determined that the blue lotus flower had indeed become extinct from this era, then these five pills could be considered the last remaining ones in the world.Seeing the fragrant dark brown pills befo...The Imperial Throne and Lineage

Two days later, when Mo Jingli sent people to the Chu residence again, the Chu family had already left. Only a letter written by hand by Chu Junwei remained, stating that while the Chu family could not serve the emperor faithfully, they would also not betray him. As for the guards Mo Jingli had dispatched, no one ever saw them again.

Upon hearing this news, Mo Jingli immediately flew into a rage, but where could he find any trace of Ye Li

At this time, Ye Li was already deep in the mountains outside Nanjing City. Standing beside several small huts, she surveyed her surroundings with a smile and nodded: "This is indeed a good place to recuperate."

"Sis Glass," Yun Ge came out of the little house and saw Ye Li standing outside smiling at her, instantly joyful as she directly used her light-foot techniques to land in front of Ye Li. "Sis Glass, how did you get in"

Ye Li smiled: "The array formation outside wasn't easy, it took me more than an hour just to enter."

Yun Ge blinked blankly and said, "But I didn’t feel anyone come in."

Ye Li patted her rosy face with a smiling expression: "How is Brother doing"

"Oh right, I forgot… Xu Qingchen’s medicine," Yun Ge called out exasperatedly. Without bothering to see if Ye Li was still following behind, she rushed back into the little house. Just as she had finished brewing the medicine and heard noises outside, she hurried to look but almost forgot about Xu Qingchen's medicine that had been poured out. If it wasn’t taken quickly, it would go cold.

Seeing Yun Ge carrying a bowl of medicine towards another small hut, Ye Li raised an eyebrow and followed her over too.

"Xu Qingchen, take your medicine," said Yun Ge as she carried the medicine into Xu Qingchen’s room. Xu Qingchen put down his book, looked at the medicine in her hand with a frown: "Yun Ge, can’t you make all these medicines into pills" After this injury, Young Master Qingchen realized that he actually feared taking medicine. Before, Young Master Qingchen naturally wasn't afraid of taking medicine. But now, more than half a month had passed, and every day he took three doses of medicine with each meal. Furthermore, the medicine Yun Ge made was fragrant and sweet, melting in his mouth. However, the decoctions were disgustingly bitter. Xu Qingchen dared to swear that never before did he drink such disgusting medicine. But… she had seen Yun Ge's prescriptions; they were the most common internal injury remedies. With a little knowledge of herbal medicine, Young Master Qingchen silently calculated and concluded that even if one added more coptis during decoction, it wouldn't be as bitter as what was in front of him.

"That won’t do. Pills might taste better and are easier to preserve, but their efficacy is far less than freshly brewed medicine." Yun Ge firmly rejected his suggestion: "These aren’t complicated remedies that require a lot of time; it’s better to brew them fresh. That way your injuries will heal faster."

Looking at the young girl with her smiling eyes curving, Xu Qingchen helplessly reached out and took the bowl of medicine from her hands, downing it in one go.

"Xu Qingchen, you’re the fastest medicine taker I’ve ever seen," Yun Ge praised satisfactorily. She knew how bitter this medicine was because she had grown up drinking such concoctions made by her father. Each time she took medicine, it would take her forever to do so. And those who were saved in the mountains also strongly refused her father's medicines.

"If you know it’s bad-tasting, shouldn’t you brew it better" Xu Qingchen said bitterly.

"That can't be done. Father said that medicinal flavors altered to make them taste better often have adverse effects," Yun Ge said with a smile: "Knowing how bitter medicine is should make one less likely to get injured or fall ill."

Young Master Qingchen wanted to say, “You’re overthinking this; I just hope you can brew normal-tasting medicines.”

"Haha, Brother-in-law, it's unbelievable that renowned Young Master Qingchen would fear taking medicine," Ye Li burst into laughter from outside the door.

“Sis Glass” Xu Qingchen raised his head and looked at the doorway. Ye Li stepped inside, looking around. Although it was just a simple mountain hut with only one bed, one table, and two chairs, everything was tidily arranged. On the table sat a somewhat crude but very adorable wooden vase carved by hand, holding two simple flowers. The room had an indistinct herbal fragrance.

Looking at Xu Qingchen, perhaps because of all the medicine he had taken over these days compared to food, his slender figure looked a bit thinner, but his complexion was good. He didn’t appear like someone who had suffered internal injuries; Yun Ge must have been taking care of him well.

Seeing Ye Li enter, Yun Ge remembered that she had left her guest outside and felt somewhat embarrassed. She smiled at Ye Li, said crisply: "Sis Glass, please take a seat while I get you some tea."

"Thank you, Yun Ge," Ye Li sat down on the chair by the bed with a smile as Yun Ge waved her hand and quickly left to fetch tea.

“What an adorable girl. Brother-in-law, don't you think so too” Ye Li said smilingly.

Xu Qingchen smiled gently in agreement: “Indeed very interesting.” Ye Li was a bit embarrassed; it seemed that for Young Master Qingchen, a young lady wasn’t considered beautiful or lovely but rather whether she was amusing or not

"How is Brother-in-law’s injury" Ye Li asked with concern. Xu Qingchen touched his chest and smiled: "Yun Ge's medicine might taste bad, but it works well. I’m almost recovered."

Ye Li laughed: “Good medicines are bitter but beneficial.”

The usually ethereal-faced Young Master Qingchen was rarely so troubled-looking now, saying somewhat helplessly: "I'm starting to regret my previous decision. Yun Ge said that I need to continue taking medicine for three more months to fully recover." Taking medicine wasn’t scary; what was terrifying was that regardless of the prescription, when Yun Ge brewed it, it would taste the same—absolutely no better and certainly not worse. Even Yun Ge herself couldn't do better since she had reached her limit on how bitter she could make a concoction. With Yun Ge's enthusiasm, she would definitely brew medicine for him personally; Young Master Qingchen felt he was unworthy of such kindness.

Seeing Xu Qingchen’s troubled look, Ye Li couldn’t help but cover her mouth and laugh softly: "It’s rare to see Brother-in-law so disheartened. Yun Ge has the best intentions, if you refuse her it will make her sad." Ye Li's senses were sharper than most people; she had already smelled the strong odd smell of Xu Qingchen’s medicine when she was outside. At that moment, she made up her mind to ask Yun Ge to continue taking care of Brother-in-law.

Seeing Ye Li's rarely seen playful smile, Xu Qingchen helplessly shook his head and asked: "Didn't you have matters in Nanjing City Why come here today What happened"

Ye Li sighed: “Brother-in-law’s predictions are indeed accurate; something has happened.”

"What is it" Xu Qingchen raised an eyebrow and asked. Ye Li detailed the events at the Regent Prince's residence, including how Mo Jinglei suddenly wanted to depose Mo Suchun and declare himself emperor. This unexpected turn of events surprised Ye Li.

Xu Qingchen smiled: "Sis Glass is still too compassionate. Even if you had written the abdication edict for him, it wouldn’t matter much. Mo Jinglei probably wants to establish his status as emperor now in preparation for future battles. As long as the Chu family comes forward and clarifies that there was no such person named Chu Junwei, it won't make a difference."

Ye Li sighed: "Perhaps you're right… If I had written the edict on that day, I might have received news of Mo Jinglei's ascension today." Xu Qingchen sighed softly: “Mo Jingleli is being too hasty. Are you feeling sorry for that child”

“Feeling sorry won't help; the child’s illness is beyond cure. Even if we save him, he won’t live long.” Ye Li shook her head. Although she felt pity, it was hard to say she could do such a thing for an innocent child. Xu Qingchen looked at her with some sympathy: "Your and Mo Xiuyao's personalities are so different; I can't imagine how you've managed to stay in harmony all these years."

Essentially, Ye Li’s and Mo Xiuyao's natures were indeed vastly different. While Ye Li could be ruthless towards evildoers, she found it hard to turn a blind eye toward innocent people. Mo Xiuyao, on the other hand, was outwardly gentle but didn’t hesitate to involve anyone in his schemes if it meant achieving his goals. The relationship between Mo Jingleli and Mo Suchun clearly had traces of Mo Xiuyao's involvement. If he truly wanted to uncover Mo Suchun’s identity back then, how could he not have found out Perhaps Mo Xiuyao suspected something from the start, which is why he didn't allow anyone to investigate.

Ye Li smiled: "Mo Xiuyao has his own ways and I have mine. Even as spouses, there's no need for us to think alike all the time; we just need to understand and accommodate each other."

"But what are you planning to do about Mo Jingleli Just let him continue"

Ye Li sighed: "Brother-in-law, do you really believe I can overthrow Mo Jingleli's rule in Jiangnan with just a month’s effort" It was easy to cause trouble for Mo Jingleli, but driving him from power directly in Jiangnan would be difficult even if Mo Xiuyao came personally.

Xu Qingchen smiled at Ye Li: "What is Sis Glass planning" After years of相處，徐清塵算是瞭解葉璃了。如果說她什麼都不打算做那卻是不可能的事情。

葉璃沉吟道：“告訴葉瑩墨夙雲的身世。”

“璃兒還是心軟，難怪定王不放心你。”徐清塵輕歎道。

葉璃搖頭道：“不，我想賭…在墨景黎眼裡兒子不如皇位重要。大哥，雲歌的醫術是不是很好？”徐清塵挑眉問道：“你想讓雲歌救墨夙雲？”

？yn：

376. The Throne and Blood Relations

376.

Two days later, when Mo Jingleli sent people to the Chu residence again, it was already empty inside. Only a letter written by hand from Chu Junwei remained, stating that though the Chu family could not be loyal to their lord as they were wanted criminals, they would never harm the emperor. As for the few guards Mo Jingleli had sent, no one had seen them since.

When Mo Jingleli heard this news, he flew into a rage but where could he find Ye Li's whereabouts

The current Ye Li was already deep in the mountains outside Nanjing. Standing beside several small huts, she surveyed the scene with a smile and said, "This is quite a good place to recuperate."

"Sis Ye," Yun Ge came out of her house and saw Ye Li standing outside smiling at her. She immediately ran over excitedly, "Sis Ye, how did you get in"

Ye Li smiled and said, "I had to solve the array outside for a while before I could come inside."

Yun Ge blinked confusedly, saying, "But I didn't feel anyone coming in."

Ye Li patted her rosy face with a smile and asked, "How is your brother doing"

"Oh right, I forgot... the medicine for Xu Qingchen," Yun Ge called out regretfully. Not bothering to wait for Ye Li to follow, she ran back into the house. She had just finished brewing her medicine when she heard a noise outside and rushed out only to forget that Xu Qingchen's medicine was already poured out and would soon be cold if not drunk quickly.

Seeing Yun Ge carry a bowl of medicine towards another small hut, Ye Li raised an eyebrow and followed after her.

"Xu Qingchen, it's time for your medicine," Yun Ge said as she entered Xu Qingchen’s room with the medicine. Xu Qingchen put down his book and frowned at the bowl in Yun Ge’s hand, "Yun Ge, can't you make these into pills" After this injury, Young Master Qingchen realized that he actually feared taking medicine. In the past, Young Master Qingchen had never been afraid of taking medicine, but now after more than a month of daily three meals worth of medicine every day, even Yun Ge’s sweet and fragrant medicinal pills couldn’t mask how terrible his brewed medicine tasted. Xu Qingchen swore he’d never drank such bad-tasting medicine in his life. But… she had seen Yun Ge's prescriptions, and they were merely common internal injury remedies. With some knowledge about herbs, Xu Qingchen calculated that even if one added more bitter orange peel to the brewing process, it would still not be as awful as this bowl of medicine.

"That’s impossible. Pills might be tasty and convenient but their efficacy is much worse than freshly brewed ones." Yun Ge firmly denied his suggestion, "This isn’t some difficult-to-make compound that takes a lot of time; I think it's better to brew and drink it fresh like this. This way, your injuries will heal faster."

Looking at the smiling young girl in front of him, Xu Qingchen helplessly raised his hand and took the bowl of medicine, downing it in one go.

"Xu Qingchen, you’re the fastest medicine drinker I’ve ever seen," Yun Ge praised with satisfaction. She knew how bad this medicine tasted because she had been drinking her father's concoctions since childhood, and each time it took her a while to finish them. Those who were rescued by her father in the mountains also mostly refused his brewed medicines.

"If you know that it’s unpleasant, shouldn’t you make it more palatable" Xu Qingchen said with a bitter smile.

“That's impossible! Father said that medicine to improve taste often has counteracting properties. Besides...” Yun Ge smiled at him and continued, "The knowledge that medicine is bad-tasting keeps one from getting hurt or sick."

Young Master Qingchen wanted to say that she was overthinking it; he only hoped for the medicine's normal flavor.

"Hehe, Brother," Ye Li finally couldn’t help but laugh as she stood outside.

Xu Qingchen looked up at her from where he sat and said, "Yue Li" Yue Li stepped into the room and surveyed it. Though it was a simple mountain hut with only a bed, table, and two chairs inside, everything was very clean. On the table stood an ugly but cute wooden vase filled with two plain flowers in bloom, giving off faint medicinal fragrance.

Looking at Xu Qingchen, he had lost some weight from his months of medicine intake, but he looked well, nothing like someone who has suffered internal injuries. Clearly Yun Ge was taking good care of him.

"Sis Ye!" Yun Ge remembered her guest and blushed, saying to Yue Li with a bright voice, "Sis Ye, please sit down while I go get some tea."

“Thank you for your hospitality,” Ye Li sat down on the stool beside the bed with a smile. As she watched Yun Ge run out of the room to fetch the tea, she smiled.

"What an adorable girl," Ye Li said amusedly to her brother-in-law, "Don’t you agree"

Xu Qingchen chuckled and nodded in agreement, saying, "She’s indeed quite interesting."

Ye Li was a bit embarrassed. Was Young Master Qingchen's criteria for women not about their looks but how interesting they were

"How is Brother doing" Ye Li asked worriedly.

Xu Qingchen touched his chest and smiled, saying, "Yun Ge’s medicine might be nasty tasting, but it works well. I’m almost fully recovered."

Ye Li smiled back, replying, "Good medicine tastes bitter but benefits health."

Young Master Qingchen frowned slightly at her comment, sighing in frustration, "I regret my decision. Yun Ge said that I still need to take three months of medicine before fully recovering from my hidden injuries." Taking three months of medicine wasn’t scary; it was the fact that any prescription Yun Ge’s hands produced tasted identical and would never be more bitter than this one. Not even Yun Ge herself could brew something worse, as she had reached the limit for bitterness. With Yun Ge's dedication to help him, Young Master Qingchen felt like he couldn't bear such treatment.

Seeing Xu Qingchen’s expression of distress, Ye Li covered her mouth and laughed softly, "It’s rare to see Brother in this state. Yun Ge means well; would it not sadden her if you refused" She could smell the strange pungent aroma from outside moments ago when she arrived. She had already decided that she must have Yun Ge continue caring for him.

Xu Qingchen looked at Ye Li helplessly and asked, "Aren’t you busy with affairs in Nanjing What brings you here today"

Ye Li sighed, “Brother is indeed a genius. Indeed something happened.”

"What’s wrong" Xu Qingchen raised his brows and asked.

Ye Li recounted the events at the Regent's Manor in detail; Mo Jingli wanting to overthrow Mo Suyun was unexpected for her.

Xu Qingchen smiled, "Yue Li is overly kind-hearted. Even if you wrote an abdication edict for him, what would it matter Mo Jingli’s motive at this moment is likely just to establish a higher status in the future when dealing with the Regent Manor. If the Chu Family explains that they don’t have a person named Chu Junwei, there will be no obstacle."

Ye Li shook her head sadly and said, "Maybe… if I had written the edict back then, you would already know that Mo Jingli has ascended as emperor."

Xu Qingchen stroked his chest again, smiling. "Yue Li’s medicine tastes bitter but benefits health."

Young Master Qingchen frowned in worry. He was sorry for his decision now; Yun Ge had said that he needed to take three months of medicine before fully recovering from his internal injuries.

Ye Li smiled and said, "Good medicine tastes bitter but benefits health."

Xu Qingchen’s usually ethereal face looked conflicted. He sighed, saying helplessly, “I regret my earlier decision. Yun Ge says I need to take three months of medicine for full recovery.” It was not scary that he must take the medicine; what was terrifying was that no matter how complex a prescription became, under Yun Ge's hands it would taste identical and be even more bitter. Even Yun Ge herself could not brew something worse because she had reached the limit of bitterness. With Yun Ge’s dedication to help him, Young Master Qingchen felt he couldn’t endure such treatment.

Seeing Xu Qingchen's conflicted look, Ye Li covered her mouth and laughed softly, "It is rare to see Brother in this state; Yun Ge means well. Would it not sadden her if you refused" She had smelled the strange smell outside earlier when she arrived. She decided that Yun Ge must continue taking care of him.

Xu Qingchen looked at Ye Li helplessly and asked, "Aren’t you busy in Nanjing Why are you here today"

Ye Li sighed, “Brother is indeed a genius. Indeed something happened.”

"What’s wrong" Xu Qingchen raised his brows.

Ye Li recounted the events at the Regent's Manor in detail; Mo Jingli wanting to depose Mo Suyun was unexpected for her.

Xu Qingchen smiled, "Yue Li is overly kind-hearted. Even if you wrote an abdication edict for him, what would it matter Mo Jingli’s motive now is likely just to establish a higher status in the future when dealing with the Regent Manor. If Chu Family explains they don't have a person named Chu Junwei, there will be no obstacle."

Ye Li shook her head sadly and said, "Maybe… if I had written the edict back then, you would already know that Mo Jingli has ascended as emperor."

Xu Qingchen touched his chest again and smiled. "Yue Li’s medicine tastes bitter but benefits health."

“Brother, how is your injury” Ye Li asked with concern.

Xu Qingchen stroked his chest and smiled, “Yun Ge’s medicine might be nasty tasting but it works well. I’m almost fully recovered.”

Ye Li said smilingly, "Good medicine tastes bitter but benefits health."

Xu Qingchen frowned slightly at her comment, sighing in frustration, “I regret my decision. Yun Ge said that I still need to take three months of medicine before fully recovering from my internal injuries.”

Ye Li shook her head and smiled wryly, "Maybe… if I had written the edict back then, you would already know that Mo Jingli has ascended as emperor."

Xu Qingchen sighed slightly. “Mo Jingli is too eager; are you feeling sorry for the boy”

“Feeling sorry won’t help,” Ye Li replied with a shake of her head, "That child’s illness is already incurable. Even if we save him, he will not live long."

Xu Qingchen looked at her sympathetically and said, “You and Mo Xiu Yao have such different natures; I wonder how you've managed to stay together for so many years.”

Ye Li smiled wryly. "Brother, what is your opinion on this"

Xu Qingchen nodded with a smile, "Indeed quite interesting."

"Brother’s injury…" Ye Li asked concernedly.

Xu Qingchen stroked his chest and smiled, “Yun Ge’s medicine might be nasty tasting but it works well. I’m almost fully recovered.”

Ye Li said smilingly, "Good medicine tastes bitter but benefits health."

Xu Qingchen frowned slightly at her comment, sighing in frustration, “I regret my decision. Yun Ge said that I still need to take three months of medicine before fully recovering from my internal injuries.”

Ye Li shook her head and smiled wryly, "Maybe… if I had written the edict back then, you would already know that Mo Jingli has ascended as emperor."

Xu Qingchen sighed slightly. “Mo Jingli is too eager; are you feeling sorry for the boy”

“Feeling sorry won’t help,” Ye Li replied with a shake of her head, "That child’s illness is already incurable. Even if we save him, he will not live long."

Xu Qingchen looked at her sympathetically and said, “You and Mo Xiu Yao have such different natures; I wonder how you've managed to stay together for so many years.”

Ye Li smiled wryly. "Brother, what is your opinion on this"

Xu Qingchen nodded with a smile, "Indeed quite interesting."

"Brother’s injury…" Ye Li asked concernedly.

Ye Li said with a lowered gaze, "Mo Suchun’s illness is beyond medical cure. I just want to prolong his life for some time. And I also want to see how Mo Jingli will choose if Mo Suchun can’t die in the short term."

Xu Qingchen nodded and said, "I’ll ask Yun Ge later."

"What do you want to ask me" With a basket of tea in her hand, Yun Ge walked into the room with quick steps. She shyly smiled at Ye Li and said, "There’s no good tea in my house, Li Er Sister, please bear with it." The tea that Yun Ge brought was not any expensive tea but one she made herself with flowers. A faint floral fragrance spread around her nostrils, and Ye Li took a deep breath and smiled, "It smells great."

"If you like it, then I’m glad," Yun Ge said happily. Although she seldom interacted with people, she had been to the city before and knew that those who lived in big mansions looked down on things from the mountains and countryside. Much less a princess consort like Li Er Sister. If Ye Li knew what Yun Ge was thinking, she would definitely introduce Zhang Million to her. At least Zhang Million would not disdain Yun Ge’s flower tea and may even beg for it free of charge throughout the year.

Xu Qingchen said, "Li Er wants you to save a child. Do you want to go"

"Sure." Yun Ge immediately nodded her head in agreement without any hesitation. Xu Qingchen was surprised and asked, "Yun Ge really agrees"

Yun Ge looked puzzled and said, "Father says a doctor has the heart of a parent. Why shouldn’t I agree"

Xu Qingchen suddenly felt that he had been too mundane to think Yun Ge’s father retired from medicine because some incident happened to him…

"Thank you, Yun Ge." Xu Qingchen smiled and said.

Yun Ge replied with a faint smile, "No need. I don’t know if I can cure him or not, so please don’t blame me for my medical skills when the time comes. I’ll try my best!" Xu Qingchen nodded and said, "If that’s the case, then we will take you to see people soon. Let’s go to the city together."

Yun Ge nodded without any objections and replied obediently, "I will prepare."

The Chu Residence obviously could not be returned to. Ye Li stayed in Yun Ge's house for one night. The next day, they packed their belongings and quietly returned to Nanjing City. This time, the place where she stopped was a nondescript mansion on a rather noisy street of the city. However, this time, Ye Li couldn’t return as Chu Junwei. She transformed into a pretty girl with an elegant appearance who came to Nanjing City with her frail brother and young sister for recuperation.

This area was the most bustling part of Nanjing City but also the messiest one. They naturally wouldn’t attract anyone’s attention when they quietly entered the mansion低調的住進府邸自然不會引起任何人的注意。在府中安頓下來，當天晚上秦風和林寒就親自帶著雲歌去了黎王府，讓雲歌為墨夙雲整治。

The same evening, Ye Li and Xu Qingchen were playing chess in the study. Ye Li slowly put down a piece and looked at Xu Qingchen across from her with a soft smile, "Brother’s injury hasn’t healed yet, why don’t you go to bed I’ll wait here for Yun Ge."

Xu Qingchen shook his head and said, "It doesn’t matter. They should be back soon. Let me wait a while longer and see what happened. Try not to go out these days. Mo Jingli’s people might still be investigating secretly." Ye Li smiled and said, "Li Er understands, Brother don’t worry too much. Qin Feng and Lin Han are reliable in handling affairs. Plus Yun Ge is also an expert; there shouldn’t be any problems."

Xu Qingchen slowly put down a piece, looked at her with a faint smile and said, “Who says I’m worried”

Ye Li shrugged nonchalantly and said smilingly, "I was just a little concerned."

Xu Qingchen shook his head without saying anything.

A soft sound came from outside the door, and soon it opened. Qin Feng and Lin Han walked in one after another with Yun Ge leading them all. The clear eyes of Yun Ge were especially bright as her small face was flushed red. She was clearly nervous for having never done such a thing before – breaking into someone else’s mansion at midnight.

Ye Li pulled Yun Ge and sat down, pouring her a cup of tea herself. "You’ve worked hard, Yun Ge, did you encounter any danger"

Yun Ge smiled and said, "No, Brother Qin Feng and Brother Lin Han are really capable. The guards in the regency prince’s mansion didn’t even see us." In terms of lightness skills, Qin Feng and Lin Han might not be better than Yun Ge, but their experience in sneaking around at night was far more extensive than hers. If Yun Ge were to go alone as a rookie, she would’ve been chased all over the place.

Ye Li smiled faintly and patted her head gently while asking, "How is the child’s condition"

Hearing Ye Li’s words, Yun Ge’s expression immediately fell. With tear-filled eyes, she looked at Ye Li. Ye Li thought for a moment before asking, "Is it bad" Yun Ge nodded gloomily and said, “That child was born with congenital insufficiency, probably didn’t have a good childhood either. The poison in his body ruined his entire physique. Even if he hadn’t been poisoned, the child would’ve likely not lived past twenty. But now… that kid has been through so many traumas, even after I remove the poison from him, I can only tell them to take care of him with utmost caution and try to avoid any more scares. He may die again as soon as he’s startled one more time. However, Brothers Qin and Lin said they couldn’t bring him back.” Yun Ge felt a little excited when she talked about her patient since she had lived in seclusion all these years without experiencing much of the world. Seeing such an unfortunate child naturally aroused her sympathy.

Ye Li nodded and said, "That child is the current emperor. Taking him out from Prince Li’s mansion will cause a big problem."

Yun Ge nodded too; she was kind-hearted but not naive. She thought for a while before saying, “I’ll make some medicine tonight, Sister Li, you can give it to that child tomorrow. Even if I can’t cure his illness entirely, at least he will feel better." Ye Li said softly, "You are tired today too; there’s no rush to prepare it tomorrow. I will ask them to get the medicines for you."

"Okay... Xu Qingchen…" Actually in this room, Yun Ge was most familiar with Xu Qingchen. She always subconsciously looked at him. In the end, she trusted Ye Li, Qin Feng and Lin Han so much because they were all people that Xu Qingchen knew.

Xu Qingchen smiled faintly and said, "Yun Ge is tired too, go to sleep early."

"Okay. You guys rest too." Yun Ge nodded obediently and followed the servant girl who was waiting at the door back to her own room.

Watching Yun Ge leave and hearing the study's door close again, everything fell silent in the study once more.

A while later, Xu Qingchen said, "Don’t think too much about it, Li Er. At this point... it’s impossible to make up for that child’s suffering." Mo Suchun was indeed innocent and pitiful, but at a time of chaos and disorder, who wasn’t At least Ye Li had given Mo Jingli and Ye Ying the opportunity to make amends. Ye Li smiled faintly and said, "Brother doesn’t need to persuade me; I understand."

That night, a note quietly appeared on Ye Ying’s bedside table. It only read three simple words: “Mo Suchun.”

Ye Ying was in deep thought as she held the note, and her face gradually turned pale.

"Prince! Prince!"

In the early morning, Ye Ying’s urgent voice echoed outside Li’s mansion. Xu Qingchen and Lin Han personally brought Yun Ge to the Regent Prince’s Mansion that night so she could treat Mo Suchun.

Xu Qingchen shook his head without saying anything further.

The sound of footsteps was heard from outside, followed by a light knock on the study door. Qin Feng and Lin Han entered in succession, with Yun Ge’s bright eyes and flushed face standing out. She seemed to be somewhat nervous as this was her first time breaking into someone else's residence at midnight.

Ye Li pulled Yun Ge down and poured her a cup of tea, asking, "Did you encounter any danger"

Yun Ge smiled and said, "No, Brothers Qin Feng and Lin Han are very capable. The guards in the regency prince's mansion didn't even see us." In fact, regarding agility, Qin Feng and Lin Han might not surpass Yun Ge; but their experience in nocturnal infiltration was far superior to hers. If Yun Ge had attempted it alone as a novice, she would likely have been chased all over the place.

Ye Li patted her head gently and asked, "How is the child's condition"

Hearing Ye Li’s words, Yun Ge’s face fell. Her eyes filled with tears as she looked at Ye Li, who hesitated before asking, "Not good" Yun Ge nodded sadly and said, “That child was born with congenital insufficiency and had a difficult childhood. The poison in his body has severely damaged his health; even without the poisoning, he might not live past twenty years old. But now… that child has endured many traumas. Even if I remove the toxins from him, he must be treated extremely carefully as any further shock could prove fatal. However, Brothers Qin and Lin said they can't bring him back.” Yun Ge felt a little excited talking about her patient because she had lived in seclusion all these years without experiencing much of the world. Seeing such an unfortunate child naturally aroused her sympathy.

Ye Li nodded and said, "That child is the current emperor. Taking him out from Prince Li’s mansion will cause major issues."

Yun Ge nodded in agreement; she was kind-hearted but not naive. She thought for a moment before saying, “I’ll make some medicine tonight. Sister Li can give it to that child tomorrow. Even if I can’t cure him entirely, at least he will feel better.” Ye Li said softly, "You’re tired today too; there’s no rush to prepare it tomorrow. I’ll ask them to get the medicines for you."

"Okay... Xu Qingchen..." Actually in this room, Yun Ge was most familiar with Xu Qingchen. She always subconsciously looked at him. In the end, she trusted Ye Li, Qin Feng and Lin Han because they were all people that Xu Qingchen knew.

Xu Qingchen smiled faintly and said, "Yun Ge is tired too; go to sleep early."

"Okay. You guys rest too," Yun Ge nodded obediently and followed the servant girl waiting at the door back to her room.

Watching Yun Ge leave and hearing the study's door close again, everything fell silent in the study once more.

A while later, Xu Qingchen said, "Don’t think too much about it, Li Er. At this point... it’s impossible to make up for that child’s suffering." Mo Suchun was indeed innocent and pitiful, but at a time of chaos and disorder, who wasn’t At least Ye Li had given Mo Jingli and Ye Ying the opportunity to make amends. Ye Li smiled faintly and said, "Brother doesn’t need to persuade me; I understand."

That night, a note quietly appeared on Ye Ying’s bedside table. It only read three simple words: “Mo Suchun.”

Ye Ying was in deep thought as she held the note, and her face gradually turned pale.

"Prince! Prince!"

In the early morning, Ye Ying’s urgent voice echoed outside Li’s mansion. Xu Qingchen and Lin Han personally brought Yun Ge to the Regent Prince's Mansion that night so she could treat Mo Suchun.

"You must be crazy!" Mo Jingli pushed her away with a displeased expression.

The pushed Ye Ying immediately rushed forward and grabbed his sleeve, saying, "It's true. Please believe me. He is truly our child. Wail... I beg you to save him. He’s dying..."

Mo Jingli asked with a grim face, "How do you know he is your child"

Ye Ying was speechless. She knew that the note had been sent by Ye Li's people but she couldn't say it out loud. Once she mentioned Ye Li’s name, not only would Mo Jingli not let her off the hook, even those in the Ding Prince王府wouldn’t spare her either. Terrified, she shook her head and said, "No... I can’t say..."

A cold glint flashed across Mo Jingli's eyes as he sneered, "Can't say Then why did you come to me Leave." Ye Ying was stunned. She bit her lip and said, "But the child…" Mo Jingli spoke indifferently, "What child Mo Suyun is Prince Qi’s son."

"No! He is our child. My lord, he is your only son," Ye Ying cried out in panic. If Mo Jingli refused to acknowledge this child as his own, then the boy, as Prince Qi's son and the current emperor, would have no way out but death. Seeing Mo Jingli’s cold expression that didn’t change even by a hairline, Ye Ying felt her heart chill. She suddenly recalled the day Princess Qixia died. She shuddered involuntarily.

"Dismiss everyone, escort the princess back to her quarters and no one is allowed to see her without my orders," Mo Jingli said in a low voice.

Unable to resist, Ye Ying was forcibly escorted back to her courtyard by guards. Once inside, she collapsed on the bed and burst into tears. She finally understood why Ye Li had told her that she would regret it. Because now, she indeed started feeling regretful.

In his study, Mo Jingli’s expression was uncertainly grim. Although he dismissed Ye Ying ruthlessly, her words left a deep impression on him. It was impossible for Ye Ying to make up such nonsense without a reason, but saying that Mo Suyun is the missing child… For some reason, Mo Jingli didn’t feel any joy at finding his lost son again. Instead, he felt more annoyed and angry.

At the same time, Mo Jingli began pondering why Prince Qi had bequeathed the throne to Mo Suyun. Among all of his sons, Mo Suyun was from the least influential maternal family and physically inferior with a poor potential as well. Passing on the throne to such an unworthy son seemed like he was deliberately giving him power. Could it be… that Prince Qi wanted them to destroy each other

Upon this thought, Mo Jingli shook his head fiercely. Unconsciously, he had already acknowledged Ye Ying’s claim in his heart. "Summon the empress dowager and bring her here!"

The guards outside were taken aback. The empress dowager referred to none other than Lady Li, mother of the little emperor. Even though she was weak-willed, she remained the birth mother of the current emperor and a national empress dowager. For Prince Li to casually order her brought from the palace to his residence seemed…

"Hurry up!" Mo Jingli snapped.

“Yes sir!”

The imperial palace was close to Prince Li’s residence, and soon Lady Li arrived. However, she wasn’t alone; Empress Dowager also came with her, though under house arrest. While he was furious at the empress dowager for once again disobeying his orders to leave the palace, Mo Jingli knew that it must be because there were still people loyal to the empress dowager within the palace walls.

“Lady Tai Fei is here.” Before anyone could speak, a eunuch announced sharply from outside. Mo Jingli was taken aback and stood up to receive Lady Tai Fei. He asked her with a frown, "Why are you here" Lady Tai Fei had fallen ill recently and was still recovering. She looked somewhat thin as she was supported by someone. Seeing the empress dowager sitting in his study, she paused before saying coolly, “Is my sister also here”

The empress dowager was displeased with her son’s affable treatment of Lady Tai Fei while she herself had been confined to house arrest for being her own birth mother. She glanced coldly at Lady Tai Fei without responding.

Lady Tai Fei was taken aback and smiled generously before sitting across from the empress dowager.

Everyone took their seats, leaving only Empress Dowager Li standing in the middle of the study, bewildered. Ever since Mo Suyun ascended to the throne and she became empress dowager, she had quietly stayed within her quarters. Not only did all matters pertaining to the imperial court remain under the control of the empress dowager, but even knowing that her son was being abused by Mo Jingli, she dared not say a single word on his behalf. Now suddenly brought here by Prince Li’s guards, Empress Dowager Li was utterly clueless as to what she had done to offend him.

Mo Jingli stared at Empress Dowager Li with an ominous expression that made her face pale and her body tremble.

The empress dowager frowned and coughed lightly, saying, "Why did you have Lady Li brought here, Prince Li She is your late brother’s widow. It would not do for her to linger in your residence too long."

Mo Jingli snorted coldly as he stared at Empress Dowager Li. “I ask you a question and expect an honest answer.”

Terrified, Empress Dowager Li nodded repeatedly. Mo Jingli asked calmly, "When was the Emperor born"

Empress Dowager Li blinked in surprise at such an odd question. Mo Jingli said coldly, “Think carefully before answering.” She took a step back from his sinister expression and stammered out, "Your Highness, the emperor was born on the second day of September in the twelfth year of Emperor Jing’s reign. I thought you knew that" The birth date of each prince was recorded in the imperial genealogy. If Prince Li needed to know, he could have simply asked for the jade tablets.

Mo Jingli snorted coldly. Mo Suyun had been born on September 2nd, while Empress Dowager’s son had been born on August 30th. The difference was less than three days.

The empress dowager looked startled as if she realized something and asked, "Why are you asking about the Emperor's birth date now" Mo Jingli ignored her question as his gaze remained fixed on Empress Dowager Li. “After the emperor’s birth, did you ever see him”

Empress Dowager Li nodded nervously. “I… I was in good health and never fainted after giving birth. So they brought the baby to me.”

"Good." Mo Jingli nodded approvingly. "According to my knowledge, the emperor should have been full-term when he was born. Why does the court physician tell me that the emperor is premature" Actually, the court physician had never said that the emperor was premature but only hinted at it due to his weak constitution. In those days Empress Dowager Li had no influence and if she hadn’t given birth to a prince who would later be passed the throne, everyone in both the palace and outside might have forgotten about her and her son.

Empress Dowager Li paled and was too afraid to speak.

Mo Jingli’s eyes turned cold as he slapped his armrest so hard that the carved mahogany snapped. "Answer me!"

Terror-stricken, Empress Dowager Li cried out, “I don’t know… I don’t know what to say… The emperor is truly my son!”

Mo Jingli sneered and said coldly, "Is that so Take her away and execute her."

"Your Majesty!" The empress dowager glared at Mo Jingli in shock. She had finally understood what he was planning to do. Anger rising, she shouted, “Empress Dowager Li is the emperor’s birth mother! How can you simply order her execution What will you say to explain this to all officials”

Mo Jingli sneered coldly at the empress dowager and asked, "If Mo Suyun isn’t a descendant of Emperor Xian, who do I have to answer to"

"No… Your Highness is wrong…" Empress Dowager Li was horrified. Even she knew what it meant to tamper with royal bloodlines. Her legs gave out and she fell to the ground. “Your Highness has made a mistake, please don’t kill me…”

“Since you refuse to tell the truth, then die.” Mo Jingli’s voice was merciless.

"No… I don’t want to die… I really don’t know…" Empress Dowager Li wailed. “It has nothing to do with me… Your Majesty…”

Lady Tai Fei finally spoke and asked, "Just tell us if the emperor is truly your son." Empress Dowager Li was stunned for a moment before looking at Lady Tai Fei, Mo Jingli, and the empress dowager. She said timidly, “I… I don’t know… When he was born, I wrapped him up… After his first month, Emperor Xian had someone take the child to see him… The baby was returned with a poor constitution… I thought it was just because he was young and prone to illness.”

"Idiot!" The empress dowager snapped. "Why are you asking about his birth date now" Mo Jingli ignored her as he continued staring at Empress Dowager Li and asked, “After the emperor’s birth, did you ever see him”

Empress Dowager Li nodded nervously. “I… I was in good health and never fainted after giving birth. So they brought the baby to me.”

"Good." Mo Jingli nodded approvingly. "According to my knowledge, the emperor should have been full-term when he was born. Why does the court physician tell me that the emperor is premature" Actually, the court physician had never said that the emperor was premature but only hinted at it due to his weak constitution. In those days Empress Dowager Li had no influence and if she hadn’t given birth to a prince who would later be passed the throne, everyone in both the palace and outside might have forgotten about her and her son.

Empress Dowager Li paled and was too afraid to speak.

Mo Jingli’s eyes turned cold as he slapped his armrest so hard that the carved mahogany snapped. "Answer me!"

Terror-stricken, Empress Dowager Li cried out, “I dons’t know… I don’t know what to say… The emperor is truly my son!”

Mo Jingli sneered and said coldly, "Is that so Take her away and execute her."

"Your Majesty!" The empress dowager glared at Mo Jingli in shock. She had finally understood what he was planning to do. Anger rising, she shouted, “Empress Dowager Li is the emperor’s birth mother! How can you simply order her execution What will you say to explain this to all officials”

Mo Jingli sneered coldly at the empress dowager and asked, "If Mo Suyun isn’t a descendant of Emperor Xian, who do I have to answer to"

"No… Your Highness is wrong…" Empress Dowager Li was horrified. Even she knew what it meant to tamper with royal bloodlines. Her legs gave out and she fell to the ground. “Your Highness has made a mistake, please don’t kill me…”

“Since you refuse to tell the truth, then die.” Mo Jingli’s voice was merciless.

"No… I don’t want to die… I really don’t know…" Empress Dowager Li wailed. “It has nothing to do with me… Your Majesty…”

The previously silent Lady Tai Fei frowned and said, "Just tell us if the emperor is truly your son." Empress Dowager Li hesitated for a moment before looking at the three people in front of her and timidly replied, “I… I don’t know… When he was born, I wrapped him up… After his first month, Emperor Xian had someone take the child to see him… The baby was returned with a poor constitution… I thought it was just because he was young and prone to illness.”

"Idiot!" The empress dowager snapped. "When you bring back an infant that's already a month old, how can you not know if it’s your own child" A one-month-old baby has already grown significantly; it should be easy to tell.

Empress Dowager Li turned pale and was unable to speak.

Mojingli's eyes darkened as he forcefully struck the armrest, causing the sturdy purple sandalwood chair to shatter. "Tell me the truth!"

Empress Dowager Li panicked: “I don’t know… I really don’t know what to say… The emperor is truly my son.”

Mojingli sneered coldly, "Is that so Bring her out and execute her."

"Your Majesty!" The empress dowager stared at Mojingli in shock. She finally understood what he was planning to do and angrily said, “Empress Dowager Li is still the emperor’s birth mother! How can you simply order her execution without any reason To murder a queen mother, how will you explain this to all the officials”

Mojingli sneered at her, "If Mo Suyun isn’t actually Emperor Xian's son, who do I need to answer to"

"No… Your Highness is wrong…" Empress Dowager Li was terrified. Even the most foolish person knew how serious tampering with royal lineage would be considered. Her legs buckled and she collapsed to the ground: “Your Highness is wrong, I… am innocent…” She had lived a peaceful life all her days, never expecting herself to become an imperial consort or give birth to a prince. Least of all did she think that one day, she would become empress dowager. Yet after experiencing such shocking events in quick succession, this was the situation awaiting her.

"Since you refuse to tell the truth, then die," Mojingli's voice was cold and merciless.

"No… I don’t want to… I really don’t know…" Empress Dowager Li wailed: "It’s not my fault… Your Highness…”

The previously silent Lady Tai Fei frowned at the frightened and incoherent Empress Dowager Li, and said, “Just say whether the emperor is truly your son or not.” Empress Dowager Li was stunned for a moment before looking at the three people sitting in front of her timidly: “I… I don’t know… When he was born, I wrapped him up… After his first month, Emperor Xian had someone bring back the child to show him. The baby returned with some health issues; I thought it might just be due to young age and didn't think much of it…”

"Foolish!" The empress dowager snapped: "The child was already a month old, how could you not know if he’s your own" At one month, the baby had grown significantly; it should have been clear.

Empress Dowager Li bit her lip and remained silent. Lady Tai Fei's eyes showed understanding as she said calmly to Mojingli: "Since she doesn’t seem to know much about this matter, let’s leave her be. After all, she is a queen mother…"

Mojingli had not finished his questioning but did not intend to spare Empress Dowager Li's life either way. However, he respected Lady Tai Fei and agreed with her request.

In the study, only the empress dowager, Mojingli, and Lady Tai Fei remained. The empress dowager frowned: "What do you mean" Lady Tai Fei sighed softly: “We can’t blame Empress Dowager Li for this. She is merely a low-ranking concubine who was once just a palace maid; the child was taken by Emperor Xian himself. Even if she knew that wasn't her child originally, how could she dare to speak out If she did say something, both her and the child’s lives would be at risk.”

Lady Tai Fei's words were calm but there seemed some hidden meaning in them; a strange expression flickered across the empress dowager's face. She turned towards Mojingli with a cold smile: “Since you understand now, what will you do next”

Fixating his gaze on Mojingli, a peculiar sense of satisfaction rose within her. Of course she knew what he intended to do, but at present, even if she managed to protect herself, she could no longer control Mojingli's decisions.

Mojingli calmly said: "This matter has nothing to do with the Grand Empress Dowager; I request that you return to your palace and rest."

The Empress Dowager was furious, but when she met the indifferent smile of Concubine Tai妃 Xianzhao, she somehow swallowed her anger and left the study with a huff.

"Li'er..." In the study, Concubine Tai妃 Xianzhao looked at Mo Jingli's grim face and called out softly, "It was my fault this time. It doesn't matter... I will have the Imperial Physician treat His Majesty properly. There must be a way to save him. After all, he is your only son."

Mo Jingli remained silent for a long while before saying, "This isn't Mother's doing; she was thinking of me as well. Let me think about it." Concubine Tai妃 Xianzhao nodded and stood up. "Then I'll leave first. Don't worry too much. His Majesty will be fine..."

"Mother, take your time."

Concubine Tai妃 Xianzhao turned and left the study, glancing back at Mo Jingli who was sitting behind a desk with his head down when she reached the door. A faint smile played on her lips.

In Ye Ying's temporary residence, she sat alone in her room lost in thought, tears soaking her eyes and reddening them. Her pale, emaciated face bore no resemblance to the former beauty of the imperial capital.

The main door suddenly crashed open from outside. Ye Ying looked up in shock towards the entrance where Mo Jingli stood coldly staring at her. The sunlight behind him prevented Ye Ying from seeing his expression clearly. Upon seeing Mo Jingli, she seemed to snap out of her reverie and hurriedly jumped down from the bed and threw herself at him pleading, "Your Excellency, my child... please save Su Yun for me."

Seeing Ye Ying's disheveled appearance, a trace of disgust flashed in Mo Jingli's eyes. He grabbed her hand and pulled her into the room before throwing her onto the floor. Looking down at her from above, he said coldly, "Ye Ying, who told you about Su Yun's identity"

Ye Ying bit her lip stubbornly and refused to speak. Mo Jingli grew angry and yanked her up again, "Aren't you going to talk!" He would never believe Ye Ying could find out on her own. She had not even seen the child, so how did she know if Su Yun was him or not. Of course someone else must have told her this, which meant that there were others who knew Su Yun's true identity as well. This might even be a trap set up by someone using the news of his missing son.

"Do you think... I can't deal with you without your words" Looking at Ye Ying's defiant expression, Mo Jingli felt no pity for her. He leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Ye Ying, do you believe that I could have Su Yun killed right now"

"Beast!" Ye Ying finally snapped back, glaring fiercely at Mo Jingli as she shouted, "He's your son!" She reached out to grab his face but was easily stopped by him. "Are you going to talk or not"

Ye Ying gritted her teeth and said, "Mo Jingli, Su Yun is also your son." Mo Jingli stared at her before suddenly laughing coldly, saying calmly, "I can always have more sons if I want to. Besides... Even if I save Su Yun now, he'll just be a sickly boy in the future." He had said this originally to scare Ye Ying, but as soon as he spoke it out loud, he felt an epiphany come over him. Indeed, he could always have more sons. Although no woman in his residence was pregnant yet due to the poison's lingering effects, it would be resolved with time. Therefore, why should he worry about keeping a weak and sickly son

Additionally, Mo Jingli had not been kind to Su Yun over the past few years either. Since he believed that Su Yun was his missing son, he felt some guilt and unease in his heart. However, more than anything else, he felt angry at being played by Mo Jing Qi before his death. Thus, he did not want to see this long-lost son again. Furthermore, dealing with Su Yun's identity would be troublesome whether or not they acknowledged it. Of course, Mo Jingli did not want to let Su Yun continue as the emperor even though that would make him a retired emperor. But who wanted to be called an "emeritus" when one could still be an actual emperor

Ye Ying stared at Mo Jingli in shock; she had thought he only doubted her words, but now he was saying such heartless things. However, she quickly realized that with him, Su Yun's existence would hinder his path.

"Are you going to talk or not" Mo Jingli asked casually.

"I will..." Ye Ying closed her eyes in despair and said painfully. "It was someone from the Ding王府 who told me."

Mo Jingli's expression darkened as he barked, "What did you just say!" Since the Great Chu had allied with Western Ling and Northern Rong, they were now officially at odds with the Ding王府. Therefore, Mo Jingli was especially sensitive to any news related to it. Hearing that someone from the Ding王府 had been involved in this matter made him furious.

Ye Ying no longer held back after confessing and said defiantly, "I told the Ding王府 about Su Yun's identity."

"Bitch!" Mo Jingli slapped her across the face. "How dare you conspire with the Ding王府 behind my back! Do you know how much guts it takes" Ye Ying sobbed as she replied, "All I wanted was to find my son. What's wrong with that If they can help me find him, why shouldn't I work with them" Mo Jingli pulled her up and asked sternly, "Tell me who else in the Ding王府 you've been talking to and how you've been communicating."

Ye Ying was not resilient under pressure. With a little effort from Mo Jingli, she confessed that a servant girl and several guards inside his residence were actually agents of the Ding王府. Sadly for him, they had already fled by the time he sent people to apprehend them.

In Ye Ying's room, Mo Jingli sat in a chair staring at her, who was sitting on the floor covered in bruises. "I've told you everything I know," she said through gritted teeth. "What about Su Yun"

Mo Jingli replied coldly, "Su Yun is a prince of the former emperor, not your son."

Ye Ying was stunned, staring at him in disbelief. Mo Jingli frowned and said, "The Ding王府 lied to you." As soon as he uttered these words, he decided to discard this son. Not only because Su Yun's identity had caused problems for the throne but also due to the fact that it came from the Ding王府. He began to suspect that everything might be a plot by them, and his lost child may have been killed by Mo Jing Qi long ago. If so, why not act as if he never existed

"No!" Ye Ying shook her head violently. "That's impossible! The Ding王府 wouldn't lie about something like this." She knew that Su Yun was born only three days apart from her own child and it couldn’t be a coincidence. She added, “You just brought Li氏 out of the palace to ask about him. She must know!"

Mo Jingli coldly ordered, "Stay here! The Empress Dowager is unwell and resting in the palace now. You will remain in this residence." He continued, "I don't have time for you right now, so behave yourself."

"No... Jing Li!" Ye Ying froze in shock, shaking her head vigorously as she rushed to kneel before Mo Jingli. She clung to his leg and pleaded tearfully, "Jing Li, you know he's our son! Please, spare him. He’s your only child now."

Seeing Ye Ying's weeping face, Mo Jingli softened slightly, patting her head gently and saying softly, “He was born weak and hasn't been well taken care of. Even if I save him, he won’t live long. Be good to me, and we'll have other children."

"No... He can’t..."

Suddenly feeling a sharp pain in her scalp, Ye Ying was forced to look up at Mo Jingli as he tugged on her hair. "He will if you behave," he said calmly. "After I ascend the throne, you'll be my empress."

Ye Ying's eyes widened slightly as she whispered softly, “Make me empress”

Mo Jingli nodded. "If you're obedient, yes. I won't hold your past dealings with Ding王府 against you. But... Help me find out who else in Nanjing is working for them."

"I don’t know..." Ye Ying lowered her eyes.

Mo Jingli coaxed gently, "Think again. I know my treatment of you was bad before, but now there’s only you left here. You're the rightful wife of Mo Jing Li, aren't you How did they manage to relay information out" He reminded her that none of those people could leave freely.

After half an hour, Mo Jingli walked out satisfied and the guards outside withdrew too.

In the room, Ye Ying sat motionless on the floor. A while later, she managed a bitter smile. "Mo Jing Li... How ruthless you are… But if this is how it’s going to be..."

Before Mo Jing Li came, the few spies in her house and at Mo Jing Li's had already withdrawn, leaving behind instructions: “Tell him seven parts truth three parts lie. If you wish to save Su Yun, know what to say and what not."

This time Ye Ying did well. All Mo Jing Li learned were some inconsequential spies in Nanjing who likely had been recalled by now. She told nothing of importance.

Ye Ling said she’d regret it. But never before had she felt so remorseful...

Ming Yun... There can't be anyone else like him. Not ever again.

-Extraneous Notes-

Felt very tired~ Busy these days, please forgive me for not responding to comments in time. Wishing everyone a happy new year!enses and said sternly while frowning, "One does what one must do; who wants him to take the punishment instead I have nothing to do with that fellow!"Mo Xiuyao looked at Feng Huiting helplessly, sayi...