Huanzhu Time Travel: Yan Luo's Unbreakable Love in the Yong Dynasty

The palace had just emerged from a fierce and terrifying battle, and although a temporary calm had been restored, a tense and bloody atmosphere still lingered in the air. The last rays of the setting sun shone through the dappled clouds, casting eerie light on the palace's glazed tiles.

After the battle, the palace was a hive of activity. Palace maids and eunuchs bustled about, cleaning up the mess and carrying away wounded guards. After arranging the aftermath, Fu Ankang hurried towards Fu Heng's study. His expression was grave, and a hint of anxiety flickered in his eyes.

Fu Heng was in his study, which was dimly lit, with only a single candle on his desk flickering in the breeze. He paced slowly around the room, his hands behind his back, his brow furrowed, clearly deeply worried about the Shadow Cult's attack on the palace.

Fu Ankang gently knocked on the study door. After receiving permission, he pushed the door open and entered the study. Then, he respectfully performed a full bow before straightening up and closing the door behind him.

“Father, the Shadow Cult has come with great force this time, things are probably not so simple.” Fu Ankang said with a serious expression, his voice deep and powerful, breaking the silence in the study.

Fu Heng nodded slightly, his gaze deep, revealing a hint of weariness and worry: "I've also been thinking, for the Shadow Cult to dare launch an attack at such an important moment as the imperial palace celebration, there must be a powerful force supporting them." He stopped and turned to look at Fu Ankang, his eyes filled with solemnity.

Fu Ankang took a few steps closer, lowered his voice, and said with increasing tension, "During the battle, I discovered that these Shadow Cult members are well-trained and work together seamlessly, far from being an ordinary rabble. Moreover, they seem to have some knowledge of the layout of the palace, which makes me suspect that there might be a traitor among us." As he spoke, he unconsciously clenched his fists, his face showing a mixture of anger and worry.

Fu Heng's eyes sharpened instantly, his body trembled slightly, and a cold glint flashed in his eyes: "Are you sure? This is no small matter. If there really is a spy, we must find him as soon as possible, otherwise the consequences will be endless." His tone became stern, and his expression grew even colder.

Fu Ankang frowned, lowered his head slightly, seemingly considering how to phrase his words: "Although I have no conclusive evidence, all indications suggest that we must be on guard. For example, they seem to know the weaknesses in the palace's defenses perfectly, and their timing for the attack is impeccable. Also, that mysterious person, who intervened at a crucial moment, is highly suspicious." Speaking of the mysterious person, Fu Ankang raised his head, his eyes filled with doubt.

Fu Heng pondered for a moment, then slowly walked to his desk and sat down. He picked up the teacup on the table, but had no intention of drinking it; he simply swirled it gently. "The mysterious man... this person is indeed strange. Whether he is friend or foe is still difficult to determine. However, the most urgent task is to first investigate the forces behind the Shadow Cult and whether there are any spies within our ranks." His gaze fell on the teacup, as if searching for answers within it.

Fu Ankang clenched his fist, took a step forward, and said with a firm expression, "Father, rest assured, I will do my best. However, could the Shadow Cult's actions be related to certain forces within the court?" A hint of worry was in his eyes, clearly indicating his concern about the complexity of the situation.

Fu Heng put down his teacup, crossed his hands on the table, and gazed into the distance: "It's possible. The court appears calm on the surface, but undercurrents are surging. Various forces are secretly vying for power, all wanting a greater share of the court's interests. The Shadow Cult might just be a pawn being used, and it might even have powerful figures in the court supporting it." His tone was filled with helplessness and worry.

A hint of worry flashed in Fu Ankang's eyes. He frowned slightly, a trace of anxiety on his face: "If that's the case, the situation will become even more complicated. How should we deal with it?" He walked up to Fu Heng, awaiting his father's instructions.

Fu Heng stopped, his gaze fixed firmly on Fu Ankang: "On one hand, we must strengthen security at the palace to ensure the safety of the Emperor and the harem. Starting tomorrow, increase the frequency of palace guard patrols and intensify checks at the palace gates, rigorously inspecting all personnel and items entering and leaving the palace. On the other hand, secretly send people to investigate the Shadow Cult's background and whether there are any forces within the court colluding with them. Remember, this matter must be handled with extreme caution; we must not alert them." A hint of authority shone in his eyes, as if he were issuing an unquestionable order.

Fu Ankang nodded and replied, "Yes, Father. I understand. But this investigation is of great importance. Who would be the most suitable person to handle it?" He tilted his head slightly, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Fu Heng pondered for a moment, then lightly tapped his fingers on the table: "Select a few trustworthy people to form a secret team. These people must be loyal, reliable, and exceptionally capable. Ideally, they should have investigative experience and be cautious in their actions. During the investigation, strict confidentiality must be maintained; no one should know." His gaze was fixed on Fu Ankang, his eyes filled with trust and expectation.

Fu Ankang bowed slightly and said respectfully, "I understand. I already have a few candidates in mind. They have all followed me for many years and are extremely loyal. I will definitely have them do their utmost to investigate this matter thoroughly." A confident expression appeared on his face, as if he had made full preparations.

Fu Ankang raised his head, a hint of relief in his eyes: "Father, there is one more thing. In this battle, Yongqi, Xiaoyanzi, and others performed bravely and made great contributions to repelling the Shadow Cult. In particular, Yongqi was fearless in the face of the Shadow Cult's commander and fought bravely. Xiaoyanzi, Liu Qing, Liu Hong, and others also cooperated well and contributed a lot to protecting the palace."

Fu Heng smiled slightly with satisfaction. He leaned back in his chair, his expression softening somewhat. "Yongqi is a prince, and protecting the royal family is his duty. However, his performance this time was indeed remarkable. Xiao Yanzi and the others were also truly commendable. His Majesty surely knows this and will reward them accordingly." A glint of appreciation flashed in his eyes.

Fu Ankang discussed some details with Fu Heng, including the secret team's action plan and cooperation with the palace guards. The two talked until late at night, and the candle wax had piled up into a thick layer.

Finally, Fu Ankang rose to take his leave: "Father, it's getting late, so I'll take my leave now. You should also get some rest." He bowed respectfully once more.

Fu Heng nodded slightly: "Go, be careful in everything." He watched Fu Ankang's departing figure, a hint of worry in his eyes.

Fu Ankang gently opened the door and stepped out of the study. It was late at night, and the palace was silent. Only patrolling guards moved in orderly steps through the palace grounds. Fu Ankang looked up at the sky; the stars twinkled, but his heart was filled with worry. This incident with the Shadow Cult was merely the beginning; the road ahead was long, filled with unknowns and challenges.

This more complex covert war has only just begun; what awaits them?

This chapter concludes here. Stay tuned for the next chapter.