Chapter 187 Destiny Xie Qingyu, I will live, for us. ...
A light rain suddenly began to fall outside the window, the artificial hill was shrouded in clouds, and the water was covered in a white mist.
The two embraced each other in the bedroom, their heads resting on the bed with the new spring quilt.
"Are you feeling any better now?"
“…Mmm.” Yue Yining responded in a muffled voice. She recalled her unrestrained crying just now, and a belated sense of shame welled up in her heart.
As soon as she finished speaking, a shadow fell over her eyes, and he gently rubbed her still red eyes with his fingertip.
Yue Yining closed her eyes slightly, letting him stroke her eyelids. The person holding her tightened his arms, and she obediently pressed her cheek against his chest, inhaling the scent of orchids on him, a fragrance that was always crisp and melancholic, but now warm and burning.
After lying there nestled together for a while, Yue Yining was much calmer and more alert than before.
She said, "...Let me see your hands again."
Xie Qingyu held her, slowly sat up, and rolled up the sleeves of his undergarment to reveal his wrist, which had been bandaged by the doctor. Dark red bloodstains seeped through the white gauze. Xie Qingyu lowered his eyes, watching Yue Yining carefully touch his wound with both hands, his gaze tender.
"Does it still hurt a lot?"
Xie Qingyu lowered her sleeve and shook her head, "It doesn't hurt anymore."
"You're lying." Yue Yining frowned. "With so much blood lost, how could it not hurt..."
Before she could finish speaking, Xie Qingyu pulled her into his arms, his faint fragrance enveloping her.
Yue Yining, wary of Xie Qingyu's injury, didn't struggle, but her voice was somewhat annoyed: "Even if it was to help me relieve my emotions, there was no need to do it this way. The doctor said that if it were any deeper, it would have severed my tendons—"
"I know my limits, I won't go that far." Xie Qingyu murmured tenderly, "...What have I ever coveted? I plucked the moon from the sky, I deserve to be torn to pieces."
"I'm not lying to you, it really doesn't hurt."
Just holding Yue Yining like this made him feel incredibly happy; the physical pain was completely overshadowed by the intense sensual pleasure. Of course, he couldn't say this out loud.
"But......"
"If I don't do this, you'll keep putting on a brave face, won't you?"
Xie Qingyu interrupted her, looking down at her: "Miss always takes everything on her own. Because of that so-called destiny, you feel that all responsibility rests on you alone."
"Even if I try my best to share your burden, it's always in vain. You've already decided to solve all the problems yourself."
Yue Yining was stunned. After Xie Qingyu finished speaking, she just lowered her eyes and remained silent, her lips slightly pursed, like a gentleman made of jade. Yet, Yue Yining could see a trace of hidden grievance and loneliness of being abandoned.
"I'm sorry." Yue Yining's heart softened. She reached out to tug at his sleeve, glancing at his expression as she said gently, "It won't happen again."
"real?"
"Really." Yue Yining smiled faintly, lowered her head and straightened her sleeves. "I've been wanting to find an opportunity to be honest with you for a long time."
Seven days ago, Yue Yining did indeed use the tortoise shell divination method for the fourth time, but she failed.
The all-powerful art of tortoise shell divination failed for the first time.
Yue Yining: "After I lit the flame, the tortoise shell suddenly shattered, and the patterns didn't even have time to form. Later, I wanted to try a second time, but I fell into a deep sleep. When I woke up, I saw you."
"After you left, I went to check the tortoise shells on the table and found that the shells were of normal quality and intact, but they all crumbled when burned, so the divination could not continue."
Yue Yining had a vague premonition of something and stopped in time, not continuing to try.
Therefore, she did not complete the fourth divination, did not foresee the fate of the eldest princess, and did not know whether Wei Yihua was still alive.
Xie Qingyu frowned: "But why?"
“I didn’t know beforehand that this was the first time I’d failed at divination,” Yue Yining said. “But I just suddenly realized what happened.”
Divination by tortoise shell is an art of divination. Among all the celestial masters in the world, those who can use tortoise shell divination are extremely rare, and those willing to pay the enormous price required to operate it are even fewer. Logically speaking, as long as one is willing to pay this price, there is nothing that tortoise shell divination cannot predict, because above tortoise shell divination lies the Way of Heaven.
Now that divination by tortoise shells has become ineffective, it means that changes have occurred in the world that even the laws of heaven cannot define or predict.
At this point, any attempt to probe the Dao of Heaven would only yield chaos.
Although the divination by tortoise shell was not completed, this result only confirmed Yue Yining's belief that the way of Heaven could no longer be explained.
The rift she tore open had grown so large that it could not be mended. Even the omnipotent Heavenly Dao was helpless and could only watch the unpredictable changes unfold.
Therefore, Wei Yihua must still be alive.
After listening to her words, Xie Qingyu's expression remained as calm and gentle as ever. "Okay, I understand."
"You've been working too hard all day, go to bed early."
Yue Yining lay in his arms and fell asleep as he gently stroked the back of her head.
The two slept neck to neck all night.
The next morning, the Yue family sent someone to invite Yue Yining, saying that a court official had come to visit. Yue Yining then went back to the mansion with him. As soon as she left, Xie Qingyu sat down at the desk in her study. Before she could even warm the cushion, she heard from a servant that a distinguished guest had come to see her.
Xie Qingyu only learned after asking that the distinguished guest was the eldest son of the Yuan family.
He understood immediately, and ordered someone to bring Yuan Nanjie into the main room to sit for a while before getting up and leaving.
The willows cast long, misty shadows, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. Xie Qingyu walked through the waterside pavilion and saw a mahogany wheelchair inside. No matter how vibrant the wood was, the wrist resting on it remained deathly pale.
Xie Qingyu entered, and Yuan Nanjie, unable to rise, bowed to him in greeting. His first words were the same ones he had said a hundred times: "May I ask, Vice Minister Xie, how is Miss Xie's health these days? Has her condition improved after all these days?"
After Xie Qingyu finished drinking the tea, he shook his head and said, "The same as always, after he had finished speaking in a hurry."
Yuan Nanjie's already pale face turned even paler.
"We've summoned all the imperial physicians to examine her. She's physically fine, but for some reason, she's remained unconscious." Xie Qingyu said, holding her teacup and looking down. "Even the renowned physicians are helpless. Now... I don't really have much hope anymore."
As Xie Qingyu said this, she occasionally glanced at Yuan Nanjie out of the corner of her eye.
The other party's reaction was one of utter disorientation, almost completely bewildered.
Xie Qingyu didn't say anything more.
Although Xie Yunying's collapse was very sudden, he could roughly guess what was going on with her. It was simply that her mission or system had malfunctioned, requiring her to temporarily leave this world—or perhaps, by some twist of fate, she had met the conditions for returning to the real world ahead of schedule, and since she was gone, she wouldn't be coming back.
Even if he were perfectly clear-headed, he couldn't possibly tell Yuan Nanjie the truth.
"Thank you, Vice Minister!"
Yuan Nanjie's face was as white as snow, but his eyes were burning with some kind of urgency as he stared intently at Xie Qingyu: "I have troubled you repeatedly, but it is only for my own selfish reasons. I hope that Vice Minister Xie will listen to what I have to say."
“Among my father’s old acquaintances is a renowned physician in the south, specializing in difficult and complicated diseases. He may have unique insights into fainting. I have already sent someone to invite him by carriage, and he will arrive in the capital soon.” He spoke faster than usual, with an imperative tone that left no room for doubt. “At that time, could you please ask him to examine Miss Xie? I will cover all expenses. I only ask that the Vice Minister grant my request.”
Xie Qingyu showed no outward expression, but was inwardly surprised as she looked at Yuan Nanjie.
He remembered that this eldest son of the Yuan family was an insignificant character in the book, yet he was still quite famous. Legend has it that he was plagued by a leg ailment, which led to his ruthless and extreme nature. He was weak and gloomy, cold-hearted even towards his relatives, and indifferent to the world and others.
With the Yuan family in decline, Yuan Nanjie was not a significant character in the main storyline, so Xie Qingyu didn't pay much attention to the Yuan family's movements. It wasn't until Xie Yunying came to him and whispered something that he heard about how Yuan Nanjie's personality was quite different from that in the book.
Xie Yunying had invited Yuan Nanjie to her residence several times, and Xie Qingyu had also encountered him a couple of times. This young master Yuan was indeed quite different from the rumors. Even from just catching a glimpse of his profile through the shade of the artificial hill and trees, Xie Qingyu could vaguely sense that he was a reserved and quiet person.
If Xie Yunying hadn't fallen into a coma, he probably wouldn't have seen Yuan Nanjie like this.
Such a person, who is usually so composed in the face of both honor and disgrace, became distracted and lost all composure because of Xie Yunying.
“Young Master Yuan,” Xie Qingyu said, his voice still as gentle and clear as ever, “I am deeply grateful for your concern regarding Yunying’s matter.”
"If you have made all the necessary arrangements, the Xie family will certainly welcome you with open arms and fully cooperate."
"However, in this world, even with the best of human effort, the will of Heaven is still unpredictable. Yunying's illness is no ordinary one. We have consulted several renowned folk healers before, and they all said that the chances of recovery are slim." Xie Qingyu slowly raised his eyes and looked down at him. "I also ask Young Master Yuan to take care of himself and not to worry too much."
“Yunying certainly wouldn’t want you to exhaust yourself for her and ruin your own life.”
The glimmer of light in Yuan Nanjie's eyes gradually dimmed, like a flickering candle in the wind, burning intermittently until only a single, struggling flame remained.
The fingers resting on the armrests of the wheelchair tightened, and the knuckles turned bluish-white.
“…I understand.” After a long silence, Yuan Nanjie finally replied in a hoarse voice, “I have troubled you today, Vice Minister. I shall take my leave.”
The two nodded to each other and said no more. Yuan Nanjie raised his hand to signal the servant to push the wheelchair.
The figures of the master and servants gradually blended into the deepening twilight under the corridor, appearing even more lonely and desolate than when they arrived. The bright color of the wheelchair also absorbed the damp and cold sorrow, and dimmed down.
Xie Qingyu stood there, watching him disappear.
He saw Yuan Nanjie's intentions.
Xie Yunying's "illness" was incurable. All he could do was offer this gentle reminder, hoping that she could gradually accept reality and not wither away in hopeless waiting.
The carriage carrying Yuan Nanjie made a dull thud on the slippery bluestone road as it slowly drove away from the alley where the Xie residence was located.
The carriage was filled with a strong smell of medicine and an inescapable sense of loneliness.
The personal servant Yuan An knelt beside him, carefully covering his knees with a soft, thin blanket. He then tested the temperature of the medicine soup that was being kept warm on the small heater in the carriage, and glanced at his young master.
Yuan Nanjie leaned against the car wall, his eyes slightly closed. His long eyelashes cast two shadows on his pale, almost transparent face, and his lips were so pale they almost blended into his complexion. Between his handsome brows, a trace of weariness remained.
Yuan An had served Yuan Nanjie for many years and had never seen the young master look like this before.
Ever since he witnessed the second young lady of the Xie family fall into a coma that day, the young master seemed to have lost his backbone.
They visited repeatedly, but never received good news. The young master used all his connections, sending letters like snowflakes to various places, and spending a lot of money to invite famous doctors. Whether they were imperial physicians from the capital or folk healers, the threshold of the Xie family mansion was almost worn down by the scholars they invited. Each time, they went full of hope, only to return with even deeper disappointment.
Several times late at night, Yuan An got up to check and found the light still on in the young master's room. The wheelchair was parked by the window, and Yuan Nanjie stood there motionless, gazing at the bamboo and trees in the courtyard. The moonlight shone on his thin shoulders, and his figure looked so frail that it seemed as if a gust of wind could blow him away.
Yuan Nanjie ate less and less, and his already thin frame became even thinner, with dark circles often appearing under his eyes. Sometimes when you talked to him, he would be lost in thought, and it would take several calls to bring him back to his senses.
"Young master, the medicine is warmed up. Would you like to take some?" Yuan An whispered, presenting the warm bowl of medicine to Yuan Nanjie.
He dared not look directly at Yuan Nanjie, but out of the corner of his eye he saw that his young master was still looking out the window, clearly hearing his call, but acting as if he hadn't heard it.
After a long time, a bright light fell down.
Yuan An was stunned.
He subconsciously looked up and saw Yuan Nanjie with a stunned expression, her face turned towards him, her dark eyelashes half-closed, and a line of clear tears falling.
Yuan An was greatly shocked, because this was the first time in so long that he had witnessed Yuan Nanjie lose his composure.
He hurriedly lowered his head, and out of the corner of his eye, he saw Yuan Nanjie raise his sleeves. When he spoke again, his emotions seemed to have calmed down considerably.
"Yuan An".
Yuan An stammered, "Young master... are you alright?"
“…I’m fine,” Yuan Nanjie said in a low voice, his voice thick with nasal congestion and almost hoarse. “Give me the medicine.”
The carriage drove through the puddles, splashing up tiny droplets of water.
The misty rain of late spring in the bustling capital city enveloped the grand mansions and embroidered doors, as well as this corner of the carriage.
Xie Qingyu had just seen Yuan Nanjie off and was about to call someone to tidy up the tea set when a dark shadow silently slid down from the eaves, like an ink leaf blown away by the wind.
Yin Yi knelt on one knee on the wet blue bricks in front of the hall, his voice low but clear:
"Master, something has happened in the palace."
Xie Qingyu paused in her steps.
Yin Yi explained in a deep voice, "Two hours ago, His Majesty fainted while reviewing memorials in Hanzhang Hall and coughed up blood. The hall was thrown into chaos. The imperial physician on duty rushed to his aid, and several high-ranking concubines, led by Consort Li, were alerted. The Imperial Preceptor also learned of the incident, and now Hanzhang Hall is completely surrounded."
"The head of the Imperial Medical Academy and several imperial physicians specializing in internal medicine and toxicology have been urgently summoned to the hospital. Groups of people have been taking turns to examine the patients, but there is still no conclusion."
“Our people in the palace managed to send a message out amidst the chaos,” Yin Yi quickly presented a short note, “Please take a look.”
Xie Qingyu quickly opened the letter, reading ten lines at a glance, her expression gradually hardening.
The letter briefly described the entire process of the emperor's coma, mentioning some details. It stated that the blood His Majesty vomited was dark reddish-black, with a foul, unpleasant odor, and he remained unresponsive. When the imperial physicians emerged, they whispered amongst themselves, their faces extremely grim.
Xie Qingyu stood there, the wind under the eaves blowing his clothes, and a chill, unique to rain, seeped into his bones.
The emperor vomited blood and fell into a coma...
The words from the historical records still vividly flashed through my mind: "The emperor was physically weak and suffered from chronic diarrhea. In the winter of the twenty-fifth year of the Jiahe era, he suddenly fainted in the Hanzhang Hall, vomited several liters of blood, which was dark and congealed. He died three days later."
The symptoms are exactly the same.
But the timeline was moved forward by two years.
Xie Qingyu closed her eyes, her fingertips, which were gripping the short note, turning bluish-white.
Yes, how could it be impossible? Historically, Wei Tianxuan's lifespan was not long to begin with. This time, under the meticulous guidance of the Grand Preceptor Qiu Wuzhu, he almost fanatically believed in the art of Yin and Yang, and swallowed potent medicines. In just a few months, he suffered a series of heavy blows, including the death of a general who protected the country, a difficult border battle, and the death of his beloved daughter on the battlefield.
He should have foreseen this. Wei Tianxuan was severely damaged, both mentally and physically, and had long been poisoned. His body, already hollowed out, was unlikely to last another two years.
However, both he and Yue Yining had previously thought that Wei Tianxuan would not fall ill so soon, and that he could at least hold on until the end of summer this year, when the border war was initially settled.
If things develop as they envisioned, when Princess Wei Yihua returns from the border, she will hold military power, possess military merits and popular support, and with the two of them jointly overseeing the political landscape of the court, the path to her investiture as the new emperor will undoubtedly be incredibly smooth.
But no one expected that the Battle of Yanran Mountain would end in a major defeat, and the fate of the eldest princess would remain unknown.
This single variable was enough to throw the Princess's faction in the court into disarray, not to mention the months-long, overt and covert suppression and traps set by the Imperial Preceptor Qiu Wuzhu using the Fourth Prince's influence. He and Yue Yining had been extremely busy, running around lobbying various factions to quell the situation and barely managing to hold on, when now another dramatic change struck like a rude awakening.
If the emperor falls ill and never recovers, or even, as recorded in history, dies within three days.
—Then it will all be over.
As the imperial advisor and deeply trusted by the emperor, Qiu Wuzhu controlled nearly 70% of the palace. Once the emperor fell into a coma, no one could rival him in terms of power within the palace.
The Imperial Guard is currently jointly controlled by the two powerful families, the Sun and Gu, and its commander, Sun Qiong, is a military general from the Fourth Prince's faction.
Once a palace coup occurs, the people sent by the Fourth Prince will inevitably use the Imperial Guards to seal off the palace and besiege the imperial city. Not even a mouse will be allowed in until the emperor dies and his will is announced.
At that time, only the Imperial Preceptor Qiu Wuzhu and the Fourth Prince Wei Jing, whom she supported, remained in the palace to personally attend to the Emperor. Even if they altered the imperial edict, no one could stop them.
A chill crept up my spine.
Xie Qingyu suddenly flicked his sleeve, his face grave, and said, "Have the people in the palace continue their investigation, but be careful not to expose yourselves. Also, keep an eye on Qiu Wuzhu and the Fourth Prince's residence; don't let any unusual activity slip by."
"Yes." Yin Yi accepted the order, and with a flash, he disappeared back into the shadow of the courtyard tree.
Xie Qingyu turned around, her steps much more hurried than before, her clothes billowing in the wind, and headed straight for the study in the outer courtyard. Her thoughts raced, like whirlpools in a storm.
Time, that's what they lack most.
According to historical records, Wei Tianxuan went from vomiting blood and falling into a coma to passing away in just three days.
This is a race against time, a fight against the King of Hell; they are vying with Qiu Wuzhu for this fleeting moment of life and death.
Inside the study, the lamps were lit early, dispelling the gloom after the rain, but not the heavy atmosphere that permeated the air.
Several trusted officials who had been urgently summoned were already waiting there, all with solemn expressions, clearly having heard about the changes in the palace. When Xie Qingyu entered, they all stood up.
Xie Qingyu didn't exchange pleasantries and went straight to the head seat.
"You have all heard the news from the palace. His Majesty has suddenly fallen ill, and the situation is critical. We must prepare for the worst."
For the next hour or so, the people in the study discussed countermeasures after the palace coup, deduced the movements of several military forces in the capital, and how to persuade the centrist officials who were still observing the situation.
They absolutely cannot sit idly by and wait to die.
We must take the initiative to intervene. At the latest by tomorrow morning, we must select a minister who can take charge to enter the palace immediately, lead the forces they have placed in the palace, coordinate the situation, obtain first-hand information, and prevent Qiu Wuzhu from completely isolating the inside from the outside world and turning black into white.
At the same time, there must be someone with equal influence outside the palace to coordinate possible troop movements, communicate with our court officials, and adapt to changing circumstances in preparation for unforeseen events.
Everyone fell silent, exchanging bewildered glances.
Everyone knows that entering the palace at this time is no different from venturing into a tiger's den or a dragon's pool.
Once a palace coup occurs, the imperial palace becomes a living hell, and going there is a nine-out-of-ten chance of death. Swords have no eyes; the palace battles during dynastic changes are often brutal, and they don't care whether you are a powerful minister or a favored concubine. If you are unlucky enough to die in the chaos, there will be no place to seek justice.
At the same time, almost everyone thought of the most suitable candidate to enter the palace.
Yue Yining.
As the most important strategist in the Princess's faction, she was quick-witted and intelligent, had made numerous achievements, and held considerable power.
Furthermore, Zhou Congyi, who had been demoted to a palace lady-in-waiting position, was a confidante of the Eldest Princess and trusted Yue Yining implicitly. If Yue Yining were to personally attend, she would undoubtedly be able to make the best use of this group of female officials who were lurking in the palace.
As fellow Celestial Masters, Yue Yining could see through the Imperial Preceptor's methods and expose her schemes when necessary. As Qiu Wuzhu's disciple, she understood him well and knew a great deal about him. Moreover, in a truly critical moment, Qiu Wuzhu might be merciful and not kill her outright, considering their past master-disciple relationship.
From all perspectives, Yue Yining was the best candidate to enter the palace.
However, everyone present was one of their own, and they were all more or less aware of the relationship between Xie Qingyu and Yue Yining, and knew what would happen if Yue Yining's name was mentioned at this time.
Even though he had already made up his mind, he dared not speak out.
Just then, a knock came from outside the study, followed by a servant's hushed voice: "...Master, the front courtyard has announced that Lord Yue has arrived."
The room fell silent instantly. All the officials' eyes were on Xie Qingyu.
Xie Qingyu relaxed his furrowed brow and said to everyone, "Let's stop here for today. We'll decide on the rest later."
The group understood, quickly tidied up the scattered scrolls in front of them, and quietly withdrew one by one.
The study door opened and closed, letting in a wisp of damp night breeze.
Xie Qingyu sat alone in the room, trying to calm her chaotic thoughts, when suddenly the knocking on the door came again.
He got up and opened the door. A maid stood under the eaves carrying a plain gauze lantern. Yue Yining, dressed in a sky-blue robe, stood in front of the door. Her eyebrows and eyes were bright and clear, and the light, like mist, softened her features.
Xie Qingyu looked at her, and the feeling of suffocation in her heart slowly eased.
He called out softly, "Why is Miss here so late?"
She went straight inside, closed the door, and glanced at Xie Qingyu, her gaze sweeping over the still heavy atmosphere in the room: "Naturally, it's about matters in the palace."
Sure enough, Yue Yining also received a message from the palace spies.
"I just saw several ministers leaving on the road. Were you discussing matters?" Yue Yining asked in a low voice. "Have you already devised a plan to deal with the changes in the palace?"
Xie Qingyu: "Yes, it's been discussed."
He pulled Yue Yining by the hand and led her to sit down at the table, briefly explaining the preliminary results of their discussion: "...These are the aspects that need to be contacted and deployed. The key is to send someone into the palace as soon as possible to coordinate the forces within the palace."
Yue Yining nodded: "That's what I was thinking too. Have you decided on a candidate yet?"
“Yes.” Xie Qingyu held her hand. “I will submit my nameplate to enter the palace first thing tomorrow morning.”
Yue Yining's gaze sharpened, and her voice became clearer: "You?"
"Why you? In terms of understanding Qiu Wuzhu, the tacit understanding with Zhou Congyi and others, and even the leeway to deal with mystical methods when necessary, I am more suitable than you. You should be stationed outside the palace, deploying military forces and coordinating the court officials from the aristocratic families, which is beyond my capabilities."
Xie Qingyu met her gaze, shook her head slightly, and said in a gentle and patient tone: "It is precisely because Qiu Wuzhu knows you so well that she is most vigilant. As for me, I entered the palace under the pretext of visiting the sick and reporting on the aftermath of the border incident. It was perfectly legitimate for her to openly obstruct me for the time being."
"As for Zhou Congyi and the others..." He paused, "Given your trust in me, I imagine they will obey my arrangements. Moreover, I hold a higher position in the court, and if I can speak to the emperor, I might be able to restrain Qiu Wuzhu to some extent."
"Wait a moment." Yue Yining frowned slightly, pointing out the weakness in his words. "His Majesty is currently unconscious, and the Imperial Advisor controls all matters before the Emperor. How can he be restrained? Qiu Wuzhu controls the palace, and rank is meaningless once the palace gates are locked. On the contrary, I can use her knowledge of me to counter her, anticipate her plans, and prepare accordingly."
Xie Qingyu was silent for a moment, and when she spoke again, her voice was lower, and a trace of solemnity appeared between her gentle brows: "It is precisely because the palace gates are locked and the dangers are unpredictable that I cannot let you go."
Yue Yining was stunned for a moment, but Xie Qingyu closed her eyes and continued, "Miss, if a palace coup occurs, there will be countless bloodshed and sacrifice. You know very well who controls the Imperial Guards now. Once a conflict breaks out, the number of people we have in the palace is far less than the other side, and we won't be able to hold out for long. What will you do then? In any case, I cannot stand by and watch you step into such a dangerous place."
His concern was genuine, but Yue Yining frowned and remained silent for a long time before saying, "I understand, you're worried about my safety."
“But is it safe outside the palace? I am a target in the eye of the storm, and the risks may not be lower than inside the palace. Besides, you must know in your heart who is more suitable to stay outside the palace to take charge. You are the eldest son of a powerful family, and the Xie family's power needs you to manage it. If I, an outsider, were to take command, I might very well fail at a critical moment.” Yue Yining spoke clearly and concisely. “In the face of danger, we should prioritize the overall situation and make a wiser choice.”
"You don't need to worry about me. The fact that I can say these words to you means I've already disregarded my own life and death." She smiled gently, holding his hand, her voice so tender. "Besides, I might not even get into trouble."
"Qiu Wuzhu is my master. She used to treat me very well. She's just angry with me now. If it really comes down to a life-or-death situation, maybe I can use the little affection she still has for me to save my life."
Looking into her resolute eyes, Xie Qingyu knew he had said everything he could and could not stop her. The growing fear in his chest was completely uncontrollable, gnawing at him like a malignant tumor.
He suddenly leaned forward and grasped her wrists with both hands. The movement wasn't forceful, but his fingertips trembled uncontrollably.
Yue Yining was startled and looked up at him.
“Yining…” he called her, his voice falling silent. The composure and gentleness he had displayed during the debate vanished, replaced by a deep, almost shattered emotion, an endless torrent of pain surging in his eyes. “Yes, you are right.”
He spoke with difficulty, each word seemingly squeezed from his throat, his eyes reddening, "Even though I understand, how can you expect me to just watch you die?"
In the original novel, Yue Yining's death was caused by such a palace coup. Amidst the raging inferno, treacherous officials became the true emperor, while loyal ministers were branded as traitors.
As the Imperial Preceptor, Yue Yining was captured and imprisoned by the Imperial Guards, and never left that cage alive again.
Even though he had already killed all the real culprits who drove Yue Yining to her death, he was still afraid of the possibility that Yue Yining might meet her fate.
This fear has haunted him ever since he first encountered Yue Yining after transmigrating into the book, and it continues to haunt him to this day. The history books and plots he had read are still vivid in his mind, and his heart, which had been pierced with pain all night by her death, has once again clenched into a tight ball.
He was unwilling to let Yue Yining enter the palace, unwilling to let her take any risks that could lead to her death.
The pain in Xie Qingyu's eyes startled Yue Yining. She opened her mouth, but only managed to utter a few words before stopping: "I..."
Yue Yining couldn't continue.
In front of Xie Qingyu, who was suffering so much because of her, she could no longer pretend to be relaxed.
No one knew better than herself what her departure represented.
She once told Wei Jing that fate cannot be defied, and skill always prevails. When people think they have escaped the shackles of fate, the outcome is often the same, because everyone's destiny is inextricably linked to their life so far. One can defy fate, but one cannot defy one's own nature.
Even though the choices she made throughout her life were completely different from those recorded in history books, all the sudden changes brought her back to the starting point after going around in circles.
She knew this journey would be fraught with peril, yet fate still compelled her to willingly face death.
She is inevitably heading towards her destiny.
A brief silence fell over the study.
Before they knew it, a light drizzle began to fall outside, its pattering sound striking their hearts and deepening the silence inside. The candlelight cast their shadows on the wall, flickering slightly, adding to the unease.
Xie Qingyu suppressed her tears and looked at her with her slightly red eyes. It was no longer a debate, but a confession, a plea after shedding everything: "Even though there are dangers outside the palace, with the Xie family's guards protecting you, you will have more room to maneuver and more security."
"Miss, please promise me, please let me go, okay?"
His last sentence was almost a breathy whisper, carrying a fragile, pleading tone.
Yue Yining looked at him, all the words about appropriateness and the big picture stuck in her throat. His eyes clearly reflected her, and only her.
A deep, still silence spread between the two, broken only by the sound of rain and the crackling of candlelight.
Yue Yining could feel the coolness and sweat on his palms, and knew he was nervous.
After a long while, she sighed almost inaudibly, so softly that it seemed to be just the rise and fall of her breath. She reached out and gently placed her hand on the back of his hand that was holding her wrist, her fingertips soothingly caressing his slightly cool skin.
“…Fine.” She finally spoke, her voice soft, lowering her eyes to avoid his gaze. “Since you insist so much…then I won’t argue with you.”
A glimmer of hope suddenly appeared in Xie Qingyu's eyes, and she asked urgently, "You agreed?"
"Hmm." Yue Yining nodded, and when she looked up at him, she said, "What you said makes sense. Perhaps it doesn't matter much whether it's me or you in the palace."
In short, be careful in everything you do.
She stopped arguing, seemingly genuinely moved by his emotions, and chose to compromise and back down.
The huge weight that had been hanging over Xie Qingyu's heart finally lifted, followed by a wave of relief, almost like a slumbering exhaustion. He released her wrist, then embraced her, his chin resting gently on the top of her head, and let out a deep, long sigh.
“I will,” he promised, his voice muffled in her hair. “Take care of yourself too, and don’t take any risks.”
Yue Yining nestled in his arms, her cheek pressed against the cool embroidery on his clothes, and gently patted his back twice, as if offering silent comfort.
Her eyes were open in the shadows, her expression complex and difficult to discern.
As the night deepened, the two returned to their dormitory.
Exhaustion washed over her like a tide, especially for Xie Qingyu, whose mind had been in turmoil. Almost as soon as her head hit the pillow, her breathing gradually became deep and even. Her tense nerves finally relaxed completely after receiving Yue Yining's promise.
Yue Yining lay quietly beside him, listening to the pattering rain outside the window.
After a long while, once Xie Qingyu's breathing had stabilized, Yue Yining finally got up and took out two porcelain bottles from a wooden box under the antique shelf. She poured the powder from the white porcelain bottle into the incense burner and then swallowed the pills from the celadon bottle.
She then passed through the screen and quietly lay back down on the bed.
The dim moonlight shone on the foot of the bed, casting a white scattering on the brocade quilt covering the two people.
Yue Yining gazed at Xie Qingyu's sleeping profile.
Her gaze traced his handsome features, nose, and jawline, as if she wanted to imprint his face deeply in her heart, before she closed her eyes and let herself slowly drift off to sleep.
Outside the window paper, the sky transitioned from dark ink to deep blue.
The long night is coming to an end, and a storm is brewing.
The morning mist bathed the palace walls in an even more vibrant hue, and the crimson shadows condensed into fine water droplets on the armor and halberd blades.
Before the white jade steps outside Hanzhang Hall, the Imperial Guards stood in strict formation, their long halberds forming a forest, encircling the entire hall like an iron barrel, the bluestone ground reflecting the pale sunlight.
Commander Sun Qiong of the Imperial Guard stood with her hand on her sword in the shadows inside the palace gate, her armor gleaming with a cold light. She remained unmoved, scanning the soldiers standing solemnly before her, the palace servants walking briskly with their heads down in the distance, and the several palaces that gradually became clearer in the hazy mist at the end of the palace road.
In the mist, a slender figure slowly walked from the direction of Hanzhang Hall.
The man strode along the damp palace path, the hem of his scarlet official robe stained a deep color by the morning dew, swaying gently with each step, resembling black blood.
She possessed delicate and refined features, the kind of face that easily inspired goodwill, yet at this moment her face was expressionless. Her gentle eyes held an unyielding coldness, like a deep pool frozen solid in late autumn.
Sun Qiong narrowed her eyes.
The visitor was none other than Xie Yueshuang, the eldest daughter of the Xie family, who was the top scholar in this spring's civil service examination and a confidante of the Imperial Preceptor Qiu Wuzhu.
As the two drew closer, Sun Qiong noticed that Xie Yueshuang was staring at her.
Sun Qiong's lips moved almost imperceptibly, her voice carried on the morning breeze, audible only to the two of them:
"Lord Xie, have you been busy all night and are preparing to leave the palace?"
As soon as she finished speaking, Xie Yueshuang stopped in front of her.
Sun Qiong spoke with a smile, but in a low voice: "Please don't take offense, sir. I was just trying to be helpful. If you leave now, you might not be able to get through this door tomorrow."
Xie Yueshuang looked at Sun Qiong, her eyes as calm as an ice lake, and said in a clear, cold voice, "I am not leaving the palace."
"Commander Sun, I've come to see you."
Sun Qiong's smile faded.
She repeated, "Looking for me?"
"Commander Sun, many people are eager to leave the palace, but neither you nor I can leave at this time." Xie Yueshuang's tone was calm, but her gaze was sharp. "You must know that too, right?"
Sun Qiong tapped her fingertips lightly on the hilt of her sword, a half-smile on her face: "I really don't quite understand what you're saying, Lord Xie."
“You understand,” Xie Yueshuang said calmly. “Otherwise, you wouldn’t be here guarding this place.”
Sun Qiong's smile faded slightly, but it still lingered: "Me? I was just doing my duty. The Imperial Guards' responsibility is simply to guard the palace gates and do their jobs properly; nothing else concerns me."
"Is it truly unrelated? Or is Commander Sun merely comforting and deceiving himself?" Xie Yueshuang stared at her, pressing her aggressively. "Does Commander Sun really not understand? The Sun family is loyal to the country, and Commander Sun, a young talent, commands the Imperial Guards—a glorious honor for the family. But if one day history were to record what happened inside and outside the palace gates today, how would it judge it? Would it be accusations of loyal and courageous protection of the Emperor, or of colluding with the rebels?"
She didn't finish her sentence, but the meaning behind it was already sharp enough.
The smile on Sun Qiong's face finally disappeared completely.
"Lord Xie," she said in a low voice, "every word you said today is enough to cost you your head. Don't blame me for not warning you, in the forbidden palace, it is hardly the duty of a subject to speak recklessly about the affairs of the court."
Xie Yueshuang twitched the corner of her mouth and said, "Of course I know what a subject's duty is, otherwise wouldn't I have wasted more than ten years of studying the classics? Foreign enemies are invading, generals are dying in battle, the border is in dire need, and there is a shortage of food and weapons. The spring drought in Jiangbei has started again, and the memorials urging the early formulation of relief policies are piling up in the imperial study, but they are only destined to rot and be eaten by insects. How many people in the court are still concerned about these things? I can no longer tell what a subject's duty is."
"Thank you for your discretion, Lord Xie!"
Sun Qiong gave a low shout, his hand already on his sword hilt, his gaze quickly sweeping across the surroundings. The soldiers in the distance remained standing at attention, unnoticed by the two whispering amongst themselves.
She took a deep breath, forcing herself to calm down, and spoke with chilling words: "Xie Yueshuang, what exactly do you want to say? We're not that close yet, are we? Why did you come all this way to see me? Just say it directly."
She was the fourth prince's strategist and the imperial advisor's confidante.
The two of them had some acquaintance, but not much. She didn't understand why Xie Yueshuang would come to her and say these things.
Sun Qiong gritted her teeth, trying hard to ignore the wavering in her heart.
Xie Yueshuang quietly watched her hand on the sword, then looked up at her tense face and remained silent.
A morning breeze rustled through the palace walls, carrying the faint sound of bells and tripods in the distance. As the mist dissipated and the sky brightened, the shadows of the two figures facing each other stretched long and were cast onto the damp bluestone ground.
"...I don't want to say anything." Xie Yueshuang finally spoke, her voice softer yet clearer than before, "I just want to know, did I do something wrong?"
Sun Qiong's pupils contracted slightly.
“Commander Sun, you’re right. We don’t have that deep a relationship. I was being presumptuous today,” Xie Yueshuang said calmly. “But being in this palace, there are some things I can only say to you.”
The vast palace was bustling with activity, and all those involved in the turmoil were not innocent, including Xie Yueshuang.
There was a time when she believed she would never regret it, and would never be swayed. She was certain of what she wanted, and certain that she was despicable, ruthless, and would stop at nothing to achieve her goals. She didn't hate herself; she only felt a sense of satisfaction.
Therefore, she betrayed the Xie family without hesitation and joined Qiu Wuzhu's camp. Even though Qiu Wuzhu supported a prince who she considered incompetent, and even though Qiu Wuzhu deceived the emperor and manipulated power, she was still willing to work for her.
Until she vaguely discovered the truth.
What Qiu Wuzhu wanted was not power, but the life of the emperor.
Even a usurper wouldn't act so recklessly; Qiu Wuzhu is utterly insane. Her actions are clearly pushing Dongxi into an abyss of no return. If she succeeds, countless lives will be lost.
She didn't continue, but Sun Qiong understood what she meant by leaving things unsaid.
Sun Qiong tightened her grip on the sword hilt, but remained speechless.
What could she say? She couldn't betray Qiu Wuzhu, because that would be tantamount to betraying the Fourth Prince, and one wrong move could put the entire Sun family in danger. She was a member of the Sun family, and she had to consider the family's interests before her own wishes.
Just as her heart was churning, she heard hurried footsteps coming from the other end of the palace road.
A messenger rushed over and knelt on one knee a few steps away: "Reporting to the commander! The Grand Preceptor has ordered that the number of sentries at each palace gate be doubled immediately, and entry and exit must be strictly checked! No one shall be allowed to pass without the Grand Preceptor's written order or the Fourth Prince's decree! Anyone who disobeys will be executed on the spot!"
His shouts were loud and clear, echoing coldly in the quiet palace gates at dawn.
Sun Qiong quickly suppressed all outward emotions, regaining her composure and competence, and said in a deep voice, "Understood. Issue the order to all departments to carry it out!"
"yes!"
The messenger hurriedly withdrew. The atmosphere in front of the palace gates became even more tense and solemn because of this order. In the distance, generals had already begun to mobilize their troops, and the clanging of armor and the chaotic sound of footsteps filled the air.
Sun Qiong turned to look at Xie Yueshuang, who had already withdrawn her emotions and returned to her cold and unyielding demeanor.
“Commander Sun, I’m sorry to have bothered you,” she said. “I’ll take my leave.”
After saying that, she turned around and walked back along the palace road she had come from, heading towards Hanzhang Hall again, her crimson shadow gradually disappearing into the morning light.
Sun Qiong stood there, watching her disappear.
Frustrated, she slammed the hilt of her knife, hugged her arms tightly, frowned, and gazed at the palace in the distance.
The morning dew is still thick, and it's almost dawn.
Xie Qingyu had a very long dream.
In the dream, fallen flowers fell silently, the sky a pure white. The two of them walked hand in hand, the palace walls a blinding crimson, with countless mountains and rivers behind them.
He followed behind Yue Yining, watching her blue figure slowly disappear into the swirling petals. His panic intensified, and he could only desperately move forward, holding her hand tightly until Yue Yining turned to look at him.
"Xie Qingyu," she said gently, "I..."
Before she could finish speaking, her figure was buried by endless falling petals.
Xie Qingyu suddenly sat up in bed, her breathing rapid and her body covered in cold sweat.
He thought he was having a nightmare, but when he looked down, he froze.
It was already daylight outside, and he was alone on the bed; Yue Yining was nowhere to be found.
"......Miss?"
Xie Qingyu tried to get up, but found himself weak and powerless. He struggled to get off the bed, taking two steps before nearly falling and knocking over the bed frame.
He was incredibly intelligent, and he already had some guesses in his mind. When he looked up and saw that Yue Yining's outer robe and bronze plate had also disappeared behind the screen, his anxiety reached its peak.
"Guards! Guards!!" Xie Qingyu shouted sharply, "Yin Yi!"
A door in the distance creaked softly, and a silver-clad guard entered, his steps light and stealthy, drifting in like a shadow.
Yin Yi stopped, lowered his head, and dared not look him in the eye: "Patriarch."
"...Where is Yue Yining?" Xie Qingyu tried to control her tone, but her voice still trembled. "Where did she go?"
"......"
Xie Qingyu, with one hand supporting her on the ground and the other on the edge of the table, could no longer control herself. She flung the teacup on the table at Yin Yi's feet, and shards of porcelain flew everywhere!
He shouted angrily, "I asked you where Yue Yining is?!"
"...Patriarch," Yin Yi said, forcing a smile, "the Lady of Yue has gone to the palace."
“She got up early this morning and specifically instructed me not to disturb you, otherwise she would… I had no choice and dared not lay a hand on Lord Yue.” Yin Yi glanced at Xie Qingyu’s ashen face and felt a pang of pity. He added, “Lord Yue just left. The front courtyard sent word to prepare carriages and horses. He should still be at the gate of the mansion.”
Yin Yi originally thought Xie Qingyu would sleep for at least another hour.
When Yue Yining left, she told him that she had put a calming powder in the incense burner, and that Xie Qingyu had slept very deeply last night and should not wake up so soon, so he only needed to take care of him.
Xie Qingyu finally felt some strength returning to his body, and he couldn't wait any longer: "Take me there immediately!"
Yue Yining left the mansion, took the riding whip from the servant, and mounted his horse.
Just as he grasped the reins, a hurried shout came from afar: "—Yue Yining!"
She paused, turned her head in surprise, and saw Xie Qingyu running towards her. He had only had time to put on an outer robe, and his disheveled black hair revealed a pair of bloodshot eyes.
Yue Yining knew she had to harden her heart, ride away, and not give him a chance to stop her.
But she loosened her grip on the reins and watched Xie Qingyu run towards her.
"Xie Qingyu..." she called his name. Seeing his appearance, her eyes welled up with tears, but Xie Qingyu shed tears before she could.
This man, who was cold and obsessive by nature, like a venomous snake, was now completely broken down in the face of the fear of losing his beloved forever, and tears streamed down his face.
"You can't go, please, don't go..."
"Don't let me lose you again..." Xie Qingyu held her hand, sobbing, her voice trembling uncontrollably, "Yue Yining, I beg you... please... don't... I'll die..."
He didn't say you'll die, he said I will die.
Just as he had said long ago, if she were to die, he would not live on alone.
Xie Qingyu will never break her promise.
“You won’t die,” Yue Yining said softly, “because I love you, Xie Qingyu.”
Xie Qingyu was stunned. The morning light pierced through the gap between them, and his tears fell, landing on the back of her hand.
Yue Yining looked at him, her voice gentle as water: "I love you. I will try my best to live, for us. I won't die, and neither will you."
"Believe me."
Riding on a barefoot horse, Yue Yining leaned down and kissed him in front of everyone.
He cried uncontrollably, his lips trembling as they touched, his breath ragged, his panic, fear, and terror, along with his salty tears, vying to soak her lips and teeth. She didn't mind, but gently and carefully kissed him, feeling his shoulder blades slowly stabilizing under her palms, like soothing a fledgling bird that had just hatched.
As the dense clouds that had hung over Tuanji at the beginning of the morning gradually dissipated, pale golden sunlight slowly descended from the cloud tops, bathing the city of Yanjing in its light.
“I’m sorry, I lied to you. But Xie Qingyu, I want us both to live. Not just you and me, but also the millions of people behind us, to live well,” she said. “Just as you can’t watch me die, I can’t watch you die in my place.”
"So trust me." She kissed his forehead, her voice as soft as cotton. "I swear, this is the last time I'll be willful."
His tears couldn't keep Yue Yining from leaving.
The kiss ended, and Yue Yining separated from him, then tightened the reins, her sky-blue figure speeding away into the distance.
Yin Yi could hardly bear to look at that heartless figure; the guards and servants standing around him were all as silent as if they were dead.
Xie Qingyu stood rooted to the spot, his tall frame seemingly devoid of any bones, replaced by utter despair. He swayed precariously, like a burnt-out candle that could be extinguished by a mere gust of wind.
Just then, a commotion arose from inside the mansion, as if someone were celebrating the New Year. The servants standing at the gate couldn't help but glance sideways and peek out. Just then, a maid in a pink dress rushed out, her face beaming with joy, and shouted:
"Master! The Second Young Lady is awake! The Second Young Lady is awake!!"
The crowd by the gate gasped in surprise. Xie Qingyu, with tears in her eyes, stared back blankly, her expression numb and bewildered, blinded by immense grief, no longer knowing where she was.
There was another burst of hurried footsteps behind the maid, mixed with several panicked shouts of "Second Miss, be careful!" and "Second Miss, slow down!"
Everyone saw that the familiar red figure, like a gust of wind, suddenly passed through the two ceremonial gates and was running towards them.
Although she had just recovered from an illness, there was not a trace of weakness on her face; instead, she was radiant and as unrestrained and passionate as her name suggests.
Xie Yunying had just returned to her original body. She was lying motionless on the bed when she suddenly jumped up, startling Jin Xuan, a maid who was tidying up the utensils, so much so that she almost tumbled off the footstool.
Upon waking, Xie Yunying hurriedly asked for the time and learned that she had been unconscious for nearly a month. The next moment, she inquired about Xie Qingyu's whereabouts in the mansion. Forgetting the screams, concerns, and shouts of the others, she hurriedly dressed and ran to look for her.
She was determined to tell him all the truth she knew as soon as possible!
To her surprise, when she rushed to the door, she saw Xie Qingyu looking utterly despondent.
Xie Yunying stared at him, stunned: "My God, what happened?"
"Xie Qingyu, are you alright? Why are you crying like this?"
Xie Qingyu murmured, "...She's gone."
Xie Yunying was bewildered by this seemingly random statement, but seeing Xie Qingyu's tear-streaked face and her pitiful, withered appearance, she didn't know what to do. She suddenly looked up at Yin Yi beside her and said, "You! Explain yourself! What happened? What's going on?!"
Having been persecuted since early morning, Yin Yi, now numb to it all, replied: "...Yes."
After listening to the summary of the whole story, Xie Yunying used her strong academic ability to identify the key points.
She immediately grabbed Xie Qingyu's shoulders, trying to shake him awake: "Xie Qingyu, wake up! Cheer up! Yue Yining has entered the palace, and things outside the palace will depend on you! Don't give up on yourself now! If you just keep crying here, what will she do?"
"Didn't you say you wanted to save her? Didn't she also say she wanted to come back to see you alive?!"
A sliver of clarity finally returned to Xie Qingyu's eyes, but it wasn't enough. Xie Yunying gritted her teeth and called out to the system in her mind: "System, help me exchange for that item that can turn memories into objects!"
System: "Yes, host!"
"Listen to me, I fell into a coma because an unknown event occurred in this world, and my system temporarily teleported me back to the modern era." Xie Yunying took a deep breath and said in a deep voice, "I stayed in the real world for a year and witnessed the entire process of the national archaeological team excavating the historical truth of the late Eastern Yuan Dynasty!"
The light that had been spreading in Xie Qingyu's eyes gradually gathered and solidified.
He stared at Xie Yunying in astonishment, almost unable to believe what he was hearing: "What did you say?"
Seeing that he had finally regained his senses, Xie Yunying breathed a sigh of relief, took out a letter from her sleeve, and handed it to him: "I brought back Yue Yining's real last will and testament. You'll understand after you read it."
"Xie Qingyu and Yue Yining have never regretted becoming a strategist. She saved everyone and deserves to be remembered in history."
The sun shines on this land as always, and wisps of smoke rise from thousands of homes, gathering into golden clouds above everyone's heads. On Zhuque Avenue, carriages and horses flow smoothly, and peddlers carrying loads call out their wares as they weave through the streets and alleys. A vendor selling persimmon cakes lifts his wooden basket, and the steam carrying the aroma of fruit drifts into the spring breeze, making the market bustling and lush.
No matter how bitter or difficult, or how carefree and happy, time never stops for a moment, and so a brand new, ordinary, and unremarkable day arrives.
The unfolded letter paper was warmed by the sun, and then a hot tear fell, wetting it.
Xie Yunying, standing nearby, hurriedly called out, "Hey! Xie Qingyu! Don't cry!"
Xie Qingyu could no longer hear what she was saying.
The cacophony of words, right and wrong, regret and sorrow, all gradually faded away from this mortal body.
He finally understood Yue Yining completely.
And I finally understand what she sacrificed to allow millions of people around the world to live such an ordinary day.
Xie Qingyu's fingertips traced the edges of the ink stains, dampened by tears, remaining motionless for a long time. A gust of wind swept through the long street, carrying a few early-carved pear blossoms that landed on his shoulder.
Xie Yunying looked at the faint but gradually gathering light in his eyes and felt somewhat at ease.
Xie Qingyu wiped away her remaining tears, and when she looked up again, although there were still red lines in her eyes, there was no trace of confusion or weakness. Instead, there was a calmness like that of a deep, cold pool.
He straightened up, the swaying and unsteadiness from before completely gone. His tall and upright posture, like a bamboo shoot, exuded a formidable aura, like a sword drawn from its sheath.
"Yin Yi." His voice was not loud, and even a little hoarse from crying.
"Your subordinate is here."
"Pass on my orders." Xie Qingyu spoke as he strode into the mansion, his steps steady and swift, his speech calm yet uninterrupted as he issued a series of commands in an orderly fashion. "First, from this moment forward, you will have full authority over all the guards and soldiers in the mansion, dividing them into two lines, one overt and one covert. The overt line will strengthen patrols of the mansion and all important properties, allowing entry but not exit, especially my study and bedroom; no one is permitted to enter. The covert line will keep a close watch on the Fourth Prince's residence, the Sun family, the Gu family, as well as the Ministry of War's Armory and the Prefectural Governor's Office. I need to know who entered and exited their gates today, when, the number of people, and their destinations."
"yes."
"Secondly," Xie Qingyu said, having already passed through the second gate and headed towards his own courtyard, his voice like the striking of metal, "send someone to invite Grand Secretary Liu, Minister Li, and Imperial Censor Chu... through the side gate into the secret room of the other courtyard. Tell them that a storm is coming, and whether they should remain on the sidelines until the house collapses, or find a porch to temporarily shelter from the storm and wait for the weather to clear. Ask them to make a quick decision, and be respectful."
The names he mentioned were all senior officials with high prestige in the court, wielding real power but not yet clearly siding with any side. They were the forces that needed to be won over or at least stabilized at the moment.
“Thirdly,” he paused slightly at the courtyard gate, turning to look at Yin Yi, “have your most astute men change into civilian clothes and take a stroll through all the grain shops, blacksmith shops, and carriage shops in the West and East Markets. Don’t ask questions, just observe. See if there are any unusual large-scale transactions or stockpiles of goods, especially items similar to those used in the military. If so, note down the shop names and owners behind them, and report back to me immediately.”
This was to guard against the possibility that the other side might take advantage of the chaos of the palace coup to create trouble in the city, or to prepare for possible armed conflict.
"Finally," Xie Qingyu said, stepping into the courtyard with a chilling tone, "inform our men in the capital's main camp that from today onwards, they must be on high alert. Without my written order or a clear imperial edict from the palace, anyone who mobilizes troops under any pretext is forging an edict and can be executed without prior notification."
The last four words carried a chilling murderous intent.
Yin Yi bowed and solemnly said, "Your subordinate obeys and will carry it out immediately!"
Xie Qingyu said no more and went straight into the inner room. The maid had already prepared hot water and clean robes. He waved to dismiss those around him and stood alone in front of the mirror. The person in the mirror had slightly red eyes and pale lips, but his gaze had become completely calm, like a still well, yet a dark flame burned deep within.
Her long, neatly combed hair was tied up with a jade crown, which complemented her ink-wash brocade robe, making her face appear even whiter and more aloof.
Xie Yunying followed behind him the whole time. Seeing that he spoke very quickly, she didn't dare to interrupt. She waited outside the door until he finished washing up and came out. When she saw that he had become the Xie Qingyu she knew, she breathed a sigh of relief.
Xie Yunying: "System, thank goodness I came back in time! How could this family be without me!"
System: "..." What is its host talking in their sleep about again?
Soon, wave after wave of subordinates, advisors, and even representatives of forces in disguise were quietly led into the Frostbite Courtyard, and then hurriedly left with solemn expressions. Xie Yunying sat in the inner room through a screen, observing Xie Qingyu's busy profile. He listened intently, his face still pale, but his brows were sharp and focused.
After another guard responsible for gathering information about the palace withdrew, Xie Yunying noticed Xie Qingyu frown almost imperceptibly, tapping her fingertips on the table as if she had encountered a thorny issue.
She came out from behind the screen and approached the desk: "What's wrong? What did that person say to you just now?"
Xie Qingyu shook his head, his voice gloomy: "...The palace is ultimately short-handed. Qiu Wuzhu has surrounded Hanzhang Hall like an iron barrel, and even a fly that flies close will be checked several times. Although there are many hidden agents who can transmit messages, their strength is scattered and weak. In times of crisis, they are not strong enough and can only be slaughtered by others, making it difficult to form sufficient protection."
“I’m most worried about Yining… She’s all alone inside. If things really come to a head, I’m afraid things won’t go smoothly.”
He traced the location of the palace on the map with his fingertip: "If we could disguise ourselves and coordinate from the inside, we might be able to send a few elite assassins to infiltrate and assist them... but it's too late now."
Qiu Wuzhu had already ordered martial law at Chenshi (7-9 AM). Now the palace was heavily guarded. Even though he had connections everywhere and could find ways to get people in, it was impossible for him to bring weapons into the palace.
Xie Yunying immediately realized the key point: "Or is there a secret passage or dog hole that would allow our people to sneak into the palace?"
“Perhaps there are, but it’s not clear yet. It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack to waste manpower searching for them now.” Xie Qingyu frowned. “Most of the secret passage maps from previous dynasties have been destroyed or kept secret. Qiu Wuzhu must have thoroughly investigated the palace this time, and other secret ways to enter the palace have probably already been blocked.”
Xie Yunying frowned upon hearing this; she truly had no good solution. Just as she was pondering, a maid's voice came from outside the warm pavilion:
"Master, Second Miss, the eldest son of the Yuan family has come to visit you after hearing that you have awakened. His carriage has arrived."
Xie Yunying was taken aback and before she could react, Xie Qingyu nodded slightly: "Bring Young Master Yuan over."
Just then, Xie Yunying turned to look at him. Xie Qingyu relaxed and said, "During the time you were unconscious, he found many renowned doctors to treat you. Every time his hopes were dashed, he was more heartbroken than anyone else, looking completely lost."
"I heard from the servants at the Yuan residence that he has been unable to eat or sleep this month, and has even been silently shedding tears, all because of you," Xie Qingyu said. "It seems that he cares about you more than I thought."
Xie Yunying asked in surprise, "You mean Yuan Nanjie?"
"Okay. Go out and greet them, don't keep them waiting."
Xie Yunying responded blankly, then, like a puppet on a string, awkwardly stepped out of the courtyard. She stood under a small, sparse bamboo grove, her cheeks belatedly burning.
—He cares about you more than I imagined.
Xie Yunying silently suppressed her wildly beating heart, trying to calm it down, when she saw someone pushing a mahogany wheelchair along the bluestone path.
The servant pushing the cart stopped immediately upon seeing Xie Yunying.
Passing through the bamboo grove and flowering trees, Xie Yunying finally saw Yuan Nanjie, whom she hadn't seen for many days.
He sat in a wheelchair, dressed in a moon-white casual suit with a light blue cloak over it. Perhaps because he had come in a hurry, his hair was not as neatly combed as usual, with a few strands falling around his temples, making him look much thinner.
Those eyes, which were originally as calm as an ancient well, suddenly lit up the moment they saw Xie Yunying's figure, like a deep pool ignited by starlight, rippling with layers of joy.
"Yun Ying!"
He called her name, his voice trembling noticeably. Before the servants could even bring the wheelchair to a complete stop, he gripped the armrests tightly with both hands, leaning forward as if to stand up and rush to her. But his legs were weak, and the movement only caused the wheelchair to sway violently, a truly terrifying sight.
Xie Yunying was startled by his actions and quickly ran over: "Yuan Nanjie, slow down!"
She reached out, instinctively wanting to hold his arm.
Just as her fingertips were about to touch his sleeve, Yuan Nanjie suddenly stretched out his arms and pulled her into his embrace.
His movements were somewhat clumsy, and he even lost control of his strength due to excitement, causing Xie Yunying to feel a slight pain from the tightness.
The embrace wasn't particularly wide, but it carried his unique, cool medicinal scent and a hint of chill, and the arms tightly wrapped around her were trembling.
"You're awake...you're really awake...!" He buried his face in her neck and shoulder, his muffled voice filled with unbelievable relief and long-suppressed panic. "When I heard you were awake, I thought...I thought they were just trying to coax me, or that I was dreaming..."
Xie Yunying was a little dazed by his embrace.
This was the first time Yuan Nanjie had ever hugged her on his own initiative, in her memory.
My cheek pressed against his slightly cool fabric, and I could clearly feel the violent rise and fall of his chest, as well as the thunderous pounding of his heart.
She had never seen Yuan Nanjie so out of control.
He was always restrained and polite, gentle and aloof, seemingly always reserved and measured, concealing all his emotions beneath that well-behaved exterior.
“…Yuan Nanjie.” Xie Yunying comforted him softly, hugged him back, patted his back, and smiled with narrowed eyes, “I’m fine now. Look, I’m perfectly fine now, and I won’t faint suddenly again.”
Yuan Nanjie's eyes turned red because of those few words.
He breathed heavily, and words he would never normally uttered came out like a burst dam, filled with lingering fear: "For the past month, I've thought day and night about what I would do if you never woke up again."
"I regret it, I regret it so much. I was always worried about this broken body, about the way others would look at me, about those empty formalities, and I didn't dare to get close to you. I was too ashamed to reciprocate your feelings... I thought there was still plenty of time, I thought I could just silently watch over you..."
He choked up, tightening his arms around her as if afraid she would disappear if he let go: "I really thought I was going to lose you..."
It wasn't until that moment that he realized how ridiculous those concerns were.
Nothing compares to her being alive.
“I can’t deceive myself anymore. Yunying, I’ve loved you for a very long time. I don’t want to bear the possibility of losing you again. From now on, I will never let go of your hand again…”
A drop of warm water unexpectedly landed on Xie Yunying's neck, causing her to freeze in place.
He...cried?
Yuan Nanjie, who never overstepped his bounds, actually shed tears because of her.
Xie Yunying raised her head, cupped his face, and saw his reddened eyes and the tear tracks he hadn't had time to wipe away. His handsome, pale face, because of these tears and his undisguised deep affection, possessed a breathtaking fragility and beauty.
"Silly boy..." Her nose tingled, but she forced a bright smile. "You've finally admitted that you like me."
"Although I've said it many times, I still want to say it again. I like you too, Yuan Nanjie, I like you very much."
She was determined to return to this world to continue her mission because she still couldn't let him go.
"So, stop talking about losing or not losing."
When Xie Qingyu arrived at the center of the courtyard, Xie Yunying was already sitting in the waterside pavilion with Yuan Nanjie, who had wiped away his tears, chatting away for quite a while. While Xie Yunying was making a fuss, Yuan Nanjie watched her with a gentle smile in his eyes.
Seeing Xie Qingyu approach, Yuan Nanjie grasped the wheelchair and turned to him, nodding in greeting. His voice had returned to normal, though it was slightly hoarse: "Minister Xie, I apologize for disturbing you. I heard that the Second Miss had awakened, and I was really worried about her. I rushed over without even delivering my invitation. Please forgive my rudeness."
Xie Qingyu nodded: "Young Master Yuan, you are too kind. Concern can cloud judgment, so how could it be considered impolite? Thank you for your concern about Yunying's matter."
Xie Yunying had just gotten to the point, her tone serious: "Xie... cough cough, big brother, we were just talking about the most troublesome problem right now—the heavily guarded palace. It's very difficult for our soldiers to get in and support the Yue people. If there were a secret passage—"
She suddenly stopped mid-sentence.
How could she forget that!
If anyone knew better than the Emperor where the secret passage connecting the inside and outside of the palace was, it was the former Crown Prince Wei Changqiong, and Yuan Nanjie himself, sitting in front of her!
Xie Yunying turned her gaze sharply to Yuan Nanjie.
Before she could finish speaking, Yuan Nanjie frowned slightly and carefully asked, "Secret passage... do you mean a hidden path leading from outside the palace to inside?"
Xie Qingyu's gaze sharpened as she looked at him: "Does Young Master Yuan know about this?"
Yuan Nanjie pondered for a moment, as if recalling something, then slowly nodded: "Yes. I think I should know the location of the secret passage."
He paused for a moment, looking at Xie Qingyu's suddenly sharp gaze, and then explained, "Years ago, by chance, I saw some old palace archives and construction regulations that had long been sealed away. There are indeed several extremely hidden passages in the palace, not for avoiding disaster, but mostly set up by craftsmen of the previous dynasty to facilitate the transportation of materials or the maintenance of underground ditches. The drawings have long been lost, and very few people know about them."
“Each secret passage leads to a different place. The one closest to the Xie residence is in a separate courtyard at the end of Vermilion Bird Avenue. The exit of the passage is located under a dry well on the west wall. Once the mechanism in the well is activated, it leads to the underground of the spice warehouse in the northeast corner of the palace. The exit is hidden inside the warehouse’s wall.” Yuan Nanjie’s tone was calm and confident. “Although this passage is old, it is sturdy and few people know about it. Even if the Imperial Preceptor were to investigate, he might not be able to find it.”
Xie Yunying opened her eyes wide, looking at Yuan Nanjie, then at Xie Qingyu.
Xie Qingyu gave her a meaningful look. With his shrewdness, he could naturally guess that the source of this information wasn't so simple, but at this moment, he had no intention of digging deeper.
He bowed solemnly to Yuan Nanjie: "This news is of utmost importance. I thank you, Young Master Yuan."
Yuan Nanjie slightly turned his body to avoid the full curtsy, his expression calm: "You flatter me, Vice Minister. When the country is in trouble, every citizen has a responsibility."
“Moreover,” he turned to look at Xie Yunying, his gaze gentle, “what Yunying cares about and protects is also what I care about and want to protect.”
It's incredible that, because of Xie Yunying's love, he was able to forgive all the suffering he had endured in his past life and face those terrible scars.
For the sake of the person he loves, he is willing to try to love this cruel world that has treated him.
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Author's Note: Xie Yunying said I have to memorize an 800-word essay right after transmigrating... Oh, there are system items! That's great! [Keep it up!]
Getting back to the point, there should be two more chapters left, I swear this time it's for real!
I've prepared a bonus for everyone who's following the story after the main text is finished [shy] because I feel really bad about being so late (kneeling). I'll keep it a secret for now, you'll all find out later!
I'll still be giving away 30 RMB red envelopes in the comments section of this chapter!
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