Chapter Sixty-Seven: Resolute Will

Lu Jue vaguely remembered how, years ago, the Northern Guard General's Residence was ruined overnight, destroyed by a single accusation of collusion with the enemy and embezzlement. The vast estate vanished in an instant, without even the proper legal proceedings of the Ministry of Justice. Clearly, the powers behind this were formidable enough to blot out the sky.

On Wei Nanxi's side, following Feng Yewu's instructions, he began to privately review the case of the Northern Guard General. Though he now held the rank of Third Grade as a magistrate of the Grand Court, he was still a nameless figure, acting on Feng Yewu's personal directive, which naturally stirred envy and resistance among others.

Wei Nanxi discovered that from the prison wardens to the deputies of the Grand Court, nearly everyone was especially wary of this case. Whenever he mentioned his intention to investigate, a flicker of fear crossed their eyes, as if they were afraid of something.

That evening, from the mouth of the junior magistrate, Wei Nanxi learned that all the files had been transferred by the order of a certain prince. So much time had passed, and the officials had changed—those who once knew the truth were gone.

Sensing the extraordinary identity of those behind the scenes, Wei Nanxi hurried to report.

“Your Majesty, I believe the court has only just been settled; it may be too soon to investigate the Northern Guard General’s case,” Lu Jue said, grateful yet sincerely dissuading.

Feng Yewu listened to their advice, knowing it was for her sake, but her resolve remained unshaken.

“The case of the Northern Guard General’s Residence is deep and far-reaching. Though I have only recently ascended the throne and the court is still settling, how can one shrink from right and wrong, from merit and fault?” Feng Yewu glanced at Lu Jue, smiled softly, and made her intentions clear.

Lu Jue understood her determination, and the worry in his eyes faded instantly.

With emotions restrained, Feng Yewu addressed Wei Nanxi with a solemn gaze.

“The Northern Guard General is a pillar of the nation, his family loyal and brave for generations. If I do not clear the Lu family’s name, how can I win the people’s heart or uphold justice? Proceed without hesitation. I grant you full authority. No matter who is involved—prince or minister—all shall be judged by law.”

Upon hearing Feng Yewu’s words, Wei Nanxi knelt on one knee, responding with unwavering resolve.

“Your servant accepts the decree!”

After Wei Nanxi withdrew, Feng Yewu gazed quietly out the window. The moon, once bright in the changing winds, was now losing its luster.

“Your Majesty, have you truly decided the path ahead?” Lu Jue asked softly, concern thick in his voice.

Feng Yewu heard this and, turning slightly, looked at Lu Jue.

Beneath the lamplight, her bright eyes were filled with deep affection, like water.

A gentle laugh escaped Feng Yewu, and her gaze lowered, recalling the grievances of her previous life.

At the Principality of Pingyi, a servant announced that Nanchang wished to see him.

Wang Changgen’s heart stirred; the scene from the banquet was still vivid in his mind.

“Not seeing him!” Wang Changgen, feeling restless, grew impatient upon hearing Wei Siyuan had come, waving the servant away.

“Why does Pingyi Wang trouble himself so? Even I am willing to see you,”

Before the servant could refuse, Wei Siyuan had already entered, the guards hesitating to stop him.

Wang Changgen saw Wei Siyuan, frowned, and gestured for others to leave, his tone mocking.

“To what do I owe the pleasure of the Prince of Beichang? Are you here to arrange another marriage for me?”

Wei Siyuan, thinking Wang Changgen was blaming him for acting on his own, ignored it and found himself a seat.

“This time, I simply wish to join forces with Pingyi Wang,” Wei Siyuan declared directly, a faint smile on his lips, his eyes cold and serpentine.

“Oh?” Pingyi Wang’s expression changed sharply but quickly masked it, feigning ignorance.

“Join forces? What could the Prince of Beichang possibly want with a fallen prince such as myself?” He laughed at himself.

“The current situation: Feng Yewu controls the court alone. Both our trusted aides have been removed, our ears and eyes blinded. If we don’t join forces, we’ll soon be swallowed by the abyss,” Wei Siyuan said, a sly smile curling his lips, regardless of whether Wang Changgen understood, his intentions clear.

“You’re plotting rebellion!” Wang Changgen was startled. He had considered it, but Feng Yewu’s swift measures had left him powerless; any action now was too late.

In these unpredictable times, Wang Changgen remained wary of Wei Siyuan’s probing, his voice sharp, fearing a trap.

“Pingyi Wang, you needn’t be so anxious. Since I dare to speak today, I dare to bear the consequences,” Wei Siyuan replied calmly, toying with a teacup, a slight smile on his lips.

He appeared utterly confident, not at all afraid of Pingyi Wang’s suspicion.

“Aren’t you afraid I’ll report this to His Majesty?” Wang Changgen stared intently, probing.

“Your current situation is dire, Pingyi Wang. Have you considered your next move?” Wei Siyuan met his gaze without answering, instead posing a question.

“My situation? Ha, everyone avoids me.” Wang Changgen bitterly laughed, knowing Wei Siyuan was certain he would not betray him.

“Do you not wish to change?” Wei Siyuan pressed further, striking at Wang Changgen’s heart.

Who wouldn’t want to change? His present state—abandoned, his house deserted, nothing princely remains.

“Change? How? The emperor’s intentions are clear—he wishes to see me fall. Who would dare associate with me? Even in alliance with you, what good would it do?” Wang Changgen retorted helplessly. Clearly, even cooperation with the Prince of Beichang could not withstand Feng Yewu’s authority.

“Do you not see, Pingyi Wang? Your current predicament is but temporary misfortune. Without Feng Yewu, would anyone shun you?” Wei Siyuan’s words kindled hope in the heart Wang Changgen had almost abandoned.

Wei Siyuan read Wang Changgen’s expression, his verdict settled.

“Without Feng Yewu? Prince of Beichang, your jest is far too bold.” Wang Changgen composed himself, his demeanor turning serious as he suppressed his impulse, interrupting Wei Siyuan’s persuasion.

“Prince of Beichang, my house is already in such a state. If you continue to speak so recklessly, you may drag my family into the abyss,”

With that, Wang Changgen closed his eyes, gesturing for Wei Siyuan to leave.

Wei Siyuan fell silent, his gaze full of confidence as he watched Wang Changgen’s face, then rose and walked toward the door without hesitation.

As he reached the exit, Wei Siyuan spoke quietly.

“I believe Pingyi Wang is a man of understanding.”