ARIMTFE – Chapter 102

Returning to Changle Palace, Qin Su was still thinking about what Chi Shui had just said to her. What was the origin of that medicine, and how could it change a heartless person like Hua Xi into that state?

“Once Hua Xi has woken up, have her come to see me.”

Qin Su instructed Chi Shui, then thought of something else. “On the day of the grand wedding, increase security from the prime minister’s residence to the palace, blending among the people and remaining vigilant. I don’t want any unexpected incidents.”

“Yes!”

“Also,” Qin Su called out to Chi Shui again, “wash the white tiger thoroughly and bring it over.”

Chi Shui acknowledged and left to make arrangements.

The white tiger arrived much quicker than Hua Xi. Qin Su watched as the white tiger ran towards her in a rush and raised her hand to rub its large head. The sleek fur was even warmer than a hand warmer in the cold winter.

“Stay away from Hua Xi, don’t get into mischief. You should be more composed. You’re already a big tiger; you shouldn’t be so restless.”

Leaning against the white tiger was much more comfortable than a pillow.

The white tiger let out a low, sad growl after being scolded by Qin Su and rubbed its head against her, almost pushing her off the couch.

Holding onto the white tiger’s ear, Qin Su flicked its forehead. “Behave. An Ping will be here in a few days. An Ping is made of glass and can’t withstand your antics. If you scare An Ping, I’ll turn your white fur into a rug.”

The white tiger snorted and obediently lay down on the couch without moving.

When Hua Xi arrived, Qin Su was leaning against the white tiger, using it as a warm cushion and reading the grand wedding procedure. Hearing the noise, she looked up from the booklet. “What’s going on with that powder?”

Qin Su got straight to the point. Hua Xi leaned on the nearby chair with a yawn. “Haven’t your people investigated everything?”

“That was Jin Lie’s men. The powder came from Fu Liang. Chi Shui said that after you saw the powder yesterday, you seemed off. I don’t care much about your business, but I can’t stand seeing you in this half-dead state. Tell me what’s going on so I can help you.”

Qin Su had her suspicions. Based on Hua Xi’s personality, if the powder had come from one of her enemies, she would have come to her, embellishing the story to provoke her into killing the person. But Hua Xi hadn’t mentioned anything, and she spent New Year’s Eve drinking alone with the white tiger and Hongyun. That was unusual.

Hua Xi glanced disdainfully at Qin Su and chuckled, “What’s my business? I’m Hua Xi, do I need you to take charge of anything? You’ve got your hands full with your coronation and grand wedding.”

Hua Xi didn’t want to say anything more, and Qin Su didn’t press her. Forcing someone to do something they dislike under the guise of doing it for their good wasn’t Qin Su’s style.

“If you want to talk, go ahead. You know where to find me if you need anything.”

Hua Xi saw Qin Su lower her head again to read the booklet and couldn’t help but laugh. “Would it be fine if I came to you on your wedding night with Miss Shen?”

Qin Su gripped the booklet tightly, her gaze full of hostility as she looked at Hua Xi. “Bai Hu, go.”

“I was just kidding!”

Hua Xi saw that Qin Su couldn’t take a joke and ran out. The white tiger, used to this game with Hua Xi, let out a long howl and chased after her.

After sending the two away, Qin Su shook her head and continued reading the booklet.

The third day of the lunar new year was an auspicious day for marriage.

Just at the hour of the Ox (1am to 3am), Qin Su stepped out of the clear pool. Chi Shui and the others were nearby, drying her long hair, and helping her change and apply makeup.

Today was not only Qin Su’s grand wedding day but also the day she ascended to the throne, making it especially busy. Instead of wearing traditional wedding attire, she wore a heavy and luxurious imperial robe. In the silk workshop, many embroiderers worked tirelessly day and night to finish the Nine Dragon Robe embroidered with images of rivers and seas, the highest standard of imperial wedding attire.

With a black background, red patterns, and gold thread, the robe was adorned with countless precious gems and pearls. Just the two precious gems used as pendants were worth a fortune.

Qin Su took a deep breath and looked at herself in the full-length bronze mirror. Although her hair was still down, it didn’t detract from her commanding presence.

She tried taking a step and exerted her internal energy. The robe was indeed not something an ordinary person could wear; it was much heavier than armor.

She moved to the dressing table and sat down straight, closed her eyes, and relaxed as Chi Shui and the others groomed her.

Just the dressing and grooming took two hours. By the time they finished, it was the hour of the Rabbit(5am to 7am), and everything was ready for Qin Su to leave.

Welcoming the bride, bowing, ancestral worship, and receiving the worship of the people sounded simple, but it was very complex.

To demonstrate her respect for Shen Yi, Qin Su added a ceremony of bowing, replacing the usual post-wedding rituals. That allowed everyone to know that Shen Yi was Qin Su’s wife, having bowed to heaven and earth together. No matter what happened, they would face it together.

However, Qin Su couldn’t be present for the wedding procession as she had to perform the ceremonies in the palace first. Otherwise, she would have gone to welcome Shen Yi.

The responsibility of welcoming the bride fell to Nanxiang’s King Qin Yu, who conducted various ceremonies from the prime minister’s residence. Shen Yi was escorted by Shen Qing onto the phoenix sedan chair, with the white tiger leading the way and the imperial guards providing protection. The streets were lined with people, with golden leaves and silver coins scattered by attendants. Even in winter, the path was covered with numerous fresh flowers, and they headed towards the palace.

Qin Su, having finished her ceremonies, waited at the palace gate and carried Shen Yi out of the Phoenix sedan. They walked down a path laid with gold, heading towards the Temple of Heaven.

Shen Yi wore a phoenix robe, similar to Qin Su’s outfit but lighter. Her robe had nine phoenixes that seemed to soar from the crimson hem, almost flying away. The heavy phoenix crown had numerous gold bead curtains that concealed Shen Yi’s face.

Qin Su held Shen Yi’s hand tightly. It seemed they could hear each other’s rapid heartbeats.

Step by step, they entered the Temple of Heaven together for the second time, led by the ceremonial official.

“In the first year of the Tianwu era, on the third day of the first lunar month, the emperor and empress are married, reporting to the ancestors of the nine heavens and informing the people…”

“First bow to the heaven and earth!”

“Second bow to the ancestors!”

“Emperor and empress bow to each other!”

“Ceremony complete!”

For many, that was the first time witnessing the emperor and empress bowing together, which was an eye-opener. But since these were Qin Su’s orders, no one dared to voice any objections.

As the ceremonial official finished the final line, Qin Su finally felt relieved. She had successfully married Shen Yi.

Qin Su extended her hand, and Shen Yi placed her hand in her. They walked together, hand in hand, and stood at the highest point of the Temple of Heaven. The officials had been waiting for a long time and, once the two were in position, they kneeled.

“Long live our empress!”

“Long live the empress!”

Standing at the highest point, Qin Su held Shen Yi’s hand and looked down. That was the feeling of being above all things, dominating the world, with all people bowing, and heaven and earth bowing their heads.

Qin Su looked forward, and her eyes contained the vast rivers and mountains of the world and all the people. However, in Shen Yi’s eyes, there was only one person beside her.

Shen Yi grasped Qin Su’s hand in return, and her eyes were filled with Qin Su.

The ceremonial procedures were completed, but it was not over yet. The final step was to go to the imperial tombs to pay respects to their ancestors.

Qin Su and Shen Yi both sat in the imperial carriage and headed to the imperial tombs. Qin Su took a long breath and said, “It’s too heavy.”

Shen Yi felt the same way. Although she had been practicing for the grand wedding and her phoenix robe was heavier than usual wedding attire, it was still bearable. However, as the morning wore on, she realized she had overestimated her strength and her legs were shaking.

Qin Su gently lifted a bit of Shen Yi’s veil and saw her struggling under the weight. She chuckled and pulled her into her arms. “Lean on me for a while. Once we reach the imperial mausoleum, offer the incense, and pay respects, we can go back.”

Shen Yi hesitated for a moment. Although she felt the action was inappropriate, she was indeed struggling, so she leaned slightly towards Qin Su, finally feeling a bit more comfortable.

Upon reaching the imperial mausoleum, as Qin Su said, after the firecrackers went off, the two approached and offered their respects and incense.

As Qin Su and Shen Yi returned to the imperial carriage, Qin Su glanced back at the imperial mausoleum and then turned his gaze away.

In the restricted area of the imperial mausoleum, the fifth prince Qin Jing, who was practicing calligraphy, stopped and listened to the firecracker sounds outside. “It sounds lively.”

——

As the day began to darken, Qin Su and Shen Yi returned to the Yong’an Palace.

In the past two months, Emperor Yongle—now known as the retired emperor—had already moved to the Taici Palace, living a leisurely retirement. Qin Su also moved back from the Changle Palace and officially entered the Yong’an Palace.

As the empress, Shen Yi was supposed to take residence in the Wenyang Palace. However, due to the unique nature of Wenyang Palace and because Qin Su did not want to be separated from Shen Yi, she brought Shen Yi into Yong’an Palace.

Everything in Yong’an Palace was newly furnished. Had time allowed, Qin Su would have rebuilt the place entirely, as the arrangements made by Emperor Yongle did not suit her taste. She instead moved them to the Taici Palace for the retired emperor.

Now, Yong’an Palace was splendid, luxurious, and comfortable, very different from the simple elegance of Emperor Yongle. The only touch of elegance left was a few of Shen Yi’s calligraphy and paintings.

Sitting on the grand dragon bed, Shen Yi’s hands were clasped together, and her nervousness was evident. Ming Xia, Cheng Lian, and others stood by, waiting for Qin Su’s arrival.

Since the coronation ceremony and the grand wedding took place simultaneously, Qin Su wished she could be in two places at once. She had just finished over there and hurriedly made her way to Yong’an Palace.

“Your Majesty, do you remember what I told you earlier?” 

Chi Shui was still beside Qin Su, reminding her as they walked.

“I’ve memorized it all.”

Qin Su stood in front of the door, took a deep breath, and pushed open the door.

The candles flickered, and the curtains warmed the room. Shen Yi sat nervously at the edge of the bed. Upon hearing the sound, she lowered her head further.

The confidence Qin Su had earlier vanished, and she stood in place, unsure of what to do. It wasn’t until Chi Shui pushed her that she took a step into the room.

Both were overly nervous. What lay ahead was simply the lifting of the veil, drinking of the wine, and changing clothes to attend the palace banquet.

When Qin Su lifted the veil with the rod, revealing Shen Yi’s shy and delicate face, she thought her heart was already beating at its fastest, but it wasn’t until she guided Shen Yi’s hand through her arm and the two drank from the shared cup that her heart truly raced out of control.

The same was true for Shen Yi. As she looked at Qin Su in front of her, she felt she had never been so nervous. She was like a puppet, following Qin Su’s every move.

It was only after the two changed clothes that their muddled state cleared up.

After changing out of their wedding attire, Qin Su wore a dragon robe, while Shen Yi changed into a phoenix robe that was still heavy, but much lighter than before.

Qin Su was the first to finish dressing. When she saw Shen Yi emerge from behind the screen, she walked over and took her hand. “Let’s go, Empress.”

Shen Yi walked to Qin Su’s side and slightly lowered her head. “Your Majesty?”

“Forget it. Call me Zi Xun as usual, and I’ll call you An Ping. These titles like Empress and Majesty make me feel distant. What do you think, An Ping?”

Qin Su wanted to tease Shen Yi, but when she called her Majesty, she remembered how she used to call her “Your Highness” when she was angry, and it made her uncomfortable. So, she quickly changed her mind.

Shen Yi’s initial anxiety vanished, and she smiled at Qin Su. “Of course, that’s fine.”

Qin Su also smiled. She knew An Ping always thought the same as she did.

Finally, Qin Su could openly hold Shen Yi’s hand and walk into the palace banquet, announcing to the world that Shen Yi was her.

The palace banquet itself was not as grand as expected. After making their appearance, the two left early. They found the event dry and repetitive, preferring to return to the palace.

Once the two empresses left, the others didn’t linger either. Unlike the New Year banquet, there were no significant restrictions, so everyone dispersed once the time was right.

As for Qin Su and Shen Yi, they returned early to the palace and had the bed prepared before heading to the clear pool.

The clear pool resembled the one in Zhengyang Palace, complete with a special pavilion. Within the rising mist, it was hard to tell whether they were in the mortal world or an immortal realm.

Qin Su and Shen Yi removed their clothes and entered the water. The day had been exhausting, but the warm water soothed their tired bodies.

Qin Su rubbed the stiff neck caused by the crown and exhaled deeply. She looked over at Shen Yi, who was sitting far away.

“An Ping?”

Qin Su called out, surprising Shen Yi, who looked up. “Zi Xun?”

“Why are you sitting so far away? Are you afraid I might eat you?”

Qin Su thought of how they had officially married that day, and the thought made her feel warm. She waved her hand at Shen Yi, trying to tease her.

Shen Yi’s tension stemmed from it being her first time. The unknown often brought fear.

Looking at Qin Su, Shen Yi retreated slightly, then reconsidered and moved closer again.

Qin Su understood Shen Yi’s thoughts and was not in a hurry. She didn’t want to scare her, knowing that she would be the one to cry if she did.

Initially, Qin Su thought Shen Yi would stay rooted in place like a cautious rabbit until they finished bathing. But after a while, Qin Su, with her eyes half-closed, felt the water beside her move gently. Opening one eye slightly, she saw Shen Yi moving slowly toward her like a cautious turtle.

Suppressing her smile, Qin Su pretended to be unaware and quietly awaited Shen Yi.

After a long while, just when Qin Su thought Shen Yi might have backed off again, a fluffy head nestled on her shoulder, “Zi Xun? Did you fall asleep?”

Qin Su finally opened her eyes and saw Shen Yi beside her, her whole face red. She reached out and pulled her into her arms. “No, I’m waiting for An Ping.”

“You saw it long ago?”

Shen Yi looked at Qin Su with moist eyes, accusingly, but as soon as their eyes met, she slowly backed down and attempted to retreat.

If it wasn’t going to be delivered, then it wouldn’t be delivered. Now that it was right in front of her, how could she just let it go?

Qin Su embraced Shen Yi tightly and placed her other hand on Shen Yi’s waist. She effortlessly lifted Shen Yi into the water, settled her on her lap, and tilted her head to kiss Shen Yi’s rosy lips.

All the restraint she had been holding back broke down like a dam at that moment, and the flood engulfed them.

Qin Su caressed Shen Yi’s shoulders and lowered Shen Yi’s undergarments that were pressed against her body. For the first time, the delicate kiss left Shen Yi’s lips and slowly moved downward…

The misty water vapor covered everything in the pool.

Sometime later, Qin Su was dressed in her underclothes, with a loosely worn outer robe draped over her. She held Shen Yi, who was wrapped in a blanket, in her arms. Within a few blinks, the door of the bedroom opened and closed again.

Chi Shui and the others silently moved away from the door, turning their backs to the bedroom and looking up at the star-filled sky.

Inside the bedroom, on the large dragon bed, Qin Su placed Shen Yi on the bed as if she were placing a rare treasure. Then she casually threw her outer robe over the screen. The red candles flickered, and who knew how many hours of the night had passed?

In an instant, one night was gone. Chi Shui saw that the sky was already bright and took a glance at the door, which remained tightly shut. She ultimately gave up on calling Qin Su for morning practice, as the empresses were newlyweds and were on a seven-day rest.

Thanks to Chi Shui’s thoughtfulness, it wasn’t until the sun was high that Qin Su woke up. As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw the bright sunlight outside and was about to reprimand Chi Shui when she noticed Shen Yi next to her. She froze for a moment, then remembered that she had married Shen Yi yesterday.

She smiled, laughing at her foolishness.

Seeing Shen Yi sleeping soundly and recalling what happened between them last night, she realized she might have lost some control, and she felt a pang of pity. She decided not to rush to get up and instead lay back down, pulling Shen Yi close to her and falling asleep again.

When Shen Yi woke up, she felt sore all over. She frowned and tried to get up, but she felt something weighing on her. She opened her eyes, and her blurred vision gradually focused on Qin Su’s face.

In an instant, memories of last night flooded back, and Shen Yi’s face turned as red as fire. She wished she could disappear on the spot. She buried her face in Qin Su’s shoulder, hoping to erase the memories from her mind.

Shen Yi’s slight movements woke Qin Su, who opened her eyes again. Feeling the warmth on her shoulder, Qin Su realized what was happening. She gently stroked Shen Yi’s back, “Is An Ping awake?”

Shen Yi didn’t want to talk to Qin Su at the moment and remained silent, pretending to be asleep.

Qin Su could tell from Shen Yi’s irregular breathing that she was pretending. Seeing Shen Yi like that, she pulled her closer to her chest. With warm and soft arms around her, Qin Su felt even more content than when she had ascended the throne the previous day.

Holding her in her arms, Qin Su didn’t reveal Shen Yi’s pretense. “Well, since An Ping isn’t awake, let’s stay in bed today. Oh, I’m also a bit tired. Let’s sleep some more and not worry about whether it’s close to noon.”

As soon as Qin Su finished speaking, Shen Yi looked up, shocked, “What? Noon?”

After Shen Yi asked, Qin Su looked up and saw the time. She suddenly felt tense and tried to get up from Qin Su’s arms but felt a sudden ache in her waist and fell back onto Qin Su.

“An Ping, you’re not dressed yet. Where are you in such a hurry to go?”

Qin Su’s hand deliberately brushed against Shen Yi’s smooth skin, successfully breaking Shen Yi’s attempt to get up.

With a flushed face, Shen Yi pushed Qin Su’s hand away, “Stop messing around. It’s already this late, and we need to serve tea to the elders.”

Qin Su burst into laughter, hugging Shen Yi and flipping her over to press her down. She pinched Shen Yi’s face, “Oh, I forgot about this. An Ping has become a new bride and needs to serve tea.”

Shen Yi looked at Qin Su with urgency, wondering who would serve tea to the elders so late on their first day of marriage.

“You know that so why aren’t you getting up? Stop messing around.”

“Oh,” Qin Su mischievously pinned Shen Yi down and pointed to her lips, “Okay, this will get you up.”

Qin Su’s shamelessness knew no bounds. Shen Yi was exasperated but then reached up and pulled Qin Su down, raising herself to meet her.

Qin Su didn’t expect Shen Yi to believe her. She found teasing Shen Yi amusing but also had a rare pang of conscience.

When Qin Su was satisfied, she told Shen Yi the truth.

“I’ve already spoken to Father and Lady Jin. We don’t have to serve tea today. We can go tomorrow. They were also busy yesterday and didn’t want to wake up early.”

Now that Emperor Yongle had become Emperor Emeritus, and there was no empress, Lady Jin officially became the new empress dowager. That arrangement was decided by Qin Su. Lady Jin’s contributions to the palace over the years proved that she deserved the position.

Perhaps Qin Su couldn’t accept the idea of replacing the virtuous empress, but now that Lady Jin had become empress dowager, she felt it was time to stop neglecting her.

After hearing Qin Su’s explanation, Shen Yi was taken aback and then realized that Qin Su had been teasing her earlier. She huffed coldly, “Qin Zixun!”

“My apologies.”

Regardless of her status, Qin Su’s speed in apologizing remained unchanged, perhaps even accelerating over time. Seeing that she had upset Shen Yi, she apologized and let go of Shen Yi, lying on her back, “I’ll do whatever An Ping decides.”

Shen Yi had built up some momentum earlier, but Qin Su’s actions quickly dispelled it. In the end, Shen Yi couldn’t hold back her laughter and playfully bumped Qin Su’s shoulder with her head. After that, she couldn’t help but laugh, unable to stay angry at Qin Su.

The two of them lingered in bed for a while, then got up and dressed.

Those few days should be uneventful, and Qin Su was glad for the leisure. She changed into a more casual outfit, draped herself in a fox fur cloak, and wrapped Shen Yi entirely in it. The two of them went out to stroll in the imperial garden together.

Over the past two days, there hadn’t been any snow, and the sun was shining brightly. The cold wind in the imperial garden had softened, making the sunlight feel cozy and lazy.

Qin Su initially intended to take Shen Yi for a casual walk but ended up at the tiger enclosure. Although it was called a tiger enclosure, there was only one white tiger inside. This white tiger lived like a lord, being pampered and cared for. Its fur was sleek and shiny, and it was lazily lying in the enclosure, licking its paws.

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T/N: So for Empress/Lady Jin, the author referred to her as Empress/Queen/Imperial Consort with Empress being used more often, that’s why I had decided to go with referring to her as Empress Jin but seems like she did not have that title officially until this chapter. 

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This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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TPOCTTWFP – Chapter 67

Yun Ge and Huan Mo had not been gone long when the Ice Spirit Beast, which had been obediently staying in place, inexplicably became agitated.

Lin Yuan tried to soothe the Ice Spirit Beast, only to find it futile. Even after two days of not tormenting her, the Ice Spirit Beast started attacking her again…

Lin Yuan dodged the beast’s attacks tearfully, saying, “I didn’t do anything wrong, why are you hitting me again… you promised not to hit me…”

The agitated Ice Spirit Beast paused for a moment upon hearing that, its long tail sweeping past Lin Yuan but not hitting her, instead whisking her away.

Lin Yuan then fainted.

When Lin Yuan regained consciousness, she was groggy and rubbed her eyes, seeing the Ice Spirit Beast nearby, motionless.

Accustomed to being bullied, Lin Yuan assumed the outburst from the Ice Spirit Beast was just another itch to attack her…

Feeling grievance in her heart, Lin Yuan wanted to cry to express her dissatisfaction with the cruel and unreasonable world where violence was so common!

Lin Yuan knew the beast too well. She couldn’t show dissatisfaction or distance herself because of being attacked. Despite her body’s pain, Lin Yuan grimaced and walked toward the Ice Spirit Beast.

Lin Yuan paused, wondering why she couldn’t move forward anymore. She realized that she seemed to be blocked by an invisible glass cover near the Ice Spirit Beast, able to see it but unable to reach it.

Confused, Lin Yuan asked, “Beast! Why can’t I come in?”

The Ice Spirit Beast ignored her, keeping its eyes closed.

Lin Yuan persisted, sounding plaintive, like a forsaken woman, “Beast! I can’t come in…”

This time, the Ice Spirit Beast opened its eyes faintly but remained silent because its purpose in opening its eyes wasn’t this foolish outsider.

Lin Yuan felt a dark cloud over her head and looked up to see massive black clouds gathering above the Ice Spirit Beast. She was momentarily stunned — was it going to rain???

No! Lin Yuan realized; this was the legendary Tribulation!

It was her first encounter with a Tribulation, and she was both excited and terrified. After a while, she remembered: this was…

The Ice Spirit Beast was undergoing its Tribulation!

Tribulation! Did that mean the Ice Spirit Beast was going to transform?! Oh no! This creature had already tormented her beyond measure while in its beast form! If it transformed, would there be any respite?

Due to the Tribulation, spiritual energy around them began to stir!

Because of that, many cultivators noticed what was happening.

Initially thinking it was that annoying old guy undergoing Tribulation, they were surprised to find it was a spiritual beast, and their gazes turned greedy!

Lin Yuan couldn’t have missed the greedy looks from the crowd. She stared at the furry beast undergoing Tribulation and sighed internally. The saddest thing in the world wasn’t being tormented every day; it was not being able to seek revenge and having to help the one tormenting you!

Avoiding attacks from nearby cultivators, and shielding the Ice Spirit Beast from their assaults, Lin Yuan felt like she was sacrificing herself! Although she had already.

The Ice Spirit Beast has developed a unique skill – evasion! However, at that moment, Lin Yuan didn’t need to worry about others! All she needed to do was dodge, but now she had to take care of the beast behind her!

Lin Yuan felt a metallic taste in her throat, her body enveloped in intense pain. Even though Lin Yuan was already heavily injured and unable to step forward to block the group of people, not a single cultivator dared to approach!

Because the Heavenly Tribulation had begun!

Lin Yuan looked up to see a bolt of lightning striking straight toward the Ice Spirit Beast.

Panicked, Lin Yuan wanted to rush out, only to find that the surrounding spiritual energy had tightly enveloped the Ice Spirit Beast!

Lin Yuan was infuriated to the point of spitting blood. Damn it, if the thing had been available earlier, would she have suffered so much? What a scam!

Struggling to stand up, Lin Yuan was relieved that no cultivator glanced in her direction at that moment. All their attention was drawn to the spiritual beast inside the spiritual energy barrier. No cultivator believed the Heavenly Tribulation would succeed.

It was evident to everyone that the spiritual beast’s actual age couldn’t exceed twenty years. In such a short time, no one knew how the spiritual beast achieved what others couldn’t in hundreds or even thousands of years. Regardless of the reason, the Heavenly Tribulation was doomed to fail. Reaching such heights in such a short time destined it for failure.

All cultivators were already planning what benefits they could gain after the spiritual beast failed its tribulation. A ninth-grade spiritual beast was a treasure from beginning to end!

One bolt of lightning, then another…

Lin Yuan’s eyes were fixed on the spiritual beast inside, praying in her heart, “Lord! Jesus! Buddha! Bodhisattva! God! Jade Emperor! Please bless it to succeed smoothly, although I know it will survive, but let it suffer a little less! Otherwise, it will still be me suffering!”

Don’t ask Lin Yuan why she was so sure the Ice Spirit Beast would succeed. Come on, would a spiritual beast undergoing tribulation with a protagonist fail? How could that be possible?

It wasn’t until the fourth bolt of lightning struck that something inside the lightning-struck area, previously motionless and now devoid of its furry appearance, twitched.

Shocked, Lin Yuan’s eyes widened. Could it be?

Then Lin Yuan saw something inside spit out a mouthful of blood…

Panicking, Lin Yuan realized the Heavenly Tribulation had not ended yet. The dark clouds were still looming, and the next bolt of lightning was about to strike!

In an instant, Lin Yuan dashed out. The sword she held was something the Ice Spirit Beast had picked up somewhere in the demon realm and thrown to her. Lin Yuan had never used it because she found it heavy and ugly. Yet, due to the Ice Spirit Beast’s ferocity, Lin Yuan didn’t dare to discard it and kept it in her storage bag. She hadn’t expected to use it now!

Lin Yuan rushed towards the last lightning bolt with the sword in hand.

Then Lin Yuan closed her eyes, the intense pain and scorching heat finally making her understand why “heaven striking lightning” became a frequent visitor in curses because it hurt!

As Lin Yuan endured the pain, a big question came to mind. What if she was wrong again? What if the bolt of lightning really could kill that thing? What was she hoping to achieve?

Lin Yuan passed out from the pain, with only one thought before losing consciousness: could someone tell her if she had made another mistake?

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This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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ARIMTFE – Chapter 89

After turning in place for a while, Yu Kong heard a rumbling sound and looked at Shen Yi beside her, “Are you hungry?”

Shen Yi nodded in confusion, looking like she had caused a lot of trouble for this aunt.

Now that things have come to that, there was no way out. Yu Kong thought for a moment, “Forget it, Auntie will take you to find something to eat first.”

Fortunately, it was warmer now, and when the sun came out, it dispelled the cold air. Yu Kong put on her outer robe, tied her hair casually with a tree branch, and did the same for Shen Yi.

After doing that, Yu Kong looked at Shen Yi and collected all the jewelry from her, then started a fire, rubbed some ashes on both of their faces, turned Shen Yi’s clothes inside out, and tore them up in the ashes before dressing Shen Yi in them. She also used a wooden stick to tie up Shen Yi’s hair.

“Let’s go. Remember, you are called An Ping, I am your master, and we are both practitioners from the Baiyun Taoist Temple. Do you remember?”

Shen Yi nodded blankly and looked at her clothes, “Master, are we going to beg for food?”

Yu Kong: …

“People who practice Taoism do not beg for food. We are going to help people relieve their worries, do fortune-telling, and meet people. I won’t ask you, so don’t speak. Just follow me, understand?”

Shen Yi nodded and followed Yu Kong.

They still didn’t know where the town was, and they couldn’t go hungry like that. Yu Kong picked some fruits along the way to barely satisfy their hunger.

Walking along the river, they soon saw a village. Yu Kong’s eyes lit up, and after looking at Shen Yi and herself, the two walked towards the village.

While Yu Kong was struggling for a living with Shen Yi, Qin Su, in the capital, hadn’t slept all night. During the early court session, Qin Hao, worried, got up early to follow along. Fortunately, there were no issues during the court session, and Qin Su hadn’t caused any trouble yet.

After the morning court session, Prime Minister Shen stayed back, and Shen Yi hadn’t returned for two days, so naturally, he was worried.

Seeing Prime Minister Shen, Qin Su also knew that the matter couldn’t be kept from Shen Yi’s parents and had to be told truthfully.

“Prime Minister Shen, rest assured, no matter what, I will bring An Ping back. Those people didn’t capture An Ping; Auntie disappeared with An Ping. With Auntie’s skills, she must be able to protect An Ping.”

Qin Su mentioned Yu Kong, at least giving Prime Minister Shen some peace of mind. “I’ll leave it to Your Highness then.”

“It’s my fault anyway.”

Qin Su was also self-blaming.

After seeing Prime Minister Shen, Qin Su looked at Qin Hao, “Have those men in black revealed anything?”

“They have. They are from the third prince’s side. But there’s something fishy about this. The identities of these men in black seem too obvious as if they want us to know it was the third prince’s doing. It’s too easy to trace.”

Qin Hao still had doubts and couldn’t conclude.

“Is it important? Once we have solid evidence, isn’t that enough? The carriage belongs to me; causing discord among siblings and attempting to murder a royal sister is more than enough, right?”

Qin Su’s face was stern; she didn’t care who it was, no one would be spared.

“What if there is someone behind the scenes?”

Qin Hao frowned slightly.

“We’ll punish those with evidence first. Later, if we find the mastermind, we’ll punish them too. Is that contradictory? Anyway, for now, let’s just kill one. We can always posthumously honor them as a prince later, can’t we?”

Qin Su’s eyes were icy cold, a stark contrast to her previous warmth and brightness.

Qin Hao watched, the demeanor he expected Qin Su to have as an empress, yet now he felt a bit reluctant.

“You have the potential to be a tyrant.”

“I also have the potential to be a despot. Act now, Second Brother.”

Qin Su remained unmoved and gave the cold command.

In royal struggles, it was always a matter of life and death; momentary softness would only lead to endless troubles. The only thing to do was to eliminate the threat.

Qin Hao glanced at the clear blue sky, knowing that the capital was about to fall into chaos.

As for the situation in the capital, it doesn’t concern Yu Kong and Shen Yi for now. The two of them walked towards the village along the river.

The village was small, with only a few villagers. It was the end of the farming season, and people were sitting under trees chatting and cooling off. Seeing Yu Kong and Shen Yi, they were curious.

Facing the curious gazes of the villagers, Yu Kong walked up to them, “We are from Baiyun Taoist Temple, traveling to your village. We seek temporary shelter here and offer fortune-telling and feng shui consultations. If my predictions are incorrect, I won’t take a penny. If they are accurate, I kindly ask the elders to offer us a bowl of water as payment.”

The villagers looked at Yu Kong’s Taoist robe and did not suspect anything, curiously gathering around.

“You have nothing, how can you divine?”

Yu Kong found a rock to sit cross-legged, Shen Yi stood behind her with her head down, looking imposing but empty-handed.

“Don’t worry, although I have nothing, I only need to calculate with my fingers to know.”

The crowd looked at each other, but since it didn’t cost anything, they decided to give it a try.

Soon a villager stepped forward, “Since you don’t take money, please divine for me. Where did my mischievous child’s lost shoe from yesterday go?”

Yu Kong nodded, asked a few questions, closed her eyes, and calculated, “The item is not far, in the southeast direction, near water and soil. If you go now, you can find it.”

The villager was surprised by Yu Kong’s quick response and rushed to search. Encouraged by the success, others also began to ask questions, big and small. Yu Kong answered what she could and avoided revealing what shouldn’t be disclosed.

The first villager returned soon with the shoe, “It’s amazing! I went to the southeast by the water and found it. It turns out my naughty child hid it while fishing in the river yesterday. Thank you, Taoist, thank you!”

Seeing Yu Kong’s accurate divination, the villagers were impressed, some even wanted to pay her for fortune-telling.

“I dare not take any payment. I’m just passing through and don’t need money. I just want to rest here for a while,” Yu Kong declined politely.

Her refusal to accept payment further convinced the villagers. Some brought tea, snacks, and food for her and Shen Yi to enjoy together.

After resting and eating, Yu Kong and Shen Yi bid farewell to the villagers and asked about the nearest town.

Fortunately, a kind-hearted person offered to take them in their ox cart since the town was quite far away. Yu Kong thanked them and predicted a bright future for their family, making them laugh.

After leaving the village, Yu Kong and Shen Yi rode in the ox cart towards the town. Shen Yi was curious about how Yu Kong divined earlier but refrained from asking due to others’ presence.

Yu Kong had already spoken enough earlier, so she remained silent now. The journey continued quietly until they reached the town by midday.

Parting ways with the villagers, Yu Kong and Shen Yi continued their journey. Shen Yi couldn’t help but ask, “Master, are your predictions always accurate?”

“Destiny plays a part, but effort is also crucial. Who knows for sure?” Yu Kong replied cryptically.

Shen Yi, was intrigued, asked more questions, eager to learn from Yu Kong.

“If you want to learn, truly become my disciple, and I will teach you,” Yu Kong teased.

Excited, Shen Yi agreed, and they continued their journey, discussing their next steps.

However, their peaceful journey was interrupted when they encountered a group of thugs demanding their money.

Yu Kong, undaunted, saw that as an opportunity to teach them a lesson. With swift actions, she incapacitated the thugs and retrieved the money they had taken.

Confused, Shen Yi questioned Yu Kong’s actions, feeling conflicted about the situation.

“Retribution for wrongdoing is necessary. It’s a lesson for them not to cross the line again,” Yu Kong explained, justifying her actions.

After treating Shen Yi’s wounds at a clinic, Yu Kong continued to teach him valuable life lessons as they embarked on their journey together.

“Is the bandage ready?”

Yu Kong returned from the medical hall, holding two brand new headscarves in her hand, and her voice brought the distracted girl back to reality.

The young girl looked a bit embarrassed as she lowered her head in response, quickly tidying up the things.

Yu Kong gave the girl a few more copper coins, “Please also trouble the girl to boil some water. We need to freshen up.”

The medical hall was very small, with only the young girl and her father. There might not be many visitors in a day. Looking at the copper coins in her hand, the girl hesitated for a moment but agreed in the end.

After freshening up in the medical hall, Yu Kong looked at the transformed Shen Yi, put the headscarf on her head securely, and even took a veil to cover her face. “This should be good. Remember, absolutely do not take it off.”

Shen Yi nodded, and only then did Yu Kong lead her out.

Yu Kong’s face was also cleaned of dirt. The young girl looked at Yu Kong and then at Shen Yi, wondering when these two celestial-like figures had arrived in this small town.

“Thank you, miss. I wonder if there is a Yunzhai Tower here?”

Yu Kong walked up to the young girl and casually asked. The town was not large, so if there was a Yunzhai Tower, most people should know about it.

The young girl looked at Yu Kong in surprise. She saw these two people in Taoist robes and dirty clothes and initially thought they were wandering Taoists. She didn’t expect them to ask about Yunzhai Tower, which was a famous place known far and wide.

“Yes, there is a Yunzhai Tower, but not in this town. It’s further south, in Jinliu Town. I’ve been there with my father before, but why does a Taoist want to go there?”

“Oh, I once did a divination for the manager of Yunzhai Tower a few years ago. It’s time for it to come true, so I came to check on it.”

Yu Kong settled in her heart. “Do you know how long it takes to get from here to Yunzhai Tower?”

The young girl’s doubts disappeared upon hearing Yu Kong’s words. “It’s not far from here to that town, but it takes about a day on foot, and then finding Yunzhai Tower would take another half a day. It’s late now, so it might not be possible to go today. Taoist should rest in this town tonight and go early tomorrow. Perhaps you can arrive before dark.”

The young girl looked at the two women and considered the dangers of traveling at night.

“That’s true. Thank you. I wonder if there’s a place to rent a carriage in this town? My disciple is injured and can’t endure much hardship.”

Yu Kong calculated the remaining money and realized it wasn’t enough.

The young girl glanced at Shen Yi, understanding the situation. “There isn’t, but my father and I are going to that town the day after tomorrow for medical visits. If you don’t mind, you can stay in town for another day and travel with us. Our carriage is small, but it can accommodate you.”

Yu Kong hesitated. It was indeed a good idea, but she and Shen Yi had already been missing for two days. If they didn’t send a message back soon, Qin Su in the capital would go crazy.

“How far is it from here to the capital?”

“The capital?” The young girl thought for a moment. “This is Jingyuan County, bordering the capital region. But going to the capital would still take two or three days.”

“So far?”

Yu Kong thought that it would be impossible for them to leave the capital region, but she hadn’t expected to end up in Jingyuan County. She felt a little scared; the river was so swift, and they were lucky to be alive.

“Is Taoist going to the capital?”

The young girl nodded. Although she hadn’t been to the capital, she often heard people talk about it.

“Someone asked me to deliver a letter to the capital, but I didn’t expect it to take this long.”

Yu Kong calculated the days. Even if she managed to find Yunzhai Tower and send the message to the capital, it would take another three or four days. Forget it; let Qin Su suffer for a few more days.

“We are traveling slowly, but if a messenger goes, with a fast horse, it would take less than two days. It’s not far at all.”

Yu Kong inquired more details from the little girl and decided to go early the next day to find a horse. She would take Shen Yi with her since every day mattered, and delays could lead to changes.

After bidding farewell to the little girl, Yu Kong put on her hat and walked out. She needed to find an inn to stay for the night.

Unable to afford a good inn, Yu Kong and Shen Yi settled for a rundown one, sharing a room to save some money.

“How can we send a letter to the capital city first?” Yu Kong was truly troubled. Entrusting this task to someone else wasn’t safe, but in this unfamiliar place, where could she find a reliable person?

While Yu Kong was anxiously pondering, Shen Yi brought a basin of water, interrupting her thoughts. “Master, it’s time to freshen up and have dinner.”

Seeing Shen Yi’s innocence and obedience eased Yu Kong’s worries a bit. A well-behaved child always looked pleasing to the eyes.

After freshening up and having a simple dinner with the remaining money, they awaited an early start the next day.

The next morning, Yu Kong and Shen Yi set out early to see if there were any places selling horses. Regardless, their priority was to find Yunzhai Tower.

While walking down the main street, Yu Kong noticed a group of soldiers hurrying past. She glanced at them strangely, “Why are there patrols here?”

“I’ve never seen this before,” remarked a local passerby, equally puzzled.

Yu Kong didn’t dwell on it and continued towards the horse market. Soon, they encountered a white-clad general riding a tall horse, whom Yu Kong found familiar.

Having not slept for two nights, Jin Shaoyun felt like he was seeing double. Since Miss Shen disappeared, the princess acted like a madman. He was also worried and searched along the river, reaching Jingyuan County. He thought there was no hope until he heard in a village that two female Taoists had passed by. He decided to rest in the village and inquire further before heading to town.

Jin Shaoyun believed those were Yu Kong and Shen Yi, especially since Yu Kong was wearing Taoist robes when she vanished.

With that clue, Jin Shaoyun wasted no time and hurried to town with his men.

As Jin Shaoyun and Yu Kong passed each other, a light bulb went off in Yu Kong’s mind. “Shaoyun!”

Jin Shaoyun, feeling a bit dazed, hearing someone call him, pulled the reins, looking around on his horse.

Yu Kong led Shen Yi and removed her hat, revealing herself. “Little brat, over here!”

Jin Shaoyun turned his head in surprise, rubbing his eyes. “Your Highness?”

“Don’t you recognize me? I’m your aunt!” Yu Kong walked up to Jin Shaoyun’s horse and scrutinized him. “Is it really you?”

Jin Shaoyun’s and Yu Kong’s families had some distant relations, and with Qin Su and Jin Shaoyun growing up together, she called Yu Kong “aunt.” However, they hadn’t met in many years. If not for the “Jin” on Jin Shaoyun’s saddle, Yu Kong might not have believed it was him.

Jin Shaoyun dismounted, stumbled a bit, and approached Yu Kong, realizing his eyesight had failed him momentarily. “Aunt? It’s really you! Is Miss Shen with you?”

“She is, but she’s had a little… issue,” Yu Kong said nervously, taking off Shen Yi’s hat, and revealing the bandage on her head.

“Miss Shen is injured?”

Jin Shaoyun was surprised, but finding them was a relief.

Seeing Shen Yi’s unfamiliar attitude towards Jin Shaoyun, he looked puzzled and asked Yu Kong, “Who is Miss Shen to you?”

“Let’s talk about it later.”

Yu Kong noticed the onlookers and put the hat back on Shen Yi.

Understanding the situation, Jin Shaoyun took them to the best inn in town, where Yu Kong and Shen Yi freshened up and changed clothes. He then bought the best carriage in town to escort them back.

On the way back, Jin Shaoyun learned what had happened. Seeing Shen Yi staying close to Yu Kong and warily eyeing him, he couldn’t help but feel a headache coming on. “She doesn’t even recognize Her Highness?”

“They’ve both been through a lot. How can you expect her to recognize your Highness? How old does Your Highness think she is?”

Yu Kong was also troubled. When she couldn’t go back, she worried about how to return. Now that they could, she worried about explaining everything.

“Aunt, I was just asking casually. You don’t know; these past few days, Her Highness has been frantic. We thought Miss Shen’s return would solve everything, but then she got this condition. I don’t know if Her Highness can handle it.”

Jin Shaoyun felt wronged by Yu Kong’s scolding, looking down like a bullied maid.

---

This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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TISAG – Chapter 91

The old emperor “passed away due to illness” a month later.

Rumors spread among the palace staff that His Majesty, before his death, regained consciousness and struggled to rise, wanting Princess Yueyi to succeed as the empress. He urged her to cultivate diligently for the sake of the people and the nation, guarding the holy land of Shenglan. Truly worthy of His Majesty, even in the face of death, he showed such thoughtful consideration!

As for whether those rumors were true or false, who could say?

On the day Princess Yueyi ascended the throne, the weather was clear, with no clouds for thousands of miles, and sunlight poured unobstructed over the entire imperial city.

Yue Ge pulled Zhu Yu out to stand under the Emperor Ming Terrace to watch the spectacle.

Within dozens of yards beneath the Emperor Ming Terrace, it was bustling with people from the capital.

Princess Yueyi had prepared a place for Yue Ge and her companions, between the families of courtiers and some powerful cultivators, close to the Emperor Ming Terrace, merely as spectators; while courtiers and members of the royal family stood on the Emperor Ming Terrace, participating in this sacred ceremony.

Tu Niang was also among them… She was wearing the uniform of a female official, chatting with her colleagues.

Yue Ge’s gaze wandered around boredly, then on the terrace, she noticed a familiar figure with a little white fox on her shoulder—Princess Yueying.

She had rushed back to participate in her sister’s enthronement ceremony. Yue Ge was about to look away when she noticed Princess Yueying looking in their direction.

The vision of cultivators was very good… even from afar, Princess Yueying gave a meaningful smile.

“See you after the ceremony,” she sent her voice with spiritual power.

Yue Ge always felt that something was off about her expression. After thinking for a moment, she suddenly exclaimed, “Ah Zhu, does she also know that we are Asuras?”

“Princess Yueyi would naturally tell her; it would be strange if she didn’t know,” Zhu Yu replied.

Before long, the time arrived.

Princess Yueyi looked solemn, dressed in a golden-red dragon-patterned court robe, holding the imperial scepter in her hand, exuding an imposing aura that commanded respect.

On the Lingyuan Continent, there were precedents for a female emperor, but it was the first time in the history of Shenglan…

The murmurs of the people below gradually ceased as if an invisible wall made them feel fearful, gazing up silently.

In the silence, Princess Yueyi first offered incense to pay respects to the ancestors of Shenglan before stepping up the stone steps.

At the top of the Emperor Ming Terrace, a magnificent but heavy Dragon Cloud Crown shimmered.

She approached, gazing down for a moment before placing the imperial crown on her head.

“Per the late emperor’s will, I ascend the throne today as the emperor. From now on, I will spare no effort for the prosperity of Shenglan,” Princess Yueyi said calmly, her voice amplified by spiritual power resonating throughout the imperial city, witnessed by millions.

Compared to the grand and sentimental inauguration oaths of the Shenglan ancestors, Princess Yueyi’s oath was perfunctory and seemed improvised.

Nevertheless, as her words faded, a mysterious force subtly rose from the Emperor Ming Terrace.

It manifested as a faint purplish mist that spiraled a few times above the terrace before completely merging into Princess Yueyi’s body.

“It’s the Emperor’s Luck,” Zhu Yu said.

Emperor’s Luck is also called Dragon’s Luck. When Princess Yueyi voluntarily became the empress, the fate of Shenglan was also tied to her.

If one had to say, Emperor’s Luck wasn’t of great use, at most, it made cultivation smoother. But for someone with extremely high talent like Princess Yueyi, it might be more of a shackle.

After all, if Shenglan’s fortune was poor, her path to breaking through to Immortal Lord would be nearly cut off.

“Since she has chosen this path, she must have her calculations,” Yue Ge shrugged. “Perhaps Shenglan will thrive even more under her reign, which wouldn’t be surprising.”

With the coronation ceremony completed, the people below the terrace knelt one after another, and many courtiers also paid their respects.

Only some independent cultivators not under Shenglan’s jurisdiction remained seated leisurely, including Yue Ge and Zhu Yu.

At that point, the enthronement ceremony was officially over.

What followed were some tedious formalities: courtiers coming forward to pay their respects, the newly crowned empress delivering an impassioned speech to inspire the people, and if she could raise the scepter and use spiritual power to create some special spectacle, that would be even better.

Seeing nothing of interest, Yue Ge sighed, “Let’s go back—”

She paused, then realized something was amiss, “Wait, what about Princess Yueying…”

“I thought you forgot,” someone behind her said.

“How could I? I’ve missed my Senior Sister a lot during this time,” Yue Ge changed her expression, smiling warmly at Princess Yueying.

Behind her was the “long-missing” Princess Yueying.

And there was a little white fox, its tail gently wrapped around the princess’s neck, letting out a tired yawn.

“Bao Ying, it’s been a while,” Yue Ge continued with a smile.

Princess Yueying shook her head, laughing, “Come with me; let’s go to Mingjin Restaurant—whether it suits your Senior Sister’s taste or not, we’ll see.” She directed the latter part of her statement to Zhu Yu.

Zhu Yu nodded in agreement.

The restaurant was indeed excellent, and it was also under Princess Yueyi’s ownership.

“Well… it’s been several years, and you’ve all reached a level I can barely see,” Princess Yueying said, propping her chin and feeling emotional.

“In cultivation, diligence is key,” Yue Ge said. “You only see our relaxed demeanor in public; you don’t know how hard we work behind the scenes—”

“Double cultivation?” Princess Yueying didn’t beat around the bush.

Yue Ge was surprised, “How did you know…?”

Princess Yueying waved it off, “It’s nothing, just an observation. I can see that your auras are inseparable—how many times have you practiced double cultivation?”

She added a teasing smile.

Yue Ge, holding a soup spoon, could only cough, “Ahem.”

Princess Yueying had no intention of mentioning their racial issues, treating them like ordinary friends chatting about everyday life’s anecdotes.

Beside Princess Yueying was Bai Ying, already transformed into human form.

She was gnawing on a chicken leg, and as she ate, tears streamed down her face, still crying as if moved by something delicious.

—One couldn’t tell if it was tears of joy from the delicious food.

Yue Ge: “…”

What’s with this familiar yet powerless and helpless feeling?

But there’s no way around it. Bai Ying’s tears seemed to connect the four seas, endless and boundless. Now they seemed much better than when they first met.

I have to thank Sikong Yueying!

They took a long time with this meal, catching up with long-lost friends.

Yue Ge talked about the style of the Asura Clan, the Western Sea, and some insights into cultivation.

Sikong Yueying talked about her and Bai Ying’s experiences in the orc territory over the past few years, saying that they were now recognized as a couple by both the Beast Tribe and the Human Tribe. If all went well, they would be shuttling between Shenglan and the Orcs in the future.

When Yue Ge and Zhu Yu said goodbye, Sikong Yueying was still lingering, “Is the fish really that delicious?”

Yue Ge said, “Yes, when you have time, go to the Western Sea, and I’ll treat you to grilled fish.”

Bai Ying stood by, her eyes shining.

Fox girls, they just love to eat chicken and fish.

Sikong Yueying couldn’t help but smile and pat her head, “Okay, we’re all looking forward to it, thanks in advance.”

Bai Ying’s fox ears perked up, and she squinted, looking like a very obedient little white fox.

—

After bidding farewell to Sikong Yueying and her original elopement partner, now legal wife, Yue Ge and Zhu Yu strolled back to the courtyard.

“They seem to get along well,” Yue Ge sighed.

Zhu Yu nodded and said, “Indeed, their paths also align. They will likely progress together on the path of cultivation.”

Just then, a shimmering white pearl flew over.

Yue Ge raised her hand, letting the pearl land in her palm, “Yu Ge, what’s up?”

That was a part of the spiritual artifact, Yu Ge.

Since Yue Ge entered the Cloud Realm, Yu Ge has also developed spirituality, and the process of communicating with it is a wonderful feeling – a small, still-growing consciousness tightly connected to one’s spiritual awareness, easily directed.

If one were to describe it, it’s like raising a well-behaved and intelligent child…

Unlike the completely integrated spiritual sword, Chasing Moon, Yu Ge itself is a string of pearls that can be separated into eighteen smaller beads.

When it’s most active, the entire Cold Moon Residence becomes a world of pearls. No one knows when and where they might find a bouncing pearl in some corner…

When they went to witness the coronation ceremony, they left Chasing Moon and Yu Ge behind to guard the house and also watch over the Green Sapling.

Because the Green Sapling had reached a critical period of transformation.

Now, the flying pearl wobbled in Yue Ge’s palm, conveying a message only she could understand.

Listening, Yue Ge’s expression gradually became serious.

After a moment, she turned to Zhu Yu conflicted, “Ah Zhu, we need to go see the Green Sapling, it seems to be… um, being born?”

The two Asura women hurried to the pool where the Green Sapling was planted.

The pearl flew over with a swoosh, settling back into the middle of the bead string, squeezing among the other beads.

As for the main body of Yu Ge, it was hanging on Zhu Yue’s hilt.

At some point, they both liked the arrangement, maybe finding it amusing…

But that was not the point; the main focus was on the efforts to give birth to the Green Sapling.

At that moment, the Green Sapling was shaking violently.

A spherical light green fruit had grown on its canopy, slowly but steadily expanding, with a flickering halo.

Yue Ge watched, suddenly saying, “… Is it in pain?”

The Green Sapling rustled its leaves, whether in pain or anger, no one knew. But the fruit kept growing, becoming larger than a basketball, its color becoming almost pale white.

Its skin was thin as a cicada’s wing, faintly revealing a curled-up baby figure inside.

The baby was trying to stretch its body, waving its fists and feet, trying to break through the fruit’s skin.

The process was endlessly long.

“Shouldn’t we help?” Yue Ge hesitated.

Zhu Yu shook her head, “No, this is its first trial.”

After waiting for a while, the baby exerted a sudden force, and the fruit cracked open, tearing and enlarging.

The tender and fragile baby finally emerged, just as Yue Ge was still in a daze, Zhu Yu had reacted, reaching out to catch the falling slender body.

The baby—or rather the Green Sapling—paused for a moment, crying softly a few times.

“…When a Heavenly Spirit Asura is born, they don’t cry. What are you doing?” Zhu Yu looked puzzled.

The baby: “…”

Wasn’t that a more ceremonial way of being born?

Yue Ge stood by, stunned, thinking.

It feels like I gave birth to myself!

---

This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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ARIMTFE – Chapter 88

Shen Yi’s appearance seemed scary at first, but it was already summer, and the cold wasn’t bone-chilling. They called a doctor, boiled herbal medicine, sweated under blankets, and felt much better afterward. After soaking in the hot springs at the foot of the mountain for a while and relieving fatigue, it was past noon when Shen Yi and Yu Kong finished lunch together and returned to the capital city.

Although the matter was agreed upon, Yu Kong couldn’t just take Shen Yi away without explaining anything. She had to give some explanation, and without it, the people left behind by Qin Su couldn’t hand Shen Yi over to Yu Kong.

While the two were busy, Qin Su had already returned to the capital city early in the morning and went to the palace.

Wei Zikang and the other imperial physicians who were about to leave were already prepared to bid farewell to Qin Su.

After Qin Su carefully inquired and gave instructions, just as she was about to let every one depart, she noticed that Hua Xi’s wife, Luo Yun, was also among them.

But it was not the time to talk, so Qin Su regained her composure and let every one depart.

Standing at the city gate, watching a long line of carriages leaving, Qin Su was a bit puzzled. Since she had nothing urgent to do, she decided to look for Hua Xi.

When Qin Su arrived, she found Hua Xi drunk, lying unconscious on the table.

“Give her something to sober up.”

Qin Su covered her nose for a moment, then turned and handed Hua Xi over to Chi Shui.

After Chi Shui and her men tidied up Hua Xi and gave her a sobering drink, they brought her, who had regained some consciousness, to Qin Su.

“Huh? Madam, is this how you behave when I’m not around?”

Qin Su looked at Hua Xi sitting opposite her disdainfully and shook her head. “Do you have no self-respect? I can always bring her back if you’ve had enough.”

“Talk is cheap,” Hua Xi replied, rolling her eyes at Qin Su. “Your decision is final. What’s the use of bringing her back? Let her go. Her lifelong goal is to save lives and help the injured. She intervenes in injustice and assists those in need. As an ordinary person, I can’t hold her back.”

“That is indeed compassion for a healer,” Qin Su replied, realizing there was nothing more to say. “By the way, doesn’t Luo Yun have a younger sister? Did she go with her too?”

“You mean Cha Ling?”

Hua Xi hugged the water jug, “Forget about Cha Ling. Luo Yun often refrains from using her identity as a Taoist physician, so she frequently travels as Cha Ling, helping people with her sword. Haven’t I told you about this?”

“…It doesn’t matter. Do you want to go adventuring with Luo Yun in the future?”

Qin Su was quite sure Hua Xi hadn’t told her about this, but now wasn’t the time to dwell on such details.

Qin Su knew that Hua Xi was staying because of her, but now that Luo Yun had left, she probably wouldn’t stay in the capital either. She might part ways with Hua Xi.

Hua Xi, though a bit drunk, understood Qin Su’s intentions. Taking a sip of water, she sneered, “Trying to burn bridges before crossing the river? Counting your chickens before they hatch? I’m staying, and you promised me wealth and glory. Don’t think of driving me away.”

Qin Su realized Hua Xi was stubborn but kind-hearted and stopped trying to persuade her. She sat opposite Hua Xi, “Chi Shui, bring two jugs of wine.”

“Why?” Hua Xi asked, taking another sip of water.

“To have a drink with you.”

Qin Su set up two wine glasses, intending to keep her promise.

“Go away! Trying to kill me with alcohol? Go back to your palace duties. I’m going to sleep. If I drink any more, it’ll be your loss.”

This time it was Hua Xi waving off Qin Su, pushing her away. She picked up the water jug and unsteadily stood up, walked to her room, and slammed the door shut.

Seeing the closed door, Qin Su had no choice but to leave Lu Yan here to take care of Hua Xi and return to the palace with her entourage.

At times like those, others’ words were meaningless. Only she could get through that, accept it, and move on. Once that storm passed, things would be fine again.

After dealing with the remaining affairs in the palace, Qin Su stood on a small bridge in the Imperial Garden, feeding the fish. Seeing those healthy fish, she felt a bit hungry.

“Your Highness, there’s news from the Taoist temple that Miss Shen had a fever this morning and needs to rest there. She might return to the capital later.”

After Chi Shui went out and came back to find her mistress changing fish food for a fishing rod, she didn’t want to think about how the Emperor would feel finding the fish missing. She lowered her head and reported.

Qin Su paused in pulling the fishing rod. “An Ping has a fever? How serious is it? Did she catch a cold yesterday? Is there a doctor?”

“We’ve sent for a doctor. It’s somewhat serious, so we informed Your Highness. But with Yu Kong there, it shouldn’t be a big issue.”

After listening to Chi Shui’s words, Qin Su also lost the mood for fishing. She thought for a moment and asked, “It’s already this hour. Did An Ping say when she would return?”

“Not yet.”

Qin Su became even more worried. “Do we have any plans for this afternoon?”

“Does Your Highness want to go pick up Miss Shen? That wouldn’t be appropriate. The Second Prince will come this afternoon to discuss matters with Your Highness, and the herbs have just been arranged. The Minister of Revenue will also come to the palace for consultation.”

Chi Shui had been following Qin Su all along, taking care of all matters big and small. From these matters, it was clear that Qin Su wouldn’t be able to leave the palace that afternoon.

Throwing down the fishing rod, Qin Su felt a sense of inexplicable restlessness. “Let’s return to the main palace.”

Qin Su couldn’t leave the palace, but she couldn’t shake off her worries about Shen Yi either. She felt that something was about to happen and could only send Lan Ying with a team of people to check on her.

After having lunch, Qin Su met with the Minister of Revenue and others in the study to discuss matters. After the discussion, they decided to allocate funds to purchase herbs from the Eastern County once the physicians prescribed them. That would be more convenient and efficient, especially since the Eastern County was rich in resources, and acquiring enough herbs shouldn’t be difficult.

Once all the details were settled, Qin Su had just returned to the main palace when Qin Hao woke up from his nap.

“What urgent matter does Your Highness have?”

Although Qin Su was worried about Shen Yi, she knew that Qin Hao was not one to cause trouble for no reason. If Qin Hao personally made a trip, it must not be a trivial matter.

“There’s been movement on Qin Yu’s side.”

As soon as Qin Hao spoke, Qin Su became alert. “So soon?”

“They can’t sit still anymore. Now that you have regency powers, coupled with the victory in the Eastern Sea, you’ve gained a lot of popular support. People are already starting to say that you’re the real chosen one. They fear that if they wait any longer, their reputation will grow too strong, and they won’t have a chance to turn things around. It’s better to act now than wait and lose everything.”

Qin Hao sat back in his wheelchair, adjusting the backrest for comfort.

Qin Su hadn’t expected things to escalate so quickly. “What do they plan to do?”

“For now, they’re still wary of each other. At least in front of Qin Yu, they don’t have a unified front. For example, the third and fourth brothers want to borrow troops from Qin Yu, the sixth brother plans to support Qin Yu’s ascension, the seventh brother seems to be entangled with the seventh brother, the eighth brother is sowing discord in front of Qin Yu, planning to have you assassinated. That’s the general idea. The ninth brother has been going around drinking at various taverns these past few days and is almost dead drunk.”

Qin Hao seemed uninterested in the details.

“Perfect timing. Let the ninth prince stir them up. If they want to borrow troops, let them borrow. If they want to assassinate, let them try. Let them create as much chaos as possible, and I’ll take care of it all.”

Qin Su had been waiting for the opportunity. She had expected to wait a bit longer, but it seemed that her regency had left them feeling desperate.

Qin Hao raised an eyebrow in slight surprise at Qin Su’s decisiveness. “Isn’t this too risky? Why are you being so aggressive? We can handle them one by one.”

“I don’t want to wait. The sooner I ascend to the throne and stabilize Da Yong, the sooner I can rest and prepare for the next steps.”

Qin Su knew that taking such risks wasn’t necessary, but dealing with them individually would take too long. Moreover, setting an example with one of them could deter the others.

“Are you in such a hurry to marry Miss Shen?”

Qin Hao teased Qin Su, hitting close to home.

“It’s a win-win situation.”

“Rash decisions cloud judgment.”

Qin Hao acted like he knew everything, closing his eyes to rest.

“Can we proceed with this plan?”

Qin Su asked for confirmation from Qin Hao.

“It’s high risk, but the rewards are great. It’s feasible.”

Some chose caution, while others took risks. Under absolute power, the variables were minimized. Qin Su’s plan seemed the most appropriate under the circumstances.

With the decision made, Qin Su glanced at Qin Hao. “You also need to be careful. When they become desperate, they might target people around me. If you need more manpower, just ask.”

“I may not be at my best, but I’m not without resources. Don’t worry about me. Focus on Miss Shen instead. Although the Prime Minister’s residence is in the capital, it’s not impenetrable. Someone might have their eyes on Miss Shen.”

Qin Hao closed his eyes again, signaling the end of the conversation.

Thinking about Shen Yi, Qin Su’s unease grew. “I’ve already sent people.”

“You and An Ping didn’t return last night after leaving the city. Has Miss Shen returned today?”

Qin Hao furrowed his brows slightly.

“We went to visit my aunt yesterday, and I rushed back today to handle affairs. I left half of the guards to protect An Ping, but someone just reported that An Ping had a fever this morning and might come back later, but no specific time was given.”

Qin Su’s anxiety grew at Qin Hao’s questions. “Could something have happened?”

“Who should I ask if you’re asking me?” Qin Hao retorted. “Your aunt… Second Miss Yu from the Yu Mansion?”

“Do I have another aunt?”

Qin Su frowned, feeling restless. Glancing at the setting sun, she said, “I have to personally go and pick up An Ping.”

“They might already be preparing to assassinate you. The third and fourth brothers have already decided to borrow troops. Do you think they still want you alive?”

Qin Hao reminded Qin Su of the precarious situation. A wrong move could lead to a disastrous outcome, especially regarding Qin Su’s safety, which was paramount. Any mishap on Qin Su’s part could undo all their efforts.

“Sending people or going yourself is the same. If necessary, mobilize the Imperial Guards. Let Jin Shaoyun lead them, and you can rest assured?”

Qin Hao could see Qin Su’s agitation and had to intervene.

Qin Hao’s suggestion made sense, and Qin Su had no choice but to agree. She ordered Jin Shaoyun to depart without delay.

“If only I had brought An Ping along. I’m so worried now.”

Qin Su stood in the courtyard, watching the sun set inch by inch, feeling regretful.

“Hindsight is 20/20. Think positively. What if Miss Shen is still at the Taoist temple today and hasn’t returned to the capital? Your aunt’s temple, if I recall, is not easily found, right?”

Qin Hao tried to comfort Qin Su. With the army already dispatched, there was little they could do if something went wrong.

Qin Su tried to calm herself with that thought, but it didn’t ease her mind much.

Unable to bear seeing Qin Su’s anguish, Qin Hao decided to leave her to wait for news alone and retired to his Xuanyin Palace.

Meanwhile, Shen Yi and Yu Kong had descended the mountain under the escort of guards and were traveling on the official road in the luxurious carriage provided by Qin Su. Despite the distance, the comfortable interior of the carriage kept them from feeling too fatigued.

Shen Yi’s fever had subsided, and her spirits had improved. Yu Kong, having nothing else to do, quizzed Shen Yi on her arithmetic skills, finding her proficiency beyond expectations.

As they chatted in the carriage, unaware of the impending danger ahead, Cheng Lian and the others sensed something amiss not long after they descended the mountain. They ordered a halt, causing the carriage to jolt, surprising Shen Yi and Yu Kong.

“What’s happening?”

Yu Kong, experienced in handling crises, remained calm and asked Cheng Lian outside.

“There’s an ambush. Please take care of Miss Shen,” Cheng Lian replied promptly.

Cheng Lian finished speaking these words, and sure enough, saw the tripping horse rope in front fly up. Immediately after, a group of black-clothed people rushed in from both sides of the road, surrounding the carriage.

Seeing that situation, Cheng Lian didn’t hesitate at all. She drew her long sword and glanced at the shadow guard beside her, allowing her to escape and report back to the capital.

Both sides showed no intention of delay. The sound of swords clashing rang out, and Shen Yi in the carriage couldn’t help but recall the assassination attempt she experienced when she had just returned to the capital, her face instantly pale.

Yu Kong was born into the Yu family and had a tough character. Naturally, her martial arts skills were not weak either. She picked up the duster nearby and said, “Don’t be afraid, little girl. Aunt is here.”

The fighting outside the carriage grew more intense, and even the curtains on the carriage were splattered with blood, a sight that was shocking to behold.

Yu Kong opened the curtains and took a look. Although the guards protecting Shen Yi left by Qin Su were highly skilled, they were outnumbered. The opponents came prepared, with a large number of people. If that continued, even without reinforcements, they would be in trouble.

“Breakthrough.”

Yu Kong gestured towards Cheng Lian, who nodded in acknowledgment. Everyone started to gather around the carriage, forming a tight circle.

The opponents noticed their intention and became even more relentless in their attacks.

Yu Kong pushed aside the already dead coachman, grabbed the reins of the horse, and whipped the reins, causing the four fast horses to immediately gallop and break through the encirclement of black-clothed individuals.

While Cheng Lian and the others protected the rear of the carriage, it was clear that they were about to break through. However, two black-clothed individuals, fearless of death, once again raised the tripping horse rope. Although they both met tragic ends under the hooves of the horses, the tripping horse rope still worked, causing the four horses to become chaotic.

Seeing that a disaster was imminent, Yu Kong had no choice but to release the reins, turn around, and pull Shen Yi out of the carriage.

Without the carriage, breaking through the encirclement became even more difficult. Yu Kong looked at the black-clad figures swarming towards them like locusts and could only defend against them to protect Shen Yi. Fortunately, she still had the dust brush in her hand, which allowed her to temporarily fend off the attackers.

Cheng Lian rushed over to support and relieved some pressure from Yu Kong, “Taoist, you take Miss Shen and leave first. I’ll hold them off! Hurry!”

At that moment, there was no other choice. Yu Kong didn’t hesitate anymore. She grabbed Shen Yi’s shoulder and led her away from the battlefield towards the distant woods.

The black-clad figures wanted to pursue them recklessly, but Cheng Lian and the others’ strength couldn’t be underestimated. They momentarily halted the pursuers, allowing Yu Kong and Shen Yi to escape.

Yu Kong didn’t pay attention to the direction anymore, just pulling Shen Yi along and running forward based on instinct.

However, Cheng Lian and the others were too few, and they couldn’t hold off for long. Soon Yu Kong heard the sound of pursuers catching up.

“Miss, you go ahead, don’t mind me,” Shen Yi knew that Yu Kong was being burdened because of her and just hoped Yu Kong could escape faster.

“I promised the little girl to take care of you well. If I abandon you, how can I face the little girl?” Yu Kong glanced back at the approaching black-clad figures and said, “Will water work?”

“Huh?” Shen Yi hadn’t reacted yet when she suddenly felt her body lighten.

“Maybe there’s no time left. Hold your breath.” Yu Kong reminded Shen Yi and, using the trees for leverage, leaped into the swift river with Shen Yi.

Shen Yi followed Yu Kong’s voice, closing her eyes and holding her breath. The cool river water surrounded her.

Shen Yi could still feel Yu Kong’s hand holding hers but didn’t know how to move. She could only let Yu Kong and the river carry her along.

The pursuing black-clad figures looked around but found nothing but the calm forest and the rushing river in front of them. They had no choice but to search the surroundings but found nothing.

“Search along the river. Dead or alive, we must find them!” The leader ordered, and all the black-clad figures followed the river downstream.

When Lan Ying arrived there along the official road and saw the shattered carriage and bodies littering the ground, mostly of the black-clad figures and many from the Zhengyang Palace guards, she knew things were dire. Not finding Cheng Lian among them worried her. “You, go back to report to Her Highness about the situation here. The rest of you, come with me!”

Following the signs of the fight, Lan Ying and her men found their way into the woods and followed the blood trail deeper. Along the riverbank, they found more bodies of the black-clad figures and Cheng Lian lying by the river, having lost too much blood.

Realizing the seriousness, Lan Ying ordered her men to rescue Cheng Lian, who was barely alive. “Take her back for treatment first. See if Miss Shen’s whereabouts can be found nearby.”

Two of them went to bandage Cheng Lian’s wounds while Lan Ying led the search. They didn’t find Shen Yi but did find bloodstains leading downstream.

Lan Ying continued the pursuit downstream without delay.

When Jin Shaoyun met Lan Ying’s returning men, they rushed back to the ambush site. By then, it was dark, so they lit torches and joined forces with Lan Ying to continue searching downstream.

When Yu Kong woke up again, she was still holding Shen Yi’s wrist, covering her dizzy head. Yu Kong first looked at Shen Yi beside her.

It was pitch black, with only moonlight illuminating enough to see vaguely.

Yu Kong checked Shen Yi’s pulse, feeling relieved at the weak but steady beat. At least she was alive.

“Miss? Miss?” Yu Kong tried to wake Shen Yi, wanting to get her up, but her hand unexpectedly felt sticky. Her heart skipped a beat as she looked at her hand under the moonlight, covered in fresh blood, feeling the heat rush to her head.

“Miss Shen?” Yu Kong didn’t dare move further, looking around in the darkness, not knowing where they were or if their pursuers were nearby. She could only stay close to Shen Yi and check her injuries in the moonlight.

After seeing the wound clearly, Yu Kong’s heart sank. She took off her outer garment to cover Shen Yi, then went to the river, tore off some cloth, wet it, and returned to clean Shen Yi’s wound.

After cleaning Shen Yi’s wound and dressing it with torn cloth and some herbs, Yu Kong felt relieved as she saw Shen Yi’s breathing stabilize. Exhausted, she sat down nearby but couldn’t light a fire for fear of attracting attention. She had to make do with their situation for the night, planning to search for nearby settlements in the morning.

Stiff from the night, Yu Kong moved around occasionally, enduring through the night. Her only thought was to never let Qin Su visit her again.

As dawn approached, Yu Kong felt grateful for the stars accompanying her through the night. Counting them made the night seem less endless.

Stretching her stiff limbs, Yu Kong checked Shen Yi’s forehead again. No fever, steady breathing—luckily.

Yu Kong stood up, not knowing how far they had been carried by the water. Seeing the desolate surroundings and no sign of their pursuers after the night, they must have been carried far away.

As Yu Kong prepared to lift Shen Yi to explore, she saw Shen Yi slowly open her eyes, taking a sharp breath and trying to touch her head.

“Don’t move yet, you have a head injury,” Yu Kong stopped Shen Yi’s movement. Shen Yi waking up eased Yu Kong’s worries; as long as Shen Yi was okay, everything else could be managed.

Shen Yi stopped her hand, looking at Yu Kong in confusion for a moment before asking, “Who are you?”

Yu Kong: !!!!

“Me?” Yu Kong looked at Shen Yi’s serious expression and realized she wasn’t joking. She was dumbfounded. “Do you remember who you are?”

“Me?” Shen Yi was also startled by Yu Kong’s question. “Who am I?”

“Oh no…” Yu Kong was at a loss for words. She stared at Shen Yi, who seemed to have lost her memory. Amnesia, but how would she explain this?

Continuing her circles of thought, Yu Kong sighed, “How do I explain this to the little girl?”

Shen Yi felt a headache coming on, looking at Yu Kong’s worried expression, feeling puzzled. Thinking back to Yu Kong addressing herself just now, she asked tentatively, “Are you my aunt?”

Yu Kong was momentarily halted by Shen Yi’s question, extending a finger and asking, “Do you know what this is?”

“One,” Shen Yi replied, still confused.

Yu Kong tested Shen Yi a bit more and realized she might not be dumb but had lost her memory, likely a case of amnesia. However, that was still hard to explain.

Yu Kong continued her thoughts, “How did I end up being the one dealing with amnesia?”

---

This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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TPOCTTWFP – Chapter 66

The day before, Lin Yuan thought that the interaction between the two people would be awkward the next day. She was prepared for it and was ready to feel awkward together. But the result… haha… she was overthinking.

The next day, there was almost no impact on their interaction, except for Lin Yuan’s occasional abnormal glances!

Lin Yuan felt like kneeling to those two! How did it come to that point?

Every time she was fiercely tortured by the Ice Spirit Beast, her hands and feet hurt, and her whole body didn’t feel like her own, she would sulk for a couple of days… um… no, that’s not sulking, that’s called ‘where there is oppression, there is resistance!’

…

Wait a minute! That analogy doesn’t quite fit!

“Senior Sister…” Lin Yuan pretended not to see Han Mo’s warning, “Senior Sister, do you have to return to Yunfu Sect?”

“Yes.” Yun Ge nodded, “There is something suspicious about Master’s situation, and most importantly, my life lamp is at Yunfu Sect. According to the Second Elder’s attitude yesterday, I haven’t suffered any harm from my life lamp, so Master must have done something.” It was also for that reason that Yun Ge doubted that Elder Lian Chang had not encountered any trouble at all; otherwise, her life lamp would have fallen into Yunfu Sect’s hands.

Only then did Lin Yuan remember such a serious matter!

“Senior Sister… my life lamp!”

Yun Ge glanced at Lin Yuan, then said lightly, “Except for the eldest disciple, the other disciples don’t have life lamps.”

That was indeed good news.

Because the resources available to an ordinary inner disciple and what they could gain from the sect were far less than those of a direct disciple, so whether a direct disciple betrayed or died, it was a big blow to the sect.

It was precisely because of that that life lamps were made for direct disciples.

Life lamps had advantages and disadvantages for both the sect and direct disciples. With the existence of life lamps, when direct disciples encounter danger outside, the sect would know immediately, providing some guarantee for their lives. And since the life lamp condenses a part of the direct disciple’s spiritual veins, the sect can also use it to punish direct disciples who dared to betray the sect.

Deep in her mind, Lin Yuan finally grasped the concept of the so-called life lamp. Honestly, if it weren’t for carefully piecing it together, she might not have remembered the setting.

In the original plot, the life lamp didn’t first appear at Yunfu Sect, a place destined for the female lead, but after the female lead was framed by her jealous Senior Sister for her beauty and expelled from Yunfu Sect, she caught the eye of a senior disciple from Ziling Sect and was taken back to Ziling Sect…

Lin Yuan recalled some unsuitable scenes for children, blushing. She had to bury certain things in her heart for her entire life, or Han Mo would expose her! Definitely!

Seeing Lin Yuan drifting off again, Yun Ge suddenly remembered how her predecessor praised this person in front of her, “Adhesive, dependent, beautiful…”

Wait a minute!!! Yun Ge suddenly remembered something! She had met Lin Yuan before! In that world! She had met her! She forgot all about it!

“Short legs!”

Yun Ge exclaimed.

“You’re the short-legged one! Your whole family is short-legged!!!” Lin Yuan reflexively bristled at the nickname, but after calming down, she realized who was in front of her and immediately relaxed… only to stutter, “Senior Sister… how did you know?” She remembered they had never met before, so how did Yun Ge know her nickname?

Right! Her nickname was Short Legs! It was a bitter pill to swallow; although Southerners were generally not tall, at 156cm, she was exceptionally short…

Lin Yuan’s heart was filled with tears. After finally growing taller with her new body, how did her Senior Sister know her nickname?

Yun Ge smiled, “We’ve met before.”

Lin Yuan rarely saw Yun Ge smile, especially not at her. It took her a moment to process that they had indeed met in that other world.

Lin Yuan was puzzled. Really? Why did she have no recollection at all?

Before Lin Yuan could dwell on it, Huan Mo had already approached. Without waiting for Huan Mo to come closer, Lin Yuan was whisked away by a large tail.

Lin Yuan complained. Can’t the Ice Spirit Beast play nicely? Always with the tail, picking on her for not having one?

If she had a tail, she would let the Ice Spirit Beast know what it feels like to be tossed around! Hmph!

As Huan Mo approached Yun Ge, she reached out and hugged Yun Ge’s waist, “Master, I want to go with you.”

Yun Ge was taken aback. She hadn’t planned on taking Huan Mo to Yunfu Sect. While Huan Mo was talented, her control was unstable, and part of her demonic aura remained suppressed in her body. If accidentally triggered, it would cause more trouble.

Seeing Yun Ge silent, Huan Mo tightened her hold, “Master…”

Yun Ge gently touched Huan Mo’s hair, persuading her, “Master will be back soon. Will you stay here with the Ice Spirit Beast and Lin Yuan? Master knows Yunfu Sect well; nothing will happen.”

“No, Master said she won’t leave me anywhere.” Huan Mo sounded aggrieved. Then she added, “Master, please take me with you. I’ll behave, Master…”

Yun Ge sighed, “But Master is worried about you.”

Huan Mo also sighed in response, “Master, I’m more worried about you…”

Yun Ge chuckled, “Then should we leave Lin Yuan to watch over the Ice Spirit Beast?”

Huan Mo quickly nodded, “Yes, yes, yes.”

It was almost certain that the Ice Spirit Beast couldn’t go. Bringing a ninth-level spirit beast would greatly increase the risk of being discovered.

Yun Ge didn’t know much about the Ice Spirit Beast, but leaving such a high-level creature here made her uneasy. After all, many cultivators coveted such beasts. So, Yun Ge happily decided to leave Lin Yuan here too, taking Huan Mo with her to Yunfu Sect.

When Lin Yuan learned of that, she glanced at the Ice Spirit Beast beside her and then pounced on it, “Beast! Beast! We’re being rejected! It’s all because you’re too flashy like a light bulb! Sob…”

---

This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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ARIMTFE – Chapter 87

Qin Su and Shen Yi followed behind Yu Kong, heading towards the backyard of the Taoist temple.

The backyard was filled with fruit trees covering the mountainside, along with terraced pavilions offering a view of the mountain scenery, making one feel expansive and open-minded.

“Let’s sit for a while, and catch our breath,” Yu Kong said.

Yu Kong walked to a nearby pavilion and sat down, leaning against the pillar to catch his breath. “How are your grandparents?” he asked.

Qin Su and Shen Yi also sat down. “Both grandparents are in good health, and everything is fine. Uncle Da returned to the capital recently and then went back to the border. Uncle San didn’t come back for the New Year, but he should be back around the Mid-Autumn Festival. Cousin Chen has won a battle in the East Sea and is wrapping up, so he should be back soon too.”

“Chen’er has also gone to battle, following in your grandfather’s footsteps,” Yu Kong looked towards the vast mountains. “Any news from your second uncle?”

“…Not yet,” Qin Su hesitated. Loyalty and valor were common in the Yu family, except for the Second Miss and the Second Young Master. Second Miss Yu Kong became a nun and Second Young Master Yu Xian disappeared. When Qin Su was young, General Yu was in his prime and could control this troublesome son, but now that the elders were old, they could no longer control him, and Qin Su hadn’t seen his second uncle since.

“If there’s no news, then there’s none. How many days do you plan to stay in these mountains?” Yu Kong seemed to have expected that and wasn’t disappointed.

“We’ll return to the capital tomorrow. I still have duties as a regent, and I can’t delay,” Qin Su replied. Originally, she hadn’t planned to stay overnight, but visiting Yu Kong meant staying. Tomorrow, Wei Zikang’s group would also set off, so Qin Su had to rush back.

“You’ve grown up,” Yu Kong nodded. Without much ado, she glanced at Shen Yi. “Will Miss Shen also leave early tomorrow? The morning dew and cold are heavy in the mountains. It might be better to wait here, have breakfast, and then leave. Since you’ve brought so many people, separating for escorting shouldn’t be a problem.”

Yu Kong’s suggestion made sense. Shen Yi, although much better now, still couldn’t handle too much exertion. Today’s journey had already exhausted her, and resting poorly tonight would mean catching a cold tomorrow, especially with more exertion, risking illness.

Qin Su looked at Shen Yi. “An Ping, why not listen to Aunt’s advice? I’ll leave another team to escort you and depart after sunrise.”

Shen Yi wanted to refuse but was worried about delaying Qin Su, so she nodded in agreement.

After they finished talking, the three rested for a while. The temple staff had prepared meals and invited them to eat.

Yu Kong had already eaten and let Qin Su and Shen Yi go ahead. She went back to continue her nap; being woken by Qin Su had made her tired again.

Qin Su didn’t hesitate and took Shen Yi to the dining hall.

Although only Yu Kong was at the temple, the food was abundant enough to feed them all.

“Leaving early tomorrow means traveling in the dark through the mountains. Be cautious,” Shen Yi reminded Qin Su. The mountain path was difficult even during the day; it would be unsafe at night.

“Don’t worry, tomorrow I’ll have a sedan chair brought up. The guards will carry you down until we reach a flat road, then we’ll use a carriage,” Qin Su assured her. She always valued Shen Yi’s advice, smiling as she agreed and told her guards about the plan.

Shen Yi couldn’t ride a horse and couldn’t manage the descent herself, so Qin Su’s plan was the best solution. They finished their meal, and since Yu Kong hadn’t risen yet, Qin Su decided to take Shen Yi hunting in the backyard, using the catch for dinner.

Without the temple staff, only Qin Su and Shen Yi enjoyed their time in the woods.

“It wouldn’t be bad to live here permanently,” Qin Su said, putting a fat rabbit’s ear into a bag on the horse saddle. He stretched his muscles, looking up at the sun.

Shen Yi, with her hair loose, stood under a tree, watching a curious little creature poking its head out. Round and chubby, with colorful feathers, it looked like a bird but was too plump. As Shen Yi watched it, the creature also watched her from the branch.

Startled by Qin Su’s voice, the little bird flapped its short wings and hopped away.

Turning back to Qin Su, Shen Yi smiled and walked to his side. “But you wouldn’t want to.”

Qin Su paused for a moment, then nodded. “You’re right.”

Both of them knew it in their hearts. Qin Su would never give up the throne, and the utopian life was destined to have nothing to do with her.

The time was almost up, and it was getting late. Qin Su held Hongyun’s reins and walked back with Shen Yi.

When the two returned, Yu Kong had already woken up. Chi Shui and others were preparing dinner. Qin Su handed the wild game from the bag to Chi Shui, had tea with Shen Yi and Yu Kong, and then had dinner.

The evening breeze in the mountains was cool, without a trace of warmth. The stars in the sky seemed within reach, and the crescent moon illuminated the courtyard brightly.

After dinner, Yu Kong retired early. Qin Su and Shen Yi lay on lounge chairs in the courtyard, looking at the starry sky.

The starry sky was quiet, and so were they, as if everything was empty and returned to nothingness.

Fortunately, there were many rooms in the Taoist temple. Qin Su and Shen Yi slept in adjacent rooms to avoid waking Shen Yi when Qin Su left in the middle of the night.

At midnight, Qin Su and the others got up. Qin Su didn’t want to wake Yu Kong, but she had already woken up early and was waiting at the door.

“You might disturb Aunt.”

Qin Su was startled to see Yu Kong in a black robe with long hair standing at the door.

“I’ve been waiting for you. I have something to ask you. Let your people wait at the door first.”

Yu Kong spoke, and Qin Su agreed, letting Chi Shui and the others wait at the gate of the Taoist temple.

Standing in the courtyard, Qin Su saw Yu Kong’s serious expression and couldn’t help but become serious too. “Aunt, what instructions do you have?”

“I want to ask you, is this Miss Shen Shen An’s daughter?”

Yu Kong went straight to the point, and Qin Su hesitated for a moment. She knew that Yu Kong must have figured something out during the day and couldn’t hide it anymore. “Aunt has keen eyes. But this matter, An Ping herself doesn’t know yet. Please don’t mention it to anyone.”

“But she’s Shen Jingyan’s daughter?”

Yu Kong hit the mark again, surprising Qin Su. “Aunt, how did you know?”

“It seems so,” Yu Kong’s speculation became true, and she shook her head with some regret, “I saw it at a glance. This girl looks quite similar to Shen Jingyan, both in appearance and demeanor. If you know the background, you can guess.”

Qin Su’s eyes widened slightly. Although she had heard of Shen Jingyan, she had never seen what he looked like. She had only assumed that since Shen An and Shen Jingyan were brothers, Shen Jingyan should be similar to Shen An in demeanor, even if age made a difference. But Shen An didn’t look anything like Shen Yi.

“Aunt is familiar with Shen Jingyan?”

“If you already know that this Miss Shen is Shen Jingyan’s daughter, then you should know that Shen Jingyan was once your mother’s childhood sweetheart, right? I called him elder brother; we’ve known each other for more than ten years, so I should say we’re familiar.”

Yu Kong clasped her hands in her sleeves, recalling carefully.

Qin Su knew about that. “What did Shen Jingyan look like? Was he different from Shen An?”

Yu Kong thought for a moment. “How could he be the same? Shen Jingyan was refined and elegant, handsome like a jade carving, but he was also a sickly scholar. Shen An achieved fame and glory at the right time, although also handsome, he was completely different from Shen Jingyan. I used to joke that Shen An’s shift from military to literary pursuits was a loss for Da Yong’s military.”

“Well…” Qin Su hadn’t expected such a big difference between her biological brothers. Then, something suddenly struck her, “Did my father, the Emperor, know Shen Jingyan?”

“They were not close. Your father was the crown prince at the time, accustomed to socializing with literary figures. But Shen Jingyan was always reclusive due to his weak health, rarely seen in public. The two rarely met until your father heard that your mother was engaged to Shen Jingyan. He wanted Shen Jingyan to gracefully step back from the marriage, but Shen Jingyan refused. Later, when your father became the Emperor, he issued a decree to crown your mother as the Empress, and Shen Jingyan disappeared. Later, I heard that Shen Jingyan was from the previous dynasty, and after rebelling, he was beheaded by your uncle.”

Recalling these old stories, Yu Kong sighed, “I didn’t expect to see Shen Jingyan’s descendants here, and to have a connection with you, fate is unpredictable.”

“Listening to what you’re saying, Auntie, are you implying that Shen Jingyan grew up in the Yu family?”

Qin Su only realized this then, looking at Yu Kong nodding, he was momentarily speechless. Wouldn’t that mean the Yu family is accused of harboring people from the previous dynasty? So that’s why later the Emperor ordered the Yu family to exterminate Shen Jingyan.

So… the head brought back by Uncle Da is fake.

Everything finally connected in Qin Su’s mind. She slapped her face lightly, “Auntie, my mother committed suicide by poison after seeing Shen Jingyan’s head. Is it true or false?”

“It’s considered true. Your mother always had Shen Jingyan in her heart. She was always melancholic. Later, when she was pregnant with you, Shen Jingyan rebelled, and your father sent the Yu family to quell the rebellion. Your mother suffered mentally, gave birth prematurely, and her health declined, leading to her death. For your mother, Shen Jingyan’s death was like the final snowflake before an avalanche. That’s why she chose to end her life that evening.”

Yu Kong’s account was consistent with what Qin Su knew, just more detailed.

After a while of silence, Qin Su remained silent, her thoughts complex.

It was Yu Kong who broke the silence, “So can you tell me how Shen Jingyan’s daughter became Shen An’s daughter?”

“They are brothers. Shen Jingyan knew he couldn’t give An Ping a stable identity, so he gave the child to Prime Minister Shen. The Prime Minister treated her like his own, and for so many years, this matter has been kept secret.”

Qin Su spoke truthfully, and Yu Kong understood, “No wonder.”

After discussing that matter, Yu Kong looked at Qin Su and spoke again, “Little girl, do you want that throne?”

“I won’t hide it from Auntie, I am determined to get it.”

The idea had never wavered in Qin Su’s mind. Perhaps it started as just a thought, but with so much happening afterward, one thing pressing on Qin Su after another, she knew she had no other choice but this path.

Yu Kong nodded, “Then do you want the Shen family girl? Do you want her to be the Empress?”

“Yes.”

Qin Su’s answer was decisive, without hesitation. Both were equally important to her.

“This path won’t be easy. The officials and courtiers will surely oppose it to death. If she becomes Empress, you won’t have a legitimate heir, which is a great taboo. It might be better to have a male consort and bring the Shen girl into the palace. That way, no one can say anything.”

Yu Kong’s voice was particularly clear in Qin Su’s ears.

“Auntie, besides An Ping, I have no second plan. She will be my Empress, and in my harem, there will only be her. I don’t want an heir. There are so many children in the imperial family; I can adopt one casually, and the officials won’t object.”

Qin Su wasn’t afraid of a difficult road ahead. After all, she had walked so many paths. She just wanted what she desired.

“Your father was stubborn, your mother was stubborn, and now you are both stubborn and obstinate. You want everything and refuse to give up anything. Do you think the world should bend to your will?”

Yu Kong yawned, seeming a bit tired.

“Auntie didn’t say this during the day.”

Qin Su countered with what Yu Kong said during the day. Anyway, she wouldn’t let Shen Yi be wronged.

“You did listen to that? Alright, I’ll help you think of a solution. But remember, once you’ve made a decision, don’t mistreat her or let others mistreat her. I’ve seen enough people chasing after fame and fortune, being greedy and vain. That girl isn’t like that. She’s naive and devoted to you. If you betray that trust, you’ll face consequences.”

Yu Kong sighed, smiling, reaching out to pat Qin Su’s head. She looked at the girl who had grown much taller than before, feeling a bit melancholic, “In the future, the Yu family will also rely on you, to take care of your maternal grandparents.”

Qin Su lowered her head. She knew Yu Kong’s offer of help meant there was a way, but she couldn’t ask more. She could only thank her, “Thank you, Auntie. When will Auntie go back to see our maternal grandparents? Grandmother has always been worried about Auntie.”

“After all these years, they’ve finally forgotten about me. What’s the point of going back to them? Forget it. When you go back, don’t mention me to them to avoid angering them.”

Yu Kong pulled back her hand, and rolled up her sleeves, “Let’s go. Fog is rising, and the road down the mountain is already difficult, let alone with fog.”

“Yes, thank you, Auntie, for taking care of An Ping and keeping this matter secret.”

Qin Su reminded Yu Kong again before leaving with her entourage.

Yu Kong stood at the gate of the Taoist temple, watching Qin Su’s group’s lights fade away into the distance, disappearing into the deep forest. She glanced at the pitch-black sky, “The wheel of karma never deceives me.”

Yu Kong stood at the entrance of the Taoist temple for a while before stretching lazily and closing the temple door, heading back to her room.

No one knew that in another side room, Shen Yi finally released her tightly held hands, seemingly relieving herself of a burden, and sat down heavily on the ground.

She had slept restlessly. Upon hearing the movement of Chi Shui and others getting up, she also rose intending to see off Qin Su. However, before the door was opened, she heard the conversation between Qin Su and Yu Kong. Unconsciously, she relaxed her breath, but what she heard next was something unbelievable to her.

Unable to sleep again, Shen Yi sat dry-eyed until dawn. It was only when Cheng Lian knocked on the door that her senses returned.

She stood up groggily, almost stumbling if not for holding onto the table. Shen Yi felt dizzy, her head ached terribly, and she looked vacantly at the door as if she were a puppet about to collapse.

Cheng Lian knocked on the door for a while but heard no response from inside. Instead, he ended up bringing Yu Kong, who had just woken up, yawning.

“Miss Shen hasn’t gotten up yet?” Yu Kong asked with a hint of concern upon seeing Cheng Lian’s urgency.

“According to Miss, Miss Shen usually gets up by this hour. However, there has been no response even after my knocking, which is quite unusual,” Cheng Lian explained to Yu Kong.

“Call me Yu Kong. She’s no longer a Miss,” Yu Kong corrected Cheng Lian’s address and then approached the door. “Miss Shen? Are you up?”

Still no response. Yu Kong furrowed her brows slightly. “I’ll open the door.”

Yu Kong pushed open the door and saw Shen Yi standing while holding onto the table. Her face was pale as paper, and she seemed on the verge of collapse, startling Yu Kong.

Cheng Lian and the others quickly went in and helped Shen Yi lie down on the bed. Cheng Lian tested Shen Yi’s forehead with the back of her hand. “It’s bad. Miss Shen has a fever.”

“A fever?” Yu Kong hurried over to Shen Yi’s side and tested her forehead. Indeed, she had a fever. “I don’t have any herbs here. Cheng Lian, right? Hurry and send someone down the mountain to fetch a doctor and some medicine. If this fever persists, she might lose her mind.”

“Yes, Yu Kong. I will take care of Miss Shen. I will send someone to fetch the doctor immediately and inform Her Highness.”

Cheng Lian knew Shen Yi’s condition and didn’t dare to delay. She arranged for people to prepare.

With only Yu Kong and Shen Yi left in the room, Yu Kong sat by the bedside, looking at Shen Yi’s lifeless eyes. “Miss Shen, did you wake up yesterday?”

Shen Yi’s gaze slowly moved to Yu Kong, tears rolling down her cheeks, bursting out along with the emotions she had suppressed for days.

Yu Kong handed her a handkerchief and stood up to meet Cheng Lian, who had returned after sending for help. “Cheng Lian, I suddenly remembered there are several herbs in the mountains that can temporarily reduce fever. Please go and gather them yourself. Otherwise, waiting for the doctor to come from the foot of the mountain might be too late.”

Cheng Lian trusted Yu Kong’s judgment and noted down the herbs she mentioned before leaving with people to gather them.

After Cheng Lian left, Yu Kong brought a basin of water and carefully wiped Shen Yi’s tear-stained face with a cloth.

Waiting for Shen Yi to finish crying, Yu Kong helped her sit up and handed her a cup of tea. “Miss Shen, if Zi Xun didn’t tell you about this matter, it’s because she didn’t want to hurt you. It’s also my fault for being nosy.”

“It’s not Aunt’s fault. If it weren’t for Aunt, I would still be in the dark.”

Shen Yi’s voice was hoarse. After drinking some tea, she felt a bit better but couldn’t help shedding more tears. She had thought her father’s past as a figure from the previous dynasty and her mother’s collapse were the most unacceptable things. Now she realized they were just the beginning of a far worse reality.

No matter how innocent Prime Minister Shen was, his brother Shen Jingyan’s rebellion was an undeniable fact. Shen Yi couldn’t deny her identity as a traitor’s daughter.

Thinking about everything Qin Su had done for her, Shen Yi felt unworthy. Tears flowed uncontrollably, like pearls off a broken necklace, into her cup.

Yu Kong knew that such things couldn’t be accepted easily by anyone and couldn’t be resolved with a few words of comfort. So she quietly sat beside Shen Yi, providing her with a fresh cup of water.

“Miss, if it weren’t for you, Zi Xun’s path might have been smoother. But you know her temperament. She doesn’t mind as long as she has you in her heart.”

Yu Kong felt Shen Yi was considering something foolish and quickly dissuaded her.

“But I mind, Aunt. Since being with Zi Xun, I haven’t contributed anything positive. Instead, I have troubled her repeatedly, seeking her help and guidance every step of the way. Zi Xun has grand ambitions, and I shouldn’t hinder her. I can’t give her anything, so the least I can do is stop causing her trouble.”

Shen Yi’s words cut her heart, but they also strengthened her resolve. She wanted to do something for Qin Su in the end.

“Silly girl, true mutual affection is rare in this world. Zi Xun is fortunate to have you. As long as you’re with her, she feels secure and comfortable. She has what she loves in her heart, and what you give her is irreplaceable by others. Just being together outweighs everything, understand?”

Yu Kong embraced Shen Yi’s shoulders, feeling a mix of emotions. “I just talked to Zi Xun. Your willingness to walk this path with her is rare among girls. Are you going to abandon her now? How could you bear leaving her alone?”

Yu Kong’s words made Shen Yi cry again, leaning on Yu Kong’s shoulder, unable to speak.

After calming Shen Yi’s emotions for a while, Yu Kong saw that Shen Yi still hadn’t changed her mind, feeling conflicted herself.

If she came to visit and ended Qin Su’s marriage prospects, that little girl might come to her temple every day, and she would become a villain for eternity.

However, seeing Shen Yi’s current state, Yu Kong realized that even if she went back to Qin Su, the girl would keep thinking in circles, and both of them would end up worse off. The lessons from past generations were clear; she couldn’t let them walk down that path again.

Yu Kong pulled at her hair, feeling like she was losing it, before finally coming up with a plan to save the situation indirectly.

“Miss Shen, do you know how to read and write, and do you understand arithmetic?”

Shen Yi, lost in her sorrow, was puzzled by Yu Kong’s question and nodded dully, “I have studied for a few days and was taught by a tutor.”

“That’s enough.”

Yu Kong’s idea fell into place. “Since you feel you can’t help and are worried about burdening Zi Xun, why not listen to Aunt’s suggestion?”

Shen Yi needed guidance right now. “Please, Aunt, go ahead.”

“While I don’t have many talents, I have some experience in business. Although agriculture is the mainstay, commerce is also indispensable. Money paves the way for everything, making the path smoother. If you’re interested, why not join me in business? If we become the top business in the realm, even the royal family will have to acknowledge us. What do you think?”

Yu Kong was confident in that area.

Shen Yi blinked, hesitating as she looked at Yu Kong. “Can I do that?”

“I say you can.”

Yu Kong reassured her, putting a hand on Shen Yi’s shoulder. “It may require you to leave Zi Xun for a while. Are you afraid that she might find someone else in your absence?”

Shen Yi didn’t hesitate this time and shook her head, “I trust Zi Xun.”

“Then it’s settled. This is our plan.”

Yu Kong made the decision, satisfied that unless Shen Yi was exceptionally foolish, this plan would work. She had been managing things for so many years; it was finally time for someone to take over. It was a win-win situation.

Shen Yi was thus arranged by Yu Kong, and although she felt reluctant to leave Qin Su, she realized she didn’t know how to face everyone if she went back now.

If temporary separation could lead to a better outcome, Shen Yi’s eyes slowly became determined. Everything would be worth it.

After settling the matter, Shen Yi felt increasingly dizzy. Yu Kong helped her lie down again. “Rest for now. I will go and check; the people gathering herbs should be back soon.”

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This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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TPOCTTWFP – Chapter 65

Because of the disturbance caused by the Yunfu Sect, Yun Ge put down the things she got from the Guiyi Sect.

But soon she remembered again, for a very simple reason.

When night fell, Yun Ge, Huan Mo, and Lin Yuan were still sleeping in the forest. For ordinary cultivators, the danger level of a forest at night was almost at its maximum. However, for Yun Ge, Huan Mo, and their group, who possessed a ninth-level Ice Spirit Beast, the most dangerous spiritual beast was already by their side. So what else was there to fear? On the contrary, other spiritual beasts were afraid to approach them!

Yun Ge slept not far from Huan Mo. When the warm body leaned closer, Yun Ge pinched her own tiger’s mouth to dispel the heavy drowsiness.

Yun Ge felt a complex emotion that she didn’t know how to express, but years of experience kept her calm and still. Her body had already sunk into deep sleep.

Huan Mo held Yun Ge tightly. As long as this person was by her side, as long as she could see her, then she could control the demons in her heart, right?

Reaching out and pulling the person into her arms, Huan Mo had an urge to cry. She wondered if she shouldn’t have met Yun Ge and if she should have continued living in darkness. If that were the case, Yun Ge would still be living in the sunlight, in the admiration of others, without the current situation, and wouldn’t be chased by others. But… Huan Mo’s heart ached, but in that case, she would be living in a place where Yun Ge couldn’t see her, and she couldn’t see Yun Ge’s darkness, the abyss, and the hope of everything surged toward her the moment she met Yun Ge. If there were no Yun Ge, what would she do?

Huan Mo rarely panicked in her life, and never felt at a loss, until she met Yun Ge.

But after that, Yun Ge became an indispensable concern!

How did she fall in love with this person? Huan Mo had already forgotten.

But she couldn’t forget how much she cared. Yun Ge touched her head and said, “Master will be with you for a lifetime, so don’t be afraid.” Before that, she hadn’t been afraid of anything, but after that, she was afraid, afraid that this person would leave. Afraid that this person belonged to someone else…

Huan Mo thought she was strong enough, but thinking that the person in her arms would be good to others, become someone else’s lover, and then never see her again, made Huan Mo’s heart sink. That heart of “pure goodness” that lived in legends was almost instantly enveloped in darkness.

“Maybe you just said that… but I care so much…” Warm tears slid down her cheeks, and Huan Mo raised her hand, her trembling fingers depicting that delicate profile. Then, Huan Mo said, word by word, as if each word carried an indescribable pain, “You said… you would be with me for a lifetime…”

Upon hearing that, Yun Ge’s heart seemed to be squeezed tightly, making it difficult for her to breathe.

When she saw the things given to her by the Guiyi Sect, she guessed something, but hearing Huan Mo say it for real, she was still stunned…

Yun Ge had never encountered such a thing before. In that world, such things existed, but she liked a world where…

Huan Mo has come out of the closet. However, for Yun Ge, the idea of women liking women is as distant as something from another dimension. Yun Ge never thought that she would be liked by someone of the same sex.

If this person were a stranger, Yun Ge could dismiss them as having a problem. If it were an ordinary friend, Yun Ge might think they had made a mistake in understanding their feelings.

But this person is Huan Mo.

Yun Ge’s mind was in a mess. Huan Mo was not just a disciple to her; she was also Yun Ge’s support and emotional reliance in this world.

When warm drops of liquid fell on Yun Ge’s neck, she finally softened her heart.

“Crybaby…” Yun Ge sighed. She had sighed many more times recently than before.

“Master…” The person who had been crying looked at Yun Ge with red eyes, still watery.

Yun Ge inexplicably found Huan Mo’s dumbfounded and silly appearance unexpectedly cute…

“You’ve soaked my clothes with tears…” Yun Ge sat up, casually pulling the person into her arms.

Huan Mo wanted to say something, but Yun Ge interrupted her. “I’ve read the records of the Guī Yī Sect.”

Huan Mo fell silent. She didn’t know what the records of the Guī Yī Sect said about Buddhist cultivation, but she was not a pure Buddhist cultivator. In her bloodline, there was not only the bloodline of a fierce demonic cultivator but also that woman’s…

“Buddhist cultivators cultivate great love,” Yun Ge sighed. “As long as there are no attachments, no so-called small loves, they will not fall into demonic paths.” Regardless of whether this Buddhist cultivator had achieved Buddhahood, they couldn’t possess the so-called romantic love of ordinary people.

When Yun Ge saw the reason for that, she paused for a moment, then felt a strange sensation. She couldn’t explain what this swollen feeling in her heart was.

“Does it hurt?” Yun Ge touched Huan Mo’s heart area, asking with a bit of concern. The records mentioned that due to the “pure heart of kindness” and a deviation in Huan Mo’s intentions, she would experience excruciating heartaches every moment.

“…” Huan Mo’s expression was blank. She hadn’t expected Yun Ge to ask her in such a tone. She still remembered the disgusted look Yun Ge gave when her heart was not under her control when she made that mistake…

“Why are you being silly?” Yun Ge looked at Huan Mo like this, feeling waves of pain.

When Yun Ge was in that world, she had a friend who liked Korean dramas, and she would always cry and explain who liked whom and how tragic it was…

Yun Ge had only one thought: in this world, there was no such thing as love, just lonely and bored people deceiving even lonelier and more bored people.

But now, looking at Huan Mo, Yun Ge couldn’t ignore the tingling pain in her heart.

“Master…” Huan Mo tried hard not to cry.

Yun Ge lowered her head when she heard the voice and saw Huan Mo biting her lip, trying hard not to cry. But she looked even sadder than if she had cried.

The girl, without wearing that mask, showed her true face, delicate features, and fair skin like…

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This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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ARIMTFE – Chapter 86

Qin Su understood Shen Yi’s intentions, and Shen Yi knew Qin Su’s thoughts like the back of her hand, knowing that Qin Su said that to put her mind at ease.

Unable to let Qin Su’s intentions go to waste, Shen Yi nodded in agreement, not saying anything more, changing the subject, “Where are we going?”

“I know you haven’t been feeling well these past few days, so I’ll take you to relax. Is there somewhere you want to go?”

Qin Su hadn’t thought about where to go. She just couldn’t bear to leave Shen Yi alone in the room to overthink.

With her long lashes fluttering, Shen Yi looked at Qin Su and gently shook her head, “I’ll listen to your suggestion.”

“Then I’ll ride Hongyun to take you somewhere.”

Qin Su instructed the coachman to return to the palace first. After returning to the palace, someone brought Hongyun over. Qin Su held Shen Yi and settled on the horse, while Shen Yi still held a silver-white tiger cub in her arms.

Unlike feeling stifled in a carriage, sitting on the majestic Hongyun, Qin Su tightened the reins. Hongyun lifted its hooves, galloping like riding the wind and clouds, passing through the palace gates and heading towards the outskirts.

Behind them, a group of guards also rode with hooves flying, clattering on the stone pavement, creating a noisy and chaotic atmosphere.

Shen Yi had ridden Hongyun with Qin Su once before, but it was along the river, with gentle horse hooves on soft grass, moving slowly and leisurely. Now, on the city’s paved roads, with walls flying past on both sides and hot winds blowing, even breathing became difficult.

Gripping the saddle tightly and holding the tiger cub, Shen Yi felt a sense of relief in her heart.

As they exited the city gate, Qin Su didn’t slow down at all, heading further away from the city, away from the crowds, and closer to the mountains.

The journey took almost half a day. Shen Yi leaned against Qin Su, feeling the bumps almost disassemble her, yet she gritted her teeth and didn’t utter a sound. Although her body was tired, her heartfelt unusually free.

Qin Su slowed down as Hongyun climbed up the mountain road, which was quite rugged.

“Are we almost there?”

Shen Yi raised her head, looking at the densely shaded woods above, curious about where they were heading.

“We’re close. Once we cross this mountain pass, we’ll be there.”

Qin Su observed the dry branches and fallen leaves along the way, showing signs of long neglect.

As expected, after crossing the mountain pass, they heard the clear sound of water. When they emerged from the deep forest, Shen Yi saw a sudden opening ahead, a waterfall cascading into a deep crescent-shaped pool with a round small pool within it.

Sitting on the horse, Shen Yi looked around as the cliff rose like a sharp sword into the sky. The immense pressure made her feel insignificant, yet it also evoked a sense of wonder about nature’s creations.

Qin Su carried Shen Yi and leaped off the horse without stopping, diving straight into the small pool in the center of the crescent-shaped pool.

Shen Yi was startled, still holding the tiger cub with one hand and tightly gripping Qin Su’s waist with the other. Suddenly feeling warmth beside her, Shen Yi opened her eyes to see Qin Su’s face inches away.

Underwater, Qin Su’s already beautiful features became even more captivating, her black hair floating around, making Shen Yi forget to breathe for a moment until the suffocation hit her. She panicked but was held by Qin Su at the waist and surfaced in the next moment.

Gasping for air, Shen Yi let go of Qin Su, and the struggling tiger cub shook off its wet head and swam away to the side.

While Shen Yi was taking deep breaths, Qin Su removed the hairpin from her head and casually threw off her outer robe onto the rocks by the shore. Blinking her long eyelashes, still dripping with water, she swam over to help Shen Yi remove her outer robe and hairpin.

Gathering her wet long hair back, Qin Su splashed some water on Shen Yi’s face, “This place isn’t bad, right?”

Shen Yi had both her hands around Qin Su’s waist, lowered her head, shook off the water on her face, and took a deep breath, “Is this a hot spring?”

“Yes, otherwise, bringing you here to soak in cold water, wouldn’t I be endangering your life?” Qin Su nodded, looking around. The terrain there was steep, rarely visited by people, and secluded. Apart from the path Qin Su took with Shen Yi, leaping from the towering cliff was the only other way. With the Chi Shui and others having blocked the path, no one would disturb them.

Shen Yi followed Qin Su’s gaze around, “How did you find this place?”

“It was a coincidence.” Qin Su smiled but didn’t elaborate.

Being able to find this Feng Shui treasure land was due to her past life. During the turmoil of the rebellion of several princes upon the death of Emperor Yongle, it was indeed a perilous situation with dangers lurking everywhere.

Even with Qin Su’s power over the military, it was easy to dodge open attacks but difficult to guard against hidden ones. She had encountered numerous assassination attempts, and one of them had led to her falling from the cliff. She had thought it was a certain death, but the crooked tree protruding from the cliff and the water pool below the waterfall saved her life.

That was something she couldn’t tell Shen Yi. Facing Shen Yi’s expectant gaze for more information, Qin Su hugged her and pointed to the cliff, “There’s a Taoist temple on this cliff. My aunt became a nun there, and I used to sneak away to visit her often when I was young. I stumbled upon this place during one of my explorations.”

Shen Yi didn’t doubt Qin Su’s words, and looked up at the cliff, but saw nothing special. “What about Miss Yu from the Yu Family?”

“Yes, it’s been more than ten years now.”

Qin Su nodded. She had an impression of this aunt. Her aunt and the Empress were sisters from the same parents and had similar appearances, but their personalities were different and widely known to all. While the eldest Miss of the Yu Family, the Empress, was known for her virtues and beauty, the second Miss was eccentric to the extreme, bordering on outrageous.

If the eldest Miss of the Yu Family, the Empress, was known for her virtuous and beautiful demeanor, the second Miss of the Yu Family was wild and eccentric, far from the expected demeanor of a noble lady. She was inept at music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, preferring to hang out with the idle rich and rove the streets, playing with cats and dogs, frequenting taverns, flower shops, theaters, and tea houses, where everyone knew her.

From princes and nobles to commoners, everyone called her sister and got along well with her, saying she was a remarkable woman. Those who didn’t know her called her crazy. Conventional wisdom dictated that women should be reserved and modest, but she went against the grain.

What was even more outrageous was her behavior towards marriage. When it was time for her to marry, and everyone wondered who could control her, she publicly burned the elaborate wedding gown prepared by the Yu Family for her and left with a bundle on her back, entering a monastery. From then on, the legendary tales of the second Miss of the Yu Family in the capital ended, disappearing without a trace, with no news of her whereabouts.

Most people assumed she had died, especially after burning her wedding gown, an act considered insane even by regular standards.

However, Qin Su knew that her aunt was still alive and well. When she was young, she used to play with her aunt and even secretly visited her later. As she grew older, the contact gradually faded until she fell from the cliff in her past life, where she met her aunt again.

Moreover, she also knew about her aunt’s other identity.

In the years following her past life, Qin Su was often away on military campaigns. Whenever Qin Yan used the excuse of an empty treasury to withhold military pay and supplies, it was her aunt, Miss Yu of the Yu Family, Yu Kong, who supported her. Although Qin Su only learned about that later.

Yu Kong had always been interested in business from a young age. However, as a merchant, she couldn’t openly conduct business under the Yu Family’s name. So she came secretly, and only after leaving the Yu Family did she have the freedom to expand, changing her identity and traveling extensively, building an extensive network of business connections. Her businesses spanned across Da Yong, even reaching other countries, contributing significantly to the treasury.

When Qin Su learned of that, she was stunned. She had never paid attention to them, considering them minor issues, but when accumulated, they became a formidable force.

Although Qin Su hadn’t met Yu Kong many times in her past life, she knew that behind many extravagant battles, there was the shadow of Kong Zhai. It was through Qin Yan that Yu Kong could openly donate funds, using Kong Zhai as an alias.

After learning that Kong Zhai was Yu Kong, Qin Su was dumbfounded and even mentioned that to Qin Yan, saying she wanted to thank Yu Kong in person. However, before she could do so, she died, unaware of what happened to Yu Kong afterward, likely suffering consequences because of her actions.

“Zi Xun?”

Shen Yi waved her hand in front of Qin Su’s face. Qin Su had been lost in her thoughts about her past life and only returned to reality when Shen Yi called out to her, blinking and looking at Shen Yi before pulling her into her arms.

The more Qin Su thought about it, the more she couldn’t understand her foolishness in her past life. Countless people had gone out of their way to help her, only for her to push them into the abyss in the end.

Shen Yi was startled by Qin Su’s sudden move and asked, “What’s wrong, Zi Xun?”

Qin Su let out a long breath and said, “Nothing, I was just thinking of when to take An Ping to visit Auntie. When I was young, I used to follow Auntie around and have fun. It’s been many years since I’ve seen her, so it’s time to pay a visit.”

“If Auntie Zi Xun is here on this cliff, why don’t we go today?”

Shen Yi thought Qin Su was reminiscing about their childhood and didn’t suspect anything. She glanced at the cliff and agreed with Qin Su’s suggestion.

“An Ping is right. Let’s soak for a while, then we’ll go up the mountain to stay with Auntie. I don’t think we can go back today.”

Qin Su glanced at the sun already in the middle of the sky. If they wanted to return to the city, they would have to start now, which seemed too rushed. It would be better to wait until tomorrow morning.

Upon hearing about staying overnight, Shen Yi was surprised and asked, “But doesn’t Zi Xun have morning court tomorrow?”

“A day of rest.”

Leaning against the shore, Qin Su lazily submerged herself in the water, closing her eyes.

Being led by Qin Su, Shen Yi’s courage also grew. Watching Qin Su’s relaxed demeanor, she followed suit and slowly sank.

The pond water was clear enough to see the bottom, just shallow enough not to reach their necks. Qin Su and Shen Yi lay side by side at the bottom of the pond. Shen Yi felt a bit suffocated as soon as she lay down. She wanted to get up but was pulled back by Qin Su. Then, their lips met, and they breathed together, easing Shen Yi’s feelings.

When they surfaced again, Shen Yi’s face was flushed, either from being held underwater or embarrassed, as red as the evening glow. She weakly leaned against Qin Su’s chest and said, “Zi Xun, have we gone too far?”

“No, you belong to me.”

Qin Su held Shen Yi close and unreasonably bit her lips. “This is irresistible affection.”

“Ouch,” Shen Yi covered her lips in complaint, looking at Qin Su. “You’re justifying your actions and then biting me?”

“Let’s get married.”

Qin Su looked at Shen Yi and blurted out, leaving her stunned. “What nonsense are you talking about again?”

“I don’t want to wait anymore. I want the throne, and I want you.”

Something seemed to change in Qin Su’s eyes, making Shen Yi feel a bit unfamiliar but not afraid. Instead, she felt an urge to explore deeper.

Shen Yi lightly bit her lip, looking into Qin Su’s eyes. “But the timing isn’t right now.”

“We create the timing.”

Qin Su stood on the pond floor, her long hair floating in the water, her eyes filled with ambition.

After coming out of the pond, Qin Su and Shen Yi changed into dry clothes, and roughly dried their hair, and since no one passed through the deep mountains and forests, they set off like that. The wind in the mountains blew their long hair, intertwining them as if their intertwined destinies were destined to be unclear.

Qin Su and Shen Yi bypassed the cliff and headed upwards. Shen Yi leaned against Qin Su and asked, “Is our appearance a bit inappropriate?”

Going to meet someone in such a disheveled state still felt wrong to Shen Yi. After all, they were meeting an elder; how could they be so casual?

But Qin Su didn’t seem to mind at all, holding Shen Yi close. “Don’t worry, Auntie is not that conservative. Besides, there’s only Auntie in that pavilion, nothing improper.”

Qin Su had always felt that Yu Kong becoming a nun was just an excuse and a cover for her identity. After all, Qin Su had been to the temple where Yu Kong resided, and it seemed like it from the outside, but inside, it was just Yu Kong alone, perhaps with two maidservants to attend to her.

After Qin Su’s persuasion, Shen Yi still felt uneasy as she stood at the gate of the Taoist temple with Qin Su. They looked at the long stairs in front of the gate, covered with fallen leaves and thick layers of dust, not to indicate human presence.

“Chi Shui, go knock on the door.”

Qin Su raised her chin, and Chi Shui stepped forward to knock on the door. Just when Qin Su was starting to doubt if there was anyone inside, someone finally opened the door.

The person who came was wearing a black Taoist robe, with long disheveled hair, looking like they had just woken up. Rubbing their eyes after opening the door, they asked, “Who are you looking for?”

“Aunt?”

Seeing the person who was not paying attention to details, Qin Su’s eyes lit up. She led Shen Yi down from the horse and onto the steps, smiling and greeting Yu Kong.

Yu Kong was puzzled by the title, glanced at Qin Su, then at Shen Yi, and finally looked around at Chi Shui and the others before returning to Qin Su. “Little girl?”

“Aunt, I’ve grown up.”

Qin Su couldn’t help but refute the title. Since childhood, Yu Kong had always called her “little girl” without using her name, and it hadn’t changed until now.

“Indeed, you have grown up,” Yu Kong said with some surprise and nostalgia, looking Qin Su up and down. She then nodded and said, “What brings you here, niece? If you had come a few years later, you might have visited my grave.”

“It’s the younger generation’s fault,” Qin Su replied with a sense of familiarity towards Yu Kong’s unfiltered speech. After apologizing, she pulled Shen Yi, who was standing behind her, closer. “Aunt, this is Shen Yi. You can call her An Ping.”

Yu Kong glanced at their disheveled hair and untidy clothes, then looked at their joined hands and remarked, “Did you run away and come here?”

Qin Su & Shen Yi: …

Speechless.

Qin Su looked at Yu Kong, who had calmly spoken those words, with a wry smile. “Aunt, it’s not running away. We just happened to be playing by the mountain pond below and thought Aunt might be here, so we came to visit Aunt.”

“Oh, come in and have a seat.”

Yu Kong, seeming to understand the situation, stepped aside and led them inside.

The entrance of the Taoist temple looked chaotic and old, but the inside was different, clean, and orderly, without a speck of dust.

Yu Kong led Qin Su and Shen Yi to a side room, which was not simple either, but more comfortable than Qin Su’s palace, with various jade ornaments indicating Yu Kong’s fondness for them.

“Have you had lunch?”

It was already past noon, and Yu Kong poured tea for them and asked.

“Not yet, we’ll trouble Aunt here,” Qin Su replied truthfully.

Yu Kong instructed Chi Shui to arrange for meals and preparations while they conversed.

“It’s just me here now, which is a bit neglectful. You two, feel free to help yourselves.”

After Yu Kong spoke, she added for Chi Shui and the others to hear and for Qin Su to understand, as she was in charge of the people Qin Su brought.

“Aunt lives alone in the deep mountains, which must be tough.”

In her past life, Qin Su didn’t know why Yu Kong insisted on living here, only knowing that after traveling far and wide, Yu Kong spent most of her time cultivating and living there.

“Everyone has their fate. I’m supposed to be here, so I’m here. It’s not that tough. I live freely and without strict rules, enjoying a peaceful life.”

Yu Kong sat down on a nearby couch, resting her arms on the armrests, and her gaze fell on Shen Yi, feeling a bit familiar. “Who is this Miss Shen?”

“She’s my beloved, An Ping. Call her Aunt,” Qin Su smiled and introduced them openly, as she could only do so in front of Yu Kong.

Shen Yi blushed but greeted softly as Qin Su instructed, “Aunt.”

“These two kids,” Yu Kong laughed, stood up to search for something, and then found what she was looking for on the desk. She walked over to Qin Su and Shen Yi, “Here, call me Aunt. I don’t have much to offer, but please accept this token of goodwill.”

---

This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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ARIMTFE – Chapter 85

“Back then, I heard that the King of Nanxiang was sent to Nanxiang because of his weak constitution. Was it a weakness from birth, or was he poisoned back then?” Hua Xi asked Qin Su.

Qin Su was not sure. That night, she even doubted whether Qin Yu was sent to Nanxiang due to weakness.

“I don’t know either. Just tell me what you think it might be?” Since even Qin Su was unsure, Hua Xi shrugged and said, “I’ll just make a wild guess then. It might be wrong, but don’t hold me accountable later.”

“Go ahead.”

With Qin Su’s approval, Hua Xi felt relieved. “If I’m not mistaken, the King of Nanxiang was probably poisoned. My wife and I have discussed it before, and we are quite confident, though not certain.”

“What poison? Is it still in Qin Yu’s body?”

Qin Su frowned. The various poisons seemed relentless, appearing everywhere.

“Who am I to ask? All I can tell is signs of long-term poisoning, but there are countless poisons in the world. Moreover, it’s a matter of your royal family. The most extraordinary poisons are used to their fullest extent in the palace. It’s rare to see someone like you, still lively and jumping around.”

Hua Xi countered Qin Su’s doubts.

“Are you disappointed that I’m still lively?”

Qin Su glanced sideways at Hua Xi.

“It does reduce some usefulness,” Hua Xi laughed it off and changed the subject. “If Her Highness wants to know what poison the King of Nanxiang was afflicted with, she can ask or bring the King here. Even if I can’t help, isn’t there my wife? I doubt there’s anyone else in the world who can endure two rare poisons that we can’t cure, especially someone like the Second Prince, suffering from a terminal illness.”

Unable to provide answers, Qin Su could only shake her head. “Who knows?”

After Hua Xi and Qin Su left, Qin Su returned to the palace, sat on the bed, glanced at the time, and said, “Time to sleep.”

The night passed quietly, and the next day when Qin Su went to attend the early court session, she received an urgent war report from the East Sea.

“Fu Liang’s cruelty knows no bounds. They harbor intentions that no one else can achieve. This plan is extremely malicious!”

Prime Minister Shen initially seemed a bit tired during the early court session, but upon hearing the war report, he was furious, and everyone in the court felt indignant.

Qin Su lowered her eyes. The matter concerning Jin Lie was extreme.

Yu Chen defeated Jin Lie, and captured the capital city of Jing Guo first, making it a part of Da Yong. However, Jin Lie resorted to sinister tactics, launching a massacre in the half of Jing Guo captured by Fu Liang, turning it into a hell on earth with corpses and blood everywhere.

Even if Yu Chen and other dignitaries wanted to negotiate, the Fu Liang side kept delaying, intending to leave behind dead cities for Da Yong.

What was even more terrifying was that the battle report returned by Yu Chen mentioned that bodies couldn’t be handled, and an epidemic had begun to spread from the north of Jing Guo. The court requested dispatching medical experts to aid.

The anger among the courtiers surged, wishing to start a war with Fu Liang.

“There might not be this opportunity,” Qin Su listened to the ministers’ words, shook his head, and suddenly the hall fell silent. “Based on my understanding of Jin Lie, since he has discovered the epidemic, he will not stay long. In the past few days, he may have already planned a retreat strategy. The urgent task is to dispatch medical experts as General Yu suggested, control the epidemic, and settle the old accounts with Fu Liang later.”

For the first time, Qin Su was calmer than the courtiers. The crowd looked at each other, calming down as well.

Wei Zikang was the first to speak up, “Your Highness, I believe that sending medical experts this time not only requires doctors but also herbs. Jing Guo is small and barren. When the time comes, the doctors might face difficulties without sufficient resources. Prioritize the safety of our soldiers. I have experienced an epidemic personally. Many households were empty because of human-to-human transmission. If necessary, decisive actions must be taken.”

The courtiers looked at Wei Zikang, a newcomer to the court but daring. From his words, wasn’t he suggesting abandoning Jing Guo to its fate?

However, when compared to the lives of Jing Guo’s people, the safety of Da Yong’s soldiers was paramount.

Qin Su nodded, looking at the courtiers, “Do any of you have other suggestions?”

After several others added to Wei Zikang’s proposal, Qin Su made a decision.

Led by Wei Zikang and the chief physician of the Imperial Hospital, ten doctors were requisitioned. Twenty volunteer physicians from the private sector were also enlisted. They would depart for Jing Guo early the next morning.

At the morning court, everyone was solemn. Qin Su oversaw the necessary arrangements, leaving Prime Minister Shen and Wei Zikang behind in the hall.

“Do you two have any other matters?” Qin Su asked.

“Your Highness, I am willing to go,” Prime Minister Shen said, his expression grave and troubled.

The statement surprised Wei Zikang, who was considering asking for a golden token to stabilize morale.

Qin Su sensed that Prime Minister Shen had something else in mind. His wife had fainted just the day before; why would he volunteer to go to Jing Guo now when Wei Zikang was capable? Qin Su decided to let Wei Zikang prepare first and then seek him out later.

After everyone left, Qin Su and Prime Minister Shen went to the study, had tea, and discussed.

“Prime Minister Shen, is your wife’s health better?” Qin Su asked.

“Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. She is better. Your Highness, please allow me to go to Jing Guo this time.”

Prime Minister Shen was determined to go to Jing Guo, further intriguing Qin Su.

“May I ask the reason, Prime Minister?” Qin Su was concerned about the Shen family but also worried about the difficulties Prime Minister Shen might face on the long and arduous journey.

After hesitating for a while, Prime Minister Shen knelt, realizing that was his last chance to explain.

Prime Minister Shen’s move startled Qin Su, who hurried forward to help him up and said, “Lord Shen, what are you doing? What is the matter? How can I, deserve such respect?”

However, Prime Minister Shen remained kneeling on the ground, tears streaming down his face as he said, “In exchange for my lifelong dedication and hard work, all I ask is one thing from Your Highness: to spare the lives of my wife and children, Ping’er and Qing’er. I am not afraid of death, but I cannot bear to see my family suffer because of me!”

Qin Su was taken aback by those words and urged Prime Minister Shen to stand and speak.

With the conversation initiated, Prime Minister Shen explained everything to Qin Su, focusing solely on his circumstances rather than other matters.

He confessed his identity as a former official to Qin Su, saying, “I have committed unforgivable crimes against the throne, but my wife and children were innocent and unaware. In recent days, my wife’s health has deteriorated upon learning the truth, leading to arguments and fainting spells. I know this matter cannot remain hidden, but I am willing to bear the consequences. I only beg Your Highness to spare the lives of my wife and children. I know it’s a difficult request, but I have no other choice.”

Qin Su was relieved to learn that she already knew about the situation and urged Prime Minister Shen to stand and speak openly.

Once Prime Minister Shen was assisted to sit up, he wiped his face in disbelief and looked at Qin Su, saying, “Your Highness, this…”

“Lord Shen, please tell me, from whom did Lady Shen learn of this matter?” Qin Su inquired.

Prime Minister Shen hesitated slightly but answered truthfully, “Lady Yang, the wife of Duke Yang, mentioned it to my wife. However, according to Lady Yang, she only heard rumors. I did not inquire further about the source, but the person seemed well-informed, not spreading baseless rumors.”

Qin Su tapped her fingers on the table, deep in thought. “Lord Shen, do not worry. I have been aware of this matter for some time. I also know about the relationship between Shen Jingyan and you. Shen Jingyan was killed by his adopted son, Shen Shen, more than a year ago. Shen Shen colluded with officials from Jiangnan and foreign forces, attempting to cause trouble. We have dealt with him decisively, leaving no traces behind.”

Prime Minister Shen’s eyes widened in surprise at Qin Su’s detailed knowledge.

“Lord Shen, you have served diligently for Da Yong without betraying us. Your past should not taint your loyalty. I intended to resolve this matter quietly, but leaks have occurred, indicating someone disloyal still lurks in the capital. We must uncover this person, and I rely on you for that.”

Qin Su comforted Prime Minister Shen and entrusted him with the task of finding the traitor. She also tasked someone else with handling the plague situation at Jing Guo, easing the burden on Prime Minister Shen.

After resolving the Jing Guo matter, Qin Su thought carefully and decided to visit the Shen residence personally.

Knowing the temperament of Lady Shen and her children, Qin Su anticipated difficulties. She believed it was best to handle things personally in these troubled times.

Upon arriving at the Shen residence, Qin Su observed the tense atmosphere among the servants and understood that something significant had happened.

Inside, she was greeted by Prime Minister Shen and Lady Shen, who appeared distressed. Lady Shen’s eyes were swollen from crying, and the atmosphere was tense.

Qin Su greeted them and asked to speak privately, acknowledging the delicate nature of the situation.

Prime Minister Shen led Qin Su to the study, where they could talk in private.

“Have Shen Yi and Shen Qing been informed of this matter?” Qin Su inquired as they walked.

Lady Shen, overcome with emotions, admitted, “They are aware. This matter concerns them as well; it cannot be hidden from them.”

“Then please have them join us. Lady Shen, there is nothing insurmountable about this matter; let us discuss it openly,” Qin Su reassured them.

Reluctantly, Lady Shen agreed, and they summoned Shen Yi and Shen Qing to join them in the study.

When Shen Yi and Shen Qing came over, they both looked visibly tired, as if they hadn’t slept all night. Indeed, with such a big incident at home, it was hard to find sleep even if one tried.

Qin Su glanced at them when they entered, then lowered her head, not looking at Shen Yi anymore. She felt heartbroken; what a situation that was.

But now was not the time to consider personal matters. Qin Su repeated what she had discussed with Prime Minister Shen.

“As far as I know, Lord Shen has already severed ties with Shen Jingyan and others and is merely a person from the previous dynasty. This alone is not enough to convict him. Lord Shen has always been devoted to Da Yong and its people. He should not suffer such injustice. The saying goes that heroes are not judged by their origins. Just because of an uncontrollable birth status, it cannot diminish Lord Shen’s contributions to Da Yong. That is why this matter has not been made public.”

Qin Su spoke each word carefully, observing the silent Shen family members. “The previous dynasty ended a hundred years ago. Since the Emperor left descendants from the previous dynasty, it shows that Da Yong is tolerant. If we continue to eradicate them now, wouldn’t that be absurd?

In recent years, the Emperor’s hostility towards the previous dynasty mostly stemmed from events more than a decade ago. Now that those events are past, and those responsible have paid the price, we should not blame others.”

Most of the Emperor’s actions against the previous dynasty were personal vendettas rather than just actions. Empress Deren sympathized with Shen Jingyan and died because of him, leading the Emperor to vent his anger on the previous dynasty. But after so many years, it should come to an end.

After Qin Su finished speaking, Lady Shen glanced at Prime Minister Shen before looking back at Qin Su. “Your Highness’s compassion is appreciated, and we thank you for your support. However, the laws of Da Yong cannot be ignored. While not all people from the previous dynasty are guilty, they do lack qualifications. Shen An has hidden his identity and deceived the court for so long. If we let this go, how can he justify it to Da Yong, to the court that trusted him, and to the people?”

Qin Su was surprised by Lady Shen’s strong stance and almost left speechless.

“Lady Shen, this matter started because of Lord Shen’s mistake. However, over the years, Lord Shen has served Da Yong diligently and faithfully. His contributions outweigh his mistakes. If others with Lord Shen’s talent and integrity were found, they would also be suitable for important roles. No one is without fault.”

“To recognize and correct one’s mistakes is the greatest virtue. I understand Your Ladyship’s pain, and I thank you for giving the Shen family a chance. But should Lord Shen step down from his position as Prime Minister?”

Lady Shen’s voice trembled as she spoke, showing her willingness to compromise. When lies were exposed, everything would fall apart.

Prime Minister Shen glanced at his wife before turning to Qin Su. “I also believe Your Highness has given us a chance. I am willing to resign, donate my wealth to atone for my sins.”

Qin Su was exasperated by their stubbornness. “Da Yong needs talents like Lord Shen. If Your Ladyship and Lord Shen find it difficult, let’s wait until the Emperor returns. I will persuade him to repeal the laws against the previous dynasty. By then, Lord Shen will be vindicated. How about it?”

Qin Su had no choice. Trying to convince this family was more exhausting than arguing with old officials in court. She realized that when it came to themselves, they were unforgiving.

“Absolutely not!”

Prime Minister Shen and Lady Shen vehemently opposed Qin Su’s suggestion of changing the laws.

“If the laws are unjust, they should be amended. If the Emperor agrees, and the officials support the changes, then you and Lady Shen won’t have to worry. After all, Lord Shen was adopted at a young age and later by commoners. By which laws should we judge him?”

Qin Su found it harder to convince this family than she expected. Nevertheless, she managed to calm Lady Shen, considering the innocent children in the family. She bid them farewell and left them to sort out their affairs.

“This matter will be put on hold. Let’s find out who leaked this information. They must have ill intentions towards the Shen family. Lady Shen, we cannot let others dictate our actions. I’ll take my leave now. Lord Shen, Lady Shen, you need not see me off.”

Qin Su left, and Prime Minister Shen and Lady Shen escorted him to the main gate. They then asked Shen Yi and Shen Qing to see Qin Su off.

“Go and see off Her Highness.”

Qin Su didn’t refuse their gesture. Shen Yi and Shen Qing escorted her outside the Shen residence, where Qin Su looked at Shen Qing.

“Master Shen, don’t be confined to one style, and never nitpick. Do what you can do, do what you want to do, fulfill your duties with your abilities, be worthy of heaven and earth, and thus be worthy of the people of this world.”

Shen Qing, who had been silent from beginning to end, heard Qin Su’s words and raised his head, asking, “Does Your Highness truly think so?”

Qin Su nodded, “I have always thought so.”

In the silence, Shen Qing tightly grasped his sleeve and nodded heavily, “Thank you for the reminder, Your Highness.”

“It’s nothing,” Qin Su smiled and rubbed Shen Qing’s head, “Go back and tell your parents, I’ll take your elder sister out for a trip.”

Shen Qing nodded stiffly, pretending to be mature, “Your Highness, take care.”

Taking Shen Yi’s hand, Qin Su led her onto the carriage and left the Prime Minister’s residence.

Once on the carriage, Shen Yi withdrew her hand from Qin Su’s grasp, shrinking into the corner of the carriage, looking like she had been wronged as she gazed at Qin Su.

That puzzled Qin Su. “An Ping, what’s wrong? Is there something I haven’t done well enough?”

“It’s not that you haven’t done enough, but rather you’ve been too thoughtful. Your Highness has bestowed great kindness upon my Shen family, and we have no way to repay it.”

Shen Yi had never thought that in places she didn’t know about, Qin Su had done so much for the Shen family. The rumors from before were just rumors; Prime Minister Shen had indeed been relieved of his duties at court recently, and now even implicated the remnants of the previous dynasty like Shen Jingyan, all of which were facts. Shen Yi could not imagine what the situation would be like now without Qin Su’s assistance.

Seeing Shen Yi’s distressed expression, Qin Su swallowed the playful words on her lips and looked at Shen Yi seriously, “An Ping, I do these things not for you or the Shen family. For the Da Yong Empire, Prime Minister Shen is like the backbone of a house. Over these years, his actions have all been for the people, for Da Yong. Such a pillar of the nation should not be burdened by these old matters that are not his fault.”

“In a larger sense, helping the Shen family is for Da Yong and the people. In a smaller sense, it’s also for myself. To ascend to the throne, I still need Mr. Shen’s assistance. This is a mutual benefit. Even if I have a thick skin, I can’t claim it as a great favor to the Shen family.”

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This is a fan translation, the novel does not belong to me. Support the author by donating to the site linked on the synopsis page. You can also donate to me if you appreciate my work and help get the funds to donate to the authors. I would also appreciate it if you left a comment!

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