Lao Tzu is Ji Gong

Jiang Ziya looked at the fish, smiled knowingly, and said, "It seems the time has come. What was bound to happen has finally happened." So he packed up and hurried home.

Back home, just as he put down his fishing rod, he heard a knock at the door. Li Xiuyuan and Ji Chang entered.

As soon as Li Xiuyuan entered, he introduced, "This is the person I want to recommend to you—Jiang Ziya. He is knowledgeable in astronomy, geography, and military strategy, and studies the way to govern the country and bring peace to the nation. He hopes that one day he can use his talents to serve the country."

Before Ji Chang could be introduced, Jiang Ziya stepped forward and asked, "Is this the Marquis of Xibo, Ji Chang, who is known for his respect for the virtuous and his ability to recruit talented individuals?"

The three exchanged a smile, then heard the fish Jiang Ziya had just caught thrash about in the water, splashing everywhere. Li Xiuyuan looked at it and said, "Jiang Taigong fishes, and those who are willing will take the bait."

Ji Chang nodded with a smile, exclaiming, "Those who are willing will take the bait, indeed!" At that moment, Ji Chang decided to invite Jiang Ziya to the Marquis of Xibo's residence to assist him and become his strategist.

Upon arriving at the Marquis of Xibo's residence, Jiang Ziya began to demonstrate his abilities. In the early stages, he assessed the individual capabilities and character of Ji Chang's generals, devising different combat missions and proposing various appointments. During discussions with Ji Chang, Ji Chang was very satisfied.

Seeing that the preliminary preparations were basically completed, Ji Chang asked Jiang Ziya, "Do you think now is the right time to attack Chaoge? The city has lost one-third of its fortune due to the Bi Gan incident, while our army's morale is currently high."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Ziya immediately retorted: "Does Your Excellency know that although the Shang Dynasty is gradually declining now, it was once incredibly powerful. Even though Bigan is gone, does Your Excellency know the strength of Wen Zhong? He was the pillar of the Shang Dynasty. Therefore, the time is not yet ripe."

After this discussion, Ji Chang abandoned his doubts about attacking Chaoge.

Chapter 1123 Wen Zhong Suppresses the Rebellion

After careful consideration, Jiang Ziya said, "What we need to do now, and what is most urgent, is to prepare backup resources."

Everyone looked confused.

Jiang Ziya said, "If we take the initiative to attack Chaoge, we must stay away from Xiqi. Then we must make sure our supplies are fully prepared. Since ancient times, supplies have been the first priority in the army's advance."

Ji Chang then added, "If we prepare provisions in advance, we will not have to worry about not having enough land, manpower, or time to grow food if we really have to fight a tough battle with the enemy. At the same time, we can also reduce the impact of the war on ordinary people."

The generals and soldiers all nodded in agreement. Ji Chang then ordered: "Except for those who need military training, all other unemployed personnel need to go and grow grain."

In the following months, the people of Xiqi began to focus on agriculture, which led King Zhou of Chaoge to relax his surveillance of Xiqi and instead direct the war effort towards the North Sea.

The Shang Dynasty dispatched Wen Zhong to fight against Yuan Fu. Although Wen Zhong was a brilliant military strategist, Yuan Fu had the support of the Western Religion, and Maitreya Buddha personally assisted him and set up the Bodhi Formation. Wen Zhong was unable to resist alone and thus suffered repeated defeats.

Li Xiuyuan learned through divination that Wen Zhong's resistance against the enemy was hindered. He then summoned Kong Xuan and said, "Wen Zhong is currently trapped in Beihai because Yuan Fu and Maitreya Buddha are attacking him together. Because you swallowed Shakyamuni Buddha when he attained enlightenment, and later Shakyamuni Buddha emerged from his back, breaking through and then establishing himself again, only you have the ability to fight against Maitreya Buddha. Therefore, your trip will surely help Wen Zhong achieve victory."

After a long journey of many days, Kong Xuan finally arrived at Beihai.

When Wen Zhong saw Kong Xuan come to help, he asked, "Who sent you?"

Kong Xuan replied, "It is indeed Li Xiuyuan."

In fact, Wen Zhong had long heard of Li Xiuyuan and greatly admired his work and character. Now, having received such assistance, Wen Zhong silently kept this kindness in his heart.

Upon hearing this, Wen Zhong said, "I wonder what method you will use to break his Bodhi attainment? This formation is truly not to be underestimated."

Kong Xuan said, "I possess five-colored divine light, sufficient to withstand Maitreya Buddha's formation. I hope you will cooperate. Moreover, you need not harbor any resentment towards me. I have no ulterior motives in assisting you."

Seeing Kong Xuan's confident demeanor, Wen Zhong seemed to see a glimmer of hope for victory amidst his repeated defeats. He reorganized the army and discussed battle plans with Kong Xuan that very night. The two decided to employ a strategy of attrition warfare, defeating the enemy piecemeal, while Kong Xuan would concentrate his main forces to deal with Maitreya Buddha's formation, and Wen Zhong would lead his troops to intercept Yuan Fu's forces.

As expected, Kong Xuan's five-colored divine light on the battlefield, combined with Wen Zhong's outstanding military command skills, resulted in a tacit cooperation between the two. In less than ten days, Wen Zhong captured Beihai, and Yuan Fu fled in disarray with his troops. When news of the victory reached Chaoge, King Zhou granted a general amnesty and indulged in revelry in wine and meat, neglecting state affairs. The lives of the common people did not improve in the slightest despite the victory.

Upon hearing this news, Wen Zhong hurried back to Chaoge, hoping to persuade King Zhou to restore order to the court.

The three armies stood ready, and the officials knelt to welcome them. Huang Feihu personally led three thousand soldiers to the city gate to greet them. Such a grand display was to welcome the triumphant Grand Tutor Wen Zhong. Although Wen Zhong had a full head of white hair, he was in high spirits and looked majestic in his armor. He had fought in the outside world for eight years without a single defeat. The people were subservient to him, and even King Zhou was afraid of him.

On his way back, as Grand Tutor Wen entered the city gate, a woman rushed forward, crying out that she was wronged. Wen Zhong stopped and asked her why. This woman was Xian, the daughter of Bi Gan. Xian was dressed in mourning clothes and wept as she told Grand Tutor Wen about her father Bi Gan's murder and the cutting out of his heart. Grand Tutor Wen had heard about the people's grievances on his way back, and now, upon hearing of the murder of a loyal minister, he was furious and rushed to Shouxian Palace.

Inside the Shouxian Palace, music and dance were in full swing, and the sounds of silk and bamboo instruments filled the air. King Zhou was indulging in wine and women, watching beautiful women dance. Grand Tutor Wen, hearing the decadent music coming from the palace, became even more interested in the fire and shouted to the guards, "Beat the drums and invite the king!"

Outside, the sound of drums was deafening. Daji found it strange, but King Zhou immediately came to his senses and stood up. "Stop the singing and dancing! It's Grand Tutor Wen returning to court! Someone, quickly summon the Imperial Preceptor to the Nine-Room Palace to await his orders!" He then turned and left.

Daji was puzzled as to who could have caused the king such fear.

"Grand Tutor, please sit down," King Zhou said, offering the seat to Grand Tutor Wen before even taking his own seat in the Nine-Room Hall. "Grand Tutor, you have returned victorious from your expedition to the North Sea, and your achievements are unparalleled."

“Your Majesty need not praise me,” Grand Tutor Wen immediately interrupted. “This old minister is merely relying on the might of Heaven and dares not fail the late King. I have been away from the capital for eight years and have heard of the chaos within the inner court and the rebellion of the feudal lords. I wonder if this is true?”

King Zhou defended himself by saying, "Jiang Huanchu plotted rebellion and usurped the throne, and E Chongyu indulged in evil and rebellion, both of whom were executed. Queen Jiang and her rebellious son disregarded the laws of the country and plotted to kill the king."

"Jiang Huanchu plotted rebellion and usurped the throne, and E Chongyu condoned evil and treason. Is there any evidence? This old minister has also heard that Empress Jiang and the two princes planned to assassinate the emperor. Is there any evidence? Please show it to this old minister." Wen Zhong asked in succession.

King Zhou's face darkened, and he was speechless. "No," Grand Tutor Wen said angrily, "I knew it! Think back to when the late king was alive. The whole world treated him with respect, and all directions paid tribute. Our Shang dynasty was well-established, and the people enjoyed peace and prosperity. But look at us now! You are close to wicked women and distant from virtuous officials. You indulge in singing and drinking and neglect state affairs. The feudal lords are in chaos, and the people are filled with resentment. Your Majesty, are you blind? Can't you see that the court has changed drastically and the country has lost its order?" Grand Tutor Wen was very agitated, and his words came from the bottom of his heart.

King Zhou's face was gloomy, and he felt a surge of anger, but he dared not vent it. Shen Gongbao, who was standing nearby, stepped forward to Grand Tutor Wen and said, "Grand Tutor, you must not speak so rudely. Your Majesty is the ruler of a nation, you..."

"Shut up!" Grand Tutor Wen shouted at Shen Gongbao. "What kind of thing are you?"

Shen Gongbao confidently declared, "I am the royal advisor invited by the king!"

"The Imperial Advisor? He is the Imperial Advisor!" Grand Tutor Wen looked at King Zhou and asked. King Zhou did not speak. "So, Your Majesty's faults are partly yours too? Very well, just wait, I will settle accounts with you!"

“You…” Shen Gongbao was furious. “What do you mean, ‘you’? Get out!” Grand Tutor Wen did not back down. King Zhou quickly said, “Alright, stop arguing. Grand Tutor, step down.”

Shen Gongbao had no choice but to retreat. King Zhou took a deep breath and called out, "Master," but Wen Zhong ignored him. King Zhou called out again, "Master..."

Chapter 1124 Sowing Discord Between Ruler and Minister

Wen Zhong sighed, "Since Your Majesty still calls me Master, then we won't talk about it today. See you in Longde Hall in three days." After saying that, he left on his own.

King Zhou rubbed his temples and headed to the Longevity Palace. Daji had just heard Shen Gongbao recount the events of the Nine-Room Palace, and now King Zhou's face was grim, and he remained silent. Daji truly couldn't understand why this Wen Zhong possessed such great power, disregarding the reigning emperor. She couldn't help but ask, "Your Majesty, what's wrong?"

"Hmph, Grand Tutor Wen is back," King Zhou said.

"Rumor has it that the Grand Tutor fought for eight years. Could it be that he suffered a crushing defeat and angered the King?" asked a newly favored dancer.

"Grand Tutor Wen has returned in triumph, and upon meeting me, he immediately berated me, demanding that I meet him in the Longde Hall in three days," King Zhou said angrily.

“Your Majesty, this man is arrogant and complacent because of his age and achievements. You are the ruler and he is the subject. Are you afraid of him?” Daji couldn’t help but say.

King Zhou rose from his throne, stepped forward, and said, “When I was six years old, the late king entrusted me to Grand Tutor Wen to learn literature and dance. My study companion was Huang Feihu. For decades, I was beaten countless times, but Grand Tutor Wen was a minister who could govern the country with both literary and martial skills. He made invaluable contributions to the nation and its people.”

Daji couldn't help but protest, "Your Majesty, you are no longer an innocent youth, but a ruler who has reigned for seventeen years. If he continues to act like a teacher, you will..."

“No,” King Zhou immediately interrupted, “Grand Tutor was not someone who was too powerful and threatened the king, nor did he deliberately deceive the king. He was extremely loyal to the father, and the father respected him greatly. Before his death, the father bestowed upon him the Golden Whip of the King.”

"You beat Wang Jinbian? What happened after that?" Daji continued to ask.

"Later, my father passed away. Grand Tutor Wen was the most trusted minister of the late king, and he was my late father. He held the privilege of pardoning the dead, punishing the king, and executing ministers. This was known throughout the land. In front of him, I only had a fraction of my authority left. I had no choice but to fear him three parts, give him three parts leeway, and respect him three parts." King Zhou sighed and said. Daji thought to herself, "It seems that this Wen Zhong is a troublesome person. I should restrain myself to avoid getting into trouble."

Three days later, Wen Zhong presented a memorial in the Longde Hall, listing ten points for restoring order to the court: "The great cause of Cheng Tang is in turmoil. I hereby submit ten suggestions for restoring order to the court: 1. Dismantle the Deer Terrace to calm the people and prevent chaos; 2. Abolish the torture of burning alive to ensure the loyalty of those who offer advice; 3. Fill the pit of scorpions to ensure peace in the palace; 4. Remove the wine pool to silence the slanderous remarks of the feudal lords; 5. Depose Daji to eliminate trouble in the inner court; 6. Execute Fei Zhong and You Hun to keep the officials in check; 7. Recruit loyal officials and value talent and seek out virtuous people; 8. Appease the southeast to quell the chaos in the country; 9. Open granaries to provide disaster relief and comfort the starving people; 10. Broaden the channels for public opinion to correct public opinion."

Upon hearing these ten points, all the ministers nodded in agreement. Fei Zhong and You Hun were terrified. King Zhou suppressed his displeasure and said, "The first point, demolishing the terrace, is a waste since it has already been built at great expense. Let us discuss it further. As for the second point, it is approved. The third and fourth points are approved. Hmph, the fifth point, deposing Daji, is not a crime. Daji is gentle, kind, respectful, and frugal. Why should she be deposed or demoted? The sixth point, executing Fei Zhong and You Hun, is not a treacherous minister. He has rendered meritorious service and committed no crime. So, he can be executed. As for the seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth points, they are all approved."

"Your Majesty, the Deer Terrace is a waste of resources and manpower, causing resentment among the people. Demolishing the terrace can quell their grievances. Daji invented cruel tortures, harming loyal ministers and bewitching Your Majesty. She should be abolished. Fei Zhong and You Hun are cunning and flattering; they should be executed immediately to rectify the court." Grand Tutor Wen objected, arguing that these three measures should be implemented immediately.

"Your Majesty, the Grand Tutor disregards the distinction between ruler and subject, submitting a memorial that forces the emperor to submit to his throne. He has no respect for the rites of Cheng Tang, and he has made unfounded accusations against the Queen. He has no respect for the distinction between ruler and subject, and he has committed insubordination. What should be his punishment?" Fei Zhong could not tolerate this and impeached Wen Zhong in court.

Upon learning that he was Fei Zhong, Wen Zhong punched him to the ground. Seeing this, You Hun also stepped forward and spoke up, demanding that Wen Zhong be punished for disrespecting the law. He was also kicked down by Fei Zhong. Wen Zhong then ordered Fei and You to be dragged out and executed. King Zhou, seeing this, quickly said, "The ten points presented by the Grand Tutor are all reasonable. Fei and You should be handed over to the Ministry of Justice for verification. Whether there is any evidence of their crimes should be determined before taking any action, so that the two ministers can have no complaints. What does the Grand Tutor think?"

Considering King Zhou's feelings, Wen Zhong finally nodded.

As a powerful figure, Wen Zhong enjoyed high prestige. King Zhou of Shang had been taught by him since childhood, and even now he was wary of him, acting cautiously in his presence. Wen Zhong showed great dissatisfaction with Fei Zhong and You Hun's defiance, and coupled with their previous framing of Ji Chang, he wanted to execute them.

King Zhou of Shang dared not speak out against Wen Zhong's decision. On the one hand, he wanted to keep Fei Zhong and You Hun to help him eliminate his rivals; on the other hand, he dared not make any excessive demands due to Wen Zhong's pressure.

King Zhou of Shang said in a low voice, "Grand Tutor, these two deserve to die for defying you like that. However, this is a time when we need capable people. To rashly kill two ministers of the court would be inappropriate and would damage your reputation for justice and integrity, making the people think you are unreasonable and intolerant." Hearing this, Wen Zhong felt there was some truth to King Zhou's words. He thought to himself: "As the ruler of a country, Your Majesty is so humble in pleading with me. If I don't give you face, it will be difficult to maintain the balance of the relationship between ruler and subject." Thinking this, Wen Zhong was no longer angry. He said, "Your Majesty, since you have said so, this old minister will naturally not pursue their responsibility further. However, punishment is still necessary." King Zhou was pleased to hear Wen Zhong's concession and said, "Grand Tutor is right. I will certainly punish them severely." With King Zhou giving this order, Wen Zhong could say nothing more, indicating his acquiescence to King Zhou's actions. The ministers in the court all lowered their heads, fearing that they might offend King Zhou of Shang and be retaliated against in the future. Now, seeing this scene, they secretly breathed a sigh of relief and were no longer afraid of being implicated.

After finishing his court duties, King Zhou of Shang returned to the inner palace and rested with Daji. Having dealt with court affairs all day, he felt exceptionally relaxed here. Although he was a king, he often had little control over political matters, but here it was different. He was the all-powerful king, the sole support for all the concubines in the harem. This satisfied King Zhou's vanity and his desire to dominate everything.

Chapter 1125 Daji Frames Lady Huang

Stepping into Daji's palace, a strange fragrance wafted in, enough to intoxicate anyone who smelled it. Lifting the beaded curtain, King Zhou gestured for everyone not to bow, then dismissed the serving maids and walked behind Daji, who was dressing. He saw Daji in the mirror; her beauty was beyond compare. Delicate willow-leaf eyebrows, large, dark eyes, a pert nose, and a small mouth—undoubtedly a perfect face bestowed upon her by heaven. King Zhou was overjoyed to have this beauty in his palace, making her his concubine. He gently placed his hand on Daji's shoulder, leaned down and kissed her, saying, "My beloved concubine, I'm so glad to have you. I feel so happy now." He then began to carry Daji to the bed.

Daji stood up, gave King Zhou a gentle push, and said coquettishly, "Your Majesty, it's still early. How about I play chess with you?" As she spoke, her eyes were fixed on King Zhou, her gaze like a deep pool, as if trying to draw him in. King Zhou was mesmerized, and he involuntarily agreed to Daji's request. So, Daji ordered a chess set to be brought, and the two began their game. At first, Daji had the upper hand, but gradually she found herself at a disadvantage. After a fierce struggle, King Zhou ultimately won the game.

Daji praised, "Your Majesty is truly remarkable! You can easily solve such a chess game. I learned this from a master!" She then pouted, feigning grievance. King Zhou was pleased to hear Daji's words and generously said, "Whatever your request is today, my beloved consort, I will grant it." Daji had achieved her goal and was overjoyed, but outwardly remained calm. She slowly said, "Is what Your Majesty says true? A king's word is his bond." King Zhou laughed heartily and replied, "When have I ever lied to you?" Daji then stepped back, bowed, and said, "Your Majesty, I have heard about what happened today. That Wen Zhong is far too arrogant, acting recklessly simply because he is Your Majesty's teacher. I cannot tolerate it. I wish for him to leave Your Majesty's side forever." She then glanced at King Zhou out of the corner of her eye, observing his expression. Sure enough, after hearing Daji's account of Wen Zhong, King Zhou's expression darkened. His eyes sharpened, filled with murderous intent, as if a sore spot had been touched.

Seeing that the time was ripe, Daji quickly said, "Your Majesty could easily exile him to the frontier, forever away from your sight. Wouldn't that be a good thing?" After hearing these words, King Zhou of Shang pondered for a long time and wavered. He thought of Wen Zhong's imposing presence, but he couldn't let go of Wen Zhong's role in consolidating the court. If he abandoned Wen Zhong, a bloody struggle would inevitably erupt in the court.

Several days later, a sudden report arrived from the front lines: the military situation was urgent, rebellions were breaking out in various places, and the court's support was urgently needed. Upon hearing this news, King Zhou of Shang's problem, which had troubled him for days, was finally resolved. He immediately summoned several important ministers to discuss how to deal with the rebellions. Most agreed to use force to subdue the rebellious areas in exchange for lasting peace and the tranquility of the people. King Zhou was overjoyed upon hearing this, but feigned composure and said, "Looking around, there are few capable people in the court. I am very distressed. I wonder who can share my burden and solve my problems!" As soon as he finished speaking, all the ministers lowered their heads. They usually only knew how to offer advice and suggestions, but had never led troops into battle, and naturally dared not easily accept the order to go and die.

Wen Zhong stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said, "Your Majesty, I am willing to accept the order to go and quell the rebels, restoring peace to the land." King Zhou of Shang was more than happy to hear Wen Zhong say this! On the surface, however, he showed no sign of it. He solemnly said, "Grand Tutor, this mission to quell the rebels is different from usual. I am worried that your health may not be able to withstand it!" Wen Zhong was deeply moved by King Zhou's words. He knelt down again and pleaded, "Your Majesty, to repay your kindness, I will certainly live up to Your Majesty's trust and do my utmost to capture the rebels before Your Majesty."

King Zhou of Shang then ordered, "Wen Zhong, lead the troops to the East Sea to quell the rebellion." Wen Zhong knelt to receive the order. The day before the expedition, Wen Zhong visited King Zhou late at night to discuss important reforms. King Zhou, having been pulled from his pleasure quarters by Wen Zhong, was naturally reluctant to discuss any reforms. When Wen Zhong said, "Your Majesty, reforms are of paramount importance and cannot be accomplished quickly. I believe we should postpone them until the rebels are defeated," King Zhou was overjoyed. He had no desire for reform in the first place and readily supported Wen Zhong's suggestion. Thus, King Zhou promised Wen Zhong that reforms would begin immediately upon their return from suppressing the rebellion!

New Year's Day was King Zhou of Shang's birthday. All the civil and military officials came to offer their congratulations, each bringing rare and precious treasures, hoping to gain the king's favor and rise through the ranks. The royal ladies, meanwhile, went to Daji's palace to pay their respects to the queen, hoping to win her favor and speak well of them to King Zhou, thus securing their families' wealth and power. Among these ladies who came to see Daji, Lady Huang was exceptionally beautiful and left a deep impression on Daji.

After the banquet, Daji deliberately sent someone to investigate Madam Huang's identity, only to learn that she was Huang Feihu's wife, and thus the sister-in-law of Consort Huang in the palace. Upon hearing this news, Daji found things even more intriguing. Her eyes flickered, and she gave a wicked smile, like a wild beast locking onto its prey, confident and ready to strike with deadly precision.

The next day, Daji summoned Lady Huang. Dressed in magnificent robes, she sat on a high seat, looking down at the kneeling Lady Huang, and asked, "Who are you?" Lady Huang replied, "Your Majesty, I am the wife of Huang Feihu." Daji feigned surprise and asked, "You are General Huang's wife? My apologies for my intrusion. Bring a seat!" She then ordered a chair to be brought from the palace and invited Lady Huang to sit down. Lady Huang rose tremblingly, thanked Daji, and then sat down.

Seeing that Lady Huang had lowered her guard, Daji asked with concern, "Lady Huang is a few years older than me. May I call you 'elder sister'?" Lady Huang dared not have such a thought. She hurriedly replied, "Your Majesty, please don't be so harsh on this lowly concubine. How could someone of my birth dare to be called 'elder sister' by Your Majesty? Absolutely not!" After saying this, Lady Huang was so frightened that she sat up from her chair and quickly knelt on the ground, not daring to get up.

Chapter 1126 Madam Huang's Death

Daji smiled with satisfaction. She pretended to be delighted and quickly helped Madam Huang up, saying, "I have never had an older sister since I was a child. Now that I have seen you, I feel especially close to you and want to be intimate with you. It is only right that I call you 'sister'. You don't need to be afraid. We are both women, and it is only right that we take care of each other."

Seeing Daji's sincere expression, Madam Huang stopped refusing and said, "I am honored by Your Majesty's appreciation, and I will do my best to be a good sister."

Daji smiled and said, "My sister would like to invite you to visit the palace more often, so I can have some company. Otherwise, staying in these high walls and courtyards all day long is quite lonely for me."

Lady Huang asked in confusion, "Your Majesty the Queen is deeply favored by the King, how could she have such thoughts about me?" Daji smiled sadly and said, "Women in the palace are like flowers that wither prematurely, their blooming time is extremely short, and after they wither, who will care about how glorious they were at the time!"

After hearing Daji's words, Madam Huang felt some sympathy for her. Women seem to have an innate tendency to sympathize with the weak, and after hearing Daji's lament, Madam Huang naturally sided with Daji. While comforting Daji, Madam Huang helped her to the bed.

For several days in a row, Lady Huang was summoned to the palace by Daji under various pretexts. She and Daji became more and more familiar with each other, and she was no longer as reserved as at the beginning. She would also joke with Daji, and the two always addressed each other as sisters.

That night, Daji summoned Lady Huang to the palace. Lady Huang said, "It's so late, sister, is there something you need? Hmm, you look very well today, is there something happy you want to tell me?" Daji was very jealous of Lady Huang's stunning beauty, but she didn't show it at all. She smiled and said, "The scenery at Deer Terrace is exceptionally beautiful today, and I would like to invite you to go and see it with me."

Lady Huang had long heard that King Zhou of Shang had spent enormous manpower and resources to build such a magnificent Deer Terrace for Daji's enjoyment and recreation.

Despite it being night, the area around the Deer Terrace was exceptionally bright, with stands for placing candles everywhere. Accompanied by palace maids, Daji and her entourage arrived at the Deer Terrace in a grand procession.

Seeing is believing, and Madam Huang exclaimed: "This Deer Terrace is indeed a masterpiece of craftsmanship." Surrounded by towering peaks, it stands like a protective barrier, with white clouds swirling around, resembling a fairyland. The craggy rocks further accentuate its harmony with nature, highlighting the wonders of the natural world and expressing a perfect fusion of nature and art.

Lady Huang exclaimed in surprise, "My sister is so lucky to receive such love from the King." Daji echoed, "Yes, the King is indeed very good to me! Is my sister not doing well?" Lady Huang smiled and said, "There is no such thing as good or bad. We are just ordinary married couples, and naturally, it cannot compare to the King's boundless love for my sister."