A Shocking Dream

Jinyuyuan, in order for the Yun Kingdom delegation to adapt to the customs of Daqi, the emperor specially ordered the construction of this elegant house by the lake.

Since she was to stay at the Golden Jade Courtyard, the Saint must emerge from the carriage. A corner of the curtain lifted, revealing a slender, delicate, and white jade hand. The woman beside her covered the jade fingers with a handkerchief before grasping them and leading them out. Then, the women of the Yun Nation dismounted and knelt, demonstrating the high status of the Saint. A woman emerged, dressed in a white gown with wide sleeves and a white conical hat. A light veil hung from her head, obscuring her features. Once the woman had disembarked, the kneeling Yun Nation members rose.

Qin Ruoyu and the others realized that the saint in white was tall and slender, appearing to be over five feet tall. All the women from the Yun Nation present only reached her shoulders. Standing there, she was simply a crane standing out from the crowd. The white figure seemed to emit a holy light in the sunlight, which made people feel awe. Qin Ruoyu narrowed his eyes slightly, trying to peek through the veil to see the saint's true appearance, but he became more and more curious about the face and temperament of this mysterious saint. Qin Ruoxuan was also attracted by the saint's unique aura and stared at her closely. Su Yijing had a calm expression, secretly wondering what impact the saint's arrival would have on Daqi.

When they entered the courtyard, Qin Ruoyu was still in a trance. How could a woman be over five feet tall? There were almost no such people in the Great Qi Imperial City. His eyes were filled with confusion and surprise, as if he had seen an incredible existence.

"Brother Prince, this is the first time I've seen such a tall woman." Qin Ruoxuan was obviously also shocked, and there was a hint of amazement in his voice.

"Logically speaking, the average height of women in Yun Country is less than five feet. This saint is truly extraordinary." Su Yijing said as he walked into the courtyard. His tone revealed his curiosity and thoughts about the saint of Yun Country.

"I doubt it. I'm not even as tall as the Holy Maiden of Yun Nation." Qin Ruoxuan, who was only thirteen years old this year, was indeed not even five feet tall. He looked at the back of the Holy Maiden in white, his heart filled with envy and curiosity.

Qin Ruoyu gazed into the courtyard, but did not enter. His mind raced with thoughts. The appearance of this Saintess from the Yun Nation shattered his conventional notions of women. Her mysterious identity and towering figure filled him with an inexplicable pressure. He wondered what changes this Saintess's arrival would bring to Daqi. In these uncertain times, Qin Ruoyu decided to proceed with greater caution to ensure Daqi's stability and prosperity.

"Everyone should rest early after the long journey. The palace will send someone to pick up the Saint Lady tomorrow." Su Yijing bowed slightly and said politely.

"Thank you, Prime Minister Su." The saint spoke through the veil, her tone gentle, clear and pleasant, like a clear spring flowing through the mountains, which made people's hearts move.

"If there is nothing else, I will take my leave first. If the Saint has any instructions, please tell them." More than a dozen men and women dressed as servants stood in a row. They were the people who came to serve the Saint.

"Prime Minister Su is busy with official duties, so please go on your own." The Saint glanced at those people and did not refuse. Her voice was still gentle, but it carried an unquestionable majesty.

After arranging everything, Su Yijing turned and left. His figure gradually faded away in the sunlight, leaving the Saint and the people of Yun Nation in the Golden Jade Courtyard. A gentle breeze blew past, ruffling the Saint's white skirt and the veil of her bamboo hat, adding a touch of mystery.

The women of Yun Nation stood quietly behind the Saint, awaiting her instructions. The Saint tilted her head slightly, as if thinking about something.

"Your Highness, I have made all the arrangements here. I see that Your Highness is frowning. Are you thinking about the identity of the Saint?" Su Yijing bowed slightly and asked respectfully.

Qin Ruoyu frowned slightly, his eyes revealing a trace of thought. "It can be seen that this Saint Lady holds an extremely high status in their Yun Kingdom. This prince is indeed curious about what is so special about this Saint Lady that she holds such a respected position in Yun Kingdom."

"As far as I know, the Holy Maiden of Yun Country possesses some unorthodox techniques, and her status surpasses that of the Yun Country Emperor. Most people in Yun Country believe in immortals and gods," Su Yijing said with a hint of mystery. "However, the specific abilities of this Holy Maiden and the story behind her are shrouded in mystery. Your Highness, it is best not to learn too much, lest you get into unnecessary trouble. I must report to the Emperor at the palace, and now I will take my leave." Su Yijing was worried. Yun Country had sent such a powerful Holy Maiden here, and what ulterior motives might they have. A flicker of worry crossed his eyes, and he turned to leave.

Qin Ruoyu cast his gaze back toward the courtyard, his doubts growing even stronger. "Higher than the Emperor, this identity is truly remarkable. Is the arrival of this Saint a blessing or a curse?" He pondered for a moment. "Let's go," he said, riding off. His heart was filled with vigilance. The mysterious identity of this Saint of the Yun Nation hung heavy on his mind like a huge mystery.

"They left?" The saint's voice came through the veil of the white hat. Her tone was flat but with a subtle hint of inquiry.

"Yes, but Prime Minister Su has stationed a lot of spies and soldiers here." The woman next to him responded in a low voice.

"Openly, he is protecting our safety, but secretly, he is afraid that we will act rashly. It doesn't matter. I don't have the mind to act rashly. Tell the people who come here to be careful with their words and actions. If they reveal their true intentions, they will be killed." The words of the saint revealed majesty and determination.

"Yes." The woman responded respectfully, then turned around to convey the saint's order.

Ningsheng Palace

The magnificent palace gleams in the sunlight, its vermilion walls towering and majestic, embodying the royal dignity and solemnity. Above the palace gate, the three golden characters "Ningsheng Palace" are written in bold and powerful strokes, seemingly recounting the palace's glorious history.

Entering the palace, the spacious hall exudes a majestic atmosphere. Atop the high dome, exquisitely painted paintings depict mythological stories, transporting one to a fantasy world. Massive columns stand on either side, carved with lifelike dragons, their fangs bared and claws splayed, as if ready to soar into the air at any moment. The floor, paved with smooth marble, reflects a soft light.

Emperor Qin Ronghuan sat atop a high throne, clad in a magnificent dragon robe, his expression solemn. "The Holy Maiden of the Cloud Kingdom?" He frowned slightly, a hint of surprise in his tone. While he had never been to the Cloud Kingdom during his travels, he had heard rumors of the Holy Maiden in every nation. The legend of her being able to repel an army of a hundred thousand with a single song and captivating hearts filled him with curiosity and doubt.

Qin Ronghuan sat on the throne, pondering for a moment. If these rumors were true, this might be the reason why the Yun Kingdom had been so difficult to conquer. He was well aware of the Yun Kingdom's mysterious nature, and the appearance of this saintly woman only added a layer of mystery to it. What abilities did she possess? What was her purpose in visiting Daqi? Qin Ronghuan was filled with caution. He knew that this saintly woman's arrival would bring new challenges and opportunities to Daqi. As emperor, he must respond with caution to ensure the country's stability and prosperity.

"Your Majesty, I know a little about the rumors about the Holy Maiden of Yun Country, but I don't know whether they are true or not. Now that the Holy Maiden of Yun Country is in my imperial city, I have to be on guard." Su Yijing bowed slightly and said solemnly.

"We must be on guard, but we must not speculate too much. The Holy Maiden of Yun Country came to my Daqi in person, which gave me enough face. If we speculate too much about her, it will only cause unnecessary misunderstandings. Besides, our two countries have reached a friendly relationship. If she really wants to stir up trouble, my Daqi will not be afraid. There should be no excessive speculation on this matter, let's leave it at that." Emperor Qin Ronghuan sat on the throne, his eyes deep, his tone calm and firm.

"Yes," Su Yijing replied respectfully. Although he still felt worried, he also understood the emperor's considerations. In this volatile situation, Daqi must remain vigilant while also demonstrating the magnanimity and demeanor of a great power.

"I heard that the Sage King became even more depressed after returning from his trip to Qiuluo Mountain?" Emperor Qin Ronghuan frowned slightly, with a hint of concern and doubt in his tone.

"This... I don't know." Su Yijing's heart tightened, and a look of doubt appeared on his face. He really hadn't noticed this change in the Sage King.

"In the whole court, you are the only one who has such a harmonious conversation with him. How could you not know this?" Qin Ronghuan looked up at Su Yijing with a deep, frightening look. It seemed as if it could penetrate people's hearts and make them shudder.

"I am deeply troubled. I have been so busy with official duties that I haven't seen the Sage King for months. Your Majesty, please understand." Su Yijing sank to his knees, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. He knew the emperor's suspicions well, and he felt uneasy at the moment.

"My dear minister, please stand up. I was just asking casually. I know that you work hard every day. You must be tired today. Go back and rest early." Qin Ronghuan's tone softened and he waved his hand.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I will take my leave." Su Yijing, relieved, slowly rose and respectfully withdrew. His mind was swirling with thoughts: What had caused the Sage King's change? And what did the Emperor's question signify? Amidst the turbulent circumstances of the court, he must tread cautiously to avoid falling into an unknown crisis.

Qin Ronghuan knew Su Yijing's ability to get things done. He was good in every way, except for his closeness to the Sage King. After all, the Sage King was his brother, and he was someone who could challenge his position. Qin Ronghuan sat on the throne, a complex look in his eyes.

He recalled the past, and a trace of worry welled up in his heart. The status of the Sage King was already a threat to him. If his father had directly agreed to demote him to a commoner, there would be no worries now. Qin Ronghuan sighed slightly, knowing that he couldn't let his guard down.

The struggle for power in the palace never ceases. Qin Ronghuan must remain vigilant at all times, guarding against any potential threats. Su Yijing's relationship with the Sage King also forces him to pay more attention to him.

Qin Ronghuan rubbed his temples, pondering his next move. He knew that in this complex situation, he had to handle every issue with caution to ensure the stability of his throne and the country. He also needed to be more skillful in dealing with Su Yijing and the Sage King, leveraging their talents while also guarding against the risks they might pose.

Su Yijing walked along the road, his brows slightly furrowed, his heart filled with confusion. What was Rong Chen doing in Qiuluo Mountain? It was a remote and deserted place, so what was it that attracted him? Su Yijing couldn't fathom Rong Chen's thoughts.

Reflecting on his interactions with Rong Chen over the years, Su Yijing felt he was an increasingly enigmatic figure. Rong Chen always kept to himself, lost in his own world. His eyes often revealed a deep sadness that made one want to explore his inner secrets. However, every time Su Yijing tried to approach, Rong Chen would quietly erect an invisible wall, isolating himself from the outside world.

Su Yijing sighed softly and shook his head helplessly. He knew Rong Chen had his own persistence and perseverance, and it was difficult for others to understand his behavior. But why did he go to Qiuluo Mountain this time? Could it be related to the rumored woman? Su Yijing felt uneasy.

He knew full well that the emperor still viewed Rong Chen as a threat to his position. Although Rong Chen had long since renounced the throne and chosen a life away from the court, his status still made the emperor wary. Su Yijing couldn't help but feel unfair for Rong Chen. In his view, Rong Chen was a man indifferent to fame and fortune, with no desire for power. If he had been willing to be emperor, the person who sat on that throne five years ago would not be the current emperor.

Su Yijing looked up at the sky. The white clouds drifted by, as if eloquently expressing the helplessness of the world. He recalled the incident five years ago. At that time, Rong Chen had petitioned the emperor to strip him of his status and power in the presence of all the civil and military officials. The emperor naturally refused, and Rong Chen fell into despair, drowning his sorrows in alcohol and even contemplating suicide. Ultimately, the emperor, forced to do so, agreed to release him from the palace, but refused to strip him of his status and power. Rong Chen moved out of the palace and left the capital.

For the past five years, Rong Chen has lived a secluded life, detached from the world. Yet, the emperor remains vigilant against him. Su Yijing understands that in this vortex of power, no one is free to act. To maintain his throne, the emperor must be vigilant at every turn. Rong Chen, because of his identity, finds himself in endless difficulties.

Su Yijing secretly made up his mind. He knew that the relationship between him and Rong Chen was not just that of a monarch and his subject, but also that of friends and confidants. In this ever-changing court, he had to walk carefully, for himself and for Rong Chen.

Su Yijing quickened his pace. He decided to find an opportunity to meet Rong Chen and find out his real purpose of going to Qiuluo Mountain.

Prime Minister's House.

As Su Yijing entered the room, he saw Qin Rongchen standing with his hands behind his back, gazing out the window at the moonlight, as if he had been waiting for him for a long time. Although the lights were off, the two of them could see everything clearly. The cold moonlight shone into the room, casting a silver glow over their figures.

"I thought you would stay in Hanmei Villa all the time." Su Yijing was no longer surprised to see Qin Rongchen appear in his room. He raised the corners of his mouth slightly, with a hint of ridicule in his tone.

"He's suspicious of you again?" Qin Ruochen turned around and sat down on the round chair, his voice calm and low. His eyes revealed a hint of concern, as if he had already seen through everything.

Su Yijing frowned slightly and sighed softly. "The emperor is suspicious, and this has been going on for a long time. However, I will handle it carefully." He walked over and sat down opposite Qin Rongchen, his eyes firm.

Qin Rongchen nodded slightly, and after a moment of silence, he said: "You and I have known each other for many years, and I don't want to put you in trouble because of me." There was a hint of guilt in his voice, and his eyes revealed complex emotions.

Su Yijing shook his head. "You don't have to blame yourself. Everything I did was my own choice. Besides, being in the court is full of challenges and risks. But you, I heard that you went to Qiuluo Mountain?" His eyes flashed with wisdom, as if he was full of confidence in the future.

"Hmm." Qin Rongchen replied softly, picked up the teacup and drank it all in one gulp, looking a little lonely. The moonlight shining through the window onto his face added a bit of melancholy.

"Let me guess, it was that guy who told you again. Do you believe what he said?" Su Yijing raised his eyebrows slightly, with doubt in his eyes.

"You know he wouldn't lie to me, and..." Qin Rongchen said, taking out the jade pendant from his arms and placing it on the table. The jade pendant exuded a warm luster in the moonlight, as if carrying countless stories.

"Really..." Su Yijing stared at the jade pendant in surprise. How could someone who had been dead for five years still be alive... His heart was filled with shock and confusion. He knew the significance of the jade pendant and understood what its appearance meant. But he couldn't believe that the person who was thought to be dead was still alive.

Su Yijing was silent for a moment, then slowly said: "This is incredible. If she is really still alive, why would she hide from you?"

"So I need an answer." Qin Rongchen said, pinching the jade pendant, his eyes revealing a determined light. Now that he knew she was alive, he would go find her to ask for the answer. His heart was filled with anticipation and anxiety, not knowing what the scene would be like when he saw her again.

Su Yijing chuckled. He had never understood how Qin Rongchen, a figure resembling a fallen immortal, could be so infatuated with an ugly female general. In his opinion, Qin Rongchen should have better options than to cling to a female general from a foreign country. Of course, he had tried to persuade him, but at first, Qin Rongchen would give him the cold shoulder, even ignoring him. Over time, Su Yijing simply stopped talking.

"Have you ever considered that if she's still alive and has forgiven you, why wouldn't she just come and see you? Besides, she was able to quietly rescue the Crown Prince from the Imperial City Hunting Grounds. Not only is she incredibly powerful, but maybe she's always been by your side, just not wanting to see you," Su Yijing said slowly, trying to calm Qin Rongchen down. He knew that once Qin Rongchen made a decision, it was difficult to change it, but he still hoped he'd give it some thought.