I was a mineral prospector in Chengdu, who transmigrated into the body of a mortal sword immortal.

When Li Bai arrived at Anrenfang, where He Zhizhang's residence was located, the sun was already high in the sky. The streets inside the ward were clean and tidy, shaded by locust trees on both sides. Several grand mansions stood in a row, their lintels displaying the status of their owners. He's mansion wasn't in the most prominent location, nor was its facade the most imposing, but the stone lions at the gate were ancient and the steps clean, exuding a refined elegance. Li Bai straightened his clothes slightly outside the ward gate, took a deep breath, and strode towards the mansion that would determine the course of his journey to Chang'an. His heartbeat was steady, his eyes clear, and the Azure Lotus Sword Intent in his palm lay dormant, as if it too were awaiting this crucial meeting.

He had just reached the street corner where the He residence was located and was about to turn into the relatively quiet alley when a rapid sound of horses' hooves suddenly came from behind him.

The sound grew louder as it approached, like raindrops striking stone slabs, carrying an undeniable force. Li Bai instinctively stepped aside to make way for it, then looked back.

A group of imperial guards, dressed in fine clothes and riding spirited horses, galloped down the main street, numbering more than ten. They wore gleaming armor that reflected the sunlight with a blinding gleam, and their warhorses were all robust and powerful steeds from the Hexi region, kicking up dust with each thud. Leading them was a fair-skinned, beardless middle-aged eunuch, dressed in a scarlet round-necked robe and a jade belt. He held aloft a bright yellow silk scroll, which fluttered jarringly in the wind.

The procession did not slow down at all, and sped straight past Li Bai.

The dust kicked up by the horses' hooves covered Li Bai's face, carrying the distinctive stench of horses and the complex smells of mud, horse manure, and spices that permeated the streets of Chang'an. He squinted at the retreating figures of the knights, his heart suddenly tightening.

He recognized the roll of yellow silk in the head eunuch's hand.

That was an imperial edict.

Only imperial edicts were written in bright yellow silk.

The direction the knights were rushing towards was precisely where the Yichun Academy was located.

A chilling coldness shot up his spine, instantly spreading to every part of his body. Li Bai stood rooted to the spot, feeling as if the air around him had frozen. Pedestrians on the street scrambled to make way, several vendors hurriedly packed up their stalls, and an old man selling flatbreads was nearly knocked over, his flatbreads scattering across the ground, covered in dust. In the distance came the cry of a frightened child, which his mother quickly covered up.

All these sounds became distant and indistinct to Li Bai's ears.

His gaze was fixed on the street corner where the group of knights had disappeared, and only one thought occupied his mind: They're here.

It was faster than he expected.

Duan Qiniang said ten days, but only one night has passed.

"Get out of the way! Get out of the way!" came the shouts of the Imperial Guard knights from afar, the voices gradually fading into the distance.

Li Bai took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. The Azure Lotus Sword Intent in his palm was slightly hot, seemingly echoing the turbulent waves within him. He closed his eyes, silently circulating his true energy to forcefully suppress the sword intent that was about to burst forth from his body.

When I opened my eyes again, they were clear again.

But beneath that clarity lies an unfathomable solemnity.

He didn't linger and strode towards the He residence.

***

The gatekeeper of the He residence was an elderly man in his fifties, dressed in a clean gray cloth robe, who was dozing inside the gatehouse. Hearing footsteps, he opened his eyes and saw a young man in a blue robe standing in front of the gate.

This young man had a handsome appearance and an indescribable air about him, resembling both the refinement of a scholar and the untamed spirit of someone from the mountains. Most striking were his eyes, clear and deep yet unfathomable, as if they held the secrets of a thousand mountains and rivers.

The gatekeeper had worked at the He residence for many years and had seen all sorts of visitors. He could tell at a glance that this person was no ordinary individual.

"Young master, what brings you here?" The doorman stood up, his tone polite but neither servile nor arrogant.

Li Bai took out a visiting card from his bosom—it was prepared for him by Duan Qiniang the night before. It was made of the finest Xuan paper, with neat ink strokes, and the signature read "Respectfully presented by Li Bai, a commoner from Sichuan."

"I am Li Bai from Shu, here to pay my respects to Supervisor He," Li Bai said, bowing slightly, his voice steady.

The gatekeeper took the visiting card, glanced at the signature, and a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes. He looked up and carefully examined Li Bai again before nodding, "Please wait a moment, young master."

After saying that, he turned around and quickly went into the mansion.

Li Bai stood waiting at the gate. The gate of the He residence was vermilion, the paint somewhat mottled, revealing the marks of time. The door knockers were made of bronze, carved in the shape of auspicious beasts, and had been polished to a shine. Above the gate hung a plaque with the two characters "He Residence" written in a slender and vigorous style, quite elegant.

The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of locust blossoms, mingled with the scent of sandalwood wafting from within the mansion. A few sparrows chirped under the eaves, and in the distance, the faint sound of a zither drifted by, tinkling and melodious like flowing water.

All of this should have brought peace of mind.

But Li Bai's heart felt as if it were being tightly gripped by an invisible hand.

He recalled the bright yellow imperial edict, the direction the imperial guards had galloped off in, and the possibility that Yang Yuhuan might be kneeling on the ground at that moment, listening to the eunuch read out the decree that would decide her fate.

Every moment of waiting felt like an eternity.

After about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the gatekeeper returned.

An elderly man came out with him.

The old man was about sixty years old, thin, and dressed in a simple dark blue robe. His hair was gray and casually tied up with a wooden hairpin. His face was gaunt with deep wrinkles, especially his eyes, which were bright and piercing, as if they could see into people's hearts. He walked with a steady gait and a straight back, exuding an air of untamed elegance.

Li Bai recognized him at a glance—it was He Zhizhang.

The title "Madman of Siming" is well-deserved.

"Could it be Li Bai from Sichuan?" He Zhizhang walked to the door, his eyes sharp as he looked Li Bai up and down.

Li Bai bowed and said, "This junior, Li Bai, pays his respects to Supervisor He."

"No need for formalities," He Zhizhang waved his hand, a hint of a smile flashing in his eyes. "I've read your poems long ago. 'The Road to Shu is Hard' and 'Drinking Alone Under the Moon'—fine poems! Truly fine poems! 'Have you not seen the Yellow River's waters come from the sky, rushing to the sea never to return?' Such spirit, such skillful writing—I've seen few like this in all my years in Chang'an!"

His voice was loud and clear, with a Jiangnan accent, and he spoke with great enthusiasm, showing no airs of a high-ranking official.

Li Bai's heart stirred slightly, and he bowed again: "Supervisor He, you flatter me. It is an honor that my humble work has caught your eye."

"No need to be modest," He Zhizhang said with a smile, patting Li Bai on the shoulder. "Come on, let's go inside and talk. What kind of behavior is it to stand at the door?"

His hand patted his shoulder with considerable force. Li Bai could sense that although the old man was over sixty, he was still very healthy and his hand was quite strong.

The two entered the mansion gate one after the other.

The He residence was much larger inside than it appeared from the outside. Passing the screen wall, one entered a spacious courtyard paved with bluestone slabs, flanked by several plum trees whose leaves were currently lush and green. In the center of the courtyard was a pond with clear water, where several koi carp swam leisurely. Beside the pond stood a rockery, its craggy rocks adding to its rustic charm.

The scent of sandalwood in the air grew stronger, mingling with the coolness of the pond's moisture and the unique fragrance of plum leaves. In the distance, the faint sound of reading could be heard; it must be the children of the He family studying at the school.

He Zhizhang led Li Bai through the courtyard to a study.

The study was small, but exquisitely furnished. Three walls were lined with bookshelves, densely packed with books. By the window was a large desk, complete with writing brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones, along with several open books. In front of the window stood a low table, upon which rested a set of celadon tea utensils, emitting the fragrant aroma of tea.

"Sit down." He Zhizhang pointed to the futon next to the low table and sat down cross-legged first.

Li Bai sat down as instructed. The cushion was new, densely woven, and very comfortable to sit on.

He Zhizhang picked up the teapot and poured Li Bai a cup of tea. The tea was emerald green with a delicate aroma; it was a fine pre-Qingming Longjing tea.

"Try it, it's from my hometown." He Zhizhang poured himself a glass, took a sip, squinted his eyes, and showed an expression of enjoyment.

Li Bai picked up his teacup; the tea was at the perfect temperature. He took a small sip, the aroma spreading in his mouth, carrying a subtle sweetness and a hint of bitterness. This taste reminded him of the clouds and mist of Mount Shu, and the nameless spiritual teas of the secret realm of the Western Mausoleum Divine Kingdom.

"Excellent tea," Li Bai said sincerely, putting down his teacup.

He Zhizhang smiled, then suddenly his smile faded, and he said seriously, "Taibai, you didn't come here today just to discuss poetry and drink tea with this old man, did you?"

Li Bai felt a chill run down his spine.

This old man was indeed perceptive.

He took a deep breath, put down his teacup, placed his hands on his knees, and sat up straight.

"Thank you for your wise judgment," Li Bai said in a low voice. "I have come here today without warning, but I have a favor to ask of you."

"Speak." He Zhizhang also put down his teacup and looked directly at Li Bai.

Li Bai did not speak immediately. He looked around; apart from the two of them, there was no one else in the study. The faint sound of reading coming from outside the window made the room seem even quieter.

"This matter... concerns a person's life, and also my lifelong wish." Li Bai spoke slowly, each word uttered with great weight, "I wish to ask Supervisor He for help in rescuing someone from this cage."

He Zhizhang frowned slightly: "Who? Where?"

"Yang, a talented woman from Shu, whose name is Yu Huan," Li Bai said, emphasizing each word. "She is currently confined to the Yichun Courtyard and will soon be sent to the palace."

The study was quiet for a moment.

The smile on He Zhizhang's face vanished completely. He stared at Li Bai, his once bright and piercing eyes now as deep as a still pool, revealing no emotion.

"Yang Yuhuan..." He Zhizhang slowly repeated the name, "I've heard of her. That woman from Shu is said to be exceptionally beautiful and skilled in music. A few days ago, someone in the palace did mention her."

Li Bai's heart sank.

"What is your relationship with her?" He Zhizhang asked.

Li Bai was silent for a moment, then slowly said, "When I was in Shu, we met once. She...she was to me like the bright moon in the night sky, a clear spring in the desert. I know this heart is foolish and delusional, I know this love is not tolerated by the world, but—"

"But you just can't let go." He Zhizhang interrupted him, sighing, "Young people..."

He picked up the teacup, then put it down, his fingers gently stroking the rim.

"Taibai, do you know what that imperial guards who just passed by the mansion were doing?" He Zhizhang suddenly asked.

Li Bai's heart tightened: "This junior... saw it."

"You saw it?" He Zhizhang looked up at him. "Then do you know what that roll of yellow silk in their hands is?"

Li Bai remained silent.

"That's an imperial edict." He Zhizhang's voice was soft, but it struck Li Bai's heart like a heavy hammer. "His Majesty has issued an order to hold a banquet at Xingqing Palace in three days to summon the talented woman from Shu, Yang, ostensibly to test her talents, but in reality..."

He paused, then didn't continue.

But Li Bai already understood what was left unsaid.

Ostensibly an assessment of talent, the real purpose was to allow Yang Yuhuan to appear before the emperor, letting Xuanzong see this legendary beauty with his own eyes. Once Xuanzong took a liking to her, the rest would follow naturally.

Three days later.

Only three days.

Li Bai felt his throat go dry. He picked up the teacup, but his hand trembled slightly, causing ripples in the tea. He took a deep breath, forced himself to steady his hand, and brought the teacup to his lips. The tea entered his mouth, but he could not taste anything.

"Congratulations, Supervisor." Li Bai put down his teacup, his voice slightly hoarse. "I know this matter is as difficult as ascending to heaven. I am but a commoner, without official rank or position, and should not have such delusions. But—"

He raised his head and looked directly into He Zhizhang's eyes.

"But I am unwilling to give up so easily." Li Bai's voice gradually hardened. "I am willing to use my life's talent, my poetic fame, and my writings to create momentum in Chang'an, so that the whole world may know of the Yang family's talent and their injustice. If I can obtain an introduction from He Jian, I am willing to visit the upright officials in the court, submit a petition, and earnestly request Your Majesty—"

"What do you want to ask His Majesty for?" He Zhizhang interrupted him, his tone tinged with helplessness. "You want His Majesty to spare a woman he has taken a fancy to? Taibai, you are too naive."

Li Bai clenched his fist.

"Your Majesty has indeed worked diligently and revitalized the Kaiyuan Era over the years, ushering in a golden age," He Zhizhang said slowly. "But you should also know that Your Majesty is human. As a human, you have emotions and desires. Over the years, with three thousand beauties in the harem, His Majesty has favored countless women. If Lady Yang were merely of ordinary appearance, perhaps there would still be room for maneuver. But if she is truly as stunningly beautiful as the rumors suggest..."

He shook his head.

"The Emperor's will has been set, like a rushing river, irreversible." He Zhizhang looked at Li Bai, a hint of sympathy flashing in his eyes. "Taibai, I admire your talent and understand your feelings. But you'd better prepare for the worst."

Silence fell again in the study.

The sound of reading outside the window had stopped sometime earlier, replaced by the chirping of birds. Sunlight streamed in through the window, casting dappled shadows on the floor. The aroma of tea wafted slowly through the air, while the scent of sandalwood rose gently from the incense burner behind the bookshelf.

All of this should have been peaceful and serene.

But in Li Bai's heart, it was a world of ice and snow.

What's the worst-case scenario?

He had already prepared for the worst.

Last night, in Duan Qiniang's courtyard, he thought about it all night long. He thought about forcibly breaking into the residence and running away with Yang Yuhuan; he thought about using the power of a sword immortal to sneak into the palace at night and stain the imperial city with blood; he thought about countless extreme methods.

But in the end, he chose another path.

A more difficult, longer, but perhaps better path for everyone.

Now, having just taken the first step on this path, it has encountered an almost insurmountable obstacle.

The imperial edict has been issued.

Three days later, a banquet was held at Xingqing Palace.

This means he only has three days left.

What can you do in three days?

Li Bai closed his eyes.

The image of Yang Yuhuan appeared in my mind. At fifteen, she turned her head under a peach tree, her eyebrows and eyes exquisite, her smile gentle. Then that face gradually changed, transforming into the face of modern Yang Xiaohuan—charming and alluring, yet her eyes held deep sorrow and helplessness.

Two lifetimes, two love stories.

Must they all end in tragedy?

No.

no way.

Li Bai opened his eyes.

The gloom in his eyes vanished instantly, replaced by an almost resolute flame.

The flames burned, illuminating his entire face.

He Zhizhang was slightly taken aback when he saw the change in Li Bai's eyes.

He had seen too many young people bow down to power and compromise with reality. But this young man before him was different. The flame in his eyes was not anger, nor madness, but a kind of almost devout steadfastness.

It was as if he was not fighting against imperial power or fate, but against something deeper and more essential.

"Congratulations, Supervisor," Li Bai spoke, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable authority, "I know this matter is as difficult as ascending to heaven. I also know that His Majesty's will has been made and cannot be reversed. But—"

He stood up and bowed deeply to He Zhizhang.

"But I will still fight," Li Bai said, word by word. "Even if there is only a sliver of hope, even if I am ultimately shattered to pieces, I will still fight. Not for anything else, but for the resentment in my heart, the resentment that I cannot bear to see beautiful things crushed by power."

He Zhizhang remained silent.

He stared at Li Bai for a long time.

The study was so quiet you could hear your own heartbeat. Sunlight moved slowly across the floor, dust motes dancing in the beams of light. The aroma of tea faded, but the scent of sandalwood grew stronger.

Finally, He Zhizhang sighed.

"That's enough." He stood up, walked to his desk, picked up his pen, and quickly wrote a few lines on a piece of paper.

After he finished writing, he folded the paper and handed it to Li Bai.

"These are the names and addresses of several people," He Zhizhang said. "They are all upright officials in the court, and I have some connections with them. They might also be present at the banquet at Xingqing Palace in three days. I can introduce you, but—"

He looked at Li Bai with a serious expression.

"But you must remember that all these people can do is offer a few words of advice at the banquet, saying things like, 'Your Majesty should prioritize state affairs,' or 'Do not let beauty ruin the country.' Whether it works depends entirely on His Majesty's mood. Moreover, you must be prepared to be rejected, reprimanded, or even implicated."

Li Bai took the paper, his fingers trembling slightly.

It wasn't out of fear, but out of excitement.

"Thank you so much, Supervisor He!" Li Bai bowed deeply again. "I will forever remember this kindness and virtue!"

He Zhizhang waved his hand: "No need to thank me. I'm helping you for two reasons: first, I admire your talent, and second, I don't want to see such a promising talent go to waste. But Taibai, you must remember—"

He walked up to Li Bai and patted him on the shoulder.

"You chose this path yourself. It's fraught with thorns and dangers, and you might even face utter ruin. If you turn back now, it's not too late."

Li Bai raised his head and looked directly into He Zhizhang's eyes.

"I will not turn back now."

Four words: resolute and decisive.

He Zhizhang looked at him and suddenly smiled.

That smile held a mixture of relief, emotion, and a barely perceptible worry.

"Alright." He Zhizhang nodded. "Then you may go. I will also be present at the banquet at Xingqing Palace in three days. We'll see how things unfold then."

Li Bai carefully tucked the paper into his bosom and placed it close to his body.

The paper still smelled of ink and was slightly warm, as if it were bearing a thousand pounds of weight.

"I'll take my leave now," Li Bai said, bowing slightly.

"Go," He Zhizhang waved his hand. "Remember, no matter what happens, preserving your life is the most important thing. Once you're dead, you have nothing."

Li Bai nodded and turned to leave the study.

When I stepped out of the He Mansion, the sun was blazing.

He stood on the steps, squinted, and looked in the direction of the Yichun Academy building.

Three days.

Only three days.

He took a deep breath and stepped down the stairs.

Their steps were firm, without hesitation.