Chapter Nine, The Nightingale's Cry
Grandfather's cool gaze, like water, was always spread across the expanse of the world outside the window. Outside, the emerald green bamboo grew tall and slender, swaying gracefully. As the wind passed, a sharp sound rustled softly. His voice was murky and aged: "Aman is a good child, go on, do not disturb me"
Father responded softly, and then fell silent again
As I contemplated this, I was certain that I would lead a tranquil life by the Slim Lake, content to be a carefree Miss Duanmu. Little did I know, a more ferocious storm was approaching me.
Ling Xuan seized the opportunity to speak, casting a sharp glance at her, with a hint of a sweet smile at the corner of her lips: "Ling Xuan, didn't Brother Tang Rong say that he would come to Yangzhou to find me in a few days?"
Xiaoyun wiped her tears and cried out: "Miss, the lady has been waiting for your return, waiting and waiting, yet you have not come back. That night, the lady called out your name, and finally could not wait any longer, so... so she left!"
Crossing through the vast courtyard, there was no one; arriving at the ancient main hall, there was no one; a sense of unease crept in, why was there not a single shadow? Walking through room after room, still not a soul in sight! Could it be that something has happened? What on earth is going on? In just over two months of absence, the bright and splendid residence has turned desolate and bleak, the halls and chambers are filled with an eerie silence, the entire estate presents a scene of desolation, what could be the reason?
I turned back and said coldly, "Feng'er, why aren't you coming over quickly!"
Lu Shuyi pondered: "Governor? Mahalian? What is Amman being sent to do?"
Mother, from now on, A Man will certainly be obedient, no longer will I be willful, and I will no longer make you worry. Safe travels on your journey!
Crown Prince Ling Zheng is a simpleton. At the age of six, Ling Zheng suddenly contracted typhoid fever, with a high fever that would not subside. Six imperial physicians were summoned for consultation, yet all were at a loss. Two days later, the fever subsided, but Ling Zheng became dazed and confused, remaining no different from a six-year-old child for over a decade.
Although that is the case, the Crown Prince and I need more support from others The Empress Dowager's dim eyes flashed with a strange light "The Duanmu family is a prestigious and noble family of our dynasty When I arrived in Yangzhou, I originally thought your father would provide more support for me, but now... cough, Aman, your father is already incapable, and your three brothers adhere to your father's family rules and do not enter officialdom Now, what good can an old woman like me do
"Yan Yu Liu Yun" is the courtyard where my father and mother reside, located at a considerable distance from my "Yao Ying Xuan". It requires traversing a long empty corridor, winding paths, and passing through three doorways
Lu Shuyi's almond-shaped eyes shimmered with waves, her smile swaying as she looked at me: "Huaiyu has not brought any news, which makes me quite worried! You, on the other hand, are overthinking; how can you take care of your health like this?"
As May approaches, the scenery of Shouxi Lake, located to the north of Duanmu Mansion, is bright and splendid. The surface of Shouxi Lake is not wide; the water area is narrow, long, and winding, with gentle waves. Willows lean gracefully along the banks, while on the left side of the willow embankment, the green shade of the jade trees provides a cool refuge.
The Empress Dowager spoke in a calm voice, a faint smile as light as a gentle breeze lingering at the corners of her lips, almost inaudible, as if she were recounting the perils of others, completely unrelated to herself
"Be quiet! Mother is just asleep." I turned back and sternly reprimanded Xiaoyun, giving her a glare, then leaned close to my mother’s ear, speaking softly, "Mother, it’s very cold here. Am I allowed to carry you back to the room?"
Miss, the lady passed away the night before yesterday. The eldest young master does not allow for the mourning to commence, saying that it should wait until the miss returns
I called out once more, and only then did my father come to his senses, glancing at me for a moment. His gaze swept lightly over me before he turned away again, as if I were a stranger.
With tears in my eyes, I choked out: "Father, Aman has come!"
I understand that you will not agree, and there is no need for you to be sarcastic. The lady has long ceased to be the empress of the past. The Empress Dowager of the Rouran looked at me earnestly and said, "I understand that marrying you to Zheng'er would mean sacrificing your entire life and beautiful marriage. Zheng'er is merely a child who has not grown up, soon to inherit the throne, but he is just a puppet, subject to the whims of others. And you, as the empress, second only to one and above ten thousand, hold the vast and beautiful lands of Jiangnan in your hands; with supreme honor and utmost power, you could enjoy a life of glory and favor; the common people of Jiangnan all prostrate themselves at your feet... Zheng'er is merely a child who has not grown up, soon to inherit the throne, but he is just a puppet, subject to the whims of others. And you, as the empress, second only to one and above ten thousand, hold the vast and beautiful lands of Jiangnan in your hands; with supreme honor and utmost power, you could enjoy a life of glory and favor; the common people of Jiangnan all prostrate themselves at your feet... Do you not desire any of this?"
A hint of excitement spread across Ling Feng's face as he exclaimed, "Sister, have you seen Changjiang? I have seen Changjiang, it is so magnificent! However, Brother Tang has also left us..."
Lu Shuyi's eyes flickered slightly, her expression distant and serene, clearly understanding what I was asking: "Beautiful memories buried deep in the heart are not necessarily a bad thing"
I suddenly looked up and exclaimed in panic: "Father, you—"
I lowered my head in silence. After a long while, I spoke resolutely: "Your Majesty, no woman who harbors dreams of love wishes to marry a husband who is as foolish as a simpleton. However, I even less desire to be trapped alone in the royal inner court, becoming a phoenix that can never soar, forever confined to the embroidered screen."
On April 25, Zhen Er ascended the throne in Longcheng, establishing the Xing Dynasty and conferring the title of "Prince of Sincerity" to Lei Ting; he implemented a policy of iron and blood, wantonly torturing and unjustly killing the populace.
Looking at her sorrowful and helpless expression, I thought of my great-aunt, who was already over sixty, yet still had to endure the tragic changes brought about by the destruction of the country and the loss of her family... A surge of compassion suddenly arose within me, and I quietly said: "Great-aunt, what instructions do you have? A-man will do her utmost."
A subtle unease arose from the depths of my heart, and I asked, "What is it?"
I looked at my father in astonishment, speechless and in a daze. What on earth is happening? Why does my father hate me so much? Although he has suffered the pain of losing his wife and endured a devastating blow, it should not lead him to despise me to this extent! Is it because I did not return in time? Is he blaming me for my mother's inability to rest in peace?
Behind me, I heard Xiaoyun's anxious shout. Turning around, I saw Xiaoyun running towards me, holding up her skirt, her face flushed and out of breath as she said: "Miss—"
Ling Zheng was resting in the side hall, while the five of us sat together, chatting softly.
Gazing at the shimmering reflections of light on the slender lake, I softly replied: "Aman understands!"
Whether to continue or not is of no concern to me; I no longer wish to pay attention to other matters. However, in front of my respected and beloved great-aunt, I can only calmly say: "This is as it should be"
On the 6th day of the 4th month, King Pingling led an army of 100,000 elite soldiers to personally command the expedition, accompanied by the Father of Thunder.
In the center of the mourning hall, a dark coffin solemnly announces the passing of my mother, accusing me of my cruelty. Father is not here, brother is not here, only two maids stand on either side of the main door, bowing their heads in solemnity. Xiaoyun, dressed in white mourning attire, turns to see me, rushes over, and exclaims joyfully: "Miss, you have returned!"
Upon waking, I caught a glimpse of Xiaoyun resting on the table, the candlelight flickering softly, perhaps it was night... Just opening my eyes slightly, I fell back into a deep sleep, a state of clarity, devoid of nightmares, sadness, or anguish
Only I understand, Ling Feng is no longer innocent. In the heart of a young child, how bitter and desolate it must be, perhaps there is also resentment!
On April 20, the Great Khan Shun Er Dai led his army in a swift advance, reaching Luodu, where he pacified the former officials and the citizens of Luodu
I don't know, I only know that my mother named me 'Aman', and I like the name my mother gave me, but I don't like the name my father chose.
On April 13, the Pingling King returned to Luodu, gathered the remnants of his forces, and hurriedly left the capital in the early hours of the 14th, fleeing westward
A moment of silence... Amidst the turmoil in the Central Plains, the rising clans seized the opportunity to enter the pass, their iron hooves trampling upon Longcheng, ultimately seizing the world... Wandering by the tranquil Shouxi Lake, one naturally cannot perceive the glint of blades and the stench of blood and rain.
The servant is not clear! It seems that someone has come to deliver a message from Lord Ma.
The inner hall appears even darker, with only the winding golden-red afterglow streaming in through the western window, infusing this long-silent and eerie palace with a touch of warmth and humanity from the world outside
Yushu Qionghua is the secret meeting place for Lu Shuyi and her cousin Ye Sihan. In their youthful emotions, everything is pure and beautiful, just like: the shadows of the trees are gentle and the flowers are quiet, while the sunny rain is hazy and the willows are lush.
With a slight smile, she turned and stepped into the inner chamber. Ling Feng sat at the edge of the bed, lost in thought, utterly disinterested. The Empress Dowager was already reclining on the bed, resting with her eyes closed, and after a moment, she slowly spoke: "Come here, bring a stool and sit here."
Suddenly, my father pushed me away with his hand. Caught off guard, I fell hard to the ground. Enduring the pain, I looked in disbelief at my furious father, who was glaring at me fiercely and exclaimed, "Get out! Get out!"
I stood up, just about to bend down to embrace my mother, when suddenly, a wave of intense dizziness struck me. Everything went dark before my eyes, and I lost my balance, collapsing weakly to the ground
I calmly said: "You will know once you go, let's go, sister, it is time for us to return."
After that, I fell seriously ill and was bedridden for ten days... For the past two to three months, I have been traveling thousands of miles, overwhelmed with worry, facing the dangers of returning, the blow of losing my mother, and my father's estrangement. I am exhausted both physically and mentally, unable to hold on any longer
The bright light outside illuminated his face, accentuating the wrinkles that lay across it, etching traces of pain and desolation.
Dragging my feet in despair, my whole body feels weak and powerless, my heart is tumultuous. Could it be... I dare not imagine, I simply cannot imagine
Ling Feng cried out: "Your Majesty, Feng thought he would never see you again!"
Ling Xuan still had a faint radiance, and spoke gracefully: "I have heard that the Shouxi Lake of the Duanmu residence in Yangzhou is one of the finest garden landscapes in Jiangnan. In my lifetime, I must take the time to appreciate it. Thank you, Sister Duanmu, for your thoughtfulness. Ling Xuan expresses her gratitude in advance"
Ling Xuan's face turned pale, and she said to me in pain: "Sister, do you know? After we parted ways that day, unexpectedly we encountered the Empress Dowager and traveled south together. Unfortunately, Brother Tang Rong said he had important matters to attend to and could not escort us to Yangzhou..."
Ling Feng lowered his head, then raised it again, as if he understood nothing of the meaning and conspiracy behind it, and smiled brightly, saying: "Feng Er understands"
Ling Xuan stood up, her slender figure standing proudly, and said indifferently: "Ling Xuan, let us go, the Empress Dowager must have important matters to discuss with her"
Mother, where are you
Later, Third Brother told me that our mother’s passing was something Father might not be able to bear. He has been lost in contemplation all day, unwilling to engage with others or be disturbed. The doctor said that perhaps he would improve after a while, or perhaps it would remain this way forever, until a hundred years later. Whether he can recover depends on his own willingness.
Tears fell like broken pearls, dropping and splashing onto the edge of the coffin. I exerted strength to lift my mother's delicate body, holding her tightly, my tears blurring my vision: "Mother, it is all my fault! Please open your eyes and look at me, will you?"
In the dimly lit hall, the weary souls linger, as the undercurrents of change surge, no longer resembling the past. Those who were once close now stand on guard, taking precautions at every turn.
The Empress Dowager's face showed signs of fatigue as she languidly said, "I am tired, you all may rest, Feng'er stay, A-Man, give me a back rub."
The closer I got to Yangzhou, the more my heart raced, rising and falling unpredictably. Upon entering the North Gate, we simply bid farewell and went our separate ways. Lu Shuyi headed east, Jiang Xue and Hua Meier went south, while I was the closest, as Shouxi Lake is not far from the North Gate
As long as I return to Yangzhou, Tang Shuyang's ruthless departure and the humiliation he inflicted upon me are no longer of importance
On the chair by the bed, a middle-aged man is curled up in deep sleep. Coincidentally, his face is turned outward, his brows slightly furrowed, reflecting endless pain. After more than two months apart, my father is no longer the vibrant man nearing fifty, no longer the carefree and witty recluse with an upright posture; now, he has gray hair, a gaunt face, and appears to be a man in his seventies.
I can hardly contain the panic in my voice: "And there is Father, Father taught Aman—"
Father, I am sorry—Aman was wrong—I lowered my head, resting my forehead on Father's leg, and in an instant, tears streamed down.
She held Ling Feng's small hand, gently patting it, looking at her young grandson with a gentle yet serious expression, her words resolute and chilling: "From now on, there will be no Ling Feng in this world, only Duanmu Feng. Do you understand clearly?"
She sighed helplessly, "Do you really dislike Zheng'er?"
The fall of the Daling Dynasty occurred on April 1st, when the leader of the bandits, King Pingling, ascended to the throne in Longcheng. The civil and military officials of the Ling Dynasty knelt in the Hall of Establishing Governance, performing three kneels and nine knocks, while shouting "Long live the Emperor"
I do not know when, but Xiaoyun walked in, helped me up, and advised, "Miss, let us go! The master will be angry!"
I took a deep breath, gazed with emotion, and said: "Indeed, Aman does not desire it. Aman has never been a woman driven by greed or vanity; she only wishes to live and die in a small corner of the world, finding joy in her own way"
Ling Feng had never seen such a serious expression on my face, and was momentarily taken aback before walking over in a dejected manner. I composed myself and smiled, saying, "Later, I will report to my aunt and find a sunny day to invite the two younger sisters to my residence for a visit."
The Empress Dowager sternly interrupted, straightened her posture, and said unequivocally: "It is getting late, let's return. Feng'er, go back with your sister."
A single sentence determined Ling Feng's fate from then on; the Empress Dowager, who has always been adept at manipulating the destinies of others, remained unwavering in her original intentions even in such desolation. The setting sun, like blood, slanted across her pale face, as if splashed with faint blood, exuding a chilling aura that was terrifying.
The splendid mountains and rivers, the overwhelming power, indeed tempt the heart; however, in this time of turmoil, it is merely an illusion, a fleeting dream. The Empress Dowager still regards me as a naive little girl, leading me towards the vortex of power struggles. Yet, I am no longer the obedient girl in her eyes, and I will certainly not entangle myself at the forefront of the smoke-filled conflict
Shangguan Yu commands two hundred thousand troops, stationed along the southeastern coastal region and the southwestern frontier. For twenty years, he has ensured the stability of the livelihoods and prosperity of the people along the southern border of Daling, creating a scene of flourishing vitality. The Shangguan family has been loyal and dedicated for three generations, serving Daling with utmost devotion. The citizens regard this as a model, and those who aspire to achieve prominence and make a mark mostly enlist in Shangguan Yu's army
Ling Feng also stared blankly at his beloved Empress Dowager, his fair and rosy face filled with disbelief
Father's voice is ethereal like the flowing clouds in the sky, elusive and hard to grasp: "Father is tired, go away, do not disturb me!"
Mother sighed softly: "Indeed, at that time I disagreed, but your father was stubborn and insisted on giving you this rather unusual name." Suddenly, Mother stopped in her tracks, turned to look at me, and said, "Aman, I want you to understand that all men in this world are fickle. If there is a man who likes you and you like him in return, as long as he is devoted and sincere to you, you should pursue him without hesitation. Moreover, it is better to forsake wealth and honor, to give up prestige and favor, as long as your husband has only you as his wife. Even if it is simple meals and plain clothes, it is still worth spending a lifetime together."
A series of crisp bird calls woke me up, and as I slowly opened my eyes, the morning sunlight poured in through the open west window, warm as ever. I thought this fresh morning was a brand new beginning, but little did I know, there was still something awaiting me to endure
Father ... Mother ... '' she shouted all the way, wanting everyone to know that A Man had returned, finally returned
"Our Great Ling Dynasty has reached a dead end, with only a few of us left, both old and young." The Empress Dowager slightly closed her eyes, and a profound sorrow lingered on her calm face. "However, as long as the Crown Prince is alive, it is not impossible to continue the royal lineage. Lord Ma has already summoned officials from various regions in Jiangnan to discuss matters concerning the continuation of the royal lineage."
I am Aman, dear father, please take a look at me, take a look—
The Longyue Palace is located at the northeastern edge of Yangzhou City. It was ordered to be built by Emperor Taizu of the Daling Dynasty twenty years after the founding of the country, and it took five years to complete. Throughout the dynasties, emperors visiting Jiangnan would invariably stay at the palace; Empress Dowager Duan Jing would return to Yangzhou every five years for family visits and would always reside in the Linglong Hall
Aman, your mother is no longer here to guide you, so you must walk your path well from now on
I inquired nonchalantly, "Sister... has Cousin and Xining Huaiyu sent any news?"
The afternoon sunlight slants in through the windows, illuminating the silent shadows of time within the hall, warm yet distant. Although there are often people cleaning, the dust of years still lingers in the surroundings, and time here remains perpetually stagnant, giving rise to a formless and silent dread.
However, the time of youth has forever passed, and I do not know where my cousin is or whether he is well. What about Huaiyu in Xining? Is there any news?
The Empress Dowager was deeply moved and praised, saying: "It is rare for someone so young to be free from vanity, to possess such integrity, and to have such a profound understanding of the world. I must express my admiration. There is no need for you to give an immediate answer; take your time to consider it carefully and respond in five days.
Mother solemnly said: "To be able to marry into the Duanmu family is the greatest blessing of my life. Your father has treated me with deep affection and loyalty, unwavering for over ten years; I am already content.
Although Zheng'er is foolish, he is after all the crown prince appointed by the late emperor, and naturally, the officials will not oppose him. The Empress Dowager's expression was stern, and she let out a long sigh, saying, "What I fear is that even if they declare themselves emperors in Yangzhou and continue the legacy of the Great Ling Kingdom, they will merely be puppets. As an old woman, how much weight can I carry? If they can respectfully address me as 'Empress Dowager,' I will be content.
The Empress Dowager gazed at me gently, yet a sharp light flickered in her eyes, compelling me to turn my head away in guilt. Beneath her knife-like gaze, no matter how I lied, I could never maintain a calm facade.
Mother, you have grown thin, yet you still possess such noble grace and elegance. You are merely asleep, are you not? Aman has returned; why do you not open your eyes to see her?
I walked over, my nose tinged with a sourness, straining to hold back the tears in my eyes: "Auntie, you have worked hard all the way."
I neither belittle nor elevate myself by stating: "This matter has nothing to do with Xining Huaiyu"
Miss, the lady has left
I anxiously asked, "What should be done?"
I faintly heard her delicate voice, opened my mouth, but could not utter a word... Heavily stepping over the threshold, I staggered towards that dreadful coffin, Mother, Aman, unfilial...
During my unconsciousness, Tang Shuyang left us. The next day, we abandoned the carriage and crossed the Chang River. Fortunately, there were no significant dangers. After traveling for another three to five days, we safely arrived in Yangzhou
On the 10th day of the 4th month, the Thunder Army and the elite troops of King Pingling engaged in a fierce battle at Shanhaiguan. Reinforcements were summoned, and King Pingling's forces suffered a catastrophic defeat, leaving only a few thousand remnants. In a fit of rage, he ordered the execution of Thunder's father, whose head was displayed on a high pole. Subsequently, he hastily retreated back to Luodu
On March 18th, at the hour of the rat, a great fire broke out in Qingning Palace. The Empress Dowager ordered Ling Zheng to disguise himself as a commoner's child and secretly transfer to Liu Chefu. At the hour of the tiger, the lady arranged everything and calmly hanged herself, but unexpectedly, Liu Chemin arrived in haste and saved her. Liu Chemin intended to take the lady away, but she resolutely refused to leave. Helpless, Liu Chemin left in despair, ordering two guards to keep a close watch. In the morning, bandits took control of Longcheng, and the lady hanged herself again. At the right moment, a certain bandit leader encountered her and cut the rope, allowing the lady to regain consciousness. Liu Chemin intended to take the lady away, but she resolutely refused to leave. Helpless, Liu Chemin left in despair, ordering two guards to keep a close watch. In the morning, bandits took control of Longcheng, and the lady hanged herself again. At the right moment, a certain bandit leader encountered her and cut the rope, allowing the lady to regain consciousness. This leader strictly ordered the soldiers not to insult the Empress Dowager. Later, Prince Pingling transferred her to the suburban palace of Luodu, Ziyong City.
Xiaoyun stood behind me, unyielding: "Miss—"
Each sentence speaks of the Empress Dowager, each word resonates with sorrow and strength
The day after the funeral, I fainted again... In the hazy moments between waking and dreaming, there is always a sharp and mournful melody ringing in my ears, lingering and making me feel inexplicably heavy
"Alright, alright, Feng'er is the most obedient. Let's sit over there." The Empress Dowager raised her head and said with surprise, "Aman, come in quickly, let me have a good look at you."
I called out once, but my father remained unmoved, his aged eyes fixed unwaveringly on the simple and elegant carved windowsill, his gaze distant and somewhat scattered. The sunlight streamed in, making the room bright and cheerful, yet it felt as if my father were a stone sculpture of millennia, already weathered.
From a distance, one can see that within the hall, there hang strips of pure white drapes, resembling numerous ghostly shadows, exuding waves of chilling atmosphere. Such tranquility!
I nodded and said: "With the loyalty and dedication of the above-mentioned officials, they will surely support the Crown Prince in governing, and will not allow treacherous individuals to take advantage. Furthermore, with the Empress Dowager assisting from the side, all officials should work together in unity, and perhaps we can establish a foundation for the Southern Song Dynasty, just as Emperor Gaozong of Song did."
On the eighth day of the fourth month, thunder descended upon Shanhaiguan, prompting the troops to enter the pass.
Within the city of Yangzhou, the streets are bustling with traffic, vibrant and lively, the markets are bustling with activity, and the atmosphere is filled with song and dance. The fall of that dynasty, the smoke of war in the capital, has nothing to do with Yangzhou. Turning off two busy main streets and entering a narrow alley, one arrives at the grand residence of the Duanmu family. After alighting from the carriage, I lifted the hem of my robe and rushed into the open gate without a hint of curiosity, wondering why the family door was wide open in broad daylight
Ling Xuan was taken aback, her face, once as delicate as the moon a month ago, was no longer soft and moist. The shy sentiments of a young girl had vanished, leaving only a cold disdain and aloofness.
The Empress Dowager said softly: "Fortunately, General Shangguan will arrive in a few days. By then, with one hundred thousand elite soldiers stationed outside Yangzhou City, I will no longer have to worry."
I felt uneasy under her gaze, and as I walked forward, I murmured, "Nowadays, I truly do not wish for anything at all..."
It is precisely the season when the jasmine flowers are in full bloom. The branches are adorned with clusters of pure white blossoms, resembling the snow that blankets the earth in midwinter, sparkling and crystal-clear, with a refreshing fragrance that captivates the senses. Suddenly, I am reminded of the carefree days spent with my cousin during my youth. In the slanting rays of the evening sun, we would lie on the grass beneath the jasmine tree, savoring the verses of the Book of Songs or the tales of the Tang and Song dynasties in the warm breeze. Unbeknownst to us, the jade-like petals would fall gently, as if white snow were covering us entirely, creating a delightful scene.
Mother, why did you not wait for Aman
After a long while, I softly said: "Sister, have you thought of anything?"
Lu Shuyi smiled and said, "Let's take a moment to catch our breath before continuing!"
Upon stepping into the entrance of the Hall of Radiance, one sees the Empress Dowager tightly embracing Ling Feng, her eyes slightly closed, with tears glistening on her lower eyelids. Behind her stand two graceful young maidens, dressed in plain white long skirts, their faces haggard, with tears shimmering in their eyes.
Xiao Yun swallowed hard, her brows knitting together: "Young Master—let the young lady return immediately."
The passing of my mother has caused my father more pain than anyone else, and yet, I was not by his side... How truly despicable!
I was taken aback, staring blankly at the solemn and composed old woman before me, momentarily mistaking her for the formidable and awe-inspiring Empress Dowager with her iron bowl. I could never have imagined that she would make such a request, resolutely pushing me into the depths of suffering and destroying my entire life
A momentary look of confusion appeared on Ling Xuan's face; she wanted to say something, but upon meeting Ling Xuan's stern gaze, she nodded and fell silent
The moonlight is distant, the willow path stretches for five miles, the drooping willows sway gently, the shimmering waves stir emotions, and the gentle breeze brushes against our clothes. Mother holds my arm, walking slowly, and softly says: "Aman, do you know why your father gave you the character 'Qing' (情)?"
The Empress Dowager's brows were furrowed, and her light gaze swept slowly, disregarding Ling Xuan's delicate demeanor, as she directly rose and walked towards the inner hall. I hurriedly followed, only to hear Ling Feng excitedly say, "Sister, come on, let me tell you about Changjiang, shall I?"
At this moment, I felt so weak that I allowed Xiaoyun to pull me back to the Shaking Shadow Pavilion. The instant I stepped out of my father's chamber, I turned back to take a glance; my father's gaze was so vacant, his rarely blinking eyes fixed intently on the sky outside the window.
I cried out in prayer: "I am sorry... Father, you may scold me, but please do not drive me away. Father, have you forgotten? A Man is your most beloved!"
Could it be that this character '情' is the clear evidence of the deep love between father and mother? I think that although my father loves me, he likely chose this name more to prove his infatuation with my mother
"Sister, why is no one here? Where are Uncle and Aunt? And what about the three big brothers?" Ling Feng followed me, running wildly, unable to help but ask.
Empress—" I called out urgently, still wanting to cut off her thoughts
Dismounting from the carriage, Ling Feng rushed towards the ancient and heavy red lacquered gate of the palace as if flying, with the guards unable to stop him, quickly following behind. I took slow steps, unconcerned, treading on the gray gravel path, passing through the guards' watchful gazes. They would not obstruct me, for Maher Lian was following behind, and these guards were his subordinates.
Lu Shuyi visited my residence, and we strolled along the willow embankment for five miles, with the warm breeze brushing our faces as we engaged in lively conversation. She sighed and said, "Unexpectedly, General Lei has led his troops into the pass, akin to inviting wolves into the house. Alas... the greatest victims are the defenseless common people."
Miss—Miss—
A chill spread through my heart, and I laughed wildly in despair, yet my face remained as calm and still as a lake: "Your Majesty, you flatter me. I am merely a foolish and weak woman, capable of very little to assist you. I hope you will show mercy and leniency."
Empress Duan Jing, also known as the daughter of the Duanmu clan, accompanied Emperor Taizu for ten years, helping to pacify the realm and establish the imperial enterprise. The emperor and empress held hands for half a lifetime, sharing a deep marital bond, and their illustrious reputation has been passed down through the ages. Subsequently, three generations of empresses also emerged from the Duanmu clan, evoking admiration among the people, who remarked: "Daughters of the Duanmu clan are like phoenixes among men, possessing both beauty and grace; those who marry them are assured of enduring favor and honor."
Aman, do you understand what your mother means
The Empress Dowager gazed at me intently and spoke resolutely: "I want you to become the future Empress of the Crown Prince"
On the first day of April, Liu Chemin secretly took the dragon and transformed it into a phoenix, discreetly transporting it to Yangzhou
Running recklessly towards the backyard, my heart pounding fiercely... Step by step closer, the howling wind brushed against my cheeks, chilling me to the bone, leaving me feeling icy all over.
Standing dazed at the door, unable to believe what lay before my eyes... A buzzing filled my ears, a thunderous sound echoed in my mind, my brows and eyes ached with a burning sensation, and hot tears cascaded down uncontrollably...
Ling Xuan's vacant eyes sparkled with a bright light as she excitedly said, "Great, sister, please do not forget!"
After having breakfast and regaining some strength, I walked towards "Mist and Flowing Clouds" to visit my father
It feels as if a sharp blade has suddenly pierced through the heart, passing through it, slowly turning and stirring all the anguish.
It turns out that my grandaunt, the Empress Dowager, secretly arrived in Yangzhou last night. Master Ma arranged for her to rest at the Longyue Palace in the city. Accompanying her were Crown Prince Ling Zheng, Princess Jinping Ling Xuan, and Princess Jinxiang Ling Xuan. However, I am unsure how Ling Xuan and Ling Xuan came to be traveling with my grandaunt
So shocking
In the aged eyes of the Empress Dowager, there was a hint of admiration as she solemnly asked, "You still cannot forget Xining Huaiyu?"
The door is wide open, yet I do not dare to step in recklessly
Unexpectedly, the Empress Dowager's tears fell: "Aman, can you help me?"
No, I will not leave; I want to stay with Grandpa. I insisted firmly while lying on the ground
In my heart, I understand that the old lady has traversed the gates of the underworld several times, a harrowing experience between life and death.
Her tone suddenly became resolute, and she seemed to still be that strong-willed, stubborn matron in her sixties from the Dragon City of Luodu; however, the deep lines on her forehead reflected the upheavals she had endured, the trials of life and death, and the hardships she had faced. Her complexion remained fair, and her elegance and nobility were still present, yet it was a transformation marked by the desolation that followed the invasion of frost and snow.
I crouched down and leaned over the coffin, staring blankly at the beautiful woman in her thirties who lay peacefully inside. I reached out to touch my mother's face; wherever my fingers made contact, it was cold and piercing. As I gently caressed her, the corners of her lips seemed to hold a faint smile, her brows were calm, and her expression was serene.
I pressed my cheek tightly against my mother's pale profile, feeling the icy chill seep into my skin and flood my heart, instantly drowning the entire chamber: "From now on, I will definitely be obedient, not going anywhere, and will stay by my mother's side. Hmm... I will learn needlework from my mother, listen carefully to her recount the interesting anecdotes of various dynasties, and also accompany her for evening walks along the willow embankment. Mother, what do you think?"
Xiaoyun, not knowing where she found the strength, grasped my arm and forcefully dragged me away from Father’s chamber, away from "Smoke and Rain, Flowing Clouds"
Ling Xuan pouted in dissatisfaction and sweetly whined, "Your Majesty, we also want to stay here, okay?"
I grasped Ling Feng's right hand, preventing him from continuing to speak... That was a deeply etched memory, one I was unwilling to bring up again, and moreover, within that memory lay a man's grace and humiliation, which I was even less inclined to recall
On the 3rd of April, former General of Ningyuan and General Wei of Thunder, Lei Ting, was detained and held hostage by the Pingling King due to family matters. In anger, he raised his troops to rebel and confronted the new dynasty. The Pingling King wished to send two of his subordinates to subdue Lei Ting, but unfortunately, the two generals were indulged in pleasure and enjoyment, leaving him no choice but to don armor and take the field himself
A deeper sense of unease settled in my heart as I crouched beside the chair, holding my father's cold hand. His once warm and sturdy palm had become so frail, resembling a tree branch, gnarled and weathered.