Chapter 21 "He wants me dead."
The Prince of Zhenbei's health had been deteriorating since a serious illness a few years ago aggravated his old battlefield injuries.
Since arriving in Chang'an last year, I have visibly become weaker day by day—
This weakness is something that even human power cannot overcome.
Even finding the best doctors couldn't help; they could only watch his condition deteriorate.
During that time, Bai Xuerou could feel that everything around her was in chaos. Whether in Chang'an City or in the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion, the atmosphere was like dark clouds, piling up layer by layer as time went by, pressing on people's hearts, and they didn't know when a downpour would fall.
She could sense everyone's restless excitement, and Ling Zheng's hidden excitement beneath his worry.
This attitude is not surprising. The Prince of Zhenbei is like a mountain in front of Ling Zheng. Although it blocks his way, it also provides him with protection.
Even though he can now glimpse the scenery ahead, it also means that the person who sheltered him is about to pass away.
But ultimately, the excitement outweighed the rest.
The Ling brothers, Ling Zheng and Ling Xun, were incredibly busy during that period. Ling Zheng never talked to Bai Xuerou about what was happening outside, but Ling Xun had no such reservations—
The Prince of Zhenbei had forced his way into Chang'an, and now that he is seriously ill, it's inevitable that some people will be tempted to do something.
The two brothers, Ling Zheng and Ling Xun, are a scholar and a warrior, respectively. Ling Zheng deals with the intrigues and power struggles among aristocratic families, while Ling Xun deals with the petty tricks in the military.
Bai Xuerou understood, but her heart stirred slightly.
Ling Xun's handling of military affairs was at the behest of the Prince of Zhenbei, and the deeper meaning behind it is thought-provoking.
If she could, she believed that Ling Zheng would love to have the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion, the Zhenbei Army, and everything in the Ling family in his hands.
Bai Xuerou understood her childhood sweetheart husband. He was not outstanding in his youth, but after being favored and valued by the Prince of Zhenbei, he developed an increasingly strong desire to control power.
In his eyes, everything in the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion was his possession, and that was indeed the case originally—
If everything unfolds as described in that novel.
But Ling Xun's sudden emergence changed the course of events.
This younger brother, whom he had previously disregarded, had encroached upon his power, which undoubtedly infuriated Ling Zheng. However, he was not a brainless fool and knew that in this situation, sibling rivalry would only give outsiders an opportunity, so he had no choice but to swallow his pride and accept it.
Ling Zheng was angry about this for several days.
The Prince of Zhenbei was a scheming man throughout his life, and he was well-prepared for his death.
He summoned all the generals of the Zhenbei Army and personally instructed them that the title of Prince of Zhenbei would be handed over to Ling Zheng, and that the Zhenbei Army would also be led by him.
The soldiers naturally agreed.
At that moment, Ling Zheng was filled with sorrow. He knelt before the bed and declined, begging the Prince of Zhenbei not to say such unlucky words, but everyone in the room seemed to be able to sense his suppressed ecstasy.
If that were the case, everything would be perfectly harmonious. However, most things in this world inevitably have a "but"—
The Prince of Zhenbei, with his eyes half-closed, ignored him and continued to give orders.
By this point, he no longer cared about the truth or falsehood of things, but instead tried every means to ensure the continuation of his hegemony.
He then gave his second instruction, following his instruction to let Ling Zheng inherit the title and the Zhenbei Army:
"Assisted by Liu Lang".
The generals were stunned.
The Prince of Zhenbei, with his brilliant strategies, surely knew that an army should not have two leaders, as this would only lead to chaos.
But he still gave the order.
The Prince of Zhenbei's next words were not directed at them, but at the Ling brothers, though they were still meant for them.
Before this, he drank ginseng soup, and as time went on, he became more and more energetic.
“Your talent lies not in military campaigns, but Liu Lang happens to be exceptionally gifted in them. You brothers complement each other and support one another, which puts my mind at ease.”
Ling Zheng replied in a solemn tone.
"Father, rest assured, if war breaks out, I will certainly heed my sixth brother's advice and will not act rashly," he said, swallowing his resentment.
How could Ling Zheng not know his shortcomings in warfare? In the previous two years of marching, the Prince of Zhenbei had given him many opportunities to gain experience, but even with his repeated planning and the schemes of his retainers and generals, he had only managed to win a few battles in a relatively uneventful manner.
If that's the case, then so be it, since his brothers aren't as good as him anyway.
But then there was Ling Xun.
This youngest brother, who was once unremarkable, always led his troops to great victories, and his feat of slaying a general on the battlefield made him famous throughout the land.
With him around, he outshone all his brothers.
Sometimes, Ling Zheng even secretly rejoiced that the Prince of Zhenbei's health was deteriorating. If he were in good health and could live for another ten or twenty years, he thought that all the favoritism that had been bestowed upon him would be given to Ling Xun.
The Prince of Zhenbei will definitely take good care of Ling Xun.
Therefore, it's better that he's sick. If he's sick, there won't be enough time to train Ling Xun, since he's too young. Besides, he's already trained him for over ten years, and there's no time to replace him.
During this time, Ling Zheng even thought about how to arrange things for Ling Xun after the Prince of Zhenbei left.
Unexpectedly, at the last minute, the Prince of Zhenbei gave such an order, catching him completely off guard.
In contrast, Ling Xun remained calm. He simply responded with a "yes" and added, "Father, rest assured, I will do my best to assist Third Brother."
The Prince of Zhenbei looked at his two sons and sighed inwardly.
He naturally understood Ling Zheng's temperament, but he was afraid that Ling Zheng would not tolerate Ling Xun. Ling Xun seemed calm and unassuming, but he was actually a man of strong will. If Ling Zheng really did something, he would not surrender without a fight.
It's anyone's guess what will happen to the Ling family in the future.
The Prince of Zhenbei only hoped that the two would not fight to the point of mutual destruction, giving outsiders an opportunity to seize the chance. Otherwise, no matter who wins, they will both be surnamed Ling and will both be his bloodline.
Then, he turned his gaze to Madam Wu.
The couple had been together for over ten years. Madam Wu was beautiful, gentle, and considerate; she regarded him as a god. How could he not love her? But now, he was dying, while Madam Wu was still in the prime of her youth.
"After I die, you may remarry. Sanlang, remember to take good care of him," said the Prince of Zhenbei.
Ling Zheng immediately agreed.
His biological mother died of illness, and he had no grudge against this stepmother; it was just a matter of lending a hand.
Ms. Wu choked up and said she would not marry.
The Prince of Zhenbei smiled and slightly raised his hand. Lady Wu staggered forward and grasped his hand.
He seemed to want to say something, but his eyelids drooped heavily.
The Prince of Zhenbei has passed away.
The Zhenbei Prince's Mansion was immediately filled with weeping.
What followed was a long period of mourning. The Zhenbei Prince's Mansion was draped in white mourning clothes. Even the joyous news of Ling Zheng inheriting the title was temporarily suppressed. However, the servants immediately showed their absolute respect to their new master.
The former princess, Lady Wu, suddenly found herself alone, while Bai Xue Rou was naturally pleased.
Although she is not proud of it.
By the time the funeral of the late Prince Zhenbei was completed, it was already May.
Bai Xuerou could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
The funeral should have been arranged by Madam Wu, even though Bai Xuerou was already the Princess Consort of Zhenbei—
After the Prince of Zhenbei passed away, the emperor's decree arrived, and Ling Zheng smoothly inherited the title. Now, when paying respects, he must address him as "Your Highness." However, Madam Wu is an elder and has always been in charge of the household. Bai Xuerou is not a mean-spirited person and did not intend to immediately challenge her for control of the household. But after the Prince of Zhenbei passed away, Madam Wu fell ill and has not yet recovered.
It is worth mentioning that the Wu family sent her niece here, saying it was to take care of her.
This third daughter of the Wu family, known as Wu San Niang, was... extremely beautiful.
It is neither the otherworldly elegance of the Wu family nor the graceful beauty of Bai Xuerou; it is like a begonia weeping with dew, delicate and captivating.
Even Bai Xuerou couldn't help but marvel upon seeing it—
But I felt more complicated than anything else.
In that novel, Wu San Niang is generally portrayed as a vicious female supporting character.
She was beautiful and intelligent. She also came to the Prince's mansion under the pretense of serving the sick. She fell in love with Ling Zheng at first sight and began to compete with Bai Xuerou openly and secretly.
One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of the book is that the female protagonist is fed poisoned wine, and it was she who did it.
But Wu San Niang was just a scapegoat pushed to the front by behind-the-scenes manipulators.
Hou Feng, the strategist who saw that Ling Zheng still had feelings for Bai Xuerou, was worried about being purged later:
He proposed a plan to poison Bai Xuerou and then pin the blame on Lang Shi to damage the Lang family's reputation, hoping to eliminate any future trouble.
Persuaded by his advisor, Ling Zheng pretended to have Bai Xuerou fake her death and was keeping her elsewhere.
The woman surnamed Lang knew perfectly well what was going on, but she used someone else to do her dirty work.
Finally, there's the ruthless Wu San Niang, who was tortured to death by Ling Zheng after Bai Xue Rou faked her death.
Everyone was inextricably linked to Bai Xuerou's first death.
Now, stepping away from the novel's plot and back into reality, Wu San Niang, after arriving at the Prince's Mansion, cautiously but proactively and subtly eagerly tried to please Bai Xue Rou.
The reason was that she was in love with Ling Xun.
When she first discovered this, Bai Xuerou found it absurd, so she kept her distance from her.
After a few times, Wu San Niang stopped trying to curry favor with Bai Xue Rou.
The girl's thoughts were clearly not yet perfectly concealed, and Bai Xuerou could sense her resentment and dissatisfaction.
Besides Ling Xun, who was completely unsuspecting, Ling Zheng caused even more trouble.
Over the years, he had received many gifts, but he remained unmoved. Now that he has inherited the throne, the number has almost doubled.
Ling Zheng remained unmoved and kept himself clean.
But it is precisely because of this that he is even more loved by those women, who think he is a good man.
Whenever faced with those envious tones, Bai Xuerou simply smiled faintly—
In the novel, Ling Zheng first discussed with Bai Xuerou about making her his concubine in July of the year the Prince of Zhenbei passed away.
Two more months...
Two months is enough for a lot to happen; it seems very long, yet also very short, passing by in the blink of an eye.
As if by chance, people slowly began to talk about Bai Xue Rou's childlessness, and even Madam Wu couldn't help but ask a few questions.
Since her niece from her maternal family came, she felt somewhat apologetic when speaking to Bai Xuerou, but ultimately showed some concern, mentioning that the Wu family knew a famous doctor and that she should take a look.
Bai Xuerou simply smiled and politely declined.
"It was probably when I fell into the water that year." She looked disappointed, as if she wanted to say something but couldn't, and sighed softly, "Oh well, let's see what fate has in store. Besides, I trust Sanlang."
Wu's expression shifted slightly, and she echoed the sentiment.
Bai Xuerou lowered her eyes and understood. If there was anyone in the world who understood the late Prince Zhenbei the most, it would naturally be Lady Wu.
So, did she also have some guesses?
Afterwards, Ling Zheng spoke up personally, which successfully suppressed the rumors, and he then reassured Bai Xuerou repeatedly.
The man before her was still handsome, but the power he held had diminished his former gentleness, adding a touch of haughty arrogance and domineering strength. His eyes were full of tenderness as he looked at her; anyone could see the deep love he held for her.
But this affection can never surpass power.
If this idea was initially just a suspicion that Bai Xuerou had based on the plot of the novel, then with Ling Zheng's various actions over the years, she became more and more convinced of it.
All of this led to Bai Xuerou finally becoming familiar with her identity as the Princess Consort of Zhenbei, and July seemed to be just around the corner.
Even earlier than Ling Zheng's confrontation came Ling Xun's return to Beijing.
When Jin Tao excitedly came to deliver the news, Bai Xue Rou was arranging flowers.
The newly blooming lotus flowers in the lake have petals with slightly darker pink tips, which lightly tint the pale pinkish-white of the majority of the blooms. She took a shallow ceramic plate to arrange them and observed them closely, using it to pass the time.
Upon hearing this, she paused, holding a lotus bud and looking at Jin Tao.
"Where is he?" A guess flashed through Bai Xuerou's mind.
Jin Tao smiled and said, "After returning to the manor, Sixth Master went to the Prince's study courtyard and only sent someone to inform him that he would come to visit you after speaking with the Prince."
She was genuinely happy. Regardless of what her superiors thought, all the maids who served Bai Xuerou knew how good Sixth Master was to her. When Sixth Master went out to war, he would send back any good things to Bai Xuerou, even more frequently than Ling Zheng.
As Jin Tao spoke, she thought Bai Xue Rou would be happy, but she saw Bai Xue Rou lost in thought, as if she had thought of something and seemed to sigh. Jin Tao immediately felt uneasy and subconsciously suppressed her smile.
"You..." Bai Xuerou sighed softly.
If, as she suspected, Ling Xun returned because of Ling Zheng's planned marriage, then he really shouldn't have. For no other reason than that she hadn't even received any news about the marriage, yet he rushed back—wasn't that a clear indication of his intelligence network? Ling Zheng was already wary of him; if this was the case, he would likely be even more cautious.
That is indeed the case.
When Ling Zheng received the news of Ling Xun's return, the other party had already entered the city. Hou Feng and his group of strategists were in the study, exchanging glances and guessing that Ling Xun had received the news.
Ling Xun frowned, while Hou Feng seemed to be deep in thought.
He had been discussing the marriage alliance with Ling Zheng these past few days, and according to the advice of the strategists, they naturally wanted the marriage alliance to succeed.
The Ling family is powerful, and the Lang family is prestigious. If they can unite, what great things cannot be accomplished?
Of course, people also speculated whether the marriage was just a ploy by the Lang family to mislead them, a marriage on the surface but a scheme to plot against them behind the scenes.
However, such matters can be handled with caution. In comparison, the benefits of marrying into the Lang family and gaining the support of literati and scholars are far greater.
However, Ling Zheng hesitated because of his deep bond with Bai Xuerou.
But after their persuasion, they had visibly wavered these past few days. But then, unexpectedly, Ling Xun returned. Given Ling Xun's deep respect and affection for Bai Xuerou, it was obvious he wouldn't agree.
"You may all leave now," Ling Zheng said upon receiving news of Ling Xun's arrival at the residence.
The advisors immediately agreed and withdrew, but not long after they left, they bumped into Ling Xun, who was striding towards the courtyard of the study.
Ling Xun glanced around and realized that these were the people trying to persuade Ling Zheng to marry into the family.
A cold gaze swept over them like a blade, sending a chill down the spines of the strategists. They knew they were being held hostage, but they maintained their composure and bowed to Ling Xun one by one.
Ling Xun withdrew his gaze, pretending not to see anything, and walked straight past.
“Brother Hou, look…” Someone looked at Hou Feng, hesitating to speak.
They had studied Ling Xun extensively. In fact, this renowned Qilin General, who usually appeared calm and unassuming, was merely indifferent; if he were to take action, it would be with the force of thunder.
Strategists usually remain behind the scenes, devising plans and strategies, but this person already knows them. If he really decides to take action, they may not be able to withstand it.
Hou Feng smiled and said, "It's alright, we just need to remember to stay loyal."
The strategists were finally reassured.
In the study, Ling Zheng greeted Ling Xun as he entered, and after taking his seat, his first question was, "I heard that Third Brother is planning a marriage alliance with the Lang family?"
"Where did Sixth Brother get this information?" Ling Zheng had already planned ahead and asked in return.
Ling Xun's expression was indifferent, but when he looked at Ling Zheng, even his usual respect disappeared.
"Don't worry, Third Brother, the information came from the Lang family easily. I wonder if someone did it on purpose." A mocking smile appeared on his lips.
Ling Zheng frowned immediately, realizing that the Lang family was trying to kill two birds with one stone and take the opportunity to sow discord between him and Ling Xun.
But it's also possible that Ling Xun was lying to him.
Ling Zheng felt a lump in his throat as he thought of the words of the late Prince Zhenbei before his death.
"I only have one question: if Third Brother wants to arrange a marriage, how do you plan to settle your sister-in-law? Do you intend to make her a concubine?" Ling Xun stared intently at Ling Zheng.
Degrading one's wife to the status of a concubine is a humiliation for anyone, let alone his sister-in-law.
Ling Xun is indeed ambitious, but he's not in a hurry. He's only a teenager, so he has plenty of time to take his time.
But he didn't expect Ling Zheng to do this. After receiving the news, his heart was churning like boiling water, and he even felt murderous intent.
How dare Ling Zheng!
"How dare you! Is this how you speak to your elder brother?" Ling Zheng said angrily.
“Brother, just say yes or no. If it’s no, I’ll apologize to you immediately.” Ling Xun wouldn’t budge an inch.
Ling Zheng frowned and remained silent for a long time.
His heart was in turmoil, sometimes filled with his deep affection for Chunniang, sometimes with the various pronouncements of his advisors. He ascended the throne and became emperor.
Ultimately, ambition overwhelmed everything else. He thought that once he ascended the throne, he would make Chunniang his empress, the most honorable woman in the world.
"Listen to me." Under Ling Xun's pressure, Ling Zheng made up his mind instead.
Then, he slowly told Ling Xun about the strategist's plan and his own thoughts.
"Don't worry, no matter what, I will not mistreat Chunniang. We are husband and wife, how could I bear to see her suffer? In the future, I will make her the most honorable woman in the world."
Ling Xun looked at Ling Zheng with almost surprise.
Is Ling Zheng really that naive?
No, it's just that they're blinded by greed.
"If my brother can think of these things, how could the Lang family overlook them? You are putting your sister-in-law in danger. Furthermore, if it is really as my brother says, that she can rise to power with the help of the Lang family, the Lang family is a century-old family, and you can't just get rid of them as you please."
Even though he knew the truth, Ling Xun still held back and tried to persuade her for his sister-in-law's sake.
"At that time, the world will be in our grasp, let alone the mere Lang family. With my troops, I can easily crush all obstacles."
But you also have troops now, why don't you conquer them now instead of leaving it for later?
Ling Xun thought to himself, and quietly looked at Ling Zheng, but said nothing more.
He knew in his heart that Ling Zheng wasn't ignorant; he was just blinded by ambition and harboring wishful thinking.
Ling Xun gave up. He decided to ask Bai Xuerou what she thought and what she planned to do. So he stood up and said, "It seems that my brother and I have nothing to say to each other."
"I'm going to see my sister-in-law." He regained his composure.
Ling Zheng frowned upon seeing this.
He wasn't ready to confront Bai Xuerou yet. According to the strategists' plan, they should first spread the news that Chunniang was childless and infertile...
"Sixth Brother, I haven't figured out how to tell Chunniang yet, so please don't say anything more."
"Haven't made up your mind yet?" Ling Xun looked at him and said, "What are you thinking about? Are you going to wait until you've made arrangements so that you can force your sister-in-law to back down through rumors?"
He remained calm, yet Ling Zheng felt an unparalleled mockery, which almost made him furious, but he managed to restrain himself.
“Fine, then I’ll go with you,” he said.
Ling Zheng thought that Chunniang was always sensible and would definitely agree if she knew his predicament.
But a faint voice inside her said, 'No, Chunniang longs for the kind of lifelong, monogamous relationship her parents had; she won't agree to it…'
Ling Zheng closed his eyes tightly, refusing to think any further.
Chunniang is gentle and considerate; she will definitely agree.
Anyway, he would never give up on her.
Thus, the two of them arrived at Zhiwei Academy.
Most of the courtyard names in the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion in Chang'an were taken from those in Yandu.
The main courtyard was still called Huiyin Courtyard. Originally, after the late king passed away, Lady Wu said she wanted to move out and give it to Bai Xuerou, but Bai Xuerou saw the reluctance and longing in her eyes and declined, continuing to live in Zhiwei Courtyard.
Zhiwei Academy is not on the central axis, but rather to the east. It takes about fifteen minutes to get there from the study.
"Your Highness, Sixth Brother." Bai Xuerou picked out a lotus bud and greeted him with a smile.
Ling Zheng gazed at the smiling face before him with longing, even greed. Seeing her about to kneel, he quickly stepped forward and reached out to support her. Looking at the flower arrangement, he asked, "Are you arranging flowers?"
Bai Xuerou smiled and nodded, then looked at Ling Xun. Ling Xun called her "sister-in-law." When she thought about why the child had rushed back, her heart softened. She waved her hand and said, "Why did you suddenly come back? In such a hurry, you didn't even forget to send a letter home."
Ling Xun took two steps forward, his calm demeanor softening into a warm tone, and said gently, "It's something urgent."
Bai Xuerou glanced at him, then at Ling Zheng, seemingly sensing something from the somewhat subtle atmosphere between the two brothers. She composed herself and said, "Let's go inside and talk."
The two brothers silently followed her inside and took their seats. They remained silent for a moment. Bai Xue Rou wanted to wait for them to speak first, but Ling Zheng didn't know how to start. In the end, it was Ling Xun who told them to leave after the maids served tea.
"Sister-in-law, the Lang family has sent word that they intend to form a marriage alliance with the Ling family," he said.
"Marriage alliance? With...you?" Bai Xuerou was slightly surprised, then looked at Ling Xun with some hesitation, as if she had thought of something, and then looked at Ling Zheng.
Ling Zheng instinctively tried to avoid the question, remaining silent at first. But when he met Bai Xuerou's eyes, he took the initiative to admit, "It's me."
Bai Xuerou's face, flushed with a faint pink hue, suddenly turned pale.
"Chunniang, listen to me." Ling Zheng held her hand with a heavy heart and repeated what he had just said to Ling Xun, but in a gentler tone.
"You are the only one I love most. Wait for me to ascend the throne—"
"I will not be a concubine." Bai Xuerou had no desire to listen anymore and interrupted directly. Her face was as white as if it had been powdered, and there was almost no color in her skin.
"Ling Zheng, if you have the same intention, we can get a divorce." Bai Xuerou said firmly, without any intention of changing her mind.
Ling Zheng's heart clenched instantly, and he tightened his grip on Bai Xuerou's hand, determined not to let her go.
“Chunniang, don’t say such hurtful things. We are husband and wife, destined to be together for all eternity. I will not divorce you,” he said.
“But I’d rather die than be a concubine, so what should I do? You won’t arrange a marriage?” Bai Xuerou looked at him, expressionless. “But you’ve already fallen for me. You won’t change your mind, will you?”
“Chunniang, it’s only temporary. Believe me, it will only last a few years at most.” Ling Zheng tried to persuade Bai Xuerou, saying, “With me here, your life will not change in the slightest. In a few years, after I become emperor, I will get rid of those irrelevant people. Only the two of us will remain, and we will spend the rest of our lives together.”
He described his imagined vision of a beautiful future, looking at Bai Xuerou with almost expectant longing.
"A few years, at most a few years. I know I've wronged you, but once we've achieved great success, I will definitely make it up to you. Everything in the world will be yours," Ling Zheng said.
“No,” Bai Xuerou said.
“Chunniang…” Ling Zheng said helplessly, as if he were looking at a willful child.
Bai Xuerou felt extremely disgusted.
"Alright, then I'll compromise further. As you said, we can get a divorce, which would prevent the Lang family from being suspicious and allow them to fully support you. Once you've achieved your goal, you can get a divorce and then we can remarry. Wouldn't that be a win-win situation?"
Ling Zheng remained silent.
No, it's just that the thought of Bai Xuerou not being by his side, not knowing where she's gone or who she's with, is unbearable for him.
He knew very well how many people coveted Chunniang; if she wanted to, there were plenty of people willing to give anything to marry her.
He couldn't let Chunniang go.
She might never come back once she leaves.
“Chunniang, the world is in chaos and war these days. Where is it safer than the Prince of Zhenbei’s mansion?” Ling Xun said gently.
Bai Xuerou almost sneered, but just then, Ling Xun, who had been quietly listening from the side, spoke up, "With me here, I can protect my sister-in-law."
Ling Zheng couldn't help but glare coldly at Ling Xun, his eyes blazing with anger.
Ling Zheng was about to say something more when Bai Xuerou withdrew her hand and turned her head away, not wanting to look at him anymore.
"You've made up your mind, and so have I. I will never be a concubine in this life. Go away, I don't want to see you again."
"Chunniang".
"Get out!" Bai Xuerou said coldly.
Ling Zheng was speechless. He could only stand up and say, "Chunniang, think it over carefully. Anyway, I will never divorce you."
He took two steps, then stopped. Ling Xun could see the pain on his face, and then she heard him say, "I can't bear to do anything to you, but there's still the Bai family. Think it over carefully."
"Ling Zheng! Are you crazy?" Bai Xuerou was furious.
Ling Zheng is actually using the Bai family to threaten her?!
"The thought of losing you drives me crazy. I don't know what I might do then." Compared to the furious Bai Xuerou, Ling Zheng was almost calm. After saying that, he turned and walked out.
Bai Xuerou stared at him in astonishment, then grabbed a teacup from the table and threw it at Ling Zheng.
"roll!"
The teacup hit Ling Zheng's shoulder, but Bai Xue Rou's strength was so great that he didn't even flinch. He only paused slightly before leaving.
Watching his figure disappear into the distance, Bai Xuerou suddenly seemed to lose all her strength, her whole body went limp, and she collapsed onto the back of the chair.
Ling Xun never expected Ling Zheng to say such things. Thinking back to the pain on Ling Zheng's face at the time, he was not moved at all, but found it laughable.
If he had given up the marriage alliance because he couldn't bear to part with his sister-in-law, then he would have been commendable. But instead, he used his sister-in-law's family to threaten her into staying by his side.
How despicable!
“Sister-in-law, don’t pay attention to his threats. I’m here to protect you and Master.” Ling Xun said.
Bai Xuerou could only manage a bitter smile.
Even after years of mental preparation, she couldn't help but feel sad and heartbroken when suddenly faced with Ling Zheng's true colors. And what about Bai Xuerou in the novel? How much pain must she have been in?
He was utterly devastated.
The four words used in the novel to describe Bai Xue Rou's feelings now seem... truly heartbreaking.
"Sister-in-law." Ling Xun called out with some concern as she remained silent.
"But you can't protect me forever, or the Bai family forever." Bai Xuerou finally spoke, her voice very soft, as if she had lost all her strength.
Ling Xun naturally knew that he felt unusually powerless, but he was unwilling to give up and said, "I will do my best."
Bai Xuerou fell silent again.
Ling Xun hesitated, wanting to speak several times, but seeing Bai Xue Rou's exhaustion, he held back and quietly waited for her to recover.
He could sense that his sister-in-law needed some peace and quiet.
"Sixth Brother." After an unknown amount of silence, Bai Xuerou looked outside. Through the screen, the maids stood outside the door, while only the two of them were in the spacious room, which was only slightly less grand than the palace. No one would hear them if they spoke here.
Her voice was soft, languid, and affectionate, giving off a gentle feeling in a daze, and Ling Xun's heart skipped a beat.
Before he could even process the strange feeling in his heart, he immediately replied, "Sister-in-law, I'm here."
"Go back and rest. Don't leave for the next month. Your brother and I have a mess of debts, and we might need your help sometime."
Ling Xun immediately agreed.
"Alright, you must be tired from the journey. Go and rest," Bai Xuerou said again.
Ling Xun didn't agree, but looked at Bai Xuerou and said, "I'll keep my sister-in-law company."
How could she be at ease seeing Bai Xuerou so dejected?
"Accompany?" Bai Xuerou chuckled inexplicably.
Stay with her.
Ling Zheng had said he would always be with her since she was a child, but when did he start saying he would be with someone else?
“Alright, you’re back, we should have a welcome-back party.” Bai Xuerou said. Ling Xun was about to refuse when she continued, “Perfect timing, I want to get drunk. Since you’re going to keep me company, let’s have a drink together.”
Bai Xuerou rarely drinks alcohol, except when she is in a bad mood.
Upon hearing this, Ling Xun immediately lost all desire to offer advice and agreed.
Afterwards, Bai Xuerou ordered her maids to prepare a table full of dishes and to bring out some flower wine.
She actually has a good alcohol tolerance, and every time she drinks, she deliberately tries to get drunk, so even though it's flower wine, it's still very intoxicating.
Ling Xun doesn't like drinking, and Bai Xue Rou knows this, so she didn't prepare any wine for him. She just poured him a cup of flower wine.
"Do as you please." The two sat facing each other, and Bai Xuerou said, raising her glass and drinking it all in one gulp.
Ling Xun agreed. He was only there to accompany Bai Xuerou and had no intention of drinking. Throughout the banquet, he only touched his lips to the alcohol, while Bai Xuerou kept drinking one glass after another, clearly trying to get herself drunk.
After a few drinks, her face flushed, and her eyes gradually became watery.
Ling Xun initially looked at her with concern, but upon seeing this scene, he felt a little flustered, and his throat felt slightly dry. He couldn't help but look away, not daring to look any longer.
“Sixth Brother.” Bai Xuerou looked at him.
Ling Xun's heart skipped a beat.
"Thank you for coming to keep me company. I'm sorry to have troubled you today." Bai Xuerou was a little tipsy, feeling as if she were floating on clouds. She looked at the person in front of her for a while, then felt she should say something, so she spoke softly.
"It's what I should do."
Bai Xuerou smiled.
“There are no so many ‘shoulds’.” She was practically speaking whatever came to mind at this moment. “Your brother is still my husband, yet he hurts me like this. We grew up together as childhood sweethearts, and after five years of marriage, this is all he has to offer.”
Ling Xun opened his mouth to offer comfort, but didn't know what to say.
He wanted to say that Ling Zheng was blinded by greed, that he was so out of his mind that he couldn't think of anything else. But what he really wanted to say was—
“I will never be like my brother,” he whispered.
But at this moment, Bai Xuerou didn't need him to say anything. Rather than chatting, she seemed to be pouring out her heart to herself, "Men are fickle, that's for sure."
"He wants me dead."
“No.” Ling Xun didn’t like hearing Bai Xuerou say that, and immediately retorted, “I’m here.”
Bai Xuerou looked at him and smiled in a daze, it was unclear whether she had heard him or not.
"Liu Lang, A Bao, you must not do this again."
"People's hearts are fickle, so don't make promises lightly. If you make a promise and then can't keep it, the person who received the promise will be very disappointed."
"Words and thoughts can hurt people just as badly as swords."
Ling Xun looked at her, knowing she wouldn't listen to anything right now, but still said, "I know, sister-in-law, I won't do that."
Bai Xuerou then smiled slightly.
She felt completely dizzy, as if all her worries had drifted away. She could hear Ling Xun's words, but they seemed to be veiled by layers of gauze, and she couldn't hear them clearly.
But she did hear that sentence to some extent.
"Okay, Bao, your sister-in-law believes in you." Bai Xuerou made a gesture she would never make when she was sober, raising her hand to rub Ling Xun's head, but she couldn't reach him because of the table.
She seemed confused and frowned slightly.
Ling Xun looked at the pale pink fingertips, pursed his lips slightly, his ears turning red, and leaned closer.
Bai Xuerou then touched his head, shoulders, and... cheeks as she wished.
“Sister-in-law believes in you, my son Abao is the most obedient,” she said.
Actually, a long, long time ago, when she had just become familiar with Ling Xun, Bai Xue Rou always wanted to touch his overly delicate little face. However, he was already eleven years old at that time, and it would be inappropriate to do so, so she always restrained herself.
Until this time, when I was drunk and out of my mind, I had no inhibitions and finally did what I wanted to do most.
A blush spread from the base of his ears, and Ling Xun's entire face turned bright red. Only when he saw Bai Xue Rou withdraw her hand did he straighten up. He glanced around and saw the maids waiting behind the screen, and only then did he feel relieved.
He had always known that he had some lingering feelings for his sister-in-law's touch and gentle words, and now that his wish had finally come true, he was naturally overjoyed. His heart was pounding with excitement, each sound expressing his joy.
Even after he left, Ling Xun was somewhat absent-minded, constantly recalling the soft touch of those fingertips on his cheek.
Bai Xuerou was very drunk, and after the maids helped her wash up, she went to sleep.
Ling Xun instructed Yin Gui to call him immediately if anything happened, especially regarding Ling Zheng's arrival.
Yin Gui and the others had overheard their masters' words, and upon hearing this, they agreed without hesitation, which calmed their initially flustered hearts considerably.
Yes, although the prince has changed his mind, he still has the Sixth Prince!
Bai Xuerou slept until evening. Lying in bed, she saw a green curtain with a lotus pattern. Her gaze fell on it, but her eyes were unfocused, clearly lost in thought.
After a long while, she called softly, "Jade hairpin".
"Master." The jade hairpin approached.
Bai Xue Rou's four personal maids were named after gold, silver, pearls, and jade. Yu Zan was gentle and taciturn, but the most meticulous, and she was usually the one who handled most of the communication with people outside the mansion.
She whispered a message to her.
It should be a jade hairpin.
After she left, Bai Xuerou lay back down and closed her eyes—
We'll have to trouble Wei Yi with the next steps.
Wei Yi and Ling Xun were master and apprentice. Since Ling Xun was sent out, Wei Yi naturally stayed in Chang'an. Otherwise, what if the master and apprentice rebelled together with their troops?
Therefore, he received the news even earlier than Ling Xun, and even sent a letter to Bai Xuerou much earlier, telling her to make plans in advance.
Bai Xuerou simply said that she would wait for Ling Xun to return.
Wei Yi understood that the Ling family must not be thrown into chaos.
It would be a lie to say he had no ambition whatsoever, but he still gave it up.
The world... is too heavy.
He knew himself well; he was only good at military campaigns and wouldn't cause trouble.
Now, Ling Xun is back.
Bai Xuerou also made a decision.
Wei Yi immediately made the arrangements. In the independent courtyard, he recalled the words Bai Xuerou had spoken a few years ago when he was still by Bai Xuerou's side.
It came true.
Thinking of how heartbroken she must be, Wei Yi felt a pang of pity and worry, yet he couldn't help feeling proud.
This is Bai Xuerou.
She is gentle on the outside but strong on the inside; her gentleness is genuine, but she is by no means submissive or easily bullied.
If Ling Zheng were gone...
Wei Yi recalled the Bai Xue Rou he had seen at the last New Year's banquet. She was like a blooming peony, dazzling in her beauty. He wondered how many people had secretly watched her that night.
My heart skipped a beat, and some delusional thoughts arose in my mind.
He quickly dispersed the fumes, and it took him several moments to calm his breathing.
Rumors spread that very day. The servants in the mansion dared not discuss it openly, but they still did so in secret.
Before long, many people knew that Ling Zheng was going to arrange a marriage with the Lang family and demote the princess to a concubine.
The Lang family soon received the news. Lang Cheng put down his pen, admiring the calligraphy he had just written with satisfaction, and only said, "It's not quite as good as his father's."
If it were Ling Ji'an, when he wanted to arrange a marriage, he would probably kill his current wife immediately, just like his first wife. But Ling Xun...
The sentence seemed to have no beginning or end, but the person who came to deliver it instantly understood.
"If we're talking about someone worth watching, it's still the sixth one, but what can we do when his lifespan is too short? It's fortunate that his lifespan was short," he laughed.
Lang Cheng smiled and said, "We'll leave the rest to them and let them make a fuss over their own."
"yes."
Ling Zheng quickly suppressed the matter, but some rumors still circulated outside. However, those who knew about it were all extraordinary people, and out of consideration for the reputation of the Ling and Lang families, they pretended not to know.
Ling Zheng assumed Bai Xue Rou was just throwing a tantrum and told the people in the manor to be careful, so he didn't pay much attention.
Since that day when they had their conversation, Bai Xuerou had never seen him again. Every time he went to her, she would refuse to see him. He felt somewhat depressed, sighed, and ordered his men to go to the camp outside the city.
Every few days, Ling Zheng would visit the Zhenbei Army camp and chat with the generals.
He always remembered what the late king said before he passed away, that he was not good at military affairs, and he admitted it. But the more he said that, the more he cared about it and the more he wanted to prove himself.
But a lack of expertise is a lack of expertise. No matter how many times he went to the main camp, he could only see more of how talented Ling Xun was.
Ling Zheng finished his work after breakfast before setting off. When he arrived, Ling Xun and Wei Yi, master and apprentice, were directing three thousand soldiers to practice military tactics and engage in combat. General Liu and the other generals were watching from the sidelines, offering their comments. They all praised him when they saw him.
Everyone in the arena was focused on the battle and seemed unaware of him.
Whether it's true or not, these two, master and disciple...
Ling Zheng harbored suspicions and was ultimately somewhat displeased. However, he showed no sign of it on his face, simply listening to the soldiers explain the ingenuity of the battle formation.
He could only discern a few points and didn't find it particularly ingenious, but he knew that since the generals had said so, it meant it was indeed excellent. This wasn't something he could simply ignore or deny, and pretend it hadn't happened.
After the battle drill, Wei Yi had a slight advantage, but Ling Xun didn't care at all. He walked and chatted with him. When they discovered Ling Zheng, the master and disciple greeted each other.
"Your Highness."
"Third Brother."
Ling Zheng greeted the two men with a smile, then had lunch together, chatted with several generals for a while, and then set off back to the city.
As the Prince of Zhenbei, his safety is of utmost importance. He is always accompanied by more than a hundred guards when he travels, surrounding him to ensure that nothing unexpected happens to him.
These guards weren't all experts, but a hundred or so were enough to handle small groups of assassins, and if there were too many assassins, they could hold out until reinforcements arrived.
Since inheriting the title from Ling Zheng, he has faced more than ten assassination attempts, and he has survived them all in this way.
Therefore, when he was attacked again today, Ling Zheng was not too nervous. He thought it would be the same again. But who knew that there was a master among the people who came today. He broke through the guards' blockade and killed his way to Ling Zheng's side. The guards fought desperately and risked their lives to finally stop him. Even so, Ling Zheng was stabbed in the chest.
Blood splattered everywhere, flesh tore open, and in an instant, the warm, scalding blood soaked his front.
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