Chapter 21: Flower Festival

Spring comes early to the south. It's only February, yet flowers are already blooming in succession. The plum blossoms have faded, willows sway in the breeze, and apricot blossoms are bathed in light rain. For a time, both banks of the river are a tapestry of tender green and pale red—weeping willows lining the banks, apricot trees beneath the spring embankment, all accompanied by misty drizzle and rising smoke from village chimneys, creating a scene of idyllic beauty.

Despite this magnificent spring scenery, Pei Yuan has no heart for leisurely appreciation. His army is stationed here, imperial edicts and memorials constantly being exchanged, various military affairs demanding attention. Most importantly, Li Yi has abandoned the army and lingered alone in Changzhou City.

When Pei Yuan first heard Xie Chang'er say that Li Yi was going to stay in Changzhou alone for a few days, he felt as if struck by lightning. After learning the details, he was furious. However, Xie Chang'er was not one to lie, and after being questioned repeatedly, he could only stammer out the truth: Li Yi had failed in his mission and been detained by Cui Yi. Pei Yuan was completely flustered. He thought to himself, what sins had he committed to deserve such retribution? He vowed that when Li Yi returned, he would resign from his post, even if it meant being beaten to death by his father upon returning to the capital, rather than endure this torment.

Fortunately, the next day Li Yi sent a letter from Changzhou City, not only reporting his safety but also specifying that Physician Fan should be escorted across the river. Although Pei Yuan harbored many resentments, he still arranged for men to escort Physician Fan to Changzhou. Fortunately, Li Yi personally came out to greet him, and it was clear he had not been imprisoned or mistreated by Cui Yi, which put Pei Yuan at ease.

In the military report sent to the court from the Western Chang Prefecture, Pei Yuan naturally kept the matter completely hidden, only saying that Li Yi was negotiating with Cui Yi and would send troops when the time was right.

---

Now, about Physician Fan. As expected of a physician from a family of doctors, he wasn't particularly alarmed when brought to Changzhou City. When invited to the Protectorate to examine Commandant He's pulse, he noticed that although she was dressed in military attire, she was clearly a woman. Seeing Li Yi beside her, and recalling the anxieties His Highness the Prince of Qin had expressed about his relatives' illnesses in the capital, he immediately understood. He focused intently on examining Commandant He's pulse and carefully scrutinized her tongue. When he emerged to the outer room, Taozi had already prepared a basin of water for him to wash his hands. After washing, he bowed to Li Yi and said, "Your Highness, in my humble opinion, this is not tuberculosis."

Upon hearing it wasn't tuberculosis, Li Yi immediately relaxed. Letting out a long breath, Physician Fan continued, "This seems to be a case of blood heat, but not quite. Logically speaking, she's very healthy and shouldn't have this symptom. It's not detectable in her pulse. It seems she took a lot of medicine before, and luckily, by chance, those medicines were all appropriate."

Taozi interjected, "I've always been the one to take her pulse. Even when she has minor ailments, she takes medicine I prescribe. She's never been this sick before."

Physician Fan nodded. "I'll write a prescription first. Let's try one dose."

Physician Fan's medical skills were indeed exceptional. After taking his prescription, Commandant He didn't cough up blood for two days in a row and slept soundly at night. Taozi was overjoyed, and Li Yi was quite happy as well.

As Commandant He gradually recovered, Li Yi's back wound also began to heal. However, as the wounds healed and scabbed over, the newly formed flesh was always slightly itchy. One day, the itching on his shoulder and back was particularly intense, and Physician Fan repeatedly warned him not to scratch it. He had no choice but to endure it. Fortunately, Commandant He's condition had improved considerably. He coaxed her to take her medicine and was about to have a meal with her when, just as he picked up his chopsticks, a sudden, intense itching sensation arose on his back. He frowned in distress but could not scratch it. The slightest movement caused his clothing to rub against the wound, making the itching even worse, and he felt utterly miserable.

Seeing the strange look on his face, she thought for a moment and understood what was wrong. She then teased, "In Yingzhou, the land is fertile and the soil abundant. In autumn and winter, there's a type of roe deer that's very unafraid of people. When they see someone coming, they huddle together and approach. If you reach out to touch them, they turn and run away. But if you chase them, they stop to see what you're doing. If you chase them too hard, they'll fall into the snow and not move. Sometimes you can even pick them up like that. So in Yingzhou, hunters call roe deer 'silly roe deer.' Every spring, these roe deer would rub their foreheads against tree bark, sometimes even until their foreheads bled. When I was little, I watched this and couldn't understand it, so I asked, 'What is that silly roe deer doing? Why is it rubbing its forehead against the tree bark?'"

Li Yi listened to her detailed explanation, becoming completely engrossed, and couldn't help but ask, "Why does the roe deer rub its forehead against the tree bark?"

She replied, "Why does it rub its forehead against the tree bark? Of course, it's because that silly roe deer is itchy."

As soon as she uttered the word "itchy," he suddenly realized what was happening, put down his chopsticks, and pinched her cheek. "You called me a silly roe deer... You made up such a long story just to call me a silly roe deer..."

She dodged while covering her face with her arm. "A gentleman uses words, not fists..."

She suddenly remembered the time when they were driving an oxcart on the road, and he secretly cursed her for being full of straw. When she got angry, she hit the back of his head, and he said that a gentleman uses words, not fists. At that time, she replied confidently: "I am not a gentleman, I am a lady." Thinking of this, she felt a sweet warmth in her heart. He clearly remembered that past event as well, a smile appearing on his face. Suddenly, he put his arm around her waist, kissed her on the cheek, and whispered, "I'm not a gentleman either. I'm a silly roe deer."

She glanced at him, about to speak, when she suddenly heard what sounded like Taozi's voice. She coughed twice outside the door, then gently knocked a few times and called out, "Commandant."

She quickly pushed Li Yi away, sat up straight, tidied her hair, and then called Taozi in. It turned out that Cui Yi had sent someone to summon Li Yi to the inner hall. The two exchanged a glance, and Li Yi, seeing the worry in her eyes, comforted her, saying, "The military governor must have something to discuss with me. Don't worry, I won't argue with him."

Though she didn't say it aloud, she was thinking that Li Yi's large army meant the court wanted to reclaim Changzhou. Such a crucial place would not be easily given to the Cui family's Dingsheng Army. Due to its terrain, Changzhou guarded Annam; otherwise, Sun Jing's rebel army wouldn't have been locked in a tug-of-war with the court's suppression forces here. If the Cui family occupied Changzhou, even the emperor would be restless. She nodded. "I know. Go ahead."

---

Li Yi went to the back hall, and sure enough, Cui Yi wanted to discuss the affairs of Changzhou with him. These past two days, Li Yi had been busy finding doctors and giving medicine to A Ying, and he was also recuperating from his injuries. Since Cui Yi had whipped him thirty times, he had tacitly allowed him to move around in the mansion, pretending to be deaf and dumb and not asking any questions. However, the Zhenxi Army was just across the river, and Pei Yuan was very attentive, sending people every day to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables, saying it was to inquire after the military governor and General Cui Yi, but in fact, he was just worried about Li Yi.

Cui Yi was both angry and amused. He thought it would be unpleasant for the Prince of Qin, the commander-in-chief of the Zhenxi Army and the son of the Emperor, to linger in his own Dingsheng Army. If people found out, it would indeed cause gossip. Therefore, estimating that Li Yi's injuries had almost healed, he sent someone to invite him over, wanting to discuss important matters and quickly send the Prince of Qin back to the camp on the other side of the river, so that Pei Yuan wouldn't worry himself sick every day, caught in a dilemma, as if afraid that Cui Yi would kill the Prince of Qin.

When Li Yi arrived, Cui Yi was very polite, personally rising to greet him and bowing to Li Yi with the etiquette of a military governor meeting the Prince of Qin. Li Yi also returned the bow very respectfully before they sat down as host and guest. After exchanging a few casual words, Cui Yi was about to get down to business when he suddenly felt dizzy. Seeing his pale face, Li Yi quickly stood up. Cui Yi tried to speak, but as soon as he opened his mouth, he spat out a mouthful of blood, his head lolled to the side, and he fainted.

Li Yi was startled by this sudden turn of events. Their conversation was confidential, so they had already dismissed their attendants. Li Yi checked Cui Yi's pulse; it was very weak. He was anxious and, supporting Cui Yi, his mind raced. He realized this wasn't a recurrence of an old injury, but rather a sudden illness or poisoning. If it was an illness, that would be fine, since Physician Fan was still there. But if it was poisoning, that would be much more serious.

He leaned Cui Yi back in his chair, still feeling Cui Yi's pulse, thinking he needed to inform A Ying immediately. Just then, someone outside the window shouted, "Governor! There's urgent military news from the north!" He was startled. The door was pushed open, and a guard walked straight into the hall. Seeing the scene, he gasped and shouted, "Help! Someone come quickly!"

The Dingsheng Army guards who had been serving outside rushed in. Leading them were several of Cui Yi's trusted lieutenants, who respected him greatly. Seeing Cui Yi in such a state, some rushed to support him, repeatedly calling for the governor. Cui Yi's face was ashen, and he was unconscious, his breathing growing weaker. Some people were so anxious they almost cried out. Someone pointed at Li Yi and shouted, "This man is the Prince of Qin! Don't let this traitor escape! He must have harmed the military governor!"

Li Yi had already taken two steps back when the crowd rushed in, letting them take care of Cui Yi. Hearing this, everyone in the room drew their weapons. Li Yi thought it would be easy to defeat them and escape, but Cui Yi had suddenly collapsed, his life hanging in the balance, the cause unknown. If he left, he feared he would frighten A Ying, and he would also be accused of having a guilty conscience after killing someone.

Seeing everyone in the room glaring at him angrily, he simply said, "The governor's health is at stake. Quickly fetch a physician."

The crowd remained extremely vigilant, watching his every move, fearing he might escape. Fortunately, Song Shu arrived shortly afterward. He was Cui Yi's most trusted confidant and held considerable prestige within the Dingsheng Army. Upon seeing the situation in the hall, Song Shu guessed what had happened and loudly proclaimed, "His Highness Prince Qin is a distinguished guest invited by the governor to discuss important matters. Do not be disrespectful to such a distinguished guest. His Highness Prince Qin would not harm the governor."

The crowd was skeptical of Song Shu's words. Li Yi nodded to Song Shu and was about to speak when a cold voice outside the door said, "Who says Prince Qin wouldn't harm the governor?"

The crowd in front of the hall parted to make way, and Liu Chengfeng, leading A Shu, stepped across the threshold. Upon seeing Cui Yi slumped in the chair, he rushed forward, calling out "Father" repeatedly, but Cui Yi was unconscious and barely breathing; how could he possibly wake? Liu Chengfeng called out twice more, stunned, almost in tears. Suddenly, he stood up, turned, pointed at Li Yi, and gritted his teeth, saying, "Kill this traitor who plotted against the military governor!"

The crowd responded in unison. As the deputy commander of the Dingsheng Army and Cui Yi's only son, with Cui Yi unconscious, everyone already regarded him as their commander. At his command, the eyes of everyone in the hall turned red, and they all drew their weapons, ready to stab Li Yi.

Seeing the tense atmosphere in the hall, Li Yi couldn't help but take a half step back, clutching the dagger in his sleeve. He thought that since Liu Chengfeng was acting this way, there must be something fishy about what happened today. The only way now was to take Liu Chengfeng hostage unexpectedly, force the crowd to retreat, and then take Liu Chengfeng to the Zhenxi Army camp to slowly investigate the matter.

Once the thought formed in his mind, he silently considered the distance between himself and Liu Chengfeng, determined to strike with certainty. Liu Chengfeng seemed to have already vaguely guessed his strategy. With a slight signal, his personal guards, clad in heavy armor and carrying shields, stepped forward. There were also strange noises coming from the courtyard outside the window. Li Yi, with his keen senses and long experience in the army, recognized the sound as the stringing of a heavy crossbow. His expression changed slightly. He knew that the Dingsheng Army was equipped with good heavy crossbows with powerful mechanisms. When stringing them, one had to push the crossbow bed with their feet. It was said that such a crossbow could shoot through a cow. Judging from the stringing sound coming from right below the window, at such close range, it could probably even shatter brick walls. This Liu Chengfeng had obviously arranged an ambush long ago and did not care about the lives of everyone in the hall.

Liu Chengfeng also heard the sound of the crossbows being cocked. Only then did he breathe a slight sigh of relief. He thought that even if half of the people in this hall died today, he would still shoot Li Yi on the spot. His heart was filled with hatred, but he took a half step back. Song Shu, hearing the crossbows being cocked, couldn't help but narrow his eyes and glance at Liu Chengfeng without showing any emotion.

Liu Chengfeng knew that Song Shu was always meticulous, and in the Dingsheng Army, only a few people knew A Ying's true identity. Song Shu was also one of those who knew. He had already made up his mind. He called out, "Uncle Song," his eyes red, and pointed at Li Yi, saying, "This man led a large army on the other side of the river and infiltrated our Dingsheng Army camp, causing the military governor to be in such a state. Today, he certainly cannot escape."

Song Shu nodded and said to Li Yi, "Your Highness, you must explain to us clearly what exactly happened today and why the military governor acted this way..."

Before he could finish speaking, suddenly a commotion erupted as A Ying finally arrived, having heard the disturbance. She hadn't even had time to change her clothes or put on her shoes before rushing towards the place. Taozi followed behind, carrying her shoes. When they reached the hall, Liu Chengfeng had already arranged for his trusted men to stop her, but they were no match for her, easily defeated. Upon reaching the hall, she was filled with shock and rage upon seeing the heavy crossbows already drawn in the courtyard. Taozi had also rushed in by then, and the others, unable to stop her, began fighting with her in the courtyard. A Ying seized the opportunity to burst into the hall.

As soon as she entered, Liu Chengfeng's heart sank. She was always quick-witted, and seeing the situation in the hall, she guessed seven or eight parts of the truth. But she was frantic and disregarded everything else, rushing to Cui Yi's side and checking his pulse with trembling hands. Her voice choked in her throat, and she couldn't utter a word.

Seeing her like this, Song Shu rushed forward, and Liu Chengfeng also stepped forward to help her up. But just as Liu Chengfeng reached out, she suddenly turned around and flicked her wrist, sending several golden needles flying straight at Liu Chengfeng. This sudden attack stunned everyone in the hall, and no one had time to stop her. Only A Shu, who was very close, drew his sword to block. Several clanging sounds were heard as the golden needles struck the sword and fell to the ground.

This was the moment Li Yi had been waiting for. When A Ying came in, their eyes met, and he understood her plan. So when she launched her golden needle attack, Li Yi kicked open the window. Using the momentum of the kick, he braced himself on the windowsill and leaped into the air, about to jump out of the window.

Seeing that he was about to escape from the hall, Liu Chengfeng could no longer restrain himself and shouted, "Fire!"

Before he knew it, A Ying had already rushed towards the window. The soldiers controlling the crossbows outside, hearing Liu Chengfeng's command, had already pulled the triggers, and the arrows shot out. Li Yi reacted with lightning speed; while still in mid-air, he had already performed a half-flip. The arrow grazed his ear, shattering the blue bricks by the windowsill with a crack, sending countless fragments flying. The crossbows in the courtyard were all activated, the sound of arrows whistling through the air incessant.

A Ying had already reached the window. Liu Chengfeng was frantic and shouted repeatedly, "Don't fire! Don't fire!"

Even so, it was too late. Several more arrows still flew through the air. Liu Chengfeng shouted as he rushed towards the window, as did A Shu and Song Shu. A Shu only had time to call out "Young Master!" Song Shu was closer to the window. Seeing several arrows flying towards A Ying, she managed to dodge one and then swung her golden-inlaid knife to parry another, only to have her arms go numb from the impact. A crossbow bolt was still flying straight towards her face. Knowing she could not escape, she steeled her heart and swung her golden-inlaid knife, wanting to die a glorious death.

Although the golden-inlaid knife struck the crossbow bolt, it only created a spark and did not knock it away. The crossbow bolt was only moved slightly by the strike and shot straight towards her neck. In a flash, Song Shu had already pounced on her and shoved her away with his shoulder. She was knocked to the ground and heard Song Shu seem to groan. She quickly rolled over and got up, but Song Shu had already been pierced through the chest by the crossbow bolt and was lying on the ground.

Blood trickled from beneath him, spreading slowly along the blue brick floor. A Shu had already tackled Liu Chengfeng to the ground. The last crossbow bolt pierced the window, embedding itself deeply into the blue brick floor, a full half-foot deep, shattering three connected bricks. The flying debris pierced A Ying's cheeks and arms, but she paid no heed, rushing forward to help Song Shu up.

One glance was enough; Song Shu's eyes were wide open in fury, already dead. Overwhelmed with grief, she could only choke out, "Uncle Song."

The crowd rushed forward, helping Liu Chengfeng to his feet. They then looked at Song Shu. Someone seemed to try to pull her away from Song Shu, but she clung desperately to Song Shu's hand, refusing to let go. Someone tried to pry her fingers open, causing her excruciating pain, though she didn't really feel it. She felt a heart-wrenching pain, far more intense than the pain in her fingers. Someone shouted to stop them; it was probably Liu Chengfeng. He tried to help her up himself, but she felt his hands were icy cold, and he had a strange aura about him—the aura of blood.

She gradually calmed down. There was still her father; he was still alive. All of this was clearly a meticulously planned trap. She had fallen into it. No, this charade wasn't for her; it was for the entire Dingsheng Army, for everyone to see.

She had to save her father; she couldn't die, nor could she act rashly. She was sure she could find a way. Unfortunately, she couldn't save Uncle Song. She was supported, half-carried, half-dragged away from Song Shu. His body heat seemed to still linger on her fingertips. Song Shu lay on the ground, blood still gushing from beneath him, his eyes wide open.

She remembered when she was little, this Uncle Song had followed her father, running until two horses died, finally returning to retake Yingzhou City. It was he who led his men, pulling her from the ditch where she was hiding. He found her. He jumped into the filthy ditch and pulled her from the stinking mud. He wiped the mud from her face with his rough fingers and called her by her childhood name, "A Ying, don't be afraid, don't be afraid. It's me, Uncle Song. It's me. I'll take you to see your father."

Uncle Song's wife was also a member of the women's army. He had a son and a daughter, one twelve years old and the other thirteen. That year, they fought to the death with a knife, and their heads were cut off and hung on the city wall of Yingzhou. From then on, Uncle Song regarded her as his own daughter. Besides her father, he was the person who loved her the most in the world.

Her heart ached as if pierced by a thousand arrows, but she couldn't cry. She desperately raised her head. The day she saw her mother's body, she had wept bitterly. At that time, her father had stroked her hair and said, "Cry, but from now on, don't cry anymore. We, the sons of the Cui family, shed blood, not tears. We will no longer use tears to mourn our loved ones; we will only use the blood of our enemies."

Yes, she was a daughter of the Cui family, and a son of the Cui family. Her father was right; she would not use tears to mourn her loved ones, but only the blood of her enemies.

She was sent back to her usual residence, and Taozi was also sent back. Li Yi must have escaped; without heavy crossbows, he couldn't have been stopped. She mentally went over the whole situation again. Taozi, though anxiously pacing, didn't dare disturb her, only sitting beside her, glancing at her worriedly from time to time.

She stretched out her hand, her fingers still bearing Song Shu's blood. She tried hard to recall her father's pulse; it was weak and strange, not like an illness. She had panicked at the time and should have immediately had Taozi check her father's pulse. Now, confined to this courtyard, Liu Chengfeng was surely trying to separate her from her father.

This scheme could only have been orchestrated by Liu Chengfeng; no one else had the ability. But why? She pondered deeply. Why would the young master do this? Was it just to kill Li Yi?

She thought about many things, for a very long time. The room gradually darkened, and twilight began to fall outside the window. There had once been an apricot tree outside, blooming brilliantly like a rosy cloud. As evening approached, a light rain began to fall, and the apricot petals gradually drifted to the ground amidst the sound of the rain.

Taozi carefully lit a lamp and placed it on the table beside her. She poured a cup of hot water and gently urged, "Commandant, have some water."

Actually, someone had brought food from outside, but Taozi didn't want her to eat it. Taozi had her own reasons. The young master had acted like a madman today, almost accidentally killing the commandant and causing the wrongful death of General Song. Heaven knows if there was anything suspicious about the food he sent. Fortunately, because Commandant He had been ill for a while, there was a stove and other things in the courtyard, and there was also a lot of food stored up. It was a pity that there was no well in the courtyard, but thankfully, there was still more than half a vat of water in the side room, enough for the two of them to drink for some time.

So Taozi boiled water on a small stove, intending to cook something, but A Ying neither ate nor drank, sitting there until now, finally shaking her head and saying, "I'm not hungry." After a pause, she added, "Taozi, there's something I can't understand."

Taozi said, "Commandant, you're so smart. Think about it a little longer, you'll definitely figure it out."

But she shook her head sadly, her voice filled with weariness and sorrow, murmuring softly, "Taozi, perhaps I've already figured it out. I just don't want to believe it."

Yes, all of this was Liu Chengfeng's scheme. As for why, perhaps it was simply for her, or perhaps he wanted to become the real Young Master Cui. Her father had raised him like his own son, but he wasn't. Yet he was her older brother, the brother she considered her sibling. How could he do this? How could he be so cruel?

The room was brightly lit. Cui Yi lay on his back on the bed, surrounded by generals from various units of the Dingsheng Army who had rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. Liu Chengfeng knelt before the bed, gently holding Cui Yi's hand, seemingly piously hoping he would wake up. Physicians from the army and doctors from Changzhou City were all summoned. After examining his pulse, no one could offer a definitive diagnosis. Some said it was acute heatstroke, others a stroke, still others a heart ailment, and still others poisoning. There was no cure; Cui Yi's breathing was clearly weakening.

Fear gripped everyone, and they increasingly believed that the escaped Li Yi was the true culprit in Cui Yi's condition. Especially after Song Shu was mistakenly killed by a crossbow bolt, Liu Chengfeng was heartbroken. He not only ordered a grand funeral for Song Shu and proper burial, but also sent people back to Yingzhou to find Song Shu's family and relatives, intending to care for them. Song Shu himself had long since lost his wife and was all alone in the Dingsheng Army. He had always been Cui Yi's confidant, following him in battle until now. He had always taken good care of the men in the Dingsheng Army, so everyone who thought of Song Shu's death couldn't help but shed tears. This also fueled their hatred for Li Yi; if it weren't for him, how could Song Shu have been shot by an arrow?

Everyone in the hall was convinced that it was because Li Yi tried to escape that Song Shu pursued him, only to be accidentally hit by a crossbow bolt. As for Commandant He, everyone knew she was the young master's most beloved attendant. She had suddenly attacked the young master with golden needles in the hall, and then lunged at the windowsill, clearly trying to help Li Yi escape. The young master was disappointed and disheartened, but he didn't punish her. He simply ordered her kept under close guard, confined to the courtyard. This was a private matter for the young master, involving women, so everyone naturally kept quiet.

Moreover, with Cui Yi unconscious and Cui Lin, his only son, having joined the military early on, he had naturally become the backbone of the Dingsheng Army, and everyone followed his lead.

Night had fallen, yet Liu Chengfeng still wished to remain and personally attend to the ailing governor. Cui Yi's most trusted generals discussed the matter and sent General Dou Xuan to persuade him, saying, "Young Master, the military governor is currently unable to govern. The safety of the entire army rests on your shoulders. The Zhenxi Army has already established a large camp, facing our army across the river, watching us like tigers. Now that the Prince of Qin has escaped, a great battle is inevitable tomorrow. Young Master, you should rest. We will take turns attending to the military governor here."

Liu Chengfeng initially refused, but Dou Xuan persuaded him repeatedly, citing Cui Yi's past teachings. Because Liu Chengfeng was frail, Cui Yi had always advised him to cherish his health, a fact known throughout the army. Liu Chengfeng reluctantly agreed, but still left A Shu behind so that if Cui Yi awoke or if his condition changed, he could be informed immediately.

He returned to his room and slept soundly and peacefully, without a single dream. When he awoke, A Shu had already returned. Liu Chengfeng was washing up with the help of his servants. Seeing A Shu return, he took the cloth, wiped his hands, and waved for everyone to leave.

After everyone had left the room, A Shu whispered, "Young master, please rest assured. Those generals have not suspected anything."

Liu Chengfeng was silent for a moment, then said, "Who else in the army knows A Ying's identity?"

A Shu said, "Shi Zhao died last year, and there's Cheng Nao, but he's far away in Yingzhou. The people I sent are probably close to succeeding."

Liu Chengfeng didn't speak again; he just looked at himself in the bronze mirror. His biological father, Liu An, was originally a well-known wealthy merchant in the border region. His biological mother was the daughter of a stable boy, not Liu An's legally wedded wife, not even a concubine. Later, she was sold by Liu An to a barbarian and disappeared without a trace. Because he was intelligent and quick-witted from a young age, Liu An named him Liu Chengfeng according to the family's generational naming system. However, in the Liu family, the mistress of the house constantly beat and scolded him, wishing she could expel him from the house.

Later, when Jie Shuo attacked, the entire Liu family was killed. Only he, being young, escaped. By a twist of fate, he was rescued by A Ying. The two children, about the same age, hid in the wilderness for three days and three nights. He was injured and had a high fever, but A Ying was very attentive, finding him food and caring for him. When the enemy attacked, she dragged him into a ditch, allowing him to survive.

At that time, he thought that although she was as filthy as he was, her eyes were so bright, like an elf—no, like a fairy from heaven. He had been saved by her, and he wanted to repay her with his life.

So when Cui Yi later asked him if he would be willing to take her place and be his son, he agreed without hesitation. Even after he was poisoned by Jie Shuo and could no longer practice martial arts, often confined to his bed, he was still happy. After all, Jie Shuo had originally targeted her. If it hadn't been him who was poisoned, it would have been her. The poisoning felt like being bitten by a thousand ants, causing him excruciating pain, especially in autumn and winter when he suffered terribly from coughing and wheezing. But he endured it willingly. If he were the one suffering, he would gladly accept it. He couldn't bear the thought of her being poisoned and enduring it all; he would probably suffer a thousand times more.

He had also secretly fantasized about the day she married him. That would surely be the happiest day in the world, and even if it was just for one day, he would feel he could die without regrets.

He smiled self-deprecatingly, thinking that at this moment, A Ying probably hated him to the bone. After all, she was so clever; she could probably guess many things just by thinking about them.

But it didn't matter anymore. He felt more relaxed and more satisfied than ever before. He was going to marry her now, anyway. Even if she was angry with him, he would treat her well after the wedding. After all, he was the one who loved her most in the world, and only he could make her happy.

Liu Chengfeng straightened his clothes and went to see Cui Yi first. He was still unconscious. This poison was extremely potent, and Cui Yi couldn't die yet. He hadn't even witnessed his wedding ceremony with A Ying. Besides, if he died now, he would have to observe three years of mourning, meaning he couldn't marry A Ying for three years. Three years was far too long; he couldn't wait.

Liu Chengfeng knelt before Cui Yi's bedside, personally wiping Cui Yi's face with a soft cloth. He then took the medicine and slowly fed it to Cui Yi spoonful by spoonful. Cui Yi couldn't swallow anymore, so he had to use chopsticks to pry open his teeth before slowly feeding him. However, Liu Chengfeng was extremely pleased and delighted as he did these things, and everything proceeded step by step according to his plan. It was just a pity that he couldn't kill Li Yi, but it didn't matter. Now, the entire Dingsheng Army believed that Li Yi had poisoned Cui Yi, causing his current state. If Li Yi dared to attack the city, the entire army would definitely fight him to the death.

After feeding Cui Yi his medicine and discussing some military matters with the generals, he finally left Cui Yi's courtyard. He had only walked a few feet when he saw A Shu approaching him from afar, whispering, "Young Master, Cui Li knows that the military governor is ill, and he has led his troops straight to Changzhou, saying that he wants to visit him."

He couldn't help but sneer. Cui Li? This cousin of his was always restless. He wondered if he had heard any rumors about his own background. Now that he knew Cui Yi was ill, he was probably just pretending to visit him, trying to win people over, or even taking advantage of the chaos to take his place.

He straightened his sleeves, which still smelled strongly of medicine. He had accidentally spilled it while feeding Cui Yi. He was by nature fastidious, and he would take off and wash many of his clothes if they had even the slightest stain, or even throw them away. Cui Yi had always doted on him, and besides, military governors were high-ranking officials who held power over their respective regions. In reality, they were regional lords, and if they didn't display various extravagant lifestyles, the court would be even more wary of them. Therefore, his demeanor was always extravagantly wealthy.

But today, he found the smell of medicine on his sleeves pleasing. He casually said to A Shu, "That fool—since he wants to come, let him come."

A Shu responded softly, "Yes."

Liu Chengfeng looked up. The magnolias had already faded, their purplish-red petals, weathered by wind and rain, resembled broken little lanterns. The apricot blossoms were in full bloom, like clouds and rosy hues. He remembered that in A Ying's courtyard, there was an apricot tree in full bloom. Amidst the sparse shadows of the apricot blossoms, she would play the flute until dawn—what a beautiful spring!

He had a jade flute, originally brought from Yingzhou, but he didn't know where it had ended up. In the past, Chen Xing had managed these small matters. Thinking of Chen Xing, his mood darkened. At Blackwater Beach, he had truly believed he was dead, already in the underworld, but he hadn't. Thousands upon thousands had died in the Battle of Blackwater Beach, including Chen Xing, who was loyal to him, but he had survived.

He thought with great regret that Cui Yi was ill and he hadn't yet married A Ying. But it didn't matter; he could order someone to find the jade flute first, and after some time, he would play it for A Ying under the apricot tree. She was exceptionally skilled at playing the zither. In fact, she had studied music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, and mastered them all exceptionally well. If he played the flute while A Ying played the zither, their harmonious performances, a perfect couple, would be nothing short of beautiful, warm, and fulfilling.

It was just a pity that they would have to wait a while longer, fearing that the apricot blossoms would have already faded by then. However, even after the apricot blossoms faded, there were still peach blossoms. Playing the zither and flute under the peach trees would also be incredibly beautiful.

He thought happily.

Commandant He had been suffering terribly these past few days. After much deliberation, although she had pieced together most of the story, she felt extremely distressed. Furthermore, for some unknown reason, her cough had gradually returned, eventually escalating to the point of coughing up blood. Taozi was extremely worried but helpless. Physician Fan, who had been living in the Protectorate's residence, took A Ying's pulse daily and meticulously cared for her. Her illness had almost completely subsided, but then a sudden change occurred. It was unclear whether Liu Chengfeng had killed Physician Fan or driven him away. Taozi felt that the young master seemed possessed, transformed into a different person. She dared not tell him that Physician Fan had come to examine the commandant, fearing he might use this to coerce him.

Although A Ying was ill, she tried her best to eat as much as possible, knowing she couldn't afford to fall ill again. Taozi was both distressed and anxious, but helpless, and angrily cursed, "That Qin King! He brought a thousand troops—why isn't he attacking the city? Even a battle would be exhilarating!"

A Ying replied, "He can't attack the city now. If he does, and the young master drags me to the city wall with a knife to my neck, will he attack or retreat? Wouldn't that be exactly what the young master wants?"

Taozi thought about it and agreed. Yes, she cursed Liu Chengfeng hundreds of times, then said, "Commandant, you still call him 'Young Master'? With how he treats you, he's no longer a Young Master. He must be possessed—no, possessed by a ghost. Anyway, he's not the Young Master I've known since childhood. He's not."

A Ying, however, remained calm, saying, "The Military Governor is currently unconscious. Everyone in the Dingsheng Army knows he's Father's only son. Everyone knows he's a Young Master. Whether I call him 'Young Master' or not, he is the rightful Young Master Cui."

"That's what's so infuriating!" Taozi kicked the air angrily, gritting her teeth. "He's doing this, and we can't go out and tell everyone he's not a Young Master, that you're the Military Governor's only daughter. Even if we did, no one would believe us."

A Ying frowned slightly. "I'm a little worried..."

Taozi blurted out, "Worried about what?"

"I'm worried about General Cheng's safety." Taozi paused, then realized she was referring to Cheng Nao. Cheng Nao was Cui Yi's most trusted general. Although he started as Cui Yi's personal guard, he had now risen to the rank of General Huaihua, a third-rank official. Cui Yi had ordered Cheng Nao to return to Yingzhou to defend the city after the campaign from Luoyang. Taozi wondered why she suddenly thought of Cheng Nao.

"Why are you worried about General Cheng?"

"Of my father's former subordinates, only three knew our true identities. One was Uncle Song..." Mentioning Song Shu, A Ying's face showed sadness. "The other two were General Shi Zhao and General Cheng Nao. General Shi Zhao passed away last year, and now Uncle Song is dead, leaving only General Cheng. I'm afraid Liu Chengfeng will kill him to silence him."

Taozi murmured, "Will he really do that?"

"Thinking about it now, General Shi's death is also suspicious." A Ying's voice gradually turned cold. "General Shi was always very healthy. He could wield a stone lock weighing over a hundred pounds, and he could usually eat two pork knuckles. How could he suddenly fall ill and not get better, and pass away after only a few days? Father was very sad at the time, thinking that General Shi had many old wounds from following him in battle for many years, which was why he died so suddenly. But... Taozi, now that I think about it, wasn't it shortly after Young Master returned last year that General Shi suddenly fell ill?"

Taozi couldn't help but shudder at the speculation in her words, and the possible truth behind it. The truth was too horrifying. Just thinking about it made the hairs on Taozi's back stand on end.

"If... if General Shi's death really is related to Young Master..." She stammered, unable to say the words because of fear and the mixed feelings in her heart.

Commandant He, however, was much calmer and more direct than her. She continued Taozi's words, "If General Shi's death is truly related to the young master, then Liu Chengfeng has been plotting this since last year. Since he killed General Shi to silence him, now that he's harmed Father, he might also kill Cheng Nao, who's far away in Yingzhou."

She paused, leaving one more sentence unsaid: she herself was also suffering from a strange illness, and it was hard to say whether she had been poisoned.

Despite it being a bright and sunny day, Taozi felt a chill run down her spine.

Commandant He said, "We must think of a way to warn General Cheng, hoping it won't be too late."

After several days of rain, the sun finally came out. Spring had arrived in Changzhou, and the sunshine made it especially warm. At midday, even a light jacket was no longer needed. In the bright spring sunshine, birds chirped and fluttered about on the branches, causing petals to fall continuously from the blossoms.

[The scene continues with Cui Li's arrival, his conversation with Liu Chengfeng, the military strategy discussions, and the planning of the night raid on Liaohuo Slope. The night battle unfolds as Liu Chengfeng leads the heavy cavalry into Li Yi's trap.]

The heavy cavalry moved slowly in the darkness, but nothing could stop them: military formations, tents, light cavalry, crossbows—none could withstand them. The Dingsheng Army's heavy cavalry was like a black tide, slowly advancing and engulfing everything in its path. As the flames of Liaohuo Slope drew ever closer, the Zhenxi Army's formation crumbled.

Liu Chengfeng knew victory was assured. Once they crossed this final stretch and joined forces with Cui Li at Liaohuo Slope, the Zhenxi Army would be utterly doomed. But soon, he sensed something amiss. Although the Zhenxi Army's formation was scattered and they seemed to be fleeing, the heavy cavalry was advancing far too fast and too easily. Moreover, Li Yi hadn't shown himself yet; he shouldn't be limited to this level of skill.

Liu Chengfeng keenly sensed something amiss, but it was too late. A massive earthquake shook the ground, and the heavy cavalry, like a silent tide crashing against a wall, were scattered, splashed, and forced to a halt.

Pei Yuan and Li Yi's banners appeared simultaneously, and the Zhenxi Army seemed to emerge from underground, dividing and encircling the heavy cavalry. Under these circumstances, the heavy cavalry was completely unable to charge, losing all their advantages. Liaohuo Slope, though close at hand, became unattainable.

After fighting for a while longer, Liu Chengfeng realized he had fallen into a trap. Li Yi was a step ahead, misleading him. Li Yi had deliberately chosen this location as his camp because Liaohuo Slope was too conspicuous, and thus used it as bait.

The battle cries grew closer, the Dingsheng Army was decimated, and then the Zhenxi Army slaughtered them one by one. Liu Chengfeng abandoned Cui Li and Liaohuo Slope without hesitation, turning east to break through the encirclement.

[The battle continues with Zhang Yi's arrival and the appearance of the mysterious archers who help Liu Chengfeng escape—later revealed to be Jie Shuo people.]

[Cui Li returns with Kou Zhu, and they discover the Jie Shuo arrowhead on the battlefield. The revelation of Liu Chengfeng's connection to the Jie Shuo people begins to unfold.]

That evening, Cui Li secretly hosted a banquet, inviting several generals with whom he had a good relationship. Because it was a private gathering, everyone spoke freely. When the topic of Cui Yi's poisoning came up, everyone sighed with regret. Mentioning the Prince of Qin across the river, everyone gritted their teeth in anger.

Seeing this, Cui Li casually asked, "Today I went to the Protectorate to visit my uncle, but I saw many wedding decorations. Why is that? Is it to ward off bad luck?"

A general named Zhang slapped his thigh. "It's a wedding! Young Master, you've handled this matter rather carelessly."

[The discussion continues about Liu Chengfeng's hasty wedding plans to Commandant He, and the suspicious circumstances.]

Later that night, after the second watch, the generals gathered and, according to the plan, quietly left the city. Cui Li led several thousand men to launch a night raid on Liaohuo Slope, while Liu Chengfeng personally led a cavalry unit.

[The battle unfolds, and Cui Li is eventually summoned by Liu Chengfeng after the night's events.]

When Cui Li entered Liu Chengfeng's private chambers, the conversation turned deadly. Liu Chengfeng revealed his knowledge of Cui Li's attempted betrayal, showing him a Jie Shuo arrowhead.

Cui Li opened his mouth, about to speak, when he suddenly felt a chill on his back. He instinctively looked down and saw a sharp longsword protruding two inches from his chest. He stared in disbelief at the blade, blood slowly seeping out along it.

A Shu had appeared behind him at some point, gripping the hilt of the sword tightly.

Liu Chengfeng smiled slightly, stood up, and walked to Cui Li. "Brother, please do me one last favor. Tonight, in the chaos of battle, at the critical moment, to save my life, those Jie Shuo people accidentally left arrowheads on the battlefield. Our Dingsheng Army has been fighting against Jie Shuo for many years; perhaps someone will recognize these arrowheads."

Cui Li gasped for breath, feeling dizzy, each breath excruciatingly painful.

"I've thought about it, and it can only be that you, brother, seeing my father poisoned, wanted to seize military power and therefore colluded with Jie Shuo to murder me. That makes perfect sense, doesn't it?"

Cui Li's ears were ringing. He mustered all his strength and shouted, "I wouldn't collude with Jie Shuo! None of the Cui family would! You... you're not Cui Lin... you're not surnamed Cui..."

Liu Chengfeng smiled indifferently. "Yes, I'm not Cui Lin, I'm not surnamed Cui."

Cui Li had only been shouting in his death throes, but he hadn't expected him to say such a thing. He stared wide-eyed at Liu Chengfeng.

Liu Chengfeng laughed loudly, tears streaming down his face. "I am Liu Chengfeng, not Cui Lin, and certainly not Cui Yi's son. Cui Yi only has one daughter named Cui Lin. For the past ten years or so, everyone has treated me as Cui Lin. Everyone thought I was Cui Yi's only son, the future commander of the Cui family army. I almost believed I was Cui Lin myself. But then suddenly Cui Yi told me, 'I am not Cui Lin, I am Liu Chengfeng...' I am not Cui Lin, I am just a pitiful shadow. I've forgotten my real name, Liu Chengfeng, for so long. I almost forgot who I really am! Isn't that ridiculous? Isn't that absurd?"

[Liu Chengfeng's monologue continues, revealing his deep resentment and twisted reasoning.]

With all his might, Cui Li struggled forward, managing to break free from the blade of the longsword. He lunged at Liu Chengfeng, throwing the short knife hidden in his sleeve with his last ounce of strength. Unfortunately, it only flew a foot before being slashed down by A Shu's sword. A Shu wanted to finish Cui Li off, but Liu Chengfeng stopped him with a raised hand.

Cui Li collapsed to the ground, his face ashen with death. His fingers gripped the brick seams tightly, blood seeping from beneath him. With his last breath, he uttered a hoarse, indistinct roar: "I, a member of the Cui family, will never..."

He finished the word "never," his head lolled to the side, and he died.

Liu Chengfeng gazed at him, letting out a long, melancholy sigh. Every member of the Cui family, upon joining the army at the age of nine, firmly remembered the first phrase: "We, the sons of the Cui family, will never surrender to the Jie Shuo."

[Liu Chengfeng reflects on the Cui family's honor and his own permanent exclusion from it.]

A pale light gradually appeared outside the window; dawn was approaching. But Liu Chengfeng knew perfectly well that he would be forever trapped in an endless night.

He remained expressionless. Although Cui Li was already dead, the blood beneath him continued to flow slowly, gradually seeping into the ground. A Shu said, "Young Master, would you like to rest in another room? I'll call someone in to tidy up this place."

Liu Chengfeng shook his head. "Just let them come in and tidy up. I don't think it's dirty."

How could it be dirty? Blood is the warmest thing in the world. He thought happily that this matter had been resolved satisfactorily. Tomorrow, tomorrow he could marry A Ying.

The Protectorate was brightly decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, creating a festive atmosphere. Even the apricot tree in the courtyard, which had withered and fallen, was adorned with countless pink silk flowers. Reflected in the sunlight, they shone brightly, as if the fallen flowers, which had been crushed into dust, had returned to the branches and bloomed again.

The matchmaker had come in three times, each time bringing poems written by Liu Chengfeng to urge the bride to get married. He was known for his literary talent, and his poems were quite good, especially these few, which were full of affection and tenderness. But each time the matchmaker brought them in, Taozi wouldn't even look at them, tearing them to shreds.

The servants, with respectful expressions, carried the bridal box, rouge and powder, various pearls and gemstones, a dazzling array of gold and jade, and a gilded and intricately carved fan. In the end, Liu Chengfeng personally selected a wedding outfit and had it delivered to A Ying.

As usual, Taozi was about to throw everything out, but then the matchmaker brought in something else on a tray. Before Taozi could react, A Ying couldn't help but stand up. It turned out that what was brought wasn't a poem urging the bride to get ready, but a lock of hair. The hair was half white, each strand stiff, tied with a thin string. A Ying recognized it at a glance—it was Cui Yi's hair.

The matchmaker bowed, still speaking with the utmost respect, saying the exact same words as before: "The groom says that the bride should get ready as soon as possible, lest she miss the auspicious time."

A Ying pursed her lips, remaining silent. Taozi stared wide-eyed at the lock of hair, then at A Ying, wanting to say something, but feeling it was futile. The matchmaker, emboldened, took the dowry from the servant and said with a smile, "The bride is so beautiful that she doesn't need any makeup, but on such an auspicious day, let's apply a little to add to the festive atmosphere."

Melodious string and wind instruments played, and the courtyard, inside and out, was newly decorated.

[The wedding preparations continue. Liu Chengfeng oversees everything with satisfaction. The generals arrive for the celebration. Evening falls, and the ceremony is about to begin.]

As dusk fell, a breeze arose, causing the brocade curtains in the courtyard to sway. According to the old customs of Yingzhou, a green pavilion had been erected in the courtyard with blue cloth for the newlyweds' prayers. To weigh down the corners of the curtains, some golden bells were hung. When the wind blew, the bells jingled, creating a clear and pleasant sound.

All the generals of the Dingsheng Army in Changzhou had arrived, except for Zhang Yi. During the retreat the previous night, a knee injury hampered his movement, causing him to fall from his horse and disappear in the chaos.

[Liu Chengfeng has Cui Yi brought out on a soft couch to witness the wedding. He is about to perform the ceremonial wine offering when Zhang Yi suddenly returns.]

Zhang Yi didn't step forward but instead took a half step back. He then took something out of his pocket and held it high above his head. Although it was already dark, the courtyard was filled with lanterns, making it as bright as day. Therefore, although the object in his hand was not large, it was clearly visible to everyone—a Jie Shuo arrowhead.

Almost everyone stood up abruptly, and someone blurted out, "Zhang Wu, what do you mean by this?"

All the generals present were from the Dingsheng Army and had fought against Jie Shuo for many years, so they recognized it at a glance.

Zhang shouted, "The night before last, our Dingsheng Army almost suffered a great loss on the battlefield. I happened to rush to the young master's side, but I couldn't help him escape. I just hate that Pei Yuan is so annoying. Fortunately, the young master managed to escape in the end, but these arrows..." He stared intently at Liu Chengfeng. "Young Master, when our Dingsheng Army was fighting the Zhenxi Army, why were there Jie Shuo people shooting arrows from the shadows on the battlefield?"

[The generals begin to question. Liu Chengfeng tries to deflect by blaming Cui Li, showing them Cui Li's short sword as evidence. But then the situation takes a dramatic turn.]

Just then, Li Yi suddenly appeared from the roof, swooping down to protect Cui Yi from drinking the poisoned wine Liu Chengfeng was about to force upon him.

The crowd in the courtyard gasped in surprise. Generals rushed to grab their weapons.

Just then, someone shouted "Stop!" and strode in. It was Cheng Nao, Cui Yi's trusted general who was supposed to be in Yingzhou. He was highly respected in the Dingsheng Army. Everyone was surprised at his unexpected appearance.

Liu Chengfeng's heart sank upon seeing Cheng Nao. Several days ago, he had received a secret report that Cheng Nao had been poisoned and died; he hadn't expected him to survive and even suddenly arrive in Changzhou.

Cheng Nao strode up to him and loudly questioned, "Liu Chengfeng, for so many years, the military governor has treated you like his own son. How dare you poison him?"

This caused an uproar. Everyone was shocked and confused, wondering why Cheng Nao had suddenly spoken like this. Liu Chengfeng continued to sneer, saying, "General Cheng is senile. Quickly, someone take General Cheng away and let him rest."

The people in the courtyard hesitated. Cheng Nao stepped forward, pointed at Liu Chengfeng, and shouted, "You sent men to Yingzhou to kill me, and luckily I escaped death!"

It turned out that Liu Chengfeng had secretly sent men to poison Cheng Nao. Upon hearing of Cui Yi's misfortune, Cheng Nao immediately set off south, catching the poisoner off guard. Just then, the message sent by A Ying and Taozi arrived, saving Cheng Nao from certain death. However, knowing someone was plotting against him, Cheng Nao decided to play along. He feigned death by poisoning, ordering his men to hold a grand funeral and dispatching messengers to various cities. In reality, Cheng Nao disguised himself and traveled day and night, sailing south from Binshui, covering a thousand miles a day by boat. He arrived in Changzhou before the messengers.

Before everyone, Cheng Nao revealed the truth. He clearly stated that Liu Chengfeng was not Cui Yi's son, Cui Lin, but rather the real Cui Lin was actually Commandant He.

A Ying had already changed her clothes. Instead of her wedding attire, she was dressed in military uniform. Holding a sword, she slowly walked into the courtyard, her eyes cold and sharp as blades, staring directly at Liu Chengfeng.

Despite the situation, Liu Chengfeng showed no panic. He even smiled, pointed at Li Yi, then at Cheng Nao, and laughed, "A Ying, so you protected Li Yi, ignoring the fact that he harmed the military governor, twisting the truth, bribing Cheng Nao, and fabricating such a colossal lie?"

A Ying remained unmoved, her eyes clear as crystal, staring intently at him. "Liu Chengfeng, if you hand over the antidote that can save my father today, I will spare your life."

Liu Chengfeng laughed loudly, pointing at Li Yi and Cheng Nao. He raised his voice, filled with chilling hatred: "I am my father's son! I am Cui Lin! My father was murdered by the Prince of Qin! By him, by Li Yi!"

He stared directly at Cheng Nao. "You've been bribed by Li Yi. What did the Prince of Qin promise you? To make you spout nonsense here, even wanting to kill me? Do you think our comrades in the Dingsheng Army will believe your lies?"

The people in the courtyard hesitated. After all, this young master Cui had indeed been raised by Cui Yi himself, and the father and son had always been close.

While everyone was still in shock and doubt, Taozi had already entered with her men. She picked up the spilled wine cup from the ground, tested it with a silver needle, and the needle tip instantly turned black. She held the silver needle high. "He wanted to poison the wine he was about to give the governor!"

A commotion erupted like a pot boiling over. Zhang suddenly stepped forward. "Young Master, I just asked you about the Jie Shuo arrowheads. You said Cui Li colluded with the Jie Shuo people and ultimately committed suicide out of shame."

His dark face was somber. But suddenly, he clapped his hands together, and several soldiers carried in Cui Li's body, placing it in the center of the courtyard. Liu Chengfeng's heart sank.

Zhang stepped forward, unbuttoned Cui Li's clothes, pointed to the wound, and said, "Young Master, you say Cui Li committed suicide out of shame, but we are all soldiers. This wound was clearly pierced from behind..." His eyes were fixed on Liu Chengfeng. "Young Master, our Dingsheng Army has a blood feud with Jie Shuo. Why were Jie Shuo's spies able to infiltrate... Why, in the battle the night before last, were it Jie Shuo's archers who protected you as you retreated..."

With each "why," he took a step forward until he stood before Liu Chengfeng, trembling all over, as if roaring with all his might: "Fight for our country, fight for our blood relatives, fight for our comrades! How much blood have we, the Dingsheng Army, shed to stop the Jie Shuo people in the north? How many brothers have died? Why did you collude with Jie Shuo! Why? You are not the son of the military governor! You are not Cui Lin!"

The courtyard was silent for a moment, but after a while, someone shouted: "If you collude with Jie Shuo, then you are not the son of the military governor, you are not Cui Lin!"

More people shouted: "If you collude with Jie Shuo, then you are not the son of the military governor, you are not Cui Lin!"

Everyone roared, and some clenched their fists, ready to rush forward. A Shu stepped forward and whistled softly. After this strange whistle, many figures suddenly appeared in the courtyard, covered with blue cloth, holding bows and arrows, aiming at the people.

"They're Jie Shuo people!" someone shouted.

The people in the courtyard were caught off guard. But even unarmed, they glared angrily, ready to fight these Jie Shuo people to the death.

"One wrong move and the whole game is lost," Liu Chengfeng thought indifferently. He glanced at A Ying and said, "A Ying, I'm willing to lose to you." He turned to Li Yi. "A Ying said she'd let me go if I handed over the antidote to the military governor. What do you say?"

Li Yi replied, "What she says is what I say."

Liu Chengfeng chuckled and sat down on Cui Yi's soft couch. He looked at Cui Yi. "Father, I didn't expect you to leave me a way out in the end."

"Don't call him father," A Ying said coldly. "You don't deserve it."

At that moment, A Shu stepped forward and demanded horses, that neither the Dingsheng Army inside the city nor the Zhenxi Army outside could obstruct him, and other conditions, as well as details about how to hand over the antidote.

A Ying asked, "How do I know that if I really let you go in the end, the antidote you give me will be real?"

Liu Chengfeng chuckled. "A Ying, come with me. You've also been poisoned, and the remaining poison hasn't dissipated. If it's not completely cured, it might harm your health. Come with me, and I'll detoxify you and send someone to return the antidote to Father. If the antidote is real, you'll let me go; if it's fake, you can just kill me with your sword."

A Ying hadn't expected that she was indeed poisoned. Slightly taken aback, Li Yi said, "Give her the antidote, and I'll go with you."

Liu Chengfeng laughed. "That's a waste of time. Giving A Ying the antidote is fine, but I'll definitely give the military governor a fake one, and then kill you. Killing a military governor and then taking down a Prince of Qin—that's a huge bargain for me."

A Ying thought for a moment. "I won't go with you. Once you're on the ship, throw the antidote overboard. I guarantee that the Dingsheng Army and the Zhenxi Army will not track you down or stop you. But after twelve hours, you're on your own."

He stared at her blankly for a moment before saying, "A Ying, you still believe in me."

She ignored him, only staring intently at him with her dark eyes. "How?"

He stood up casually. "Since you believe in me so much, of course I have to say it. No matter what you say, I'm willing to listen to you." He smiled and looked at her. "Once I board the ship, I'll throw down the antidote for the governor, but for now, you must take the antidote first."

She nodded, and A Shu stepped forward and handed her a bottle of powder. A Ying took it without hesitation, no longer speaking to him, but instructing Taozi to immediately prepare ships, horses, and provisions for them.

With everything prepared, Li Yi, along with A Ying, led men to escort Liu Chengfeng, A Shu, and the others to the dock. A Shu and his men inspected the boats before untying the mooring lines and slowly leaving the dock.

Liu Chengfeng stood at the bow of the boat, watching Li Yi and A Ying stand side by side on the dock. Li Yi held A Ying's hand tightly, his other hand still gripping his sword, as if afraid he might suddenly pounce.

The boat slowly left the dock, and A Ying's figure gradually moved away. He felt a pang of sorrow, knowing the future held many challenges. A Ying stared intently at him until the boat was getting further and further away, almost three zhang before she finally called out, "Liu Chengfeng! The antidote!"

She had never called him by his name like that before. He thought with endless melancholy, and finally, he slightly raised his hand. A Shu understood and threw a small porcelain bottle towards the dock. Li Yi, who had been watching closely, leaped up as soon as the bottle was thrown, catching it on the blade of his longsword.

A Ying said nothing more, and Li Yi did the same. The two turned their horses around and rode away, seemingly indifferent, completely ignoring the boats that were gradually disappearing into the middle of the river.

Liu Chengfeng watched the two figures disappear into the distance with endless melancholy. A Ying still believed in him; he pondered this in his heart, unable to say whether it was bitter or sweet. Actually, she didn't truly believe him; she was just taking a gamble. She bet that he didn't want to be her father's killer, and she bet that he still hoped to see her again someday.

And she was right after all; that's how certain she was. He felt an immense pang of sorrow. His entire life had been a mistake, a complete loss, because he truly didn't want to be her father's killer, and he truly still hoped to see her again someday.

The river wind howled, and a moment later it began to rain, enveloping everything on both banks in the gentle spring rain. He dazedly raised his hand, only then realizing he was still wearing his red wedding robes.

The apricot blossoms had all fallen; even if he had people make flowers out of silk and glue them on, creating a whole flowering tree, it would be nothing but self-deception.

A Ying and Li Yi rode swiftly back to the mansion. Taozi and Physician Fan were already there, carefully examining Cui Yi's pulse. However, the poison was extremely strange, and after discussing it for a long time, they dared not say they were confident in finding a cure. When A Ying returned with the antidote given by Liu Chengfeng, Taozi and Physician Fan wanted to test it, but with only one pill, they didn't know where to begin.

Finally, A Ying made the decision. "Give it to Father."

Taozi gritted her teeth and pried open Cui Yi's jaw, took a cup of water, and forced the pill down his throat.

Everyone stood anxiously by the bedside. After more than half an hour, Cui Yi slowly awoke. He opened his eyes and saw everyone gathered around him, especially A Ying, whose eyes were full of eager anticipation. He reached out his hand with difficulty, and A Ying quickly grasped it, pressing it against her face and softly calling, "Father..."

He turned his eyes and saw Li Yi, mumbling something. A Ying quickly pressed her ear to him, and heard him say, "Prince Qin...did he...bully you?"

A Ying hurriedly said, "No, he didn't!"

Cui Yi closed his eyes, his strength seemed to have increased, and his voice gradually regained its strength. "Then why do you look like you're about to cry?"

A Ying wanted to laugh, but her heart ached. She held Cui Yi's hand. "He wouldn't dare to bully me. If he dared, Father, I'll take the whip and give him a good beating!"

---

Under the careful care of Taozi and Physician Fan, Cui Yi got better day by day. After several more days, Cui Yi finally recovered and held a grand banquet for his comrades at the Protectorate. When all the generals arrived, Cui Yi, looking radiant, took A Ying's hand and stood before everyone.

Cui Yi said, "In the past, the court insisted on bestowing another wife upon me because I had no son. My wife and I were deeply in love, so after this daughter was born, I did not want the court to bestow another marriage upon us. Therefore, I submitted a memorial saying that I had given birth to a son and named her Cui Lin. Later, the political situation in the court changed, so I never told my comrades the truth. Cui Lin is actually my only daughter."

Cheng Nao had actually said these words before, but when Cui Yi said them to everyone, they carried a different weight. Everyone exchanged glances and understood why Cui Yi had brought his daughter to the banquet today.

Cheng Nao stepped forward, clasped his hands in a military salute to A Ying. "Miss, using the pseudonym Commandant He, has served in the army. We all know and have witnessed her meritorious service. From now on, Miss is my young master, and I will treat her no differently than the military governor!"

The generals roared in agreement, all stepping forward to salute. They already knew Commandant He was resourceful and wise, and that many of their young master's strategies were assisted by her; they truly admired her. Although the military governor had no son, having such a daughter made him no different from a son.

The group then drank heartily.

Halfway through the meal, A Ying suddenly realized someone was missing. She left her seat, looked around, and climbed onto the roof from the eaves. Sure enough, Li Yi was sitting on the roof drinking.

She smiled and asked, "Why are you here?"

He replied, "It's high up here; I can see and hear clearly."

She was startled. From the open hall, she could clearly hear the laughter and conversation of the guests. A loud, boastful voice, seemingly belonging to Zhang, rang out: "I never imagined that the young master wasn't the military governor's son, and the commandant was his daughter! This is truly... more interesting than a storybook!"

[Zhang's story continues about how he was captured by the Zhenxi Army, shown the Jie Shuo arrowheads, and sent back to question Liu Chengfeng. The generals discuss their admiration for A Ying and debate who could possibly be worthy of her.]

Zhang suddenly said, "I think the King of Qin is quite good! Think about it—since raising an army to defend the king, the King of Qin has led the Zhenxi Army, invincible!"

Someone else said, "Although the Prince of Qin is exceptionally talented, it's a pity he's the Emperor's son. Our young lady should just sit in the hall and find a husband!"

Everyone immediately clapped and agreed. "Yes! Yes! Sitting in the hall and finding a husband is the best!"

The two people on the rooftop exchanged a smile upon hearing this. Li Yi, not without pride, said, "Did you hear that? They all think only I am worthy of you."

A Ying glanced at him sideways. "I only heard them say they hope I sit in the hall and find a husband. Your Highness, as a prince, would you be willing to marry into our Cui family?"

Li Yi sat up abruptly and said to her, "What prince or Prince of Qin? I don't want to be one, and I don't care about any of that. How about we go back to Laolan Pass, get married there, and have seven or eight children, half of them taking your surname and half mine. No marriage, no taking a husband, no marrying into the family—how about that?"

She couldn't help but poke his forehead with her slender finger, scolding, "You wish! Who wants to have seven or eight kids with you!"

He held up four fingers. "Four, at least four, two surnamed Cui, two surnamed Li—that should be enough, no less!"

She spat, "Pah! If you keep talking nonsense, I'll tear your mouth apart!"

Saying this, she bent down as if to release a crossbow from her sleeve. Li Yi raised his hand and grabbed her wrist. She tried to pull her hand away, but he didn't actually use any force. Instead, he embraced her. Their eyes met, and he couldn't help but lower his head and kiss her lips.

The moon gradually sank in the west, the night breeze was gentle, and the fragrance of flowers wafted from somewhere, intoxicating. It was the Flower Festival, and all the flowers were in full bloom. The moon was big and round, making the shadows of the flowers even more striking.

The moonlight shone on the two people nestled together on the roof tiles. It was the most beautiful night of spring, a perfect time and place, unparalleled in the world.

---

Thoughts:

"Flower Festival" from Leyouyuan is an epic chapter that serves as the climax of this arc, revealing the central deception that has driven the plot: Liu Chengfeng is not Cui Yi's son, but rather an imposter, while Commandant He (A Ying) is actually Cui Lin, Cui Yi's only daughter.