The Bad Guys: Everyone, let’s revive the Tang Dynasty together!

Chapter 453 Li Shi, personal name Zuo (middle)
In mid-February in Bianliang, spring had already quietly crept onto the branches. The trees and flowers in the inner garden of the Qin Prince's Mansion were adorned with tender green buds, and the air was filled with the unique, moist scent of thawing earth and the vibrant life force of budding vegetation. The setting sun cast a golden glow, painting the glazed tile roofs with a flowing, warm hue, and elongating the languid shadows of several figures beneath the corridor outside the flower hall.

Under the corridor, the tabby cat "Tiger Head" stretched out its limbs in the sunniest spot by the railing, its thick fur glistening in the light. A little further away, the petite Jianzhou cat "Snow Claw" lazily curled up on the railing covered with a thick, soft cushion, only its pink nose peeking out, enjoying the last warmth of the day.

Suddenly, Tiger Head's alert, pointed ears twitched almost imperceptibly, then stood erect completely. It jerked its head up from its slumber, its nostrils flaring rapidly as it caught the slightest anomaly in the air. Almost simultaneously, Snow Claw also snapped open its round, amber eyes, its ears turning precisely toward the moon gate leading from the inner courtyard to the outer residence.

A low growl rolled from deep in Tiger Head's throat, while Snow Claw leaped lightly and silently off the railing, its tail held high like an alert flag, pointing towards the door and letting out a tentative, crisp, short meow.

The flower hall was warm and inviting, shielding it from the slight chill of an early spring evening. The furnishings were elegant; a pot of budding spring orchids sat on a table, their delicate fragrance wafting through the air. A half-open window let in a gentle breeze carrying the scents of awakening earth and sprouting plants.

The Empress leaned against a large, soft couch, her pregnant belly already showing a rounded curve beneath her apricot-yellow brocade robe, carefully examining the ledgers concerning water conservancy expenditures. Miao Chengtian knelt on a brocade stool beside the couch, skillfully and gently massaging her calves.

On the other side of the embroidered stool, Ji Ruxue and Xuan Jingtian were talking in hushed tones. Their voices were soft and gentle. In her hand was an unfinished baby bib with fine stitches. The silver needles flew nimbly between her fingers, and her movements carried a calm rhythm.

Before the rosewood zither table in the corner, Guang Mutian's fingertips lightly caressed the strings, the lingering melody lingering. Her gaze was calm as still water, as if immersed in a realm beyond the strings. Yang Yantian was meticulously pruning the withered leaves of a pot of orchids, her movements as gentle as possible, afraid of disturbing the tranquility.

On the windowsill, "Meiguo," the little tyrant of the cats brought from Fengxiang by the Empress, occupied the most comfortable corner, basking in the setting sun and making satisfied purring sounds.

"Meow~"

Snowclaw's clear, joyful cry came from the direction of the moon gate, breaking the silence in the hall. This was followed by Tiger Head's even louder "meow," which continued inwards, as if carrying some kind of announcement.

The music stopped abruptly. Guangmu Tian's slender fingers pressed on the slightly trembling strings, his brows furrowed. Yang Yan Tian's silver scissors froze in mid-air, and withered leaves fell silently.

Ji Ruxue's fingers, which were gripping the needle, suddenly paused. Her cool gaze lifted and turned towards the doorway, a hint of barely perceptible doubt in her eyes, though she slowed her pace. Miao Chengtian's kneading hand also paused. Then, noticing the Empress's profile, still focused on the account books, she silently chuckled at the two cats' mischief. She smiled and shook her head, not giving it much thought.

In that brief pause caused by the cat's meow, the beaded curtain hanging at the entrance of the flower hall was gently lifted by a hand with distinct knuckles and a few signs of wear and tear.

A figure wearing a worn-out cloak appeared at the doorway, with a few unmelted frosts still clinging to his shoulders. His brows bore the weariness of a long journey, but his eyes held a deep smile of returning home and a hint of barely perceptible fatigue.

Behind him followed only Qianwu, dressed in a sleek red belted long dress. As he entered, Qianwu silently lowered the curtain, blocking the view from the outside. A hint of relief at completing her task and a mischievous smile flashed across her face.

Snowclaw darted in after them, circling affectionately around the man's legs and meowing sweetly. Tiger Head also approached with steady steps, rubbing its massive head against the dusty hem of his robe, letting out a low growl.

An eerie silence instantly fell over the hall.

Miao Chengtian's hand froze completely on the Empress's calf, and Xuan Jingtian's unspoken words to Ji Ruxue remained on his lips.

Ji Ruxue's fingers, holding the needle, trembled almost imperceptibly, the tiny silver needle nearly piercing her fingertip. Even the lazy cat on the windowsill stopped purring, its amber eyes widening as it curiously observed its suddenly appearing master. Guangmutian released his hand from the strings, a flicker of disbelief and surprise in his eyes, while Yang Yantian put down his silver scissors, his face beaming with undisguised joy.

The Empress hadn't noticed at first, but then belatedly turned around, her half-closed phoenix eyes suddenly snapping open. A look of disbelief flashed across her eyes, which were then overwhelmed by a huge, almost overflowing joy. Almost instinctively, she wanted to sit up straight.

"Sit still, don't disturb the baby." Xiao Yan's voice rang out with a smile, gentle yet undeniably authoritative. As he spoke, he strode to the bedside, firmly supporting the Empress's arm and stopping her movements. He then leaned down and familiarly stroked the Empress's lower abdomen. Perhaps in a good mood, he also rubbed the fluffy little head with its snow-white paws, and patted the thick back of the tiger-headed cat, eliciting even more satisfied purrs from the two cats.

His gaze then turned to Ji Ruxue, carrying the same warmth: "Xue'er."

Ji Ruxue's eyes instantly welled up with tears. She rose gracefully, her movements retaining their usual cool and aloof charm, yet a hint of urgency and lightness lurked beneath her steps. Before she even approached, a faint yet captivating smile curved her lips. Her usual reserve melted away like ice and snow in front of Xiao Yan, transforming into a gentle tenderness flowing in her eyes: "You... how did you manage to come back so quietly? Even the cat knew before we did."

Her tone was reproachful, but even more so, it revealed her undisguised joy, which she no longer wanted to conceal.

"I wanted to give you a surprise," Xiao Yan explained with a smile, his gaze sweeping over the four Holy Maidens of Miaochengtian, "so as to save us from making a big fuss."

The four women then realized what was happening. Xuan Jingtian, Guang Mutian, and Yang Yantian quickly stood up and, together with Miao Chengtian, gracefully bowed: "Welcome back to Your Highness!"

At this moment, Meiguo on the windowsill finally couldn't hold back any longer. With a soft "meow," she jumped down gracefully and walked to Xiao Yan's feet, joining the ranks of those rubbing against his legs, seemingly vying for his favor.

Xiao Yan was in a great mood. He bent down and patted the heads of the cats one by one, eliciting a chorus of satisfied meows. He straightened up and looked at Qianwu, who had been standing quietly by the door with a relaxed and genuinely happy look in his eyes. He said gently, "Thank you for your hard work, Qianwu."

Qianwu slightly bent her knees, her posture respectful and gentle. Her gaze lingered briefly on the Empress and Ji Ruxue, filled with the same joy: "My lord has returned safely. The Princess, Miss Xue'er, and I are all overjoyed."

Without much small talk, as dusk was falling, she immediately said to the Four Holy Maidens, “My lord must be tired from his journey. Miaochengtian and Xuanjingtian, quickly prepare some hot water. Yangyantian, instruct the kitchen to prepare some light dishes and soups that my lord likes. Guangmutian, please go to the study and fetch the mountain tea that His Highness often drinks to brew.”

Overjoyed, the four immediately accepted the order and quickly withdrew from the meeting.

Dinner was quickly prepared in the inner hall. The dishes were exquisite and light, mostly seasonal spring vegetables, tender fish soup, and refreshing side dishes, catering to both the Empress's pregnancy and Xiao Yan's fatigue from the journey. The seven people sat around a table, the warmth of the fire mingling with the aroma of the food, creating a cozy and harmonious atmosphere filled with the joy of a long-awaited reunion.

Xiao Yan deliberately avoided mentioning the hardships and undercurrents along the way, only speaking of the spring plowing scenes he had seen during his inspection of Hebei Province. His tone was relaxed, carrying a sense of ease after returning home.
"As we traveled along the way, the land of Hebei was already bustling with activity. The fields, irrigated by the Yellow River, were dark and lush, and the turned soil seemed to be full of life."

He spoke in a relaxed tone, ladling a spoonful of tender water shield soup for the Empress and Ji Ruxue respectively, and said to the women with a smile, "When I passed through a rural area in Cangzhou, I saw several old farmers arguing on the ridges of a field. Upon closer listening, I learned that they were arguing about the timing and amount of water to irrigate the fields. One said, 'The midday sun is too strong, and irrigating will damage the seedlings' roots,' while the other said, 'At night, there is frost, and the cold water will easily stunt the roots.' They argued until their faces were red, and I couldn't answer for the time being. In the end, Shangguan Yunque found the village head, and they decided that 'the best time is when the sun is setting and the water temperature is moderate,' and the two finally stopped arguing. It was quite amusing."

He paused, took a sip of soup, and continued, "In Bozhou, I met an old hand who tended his wheat seedlings with great care. He didn't use the new iron seed drill issued by the government; he insisted on using his family's heirloom wooden seed drill, saying that the wooden drill penetrated the soil more gently, without damaging the roots, resulting in wheat with a firmer texture. However, the wheat seedlings in his field did indeed look more uniform and vibrant than those of his neighbors. Before I left, he insisted on giving me a handful of freshly picked shepherd's purse, saying that it was the first harvest of spring and the most delicious, and that I should take it home to try." He pointed to the bowl of bright green and fragrant shepherd's purse and tofu soup on the table.

The Empress listened intently with a gentle smile, sipping her warm soup: "What my husband sees is full of life. This scene of spring plowing is so reassuring."

She gently stroked her swollen belly, her voice tender, "Spring is in full bloom in Bianliang City. The apricot blossoms in the garden have budded and will probably bloom in a few days. Meiguo has been especially fond of running to the garden these past few days, coming back covered in pollen." Meiguo seemed to hear her own name and meowed softly at the Empress's feet.

Ji Ruxue listened quietly, her cool features appearing exceptionally gentle in the warm candlelight. She didn't interrupt much, but carefully added soup and dishes for Xiao Yan and the Empress with gentle and considerate movements. When Xiao Yan mentioned shepherd's purse, she softly added, "The shepherd's purse you brought back, the kitchen just happened to make shepherd's purse and tofu soup for dinner, it's light and seasonal. You must be tired from your journey, have some soup to nourish yourself."

Qianwu sat quietly to one side, carefully distributing the newly served green rice dumplings made with tender spring mugwort to everyone. She occasionally interjected with a word or two, her voice gentle: "My lord asked the Ministry of Works to improve the waterwheel. The Ministry of Works made several replicas a month ago and tested them in the suburbs of Bianliang. The farmers' feedback was excellent, saying that it saves labor and increases water flow. This spring, it should be widely promoted."

Although Miao Chengtian, Xuan Jingtian, and the others remained silent, they wore relaxed smiles, savoring this rare moment of warmth and tranquility, secluded from the outside world. The cats finished their meals, Mei Guo curled up at the Empress's feet, while Hu Tou and Xue Zhao licked each other's fur on the soft cushions in the corner of the hall, a picture of peace and harmony.

After the meal, the maid cleared away the bowls and plates and served refreshing mountain tea. Meiguo jumped onto the Empress's lap and soon began to snore, her small body rising and falling slightly with her breath.

Xiao Yan picked up the warm teacup, feeling the warmth of the porcelain with his fingertips, but did not drink immediately. He put down the teacup, his gaze calmly sweeping over the Empress and Ji Ruxue, finally settling on the slightly rippling tea in the cup: "Yun Ji, Xue'er, there is something I need to tell you. Bago... has returned with me."

The Empress gently stroked the smooth fur of the fruit on her lap, her expression calm, as if she had only heard expected news: "Hmm, my husband already informed me in a letter. She was injured before, and now that she has returned, why haven't I seen her? What are your plans, my husband?"

Xiao Yan raised his gaze to meet her eyes and said, "Bago was originally a pawn carefully placed by Li Keyong beside me, a honey trap. At first, he did have ulterior motives. But he is pragmatic and knows when to advance and retreat. As time went on, and in addition..."

He paused slightly, his gaze sweeping over Qianwu before turning to the Empress and Ji Ruxue, and said frankly, "Furthermore, during the time she served me, her thoughts gradually became clear. After being given a title, she behaved herself well in the household. Last year, Li Keyong died suddenly, and Jin was in turmoil. She was, after all, a subject of Jin, and her loyalty to her former master had not faded. It was not out of betrayal of you and me, but out of a foolish sense of loyalty, that she earnestly asked me and you to resign, wishing to return to Jin to do her last bit of effort. Although this was a foolish act, it was understandable. This time in Hebei, she was wounded by an arrow while protecting Li Cunren. In Zhenzhou City, she also presented me with a dagger, performed the grassland ceremony, and volunteered to become my slave, vowing to be loyal to me to the death. Her heart is evident."

Xiao Yan's gaze shifted between the Empress and Ji Ruxue before finally saying, "All that happened in the past was due to each serving their own master. Now she has severed ties with her former lord and pledged her heart to him. I intend for her to remain in the palace. Li Cunren's injuries are not yet healed, and his spirit is wounded; he needs close supervision and guidance. Bago is familiar with the affairs of Jin and has a past friendship with Li Cunren, making her the most suitable person to look after him. Firstly, it makes the best use of her talents, and secondly, we can observe her future performance. What do you think?"

The Empress picked up her teacup, took a sip, looked at Xiao Yan with her phoenix eyes, and smiled, "My husband is thoughtful and has handled things properly. Since she has sworn to serve him to the death, then so be it. Let her focus on taking good care of Li Cunren."

She turned to Ji Ruxue, her tone gentle, and asked, "What does Xue'er think?"

Ji Ruxue met the Empress's gaze, then looked at Xiao Yan, her cool eyes remaining unchanged: "What the Princess says is quite right. As long as Bago treats her husband with sincerity, there's no need to bring up the past. She was injured protecting someone this time and made a solemn vow; it wasn't easy for her." She paused slightly, seemingly choosing her words carefully, "It is indeed most appropriate for her to care for and comfort Li Cunren, who is also from Jin. I only hope that Li Cunren can come to his senses soon and not let this painstaking effort go to waste."

With the matter of Bago settled, the atmosphere in the hall became slightly tense, but Xiao Yan seemed not to be finished yet, and waved his hand. Miao Chengtian, Xuan Jingtian, Guang Mutian, and Yang Yantian understood, bowed silently, and retreated outside the hall to wait. For a moment, only he and the Empress remained in the hall.

Xiao Yan remained silent for a moment, his fingertips unconsciously tracing the smooth rim of the teacup. A rare hint of hesitation appeared on his face, but under several gazes, he immediately turned to the Empress and Ji Ruxue with a serious expression.

"There is one more matter that I need to discuss with you."

The Empress chuckled and said, "My husband, just speak plainly. Why hesitate?"

He waited a moment before looking openly at the Empress and her companion: "Shuliduo reconciled with her before the New Year regarding the Yinshan matter, sending her daughter Yelü Zhiwu to Bianliang. This matter... I kept from you." As soon as he finished speaking, Qianwu, standing to the side, paused slightly, then subconsciously stepped forward, opening her mouth to speak: "Your Highness, it was I who conceived..."

“Qianwu.” Xiao Yan raised his hand to interrupt her, and at the same time grabbed Qianwu’s hand and pulled her to his side, but his gaze remained honestly fixed on the Empress and Ji Ruxue. “This matter has nothing to do with her. You may have heard about some old things between me and Shuliduo. As for this girl being sent here, it was because I was worried that you would overthink things, so I was confused for a moment and had Qianwu take this drastic measure, secretly placing her in a separate courtyard and strictly ordering that the news be kept secret.”

The Empress slightly raised her phoenix eyes. Although a hint of surprise flashed across her face, her expression remained calm, even showing a trace of understanding and a touch of amusement. She did not look at Qianwu, who was eager to explain, but simply said, "My husband is our husband. There is really nothing to worry about in this matter... However, if that is the case, why did you tell me so frankly?"

Xiao Yan squeezed Qian Wu's slightly cold hand, pondered for a moment, and said:

"After much thought, I've decided that this matter shouldn't be kept from you. Husband and wife are one, and honesty is the most important thing. You can hide it for a while, but not forever, and it's easy to create unnecessary suspicion. Rather than letting you find out later because of gossip or unforeseen circumstances, and causing you resentment, it's better for me to explain it to you personally."

He paused, his tone turning somber: "Moreover, the situation in the northern desert is changing rapidly. Yelü Lage has raised an army, and Li Siyuan has led the Jin army deep into the north. The grand strategy of the northern frontier is at a critical juncture. It is a fact that this woman is staying in the mansion. How to deal with her afterward is related to the overall situation of the northern frontier. It is necessary for Yunji, Xue'er and I to discuss it together. We should not keep it from you."

The Empress nodded slightly, pondered for a moment, and said, "My husband is so honest with me, and I am deeply grateful. You are the ruler of the world, and I am but a woman. What does it matter? But this person has a special identity. After all, she is the daughter of the Empress Dowager of the Northern Desert. Whether now or in the future, her significance is extraordinary. What is your opinion, my husband?"

Ji Ruxue's cool gaze flickered slightly. She remained silent for a moment, her long eyelashes drooping to conceal a complex emotion deep within her eyes. However, she didn't dwell on the past between Xiao Yan and Shuliduo, but instead asked with concern, "The northern desert is currently shrouded in war clouds. Yelü Lage's rebellion is not yet quelled, and Li Siyuan has led his army deep into the region. If we rashly send her back now, wouldn't it disrupt Shuliduo's plans? Perhaps... she could be used by someone with ulterior motives, creating suspicion and causing the Empress Dowager of the northern desert to misunderstand your sincerity?"

A hint of appreciation flashed in Xiao Yan's eyes as he looked at Ji Ruxue and nodded, saying, "Xue'er's concerns are quite valid. The northern desert has now become a hunting ground. Yelü Lage is the prey struggling in its death throes, while Li Siyuan is a hostile guest trying to snatch chestnuts from the fire. The Yuan Xingqin, Wang Yanzhang, Ghost King, Zhong Xiaokui, and others I have set up are all hunters with bows at their sides. How the hunters behave depends on how their master, Shuliduo, cooperates. It's a case of pulling one thread affecting the whole situation. Sending Aogu back now could indeed distract Shuliduo and cause trouble instead."

His gaze swept over his three wives, and he said thoughtfully, “Keeping Aogu in our hands is a double-edged sword. If used properly, it can increase our deterrence; if used improperly, it will harm us. My idea is… to postpone her return. We will discuss her fate after the dust settles in the northern desert and the situation becomes clear. She will remain in the separate courtyard, under Qianwu’s personal supervision. We will send more reliable people to isolate her from inside and outside the palace and treat her as a special hostage. The royal palace will continue to provide her with all its supplies, but we must ensure that her whereabouts are kept secret and that she does not cause any trouble.”

He looked at the Empress and Ji Ruxue, his tone tinged with apology, "This matter... I'm afraid it will be difficult for you both."

The Empress gently reached out and placed her hand on Xiao Yan's hand, which was resting on the table: "My husband prioritizes the greater good of the world and the stability of the royal residence. How could you feel wronged?"

She paused, her fingertips unconsciously tapping lightly on the back of Xiao Yan's hand. "Besides, this woman's status is different. She was sent by the Empress Dowager of the Northern Desert to show her sincerity in rekindling old friendships. Her status as the Goddess and Princess of the Northern Desert is undeniable. If we keep her in the separate courtyard for a long time, it would be tantamount to house arrest, which would only make us seem petty and not open-minded enough."

She raised her eyes, her gaze calmly meeting Xiao Yan's slightly surprised look. Her tone was steady and carried an undeniable air of composure: "The inner garden of the Prince's mansion is spacious, with many vacant courtyards. Since we are guests, why not invite them in? It's just adding a couple more chopsticks and a few more courtyards. Having them right here makes them easier to look after, saves Qianwu from running back and forth, and further demonstrates the sincerity of our Prince's mansion in welcoming guests."

Her gaze then turned to Qianwu, who stood to the side, with her usual trust and reliance. "Qianwu is meticulous and reliable; she will continue to be in charge of everything. However, the location for this care will be changed to the inner courtyard. Choose a quiet and secluded courtyard, and assign a few clever and well-mannered maids to serve her. All provisions should be provided according to the etiquette due to honored guests. She must not be neglected, but she must also be strictly disciplined. Is this possible?"

Qianwu immediately curtsied, her expression solemn: "Your Highness, rest assured. I understand the importance of this matter. I will certainly select the most suitable courtyard and arrange the most reliable personnel to ensure that the dignity of the Prince's residence is not compromised, and to guarantee complete isolation between the inside and outside, leaving no room for error."

Upon hearing the Empress's arrangement, Ji Ruxue nodded slightly, her cool gaze flickering: "Your Highness's consideration is thorough, and this arrangement is excellent. It is certainly more secure than the villa in the present situation. Since it is the Empress Dowager of Mobei's sincerity, we should treat her with courtesy. It is still early, so it should be fine."

Xiao Yan looked at the two women, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes, quickly turning into deep admiration and emotion. He grasped the Empress's soft hand that rested on the back of his hand, his fingertips applying a slight pressure, conveying unspoken understanding and gratitude. The Empress and Ji Ruxue's tacit understanding and sense of responsibility warmed his heart, mixed with a deeper pity, after all, both women were currently pregnant.

“Yun Ji…” Xiao Yan hesitated for a long time, but all his words finally turned into a heavy sigh, “With a wife like this, what more could a husband ask for?”

He looked at Ji Ruxue and Qianwu, his gaze equally gentle, "Thank you for your hard work, Xue'er and Qianwu as well."

The Empress felt the pressure on the back of his hand, and a gentle, warm light welled up in her phoenix eyes. She didn't speak, but simply squeezed Xiao Yan's hand back lightly with her fingertips.

The complex emotions that had been etched into Ji Ruxue's eyes had subsided, replaced by a clear and calm expression. She pursed her lips, her voice as clear as a spring babbling on jade, and said softly, "It's just my duty; there's no need to talk about hardship."

Qianwu immediately curtsied, her posture respectful and gentle, a genuine smile on her face: "It is my duty and my blessing to be able to share my husband's burdens."

Her gaze toward Xiao Yan was filled with admiration and satisfaction. Being included in his life at such a moment was a great comfort to her.

Xiao Yan's gaze slowly swept over the three faces before him—the Empress's dignified resilience, Ji Ruxue's aloof persistence, and Qianwu's gentle grace. They were different in appearance and temperament, yet at this moment, for the sake of their family and the heavy burden on his shoulders, they all displayed the same admirable sense of responsibility and compassion. That profound warmth almost overflowed from him.

After the business was concluded, the atmosphere in the hall finally returned to its previous warm and peaceful state.

The fire crackled softly, like a lullaby. The aroma of freshly brewed tea rose gently, filling the warm air with a delicate fragrance. Meiguo, on the Empress's lap, rolled over, revealing her softer belly, and let out a quiet, contented snore. Tiger Head and Snow Claw, nestled in the corner, each found a more comfortable spot, curling into two fluffy, warm balls, as if trying to envelop themselves in this tranquility.

Looking at the scene before him, Xiao Yan felt a surge of warmth in his heart that almost materialized. He took a deep breath of the air, which was filled with the aroma of tea, warmth, and the scent of family, and said in a gentle, almost sighing voice, "Alright, now that we've finished talking business, we've returned at the perfect time. Spring is in full bloom, so let me recite a poem to you that's fitting for the season."

"...On a fine day, I sought out fragrant blossoms by the Sishui River, where boundless scenery was all new at once. I easily recognized the face of the east wind, for spring is always a riot of colors."

The Empress listened with her eyes closed, a gentle smile playing on her lips, her hand lightly stroking her swollen belly, as if sharing this peaceful, poetic moment with the little life within her.

Ji Ruxue sat quietly to the side, her cool profile appearing exceptionally gentle in the candlelight. She gently placed one hand on her still flat stomach, while the other hand naturally lifted the celadon teapot to refill Xiao Yan's slightly cool teacup with hot, fragrant tea. Her movements were elegant and serene.

Qianwu sat on the other side, a serene and content smile on her lips, her gaze lingering on Xiao Yan, enjoying this peaceful reunion as always. Outside the window, the myriad lights of Bianliang City flickered gently, outlining a tranquil and serene night scene of prosperity.

------

The next morning.

The Qin Prince's Mansion was shrouded in a thin veil of spring mist, dewdrops rolling on the new grass blades, reflecting the faint morning light. The warmth of last night seemed to still linger in the damp air; the windows of the flower hall were half-open, and a gentle breeze carrying the fragrance of dew stirred the pale blue curtains. On the table, a single spring orchid quietly bloomed, its pure white petals unfurling, its delicate fragrance even more intense, refreshing and invigorating.

The Empress had changed into a loose and comfortable moon-white brocade robe, her figure clearly defined in the soft morning light. She leaned against a soft couch covered with thick brocade cushions, her posture languid and content. Ji Ruxue sat beside her, holding a jade comb, combing the Empress's cascading black hair. The morning light shone through the window lattice, falling on her delicate profile.

Several large cats chased the dappled sunlight filtering through the windowpanes on the carpeted floor, their tiny claw marks and occasional meows adding to the lively atmosphere.

Xiao Yan sat in a round-backed chair a little further away, holding a book in his hands. His gaze wasn't on the words, but rather on the peaceful and serene scene before him, filled with warmth. He had slept very soundly last night, and now the weariness between his brows had completely vanished, leaving only a rare sense of relaxation and tranquility, as if a thousand-pound burden had been lifted from his shoulders.

Qianwu looked radiant, her complexion glowing and healthy. She sat quietly at a small table, dividing the newly delivered seasonal fruits, still fragrant with morning dew. She carefully offered a peeled segment of tangerine to Xiao Yan's lips. Xiao Yan opened his mouth and took it, the sweet juice melting in his mouth.

"Meow~" Snow Paw seemed tired from playing, lightly hopping onto Xiao Yan's lap, curling up in a comfortable position, and squinting its eyes. Xiao Yan casually put down his book, gently scratching its small chin with his fingertips, eliciting a satisfied purr from the kitten. He looked up and met Ji Ruxue's gentle, smiling eyes.

"The sun is shining brightly today. After the fog clears, most of the apricot blossoms in the garden will probably be in bloom. Shall we go and take a look this afternoon?" The Empress suddenly spoke, her voice carrying the languid comfort of early morning.

Ji Ruxue also stopped combing her hair, her cool eyes looking at Xiao Yan with a silent question.

Xiao Yan was about to nod in agreement, wanting to savor this moment of stolen tranquility.

A sudden, abrupt, rapid, and heavy sound of footsteps broke the morning's tranquility as it approached from the outer room. The sound was not that of ordinary servants walking; rather, it was the sound of running, the wind whipped up by their footsteps, and the echo of leather boots on the stone pavement. It was extremely fast and heading straight for the flower hall.

The commotion instantly startled the cats in the hall. Meiguo meowed in alarm and nimbly darted behind the Empress, cautiously peeking out. Tiger Head suddenly stood up, arching its back and growling a low, threatening growl. Snow Claws also jumped up from Xiao Yan's knees, their ears perking up.

The Empress's languid smile froze instantly, a sharp glint flashing in her phoenix eyes as she instinctively protected her abdomen. Ji Ruxue's hand gripping the comb tightened abruptly, her cold expression instantly hardening, her eyes sharp as lightning. Qianwu abruptly stood up, stepping in front of Xiao Yan, his gaze piercing towards the doorway.

Xiao Yan gently stroked the startled snow paw that had sprung up on his knee, calming it down. His expression remained calm, but the relaxation deep in his eyes vanished instantly, and he narrowed his eyes slightly.

Immediately, Yu Youshu stumbled into the flower hall. Her hair was slightly disheveled, with a few strands of wet hair clinging to her pale forehead. Her forehead was covered in a fine layer of cold sweat, and her chest heaved violently. Clearly, she had used her ultimate lightness skill to run all the way here without regard for anything else. Guangmutian and Yangyantian were in hot pursuit behind her, their faces showing confusion and a hint of panic. They had obviously failed to stop her.

Yu Youshu clutched a thin copper tube tightly in her hand. The sealing wax had been torn and the edges were even deformed. The tube was still damp with night dew, as if it had just been taken off a post horse. It was unusable for sending messages by flying letter, which showed how complicated the information inside the copper tube was.

"Your...Your Highness!" Yu Youshu's voice was hoarse as she knelt heavily on the ground with a thud, raising the copper tube high above her head with both hands. "Jiang...Jiangnan urgent dispatch! Li Xingyun...Li Xingyun in Yangzhou, yesterday...proclaimed himself emperor. And issued a proclamation...proclamation..."

She was breathing heavily, the immense panic and pressure making it almost impossible for her to speak:

"...A proclamation condemning the late Crown Prince Li Zuo! The proclamation...has already spread throughout the land!"

(End of this chapter)