Imperial Husband Chapter 130

Chapter 130

Because one was the heir to the Prince of Dingbei who would inherit the Dingbei Army in the future, and the other was a prince with the potential to succeed to the throne, the fact that attacks were not simultaneously launched against Ying Yuan was indeed worth pondering.

Imperial Husband Chapter 129

Chapter 129 

Li Jin smiled knowingly and said, "The Fifth Prince is not His Majesty, so how could he know if His Majesty does not have important matters for the Seventh Prince to handle? Or perhaps the Fifth Prince wishes to confront His Majesty about this?"

Imperial Husband Chapter 128

Chapter 128

Soon after Batu was taken away, Li Jin pushed open the secret room's door and entered.

This room was specifically designed by Ying Yuan as a hidden chamber. Unless the person inside made a sound, it was difficult for anyone outside to detect. Therefore, having hidden inside for so long, aside from Ying Yuan who already knew, no one else had noticed Li Jin's presence.

Imperial Husband Chapter 127

Chapter 127

Just as expected.

Not long after Ying Yuan followed Li Jin's suggestion, Ying Zihui fell for the trick.

However, Ying Zihui did not come in his capacity as the Eldest Prince. Instead, he secretly slipped past the other princes' watchful eyes and stealthily arrived at the Prince of Qin's mansion to see Ying Yuan.

Imperial Husband Chapter 126

Chapter 126

As soon as Li Jin's carriage arrived, the steward ran out to greet him with a delighted expression. "My respects, Heir Li. His Highness is expecting you inside. Please, come right in."

Li Jin gave a slight nod. "Mm. Lead the way."

Imperial Husband Chapter 125

Chapter 125

With the imperial edicts consecutively issued to enfeoff the princes, coupled with Ying Zhengjing's hint during the morning court that he would select one from among the enfeoffed princes to be Crown Prince, an uproar erupted both inside and outside the court.

Imperial Husband Chapter 124

Chapter 124 

The next day.

He Danyan watched the carriage carrying Shen Ningyu gradually disappear into the distance. An indescribable unease rose in her heart; she couldn't shake the feeling that something uncontrollable was about to happen.

Imperial Husband Chapter 123

Chapter 123

"I’m not leaving." Shen Ningyu’s eyes reddened as she glared angrily at Li Jin. "If you don’t explain clearly today, I absolutely will not leave. What exactly is your relationship with this lowborn commoner?"

"Uh... Your Highness..." Ping'an  looked at Li Jin with difficulty.

Imperial Husband Chapter 122

Chapter 122 

He Xiang was a servant in Li Yanchen’s courtyard, so it was only natural she would side with him. Through both obvious and subtle means, she painted Li Jin as a narrow-minded person who could not even tolerate his own brother, all without Shen Ningyu ever noticing she was being manipulated.

Imperial Husband Chapter 121

Chapter 121

Is Li Yanchen actually the son of Wei Shiwan and Yan Chongjin???

The shock in Li Jin's eyes quickly faded, replaced by gravity. "Yunting, continue investigating, but this time, change your direction. Start from Yan Chongjin."

Imperial Husband Chapter 120

Chapter 120

As this was a search of the entire mansion, the scope was extremely wide. Those responsible for the search took several times longer than they had for the earlier individual search of Li Jin's courtyard, and even then, they only barely managed to complete the task.

Imperial Husband Chapter 119

Chapter 119

"Impossible! There's no way we'd do that," Ping'an retorted immediately without hesitation. "We just returned from Zhuzhou, how could we possibly have time to harm the Second Young Master?"

"Enough. If you want to speak for the Heir, go talk to the Old Madam," the person snapped, ignoring Ping'an. He turned to Li Jin, his tone menacing, "Your Highness, please don’t put us in a difficult position, otherwise… we’ll have to find another way to ‘invite’ you over."

Imperial Husband Chapter 118

Chapter 118

Zhou Yunting knelt on one knee, cupped his hands, and reported, "Reporting to your highness, this subordinate has just detected unusual movements from Second Master's side. Furthermore, the people Lady Zhou had planted in your highness's courtyard are also beginning to stir restlessly."

Li Jin inquired with profound meaning, "Did you see what he did?"

"He secretly placed this object in your highness's chamber." Having said this, Zhou Yunting produced a cloth bundle the size of a palm and slowly opened it.

Behold.

The item inside the cloth bundle was actually identical to the medicinal herb dianqie (belladonna) that Li Jin had previously instructed him to find near Li Yanshen.

"It seems... she is preparing to make her move." Li Jin gave a light chuckle, then calmly issued instructions, "Yunting, later you will divide this into two portions. Hide one portion at..."

"As you command, your highness."

Zhou Yunting accepted the command and immediately departed without a sound.

Knock, knock.

A sudden knocking came from outside the door.

Not long after, Ping'an's voice rang out from outside, "Your highness, the Seventh Prince has sent someone to deliver a pot of soup. Would you care to try it?"

"Mhm, come in."

Upon hearing that Ying Yuan had sent something over, Li Jin responded almost reflexively.

Creak

Upon hearing Jin's words, Ping'an quickly pushed the door open and carefully carried the soup in. "Your Highness, the Seventh Prince told the servant to remind you to drink it while it's hot. It'll be no good if it gets cold."

"It's... bitter melon."

As soon as the lid was opened, Li Jin recognized at a glance that what Li Jin had prepared was bitter melon soup.

An indescribable feeling, carried by the aroma of the bitter melon soup, quietly spread to the depths of Li Jin's heart.

If one were to ask what Li Jin loved to eat most, it would be bitter melon.

Li Jin enjoyed the bitterness of the melon; it gave him a sense that he was still truly alive.

However, in this present life, Li Jin had only eaten it once in front of Ying Yuan. He never expected Ying Yuan to not only remember this detail but also know to make soup with bitter melon.

"So this thing is called bitter melon."

Ping'an seemed unfamiliar with bitter melon and was thus quite intrigued by the name Li Jin uttered.

"Mhm."

Li Jin sat down and slowly began to drink the bitter melon soup.

The bitter melon soup wasn't anything particularly precious. It simply contained some bitter melon, minced pork, diced winter mushrooms, and was flavored with a bit of coriander root and garlic.

But Li Jin found it exceptionally delicious.

For some reason.

Looking at the irregularly diced winter mushrooms and the sliced bitter melon in the pot—some slices thick, others thin—an idea surfaced in Li Jin's mind: this pot of bitter melon soup was very likely made by Ying Yuan himself.

Otherwise, with the skills of a palace chef, it would never have been cut in such a manner.

Li Jin did not know.

Ying Yuan had originally intended to deliver the bitter melon soup himself. However, given his status as a prince, he could not leave the palace at will. It was only after much internal struggle that Ying Yuan had no choice but to have someone else deliver it on his behalf.

Ping'an, standing to the side, pondered for a long while before finally being unable to hold back his question. "Your highness, you punished the Eldest Master and the others immediately upon your return. Isn't that somewhat inappropriate? I fear people outside might gossip about you behind your back."

To put it plainly.

Ping'an asked this question out of concern that people outside might spread unfavorable talk to tarnish Li Jin's reputation.

"Ping'an, do you think I still have a reputation to speak of?"

Li Jin countered with a question instead of an answer.

"Uh..."

Ping'an was at a loss for words.

Li Jin's words hit the mark. Despite being away from the capital for three years, Wei Shiwan was still there, and she wouldn't miss a chance to slander him.

Seeing Ping'an was convinced, Li Jin smiled. "You're still young, Ping'an. You'll understand when you grow up."

"Your Highness..." Ping'an felt a bit put out that Li Jin called him young.

But he swallowed it. It was Li Jin, after all - the one he respected most. Anyone else would've gotten a piece of his mind.

"Ping'an, when the Seventh Prince's messenger comes, tell them the soup was delicious."

"..."

...

The Hour of Yin [3:00-5:00 AM].

The news of Li Yanshen's inexplicable death spread throughout the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion at a shocking speed.

Wei Shiwan hurriedly rushed over. The moment she saw Li Yanshen, who had already stopped breathing, she completely broke down. "Shen'er... Shen'er, wake up quickly... don't sleep anymore... Shen'er..."

Among the three children Wei Shiwan bore, Li Yanshen was undoubtedly the one on whom she had expended the most effort and who was also her favorite. Therefore, upon learning of his death, how could Wei Shiwan possibly remain calm?

"Investigate. For this old one, investigate clearly just who is responsible for this?"

Wei Rong struck her cane heavily against the ground, refusing to believe Li Yanshen could have died just like that.

Wei Rong was, after all, the senior-most person in the mansion in terms of generation, and someone needed to oversee Li Yanshen's affairs. Li Jin thus ordered the guards stationed near Wei Rong to withdraw.

Wei Shiwan, tears welling in her eyes, looked at Wei Rong. "Old Madam, Shen'er's health was not good, true, but he had no major issues. How could he just... be gone, just like that? Surely someone has secretly harmed Shen'er."

"Shiwan, don't cry. This old one will certainly see justice done for you in this matter."

"Thank you, Old Madam."

Having received Wei Rong's assuring words, Wei Shiwan immediately curtseyed.

Due to the example Li Jin had made that very day to warn others, Wei Shiwan had also changed her form of address, not daring to call her 'mother' as she used to.

Not long after.

A maidservant hurried in, carrying a medicine pot. "Old Madam, Secondary Consort, this servant found this. Perhaps Second Master's misfortune is related to it."

Wei Shiwan's pupils instantly contracted. "Are you suggesting there was something wrong with the medicine decocted for Shen'er? That can't be. You are merely a maidservant; how would you know how to examine herbs? Could it be that you are in league with the one who harmed Shen'er?"

Frightened by Wei Shiwan's fierce gaze, the maidservant immediately knelt down. "Secondary Consort, this servant is wronged! This servant knows these things because this servant's grandfather was a physician. He once told this servant about some crucial medicinal herbs, which is how this servant recognized it."

Cailian spoke up at the right moment, "Secondary Consort, judging by her appearance, she should be telling the truth."

Wei Shiwan, hearing this, pondered for a moment before saying, "Then tell me, what crucial herb is inside?"

"It's this one." The maidservant took out a herb from the medicine pot. "This herb is called dianqie. The entire plant is poisonous, but because it is not commonly seen, not many people know of it."

"Dianqie (belladonna)..."

Wei Shiwan snatched the belladonna from the maidservant's hand and squeezed it forcefully, as if wanting to crush it to dust.

"Secondary Consort, generally, adding just five belladonna berries is enough to kill a poisoned person. And here, there are four whole plants, including the most poisonous roots. It seems the person who poisoned Second Master clearly intended to take his life."

"Good, very good, very good..." Wei Rong gritted her teeth and uttered several 'good's in succession. "If I find out who committed such a vicious deed within the Prince's Mansion, I will make sure they have no place to be buried."

Suddenly, a servant unexpectedly exclaimed, "Old Madam, this servant seems to have seen this thing in the Heir's chamber."

What?

Upon hearing that Li Jin might be involved, Wei Rong's anger towards Li Jin also reached its peak.

Wei Shiwan, regardless of anything else, knelt down. "Old Madam, I beg you, you must seek justice for Shen'er."

"Shiwan, rest assured. If that vile creature is truly responsible for this, this old one will be the first not to spare him." Wei Rong clenched her fist, enunciating each word clearly. "Bring Li Jin here. Also, search the courtyard where Li Jin resides thoroughly. You must find that harmful thing."

"Yes, Old Madam."

The guards from Wei Rong's courtyard, having received the order, immediately strode quickly towards the direction of Li Jin's courtyard.

Wei Rong had, after all, managed affairs in the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion for many years; naturally, she would not lack manpower. Moreover, this matter involved harm to a descendant of the Prince's Mansion. Those guards who usually assisted Li Jin certainly would not dare act rashly now.

Just as the party sent to apprehend Li Jin had left, Li Yanchen arrived right after. "Grandmother, how is Second Brother?"

After hearing the news of Li Yanshen's death, Li Yanchen disregarded everything else and came wearing only his inner garments.

Wei Rong frowned deeply. "Chen'er, the medicine on your wounds was just applied. Why have you come? What if your injuries worsen?"

Wei Shiwan also forcibly suppressed her nearly失控 emotions and said gently, "The Old Madam is right. Chen'er, this matter has nothing to do with you. You should go back and rest first."

Li Yanchen shook his head. "Second Brother and I are both Father's sons. How could this matter have nothing to do with me? Grandmother, Secondary Consort, please allow me to stay here as well."

"Very well. It's good for you to stay too, lest that vile creature Li Jin turns against us if his plot fails." Wei Rong agreed to let Li Yanchen stay. "You there! How are you attending to your duties? Can't you see the Eldest Master is thinly clad?"

"Yes, Old Madam."

The maidservants, hearing this, hurriedly and fearfully fetched a cloak to drape over Li Yanchen.

As for Li Ruoyan, she had already been terrified out of her wits by Li Jin's punishment. After being released from the Buddhist hall, she scrambled back to the Prince An's Mansion in a panic, so she was still unaware of Li Yanshen's poisoning.

After putting on the cloak, Li Yanchen immediately bowed to Wei Rong. "Your grandson thanks Grandmother."

"Mhm."

Wei Rong was quite pleased with Li Yanchen's respectful conduct.

...

Ping'an glanced at Li Jin, who was calmly sipping tea, and couldn't help asking, "Your Highness, something's happened to Second Young Master... aren't we going to check on him?"

"There's no need." Li Jin shook his head calmly. "It likely won't be long before someone comes for us."

Ping'an was even more confused. "Uh... your highness, I don't understand."

No sooner said than done.

The moment Ping'an finished speaking, the people sent by Wei Rong arrived. They divided into two groups: one came to 'invite' Li Jin, while the other began to search Li Jin's courtyard extensively.

Bang.

The arrivals seemed to treat Li Jin as a criminal; they didn't even knock before directly pushing the door open. "Your highness, the Old Madam requests your presence."

"This is the Heir's quarters. How dare you barge in like this?" Ping'an was angered by the intruder, but what made him even angrier came next. "And what are you all doing? Why are you searching the Heir's courtyard?"

"Someone has accused the Heir of being the one who murdered Second Master. We are here to conduct a search under the Old Madam's orders."

Imperial Husband Chapter 117

Chapter 117

The flogging mentioned by the guard was no casual strike to be taken lightly; it was a flogging with strict requirements. Each stroke had to be controlled precisely, otherwise it would be repeated until executed correctly. Furthermore, after receiving the flogging, applying medicine was prohibited. One could only drag their battered and bruised body to the ancestral hall.

From this, it was clear; Wei Rong intended for Li Jin to die under the family punishment. After all, in her understanding, Li Jin's health was poor to begin with, and one round of family punishment would be more than he could withstand.

Truth be told, the offenses Li Jin committed were not major; a few words of reprimand would have sufficed. However, because of the incident with the old momo, Wei Rong's reason had long since flown away. Her only desire was to use the family punishment to put Li Jin to death.

The corners of Li Jin's lips curled in a faint, ambiguous smile. "Grandmother is quite right. As the concubine-born son and daughter of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion, they not only fail to pay proper respects upon seeing me but also speak with disrespect. Truly reprehensible. Let it be handled according to family discipline. Bestow upon Li Yanchen and Li Ruoyan ten lashes each, then send them to the ancestral hall for serious reflection."

"As you command, Your Highness."

Having received Li Jin's definitive order, the guards moved into action once more.

One stone stirred up a thousand waves.

Li Yanchen and Li Ruoyan were instantly dumbstruck, seemingly not expecting Li Jin to be this unyielding.

"Li Jin! With this old woman here, you dare not act recklessly!" Wei Rong suddenly stood up, blocking the path in front of Li Yanchen and the other, clearly forbidding Li Jin from having them seized. "All of you, stop right there for this old woman! I am the Dowager Lady of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion! How dare you defy your superiors?!"

Hearing that Li Jin intended to punish even Li Yanchen, Wei Shiwan's expression instantly turned cold. "Jin'er, mother merely spoke rash words in a moment of anger. Why must you be so calculative and damage family harmony?"

If only Li Ruoyan were being punished, Wei Shiwan wouldn't have bothered. But since this matter involved Li Yanchen, she had no choice but to intervene.

Instead of answering, Li Jin countered, "Consort Wei, I recall you are no longer the Princess Consort. To address Grandmother as 'mother' like this is improper, is it not?"

"Uh..."

Caught off guard by Li Jin's counter, Wei Shiwan was left speechless.

Wei Shiwan had always been unwilling to admit that the Princess Consort position she had schemed so hard to obtain was now gone. Moreover, she still held the authority to manage the household. Over time, she had forgotten her place.

Who would have thought Li Jin would seize upon this point to attack her.

Wei Rong came to her defense, "This old woman permitted it. It has nothing to do with you."

Li Jin smiled. "Grandmother, haven't you always said that members of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion should abide by propriety? If your current words were to spread outside, what would people think of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion?"

"You..."

"Grandmother still hasn't grasped one point," Li Jin interrupted, meeting Wei Rong's gaze. "Without rules, there is no order. I am first the Heir to the Prince of Dingbei, then your grandson, Li Jin. Grandmother may have her own biases, but I cannot. My every move is watched by those in the capital. Furthermore, setting aside their disrespectful speech, the mere fact that they, as concubine-born children, dared to sit and share the morning meal at the same table with you, Grandmother, is a grave offense."

All that Li Jin stated was explicitly stipulated in the laws of Da Xia.

He hadn't mentioned it before because he couldn't be bothered. But now that they had repeatedly pushed their luck, if Li Jin didn't retaliate, he would be seen as an easy target.

Wei Rong pointed at Li Jin's forehead, saying sharply, "I am the Dowager Lady of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion! Everything is decided by me! Li Jin, you are unfilial! You are unworthy of being the Heir!"

Li Jin closed his eyes. "Grandmother is unwell. Take her down to rest, and go invite the imperial physician to examine her."

"As you command, Your Highness."

"What are you doing?! This old woman is not ill! Release me at once!" Wei Rong, never imagining Li Jin would treat her this way, erupted in fury. "Li Jin! You dare to plot against me! When the Prince finds out, he will certainly not spare you!"

In her desperation, Wei Rong even brought up Li Shiyun, believing Li Jin wouldn't dare defy him.

Li Jin, seemingly having anticipated this, replied again, "Regarding that, Grandmother need not worry. After the matter concludes, I will write to Father and clearly explain the entire sequence of events. I will certainly not wrong anyone."

Li Jin gave Wei Rong and the others no more opportunity to delay, immediately ordering action.

How could this be happening?

Wei Shiwan had always held the upper hand and had never witnessed such an unyielding side of Li Jin. She was momentarily stunned. At the same time, it dawned on her that she had fundamentally underestimated him.

This was, after all, someone who—despite his frail health—had won the personal regard of the Emperor and Empress and secured the Heir’s position over his own father. A person like that could never have been simple to contend with.

Li Jin turned and looked at Wei Shiwan. "Consort Wei, in consideration of your years of service to Father, I will not pursue this matter for now. But remember this: there is a distinction between noble and base."

Li Jin knew that Wei Shiwan was most sensitive about status distinctions, so he deliberately spoke these words to provoke her.

Sure enough, Wei Shiwan fell for it, her expression instantly turning ferocious.

"Consort Wei, to prevent you from repeating the same mistake, please accompany me to witness them receive the family punishment." Having said this, Li Jin paid no further attention to Wei Shiwan and directly followed behind the guards escorting Li Yanchen and the other.

This was only the beginning, Wei Shiwan. I will let you 'live' a long, long life.

Wei Shiwan, from the bottom of her heart, did not want to follow and watch. However, she was now like a startled bird, and before she could even react, her feet subconsciously followed Li Jin.

Not long after, Li Yanchen and Li Ruoyan were forced to kneel under the blazing sun.

It was the time of day when the sun was most intense. The ground was scalding. Kneeling on it, both Li Yanchen and Li Ruoyan's faces instantly turned unpleasant.

Looking at the person standing behind her holding the whip, Li Ruoyan broke out in a cold sweat. "Li Jin! I belong to the Prince An's household! If you beat me, His Highness will not let you off!"

"Li Ruoyan, I heard you are no longer a secondary concubine of the Prince An, but a mere serving maid. Are you certain you wish to address me using the status of a Prince An's maid?"

"You..."

Li Ruoyan hadn't completely lost her senses and quickly realized the implication in Li Jin's words. She immediately dared not say more.

Unlike the status of a prince's secondary consort, a serving maid could be bought and sold at will, like a commodity. If she truly defied Li Jin using the status of the Prince of An's maid, it would undoubtedly be seeking her own death.

Clap.

Li Jin clapped his hands once, signaling the guards to begin.

Li Jin, enjoy your triumph for a few more days. Your position as Heir will eventually be mine.

Having learned from the previous lesson, Li Yanchen simply shut his mouth, gritted his teeth, and endured the sharp pain of the whip lashing his body, saying nothing.

"Ah... No... Don't hit me... I admit it... I admit it, is that not enough?!" Li Ruoyan was different. After just a few lashes, she couldn't bear it and admitted to her insolence.

However... Once the family punishment began, it would not stop unless completed.

Li Ruoyan had been pampered since childhood. Although she had suffered hardship in the Prince An's Mansion, because she still held the status of the Prince of Dingbei's illegitimate daughter, Ying Ziheng didn't dare go too far. Thus, she had never truly been punished, at most confined. Therefore, facing this relentless whipping, Li Ruoyan was the first to break, continuously begging for mercy.

But Li Ruoyan's pleas were destined to be useless. Li Jin would not be soft-hearted. No matter the pain, Li Ruoyan could only endure it.

Standing beside Li Jin watching all this, Wei Shiwan didn't dare even breathe loudly.

"Chen'er... Chen'er... Quickly release Chen'er..."

Zhou Xiaoru, who had rushed over upon hearing, saw her son being whipped until covered in blood. She went mad, trying to stop it, but the guards acted faster. Just as Zhou Xiaoru tried to approach, they intercepted her.

Seeing she couldn't get close to Li Yanchen, Zhou Xiaoru had no choice but to turn and beg Li Jin for mercy, hoping he would spare Li Yanchen.

Little did she know that it was precisely her humiliating display of pleading that stoked Li Yanchen's deepest shame and resentment.

In Li Yanchen's view, Zhou Xiaoru's actions undoubtedly humiliated him, lowering him even more in Li Jin’s presence. A dark thought even crossed his mind: if Zhou Xiaoru were gone, perhaps he wouldn't be looked down upon because of her existence.

Li Jin said coldly, "Concubine Zhou, if anyone who broke the rules could escape punishment just because someone knelt and begged for them, then what would be the point of having family discipline or imperial law?"

"Your Highness, I beg you, show mercy. Spare this humble concubine's son. This humble concubine will kowtow to you right now. Please forgive him!"

Zhou Xiaoru didn't listen at all. Instead, she began kowtowing to Li Jin.

Li Jin said impassively, "I will not change my mind."

Zhou Xiaoru still wanted to plead for Li Yanchen. "Your Highness..."

Li Jin was tired of listening to Zhou Xiaoru's pleas and interrupted, "Someone, escort Concubine Zhou back."

"No! This humble concubine will not leave!" Zhou Xiaoru, seeing the guards suddenly approaching to take her away, struggled frantically. "Your Highness, I know you have always resented this humble concubine. But this matter has nothing to do with my son. If you must vent your anger, direct it at this humble concubine. Do not harm my son!"

Useless woman! If you cannot be of help, then do not come here to shame me!

While being punished, Li Yanchen couldn't help but curse Zhou Xiaoru, who was being taken away, repeatedly in his heart.

That night, having just been delivered to the ancestral hall, Li Yanchen and Li Ruoyan, unable to bear the pain without medicine, directly admitted their disrespect towards Li Jin.

Li Jin didn't comment on this. Seeing their admission, he straightforwardly released them.

"Chen'er..."

Zhou Xiaoru, on the verge of tears, kept softly calling Li Yanchen's name.

Because Li Yanchen had long been registered under Wei Shiwan's name years ago, Zhou Xiaoru had no right to visit. She could only stay in her own courtyard, worrying about whether Li Yanchen's injuries were severe.

"Li Jin, just you wait. I will not let Chen'er be beaten by you for nothing. I will make you atone with your death!" At this moment, Zhou Xiaoru hated Li Jin to the core. Her original plan to act after some time completely collapsed upon seeing Li Jin order the guards to whip Li Yanchen without restraint. Her mind was now solely occupied by the thought of making Li Jin die quickly, a thought that lingered, unable to dissipate.

Simultaneously Zhou Xiaoru also hated Wei Shiwan for standing by and watching her son suffer without helping. It was utterly unforgivable.

Imperial Husband Chapter 116

Chapter 116

"Your Highness, according to the drawing you provided, your subordinate has found this. Please examine it." Having said this, Zhou Yunting took out the dried medicinal herb suspected to be belladonna and handed it to Li Jin.

Li Jin took the herb, examined it for quite a while, and then said, "This is it. Yunting, you have done well."

Zhou Yunting replied, "Thank you for your praise, Your Highness."

Li Jin returned the belladonna to Zhou Yunting and then said unhurriedly, "Yunting, from now on, keep a close watch on Zhou Xiaoru and Li Yanchen for me. Report to me immediately if they take any suspicious action, no matter how small. Also, store this item carefully; it may prove useful later."

"Yes, Your Highness."

Zhou Yunting carefully stored the belladonna away once more and then withdrew.

Li Jin gazed at the tightly shut door and murmured to himself, "The appearance of this belladonna is somewhat early. And to have it used on Li Yanshen... I wonder if the one who acted was Zhou Xiaoru, or Li Yanchen, or perhaps they collaborated."

Having been poisoned by this very means in his previous life, Li Jin immediately recognized the symptoms of Li Yanshen’s illness when described by Ping’an and linked them to belladonna.

Sure enough, Li Jin's conjecture was correct.

…

The Rear Courtyard.

Zhou Xiaoru stifled a cough as she pressed anxiously, “Then… you’re certain what you heard is true? That old witch and that venomous Wei Shiwan truly plan to put my son in the Heir’s position?”

Cailian replied in a low voice, "Yes, Concubine Zhou. This is what this servant heard with her own ears; it cannot be false. However, later the Secondary Consort and the Dowager Lady spoke some whispers that this servant could not hear."

Cailian was the chief maid specially assigned to serve Wei Shiwan after Xiaotao, and thus was thoroughly familiar with Wei Shiwan's every move.

Upon hearing this, Zhou Xiaoru gave a cold laugh. "What else could it be? They were discussing how to eliminate me."

After all, since ancient times, no one understands you better than your enemy.

Zhou Xiaoru had contended with Wei Shiwan for most of her life. If she lacked cunning, she would have long ago perished like the other deceased concubines, falling victim to Wei Shiwan's deliberate schemes.

Cailian looked at Zhou Xiaoru with profound meaning. "Then what are Concubine Zhou's plans?"

"If she wants to kill me, I will kill her son. Let's see what mood she has left to deal with me then." Zhou Xiaoru curled her lips in a mocking smile. "By the way, since that sickly one has also returned from Zhuzhou, I might as well frame him for Li Yanshen's death. This way, there will be no obstacle for my son to assume the Heir position."

If there was one person Zhou Xiaoru most wanted to eliminate first, it was none other than Wei Shiwan.

But given the current circumstances, it was still not possible; at least, before Li Yanchen ascended to the Heir position, Zhou Xiaoru could not act rashly.

After all, her background was merely that of a maid, utterly incomparable to Wei Shiwan, who came from a noble family. It could be said that without Wei Shiwan promoting Li Yanchen, even if Li Jin and Li Yanshen were gone, the Heir position would not fall to Li Yanchen.

Hearing this, Cailian then smiled. "Concubine Zhou considers things most thoroughly."

"Cailian, whether this matter succeeds still depends on you." Zhou Xiaoru took Cailian's hand and said gently, "Just rest assured. In the future, when Chen'er becomes the Heir, I will have him marry you. Your wealth and honor, and your mother's, are still to come."

"Yes."

Cailian's eyebrows danced with joy as she bowed to Zhou Xiaoru.

Secondary Consort, don't blame me for disloyalty. Blame yourself for being too ruthless. I have no desire to end up like Xiaotao, who served you before, dying mysteriously by your hand.

…

The next day.

The old momo beside Wei Rong came to Li Jin's courtyard early in the morning to pass on a message, saying that the old lady wanted Li Jin to go have breakfast with her.

Ping'an said worriedly, "Your Highness, the Dowager Lady suddenly sending for you to join the morning meal is surely with ill intent. Perhaps... perhaps we should still find an excuse to tactfully avoid it?"

Li Jin shook his head with an amused smile, and instead of answering, asked in return, "Ping'an, you can dodge the first day of the month, but not the fifteenth. Do I seem like such an easy target in your eyes?"

[躲得过初一，躲不过十五 (duǒ de guò chū yī, duǒ bù guò shí wǔ): lit. You can dodge the first day [of the lunar month], but you cannot dodge the fifteenth; fig. You can avoid something temporarily, but not forever.]

"Impossible!" Ping'an declared, raising his head. "Your Highness is brilliant and mighty, how could you possibly be an easy target? If anyone dared say that, I, Ping'an, would be the first to disagree."

"Alright, go get ready."

"Uh... okay..."

Seeing that Li Jin was determined to go, Ping'an didn't want to drag things out, so he quickly helped Li Jin get dressed.

Not long after, when Li Jin arrived at the place for the morning meal as requested by Wei Rong, Wei Rong was already seated early. Besides Wei Rong, Wei Shiwan, Li Yanchen, and even Li Ruoyan, who had long been married off, were all present. It was evident that Wei Rong’s invitation was clearly a Hongmen banquet.

[鸿门宴 (hóng mén yàn): lit. Hongmen banquet; fig. A trap or a meeting set with malicious intent, often where one walks into danger. Originates from a historical feast where a host plotted to kill a guest.]

Li Jin first bowed to Wei Rong. "Your grandson pays his respects to Grandmother."

"What time is it already, that you are only arriving now? Li Jin, since becoming the Heir, you have become more and more unreasonable." Wei Rong seized the initiative, directly placing a false accusation upon Li Jin.

Li Jin narrowed his eyes slightly and replied calmly, "Grandmother, your grandson came at the exact hour specified by the momo. Moreover, to avoid keeping you waiting, I arrived an hour early. Could it be... that the momo who delivered the message intended to sow discord?"

The old momo standing beside Wei Rong immediately fell to her knees in fear, trembling as she said, "Dowager Lady, this servant is wronged! Having served you for so long, how would I dare commit such a treacherous act?"

Upon hearing this, Wei Rong's anger flared.

Fuming with rage, she pointed at Li Jin. "Li Jin... you must not..." falsely accuse someone by my side.

"Grandmother, look at the tone in which this woman speaks; it clearly reveals her guilty conscience," Li Jin interrupted Wei Rong's unfinished words. "Guards, seize this woman and interrogate her thoroughly until she explains the reason for sowing discord."

The old momo had always relied on Wei Rong's authority to bully others, and Li Jin's words immediately frightened her so much that her legs went weak.

"Yes, Your Highness."

The mansion guards immediately stepped forward and seized the old momo.

Some of the guards stationed in the mansion were formerly under the Dingbei Army. Only because they were injured and could no longer remain in the army did Li Shiyun assign them to serve as guards in the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion. Therefore, these guards would only take orders from Li Shiyun and his heir, Li Jin.

"Release her at once!" Wei Rong was furious. "Li Jin, you stop this right now!"

Wei Rong had not expected Li Jin to order an arrest so directly and promptly rebuked him in anger.

"Grandmother, this woman harbors treachery and cannot be kept." Li Jin showed no intention of compromising. Instead, he elevated the matter of dealing with the old momo to the level of the mansion's security. "Today, she dares to sow discord between you and me. Then tomorrow, she might even dare to betray you, and betray the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion itself. Perhaps this woman is a spy with ulterior motives. Does Grandmother truly intend to protect her regardless of the mansion's safety, regardless of Da Xia's security?"

Wei Rong was left speechless by Li Jin's words.

She could only watch helplessly as the guards took the old momo away.

To have a confidante who had served her for years taken away on what seemed like Li Jin's unfounded charges—Wei Rong loathed him with a burning intensity. Yet, frustratingly, there was nothing she could do to stop him.

Li Ruoyan sneered, "Your Highness certainly puts on a great show of authority. Having just returned, you immediately try to intimidate Grandmother, and you don't even know to bow to me, your elder sister. Truly impressive."

Since losing her child and subsequently incurring Ying Ziheng's disgust, Li Ruoyan's days had taken a turn for the worse. However, thanks to Wei Rong's pity, she had not yet been completely crushed.

Recalling her experiences in the Prince An's mansion, Li Ruoyan could not help but look at Wei Shiwan, her eyes filled with resentment.

Li Ruoyan never reflected on why she had ended up in such a state. Instead, she harbored hatred for Wei Shiwan's heartlessness, even believing that everything was Wei Shiwan's fault. She even believed it was all Wei Shiwan's fault—if not for her, her own life would not be so miserable, nor would she be trampled by the younger Shuang'er brother she had always despised.

Yet, because she had previously offended Wei Shiwan severely, Li Ruoyan dared not show any of this openly.

Li Yanchen pretended to be reasonable. "Brother Jin, Sister Ruoyan, this isn't such a major matter. It's rare for us all to have breakfast together; it's better to value harmony."

Li Ruoyan said disdainfully, "Then what does Eldest Brother suggest we do?"

"How about having Brother Jin bow to you now?" Li Yanchen put on an expression of considering Li Jin's interests and advised, "Brother Jin, what Sister Ruoyan says is correct. You really should bow to her."

Upon hearing this, Li Jin looked coldly at Li Ruoyan and Li Yanchen. "Li Ruoyan, Li Yanchen, is this the proper etiquette you should display?"

"Li Jin, what do you mean by that?" Li Ruoyan was furious. She slammed the table heavily and stood up abruptly, shouting in anger, "I should be the one saying that! I was actually thinking of letting it go as Eldest Brother suggested, but now don't you dare think I'll forgive you easily. Also, I am your elder sister, yet you disregard everything and call me by my name. What kind of behavior is that?"

As soon as the words left her mouth, Li Ruoyan deeply regretted her impulsiveness.

It was no wonder she acted this way. After all, it had been three years since she last saw Li Jin; she had long since cast him from her mind. Moreover, having been frustrated and discontent in the Prince An's mansion, she had subconsciously forgotten how fearsome Li Jin could be.

"Yan'er is right. What sort of upbringing is this—showing no deference to either elders or juniors?" Wei Rong, thinking she had caught Li Jin's mistake, immediately shouted, "Guards, seize him at once! This time, I will definitely 'discipline' him properly."

When Wei Rong said the word "discipline," she intentionally emphasized it, clearly intending to exact revenge for what had just happened.

"What are you all standing there for? Hurry up and seize him! This time, I will definitely apply the family discipline to him." Wei Rong, waiting for the guards to act, soon realized they were not moving at all and anxiously roared, "All of you, quickly seize him! Have you rebelled?"

Facing Wei Rong's repeated orders, the guards remained where they were, showing no intention of obeying.

Li Jin shifted his gaze to one of the guards and asked, already knowing the answer, "What is the family discipline of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion?"

The guard questioned by Li Jin immediately stepped forward, cupped his hands, and replied, "Reporting to Your Highness, the family discipline of the Prince of Dingbei refers to binding the offender with rope, taking them under the sun, and administering 10 to 100 lashes depending on the severity. Afterward, they are confined to the ancestral hall for reflection until they admit their wrongdoing."

Imperial Husband Chapter 115

Chapter 115

After finishing the medicinal meal at Gu Rushuang's palace and returning to the Prince of Dingbei's mansion, it was already xushi (7-9 PM) in the evening.

Wei Rong, who had been waiting for most of the day in the main hall that Li Jin was certain to pass through, saw him return and began to speak with a sarcastic, mocking tone, "Heir Li has finally deigned to return."

"Greetings, Grandmother."

Li Jin saluted Wei Rong neither submissively nor arrogantly.

"Oh, so now you remember to show respect to this old woman who is your grandmother." Li Jin's persistently calm and unhurried attitude immediately made Wei Rong, who had been stewing in anger all day, even more furious. "But do you have any idea how long this old woman has been waiting for you here? You're not even the Prince of Dingbei yet and this is how you behave, making this old woman wait for so long. If you truly were to become the Prince of Dingbei, this old woman fears she might be tormented to death by you."

Wei Rong's every word was a vicious stab, directly painting Li Jin as a malicious and wicked person, utterly unworthy of the title of heir, let alone of becoming the Prince of Dingbei. Moreover, Wei Rong did not dismiss the mansion's servants when she spoke these words, clearly intending for the matter to spread outside.

His Highness clearly doesn't mean that at all, how can the Dowager Lady say such things about him?

Ping'an was furious but dared not speak, only clenching his fists to suppress the rage that was about to burst forth.

Li Jin smiled slightly, "Grandmother worries too much. Upon arriving in the capital, your grandson immediately received His Majesty's command to first report on the crucial matters of the Zhuzhou mission, which delayed me until now."

Fully aware of the truth, Wei Rong persisted relentlessly, "Hmph, fine words indeed. With your condition, what important task could His Majesty possibly assign to you?"

Li Jin shook his head, "It concerns state secrets. Your grandson begs forgiveness but cannot speak of it."

"I demand that you tell me." Wei Rong pointed at Li Jin, saying through gritted teeth, "This old woman refuses to believe His Majesty would assign you anything important. You are clearly just making excuses."

Faced with Wei Rong's repeated provocations, Li Jin's expression remained unchanged from the start. "If Grandmother insists on knowing, then your grandson will immediately enter the palace to report to His Majesty. If His Majesty agrees, your grandson will naturally inform Grandmother in full detail."

"Li Jin, are you threatening this old woman?"

Bang!

Unable to contain her anger, Wei Rong slammed her hand heavily on the table beside her.

Li Jin met Wei Rong's gaze and replied calmly, "I beg Grandmother's forgiveness. Your grandson cannot, simply because Grandmother wishes him to speak, disregard the future of Da Xia."

Wei Rong suddenly felt as if a bone were stuck in her throat. "You…"

"Mother, why are you still here? Didn't you promise to accompany this consort to visit Shen'er?" Wei Shiwan approached at just the right moment. Pretending to have only just noticed Li Jin, she feigned surprise and said, "Oh, Jin'er, you're here too? Why didn't you inform this consort of your return? Now it's probably too late to prepare a welcome cleansing ceremony for you."

"No matter. I have already dined at His Majesty the Empress's palace, there is no need to trouble the Secondary Consort." Li Jin replied courteously without losing propriety, then took his leave. "Since Grandmother wishes to accompany the Secondary Consort to see younger brother Shen, your grandson will take his leave first."

This time Li Jin did not delay, turning and leaving directly.

Wei Rong said angrily, "Shiwan, look at him, just look at him. This old woman waited here for most of the day, and he just leaves like that?"

Wei Shiwan never missed an opportunity to disparage Li Jin. Pretending to comfort her, she said, "Mother, Jin'er has always been like this. Don't be angry, your health is what matters. Besides, we haven't gone to see Shen'er yet."

"Shen'er is such a pity."

Hearing Wei Shiwan mention Li Yanshen, Wei Rong couldn't help but sigh, her anger gradually subsiding.

Originally, Wei Rong had planned for Li Yanshen to become the Heir to the Prince of Dingbei after Li Jin died of illness. Who could have imagined that Li Yanshen would inexplicably contract a strange illness, his body now even weaker than Li Jin's, possibly succumbing any day if he couldn't hold on.

Wei Shiwan probed tentatively, "Mother, what do you think of Chen'er?"

By mentioning Li Yanchen to Wei Rong at this moment, Wei Shiwan had already resolved to support Li Yanchen.

Of course, Wei Shiwan's decision was a last resort.

Back then, in order to give birth to Li Ruoyan and Li Siyuan, Wei Shiwan's health had been damaged. She could no longer conceive. Therefore, as the second-born child, Li Siyuan naturally became the target of Wei Shiwan's resentment.

Wei Rong thought for a moment before saying, "Chen'er… is actually not bad…"

Having come this far, Wei Shiwan stopped speaking in riddles and got straight to the point. "This consort believes Chen'er can shoulder great responsibility. I wonder if Mother would be willing to have Chen'er become the Heir?"

Wei Rong hadn't expected Wei Shiwan to say this and couldn't help being surprised. "Shiwan, are you serious about this?"

"Yes." Wei Shiwan nodded gravely. "The Prince of Dingbei must have an heir. But now Shen'er's health is likely beyond recovery, and Jin'er's health is also poor. Chen'er is undoubtedly the best choice."

"Chen'er has been raised by your side since childhood. For the Wei family, him becoming the Heir is indeed a favorable choice, but Chen'er's birth mother will be an obstacle." Wei Rong had actually considered this point as well. Therefore, when Wei Shiwan actively broached the subject, Wei Rong did not object but instead raised another concern.

Wei Shiwan immediately leaned closer and whispered into Wei Rong's ear, "Dispose of the mother, keep the son."

"Good, that is an excellent method." Upon hearing this, Wei Rong immediately expressed her satisfaction. "Shiwan, to avoid complications from delay, I entrust this matter to you. You must handle it swiftly, do you understand?"

Wei Shiwan made a slight bow. "Yes, Mother."

...

Upon returning to the courtyard, Ping'an immediately reported the news he had gathered to Li Jin: "Your Highness, on my way back just now, I overheard the servants saying that the Second Young Master has contracted a strange illness and may not have long to live."

Li Jin raised an eyebrow. "A strange illness?"

Before departing, Li Jin had known that Li Yanshen was ill, but he had not expected it to be this severe—sick for a full three years.

"Yes, the Second Young Master's illness is..."

Ping'an hurriedly shared the news he had gathered with Li Jin.

The reason Li Yanshen’s condition was called a “strange illness” was not only because its cause was unknown, but also due to the unusual symptoms it presented.

His illness would flare up once each day. Whenever an episode struck, his complexion would instantly turn pallid, as though he might not last much longer. At the same time, his mind would become confused—to the point where he could no longer recognize even Wei Shiwan—and he would also develop symptoms such as sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and convulsions.

Yet when Li Yanshen was not in the midst of an episode, apart from general physical weakness, he appeared no different from an ordinary person and showed no sign of failing to recognize those around him.

Because of this strange illness, Wei Shiwan went to great lengths, even seeking the head of the Imperial Hospital, Wang Quande, to examine him, but no improvement was seen. She had no choice but to give up on curing it and instead focused on preserving Li Yanshen's life.

After hearing this, Li Jin fell silent for a long while before finally saying, "I understand. Ping'an, you may withdraw for now."

"Yes, Your Highness."

Ping'an assumed Lei Jin was tired, nodded, and withdrew.

Moments later, the spacious room held only Li Jin.

Li Jin walked over to the writing desk, picked up the charcoal pencil he always carried, and began sketching on a sheet of paper on the desk.

This charcoal pencil had been crafted for him by skilled artisans during his time in Zhuzhou. Though not as refined as the charcoal pencils of the modern era, it was more than sufficient for sketching.

After a short while, Li Jin completed the sketch and then suddenly called out, "Yunting."

Upon hearing Li Jin summon him, Zhou Yunting immediately emerged from the shadows, cupping his hands in salute. "Your subordinate is here. What are Your Highness's instructions?"

"You heard what Ping'an said just now. I want you to investigate whether the medicine Li Yanshen takes contains an herb called belladonna," said Li Jin, handing the completed sketch to Zhou Yunting.

The drawing Li Jin gave Zhou Yunting was a sketch of belladonna after it had been dried.

"Yes, Your Highness."

Zhou Yunting took the drawing, glanced at it, then folded it neatly and tucked it into his clothing before taking his leave from Li Jin.

...

Having just suffered an episode not long ago, when Wei Rong and Wei Shiwan arrived, Li Yanshen's complexion remained ghastly pale, and his speech was weak and feeble. "Cough, cough... Grandmother, please forgive your grandson for being unable to rise and pay respects." 

"Shen'er, you're already so ill. What need is there for formalities? Lie back down properly and don't catch a chill," Wei Rong said, looking at Li Yanshen with heartache. "And you servants, what are you all standing there for? Can't you see Shen'er is unwell?"

"Yes, yes..."

Scolded by Wei Rong in this manner, already nervous servants attending to Li Yanshen became even more cautious, fearing that Wei Rong might become displeased and have them all sold off.

"Useless."

Wei Rong made no attempt to conceal her disgust toward these servants.

Were it not for fear that new servants would make Li Yanshen uncomfortable, Wei Rong would have long sold off all these useless servants, instead of wasting her breath scolding them like this now.

Li Yanshen managed a frail smile. "Grandmother, please don't be angry. Am I not alright as I am?"

"Alright, alright, Shen'er, don't try to get up. I'll listen to you."

Wei Rong, after all, couldn't bear to be angry with her favorite grandson and relented.

Li Yanshen spoke again, "By the way, Grandmother, how has your health been these days? Some time ago, I heard you had caught a slight chill. Are you completely recovered now?"

Mentioning this reminded Wei Rong of the anger she suffered at Li Jin's hands. "Hmm, much better. But that wretch has returned and nearly angered me to death."

"Wretch?"

Li Yanshen was confused, his mind slow to make the connection.

Wei Shiwan reminded him, "Your third brother."

"Shen'er, he is nothing but a wretch..." Given the chance to speak ill of Li Jin, Wei Rong did not hold back, proceeding to slander Li Jin in every way before Li Yanshen, painting him as a disloyal and unfilial villain.

Li Yanshen lowered his head. "It's all my fault for being unwell; otherwise, I could have gone to Grandmother's side to attend to you during your illness."

"Shen'er, don't say such things. It is all that wretch's fault."

In Wei Rong's mind, Li Yanshen had been thoughtful and well-mannered since he was a child. Thus, hearing him speak with such self-reproach only deepened her contempt for Li Jin.

Just as Li Yanshen, Wei Rong, and the others were exchanging pleasantries, Zhou Yunting silently infiltrated the rear courtyard of Li Yanshen's residence. He found the medicinal dregs that had not yet been disposed of and examined them carefully.

Before long, Zhou Yunting found an herb that closely resembled the belladonna in Li Jin's drawing. He discreetly took it with him.

Imperial Husband Chapter 114

Chapter 114

In truth, the people and matters Ying Yuan spoke of were already known to Gu Rushuang through Tao Yichu. Yet, Gu Rushuang still wished to hear it from Ying Yuan and Li Jin themselves, for it gave him a feeling of being truly alive.

Li Jin looked at Gu Rushuang and asked, "Has Your Majesty the Empress been well these years in the palace?"

Whether it was Li Jin's misconception or not, since returning to the palace and seeing Gu Rushuang again, Li Jin always felt there was something amiss in Gu Rushuang's expression.

"Much the same as ever," Gu Rushuang shook his head slightly. "Let us not speak of that for now. Having traveled such a long journey, you must be weary. Therefore, This Palace specially ordered medicinal dishes to be prepared for you."

With that, Gu Rushuang clapped his hands.

In an instant, medicinal dishes, prepared earlier, were brought out one plate after another from the small kitchen by palace maids and placed upon the table.

Most of the medicinal dishes Gu Rushuang ordered were mild in nature. After all, Li Jin and the others had been stationed in Zhuzhou for three years, where living conditions were average, even somewhat arduous. Using overly potent tonics all at once would surely cause their weak constitutions to be unable to bear the supplementation.

"As you wish."

Faced with Gu Rushuang's kindness, Li Jin and Ying Yuan did not refuse. Just as they did before leaving the palace, they sat down according to their former habits and dined with Gu Rushuang.

In that moment, a faint warmth began to silently permeate the air.

Seizing the opportunity, Gu Rushuang looked at Li Jin with a smiling face, "Jin'er, This Palace has only heard from Yuan'er since a moment ago. Now, I would also like to hear if any interesting events happened during your time in Zhuzhou. You will tell This Palace, won't you?"

"Very well, it would be disrespectful to decline..."

With a smile, Li Jin began recounting some amusing experiences from Zhuzhou, directly amusing Gu Rushuang.

Soon, Ying Yuan joined in, "Mother Empress, there's more than just that..."

...

The Shen Residence.

Shen Ningyu anxiously sought confirmation from He Danyan, "Mother, is what you said true? Has Heir Li... has he really returned? Truly returned? You're not deceiving me?"

He Danyan replied with slight annoyance, "It is true."

"This girl, really... I should have teased her properly earlier, to avoid her disbelieving even the truth now."

"Wonderful! I knew Heir Li would return to the capital sooner or later."

Upon confirming the news of Li Jin's return to the capital, Shen Ningyu's expression instantly became ecstatic, nearly jumping for joy.

"Ningyu, calm down."

Seeing her daughter so agitated over a man unseen for three years, He Danyan felt a wave of helplessness in her heart.

"No, I must go see Heir Li. He will surely be delighted to see me." Shen Ningyu completely ignored He Danyan's words and sprang to her feet, swept up in her own impatience. "Mother, I need to dress up to see Heir Li. Wait, where is that new outfit I had made yesterday? I want to wear it to see Heir Li."

"Heir Li is still in the palace. What is your hurry?"

He Danyan pressed on Shen Ningyu's shoulders, signaling her not to be so hasty.

"Oh, right..."

Reminded by He Danyan, Shen Ningyu instantly deflated.

Indeed, Li Jin was surely in the palace meeting with the Emperor first. Going now would be futile.

"Alright now," He Danyan, unable to bear seeing Shen Ningyu so dispirited, shook her head with a sigh. "Regarding visiting Heir Li, Mother has already made arrangements. Tomorrow, you will accompany me to the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion. Mother will help you propose marriage to the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion. Is that satisfactory?"

Generally speaking, it was somewhat improper for He Danyan to bring Shen Ningyu along for a marriage proposal. However, He Danyan understood clearly that Shen Ningyu could no longer wait to see Li Jin. If she were to stop her now, without a doubt, given Shen Ningyu's temperament, she would inevitably sneak out on her own to find Li Jin.

Therefore, He Danyan opted for the lesser alternative, simply taking Shen Ningyu along to prevent her from acting recklessly in places unknown to her.

Hearing this rare piece of good news suddenly, Shen Ningyu's heart tightened, not daring to breathe heavily. "Mother, you... what you just said, is it true? You're not tricking me?"

He Danyan glared at Shen Ningyu. "I am your mother. How could I jest with you about such matters?"

"Heavens... That's wonderful! Thank you, Mother!"

Shen Ningyu hadn't expected matters between her and Li Jin to progress so swiftly. Overjoyed, she immediately began to jump.

"Ningyu, stop that at once!" He Danyan swiftly grasped her daughter's shoulders. "If your father were to see you behaving this way, where would the propriety be? You'd best mind yourself, or he will surely discipline you."

"Yes, Mother."

At the mere mention of her father, Shen Ningyu immediately fell silent, not daring to fool around as before.

He Danyan spoke with reluctance, "Ningyu, must you marry Heir Li so quickly?"

If possible, He Danyan also did not wish for Shen Ningyu to marry so soon.

However, her daughter could wait no longer. The moment Li Jin returned, she eagerly wanted to seek him out. He Danyan, unable to dissuade her, had no choice but to concede.

There was one point on which the thoughts of Shen Ningyu and her mother were surprisingly aligned:

Neither considered the possibility that Li Jin would refuse.

Shen Ningyu said firmly, "Yes. If we don't hurry, it will be 'too late'."

The "too late" Shen Ningyu spoke of referred precisely to Ying Xichen.

In Shen Ningyu's view, Ying Xichen was merely an ugly wretch with a princess title—she had no right to compete with her for Li Jin.

"Fine, fine. But such... immodest words, you must not let your father hear them." He Danyan didn't catch the implied meaning in Shen Ningyu's words, only thinking her daughter couldn't wait a moment longer.

Shen Ningyu laughed, "Mother, rest assured. Your daughter is clever; how could I possibly let Father hear?"

"You..."

Looking at the lively Shen Ningyu, He Danyan shook her head helplessly and gave in.

The Prince of Dingbei's Mansion.

Having learned of Li Jin's return to the capital, Wei Rong had long been waiting in her courtyard for Li Jin to come pay his respects. She then thought to take the opportunity to give Li Jin a bit of a warning.

After all, she was his grandmother. Even as the heir, Li Jin had to lower his head to her and address her as Grandmother.

Only, Wei Rong's scheme was destined to fail.

The reason was simple: After returning to the capital, Li Jin went straight to the palace to report to Ying Zhengjing and had no time to return to the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion.

Having waited for a long half-day without seeing Li Jin, Wei Rong grew furious and said sharply, "Shiwan, wasn't it said that young brat Li Jin has returned? Why hasn't he come to pay respects to me, his grandmother? Utterly preposterous."

"Perhaps matters have delayed him," Wei Shiwan said with a gentle smile.

Times had changed. Wei Shiwan's current situation was awkward. She wasn't the Princess Consort yet managing the mansion's affairs. If she hadn't clung tightly to Wei Rong, the legitimate Dowager Lady of the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion, and hadn't had one daughter and one shuang'er both married to the Prince An, who knows what even more unpleasant things outsiders might say. Not to mention commanding the mansion's guards who had followed Li Shiyun through life and death—they simply didn't regard Wei Shiwan as their mistress.

Yet ironically, the one who plunged Wei Shiwan into this awkward position was her once most beloved daughter, Li Ruoyan, causing Wei Shiwan to grit her teeth in hatred whenever she recalled it.

Since Li Ruoyan lost her child three years ago, Wei Shiwan had completely given up on her and instead sought to mend relations with Li Siyuan, attempting to repair their bond.

However, the harm Wei Shiwan inflicted upon Li Siyuan in the past was too great, to the extent that Li Siyuan still paid her little heed.

Wei Rong said through gritted teeth, "Matters? Could Li Jin have matters more important than me, his grandmother? Unacceptable! For such filial impiety, I cannot simply let him be. Shiwan, prepare my formal court attire. I am going to the palace."

Wei Shiwan advised, "Mother, Jin'er has only just returned. For us to lodge a complaint now is truly improper."

Hearing this, Wei Rong's anger flared. She said fiercely, "What impropriety? Li Jin returning without paying respects to me is unfilial!"

Li Yanchen timely entered, "Grandmother, please do not be anxious. I inquired a moment ago. It turns out Third Brother, upon returning to the capital, was summoned by His Majesty. He is likely still in the palace at present."

"In the palace? Why didn't he send someone back to inform us?"

Hearing that Li Jin was in the palace, Wei Rong immediately quieted, though complaints still filled her mouth.

"Perhaps Jin'er was too busy and forgot for a moment."

Wei Shiwan gave Li Yanchen a look of praise, inwardly sighing in relief.

Fortunately, Li Yanchen had come. If Wei Rong really went to the palace over such a matter, the Prince of Dingbei's Mansion would become a laughingstock.

"Hmph, I say he did it on purpose," Wei Rong snorted disdainfully, slowly rising to her feet. "I am tired and will rest for a while. When Li Jin returns, have him come see me immediately."

"Yes, Mother."

Wei Shiwan performed a bow towards the gradually departing Wei Rong.

Li Yanchen spoke again, "Greetings, Secondary Consort."

Propriety could not be neglected. Since Wei Shiwan was no longer the Princess Consort, both Li Jin and Li Yanchen addressed her only as Secondary Consort.

Wei Shiwan turned and smiled at Li Yanchen, "Yanchen, thanks to you this time for persuading your grandmother so quickly. But speaking of which, why are you at the mansion at this hour?"

Li Yanchen replied, "Reporting to Secondary Consort, the friend I had an appointment with had urgent business, so I returned."

"So that's how it is." Wei Shiwan nodded upon hearing this, then extended an invitation, "Yanchen, since you are here, would you like to accompany me to see Yanshen? He has been missing you lately."

"Very well, I have been missing Second Brother as well."

Having said that, Li Yanchen made a gesture of 'please.'

Wei Shiwan nodded with satisfaction and walked ahead first.

As for Li Yanshen, who was constantly confined to his sickbed, his prospects were negligible. In contrast, Li Yanchen's standing was now viewed quite favorably by Wei Shiwan. To ensure a secure future for herself and to bolster Li Yanchen's position, she had even begun quietly maneuvering to support his rise within the household.

After all, Li Yanshen, due to his chronic illness and status as a concubine-born son, had long been disqualified from the heir position. Therefore, having Li Yanchen become the Prince of Dingbei was, in Wei Shiwan's view, the best choice.

Thinking of this, Wei Shiwan couldn't help but admire her own foresight in taking Li Yanchen from Zhou Xiaoru to raise early on. Otherwise, given Li Yanshen's current condition, her situation might have been very passive, perhaps even irrecoverable.

Imperial Husband Chapter 113

Chapter 113

Dongzi saw Li Jin and the others off with great reluctance. "Brother Jin, be careful on the road. Come visit us in Zhuzhou when you have time. Dashu and I will miss you."

Dashu, standing nearby, patted Dongzi's shoulder to comfort him. "Dongzi, Brother Jin and the others are just returning home. They'll be fine."

"Yeah."

Dongzi nodded in agreement, a trace of melancholy in his voice. He knew Dashu was right—after all, Li Jin and his companions were originally from the capital. Yet, knowing something and feeling it were two different matters. Over the past three years, Dongzi had often sought out Li Jin and the others, and having grown close as good friends, parting was inevitably difficult.

"Dongzi, we'll come back to see you," Li Jin replied, his own heart heavy with the reluctance to part from Dongzi and the others. Yet, no feast in this world lasts forever; Li Jin and his companions were never meant to remain in Zhuzhou for long.

Dashu gently stroked Dongzi's rounded belly, grinning goofily. "Oh right, Brother Jin, you haven't given our child a name yet."

Back when Dongzi first became pregnant, Li Jin had promised Dashu that once the child was born, he would choose a good name for their baby. However, an imperial decree urging Li Jin and the others to return to the capital had arrived, forcing them to depart ahead of schedule.

After thinking for a long while, Li Jin finally said, "Qingyue. How about the name Liu Qingyue?"

[清越 (Qīngyuè): clear and transcendent]

"Qingyue... Qingyue... Good, that's a wonderful name," Dashu murmured the name repeatedly, growing more and more pleased with it. "It works well whether the child is a boy or a girl. It would even sound lovely for a daughter. Good, very good. Thank you, Brother Jin!"

Dashu thought to himself how much better Li Jin was at choosing names. If it were left to him, he'd probably come up with something like "Tiezhu" (Iron Pillar), "Guihua" (Osmanthus), or "Cuihua" (Jade Flower).

"Thank you, Brother Jin."

Dongzi was evidently very pleased with the name and promptly expressed his gratitude to Li Jin.

At that moment, Zhou Yunting approached and reminded him, "Young Master, it is getting late."

"Mm." Li Jin nodded in acknowledgment. Then, turning to Dongzi and Dashu, he said, "Dongzi, Dashu, we must be on our way now." With those words, Li Jin and his companions turned and boarded the carriage.

"Brother Jin, all of you must take good care of yourselves."

Due to his pregnancy, Dongzi didn't follow after them, but called out loudly instead.

Ping'an, reluctant to part, shouted from the carriage, "We will! Dongzi, Dashu, you must take good care too."

This time, just like three years ago, only Li Jin, Ying Yuan, Ping'an, Zhou Yunting, and Shi Weixu traveled to the capital by carriage, while Lan Mingzhou and Tao Yichu remained in Zhuzhou.

However, there was one difference.

The people escorting them to the capital this time were all first-class palace guards, their strength exceedingly formidable.

To put it plainly, these guards were the ones who accompanied the envoy when Ying Zhengjing sent the imperial decree. Their purpose was to escort Li Jin and the others back to the capital, to successfully obtain the gunpowder.

Watching as the figures of Dongzi and the others slowly faded into the distance, Ping’an finally turned away, his spirits low. "Your Highness, Seventh Prince," he said sadly, "it really is too bad that Lord Lan and the others can’t come back with us this time."

In the three years Ping'an had been in Zhuzhou, aside from Zhou Yunting, he had gotten along best with Lan Mingzhou. So, when he first learned that Lan Mingzhou could not return together, Ping'an was despondent for a long time.

Shi Weixu shook his head with an amused smile. "That's something beyond our control. After all, Lord Lan is the county magistrate of Zhuzhou. Without an official transfer order from the court, he cannot leave arbitrarily."

Upon hearing this, Ping'an's expression immediately wilted.

"Alright, Ping'an." Li Jin gave Ping'an a disgruntled look. "With Lan Mingzhou's current achievements, it's only a matter of time before he's transferred back to the capital."

"Young Master, is everything you said true?"

"When have I ever lied to you?"

Li Jin's question, rather than answering directly, made Ping'an, who had just realized he was questioning Li Jin, blush instantly.

Oh my god, what am I saying?

Zhou Yunting suddenly interjected, "Ping'an, I'm not happy that you care so much about Lord Lan."

"I'm not."

"You are."

"I'm not..."

That's good.

Ying Yuan, watching Ping'an and Zhou Yunting playfully bickering, couldn't help but exchange a smile with Li Jin.

Time flowed like quicksand, slipping away rapidly.

Perhaps due to the presence of the guards sent by Ying Ziheng, Li Jin and the others encountered no hindrances along the way and returned to the capital smoothly, without spending too much time.

"Your Highness, did you take the medicine this official gave you yesterday?"

Just before Li Jin stepped out of the carriage, Shi Weixu unexpectedly asked.

"I did," Li Jin replied, then stepped down from the carriage and walked away without looking back.

Shi Weixu nodded and also disembarked behind Li Jin, not continuing the previous topic.

"Li Jin."

Ying Yuan, unable to suppress his worry, grabbed Li Jin's hand.

After three years of constant companionship day and night, how could Ying Yuan not have realized there was something wrong with the medicine Shi Weixu gave Li Jin? However, those medicines were explicitly ordered by his dear Imperial Father to be administered to Li Jin, who even went so far as to send someone thousands of li every month to deliver them, insisting that Shi Weixu must be present to watch Li Jin take the medicine.

"It's fine."

Li Jin initially wanted to reach out and tousle Ying Yuan's hair, but noticing the guards' gazes fixed upon him, he changed it to a slight smile directed at Ying Yuan.

"Li Jin, that medicine—"

"Shh." Li Jin interrupted Ying Yuan's unfinished words, smiling meaningfully. "That medicine is quite good. Truly worthy of being from the palace. After taking it for three years, my health is much better than it was three years ago."

"……"

Ying Yuan fell silent.

Because he understood the implied meaning in Li Jin's words, he could only temporarily suppress the unease in his heart.

The guard captain unexpectedly walked over, cupping his hands in salute. "Heir Li, Seventh Prince, please follow this subordinate. His Majesty is already awaiting you both."

"Understood. Seventh Prince, let us hurry."

"Mhm."

A short while later, led by the guard captain, Li Jin and Ying Yuan arrived at the Yanwen Pavilion where Ying Zhengjing was.

The Yanwen Pavilion was the palace's library. As soon as Li Jin and Ying Yuan entered, the first thing they saw were rows upon rows of neatly arranged bookshelves. The shelves were filled with rare and outstanding volumes, many of which were one-of-a-kind editions.

"Jin'er, Yuan'er, you have finally returned."

Ying Zhengjing, who had been reviewing memorials, suddenly looked up and smiled at the two.

Li Jin was the first to respond. "We have not failed Your Majesty's trust. We have thoroughly mastered the research on gunpowder..."

Knowing the purpose of Ying Zhengjing's summons, Li Jin directly and succinctly reported on the progress of the gunpowder research, which greatly pleased Ying Zhengjing, who was already interested in it.

"Good, good, good..." After listening to Li Jin's account, Ying Zhengjing repeatedly said 'good,' then meaningfully curled the corners of his lips. "Jin'er, Yuan'er, your journey to Zhuzhou has rendered an unparalleled service to our Da Xia. If there is anything you desire, speak freely. I shall grant it."

Ying Yuan replied with cupped hands, "Replying to Imperial Father, what Li Jin and I desire most is to see Da Xia unify the realm and receive tribute from all nations."

"Good. What you seek, I shall accomplish one by one."

Ying Zhengjing seemed very satisfied with Ying Yuan's answer. After praising both of them profusely, he bestowed numerous gifts and even permitted them to meet Gu Rushuang.

Times were different now.

Li Jin was now an adult, no longer the child permitted to freely enter and leave the inner palace. Thus, Ying Zhengjing's decree was truly undoubtedly a timely rain for them.

Li Jin and Ying Yuan spoke in unison, "We thank Your Majesty (Imperial Father)."

"Go quickly now. Don't keep the Empress waiting."

"Yes. This subject (your son) takes his leave."

Ying Zhengjing watched them leave with a smile, which vanished the instant their figures completely disappeared. "Tell me, do Li Jin and the Seventh Prince truly want nothing... cough... or do they have other designs?"

The guard hidden in the shadows slowly stepped forward and reported, "Replying to Your Majesty, Heir Li and the Seventh Prince spent their time in Zhuzhou solely researching gunpowder. Apart from occasional interactions with Zhuzhou's Magistrate, Lan Mingzhou, they did not specifically meet with anyone else."

Upon hearing this, Ying Zhengjing raised an eyebrow. "Lan Mingzhou?"

"Your Majesty, this Lan Mingzhou is from the maternal family of Consort Chun..."

The guard faithfully recounted all there was to know about Lan Mingzhou's situation. Ying Zhengjing listened, clicking his tongue in amazement.

That a son born of a concubine could be switched with the legitimate son for so many years without detection was certainly surprising to Ying Zhengjing.

"In that case, this Lan Mingzhou might be a usable person."

Ying Zhengjing had heard reports from spies about Zhuzhou's development over the years and was thus not unfamiliar with Magistrate Lan Mingzhou. However, at the time, Ying Zhengjing was primarily concerned with the progress of the gunpowder and did not pay much attention to Lan Mingzhou.

"Your Majesty means to..."

"Find a time to transfer him back to the capital. The Lan family's ambitions are too great; there should be someone to restrain them."

"Yes, Your Majesty. Regarding Heir Li, do we still need to..."

"Continue having people follow him. I am still not at ease. Remember, if Li Jin shows any unusual movements, report to me immediately."

"Yes."

Elsewhere.

"This subject pays his respects to His Majesty the Empress."

"Your son pays his respects to Mother-Empress."

Upon arriving at Gu Rushuang's palace and seeing him, Li Jin and Ying Yuan immediately performed the ritual greeting without uttering another word.

Gu Rushuang said calmly, "Jin'er, Yuan'er, there is no need for such formality. Rise, both of you."

Though outwardly composed, the moment Gu Rushuang saw Li Jin and Ying Yuan arrive, his joy was already evident. Yet, bound by his role as Empress, he maintained a calm demeanor.

Thank goodness, they are both safe.

Gu Rushuang secretly let out a sigh of relief.

For the past three years in the palace, he had been living in constant anxiety over Li Jin and Ying Yuan assisting Ying Zhengjing in developing gunpowder, fearing that if they failed, they would face the Emperor’s punishment.

Fortunately, they had succeeded in the end.

"We thank Your Majesty the Empress (Mother-Empress)."

Li Jin and Ying Yuan responded with due courtesy before taking the seats Gu Rushuang had specially prepared for them.

"Jin’er, Yuan’er, can you tell me what happened in Zhuzhou?"

"Replying to Mother-Empress…"

Ying Yuan glanced at Li Jin, then recounted to Gu Rushuang all the important events that had taken place in Zhuzhou—aside from matters concerning gunpowder.

Unlike the restraint they felt before Ying Zhengjing, the more Ying Yuan spoke, the more his tension eased. Without realizing it, he even mentioned their friendship with Dongzi and the others.

In fact, Gu Rushuang found their stories of camaraderie with Dongzi and the others far more engaging than the official matters Ying Yuan had described earlier.

"It seems sending the two of you away on this journey was the right decision."

Imperial Husband Chapter 112

Chapter 112

Three years later.

"Hyah... hyah... Run faster, Taxue. We mustn't let A-Jin catch up this time." Seeing Li Jin about to overtake him from behind, Ying Yuan patted his beloved horse, urging it to go faster.

Neigh~

Taxue responded with a whinny and suddenly accelerated.

Seeing this, Li Jin withdrew his gaze from Ying Yuan and smiled at the horse he was riding. "Sanhua, put in more effort. If we win this one, we'll secure a triple victory."

Neigh~

Sanhua also let out a spirited whinny and instantly pulled alongside Taxue, which had been ahead just a moment before.

"A-Jin, I will definitely win."

"A-Yuan, it's still too early to say that."

As soon as their words fell, they simultaneously urged their horses to sprint again, trying to outpace each other. However, both horses were equally strong, making the contest intensely close.

"I can't catch up." Tao Yichu, chasing from behind, saw that Li Jin and the others were nearly at the finish line and straightforwardly gave up on the idea of catching them. "Heir Li and the Seventh Prince are truly formidable. Even though we all started together, they still steal the spotlight."

"If we can't get first or second, let's at least take third, Lord Tao. If you keep dawdling here, last place will undoubtedly be yours."

Ping'an, sitting behind Zhou Yunting, began to provoke Tao Yichu without any reservation.

Tao Yichu glared at Ping'an. "Ping'an, if you have the skill, get off Zhou Yunting's horse and race me on your own."

"It's precisely because I lack the skill that I'm riding behind Zhou Yunting."

Having said that, Ping'an stuck out his tongue at Tao Yichu.

The time spent together had changed him. After three years of living side by side in Zhuzhou, Ping'an had learned to be honest with Zhou Yunting. He no longer felt the need to act tough when he clearly couldn't manage.

"..."

"What? Are you going to bite me?"

"Ping'an, you're really asking for a beating."

"Is that so? But if you want to beat me, you'll have to get past Zhou Yunting first."

"Hahaha!" Right then, Lan Mingzhou overtook them on his horse. "Third place is as good as mine!"

"Oh no, how could I forget he was here too! Zhou Yunting, ride faster!" Seeing himself overtaken by Lan Mingzhou, Ping'an could no longer bother with taunting Tao Yichu and hastily urged Zhou Yunting to speed up and catch up.

"Alright."

Zhou Yunting cast an adoring glance at the anxious Ping'an and calmly increased his speed.

In the blink of an eye.

Just as everyone crossed the finish line, Sanhua, ridden by Li Jin, was a split second faster, taking first place. Ying Yuan, Zhou Yunting, and the others trailed closely behind.

"Zhou Yunting, well done! I knew you could catch up!"

Ping'an beamed with joy, vigorously patting Zhou Yunting's shoulder, completely forgetting the anxiety he had shown just moments before.

Meanwhile, the moment he dismounted, Li Jin sensed something was off with Ying Yuan.

"Why are you crying?"

Li Jin walked up to Ying Yuan and discreetly used his hand to wipe away Ying Yuan's tears.

Ying Yuan blushed and lowered his head. "A-Jin, Taxue and I practiced for a long time for today, but... we still lost."

In truth, Ying Yuan hadn't intended to cry, but by the time he realized it, tears had already unconsciously started to flow.

"You’ll win next time." A-Yuan, you're playing foul like this.

Li Jin sighed softly and gently brushed through Ying Yuan’s hair.

Heavens knew, the moment Li Jin saw Ying Yuan suddenly cry, his heart felt as if it had stopped—an extremely unpleasant sensation.

"But there's no next chance. I have to return to the capital the day after tomorrow." The thought of going back to the capital to face those people and matters made Ying Yuan's mood grow heavy.

If possible, Ying Yuan genuinely wished from the bottom of his heart that he could stay in Zhuzhou forever with Li Jin.

"I'll be going back with you."

"Mhm."

"Oh, right. Do you remember the agreement we made before the race?"

"I remember. But since I still lost, that agreement doesn't really stand anymore, does it?"

The true reason for Ying Yuan's dejection wasn't losing to Li Jin, but rather the loss of their agreement.

Li Jin smiled gently. "Losing is one thing; our agreement is another. So, A-Yuan, how about we stick to our prior arrangement and go for a horseback ride later?"

After three years of extensive reforms, Zhuzhou was a world apart compared to its past.

The severity of the drought had been fundamentally reduced. Furthermore, with the introduction of sweet potatoes and the construction of reservoirs, the threat of famine had been smoothly eliminated.

Naturally, this was inseparable from the efforts of Li Jin and the others.

As for Tao Yichu staying behind, firstly, it was due to Gu Rushuang's order to protect Li Jin and Ying Yuan; secondly, Tao Yichu had developed a keen interest in Li Jin's group and was very eager to see if their efforts would bear fruit, which led him to remain in Zhuzhou for a full three years.

Bai Yifei and his father initially wanted to stay in Zhuzhou as well. However, due to urgent letters from Li Shiyun, the Bai father and son reluctantly, albeit unwillingly, returned to the frontier.

As for Yan Zhongjin, ever since receiving the news from Li Jin about Wei Shiwan's demotion, he couldn't wait to leave overnight.

"Alright."

Ying Yuan agreed without a second thought.

"You all head back first; we'd like to ride a while longer." Leaving these words behind, Li Jin mounted Taxue and extended a hand to Ying Yuan. "Come up, I'll take you."

"Mhm."

Taking Li Jin's hand, Ying Yuan also mounted Taxue.

"A-Yuan, hold on tight." Seeing that Ying Yuan was settled, Li Jin immediately urged Taxue to gallop to the left, instantly leaving Zhou Yunting and the others, who had stopped to rest, far behind.

Sanhua, the horse Li Jin had been riding earlier, also followed closely behind as Taxue raced away.

Watching the figures of Li Jin and Ying Yuan gradually disappear into the distance, Ping'an said with concern, "Zhou Yunting, should we follow them to check? After all, there have been assassination attempts on His Highness all these years. I'm afraid something might happen to him."

Zhou Yunting grasped Ping'an's hand, signaling him not to go.

"The Seventh Prince is with him. His Highness will be fine."

"Indeed." Tao Yichu nodded in agreement. "If it really came to a fight, I'm no match for the Seventh Prince at all. But then again, the Seventh Prince is clearly quite a bit younger than me—why is he so formidable in combat?"

If not for the consideration that Ying Yuan was a prince, Tao Yichu would have barely restrained himself from uttering the words 'monster' and 'strange person' about him.

......

As Taxue galloped along the road, Ying Yuan instinctively tightened his arms around Li Jin's waist.

In order to freely control the power of the gunpowder and avoid unnecessary trouble, for the past three years, both Li Jin and Ying Yuan had devoted all their time to it, often researching late into the night, leaving them no opportunity to go out.

The horse race was something Li Jin had insisted upon.

After a while, Li Jin said, "A-Yuan, I remember there's a small stream ahead. How about we stop there for a while?"

Ying Yuan gave an almost imperceptible nod. "Alright."

Soon after, the two of them arrived at the streamside to rest.

"A-Yuan, you can request a different agreement as well..."

"This is enough." Ying Yuan shook his head, interrupting. "A-Jin, you're already exhausted from the gunpowder research. I don't want you to force yourself."

Before the horse race began, the original purpose of Ying Yuan's agreement with Li Jin was precisely to ensure that Li Jin could take some time to rest amidst his overwhelming busyness.

To put it plainly, although the research on gunpowder was entrusted to both Li Jin and Ying Yuan, with Li Jin taking the leading role, Ying Yuan was more like an assistant, only able to help with simple tasks. Important adjustments still required Li Jin's personal involvement.

This also explains why it took Li Jin three years. The truth was, his knowledge of gunpowder came from memories of a past life. Having now lived through two lifetimes, the details had long been forgotten, making the research process far more challenging.

Fortunately, the outcome was positive.

"A-Yuan, would you like to soak your feet?" While Ying Yuan was lost in thought, Li Jin had already taken off his shoes and socks and immersed his feet in the stream.

It was currently the end of heat solar term in Zhuzhou, the tail end of summer. Soaking in the water at this time was still quite refreshing.

"Mhm, I'll join too." Ying Yuan hurriedly sat opposite Li Jin and, following his example, took off his shoes and socks, placing his feet in the water. "A-Jin, the water feels so nice."

Li Jin responded with a smile. "A-Yuan, you've worked hard these past three years."

Ying Yuan shook his head. "I haven't worked hard. Actually, you did all the important work, A-Jin. I couldn't be of much help at all. Those words are what I should be saying to you."

"That's not true." Li Jin shook his head gently and said softly, "I could have completed it alone, but the time required would certainly have been more than three years."

Li Jin had never forgotten the effort Ying Yuan had put in, even going sleepless for days on several occasions just to make things a little easier for him.

Ying Yuan smiled without responding.

However, judging by the look in his eyes, it was clear his opinion hadn't changed.

Knowing Ying Yuan's temperament and understanding that he didn't wish to continue this topic, Li Jin subtly shifted the conversation. "A-Yuan, this return to the capital will likely be a difficult battle for us. Are you afraid?"

Ying Yuan met Li Jin's gaze and replied, word by word, as if taking a vow, "With A-Jin by my side, no matter how difficult it gets, I will not retreat."

"Good."

Li Jin exclaimed 'good' and couldn't help but stand up, walking over to Ying Yuan and once again ruffling his hair.

"A-Jin, I've already grown up."

Ying Yuan knew he should stop this intimate gesture from Li Jin, but he simply couldn't bring himself to, so he only offered this mild, half-hearted remark.

Li Jin smiled and said, "I know. But no matter how much you grow, in my heart, you'll always be like a child."

"..." I am not a child.

Ying Yuan fell silent.

For some reason, hearing Li Jin's words left a dull, heavy feeling in Ying Yuan's heart.

As if suddenly remembering something, Li Jin's expression turned serious. "A-Yuan, this return to the capital might bring us even more challenges. So, I truly hope you can do as you said."

In his past life, the day when the princes formally began vying for the throne was the very day Li Jin and the others returned to the capital, which also marked the beginning of the entire ordeal.

Therefore, Li Jin did not want Ying Yuan to be afraid.

Because once fear takes root, it becomes easy to turn into a pawn for the other princes—a stepping stone to their ambitions, with little hope of recovery.

"A-Jin, I can."

These seemingly simple words, 'I can,' actually encompassed Ying Yuan's unwavering resolve.