much. She was hard-headed and strong, but she was too prideful.

    "It¡¯s not that easy to get rid of me..." Lady Lin whispered from behind the Empress. She slipped her hands over the Empress¡¯s shoulders and chuckled.

    "I will never, ever forgive you if you let my flesh and blood ruin herself like this..."

    Lady Lin¡¯s smile widened. She rested her cheek upon the Empress¡¯s dependable back. Her eyes were softly closed, in a peaceful slumber for the rest of eternity.

    "You are wise, you are loved, you are more than just Her Grace... You are her mother."

    The Empress shook off the ghostly touch. She brushed past the shards of jade on the floor and stumbled towards her bed. Her fingers merely grazed the nkets before her legs gave out.

    She sank to her knees and wept. She wept for the woman who should¡¯ve been crowned the Empress, wept for the mortality of her best friend, and wept for the irreversible guilt.

    The Empress closed her eyes. "The Emperor was never yours to take in the first ce, but this daughter of yours...was never mine to steal."

 Chapter 490 Suffer

    <h4>Chapter 490 Suffer</h4>

    In a luxurious manor decorated with gold and jewels, tables were being flipped and porcin vases crashed to the ground. Parchments were thrown onto the ground, as ink spilled like blood.

    "M-Master, please!" The servant dressed in brown begged on his two knees, with his palms touching the ground. He was folded over, with his forehead touching the hard floor.

    "What do you mean they are dead?!" Marquis Qin roared. His furious voice traveled down the hallways, waking up everyone.

    "T-the ship miraculously showed up at the harbor, b-but everyone on board had been drugged." The servant shivered at the horrific memory. The Qin guards were notified that a ship with the Marquis¡¯s sigil carved to the side of the boat was sighted near the harbor.

    A few servants were sent out to fetch the cargo, but when they got there, they were greeted with a sight that turned their faces pale. There were men lying on the deck with blood staining their teeth and lips, dripping down their chins. It seemed the crew had consumed a slow-acting poison.

    "USELESS DOGS!" Marquis Qin screamed. He smashed his hand into the nearest thing he could find. The serpent stamp flew to the ground, its head shattering on impact.

    "A-and..." The servant gulped. He squeezed his eyes shut, knowing this would be hisst words.

    "They were thest crew under your employment, Master. T-the ship was empty, there wasn¡¯t any cargo in it."

    Marquis Qin saw red. He rushed forward and grabbed the servant by his cors, his eyes shaking with fury. He breathed out like a fire-breathing dragon. There was a wild look on his face as if he was going to snap someone¡¯s neck.

    "What. Did. You. Just. Say?"

    The servant trembled in his boots. There was nothing intimidating about his Master, except his raised voice and snarls. His Master had a beer belly, but his body was healthy, like any aristocrat could be. The servant still remembered the first time he saw his elegant and wealthy master, living in privilege like that of a blue-blooded aristocrat.

    Who would¡¯ve thought this Marquis was just a peasant in disguise? His blood was filthy like dirt, for he came from humble beginnings.

    "T-the crew failed to bring back the daggers shaped like a full moon."

    Marquis Qin had reached beyond the point of sheer fury. Everything inside of him snapped. He let out a furious roar and tossed the servant onto the ground. Shortly after, he rushed to his bookshelf, like a child throwing a tantrum. In the blink of an eye, he had pulled the bookshelf to the ground, as expensive books tumbled onto the wooden floor.

    Only a single bookid open.

    And when he saw the book, he nearly ripped it into two.

    "The Art of War."

    Indeed, this was war. With the damn Crown Princess!

    "That rat-faced whore!" Marquis Qin screeched, with flushed cheeks and popped veins.

    Marquis Qin ruined everything in sight. Every painting hung on the wall was torn down, every curtain was ripped into two, every decoration was a shattered mess on the ground. He trampled about, kicking and screaming in disbelief.

    His precious ship...his precious servants. All of his men were dead, his ship was empty. His men had failed him. His ship was an empty vessel. There was nothing he could sell this time, all because he had wasted every single effort to acquire the Crown Princess¡¯s damned daggers.

    "That bitch!" Marquis Qin roared. He raised a leg and kicked the chair over, watching as it loudly crashed onto the ground.

    From the corner of his eyes, he saw something moved. His servant was attempting to crawl out of the room.

    "You!" Marquis Qin snarled. He stormed up to the servant and kicked him to the ground.

    "You useless thing!" Marquis Qin roughly stomped on the servant with each word he uttered. He continued kicking the servant to a pulp, until hisrge body was heaving for air and his breathing becamebored.

    The innocent servantid sprawled on the ground, unmoving and dead. His face was disfigured with bruises and blood. Even his own mother would not recognize his mangled state.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s anger did not go away. The sight of the servant pissed him even more.

    All of his ship crew, dead. All of his ships were useless if there was no one to sail it. And the Marquis did not have time to train new sailors or hire trustable ones that would not flee with his ship.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s entire body trembled with fury. The Crown Princess was bankrupting him with this request of hers. All of his hard work, all of his acquired wealth, it was beginning to diminish before his very own eyes.

    How did she know the foreign Kingdom would be so unweing towards visitors? How did she know his men would return dead or poisoned? Was this intentional? Or was it just a coincidence?

    "Death by disembowelment..." he growled under his breath.

    Marquis Qin clenched his fingers into a fist. It was not like the Marquis had ever wronged her. Their first encounter was in the Pce, where he had treated her with grace and respect. He had been kind to her, been grateful for her audience, and even wasted his own money to give her a gift.

    There was no way she would harbor this much hatred for him. If that was the case, then why was she so cruel? Death by self disembowelment...where did she learn to be this cruel?

    Who taught her to be such a bitch?

    "Impossible!" Marquis Qin furrowed out. How could he have been bested by a stupid little girl? How could he have allowed himself to be yed like a damn instrument?

    She was just a girl. She was just a woman who opened her legs to the right person and gained power from it.

    That useless tool for breeding had actually hurt his business like this. "That whore," he hissed.

    Marquis Qin glowered at the lifeless servant at his feet. He rammed his shoe into the servant¡¯s stomach and sent the rag-doll flying towards a bookshelf.

    No wonder Lady Ge Beining bought that aphrodisiac. It must¡¯ve been used to ruin that vermin of a Crown Princess. His lips curled into a snarl. He should¡¯ve mixed poison into the aphrodisiac, killing two birds with one stone.

    "All of my hard work...gone just like that!" Marquis Qin roared. He picked up a shard from the ground and angrily threw it at the servant. Again and again, he picked up things to toss at the lifeless body. He did everything to quell his rage, but nothing worked.

    Marquis Qin nced at the servant onest time before storming out of his bedroom. It was the middle of the night, but he needed to vent his rage on an unsuspecting concubine. And he knew exactly which one. There was a concubine he had taken from Wuyi.

    She would suffer for being born in the same country as the Princess.

    "How dare she do this to me," Marquis Qin snarled under his breath. "How dare I let a wench like her affect my business and resources like this."

    Marquis Qin decided that tonight, that concubine would be his toy. He was going to do everything to her that he wished to do the Crown Princess. It did not matter anyway. The concubine didn¡¯t have a single family in Hanjian. Even if she was tossed into the river, no one would bat an eye.

    And he desperately wished the Crown Princess would suffer to that extent.

 Chapter 491 Sweet As Honey

    <h4>Chapter 491 Sweet As Honey</h4>

    Li Xueyue sat by the window sill, hugging her knees close to her shivering body. She peered up at the night sky, cold and devoid of stars. She missed seeing the little twinkles of hope.

    These days, the weather was bad, and the clouds were thick. She could only see the lone shadow of a moon whose brilliance could not be hidden behind curtains of clouds.

    "Wuyi¡¯s midnight is a lot prettier..." Li Xueyue pressed her cheek on her propped up knees. She continued to observe the night sky, admiring the view with a softened gaze.

    Crickets chirped, fireflies danced, it was a still night. The peace was disturbed by a gust of wind. The des of grass flew to the right, as leaves rustled in the trees.

    She pitied the lost wanderers. Without the stars, where would they know to go? She supposed the faint moonlight could guide them.

    "I wonder if they¡¯re doing alright." Li Xueyue thought back to the Li Family. Surely, they must be living blissful lives as the new rulers of a prospering kingdom. She had heard rumors about how well Wuyi was flourishing.

    "Chen-ge must be overwhelmed with his duties as the Crown Prince, and Wen-ge must be training day and night to be a Commander."

    Li Xueyue closed her eyes and tried to picture their faces. Her heart sank when she saw blurry images. Week by week, her memory of them was growing more faint. If she did not see them soon, they would fade to the back of her mind. Soon, the Li Family would just be a figment of her imagination.

    She was not ready for that to happen, but knew it was inevitable. They would be preserved memories, held dear to her heart.

    When Li Xueyue bes the Empress, she would never be able to leave the pce as she pleased. She wouldn¡¯t be able to see her family, for Hanjian was now her family. Her little children and Yu Zhen would be the only family she¡¯d know for the rest of her life.

    "You must¡¯ve lost your damn mind."

    Li Xueyue heard his frustrated voice from behind her. But she remained in her position, curled up by the window sill and watching the nightlife pass by her.

    "I never had it in the first ce," she finally said.

    Li Xueyue felt his cold presence before she saw him. He was chillier than the midnight breeze. When his hands grazed her neck, she shivered. His fingertips were warm on her icy skin.

    When he slowly wrapped his fingers around the side of her neck, she tilted her head back and peered up at him.

    He red down at her. "You¡¯re freezing."

    She smiled up at him. "Only because you¡¯re warm."

    Yu Zhen scowled at her words. He had woken up in bed, frightened by the empty spot beside him, only for him to spot her sitting like a ghost by the window still when he looked around. She loved getting herself into trouble, didn¡¯t she? She must¡¯ve enjoyed worrying him like this.

    "What are you doing out of bed?" Yu Zhen snapped.

    "I couldn¡¯t sleep," she sullenly said.

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together. He had hugged her tightly and threw his legs over her. How did she manage to wriggle away from his grasp? She was getting better at escaping from him.

    He did not like that. Not even one bit.

    "Did you have nightmares?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. "I just..." How was she supposed to exin it?

    Whenever Li Xueyue closed her eyes, she would feel an unnerving sense of fear. His arms wereforting and safe, but her heart tricked her into thinking she was in danger. She did not know why. She loved being in his arms though.

    There was nothing wrong with Yu Zhen. But there was everything wrong with herself.

    "Is it because I didn¡¯t tire you out?"

    Li Xueyue blinked. In an instant, she flushed and shook her head. How... how could he be so shameless?!

    Yu Zhen gently smiled down at her. He did not want to touch her in bed until she gave him consent. He knew she was still shaken up from that day.

    "I just have a lot on my mind, that¡¯s all," she finally said to him.

    Li Xueyue hugged her upper arms and peered up at him expectantly. When he pretended to be daft, she red at him. Nudging him with her shoulders, she waited for him to do something.

    "Lovely view, isn¡¯t it?" Yu Zhen teased with his eyes glued to her. But she narrowed her eyes and jutted her chin in the other direction.

    "Yeah, it was. Until your presence ruined it," she mumbled.

    Yu Zhenughed at her words. She must¡¯ve thought he meant the night sky. When he shifted a bit, her shoulders perked up, expecting his touch. But Yu Zhen brushed past her and went towards the other side of the window seat.

    He could feel her re burning a hole in the side of his head. "I used to look up at the night sky like this."

    Li Xueyue hugged her shaking shoulders. This daft husband of hers! She sulked by the corner of the seat, wondering if he was punishing her.

    "Me too," she admitted.

    "Oh?"

    "I¡¯d look up and admire the moon. I envied the moon, which had the beauty and grace to be high in the sky with the sun."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s heart clenched at her words. If only she knew...she had always held the right to be high in the sky, directly beside the sun. He just knew she did the first time she crossed his path, strong-willed and determined.

    When she shivered again, he hid a smirk.

    Yu Zhen opened his arms towards her. "Come here, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue squinted at him and let out a small, "Hmph!"

    Yu Zhenughed at this. He stood up from his seat and scooped her into his arms, lifting her with ease. She gaped up at him, almost astonished he could lift her so easily. He nearly scoffed. He had always done this for her, but why did she seem so surprised?

    "Under the moonlight," she breathed out, astonished. "You look enchanting."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s chest was filled with a strange warmth. He sat on the window seat with her on hisp. He hugged her close, pressing her head into his shoulder.

    "I¡¯ve always looked enchanting," he retorted.

    Li Xueyueughed at his words. Her little body quivered. She wrapped one arm around his neck. She hid her smile in the crook of his neck. It was warm there. Her lips brushed against his neck. She felt his pulse, strong and powerful.

    "What about you?" she mumbled against his skin.

    Yu Zhenbed his hand through her hair. It cascaded down her back, tangled and long, but he loved it anyway. Like a waterfall of pure ink, shiny and silky.

    "What about me?"

    Yu Zhen tensed when she kissed his neck. His hands suddenly grabbed the back of her head. He hoped to seize control again.

    "What do you think of when you peer up at the moon?" she asked whilst pulling her head back.

    Li Xueyue realized she was straddling him. She wondered why he was gripping her head so tightly. His eyes had narrowed. She nted her hands on his face, admiring his chiseled features.

    "I thought about you."

    Li Xueyue softlyughed. "Don¡¯t be so cliche," she teased.

    Yu Zhen scoffed at her. "Is the truth so cliche to you?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip, suppressing a smile. It was cliche, only because she had expected him to be so sweet. She leaned forward and kissed his nose, catching him by surprise. But her lips were gone as fast as it came.

    "Sunshine," he mused whilst gripping her chin. "If you¡¯re going to kiss me, do it properly."

    Yu Zhen pulled her close and kissed her. His kiss was gentle and slow, savoring every curve of her lips.

    Her heart melted. Li Xueyue wrapped her arms around him and tilted her head, deepening the kiss. Her fingers trailed down to his jawline before her thumb rested near his neck. She teased the sensitive skin, enjoying the way his body tightened under her.

    "Sweet as honey, huh?" Yu Zhen mused when he released her lips. She touched her mouth and peered at him in confusion, unsure of what he meant.

    Yu Zhen chuckled at her naivety. He cupped her face and kissed her forehead, his lips lingering on the spot for a while. He surpassed a smile when she closed her eyes and savored it.

    "Would you like to know more?" he asked.

    Instantly, she nodded her head.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s fingers grazed the side of her neck. He pushed back strands of hair that covered her face.

    "I¡¯d wonder if you were looking up at the moon as well, admiring its beauty whilst I daydreamed about yours," he finally admitted.

    Yu Zhen stroked her cheek with the back of his finger. "Even now, when you are in my arms, I still wonder if this was just a dream."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart skipped at his words. She leaned forward and pressed her forehead on his, their noses brushing against each other.

    "And sometimes, I¡¯d worry that I¡¯m not here with you, but instead, I am somewhere on the battlefield, taking in myst breath and you are just a figment of my imagination."

    Li Xueyue did not know what to say. Her chest stung at his heartbreaking words. "What can I do?" she desperately whispered.

    Li Xueyue hugged Yu Zhen and softly kissed him on the lips.

    "What can I do to make you realize this is reality?"

    "Nothing, Sunshine, absolutely nothing."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart dropped at his words. Until, he sped hisrge hand behind her head and brought it down to his shoulders. He wrapped his arms around her and warmly embraced her.

    "All you have to do is behave as you usually do. Smile as you usually do. Andugh as you usually do. Cry as you wish, eat as you will. There is absolutely nothing that I want you to change."

    Yu Zhen could feel something warm dripping on his shoulders. He simply smiled and hugged her tighter.

    "Will you do that for me, Sunshine? Will you?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s body trembled as she forced augh. "Stupid questions get stupid responses."

    Yu Zhen chuckled. She just loved turning his own words against himself. Even so, she nodded her head.

    Li Xueyue squeezed her eyes shut and hid her tears. She wished for them to remain like this, for the rest of eternity.

    "And will you do the same?" she asked him. "Will you behave as you always do? Smile as you always have? Laugh as you¡¯ve done just now? Tease as you wish, joke as you please. Will you remain the same, even when our appearances change and we are no longer this young?"

    Yu Zhen slowly shook his head. "Stupid questions get stupid responses," he reminded her.

    Li Xueyueughed. Of course, it did. After all, he was the one who taught her that.

 Chapter 492 Pitiful Wangfei

    <h4>Chapter 492 Pitiful Wangfei</h4>

    When the turmoils of the night finally died down, sunlight seeped through the clouds, illuminating all of Hanjian. Even the darkest of shadows were dispersed, but never in the frigid hearts of the cruelest.

    Li Xueyue sat by her vanity with a faraway look in her eyes as she stared at her reflection.

    The woman before her had lean shoulders which shouldn¡¯t have been able to withstand the weight of a mountain, but had hands that wielded weapons. She wondered how much time had passed since shest sat inside a dusty room, infested with mice, with walls that seemed to close in on her, amplifying her quiet sobs.

    "Yu Zhen," she suddenly called out, seeing his reflection in the mirror.

    His people had just finished dressing him. Yet, he was already aggravated. Yu Zhen tugged his cors loose and cast her a mischievous smirk.

    "Yes, Sunshine?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head as she continued to stare at her reflection in the vanity mirror. Her eyes had changed. They were stern and cold. She used to be so naive and ignorant. So much had changed.

    Now, even before death, she would not flinch. She would not even bat an eye when blood is spilled. Whether it was a change for the best or the worst, she did not care.

    "I want poison."

    Yu Zhen slowly quirked a brow. His smirk widened in amusement. Her voice was steady andposed, like the rest of her features.

    Quietly, he strolled towards her. Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes watched him through the vanity mirror. Arge, calloused hand caressed her shoulder des, down towards her trimmed fingers.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart skipped a beat when he lifted her hand to his lips. Gently, he kissed her fingertips whilst staring deep into her eyes.

    "Has my little club grown out her ws?"

    Li Xueyue curled her fingers around his hand. She softlyughed. "I¡¯ve always had them."

    - - - - -

    After breakfast, Yu Zhen brought her out of the estate, deciding to take her to the spot where he kept his poison.

    Li Xueyue curiously nced around her surroundings. It was still early in the morning and the air was cool and crisp.

    Li Xueyue nced down at their interlocked fingers, as he guided her down the corridors. Soft, slippery silk brushed against her neck. There was silver embroidery of storm clouds and a soaring dragon that shimmered like stars.

    "You¡¯re so slow," Yu Zhen teased as he pulled her along. He turned to look at her, a slight smile on his face.

    Li Xueyue was heartbreakingly beautiful. She was so tiny in hisrge, ck cloak, dark as the night sky that hid her white nightgown. He was excited to bring her there and didn¡¯t even wait for the maidservants to dress her up as usual.

    "Only because you have long legs," Li Xueyue retorted with a slightugh. To him, it sounded like the twinkle of bells, soft and sharp.

    Yu Zhen hoped one day she would take responsibility for bewitching him and stealing his heart and soul. Her fingers would curl over her lips when sheughed, almost as if she was concealing her smile from the world.

    He wanted that expression of hers to be painted. He needed his future great-grandchildren to know where their beauty came from.

    "Quit looking at me like that," Li Xueyue mused. She was bewildered by his intense gaze. It was almost as if he was etching her inside his memory and heart, to be remembered for the rest of his life.

    "I am just making sure your little legs do not trip over the t wooden floorboards."

    Li Xueyue gaped at him. She narrowed her eyes and yanked him towards her. He chuckled at her actions and slowed his legs down.

    "I am not that clumsy," she corrected him.

    "But you don¡¯t deny it."

    "Everyone is clumsy once in a while. No one can be as perfect as you," Li Xueyue argued.

    "You think I¡¯m perfect?" Yu Zhen responded.

    Finally, he paused for her. She enjoyed being pulled along by him, but needed to catch her breath. Besides, where was he pulling her towards?

    Li Xueyue nced around and tilted her head out of curiosity. She was greeted by a familiar scenery. A corridor wrapped around a square garden of white sand, grey pebbles, and arge tree blooming in the center. Small bamboo stalks lined a tiny bridge that led to a man-made pond.

    This was where Yu Zhen¡¯s private study was located.

    "You pulled me out of my room, underdressed, only to show me your private study?" Li Xueyue teased.

    "Don¡¯t ignore my question," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue halted at his words. She blinked, wondering if she had heard correctly. Not a secondter, sheughed again, highly entertained by his brooding stare. He was sulking.

    "You already know my response to your question," she replied.

    Li Xueyue tugged at his hand, arge smile on her face. "Is this where you wanted to take me to, your private study?"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. He wished he had heard her correctly the first time. But he had been too busy admiring her beauty. Was this her way of keeping him on his toes?

    She rarelyplimented him, but he always knew she admired him. He could sense her loving gaze early in the morning whenever she would wake up before him.

    There were times he felt her forefinger tracing his features, her thumb skimming his jawline while heid on the bed with his eyes still closed.

    Li Xueyue probably thought he was asleep. It was the only time she would be so bold with her actions. She would lean on her elbows and watch him sleep. And when she¡¯d get tired of leaning on her elbows, she would lie back onto the bed, only to turn on her side and hug his chest.

    When that happened, Yu Zhen would fall for her all over again. He didn¡¯t think he would ever grow tired of loving her.

    People often say love in marriage would die down after a decade, but he was certain that would never happen to them. Especially when they still bantered like friends.

    "Well?" she asked.

    Yu Zhen nodded once. "Yes, there is something I¡¯d like to show you."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head out of curiosity. What was it? Was there something in his private study that she had never seen?

    "Come."

    Li Xueyue always wondered if this word had a hidden meaning. Every time he said it, there was a devious glint in his eyes. As if he knew something she did not.

    Li Xueyue followed him into his private study. The guards deeply bowed when they walked past. She locked the doors behind them.

    He walked in front of her, hisrge frame guiding her into the familiar private study. His shoulders wererge and strong. To her, it was the most reliable thing in the world.

    Li Xueyue quickly grabbed onto the edge of his sleeves, pulling at it. He was dressed in ck, yet again. It was the color of mourning and death, but he wore it far too elegantly.

    "Wait for me," she grumbled.

    "I was already walking at a snail pace, Little Hamster."

    "Well, walk at the pace of a tortoise then, Little Panda."

    Yu Zhen stilled at her nickname. He pressed his lips together, suppressing a smile. Little Panda? What part of him was fluffy?

    "Hehe, do you like the nickname?" Li Xueyue asked him. She stood upon her tippy-toes and cupped his face, her thumbs brushing under his eyes.

    "This part inspired me," she said with a teasing tone. "That, and the fact that you always wear ck."

    "Big Bear would be better," Yu Zhen bit out.

    Li Xueyueughed at this. Indeed, he had the temperament of a ferocious bear. He was as fluffy as one, too. But she would never give him that satisfaction.

    "Little Panda is a lot more urate," she teased.

    Yu Zhen scoffed at her words. "You are blind and daft, my pitiful Wangfei."

    Li Xueyue snorted at his remark. "Meanwhile, you are intolerable and ill-tempered, my unruly husband."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips twitched. She red up at him expectantly, her eyes shing with a warning. He could already picture it. There was another snarky remark resting on the tip of her tongue. She was waiting for him to insult her again. This time, she would be more prepared with hereback.

    But he liked keeping her on her toes. Yu Zhen turned his back to her and hid a smile, knowing her pretty little eyes had widened in surprise. He could hear the faintest of scoffs whilst she grumbled about his height.

    "Don¡¯t just stand there," he humored her. "Come along, Little Hamster."

 Chapter 493 Into The Darkness

    <h4>Chapter 493 Into The Darkness</h4>

    Yu Zhen made his way to his desk. He heard her tiny footsteps following after him. Her steps were light and airy, but she walked with a purpose. He always loved that about her.

    Even when Li Xueyue did not know where she was going, she strutted with determination. Even when Li Xueyue was losing a fight, she¡¯d jut her chin higher up. She did the opposite of what others expected her to do.

    "A desk?" she deadpanned.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head out of sheer curiosity. Was this where he kept his poison? But where could it be stored in?

    Li Xueyue peered at the mahogany drawers, but they were slim and thin. Nothing about this desk could hold a collection of potions, as he had told her in their bedroom.

    "A pretty desk," she corrected herself.

    Li Xueyue touched the surface of it and curiously lifted one of the paperweights. She studied it, her fingers trailing over the carvings¡ªa golden tree withrge roots and branches and bountiful leaves. She always knew he loved nature.

    "Not just any desk," Yu Zhen mused. He gently guided her to the side, and moved the chair away from the table.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue asked. He kneeled on the ground and touched the floorboard. She tilted her head in confusion when he reached a hand out to her.

    Puzzled by his action, Li Xueyue ced her palm in his hand. Suddenly, he let out a loudughter. His eyes crinkled, and he smiled up at her with a shake of his head.

    "No, Little Hamster, give me the paperweight."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s cheeks flushed in response. She yanked her hand back, highly embarrassed by her foolishness. But it was toote. He had already captured her fingers and held it tightly.

    "Stop smiling at me like that. Just take your paperweight!" she whined whilst holding it out for him.

    Yu Zhen wiped away a fake tear from his eyes. His lips were pulled into a Cheshire grin. If she continued behaving like this, he¡¯d want to do more than talk. But there were things to do, people to kill, and lives to ruin.

    Yu Zhen took the paperweight from her hands and showed her the t surface. "It¡¯s a key."

    Li Xueyue wondered what he meant by that. The floorboard was smooth and looked like any other floorboard. There wasn¡¯t a small hole where a key could be inserted, much less, by arge paperweight.

    Then he surprised her.

    Yu Zhen ced the paperweight on the ground. He moved it around a bit until there was a soft click. Slowly, he shifted his wrist, turning the paperweight in a circle.

    There was a pattern to this.

    Yu Zhen made a full circle with the paperweight, then a strange shape that looked like a semi-circle. Next, he slid the paperweight towards his desk, with the bottom firmly nted on the ground.

    Nothing happened.

    "I don¡¯t get it?" Li Xueyue said. She expected to hear another click indicating that they had done the pattern correctly. Just then, he caught her by surprise by firmly pressing the paperweight on the floor.

    Li Xueyue jumped when the floorboard lowered itself, revealing the finely cut-out door. She was surprised by the design of this mechanism and she wondered how long it took to research and engineer this system.

    "It¡¯s a technique I learned from a traveling merchant who used to visit the pce in my youth. Though, he died on his journey back to the foreignnd he came from."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. She took a few steps backward as Yu Zhen pulled the floorboards up. They were glued together and didn¡¯t look any different from the other wooden floorboards.

    "Don¡¯t just stand there," Yu Zhen teased. "Didn¡¯t you want poison?"

    Li Xueyue stared down at the pitch-dark cer. She couldn¡¯t see anything down there. It was terrifying. The darkness scared her, especially random rooms hidden underneath floorboards.

    Yu Zhen struck a hand out towards her. His palms were marred with small cuts, his skin hardened by the swords he always wielded. Even so, it was reassuring to look at. His fingers were significantlyrger than hers. When he held her hand, it was difficult to see where her fingers began.

    "Don¡¯t you trust me?" Yu Zhen teased her.

    "Always," she mumbled.

    Li Xueyue shakily ced her hand on his. He wrapped his fingers over her hand and pulled her close. "It looks too dark down there, and I¡¯m scared of seeing the pitch-ck shadows."

    "Then stick close to me."

    "Yu Zhen..." she trailed off, feeling uneasy about this.

    Li Xueyue was so wrapped up in her fear that she did not hear his teasing tone. He curled his finger under her chin and forced her to look up at him. It was to no avail. Her eyes were glued to the cer below. It was ominous and dark, warning of the hidden dangers.

    "I didn¡¯t forget your fear of the dark," Yu Zhen said.

    Yu Zhen softly kissed her on the lips and walked towards one of his bookshelves. There were decorative pieces ced on the shelves, ranging from small bonsai trees to books and vases, but a singlentern sat on it. It was unused and seemed like a mere decoration.

    Li Xueyue tightly squeezed his hand. "Light it," she demanded.

    Yu Zhen suppressed an amusedughter. No one hadmanded him like this. He wasn¡¯t sure if he should feel infuriated or entertained. Even so, he released her hand, grabbed a match from the lower shelves, and lit thentern for her.

    "There, all better now?" Yu Zhen murmured whilst giving her thentern to hold.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. "Don¡¯t you need it to guide the way?"

    Yu Zhen debated if he should tell her the truth. He knew theyout of this private study like the back of his hand. He had walked every inch of the cer, and memorized theyout of everything down there.

    "No, Sunshine. I will be fine."

    Yu Zhen tugged her back to the cer before she could start asking him even more questions. She trudged behind him, wary of her footing.

    "We will be heading down now," Yu Zhen informed her. "There is a small set of stairs leading down."

    Yu Zhen nced back at her. She was tightly gripping thentern, her eyes darting from him to the cer. She nervously licked her bottom lip and shakily held thentern in front of him. Did she want to guide him with the light?

    How cute.

    "Stick close to me."

    "I-I already am." Li Xueyue was literally a step behind him. When he took one step forward, she quickly followed after him.

    "Stick even closer. There are ghosts down there."

    "What?!" Li Xueyue shrieked, just as he began to descend down the stairs, pulling her along.

    "I was hoping to lighten the mood, Sunshine," Yu Zhen softlyforted her. He turned his back to the darkness, and peered up at her. She was standing at the top of the stairs, refusing to walk down the three steps that he had taken.

    "Come now, don¡¯t be scared." Yu Zhen reached his other arm out for her, as if offering her a hug. "I will be here, every step of the way."

    Li Xueyue warily looked at him with a small pout. She reminded him of a little child shaken by a haunting nightmare, and hovering near her parents¡¯ bedroom, debating whether or not she should join them.

    "I will hurt them before anyone dares to harm you."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s chest warmed at his words. She felt strange and fuzzy, her body humming. He always made her feel safe. Whenever he was around, nothing dared to hurt her.

    So, she swallowed her fears and ced her trust in him.

    "That¡¯s my girl," Yu Zhen reassured.

    Li Xueyue descended the stairs and into the darkness.

 Chapter 494 Poisoned

    <h4>Chapter 494 Poisoned</h4>

    Li Xueyue warily walked into the darkness holding antern in front of her. It was so dark in here, and she wondered how exactly Yu Zhen was able to see without antern of his own.

    "Here, give me that," Yu Zhen said whilst sticking a hand out for herntern.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced in disbelief. She didn¡¯t want to part from thentern¡ªthe only thing that reassured her. Without it, it would be like losing her security nket.

    Tightening her grip on his hand, Li Xueyue resolutely shook her head. "No."

    Yu Zhen softlyughed. He turned his head, knowing she was too terrified of the darkness to part from her light source. But some sacrifices had to be made. She stared up at him with sheer defiance. But her lips trembled and jutted out in a tiny pout.

    "It¡¯ll be alright, Sunshine," Yu Zhen gently said. He reached a hand out and tenderly touched the side of her face but she recoiled back and shook her head.

    "No. I need thisntern."

    "I will give it back to you soon."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s grip over thentern tightened. Her palms were growing moist with fear. "D-do you swear?"

    Yu Zhen pressed his lips together and hid an amused smile. Her voice quivered like a small, hesitant child. Fear shed on her face.

    "Do you swear?" she repeated.

    "Of course, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen watched as she shakingly held out her hand with thentern which lightly swayed. He took the cover off of thentern and pulled out the candle. It was long, and flickered at the smallest movement.

    "I¡¯m scared," Li Xueyue whispered when the light was brought away from her face. She stepped closer to Yu Zhen and gripped his hand.

    "And I¡¯m worried."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s head shot up at his words. Her face paled and she dropped thentern. With her free hand, she grabbed his shirt.

    "O-of?"

    "My hand, that is numb because you are gripping it so tightly."

    Li Xueyue looked down at their entwined hands, but was met with darkness. She heard his faintughter. His muscr shoulders shook in response.

    Be it out of spite and guilt, Li Xueyue attempted to release his hand. When her grip loosened, his grip tightened.

    "But I didn¡¯t tell you to let go."

    Li Xueyue scowled at him. "Give me back my candle."

    Yu Zhen turned his head back and smiled at her. "Only a little longer, Sunshine."

    Just to tease her a bit, he quickened his footsteps. In an instant, she followed after him. Her face was close to his back, as she hid behind him.

    "Don¡¯t do that," she cried out.

    Yu Zhen immediately felt guilty. He released her hand and she squeaked in fear.

    "Yu Zhen!" she exasperated. "You know I am terrified of the dark. Don¡¯t do this to me."

    Yu Zhen turned around and wrapped an arm around her. He pulled her close to his side and held her. "Better now?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart was racing as fast as Heiyue galloping in the meadow. Even tears had filled her eyes. She despised the darkness. She did not like the monsters that lurked within it, and not knowing how many there were out there.

    "I hate you."

    Yu Zhen merely smiled at her words. He bent his head and kissed her forehead. "And I love you."

    Li Xueyue red up at him, wishing he would not be so mean. Just then, he shifted his arm and lit a tall candle sticking out from one of the walls. Her heart rxed a bit, as he began pulling her towards the other three corners of the room.

    One by one, the candles were being lit, illuminating the ce.

    Finally, Li Xueyue¡¯s racing heart slowed down. She stopped fidgeting out of fear. "Oh, this is truly a cer," shemented.

    Li Xueyue looked around her surroundings. It was a small room, with rows of bookshelves, all of which were filled with bottles, ranging in size and color. There werebels, some new, some old.

    It was a simple room. The walls, ceiling, and floor were covered in stone, most likely to reduce the risk of a fire hazard. It was dreary and cold in here, despite theck of windows.

    "It¡¯s adequate to store all of the poison known by me."

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t want to ask where he acquired these bottles. But she did warily nce at him from the corner of her eyes.

    "Looks like I would have to restock on a few of them," Yu Zhen noted. He picked up a nearly empty bottle that was in his line of sight and showed it to her.

    Li Xueyue took the bottle from his hand and slowly read the littlebel out loud.

    "Eternal Sleep," she said.

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. It was an ambiguous title.

    "A drop will put someone to sleep, but two will knock them out for a few days, and three will kill them."

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked. This potion sounded awfully simr to the one she had her physician concoct in Wuyi... She quietly handed the bottle back to him.

    "Unfortunately, there are only three more droplets left in there," Yu Zhen said. "But it¡¯s reserved for a merciful kill."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "It¡¯s unlike you to be merciful."

    Yu Zhen frowned. "It was for injured soldiers."

    Li Xueyue instantly looked up at him. She already knew what he meant. On the battlefield, there were times when death was the best option. Sometimes, when soldiers were captured by the enemy, they were tortured until they became insane. It would be better to die, than survive with the terrors reying endlessly in their minds. Or, when a soldier was far too injured to even make it back to camp to receive first aid and treatment.

    "It was a new bottle as well," Yu Zhen somberly said. Without another nce at her, he ced the bottle back into its spot.

    Li Xueyue swallowed. It must¡¯ve been used a lot during the war. She tightened her grip on his robes. "I¡¯m sorry," was the only thing she managed to squeeze out.

    Yu Zhen gently smiled at her. He patted the side of her face and directed her down the different rows of bookshelves.

    "I have practically everything that you need. What would you like?" he asked, deciding to change the subject. He did not intend to make the atmosphere so dreary, but talks of war brought out that side of him.

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth, as a word rested on the tip of her tongue. But then she paused and mped her lips shut. It would be too cruel. She would not wish that punishment even on her worst enemy.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Yu Zhen asked. He turned to her and noticed a sh of hesitation on her face.

    "Sunshine..." Yu Zhen could see guilt begin to w its way out. Her lips trembled and she nced away from him. There it was¡ªthat peskypassion of hers,ing out at the oddest of times.

    "Xueyue."

    "I don¡¯t want to stoop to her level," she blurted out. "I-I don¡¯t want to inflict that kind of pain on a woman. Being defiled like that is just¡ª"

    "Aphrodisiac," he deadpanned.

    Yu Zhen narrowed his head when she hung her head in shame.

    "It would be horrible."

    "She did it to you first."

    "But she also did it to herself."

    "Or so she ims."

    Li Xueyue coiled back from his words. She was evil and cruel. But there were some things that she did not want to do. She did not want to stoop to Lady Ge¡¯s pathetic level. If she had Lady Ge defiled like that, what difference would Xueyue be from Lady Ge?

    "Yu Zhen, I¡ª"

    "How many times are you going to get cold feet and never enact out your revenge?"

    Li Xueyue instantly shook her head. "It¡¯s not like that, Yu Zhen. I just don¡¯t want another woman to experience the same kind of terror I felt."

    "She didn¡¯t hesitate to do it to you."

    "I am not her."

    "No, you are more stupid than her."

    Li Xueyue flinched. He might as well have pped her in the face. When she opened her mouth, ready to argue, he gripped her jaw. Her lips were squished together.

    He squinted down at her, his lips curled in a snarl. He was furious.

    "Listen to me," he growled. "And listen well."

    Li Xueyue coiled back from him. His grip tightened¡ªkeeping her in ce.

    "Did she hesitate to hurt you?"

    "No."

    "Did she hesitate to poison you?"

    "Well¡ª"

    "Would she hesitate to kill you?" Yu Zhen spat out. And before she could answer, he did so for her.

    "No," he growled out. "No. She would not. At the first chance, she would dispose of you."

    Li Xueyue nced over his shoulders, where a candle began to flicker. Suddenly, it died off, shrouding that area in utter darkness. It was as if the Heavens knew that was where the aphrodisiac was stored.

    Her eyes watered, and she knew, there were times her morals would have to be questioned. Her conscience was always misced.

    "Release me."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s re darkened. He released her with a flick of his hand and took a cold step back.

    "You are a fool."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart was stabbed by his words. The truth was too hard for her to hear, much less, swallow.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s face became aloof. His gaze hardened, his fingers clenching into fists. He took a cold step in her direction.

    "If you don¡¯t poison her with aphrodisiac, I will."

    Li Xueyue pushed him away. "And do what? Steal the satisfaction of revenge from me yet again? You poisoned her without consulting me!"

    Yu Zhen narrowed his eyes. "I did what you should have done a long time ago."

    He stalked towards her and tightly gripped the side of her shoulders. "I¡¯ve told you before, Li Xueyue. Anyone that hurts you, their head will roll before they take another step."

    Li Xueyue red up at him. Her blood boiled with frustration. They were back to the same argument again. "And what am I supposed to do? Sit there and look pretty?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s fingers dug into her flesh, his hands flexing in restraint. He forced a heartless smile. "When all you do is have random spurts ofpassion, then yes. Just sit there and look pretty."

    Li Xueyue was floored at his words. If she could, she would p him. But she was never fond of violence, even if she was well-versed in it.

    "Then you might as well have married a wooden doll."

    Yu Zhen scoffed at her petty words. He was tired of this side of her. Tired of her stupidpassion and the hesitation in her eyes.

    Wordlessly, he released her and took a step back.

    "Do as you wish."

 Chapter 495 Her Demons

    <h4>Chapter 495 Her Demons</h4>

    Li Xueyue watched as he stormed to the far side of the cer. He walked into the shadows, where his eyes had already adapted to the dark. She heard bottles being shifted. It seemed like he was searching for a specific bottle whilst angrily mming each bottle back down on the shelf.

    "Yu Zhen, don¡¯t," she warned. "I will get my revenge on her, but it will not be with aphrodisiac. I changed my mind. I have a punishment that is worst than being defiled."

    She was met with silence.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª" her voice died off.

    Yu Zhen stepped out from the shadows. His scowl did not disappear from his sharp and handsome facial features. He looked cruel and vindictive, as if he was on his way to murder someone. There was nothing she could do to stop him.

    Without casting her a single nce, he sauntered past her. Li Xueyue noticed his hands were empty.

    Li Xueyue stared ahead. "If you do this," she slowly said.

    Her voice was light and airy, for she had reached beyond the point of anger. Even though she itched to throw something at him, even though she itched tosh out, she did not. She was not the type to throw a tantrum.

    Even so, she dug her fingers into her palms, her paling hands trembling at the force. She turned her head towards him. He had paused.

    "You are no better than Lady Ge."

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t even blink at her words. He simplyughed.

    Li Xueyue shivered. Hisughter was cold and devoid of warmth. He had long abandoned the light. The darkness was his home. He was raised in it and had made it his domain.

    Heartless, immoral actions like this did not even faze him anymore. She should¡¯ve known.

    "Good."

    He stormed out of the cer, his footsteps heavy and cold.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª" Li Xueyue turned on her heels.

    Her face paled when she realized what he was doing. Yu Zhen had reached the top of the stairs. He made eye contact with her before cing a hand on the cer door.

    "Yu Zhen, wait!" Li Xueyue demanded.

    Li Xueyue rushed forward, but it was far toote. She watched in pure horror as he shook his head in disappointment. Just as she set foot on the staircase, and reached a hand out to stop him, the cer door was mmed shut.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart plummeted to her stomach. She pounded on the wooden door, again and again, knowing it had not been locked.

    "Yu Zhen, you damn bastard!" Li Xueyue screamed. She tried to force the door open, but it would only budge upward a little bit. No doubt, he was standing on top of the door. He must be. It would be the only reason why she could not push it open.

    Yu Zhen could feel the ground shaking underneath his boots. He heard her aggravated cries as she repeatedly pounded on the door, but he remained in his spot.

    He could hear her faint screams. "I hate you, I hate you so, so much!" she roared.

    Yu Zhen slowly bent his knees and squatted. "That is a great way to convince me."

    Her pounding stopped.

    Yu Zhen could picture her huffing and puffing, her chest rising and falling in infuriation. She might be plotting hundreds of ways to murder him, and he¡¯d let her. But only after taking revenge for her.

    Her first fault was being too kind, her second was being too passive. He would never let anyone get away with hurting her. Even if he had to steal this so-called satisfaction that fueled her.

    "Don¡¯t be so angry, Sunshine," Yu Zhen finally said. He ced a hand on the door, hoping she would understand him.

    "I am doing this for your sake."

    Yu Zhen heard her body slump against the door, most likely, out of frustration. She was likely seated on the steps, grumbling about what a horrible husband he was.

    "I will let you out as soon as I am finished."

    Yu Zhen grabbed the paperweight key and hesitated for a brief second. Finally, he understood how she must¡¯ve felt. In the blink of an eye,passion surged through him, and he questioned his own actions.

    But unlike her, he knew how to reason with himself. Yu Zhen ced the paperweight back onto the door and moved it around in the same pattern as before until he heard a familiar click.

    Li Xueyue was locked inside.

    Yu Zhen began to rise, only to freeze at her words.

    "You are the bigger fool here."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "How so?"

    No response.

    Yu Zhen suppressed the roll of his eyes. She loved to throw tantrums, didn¡¯t she? And he did not mind them. He could tolerate each and every one of them, but there was a limit to his patience.

    He was initially furious at her, but decided it would not be worth it. They would just spiral into a massive argument. For their sanity¡¯s sake, he did not want to indulge in another argument.

    "Suit yourself." Yu Zhen rose to his full height. He mmed the paperweight back onto this desk. A loud thud echoed through the private study, followed by a small clink. One of the golden branches fell off from his force.

    Yu Zhen ignored it. He stormed out of his estate and turned his head to the right. On cue, Hu Dengxiao was already waiting for him.

    "Zhenzhen!" Hu Dengxiao energetically greeted him with a bright, optimistic smile. "You were already inside? I was waiting out here for you all along!"

    Yu Zhen red at his friend. "Go and fetch those rapists from the dungeons."

    Hu Dengxiao¡¯s smile slipped. It seemed something serious had happened. He straightened up. "Where shall they be brought to, Your Highness?"

    Yu Zhen smirked. "Lady Ge¡¯s estate."

    Hu Dengxiao gulped. He nced at the Crown Prince and noticed his robes were wrinkled. Well, a specific spot was, as if he was in a scuffle. His eyes continued wandering about, searching for a familiar bottle of drug that would immobilize Lady Ge.

    There was none.

    Hu Dengxiao was grateful that Lu Tianbi was still in bed. They had stayed up all night talking about their future that she couldn¡¯t wake up in time to join them this morning. He felt guilty for keeping her up sote that he couldn¡¯t bear to wake her up.

    And now, he realized that was for the best. Lu Tianbi would¡¯ve been the voice of reason.

    "As you wish, Your Highness."

    - - - - -

    As Yu Zhen walked down the hallways leading to Lady Ge¡¯s estate, he began to wonder what his Wangfei had meant. She had called him a bigger fool, but why?

    He was not the one trapped in the cer. He was not the one blinded by his emotions. He merely followed his logical brain. Even so, his brain could not piece together what she meant.

    "A bigger fool..." Yu Zhen trailed off, repeating the phrase to himself. He could see Lady Ge¡¯s estate in the distance.

    His people remained in their position. They had stood here all morning and night, and that was the lightest of punishments he could think of. They had experienced much worse. Unfortunately for them, this was just the first of the three punishments in store for them.

    Their failure to protect Li Xueyue would not go by unpunished.

    Li Xueyue... That stubborn woman! He ground his teeth, his footsteps bing heavier. He could not fathom what went through her head. She was bold, he¡¯ll give her that. Bold enough to hurt herself just to protect her enemy.

    Abruptly, he halted.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s face turned stormy. He finally understood her words. And he had never ran back so quickly, for her life depended on it. She was the type to rebel, the type who would hurt herself to make others suffer.

    After all, she was locked in a room full of poison. What could possibly go wrong? Especially with her current mental state. She was strong, but the things she went through...they were enough to shatter a grown man.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s blood chilled. He made a mad dash down the hallways, running as fast as he could. She had just lost a child not long ago. Shortly afterwards, she was nearly defiled. The odds were against her.

    Being in a dark and quiet room, all alone, Li Xueyue would be forced to face her demons. The oues would not be favorable. Even if the chances were low, Yu Zhen was still terrified.

    She was always unpredictable. Even if this idea was too far-fetched, Yu Zhen continued racing down the hallways.

    "She better not even fathom those thoughts!" he cursed under his breath, as he rushed past his guards. He mmed the doors of his private study open. The walls rattled from the force, as he roughly locked it behind him.

    Yu Zhen hurriedly lifted the paperweight. His heart rushed. His stomach churned. How could he have forgotten? The first and only poison he had introduced to her was one that could aid her suicide.

    Eternal Sleep. One drop would put someone to sleep, two would knock them out for a day, and three would kill them.

    It just so happened, there were three droplets left in the bottle. With the traumatic things that have urred in her life, Li Xueyue would not hesitate to put the poison to good use.

 Chapter 496 Her Corpse

    <h4>Chapter 496 Her Corpse</h4>

    Li Xueyue gloomily red at the cer walls. She sat on the staircase with her arms crossed. That damn husband of hers! What kind of man would lock his wife in an underground cer?

    She grumbled under her breath before finally standing up and deciding to take some action.

    Li Xueyue stomped down the staircase and decided to view his collection of poison. To her pure disappointment, only the name of the poison was written on thebels, and nothing about its effects.

    "Eternal Sleep..." It was the only one she knew.

    Li Xueyue picked up the bottle and examined the dark color. Out of curiosity, she decided to uncap it to take a whiff. Was it simr to the tonic that the physician in Wuyi had prescribed her? If it was, she wondered if it would help Yu Zhen sleep a little longer.

    It was dangerous for him to survive on so little sleep, then overwork himself all the time. She was worried about his health.

    "Hmm..." Li Xueyue uncapped the bottle and brought it to her nose. She wrinkled her nose in disgust when a strong fume rushed into her nose. She coughed in response, and held the bottle away from her.

    Li Xueyue ced the cap back onto the bottle. It definitely did not smell the same. She wondered why. With a shrug of her shoulders, she slipped it into her pocket and continued browsing through the shelves.

    "Poppy," she read out loud upon picking up a random bottle of ink-ck liquid. It certainly did not match its colorful name. Poppy... What type of poison was that?

    Did he mean poppy seeds that were extremely poisonous?

    Li Xueyue settled the bottle back onto the shelf. She nced around in curiosity and noticed she had wandered considerably close to the darkest corners of the cer where the candle was blown out.

    Speaking of which, the candles were burning at a faster rate than expected. Soon, they would all go out and she would be inplete darkness. Just the thought of it was enough to make her skin crawl.

    "How can he be so mean?" Li Xueyue muttered to herself in utter disappointment. Was he punishing her for being kind? Wasn¡¯t that what every man wants in a woman? Not that she cared, but still.

    Li Xueyue held back a sigh. If more candles get blown out, submerging her in darkness, she would never forgive him¡ªever. Whenever it was dark, she would think of terrible things. And with her current state, there was nothing holding her back from having those dark thoughts.

    Li Xueyue held back a sigh. She turned on her heels and headed for the shelf that was not consumed by shadows. But she warily peered over her shoulders, terrified of what could be lurking there. It was dim in the cer, but her eyes had not adjusted to the dark.

    Hoping to distract herself, Li Xueyue turned to another shelf. "A Thousand Needles." She picked up the empty bottle.

    Li Xueyue raised a brow. She recalled him mentioning that Lady Ge was poisoned with this. It gave her a fate worse than death, where the victim would practically be begging to be killed.

    She warily ced the bottle back onto the shelf. Then, she nced at the tiny bottles ced on the same shelf and her face paled. There were more¡ªa lot more.

    Li Xueyue also noticed there were five more empty bottles of "A Thousand Needles."

    "They must¡¯ve been fed to the intruders..." Li Xueyue knew the fate that had awaited these men. With Yu Zhen¡¯s temperament, he¡¯d most likely have them tortured beyond recognition, only for their bodies to be dumped in boiling water, or worse, branded all over.

    Li Xueyue shuddered. She took a step away from the shelf, but did not realize she had a foot in the darkness.

    Just then, something clicked.

    Li Xueyue jumped in fear. She looked in between the shelves, wondering what could¡¯ve caused that sound. She could not get a good look at the cer door from where she stood. Which meant...whoever opened the door would not be able to see her too.

    Suddenly, a quiet creaking sound was heard. A voice called out for her, warm and uncertain. "Sunshine?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s re became vengeful. He sounded worried... She narrowed her eyes. For the sheer terror he made her feel by locking up all alone in this dim cer, she decided she would teach him a lesson. He knew of her fears but he did not hesitate to terrorize her.

    Suddenly, all of her fears vanished. She was overwhelmed with sheer rage. He had witnessed her breakdown in that torture tent, how she sobbed and begged for mercy. How dare he subject her to such a terrifying experience again?

    Blinded by revenge, Li Xueyue stepped into the darkness. She concealed herself within the dark corners of the cer, where the light did not touch and the shadows embraced her.

    - - - - -

    When Yu Zhen was met with silence, his heart dropped. "Sunshine!" he called out, this time, with more urgency.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes wildly searched for her. Why was she not responding? Was she truly crazy enough to take her own life?!

    "Xueyue!" he screamed, storming down the staircase.

    His blood was filled with dread. His eyes trembled. He was panicking with each passing second of silence. There was no response. No movement.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s heart wildly thumped. He could hear it loudly thumping in his ears like a drum. Where was she? Where did she go? Why was she so quiet? Was she alright? Did something happen?!

    Questions after questions swarmed his thoughts. He was shaken with fright. Where was his wife? Where was his woman?

    "LI XUEYUE!" Yu Zhen roared. The walls trembled at his voice. The sound alone could shake the entire Kingdom.

    He took a shaky step forward, as the light began to flee from him. If she was to die, Hanjian would be doomed. He would not set foot outside of his bedroom ever again. He would go crazy and kill everything in sight. Not a single soul would be spared.

    Didn¡¯t Li Xueyue know, he was intoxicated by her? Bewitched even. She was the only reason he had been able to control his temper. With her gone, and the stress of running a kingdom, on top of hisck of sleep, it would not be long until his patience wears out.

    When Yu Zhen set foot on the cer floor, there was pure silence. He heard his own heartbeat, and it was erratic, like his eyes that wildly seeked her.

    It was a locked door. Where could she have gone?

    Suddenly, it did not matter. Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes snapped to the first shelf. It was gone. Eternal Sleep was gone. He took a step closer to the shelf, then another, almost devastated. He could not believe his eyes.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips curled into a snarl. In a heartbeat, he searched through the shelves. He moved like a madman, maniac, and insane. He pushed bottles aside, making loud noises but he still could not find the potion.

    Where did she go?

    "Dead or alive," Yu Zhen coldly said. "I will still want her corpse."

    Lost in thought, Yu Zhen did not notice the tiny silhouette sneaking past him. He examined the shelves again, wondering if she had discovered a hidden passage that he did not know about. How else would she have gotten out when he had locked the cer door behind him?

    In the dead silence, a ruffling sound was heard. Without warning, Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes snapped back to the staircase. There she stood, at the top of the staircase.

    "You wouldn¡¯t," he coldly said from where he stood.

    Indescribable relief flooded him at the sight of her. She was well and alive. Defiant as always, stubborn as she should be, his Wangfei was one foot away from leaving the cer.

    "The tables have turned," Li Xueyue snarled. "Enjoy your time in the darkness."

    Li Xueyue mmed the cer door shut. She heard his furious footsteps that pped against the stone floors. She saw the paperweight lying beside the cer door.

    Li Xueyue had seen how the lock worked. In an instant, she pped the paperweight down and retraced the pattern. A full moon, then a crescent moon, then finally, a straight line down.

    "XUEYUE!" Yu Zhen screamed. He punched the cer door. It rattled with force, but she took a step back, her heart wildly thumping in her chest. She heard the blood rush to her ears.

    "It worked."

    Li Xueyue breathed out in surprise. She took a step away from the cer door and let out a sigh of relief. She had made it back out, but now what?

    She warily nced down at the shaking cer door. He had not stopped assaulting it.

    "Dear heavens, I just trapped a bear down there," Li Xueyue breathed out. She warily nced around, wondering what her next step could be. Truthfully, she hadn¡¯t nned this far.

    Li Xueyue only wanted him to have a taste of his own medicine. It was cramped and dark in there, she wished he would experience her pains. Wished he would be more sympathetic and understand where her fears came from.

    "Once I get my hands on you..." he growled. "You will be thoroughly punished."

    Li Xueyue hugged the paperweight to her chest. For some reason, her heart had skipped a beat at his words. Punished. He would nevery a hand on her. But there was more than one way to hurt her.

    "Then, you will never get out," Li Xueyue said.

    "You forget..." he trailed off. "Who exactly had this room built."

    Li Xueyue took a step away from the cer door. When he said it like that, she did not want to let him out at all.

    "Now, be a good girl," he coyly said. "And let your husband out."

    Li Xueyue rapidly shook her head. She knew if he was let out, he would keep her trapped somewhere else. Long enough for him to enact his revenge. Long enough for her to know the Empress would turn her back on her son. The Empress might¡¯ve not had an influence on Yu Zhen, but she controlled a good faction of the court.

    Li Xueyue could not bring herself to despise the Empress, even after all that the Empress had done. Because like the Empress had said, Li Xueyue did not know what it was like to be a mother. She would never know what it was like to walk in the Empress¡¯s shoes and watch her children get torn away from her, one by one.

    Finally, Li Xueyue opened her mouth and sealed her fate.

    "No. You will stay down there, until you¡¯ve calmed down."

    "Trust me, Li Xueyue. I have already calmed down."

    Li Xueyue shook in her shoes. She heard the threat in his voice. He was calm before the storm. He would not hesitate to tear her to shreds.

    "You sound like you¡¯re going to hurt me."

    He let out a heartlessughter. Her heart froze, and goosebumps surfaced.

    "Indeed, you are right."

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "I will hurt you in ways you can never possibly imagine."

    Li Xueyue gulped. "L-like?"

    "You won¡¯t be able to walk for weeks. You will be sore beyond relief¡ªtrembling and shaking. I will take all of you."

 Chapter 497 Your Loyal Friend

    <h4>Chapter 497 Your Loyal Friend</h4>

    Hu Dengxiao nced around Lady Ge¡¯s estate. His lips curved down into a deep frown. He had brought the intruders here as instructed.

    They were battered and their bodies twitched every second, their eyesrge and wild. Rocking on their heels, they murmured incoherent words under their breaths. Some of them couldn¡¯t even stand properly, for their toes were broken into weird shapes.

    "Where¡¯s Zhenzhen?" Hu Dengxiao mumbled under his breath, confused by the turn of events.

    Hu Dengxiao could¡¯ve sworn the Crown Prince would be here first. Did something happen? He pressed his lips together and looked around again.

    These men, their breathing were turning shallow, and they wore a haunted expression on their faces. It had been at least three days since theyst slept. Their eyes were bloodshot and frantic.

    "Birdie...pretty birdie..."

    Hu Dengxiao scrunched his nose at the odor emitted from their bodies. He noticed one of them had a hole near the side of their body. When he squinted, he nearly gagged. There were bugs crawling in the wound.

    "White dove...pretty white dove..."

    Hu Dengxiao sharply turned around, a vicious look on his face, as he nearly pulled out a knife. Even now, they were dreaming of the Crown Princess?

    Before he could cut off one of their tongues, one of the guards hurriedly ran up to him.

    "A-Advisor Hu," the guard breathed out. He hurriedly bowed his head and gulped. "The Crown Prince was unable to make it here. He was reportedly running back to his private study."

    Hu Dengxiao slowly lowered his knife. He let out a small "tsk." The invader¡¯s life had just been spared.

    With a curt nod of his head, Hu Dengxiao motioned towards the intruders. "Keep them here, chained like a dog. I will be back."

    Hu Dengxiao slid the knife back into its sheath. He slipped it into his pockets and headed towards the direction leading to the Crown Prince¡¯s private study. Did something happen?

    Hu Dengxiao rarely saw the Crown Prince run in the pce. It was unlike his calm, andposed nature. Hu Dengxiao had only seen the Crown Prince lose hisposure when his Wangfei was involved.

    Thinking back to the gentle smiles of the Princess, and the twinkle in her eyes, Hu Dengxiao lowered his gaze. She was kind, but spoiled. She was intelligent, but too kind. He let out a small sigh.

    "Why does Lu Tianbi remind me of the Princess..." Hu Dengxiao quickly walked down the hallways, wondering what could¡¯ve happened this time. If the Crown Princess was involved, then things would always escte.

    Hu Dengxiao could remember the deadly pale expression on the Commander¡¯s face that rainy night. It was as if the rug was yanked from under him, and cold water was sshed onto his face. The Crown Prince had never looked so terrified.

    "Please let her be okay..." Hu Dengxiao silently prayed to himself with sped hands. If anything were to happen to the Commander¡¯s Wangfei, then this entire nation will suffer.

    It was a toxic rtionship, but no one dared to tell the Crown Prince this. He was infatuated with her, far beyond healthy levels. But who would dare tell the fearsome Commander that? The entire pce courts had personally witnessed his cruelty, one way or another.

    Hu Dengxiao could still picture it. The first time he had seen the Crown Prince take the throne. He sat cross-legged, a devious smirk on his lips. His eyes were cold and vicious, as everyone kowtowed to him, praying as if he was the embodiment of Heaven in itself.

    "Advisor Hu."

    Hu Dengxiao blinked back to reality. He noticed the guards were stationed outside, but they seemed a bit confused. What happened?

    "The Crown Prince had entered the private study in a rush, but there was pure silence afterwards, Advisor Hu."

    Hu Dengxiao curtly nodded his head. "I see."

    Hu Dengxiao raised his hands and knocked. Silence.

    His brows unknowingly knitted together. That was strange. Wasn¡¯t the Crown Prince inside? Usually, there would be a faint response of "Come in," or "Scram." But neither of these were said.

    Hu Dengxiao slowly slid the doors open and stepped inside. He didn¡¯t want to anger the Crown Prince, but he was also worried about what was happening.

    Hu Dengxiao was caught by surprise at the sight before him.

    The sunlight shined upon her. She glowed like gold near antern. A ck cloak was draped over her shoulders. It fluttered in the wind, creating the illusion of crow wings. When she turned to him, wide-eyed and perplexed, Hu Dengxiao instantly bowed his head.

    "Princess."

    Hu Dengxiao snuck a peek at her. He wondered if she was alright. First it was the unfortunate miscarriage, and then she was drugged with aphrosidiac¡ªall in the span of a few weeks. Her enemies lurked in every corner of the pce. Everyone was out for her head and demise.

    How was she dealing with all of these turmoil? He would not me her if she¡¯d want to run away from the pce. There were many tales of people losing their sanity in the pce and demanding to leave. Would the Crown Princess be one of them?

    "You may rise."

    Hu Dengxiao raised his head at the soft sound of hermand. When their gazes met, his heart was filled with uncertainty. What was she doing here? Not that she wasn¡¯t allowed to roam this ce, but she was all alone and wearing the Crown Prince¡¯s cloak?

    "Are you alright, Princess?" Hu Dengxiao worriedly asked in a slow, and beckoning voice. He peered at her hand, where she tightly clutched a paperweight. He recognized it as the one that always rested on the Crown Prince¡¯s stack of documents.

    The paperweight was made of gold, forged into a barren tree. There was nothing but sharp branches whose foundation was a solid block of heavy gold.

    The Crown Princess was cradling it like a baby.

    "Have you seen the Crown Prince?"

    Li Xueyue wondered why Hu Dengxiao was pretending like he was treading on thin ice. He was looking at her with caution, as if she would do something reckless.

    "Can you gather all of the avable townspeople down the streets that lead to the Imperial Pce?"

    Hu Dengxiao gawked at her in disbelief. "Are you certain of this, Princess?"

    Li Xueyue nodded her head.

    Hu Dengxiao seemed like he wanted to refute her request. However, he bowed his head.

    "Your wish is mymand, Princess."

    Li Xueyue knew there would be consequences to this. But what was the point of having powerful tools if she did not use it? She took a step forward and ced the paperweight down.

    "Oh, and keep my name out of it."

    "Of course, Princess."

    Li Xueyue nced down at the documents resting on Yu Zhen¡¯s desk. She was surprised to see letters. Out of curiosity, she picked up one of them.

    "When the crowd is gathered, bring Lady Ge to the main entrance of the pce."

    Hu Dengxiao nodded his head. "As you wish, Princess¡ª" his voice died off. "Wait, Princess, you shouldn¡¯t!"

    Hu Dengxiao rushed forward, ready to take the confidential letter from her hands. But she abruptly sank to her knees.

    "Princess..."

    Her face paled in horror. Her fingers trembled in response. Her lips were parted in astonishment.

    "This..." she trailed off, her voice a ghost of a whisper.

    The edges she gripped crumbled as her nostrils red. A murderous glint surfaced.

    Hu Dengxiao was surprised by her expression. She looked bloodthirsty. What was written in the letter?

    "Princess, please let me see the letter and perhaps I could provide an exnation for better rity," he said.

    Hu Dengxiao wondered what could¡¯ve been so worrisome for her gentle features to morph into a sinister snarl.

    "Tell me it¡¯s not true."

    Hu Dengxiao didn¡¯t know what she meant. He opened his mouth, ready to say something. But she shoved the letter in front of his face, holding the top and bottom of it.

    ¡¯I have secured the oils you have requested. Lavender, peppermint, and the exquisitely rare Jasmine and Rosemary oil. They are ready to be picked up whenever you are ready.

    Signed,

    Your loyal friend.¡¯

    Hu Dengxiao was floored by the letter. What?

    Then, the Crown Princess showed him another one in the same manner.

    ¡¯The infertility poison has been delivered. Please fetch it as you see fit.

    Signed,

    Your loyal friend.¡¯

    Hu Dengxiao opened and closed his mouth. Where could he even begin with this story? How could he even spin the lies to conceal the Crown Prince¡¯s actions? What could Hu Dengxiao say at this moment to save the Crown Prince?

 Chapter 498 A Female Commander

    <h4>Chapter 498 A Female Commander</h4>

    Even Hu Dengxiao did not know what to say. He was not aware of these letters. And who delivered those letters? Had the Crown Prince been cheating on him? Which other servant was he ordering to do these pesky tasks?

    "Y-you see, Princess..." Hu Dengxiao stuttered out. He scratched the back of his head, kicking himself to hurry up and say something.

    The long silence was not helping his case at all. But what could he say at a time like this? The letters were incriminating. They made it seem as if the Crown Prince had specifically ordered the very things that could ruin his Wangfei.

    ¡¯Your loyal friend.¡¯

    Who exactly was that?

    "I see," the Crown Princess coldly said. She pulled the letter away from his face and rose to her feet.

    "So, this is how it is." Li Xueyue could not believe she had allowed herself to be tricked to this extent. How had she not seen it sooner?

    Eat this. Eat that. Was this why he was pressuring her to eat so much? So that the infertility poison would go undetected when ingested in small amounts? So that she could be childless for the rest of her life?

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes blurred with tears. What had she been thinking all this time? She had sobbed in his arms, cried her heart out, and soughtfort in the hands of the very person out to get her.

    "Princess, please let me exin," Hu Dengxiao hurriedly said. He could see she was beginning to draw her own conclusions. It seemed the Crown Princess was not very different from Lu Tianbi, who loved to think the worst in every situation.

    "The recipient of the letters might not be the Crown Prince," Hu Dengxiao rushed out. He needed to reason with her, or else, hell would break loose.

    "For example, these letters could¡¯ve been intercepted or stolen from somewhere or someone. Like¡ª"

    "I don¡¯t want to hear of it."

    "Princess¡ª"

    "Go and fetch the townspeople."

    Hu Dengxiao faltered at her voice. It was lifeless andmanding. Stern and unyielding, she had the determination of a female Commander. He could picture it vividly.

    Seated tall and proud on a horse, a sword raised to the crimson sky, as crows cawed, and the grounds trembled as soldiers marched onwards to the battlefield. He could picture her leading the army, a vicious sword swinging through bodies, as heads flew.

    The Crown Princess was furious, more than she was heartbroken.

    "And where shall you be, Princess?" he asked. Realizing how rude the question was, he quickly rified.

    "After your wishes are fulfilled, where shall I go to inform you?"

    "You¡¯ll see."

    Hu Dengxiao wondered if she always spoke in circles like this.

    "You¡¯re excused, Advisor Hu."

    Hu Dengxiao was always quick to fulfillmands. He would do it with slightints, but he was swift on his feet. However, today was very different. He was reluctant to leave this room.

    He was worried that something drastic would happen once she was gone from his sight. An angered woman was an unpredictable thing. What was she thinking? What would she do next?

    "Once again, please let me exin¡ª"

    "There is no need, Advisor Hu." The Crown Princess smiled, but it did not reach her eerily cold eyes.

    Hu Dengxiao shuffled on his feet. He could not find a way to stall time. Convincing a woman to calm down was not his specialty. From getting frequent smacks here and there from Lu Tianbi, he would know. Each time he tried to calm her down, it would only make things worse.

    And in this moment, Hu Dengxiao did not want to risk that. With great reluctance, he bowed his head.

    "As you wish, Princess."

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen rested his chin on a propped up arm. He was seated on the staircase, legs spread, and eyes set forward in boredom. No one knew of the existence of this ce except the very people that built it. Too bad they were long dead under mysterious circumstances.

    Yu Zhen had kept his mouth shut, and anger at bay when Hu Dengxiao came in. It would be too risky to speak and continue pounding at the door.

    He heard muffled noises in the background, before silence ensued.

    What had happened?

    Yu Zhen raised his head to the cer door. A while ago, he heard a loud plop above him. Did she sit down on the floor? She better not. He would scold her for it. There was a perfectly fine chair right in front of the desk.

    What were they talking about?

    "I can¡¯t hear anything," Yu Zhen bit out. Their voices were muffled, and she spoke softly, almost as if she didn¡¯t want him to hear anything. Hu Dengxiao was also too far from the desk for his words to be audible.

    "Any day now..." Yu Zhen muttered as they continued to talk for heaven knows how long.

    Suddenly, there was a silence.

    Oh?

    Yu Zhen rose to his feet, wondering what had happened. Did Hu Dengxiao finally leave? Finally. He had grown tired of waiting down here, not making a single noise.

    But then, he heard nothing. Not even a single footstep. He expected to hear the lock clicking as she let him out.

    It seemed his Wangfei did not mind locking him down here. Yu Zhen shook his head at her wicked thoughts.

    "I suppose she learned from the best." Yu Zhen hoped he did not influence her too much. Though, it was intriguing to see her in action. It was a shame she was always blinded by her stupidpassion.

    Yu Zhen sauntered down the staircase and towards thest bookshelf. He reached for the spot where the candle had stopped burning. Lifting the candle, he dug around the hollow spot until his fingers grazed upon a round stone.

    "Tsk, she should¡¯ve expected this." Yu Zhen lifted the stone and took out the key that was hidden underneath it. He had ced four spare keys in the entire room, in the event that he was locked inside.

    "Now, when I get my hands on her..."

    He walked back to the staircase and inserted the key. He twisted it, as the door unlocked with a tiny click.

    Yu Zhen pushed the door open, as light flooded his vision. He squinted irritably. He hated the morning sun the most. It was obnoxiously bright.

    Yu Zhen hated how the Emperor was identified as the blessed son of Heaven, and the very embodiment of the Sun, for it was an existential tool in the world.

    Soon, he would have to inherit that title.

    "I preferred the moon much more." Yu Zhen closed the cer door and watched in satisfaction as it merged into the floor. With a rug strategically ced near the chair, it would be practically impossible to notice this secret door.

    Yu Zhen slipped the key into his drawer and noticed the crumbled letters on the desk. His eyes narrowed into slits.

    Picking it up, he scowled. Did Hu Dengxiao go through his stuff? He knew better than that.

    There was only one person left. Li Xueyue.

    Yu Zhen cursed. This would not look good, for either of them. And he already knew what was running through her mind.

    It was true.

 Chapter 499 Tell Me

    <h4>Chapter 499 Tell Me</h4>

    Yu Zhen walked down the hallways in search of Li Xueyue. With the letters in hand, he was ready to give her an exnation. His Wangfei was the type to jump to conclusions, and he¡¯d prefer if she didn¡¯t.

    "Where did the Crown Princess walk off to?" Yu Zhen somberly asked a guard.

    "Your Highness, the Crown Princess was seen strolling down the corridor to the right."

    Yu Zhen brushed past his men. It was time to hunt a lovely rabbit.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue had made up her mind. The Empress had already decided her allegiance.

    Li Xueyue refused to risk any more time to convince the Empress. First, she would ruin Lady Ge, then she would personally deal with Marquis Qin. She recognized the neat handwriting on the letters. It was definitely Marquis Qin¡¯s letters.

    Li Xueyue wanted to think the best of Yu Zhen. She desperately tried to, but the letters were too incriminating. If Marquis Qin was not sending those letters to Yu Zhen, why was it open and neatly stacked on his desk? Why were they ced on top of a stack of nk parchment as if Yu Zhen would write a letter in response?

    "What kind of man have I married?" Li Xueyue whispered to herself, so low, that none of the maidservants heard it.

    Li Xueyue continued walking. By now, Hu Dengxiao would¡¯ve already sent out an order to gather the townspeople near the long, winding staircase that climbed to the Imperial Pce. The next task was bringing Lady Ge to the foot of the staircase.

    "There is no turning back now," she muttered under her breath.

    Li Xueyue took a final step before she heard a familiar set of footsteps behind her. That, and her impending doom. She turned on her heels and was surprised by the sight of Yu Zhen.

    Who the hell let him out?!

    Li Xueyue¡¯s face paled. She hadn¡¯t gathered her thoughts yet. She was not prepared to see him face-to-face this quickly. When her eyes met his, her heart plummeted. She could not bring herself to look at him any longer. Disgust filled her chest, as hatred burned in her heart.

    How could he do this to her?

    After all that she had been through, he was the one behind it all? Was Lady Xu Jiaqi just a scapegoat? How long had he nned this for? When did he n to tell her? Why was he trying to sabotage their future together?

    "Your Highness..."

    Servants and guards alike bowed deeply at the presence of the Crown Prince. A few seconds passed, and they did not receive permission to raise their heads. They were confused by this, but kept their position.

    "Leave us."

    The servants were puzzled by hismand. They were standing in an open space. Where could they leave? Nheless, the servants and guards warily took steps back, again and again, until at least ten steps were taken and they were out of earshot.

    "Get out of my sight," Li Xueyue instantly hurled out.

    "Well, that¡¯s one way to greet your husband."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. He always joked at the worst of times. What was humor going to do in a situation like this? It certainly did not brighten her mood. As a matter of fact, it infuriated her even further. The audacity that this man had!

    "By sunrise tomorrow, you will no longer be my husband."

    Yu Zhen was highly humored by her words. He took a threatening step closer, his lips curled into a sinister smile.

    "That is fine with me."

    She was astonished by his words, her eyes widening. Instantly, the small fire within her grew into a big one that could burn down the entire forest. If she could breathe fire, she would.

    Yu Zhen stalked towards her. She stood her ground and lifted her chin defiantly. It was all too endearing. She looked like she could stab him, and he¡¯d dly ept the wound.

    "But I must warn you, Sunshine," he softly murmured. "Husband or not, I will keep you in our estate."

    "You¡ª"

    "Husband or not, I will still love you."

    "I do not care¡ª"

    "Oh, but you will, when I forbid you from leaving the country."

    Li Xueyue looked up at him as if he had grown three heads. Was he out of his goddamn mind? "It takes a single letter for my brother to bring me out of Wuyi."

    Yu Zhen let out a bark ofughter. In the blink of an eye, he was in front of her.

    Li Xueyue felt like a demon was looming over her. He might as well have been one, with his freakish height and built.

    "I will have his head on a stick before he even sets foot in Hanjian."

    "You¡¯re crazy," she spat out.

    "Then, it¡¯s a good thing you love me." Yu Zhen reached a hand out. He seemingly was going to stroke her chin, but then changed his mind. He tightly gripped her chin. She winced in response, as he yanked her towards him.

    "You can divorce me all you want, Li Xueyue, but I will possess you, body and soul. Whether you like it or not, I will have you, and all of you."

    Li Xueyue felt like cold water was poured over her. Who exactly had she fallen in love with?

    "I will keep you chained in Hanjian, if I must. You will never leave me, not if I can help it."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced with uncertainty. Suddenly, she feared the man standing in front of her. Suddenly, she wanted to flee from him. He had never shown this side of him to her before.

    "Don¡¯t be so worried, Sunshine," he murmured.

    Yu Zhen brought an arm around her and gently tugged her close. He was hurt by her expression. Her face was scrunched in dismay, her gaze wavering, much like her love. He did not want her to fear him, but if that must happen for her to stay, then so be it.

    "I will never hurt you, Sunshine. You must know that." Yu Zhen released her jaw, and gently rubbed the sore spots.

    "You already have."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s chest prickled with guilt. "And do you think I am not hurt by your words?" he softly demanded, in a cold and irritated voice.

    Li Xueyue shoved him away. He was doing it again¡ªturning her own words against herself. "I don¡¯t want to fight with you, Yu Zhen. It would be best if we took the time of day to cool off."

    She turned on her heels and was prepared to walk off. But before she could even take the first step, he tightly gripped her wrist.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª" Her eyes widened when he yanked her into the room directly beside them.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue demanded as she pulled her hand back from him. But his grip was too strong, and she was always weak against him.

    Li Xueyue gasped when the doors were shut behind her. She turned around to see his hand wastched upon the knobs. If she wanted to leave, she¡¯d have to go through him.

    Even so, Li Xueyue pressed her back against the door, wishing to create distance between them.

    "You never got to throw tantrums as a child, so you love throwing them now," Yu Zhen deadpanned. "You¡¯refortable enough to do that with me, and I do not mind. But running from the problem will never bring any benefits, and you know that."

    Li Xueyue did not want to hear these unpleasant truths. His words wounded her more than any weapon could. She felt like a hypocrite, for she too, had disarmed him with the truth a few weeks ago. But he had epted it, unlike her, who was not ready to face the music.

    "We will talk about thister," Li Xueyue bit out. How many times did he n to cross the line? How many times will he choose to ignore her boundaries?

    "You¡¯re lucky I¡¯m patient of you, Sunshine."

    "And I appreciate that aspect of you, Yu Zhen."

    Yu Zhen scoffed at her words. He yanked the letters out of his sleeves and roughly waved it in front of her face.

    "What happened to telling each other what angered us?" Yu Zhen gritted out. "Each time we argue, it is because we kept something from each other."

    Li Xueyue recoiled at his words. When Li Xueyue was irritated, she could not think properly. Promises were long forgotten, when her emotions were out of control.

    "I did not tell you, because you will deny the truth. I don¡¯t want to be lied to twice," she muttered.

    Yu Zhen was instantly irked at her words. She had already chosen her side in this argument. She had already made up her mind, that her husband was a monster that tried to poison his own wife. Was this how she viewed him? As a monster?

    "Did you think I would deliberately try to kill our future?" Yu Zhen spat out.

    "Isn¡¯t that what the letter is trying to insinuate?" Li Xueyue cried out. Her chest prickled with guilt at raising her voice at him. She wanted to be calm, but he brought out the worst parts of her.

    "Why would you have these letters on your desk, Yu Zhen?" Li Xueyue rushed out. "Infertility poison? Is that what you have been putting in my food all along? Those bathing oils, did you tell Xu Jiaqi to give it to me?"

    Yu Zhen stared at her with astonishment. His brows were wrung together, and his lips were parted. There was a storm brewing over him. Abruptly, his sharp features morphed. A vivacious re was upon his face.

    "Is this how you think of me? You think I would intentionally harm you like this?!"

    "Then tell me!" Li Xueyue shrieked. "Tell me that these letters weren¡¯t meant for you! That you did not order Xu Jiaqi to pour poison into my bathing water and poison into my food. Tell me this wasn¡¯t your doing!"

    "I won¡¯t tell you of such a thing."

 Chapter 500 The Truth

    <h4>Chapter 500 The Truth</h4>

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes burned with tears. Not of sorrow, but of betrayal. What did he just say? Her heart was numb with pain, and her chest felt heavy. Who exactly was she in love with all this time?

    Li Xueyue struggled to say something. Her heart thundered in her ears. With a shaky hand, she tried to reach for the lock. She wanted to leave, to go back to Wuyi, and live her days out as a spinster. War could brew between Hanjian and Wuyi, but she knew the Li Family would protect her.

    Yu Zhen saw hope flee from her eyes. It was so evident that she did not trust him. No matter what he said from here on now, it would not go through to her. He was infuriated by how quickly she was swayed by some pesky letters.

    He tightly gripped her upper arm, his fingers digging into her skin.

    "I will not tell you of such a thing because, in your mind, you have already decided I am a monster of a husband who would harm his wife to such an extent," he growled out, his voice low and threatening.

    A single tear escaped Li Xueyue¡¯s eye.

    "You were never a monster in my eyes," she slowly said. "Until now."

    Yu Zhen let out a sinisterugh. He released her and took a step back. So this was how she wanted to behave.

    "Fine then."

    Li Xueyue felt his fingers graze hers, but her hand was already on the lock. All it took was a single twist for them to leave the room. And once they set foot outside, it would be thest time they see each other as husband and wife.

    "Move." His voice was soft, yetmanding.

    Li Xueyue did not understand him at that moment. She could not bring herself to. Her heart was shattered right there and then. Crumbled into dust, and trampled by him. Yet, why did she still want to believe him? Why did she still want to grab a hold of him, and hear his exnation?

    "Are you deliberately ying the viin? Or are you truly the viin?" she demanded.

    Yu Zhen stiffened at her words. He red down at her. Lips pressed, eyes burning, he was the epitome of fury incarnate.

    His eyes reminded her of a roaring river of ink during a stormy night¡ªsharp, cunning, and cruel. The words that were used to describe him were never kind. She was ensnared by him, her heart refused to let him go. He was an abyss, and she was so deep within it, there was no way out.

    "Tell me the truth once and for all. That¡¯s all I want, Yu Zhen."

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t want to voice his thoughts. She had already made up her mind. What was the point of telling her anything else? It was not like telling her the truth was going to convince her to change her mind.

    "And what truth do you want?"

    Li Xueyue ground her teeth. "Must you be so stubborn?"

    "I learned from the best," he snapped.

    Li Xueyue felt his fingers digging for the lock. She held onto his fingers and peered up at him withrge, questioning eyes.

    Yu Zhen could not look away. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, like stars on a rainy night. For the briefest second, his gaze softened. These were the very eyes he had fallen in love with.

    "I would never hurt you," was the only thing he said.

    Yu Zhen finally found the small metal piece that would unlock the doors. But her body was pressed against the door, and she refused to step aside.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "Move."

    "No."

    Yu Zhen glowered down at her. What was wrong with both of them this early in the damn morning?! He had already sliced through her with his lies, but she remained rooted to the ground. What was she doing?

    "Those letters, were they written to you?" Li Xueyue pressed on. Her heart quivered at the thought of his response. "I will admit, when I read those letters, I pinned the me on you."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. That was all that he needed to know. After all that he had done for her, she still saw the wrong in him. All the weeks and months of love turned into hatred in a snap of the fingers. Was it that easy for his hard work toe crumbling down like this?

    It was not fair.

    "But you¡¯re better than that," Li Xueyue whispered. "Right?"

    Li Xueyue dropped her hands, and let it fall to her sides. He could leave if he wanted to. "You said you wouldn¡¯t hurt me, but you¡¯re refusing to give me a proper response to a simple ¡¯yes¡¯ or ¡¯no¡¯ question. Why are you behaving like this?"

    "I¡¯ve told you before. Nothing I say or do will change your mind when you¡¯ve already deemed me a monster."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s clenched her fingers. "I¡¯ve always believed in every word you¡¯ve said to me. If it is uttered by you, then I will see the truth in it."

    Yu Zhen instantly opened his mouth, ready to list out a time that she did not believe his words. But there was none. Sure, they¡¯ve fought again and again, but it was not out of mistrust. When she disagreed with him, it was a sh of morals and ethics, but never trust.

    "So tell me once and for all," Li Xueyue repeated in a hardened voice. "Were these letters written to you?"

    Yu Zhen could not remember who ced those letters on his desk. He didn¡¯t even know it was there until he hade out of the cer doors. It was possibly delivered to him by either Lu Tianbi, or one of his men as evidence.

    Yu Zhen did recall sending out amand to find every single piece of evidence possible, about how Xu Jiaqi was able to get her hands on those bath oils. But the infertility potion was apletely different story.

    Despite that, he already knew to whom the letters were addressed to. He did not forget that Lady Ge Beining was the onlydy-in-waiting who demanded for Xu Jiaqi¡¯s beaten body to be taken down. Word of this incident had traveled to him.

    It was easy putting the pieces together. The letters were meant for Lady Ge Beining.

    "No, those letters were not written to me."

    Yu Zhen expected her to recoil. He expected her to look away in disbelief. He thought she would not trust him, for her anger dictated her thoughts.

    He believed she would hate him and always view him as a monster.

    However, she did not break away from his gaze. Instead, she forced a pained smile. Her brows crinkled in a grimace.

    "Was that so hard to tell me?" Li Xueyue asked. Her shoulders dropped and she hugged her stomach.

    "That was all you had to say, Yu Zhen," she added on.

    "And you believe me?" he shot back.

    Yu Zhen pried her hands away from her stomach and yanked her towards him. "Do you trust me?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s attention shifted to their hands. He was gripping her wrists, and she wriggled her hands out of it. A secondter, she entwined their fingers and widened her smile.

    "When have I never?"

    Yu Zhen let out a bark ofughter. "It was a yes or no question, yet you could not answer it," he referenced.

    Li Xueyue threw him a deadpanning look. They had just made up, well, tried to, but he was already attempting to start another fight.

    "Don¡¯t give me that look." Yu Zhen pushed the doors open from behind her and pulled her out of the room. He noticed the servants still had their heads bowed and eyes shut, but nothing would close their ears.

    "You¡¯re still dressed in my cloak," Yu Zhen pointed out. "Surely, you do not expect to be at the entrance of the pce in a nightgown?"

    Li Xueyue sharply gasped. She nced down and sure enough, she was still donning her night-dress. Fueled by rage, and burning with hatred, she had forgotten about her attire.

    Now, she awkwardly stood in the hallway. She was clothed, but felt naked. A strong breeze drifted through them. His cloak took flight, and instantly revealed her white dress for everyone to see, but no one dared to look.

    "Don¡¯t fret so much," Yu Zhen mused. "I will have the servants bring your outing attire, and you will get dressed here. No one will say anything. And if they do, they will be missing their tongue. Or head. Whichever you prefer."

 Chapter 501 Unhand Me

    <h4>Chapter 501 Unhand Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue had made up her mind. The Empress had made her allegiance clear.

    Li Xueyue refused to waste any more time convincing the Empress otherwise. The Empress had said she loved her children, but turned her back on her own son. The Empress had done this in the past, yet, she still did not learn her lesson.

    The wind howled. Lady Ge Beining¡¯s voice was drowned out as she was dragged before the entrance of the pce. Two tall, enormous pirs stood before them, reaching towards the heavens.

    "Unhand me!" Lady Ge Beining snapped as she roughly yanked her elbows away from the guards.

    Li Xueyue slowly turned her head. But she was not prepared to see Lady Ge Beining¡¯s current state. Yu Zhen had informed her the Thousand Needle poison would be excruciatingly painful. Despite that, Lady Ge Beining was still the most beautiful woman in the entire of Hanjian.

    Her skin was pale, her hair long and silky. However, her hair was not loosely styled. It was pulled back, with a variety of hairpins decorating it. It was more than what Lady Ge Beining usually wore.

    ¡¯Was she hiding something?¡¯

    "What is the meaning of this, Crown Princess?!" Lady Ge Beining demanded when she was yanked towards the pirs. "Have I wronged you that you must kick me out of the pce?"

    Li Xueyue finally saw the signs of wear and tear. Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes had lost its shine. There were grey eye-bags under her eyes, and the corner of her mouth had cuts. There were scratch marks on her neck that Lady Ge Beining desperately tried to hide with a high-neck cor.

    "The Empress is not here. You do not have to pretend to be innocent," Li Xueyue slowly said.

    "Crown Princess, this is an abuse of your power," Lady Ge Beining hoarsely said. She cleared her throat and tried to keep calm. But it was difficult. Her voice was weak and brittle. It was no longer smooth and soft. She had screamed for three nights straight and just saying a few words hurt her.

    "Once the Empress hears of this abomination, you will not be able to get away with it," Lady Ge added on. She refused to lose her control over the pesky Princess. So what if the Crown Princess had gathered her men here?

    What were they going to do? Strip her naked and force her to walk down the staircase? Over the Empress¡¯s dead body!

    "Think about it, Princess," Lady Ge Beining warned. "All of your hard work cane tumbling down over a wrong move."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. She surveyed their surroundings. They were surrounded by her people. Everyone here catered to her every whim. There was not a single person who would refuse her request.

    From the corner of her eyes, she saw Hu Dengxiao walking up to her. He was alone. It was as Li Xueyue nned. Yu Zhen was not supposed to be here anyway.

    "Just like you," Li Xueyue deadpanned. "All your years of servitude became nothing after what you did that afternoon."

    "You mean, after what was done to the both of us?" Lady Ge Beining instantly hurled out in a low, patient voice. She ced a chaste hand upon her chest and appeared offended by the Princess¡¯s insensitive words.

    "I was also a victim, Princess. Didn¡¯t you hear that I was also poisoned? By not only those men, but¡ª"

    "You fled from your own estate, instead of screaming for help, knowing my men were outside and ready to save both of us," Li Xueyue deadpanned.

    She took a daunting step closer, as her voice became awfully calm. She had reached beyond the point of anger. There was no going back now.

    "Do not y victim, when you¡¯re the viin."

    Lady Ge Beining flinched back. "Princess, you have to understand that if you were in my shoes, then¡ª"

    "Save the excuse for someone who cares."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s blood boiled. She ground her teeth and bit on her tongue. For a split second, she nearly called the Crown Princess a bitch. But that was exactly what this spoiled, haughty brat was. A fucking bitch.

    "Women hurting women," Lady Ge Beining spat out. "Is that what you stand for as the future Mother of this nation? Is this what you will do to your own daughters in the future?"

    "I wouldn¡¯t know," Li Xueyue softly said. "You killed my child before I even saw a face."

    It was a curveball. Li Xueyue had only said it as a bluff, to test Lady Ge Beining¡¯s reaction. And Lady Ge Beining gave Li Xueyue exactly what she wanted.

    Lady Ge Beining was pale. Her face went nk and her mouth went ck. Instantly, she changed her expression to disbelief and confusion.

    "Princess," Lady Ge Beining exasperated. "I understand you are still hurt from the actions of Lady Xu Jiaqi, but it is wrong to put the me on someone else!"

    Li Xueyue was tired of this conversation. From the corner of her eyes, she could see the townspeople lining the streets, curious about what the Imperial Pce would show them. Their bustling conversation was carried by the wind, and it sounded like the small hums of busy bees.

    "That¡¯s strange," Li Xueyue mused. "You did the same exact thing."

    "What are you talking about, Princess?" Lady Ge Beining cried out. She yed the role of an innocent white lotus too well. Her eyes were trembling as if she was trying to maintain herposure.

    The servants instantly pitied her. Especially because she was dragged before them, like some kind of prisoner. They had all remembered the whispers of Lady Ge Bening¡¯s kindness towards the maidservants. She treated them like family, and would always go out of her way to help them.

    "You imed to be great friends with Lady Xu, only to have her med for the bath oils."

    "No! That is not true!" Lady Ge Beining shrieked.

    "You im to care for your maidservants, only to let them be dragged away by the Empress and be whipped to death. You¡¯ve always ced the me on someone else, Lady Ge."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips curled into a frown. "And yet, you stand before me, attempting to ce the me upon an actual victim?"

    Lady Ge Beining was floored by the Crown Princess¡¯s words. Whispers instantly hummed through the air, as servants gossiped amongst themselves in disbelief. She nced at them with a taunt expression, her heart racing with anticipation.

    "That is enough, Princess!" Lady Ge Beining cried out. "I refuse to stand here and let you drag my name through the mud, all because you deem me as the only woman in the pce who can sway the Crown Prince!"

    Lady Ge Beining allowed her tears to flow. It was the first time she had ever cried in front of someone. And despite her sorrow, despite her wronged expression, she held her head high, never once lowering it for the Princess.

    "That¡¯s alright," the Crown Princess suddenly said. Her voice was soft and peaceful as if she was reading a bedtime story. "You don¡¯t have to continue standing here as I list out your sins that will tarnish your reputation."

    Lady Ge Beining recoiled at her words. She was taken by surprise, yet again, but did not believe in the Crown Princess¡¯s faux kindness.

    "W-what are you talking about, Princess?" Lady Ge Beining breathed out. She huped a bit whilst holding back a sob. She turned her shoulders a bit, seemingly hiding her tears from the maidservants.

    Lady Ge Beining was on edge. She saw the Crown Princess¡¯s slow, unsettling smile.

    "Oh, Lady Ge, don¡¯t you know?" The Crown Princess innocently tilted her head. Her smile widened, reaching her sharp, cunning eyes.

    Lady Ge Beining took a hesitant step backward. Suddenly, she wanted to run back into the Empress¡¯s arms. She was clearly outnumbered here. The Crown Princess was a bully. And she wore the title shamelessly.

    "Know what, Princess?" Lady Ge Beining whispered. She continued walking backward until she collided into a hard chest.

    Before she could move or say anything, hands grabbed her from behind. The Crown Princess¡¯s men had grasped her shoulders.

    Li Xueyue finally moved her hands that were tucked in front of her. She gestured to her right where the grand staircase of the Imperial Pce was.

    "You will no longer be standing before me, as your name gets tainted. Lady Ge, you will be walking down the Imperial Staircase, stark naked, as you taint your own name and reputation."

 Chapter 502 Strip

    <h4>Chapter 502 Strip</h4>

    The Empress thought she was still asleep and dreaming when she saw her second son standing in front of her estate. This unprecedented action caught her off-guard.

    Thest time he was anywhere near her estate was nearly a decade and a half ago.

    Back then, Yu Zhen was just a small boy, eager for the love of his mother. She still remembered his desperate expression, the wobble of his split lips, and the pain in his eyes. He had reached out for a hug, but at that time, the Empress had been busyforting the First Prince, who had also been beaten by the Emperor.

    "Yu Zhen," the Empress breathed out in shock. He was much taller than her now, and the little boy of the past no longer existed. She might as well have believed he died that day.

    The Empress could not recall why she had despised Yu Zhen as a child. But looking him in his dark, cruel eyes, she remembered exactly why. As a little boy, Yu Zhen was every bit his father. He had the features of the Empress, but the heartless eyes of his father.

    "What are you doing here?" the Empress slowly asked.

    The Empress should¡¯ve been infuriated by her son¡¯s actions. For the past three days, he had given his men instructions to secure Lady Ge¡¯s estate. No one was allowed to enter. No one was allowed to leave.

    The Empress had wondered if Lady Ge Beining was even alive. Three days with no food and water. Her poor daughter might as well have died from hunger and thirst!

    "Where are you headed to?" Yu Zhen demanded.

    The Empress¡¯s lips parted. Why did he want to know? As far as she could recall, her well-being had never been his priority. He refused to call her ¡¯Mother¡¯, refused to care about her, refused to learn of her hobbies and interests.

    What made him suddenly change his mind? It was all too suspicious. She could not fathom the thoughts running through his puzzle of a brain. No one could. And she wouldn¡¯t want to know either.

    Everyone knows Heaven would never open its gates to him. But Hell would wee him with open arms.

    "Lady Ge¡¯s estate. You had banned everyone from entering that ce, but the least I can do is check up on the condition of mydy-in-waiting," she sniped in an irritated voice.

    The Empress¡¯s fingers twitched. She had suddenly recalled a rumor that was running amok in the pce. The day after the Crown Princess was poisoned with aphrodisiac, battered servants of Lady Ge were publicly hanged to death in themon grounds in the servants¡¯ quarters. It did not take a genius to figure out why.

    "You were seen leaving Lady Ge¡¯s estate at the dead of the night. Care to exin?" the Empress daringly asked.

    When his lifeless gaze met hers, the Empress shivered. She could not fathom the fact that he was her son. She didn¡¯t want to believe she had given birth to a monster. How could she fear her own son? The very thing she had given life to was the one thing that could take her life.

    "If I tell you, then you will be bedridden for days."

    The Empress narrowed her eyes. She hated the fact that he was so tall, just like his damn father. In order to look at her own son in the eyes, she had to crane her neck.

    The sun shined upon him, but created haunting shadows on his sharp features. He had her beauty, but none of her grace.

    The Empress refused to think he came out of her. This was no man in front of her. This was no monster either. He was worse than that. He was a demon. Hundreds, if not, thousands of lives had ended because of him.

    "If you killed her," the Empress coldly muttered. "Then I will never, ever take the side of your Wangfei."

    "I couldn¡¯t care less about whose side you take," Yu Zhen mused. His lips curled into a sadistic smirk.

    The Empress scoffed. "Do not get so smug with me, Yu Zhen. Did you forget who controls the majority of the court? Have you forgotten who the ministers favor?"

    Yu Zhen cocked his head. His smirk widened. Amusement flickered in his eyes. "Your favored ministers will drop dead before they dare to oppose me."

    "Do you think your cruelty will not be met with punishments?" the Empress earnestly said. She red at her son with hatred burning in her eyes. She loved him dearly, but he always jabbed her where it hurt.

    The Empress still abhorred his coronation. She did not expect her least-favorite son would seize the throne with blood and iron smeared on his hands. The First Prince was too docile. If only he had fought more viciously when the Second Prince was in Wuyi courting his life away.

    "Soon, there will be riots in the pce, demanding your eradication. Murdering people left and right, servants or ministers, you will never walk away scot-free. The citizens of this nation will turn their backs on you when they hear of your crimes."

    The Empress took a threatening step closer to her son. She refused to give him the power to control her. For goodness¡¯ sake, she was his mother! The only reason that he was alive and well was because of her. He was only able to live this life, walk the earth, because of her.

    "You might be a war hero, Yu Zhen, but you are still a bloodthirsty murderer. Son of mine or not, I will turn my back to you if you darey a finger on Lady Ge!"

    Yu Zhen coldly chuckled. The soundcked warmth and sent chills down her spine. He saw her eyes tremble at the sound, her body nearly flinching despite hisck of action.

    "Go ahead," Yu Zhen muttered. "Tell your men to revolt against me. Command them to point their pitchforks, and tell their servants to bring the torches. I¡¯d love to see them burn down the pce you despise so dearly, yet desperately clung onto."

    The Empress¡¯s gaze burned vehemently. She wished a fire would start right before her, so she could burn him just as his words had harmed her. Who did he think he was?! This heartless son of hers!

    Sometimes she forgot that he was even her son. He certainly did not treat her as a mother. And at some point, she stopped treating him as a son.

    "And the citizens?" the Empress shrilled. Her voice began to rise with each word. Her patience for him had dwindled. Suddenly, she did not regret her treatment towards him as a kid. Perhaps, even if she had thoroughly loved him as a mother, he would still turn out to be the same monster.

    "Do you think they will stand to have a murderer ruling their country? When they witness the blood that flows from the Imperial Staircase, do you truly believe they will thank the high heavens to have you sitting on the throne?"

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t even blink. The words of the Empress would never faze him. He had stopped caring about her opinion for years. He would not start now.

    "If you continue to be like this, killing people who oppose you, torturing innocent people who state the truth, and hurting anyone that dare to gossip, the citizens will turn their back on you, just like the entire pce."

    The Empress was certain she had cornered him with her words. She wanted to see him falter, and fear for his position. She was waiting patiently for the day he would plead for her help, plead for her guidance.

    But none of that happened.

    His lips had curled into a slight smile. The atmosphere thickened. His presence darkened. He was not fazed at all.

    "The citizens will not have time to start a rebellion," he remarked.

    The Empress feared she would die early. Her blood pressure was rising with every passing second she spoke to him. It took everything inside of her to not p the smugness out of his face. He was her son, the least he could do was show some decency and respect.

    "And what makes you think they¡¯re not nning a rebellion as we speak?" the Empress bit out.

    What makes this heartless son of hers so confident? He had not done a single good deed for the citizens. He had never done any charity work, never shown thempassion. What makes him think the country did not despise him?

    So what if he had made Hanjian flourish in the short time of his regime? The First Prince could¡¯ve done the same. The Crown Prince might¡¯ve been a Commander, but it was a title achieved through manughter.

    Yu Zhen darkly chuckled. "The citizens would be too busy celebrating over their lowered taxes, the increased funding towards orphanages, and schools being built for their sake."

    The Empress¡¯s smile slipped. In her haughtiness, she had forgotten the kind-hearted woman standing by his son. She had forgotten the one person in this entire pce who said his name with ease.

    The pieces were settling into ce now.

    The Empress had always wondered why Yu Zhen was enamored by the Crown Princess. She waspassionate for the wrong things. Even if the pce frowned upon the Crown Prince, the country will smile for his Wangfei.

    "You.... you..." the Empress struggled to say something. The rug was just yanked from underneath her. She was not prepared for this.

    In her moment of rage, she had forgotten about the Round Table Discussions. She had nearly forgotten the Crown Princess¡¯s inspiring victory, the determined glint in her eyes, and her confident smiles.

    "Did you..." the Empress narrowed her eyes. "Did you n this from the very beginning? To marry a charitable woman who would bnce out your barbaric regime?"

    Instead of responding, the Crown Prince merely shrugged his shoulders.

    The Empress opened her mouth to say something, but changed her mind at thest minute. Reprimanding him was of no use. It was time to change her tactics.

    Unfortunately, before she could utter another word, his attention was already elsewhere. A servant was rushing down the corridor.

    At the sight of the Crown Prince, the maidservant held back a shriek. She dropped to her knees and instantly kowtowed before the powerhouses of the Imperial Pce.

    "Your Grace, Your Highness!" the maidservant hurriedly greeted them.

    The Empress narrowed her eyes. Her servants were all trained to beposed and wless. For them to rush like this, yet again, must¡¯ve meant Lady Ge was involved. She took a tenacious step outside of her estate, but was blocked by her son.

    "What are you doing?" the Empress demanded.

    "And you!" the Empress red down at the maidservant. "Hurry up and speak. What is the issue?"

    The maidservant violently shook in her shoes. She was terrified of lifting her gaze, anding eye-to-eye with the Crown Prince. The images of the headless servants haunted her too much.

    She was frightened that he would kill her for delivering this message. The Crown Prince was the type to kill the messenger.

    Even so, the maidservant couldn¡¯t disobey the orders of the Empress. The maidservant was stuck between a rock and a hard ce.

    "Your Highness, Your Grace... L-Lady Ge, she is b-being forced to strip naked in front of the entire country!"

 Chapter 503 Failed Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 503 Failed Marriage</h4>

    The Empress let out a smallugh. For a brief moment, her eyes widened in disbelief. She forced a smile, as if her own ears had tricked her. She could not wrap her head around the words she had just heard from the maidservant.

    Lady Ge was being forced to do what? Strip? Before the entire nation? In what realm would that happen?

    "What did you just say?" the Empress asked the maidservant in a light and airy voice. She wondered if it was time to get her ears checked by the Imperial Physician. They were failing her together.

    The maidservant¡¯s trembling intensified. She couldn¡¯t even see the ground despite being so close to it. Her lips wobbled as she attempted to stutter out the same message.

    "L-Lady Ge is being forced to take o-off her clothes near the entrance of the I-Imperial Pce... It¡¯s spected that she will be forced to walk down the steps naked, Y-Your Grace..."

    The Empress nearly copsed from the shocking news. She grabbed onto the door frame for stability. Her heart wildly drummed in her chest, drowning out all sounds For a split second, everything was blurry and it didn¡¯t feel like reality.

    The next thing she knew, the Empress had fully stepped outside of the door. However, she was not able to advance forward. Yu Zhen blocked her path. His formidable presence loomed over her, highlighting the slight smile on his face.

    "What are you doing? Get out of my way, you unfiliah son of mine!" the Empress shrilled.

    The Empress had finallye to her senses. Lady Ge Beining needed her help more than ever. And the Empress had sworn to protect the one and only daughter of Lady Lin.

    "And if I don¡¯t?" Yu Zhen mused.

    Yu Zhen had rarely seen the Empress this flustered. It was all too amusing for him. Even when he was beaten and bruised, the Empress did not shed a tear.

    She simply turned on her heels and demanded him to be cleaned. But when a useless maiden of no blood connection to the Empress was harmed, she¡¯d dash out of her estate and abandon all etiquette.

    The irony of this situation fueled his hatred for her.

    "I know you are as sadistic as His Majesty, but I had hoped you would inherit some good traits of mine!" the Empress hissed. She grabbed onto his elbow, like a mother pulling her son to the side.

    "You will step aside right this instant," the Empress demanded. Her voice was low andmanding. All she needed was a sword and an armor to y the part of a determined knight, ready to save a damsel-in-distress.

    "Or else what?" Yu Zhen chuckled. He was humored by her pathetic attempt of controlling him.

    Nothing in this world would force him aside. Not even the Empress¡¯s guards who took threatening steps forward. Despite the dangers that loomed in the shadows and the promise of death, the Empress¡¯s galiant soldiers advanced towards the defenseless Commander. Crown Prince or not, he was alone and without a servant.

    It was twenty armed men against a single man. What could possibly go wrong?

    "I might not be able to hurt you, nor have the heart to," the Empress gritted out. Her eyes flickered with hatred. "But there are more ways than one to get to a man, especially the likes of you."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips spread into a slow, humored smile. He could no longer restrain it. The Empress was quite the jokester. She should consider joining the traveling circus since she was already ying the part of a fool.

    "If you think hurting my wife will hurt me," Yu Zhen said and chuckled. "Then I wee you to try."

    The Empress¡¯s brows shot up in disbelief. What did he just say? She could not fathom the words that came out of his mouth.

    Everyone knew the Crown Prince loved his wife. So much so, that they rarely spend nights apart.

    When his Wangfei was around, Yu Zhen was always seen with a ghost of a smile. Even when the Crown Princess did nothing but walk, Yu Zhen would be smiling at her. Pure adoration would drip from his eyes, as he affectionately touched her.

    It was known by everyone in the pce that the Crown Prince had eyes for no one but his wife. And some even spected that he¡¯d marry her in every single lifetime possible.

    "You¡ª" The Empress forced herself to calm down. She refused to lose herposure in front of her own children, especially someone as unruly as Yu Zhen.

    The Empress realized her son enjoyed taunting her. Enjoyed seeing her riled up with anger, as steam blew from her nose, and hatred danced in her eyes.

    "Like father, like son," the Empress finally said. She had made up her mind that her son was no different than the Emperor. Except, she had given birth to this monster standing before her.

    The Empress had never once regretted giving birth to any of her children. There were times that they had displeased her, irritated her, and disappointed her, but in the end, she loved them all, in her own, sick, twisted way.

    But Yu Zhen...this wild child of hers, made her question her sanity when the thought of smothering him with a pillow crossed her mind when he was just a kid. When their eyes met, she realized why. He had the heartless eyes of the Emperor.

    "Women are just pawns to you, aren¡¯t they?" the Empress breathed out. "It is exactly what your father believed."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s jaw ticked.

    The Empress reeled in a victorious smile. Her son thought he was high and mighty. He relished in hisck of weakness. But she knew to jab him where it hurt.

    The Empress knew what he despised the most. And it was the Emperor, who trained Yu Zhen into the heartless monster he was today.

    "You know," the Empress slowly said. "You have his eyes. Which is no surprise, for you view everything through his perspective."

    The Empress revealed her hand. It was pale and soft from a life of luxury. She lowered one finger and began tormenting Yu Zhen with her words.

    "You can deny it all you want," the Empress mused. "You have be who you vowed to destroy."

    She lowered another finger, leaving three standing. "I can already imagine it now. You will sell your daughters away for alliances, just as he has done."

    The Empress sadistically smiled when his eyes darkened. Yet, he did not deny it. She lowered two fingers, leaving the pinky standing. "Your children will despise you, fear you, and never love you, for no one can ever love a murderer like you."

    The Empress lowered the pinky. "And who knows? Once your children have learned of your crimes, they will turn their backs on you. A galiant one will plot your murder, another will wish you suffered from an illness, and the other will celebrate your death."

    She slowly shook her head, as if disappointed by him. "Eventually, you will walk in the same footsteps as your father, and suffer even up until yourst moments."

    A thundercloud drifted over Yu Zhen¡¯s head. His expression was vicious. The smile was wiped from his face. His eyes were darkened and dangerous, like that of a beast.

    The Empress never liked seeing her children in pain, especially Yu Zhen. It was why she would always turn her back to his injured body, as a little boy. She could not stomach their wounds.

    However, just this once, she felt a strange sense of satisfaction from hurting him. Perhaps, this was the only way he would learn. This was the only way she could discipline him, as a mother always does for their children. The truth hurt, and he knew that most.

    "And in the end," the Empress mused. "You will suffer the same failed marriage. Soon, that little Wangfei of yours will realize your cruelty knows no bounds, and she will try to find every excuse to flee back to Wuyi."

    The Empress¡¯s lips twisted into a smirk. "Oh right, I heard she is already missing home. And you two have been married for less than a year."

    She took an elegant step forward. Her shoulders were squared back as she lowered her hand and tucked it in front of her.

    The Empress lightly chuckled. "I suppose history will repeat itself, for heaven will never smile upon a sinner like you."

 Chapter 504 Mercy

    <h4>Chapter 504 Mercy</h4>

    Li Xueyue did not believe she had it in her to be this evil. But there were some things that could never be forgiven. This time, Lady Ge Beining had crossed all the lines. There was no going back now.

    Tongues wagged and news about what happened to Lady Ge Beining spread far and wide in the pce. Servants passing by would stop and stare in sheer horror and anticipation. It was such a bewildering scene that they could hardly believe their eyes. They blinked and rubbed their eyes and doubted their vision.

    Lady Ge Beining was in tears. It was the first time anyone had ever seen her shed tears which glistened like crystals. They witnessed her choked sobs, her trembling shoulders, it was an unbelievable sight.

    Their eyes roamed to the Crown Princess, who was now viewed in a different light.

    "Did you hear?" someone whispered. "The Crown Princess believes Lady Ge Beining should be punished for running away from the intruders."

    "Well, if I was in the Crown Princess¡¯s shoes, I would want her punished too. She ran away when they needed help."

    "Even so, don¡¯t you think this punishment is too cruel?"

    Chimes of agreement rang among the servants. "Yeah, I suppose you¡¯re right. I heard Lady Ge was also poisoned with the aphrodisiac drug as she was fleeing...that means she¡¯s also a victim, right?"

    Another round of consensus echoed in the crowd.

    "But who knows? Maybe she drank the aphrodisiac to look innocent. Why did she have to run, when the guards were just outside?"

    Every pair of eyes snapped to a lone servant who stood by the pirs. She wore a veil, and no one could distinguish who she was. They wondered if it was Xiao Hua, but upon closer inspection, noted her eyes didn¡¯t resemble the former¡¯s.

    "Princess, please!"

    Every pair of eyes snapped to Lady Ge. She was on her knees, as maidservants yanked at her clothes. The servants pitied Lady Ge, who had incurred the wrath of the Crown Princess.

    Many servants could not believe the Crown Princess to be this cruel. People have whispered of her kindness towards Xiao Hua, and her surprise visit to the servants¡¯ quarters to check on thetter. Others have mentioned how well-tempered she was, and that she¡¯d rarely raised her voice or punish someone.

    It was strange to see the kind-hearted Princess be so cruel. Was this going to be just a one-time thing? Or had the incident hardened her heart? The people feared the Crown Princess had let her power get to her head.

    "It is not toote to stop this, Princess!" Lady Ge Beining demanded as she shoved and dodged the hands that grabbed at her clothes. She felt the firstyer being yanked to her waist, as another rushed for the otheryer.

    Li Xueyue simply watched as Lady Ge was stripped bare, from her waist up. Even when Lady Ge¡¯s pale skin was revealed, Li Xueyue did not tear her eyes away from the woman.

    Her eyes were cold and emotionless. She wore an aloof expression that revealed nothing. Was she upset by this sight? Was she pleased by the punishment? No one could tell.

    "Proceed."

    The maidservants yanked Lady Ge Beining to her feet, as the men gawked and the women admired her perfect body. Even so, people ufortably shifted in anticipation.

    Lady Ge Beining squeezed her eyes shut as she sobbed out in fear. She hung her head low. Her cheeks burned with humiliation. She could literally see her reputation trampled into dust.

    There was noing back from this. Now that the entire pce had seen her naked, their perspective of her would change. This embarrassment would be etched into her mind, for the rest of her life.

    Even though her chastity was not vited, it might as well have been. Her body was exposed for everyone to see.

    "Don¡¯t you havepassion?!" Lady Ge demanded as she felt a servant tug at the belt that held her clothes together. Initially, she was only naked from the waist up, but now, she waspletely unclothed.

    Soon, her legs trembled from the cold, and her knees gave out.

    Lady Ge was as naked as the day she was born.

    "I will not kill you, nor have men rape you, because I will not stoop to your level," the Crown Princess softly uttered.

    Lady Ge was suddenly reminded of the Crown Prince¡¯s words. Except, this time, it was delivered in a feminine tone.

    "But I will make you wish you were dead."

    Lady Ge¡¯s blood chilled. Did...the Crown Prince put his wife up to this? Did he want her publicly humiliated to this extent? Was the poison not enough?!

    Lady Ge Beining hasn¡¯t lost faith in the Crown Prince. She willingly epted the punishment of being poisoned by him, for he was the one who delivered it to her. He could¡¯ve had a servant do it, but didn¡¯t. He personally came to see her, and that thought alone had reassured her.

    She was still guing his thoughts, whether he liked it or not.

    But the reality was cruel. And soon, she was brought back to it.

    "Now, walk."

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s cheeks burned all the way to her ears. She was shivering in the cold, as goosebumps marked her perfect skin. She heard the low whistle of the servants, the wandering eyes of the soldiers, and the burning gazes of the townspeople below.

    Lady Ge Beining had been killed twice in one week. But she refused to die a third time by walking down the stairs.

    For the first time in her life, Lady Ge Beining lowered onto her knees for a woman other than the Empress.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s body did not sway, even when Lady Ge desperately clung onto her shins.

    "Princess, please, I beg of you, havepassion!" Lady Ge Beining sobbed out, as she hung her head in shame. Her hair flowed like curtains that shielded her face. But everyone knew, she was crying. The tremble of her shoulders and her asional sobs were a constant reminder that she had been wronged.

    "I was wrong, Princess. I was wrong for running away, for being a coward, for choosing myself over you. I was wrong, and I shall admit that!"

    Li Xueyue stood there, rooted as a tree, unmoving as a mountain. She remained still and looked ahead. Whispers erupted in the background. A few chastised her, others admired her, and some questioned her action.

    "I will not do it again, I swear to you, Princess. I s-swear that I will pledge allegiance to you, and to use my life to shield you from harm! I swear on it!"

    Li Xueyue realized Lady Ge had reached her breaking point. For a prideful woman like her to beg in public, and in front of the entire pce, it was not an easy feat.

    But for the loss of her unborn child, for triggering her trauma, Li Xueyue did not bat an eye.

    "So please, Princess, I beg of you, do not kill me like this, please!" Lady Ge Beining wailed out, as her entire body began to shake from her huping cries.

    Lady Ge Beining was desperately gripping onto the skirts of the Crown Princess. Her pail, thin wrists were on disy for everyone to see, much like her rib cage. She had the silhouette of a graceful swan, nimble and beautiful.

    Even so, no amount of poise and elegance could shield her embarrassment. Everyone had seen what a pitiful creature she had be. Everyone had seen her naked body. There was no recovering from this.

    Indeed, the Crown Princess was right. For a woman, this punishment was worse than death.

    "Please..." Lady Ge Beining whimpered. "Please show me mercy."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heartpletely froze over.

 Chapter 505 Wild Spiri

    <h4>Chapter 505 Wild Spiri</h4>

    "Mercy?" Li Xueyue sharply repeated. She reached down and harshly yanked Lady Ge Beining¡¯s jaw up.

    Though Lady Ge Beining winced in pain, she could not tear her eyes away from the Crown Princess. Gold and gems glistened off of the Crown Princess¡¯s hairpins, a halo of wealth. But her eyes were anything but heavenly. It was a ringlet of fury, a circle of fire, a me so bright that even the ocean could not put out.

    "Would you have shown my child mercy?"

    "I¡ª"

    "Would you have shown my maidservant mercy?"

    "Princess¡ª"

    Li Xueyue tossed Lady Ge Beining back onto the ground. Her hair swayed, strands covering her face.

    "Would you have shown me mercy?"

    Lady Ge Beining could not speak. Her limbs trembled with shock, her eyes wide. Never. She would¡¯ve never shown anyone mercy¡ªnot in this lifetime, not in the next.

    Even if it would tear her apart on the inside, she refused to yield. She had already chosen to walk down the darkest of paths. There was no point in looking back or wondering if it was not toote to face the light.

    It started with the poisoning of the Imperial Consort with her own hands to get into the Empress¡¯s good books. Then it was implicating Lady Xu, who got punished for doing her dirty work, all to harm the Crown Princess. How many people must be hurt for her dreams toe true?

    Tears burned in her eyes, but she raised her chin in defiance.

    "I would have shown you mercy, for I have thepassion of an Empress, unlike your sinister nature," Lady Ge Beining bit out.

    Li Xueyue had never seen anyone so shameless. She always knew Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes were set on the Crown Prince, but it never crossed her mind that Lady Ge wanted more than that. She was not just eyeing the position beside Yu Zhen as his wife, but the position of power beside his throne.

    Li Xueyue could not help but ask, "What is the point of bing the Empress if you sit upon a throne of skulls?"

    Lady Ge Beining narrowed her eyes. It was none of the Crown Princess¡¯s business. Even so, she could not help clench her fingers into a fist.

    Lady Ge Beining loved the Crown Prince. But she also loved the power that came with the title as his Wangfei. The sky was their limit, and there would be no one that she had to serve. No one that she would have to throw her patience away for.

    And finally, her mother¡¯s soul would rest in peace.

    "And why do you want to be the Empress?" Lady Ge Beining returned. "When everything is handed to you?!"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips parted. All along, all she desired was a simple life, surrounded by the people she loved and cared for. All she wanted was to be by the side of the one person who would love her unconditionally.

    Yu Zhen had been there for her through thick and thin¡ªthrough her nightmares, her terrors, and her tears. Even after witnessing the mountain of issues that she carried with her, Yu Zhen continued offering his hand to her.

    Li Xueyue initially did not want to be the Empress, but she knew it was the only way she could keep him in her life. Li Xueyue did not think there was a purpose in her life until she saw the conflicts in Hanjian¡ªuntil she personally witnessed the cries of the voicelessmoners who suffered.

    "Don¡¯t pretend to be the victim here. Everything has been handed to you, Lady Ge," Li Xueyue slowly said. "From your pretty dresses, the maidservants, and luxurious lifestyle you lived. You did not work for it."

    Lady Ge Beining was immediately offended. It was the straw that broke the camel¡¯s back. The Princess knew nothing of her suffering.

    "And what do you know?!" Lady Ge cried out. "You were not there when I had my wild spirit forced out of me through discipline and etiquette. You¡¯re not the one living in the shadows of her dead mother, you¡¯re not the one serving the Empress. You¡¯re not the one with blood on her hands for the Empress¡¯s sake!"

    Li Xueyue was thunderstruck. What was Lady Ge Beining saying?

    Immediately, whispers arose. What did Lady Ge mean by blood on her hands? Did the Empress make her favoritedy-in-waiting do something sinister?

    "Could it be..."

    "Who would¡¯ve thought the innocent face Lady Ge was actually this evil?"

    "Do you think it¡¯s murder?"

    Lady Ge¡¯s face paled. She pped a hand over her mouth, not believing her wrath had caused her to have a slip of tongue.

    "Hah, it seems Lady Ge actually despised Her Benevolent Grace, the Empress all along. Lady Ge¡¯s etiquette was taught by the Empress, which is something that every woman dreamed to have...yet Lady Ge makes it seem like a punishment."

    Lady Ge trembled in fear. She did not mean to let everything slip out. All of her bottled and pent up emotions had surfaced in the heat of the moment.

    Before she could say anything else to defend her honor, a haunting chill crawled down her spine. Her head snapped to the side.

    The Empress had set foot into the za.

    "Y-Your Grace," Lady Ge Beining stuttered out. She rattled her jumbled thoughts for something to say.

    It was unlike her to lose herposure like this. It was unlike Lady Ge to not know what to say. She had been trained too much as a child for all of her efforts to fail now.

    "I... I..." Lady Ge Beining could not say anything else. She had lost not only her dignity, but also her backer.

    If possible, Lady Ge Beining was killed twice in one day. She peered up at the Empress, whose nk expression said everything. The Empress¡¯s eyes, which were always cold and stern, were filled with disgust.

    "So, this was how you felt about me," the Empress softly said. She had finally managed to get the Crown Prince to step aside.

    The Empress had rushed to Lady Ge Beining, abandoning all sorts of etiquette, just to save her. She had already conjured an argument inside of her head, and insults towards the Crown Princess. Her mind was already set on defending Lady Ge.

    All of her endeavors went to waste.

    "No, Your Grace, that is not what I meant¡ª"

    "I know exactly what you meant, Lady Ge."

    The Empress was hurt. She had given her all to raise Lady Ge Beining in the life that her mother wanted to live. She had given Lady Ge perfect education, a prestigious lifestyle, powerful acquaintances, and even a proper title. Yet, Lady Ge had the audacity to think of it as a curse, instead of a blessing.

    This ungrateful brat.

    "Your mother would¡¯ve been disappointed, Lady Ge," the Empress deadpanned. She too, was disappointed. Everything that the Empress had worked for felt like it was towards nothing.

    The Empress had drawn a line.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s mouth dried up. Not more than a few days ago, she was calling the Empress her mother. And the Empress had acknowledged her as a daughter. But now, out of all times, the Empress decided to disown Lady Ge.

    "Your Grace..." Lady Ge Beining trailed off, as she struggled to find something to say. It was not like she had deliberately revealed who was killed by the Empress!

    Lady Ge Beining had only vented her frustrations. Why was the Empress so petty? Surely, the Empress did not expect anyone not to have anyints towards her?

    The Empress¡¯s lips thinned. She could see theck of understanding in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s eyes. Lady Ge still refused to believe she was in the wrong.

    "Guards," the Empress sharply said. "It seems Lady Ge has lost her mind. Bring her to the Cold Pce so that she can think clearly."

 Chapter 506 A Life Without Regre

    <h4>Chapter 506 A Life Without Regre</h4>

    "Your Majesty!"

    The Emperor could barely open his eyes. His body felt heavy, and every joint in his body was aching. It took everything within him to turn his head towards the man desperately calling for his attention.

    Even so, he continued lying in bed, with his eyes peacefully shut. His arms were folded on his chest, almost as if he had already epted his impending death.

    The Emperor had given his everything into his country. His children spread their wings, and flew far from the nest. His purpose had been fulfilled.

    "Insolent!" Yu Lingluo seethed as she shot out of her chair in aggravation. Who had the audacity to disrupt the time she reserved for her father?

    Yu Lingluo ced the book on the nightstand. Turning on her heels, her brows shot up in surprise. Standing at the foot of the door, attempting to w his way into the bedroom, was Marquis Qin.

    "Your Majesty, please grant me this audience!" Marquis Qin pleaded. He struggled against the Imperial Guards posted outside the door, refusing to let him in. Several servants blocked him off, and even more Eunuchs stood in front of him.

    "Father, should we let him in?" Yu Lingluo warily asked.

    Yu Lingluo was aware that his father had stopped taking the pills supplied by the merchants. She did not know when that happened but knew it was because he had finally epted the toll of his illness.

    "Xiao Ling..." The Emperor heaved. Through his blurry vision, he saw the apple of his eye. She had been a filial daughtertely, reading him stories, and staying by his side and tending to him.

    "I¡¯m here, Father," Yu Lingluo instantly said. She settled back onto the chair and sped her hands upon his frail ones. Tears burned in the corners of her eyes.

    His hand was thinner than hers. It was just flesh and bone. There was no sign of the gentle palms that used to caress the top of her head.

    "Are you thirsty, Father? Hungry? Should we call for the Imperial Physician?" Yu Lingluo rapidly asked, worried that he was in even more difort than ever. Her heart ached at the sight of him, but she continued staying by his side.

    The Emperor gently smiled. "Continue...reading," he heaved out.

    Yu Lingluo¡¯s fingers trembled, her lips wobbling. She attempted to hold back a sob. For his sake, she swore to not cry. But it was so difficult seeing him like this.

    In her mind, her father was always a proud and powerful man. Yu Lingluo could still remember being carried in his arms as he took scenic walks with her through the gardens. She vividly remembered his loudughter, like the roar of a lion, whenever he found her hiding spot.

    "As you wish..." Yu Lingluo slowly released his hands. She picked up the book and began to read whilstpletely ignoring the bbering man outside.

    Soon, themotion was silenced. The sliding doors were mped shut, and the front entrance was no longer visible to Yu Lingluo.

    - - - - -

    Marquis Qin irritably stomped on the ground. "What is the meaning of this?!" he demanded after being shoved back.

    Marquis Qin was deeply offended by what had happened. He had traveled all the way from his empty estate to the Imperial Pce just to see the Emperor, yet was being turned away.

    Did these servants forget who supplied the Emperor his pills? Did they forget who was keeping the Emperor alive after all this time? Were they blind or were they stupid? It must¡¯ve been both!

    "I have deeply cared for His Majesty, our beloved Emperor of Hanjian, and fiercely served him with my entire being," Marquis Qin seethed. "There are urgent matters in regards to his medicine that I must discuss with His Majesty."

    Chancellor Wu cast Marquis Qin an irritable nce. He was tasked with maintaining the peace in the Emperor¡¯s estate. s, his high position was degraded to fulfill this lowly chore, but it was the least he could¡¯ve done for his dear friend, the Emperor.

    Chancellor Wu was embarrassed for Marquis Qin. The merchant must¡¯ve thought he was the only one with the power to bring those pills into the pce. Had he forgotten merchants were aplenty in Hanjian?

    "His Majesty is currently not epting any visitors," Chancellor Wu sternly said.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s eyebrows shot up. His lips impatiently curled, and he seemed to be on the verge of throwing a tantrum.

    "Why not?!" Marquis Qin demanded in a high-pitched voice. If he could, he would¡¯ve stomped his feet and threw something at the stone-faced Chancellor.

    Abruptly, Chancellor Wu was humored. He was reminded of his son, Wu Xiang, who was fond of throwing tantrums as well, but only in front of his wife. But it was strange to see a grown man that was nearly the same age as the Chancellor throwing a tantrum.

    "His Majesty is currently upied by his favorite Princess, Marquis Qin."

    "But this matter is in regard to the medicine that keeps His Majesty alive! Surely, the Princess can wait."

    Chancellor Wu didn¡¯t even bat an eye to this threat. The Emperor had stopped taking his medicine for a while now. Did the merchant not know that? But Chancellor Wu did not have the patience to exin it to this peasant disguised as a high lord.

    "Guards," Chancellor Wu suddenly said. "Escort this unruly merchant out of the Emperor¡¯s estate."

    Marquis Qin was baffled by this. He nched at the Chancellor who used to wait on his every whim and word. What exactly was going on?! Marquis Qin was always weed with open arms because of his extraordinary capabilities of securing every single good that his customer desired.

    Marquis Qin was not used to being treated unkindly. It had been years since he was turned away like this. Thest time that it had happened was when he was a young boy on the streets.

    "This is a serious matter that must be brought to His Majesty¡¯s attention!" Marquis Qin growled out. He had lost his patience a long time ago, ever since he found his wives gossiping about the absence of servants.

    "So?"

    It felt like dirty water was thrown on the Marquis¡¯s face. He had worked so hard to secure the medicine for the Emperor, yet, all of a sudden, his efforts were no longer acknowledged. Why was that?

    Before Marquis Qin could say anything, guards seized both of his arms. "Unhand me this instant!"

    Marquis Qin struggled against the guards, but even his buff arms could do nothing. He hade without servants or men of his own, for he did not have the money to continue employing them.

    Marquis Qin did not know how it happened, but his ships had been burned to ashes. He had been taking his anger out on his concubine from Wuyi when he had received the urgent news that his ships had been set on fire in the harbor, and no amount of water could put it out.

    "I can walk on my own!" Marquis Qin hissed as he attempted to wriggle away from the guards. He was infuriated at this treatment, but even more humiliated and embarrassed that lowborn servants of the pce were watching this unfold.

    It was worse when there was an audience.

    "Get him out of my sight," Chancellor Wu deadpanned. In an instant, the guards began to drag the Marquis away, screaming and kicking.

    Chancellor Wu apathetically watched as the Marquis was yanked around a corner and disappeared from view. Once the merchant was gone, he let out a sigh.

    "I am getting too old for this." Chancellor Wu had a life of his own to live now. His son, Wu Xiang had given him grandchildren, and the Emperor was dying. Any day now, the Emperor would draw hisst breath.

    When it happened, the Chancellor¡¯s duties would be fulfilled in court. It would be his time to retire, for that was what every man of the Wu Family did. They had served the Yu Family for centuries, and whenever the Emperor stepped down, so did their Chancellors.

    "I just hope..." the Chancellor trailed off, his voice dying in his throat. He was a stoic man of little emotions, but thinking about the death of his closest friend, even the Chancellor wanted to shed a tear.

    The Chancellor had grown up with the Emperor, much like Wu Xiang had with the Crown Prince.

    Turning upon his heels, the Chancellor pushed the doors open. He set foot inside of the Emperor¡¯s bedroom and forgot all the rules of etiquette and consequences that came with trespassing.

    Chancellor Wu did not set foot near the sliding doors that hid the Princess and the Emperor away from the world. But he had heard her soft, patient voice. Princess Yu Lingluo was young, but she was finally maturing now.

    Reading a bedtime story to her father, everything was turning full-circle now.

    "I just hope," Chancellor Wu gently murmured. "That you have lived a life without regrets, Your Majesty."

 Chapter 507 If Only I Kneq

    <h4>Chapter 507 If Only I Kneq</h4>

    Li Xueyue did not bat an eye when Lady Ge Beining was dragged to the Cold Pce, naked and all. Lady Ge Beining had kicked and screamed until eventually, she epted the defeat that came her way.

    Li Xueyue was more concerned about Yu Zhen¡¯s absence. When she was being dressed, he had informed her that he would distract the Empress froming here. He had stalled enough time for her to have Lady Ge stripped. But where exactly was Yu Zhen?

    "Are you satisfied now?"

    Li Xueyue spun on her heels. She was met with the cold, stoic voice of the Empress. The Empress¡¯s lips thinned into a line, and she seemed disappointed with Xueyue.

    "Satisfied that I¡¯ve caused a ruckus, Your Grace?" Li Xueyue responded. She peered over her shoulders, in the direction where Lady Ge was dragged off to.

    "Yes, not only have you caused trouble before the entire pce, I¡¯m certain the townspeople waiting in the streets will be restless and confused."

    Li Xueyue was well aware of the waiting townspeople. Originally, her n was to force Lady Ge to do a walk of shame but that n had gone haywire. However, the Empress did not know how much of an overthinker Li Xueyue was.

    "How did you know there were people waiting, Your Grace?"

    The Empress chuckled. "It does not take a genius to figure what your sadistic thoughts have conjured up, Princess."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s brows drew together. Sadistic? It hit a nerve. "I¡ª"

    "You have caused civil unrest for the people of Hanjian. What will you present to them now that your original n has been disrupted?"

    The Empress did not think the quiet and well-mannered Crown Princess possessed such a cruel mindset. For some reason, the Empress did not know if she shouldugh or cry at this. It was certainly a surprise, and if it was a different time, the Empress would¡¯ve weed this twist of events.

    "If I tell you, Your Grace, then it will ruin the surprise."

    The Empress was intrigued. She raised her brows and turned to the Crown Princess. The Crown Princess had an aloof expression on her face. However, a slight smile had graced her lips, softening her hardened eyes.

    "Really now?" the Empress mused. She wanted to know what other tricks the Crown Princess had up her sleeves.

    Li Xueyue turned to her maidservants. She held out a hand to the nearest one.

    Instantly, the maidservant tenderly ced a scroll on the Crown Princess¡¯s open palm.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her fingers around the scroll. She was always prepared for her n to fail. It was precisely what her brain was wired to do. Even now, she had not dropped the bad habit of thinking far into the unpredictable future, and nning for contingencies even if the likelihood of certain events happening was low.

    "A scroll?" the Empress pointed out. She watched as the Crown Princess handed the scroll to the nearest Eunuch.

    The Eunuch epted it with a bow of his head and two extended hands.

    "Announce this to the townspeople," Li Xueyue instructed.

    The Empress¡¯s lips parted in astonishment. She had not expected the Crown Princess to even have an announcement ready in case of failure. Just who exactly was this daughter-inw of hers?

    The Eunuch bowed deeper at the Crown Princess¡¯smand. His navy robes fluttered against the wind, as he set foot upon the Imperial Stairs. Quietly and stealthy, he descended the stairs.

    "What was inside of that scroll, Princess?" the Empress immediately asked. She was curious about what the Crown Princess had in store for the Capital.

    "An announcement about the increased funding for orphanages and the creation of more schools across the country, Your Grace."

    The Empress stiffened at the Crown Princess¡¯s words. She had nearly forgotten how charismatic the Crown Princess was when she single-handedly won against a table of men that ridiculed the opinion of a woman.

    Before the Empress could say anything, a strong breeze drifted through the air. She squinted as her hairpins jingled like bells. Panicked gasps were heard behind her as the maidservants held down their dresses.

    Amidst the storm, the Crown Princess remained calm. She peered up at the sky, watching as leaves fluttered. Softly, slowly, it danced in the air, a dance that no one appreciated.

    "You¡ª" the Empress could not bring it in herself to say anything else.

    Her chest suddenly felt heavy with pain. It was not an illness. She recognized this emotion. It was guilt and regret for choosing the wrong side.

    The Empress nced away from the Crown Princess. The Empress didn¡¯t realize she had just been admiring the young maiden¡ªnot until her heart was squeezed, and she was reminded of her youth.

    People had despised and ridiculed the Empress, for she was a foreign Princess on foreign soil. They did not believe in her potential to outshine every minister in the pce. They viewed her as nothing but a tool for heirs.

    "How..." the Empress trailed off. She was not certain of what to say at a moment like this. Her shoulders had slightly dropped in discouragement.

    The Empress struggled to find her next response. She was too overwhelmed with remorse to say anything else to the Crown Princess. The Crown Princess too, was from a foreignnd. People underestimate her potential, again and again.

    History was repeating itself.

    The Empress had the ability to prevent the same tragic history from taking its toll. But she was blinded by the past and forsaken the future.

    "How are you feeling, Princess?" the Empress hesitantly asked.

    Was it toote?

    The Empress shifted her attention to the Crown Princess. When her eyesnded on the Princess, the Empress got the answer. The Crown Princess looked disappointed¡ªher gaze said it all.

    It was, indeed, toote.

    "I am feeling alright, Your Grace."

    The Empress heard the dullness in the Crown Princess¡¯s voice. Li Xueyue was serene as ever, but she no longer sounded excited to speak to the Empress.

    "I... see." The Empress could not find anything else to say orment on. In one day, she had lost two daughters and a son¡ªnot physically, but emotionally. It took a toll on her fragile heart.

    "If that is all, Your Grace, please excuse me."

    "Yes, you¡¯re excused. I hope to see you around soon, Princess."

    The Crown Princess shifted her hands to the right, dipped her legs, and elegantly curtsied. Without another word, she walked off.

    The Empress¡¯s breath hitched. The Crown Princess was a thin and fragile woman, but suddenly, her shoulders seemed strong enough to lift a mountain.

    History was repeating itself, but this time, the oue would be much different.

    "If only I knew..." the Empress quietly mumbled under her breath. "If only I had seen it sooner."

    With a shake of her head and a heavy sigh, the Empress turned on her heels. One by one, the people closest to her were disappearing. And soon, she will have no one but herself.

    The Empress knew it was toote to regret all of her life decisions. What was said and done was done. There was nothing she could do to turn back the clock and restart her life.

 Chapter 508 Grow Up Quickly

    <h4>Chapter 508 Grow Up Quickly</h4>

    Lu Tianbi peered down at the foreign seal on the letter. Shortly after she had set foot in the pce, Lu Tianbi had noticed a familiar figure walking down the hallway.

    It was the messenger who always traveled from Hanjian to Wuyi, and vice versa. She had intercepted him, and the messenger was initially hesitant about handing over the letter.

    However, he was familiar with her face and position, thus, presented it to her in hopes that it would be safely delivered to the Crown Prince.

    "This is the second urgent letter in a month," Lu Tianbi muttered. She examined the Imperial Seal of Wuyi. Her mouth ran dry.

    Lu Tianbi was well aware that this was another warning letter. The first time such a letter was sent out, it was a rebuke to the Crown Prince for his failure to protect Li Xueyue from those who maliciously caused her miscarriage and a warning to protect her better.

    "There is a spy in the pce." Lu Tianbi could not figure out who the mole was. It was quite a miracle that Wuyi had managed to nt a spy in a position high enough to hear about the miscarriage and all of the unfortuante events.

    "Who could it be?" Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. Neither the Crown Prince or Hu Dengxiao could pinpoint a specific person, but they had a spection.

    Whether or not there was a spy, Lu Tianbi knew the Crown Prince did not mind. Though, he was infuriated by the letters.

    Lu Tianbi let out a sigh. She recalled the first letter that was sent to Hanjian, shortly after the Crown Princess¡¯s miscarriage.

    The letter had read,

    "Failing your duties as a husband this early in the marriage? Have you no shame? If you continue not to protect our precious flower, then perhaps it is time for her to move back to a safer garden."

    The Crown Prince had been furious at the news, but he was able to withhold it from the Crown Princess. No one except Lu Tianbi, Hu Dengxiao, and the Crown Prince had read the letter. It would be disastrous if word gets out of Wuyi¡¯s threat.

    Taking back the Crown Princess was one thing, but then, what shall happen to the alliance? What shall happen to the Crown Prince? The Commander would not hesitate to go to war just to bring back his Wangfei.

    "How troublesome..." Lu Tianbi knew the second letter would deliver a far, worse threat. Her lips thinned as she peered down at it.

    What shall the Imperial Family of Wuyi say now? Surely, they had received word of the poisoning.

    "Well... Only one way to find out." Lu Tianbi headed towards the Crown Prince¡¯s private study.

    Lu Tianbi wondered if he was inside, or still dealing with the Empress. But the whole situation with Lady Ge had finished¡ªor so she had been told by the servants. Prior to her entrance to the Imperial Pce, Hu Dengxiao had filled her in about what happened early in the morning.

    "They must¡¯ve argued." Lu Tianbi tightened her grip on the letter. She was apologetic about delivering those letters to the Crown Prince so quickly.

    To Lu Tianbi¡¯s surprise, those letters were found in Lady Xu¡¯s estate. However, it did not make sense to her. Xu Jiaqi was too poor and low in position to have a "loyal friend." Lu Tianbi had voiced those concerns to the Crown Prince prior to the delivery of the questionable letters.

    They hade to a conclusion that either Lady Xu was just the middleman to help exchange those letters or, someone had ced those letters there to frame Lady Xu. Either way, Lu Tianbi found out the Crown Princess had read it and misunderstood.

    "I suppose arguing once in a while keeps the rtionship healthy." Lu Tianbi had seen her parents¡¯ yful banter. They teased each other, but in the end, had one of the greatest love stories in the entire pce.

    "Greetings to Lady Lu," the guards instantly addressed.

    Lu Tianbi nodded her head in greeting. "Is the Crown Prince inside?" she asked.

    The guards softly shook their heads. "We¡¯re afraid not, Lady Lu. The Crown Prince had departed from his private study a while ago."

    Lu Tianbi was puzzled. Does that mean the Commander was still dealing with the Empress? But that did not make sense. She heard the Empress had directly sent Lady Ge to the terrifying Cold Pce. Hmm...what happened?

    "Very well," Lu Tianbi said to them. She turned on her heels and decided to search for Hu Dengxiao. Surely, the Advisor would know where his closest friend was?

    Lu Tianbi was surprised when she suddenly ran into the Crown Princess. "Princess," she breathed out in astonishment.

    Lu Tianbi lowered her head into a bow, and heard a faint "Please rise."

    Lu Tianbi lifted her head. She was puzzled by the sight of the Crown Princess, all alone, except for her usual servants, and guards. If the Crown Prince was not inside of his private study, then he was with his Wangfei.

    However, his Wangfei was here, all alone. In that case, where was the Crown Prince? Was he training? But it was alreadyte in the afternoon!

    "Lady Lu, is Yu Zhen in there?" Li Xueyue instantly asked. She had gone back to her estate earlier, wondering if Yu Zhen was in there. But he was nowhere to be found.

    Thus, Li Xueyue concluded that he was either in his private study, or upied by a meeting.

    Lu Tianbi adjusted her hands behind her, hiding the letter. "No, Princess. The Crown Prince is not inside the private study. I also thought he was in there, but it seems not."

    "Oh."

    Lu Tianbi thought it was strange that the Crown Prince was not with his wife. She knew his schedule very well, and today, he did not have any meetings with the ministers, or court hearings. Where exactly could the Crown Prince be?

    "Then, are you aware of his current location, Lady Lu?"

    "My deepest apologies, Princess. Unfortunately, I also don¡¯t know."

    Li Xueyue thought that was odd. She had expected Yu Zhen¡¯s right-hand woman to be aware of his whereabouts.

    Suddenly, Li Xueyue regretted leaving the Empress without asking her about Yu Zhen. The Empress was thest person to see Yu Zhen. She would¡¯ve known where he was, or was heading towards.

    "I see," Li Xueyue curtly said. Her attention drifted to Lu Tianbi¡¯s arms that were tucked behind her. She thought she saw Lu Tianbi with something in her hand.

    "Is that a letter for Yu Zhen?" Li Xueyue asked. She could not understand why Lu Tianbi seemed to be so secretive about it.

    "Ah¡ªuhm..." Lu Tianbi trailed off. Her voice wasced with hesitation. Uncertainty reflected off of her eyes and her forced smile.

    "I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t say much, Princess," Lu Tianbi stated.

    It would be for the Crown Princess¡¯s best interest if she was not aware of the threats. At least, that was what the Crown Prince had strictly ordered. It seemed he did not want to upset or worry her with the news of the threats.

    Lu Tianbi could not figure out why. Wouldn¡¯t it have been better for the Crown Princess to personally write a reply? The Emperor and Empress of Wuyi would feel much more reassured if their daughter had sent them a response of her wellbeing.

    "I see," the Crown Princess said. Her expression remained calm.

    Lu Tianbi did not know if the Crown Princess was offended or not. Lately, it has been more and more difficult to read the Crown Princess. Lu Tianbi knew it was for the best.

    "In that case, I will not keep you away from your duties any longer, Lady Lu."

    Lu Tianbi was astonished by the Crown Princess¡¯s growth in maturity. She faintly nodded and bowed as the Crown Princess brushed past her.

    "Please enjoy the rest of your day, Princess," Lu Tianbi instantly said.

    The Crown Princess paused. Slowly, she turned her head and gently nodded. Without another word, the Crown Princess sauntered down the hallways.

    "It has been less than a year, yet she has changed so much." Lu Tianbi wondered if the maturity was forced upon the Crown Princess. It seemed the innocent and wide-eyed Princess of Wuyi was a thing of the past. Her naivety was gone with the wind.

    "She¡¯s so young..." Lu Tianbi softly sighed.

    Thinking back to the Crown Princess¡¯s age, Lu Tianbi was reminded of Princess Yu Lingluo. Both of them were young and resided in the pce, yet their personalities were worlds apart.

    "I wonder how Princess Yu Lingluo was able to maintain her happy-go-lucky personality. Even now, she is ignorant of the dangers in the pce. It would¡¯ve been nice if the Crown Princess was not forced to grow up so quickly."

 Chapter 509 Alone.

    <h4>Chapter 509 Alone.</h4>

    Li Xueyue could not find Yu Zhen anywhere. She had searched through all of the ces he could¡¯ve been. She was perplexed. Did something happen?

    Filled with worry, Li Xueyue paced about in her bedroom. She wondered if he had left the pce on an urgent notice? It would exin his sudden absence.

    Pressing her lips together, Li Xueyue decided to do something rather than wasting her time pacing back and forth in her bedroom and she knew just what to do.

    Li Xueyue turned to her maidservant. "Prepare me for horseback riding."

    - - - - -

    Sure enough, Li Xueyue¡¯s predictions were correct. The stables reserved specifically for the Imperial Family were missing a horse. Xiao Lizi¡¯s stall was empty.

    "Princess!" the stable boy greeted in astonishment. He hurried forward and deeply bowed before her.

    "My horse, how has he been doing?" Li Xueyue asked.

    At her voice, a set of ears immediately perked up. Heiyue nervously paced in his stall, wondering if the wind was ying tricks on him. It had been a while since his beloved friend had ridden on his back and soared through the meadows together.

    "As instructed, Princess, Heiyue is on a healthy diet with asional treats. He is groomed regrly. And each time he is taken on a walk, his hoof shoes would be constantly cleaned for the dirt that gets stuck in them."

    Li Xueyue vaguely nodded. It was exactly as she had told the servants to do. Heiyue was now living a life of luxury. He enjoyed bnced meals and daily attention.

    "I see," she said.

    Li Xueyue set foot into the stable. Instantly, she approached Heiyue¡¯s stall. He was poking a head out of the door, his head tilted. A smile graced her lips.

    Just the sight of him alone was enough to fill her chest with joy. Heiyue reminded her of her life in Wuyi. Memories resurfaced¡ªriding Heiyue and dashing through the fields behind the Li Manor, the wind in her hair, the freedom propelling her forward and the asional races with the twins. So many joyous memories came with Heiyue.

    "Heiyue," Li Xueyue whispered.

    Immediately, Heiyue raised his head. He let out an impatient neigh in response and raised his front legs, kicking at the door. Irritably, he paced around, his tail swishing.

    "I¡¯ve missed you." Li Xueyue came forward and reached her hands out towards him.

    Heiyue heard the shuffle of clothes and snorted. He took steps back, and far away from the sound.

    "Aw," she cooed. "Don¡¯t be so angry with me, Heiyue."

    Li Xueyue opened the stall doors. She saw the nervous gaze of the stable boy. He was holding the mattress and saddle in hand, but watching her with caution. Li Xueyue knew he must¡¯ve been terrified of what Heiyue would do.

    Everyone knew how ill-tempered of a horse Heiyue was. He was pampered with attention, but epted no one¡¯s kindness.

    "I was busy securing a life for both of us,?? Li Xueyue teased. She set foot into the stall and slowly approached her horse.

    "I even brought you a treat, Heiyue." Li Xueyue stuck out her hand, revealing two sugar cubes.

    Heiyue could not see, but he knew that it was his favorite treat. She always brought it for him. Even so, Heiyue swayed his head and looked away, angry that she had abandoned him here.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart squeezed with guilt. She had been too busy dealing with the politics within the Imperial Pce. Li Xueyue had forgotten who it was that brought her to Hanjian.

    "I won¡¯t do it again," Li Xueyue swore. She remained in her spot, knowing Heiyue preferred that she maintained a distance and gave him some time. If she intruded into his space now, he would be upset.

    "I will try to visit you at least once a week or a fortnight, and always with treats. We can go out and ride like we¡¯ve always done. How does that sound?"

    Heiyue weighed the options a bit. He strutted a little bit before finally approaching her. Hesitatingly, he lowered his head and ate the sugar cubes. Instantly, he turned his head and ears in her direction, paying all of his attention to her.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile brightened. She reached her hand out and affectionately caressed the side of his face. Heiyue pleasantly snorted, as he nudged his head into her palm. She let out a smallugh. It was ticklish, and his nose was wet.

    "Alright, alright," she mused.

    Li Xueyue pulled her hand back as Heiyue walked closer to her and nudged her again. She reached out and took his reins. Then, she gently guided Heiyue out of his stall.

    "Do you know where your friend has gone too?" Li Xueyue vaguely asked.

    The stable boy silently came forward. He hurriedly ced on the nket first and smoothed it out. Then, he ced the saddle upon the horse, all the whilst keeping a close eye on the Crown Princess.

    Everyone that worked in the stables knew Heiyue belonged to the Crown Princess. He was an energetic and intelligent horse, but his spirit was wild and untamed. There were times he¡¯d rebel against the people handling him, but not to the extent of causing an injury.

    Even so, the stable boy was worried that the Crown Princess would get hurt. It would be disastrous if that were to happen. The horse would be put down.

    "Out there?" Li Xueyue asked when Heiyue did not respond. She realized he did not know which direction she meant, but that was fine with her.

    Li Xuyue stroked Heiyue¡¯s mane. It was silky smooth and free from tangles. His midnight coat of hair shone like polished obsidian.

    "Where did Xiao Lizi go?" Li Xueyue asked the stable boy once he was done setting up the saddle.

    Li Xueyue approached the side of her horse.

    "Ah, Princess please let us help¡ª"

    The stable boy¡¯s voice died off. With ease, the Crown Princess had hoisted herself on top of Heiyue. He was in awe, but not surprised.

    Everyone knew the Crown Princess was a woman of many talents. Many people had seen her single-handedly dominate the archery ring and win against Nanhui¡¯s unruly Princess.

    It was a sight witnessed by a few, but gossiped by many. The servants would not stop talking about it, even to this day.

    "Answer my question," Li Xueyue instructed. She took Heiyue¡¯s reins and guided him out of the stable.

    "I-I apologize, Princess," the stable boy hurriedly stuttered out. "But in response to your inquiry, Xiao Lizi was led out of the stable by His Highness, the Crown Prince."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s brows raised. She had guessed correctly. "Does the Crown Prince usually ride Xiao Lizi at this hour?"

    "No, Princess. His Highness usually takes Xiao Lizi for a morning walk, just as the sun is rising."

    Li Xueyue nodded. The sun was setting in the sky, and nightfall was approaching soon. It was odd for Yu Zhen to take Xiao Lizi out for a run.

    "In what direction did the Crown Prince guide Xiao Lizi?" Li Xueyue needed to check if she should bring Heiyue to the Capital, or the fields.

    "Therge field leading to the forests far ahead, Princess."

    Li Xueyue nodded. She guided Heiyue out of the stable. He energetically strutted towards the doors. It was a slow walk at first, until his foot sensed a familiar sensation.

    "Go on," Li Xueyue whispered.

    Heiyue immediately broke out in a small run. With the wind upon his spine, and the sun caressing him, he picked up speed.

    The world was a blur with Heiyue for he dashed with a speed faster than lightning. But she saw the guards that lined the pce walls, and beyond, where the fields begin.

    Li Xueyue realized the soldiers near the fields were not always there. When she had run out of the pce a week ago, it was not this protected. Yu Zhen must¡¯ve ced them there to protect her in case she needed another run.

    "I hope I¡¯m not intruding..."

    Li Xueyue was suddenly hesitant to search for Yu Zhen. What if he wanted to be left alone? And she was interrupting that time?

    But it was toote for her to say anything. Heiyue was thundering through the fields. He dominated every de of grass, the world trembling under his hooves.

    Li Xueyue allowed Heiyue to run for as long as his heart desired. Soon, nightfall approached, and the stars twinkled in the distance. Her shoulders dropped in disappointment.

    Yu Zhen was nowhere to be found. Li Xueyue wondered if he had already begun to head back, and she missed him in the fields. But it was hard to miss the figure of his brilliant horse, Xiao Lizi.

    "W-wait, where are you going?" Li Xueyue panicked when Heiyue changed his direction and ran towards the guards. They were lining the border of the fields and stood near the trees that broke into a forest.

    "The forest?" Li Xueyue wondered why Heiyue was heading there. It would not be a fun trail for him. Nheless, she allowed Heiyue to guide her towards the thick forest.

    "Careful!" Li Xueyue scolded as Heiyue to jump over a grown man. She had nearly forgotten how powerful and versatile Heiyue was.

    Heiyue did not let the jump stop him but he did slow down so that she would not fall off of him. However, the possibility of that happening was slim. He would never throw her off.

    Li Xueyue curiously nced around their surroundings. Where exactly was Heiyue taking the both of them? She rxed her grip on the reins and allowed him to walk freely.

    Her ears twitched. There was the sound of running water somewhere but she did not know in which direction it came from.

    "You must be thirsty," Li Xueyue muttered. She allowed Heiyue to walk them towards the sound of the water.

    "I¡¯m sure there are snacks in this pouch..." Li Xueyue reached towards the side of the saddle, where a leather pouch was strapped. Just as she clicked the top open, Heiyue walked over a bush, and directly towards a stream of water.

    There, Li Xueyue saw a familiar horse. Xiao Lizi was drinking water from the river, but her owner was nowhere to be found.

    Xiao Lizi was all alone.

 Chapter 510 Dont Lie To Me

    <h4>Chapter 510 Don¡°t Lie To Me</h4>

    Li Xueyue was puzzled by the sight of Xiao Lizi here. The chestnut horse was drinking water from the flowing stream. At the sound of approaching footsteps, Xiao Lizi lifted her head and curiously tilted it.

    Li Xueyue climbed off of Heiyue and guided him towards the stream. Under the moonlight, the flowing water glistened. Fireflies weaved through the tall des of grass.

    Once she had set foot on the ground, Li Xueyue realized exactly how short she was. The grass reached her waist, and she struggled with each step.

    "Xiao Lizi, where is your Master?" Li Xueyue asked the horse, wondering if Xiao Lizi would be able to understand.

    Xiao Lizi merely tilted her head and lowered it to drink more water. Heiyue did the same, except he had been licking at the grass in confusion until Li Xueyue guided his head towards the water.

    "Is he around here?" Li Xueyue pressed on. But Xiao Lizi flicked her tail and continued drinking.

    Li Xueyue let out a small sigh. She tucked her hands behind her and peered around. The grass was too tall for her to see anything lurking within it.

    "Danger is too attracted to me," Li Xueyue mumbled under her breath. She wondered if it would be better to hop back onto Heiyue, just to get a bit more height.

    Li Xueyue gently stroked Heiyue¡¯s mane, as a way of distracting herself. If it was not for the moon, this ce would¡¯ve been shrouded in darkness. The trees parted near the stream, with a few feet of distance between them.

    When she lifted her head and nced into the forest, her heart trembled and her knees wobbled. She was afraid. The trees looked like figures. Her eyes loved to y tricks on her.

    Almost as if sensing her fear, Heiyue lifted his head and nudged his friend. He let out a small neigh and pressed his wet nose into her palm.

    "Stop that," Li Xueyueughed. She wiped the moisture on her palm with a handkerchief and gently smiled. Heiyue snorted at her response and continued poking her with his snout.

    "Alright, alright, here." Li Xueyue pulled out half a carrot from the pouch and brought it to his mouth and he took a bite. Xiao Lizi immediately came closer to her until she was standing next to Xueyue on her other side.

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow. "Now, you choose to acknowledge me?" she teased the stubborn horse.

    Nheless, Li Xueyue reached into the pouch and searched for another snack. Her fingers grazed a tiny apple. She pulled it out and revealed it to Xiao Lizi. Instantly, the horse was on high-alert.

    "Nuh-uh," Li Xueyue mused. When Xiao Lizi leaned forward for a bite, Li Xueyue retracted her hand.

    "You can have it if you guide me to your Master."

    Xiao Lizi snorted. She impatiently trampled her front legs, and chomped the air.

    "Fine, fine." Li Xueyue held out her palm, and allowed Xiao Lizi to take a bite. She let out a small sigh of amusement. Both of her hands were upied with feeding the horses.

    "It¡¯s gettingte." Li Xueyue peered up at the night sky. The stars were beautiful. It winked down at her, but never shone brighter than the moon.

    "I need to check up on the servants soon..." Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She had ordered some Imperial Soldiers to capture Marquis Qin¡¯s servants and hold them captive until they would hear from her again. It had been a while now and they must be feeling so confused.

    "Where did I have them brought to, again?" Li Xueyue tilted her head, wondering where she had instructed the soldiers to bring them to.

    Li Xueyue wanted Marquis Qin to feel like he was losing everything. He must¡¯ve thought all of his servants working on the ship had died. In reality, she had them "kidnapped" and brought elsewhere.

    When Li Xueyue felt a lick on her palm, she was startled. Xiao Lizi had already finished the apple. But Heiyue was a glutton, much like his master, and continued licking at her palm, as if a snack would magically appear.

    "I don¡¯t have anymore!" Li Xueyueughed. She walked away from them and kneeled on the ground to clean her hands in the running water.

    Li Xueyue understood why Xiao Lizi had religiouslypped at it. The water was clear and cool. It must¡¯ve tasted refreshing, but Li Xueyue never got to find out.

    From the corner of her eyes, she noticed a familiar figure. Propped up against a tree, with his eyes closed, and one knee up was none other than her husband.

    "Yu Zhen?" Li Xueyue dried her hands off and instantly headed in his direction. The moonlight cast an ethereal glow upon him. His honey-tanned skin was pale. Even so, her heart was squeezed. He was too attractive for the eyes.

    Li Xueyue stopped directly in front of him. Was he asleep? His eyes were closed, but she was uncertain. He liked to y tricks on her.

    "Yu Zhen?" Li Xueyue called out. She lowered herself onto the grass until they were nearly eye to eye.

    "Is that rice wine?" she wondered out loud.

    Sitting beside him was a small, white bottle. She picked it up. The bottle was empty. But taking a whiff of the top, Li Xueyue concluded it was a type of liquor. Her nose crinkled. It was a strong liquor.

    "You shouldn¡¯t be here."

    Li Xueyue yelped at his voice. She was startled. "I thought you were asleep."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s dark eyes snapped open. His lips were curved into a fierce scowl.

    Li Xueyue softly frowned. "What¡¯s wrong?" She took a seat beside him and settled the empty bottle aside.

    "The fact that you went horseback riding at night, and all alone too," he snapped.

    Li Xueyue felt like there was more to his anger than he was leading on. She wasn¡¯t irked by his behavior, for she was the same. Silently, she leaned her head on his shoulder.

    Despite his irritation, Yu Zhen wrapped his arms around her waist and yanked her closer. "Don¡¯t tell me that you came looking for me," he muttered.

    "I did," she admitted.

    "You didn¡¯t have to."

    Li Xueyue scoffed at his words. She lifted her head and turned her face towards him. "Did something happen between you and the Empress?"

    Li Xueyue felt his body stiffen. He squeezed her waist and brought her head back onto his shoulders.

    "Do I remind you of the Emperor?"

    Li Xueyue blinked at his question. The Emperor seemed like a gentle old man. Albeit stern and strict, but that was expected of someone from his position. However, she had heard stories of Yu Zhen¡¯s childhood.

    "No, not at all."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Don¡¯t lie to me."

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes. "Do I seem to be the type tofort you with a lie?"

    Yu Zhen set his eyes forward. He watched the fireflies flicker in the far distance.

    Yu Zhen did not respond.

    Li Xueyue noticed he was distracted by the tiny balls of light. She suddenly wanted to capture a thousand fireflies and present it to him. Supposedly, it would grant a wish.

    "Would I make a horrible father?" he suddenly asked.

    Li Xueyue jumped at his question. She turned around, her eyes wide, and her lips parted. She certainly did not expect this.

    "Well..." she trailed off. "I wouldn¡¯t know. You¡¯re not a father yet."

    Yu Zhen smiled a bit. He was d that she did not vehemently argue that he would be a great one. There was no evidence of that.

    "Why do you think you would be a horrible father?" she quietly asked him.

    Yu Zhen did not want to admit the truth. He was hurt. For the first time since his childhood, he was hurt by the Empress¡¯s words. It had bothered him to an extent that he didn¡¯t think was possible.

    "I don¡¯t know how to show affection."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s brows tugged together. She nced at his hand which rested upon her waist. Then, she thought back to his gentle gestures.

    "Are you sure?" she retorted.

    Yu Zhen was humored by her sarcastic tone. She didn¡¯t believe his statement. Not one bit.

    "I worry that I won¡¯t love my children."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart ached for him. Oddly enough, she understood his fear. "Is it because of your childhood?" she calmly asked.

    "I grew up without love. What if I project that upon the offspring?"

    "Children."

    "What?"

    "Our children," she deadpanned. "Not offspring."

    Yu Zhen wryly smiled down at her. She was peering up at him, with wide, curious eyes. His Wangfei was not angered by his choice of words. If anything, she was confused.

    "But, you love me don¡¯t you?" Li Xueyue suddenly asked.

    Yu Zhen quirked his brows at her. Was she stupid, or daft? If he did not love her, he wouldn¡¯t have married her. If he did not love her, she would¡¯ve been tossed into the stream for being so close to him.

    "I love you so much that it feels like an obsession."

    "Then you will be able to love our children."

    Yu Zhen was not a fool. He knew he was capable of love. But what if his children did not love him back? What if he was a cruel father who was irked by the smallest of things? What if the Empress was right, and his children viewed him as a murderer?

    "Xiao Juzi loves you, doesn¡¯t he? So does Xiao Lizi, and all of your friends."

    Yu Zhen did not respond. Was sheparing their children with animals now?

    "They love you for a reason, Yu Zhen."

    Li Xueyue could not predict the future. But she had a gut feeling that he would make a wonderful father. Even if he had red at Bai Yihao and intimidated the poor boy.

    "More like they love the fact I feed them."

    Li Xueyueughed at his words. She lifted her head and noticed a ghost of a smile on his lips. When their eyes met, his smile widened. He curled a finger under her chin and pulled her close.

    Li Xueyue closed her eyes, thinking he was going to kiss her lips. But he didn¡¯t. Instead, he kissed her forehead, softly and gently, as if treasuring her presence. She could not wipe the tiny smile off of her face.

    "I love you, my stubborn Wangfei."

    "I love myself too."

    Yu Zhen chuckled at her words. She leaned closer to him, and brushed her lips upon his.

    "But I love you much more, Yu Zhen."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes flickered. He pulled her towards him and kissed her deeply. She was caught off guard, but returned the kiss. Her lips were cold, much like her fingertips. She rested a hand upon his face.

    Li Xueyue was slowly lowered to the ground. The kiss was gentle, yet fiery. Passionate yet slow. She savored his lips, sweet from the rice wine.

    "Y-Yu Zhen?" she shuttered out when he slipped a hand under her skirt.

    Yu Zhen responded by kissing the side of her neck. She let out a small sigh of contentment. Soon, his moist lips found the spot that made her jolt.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue whispered. She bit on her bottom lip and suppressed a moan, just as heat pooled in her lower stomach. She felt a familiar ache for him.

    Soon, his hands found her sensitive spot. His fingers caressed her inner thighs. He parted her legs and settled in between it.

    "Making love to you under the stars, Sunshine. What else does it look like I¡¯m doing?" he teased.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes widened. She had never done it in public before. But there was a thrill in her veins. It was exciting.

    "What if someone sees us?"

    "I¡¯ll kill them."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced at his words. She knew it was a promise, not a threat. "Yu Zhen..." she hummed as his mouth traveled lower. His kisses were warm, and everywhere he touched, itched for more.

    "Will you be gentle?" she squeaked out, despite knowing he would not.

    Yu Zhen smirked. He lifted his head and kissed her again. This time, it was slow and sensual, as his tongue explored the crevice of her mouth. She moaned against his lips, her hands traveling towards his upper back. She pulled him close, and clung onto him.

    "Have I ever not been gentle?"

    "A-all the time," she gasped out.

    "But you enjoy it."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s cheeks flushed. "I...do."

    A mischievous look flickered on his face. "Then I won¡¯t be gentle, Sunshine."

 Chapter 511 Under The Stars

    <h4>Chapter 511 Under The Stars</h4>

    Li Xueyue had never felt this type of thrill in her life. She was on her back whilst gazing up at the stars. They shimmered like diamonds, but their beauty was no match for Yu Zhen. Her breathing becamebored when he pulled her dress lower, and lower, until her breasts were revealed to him.

    She gasped when he gently kissed her breast and rolled his slick tongue upon an orb.

    "Yu Zhen, I-I¡¯m worried..."

    Yu Zhen caressed her pale body, cold from the gentle breeze. His warm, calloused hands slid down the side of her body, heating everywhere he touched.

    "Of?" he murmured upon her skin.

    Her eyes were wide, but tender with adoration. His heart was squeezed. Instinctively, he lowered himself upon her and pulled her against him.

    "Will I catch a cold?"

    Yu Zhen suppressed hisughter. Her voice was trembling. He knew this was not her actual concern.

    "I¡¯ll keep you warm, Sunshine." Yu Zhen¡¯s hand traveled to her lower spine. He bowed his head and kissed her breast. A ragged sigh escaped her mouth.

    His other hand touched a familiar spot. She jolted. His rough fingers fondled the soft skin. She was wet. His fingers effortlessly slid inside, and she instantly clenched upon him.

    "W-wait¡ª" she gasped out, but her head still rolled back.

    He slipped another finger inside of her, curling it. She pushed against his muscr chest. Her attempts were futile, as he slid his fingers in and out, in a rhythm that made her legs tremble.

    "Are you still cold?" he teased.

    Her body was flushed with pleasure and her face was burning. She couldn¡¯t think about anything else but his fingers thrusting in and out of her. The sensation of his rough thumb twirling around the pearl of her womanhood was enough to silence herints.

    "Y-yes, I am..."

    He was humored by her words. It stoked the fire within, as desire burned in his chest. She grasped his thick shoulders, her fingers digging into his ripped muscles.

    When his middle finger pressed upon her walls, she jumped. She struggled and attempted to escape from him, but he pressed against the same spot and a loud moan escaped her.

    "N-not there, please."

    Her nails scratched at his back, as she softly pleaded. His body tensed at the sound. He wanted to hear more.

    His lips nibbled at the side of her neck. His fingers picked up speed, his thumb rubbing more urgently upon the pearl. Her body was burning with heat. Her cries were sweet, and he wanted to do nothing but provoke her more.

    She struggled against him, her legs thrashing about. But his body¡ªfirm and strong, pressed her down, preventing her from running.

    She squeezed his fingers, her eyes shutting, and her lips parting. She was so close...

    He kissed the tip of her ears. "Come for me, love." His voice was smooth, yet rough and dark.

    Not a secondter, he captured her lips. Her body tensed, and she came undone whilst screaming his name.

    Her voice was muffled against his mouth that kissed her ruthlessly. She melted against him, as her body rxed.

    Yu Zhen pulled back from the kiss only to undress himself. Once he was unclothed, he instantly came back to her. He captured her in another kiss. Her skin was warm and slick with sweat. Their tongues shed, but he pinned it down and tasted her. She was sweet and covered in his scent.

    "Breathe, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s head was spinning. In her daze, her hand clung onto his muscr biceps, as the other dug into his upper back. His body tensed underneath her fingertips.

    With her distracted by his kisses, Yu Zhen spread her legs wider. He mmed one hand on the ground, steadying himself whilst the other kept her open.

    His shath sank in between her parted legs, as her eyes snapped open. His jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing.

    "Fuck, Sunshine," he groaned.

    She clung onto him for life when he picked up his pace. His chest pressed her down when he pushed deeper. She cried, moaned, and pleaded with pleasure.

    "P-please..." she whimpered.

    She struggled in his arms, attempting to run from the pleasure. It was the only thing she could think of despite how much she wanted him.

    Escaping from him was impossible. He kissed her passionately, his body fiercely entering her. He slowly pulled out, as her body went limp with relief. But he would arouse her again and push deeper into her.

    "Why are you so beautiful, even when crying?" Yu Zhen murmured.

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t know she was crying. The pleasure was so intense that her eyes were squeezed shut.

    Yu Zhen grasped her hips and kissed the tears away. In the process, he yanked her closer to him until she took his full length. Her lips trembled in shock, as she panted underneath him.

    Each time he moved inside of her, her eyes would roll back. She was seeing stars, and it was not because of the night sky. She clung onto him, her legs wrapped tightly around his toned waist.

    "D-don¡¯t stop, please," she whimpered whilst pressing her breasts closer to his heart. She buried her face into his shoulders.

    He gritted his teeth. "You¡¯re going to be the death of me, love."

    Each time he pushed into her, she would blissfully cry into his ears. Her warm breath tickled him.

    Soon, he let out a low groan, as warmth gushed into her.

    Her eyes went wide. She could feel his heavy breathing, quite literally. His chest heaved up and down, his body looming over her. He lowered himself onto her, and kissed the side of her neck.

    "Are you still cold?" he breathlessly chuckled.

    Her cheeks burned, knowing exactly what he meant. "Don¡¯t tease me."

    "It was a genuine question, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen lifted his head. He smirked down at her. Where did all of her fear go? She was looking up at him in awe. Her face was scarlet red and her chest was flushed. He thoroughly enjoyed this sight of her.

    "Still afraid?" he mused.

    "Yes."

    He raised a brow.

    "Of you," she mumbled.

    Yu Zhen loudlyughed. He bent down and softly kissed her on the lips. "But you still love me so."

    Li Xueyue struggled to hide her smile. She looked away, but his fingers curled under her chin. He brought her attention back to him.

    Li Xueyue could not look away. His gaze was brooding and dark. But it glistened with mischief and a fire that burned solely for her. She shivered at the intensity.

    "Right?" he pressed on, in a deep voice.

    Her toes curled. "You big fool," she mumbled.

    Li Xueyue clung her arms around his muscr shoulders and brought him closer to her.

    Yu Zhen was surprised by the abrupt hug. He embraced her deeply, his arms clenching her to him. He would never let her go. Not even if she begged him to. She was his in this lifetime. And he would have her in every single lifetime.

    "The stars are above us, it¡¯s a full moon, and fireflies are dancing. Despite all of its beauty, I could look at nothing but you."

    Yu Zhen could not describe how much he adored her. Her words warmed him to an extent unlike any other.

    "When you say it like that, Sunshine... You leave me with no choice, but to love you under the stars, yet again."

 Chapter 512 Sweaty and Dirty

    <h4>Chapter 512 Sweaty and Dirty</h4>

    Li Xueyue could not make eye contact with anyone. She was grateful that it was dark outside, or else many people would¡¯ve seen her blush. Her hair was slightly messy despite how hard she tried to tame it. Her clothes were worn properly, yet it felt like everyone knew what had happened.

    "Can you not look so shameless?" Li Xueyue whispered to Yu Zhen as they rode into the pce.

    Yu Zhen sat high and mighty on Xiao Lizi, a devious smirk on his face.

    Li Xueyue hung her head in embarrassment, her lips pressed into a thin line.

    "What are you talking about?" Yu Zhen chuckled as if he hadn¡¯t tired her out in the forest. He was surprised she still had the strength to ride Heiyue back to the pce.

    It seemed he had not tired her out enough. That was fine. He would take his sweet time with herter tonight¡ªuntil her legs would tremble, and she could not walk.

    Li Xueyue did her best to not re at him. He was practically glowing with energy. She was certain that everyone would¡¯ve known what transpired in the forest¡ªespecially when he always eyed her as a lion does with a deer.

    "Just look away," Li Xueyue grumbled. She couldn¡¯t find it in her soul to be irritated.

    "But, Sunshine," he mused, "you look so enthralling under the moonlight."

    Li Xueyue instinctively touched the cor of her hanfu. His eyes glinted, even in the darkness. His brooding stare said everything. Immediately, she covered the side of her neck. With great certainty, she knew, there was a love mark there.

    Yu Zhen suppressed a grin. He was amused by her behavior, but knew she would hit him if he smiled any wider. "That¡¯s not the only one," he teased.

    Li Xueyue gaped at him. She touched the other side of her neck, wondering if he had left another one there.

    "Your Highness!" the stable boy hurriedly greeted upon catching sight of them. "Princess!"

    Li Xueyue glowered at Yu Zhen. Now, what was she supposed to do? Both of her hands were holding her cor up to cover his love bites. How was she going to climb off of Heiyue?

    "Don¡¯t fret, my beloved Wangfei," Yu Zhen teased. His voice wasced with amusement. He slid off Xiao Lizi and handed the reins to the stable boy.

    In an instant, the stable boy began to guide Xiao Lizi back into her stall, just as another servant came forward.

    "I will help you down." Yu Zhen strolled towards her. His strides were powerful, yet quiet.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s legs subconsciously tightened upon the saddle. She knew that look. She had seen it in the forest, when he had her pinned, and took his way with her. His dark stare was brooding, but ignited by hunger.

    He stopped beside her leg. He ced a hand firmly on her thigh and reached for her.

    "I¡¯m tired," she yelped.

    His lips twitched.

    "I am simply helping you down your horse, Sunshine."

    She instantly shook her head. "I can get down myself."

    He loudlyughed and took a step back. "Then get down."

    Li Xueyue nced around the stable. The stable boy was tending to Xiao Lizi, and his peer was hurriedly mixing the horse feed. There was no one around them, except the servants and guards. Everyone was seemingly distracted by something. They were terrified of looking their way.

    With great hesitation, Li Xueyue lowered her hands. Not a secondter, she snapped it back into ce. The stable boy hade forward, but his eyes were lowered.

    "P-Princess, shall we fetch the stepping stairs?" he stuttered out.

    The stable boy had noticed the conversation died down. Thus, he finally gathered the courage to approach the daunting couple. The Crown Princess was known to be kind and gentle, though her husband was a different story.

    The stable boy tried his hardest not to tremble in his boots. It was terrifying just to witness the Crown Prince in action. Breathing in the same air as the Crown Prince was even more intimidating. The man said and did nothing, but the stable boy was already on the verge of tears.

    "Prepare Heiyue¡¯s feed," Li Xueyue mumbled. "I do not need the stairs."

    The stable boy instantly bobbed his head. He was grateful to leave their presence. With great stealth, he hurriedly walked into the stable, as if chased by ghosts.

    "You know, Sunshine," Yu Zhen remarked. "You look a lot more suspicious with your hands in that position."

    Li Xueyue wished she could wipe the smirk off of his face. He was arrogantly standing there with his arms folded, his muscles bulging under his clothes.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes at him. She took a final nce around their surroundings. Certain that no one was looking at them, she hopped off of Heiyue. Her actions were fluid and smooth, showing years of experience.

    She let out a small sigh upon avoiding the obstacle. She prayed no one saw the evident marks on her neck. Quietly, she patted Heiyue¡¯s mane.

    "I wille to see you soon..." Her voice died off when Yu Zhen slid an arm around her waist.

    "What are you doing?" Li Xueyue mumbled as he tugged her closer to him. Her back collided with his chest, rippling and firm as ever. His breath, warm and moist, tickled her neck.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "What if I told you," he softly murmured. "That there was nothing there in the first ce."

    Li Xueyue immediately turned around. She nced up in astonishment. Her lips were parted as she gawked at him in disbelief.

    "You¡ª"

    Yu Zhen captured her lips. Her eyes widened in surprise, as he took a tentative step closer. Any distance between them was sealed off. His kiss was sweet, but pressing. Before he could do anything else, she turned her head.

    His lips brushed on the corner of her mouth. But he did not seem to mind. He kissed her left cheek, then the side of her head. His calloused fingers grabbed her chin, his thumb pressing into the soft skin.

    "We have the whole night, let¡¯s not do it here," Li Xueyue huffed out, not knowing she had fallen directly into his trap.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze darkened. "You said it yourself, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s head snapped up at him. Was this a trap? Was that why he kissed her in public? "I-I thought you had your fill in the forest."

    "Hmm, did I?" Yu Zhen tilted his head, as if doubting her words.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head like a rag doll. "Stop being so insatiable," she groaned.

    "I don¡¯t have the slightest clue as to what you¡¯re talking about."

    Li Xueyue could not believe his audacity. She was tightly gripping his upper arm, not out of irritation, but because she could barely keep herself upright. It was difficult to stand. She feared she would notst the night, but he certainly would.

    "Don¡¯t be so upset, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen grabbed her hand and brought it to his lips. He gently kissed her knuckles and tightened his grip on her waist.

    "I¡¯ll be more gentle."

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. When was that ever going to happen? She was certain that he¡¯d try to be gentle, but then, it always esctes¡ªnot that she minded.

    "I¡¯m sweaty and dirty," she suddenly blurted out.

    "Ah yes," he abruptly agreed.

    Li Xueyue was pleasantly surprised. It reflected in her brightened eyes, filled with hope that she had convinced him. Her lips pulled into a smile, but it faded at his next words.

    "We haven¡¯t done it in the bathhouse for a while now."

 Chapter 513 Simple Reques

    <h4>Chapter 513 Simple Reques</h4>

    After a long, but fulfilling bath, Yu Zhen walked out of it, carrying his Wangfei. The servants could not help but watch in sheer awe. It wasn¡¯t the action that surprised them, but the gentle look on his face. It was amazing how quickly his expression shifted.

    When Yu Zhen nced down at the sleeping woman, his face softened, and a small smile was on his lips. He had even bent down to kiss the top of her head. But when he nced up, the warmth had fleeted from his eyes.

    As Yu Zhen reached their estate, the doors were pushed open for him one by one until he set foot in their bedroom. The doors were closed behind him, just as Yu Zhen settled Li Xueyue on the bed.

    "Mm..." she grumbled, tossing to her side.

    "Bully."

    Yu Zhen held back augh. Was she awake now? He rested an arm on the bed and peered over her shoulders. No. She was still asleep. Her eyelids were softly shut, with her hands tucked to her side. She slept like a small child.

    "I suppose I tired you out too much." Yu Zhen stroked strands of hair away from her face, revealing her smooth skin. She was still warm from the steamy bath.

    Despite bathing in perfumed oils, she still smelled like him. Yu Zhen smiled at the thought. He leaned down and gently kissed the side of her head.

    "Bully..." she muttered whilst turning to face him.

    Yu Zhen stiffed hisughter, keeping it low and gruff. He did not want to wake her up. She had a tiring night. He had his fun in the bath and exhausted her to no avail. She attempted to flee out of the pool, but he had her cornered easily.

    "I only wanted to see your children a lot sooner, Sunshine. It¡¯s not bullying if I am thoroughly loving you," he teased.

    Yu Zhen lifted the nkets up to her chin and touched her hair. Servants had dressed her in the bathhouse, and they had dried her hair. But when his Wangfei sat on the stool, she had begun to doze off. She already had great difficulty climbing out of the pool and was on the verge of closing her eyes if it wasn¡¯t for his help.

    "You¡¯re sleeping well now." Yu Zhen stroked her soft skin with his thumb. He was amused that her cheeks resembled little steamed buns.

    "Hehe...rice cakes..."

    Yu Zhen chuckled. He kissed her a final time and slipped under the nkets with her. She remained lying on her side, her back facing him. He did not mind, as he wrapped an arm over her shoulder and slung his leg over her.

    "Good night, Sunshine," he whispered into her hair. It was soft, but still a bit damp. Her hair was the only part of her that had the strongest scent of flowers. It was the only part that still smelled like her.

    Yu Zhen was lulled to sleep by her soft breathing. Oddly enough, he dreamt of a garden filled with flowers. Without a doubt, it was because of her.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue woke up in a daze. It felt like a tree trunk was holding her down.She stretched her legs and tiredly rubbed her eyes. To her blissful ignorance, she had buried herself deeper into the warmth.

    Yu Zhen was wide awake and watching her. In their sleep, their position had changed. He was lying on his back whilst her face was resting on his chest. Her hand had fisted his clothes.

    Suddenly, as if something clicked inside of her head, her eyes snapped open.

    "Yu Zhen?"

    "Yes?"

    Li Xueyue was not surprised that he was already awake. But it was a pleasant surprise that he was still around.

    "I like this," she mumbled on his chest, nuzzling her face against the soft silk. She could hear his heartbeat. It was a gentle lull, calm as he always was.

    Yu Zhen knitted his brows. She sounded happy, but her face was a little glum. Why? Her eyes were lowered, as her hand mindlessly drew circles on his chest.

    "You seem upset." Did she not sleep well? Yu Zhen thought she did.

    "Do I?" Li Xueyue asked. She looked up at him with her head still resting on his chest.

    "Yes," he responded.

    He stroked the back of her head, his fingers weaving into her hair. He massaged her scalp, hoping to wake her up a bit.

    "You said you¡¯d wake up with me, but this seems to be a rare urrence," she finally admitted.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s brows furrowed deeper. "But yesterday and today¡ª"

    "What about the days before that?"

    Yu Zhen didn¡¯t think she valued mornings with him to this extent. He enjoyed the thought of waking up to her as well, but realized it was something he had always done, but she did not get to experience.

    "No, wait, that sounds too clingy," she suddenly added on.

    "Perhaps, before you leave for your morning duties, you can wake me up and¡ª" She cut herself off. "Nevermind, that¡¯s also clingy."

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. Did she have an argument with herself? Was that how her brain worked?

    "Actually, please forget what I said."

    Before Yu Zhen could say anything, Li Xueyue sat upright. She looked around their surroundings. Her eyes were captivated by the window for a brief moment. "Did we sleep into the afternoon?"

    The thick mattress dipped when he sat up. He reeled her closer to him until her small back was resting against his chest.

    "At least let me get a word in before youe to a conclusion about what I think," he gruffly said.

    Li Xueyue peered down at his hand. His fingers were sprawled out on her stomach, holding her in ce without much difficulty.

    "I just like waking up to you, that¡¯s all," she mumbled. "But I know you have to train in the mornings, then take Xiao Lizi for a run, and then feed Xiao Juzi and then¡ª"

    "I will always find time for you, Sunshine. Training can be shortened, runs can be reduced, and Xiao Juzi can be fed by a servant."

    "Xiao Juzi will eat that servant."

    He loudlyughed. Her heart skipped at the sound. His chest rumbled against her back whilst he hugged her tighter.

    "I tell you a loving speech, and you focus on my pet eating a servant?"

    Li Xueyue shyly smiled. "I was just being practical."

    Yu Zhen shook his head. "Xiao Juzi doesn¡¯t eat people."

    "I know but¡ª"

    "Unless I tell him to."

    Li Xueyue sharply gasped. She looked up at him, mortified that he had told her such a thing. All this time he had ced her hand near Xiao Juzi¡¯s mouth!

    "You¡ª"

    "I am joking," he deadpanned.

    Yu Zhen pushed the strands of hair away from her forehead. "If I let Xiao Juzi take a bite of human flesh, then he mighte to like it. It is too much of a risk."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. She agreed with him from the bottom of her heart. It would be dangerous for Xiao Juzi to be tempted by so many prey.

    "Now, let¡¯s get back to the important topic at hand." Yu Zhen¡¯s other hand slid its way to her nape. He was worried she would strain it by peering up at him. Thus, his fingers slowly eased the tension.

    "Whenever I can, I will wait for you to wake up. How does that sound?" he gently said.

    Li Xueyue was uncertain about this. She suddenly wished she did not voice her mind. "W-would that be a burden?"

    "Never," he firmly said.

    "Really?" she hesitatingly asked.

    "Really."

    "Really really?"

    Yu Zhen let out a small scoff. His lips were pulled into a smile. "Didn¡¯t we go over this conversation before?"

    Li Xueyue bit on her bottom lip to hold back a smile. "Then...if it¡¯s not too much trouble, let¡¯s wake up together."

    Yu Zhen patted the back of her head. He pulled her close and gently kissed her forehead. "It¡¯s a simple request, Sunshine. Do not fret over asking anything from me."

    Li Xueyue instantly nodded her head. "I don¡¯t mind waking up early as well," she added on. "Maybe we can train together in the early mornings. I need to hone my sword fighting and archery skills."

    Yu Zhen was instantly pleased with the idea. "As you wish, Sunshine."

 Chapter 514 Damn Letters

    <h4>Chapter 514 Damn Letters</h4>

    Imperial Pce, Wuyi

    "Any word of his reply yet?" a harsh voice demanded from the center of the throne room. A haunting silence echoed after him.

    His eyes and lips thinned in dissatisfaction. Arms tucked behind him and shoulders squared, he carried himself regally as the Crown Prince of Wuyi.

    "Fine then," Li Chenyang gritted out. He cast the ministers a final re before turning towards his parents. The Emperor and Empress sat proudly on their newly forged throne of gold. It was polished and its gleam was brighter than the sun on a good morning.

    "Hah, it¡¯s because you scowl like this that you are still single and no woman dares to approach you," a voice snickered from behind him.

    Li Chenyang did not need to turn around to know whom the irritating voice belonged to. Cheeky and smug, Li Wenmin strolled into the enormous throne room filled with ministers and a few privileged schrs who had the opportunity to witness the Crown Prince¡¯s thin temper.

    "I think you¡¯re going to develop wrinkles despite being only twenty-three years old," Li Wenminzily drew out. He stopped directly beside Li Chenyang. Cupping his fist, he slightly bowed before his parents.

    It was a strange custom, one that he was not used to despite the months that had passed. The act of bowing to your parents was expected, but for the spoiled twins, it was still unnatural.

    "Mother, Father," Li Wenmin greeted in a clipped voice, only to reveal his bright smile.

    Dressed in his tunic and armor, it did not take a genius to figure out he had just returned from training. Despite his youth, the First Prince was steadily rising in military ranks.

    It would not be long before he bes a Commander.

    "I suggest," Li Wenmin mused. He took a nce at his grumbling younger brother. "I suggest we dere war if that irritable Crown Prince does not give us Xiao Yue back."

    At his words, the ministers jolted and protests arose.

    "Y-Your Majesty, Your Grace, please havepassion! We can¡¯t afford to go to war with Hanijan¡ª"

    "Indeed, Minister Wei is right! If we go to war, then this uing winter will be the most bitter. Taking back a Princess after she has been wed...it will set a bad example for our country!"

    Li Wenmin let out a loud, noisy yawn. He stretched his arms and cracked his neck from side to side. The ministers¡¯ protests quietened into small murmurs.

    "Don¡¯t bother my ministers so early in the morning," Li Chenyang snapped at his older brother.

    Li Wenmin simply shrugged "You seemed bothered, so I offered a solution."

    Li Chenyang let out a loud, irritable sigh. His eyebrows twitched in irritation. The idea of war did not sound too bad, if it meant Xueyue¡¯s safety was guaranteed. First, it was the miscarriage and now this horrific incident!

    "Besides, Yu Zhen swore to us he would protect our Xiao Yue. He has failed to keep that promise twice. It is time to take back our precious little sister," Li Wenmin added on. He confidently tapped the sword draped on his hips.

    "I can head to Hanjian on the premise of checking up on our military bases near their borders, then¡ª"

    "Settle down, boys," Emperor Li Shenyang mused. His voice, deep and stern, hinted of amusement. His strict eyes glistened with mischief. He was entertained by his sons¡¯ conversation, but his wife was turning pale with disbelief.

    "Violence this, violence that," Empress Wang Qixing muttered under her breath. She shook her head in dismay, wondering who taught them to be so violent. They were such obedient little boys...well, as obedient as their unruly and sardonic behavior could get.

    "It would be to our best advantage," she said, "to patiently wait for his reply."

    The ministers nced at each other in confusion. They had known the Imperial Family had close ties to the Crown Prince of Hanjian. But what letters and replies were the Imperial Family referring to? They were not informed that such a thing had been exchanged.

    "Besides, the messenger was sent out only three days ago. It would take some time for the messenger to return," she softly said.

    Li Wenmin glowered towards the floor. He pouted to himself and sulked. He could never find it in his heart to go against his mother. She was strict, but always looked at him with loving eyes. It hurt too much to see her upset.

    "I won¡¯t tolerate any more harming to Xiao Yue," Li Chenyang deadpanned. "If he can¡¯t fulfill his duties as a husband, then he does not deserve that position."

    Emperor Li Shenyang grimly smiled. When had he raised such possessive sons? He could not recall the number of times Chenyang had shown this much worry for Minghua. But whenever the topic fell on the doe-eyed Xueyue, Chenyang would be the first to speak up.

    Such prejudice... The Emperor did not know what to do.

    It was not like he could discipline his son for caring about his younger sister¡ªespecially with Li Chenyang¡¯s vast achievements as the Crown Prince. He had personally sorted out the ledgers that were a mess due to the previous Wang Dynasty.

    Then, Li Chenyang had strengthened the education system of the country and even implemented a new agricultural n that would help to increase efficiency and yield.

    Emperor Li Shenyang could not have asked for a better Crown Prince. The entire country looked up to the Crown Prince.

    Finally, a pair of thudding footsteps sliced through the tension. A messenger hurriedly ran up the staircases leading to the throne room. At the sight of the Imperial Family, he dropped to his knees and kowtowed.

    "That bag of his better contains our letter," Li Wenmin whispered to his twin. But Li Chenyang was not paying attention to him.

    Li Chenyang¡¯s eyes were glued to the brown, leather bag. Was Yu Zhen¡¯s reply in there? It better be!

    "Your Majesty, Your Grace," the messenger hurriedly blurted out. "Your Highness, General Li," he added on.

    "I present to you, dyed letters of the Crown Princess of Hanjian!"

    Silence fell upon the throne room. Letters from the Crown Princess? As in, their Princess, Li Xueyue?

    "Dyed?" Li Chenyang sharply repeated. He stormed towards the messenger, but Li Wenmin was already a step ahead of him.

    With two hands, Li Wenmin yanked the messenger to his feet. "What do you mean dyed?!" he bellowed out. For once, his happy-go-lucky voice was marred with rage and displeasure.

    "This whole time, we thought she never wrote a single reply to us," Li Wenmin growled out. "And you¡¯re telling us, the letters were dyed?!"

    The messenger let out a small yelp of fear. He whimpered and lowered his eyes. With shaking hands and trembling lips, he stuttered out, "T-that is b-because t-the messenger dove a-assigned t-to the Crown Princess was d-discovered dead near the b-borders."

    Dead?

    Li Wenmin released the messenger. Confusionced his expression. Why would the messenger dove die?

    "I-it seemed t-the d-dove ate poisonous b-berries on his return from Hanjian..."

    Li Wenmin cursed. Who the hell employed such a stupid bird? But he could not voice hisints, for the bird was already dead and there was nothing they could do.

    "Next time," Li Chenyang solemnly said. "Fetch her a falcon. We have no need for useless doves."

    Li Wenmin frowned. If that was the case, they should¡¯ve given her a falcon in the first ce. Who was it that gave her a dove?

    "Ahem," Emperor Li Shenyang cleared his throat. He clearly did not expect the dove to be such a fool. It felt like a p to his face, especially when doves were a symbol of peace. For the small pet to be poisoned by Hanjian¡¯s fruits...what an ominous message it was.

    "Was it deliberate poisoning?" he demanded.

    "No, Your Majesty. From the juicescing the fruit, it looked simr to a type of fruit grown here that birds enjoy eating. However, when the nt is grown in the warm climates of Hanjian, the fruit bes poisonous."

    Li Wenmin scowled. So there was no foul y. Damn it! He wanted to find an excuse to go to Xueyue! His heart was not at ease when danger lurked in every corner there and no one could aid her.

    "No, you may not go," Li Chenyang angrily muttered to his older brother. He already knew what was running through Li Wenmin¡¯s mind.

    If the First Prince of Wuyi, a General at that, was to set foot near Hanjian, it would look bad for both countries. Questions would arise, even if it was a casual visit. Unless there was an official business that requires negotiation, there was no need for such a highly ranked and dangerous Prince of Wuyi to head for Hanjian.

    "In that case, just give me the damn letters," Li Wenmin huffed out. He snatched the letters from the messenger, only for Li Chenyang to yank it out of his hand.

    "Hey!" Li Wenmin hissed. He didn¡¯t want to cause amotion in court, but that was inevitable, with how stubborn they both were.

    "It¡¯s a valuable piece of information reserved for the eyes of Mother and Father," Li Chenyang effortlessly lied. He turned to his parents and suppressed a victorious smirk.

    "Mother, Father¡ª"

    "Oh, just give it!" Li Wenmin yanked the letters out of Li Chenyang¡¯s hands. He ignored his younger brother and hurriedly ran up the golden staircase leading to his parents.

    "I¡¯ll read it for you," Li Wenmin cheerfully said to his parents.

    Li Chenyang narrowed his eyes. That daft brother of his was crinkling Xueyue¡¯s precious letters! Even so, he could not be so brazen like his irritable older brother. The entire pce court was watching him with heavy scrutiny.

    Li Chenyang was the Crown Prince of Wuyi. He did not have the privilege to act out as Li Wenmin did. But that was fine with him. It was unlike his nature to behave like a fool.

    After all, that was not the reason she fell for him. The same could be said for Li Wenmin. It was just a miracle that someone had fallen for Li Wenmin despite his goofy stupidity.

    "Whatever," he muttered under his breath. With a cross of his arms, he sternly watched from the bottom of the throne. Patiently, he read Li Wenmin¡¯s lips as the older twin quietly read the letters out to the Emperor and Empress.

 Chapter 515 She Was Dead

    <h4>Chapter 515 She Was Dead</h4>

    Li Xueyue suddenly sneezed. She rubbed her nose in confusion, wondering what could¡¯ve caused her to sneeze. The windows were tightly shut and the room was well-heated. Was someone talking about her?

    "Princess, is it cold? Should we change into something warmer?" Xiao Hua instantly asked from behind the Princess. She was gingerlybing through the Crown Princess¡¯s hair, careful not to tug at it.

    Li Xueyue softly shook her head. "No need. My nose was a bit itchy, that¡¯s all."

    Xiao Hua worriedly nodded her head. Her brows were furrowed and she seemed lost at the thought about what to do.

    "Let¡¯s braid the hair and twirl it into a bun today," Li Xueyue said. She wanted to distract Xiao Hua, who had juste back from a leave of absence.

    This morning, Li Xueyue was surprised to see Xiao Hua walking into the room with the other handmaidens hot on her trail. She was concerned about Xiao Hua¡¯s condition. However, Xiao Hua consistently reassured that she had recovered and was ready to work.

    "As you wish, Princess," Xiao Hua amicably replied. There was a cheery undertone to her voice.

    Li Xueyue nodded her head. She sat in front of the vanity mirror, but her attention was elsewhere. Through the hazy reflection, her gaze shifted to Yu Zhen, who was near the entrance of their bedroom.

    His brows were furrowed and he held something in his hands. She squinted and wondered if it was the letter that Lu Tianbi was trying to hide yesterday.

    Was there something she should be concerned about? Did something happen? Why was everyone so secretive with her?

    "U-uhm, Princess..."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s attention instantly snapped back to Xiao Hua. "Hmm?"

    "Regarding yesterday¡¯s incident with Lady Ge, there were a few servants who doubted your actions, Princess," Xiao Hua hesitatingly whispered out.

    Xiao Hua was unsure if it was the proper time to tell the Crown Princess this. Nheless, Xiao Hua still felt the need to voice this problem.

    "And Yanxi...who wore a veil, managed to convince them not to badmouth you. W-we believe it would be best to inform you of this issue, even if it was peacefully resolved, Princess," Xiao Hua concluded.

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head. She understood why Yanxi wore a veil.

    Yanxi was the head maidservant, who was in charge of many servants, all of whom served different Masters. If Yanxi¡¯s bias towards the maidservants was revealed, it would be problematic for all of the maidservants¡ªeven if Yanxi had once served the Crown Princess, since, there could¡¯ve been a possibility of Yanxi swaying the other maidservants¡¯ opinion.

    "Is that so?" Li Xueyue muttered.

    "Shall the servants be punished?" Xiao Hua whispered.

    Li Xueyue weighed her options. If she punished the gossiping servants, it would set an example for everyone. But it would also solidify their negative opinion of her. With a small sigh, she shook her head.

    "There is no need. Yesterday, emotions were running high and everyone was easily swayed by the opinion of the majority," Li Xueyue said.

    Xiao Hua bowed her head in agreement. Afortable silence settled between them. She braided the Crown Princess¡¯s hair whilst quietly admiring the fine strands of silky locks.

    Li Xueyue was distracted by Yu Zhen¡¯s expression. His scowl became deeper with each passing second. He was intimidating to look at¡ªespecially with the sneer on his face, and his glowering eyes. He resembled a bloodthirsty beast on his way tomit murder.

    She jolted when he abruptly crumbled the letter in his hands and let out a string of curses. Even Xiao Hua was surprised, as she turned around in bewilderment. Not a secondter, she quickly trained her eyes back to the Crown Princess.

    "Is something wrong?" Li Xueyue finally spoke up.

    When she was met with silence, she persisted. "Yu Zhen?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s head snapped up. His long fingers had roughly squashed the parchment in his palms. His thunderous expression was finally revealed to her.

    Xiao Hua cowered back in fear, even though his wrath was not directed at her. She couldn¡¯t help it. Everyone was terrified of the vicious Crown Prince. He was always calm and collected, even in the midst of anger. Only when his true emotions were revealed, should people run for the hills.

    "Get dressed and meet me in my private study," Yu Zhen gruffly said. His fist had tightened considerably until his honey tan skin was an eerie shade of white.

    Xiao Hua could not help but notice the Crown Prince¡¯s gaze had softened when he was talking to his Wangfei. His expression had be slightly gentle as if worried he might¡¯ve disturbed his Wangfei.

    "Alright, I will be done soon," Li Xueyue said. She wondered what could¡¯ve provoked such a big reaction from him.

    Yu Zhen gave a slight nod. Then, he mmed the doors open, the walls rattling in its wake. He took a step out the door, only to abruptly pause.

    Li Xueyue blinked in confusion. Did he forget something? She sat with her hands on herp, her fingers subconsciously ying with a silk ribbon.

    Without warning, he turned on his heels and took powerful strides in her direction. In the blink of an eye, he was beside her. Gently, he kissed the side of her head.

    Yu Zhen was gone as quickly as he came.

    "That was a surprise," Li Xueyue timidly murmured to Xiao Hua.

    She touched the spot he had chastisely kissed. Even in his absence, she still felt his presence lingering by her side.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s lips trembled to suppress a massive smile. To her immense relief, the Crown Prince¡¯s behavior did not change towards his Wangfei¡ªeven after the incident that cast doubt on her chastity.

    "In this entire pce, you are the most beloved, Princess!" Xiao Hua eagerly said, as her eyes widened in excitement. She was in awe of the Crown Princess.

    Li Xueyue let out a smallugh. She knew that was not true. There were many people who wished she was dead. But Xiao Hua was still a bit naive in this aspect. Not everyone shared the same affection she had towards Xueyue.

    "There, Princess, all set!" Xiao Hua eximed.

    Xiao Hua sped her hands in front of her and lowered her head to show subservience. She realized that there were many times her adoration got the best of her. She was not supposed to speak unless spoken to, but she could not help it in front of the crown Princess.

    "Wonderful as always," Li Xueyueplimented. She turned her head and admired Xiao Hua¡¯s handiwork. It was the least that she could do. The braid was elegantly wrapped into a bun, with hairpins tactically ced to entuate the neck.

    In the wind, the beaded hairpins would softly jingle and sway, like willow branches.

    Without another word, Li Xueyue rose to her feet. Like a pampering mother, Xiao Hua hurried forward and swiped her hand across the dress.

    "Are you certain you¡¯re fine?" Li Xueyue murmured to Xiao Hua.

    It was quicker for Xueyue to recover, for she had developed her own coping mechanism from experiencing so many traumatic experiences in her lifetime.

    Xiao Hua, on the other hand, was an innocent maidservant who grew up a normal life. Everyone thought she grew up in the Imperial Pce, who at least fed and clothed her. Or so, everyone thought.

    "Yes, Princess. Please do not fret or worry..."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She heard the sincerity in Xiao Hua¡¯s words, but worried too much, as always. With a quiet nod, Li Xueyue set off in the direction of the bedroom doors.

    Together, they departed for the Crown Prince¡¯s private study, with groups of heavily armed guards trailing after them. With her big entourage, one would think she was this nation¡¯s treasure.

 Chapter 516 To Not Be A Burden

    <h4>Chapter 516 To Not Be A Burden</h4>

    "Another threat?!" Hu Dengxiao cried out. His voice raised an octave, as his eyes grew wide. His re swam with an emotion unfamiliar with his nature.

    "Wuyi is overstepping their boundaries with this threat, Your Highness!" Hu Dengxiao exasperated. He pointed an usational finger towards the letter. His entire body trembled with rage.

    Lu Tianbi pressed her lips together. She rarely saw Hu Dengxiao infuriated. He would only lose his cool when she was hurt, or when the Commander was ced in harm¡¯s way. Hu Dengxiao only loses his smile for his friends.

    Peering over, Lu Tianbi quietly read the letter to herself.

    "This is the final warning. There will not be a letter the next time. The next thing thates is Wuyi¡¯s army. If Xueyue is ever ced in harm¡¯s way again, you can be sure that this marriage will be annulled. Alliance or not, Xueyue will return home. Wuyi will protect her, more than her own husband can."

    Lu Tianbi tilted her head. It was indeed a threat, but not a major one. Until, she dragged her eyes downward, and noticed a brown writing. There was a familiar scent in the air, tart and sour, like a lemon. She vaguely remembered the method of cing a letter over a fire to reveal the hidden writings from a brush dipped in lemon juice.

    "And if you stand in the army¡¯s way, we will not hesitate to use force until there is nothing left of the Grim Reaper of War."

    Lu Tianbi¡¯s gaze darkened. A sudden surge of irrationality clouded her judgment but her thoughts were quickly interrupted by a swift knock on the door. She turned her head in time to see a familiar figure saunter into the room.

    The Crown Princess entered with her hands tucked into her long sleeves. She seemed well-rested, with a healthy glow to her cheeks, and warmth in her eyes.

    "Oh, I didn¡¯t realize Lady Lu and Advisor Hu were inside," Li Xueyue began.

    Li Xueyue was bewildered by the high tension in the room. Did something happen? Hu Dengxiao was scowling, and Lu Tianbi was frowning. Yu Zhen seemed unfazed and aloof, with a nk expression on his face.

    "Is everything alright?" Li Xueyue slowly asked.

    Lu Tianbi was standing to the right side of Yu Zhen, whereas Hu Dengxiao remained on the left. They were gathered around the desk, which was not unusual. Except, they did not behave as they usually did.

    Li Xueyue felt like she was interrupting something. She wanted to leave. Just then, the doors were softly closed behind her.

    Li Xueyue was hesitant to take another step forward. It was as if she had interrupted a war meeting or something. Hu Dengxiao and Lu Tianbi didn¡¯t seem to wee her. The air was thick and ominous.

    "Come here," Yu Zhen beckoned.

    Li Xueyue approached his desk in light steps. Her brows were knitted with uncertainty.

    She peered at Yu Zhen one more time. His lips were gently curled and there was a faint smile. But his hardened gaze did not soften. He was upset. But she didn¡¯t know why.

    Hu Dengxiao instantly spoke up. "Princess¡ª"

    "Silence."

    Hu Dengxiao gaped at his friend. Surely, the Crown Prince was not thinking of protecting his wife given the current situation?! Hu Dengxiao could not understand why the Crown Prince didn¡¯t want to utilize the trump card beside him.

    Li Xueyue was the favored Princess of Wuyi. A single letter from her would be enough to dispel her parents¡¯ concerns. It was a simple solution to solve this massive problem!

    Hu Dengxiao sulked. Was it because the Crown Prince did not want to seem weak by asking his wife for help? But it wasn¡¯t weak, especially when he had done so much for her. The least she could do was give something in return.

    "Have you eaten?"

    Hu Dengxiao nched at the question. He trained his eyes to the ground, knowing he would¡¯ve red at the Crown Prince for asking that. They were dealing with something serious and he inquired about her wellbeing?

    "Not yet..." Li Xueyue trailed off. "Have you?"

    Yu Zhen shook his head. He wore a brooding stare. Her heart thudded even though it was not directed at her but at Hu Dengxiao.

    "I have not," Yu Zhen informed her. He could see the anxiety on her features since she was standing right in front of him. Her fingers were tightly clenched and her brows were knitted together.

    His Wangfei was worried about being a burden again.

    "Oh, what¡¯s this?" Li Xueyue suddenly asked the second she looked down. Initially, the parchment did not catch her attention. Except, the handwriting looked familiar, and she instantly recognized it as Li Chenyang¡¯s handwriting.

    "Princess, it is a threat sent by your beloved family," Hu Dengxiao bit out.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze darkened. His head snapped in Hu Dengxiao¡¯s direction. His blood boiled. The way Hu Dengxiao said it would¡¯ve hurt Xueyue¡¯s feelings. He would not tolerate it¡ªnot even one bit.

    Yu Zhen opened his mouth to speak, but Li Xueyue interrupted him.

    "Chen-ge is at it again," Li Xueyue softly sighed. "You¡¯d think with the physical distance between you guys, he would not find a way to threaten you."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s fingers clenched the corners of the letter. "I¡¯m sorry, Yu Zhen. I should¡¯ve known he would write something like this."

    Hu Dengxiao¡¯s fingers twitched. She was aware of her brother¡¯s disrespect? Yet, did nothing to stop it?

    Hu Dengxiao narrowed his eyes. He acknowledged that it would be difficult for the Crown Princess to reprimand her older brother. But couldn¡¯t she have attempted to stop her brother from being so unruly?

    "It was a justified threat," Yu Zhen coldly said. "You were put in harm¡¯s way too many times."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. "It does not matter. Chen-ge shouldn¡¯t have been so mean as to threaten your life."

    Li Xueyue ced the letter back onto the table. She feared it would be crumpled in her hands. "After the incident happened, I knew news of it would reach Mother and Father¡¯s ears, so I quickly sent letters out to them. It should¡¯ve reached them by now."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s brows shot up. He was not aware of her letters. How did she send them out? Was it through the dove? He vaguely remembered the white bird. It was small, but fast. However, it would not be suitable to use the dove to send longer messages.

    Li Xueyue knew Chenyang had said these things out of anger. She had ced herself into his shoes and thought about the situation.

    If he was sent off to a foreign country and harmed, she would feel the same frustration for not being able to do anything to prevent it. It was difficult to stand on the sidelines and watch your loved ones get hurt.

    "On the bright side," Li Xueyue warilymented. "This is the first time you¡¯ve agreed with my brother."

    "And thest time," Yu Zhen deadpanned. He did not like to admit that he had agreed with the threat by the slightest bit.

    Yu Zhen was irked that he was always toote when it came to saving her. He swore to keep her safe, but she was harmed. Her naivety had gotten herself in trouble too many times. He could only wish that she would be more perceptive and astute with time.

    At the least, she was slowly changing, bit by bit. He heard she refused to eat or drink unless a poison tester was nearby. Now, she practically went nowhere without her guards.

    Li Xueyue also did not oppose the heightened security around her. There were visibly more guards around her and many others who were protecting her from the shadows¡ªsteps ahead of her.

    "Hopefully, when the letters reach them, everything will be well," Li Xueyue firmly said. She ced a finger on the letter, directly on the word "alliance."

    "Though it¡¯s not the best example, this letter will show the Empress, in the unlikely event that she tries to harm me, Wuyi wille for her."

    Li Xueyue did not want Yu Zhen to despise his mother. He did not say it, but she knew it. He abhorred her with every fiber within him. It was understandable, given his childhood. However, she felt like their rtionship had been more strained since she arrived in Hanjian.

    "I will be more careful from now on," Li Xueyue stated. She straightened up and nced at Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao. "I¡¯ll try harder than before to not be a burden to anyone."

 Chapter 517 I Swear

    <h4>Chapter 517 I Swear</h4>

    Lu Tianbi sighed in relief. It felt as if a weight was lifted from her shoulders. Knowing that the Crown Princess had sent letters to her family reassured everyone in the room. The Crown Princess had also done it without being asked to. It was what Lu Tianbi expected from her.

    Lu Tianbi threw Hu Dengxiao a meaningful look. She wanted to nudge him, but it would be too obvious. She hoped he woulde to appreciate the Crown Princess¡¯s actions.

    "Is this the letter that was kept from me, yesterday?" the Crown Princess suddenly asked.

    Lu Tianbi¡¯s attention snapped back to the Crown Princess. She nodded her head once. "Yes, Princess, we did not want to burden your conscience with this letter."

    Lu Tianbi hoped it was a suitable excuse. It was a lot better than saying the Crown Prince did not want her to read it. It was difficult for her to take a stance on this issue since both sides were justified.

    "I will write another letter to reassure them," Li Xueyue added on.

    Li Xueyue did not want to send her family the wrong message. She was touched by their efforts, and did not want to upset them. But she also didn¡¯t want to upset the people in front of her. It was a difficult bnce to keep.

    "Princess," Hu Dengxiao softly began. "It would be good if you could kindly let them know not to threaten the life of our dear Crown Prince."

    Before Li Xueyue could even say anything, he added on. "I know they¡¯re your family, but you have to realize Hanjian is your family now. A threat ton the Crown Prince, is a threat ton the future of this nation that you will eventually be the Mother of."

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t want to pick a side. Someone would always get hurt in the end. And sometimes, it would be herself. She could feel a hole being burned through her head.

    Yu Zhen was staring at her as he rested his chin on his propped up arm. He was analyzing her reaction, gauging her emotions, and studying her. She was upset, uncertain, and irritated. She was an open book, but only to him because he knew her too well.

    "I am well aware of that," Li Xueyue clipped.

    Hu Dengxiao opened his mouth, but mped it shut. He had crossed a line. But at least, she did not reject his advice. Nor did she ept it. He narrowed his eyes. He wished to know the thoughts running through her mind.

    "We can¡¯t please everyone, Princess," Lu Tianbi eventually said.

    Lu Tianbi gently smiled in understanding, for she knew this well. She had incurred the wrath of her father and the entire Lu Family by choosing Hu Dengxiao.

    All her life, she had chased for her father¡¯s gratitude and eptance. At some point in her life, she realized making him happy was her only motivation. What would happen when he died? When that happened, what would be the meaning of her life? She had grown up, it was time to make her own decisions.

    In the end, Lu Tianbi chose to prioritize herself and her own happiness. It did not make her parents and rtives happy. But she was happy. And to her, that was all that mattered.

    "Sometimes, it¡¯s inevitable for people to get hurt. The most important thing is that you¡¯ve tried your best, Princess," Lu Tianbi concluded.

    Li Xueyue did not expect this advice. But it warmed her chest. "You¡¯re right," she said. Her lips curled upwards.

    Lu Tianbi¡¯s smile widened until her eyes crinkled. She walked towards Hu Dengxiao¡¯s side.

    "Now that this problem is solved, Princess," Lu Tianbi mused. "It¡¯s time for you and His Highness to enjoy your morning meal."

    "But it¡¯s nearly the afternoon..." Hu Dengxiao whispered, just as Lu Tianbi grabbed his hand. He instantly melted, his lips twitching to suppress a gigantic grin. Just having her hold his hand was enough to bring him an indescribable amount of happiness.

    "Even so, our beloved Crown Prince and his dear Wangfei did not get to eat yet, so let¡¯s not interrupt them." Lu Tianbi pulled him along until they were standing in front of the Crown Prince¡¯s desk.

    Lu Tianbi lowered her head into a bow, as Hu Dengxiao did the same. "Please enjoy your meal, Your Highness." She turned to the Crown Princess. "Princess."

    Yu Zhen hummed in response. "Both of your duties to this court have just begun. Don¡¯t let me expect a niece or nephew so soon."

    Lu Tianbi flushed on the spot. It reached her ears, turning the tips bright pink. J-just what exactly was he thinking?!

    "Heh, I will behave myself for another few years or so," Hu Dengxiao teased. He rubbed his nose, and smirked. "Or a few weeks..."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "Just go."

    Hu Dengxiao chuckled a bit. He tugged at Lu Tianbi¡¯s hand, but she had lowered her head in embarrassment. When he saw her like that, it only weakened his resolve. ¡¯Make it a few days instead of a few weeks,¡¯ he cheekily thought.

    "Enjoy your meal," he said to both Yu Zhen and the Princess.

    Without another word, Hu Dengxiao hurriedly pulled Lu Tianbi out of the room. He strode with confidence. His shoulders were squared back, his head proudly raised. She sullenly walked beside him, unable to hide her scarlet cheeks.

    It felt like the tables had turned on him.

    In their youth, Lu Tianbi did the leading. She walked ahead, proud, stern, and determined. Back then, he was just an orphan blessed with a job. He¡¯d follow behind, quiet, demure, and sullen.

    But as the seasons changed, his footsteps were gradually approaching hers. Bit by bit, until he was finally walking beside her.

    - - - - -

    "Did Princess Lingluo take their rtionship well?" Li Xueyue asked over the meal she had just finished sharing with Yu Zhen.

    They were now seated in a gazebo in the center of an enormous pond. She was familiar with this ce, since it was where they often enjoyed their afternoon meals.

    The gazebo was a spectacr ce, reserved only for the Crown Prince. Crimson red pirs held up the golden rooftop that curled towards the sky. It was the epitome of the Imperial Family, a design that could not be replicated anywhere but here.

    "Initially she did not," Yu Zhen responded. "She threw a massive tantrum, shattering almost every item in her room."

    Yu Zhen let out a small scoff. "She has talent, I¡¯ll give her that."

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "What do you mean?"

    Yu Zhen¡¯s features darkened. He scowled at the unpleasant memory of her chaotic bedroom. It took a few days after that to get everything in order. All of the furniture, decorations, and essories were changed.

    "Everything she destroyed was expensive. It was as if she only targeted the pricey items."

    Li Xueyue wryly smiled. It was certainly one way to make a statement. "And then?"

    "I scolded some senses into her," Yu Zhen said. He lifted the teapot, ignoring the quiet protest of his servants, and poured chrysanthemum tea into a jade cup rimmed with gold.

    Yu Zhen set the cup in front of her before pouring one for himself. "From what I know, she has been a filial daughtertely."

    Li Xueyue waited for him to pour himself a cup of tea before taking a sip of it. She didn¡¯t want to be rude.

    "How so?" Li Xueyue curiously asked.

    Yu Zhen drank the slightly sweet, but bitter tea. "Lately, she has been reading bedtime stories to the Emperor. I find it quite ironic."

    Li Xueyue stilled. It had been a while since she had heard any updates about the Emperor. Ever since she entered the pce, the number of times she saw the Emperor could be counted with one hand. She wanted to ask more, but didn¡¯t.

    The Emperor and Empress were always a tricky subject especially when it came to Yu Zhen.

    "I see," was her only response.

    "He stopped taking his medicine."

    She slowly nodded her head. "Wouldn¡¯t that mean he stopped relying on the help of the merchants?"

    "Yes," he said.

    Li Xueyue lifted the teacup to her mouth, only to halt.

    "He¡¯s going to die soon."

    Li Xueyue could not bring the teacup to her mouth anymore. She was d this conversation took ce after their meal. Or else, she wouldn¡¯t have stomached the food whilst conversing about death.

    "And, how does that make you feel?" Li Xueyue hesitatingly asked. She was careful of her wording, in case it might upset him.

    Sneaking a peek at him, she was relieved that his expression did not change. He sat there with an aloof expression and a cold gaze. The tea was growing cold, all because of his icy presence.

    Nothing seemed to humor or amuse him.

    But when his eyes shifted to hers, winter melted, and spring came.

    Yu Zhen affectionately touched the side of her face, stroking her soft skin with his thumb.

    "I don¡¯t know how it makes me feel. I¡¯m numb when ites to him," he said. There were no lingering notes of unhappiness in his voice.

    Li Xueyue wasn¡¯t sure if she should be worried. Yu Zhen seemed genuinely alright with his father¡¯s death. Was he certain that this did not affect him at all?

    "I didn¡¯t share a single good memory with the Emperor. He¡¯s a stranger to me," he said.

    Li Xueyue was at a loss for words. She had felt the same way towards Viscount Bai Sheng. At some point, the pain the Viscount inflicted on her turned into hatred, then anger, then numbness. She understood Yu Zhen¡¯s perspective.

    "I wouldn¡¯t cry, even at his funeral."

    Li Xueyue lifted her hand and covered his hand that was resting on her face. He chuckled at her action. He slipped his hand away from her, just as hers fell.

    "Don¡¯t look so worried, Sunshine," Yu Zhen mused. He grabbed her hands and brought it to the warm teacup. It was mid-autumn, and he was concerned. What if she caught a cold?

    "If I¡¯m upset, I will let you know," he concluded.

    "Do you swear?"

    "Only if you do."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded her head.

    "Then, I swear as well," Yu Zhen mused. It would¡¯ve made more sense to have said a promise was made. But promises did not suit their tastes. It never did. Never will. They were both content with that.

 Chapter 518 A Busy Woman

    <h4>Chapter 518 A Busy Woman</h4>

    After their meal, Li Xueyue and Yu Zhen went their separate ways. He had to oversee the training of the new batch of Imperial soldiers whereas she decided she would entertain Heiyue for a while. But on her way there, a burly servant rushed up to her, dressed in clothes she did not recognize.

    To her sheer surprise, it was actually Marquis Qin. He was clothed in dark robes that showed visible signs of wear and tear. His sleeves were wet and his clothes emitted a strong stench of alcohol.

    "Marquis Qin, this is highly improper!" Xiao Hua instantly scolded.

    Guards rushed in front of the Crown Princess to shield her, protecting her at all costs.

    Xiao Hua led the pack with her frigid res and a displeased scowl. She struck a protective hand out to block anyone froming near the Crown Princess¡ªespecially, a wild and rabid dog like the Marquis.

    There was a crazed look in the Marquis¡¯s blotched red eyes. His hair was haphazardlybed up and it was a mess. It looked as if he had done it himself. His once jovial, yet cunning features were twisted in sheer desperation.

    "Princess, Princess, please grant me an audience!" he cried out, his voice sounded hoarse and harsh on the ears.

    Li Xueyue relished in the satisfaction of seeing him in such a pathetic state. Seeing the proud man in her childhood so broken like this, her chest swelled.

    She had never seen theposed Marquis appear this disheveled as if he had been chased through the forest by a tiger.

    If Li Xueyue recalled from her conversation with Yu Zhen, the Emperor had stopped taking his medicine. Which meant, the Emperor no longer tolerated Marquis Qin. The arrogant merchant had just lost his biggest customer.

    "The Crown Princess is a busy woman. She does not have the time to entertain sudden audiences like this, especially that of a lowly merchant," Xiao Hua snapped.

    She pulled her dress back and wrinkled her nose as if disgusted by the sight of him.

    Marquis Qin snarled at the disrespect. His head hung low, glowering at the ground. Just weeks ago when he was dressed in wealth and gold, the servants bowed to him, even the ones serving the Crown Princess.

    "Why not? She¡¯s standing right here! This audience will take no more than a few minutes of her spare time," Marquis Qin loudly bickered.

    His voice raised an octave, oozing with desperation.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s attention snapped back to the highly guarded Crown Princess. There were soldiers surrounding her on all sides. She was safe, but from what? It was not like he was here to threaten her life!

    "Princess, please havepassion upon me. I have worked myself to the bone to fulfill your request. Please grant me this audience with you!" Marquis Qin cried out. He took a step closer, but the soldiers drew their weapons.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips curled in amusement. "I like the sound of you begging."

    Marquis Qin stiffened. His eyes narrowed into slits as he ground his teeth.

    "Beg some more," she mused.

    Marquis Qin wanted to kill her. He wished she had been vited by those invaders. He had hoped she was vited in the worst way possible, and every part of her was defiled.

    Marquis Qin had prayed to the high heavens that she was ravaged to the point of no return and that everyone who looked at her would be disgusted.

    s, all of his hard work was yet again, in vain. Marquis Qin wasmissioned to gather a group of men that abhorred the Crown Prince.

    It was a difficult task, for the Crown Prince was frightsome who terrorized the hearts of many. Who would be bold enough to admit that they hated the Crown Prince?

    Marquis Qin did not know the purpose for these men as he was just told to gather them. But when he learned of what happened, he was initially horrified, until he quickly became entertained.

    "It seems the Marquis no longer needs an audience with you, Princess," Xiao Hua sniped. She jutted her chin in the air and turned her back to him, showing tant discourtesy.

    "It would be best not to soil your eyes so early in the afternoon, Princess. We fear your appetite for afternoon tea will be ruined," Xiao Hua softly said with a bow of her head.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s fingers itched. He wanted to yank this wench by her hair and throw her to the ground. It would not be the first time he had hurt a woman. He had done it many times yesterday, and the days before that. Until, all of his wives fled from his house, and no one remained. Those money-grubbing whores!

    The second they learned about his misfortune, they all packed up. When the servants and guards disappeared, they ran as fast as they could.

    Some even hung themselves, for they had nowhere to return but the Underworld. The thought of being married to a poor, but abusive husband had disgusted them too much.

    "A-afternoon tea?" Marquis Qin stuttered out. It took everything within him to control his anger, or else, he would¡¯ve snapped at her.

    This bitch of a Princess was ignoring him for afternoon tea?! As if that was more important than conversing with him?

    "Yes, Marquis Qin," Xiao Hua deadpanned. "We¡¯d invite you but..." She eyed him disdainfully from head to toe, her lips curling.

    "Servants do not dine with their masters," she concluded.

    Marquis Qin nearly strangled the maidservant. His hands had itched to do so. Blinded by a sh of red, he nearly acted on his instincts until he saw the guards. He did not want blood to spill, especially when he came unarmed.

    "A-afternoon tea is alright, I will be finished with the conversation before the tea is served, Princess," Marquis Qin finally said whilst turning to the Crown Princess.

    He rubbed his calloused hands together. The skin had toughened from all the hard work he had to do since he was a child, for he was born a peasant. But it became rougher when he let power get over his head and used them to abuse his wives.

    "Hmmm..." the Crown Princess hummed.

    Marquis Qin wished he could gouge out those beady eyes of hers. She was looking at him with contempt. It was written all over her face. She was repulsed by the sight of him. Then, she shed him a smirk.

    "Beg for one."

    "W-what?" Marquis Qin muttered.

    "The Princess meant if you want to see her so badly, get on your knees and beg," Xiao Hua spat out.

    Li Xueyue was initially surprised by how bold Xiao Hua was. She spoke the words that Li Xueyue wanted to say, but couldn¡¯t, due to her reputation. But it was fine if a maidservant said it. As long as Xiao Hua would be protected afterward.

    "B-but Princess¡ª"

    "Go and grovel like a dog," Xiao Hua deadpanned.

    Marquis Qin had never wished to kill someone so badly. This servant...who the hell did she think she was?! Who was she talking to? He was a Marquis, a prestigious title bestowed by the Emperor himself!

    He had never faced this type of embarrassment all his life. Not even as a peasant child, did someone treat him with this much contempt. His ears burned from being publicly shamed. There were a few wandering eyes in the hallway, quietly watching the show before them.

    Curse his damned luck for encountering the Crown Princess in such an open hallway, without walls, except for thin pirs of wood that held up the ceiling. Everyone was able to see his humiliation.

    "It seems this peasant is reluctant to beg, Princess. Let us be on your merry way," Xiao Hua lightly said. She bowed her head and gently smiled.

    "Princess, today¡¯s menu is white rose tea, served with your favorite pastries," Xiao Hua pleasantlymented, as if there wasn¡¯t anyone else with them. She didn¡¯t seem the least bothered by the disgraceful man beside her.

    The pitiful Marquis was gripping onto hisst straw of sanity. It was evident he was dirty and desperate. The rug was yanked from underneath his feet. The curtains were opened, and his true nature was revealed.

    The words of wealth that flowed from the maidservant¡¯s mouth nearly killed him. He was here, begging and disheveled, whereas the Crown Princess would be enjoying her tea, privileged andfortable.

    "Princess..." Marquis Qin finally whispered out. His knees trembled with the action, refusing to obey hismand.

    Marquis Qin was hopeless. He had no one else to turn to, except her. All of his "friends" and customers suddenly turned their backs on him. He did not know why.

    Li Xueyue watched as Marquis Qin lowered himself to the ground. He bowed his head and ced both hands on the floor. She had never felt this kind of satisfaction in her life. Her chest was filled with warmth, knowing the young Xueyue of the past, would soon get her redemption.

    "Princess, as a lowly servant, I beg of you, to please grant me an audience."

 Chapter 519 How can I forget?

    <h4>Chapter 519 How can I forget?</h4>

    Li Xueyue pretended to think about it for a few seconds. Then, a slow smile spread on her face. "No."

    "Thank you for the opportunity¡ª" Marquis Qin cut himself off. He had been expecting her graciousness. Her smile had filled him with hope, but her words dashed his hopes.

    Marquis Qin did not understand why everything wasn¡¯t going well in his life. What did he ever do to the Crown Princess? What did he do to incur her wrath? It was not like he had ever met her outside the pce before.

    Unless... Did she know? Was the Crown Princess aware of who supplied Lady Xu Jiaqi and Lady Ge Beining with the bath oils and poison? But all of it did not make sense. She was already unkind to him prior to the bath oil incident.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s brows furrowed. "P-Princess, surely¡ª"

    "You¡¯ve heard our Crown Princess," Xiao Hua instantly said. "It¡¯s time for you to depart before you disgust us any further."

    Marquis Qin was baffled. It felt as if dirty water was sshed on his face. In an instant, his blood boiled. He did not care about hisposure anymore. There were some things that were better done than said.

    In a blink of an eye, he rose to his feet. Blinded by anger, he nearly struck the pretty maidservant on her face. But as he lifted his hand, he froze in midair, and pretended to stroke the side of his head.

    ¡¯No, that would be too impulsive,¡¯ he warned himself. It would be what the maidservant and Crown Princess wanted¡ªan action justifiable of punishment.

    "I-it seems the rumors have lied about yourpassion, Crown Princess. I should¡¯ve known. In this case, I will not bother you anymore," Marquis Qin uttered out.

    It was a split decision made on the spot, but he dearly valued his life. If he continued badgering after the useless Princess, his time would be wasted. He had better things to do than grovel at her feet. She would do nothing for him.

    "Enjoy your afternoon tea, Princess," Marquis Qin muttered out. He lowered his body into a bow, but it was shaky. He had not eaten breakfast, for his servants did not prepare any. His servants were all gone now, some had fled from his estate whereas others simply did not show up.

    Marquis Qin could not understand why his servants left him. He gave those peasants a job, clothed, and fed them. He had given them a means of escape from a life of poverty, but this was how they repaid him?

    Without another word, Marquis Qin turned on his heels. He had intended to leave, until a formidable presence loomed over him. His spine stiffened. A cold chill broke out. Goosebumps arose.

    He didn¡¯t have to turn around to know who it was.

    "Your Highness!" Xiao Hua instantly greeted with a low bow.

    The guards withdrew their weapons and immediately cupped their fist before bowing deeply. Shuffles of clothes and armor could be heard in the process.

    "Yu Zhen," Li Xueyue called out. She was confused by his unexpected appearance. Had he heard of themotion?

    Li Xueyue raised her eyes and her heart fell. He was furious. His dark eyes were set aze. His brooding gaze swept over her. His fingers curled into fists.

    Yu Zhen reminded her of a ferocious beast ready to bite someone¡¯s head off. All he needed to do was bare his teeth. Bloodlust oozed from hisrge body.

    "Xueyue," he gritted out.

    Li Xueyue jolted at his words. He rarely called her by her name, unless she did something wrong.

    His re flickered over her shoulders. A man was frozen on the spot, his face pale as snow. Marquis Qin looked like he encountered a ghost, as blood was drained from his features.

    "C-Crown Prince..." Marquis Qin hurriedly greeted. He bowed as low as his upper body would allow it. Offending the Crown Prince was asking for a death wish.

    Marquis Qin could not recall a time he had seen this heartless man happy. People said the Crown Prince dearly loved his Wangfei. However, the stormy atmosphere and hesitation between the couple made the gossip seem like mere rumors.

    "What is this vermin doing in front of the Crown Princess?" the Crown Prince coldly demanded. His voice left little to no room for an argument.

    "W-we will escort him off the premises immediately, Your Highness!" The guards took daunting steps forward. They took hold of Marquis Qin¡¯s arms and prepared to drag him away.

    Marquis Qin felt like he was missing something. As he allowed the two men to pull him away, a sense of familiarity fondled his heart. There was something strange. It was bizarre and he could not pinpoint it.

    For a split second there, deja vu had flickered in his eyes. What was it? What provoked such a bizarre reaction? He narrowed his eyes on the Crown Princess, then it dawned on him.

    That face of hers. He was not mistaken. He knew it was familiar for a reason.

    Xueyue.

    That was the Crown Princess¡¯s name?

    Where had he heard it before?

    Suddenly, a name rolled off the tip of his tongue. "Xueyue?" he loudly called out.

    Everyone froze. The Crown Prince¡¯s face became murderous and there was a vicious glint in his eyes. It was forbidden to speak of her name by anyone except him. He would not allow it.

    Everyone was to address the Crown Princess with a title. Her husband made sure of that. She was, after all, ranks above everyone.

    But the Marquis said the Crown Princess¡¯s name so effortlessly, as if once upon a time, he was acquainted with her.

    And he might as well have been, with how intimately touched a girl of the same name.

    "Bai Xueyue?" Marquis Qin added on, in a louder voice. It echoed down the hallways, causing confusion left and right.

    Bai Xueyue?

    No, that was incorrect. The Crown Princess was from Wuyi, and her parents were the Imperial Family that sparked the beginning of the Li Dynasty.

    The Crown Princess¡¯s name was Li Xueyue. Was it not? It was a sacred name that not many dared to utter.

    "But how..." Marquis Qin breathed out.

    The Crown Princess¡¯s face had paled. Her eyes widened in horror, and her lips were parted.

    Marquis Qin had seen that haunted look before. Sheer terror shed on her features. Ah yes, he recalled that expression¡ªlike that of a fawn, innocent, yet appealing.

    He could not forget it¡ªthe first time he had touched the softest of skin, and heard the sweetest of cries. She had begged him to stop touching her, but her voice was so pleasant that he desired to explore every part of her. He was allowed to touch her anywhere except her womanhood.

    "Bai Xueyue, it is you, isn¡¯t it?" Marquis Qin shouted in delirium. How was this possible? The daughter of a lowly Viscount? How could it be?!

    It would be impossible for a lowly girl to be royalty. Not only that, but to be the Crown Princess of Hanjian? Hanjian was a formidable Kingdom of wealth, trade, and power. One of the rising nations that would eventually dominate the entire continent.

    How did she do it?

    "I knew it!" Marquis Qin shrieked out. He could never forget that face. It was so beautiful, like the porcin dolls his daughters used to clutch. She was so young, so pure, he could practically taste the tears he had licked off her face that night.

    Marquis Qin was so caught up with the past that he did not realize the Crown Prince storming down the hallways. It was only after the Crown Princess¡¯s figure was blocked by her husband did he realize it.

    Despite the danger that lurked close, the hands of ghosts wing at his ankles, and death who presented himself before the Marquis, he continued onwards.

    "How can I forget?!" he loudlyughed. "Bai Xueyue, the second daughter of a Vis¡ªmmph!"

    The Crown Prince had clenched the Marquis¡¯s jaw. His eyes werepletely dark, like an infinite abyss. His fingers tightened on the Marquis¡¯s face. He pressed it harder, his lips curling in sheer fury.

    Marquis Qin let out muffled cries of pain. His knees buckled from the agony. He could not feel his jaw anymore. The jaw muscles were being tightlypressed until he felt as if his face was on fire. The pain was unbearable.

    "Mmmph!" he shrieked out, like a squealing pig.

    In a chilling voice, the Crown Prince sealed the Marquis¡¯ fate. "When I¡¯m done with you, not even your mother would recognize you."

 Chapter 520 Disrespecting The Imperial Family

    <h4>Chapter 520 Disrespecting The Imperial Family</h4>

    Li Xueyue felt her afternoon meal rising up her throat. That name had not been said in a long time¡ªespecially by him. To this day, she could still recall his sickening voice, enthralled by the thought of touching her.

    Her fingers trembled. Whether it was out of fear or hatred, she did not know. The emotions she felt for him was a jumbled mess. She couldn¡¯t pinpoint an emotion.

    But one thing remained true.

    Li Xueyue wished to see him suffer¡ªin more ways than one could possibly imagine. She wanted to see his hard work crumble into nothingness. She wished to see his pride trampled into dust, and his fortune to disappear. Men like him did not deserve to seed.

    "Princess, are you alright? You seem sick to your stomach," Xiao Hua worriedly whispered.

    The maidservant kept her voice low, but it did not escape the Crown Prince¡¯s sharp ears.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze darkened. He had blocked Xueyue¡¯s view of the Marquis. Yet, she was still affected by him. He would not tolerate this at all. Her difort was his difort. Her pain was his pain.

    They had made a vow in their marriage to stay together through thick and thin. They had sworn to celebrate triumphs and withstand losses together, as if it were their own.

    "Drag him to the dungeons," Yu Zhenmanded.

    Yu Zhen yanked the Marquis¡¯ dirty belt and roughly tied it around the man¡¯s mouth. That way, he would not squeal out any more secrets.

    "I¡¯ll deal with this livestockter."

    The guards did not need to be told twice. The tension was high. The Crown Prince resembled a beast. They did not want to incur his wrath or see the Underworld so quickly.

    The guards hurriedly dragged the screaming and kicking Marquis away. The servants instantly averted their eyes and pretended not to see anything. They were familiar with the Crown Prince¡¯s cruelty.

    Without another nce back, Yu Zhen spun around and stormed towards his Wangfei. Immediately, his men parted to let him through. No one denied him ess to the Crown Princess. No one dared to.

    Once he reached her, Yu Zhen yanked off the ck gloves on his hands. They were thin and had stuck to his hand like a second skin. He tossed it to the ground.

    Without another word, Yu Zhen pulled her towards him. She moved like a rag doll, with ease and fluidly. His keen eyes observed her expression.

    "Are you alright?" he gently asked.

    She was numb. He could see it in her zed expression, and the slight terror that quivered her shoulders.

    Eventually, she gave him a faint nod. It was barely visible. Deeming it satisfactory, Yu Zhen kept his eyes locked on hers.

    "For upsetting your eyes, ignoring etiquette, and disrespecting the Imperial Family, the Marquis will get his sufficient punishment," he loudly announced.

    He had said it out loud partly for the servants, who would not have a reason to point fingers at him. Not that he cared. But it was mainly to put Xueyue¡¯s heart at ease. He knew she was concerned about his reputation, though it could never be changed.

    "The sun is too bright today. An afternoon walk in the gardens would not be pleasant," Yu Zhen softly added on. He cupped her cheek, his thumb rubbing her soft skin.

    "Let¡¯s go to the library," Yu Zhen gently said and wrapped an arm around her waist.

    Eyes were glued on them, a loving couple that left everyone speechless. Many have heard tales of the Crown Prince¡¯s adoration, but not many have personally witnessed it.

    Even a blind man would know the Crown Prince loved his wife. It was written all over his face. His hardened features, dripping with bloodlust, promising of murder, was nowhere to be found. When heid eyes on her, he had the look of a dutiful husband. There was gentleness in his eyes, and his actions were heartwarming.

    It¡¯s easy to be cruel. But it takes strength to be kind.

    - - - - -

    "I don¡¯t want to read," Li Xueyue finally said when they had reached their estate and set foot inside the library. All of the maidservants and guards had been excused.

    "Then, where would you like to go?" Yu Zhen asked her.

    Li Xueyue turned to him. Immediately, he snaked an arm around her hips, and pulled her closer. She was flushed against him, her hands resting on his chest.

    "Certainly, not the dungeons to view the torture?" Yu Zhen mused. He brushed his lips upon hers and gently kissed her once.

    "Not the dungeons," she mumbled against his mouth.

    Li Xueyue pulled back, knowing it would be too distracting for his sinful lips to be so close. Just thinking about what he¡¯d do with his mouth was enough for her cheeks to burn.

    "I... I don¡¯t think I can stomach the torture," she admitted.

    It was the truth. Thest time she had witnessed his brutality, her stomach had ufortably churned. Blood and gore were not for her eyes. She wished she was strong enough to face it. He was doing this for her. The least she could do was watch.

    "Then, would you like to hear what I will do to him?" Yu Zhen patiently asked. In hindsight, it would be best if she did not set her eyes on something so unpleasant.

    Yu Zhen was used to blood and gore. His experience in the battlefield had numbed him enough. But she was not used to such brutality. It would give her nightmares.

    "Yes, that would be enough for me," Li Xueyue said.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips twisted into a sinister smile. What a wife he had married. It was impressive she was even able to stomach his sadistic behavior. He brushed strands of hair behind her ears.

    In a low, controlled voice, he told her, "It¡¯ll be simr to what will happen to Ge Beining, who will soon be publicly whipped and then burned inside of her ancestral home until the only thing that remains is pure ash."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s blood chilled. She did not mind what would happen to Lady Ge. But the thought of him doing the torture made her ufortable.

    "My men will do it for me. Someone has to pay for the loss of our child,promising the virtue of your maidservant, and hurting you," Yu Zhen gently said. He wrapped his hand around the back of her head and pulled her to him.

    Yu Zhen tightly embraced her.

    Li Xueyue could hear his heartbeat¡ªrhythmic, and calm. Who exactly was she married to? He said the threats with tranquility unlike any other. He was not fazed by his own actions.

    Li Xueyue knew it would be wise not to make an enemy of him. His power knew no bounds. Mercy did not exist in his books. She feared that brain of his. His love for her was a dangerous obsession. And shame on her for hugging him back and loving him regardless.

    Li Xueyue was in love with a crazy man. But what could she do? Her heart yearned for him, and any distance apart was too painful to fathom.

    "It will be alright, Sunshine," Yu Zhen gently murmured to her. "No harm wille to you anymore. Ge Beining¡¯s crimes will be revealed, and so will Marquis Qin¡¯s. I have enough evidence to ruin them all."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s hands tightened upon his upper back. Her fingers grasped onto his clothes out of habit. "The Empress will hate you," she quietly whispered. "I¡ª"

    "I do not care," he concluded. "When has she loved me?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s mouth dried up. The Cold Pce was already cruel enough of a punishment, especially for someone as privileged as Lady Ge. Once ady was sent inside, no servants shall apany her.

    Lady Ge would have to clothe and feed herself. If she wanted a meal, she would have to beg the guards. Additionally, it was freezing cold in there with limited lighting. A week inside of the Cold Pce was sheer torture unlike any other. It yed mind games on the victims until one eventually loses their sanity.

    "Ge Beining has only suffered in the Cold Pce for a day or so. I¡¯ll deal with herter."

    Li Xueyue could not find an ounce of sympathy to voice a protest. Her eyes burned at the painful memory at the bathhouse. Tears threatened to trickle out. The pinkish water would forever be imprinted in her mind. The unexinable loss would never be forgotten.

 Chapter 521 Were Alone

    <h4>Chapter 521 We¡°re Alone</h4>

    After Yu Zhen departed the estate, an unfamiliar servant knocked on the estate doors. Xiao Hua walked outside first to survey the situation.

    Li Xueyue was getting ready for horseback riding. Her pretty dresses were set aside for regal robes that hugged her frame, but provided perfect mobility. She was adjusting the leather waist pouch containing some snacks.

    Shortly after, Xiao Hua returned to the bedroom with hesitation written all over her features. She tucked her hands in front of her and bowed.

    "Princess," Xiao Hua addressed.

    Li Xueyue closed the pouch and turned around. It waste in the afternoon, and the sun was close to setting. It was strange to get a visitor sote in her day, much less, an unexpected one.

    "His Majesty, the Emperor, is requesting your presence."

    Li Xueyue stiffened. She had not seen Yu Zhen¡¯s father for a while now. She couldn¡¯t even remember thest time they had met. Rumors had it the Emperor had been bedridden for weeks now. No one dared to speak of it for they knew the inevitable oue.

    When the Emperor would draw hisst breath, Yu Zhen would be crowned as the next Emperor. After a month of mourning, the coronation for the new Emperor would take ce. The Empress would have to resign from her position. She would be the Empress Dowager and her power would either increase or decrease.

    "I should change," Li Xueyue muttered. But there would not be enough time.

    No one kept the Emperor waiting. Not even the Crown Princess.

    Li Xueyue decided it would be best to see him right away. Besides, he had seen her in this attire before, when she rode on Heiyue and crossed swords with the Princess of Nanhui¡ªwinning Wuyi an alliance like no other.

    "Very well, Xiao Hua. Let¡¯s pay His Majesty a visit," Li Xueyue concluded.

    - - - - -

    The Emperor¡¯s estate was eerily calm. It was the brightest spot in the pce, one that received the most sun in the day. When the sunlight danced on the golden roofs, the Emperor¡¯s estate would glow brilliantly. Spews of yellow would reflect in the distance, like a chest of coins.

    Even so, the energy here wasckluster. Guards lined the walls, the servants were quiet and respectful and there was not even a hum in the air. It was peaceful here, with sshes of red, orange, and yellow due to the changing season.

    The Emperor¡¯s estate was the epitome of autumn, butcked the warmth and joy.

    "Crown Princess," an unfamiliar man politely addressed the woman in front of him. He was middle-aged and dressed in ivory and ocean blue.

    Li Xueyue immediately put the pieces back together. This was not an Eunuch before her. He was more important than that, judging from his clothes.

    He was the spitting image of Wu Xiang.

    "Chancellor Wu," Li Xueyue stated.

    Chancellor Wu¡¯s aloof stare widened a bit. He did not expect the foreign Princess to be acquainted with his face. Nowadays, Chancellor Wu rarely showed his face in court, or anywhere for that matter.

    Chancellor Wu was glued to the Emperor¡¯s side. He never wandered far or left the Emperor¡¯s side except to go home. His duty was to His Majesty, his loyal friend from childhood. His stone heart was beginning to show cracks and wear, from all the years of being emotionless.

    The looming death of his friend was impacting him too much.

    "The Emperor will see you now," Chancellor Wu finally managed to say. His voice slightly trembled as if he could not ept the dreary future.

    Without another word, Chancellor Wu reached behind him and pushed the doors open. He stepped aside politely, and graciously, for a girl half his age, if not, even younger.

    Certainly, the Crown Princess was as the rumors said¡ªshe was beautiful, elegant, and poise. It was all that they could ask of her. But there was more than what meets the eye. He saw it in hers¡ªa heightened sense of urgency and hesitation of the situation.

    "Thank you," the Crown Princess quietly muttered whilst setting foot inside.

    Chancellor Wu was caught off-guard. Not even Princess Yu Lingluo thanked him, and he had been by her side for a while now. But he did not let this affect him.

    Chancellor Wu merely bowed his head in respect. This young woman would soon be the Empress of this nation. He needed to make sure his family remained on her good side.

    "Your Majesty, the rising sun of the Kingdom," Li Xueyue formally addressed. She lowered her legs, and tucked her hands to the side, dipping into a curtsy.

    "Third Princess Yu," Li Xueyue greeted in a humble voice.

    "Hnn...." the Emperor groaned out. He turned his head to the side. With crinkled eyes, he saw a blurry figure. With the stealth of a sloth, he rubbed at his eyes until his vision finally cleared.

    The Crown Princess was as lovely as he had remembered her to be. She brought a smile to his face. Dressed in fine robes of white, leather, and green, she wore clothes suitable for fighting, running, and horseback riding. She never failed to impress him.

    "Rise," he breathed out.

    Li Xueyue did so with ease. She lifted her eyes and held back a gasp. The Emperor¡¯s health was deteriorating. His skin was like aged leather, but tinted with grey like fresh ash.

    "How..." he heaved out. "Do you feel?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s voice was stuck in her throat. Yu Zhen needed to see his father immediately. The Emperor truly looked like he was lying near death¡¯s door. Any minute now, the doors would open, and the grim reaper would step out.

    "Blessed by your presence, Your Majesty," she responded.

    At this, the Emperor¡¯s chest rattled like a cage of bones. Hisugh was empty, yet warm. He was highly humored by her words.

    "My presence is that of a...ghost," he gasped out. "There is nothing...to be blessed by."

    "You¡¯re mistaken, Your Majesty," Li Xueyue slowly said. She briefly nced at Yu Lingluo, who sat by the Emperor¡¯s side. There was an open book in her hands, but her head was lowered. Wet spots could be seen on the pages.

    "I felt blessed to receive the opportunity to be granted a rare audience with Your Majesty," she exined.

    The Emperor smiled. She had a way of words. He vividly remembered that part about her. Her words had gotten sweeter, but still unexpected. It reassured his heart that someone as reliable as her would be ruling beside his unstable son.

    "If only Yu Zhen, that ungrateful son of mine...feels the same as you," the Emperor coldly said.

    Li Xueyue nced away. He was sick, and tired, but had the energy to be disappointed. It was a strange revtion, one that squeezed her heart. She wished they would at least talk to each other.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart ached. What if Yu Zhen lived with regret for the rest of his life? Regret that he was not able to have a final word with his father before the opportunity would no longer be presented to him.

    "Bah, but we¡¯re not here to discuss him," he gentlyughed. Suddenly, he broke out into a violent cough.

    "Father!" Yu Lingluo gasped out. She rushed out of her chair and tossed the book away. "Father, shall I call for the Imperial Physician?"

    The Emperor instantly shook his head. He reached a hand out and immediately, a newly poured cup of tea was ced into his hand. Infused withvender and chamomile, the white tea immediately calmed him down.

    He let out a relieved sigh andid back down. The tea soothed his aching lungs. "Much better," he muttered.

    "Please try not tough so much," Yu Lingluo pleaded. There were even more unshed tears in her eyes.

    "What is life withoutughter?" the Emperor mused with a tired smile.

    The Emperor reached his hand up and gently caressed the side of his daughter¡¯s face. "It¡¯s alright. Leave me with the Princess. A thorough discussion must take ce."

    Yu Lingluo was hesitant to leave. But she knew how responsible the Crown Princess was. Even so, her heart was heavy, like her foot. It was always difficult to leave his room when it was time to depart.

    "Go," he gently reassured her.

    "Continue the story tomorrow," he said whilst patting the book that was now beside him.

    Yu Lingluo bit her bottom lip. She lowered her eyes and sullenly nodded. "I will have the servants brew a new batch of tea and have them watch over you at night, Father."

    The Emperor¡¯s smile widened at her words. This was why he appreciated having daughters. They were more filial and cared about their parents. Unlike those petty sons of his...who rarely visit.

    "I will be leaving now, Father." Yu Lingluo rose from her chair. She cast him a final look, then turned around and approached the door.

    On her way out, she nodded her head in acknowledgment of Xueyue, but kept her eyes low. She did not want anyone to see her red-rimmed eyes and the way it glistened with tears.

    Yu Lingluo closed the doors behind her.

    "Now, it is just us," the Emperor heaved out. He wanted to sit up and properly talk to her, but could not do so without appearing weak. Well, he already felt weak from lying down and craning his neck to see her.

    "Come closer and let me get a good look at you," the Emperor said.

    The Crown Princess showed no hesitation to approach him and it pleased him. Some would hesitate to approach him, they were either worried of offending him or wary of his disease. But he was not as fragile as ss nor was his illness contagious.

    "You¡¯ve somehow matured..." the Emperor murmured.

    Li Xueyue was not sure what he meant by that. She was startled when he suddenly grasped her hands and squeezed them. His skin was rough and textured with lines.

    "Now that we¡¯re alone, I must tell you something dire."

 Chapter 522 Silly Hamster

    <h4>Chapter 522 Silly Hamster</h4>

    Li Xueyue did not know what the Emperor meant. She had a lot of questions in her mind but she stood by his side and allowed him to hold her hands as he confessed his sins to her. Why was he telling her this? What was his purpose? Was there an underlying message to his words?

    "I was not the best father," he admitted.

    Li Xueyue rapidly blinked. She already knew that.

    "I did not treat my sons with kindness..." he breathed out. "For I never receivedpassion from my father."

    Li Xueyue did not know that.

    "I did not be the father I¡¯ve always wanted as a child..." He let out a small cough and patted at his chest.

    "Now that I am approaching death, a-and weing him with open arms," he murmured and took a deep gasp of air before he continued on, "I¡¯ve realized, in the process of making rulers out of them... I lost my sons."

    Li Xueyue patiently listened to his words. He released her hands and gestured for her to take a seat, where Yu Lingluo sat earlier. She quietly did so and allowed him to continue the story.

    Li Xueyue could not shake the feeling of deja vu as she recalled the Empress also shared stories of her youth.

    "My oldest is fine, but my second..." The Emperor turned his head and faced the canopy ceiling. The curtains of red and ck were drawn to the side, but he remembered the good nights shared with his wife before she lost her sanity.

    "He took the blunt end of the stick for his mother did not cherish him as she did with Shisheng."

    Li Xueyue noticed how well the First Prince¡¯s name rolled out of the Emperor¡¯s tongue.

    "Yu Zhen...he..."

    Li Xueyue gripped her hands tighter. The Emperor said Yu Zhen¡¯s name with great hesitation. It was as if the Emperor was not familiar with saying his name.

    She was angered by this, but could not voice it. The Emperor was a dying man. He had always smiled at her. Even so, he was not as kind of a man as she believed.

    "He did not receive much love," the Emperor quietly whispered out. His breathing stabilized a bit, but the words were difficult to utter.

    The Emperor¡¯s heart stung with memories of the past¡ªunchangeable and set in stone. He wished to go back to the days when he beated his sons, andfort them afterward. Maybe then, things would turn out much differently.

    His eyes zed over. He could not change what had already happened.

    "Maybe I¡¯m old, but I¡¯ve learned to regret everything," the Emperor confessed.

    The Emperor would never tell this to anyone but his closest friends, like Chancellor Wu. When Yu Lingluo was not in the room, the two would converse and reminisce about their youth. The memories were growing more vague by the day, but Chancellor Wu would help to sharpen the images.

    "My heart has softened with age," the Emperor mumbled.

    Li Xueyue noticed his eyes had moistened just a bit. It was barely noticeable, so she thought it was just the flicker ofnterns reflecting on his face.

    Despite the Emperor¡¯s illness, and his weak breathing, there was still an intimidating air around him. He was not a man to be trifled with.

    "I¡¯ve lived long enough to be what I despised."

    His story and thoughts were all over the ce. Li Xueyue realized that, but did not say anything. She was just appreciative of the truth.

    "I¡¯ll admit, Yu Zhen¡¯s grandfather was a horrible man..." he slightly coughed. "And I¡¯ve walked in the same footsteps as him."

    Li Xueyue did not know much about the previous Emperor. No one spoke of him. No one uttered his name. Then again, she did not ask much about the deceased. It was not her ce to ask, nor did she want to know.

    The Emperor¡¯s eyes became zed over, as if reminiscing of the past. He was the epitome of the saying, ¡¯You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself be the viin."

    The Emperor turned his head in her direction. A painful smile graced his face, though it was not from the illness.

    "If only I can return to the past, and stand up against my father," the Emperor softly sighed. "Perhaps, I wouldn¡¯t have inflicted trauma on my own sons."

    Li Xueyue couldn¡¯t say she agreed with him. The butterfly effect was a strange thing. "The past can¡¯t be changed, but the future certainly can."

    The Emperor¡¯s smile widened to his eyes. It softened and mellowed out with fondness. "Wise words from a witty woman."

    Li Xueyue wryly smiled. She did not think so.

    "What do you suggest I do?" the Emperor humored her. "Speak to my son and hope everything will be swept under the rug?"

    "No."

    "Oh?"

    Li Xueyue wished she had not spoken so quickly. But her emotions had rushed at her. She was eager to help her husband, to protect him, and make him happy.

    "I meant, it would be best if you spoke to Yu Zhen, but nothing can be swept under the rug. Wounds can only be healed when we speak of it and learn to ept what has happened can¡¯t be changed."

    Li Xueyue straightened her spine. "Only there¡¯s eptance can one learn to move on from the mistakes."

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen returned to his estate at midnight. The servants were deep asleep, and the guards¡¯ senses were heightened. Not a single sound could be heard in the ominous silence. Not even the crickets dared to sing, and the wind dared to howl.

    Everything was deathly still. His nonchnt gaze was set ahead and his footsteps were quiet. A leaf falling was louder than the silent hallways.

    The atmosphere was chilly and dreadful. Even so, the moon was brilliant tonight. Glowing euphorically in the sky, the moon took its rightful ce amongst the stars.

    The stars were its subjects, whose beauty could never outmatch their ruler. Shemanded the night, proudly and unforgiving.

    "Hm, she would¡¯ve enjoyed this view."

    Without a sound, Yu Zhen set foot into his estate. Then he opened the doors to their bedroom. The moonlight danced through the windows, pouring down on the mahogany floors. The tips of tree branches could be seen, creating a lovely canvas for the darling moon.

    It was a scenic view. But he could not admire it with his lovely wife, who was nowhere to be found.

    "Where the hell could she be?" he growled.

    Yu Zhen spun around, ready to turn the pce upside down just to find her. But then, his eyesnded near the tables. She was seated there, with her cheek resting on a propped up arm. Her other hand was on a page, her fingers tucked underneath it.

    In a snap of a finger, his wrath washed away.

    "Silly Hamster," he muttered.

    With a shake of his head, he continued to observe her for a split second. Finally, deeming she was truly asleep, Yu Zhen closed the distance between them. He instantly noticed the untouched dinner surrounding her as if she had waited all night to have dinner with him.

    cing his palm on the table, he peered down at her book.

    "The Art of Seduction."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s eyes narrowed. She was already seducing him, even in her sleep. Every breath she drew was a tortuous seduction.

    The rise of her chest when she was startled, the widening of her eyes, everything about her enthralled him. His throat would tighten when she smiled, his heart would race when sheughed, and his groin would tighten when she giggled.

    What gibberish was she reading? There was no need for it.

    "You must enjoy teasing me," he hissed out.

    Even so, Yu Zhen bent down. He scooped under her knees and ced an arm on her lower back. With great fluidity, he lifted her into his arms. She stiffened. Just as her head hit his shoulders, she stirred.

    "Yu... Zhen...?"

    Yu Zhen peered at her. Her eyes were slowly opening, but she registered it was him. Without another word or hesitation, she nuzzled her face into his shoulders.

    "You¡¯re backte," sheined.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s grip tightened. Her drowsy voice enticed him. Her lips were pulled into a little pout. He wanted to devour her right then and there, like the little prey she was. But she wrapped her arms around his neck and snuggled into him.

    "I missed you," she tiredly said.

    Yu Zhen decided this prey was too adorable to be eaten...for now.

    "I¡¯m sure you did, with the book you were reading."

    Yu Zhen settled her onto the bed. She slipped under the nkets and let out a small yawn. When he straightened up, she immediately grabbed onto his sleeve.

    He stiffened.

    "Where are you going?" she mumbled out, like a lost child.

    Yu Zhen slowly turned back to her. He needed to take a cold bath or else he would be too rough with her. He needed to clear his thoughts.

    "A bath."

    Li Xueyue wanted one too. She had fallen asleep waiting for him. She had patiently waited for him to return for dinner, after sending a servant out to notify him. She read a book but unknowingly fell asleep in the process.

    "Let¡¯s take one together," she offered.

    Li Xueyue sat up from the bed and groggily rubbed at her eyes. Her entire afternoon was spent with the Emperor. She wasn¡¯t able to ride Heiyue today, but was still dressed in well-fitted robes.

    Once her vision cleared, Li Xueyue stiffened. Her face paled, and her eyes narrowed. What happened to Yu Zhen?!

 Chapter 523 Please

    <h4>Chapter 523 Please</h4>

    Li Xueyue was shocked at his appearance. There were dots of red sttered across his face. His hands were pink from bloodstain. The white parts of his ck outfit were stained with blood as well.

    She instantly rose to her knees. Without warning, she yanked him towards her. "Is this your blood?" she asked, horrified at the thought of him getting hurt.

    Li Xueyue shakily reached a hand out to touch his face. Instantly, he captured her hand. He gripped it tightly, as a haunting look crossed his sharp features.

    "Are you scared, Sunshine?" he cooed in an eerie voice. It was a bnce of deceitful tranquility.

    Anger simmered in his eyes. His lips were curled into a slight sneer.

    "Of course, I¡¯m scared!" Li Xueyue exasperated. She pushed his hand away and gripped his jaw. With force, she turned it to the left, then the right, and centered it again.

    "Are you hurt?" Li Xueyue worriedly said. "Why is there so much blood¡ª"

    "It¡¯s not mine."

    Li Xueyue blinked. "Oh¡ª"

    Before she could finish her sentence, he captured her lips. Her eyes widened, but he did not give her time to protest.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her neck and tugged her towards him until her body was flushed against his firm chest. His hand snaked behind her lower back. His lips moved urgently, kissing her ferociously with no remorse.

    She was growing dizzy with his affection. He left her breathless. He let her pull back to take in a gasp of air, only to kiss her again. This time, his fingers gripped the back of her head, holding her in ce as he ravished her mouth. She let out a quiet moan, her fingers gripping his cor.

    She clung onto him, her other hand sliding up his arm to rest upon his firm bicep. His muscles clenched under her touch. He pulled her closer, as if it was humanly possible. He licked her bottom lip, as it parted for him. He stuck his tongue inside, and hungrily kissed her.

    "W-wait, Yu Zhen, the blood¡ª"

    He stiffened.

    Yu Zhen had never lost control like this. He instantly pulled back, just as her head fell upon his chest. She sucked in ragged breaths, hoping her heart rate would go back to normal.

    Hearing her heavy breathing, Yu Zhen¡¯s groin stiffened even more. He slid his hands down to grip both sides of her waist, squeezing it. He wanted to caress her soft skin and do much more than simple kisses.

    "A-at least tell me whose blood it was," she mumbled out.

    Yu Zhen did not respond. Instead, he gathered her in his arms and lifted her in midair. She yelped and instantly wrapped her legs around him.

    "Good girl," he murmured into her ears.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s cheeks burned. She was grateful for the riding pants she wore, or else it would¡¯ve been difficult to hug him like this. Hisrge hand rested on her back whilst the other pressed her body to him.

    "You didn¡¯t answer my question," she said.

    Li Xueyue worried she was too heavy for him. But he walked with ease. He didn¡¯t flinch or falter when she rxed her legs and it swung under his elbows.

    "It¡¯s best that you don¡¯t know," he said.

    "Is it the Marquis?"

    Yu Zhen turned his head. She was resting her face upon his shoulders, her cheeks adorably squished. Both of her arms were wrapped around his neck, hugging him close.

    He could only respond by kissing the top of her head. Only she would see her husband covered in blood, and worry it was his. Yu Zhen was certain he looked like a crazed man when he walked into the room earlier.

    Instead of flinching back, she rushed to him, wondering if he was harmed.

    If possible, he loved her even more.

    "Yes, it is."

    Li Xueyue warily peered over his shoulder, where her hand was. There was nothing on her fingers. She feared she had unintentionally smeared blood on Yu Zhen¡¯s face. She didn¡¯t want to dirty his features.

    "Do you want to see what I¡¯ve done?"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s throat dried. Did she want to stomach that sight? Warily, she leaned her head back onto his shoulders.

    "L-let me think about it," she responded.

    Yu Zhen nodded. Fair enough. He¡¯d let her decide when she would be ready.

    His attention drifted back to their position. She was so tiny in his arms. He had always known his figure was twice her size. He enjoyed carrying her. She always had the best reactions, whether it was hugging him, or nuzzling her face upon his shoulders.

    "Where are we going?" Li Xueyue finally asked softly. She was getting sleepier by the minute. It felt sofortable in his arms. She could do nothing but close her eyes.

    "You better not fall asleep on me," Yu Zhen muttered. He had thoroughly enjoyed their passionate night in the bathhouse. He wanted it again.

    "I¡¯m not..." she yawned.

    "Sure, you¡¯re not," he wryly said.

    Yu Zhen picked up his pace. By now, the guards were no longer surprised to see them out and about in the dark of the night.

    "If you fall asleep, I won¡¯t be so kind to youter," he softly said.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s face was stained red. She hid her face in the crook of his neck. Memories of their wet bodies molded together shed in her head. The water sloshed, as their bodies pped against each other. Heightening their senses were her quickened breathing and his asional grunts.

    It was hard enough as it was to escape him in bed, but the bathing pool made it even more difficult. She¡¯d reach for the stones lining the pool, hoping for a distraction. But he¡¯d pin her hands down and grab her thighs, widening his ess to her.

    "P-please be kind," she finally squeaked out.

    Yu Zhen let out a throatyugh. His chest rumbled and vibrated. She shivered in response and hugged him tightly.

    "We¡¯ll see about that."

    Li Xueyue hid her face on his shoulders. She liked it rough but it was too promiscuous of a thought to be voiced out. If she had told him that, it would give him the satisfaction.

    "P-please?" she added on, just as they reached the bathhouse.

    With one hand, he opened the door and carried her inside.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced at the humidity inside the bathhouse. It was warm and wet. Her body tingled as her mind recalled what they did in the bathhouse recently, especially when a familiar pool came to sight.

    "Hmmm..." Yu Zhen settled her onto the ground. He gingerly gripped her chin with his thumb and forefinger. Upon seeing her reddened lips, andrge eyes, he instantly made a decision.

    Yu Zhen bent his head and kissed her lips.

    "I think not." His breath fanned her lips, still moist from his kiss.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes widened. Before she could say anything, he unhooked the belt of her robes, then effortlessly undressed her. She yelped, as the cold hit her skin. She clung onto him for warmth, not believing he could be so mean to her.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips curled into a satisfied smirk. It was the exact reaction he wanted. "You¡¯re clinging onto me so desperately, Sunshine." His hands slid down her back, tracing the curve of her arched spine.

    "When you react like this, I can only return the favor." With that said, he lifted her and brought her towards the pool.

 Chapter 524 On Your Knees

    <h4>Chapter 524 On Your Knees</h4>

    Li Xueyue shrank into the corners of the pool, as Yu Zhen took off his clothes. Her eyes lingered on his body, hard as a stone, with ridges and contours that warmed her cheeks. She always knew he trained early in the mornings, but it was difficult for her to fathom his body. She had to look away, but found her eyes wandering back to him.

    His skin was kissed by the sun, golden like flowing honey. When his zing eyes met hers, she knew what was toe.

    "The bath oil smells nice," she blurted out. "Perhaps we can do it afterwards?"

    Yu Zhen settled into the water. His lips curled into a smile. She was on the other side of the pool. The steam from the hot water covered the curve of her hips, and the water covered her legs. Even so, his senses were heightened. He focused on her and nothing else.

    "Sure, we can do it afterwards as well."

    Her eyes widened, like a deer before an arrow. She licked her bottom lip, unsure of what to say.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s attention instantly went to her lips, captured by the small action. The small dart of her pink tongue reminded him of how sweet she always tasted. Whether it was from the sweet teas she tasted, or the pastries, he did not know. But she was his addiction.

    "That¡¯s not what I meant, and you know it," she grumbled out.

    The water sloshed as he confidently crossed over to where she was and closed the distance between them. In a fluid motion, he caged her with his arms. Her back was pressed against therge, smooth stones.

    "Is it so wrong to love my wife?" he teased.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her chin, tilting it up for him. He lowered his head and pressed a chaste kiss on the corner of her mouth. She shrank back, but he wrapped his arms around her petite form and trapped her against him.

    "When you try to run, I want to love you even more," he breathed upon her lips, only to gently kiss it again.

    Her heart skipped at his words. It was frightening. Yet, her stomach churned and pooled with warmth that was not influenced by the hot water.

    "You¡¯re so precious to me, Sunshine," he gently said. He stroked the strands of hair away from her eyes, revealing her soft cheeks. He pressed his lips upon the smooth skin, kissing down to her jawline.

    "I only want to make you mine, over and over again." He nipped the side of her neck. When she yelped, he licked the spot and suckled upon it until her fingers gripped his biceps, and she quietly moaned. His mouth was soft and moist, his hair tickling her.

    "And mark your pretty little body," he said and pulled back, just as his hand gripped the back of her head. In an instant, he captured her lips in a deep, passionate kiss. His tongue entered her mouth, exploring it as she shivered.

    He tasted sweet, like fragrant white wine. She clung onto him subconsciously. One hand settled on his biceps, the other snaking up his ripped back. She pulled him close, their bodies molding perfectly into each other.

    "So why don¡¯t you?" she boldly responded, as they pulled apart.

    His gaze instantly darkened. He yanked her head back by her hair and kissed her harder, deeper, until she finally sumbed to him. She trembled at the rough kiss, as his other hand trailed down the side of her body. She jolted against him when his calloused thumb brushed against her breast, his hand cupping it.

    "You shouldn¡¯t have said that, Sunshine," he softly chuckled.

    His actions bewildered her. He was aggressive, like that of a beast, but he caressed her as if she was ss that¡¯d shatter any moment. With how he teased, she might as well shatter in his hand.

    "W-why?"

    "I only wanted to tease you a bit, but now, it seems we have to do more than that," he mused whilst pressing her small back close to the stone. With his ns for her, she¡¯d need the stones for support. That is, if she could even hold herself up afterwards.

    She quietly trembled at his words, goosebumps dancing upon her exposed shoulders and chest.

    Even when he said such things to her, she was not afraid of him. When he was rough and cruel, edging her, and forcing her to beg for release, she did not fear him. It was impossible to do so, despite his dark, sinister nces, and mischievous smiles.

    "Yu Zhen..." she trailed off, hoping he would find it inside of his heart not to push her to the edge today.

    He merely smiled down at her and cupped her womanhood, his thumb teasingly brushing upon the bud. She gasped, her hips jerking.

    "Yes, love?"

    She gripped the stones and tried to pull back, but his hands firmly gripped her waist.

    "P-please¡ª" Her lips parted as he fondled the bud, her head instantly rolled back in shock. Not a secondter, he inserted two fingers into her so slowly that it was torturous. She felt her insides were burning, as she instantly clenched upon him.

    "I-I¡¯m still tired from yesterday, and this morning¡ª"

    "Nonsense, you¡¯re walking and on your feet, aren¡¯t you?"

    "Yes, but¡ª"

    "Though I prefer you on your knees."

    She did not have the time to respond. Her lips parted, as his fingers pressed upon a sensitive spot that made her entire body tense. Her eyes were closed shut at his sensual touch. The sensation of his rough fingers upon her soft insides were enough to drive her insane.

    "I-I can¡¯t," she gasped out, her head leaning back, exposing her neck to him. He bent down and kissed her whilst curling his fingers until she loudly moaned. Her eyes rolled back and her toes curled.

    She was soaking, and it was because she was in the pool. Her legs trembled, her fingers digging into him, as he brought her to a familiar peak.

    She cried out his name and released the tension. Her chest went up and down as she gasped for air.

    "And you say you¡¯re tired," he softly chuckled upon her neck, sending vibrations down her shaking body. Her head fell back onto his shoulder, her soft breathing tickling his skin.

    He had never wanted her more than now. "Please wait¡ª"

    He did not.

    When she was sensitive and weak for him, he slid into her with a quick thrust.

    "Ah!" she held back a sob, whilst moaning into his shoulders.

    Despite reaching her ecstasy previously, she wanted more. Her hips rolled against his, just as he ground his teeth.

    "Sunshine, don¡¯t bite more than you can chew," he growled whilst holding her hips in ce. Disobedient as always, she clenched him tighter, and brought her lips to his ears.

    "Y-Yu Zhen, please..." she mewed whilst softly gasping.

    She was fully aware of her effect upon him. Like the clench of his muscles when he gripped the stones behind her, caging her between his firm chest, and the pool. But she had forgotten, just how enticingly rough he could be. Until he gently slid outside, only to thrust forward with strength and speed that made her thigh quiver, and her eyes water.

    "No, wait, I regret it¡ª" she pleaded, but it was toote. He was no longer going to restrain himself tonight.

    "You¡¯re the one who provoked me, Sunshine. Don¡¯tin about your regrets," he growled into her ears. He had her exactly where he wanted her to be.

    The pleasure was too much for her. She was struggling to even breathe whilst sucking in gasps of air. Her eyes rolled back in ecstasy as hisrge body mmed into her. She tried to hold back the moans, but it was impossible. She could not even think straight.

    The only thing she could do was desperately cling onto him. He lifted one of her legs, and she wrapped it around his waist on instinct. But it was a mistake, for he went deeper until she was a mess.

    "Breathe," he growled into her ears, knowing she was muddled by his coarse actions.

    She wed at his back whilst hugging him tightly. Breathing was difficult, for her body attempted to escape from the pleasure.

    "I¡¯m going crazy from you," he groaned whilst thrusting harder into her, demanding as always. He dominated every part of her, as she choked back a moan. With every push, his breathing became ragged, and his actions more fervid. Soon, warmth swept into her body, and the water softly stilled, no longer pping against their bodies.

    Li Xueyue was finally able to breathe. Though, it was shakily like a leaf falling during autumn. Her vision was speckled with ck dots. Her insides were hot, with him, and he kept himself inside her.

    "My goodness, what are you doing to me?" he murmured whilst gently kissing the tears away. He knew it was not from pain, especially when she peered up at him with zed eyes, and parted lips.

    "You should take responsibility for this," he gentlyughed upon her lips, kissing her again, but a lot more gentle this time.

    "It¡¯s alright, I¡¯ve got you." He chuckled as her legs gave out. She groaned against his wet skin whilst tiredly wrapping her arms around hisrge body.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s arms tightened around her waist, hoisting her up. Her skin was warm and soft, slick with sweat, but that was fine. He was going to take proper care of her afterwards.

 Chapter 525 Unfair

    <h4>Chapter 525 Unfair</h4>

    After their passionate session, Yu Zhen brought her to the other side of the pool, where it was more shallow. She was morefortable here, as he brought her to sit on hisp.

    Finally, he asked her, "Is the water too hot?"

    Li Xueyue red at him with a pointed look. Really? He was asking that now? He let out a breathyughter and pulled her closer. He hugged her and kissed the top of her head.

    "I was meaning to ask before someone distracted me," Yu Zhen said. He stroked her hair away and cupped her cheeks.

    "Well, is it?"

    "The temperature is normal," she responded.

    A smile spread on his face. Her heart skipped at the sight. When he looked at her like that, how could she not love him so? He stared down at her as if there was no one else in the world but her.

    Li Xueyue turned around until she was straddling him. He was caught off-guard, but instantly wrapped his arms around her. Even with him seated, he was taller than her. Then she leaned up and kissed him on the lips. It ended as swiftly as it came.

    "I love you," she softly whispered upon his mouth.

    Unbeknownst to her, his heart clenched at her confession. His eyes flickered. He embraced her tightly until their chests were pressed against each other. He bent his head to pepper her shoulders with kisses.

    Li Xueyue giggled in response, a bubblyughter escaping her. "It tickles."

    She felt his smile widened upon the curve of her shoulders. "I love you too, Sunshine," he breathed upon her skin.

    He had dered his love to her so many times as she did to him. But she¡¯d never grown tired of hearing it from his mouth. She tightened her arms around his neck and kissed the side of his head.

    "Really?" she curiously asked.

    He scoffed. "No."

    She chuckled, knowing it was a joke.

    "Now, be good," he murmured. "I¡¯ll wash you."

    Li Xueyue was surprised. Before she could say anything, he grabbed the towel from the wooden basket. She curiously watched as hethered it with soap and brought it towards her.

    "I-I didn¡¯t think you were serious," she stuttered out, bewildered by his actions.

    "I¡¯ve done it before, don¡¯t be so surprised," he mused.

    "Yes, but I thought it was a one-time thing," she responded.

    Yu Zhen merely shook his head at her words. "I¡¯ll care for you until the end of our lives, silly Hamster."

    He brought the towel to her back and gently cleaned it, rubbing it up and down. His actions were slow and sensual, as the towel went lower. Her breath hitched when he kissed the side of her neck.

    "Yu Zhen..." she warned, but he merely brought the towel back up and down her shoulders.

    "Yes, love?" he asked.

    Li Xueyue closed her eyes when he began to massage her body, beginning from her shoulders. She leaned closer to him until her body was practically slumped against his.

    "That feels good," she mumbled. Resting her head on his broad shoulders, her heart fluttered when he eased the tension in her neck. She reached her hand up and started to massage his scalp.

    His hand stiffened in surprise. "Continue," she pouted.

    Yu Zhen did not expect her to return the favor. But it filled him with warmth, as he instantly moved his fingers again. His gaze was momentarily distracted by her long, flowy hair the color of charcoal.

    "You should wash my hair while you¡¯re at it," he suggested and gentlyughed.

    Yu Zhen turned his face to the side and kissed her head. But she did not respond. Slowly, but surely, her fingers were growing weaker. Whilst his hands explored her body, sensual and erotic, she was slumped against his shoulders.

    "Sunshine?"

    Li Xueyue leaned closer to his warm body. His arms were firm and hard, but it wasfortable. Her eyelids grew heavier until she could no longer open them.

    "Little Hamster?"

    Yu Zhen was befuddled by his limp wife. She was motionless and seemed to have found afortable spot near his neck.

    "Not again," he said and gentlyughed, realizing she had fallen asleep again. Though this time, shested longerpared to their previous session.

    Yu Zhen shook his head in amusement with arge smile on his face. "Am I thatfortable?"

    Yu Zhen dropped the towel into the water and sat up a bit. He shifted her body until she wasfortably nestled in his arms. His heart swelled, and his chest was filled with warmth. But he would never admit it to her, even if she teased him and bugged him.

    It was reassuring to know she wasfortable enough to instantly fall asleep in his arms.

    "Sleep well, my love," Yu Zhen softly whispered into her damp hair.

    It would be difficult to detangle their bodiester, but he would manage. Getting her dressed was another difficulty, but it was good that this bathhouse was so close to their estate.

    It was midnight as well. He¡¯d just wrap her in hisrge cloak and bring her back to their estate. The guards would never dare to look anyway. Their eyes would be obediently trained to the ground, just as he instructed.

    And that was exactly what Yu Zhen did. He slipped out of the herbal bath, with her nestled in his arms.

    The journey back to the estate was short, especially with how fast he walked. In no time, he was able to ce her onto the bed and join her.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue knew what was toe when she woke up this morning. She was shrouded in his warmth and tightly caged against him. Their legs were entangled, and she was still naked. He was dressed, but still asleep.

    Li Xueyue lifted herself with one elbow. She peered down at him, her heart squeezing at the sight of him.

    "It¡¯s unfair to be this handsome," she mumbled.

    Her eyes wandered down his fine features. His angr nose, prominent eyebrows, luscious lips, what was there not to like about him? His jaw was sharp enough to cut through stone.

    With a curious finger, she lightly traced over his perfection. His brows knitted together and his nose twitched. She held back a smallugh whilst lowering herself back onto his chest.

    "It¡¯s faint," Li Xueyue quietly murmured. Her ear was pressed against his heart that beat slowly and steadily. She rested her palm on the side of his chest and continued lying there.

    Even when she had moved earlier, his arms did not leave her waist. He was firmly grasping the dip of her hips as if she would disappear if he did not.

    Li Xueyue could hear the birds chirping, and the wind rustling. It was a great morning that would be even betterter on.

    "It will be fun to trainter, if he has time..." she decided to herself.

    If she recalled correctly, his usual schedule was to wake before her, take Xiao Lizi out for a run, feed Xiao Juzi, and then practice sword fighting until his body was covered in sweat, and he¡¯d take a morning bath before departing for court duties. All this being done, and the sun would¡¯ve barely risen.

    "He used to not sleep this well," she pointed out.

    It was true. Buttely, he was spending more time in the bed as if he was not eager to leave it anymore.

    Li Xueyue wrapped her arm over his chest and hugged him. "I hope every morning is as peaceful as this one."

 Chapter 526 Let Them Watch

    <h4>Chapter 526 Let Them Watch</h4>

    True to his words, Yu Zhen took Li Xueyue out for a quick run in the fields behind the pce. Together, they had ridden their horses before he took her back to the pce¡ªto feed Xiao Juzi. Next, he taught her some tricks and techniques for sword fighting and gave her some pointers.

    "Your skills have deteriorated a bit," Yu Zhen informed her whilst putting his sword aside.

    She was wielding a wooden sword, just like him, for he was worried about injuring her since there was their firstbat together in a while. But she teased him, saying he should be more worried about her injuring him.

    "Yes, I haven¡¯t been able to practice in a while." Li Xueyue sighed.

    Li Xueyue ced the wooden swords back onto the rack, together with the other wooden equipment. They seemed like toys to her, especially when she had wielded swords sharp enough to slice a person in half.

    Li Xueyue did not forget about the beautiful rose sword he had crafted for her. Since it was underutilized, she nned on having it disyed in their bedroom for her to admire every morning.

    "That will change now," he reassured her.

    Yu Zhen lifted his gaze and nearly cursed. Her robe had stuck to her body in all of the right ces. They had trained hard, and the sweat caused her robe to cling onto her like a second skin. He could not tear his eyes from her.

    "Hopefully it will, now that we¡¯ll be training together. But you should be careful."

    "And why is that?" he retorted.

    Yu Zhen blinked back to reality when she turned her back to him and adjusted the swords on the rack. In an instant, he was standing behind her, his figure looming over her.

    "I might be better at you," she teased.

    Li Xueyue turned around and nearly gasped. He was standing so close to her now. Her breasts brushed against his chest. He struck out a hand and grabbed her elbow, pulling her even closer to him. His other arm wrapped around her waist.

    "Sure thing, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue was surprised by his agreement. She expected an argument.

    "Maybe when I am dead, and you have nopetitor."

    Li Xueyue rolled his eyes. "You¡¯ll have to teach me Hanjian¡¯s sword fighting techniques."

    Yu Zhen smirked. "What happened to asking nicely?"

    Li Xueyue snorted. "You bullied that out of me."

    Yu Zhen heartilyughed. He tightened his hold on her and kissed the crown of her head. "I love you so much, how could I dare to tease you?"

    Li Xueyue scoffed, but could not hide her smile. She liked his kisses, especially in ces that surprised her. When he bent his head to kiss her neck, she immediately pulled away.

    "No, I¡¯m sweaty," sheined.

    "It adds vor."

    "Yu Zhen!" she gasped in surprise, mortified at his words.

    Yu Zhen merelyughed. "You smell fine to me, Sunshine. I should be the oneining about my own odor."

    Li Xueyue scrunched her nose. She wondered if there was something wrong with his sense of smell. She did note his scent had grown more masculine, now that he was also a bit sweaty. It irked her that she was drenched in sweat whereas he barely sweated.

    "Let¡¯s just take a bath," she finally said. "It¡¯s almost time for you to tend to your court duties."

    Li Xueyue was hoping this would distract him. This morning, they were entangled under the nkets in yet another passionate session. But he had been a lot more gentle, for he knew she needed to be able to hold herself up on a horse. Though, he didn¡¯t mind having her ride something else.

    "I¡¯ve already addressed the documents. The court can wait," Yu Zhen deadpanned.

    He cupped her face and captured her lips. The kiss started off slow and sensual, reminding him of the morning she writhed in his arms. Her tiny actions only enthralled him more.

    Stirred by the memories, a spark shot through his body. He kissed her deeper, harder until her knees were weak and she was breathless. When he pulled apart, she was gasping for air and buried her face into his chest.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s hands roamed down her small back and settled on her leather belt that held the robes closed. It would take one rough yank for him to take her against the wall.

    "Not here," sheined.

    "Then where?"

    "T-the bathhouse?"

    Yu Zhen let out a dark, tauntingughter. Was that her favorite spot now? He did not mind. He liked the prospect of her attempting to escape from him in the pool, but she would have nowhere to run.

    - - - - -

    "I can¡¯t believe you took me seriously..." Li Xueyue moaned out when they reached their bedroom. Her thighs were still tingly and her legs would shake when she tried to stand.

    Now, she was seated on the edge of the bed, as he was dressed by servants. She had to look away despite having seen every inch of his perfect body countless times.

    It was difficult to hide her blush behind her wet hair and damp cheeks. There were love marks all over her body, pink from his attention. The ones that had faded from yesterday were now bright and lively again. He made sure of it.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s possessive im never failed to amaze her. He did not show it often, except in bed, when she was all his. He branded her with his mouth and loved her until she was puddy in his hands.

    "Don¡¯t pout, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue blinked in surprise. He was suddenly in front of her again. He hooked a finger under her chin. His thumb brushed her bottom lip lower.

    "Or else I¡¯ll kiss you again."

    Before she could even respond, he bent down to kiss her. She dodged him by turning her head to the side immediately. His lipsnded softly on her cheek, but he did not mind. She, however, certainly did.

    "There¡¯s an audience," she whispered to him, knowing the servants hadn¡¯t left.

    "Let them watch."

    "Yu Zhen," she groaned under her breath.

    Yu Zhen chuckled at this. He straightened up and noticed the servants were intently staring at the rug. Good.

    Before he could say something unpleasant, she instantly spoke for him.

    "You¡¯re excused," she informed the servants.

    Without another word, the servants hurriedly left. They walked like their tails were on fire. The doors were hurriedly shut behind them, softly too, despite their urgency.

    "Not again..." Li Xueyue yelped when he pushed her onto the bed. Her back was pressed onto the mattress, as his body came over her.

    "You¡¯re too delectable," Yu Zhen whispered. He bent his head and captured her lips again. He probed his tongue inside and explored her wet mouth. She tasted like chrysanthemum tea. A familiar fire burned from within his body, as his shaft instantly hardened.

    Yu Zhen only meant to tease her, but it seemed, there would be more than just teasing. And with how much she clung onto him, he knew she felt the same. But then, she pulled back and turned her head away from him.

    "W-we just took a bath," she whispered to him. "L-let¡¯s wait until tonight."

    Li Xueyue noticed his darkened eyes and burning gaze. He was already aroused. He could not possibly wait until tonight.

    "Please?"

    Yu Zhen softlyughed. He pulled her into a seated position, as he climbed off of her.

    "If that is what you wish, Sunshine, then I will oblige."

 Chapter 527 Messenger Bird

    <h4>Chapter 527 Messenger Bird</h4>

    "Don¡¯t you have ministers to meet today?" Li Xueyue asked Yu Zhen as the servants dressed her. Her hair was no longer dripping wet after it was thoroughly dried with a fluffy cloth.

    Servants surrounded Li Xueyue as they busied themselves to prepare her for the day. Xiao Hua was working on her hair, a few focused on her make-up that was always kept light whilst expert hands fastened thevender ribbons of her hanfu. Everyone¡¯s hands moved like a blur.

    "No," he responded.

    Li Xueyue was puzzled by this. She thought this was his usual schedule? Did something happen? When their eyes met through the vanity mirror, he winked. She hid her blush and nced away.

    Yu Zhen was fully dressed for the day, in navy and silver robes. His robes hugged his well-structured form, revealing his rippling muscles, and biceps that could kill.

    "I have something to show you," he added on.

    Li Xueyue was thoroughly intrigued. But there were too many servants around her. Judging from his sly smile, she knew it¡¯d be best if he kept it a secret. Her eyesnded on her reflection. Her lips parted.

    Xiao Hua had ced wisteria flower hairpins into her hair. The hairpins gently dangled from her half-up, half-down hair.

    "Do you like it?" Yu Zhen asked as he slowly approached her.

    Instantly, the servants stepped back with their heads bowed and their hands tucked in front of them. They knew better than to block his path.

    "I ordered new clothes for you a few weeks ago, for the weather is growing older and you¡¯re too thin," Yu Zhen said. He warmly ced his hands upon her shoulders and squeezed it.

    Li Xueyue leaned back into him whilst smiling. "And these hairpins?" she asked, touching the crystal petals of the wisteria.

    "Yes, everything in this vanity and the new chests that wille soon," he informed her with a fond smile. He enjoyed seeing her in the clothes he bought for her. Especially when everything suited her so well that he wanted to buy her more.

    "But I already have enough," she murmured. "It would be best to use that money for the Kingdom instead."

    Yu Zhen softlyughed at her words. She did not know the extent of his wealth, it was humorous. Often, there would be arge budget set aside to buy clothes for the harem, but since there was none, all of that money went back to him.

    "Now that you¡¯re dressed, let¡¯s take you to my surprise," Yu Zhen said. He grabbed her hand and pulled her to her feet. His eyesnded on her head, where a few stray strands of hair had escaped from the small bun that held her hair up. With his fingers, he gingerly tucked it back into the bun.

    Li Xueyue always wondered where he learned to be this attentive. His fingers were rough and calloused, but his touch was sweet and careful. She unknowingly leaned into his caress.

    "Is it far?" she whispered.

    Yu Zhen gauged the distance in his head before nodding. "A bit." He made sure of it. It would be dangerous for the location to be close to their estate, where she slept.

    If anything were to happen to her, he¡¯d me himself first. It was a bad habit of his that could not be dropped as long as she was by his side.

    - - - - -

    "These hallways are so dark and dreary, even though it¡¯s day time," Li Xueyue pointed out. She was surprised when the wooden hallways suddenly ended.

    The gleaming red walls lined with green trims and the golden zed tiles of the Imperial Pce slowly disappeared behind them.

    Shortly afterward, they reached an open field a short distance away from the Imperial Pce, where there was a single stone, rectangr structure.

    Li Xueyue squinted her eyes and to her surprise, it was a door. That led underground? Her eyes centered upon the two guards who stood guard in front of the cold steel door with a small rectangr window with bars that let in air. There were soldiers armed with weapons everywhere.

    "The prison cells?" she spoke out upon realizing what this ce was.

    "Indeed," Yu Zhen said with a nod.

    At the sight of the Crown Prince, everyone parted for him like the Red Sea. There was not a single person who dared to block his path, for the consequences were dire. No one could afford to offend him.

    Li Xueyue squeezed his hand and tried to keep her face in control. She had lost herposure too quickly yesterday. It was a regret that she did not divulge. Had she kept her expression cool and controlled, Marquis Qin might¡¯ve not recognized her. But it had been toote, for the servants and everyone had heard the name ¡¯Bai Xueyue.¡¯

    She nced to her side, where Xiao Hua was standing.

    "Wait out here," she instructed her servants. They stepped back and bowed their heads. It would be best for them not to soil their eyes with the gruesome prison cells.

    She made a mental note to ask Xiao Hua for her intel about the servants¡¯ opinion of the name ¡¯Bai Xueyue.¡¯ It would be best to get rid of any doubts before it spread like wildfire.

    Li Xueyue wondered if Yu Zhen had wiped out all records of the Bai Family. Her grip on his hand tightened. It must¡¯ve caught his attention, for he nced down.

    "What¡¯s wrong, Sunshine?" he asked. "Scared?"

    Li Xueyue instantly shook her head. "Did you wipe the records of the Bai Family?" she whispered to him so that no one could hear.

    "I got rid of their estate in Wuyi and anything else I could get my hands on. Though the town had doubts about their disappearance, I¡¯ve made sure to speak to the town mayor who will keep everyone in check."

    Li Xueyue slowly nodded at his words.

    "The rest of the records are kept in the Imperial Pce in Wuyi. You have to inform your parents to go through them."

    Li Xueyue made sure to write about that in a letter to her parents. Or perhaps, she could find a way to train a messenger bird to travel to Wuyi and back to Hanjian.

    Her attention snapped to Yu Zhen when he tugged her hand. "It will be fine. The only people who know about your true identity here are just me and you."

    Yu Zhen stroked her cheek, soft and supple. "The merchant has suffered too much that he can¡¯t even tell left from right." His voice was low and amused. There was not an ounce of remorse.

    She shivered at his words, knowing exactly what he meant. She did not doubt him, not even one bit. When it came to cruelty, Yu Zhen knew it best.

    Li Xueyue was d their morning meal was light and simple. The stench of the prison was beginning to seep through the unopened door. She had to prepare her stomach for this, knowing everything would be unpleasant and gruesome.

    "Would you like to see?" he offered despite the fact that they hade so far.

    "Y-yes," she managed to say.

    He did this for her. The least she could do wasy eyes on his masterpiece. Besides, this was the closure she needed. Especially after hearing him call out her name for the final time yesterday.

 Chapter 528 To The Grave

    <h4>Chapter 528 To The Grave</h4>

    Water dripped from the ceiling, as agonizing groans and obscure mutters gued the prison. It was dark and grimy inside, from weeks of poor maintenance.

    This was just one of the prisons of the Imperial Pce, but it was the worst one. There were a total of no more than three cells inside. The darkness and incessant dripping of water droplets were enough to drive someone insane.

    When Li Xueyue stepped down the staircase, her nose instantly crinkled. The stench in here was horrendous. It was pungent and smelled of human waste.

    Her nose stung and even her eyes burned a bit. It was difficult not to recoil, especially when she saw the questionable burgundy and yellow stains on the pale, grey stone walls.

    It was pitch-ck down here, except for thenterns that Yu Zhen had ordered to be ced prior to their arrival.

    "Would you like a scented veil?" Yu Zhen quietly asked her, gesturing to her face. "To cover your nose."

    Li Xueyue dropped her hands. She shook her head and forced a smile. "No, that¡¯s alright."

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t want to appear weak. He walked just fine, and didn¡¯t even flinch at the stench. She could not help but wonder what type of life he had lived to be alright with this. Did the battlefield desensitize him?

    Yu Zhen raised a brow. "Are you certain?"

    Li Xueyue responded with a nod.

    Seeing as she didn¡¯t voice her concerns, Yu Zhen did not say anything else. He ced his hand behind her back and guided her down the prison.

    It was a short walk. Once they turned a corner and down another short hallway, they stopped before a daunting door of steel with a small window at the top.

    "When no onees here, thenterns are not lit, which leaves this ce in pitch darkness," Yu Zhen whispered to her so that only she could hear.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart raced at his words. It was psychological torture. To see nothing, not even your hands, and to hear nothing but water droplets, it would be enough to make a grown man insane. Forced to be faced with nothing but the demons of your own thoughts, this ce could crack even the most stable of brains.

    "I see," was her only response.

    Yu Zhen picked up one of thenterns beside his feet. He handed it to her and picked up another one for himself. It would be the only way that they¡¯d be able to see.

    Quietly, he slipped out a key from his pocket.

    "You have to prepare yourself," Yu Zhen told her.

    She gave him a curt nod. "I will be fine."

    It was the truth. Li Xueyue had seen what he was capable of. What happened in the tent behind the Li Manor was unforgettable.

    She would never forget the faces of the Bai Family. From the haunted Viscount Bai Sheng to the scarred Bai Tianai, there was not much else in this world that would scare her. She had seen her tormentors suffer horrendously.

    Her eyes were no longer innocent and naive.

    Li Xueyue preferred it that way.

    Despite that, her stomach twisted and churned, just like Yu Zhen¡¯s key. The door opened with a creak. It took a single push from him to swing the heavy, metal door open.

    "S-save me!" a voice shrieked, as chains rattled.

    Li Xueyue stiffened at the noise. It did not sound human.

    "S-s-spare m-me!" he sobbed out, as the chains rattled again. They clinked with each movement, like an ominous sound of a knife being polished. And perhaps, that was how it sounded in his ears.

    Li Xueyue forced herself to keep calm. Her hand was trembling and she had to bite down on her tongue. She could not even take a deep breath to clear her thoughts.

    Gently, Yu Zhen pulled her into the room. He was the first to lift thentern, revealing the merchant.

    Her heart had never dropped so fast. Her eyes widened in surprise. Marquis Qin was chained by his cor, like a rabid dog. He was dressed in the clothes from yesterday, except, there was dried up blood everywhere, and rips and tears on them.

    There were visible whip marks all over his skin. The wounds had stopped bleeding, but when he moved, the wounds would reopen. His arms were poorly bandaged, revealing nubs of a hand.

    "It¡¯s not for the faint of heart," Yu Zhen finally admitted. But he didn¡¯t even blink.

    In war, he had seen much worse. He recalled a moment when a group of soldiers managed by another General was captured by the enemies.

    By the time these soldiers were rescued from the enemy prison, the men were barely alive. Even after being rescued, they begged to die, pleaded to be put out of their misery, and when rejected, those men killed themselves in the most brutal way possible.

    "W-why are you doing t-t-this to me!" Marquis Qin sobbed out. He was kneeling on the ground, with his arms limp beside him.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes turned cold. Why? He had the audacity to ask this question when he knew of her identity? He dared to see the good in his molestation?

    "P-Princess!" he cried out, as visible relief shed upon his haunted expression.

    Marquis Qin tried to rush towards her, but was yanked back by the chains. He resembled a disobedient dog being forced into submission as he pulled his neck to the side, only for the chains to constrict him.

    "He won¡¯t be able to lift a hand or hurt you," Yu Zhen informed her in a low and controlled voice. She had nothing to fear. He made certain of that.

    "I¡¯d like to have a private conversation with him."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s head snapped to her. He had expected as much. But he couldn¡¯t picture it until now. She would be standing in this prison cell, all alone, with the Marquis. The man was thoroughly searched for any concealed weapons, and only a knife was found. It was taken as evidence to further incriminate the Marquis.

    "I will be down the hall," Yu Zhen said. "I will be able to see you back, but not within an earshot of your conversation."

    "Alright."

    Yu Zhen cast her nce. She had a nonchnt look on her features, but he knew better. Her eyes were slightly wider, and her fingers had tightened on thentern. With heavy reluctance, he patted her back and left.

    Once it was just Li Xueyue and the Marquis, a short silence fell over them. She took a step forward to examine him better, but the Marquis had other ns.

    "P-Princess, s-save m-m-me please!" he cried out in vain, bowing his head down to her.

    Before she could even speak, he quickly added on. "I-I know the truth, b-but if you let me l-live, then I-I swear I-I will t-take it to the grave!"

    Li Xueyue¡¯s face went rigid. "That¡¯s alright," she suddenly said.

    Marquis Qin lifted his head. Hope shimmered on his battered face, filled with bruises. It was difficult to see his true expression, especially with his ck eyes, and a scar running down his cheek.

    "You can take it to the grave right now."

 Chapter 529 Punishmen

    <h4>Chapter 529 Punishmen</h4>

    Marquis Qin had never seen such audacity. She was just the daughter of a Viscount! Not only that, but the youngest and least favored. What gave her the guts to act like this? She had lied to the entire Kingdom, the entire Imperial Family of Hanjian, and all of those who bowed to a Viscount¡¯s daughter! Her offense was grave, but she carried herself with arrogance.

    "You¡ª"

    "How does it feel, Marquis?" the Crown Princess softly uttered. She set foot into the room carrying antern. She shimmered like a beacon of hope. In reality, she was the harbinger of death.

    "To be at the mercy of a girl you once vited?" she harshly spat out.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. He was shaken with surprise, enough to be momentarily distracted from the agonizing pain that had driven him to madness.

    "I heard your mansion was burned down, and what little remnants of treasure you had left was discarded."

    W-what did she say?

    "Your wives fled at midnight. Your servants disappeared. Your ships were burned."

    Her beautiful lips twisted into a cruel smile. Amusement shed in her eyes. "Decades of hard work¡ªgone."

    She snapped her fingers. "Just like that."

    Li Xueyue relished in the stricken look on his face. He behaved as if the world had wronged him in every way possible. The light fled from his eyes as it watered. Oh dear, was he crying? But she was just starting!

    "All of your wealth and joy perished so quickly," she said and giggled, covering her mouth before throwing him an incredulous look.

    "N-no, t-this can¡¯t be! I-I have more money tucked away at a s-secret ce you¡¯ll never find out!"

    Li Xueyue shrugged her shoulders. "It¡¯ll remain a secret forever then since you¡¯ll never leave this ce."

    Blinded by rage, he instantly lunged for her. But he did not get very far. Bounded by chains of metal, he could do nothing but scream and roar.

    "HOW DARE YOU!" he screamed at her, attempting to lift his arms to at least w at her pretty dress.

    But Marquis Qin only wailed louder. The pain in his hand had not subdued. It shot up his body, like mes dancing upon his flesh. He reeled his hands towards his chest, but that caused even more agony. Tears burned in his eyes as he hung his head in defeat, sobbing like a baby.

    The pain was too much for him to handle. From the thousands of needles that seemed to stab his hands, to the wounds that festered and reopened with more blood. Everything was spiraling out of his control.

    "It must feel fantastic," she retorted. "You went from viin to victim. How interesting."

    Marquis Qin¡¯s head shot up at her words. His veins boiled with hatred for this wench. How exactly did she do it? How did she w and climb up to this position?

    He could¡¯ve sworn the bitch was dead! He was told that she was dead when he paid a surprise visit to Viscount Bai Sheng¡¯s house one night!

    That night, he wanted something to fondle with, especially after such a tiring journey to Wuyi. But the Viscount informed him that his youngest daughter ran away and died off in a forest or something.

    Who the hell was this ghost standing in front of him with such confidence and haughty smiles?

    "A-are you really V-Viscount Bai Sheng¡¯s¡ª"

    "Yes, I¡¯m the little girl you molested," she spat out.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. He could not believe that sobbing mess of sweet cries became a confident woman of wealth and wits.

    "Is t-this why you¡¯re doing t-this to me?!" he demanded, suddenly feeling fired up again. He refused to ept it. Refused to believe that one of his y toys out bested him like this. All because she opened her legs to the right man!

    "B-because I ruined your youth, y-you ruined my fortune?!"

    The Crown Princess batted her eyshes. She tilted her head, her lips twisting to the side. She blinked and nodded, as if it was something so simple to understand.

    "Yes. Is there a problem with that?"

    Marquis Qin nearly spat out blood. Is there a problem with that? Is there a problem with that?! He wanted to yank her by the hair and smack her to the ground. This insufferable bitch!

    "Of course¡ª"

    "Oh right!"

    Li Xueyue held up a finger and straightened up. Seeing his befuddled expression, ncing up at her as if she had lost her mind, forced her to stifle herughter.

    "Shouldn¡¯t you thank me?"

    Marquis Qin nched at the thought of thanking her. He would do anything but that. Bowing to her was already a disgrace, considering her true rank. He could not wrap his head around her thought process. Surely, she was insane!

    "I spared your life."

    Marquis Qin blinked. W-what? He lifted his head, his heart soaring high. Did she finally get some senses knocked into her? Was she going to let him walk out of here?

    Just the thought of spending another night in this prison was enough to make his eyes water. His body trembled before the torture even started again. In this quiet cell, where the only sound was his agonizing groans, he was slowly starting to lose his mind.

    No human interaction. No light. Barely enough food and water. It was a living hell.

    Suddenly, something nged onto the floor. He shrieked in fear and cowardly back away, his heart thundering against his chest. Through his blurry vision, and the dim lighting, he could make out the distinctive shape of a...knife?

    "W-what¡¯s this?"

    Li Xueyue kicked the knife closer to him. She maintained her distance, her nose crinkled as if he was some sort of animal. She regarded him as such, especially lowlifes like him.

    "Don¡¯t tell me you forgot?" she mused.

    Marquis Qin¡¯s brows drew together. "What are y-you babbling about this time!"

    The Crown Princess always spoke in circles. He despised it. Did she think she was so great, just because of her riddles? She was just a lowly woman!

    "I didn¡¯t forget a-anything!" Marquis Qin screamed. He spat out a loud, infuriated curse at his own stammering. If he had not bitten his tongue yesterday from screaming so much, then he wouldn¡¯t be stuttering so much.

    If only the poor thing knew, the same torment would ur again tonight. When his body would be stitched together and healed by a doctor, the horrendous torture would begin again.

    "Oh, but you did."

    Li Xueyue reached into her pocket and pulled out a pristine set of scrolls. She heard his loud exhale in disbelief. He threw his head back and squeezed his eyes shut, nearly admitting defeat. His legs went ck and he sank back onto the ground.

    "Seeing as you failed your mission, it¡¯s time for you to face your punishment."

    Marquis Qin could not bring himself to look at the scrolls, for he already knew what awaited his fate. The scrolls loudly unrolled. He flinched in fear.

    "Self-disembowelment, just as you had promised."

    Marquis Qin¡¯s heart sank to the ground, much like his faith in this world. With trembling eyes and shaky breath, he nced down at the knife in front of him. He could not believe his eyes.

    The knife that was going to be sinking into his flesh, the knife that was going to result in his death, was the very one he had spent half his fortune getting for her. The curved dagger shaped like a crescent moon.

 Chapter 530 Can We Negotiate?

    <h4>Chapter 530 Can We Negotiate?</h4>

    Li Xueyue did not mean to stay behind and watch. Blood and gore was not her thing. But she remained rooted to the ground, even as Marquis Qin struggled to lift the knife to his stomach. What was left of his hands struggled hard to grasp the dagger.

    Eventually, he found the courage to point it towards his stomach. She did not need to figure out why. Anything was better than being cruelly tortured by the aloof Crown Prince. The ghosts lingering in this room were a testament to his brutality.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips curled into a smile. Marquis Qin had pointed the dagger at his stomach, attempting to stab it. Except, the knife did not go through. It was because she had broken the sharp end of the knife and pulled it out.

    "W-wh-what¡ª"

    Li Xueyue nced down in time to see the knife slipping out of the Marquis¡¯s hand. He was visibly shaken up after preparing to kill himself.

    "Useless even until the very end."

    Marquis Qin¡¯s head snapped up. "P-Princess¡ª"

    "This was your only chance at a painless death."

    Li Xueyue gloated in his pale expression. He looked like he was on hisst straw of salvation. His eyes grew wide and visible sweat droplets formed on his forehead. That was strange. Where did the prideful and angry Marquis go? He was just here a few minutes ago.

    Did he disappear that fast when approaching death¡¯s door?

    "You vengeful bitch!" he suddenly shrieked out.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile widened. "That¡¯s right, I am a bitch. So what?"

    Marquis Qin was visibly taken aback. His mouth mped shut as if he did not know what to say to that.

    Li Xueyue took out a handkerchief and picked up the dagger with it. She¡¯d rather not touch his germs.

    "You¡ª"

    She spun on her heels and grabbed thenterns. It was time to leave him to his own demise. She reached the foot of the door and got thestugh.

    "I¡¯d rather be a bitch than a dead man."

    - - - - -

    "Dispose of this," Li Xueyuemanded. She ced the handkerchief wrapped dagger into Xiao Hua¡¯s open palms.

    "Yes, Princess," Xiao Hua instantly said.

    Xiao Hua hurried off, already knowing a ce to toss it into. At the far outskirts of the enormous Imperial Pce was the ce they threw away the trash. There was an enormous furnace there that could burn anything. Before an incense stick could finish burning, someone could be burnt to ash inside.

    - - - - -

    "Did you find closure?" Yu Zhen asked once everyone was gone, leaving them alone inside of their bedroom.

    On their way back to their estate, Li Xueyue was quiet and her responses to him were curt. Thus, he figured she¡¯d want to be alone. He brought her back to their estate first, in case she acted out of character in public.

    "Yes, I did," Li Xueyue softly said. "It was satisfying seeing the demon lurking in my nightmare is finally reduced to nothingness."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips pulled into a gentle smile. She was seated at the table, where there was arge vase of freshly picked flowers from the garden. It must¡¯ve been her doing. Lately, their gloomy and dreary bedroom had been spruced up with slight decorations here and there. He did not mind as it added life and color in the estate.

    "I¡¯ll handle the rest from here." Yu Zhen closed the distance between them and gently settled a hand on her shoulder.

    "Alright," she finally agreed.

    "Just alright?"

    Li Xueyue tilted her head. "Thank you," she added on.

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "This conversation is going a little bit too easy."

    Her brows furrowed in confusion. What did he mean by that?

    "I expected an argument," he mused. "Then, wild make-up sessions."

    Instantly, her cheeks med. She red up at him whilst holding back arge smile. "I am an agreeable person!"

    "I never said you weren¡¯t."

    "But you implied it."

    "Did I now?" he retorted.

    Li Xueyue narrowed her eyes. She shrugged her shoulders, forcing his hand to drop.

    Yu Zhen loudlyughed. He pinched her nose and grinned. "Agreeable for sure," he sarcastically bit out.

    Li Xueyue shoved him to the side. "Don¡¯t you have a country to run?"

    Yu Zhen nudged her back. "Don¡¯t you have a husband to kiss goodbye?"

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow. She ced a hand over her eyes and dramatically looked around. "Where do I see a husband worthy of a kiss?"

    "And where do I see a wife worthy to kiss me?" he responded, also looking around.

    Li Xueyue rolled her eyes, but couldn¡¯t contain herrge smile. "Just hurry up and bend down," she retorted.

    "Or you can stand."

    Li Xueyue gaped at him. She had to crane her neck just to see his beautiful features. "You¡¯re the one who wants the kiss¡ªmmph!"

    He kissed her deeply. She was whisked to her feet, crashing into his chest. Their bodies melded together as he hungrily kissed her. His lips were feverish, like a beast starved of touch. She was left dazzled and breathless, but equally eager.

    Soon, they pulled apart, and she was gasping for air. Her head fell upon his shoulders, just as his arms tightened around her waist. He grabbed onto her as if he was scared she¡¯d disappear any minute now. But that was impossible. She had never escaped from him before. She never could.

    "The Ministers can wait."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes bulged out. "But our promise¡ª"

    "Forgotten."

    Yu Zhen lifted her into his arms, just as she yelped in horror. Despite her protests, she instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, fearful of falling.

    "Then, are we also going to do it tonight?" she blurted out.

    When he nced down at her, revealing a burning gaze of fire, her cheeks med. He was already exercising great self-control. But thisment alone was enough to break it. She just loved to tease him, didn¡¯t she?

    She¡¯d regret it, he¡¯d make sure of it.

    "N-no, I just meant¡ª"

    "Tonight as well," he growled out.

    "I¡ª"

    "And the bathhouse."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes widened. "I-I don¡¯t have the energy for that," she confessed, hoping it would deter him.

    But her weakened voice andrge eyes only seduced him further. A look of raw hunger shed across his features. Without warning, she was ced onto the bed. In an instant, he was on top of her.

    "Don¡¯t worry," he breathed upon her lips, before gently kissing it.

    Li Xueyue trembled at his sadistic grin.

    "You¡¯ll get to eat once we¡¯re both satisfied."

    Li Xueyue gulped. She was easy to please. But he was an entirely different story. Sometimes, she wondered where exactly he got all of his stamina from. Was it because he was too used to strenuous training during the days of war?

    But Li Xueyue could not ponder deeper. The next thing she knew, his lips were on hers and he was already undressing her.

    "C-can¡¯t we negotiate?" she gasped out once he released her from another searingly passionate kiss.

    Yu Zhen worked swiftly as if desperate to get more than just a kiss. His lips nipped a path down her jawline until it reached her neck, where he pressed hot, open mouth kisses upon it.

    "Please?"

    "Hmm..."

    Yu Zhen tugged her clothes lower, and lower until the dip of her chest was revealed.

    "We¡¯ll see about that."

 Chapter 531 I Dont Feel Anything

    <h4>Chapter 531 I Don¡°t Feel Anything</h4>

    Li Xueyue woke up the next day feeling happy, but exhausted. She tiredly rubbed her eyes and realized she was still naked fromst night¡¯s session.

    Holding back a small sigh, she adjusted her position, but found herself weighed down by something.

    ncing down, Li Xueyue noticed it was a long, tanned arm wrapped tightly around her waist. Her eyes softened upon seeing his fingers sprawled on her stomach, as if guarding it.

    She was lying on her side, with her back pressed against his chest. The warmth wasforting, and it nearly lulled her back to sleep. But she heard the birds chirping, saw the sun high in the sky, and the tree branches rustling.

    It was morning, and he had a schedule to follow.

    "Yu Zhen," she whispered, shaking his arm in hopes of waking him up. He mumbled and grumbled, pulling her even closer to him until their naked bodies were flushed against each other.

    "It¡¯s morning, and you¡¯ve already skipped yesterday¡¯s duties," she added on.

    He groaned in protest and buried his face into her hair. She let out a smallugh at his childish antics. She seldom saw this side of him and she didn¡¯t know what to do.

    "I¡¯ve cleared a week¡¯s worth of documents. I can sleep in," he groggily told her in a low, husky voice that sent sparks down her spine. Her stomach clenched and she was forced to hold back a shamelessment.

    "So, you¡¯re free all morning?" she inquired.

    "Yes."

    Yu Zhen breathed in and nearly smiled. Her hair was a soft, feminine scent that was a mixture of jasmine and roses. He disliked flowers, but these two had suddenly be his favorites.

    "In that case..."

    Li Xueyue turned around in their embrace. She leaned back to get a proper look at him.

    "Will you spend it with me and someone else?"

    At her bizarre question, Yu Zhen pried his eyes open. Perhaps his thoughts were muddled with sleep and he misheard her. But that was impossible. He had been wide awake for a while now, his brain sharp and cunning as ever.

    "Who else?" he asked in a curious but a doubtful voice.

    Yu Zhen peered into her eyes, clear and gentle. A slight smile graced her face, but her brows were slightly knitted. She knew the words that¡¯d soon leave her mouth would be painful. His gaze narrowed.

    "The Emperor is going to die soon," she murmured. "It¡¯s a forbidden topic, one that not many people discussed¡ª"

    "Even if he dies in front of me, reaching a hand out for my help, I will just ignore him."

    Li Xueyue sucked in a sharp breath. Her head shot up, her eyes widening in disbelief. But he was not lying. There was not a hint of emotion in his lifeless eyes. Dead and bleak, it was where hopes and dreams died. His eyes were a cruel abyss, she knew that much. But sometimes, she¡¯d see a shimmer of light that only showed up for her.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "Before the death of your abusers, did I force you to see them?"

    Li Xueyue nced down. She focused on the intricate patterns of their pillows. It was difficult to face him. The question was too daunting for her poor heart.

    "I just don¡¯t want you to live a life of regrets," she confessed. "What if, somewhere down the road, you regret not having a final word with your father?"

    "My resentment towards him has festered into bitter nothingness. I will be fine without having ast word."

    Li Xueyue pressed her lips together. She could not argue with him anymore. She felt the same towards Viscount Bai and Duke Li Taojun. She would¡¯ve been fine without a final moment with them.

    "Did the Emperor put you up to this?" he demanded.

    Li Xueyue slowly shook her head. A secondter, she nodded. "Yes and no. I was summoned to his estate yesterday, where he shared stories¡ª"

    "Let me guess, he regrets everything he has done towards his sons. Terrified of rejection from the Imperial Court and my grandfather, the Emperor abused and beat his own sons," he spat out.

    Yu Zhen grabbed her shoulders and lightly shook it. He forced her attention back to him. "Now that he¡¯s old and on his deathbed, he wants to atone for his sins."

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart trembled. Seeing old and helpless people always evoked sympathy within her. She sympathized with the elderly who would grow old all by themselves without the presence of their grandchildren and loved ones. But she continuously forgot that the old and weak were once young and versatile¡ªthey could¡¯ve been evil.

    "The only reason the Emperor wants to see me is out of guilt. It does nothing for me, but everything for him. He wants to die without regrets. Even until the bitter end, he takes advantage of his own sons."

    Li Xueyue bowed her head. She could no longer face him like this. Had she fallen into the Emperor¡¯s ploy? "H-he was kind to me so I¡ª"

    "I know, Xueyue. I know." Yu Zhen quietly sighed. He patted the back of her head and brought her closer to him.

    "You¡¯re kind only to those who are kind towards you. The Emperor has treated you well. It¡¯s his only redeeming trait."

    Li Xueyue hugged him deeply. She buried her face into his chest. She hoped all would be well when the country would be in mourning, and there would be nothing but grey skies, ck outfits, and lit prayer halls.

    "But he has never been kind to me. You must realize that," he said.

    Yu Zhen caressed her hair. He heard her quiet sniffles as she tightly grasped onto his sleeves. His heart ached at the sound, but only for her. She cried in his ce, for a man he did not care for. How did he ever fall in love with someone as tender-hearted as her?

    Would she be his tears from now on? Would she cry in his ce, just as he worried in her ce?

    What a strange rtionship.

    "I will not see him. Even if hees to apologize."

    Her grip tightened. Her nails dug into his shoulder des but he knew it was unintentional.

    "Is it because you will never forgive him?" she quietly whispered.

    Yu Zhen continued patting the back of her head. His fingers ran through her silky, long hair. The strands were tangled from their passionate time in bed. He ced a chaste kiss on the top of her head.

    "No."

    She sniffled for a final time. Pulling back from him, she peered up at him like a lost child. Her nose was pink, her eyes were red, and she had a tiny pout on her face. She was usually not like this. She rarely cried. What was happening?

    "Then why?" she curiously asked. "Wait no, you don¡¯t have to tell me if you don¡¯t feelfortable¡ª"

    "Why forgive someone I never care for? I don¡¯t feel anything for him, not even resentment or anger."

    She could not tell if it was a lie or not. His stony features revealed nothing, much like his guarded eyes. Somehow, she felt like it was half the truth.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s voice was soft and understanding whenever he spoke to her. Yet, when the Emperor was brought up, his tone would harden and he¡¯d seem disgusted.

    "So, Sunshine, do not cry in my stead. I will not regret not seeing the Emperor, even in hisst moments. Instead, I will smile at his funeral and mourn over the freedom I¡¯ve sacrificed to be the new Emperor of Hanjian."

 Chapter 532 What Could The Empress Do?

    <h4>Chapter 532 What Could The Empress Do?</h4>

    After their morning conversation and meal, the two parted ways. Yu Zhen had some business to tend to, whereas Li Xueyue went for a run with Heiyue.

    The sun rays were beating down on them, the winds were howling, and the ground trembled with force. But the scent of autumn was reassuring, the breeze refreshing, and the sun chased away the frigid cold. The grass was soft upon the hard hooves trampling upon it.

    Li Xueyue let out a small, joyousughter as Heiyue soared through the open meadow. She wanted to throw her hands up and feel the air rushing through her sprawled fingers. She wanted to lift her face towards the sun and bask in its light.

    "That was fun, wasn¡¯t it?" Li Xueyue excitedly asked Heiyue once they were slowing down.

    Heiyue snorted in response, nodding his head whilst she guided him back.

    "It has been a while since we¡¯ve experienced this much freedom," she added on.

    Li Xueyue reminiscenced the days spent in the Li Manor. The days of her youth were quickly slipping by, and she was bing more mature.

    However, she would never forget all the wonderful times spent with the twins¡ªracing them, having sword fights and archery battles with them. So many other thoughts about the Li Family raced through her mind.

    A smile spread on her lips. She fondly remembered the fragrant teas and delicious pastries made by her mother and reading books with her father.The tea sessions and handmade dishes by her mother wafted through her nose, like the scent of old books read with her Father. So many precious memories, and none to share them with.

    "It¡¯s funny how life works," she quietly said. "When you¡¯re having fun, you never realize this could be thest time you¡¯re ever ying together."

    Suddenly, her smile slipped away. She would always cherish the moments spent with the Li family. She had just wished, at that moment, she had treasured it much more. The banter, the jokes, and the teasing, all of it was imprinted inside of her heart and mind.

    Li Xueyue peered up towards the sky. The sun was high in the clouds in the afternoon. Arge bird flew over her head. She closed her eyes and basked in the sunlight.

    It was crazy how quickly the time had passed. Nearly three years ago, she was just a sparrow dreaming of the sky. Now, she was soaring through the clouds, and the ground was her domain.

    The darkest nights reveal the brightest mornings.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue was in the process of bidding Heiyue goodbye when loud footsteps approached the stables. She turned her head in time to see Xiao Hua running up to her. It was a bizarre sight, considering Xiao Hua¡¯s personality. Xiao Hua was rarely flustered.

    "P-Princess!" Xiao Hua hurriedly greeted. She lowered her body into a deep bow, her chest heaving as she took deep gasps of air.

    "The Crown Prince has publicly announced all of Lady Ge Beining¡¯s crimes to the Imperial Pce and Lady Xu was brought out as the eye witness!"

    Li Xueyue was absolutely floored. She knew this would happen sooner orter, but not this quickly!

    Before she could even take another step, Xiao Hua instantly added on, "Princess, we didn¡¯t know how the Crown Prince did it, but he managed to reveal that Marquis Qin was the one who supplied the bath oils and aphrodisiac."

    Li Xueyue quirked a brow.

    XIao Hua continued, "These three had been in cahoots the whole time, and Lady Xu confessed to everything and even pinned the me on Lady Ge!"

    Li Xueyue was certainly not surprised. The coincidence had shaken her, but she figured as much. Only two merchants in the entire Kingdom should¡¯ve been able to get their hands on something so expensive and rare.

    "Princess, additionally, Lady Ge Beining was publicly whipped in the town center while her crimes were being announced over and over again."

    "What?" Li Xueyue whispered.

    Li Xueyue thought the punishment would be carried out in private, or at least, before the entire pce. But inthe public? It was a punishment she started, but could not finish.

    The Empress had made sure of that, when she banished Lady Ge to the Cold Pce.

    That was all Li Xueyue needed to hear before running off in an unfamiliar direction. She had to get there first. She had to exin herself for the sake of her husband. He was fine with not having either of his parents, but she was still worried about the woman who possessed great power in the pce courts.

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen wondered why his Wangfei had so muchpassion. Seated near a balcony that overlooked the town¡¯s capital, he could not fathom such an emotion. The townspeople were gathered for the public whipping, as they egged on the punisher.

    After hearing the crimes of Lady Ge, people were so quick to turn on her. She was such a fool.

    The Capital was enamored by the Crown Princess. The citizens had heard of her aplishments and great feats. From forming anthe alliance with Nanhui, to her impressive sword fighting, horseback riding, and archery skills, she had earned their respect. But she upied a permanent spot in their hearts when it was revealed that she fought for the people¡¯s rights.

    She fought for lower taxes on themoners, more funding for orphanages, building of more schools, and so much more. All of theseis wereas championeddone by the Crown Princess, to whom the people of Hanjian loved.

    "Are you certain this is alright?" Lu Tianbi whispered.

    Always the voice of reason, her eyes never strayed from the Crown Prince. She and Hu Dengxiao were on either side of the ruthless monarch. They blocked the citizen¡¯s¡¯ sight of the Crown Prince, which protected his identity.

    Though, everyone was too distracted by cheering on the whippings.

    "Hit her harder! What kind of woman will try to get another raped?!"

    "She killed a baby and framed her friend for it, how disgraceful!"

    "Does she not have shame? Causing so much harm on someone so innocent, people like her deserve to burn in the worst hell of the Eighteen Levels of Diyu!"

    Yu Zhen remained aloof. He sat there, motionless and nonchnt, with his legs crossed and hands resting on his knees. No one knew the thoughts running through his mind.

    "Your Highness?" Lu Tianbi whispered. But Hu Dengxiao ced a hand on her back and solemnly shook his head.

    There was nothing they could possibly do to lessen the punishment, or try to convince him or otherwise. Thus, Lu Tianbi wanted to at least save the Crown Prince¡¯s reputation. If he was found to be the one behind this, what wouldill the nation say?

    But before Lu Tianbi could say anything, her thoughts were sharply interrupted by loud wails.

    Lady Ge Beining¡¯s cries filled the town¡¯s center. She screamed and sobbed, but her pleas fell on deaf ears. Even with half the town surrounding her, throwing stones, rotten eggs, and anything dirty, there was no one who cared for her.

    Her decency was preserved from her clothes, but it was covered with blood and stuck to her like a second skin. She might as well have been naked.

    "That child could¡¯ve been a daughter that looked like my Wangfei."

    Lu Tianbi stiffened. Hu Dengxiao nced away.

    "Or perhaps, a son with the same brooding stare as his father."

    No one dared to speak after the Crown Prince¡¯s bittersweet words. He had never expressed his pain in public, nor did he have the time to mourn over what was lost. For Xueyue¡¯s sake, he remained strong. He shouldered her pain and concealed his agony.

    Because of Lady Ge¡¯s meddling, an innocent child was killed. Because of Lady Ge¡¯s actions, his Wangfei was nearly raped. It would¡¯ve shattered Li Xueyue, heart and soul. The memories of Marquis Qin¡¯s assault would¡¯ve resurfaced and drowned her. Li Xueyue would be a shell. Nothing more, nothing less.

    Yu Zhen did not say anything else. He didn¡¯t have to. In the eyes of his beloved friend, everything was justified. Even if others believed it was not.

    "Y-Your Highness, I think the woman is dead," Lu Tianbi breathed out.

    Lady Ge was motionless. The whipping had halted. Her arms were suspended in the air, forcing her to kneel before the people.

    A woman of high birth, of blue blood and wealth was on her knees before the citizens that bowed to her. It was a sight that humiliated the entire Ge family name. It was a sight that humiliated her very being, body, and soul.

    "She¡¯s breathing," Hu Dengxiao pointed out. "Her chest is rising, barely, but rising for air."

    The wooden tform was littered with tossed food. But nothing was more prominent than the ruby red blood that dripped from her body. It glistened like the jewels she used to adorn.

    Hu Dengxiao turned his gaze back to the Crown Prince. And he swore his heart nearly stopped. The Crown Prince was smiling. In the face of the storm, the chaotic screams, the cheers, he was enjoying it. He had never smiled for Lady Ge, until she was at her lowest.

    "Your Highness, you¡¯re so mean," Hu Dengxiao whispered to his good friend.

    To which, the Crown Prince raised a brow. "Some like to hide it, I don¡¯t."

    Hu Dengxiao¡¯s attention drifted back to Lady Ge. He was certain she would not see another dawn. Or perhaps the Crown Prince would keep her alive, to face her own father and suffer the consequences of humiliating him. That man would surely faint upon the realization that his only child failed him to this extent.

    "The Empress will rage," Lu Tianbi whispered. "Even if Lady Ge has lost her grace, the Empress will not stand for thismotion."

    Yu Zhen wordlessly shrugged. She could rage all she wants. Her husband was dying. Soon, the pce would be under Yu Zhen¡¯s control. What could the Empress do?

 Chapter 533 Lily of the Valley

    <h4>Chapter 533 Lily of the Valley</h4>

    Li Xueyue rushed down the hallways, her footsteps quiet yet quick. It had been a while since she panicked like this. The Empress would do something. And it would not be pleasant. Before it happens, Li Xueyue would stop it. She had to.

    It was bad enough that both Yu Zhen and Xueyue did not have a pleasant childhood. What if their children would experience the same thing? At the very least, their sons and daughters deserve to have more than just the love of their parents.

    With the future in mind, Li Xueyue walked down an unfamiliar path. Opal decorations, white lilies, and golden trimmings on the walls, this ce was a stark contrast to everything that Yu Zhen represented. It was no wonder why they were so different.

    "Prince Yu Shisheng."

    The First Prince was painting the scenery outside of his window, when suddenly, a voice demanded his attention. He turned around on his velvet chair, bewildered that someone had interrupted him.

    No one had the audacity or power to do this. He might¡¯ve lost the throne, but he had not lost his dignity. He was still the first-born son of the great Emperor of Hanjian. His mother¡¯s fierce blood coursed through his veins.

    "Crown Princess Li Xueyue," the First Princezily drawled out. Since she had the guts to say his full name, he decided to do the same.

    Rising from the chair, he offered her an amused smile. "To what do I owe this pleasure of seeing you?"

    Li Xueyue waved her hands, and instantly, the servants left the room. She had never set foot in the First Prince¡¯s estate. Xiao Hua was her guide and showed her the way. Now, she stood at the foyer of the estate, arge and grand room meant for dining or reading.

    "Let¡¯s drop the honorifics and get to the point," Li Xueyue deadpanned. The clock was ticking, and soon, the Empress would catch wind of the issue. She preferred to take action before the Empress even set foot out of the door.

    "Well then, Princess," Yu Shisheng mused. He had never seen a woman so frantic, yet arrogant. It was a sight that humored him. What a woman his younger brother had married¡ªlike a sharp sword wrapped in silk.

    "Won¡¯t you take a seat?" he gestured to the grand table in front of them. It was long and looked like it was meant to sit a family of four. Truthfully, he had this designed so that his medium-sized drawing scrolls could fit entirely on the table without it sticking out.

    Li Xueyue shook her head. It would be a waste of time. She knew he would dilly-dally instead of getting down to business, especially with that amused look on his face. He was someone who enjoyed toying and joking with others. She finally saw the likeness between the brothers.

    "The favor that you owe me," she deadpanned. "I¡¯ll redeem it now."

    Yu Shisheng¡¯s brows shot up. He had not forgotten. The one woman in this entire pce that he owed his life to. And because of this, he had to help an innocent servant escape from prison.

    It took a great deal of effort, but the First Prince had to make sure he was not involved, or else his own brother would have his head.

    ¡¯Even though my eyes were not blessed by anything, and I saw nothing,¡¯ he grumbled to himself.

    "Now I see how you managed to convince the entire Round Table with your bold ideas," Yu Shishengmented. His lips twisted into a bright, energetic grin.

    "Your presence is no joke, do you know that? At first nce, you¡¯re as poised as a ca lily. Who knew, you were actually a lily of the valley [1]?"

    "I¡¯ll take that as apliment," she retorted with a scoff.

    Yu Shishengughed. He ced a hand on his chest, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "It is definitely apliment,ing from the likes of my character."

    The Crown Princess did not respond. Even when he had used his boyish charms on her, withrge smiles, and dazzling eyes, she remained unfazed.

    There were many servants that used topare the First Prince¡¯s angelic features with the Second Prince¡¯s devilish features. Many women fell in love with the First Prince, for he was good-natured and kind.

    It seemed the Crown Princess was the only woman who was not charmed by the First Prince. She wore a nonchnt expression, unbothered by his antics.

    "Such a tough audience I have," he teased.

    When she threw him an incredulous and threatening look, he hurriedly spoke up again, "Alright, alright, dear sister-inw. What would you like?"

    Yu Shisheng could not imagine how he could be of any help to the Crown Princess. If he recalled correctly, Yu Zhen was unbelievingly wealthy.

    When Yu Zhen would take over an enemy¡¯s turf, or when a kingdom surrendered to him, they would give him a bountiful amount of gold, jewels, and anything of value. It was impossible not to, if you wanted your life to be spared.

    Money was not a problem for Yu Zhen, much less, his beautiful Wangfei who was adorned with clothes and essories of the highest quality. From the fine leather of the hand-raised cows, to the lotus silk tunic she wore, without a doubt, her entire outfit could feed a family of four for months.

    "The Empress favors you," she finally said.

    Yu Shisheng¡¯s smile slowly slipped. "Yes, my mother has shown unconditional love towards me. It is something that I can¡¯t change, so if you¡¯re thinking about having me apologize to your husband about the fact that I stole her affection, save it."

    Yu Shisheng swallowed. "I won¡¯t apologize for something I can¡¯t change. And I will not me my mother for her actions. As her loyal son, I refuse to ever me her."

    The Crown Princess revealed arge smile. "Good, you don¡¯t have to me her."

    Yu Shisheng blinked. That smile was deadly. It seemed so sweet and sincere, but deep down, hid the darkest of wishes.

    "You will just have to convince her."

    Yu Shisheng gawked at her like she was crazy. Convince his mother? How easy was that?! She babied him like no other despite the fact that he was already twenty-seven! Whatever he wanted, he shall receive. The sky was the limit!

    "Convince the Empress not to hurt Yu Zhen."

    Yu Shisheng tilted his head. "My younger brother is her son, her flesh and blood. It¡¯s not like my brother is the child of a harlot that Father slept with. Mother would not deliberately hurt him¡ª"

    "Make sure she does not immobilize the power she yields in court."

    Yu Shisheng was still confused. "You should know, my brother wields the most power in court. Many ministers have been reced, and those who dared to dream of an uprising have been terrified by the examples he set of the people who opposed his regime shortly after he returned from Wuyi."

    Yu Shisheng crossed his arms. "You can rest assured, Princess, my mother can¡¯t hurt him. Not unless she¡ª" His words died off.

    The way through a man¡¯s heart was through his wife.

    Especially Yu Zhen, who was known to be enamored by his Wangfei.

    "I think what you actually want," he slowly said, "is for me to convince my mother not to hate Yu Zhen for his actions."

    "I don¡¯t care how you word it," she deadpanned. "Just make sure the Empress does not retaliate against the Crown Prince for punishing Lady Ge, she only has herself to me."

    Yu Shisheng wryly smiled. How could a mother hate their own child? But then his thoughts flickered back to the daunting look in her eyes whenever Yu Zhen was brought up. There was a mixture of mncholy and regret mingling with dissatisfaction and anger.

    Guilt.

    The Empress was being eaten alive by guilt. No one realized it. No one saw it.

    Except for her favorite son, who knew her best.

    Yu Shisheng was not sure how he could convince his mother not to hate Yu Zhen, when the very thing was not possible. But deep down, he knew something had changed. She hated him as a kid and hated him as an adult.

    However, somewhere along the way, the hate festered into remorse. Remorse that could be not wiped away, no matter how hard she cried over it.

    "It is a difficult request," Yu Shisheng finally admitted. He dropped his smiles and dramatic gestures. A solemn look crossed his face.

    "But I will do my best to fulfill it. Not because you asked, but for their sake, for a mother and son rtionship was robbed from both of them. I will do my best to make sure my mother hurts no one¡ªnot even herself, who loved and trusted the wrong people, including her heart."

    The Crown Princess sped her hands together. Uncertainty shed in her eyes. Eventually, she revealed a slow, appreciative smile.

    "Thank you."

 Chapter 534 Bare Minimum

    <h4>Chapter 534 Bare Minimum</h4>

    Yu Shisheng never requested much from his mother. She had given him the world, her attention, and love. There was nothing more he could possibly ask for. His childhood was unpleasant, but she made it meaningful. Whenever he was beaten, he would run to his mother¡¯s arms. She would hug him tight andfort him.

    "Mother," the word left his mouth without hesitation. It was customary to refer to the Empress as "Royal Mother," or by some other fancy title, but they were too close for such a thing.

    "Shisheng," she muttered.

    The Empress was nearly out the door when she was caught by his words. Familiarity washed over her. She had encountered Yu Zhen just like this recently. Except, this time, her first son was blocking the exit of the estate.

    "What are you doing here?" she added on. "I heard you were in a painting frenzy and were upied the entire day. I know you do not like to be interrupted when that happens."

    The Empress nced at him knowingly. "Or even leave your estate."

    Yu Shisheng smiled. She knew him so well. "I wanted to have a discussion."

    The Empress¡¯s eyes darted to the servant who had just informed her of themotion in the Capital¡¯s center. She had rushed out, but her path was now being blocked by her first son.

    It was a strange coincidence.

    "We can have er, sweet boy. I am currently upied with¡ª"

    "It is about Second Brother."

    The Empress¡¯s gentle expression hardened a bit. That rebellious child of hers! Must he inherit all of his father¡¯s bad traits? Including ones from that sadistic and crazy grandfather of his?

    "Did someone put you up to this?" she sharply asked.

    Yu Shisheng let out a smallugh. "Who would have the power to move the First Prince of Hanjian?"

    The Empress narrowed her eyes. He was not answering her question, but dodging it. Only one person came to mind. Did Yu Zhen send his older brother out to convince her? It was cowardly.

    "Mother, do you love Ah-Zhen?" Yu Shisheng finally asked, as his smile softened sympathetically.

    The question took her by surprise. She nced around their surroundings. Beautiful maidservants and handsome eunuchs surrounded them. Heads bowed, but ears perked, they were masterminds of deceit.

    Holding back a small sigh, she gestured for her son to take a walk with her in the gardens. "I suppose there is truly someone powerful enough in the pce to move even the First Prince of Hanjian," she retorted.

    Yu Shisheng was slightly relieved to see she was not going to leave her estate. But he needed to make sure she did not secretly mobilize any of her servants. Thus, he flicked his wrist and excused them all.

    "Why are you forcing my people to leave?" the Empress softly demanded, but allowed him to do so. She could not find it in her patient heart to be aggravated by his actions.

    Tea-time and leisure walks were not rare when it came to the First Prince. But he rarely excused all of the servants, for she was always the one doing it. Seeing himmand the servants and eunuchs, she could not help but wish he had won the throne.

    "Be honest with me, Mother," Yu Shisheng stated.

    They were now standing in arge garden with exotic flowers blooming in every corner. The path was lined with small pebbles and soft, white sand. It was a lovely ce. He had fond childhood memories of running here to cry, just so he could be discovered by her. The servants would rush to the Empress at the sound of the First Prince¡¯s cries, in return, she would run to him.

    "You love Ah-Zhen less than you love me, is that right?" he instantly asked.

    The Empress¡¯s ruby red lips parted. Her makeup slightly creased when she deeply frowned. "How could you insinuate such a thing?" she sharply asked. "I love both of my sons."

    "I didn¡¯t ask whether or not you loved him. I asked whether it was equal or not."

    The Empress had never seen him behave like this. He was rarely this cold and blunt with his questions. She raised him better than that. She was certain of it.

    "Of course, I love both of my sons e¡ª" She could not say it. The words died in her throat, especially when she looked into his clear, honest eyes. He resembled her so much that it was amusing.

    "I love all of my children," she finally said.

    "But a little bit less for Ah-Zhen?"

    The Empress loudly sighed. She threw him an incredulous look. "I hope you did not leave your painting frenzy just to ask silly questions. Your art is precious and will be regarded as the nation¡¯s treasure."

    "You¡¯re avoiding my question," Yu Shishengined. He softly scowled and took a step away from her.

    The Empress finally gave in. "Ah-Zhen and I have our ups and downs. He is still my son and a responsibility of mine. I clothed him in wealth, just as I had done for you. I fed him the best of food and gave him a warm ce to sleep in, as I have ensured for all of my children. I did everything a mother should."

    Yu Shisheng could not find much fault in her words. It was true. His younger brother grew up in the finest of luxury. But he was all alone. There were many times Yu Shisheng had shared a morning or afternoon meal with his mother and siblings, but Yu Zhen was never present.

    Whether it was intentional or not, Yu Shisheng knew how lonely his younger brother must¡¯ve felt. But he had failed his duties as an older brother. He failed to protect his siblings¡ªespecially the young boy who took the harshest of beatings from their father.

    "You did the bare minimum required of a parent. Yes, Ah-Zhen livedfortably, but he was without love. And such a thing has a detrimental effect on children growing up," he said.

    The Empress lowered her gaze towards a flower. It was a chrysanthemum, as radiant as the sun. Their petals glistened like molten gold, dazzling and highly regarded in her home country. But the flower was always wilting in her garden. She neglected it, for she believed the nt was strong enough to survive on their own.

    "Ah-Zhen is simr to his father in every way, and perhaps, even thete Emperor. Since birth, he has been different," she admitted. "It was difficult dealing with a stony-face child, no matter how much I loved him."

    "His nonchnce only began after you¡ª" He cut himself off.

    Yu Shisheng did not have the guts to reprimand her for a love that he received. A decade and a halfter, and he was still wallowing with guilt. The image of a sullen and heartbroken little boy could not leave his mind.

    Yu Shisheng had been dearly embraced by his mother after a scolding. And when Yu Zhen ran up to the Empress for the same treatment, she said she was too upied with the First Prince to hug him as well. But that day, Yu Zhen was beaten the harshest.

    "What is the purpose of this conversation?" the Empress asked in a light and airy voice, her patience slowly being tested. "Is it to insult your mother for the love she has shown you?"

    "No!" he instantly said. "Mother I¡ª"

    The Empress gently touched his face, watching as his eyes widened and his mouth mped shut. She smiled up at him, with love and warmth in her eyes. "You resemble me so much, do you know that?"

    Yu Shisheng was bewildered by her question. "Yes, everyone tells me that. I have your eyes."

    The Empress¡¯s smile widened. She slowly nodded her head. "And you have inherited all the good traits from your father and I. How wonderful of a son you are. You would never do or say anything to hurt me, right?"

    Yu Shisheng wondered if that was even a question. "Of course not."

    "Then why are you deliberately trying to make a viin out of me?" the Empress softly asked. "I have given you everything you could possibly want, Xiao Sheng. I love you so dearly, do you not understand?"

    Yu Shisheng instantly saw past this guilt-trip. He was used to her maniptive nature, but this time, it irked him, more than it confused him.

    "Mother," he sharply said. "I will tell you the truth, but you have to promise me not to get angry."

    The Empress quirked a brow. What a bizarre thing he wanted her to promise. There were not many things in this world that angered her. Did he not know that?

 Chapter 535 Take The Crown

    <h4>Chapter 535 Take The Crown</h4>

    "I will not promise you such a thing, for I do not get angry that easily," the Empress informed him. "Now, tell me what has captured your heart so much that you have interrupted me at a questionable coincidence."

    Yu Shisheng wondered if it was possible for her to be wiser with age. It scared him how sharp her words were, and how quickly she caught on.

    "I¡¯m sure you heard it by now," he said. "I know Lady Ge Beining is your favoritedy-in-waiting, just because she is thest memory you have left of Aunt Lin. But it is time for you to let go of the past and face the truth. Ge Beining does not love you as much as you care for her."

    The Empress¡¯s gaze sharpened. She was not irritated by him. She was disappointed. "I already know," she angrily said.

    "Then why were you rushing out of your estate after hearing those guards had dragged her to the town square? What were you nning to do, Mother? Save the girl who bad-mouthed you? Guard the girl who spilled your darkest secret? What did you n on doing, Mother?"

    The Empress was stunned speechless. In all honesty, she had not thought that far ahead.

    The Empress was just so shocked by the news that her body moved on its own. It waltzed her out of the door, and towards the exit of her estate. She had nned on figuring out what to do with the situation once she was seated inside of the carriage that would take her to town.

    "I¡ª"

    "Please don¡¯t hurt Ah-Zhen more than you already have."

    The Empress gawked at her son. Did he lose his sanity when painting? What has gotten into him today? "Why would I hurt my own son? Why would I choose this girl who is not rted to me by blood over my son whom I¡¯ve birthed and raised?"

    "From what I know, you once chose the side of this girl who shares no blood rtion to you."

    The Empress always knew Yu Shisheng had eyes and ears everywhere in the pce. But even in Lady Ge Beining¡¯s estate? It was shocking. How much did he know? Had he always been watching in the background, silently observing everything unfold?

    "I know you still hold influence in the court, Mother. You¡¯ve been dissatisfied with how uncontroble Ah-Zhen is, thus, have been gathering people to oppose his regime," Yu Shisheng revealed.

    Yu Shisheng knew everything. His spies were everywhere, and nothing escaped him. He was well-acquainted with the Empress¡¯s faction, for she had introduced him to them all. They doted on him and viewed him as the better choice for Crown Prince.

    But it was a title he no longer fought for. Yu Zhen, his brother, had won fair and square, when he put his life at risk for nearly a decade on the frontlines of war. He had protected his country and lost his humanity along the way. It was a heavy price to pay to ensure the safety of the entire kingdom.

    Yu Shisheng would not take the crown from Yu Zhen¡¯s hands. It was unlike his style.

    "Don¡¯t do it, Mother. It will never work, and you will only be hurting him more than your rejection towards him."

    Yu Shisheng sped his hands over his mother¡¯s hands. He offered her a pleading smile and prayed she would listen.

    "Don¡¯t push your own son away, for he is already standing at the edge of the cliff, and one more push, you¡¯d lose him forever. You would know. It was exactly what happened to Royal Father."

    - - - - -

    Yu Zhen quietly slipped back onto Xiao Lizi. His identity was kept hidden. With great certainty, no one had figured the Crown Prince had personally witnessed the humiliation. If so, people would¡¯ve dropped to their knees and greeted him by now.

    "We¡¯re heading back," he solemnly said.

    With a flick of his wrist, Xiao Lizi began to trot onward. Eventually, she broke into a thunderous sprint that captured everyone¡¯s attention. But she raced through the streets too quickly for anyone to catch sight of the rider. He was a whirlwind of blurry ck.

    Yu Zhen was the first to make it back to the Imperial Pce. Coming in second ce was Lu Tianbi who didn¡¯t seem fazed by the speed of Xiao Lizi, for her horse was also well-built and quick.

    Hu Dengxiao wasst. He had broken into a sweat despite being on a horse. "X-Xiao Lizi is too fast for me," he groaned whilst hopping off his stallion.

    They were at the entrance of the Imperial Pce. At the word that the Crown Prince had returned, all the servants rushed forward. The guards straightened up. Instantaneously, everyone lowered themselves into a deep bow.

    "Wee back, Your Highness!"

    Yu Zhen strolled through the lines of people without a word. He had a business to tend to, especially after catching wind of where his Wangfei went to. The reason he came back to the Imperial Pce earlier than nned was because one of his spies had quickly run up to him, and whispered the news.

    But that was fine. Ge Beining¡¯s punishment wasing to an end anyway, since she was already limp on the tform. Whether or not she was alive was up to Heaven¡¯s fate. He¡¯d deal with herter.

    "Everyone is excused for today. I will be upied the entire day," he coldly informed his friends.

    Hu Dengxiao hid a grin and rode his horse closer to the Crown Prince. He quietly whispered, "Will I get to see nephews and nieces soon, Zhenzhen?"

    "Give me some first," Yu Zhen scoffed back. He hopped off his horse and handed the reins to a trusted man of his.

    Hu Dengxiao pouted. He climbed off his stallion and approached the Crown Prince. "How can I, Zhenzhen? I haven¡¯t even wed her yet."

    Yu Zhen rolled his eyes. "That¡¯s for you to figure out, and me to not care."

    Hu Dengxiao gaped at Yu Zhen. "You talk like you won¡¯t be at the wedding, Zhenzhen!"

    At his loud voice, all the servants stole a quiet nce towards his direction. Even Lu Tianbi froze, her face flushing red from embarrassment. She smacked him upside the head, earning a loud yelp from Hu Dengxiao.

    "Just get back to work," she hissed whilst storming off in aggravation. She liked that he announced their rtionship to so many people. He was not afraid to show her off. But she was not used to it yet, despite knowing his personality in and out.

    "Wait for me!" Hu Dengxiao cried out. He hurriedly cupped his fist and bowed towards Yu Zhen before quickly running off to grab his lover.

    If it was a different circumstance, they would¡¯ve earned a punishment. But Yu Zhen turned a blind eye and stormed off. He had his own rtionship problem to worry about.

    The hallways whizzed past him. He stormed down the hallways with a purpose. Once he reached their estate, he walked through the arches and towards the doors leading to the foyer.

    Yu Zhen entered quietly and closed the doors behind him without a single sound. Next, he approached their bedroom.

    Li Xueyue was already inside.

    He could tell by the servants surrounding the changing screen. Their eyes went wide at the sight of him, but he instantly ced a finger over his mouth.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" she curiously asked.

    Li Xueyue was confused when her maidservants froze for a brief second. She wanted to look around the screen, but they had surrounded her. Hands moved quickly to dress her, so she stood still and waited.

    "N-nothing, Princess," a maidservant whispered.

    Li Xueyue did not trust them. But before she could even say anything, the maidservants hurried out of therge, partition screen. Her brows drew together in confusion.

    Before she even took a step forward, arge shadow blocked her path. She let out a shriek, only for his hand to mp down on her mouth. Her heart drummed against her ribcage, her eyes widening in shock.

    Yu Zhen?

    Seeing the recognition in her eyes, his lips spread into a slight smile. He dropped his hand from her mouth so that she would not scream.

    Familiarity washed over her. "Dress me," she demanded.

    Yu Zhen was caught off-guard. He felt like he had heard this conversation before. A long, long time ago, when he was just a Commander, and she was just a Princess.

    "What?" she teased. "Can¡¯t even perform the basics?"

    Yu Zhen loudlyughed. He yanked her towards him and smiled down at her. Her hands flew to his chest, stabilizing herself.

    "What kind of husband will I be if I don¡¯t undress my wife right now?"

 Chapter 536 Interruption

    <h4>Chapter 536 Interruption</h4>

    But before Yu Zhen could do anything, frantic footsteps could be heard. Following after it were hurried knocks and the voice of Hu Dengxiao permeated into the room.

    "Y-Your Highness! Crown Princess!" he cried out, demanding their attention with urgency.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s handsome features instantly twisted into a scowl. The mood was just right until his damn friend ruined it. His eyes narrowed. Fine, he¡¯d do everything in his power to interrupt Hu Dengxiao¡¯s time with Lu Tianbi. Yu Zhen was petty enough to interrupt them for an entire week.

    "That seems urgent," Li Xueyue murmured.

    She pushed his arms away and stepped towards the door. Thankfully, the first few inneryers of her clothes were done.

    All she had to do was slip on the decorative one for the outside, which was jade green with borate silver embroideries. The fine details oozed status and wealth. Only high aristocrats like Dukes and Princes could afford such a garment.

    Li Xueyue hurriedly slipped on the decorativeyer and tightly wrapped the ribbon belt so that she was presentable.

    "I¡¯ll get it," Yu Zhen gently said. He closed the doors to their bedroom and headed outside.

    When he would see Hu Dengxiao, he would certainly give the advisor a smack on the head. What happened to enjoying the day off with Lu Tianbi? Was she upied with something?

    "What is it?" Yu Zhen bit out the second he flung the doors open.

    Hu Dengxiao opened his mouth only to shrink back a bit. Like a puppy who was kicked by his master, his lips drew into a slight pout. He ran here at the fastest speed he could muster, but the Crown Prince was in a grouchy mood. Had he interrupted something important? Well, the Imperial Family had interrupted him first!

    Nheless, he instantly blurted out, "The Emperor is really on his deathbed. The Imperial Physician examined him today after he was barely able to even open his eyes. The doctor predicted today might be the Emperor¡¯sst day."

    Hu Dengxiao always knew his dear friend had a rocky rtionship with the Emperor. He personally witnessed Yu Zhen, as a little boy, more battered than an orphan boy who lived on the streets.

    Even the baker that Hu Dengxiao used to steal from didn¡¯t beat him to the extent that the Emperor had done. Flogging and spanking were just the beginning of punishments.

    Hu Dengxiao couldn¡¯t fathom what kind of crimes the Crown Prince hadmitted at such a young age to receive such horrific punishments. Come to find out, it was for stupid mistakes.

    The Emperor was a horrible father. It was exactly why Hu Dengxiao expected Yu Zhen¡¯s face to darken. His mood soured before the advisor¡¯s eyes.

    "So?" the Crown Prince seethed.

    Hu Dengxiao sullenly nced towards the ground. So much for bringing an unfilial son to see his dying father. It was the Emperor¡¯sst day in this world. Yet, neither of his sons seemed to care.

    He heard the Empress had a tight grip on the First Prince as they walked into the Emperor¡¯s room shortly after hearing the news from the Imperial Physician. One could infer the Empress had practically dragged him there, per the rules of etiquette.

    "So, everyone is expecting you to see him onest time. Or else, the servants will spread rumors, Your Highness. It is something that both Lu Tianbi and I know you would not like to do, but for the sake of your reputation, please reconsider your decision."

    Yu Zhen let out a deep sigh. Why were so many people trying to convince him to go and see the Emperor? "Did the servants not recall the Emperor harshly beating his own sons?"

    "Well uhm..." Hu Dengxiao licked his bottom lip. "It¡¯s still expected, Zhenzhen. I would¡¯ve given everything in the world to see my parents, even though they had abandoned me on the street to fend for myself. Parents gave us life..."

    Yu Zhen pinched the patch of skin between his brows. First, it was Li Xueyue¡¯s worrying, and now it was Hu Dengxiao¡¯s sob story.

    He was never a sympathetic person. There was a reason why sympathetic had the word "pathetic" in it¡ªor so the Emperor imed.

    Irritably, Yu Zhen roughly yanked Hu Dengxiao into the room and mmed the door shut. This was not a conversation meant for the ears of guards and servants.

    "Ouch, Zhenzhen!" Hu Dengxiao yelped. "Don¡¯t abuse your advisor like this!"

    Yu Zhen rolled his eyes at his dramatic friend.

    "I hope you¡¯re not this forceful with the Crown Princess, you¡¯ll scare her away!" Hu Dengxiao added on in an exasperated voice. He hoped to scare the Crown Prince into being nicer.

    But the Crown Prince merely smirked. "She has neverined." For all he knew, she enjoyed it. Especially rough-housing in bed.

    "Ugh, I¡¯ll never understand both of you guys," Hu Dengxiao groaned.

    Now that they were alone, he had dropped the titles. There was no need for them. Especially when the presence of the watchful eyes and gossiping mouths were gone. Not that the servants had the guts to gossip about the Crown Prince.

    "But why did you have to pull me inside, Zhenzhen? We should be heading out to see the Emperor..." he trailed off.

    A storm cloud rolled over Yu Zhen¡¯s fine features. His glower was vicious, like a man out for vengeance.

    "If I set foot in that room, I will curse him to the depths of hell. Is that what you want?" he seethed.

    Hu Dengxiao¡¯s shoulders dropped in disappointment. Even so, the advisor trait within him began to rule over. "Well, it would certainly make the servants think you¡¯re a filial son if they see you enter the room to see him. They would be oblivious to the conversation that would take ce behind closed doors anyway."

    But just then, Hu Dengxiao reasoned, "But would that truly do your conscience any good?" As the Crown Prince¡¯s good friend, he had to reason with him.

    Yu Zhen wondered how many times he must reiterate the exact same thing. He did not care about the Emperor. Dead or alive, Yu Zhen would live on just fine. Diyu would gain another member and Yu Zhen¡¯s life would continue to function as per normal. Nothing would change. Not a single bit.

    But when the doors to his bedroom opened and out walked Xueyue with a worried face, he knew he could not let down two people at once.

    Fine.

    They wanted to see him have a conversation with the Emperor? He¡¯d do so. But it wouldn¡¯t be a pleasant one.

    Yu Zhen would be certain of it.

    "Come with me," he informed his Wangfei, knowing many people would be watching. It would be best if in the eyes of the public, he was still a good son¡ªor so everyone believed.

    "To the Emperor¡¯s estate?" Li Xueyue asked. She had been eavesdropping ever since Yu Zhen began talking to Hu Dengxiao outside.

    Li Xueyue had left her hair as it was. The maidservants had twisted it into a low braided bun. But they had been dismissed too quickly before they could adorn her hair with hairpins. Thus, she only stuck in a single white jade hairpin to hold everything in ce.

    Li Xueyue didn¡¯t want to appear too extravagant, especially when talking to the Emperor. His taste seemed simr to Yu Zhen¡¯s. They both preferred simple yet beautiful things.

    "Yes, where else?" he angrily bit out.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s lips twisted into an understanding smile. She did not mind his frustration. He had been cornered. She would¡¯ve been equally unhappy. But this was for his own good.

    Or so everyone hoped.

 Chapter 537 Be Kind To Father

    <h4>Chapter 537 Be Kind To Father</h4>

    The Empress had just departed from her husband¡¯s room with Yu Shisheng, when she heard loud footsteps approaching them. She raised her gaze and her lips parted. She had not expected to see him here. What was he doing here? He harbored too much hatred towards the Emperor to havee to the Emperor¡¯s estate willingly.

    But then her attention shifted to his Wangfei. Dressed in simple colors and simple essories, it was not difficult to tell what brought him here.

    "Son," she instantly said upon his arrival. Then her attention shifted to the Crown Princess.

    "Princess," she added on.

    The Crown Princess presented her with a curt and polite smile. It was evident she was withdrawn to say or do anything more than needed. She was no longer trying her best to win the Empress¡¯s favor.

    "Are both of you here to see our beloved Emperor?" the Empress asked in a low, sullen voice. Her eyes were rimmed red, and her face was bare of make-up. She was the epitome of a grieving wife.

    The general public pitied and sympathized with her. How sad it was to lose a husband? But those closest to her saw through the facade. She was happy her husband was dying. That way, there would be one less person keeping her in control.

    "Yes, we are, Your Grace," the Crown Princess answered. She lowered her head, her lips wobbling.

    The Empress¡¯s hand twitched. The Crown Princess was quite the performer as well. There were so many eyes on them. From the ministers to the servants, there were many people gathered here, but only a handful could enter.

    "Well, I won¡¯t block your way," the Empress gently said. She wanted to reach a hand out and grasp the Princess¡¯s attention, but it was toote. She had lost that right when she chose the wrong person to support.

    She peered at her youngest son. His face was nk and aloof. It was difficult to read his expression. But she supposed everyone grieves differently¡ªor so he was trying to portray.

    "Let¡¯s go," Yu Zhen murmured to his wife.

    Yu Zhen ced a warm hand on her back and ushered her inside. He noticed her making eye-contact with the First Prince, but did notment on it. They seemed to have made a pact of some sort, for Shisheng subtly nodded, then left with the Empress.

    "It¡¯s nothing you should worry about," she whispered to him.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile. "I wasn¡¯t worried."

    He had more confidence than that. Besides, he believed he was much more handsome than his older brother. What was the point of being worried? It was not like anyone in this entire pce dared to covet what belonged to him.

    "Father..."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s gaze darkened. The heartbreaking sobs of his younger sister, Xiao Ling, made it seem like the Emperor had already died. It was the sound of her cries that bothered him. He never liked to see her upset, or in pain. It was just part of his nature.

    "Hush..." the Emperor coughed out. In his hands was a handkerchief stained with blood. His eyes were painfully squeezed shut.

    "Princess Lingluo," Li Xueyue addressed. She noticed a girl kneeling by the bedside of the Emperor.

    Princess Yu Lingluo had her face buried near his arms, as she desperately held onto his hand. It was as if she was wronged by the entire world. Her shoulders were trembling, and every few seconds, she¡¯d sniffle and sob.

    "S-sister-inw," Yu Lingluo stumbled out. She raised her head and nced over her shoulders, revealing her tear-streaked face and wobbling lips.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart ached at the sight. In the entire pce, it seemed Yu Lingluo was the only one who truly wept for the Emperor. It was understandable, considering she was the only daughter that remained in the pce. The rest were married off and could never return.

    "Go..." the Emperor softly whispered. "I...shall see you...soon."

    Yu Lingluo¡¯s eyes watered even more. Tears fell freely, and her nose was red as an apple. She would not stop crying for months toe. The death of a loving father was too much for her to handle. How could she ept his demise? He had cherished her so dearly and given her the world. She would continue to love him, even beyond the years of his death.

    "I¡¯ll escort you out, Princess," Li Xueyue said. She wanted to give Yu Zhen some privacy.

    "Come now, Princess Lingluo," Li Xueyue gently beckoned. She approached the young Princess and brought her to her feet.

    The Emperor¡¯s room was enormous. There were at least six roomsbined into one, with each room serving their own purpose.

    Since Li Xueyue could not fully leave the Emperor¡¯s room just yet, she brought Yu Lingluo to the farthest room she could find. It waspleted with a set of sliding doors and drawn curtains. Her eyebrows shot up at the realization it was a small private library.

    "T-the Imperial P-physician said Father is not going to make it to tomorrow," Yu Lingluo stuttered out. The words she uttered hurt herself the most. She let out another sob and cried into her handkerchief. Unable to process what was happening at such a young age, she sank to her knees and continued crying.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s gaze softened. She approached the window first and pushed it open to let in the fresh air that would help to clear one¡¯s thoughts. Then, she lowered herself onto the floor and sat with Yu Lingluo.

    It was a vition of the rules of etiquette on so many levels. But neither woman seemed to care.

    "He¡¯ll be in a better ce, Princess," Li Xueyue reassured the young woman. She ced a caressing hand on Yu Lingluo¡¯s shoulders. In an instant, Yu Lingluo tossed herself onto the Crown Princess.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes widened. She nearly toppled over, but was able to steady them both. Yu Lingluo had buried her face into the Crown Princess¡¯s shoulders. She continued to wept, but this time, in silence, so that it did not disturb anyone.

    "There, there," Li Xueyue softlyforted. She ced a hand on Princess Yu Lingluo¡¯s back, then gently patted her there.

    "He will be put out of his misery, Princess Lingluo. Keeping him away from the doors of Heaven will only hurt himself and the people closest to him," she gently added on, knowing it was best for Yu Lingluo to see things from a different perspective.

    "I-I know, but I just d-don¡¯t to lose him so quickly. It¡¯s unfair that all of my other siblings got to see him much longer than me!" Yu Lingluo stuttered out whilst pulling back from the hug.

    With a small pout on her lips, she continued to wipe at her eyes. "Father is such a great man, why does he have to go so quickly?"

    Li Xueyue bit her bottom lip. There were so many people who would argue differently. But the Princess was too young and naive to see that. "Sometimes, Heaven picks the prettiest flowers before they pick the ugly ones."

    Yu Lingluo slowly nodded in understanding. With her lowered eyes and hunched shoulders, it was inevitable there was nothing that would cheer her up for long. Only time and eptance would truly heal her.

    "D-do you think Zhen-gege will be kind to Father?"

    Li Xueyue felt like a mother stuck between telling the truth or telling a white lie to her child. Yu Lingluo was still a child, barely over the age of sixteen. It would be difficult to tell her the truth, especially when she was so depressed right now. Thest thing Li Xueyue wanted to happen was to make Princess Yu Lingluo cry more.

    Eventually, she settled with a short answer. "I believe you know that answer the best, Princess Lingluo."

    Yu Lingluo plucked at the rug. She knew the answer by heart. Few people dared to whisper it, but she had heard the rumors. Her father was not that kind and pleasant to her older brothers. Supposedly, there were beatings that were severe and her Second Brother received the blunt end of the stick.

    "D-do you think Zhen-gege will forgive Father then?"

    "I¡¯m afraid I do not know the answer, Princess Lingluo."

    Somehow, Yu Lingluo preferred these curt, polite responses over the mock-sympathetic smiles. At least the Crown Princess was not bluffing or making up excuses for any of their actions.

    In the end, a reassuring silence fell over them. And the two remained that way until Yu Zhen was finished with his conversation.

 Chapter 538 The Victim

    <h4>Chapter 538 The Victim</h4>

    "I¡¯ve never cared for you." Yu Zhen stood by the bedside of the dying Emperor with words as sharp as knives. Maybe that way, the man would go faster. Maybe then, he would not feel this ache in his heart.

    The Emperor used to be tall and strong. A smack from him would send a boy flying to the floor. His breath was the snort of a dragon, and his roar of anger was like a trailzing fire.

    What exactly happened?

    Who was this imposter on the bed? Thin and bones, the man was dressed in the same luxury and wealth as the Emperor. But this was not the Emperor. Yu Zhen refused to believe it. He refused to open his eyes to the truth that the man who once tormented his childhood was reduced to nothing.

    "I...know," the Emperor breathed out. He opened his tired eyes, rimmed with wrinkles and darkness. His pale blue lips spread into a slight smile.

    "Seeing me...in pain..." he heaved. "Must bring you joy."

    "Immensely."

    The Emperor loudly coughed. His chest rattled like cages of trapped birds. The world was fleeting before his eyes. All the years of pain were finally catching up to him. Perhaps this was his punishment for all the sins he hadmitted in his lifetime.

    He could not picture a day where his little boys were happy with him. The thought tore his fragile heart to pieces. It was toote to regret it. They had turned their backs on him, and now, the Emperor was all alone.

    "You must know..." the Emperor murmured. "Seeing...you boys...in pain, never...made me happy."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s fingers curled into fists. His jaw ticked.

    "I was a horrible father," the Emperor mused. "But I loved you both."

    The Emperor tilted his head. His neck and body shook with the small action. But he needed to see Yu Zhen onest time. He needed to see his pride and joy, dressed in all of his glory. The throne was meant for the oldest, but the youngest seized it without hesitation.

    The tables had turned. Just as the Emperor had done it in his youth when he robbed the throne from his oldest brother.

    "Especially you..." The Emperor muttered, "You, who resembles me most."

    Yu Zhen scoffed. "It¡¯s a little toote for that confession."

    The Emperor¡¯s smile widened. In normal circumstances, he would¡¯ve been infuriated by the constant talk back. But his old age made him weak. He became more fond of Yu Zhen, realizing this boy was just trying to get attention from all the years of neglect. And he had found it in all of the right ces¡ªfrom his beloved friends to his darling Wangfei.

    "You must know..." the Emperor whispered. "I have loved you since birth."

    The Emperor wanted to reach a hand out to his son, but it was toote for that. "I was harsh on you..." he said and lightly coughed, "because I knew...it would make a man out of...you."

    The Emperor¡¯s chest was caving in. It was difficult to breathe as if all of the air was sucked from his lungs. He let out a small groan of pain but forced his body to trudge on. He needed to. For the sake of a son who concealed his pain.

    "I did not want you...to be as inferior as your father..." The Emperor squeezed his eyes shut. "I did not want the court to mock...you, for I always knew...you would one day take the throne."

    "As if," Yu Zhen muttered with a roll of his eyes.

    "No, boy!" The Emperor reached his hand out, his entire body shaking with the attempt. But he was able to grasp onto the fists of his son.

    "I saw it when you were a baby... You have the eyes of a ruler, you¡¯ve always had it."

    Yu Zhen ground his teeth. "What a sorry excuse you are making for yourself."

    The Emperor¡¯s smile became more tender. Despite his youngest son¡¯s anger, he did not shake the Emperor¡¯s hand away. He tightened his hold on the fists, even when his sore body ached in pain.

    It was taking everything within him to stay awake. He knew that once he closed his eyes, he could never open it again. He had to say hisst words to his youngest. He needed to. This boy needed it the most.

    "Your mother only hated you...because you resembled me." The Emperor¡¯s grip tightened. "But I loved you dearly. Your pain was my pain."

    Yu Zhen instantly attempted to pull away, but the Emperor hurriedly spoke on, "You must know, whenever I beat you, I tortured myself for it."

    In Yu Zhen¡¯s rough struggle, the white sleeves of his father¡¯s nightgown rolled down. He stiffened. Ugly, protruding scars could be seen. Running down his father¡¯s thin, bony arms. They were everywhere, starting from his shoulders, all the way down to his wrists.

    "Each time I hurt you, I hurt myself for it."

    Yu Zhen yanked his hand away. He did not want to see it nor ept it. All this time, his father had held everything in like this.

    "And you expect me to care now?" he viciously bit out. "Do you think I would pity an abusive man just because he hurts himself afterwards?"

    The Emperor¡¯s face softened. His son was still suffering. After all these years, the hatred was still festing.

    "You did this to yourself, the beatings, the scars, all of it. Don¡¯t you dare make yourself seem like the victim," Yu Zhen snarled out in a low, controlled voice. He would never take pity on this man, no matter what he says.

    "Son, I don¡¯t want pity or sympathy..." the Emperor heaved out. "I want you to forgive yourself...to love yourself."

    The Emperor¡¯s smile widened. "Please...live a life without regrets. Live a life that I couldn¡¯t have."

    Yu Zhen shook his head. He did not have the time or patience to tolerate this pointless conversation.

    "Please do not be tortured by the past anymore." The Emperor could feel his vision grow blurry. The expansive decorations on the ceilings were bing a blob of color. He couldn¡¯t even see his own son anymore.

    The Emperor struck out a trembling hand. His voice grew even more tired and high-pitched. He was on hisst straw of life. And he was willing to give it to his beloved son.

    And he had never felt more joy than when he felt a tight, unbearable grip on his hand. Even until the bitter end, his son was rough and cold. His son knew how weak and frail his father was, but held on with a painful grip as if bidding him farewell to theherworld.

    "Yu Zhen?" a soft, timid voice spoke from the corner of the room.

    Yu Zhen¡¯s head snapped to the side. Li Xuyue hade out of the small library, but she was alone.

    "Come..e..." The Emperor chuckled, but it sounded like whistles of the flute. He knew who it was. That gentle, reassuring voice, who would be spending the rest of her life with his son. The voice of his son¡¯s savior.

    He heard her approaching footsteps. Soon, it came to a halt, presumably near his son.

    "Don¡¯t let the doors hit you on your way to Diyu, Father," Yu Zhen calmly said. The address sounded foreign on this tongue.

    The Emperor could finally leave without remorse. He was grateful and d his son married so well, and would live so well. Yu Zhen would not have to bear the burden that he did not even wish his father goodbye.

    "Son, please live a life without regrets..." The Emperor tilted his head towards the little Princess. "Please live a happy life with your Wangfei...Father wishes you eternal happiness."

    And with that said, everything was set in stone. The world spun. Rain came down. Everything became a blur.

    The Emperor¡¯s hand went limp.

 Chapter 539 The Phoenix

    <h4>Chapter 539 The Phoenix</h4>

    It rained for a week after the Emperor died. The rain would not stop as stormy grey clouds cast over Hanjian for the entire week. It was as if the entire Heavens were mourning over his death.

    White banners were hung everywhere as funeral preparations took ce. For the entire mourning period of a week, no one was allowed to wear bright colors. Everything was muted and monochrome.

    Everything happened in a blur to Yu Zhen who could not recount the days of mourning nor the funeral. It happened slowly and surely as everything was set in stone. He did not cry with everyone else. Rather, the rain cried in his stead. It dribbled down his cheeks in ce of what should be his tears.

    During the actual burial, no one dared to carry umbres as rain poured down on them. Everyone bore with it, even the Imperial Family.

    And on thest day of rain, when the sunshine finally peeked through the clouds, everything started to return to normal. The first sunlight marked a new beginning in Hanjian.

    - - - - -

    Li Xueyue¡¯s heart had never raced so quickly. It was even worse than when the Li Family was crowned.

    Back then, she was officially promoted to a first-rank Princess. Whoever weds her, Prince or not, could never divorce her. She was exhrated by the elevation of her position that her heart raced.

    Today was much worse. Her nerves would not rest. Her anxiety was at its peak. Blood gushed to her ears, loud as thunder striking the skies. She couldn¡¯t hear beyond her heartbeat, erratic as an untamed horse.

    Today was the coronation, the day when everything would change for Hanjian.

    She would no longer be Crown Princess. Her new title was the Empress of Hanjian, Her Benevolent Grace. Though, no one would dare to utter thest part.

    "Are you nervous?" Yu Zhen asked.

    Li Xueyue was seated by the vanity, as the servants ced finishing touches on her makeup. Her gaze jumped to Yu Zhen. Like her, he was surrounded by arge group of people getting them ready. It had been two days since the sun peeked through the clouds, a positive sign to mark a new dawn in Hanjian.

    His outfit oozed power and authority. Arge dragon rested upon his broad chest, apanied by swirling clouds of silver threads rimmed with pearls and opals.

    Pirs of Heaven were sewn at the bottom, as more mystical beasts of great strength and prosperity were found. A whirlwind of crimson red, navy blue, forest green, and dazzling yellow, it was the most color she had ever seen him in.

    Dressed in enough gold to buy out an entire kingdom, and enough wealth to p people into silence, he was the epitome of an Emperor. No, the Emperor. His regal features, aloof eyes, and cold aura made him an unapproachable, yet firm leader. No one would dare to oppose him.

    Like her, his title had changed. He was now the Emperor of Hanjian, His Imperial Majesty.

    The title weighed heavily on Li Xueyue¡¯s shoulders, but he didn¡¯t seem bothered at all.He was unfazed by what¡¯s toe. When her fingers were trembling, his hands were peacefully resting by his sides.

    "No, not at all," Li Xueyue lied in a quiet voice.

    Yu Zhen shifted his attention to her. Just then, the servants had finished dressing both of them.

    Majestic phoenixes soared on her bright yellow and white dress. Peonies and lilies bloomed upon her outfit that was decorated with silk, satin, and velvet of the highest quality.

    Everything was embroidered with gold and silver threads and there were pearls, gold, and precious gemstones sewn onto it.

    "Is that so?" he slowly said.

    Yu Zhen waved his hand. In an instant, the servants dispersed from the room. They quietly shut the doors behind them.

    "You look lovely, Sunshine," Yu Zhenplimented as he approached her. "We must get your portrait drawn, to be admired for centuries toe."

    Li Xueyueughed at his words. It had been a few days since she let out such a joyous sound. She did not dare to smile or be happy during the week-long mourning period of thete Emperor.

    "You should say that for yourself. Everyday, you look like a man who has stepped out of a masterpiece painting."

    Yu Zhen¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile. He offered her a hand.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s eyes traveled to his outstretched arm. Without hesitation, she slipped her hand into his. Calloused and rough, his skin was a familiar touch. His presence was cold, but his hand was warm. A soft caress upon her beating heart, he swept the ease from her¡ªalbeit just a little.

    "The procedure will be easy, you do not need to worry." Yu Zhen whisked her closer to him. "We will ride through the Capital streets in a ruby red carriage, then wave outside the window. Lastly, all we have to do is walk up the Imperial Steps leading to the throne room."

    Li Xueyue shakily nodded her head. It sounded simple in theory. But she had gone through that process before. It was far from easy. Everyone would be watching them. Every pair of eyes would be glued to him. It was nerve-racking.

    "Have faith in me, Little Hamster."

    "I always have faith in you, Little Bear."

    - - - - -

    "Herees His Imperial Majesty and Her Benevolent Grace!"

    "Hurrah to the Emperor and Empress of Hanjian!"

    "We wish you a century of life, a century of prosperity, and a century of fortune!"

    Cheers echoed through the streets, filled with happiness and blessings. Everyone was eager to smile andugh, p their hands, and call out for the new Emperor and Empress of Hanjian. They had just taken the throne, but their aplishments were never-ending.

    The future of Hanjian was brighter than ever.

    Li Xueyue was grateful for Yu Zhen¡¯s presence. Sitting next to him, her heart was full. Her heart warmed at hearing the cries of the people as they eagerly wished them goodness.

    Guards lined the entire streets, keeping people away from the traveling path of the carriage. Soldiers on horsebacks apanied the golden carriage, though it was not needed. The Grim Reaper of Wars was in the carriage. Who¡¯d dare to attack them?

    "What are you doing?" Yu Zhen murmured when she suddenly pulled back the shimmering yellow curtains.

    Yu Zhen was astonished when she curiously stuck her head out. It was something that none in her position has ever done before.

    Then, she took the entire capital by surprise. She presented them with a loving smile and gently waved her hand.

    "It¡¯s Her Benevolent Grace!"

    "She¡¯s so beautiful, look, look, mama!"

    "Her Grace is just as the rumors depict of her, kind and gentle!"

    Hurriedly, people fought to get a glimpse of her face. Citizens rushed forward and admired her for a split second as she made an eye-contact with them.

    And then, one by one, everyone lowered to their knees.

    It was a sight that would forever be imprinted in Li Xueyue¡¯s mind. It happened like a wave, as the people bowed before her.

    "Long live His Majesty, long live Her Grace! May the Heavens smile upon them!"

    As they exited the carriages, the chants never stopped. Even from on top of the Imperial Staircase, Li Xueyue could hear them. The people of Hanjian were proud to have them both as their rulers. She did not know if she shouldugh or cry.

    The sound had sent tremors through her body. And then it happened again. A long, winding carpet of red greeted them. It led down the path to the throne room, which was directly in front of them now. Maidservants, eunuchs, aristocrats, ministers, and alike were standing before them, in an organized manner.

    Standing beside the doors of the throne room were Chancellor Wu Xiang on the left, and Lu Tianbi and Hu Dengxiao on the right side.

    "Just breathe, Sunshine," Yu Zhen reassured her.

    Li Xueyue gave a slight nod.

    "Greetings to His Imperial Majesty, and Her Benevolent Grace!" the announcer loudly dered.

    "Greetings to His Imperial Majesty, and Her Benevolent Grace!" everyone echoed in an unforgettable fashion.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s breath hitched. Her heart drummed with anticipation. Step by step, she apanied Yu Zhen down the carpet of red. And with each step, affirmation was given.

    Soon, their foot grazed the stairs leading to the throne room. When they reached the tform, they slowly turned on their heels.

    Then, came a scene Li Xueyue would never forget.

    "May His Imperial Majesty and Her Benevolent Grace live beyond a century of life, a century of health, a century of prosperity, and a century of fortune!"

    The chant was echoed throughout the enormous pce courtyard. Everyone dropped to their knees. Right hand folded on top of the left, their bodies lowered to the ground. Their foreheads grazed the floor, as everyone in the entire Kingdom bowed before the new Emperor and Empress of Hanjian, whose name would be etched into history books toe.

    And there would be a specific one dedicated to Her Benevolent Grace, one that would depict her entire life.

    The book would entail a sparrow¡¯s journey to bing the phoenix: The Rise of Xueyue.

    - - - - -

    The End.

 Chapter 540: Part One

    "Mama, Mama, this way!" an excited voice called out in the distance, followed by the energetic run of a small boy. His cheeks were full of life, red as a poppy, with arge grin decorating his soft features.

    "Hurry, hurry!" he whined whilst dashing back towards his waddling mother. He could not tear his eyes away from her, even for a minute. She reminded him of the protagonists in lovely stories read at bedtime.

    Her long hair was woven into a bun, beautiful hairpins dangling from it. The sunlight shone upon her shoulders, radiating her in ways he could not imagine. She was practically glowing from the pregnancy, it was too difficult to ignore.

    "Now, now, Chenjiang, your mother can only walk so fast," Yu Zhen chided. He could not fathom his young son, no more than the age of six, was this energetic. He could not imagine a child could smile so brightly in his presence.

    No matter how many times Yu Zhen nced at his eldest son, Yu Chenjiang, he couldn''t believe this was his child. Yu Zhen never thought he would make a great parent. He didn''t have an affectionate mother or father, but somehow, he became what hecked in his childhood.

    "Royal Father, it''s not fair, you''re hogging all of my mama''s attention!" Yu Chenjiangined whilst stopping directly in front of his mother.

    Li Xueyue let out a small and gentleugh. She reached a hand out for her child, ready to embrace him, when Yu Zhen quickly grabbed her hip.

    "You shouldn''t bend down, it''ll hurt you and our child, Sunshine," he nagged whilst bringing her closer towards him. She was already glued to his side.

    "And you," Yu Zhen sharply said. "How can you call me Royal Father when you call your mother by an affectionate title?"

    Yu Chenjiang ignored his father. He pouted to himself and gingerly hugged his mother. But when his face grew closer to herrge belly, he made sure to be careful.

    "Papa, don''t neglect me," a tiny muffled voice sounded. A little girl squirmed in You Zhen''s arms. She had fallen asleep in his embrace a while ago, after being carried by her father the entire time. Unfortunately, her irritating older brother''s voice was too loud and had shaken her awake.

    Yu Minqi snuggled her face on her father''s dependable shoulders. She was carefully nestled in his arm the entire time, with her arms wrapped around his neck.

    Though, she preferred her mother''s hugs much more, for her body was a lot softer. For some reason, she was not allowed in her mother''s embrace, since three months ago, when her t stomach began to resemble a golden ball.

    Something about a new sibling would be hurt¡­but she didn''t see one anywhere.

    "Xiao Qi, you''re awake," Li Xueyue happily said. She ced a hand on her son''s shoulders and leaned towards her daughter for an affectionate kiss on the cheek.

    Yu Minqi giggled in excitement, as her mother peppered kisses on her face. "Mama, that tickles!"

    Li Xueyue warmly smiled. She was enjoying a walk in the renovated gardens of the Emperor''s estate. It had been six years since Yu Zhen tookplete control over Hanjian. No less than a couple of months after the coronation, she was announced to be pregnant, and two years after the birth of her son came another weed surprise.

    When both of her children were born, the celebratory bells did not stop ringing for weeks. Celebrations were thrown in the pce and in the Capital, where everyone weed the birth of a healthy Prince and Princess.

    "Mama, me too, me too!" Yu Chenjiang whined, as he pulled at her dress in aggravation. It was not fair that his younger sister was being carried AND receiving kisses!

    Yu Zhen snorted at his son''s reaction. "You''re six. You shouldn''t be so clingy."

    Yu Chenjiang pouted, his cheeks growing wide with irritation. He red towards the ground, just as somethingnded beside him. Then, without warning, the air was swept from underneath him and he was lifted. His eyes grew wide in surprise but an ecstatic grin instantly surfaced.

    "Higher, Papa!" Yu Chenjiang happily said, as his father yfully twirled him in the air. A secondter, he was brought down, nestled in the arms of Yu Zhen.

    Yu Chenjiang happily smiled up at his father, expecting to fly in the air again. "More, more!"

    Yu Zhen let out a smallugh. He grinned at his son. "You''ve grown too fat for me to lift you high in the air."

    Yu Chenjiang stuck out his tongue in response. "More like you''ve grown too old, Royal Father!"

    Not a secondter, he earned a pinch on the cheek. "Ow!" he cried out in pain, instantly turning toward his mother.

    "Mama, did you see that?!" he cried out in aggravation, demanding justice for his punishment.

    But his mother was distracted by Yu Minqi who was narrating some nonsensical sweet dream she had earlier.

    "You see, Mama, in my dreams I saw Uncle Chenyang and Uncle Wenmin!" Yu Minqi excitedly said with a bounce in her steps, as she held onto her mother''s hand.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened. Her daughter resembled Yu Zhen in every way imaginable, except her behavior. Yu Minqi had her father''s eyes and features, except it was softened and feminine. The same went for Yu Chenjiang who heavily resembled his father, except for his eyes.

    "You don''t have to dream very long, Xiao Qi," Li Xueyue informed her daughter. She gently swayed their intertwined hands whilst continuing down the path in the garden.

    It was a miracle Yu Zhen was even letting her outside and about. Now that she was around six months pregnant with their third child, he never let her out of sight.

    Yu Zhen had made sure she was on bed or chair rest, in fear that something might happen to her. And whenever she had finally convinced him for a walk, he was always beside her.

    Throughout the six years, she had expected his affections to slowly dwindle. But he was as passionate as he was in his youth, loving her to no avail. It seemed with time, their love only grew, and they were as childish as before, bantering again and again. Even their children picked up on their consistent bantering.

    "Really, Mama?" Yu Minqi excitedly said with widened eyes. Her voice was soft as if she was uttering a secret.

    "Yes, Xiao Qi," Li Xueyue said. "Didn''t I tell youst time? Uncle Chenyang and Uncle Wenmin have official business in Hanjian, so they will be able to see you soon."

    Pure joy flourished on Yu Minqi''s face. "When will theye, Mama? When, when?!"

    "Hmm, they''ve been traveling for a few days now. Perhaps they will arrive by nightfall, and you shall see them tomorrow," Li Xueyue responded. She had just received word from her messenger falcon that the twins were very close to Hanjian.

    Their visit was disguised as an official business, but she knew they just missed their first nephew and niece. Although Wen Jinkai and Li Minghua had been married for three years now, Li Minghua had just finally gotten pregnant recently.

    "Really?!" Yu Chenjiang shouted whilst reaching over his father''s arm to grab his mother''s shoulders for attention.

    Li Xueyue let him grab hold of her other hand so that he did not fall over¡ªnot that Yu Zhen would ever let it happen.

    "Yes, really, Xiao Jiang," Li Xueyue chuckled.

    Both of her children were filled with energy. They were often loud and unruly, but she did not mind. As long as her children were happy, she would notin. Seeing the light in their eyes and the glow of their cheeks, she was d.

    History would not repeat itself.

    Neither of her children would grow up in the same, unhappy environment as their parents. Both Yu Zhen and Li Xueyue had made certain of that. There was not a day where they didn''t enjoy a meal together, and at least one of them would always tuck the children into bed.

    This was the life she dreamed of. Eventually, her dreams became a reality.

 Chapter 541 Part Two

    <h4>Chapter 541 Part Two</h4>

    "Is Auntie Huabinging as well?!" Yu Chenjiang eagerly added on. He liked the gentle aunt of his who always came withrge chests of toys and presents for him.

    "Yes, she will," Li Xueyue responded.

    She couldn¡¯t help but smile at the thought of Li Chenyang and Ning Huabing. She had always known thetter was deeply in love with Li Chenyang. She was just surprised the feelings were finally reciprocated. Supposedly, they had a dramatic love story in Wuyi whilst she was upied with her life as an Empress.

    Something about Ning Huabing growing tired of the chase, so she epted the hand of a suitor her father arranged, only for Li Chenyang to suddenly be the chaser, deeply pursuing her after realizing all of her efforts to pursue him.

    Or so, Li Wenmin had dramatically told her during hisst visit. Li Chenyang would not divulge a single detail and Ning Huabing had been either distracted by the Yu children or her own daughter.

    "And what about Auntie Xingfei?" Yu Chenjiang shouted, as he nearly fell out of his father¡¯s arms because he had been moving around too much.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile widened. She could not believe the twist of events in Li Wenmin¡¯s life. When she found out he had gotten married, she was dumbstruck. It was as if the rugs were yanked from underneath her. It wasn¡¯t that she had expected him to never get married, but she didn¡¯t think his wife would be so simr to him!

    "She¡¯s the only one with an appetite as big as you, Mama! And she always brings us the best snacks from Wuyi!" Yu Minqi added on, also wanting to know if Auntie Xingfei wasing.

    Li Xueyueughed. Her children had an appetite as big as hers. It was something that surprised Yu Zhen. When she was pregnant with her children, she inhaled food like it was water. Maybe that was how her children grew so tall and strong.

    "Auntie Xingfei will definitely be there," Li Xueyue chuckled. She could still remember her days in Wuyi, when she was residing within the Li Manor.

    At that time, the family was having a meal, when Li Wenmin had brought up the story of a soldier who challenged him to an eatingpetition. It was with pure skill that she had beat the gluttonous Li Wenmin. Everyone thought she was a male, until she finally took off her helmet the next day, revealing a beautiful woman underneath.

    Li Xueyue was surprised to hear of their love story, which was quite adorable in her eyes. At that time, Liu Xingfei wanted nothing to do with the General, but eventually, through his persistence, she had fallen in love with Li Wenmin.

    "What are you thinking about, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen mused. His gaze briefly flickered from his daughter who had wandered towards one of the flower bushes, and then back to his wife who had a fond smile on her face.

    "Just how interesting life ys out before us," Li Xueyue said with a sigh. "If someone had told me a decade ago, I would live such a pleasant life, where all of my loved ones are happy, then I would not believe them."

    Li Xueyue turned her face towards him. "But now that I have witnessed it with my eyes, I have finally found a life worth living."

    "Oh? And what is that life?"

    "The one with you, Xiao Qi, Xiao Jiang, Mother, Father, Chenyang, and Wenmin," Li Xueyue answered with resolute.

    "Are you certain?"

    Li Xueyueughed a bit. She ced a hand upon herrge belly. "And the Little Dumpling."

    Yu Zhen grinned at her. With each day, his love for her grew. "Indeed, my beloved wife. Indeed."

    - - - - -

    "Uncle Wenmin!" Yu Chenjiang dashed towards his favorite uncle whilst forgetting all the rules of etiquette. No amount of fancy clothes and essories could contain his enthusiasm towards his family.

    Yu Chenjiang and Minqi were surrounded by many people from their father¡¯s side, but rtives from their mother¡¯s side were rare. They had solemnly met their maternal grandparents only a few times, for the rulers of Wuyi were always upied with their country.

    "There¡¯s my favorite nephew!" Li Wenmin hollered out, instantly reaching down and scooping the boy into his arms. He loudlyughed whilst squeezing his nephew close to him.

    "But I¡¯m your only nephew," Yu Chenjiang managed to say amidst the tight embrace.

    "I know," Li Wenmin snickered whilst pulling back to squeeze the boy¡¯s plump cheeks.

    Li Wenmin still could not get over the fact that both children closely resembled Yu Zhen. He wished they all resembled his Xiao Yue instead. Fortunately, they had their mother¡¯s personality, especially Yu Minqi who had shown interest in horseback riding and archery.

    "Uncle Chenyang, where¡¯s my hug?" Yu Minqi asked whilst lifting her arms up.

    Li Chenyang fondly smiled upon the child. He bent down and carried her with one arm, but struggled, thus, wrapped two around her. She grinned in delight, her little legs swinging in the air.

    "And my presents?" she eagerly asked.

    Li Chenyang gentlyughed at this. "You¡¯re quite spoiled, Ah-Qi."

    Yu Minqi only giggled in response. She buried her face onto his shoulders, only to hear the familiar voice of her aunt.

    "You should greet me as well, Xiao Qi. I¡¯m the one with presents," Ning Huabing mused. Sometimes, she couldn¡¯t fathom how far she hade.

    Ning Huabing didn¡¯t think she would ever be standing on foreign soil more times than she could count. But it happened frequently for six years now, whenever Li Chenyang nned toe to Hanjian for "alliance matters."

    "Auntie Huabing, I was saving the best forst," Yu Minqi eagerly said. She pushed away from Li Chenyang, reaching forward for a hug, not realizing how dangerous it was.

    "Ah-Qi, don¡¯t rush, you¡¯ll fall!" Li Chenyang sternly scolded whilst quickly passing her towards his newly-wedded wife.

    Ning Huabing patiently smiled in response and helped Yu Minqi to the ground, instead of carrying her. The little Princess pouted in response, peering up at her looking lost and confused.

    Ning Huabing ced a hesitant hand on her stomach. "I¡¯m afraid it might hurt your cousin..."

    Yu Minqi tilted her head in confusion. She concluded that her Auntie Huabing was going through the same thing as her mother. Thus, she did notin and instead, widened her eyes and batted hershes.

    "Will you still hug me?" Yu Minqi innocently asked, reaching up for just a hug. She heard her uncle¡¯sughter, as Auntie Huabing went through a slight dilemma. Eventually, Auntie Huabing leaned down and gave the young child an endearing hug.

    "You can¡¯t fall for it every time, Bingbing," Li Chenyang deadpanned with an amused smile. "She does it so she can be the first to see the presents."

    Ning Huabing lifted her head a bit and wryly smiled up at him. "How can I not hug her? She¡¯s so adorable, Chenyang."

    Li Chenyang snorted. He still couldn¡¯t fathom how easily trickable his wife was. Sometimes, he still couldn¡¯t fathom the history they had. It was strange how life worked.

    The first time they had a conversation was in the Spring Tournament from years ago, where he showed dissatisfaction towards her. And now, he was happily married to Ning Huabing, with a child on the way.

    "I can already tell what type of doting mother you will be," Li Chenyang added on. Unbeknownst to him, arge smile had settled on his face whilst thinking about her as a mother. Without a doubt, Ning Huabing would make a great one.

    Just then, he heard a familiar voice in the distance, one that always brought him joy.

    "Chen-ge! Wen-ge!"

 Chapter 542 Part Three

    <h4>Chapter 542 Part Three</h4>

    In the six to seven years that Li Xueyue had spent in Hanjian, she had only seen the Li Family a few times. It was inevitable. With her position as the Empress of Hanjian, travel was practically impossible. It was the same for her parents. Whenever their children would travel to visit their maternal grandmothers, their carriage would always be heavily guarded.

    "Don¡¯t walk so fast," Yu Zhen demanded.

    Yu Zhen grabbed Li Xueyue¡¯s wrist before she could run off¡ªas fast as a pregnant woman could. Her legs could easily get caught in her long skirt and she¡¯d trip. Just the thought of that terrified him.

    Li Xueyue smiled up at him with amusement twinkling in her eyes. He had always been overprotective of her despite the years that went by.

    "Aunt Yueyue!" a loud voice called out, as she dashed away from one aunt to the next. The little girl ran forward, seizing the opportunity to see her.

    "My, if it isn¡¯t Xiao Xing!" Li Xueyue gushed, as she opened her arms for Chenyang¡¯s only child so far, Princess Li Yangxing.

    Xiao Xing¡¯s exhrated run came to a halt upon seeing the bulge of her Aunt Yueyue¡¯s belly. She was confused, but cautious, for her mother also had the same thing. Something about a new sibling...

    "You¡¯re as cute as ever," Li Xueyue mused. Xiao Xing walked towards her with a spring in her step, grinning up at the aunt who always had snacks with her.

    "I have a present for you," Li Xueyue said whilst tapping her finger on Xiao Xing¡¯s button nose. Yangxing resembled her father very much, except her eyes were as gentle as Ning Huabing¡¯s.

    Li Xueyue turned to Xiao Hua who had been apanying them this entire time. Xiao Hua took the tray from a female servant and brought it to the little Princess¡¯s level.

    "Hanjian¡¯s savory rice cakes!" Yangxing gasped, her eyes brightening at the sight of the food. She sped her hands together and instantly grabbed one.

    "Now, Ah-Xing, what do we say to the Empress?" Ning Huabing lightly scolded whilsting forward. She ced a hand on her daughter¡¯s small shoulders and shed the Empress an apologetic smile.

    "Huabing, it¡¯s so good to see you again," Li Xueyue said. Her eyes flickered to Ning Huabing¡¯s belly that wasn¡¯t asrge as Xueyue¡¯s.

    "Yes, Empress. So much has changed, don¡¯t you think?" Ning Huabing asked with a twinkle in her eyes.

    Each morning, when she woke up next to her husband, she couldn¡¯t believe the life she was living. Ning Huabing had married into the Imperial Family who were nothing but kind and weing. There wasn¡¯t a lot of trouble in her life, except for the asional appearance of women attempting to seduce her aloof husband.

    Still, it was difficult to fathom how peacefully everything was going for her.

    "I agree," Li Xueyue mused. She recalled her first time meeting Ning Huabing. Back then, they were enemies, and highly wary of each other. Now, they were conversing like old friends.

    Whilst Li Xueyue conversed with Ning Huabing, she didn¡¯t notice the looks exchanged between Xiao Hua and the twins. Their eyes met for only a split second, but the air around them was clear.

    It was that of a master and servant, for Xiao Hua was not born in Hanjian, she was born in Wuyi. She had servde the Li family, before she came to Hanjian. The Li family was the ones who had sent her here to slowly climb her way up the ranks to be qualified to serve the Empress.

    "Mama, Mama, I want a rice cake as well!" Yu Chenjiang shouted.

    Xiao Hua¡¯s attention instantly drifted towards the First Prince. She warmly bent her head and held the tray a bit higher so that he could easily pick up a piece.

    "Me too!" Yu Minqi gushed.

    Soon, all three children were polishing off the tray of snacks. It did not take long for them to finish it all.

    "Xiao Hua made it," Li Xueyue said, gesturing to her beloved maidservant.

    "We have snacks for you as well, Xiao Yue!" Li Wenmin chirped. He ushered his people forward, and they instantly came with a book that confused Li Xueyue.

    "Mother¡¯s snacks would not survive the long journey, so she decided to write down the recipes of your favorite and your children¡¯s favorite pastries. You can pass the recipes to your chef or maidservant, and they should be able to prepare it!" Li Wenmin concluded.

    Li Wenmin grabbed the book and gestured for Xiao Hua to take it. In the meantime, he carefully watched her. She was alwayspetent and did her job well as the secret spy of Wuyi. Her duty was to the Empress of Hanjian, but she would always report any wrongs their Xiao Yue suffered.

    "Mother shouldn¡¯t have." Li Xueyue lightlyughed. Despite that, her eyes widened with interest, as she took the book from the tray.

    Li Xueyue gingerly flipped through the hand-binded pages. They were indisputably written in her mother¡¯s perfect handwriting. She truly envied how graceful her mother was. Even after so many years of practice, Li Xueyue¡¯s handwriting was still messy.

    "Oh, sister-inw!" Li Xueyue perked up whilst slowly closing the book. She passed it to Xiao Hua, who could bring it to the chefs and have a few pastries prepared.

    Liu Xingfei stepped forward and politely bowed her head. Despite marrying the First Prince of Wuyi, she was still the daughter of a mere General. She didn¡¯t want to disrespect the Empress of Hanjian, who was known for responding in kind.

    "No need for such a formal greeting," Li Xueyue said and gentlyughed. "We¡¯re family, Xingfei."

    Liu Xingfei brightly smiled. "Please, you tter me too much, Empress."

    "Gosh, seeing you act so elegantly is so strange." Li Wenmin snickered whilst throwing an arm around his wife. He met her gaze, where she irritably red at him. He shed her a bright grin, knowing he had ruined her act.

    Li Wenmin¡¯s smile did notst long. Soon, he let out a small, "Oof," as she subtly stomped on his toes.

    "Don¡¯t ruin my moment," she groaned under her breath.

    He let out a small wheeze of pain with a grimace on his handsome features. Even after being married for this long, she still roughhoused with him. It was a quality of hers that he dearly cherished. He could still remember sparring with her in the training camps. It was the first and only time he had ever lost to a girl apart from his younger sister, Xueyue.

    "Aunt Xingfei! Aunt Xingfei!" Yu Chenjiang chanted. At the sight of her, he made a quick dash towards her.

    "First Prince!" Liu Xingfei happily said. She caught the boy just as he threw his arms and hugged her dearly. She chuckled whilst spinning her heel, spinning him along with her as well.

    "You see, you see," he ranted, a bit out of breath from all the excitement and running. "Papa taught me a new sword fighting technique. Will you practice with meter?"

    Liu Xingfei gently pinched the First Prince¡¯s cheeks. It was round and plump like a freshly steamed meat bun.

    "Of course," she said and lightlyughed. "It would bring me the most joy."

    "Don¡¯t forget about me!" Li Wenmin said to his nephew. "I will be the final boss, once you easily beat your aunt."

    Yu Chenjiang¡¯s eyes widened. "Really?"

    "Of course!" Li Wenmin boasted whilst pping his chest. "Your uncle only gets younger with each year that passed by! I can spar with you as much as you want."

    "Or maybe you should try studying with me," Li Chenyang said whilst stepping forward.

    Sometimes, he would worry that his only nephew would be as dumb as Wenmin. But he had heard Xueyue brag many times about how intelligent Yu Chenjiang was. Despite being so young, his vocabry was expansive and his pronunciations were always perfect, just like Yu Minqi.

    "I¡¯ll study with you, Uncle Chen!" Yu Minqi instantly said with great excitement. Reading books was her favorite pastime. She enjoyed all genres, especially fables that were fortunate enough to be transcribed by traveling storytellers.

    "And that¡¯s why you¡¯re so much smarter than your Unce Wenmin," Li Chenyang praised Yu Minqi and snickered. He bent down and carried her,forting settling her on his hip. Not a minuteter, his daughter rushed forward, also demanding to be carried.

    "Me too!" Li Yangxing shouted whilst reaching her hands up.

    "I can¡¯t carry you both," Li Chenyang wryly said.

    "Hah, I might not be as smart as you, Chenyang, but I can definitely carry both girls in my arms!" Li Wenmin snided.

    Unlike his younger brother, who was all brains and no brawns, Li Wenmin had a strong and fit body. This was certainly a job for him!

    "Come here, children, Uncle Wenmin can carry you both!" Li Wenmin stated whilst opening his arms out for them. And instantly, the two flocked towards him. Soon enough, he truly carried both in his arms, though his face paled, and his eyes bulged a bit.

    "I-I see both of you ate a heavy breakfast," Li Wenmin slowly wheezed out, realizing he was getting older.

    "Hah," Li Chenyangughed under his breath whilst looking away. "Keep on embarrassing yourself, you useless show-off."

    "Hmph, I heard that!" Li Wenmin bit back.

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "You were supposed to hear it."

    The two made eye contact before they let out arge, "Hmph!" and nced away. Even now, when they were older, they still consistently bickered like cat and dog. It was something that their wives were unfortunately used to by now.

 Chapter 543 Part Four

    <h4>Chapter 543 Part Four</h4>

    Li Xueyue continued watching as the twins bickered amongst themselves. By now, the children had climbed off Wenmin, and the three of them had run off into the garden to y. Out of the corner of her eyes, she saw the guards instantly following them. There were rows of them, heavily armed, and some even hidden in the shadows.

    She knew it was both her husband¡¯s and Li Chenyang¡¯s doing. To no one¡¯s surprise, they were extremely protective of their children.

    "Your brothers serve as great entertainment," Yu Zhenmented. He settled a hand on her hip, gently massaging it. She was on her legs a lot today. It would be best for her to sit down somewhere, like the pavilion near them.

    "I thought they would have already outgrown this, but I suppose not," Li Xueyue said with a smallugh towards the end. She turned to look at Yu Zhen and her heart skipped. He was staring at her with an affectionate smile, his eyes soft and gentle.

    "I¡¯ve always loved yourughter, Sunshine," Yu Zhen mused.

    "I love yours more, Little Panda," Li Xueyue retorted. "But you don¡¯tugh that much for some reason."

    Yu Zhen lifted a brow. "If Iugh too much, I would look like a crazy person."

    "Then what does that say about me?" Li Xueyue said. "Iugh a lot."

    Yu Zhen chuckled. "Well, you should know the answer to that, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen pulled her closer to him. "And it¡¯s Big Bear, not Little Panda."

    Li Xueyue peered up at him. Even though they would sleep at the same time, he was always an early riser. The dark circles under his eyes had gone away a bit, but it was still there. She wished he would sleep in more.

    The only time he slept in was when the children were snuggled in their own beds.

    "Maybe when you get decent sleep and stop having such dark circles under your eyes, I will refer to you as a bear," Li Xuyue said. She reached up and cupped the side of his face, her thumb brushing near his eyes.

    "I have a country to run," he teased. "And a body to train."

    Li Xueyue huffed. "I also have a country to run," she said. "And a horse to keeppany."

    Yu Zhen grinned. "I never said you didn¡¯t."

    Li Xueyue red. "Yet, I still get good sleep."

    Yu Zhen opened his mouth to respond, but then closed it. Everyone was distracted. It was a good time to sneak in a kiss and make up. She was a lot more feistiertely. Sometimes, it was fun entertaining her tantrums, and he wanted to tease her so much.

    Just as he was going to say something, they heard a loud scream. Instantly, he turned around, a murderous look on his face. Who hurt the children?

    Yu Chenjiang had fallen.

    "Oh dear," Li Xueyue breathed out. She immediately departed from the spot beside her husband. She quickly walked towards her child but felt a firm grasp on her wrist.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "You must let him get up on his own," Yu Zhen sternly said. His grip on her wrist tightened. "For the love of Heaven, don¡¯t rush, you¡¯ll get hurt, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue scowled. "Let me baby my child while I still can!"

    Yu Zhen wryly smiled and closed the distance between them. "We can¡¯t make men out of boys if we continuously help him up."

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth to respond, but then she heard a quiet sniffle. She turned her head, noticing her son was staring at her. He said nothing, but was remaining pitifully on the ground.

    "No," Yu Zhen quickly said. He knew what she was going to do.

    Yu Zhen turned to his son and gave him a warning stare. "Now, now, Chenjiang, you know what to do."

    Yu Chenjiang¡¯s bottom lip wobbled. His eyes grew wide a bit, expecting his parents toe and help him up. He wanted his mother to blow on the wound, and make a little butterfly for the pain to fly away.

    "Up you go, Chenjiang," Yu Zhen encouraged.

    At the stern voice of his father, Yu Chenjiang hesitated. When he saw his father¡¯s pressing re, he knew he had to get up on his own. Sullenly, Yu Chenjiang helped himself up. His little knees wobbled a bit, stinging from the tiny scraps on his knee.

    By the time he was on his feet, his parents had reached him. He felt a gentle, affectionate pat on the top of his head.

    Yu Chenjiang lifted his little head and was met with the proud look of his father.

    "You did well, my son," Yu Zhen said.

    Yu Chenjiang blinked a bit before hiding a slight smile. His father¡¯s hands were warm.

    "Are you hurt anywhere?" Li Xueyue instantly asked. She wanted to bend down and pull him into a hug. Seeing her little boy in pain always hurt her.

    "No, Mama," Yu Chenjiang said. He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her waist, burying his head on her hip.

    "Jiang-ge fell on the t path," Yu Minqi spoke up. She had to hide a smallugh that would only upset her brother. But it was the undeniable truth.

    The path was t and smooth. It was physically impossible to trip and fall!

    "Sounds like something that might happen to your mother too," Yu Zhen joked and snickered. He peered at his daughter, who had the same, mischievous smile on her face. They were both humored by the situation whereas Li Xueyue was not.

    "Sounds like your father wants to sleep alone tonight," Li Xueyue bit out. She hugged her son a bit tighter and red at her husband. He was so childish at times but she couldn¡¯t argue too much.

    "He should be sleeping alone every night," Li Chenyang drawled out.

    "And if he hasn¡¯t been doing so, he should start now," Li Wenmin added on.

    The twins exchanged knowing nces and shed a smirk to each other. It was one of the rare times they were actually in sync.

    "Wouldn¡¯t it be fun if we did the same thing?" Ning Huabing innocently said to her good friend, Liu Xingfei. Throughout the years, they had bonded well in the pce after makingmon enemies out of women vying for their position.

    Harems were not that prevalent anymore, but other countries like Jiangsu were still doing it. There were still hopeful mothers who would try to convince one of the two Princes to take another wife.

    Liu Xingfei chuckled. "Yes, I would prefer to finally sleep in peace without my brute of a husband always moving in his sleep."

    "I agree, I might actually have a good night¡¯s sleep without my husband snoring the walls down," Ning Huabing joked even though her husband didn¡¯t snore as loud as she made it to be.

    "What do you think?" Ning Huabing asked Li Xueyue with a teasing smile.

    Li Xueyue blinked once beforeughing, much to the men¡¯s dismay. "The bed is onlyrge enough to fit three people: me, my son, and my daughter. There will be no room for Yu Zhen. I¡¯ll make sure of it."

    Yu Zhen rolled his eyes. "You¡¯ve rarely spent a night without me. I doubt you¡¯ll even have a restful sleep without me!"

    Li Xueyue threw him a pointed look. "Lying to yourself doesn¡¯t make it the truth."

    "Neither does your bluff," he retorted.

    Whilst their parents began to banter, the children exchanged confused looks. Eventually, they grew bored of the "adult conversation," and ran off, the incident waspletely forgotten. In the distance, they had spotted the servants who were stepping out with freshly prepared snacks. Thus, they ran over, eager to snack whilst their parents bickered.

    But surprisingly, before they could even take the first bite, their parents had already caught up to them. It wasn¡¯t fair that they had much longer legs than them!

    "Don¡¯t snack too much, children," Li Xueyue lightly scolded. "You¡¯ll lose your appetite for the afternoon meal."

    "Yes, Mama," Yu Chenjiang instantly said whilst plopping one of the flower cookies into his mouth.

    "Of course, Mama," Yu Minqi responded with a cookie in each hand.

    "Only one, Auntie Yueyue..." Li Yangxing whispered while finishing one cookie, then grabbing two more.

    Li Yangxing heard her mother¡¯s sigh and her father¡¯sughter. She turned in time to see that neither of the children¡¯s lies had convinced their parents.

    Li Yangxing naively giggled whilst taking more snacks off the tray.

    "Seems like gluttony runs in the Li family," Yu Zhen remarked, much to Li Xueyue¡¯s amusement.

    "Indeed," Li Xueyue chuckled. Both of her children enjoyed eating as much as her. They were frequently found with a te of pastries with them. She heard simr stories of Li Yangxing always sneaking snacks behind her mother¡¯s back.

    "Let¡¯s just hope the little dumpling doesn¡¯t inherit that trait," Yu Zhen mused. He ced a hand on her belly and affectionately rubbed it whilst hugging her to the side of his body.

    Li Xueyue¡¯s smile widened. She cast a look on the empty tray and the unsurprised servants, who were used to the children¡¯s antics.

    "That is one wish that will definitely nevere true," she said.

 Chapter 541: Part Two

    "Is Auntie Huabinging as well?!" Yu Chenjiang eagerly added on. He liked the gentle aunt of his who always came withrge chests of toys and presents for him.

    "Yes, she will," Li Xueyue responded.

    She couldn''t help but smile at the thought of Li Chenyang and Ning Huabing. She had always known thetter was deeply in love with Li Chenyang. She was just surprised the feelings were finally reciprocated. Supposedly, they had a dramatic love story in Wuyi whilst she was upied with her life as an Empress.

    Something about Ning Huabing growing tired of the chase, so she epted the hand of a suitor her father arranged, only for Li Chenyang to suddenly be the chaser, deeply pursuing her after realizing all of her efforts to pursue him.

    Or so, Li Wenmin had dramatically told her during hisst visit. Li Chenyang would not divulge a single detail and Ning Huabing had been either distracted by the Yu children or her own daughter.

    "And what about Auntie Xingfei?" Yu Chenjiang shouted, as he nearly fell out of his father''s arms because he had been moving around too much.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened. She could not believe the twist of events in Li Wenmin''s life. When she found out he had gotten married, she was dumbstruck. It was as if the rugs were yanked from underneath her. It wasn''t that she had expected him to never get married, but she didn''t think his wife would be so simr to him!

    "She''s the only one with an appetite as big as you, Mama! And she always brings us the best snacks from Wuyi!" Yu Minqi added on, also wanting to know if Auntie Xingfei wasing.

    Li Xueyueughed. Her children had an appetite as big as hers. It was something that surprised Yu Zhen. When she was pregnant with her children, she inhaled food like it was water. Maybe that was how her children grew so tall and strong.

    "Auntie Xingfei will definitely be there," Li Xueyue chuckled. She could still remember her days in Wuyi, when she was residing within the Li Manor.

    At that time, the family was having a meal, when Li Wenmin had brought up the story of a soldier who challenged him to an eatingpetition. It was with pure skill that she had beat the gluttonous Li Wenmin. Everyone thought she was a male, until she finally took off her helmet the next day, revealing a beautiful woman underneath.

    Li Xueyue was surprised to hear of their love story, which was quite adorable in her eyes. At that time, Liu Xingfei wanted nothing to do with the General, but eventually, through his persistence, she had fallen in love with Li Wenmin.

    "What are you thinking about, Sunshine?" Yu Zhen mused. His gaze briefly flickered from his daughter who had wandered towards one of the flower bushes, and then back to his wife who had a fond smile on her face.

    "Just how interesting life ys out before us," Li Xueyue said with a sigh. "If someone had told me a decade ago, I would live such a pleasant life, where all of my loved ones are happy, then I would not believe them."

    Li Xueyue turned her face towards him. "But now that I have witnessed it with my eyes, I have finally found a life worth living."

    "Oh? And what is that life?"

    "The one with you, Xiao Qi, Xiao Jiang, Mother, Father, Chenyang, and Wenmin," Li Xueyue answered with resolute.

    "Are you certain?"

    Li Xueyueughed a bit. She ced a hand upon herrge belly. "And the Little Dumpling."

    Yu Zhen grinned at her. With each day, his love for her grew. "Indeed, my beloved wife. Indeed."

    - - - - -

    "Uncle Wenmin!" Yu Chenjiang dashed towards his favorite uncle whilst forgetting all the rules of etiquette. No amount of fancy clothes and essories could contain his enthusiasm towards his family.

    Yu Chenjiang and Minqi were surrounded by many people from their father''s side, but rtives from their mother''s side were rare. They had solemnly met their maternal grandparents only a few times, for the rulers of Wuyi were always upied with their country.

    "There''s my favorite nephew!" Li Wenmin hollered out, instantly reaching down and scooping the boy into his arms. He loudlyughed whilst squeezing his nephew close to him.

    "But I''m your only nephew," Yu Chenjiang managed to say amidst the tight embrace.

    "I know," Li Wenmin snickered whilst pulling back to squeeze the boy''s plump cheeks.

    Li Wenmin still could not get over the fact that both children closely resembled Yu Zhen. He wished they all resembled his Xiao Yue instead. Fortunately, they had their mother''s personality, especially Yu Minqi who had shown interest in horseback riding and archery.

    "Uncle Chenyang, where''s my hug?" Yu Minqi asked whilst lifting her arms up.

    Li Chenyang fondly smiled upon the child. He bent down and carried her with one arm, but struggled, thus, wrapped two around her. She grinned in delight, her little legs swinging in the air.

    "And my presents?" she eagerly asked.

    Li Chenyang gentlyughed at this. "You''re quite spoiled, Ah-Qi."

    Yu Minqi only giggled in response. She buried her face onto his shoulders, only to hear the familiar voice of her aunt.

    "You should greet me as well, Xiao Qi. I''m the one with presents," Ning Huabing mused. Sometimes, she couldn''t fathom how far she hade.

    Ning Huabing didn''t think she would ever be standing on foreign soil more times than she could count. But it happened frequently for six years now, whenever Li Chenyang nned toe to Hanjian for "alliance matters."

    "Auntie Huabing, I was saving the best forst," Yu Minqi eagerly said. She pushed away from Li Chenyang, reaching forward for a hug, not realizing how dangerous it was.

    "Ah-Qi, don''t rush, you''ll fall!" Li Chenyang sternly scolded whilst quickly passing her towards his newly-wedded wife.

    Ning Huabing patiently smiled in response and helped Yu Minqi to the ground, instead of carrying her. The little Princess pouted in response, peering up at her looking lost and confused.

    Ning Huabing ced a hesitant hand on her stomach. "I''m afraid it might hurt your cousin¡­"

    Yu Minqi tilted her head in confusion. She concluded that her Auntie Huabing was going through the same thing as her mother. Thus, she did notin and instead, widened her eyes and batted hershes.

    "Will you still hug me?" Yu Minqi innocently asked, reaching up for just a hug. She heard her uncle''sughter, as Auntie Huabing went through a slight dilemma. Eventually, Auntie Huabing leaned down and gave the young child an endearing hug.

    "You can''t fall for it every time, Bingbing," Li Chenyang deadpanned with an amused smile. "She does it so she can be the first to see the presents."

    Ning Huabing lifted her head a bit and wryly smiled up at him. "How can I not hug her? She''s so adorable, Chenyang."

    Li Chenyang snorted. He still couldn''t fathom how easily trickable his wife was. Sometimes, he still couldn''t fathom the history they had. It was strange how life worked.

    The first time they had a conversation was in the Spring Tournament from years ago, where he showed dissatisfaction towards her. And now, he was happily married to Ning Huabing, with a child on the way.

    "I can already tell what type of doting mother you will be," Li Chenyang added on. Unbeknownst to him, arge smile had settled on his face whilst thinking about her as a mother. Without a doubt, Ning Huabing would make a great one.

    Just then, he heard a familiar voice in the distance, one that always brought him joy.

    "Chen-ge! Wen-ge!"

 Chapter 542: Part Three

    In the six to seven years that Li Xueyue had spent in Hanjian, she had only seen the Li Family a few times. It was inevitable. With her position as the Empress of Hanjian, travel was practically impossible. It was the same for her parents. Whenever their children would travel to visit their maternal grandmothers, their carriage would always be heavily guarded.

    "Don''t walk so fast," Yu Zhen demanded.

    Yu Zhen grabbed Li Xueyue''s wrist before she could run off¡ªas fast as a pregnant woman could. Her legs could easily get caught in her long skirt and she''d trip. Just the thought of that terrified him.

    Li Xueyue smiled up at him with amusement twinkling in her eyes. He had always been overprotective of her despite the years that went by.

    "Aunt Yueyue!" a loud voice called out, as she dashed away from one aunt to the next. The little girl ran forward, seizing the opportunity to see her.

    "My, if it isn''t Xiao Xing!" Li Xueyue gushed, as she opened her arms for Chenyang''s only child so far, Princess Li Yangxing.

    Xiao Xing''s exhrated run came to a halt upon seeing the bulge of her Aunt Yueyue''s belly. She was confused, but cautious, for her mother also had the same thing. Something about a new sibling¡­

    "You''re as cute as ever," Li Xueyue mused. Xiao Xing walked towards her with a spring in her step, grinning up at the aunt who always had snacks with her.

    "I have a present for you," Li Xueyue said whilst tapping her finger on Xiao Xing''s button nose. Yangxing resembled her father very much, except her eyes were as gentle as Ning Huabing''s.

    Li Xueyue turned to Xiao Hua who had been apanying them this entire time. Xiao Hua took the tray from a female servant and brought it to the little Princess''s level.

    "Hanjian''s savory rice cakes!" Yangxing gasped, her eyes brightening at the sight of the food. She sped her hands together and instantly grabbed one.

    "Now, Ah-Xing, what do we say to the Empress?" Ning Huabing lightly scolded whilsting forward. She ced a hand on her daughter''s small shoulders and shed the Empress an apologetic smile.

    "Huabing, it''s so good to see you again," Li Xueyue said. Her eyes flickered to Ning Huabing''s belly that wasn''t asrge as Xueyue''s.

    "Yes, Empress. So much has changed, don''t you think?" Ning Huabing asked with a twinkle in her eyes.

    Each morning, when she woke up next to her husband, she couldn''t believe the life she was living. Ning Huabing had married into the Imperial Family who were nothing but kind and weing. There wasn''t a lot of trouble in her life, except for the asional appearance of women attempting to seduce her aloof husband.

    Still, it was difficult to fathom how peacefully everything was going for her.

    "I agree," Li Xueyue mused. She recalled her first time meeting Ning Huabing. Back then, they were enemies, and highly wary of each other. Now, they were conversing like old friends.

    Whilst Li Xueyue conversed with Ning Huabing, she didn''t notice the looks exchanged between Xiao Hua and the twins. Their eyes met for only a split second, but the air around them was clear.

    It was that of a master and servant, for Xiao Hua was not born in Hanjian, she was born in Wuyi. She had servde the Li family, before she came to Hanjian. The Li family was the ones who had sent her here to slowly climb her way up the ranks to be qualified to serve the Empress.

    "Mama, Mama, I want a rice cake as well!" Yu Chenjiang shouted.

    Xiao Hua''s attention instantly drifted towards the First Prince. She warmly bent her head and held the tray a bit higher so that he could easily pick up a piece.

    "Me too!" Yu Minqi gushed.

    Soon, all three children were polishing off the tray of snacks. It did not take long for them to finish it all.

    "Xiao Hua made it," Li Xueyue said, gesturing to her beloved maidservant.

    "We have snacks for you as well, Xiao Yue!" Li Wenmin chirped. He ushered his people forward, and they instantly came with a book that confused Li Xueyue.

    "Mother''s snacks would not survive the long journey, so she decided to write down the recipes of your favorite and your children''s favorite pastries. You can pass the recipes to your chef or maidservant, and they should be able to prepare it!" Li Wenmin concluded.

    Li Wenmin grabbed the book and gestured for Xiao Hua to take it. In the meantime, he carefully watched her. She was alwayspetent and did her job well as the secret spy of Wuyi. Her duty was to the Empress of Hanjian, but she would always report any wrongs their Xiao Yue suffered.

    "Mother shouldn''t have." Li Xueyue lightlyughed. Despite that, her eyes widened with interest, as she took the book from the tray.

    Li Xueyue gingerly flipped through the hand-binded pages. They were indisputably written in her mother''s perfect handwriting. She truly envied how graceful her mother was. Even after so many years of practice, Li Xueyue''s handwriting was still messy.

    "Oh, sister-inw!" Li Xueyue perked up whilst slowly closing the book. She passed it to Xiao Hua, who could bring it to the chefs and have a few pastries prepared.

    Liu Xingfei stepped forward and politely bowed her head. Despite marrying the First Prince of Wuyi, she was still the daughter of a mere General. She didn''t want to disrespect the Empress of Hanjian, who was known for responding in kind.

    "No need for such a formal greeting," Li Xueyue said and gentlyughed. "We''re family, Xingfei."

    Liu Xingfei brightly smiled. "Please, you tter me too much, Empress."

    "Gosh, seeing you act so elegantly is so strange." Li Wenmin snickered whilst throwing an arm around his wife. He met her gaze, where she irritably red at him. He shed her a bright grin, knowing he had ruined her act.

    Li Wenmin''s smile did notst long. Soon, he let out a small, "Oof," as she subtly stomped on his toes.

    "Don''t ruin my moment," she groaned under her breath.

    He let out a small wheeze of pain with a grimace on his handsome features. Even after being married for this long, she still roughhoused with him. It was a quality of hers that he dearly cherished. He could still remember sparring with her in the training camps. It was the first and only time he had ever lost to a girl apart from his younger sister, Xueyue.

    "Aunt Xingfei! Aunt Xingfei!" Yu Chenjiang chanted. At the sight of her, he made a quick dash towards her.

    "First Prince!" Liu Xingfei happily said. She caught the boy just as he threw his arms and hugged her dearly. She chuckled whilst spinning her heel, spinning him along with her as well.

    "You see, you see," he ranted, a bit out of breath from all the excitement and running. "Papa taught me a new sword fighting technique. Will you practice with meter?"

    Liu Xingfei gently pinched the First Prince''s cheeks. It was round and plump like a freshly steamed meat bun.

    "Of course," she said and lightlyughed. "It would bring me the most joy."

    "Don''t forget about me!" Li Wenmin said to his nephew. "I will be the final boss, once you easily beat your aunt."

    Yu Chenjiang''s eyes widened. "Really?"

    "Of course!" Li Wenmin boasted whilst pping his chest. "Your uncle only gets younger with each year that passed by! I can spar with you as much as you want."

    "Or maybe you should try studying with me," Li Chenyang said whilst stepping forward.

    Sometimes, he would worry that his only nephew would be as dumb as Wenmin. But he had heard Xueyue brag many times about how intelligent Yu Chenjiang was. Despite being so young, his vocabry was expansive and his pronunciations were always perfect, just like Yu Minqi.

    "I''ll study with you, Uncle Chen!" Yu Minqi instantly said with great excitement. Reading books was her favorite pastime. She enjoyed all genres, especially fables that were fortunate enough to be transcribed by traveling storytellers.

    "And that''s why you''re so much smarter than your Unce Wenmin," Li Chenyang praised Yu Minqi and snickered. He bent down and carried her,forting settling her on his hip. Not a minuteter, his daughter rushed forward, also demanding to be carried.

    "Me too!" Li Yangxing shouted whilst reaching her hands up.

    "I can''t carry you both," Li Chenyang wryly said.

    "Hah, I might not be as smart as you, Chenyang, but I can definitely carry both girls in my arms!" Li Wenmin snided.

    Unlike his younger brother, who was all brains and no brawns, Li Wenmin had a strong and fit body. This was certainly a job for him!

    "Come here, children, Uncle Wenmin can carry you both!" Li Wenmin stated whilst opening his arms out for them. And instantly, the two flocked towards him. Soon enough, he truly carried both in his arms, though his face paled, and his eyes bulged a bit.

    "I-I see both of you ate a heavy breakfast," Li Wenmin slowly wheezed out, realizing he was getting older.

    "Hah," Li Chenyangughed under his breath whilst looking away. "Keep on embarrassing yourself, you useless show-off."

    "Hmph, I heard that!" Li Wenmin bit back.

    Li Chenyang rolled his eyes. "You were supposed to hear it."

    The two made eye contact before they let out arge, "Hmph!" and nced away. Even now, when they were older, they still consistently bickered like cat and dog. It was something that their wives were unfortunately used to by now.

 Chapter 543: Part Four

    Li Xueyue continued watching as the twins bickered amongst themselves. By now, the children had climbed off Wenmin, and the three of them had run off into the garden to y. Out of the corner of her eyes, she saw the guards instantly following them. There were rows of them, heavily armed, and some even hidden in the shadows.

    She knew it was both her husband''s and Li Chenyang''s doing. To no one''s surprise, they were extremely protective of their children.

    "Your brothers serve as great entertainment," Yu Zhenmented. He settled a hand on her hip, gently massaging it. She was on her legs a lot today. It would be best for her to sit down somewhere, like the pavilion near them.

    "I thought they would have already outgrown this, but I suppose not," Li Xueyue said with a smallugh towards the end. She turned to look at Yu Zhen and her heart skipped. He was staring at her with an affectionate smile, his eyes soft and gentle.

    "I''ve always loved yourughter, Sunshine," Yu Zhen mused.

    "I love yours more, Little Panda," Li Xueyue retorted. "But you don''tugh that much for some reason."

    Yu Zhen lifted a brow. "If Iugh too much, I would look like a crazy person."

    "Then what does that say about me?" Li Xueyue said. "Iugh a lot."

    Yu Zhen chuckled. "Well, you should know the answer to that, Sunshine."

    Yu Zhen pulled her closer to him. "And it''s Big Bear, not Little Panda."

    Li Xueyue peered up at him. Even though they would sleep at the same time, he was always an early riser. The dark circles under his eyes had gone away a bit, but it was still there. She wished he would sleep in more.

    The only time he slept in was when the children were snuggled in their own beds.

    "Maybe when you get decent sleep and stop having such dark circles under your eyes, I will refer to you as a bear," Li Xuyue said. She reached up and cupped the side of his face, her thumb brushing near his eyes.

    "I have a country to run," he teased. "And a body to train."

    Li Xueyue huffed. "I also have a country to run," she said. "And a horse to keeppany."

    Yu Zhen grinned. "I never said you didn''t."

    Li Xueyue red. "Yet, I still get good sleep."

    Yu Zhen opened his mouth to respond, but then closed it. Everyone was distracted. It was a good time to sneak in a kiss and make up. She was a lot more feistiertely. Sometimes, it was fun entertaining her tantrums, and he wanted to tease her so much.

    Just as he was going to say something, they heard a loud scream. Instantly, he turned around, a murderous look on his face. Who hurt the children?

    Yu Chenjiang had fallen.

    "Oh dear," Li Xueyue breathed out. She immediately departed from the spot beside her husband. She quickly walked towards her child but felt a firm grasp on her wrist.

    "Yu Zhen¡ª"

    "You must let him get up on his own," Yu Zhen sternly said. His grip on her wrist tightened. "For the love of Heaven, don''t rush, you''ll get hurt, Sunshine."

    Li Xueyue scowled. "Let me baby my child while I still can!"

    Yu Zhen wryly smiled and closed the distance between them. "We can''t make men out of boys if we continuously help him up."

    Li Xueyue opened her mouth to respond, but then she heard a quiet sniffle. She turned her head, noticing her son was staring at her. He said nothing, but was remaining pitifully on the ground.

    "No," Yu Zhen quickly said. He knew what she was going to do.

    Yu Zhen turned to his son and gave him a warning stare. "Now, now, Chenjiang, you know what to do."

    Yu Chenjiang''s bottom lip wobbled. His eyes grew wide a bit, expecting his parents toe and help him up. He wanted his mother to blow on the wound, and make a little butterfly for the pain to fly away.

    "Up you go, Chenjiang," Yu Zhen encouraged.

    At the stern voice of his father, Yu Chenjiang hesitated. When he saw his father''s pressing re, he knew he had to get up on his own. Sullenly, Yu Chenjiang helped himself up. His little knees wobbled a bit, stinging from the tiny scraps on his knee.

    By the time he was on his feet, his parents had reached him. He felt a gentle, affectionate pat on the top of his head.

    Yu Chenjiang lifted his little head and was met with the proud look of his father.

    "You did well, my son," Yu Zhen said.

    Yu Chenjiang blinked a bit before hiding a slight smile. His father''s hands were warm.

    "Are you hurt anywhere?" Li Xueyue instantly asked. She wanted to bend down and pull him into a hug. Seeing her little boy in pain always hurt her.

    "No, Mama," Yu Chenjiang said. He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her waist, burying his head on her hip.

    "Jiang-ge fell on the t path," Yu Minqi spoke up. She had to hide a smallugh that would only upset her brother. But it was the undeniable truth.

    The path was t and smooth. It was physically impossible to trip and fall!

    "Sounds like something that might happen to your mother too," Yu Zhen joked and snickered. He peered at his daughter, who had the same, mischievous smile on her face. They were both humored by the situation whereas Li Xueyue was not.

    "Sounds like your father wants to sleep alone tonight," Li Xueyue bit out. She hugged her son a bit tighter and red at her husband. He was so childish at times but she couldn''t argue too much.

    "He should be sleeping alone every night," Li Chenyang drawled out.

    "And if he hasn''t been doing so, he should start now," Li Wenmin added on.

    The twins exchanged knowing nces and shed a smirk to each other. It was one of the rare times they were actually in sync.

    "Wouldn''t it be fun if we did the same thing?" Ning Huabing innocently said to her good friend, Liu Xingfei. Throughout the years, they had bonded well in the pce after makingmon enemies out of women vying for their position.

    Harems were not that prevalent anymore, but other countries like Jiangsu were still doing it. There were still hopeful mothers who would try to convince one of the two Princes to take another wife.

    Liu Xingfei chuckled. "Yes, I would prefer to finally sleep in peace without my brute of a husband always moving in his sleep."

    "I agree, I might actually have a good night''s sleep without my husband snoring the walls down," Ning Huabing joked even though her husband didn''t snore as loud as she made it to be.

    "What do you think?" Ning Huabing asked Li Xueyue with a teasing smile.

    Li Xueyue blinked once beforeughing, much to the men''s dismay. "The bed is onlyrge enough to fit three people: me, my son, and my daughter. There will be no room for Yu Zhen. I''ll make sure of it."

    Yu Zhen rolled his eyes. "You''ve rarely spent a night without me. I doubt you''ll even have a restful sleep without me!"

    Li Xueyue threw him a pointed look. "Lying to yourself doesn''t make it the truth."

    "Neither does your bluff," he retorted.

    Whilst their parents began to banter, the children exchanged confused looks. Eventually, they grew bored of the "adult conversation," and ran off, the incident waspletely forgotten. In the distance, they had spotted the servants who were stepping out with freshly prepared snacks. Thus, they ran over, eager to snack whilst their parents bickered.

    But surprisingly, before they could even take the first bite, their parents had already caught up to them. It wasn''t fair that they had much longer legs than them!

    "Don''t snack too much, children," Li Xueyue lightly scolded. "You''ll lose your appetite for the afternoon meal."

    "Yes, Mama," Yu Chenjiang instantly said whilst plopping one of the flower cookies into his mouth.

    "Of course, Mama," Yu Minqi responded with a cookie in each hand.

    "Only one, Auntie Yueyue¡­" Li Yangxing whispered while finishing one cookie, then grabbing two more.

    Li Yangxing heard her mother''s sigh and her father''sughter. She turned in time to see that neither of the children''s lies had convinced their parents.

    Li Yangxing naively giggled whilst taking more snacks off the tray.

    "Seems like gluttony runs in the Li family," Yu Zhen remarked, much to Li Xueyue''s amusement.

    "Indeed," Li Xueyue chuckled. Both of her children enjoyed eating as much as her. They were frequently found with a te of pastries with them. She heard simr stories of Li Yangxing always sneaking snacks behind her mother''s back.

    "Let''s just hope the little dumpling doesn''t inherit that trait," Yu Zhen mused. He ced a hand on her belly and affectionately rubbed it whilst hugging her to the side of his body.

    Li Xueyue''s smile widened. She cast a look on the empty tray and the unsurprised servants, who were used to the children''s antics.

    "That is one wish that will definitely nevere true," she said.

    "In that case, I hope our dumpling inherits your good nature. And who knows?" Yu Zhen kissed the side of her head. "One day, a book could be written about your journey. It will be a book that helps our children be as brave as you are."

    Li Xueyue softlyughed at the idea. She watched her children giggle happily in the distance.

    "Mama, Mama!" Her daughter squealed in delight.

    "Papa, hurry hurry!" Their son chided with excitement.

    "If there is such a book, what would it be called then?" Li Xueyue asked just to humor her husband. Together, they began to approach their children.

    The sun was high in the sky. All of her beloved siblings were here. Her parents would be arriving soon as well.

    Li Xueyue felt like this was the happiest chapter of her life. This was all that she dreamed of.

    Yu Zhen hugged her by the hips and kissed her on the head.

    "The book will be titled The Rise of Xueyue."

    - - - - -

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