The morning light at Tongguan, with its unique crispness and grandeur characteristic of the northern frontier, pierces through the thin clouds and shines on the ancient fortress that has just experienced the baptism of blood and fire.
The air was filled with the lingering smell of gunpowder, the bitter aroma of herbs, and a weary, post-disaster tranquility.
Inside the General's mansion, Xin Kui was able to get out of bed and walk on her own, though her left arm still needed to be carefully slinged. She had changed into a brand-new light blue cotton dress, which made her look much more energetic, though her face was still somewhat pale. At this moment, she was standing under the old locust tree in the courtyard, which was sprouting tender buds, tilting her head slightly to feel the warmth of the sunlight filtering through the new leaves onto her face. A rough but warm hand naturally rested on her uninjured right shoulder.
"The wind is still a bit chilly, be careful." Xin Yunzhou's deep voice sounded from behind, carrying an undeniable concern. Today, he had changed into a half-new indigo blue outfit, which made him look less fierce on the battlefield and more composed as if he were returning home.
Xin Kui didn't turn around, but leaned against his strong arm in a relaxed manner, a faint smile curving her lips: "Mm. The sun is shining brightly. The letter from home says that the peach blossoms in the capital are almost in bloom."
“Soon,” Xin Yunzhou replied, his gaze lingering on her delicate profile, a hint of tenderness in his eyes. “His Highness has ordered us to break camp and depart in three days. The border defenses will be handed over to General Li to clear out the remaining enemy forces and appease the refugees.” He paused, his voice lowering slightly, tinged with nervousness and anticipation. “After returning to the capital… I’ll take you to see Father and Sister first. Are you… ready?”
Xin Kui's heart tightened slightly, then filled with a do-or-die courage. She turned around, her clear eyes meeting his deep gaze, and nodded vigorously: "I'm ready. Yunzhou, I'm not afraid." She reached out her right hand and gently straightened his neatly folded clothes, the movement natural and intimate. "As long as I can be with you, I'd brave any danger, let alone going home."
“Home…” Xin Yunzhou murmured, his heart burning. He suddenly and carefully pulled her uninjured right arm and her entire body into his embrace, avoiding her injured left shoulder. His chin rested on the top of her soft hair, inhaling the faint scent of soap in it, his voice trembling with a barely perceptible sob, “Yes, home! Our home!”
Sunlight filtered through the sparse, tender leaves, casting dappled shadows on the two embracing figures. In the distance, the commands of soldiers drilling and the neighing of warhorses drifted over the scene—everything was filled with the hope of new life.
In the warm pavilion of the West Garden of the Sixth Prince's residence in the capital.
As Xin Kui had predicted, the peach trees outside the window were indeed covered with dense buds, and tiny pink blossoms peeked out timidly in the chilly spring breeze, indicating that spring was gradually approaching.
Xin Jiuwei leaned against a chaise longue covered with thick cushions, a light and warm brocade blanket covering her. Her belly was still flat, but the gentle glow of a new mother was even more evident in her eyes. In her hand, she held a newly opened letter, a letter from Xin Yunzhou sent from Tongguan.
"...All matters at Tongguan have been settled. I will depart for the capital with His Highness in three days. Xin Kui's injuries have largely healed, and he can walk freely now, though his left arm still needs rest. Sister, please don't worry. I am eager to return home and reunite with you and Father. Also, regarding the matter between me and Xin Kui, I will inform you and Father in detail after we return to the capital. I hope you will handle things accordingly..."
Xin Jiuwei gently traced the words "Brother and Xin Kui's affair" with her fingertips, a relieved smile spreading across her lips. Her brother had finally come to his senses! Xin Kui, that child, was resilient and intelligent, utterly devoted to her brother, and even risked her life to protect him on the battlefield. This affection was enough to transcend all worldly barriers.
"Miss, Miss Lin has arrived," the maid announced softly.
Before the words were even finished, Lin Jingshu rushed in, carrying an exquisite red lacquered and gold-decorated food box. "Wei'er! Look quickly! I had the cook at home prepare some new pickled plum preserves, and this bowl of freshly stewed bird's nest and snow frog soup—it's incredibly nourishing and good for the pregnancy! Try it while it's hot!"
Xin Jiuwei put down the letter, stood up with a smile, and said, "Sister, you've really fed me so much that I'm practically a little pig."
"That won't do! You're carrying two bodies now!" Lin Jingshu placed the food box on the small table beside the couch, opened it herself, and a rich, sweet aroma mixed with a hint of tangy flavor immediately filled the air. She sat down next to Xin Jiuwei, her gaze sweeping over the letter on the couch, and winked mischievously, "Oh, a letter from General Xin? Is he coming back? He and Miss Xin Kui..."
Xin Jiuwei nodded with a smile and handed her the letter: "My brother said he will set off in three days. His relationship with Xin Kui has also been settled. Upon returning to the capital, he will inform Father and ask His Highness to make the decision for me."
"That's wonderful!" Lin Jingshu clapped her hands and laughed, "This is truly a triple celebration! His Highness has returned in triumph, you are pregnant, and General Xin has found a good match! Miss Xin Kui is a good girl, her looks and temperament are a perfect match for General Xin! When they return, I must have a good drink at their wedding!" As she spoke, she carefully scooped up a spoonful of warm bird's nest soup and held it to Xin Jiuwei's lips, "Try it quickly, it's been stewed for two hours."
Xin Jiuwei took a sip from her hand; the drink was sweet and smooth, its warmth reaching deep into her heart. She stroked her lower abdomen, her eyes filled with tender anticipation: "Yes, it's good that they're all back. This child also wants to see Father and Uncle soon." She paused, remembering important matters, "By the way, sister, how are things progressing with Steward Li and the others at the canal transport? Any news from Her Highness the Princess?"
Lin Jingshu put down her spoon and said seriously, "I was just about to tell you. Manager Li and his team made a huge haul during their secret investigation of the Linqing and Dezhou granaries! They not only confirmed the 'secret smuggling' scheme, but also obtained copies of the ledgers showing how the granary ambassador Wang Lu and the local tyrant Zhao Bancheng divided the spoils! Several veteran transport commanders who had been severely suppressed have also agreed to testify in court under the secret protection of Li Rui and his team! The chain of evidence is quite complete. Princess Rongchang summoned me to her residence yesterday and was furious after reading the preliminary draft! She said that once you have secured the final, conclusive evidence and witnesses, she will immediately go to the palace to request a severe punishment! This time, she will definitely make the most of the situation!"
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