Offered As A Lucky Bride To The Mad Princess To Ward Off Misfortune - Chapter 63

63: Foreign Alliance Marriage, Requesting to Marry Prince Ning

The affairs of the world are like a chess game, unpredictable and ever-changing.

In her previous life, Yu Nanqing was not entirely loyal to Xiao Qijun. She had prepared detailed maps of Great Qi’s military defenses and strategies, leaving a fallback for the common people, but she ended her own path with a cup of poisoned wine.

Her words hit the mark.

The murmurs of the court officials gradually subsided. The initial excitement over the discovery of the Linglong Chessboard’s whereabouts slowly turned into a heavy silence that hung over the Golden Throne Hall.

Muerle’s move appeared to target Princess Ning, but in reality, it was an attempt to undermine the dignity of the entire Great Qi empire.

The Linglong Chessboard originated from Great Qi. If the Xiongnu could not solve it, it was only fitting for Great Qi to do so, and no matter how eloquent their arguments, they could find no fault in this. However, this was the Linglong Chessboard left by Kunningzi, each piece embodying his lifelong mastery of the game. The black and white pieces were in perfect balance, creating an unsolvable stalemate no matter where a piece was placed.

A great nation with countless scholars—if they failed to solve this game, wouldn’t it become a laughingstock among other nations?

The atmosphere in the Golden Throne Hall grew tense. Emperor Wenjing, seated on the dragon throne, wore a grim expression, and even the Noble Consort sat rigidly, wary of provoking the emperor’s wrath.

Yu Nanqing had been quiet since hearing about the Linglong Chessboard. Xiao Qiling watched her closely, and under the cover of their sleeves, she took her hand, gently tightening her grip.

Yu Nanqing’s thoughts pulled back from her memories. Meeting Xiao Qiling’s concerned gaze, she smiled faintly and whispered, “Your Highness, let me try.”

Xiao Qiling gripped her hand tighter. “In the prince’s residence…”

Yu Nanqing understood her concern and playfully tugged at her sleeve. “I may not be able to outplay Your Highness, but that doesn’t mean I can’t outplay Kunningzi. Your Highness has never played against him, so how do you know if his reputation isn’t exaggerated?”

Xiao Qiling stared at her intently. “If you lose, word will spread, and the world will know you failed to solve this game.”

Just as after a kingdom falls, the people only remember the monarch who lost the realm, not the efforts made to save it from collapse.

But if she didn’t accept the challenge, how would this situation be resolved?

Either Xiao Qiling would have to suppress her deep-seated enmity with the Xiongnu and marry Gulanduo, or Muerle, the one who proposed this, would have to disappear.

Muerle was merely the second prince of the Xiongnu, not the favored first prince who held significant power. Even if something happened to him in Great Qi, with the Xiongnu chieftain gravely ill, the other princes might not be willing to wage war for Muerle.

Muerle could die anywhere outside the Great Qi palace, but not within it—that would be an outright provocation to the Xiongnu.

Now was not the time to provoke conflict with them.

Yu Nanqing and Xiao Qiling could see this, as could others. Princess Rongxi, the Grand Princess, poured herself a cup of wine, took a sip, and set it down, her gaze shifting to Emperor Wenjing. “The wine brought by the Second Prince is far stronger than anything this princess has tasted before. Fine wine suits brave heroes, and it’s perfect for tonight’s occasion. Brother, why not let everyone try it?”

Princess Rongxi always handled such occasions with grace. Though Emperor Wenjing was unsure of her intentions, he nodded in approval. “Granted.”

The palace maids immediately opened the jars and distributed the wine Muerle had offered to each table in the Golden Throne Hall, exchanging toasts and giving face to the Xiongnu.

Muerle’s tense expression eased slightly, and he raised his cup in a distant toast to Princess Rongxi.

“Tonight is my brother’s birthday banquet.” Princess Rongxi continued. “We can’t have everyone waiting for Princess Ning to solve the chess game, can we? Since the Second Prince is here to offer birthday wishes, he should follow the host’s lead. How about setting a time limit of two hours? If Princess Ning cannot solve the Linglong Chessboard within two hours, it will prove her reputation is undeserved and her skills lacking. Is that acceptable?”

Princess Rongxi’s words were a timely relief for Emperor Wenjing. If the banquet continued with music and dance, it wouldn’t be seen as a formal challenge to solve the chess game. Moreover, with a time limit, even if Yu Nanqing failed, the news spreading beyond the palace wouldn’t harm Great Qi’s national prestige.

Since ancient times, how many complex chess puzzles had ever been solved within two hours?

By using the wine to preserve the Xiongnu’s dignity, Princess Rongxi ensured that if Muerle persisted in humiliating Great Qi, the consequences would be more than he could bear. After weighing his options, Muerle decided to follow Princess Rongxi’s suggestion, settling for embarrassing Princess Ning publicly and letting the matter pass.

Muerle’s hawk-like eyes turned to Princess Rongxi, revealing a hint of ambition. “Very well, I’ll follow the Grand Princess’s suggestion and set a two-hour limit.”

Hearing Muerle relent, the court officials breathed a sigh of relief. They could witness the legendary Linglong Chessboard without damaging Great Qi’s prestige. Whatever the outcome, it would be Princess Ning’s burden to bear alone.

Muerle signaled for the legendary Linglong Chessboard to be brought forth. The dust-covered ancient jade gleamed once more, and through the translucent pieces, one could almost see Kunningzi’s lonely brilliance from years past.

The eunuchs took the chessboard from the Xiongnu attendants and carefully carried it toward Yu Nanqing. As they moved to place it on the table in front of her, one eunuch respectfully addressed her, “Princess…”

Before he could finish, Xiao Qiling interrupted, “Does the eunuch intend to move only half the table in front of the Princess, implying that this prince is too incompetent to even observe the game?”

Though she spoke with a smile, her eyes radiated an unmasked chill.

The eunuch carrying the chessboard immediately bowed lower, and the pieces on the board made a soft clinking sound as they shifted.

Xiao Qiling’s expression remained unchanged, her smile gentle. “Hurry and place the chessboard. If you delay the agreed two hours, can you bear the consequences?”

The eunuchs quickly moved the entire table aside and placed the Linglong Chessboard between Yu Nanqing and Xiao Qiling.

Gulanduo, who had been watching Prince Ning’s direction, straightened up as if to speak.

Muerle promptly stopped her, scolding in a low voice, “Don’t cause trouble.”

“But he…” Gulanduo clenched her fists.

With the chessboard placed between them, even if Prince Ning didn’t offer a single hint while solving the game, after two hours, he could easily shift the blame for failing to solve it onto both of them. This way, tarnishing Princess Ning’s reputation would also implicate Prince Ning.

How could she, a proud Xiongnu princess, request a marriage alliance with Prince Ning again?

“I told you before, he’s not suitable.” Muerle said coldly, his eyes sweeping over Gulanduo’s robe. His grip on her wrist was so tight it nearly crushed her. “Stop fooling around.”

Prince Ning’s devotion to his princess was evident. Even if Gulanduo married into the Ning residence, he likely wouldn’t be swayed to their cause.

Muerle was the most lenient of the Xiongnu princes and usually doted on Gulanduo. Even if she defied him publicly to choose Prince Ning, he would fulfill her wish. But he could not tolerate her marrying someone whose heart belonged entirely to another.

Gulanduo rarely saw this commanding side of Muerle. After a tense standoff, she relented, “Fine.”

Music filled the Golden Throne Hall once more as exquisite dishes were brought in, and dancers in colorful silk began their performance.

An incense burner was placed beside the chessboard to mark time. The first stick was lit, with fifteen more waiting—when they were all burned, two hours would have passed.

Yu Nanqing sat before the chessboard, her elegant robes and flowing hair swaying slightly in the breeze. The music and dancing paled in comparison to her presence. A curious young prince approached to observe the game, followed by bold generals, and eventually, even the typically reserved scholars couldn’t resist their curiosity and gathered around to watch the legendary Linglong Chessboard.

Amid their speculative whispers, Yu Nanqing remained composed, calmly studying each piece’s position.

In her previous life, when she visited the dilapidated temple, the chessboard had already been altered by the rebel leader, drastically different from its current state.

Yet, as it was Kunningzi’s creation, even with changes, the method to solve it remained fundamentally the same.

Solving a chess puzzle often hinged on a single moment of insight. Had she not spent that night playing against the rebel leader, Yu Nanqing would not have dared to accept this challenge.

The Linglong Chessboard was so named because the black and white pieces balanced each other perfectly, creating an unsolvable deadlock. No matter which side moved first, a piece placed might seem advantageous but would lead to a dead end in the next move.

Yu Nanqing had played this game before, yet it wasn’t quite the same. She initially tried to replicate the game from her past life, but after half an incense stick burned, she couldn’t deduce the moves the rebel leader had made before her arrival at the temple.

She could not rely on recreating the past game.

When the first incense stick burned out, waves of courtiers came and went, observing the game. Yu Nanqing finally picked up a piece, raised her hand, and, following her own strategic instincts, placed the first piece.

The onlookers’ gazes followed her delicate, jade-like hand to her face. From a distance, they hadn’t fully appreciated her appearance. Up close, her refined elegance outshone her luxurious attire and golden hairpins, like a figure from a painting.

Even Xiao Qiling paused, staring at Yu Nanqing for a long moment before glancing at the crowd. “Have the esteemed lords forgotten something?”

A general standing nearby asked, “What does Your Highness mean?”

Xiao Qiling, dressed in the regal attire of a prince, her hair bound in a majestic crown, had been the subject of many alarming rumors since her poisoning. Now, with courtiers buzzing around and disturbing the atmosphere, her expression grew frosty, her gaze sharp.

“Princess Rongxi has already stated that tonight’s focus is the emperor’s birthday banquet. Are you all defying imperial orders?”

The courtiers suddenly realized their oversight, glancing toward Emperor Wenjing, whose face was partially obscured by his ceremonial crown, making his expression unreadable.

But from the Noble Consort’s now-unsmiling face, they could sense the emperor’s mood.

At that moment, Xiao Qijun was the first to react. He raised his wine cup and stepped forward, followed by an eunuch carrying a box. In a loud voice, he said, “Your son wishes Father Emperor eternal health and boundless longevity. I present a jade peach blossom and a pagoda, wishing Father Emperor’s reign to be as enduring and vibrant as the jade peach blossom, and for the people of Great Qi to live in peace and prosperity under your protection, like the pagoda.”

The jade peach blossom, with black jade branches and red jade petals, was seamless and naturally formed, its elegant posture neither gaudy nor seductive. When candlelight touched the jade, the red petals shimmered as if dripping with dew. As the box was opened, the princesses below gazed in awe.

The pagoda was equally exquisite, carried in by four eunuchs under the scrutiny of the court, its craftsmanship leaving everyone in awe.

No emperor disliked flattery, even though serving the people was their duty. Xiao Qijun’s timely intervention earned him favor among the courtiers. As their distracted gazes shifted away, Yu Nanqing weighed her options and, at her own pace, placed the second and third pieces.

When the second incense stick was half-burned, Princess Rongxi led Gulanduo to meet the princes, introducing them one by one.

When it was Xiao Qimin’s turn, Gulanduo’s gaze fell on Yu Nanqing’s chessboard. Though not well-versed in chess, she understood basic strategies and began to suspect Yu Nanqing was stalling.

As Yu Nanqing picked up her fifth piece, Gulanduo scoffed, “If Princess Ning hasn’t studied chess, she should admit it instead of wasting time here.”

Yu Nanqing raised an eyebrow, looking up calmly. “Then, Princess, where should I place this piece?”

Gulanduo had studied the Linglong Chessboard. Though she couldn’t solve it, she knew some apparent weak points. The colorful gemstone ring on her finger dangled above the board, reflecting dazzling light as she pointed. “Here.”

Yu Nanqing, holding a white piece, considered it for a moment before shaking her head. “Placing it there might seem to capture the black piece and gain an advantage, but the black pieces’ encirclement remains, and they’d counterattack in the next move.”

Gulanduo pointed to another spot. “But the place you chose is a dead end.”

“It seems the Princess hasn’t tried that spot,” Yu Nanqing replied, placing the piece where she had originally intended.

Xiao Qimin, less skilled at chess—especially after being thoroughly defeated by Xiao Qiling at the Ning residence—thought Yu Nanqing shared his lack of skill. Clearing his throat, he said, “Sister-in-law, place the piece wherever you like. It’s just a casual game during Father Emperor’s banquet. If it’s not fun, come drink with us.”

Yu Nanqing turned her head, nodding politely. “Thank you, Your Highness, but I’ll keep playing for a bit.”

The serious chess match became a “game” in Xiao Qimin’s words. Courtiers passing by, under the pretense of offering birthday wishes, glanced at him in surprise, not expecting the martially inclined prince to have such cunning.

Gulanduo fell silent, watching Yu Nanqing place her pieces. She wanted to see if Yu Nanqing could truly carve a path out of this desperate situation, as she had done on the main street.

Yu Nanqing methodically removed captured black pieces, setting them aside, and took new black pieces from the container, placing them with precision.

As the third incense stick was lit, the black and white pieces intertwined, locked in a fierce struggle, gradually forming a new battlefield, as if two armies were clashing.

The onlookers’ expressions shifted from initial disdain to solemn attention. With Emperor Wenjing’s permission, the court’s most skilled chess players joined the spectators, observing the evolving game.

Yu Nanqing’s pace quickened, and the board’s layout began to resemble the one she had seen in her previous life, though it was still slightly different.

She paused again.

At this moment, she couldn’t help but marvel at the rebel leader’s strategic brilliance—both in their past life’s battles and in his mastery of this chessboard.

In her previous life, when Great Qi was crumbling, that rebel leader might have been destined to end its reign.

But in this life?

In her previous life, Yu Nanqing had cared for the people before her death, but that didn’t mean she was without personal desires. She turned to Xiao Qiling, meeting her unwavering gaze.

If the rebel leader was truly destined, she couldn’t persuade Xiao Qiling to let go, nor could she bear to see her die. Emotions swirled in her eyes, revealing a struggle.

Solving the chessboard was exhausting, and Xiao Qiling assumed she needed a break, reaching to offer her tea or snacks.

But when she saw the turmoil in her eyes, her expression darkened, though her tone remained gentle. “Tired?”

It was as if, with a nod from Yu Nanqing, Prince Ning might actually overturn the frustrating chessboard.

The chess-savvy courtiers nearby held their breath, one white-haired official exclaiming, “Your Highness, you mustn’t—”

Before he could finish, Yu Nanqing shook her head, glancing at the grapes on the nearby table. “Just a bit hungry.”

While other tables had been served dinner, Prince Ning’s table still held only afternoon tea snacks, leaving her famished.

The courtiers understood and quickly summoned a palace maid, fearing that if Princess Ning grew too hungry, Prince Ning’s rumored madness might lead him to overturn the board.

A maid knelt to serve, but another hand was faster. The maid looked up to see Prince Ning delicately peeling a grape, his movements practiced, as if he had done it countless times.

Once the peel was removed, Xiao Qiling held the plump fruit to Yu Nanqing’s lips. “Try it. Is it to your taste?”

Yu Nanqing opened her mouth, biting into the grape. As she chewed, she hit a seed and was about to swallow it when Xiao Qiling’s hand appeared at her lips again.

The surrounding gazes fixed on Prince Ning’s hand.

Yu Nanqing, with the seed in her mouth, couldn’t swallow or spit it out, looking at Xiao Qiling pleadingly.

Xiao Qiling remained unfazed, as if nothing was amiss. The longer Yu Nanqing hesitated, the longer she held her hand there, as if insisting she spit out the seed.

With no other choice, Yu Nanqing parted her lips and quickly spat out two seeds, then calmly turned back to the chessboard, her red ears betraying her embarrassment.

Xiao Qiling, noticing her discomfort, didn’t call attention to it and continued peeling grapes nonchalantly.

The courtiers watching were esteemed figures, many with grandchildren. They exchanged glances, propriety and decorum on the tip of their tongues, but they swallowed their words.

In public, this was simply… improper!

One courtier tugged at Elder Wei’s sleeve, hoping he, as Prince Ning’s former tutor, could say something reasonable.

But Elder Wei, known for his strict adherence to propriety, smiled and shook his head, cutting through the tension. “Since we’re here by His Majesty’s order to observe the chess game, let’s not disturb Princess Ning’s focus. Otherwise, some might accuse us of colluding with foreign powers.”

Colluding with what?

Foreign powers?

Wei Yunhan, Elder Wei’s grandson, who was by his side, stifled a laugh. His grandfather’s favoritism toward his disciple, Yu Nanqing, was sky-high.

The courtiers, chastened by Elder Wei’s words, fell silent. Interfering during the chess game, which involved the Xiongnu, could indeed be misconstrued as collusion.

Grateful for the reminder, they refocused on the chessboard, determined to avoid trouble.

As their attention returned, Yu Nanqing placed a black piece, and the board’s stalemate shifted dramatically, like a blade slicing through the heavens, breathing new life into the game.

The next moment, a white piece followed, aligning with several discarded white pieces to carve an unexpected path, miraculously breaking through and faintly encircling the black pieces.

Now, the black pieces were on the defensive.

“Is the Princess planning to let the white pieces win?” one elderly courtier, skilled in chess, asked curiously, seeing the game’s potential outcome despite the unresolved stalemate.

Yu Nanqing picked up another black piece, smiling gracefully. “The board’s fate is undecided. How can I predict the outcome?”

Piece after piece, as the tenth incense stick was lit, the game grew increasingly unpredictable, the black and white pieces locked in fierce combat. The crowd of onlookers grew, no longer watching for amusement but with genuine admiration.

In the Golden Throne Hall, aside from the dancers’ music, only the sound of Yu Nanqing’s steady piece placement echoed.

Though she played both sides, her moves reflected two distinct styles, astonishing the chess-savvy courtiers.

Gradually, her pace slowed, her pauses lengthening, but no one urged her or mocked her progress.

Gulanduo’s brows furrowed tighter. Exchanging glances with Muerle, they saw shared concern. Even if Yu Nanqing couldn’t fully solve the Linglong Chessboard, her skill surpassed all the chess masters they had consulted over the years.

Great Qi truly hid dragons and tigers.

Their exchanged glance was caught by Princess Rongxi, who, under the cover of her wide sleeves, patted Gulanduo’s arm, offering a reassuring look when Gulanduo glanced over.

Gulanduo was beginning to regret coming to Great Qi. If even a secluded princess was this formidable, how much harder would others be to handle?

Even if Princess Ning was an exception, didn’t that highlight Prince Ning’s own prowess? How could her plan to use Prince Ning to destabilize Great Qi succeed?

Princess Rongxi could guess Gulanduo’s thoughts. She had initially considered Xiao Qiling but deemed it too risky. Xiao Qijun, resembling Emperor Wenjing in temperament, was a better choice—his pride, suppressed by a superior elder brother, had burst forth after gaining power.

Princess Rongxi glanced outside at the night sky, then back, catching the eye of Si Zonghe, the commander of the imperial guards, who was chatting with a general. Their gazes met briefly, and Si Zonghe nodded slightly before Princess Rongxi calmly looked away.

On the chessboard, Yu Nanqing paused again. The game had reached its most critical point, where any move—black or white—seemed to lead to a dead end.

The onlookers frowned, and even Xiao Qiling stopped feeding Yu Nanqing grapes.

“This chess game is simply unsolvable. Even Kunningzi, who created it, couldn’t solve it,” one courtier remarked.

But the courtiers didn’t know that Yu Nanqing’s hesitation wasn’t just about the chessboard—it was also about the rebel leader from her past life.

She deliberated over the black pieces’ moves. The Linglong Chessboard was Kunningzi’s creation, designed to seek defeat. Knowing his own skill, why would he create a board entirely based on his own style?

The black and white pieces were locked in a stalemate. To break the game, two distinct styles might need to complement each other. Yu Nanqing had only played one night against the rebel leader, making it difficult to mimic his moves in such a short time, which explained her prolonged deliberation.

Another question: which side—black or white—should win?

Half an incense stick later, with less than half an hour remaining, Yu Nanqing raised her hand and placed a black piece, stubbornly attacking the breach created by the white pieces.

The white pieces followed, clinging tenaciously.

Should she follow the past life’s path and yield to the rebel leader, or, knowing fate, help Xiao Qiling fight for the throne?

The more Yu Nanqing thought about the future, the more chaotic the game became. The back-and-forth of black and white pieces consumed another incense stick, and the game seemed to stall.

Everyone assumed she couldn’t solve it, but Xiao Qiling’s gaze grew complex. As Yu Nanqing picked up a white piece, she touched her arm. “What’s wrong?”

Caught off guard, Yu Nanqing trembled, and the white piece fell onto the board, landing in a critical spot she had avoided.

To the onlookers, it seemed an accidental move by Xiao Qiling, unremarkable on the board’s surface, and they overlooked Yu Nanqing’s hesitation.

Only Yu Nanqing knew that this move transformed the board into one strikingly similar to the game she had seen in the temple in her past life.

She had played countless games with Xiao Qiling, so it wasn’t surprising she knew her style. But the rebel leader? How had he arranged a board she could counter?

Was it a coincidence?

If not, when had he begun watching her?

Was it when she topped the imperial exams in her past life, or when she rose in the court?

And in this life, was he already observing her, them, or even Xiao Qiling?

Her hand, hovering over the board, fell limply to its edge, trembling under her sleeve. Her chest heaved, as if she couldn’t breathe, and sweat beaded on her forehead.

Xiao Qiling, ever attentive, caught her immediately. “Summon the imperial physician!”

Though solving the chess game required only sitting, it was mentally taxing. Exhaustion was common in such matches, and the courtiers, assuming Yu Nanqing was overexerted, echoed, “Summon the physician, quickly!”

Yu Nanqing felt the trembling hand around her waist. Her scattered gaze refocused on Xiao Qiling’s face, seeing the near-uncontrollable regret in his eyes. Her heart clenched, as if waking from a nightmare, pulling her from her past life’s memories.

Patting Xiao Qiling’s arm, she whispered, “Your Highness… I’m fine. Loosen your grip.”

Her hold relaxed slightly.

Yu Nanqing sat up from her embrace, ignoring the emotions in her eyes, and addressed the courtiers. “Perhaps I was just hungry from skipping dinner. My apologies for the scene.”

The courtiers had seen her exhaustive efforts over the past hour and understood her dedication. If it were only about securing Prince Ning, she wouldn’t have gone to such lengths. His earlier defense and the grapes he peeled showed his care for her—she didn’t need to try so hard.

It must be for Great Qi’s honor against the Xiongnu. The courtiers’ gazes filled with respect, free of their earlier bias toward a mere consort. One even offered, “Princess Ning, why not eat first? I’ll request an extra incense stick’s time from His Majesty.”

“I’ll do the same.”

“And I…”

Yu Nanqing sat upright, declining their kindness. “I appreciate your concern, but once a game begins, it cannot be paused.”

She turned to Xiao Qiling, her eyes pleading.

Her gaze darkened, but after a moment, she lowered her eyes, yielding to her.

She reached to pick up the fallen white piece, but Yu Nanqing grabbed her hand.

Xiao Qiling looked at her, puzzled.

Yu Nanqing smiled lightly, her expression clear and resolute, her gaze toward her carrying deep meaning. “Your Highness, no need to retrieve it. A move made is final.”

A move made is final.

Months ago, Xiao Qiling had said these words to test her, and she had chosen to support her. Now, she returned those words, affirming her resolve.

Yielding to the rebel leader might ensure her a life of glory, but as that white piece fell, Yu Nanqing realized that wealth, honor, or even life itself weren’t her true desires.

In both her past and present lives, she sought only to follow her heart.

Xiao Qiling had endured so much with her burdened past. She couldn’t bear to persuade her to give up, nor could she abandon her. She had to enter the game herself.

Xiao Qiling’s hand was gently moved aside. Yu Nanqing said no more, placing pieces quickly. When hesitating over that white piece, she had already calculated the game’s progression multiple times. Each move was deliberate, the subsequent ones under her control.

On the board, the white pieces advanced methodically, reducing the black pieces’ numbers. Several courtiers exclaimed in admiration, “Brilliant, brilliant!”

With the final incense stick half-burned, the falling ash mingled with the previous fifteen sticks, the scent of incense and the heat of the flame pushing the game to its climax.

Yu Nanqing, her thoughts flowing freely, picked up a piece. Amid the crowd’s astonished and admiring gazes, she raised her lashes and placed the final white piece as the last ember of the incense died out.

The legendary Linglong Chessboard was solved, eliciting gasps from the crowd!

An eunuch rushed to the dragon throne, proclaiming, “Your Majesty, the chess game is solved! Congratulations, Your Majesty!”

“Princess Ning has solved the Linglong Chessboard!”

The foreign envoys were visibly shocked. Emperor Wenjing, overlooking that Yu Nanqing was from the Ning residence, exclaimed in joy, “Reward her!”

The courtiers knelt, shouting, “Long live the emperor!”

Yu Nanqing, supported by Xiao Qiling, approached the emperor to express her gratitude.

Muerle hadn’t anticipated this outcome. Compared to Gulanduo’s rejection by Prince Ning, his attempt to humiliate Princess Ning only to have it backfire was an even greater loss of face.

But having made the agreement, he had to present the Linglong Chessboard to Yu Nanqing as promised.

Muerle gritted his teeth, his reluctance evident, but he could only watch as it was handed over. As they passed, he heard a whisper: “The Linglong Chessboard was lost for years. Is this truly the game Kunningzi left?”

Muerle’s eyes lit up, but when he turned, he saw only a few palace maids, unable to discern who spoke.

He had heard of the factionalism in Great Qi’s court and didn’t mind being used. As he handed the chessboard to Yu Nanqing’s maid, he smiled, “Princess Ning’s skill tonight was truly impressive. If I ever find the true Linglong Chessboard, I’ll surely invite her to solve it.”

His words stirred the courtiers, who had been celebrating Great Qi’s restored honor. A hot-tempered official, disregarding diplomatic decorum, shouted, “What do you mean? This is Kunningzi’s Linglong Chessboard, the true game!”

Muerle shrugged, feigning innocence. “I did say it was Kunningzi’s chessboard, but when I acquired it, the pieces might not have been in their original positions. I brought it thousands of miles to Great Qi—who knows if they shifted during the journey?”

Those who had seen the Linglong Chessboard recognized its intricacy. Muerle had used it to challenge Yu Nanqing, implying it was unsolvable by their experts. But with Kunningzi long gone and Muerle as the presenter, the courtiers could argue no further.

“The chess game was meant to celebrate my brother’s birthday.” Princess Rongxi interjected. “Wasn’t the Second Prince’s intent to gift the chessboard to Great Qi? The goal has been achieved, so let’s not argue further.”

Some courtiers, unwilling to let it go, were tugged back by colleagues, who gestured toward Emperor Wenjing.

The emperor, who had just bestowed rewards, now looked indifferent, his gaze fixed on the dancers in the hall, unconcerned with the dispute.

Astute courtiers realized that Emperor Wenjing’s rewards were for Yu Nanqing preserving Great Qi’s dignity, but those were the extent of his favor to the Ning residence. He had no intention of letting them gain further prominence.

No wonder Princess Rongxi sided with Muerle—it preserved the Xiongnu’s dignity while aligning with the emperor’s wishes.

Those who glimpsed the emperor’s intentions felt a chill but were powerless, lowering their eyes to their wine cups, not daring to show their thoughts even to those nearby.

Xiao Qiling and Yu Nanqing, back at their seats, seemed accustomed to this, calmly accepting the outcome. Their table was now laden with exquisite dishes.

Xiao Qiling dismissed the serving maids, personally placing food on Yu Nanqing’s plate—first light dishes, then, seeing her eat, some richer ones.

Their sleeves intertwined as they sat close. Though Yu Nanqing’s complexion had improved, Xiao Qiling asked, “Should we call a physician to check your pulse?”

Swallowing a mouthful of fish, Yu Nanqing shook her head, her tone light and lazy, like a flickering candle flame. “No need.”

“I’m just a bit tired. If Your Highness pities me, carry me back later.”

Xiao Qiling’s heart pounded at her words. Meeting her teasing gaze, she indulged her. “Alright, when the banquet ends, your prince will carry you back.”

Yu Nanqing, with her free hand, lightly pinched Xiao Qiling’s, tilting her head with a sly, fox-like glint in her eyes. “Your Highness hasn’t praised my game yet.”

Xiao Qiling frowned, reluctant to discuss it now. “Don’t do this again.”

As a chess expert, she knew how much effort Yu Nanqing had exerted, especially since she had nearly fainted from exhaustion.

Yu Nanqing laughed, hooking her finger around Xiao Qiling’s. “I’ve already played. Can’t Your Highness say something nice?”

Xiao Qiling’s gaze shifted to the Xiongnu envoys, a fleeting murderous intent in her eyes. “Muerle didn’t dare offend the emperor, so he targeted you. I’ve already given him enough face by not settling the score.”

Yu Nanqing coughed, staring at Xiao Qiling in rare wonder, unable to reconcile the gentle sister who dressed in red at the Ning residence with the menacing Prince Ning now.

Softening her voice, she said, “Your Highness, restrain yourself.”

“Don’t use that tone with me.” Xiao Qiling replied, serving her a bowl of soup.

Emboldened by Xiao Qiling’s need to maintain her princely demeanor, Yu Nanqing mimicked her flirtatious manner from the residence, lazily resting her chin on Xiao Qiling’s shoulder, blinking innocently. “Is Your Highness angry? Will you punish me in public?”

Xiao Qiling’s frown deepened. “Stop teasing.”

Yu Nanqing stifled a laugh, mindful of the banquet, and obediently sipped her soup.

The mandarin duck jade chicken soup, served by Prince Ning, was delicious. Yu Nanqing drank half a bowl and was about to offer some to Xiao Qiling when she saw maids carrying ornate boxes toward Emperor Wenjing—the Noble Consort presenting her birthday gift.

Yu Nanqing, noticing Xiao Qiling hadn’t offered a gift, placed a deboned piece of fish in his bowl, curious. “Doesn’t Your Highness need to present a gift to His Majesty?”

Xiao Qiling’s eyes flickered with amusement. “Of course, I’ve sent one.”

Not all gifts needed to be presented in person, but at such banquets, princes typically did so to earn the emperor’s praise before the court.

Yu Nanqing was intrigued. “The steward hasn’t taken anything from the treasury recently.”

Xiao Qiling chuckled softly, her voice dropping to its natural, gentle tone. “So, Qingqing has been managing the residence’s affairs?”

Yu Nanqing remained composed. “Just keeping an eye out.”

Xiao Qiling didn’t press, revealing her gift. “Remember the Firefly Herb from the West Mountain hunting grounds?”

Yu Nanqing vaguely recalled it—a rare plant with glowing buds. But she tired of things quickly and had forgotten it after returning from West Mountain.

If Xiao Qiling hadn’t mentioned it, she wouldn’t have remembered it even if it withered in a corner of the residence.

“You sent a Firefly Herb?” Yu Nanqing nearly raised her voice.

“The Firefly Herb enhances mental clarity and prolongs life. I couldn’t bear to use it myself, so I offered it. What’s wrong with that?”

Yu Nanqing didn’t bother arguing. At least it wasn’t as extravagant as Prince Chen’s gift, saving her some silver.

After the Noble Consort, it was Concubine Shu’s turn.

Concubine Shu presented not only her gift but also mentioned General Zhenyuan, who couldn’t return to the capital. “I thought my brother and I could reunite for Your Majesty’s birthday, but he said the occasion allows no errors, and he must guard the borders. He entrusted me to offer his congratulations and begs Your Majesty’s forgiveness for not returning in time.”

Emperor Wenjing personally descended to help Concubine Shu up. “I have no doubt of General Zhenyuan’s loyalty. Rise, my dear.”

Concubine Shu’s favor often tied to General Zhenyuan. The Noble Consort could only watch as Emperor Wenjing seated Concubine Shu beside him, forcing a smile. “What is Concubine Shu saying? Great Qi’s strength is no longer what it was. With envoys from neighboring countries here to pay respects, General Zhenyuan worries too much.”

She glanced at the foreign envoys, lingering on the Xiongnu.

Concubine Shu, aware of the Noble Consort’s intentions, knew Emperor Wenjing was considering reducing military power. If she didn’t reaffirm loyalty now, it could affect Princes Xuan and Chen’s rivalry.

Adjusting her jade headdress, Concubine Shu smiled. “By the Noble Consort’s logic, with Great Qi’s strength and prosperous people, we don’t need so many scholars. Elder Li has served tirelessly, his hair now gray. Why not let him retire early?”

The Noble Consort was furious, nearly slapping Concubine Shu if not for the emperor’s presence.

“The weather’s getting warmer, yet why are my sisters-in-law so heated?” Princess Rongxi laughed, diffusing the tension.

She rose gracefully, her maids carrying gifts for Emperor Wenjing. “General Zhenyuan and Elder Li are pillars of Great Qi. Don’t make things difficult for Brother.”

Distracted by her, Emperor Wenjing laughed. “You’re always the most eager each year, yet you’ve waited until now. Let me see your gift. If it’s subpar, I’ll hold you accountable.”

Princess Rongxi feigned shock, stepping back. “Then I dare not present it. Brother has seen the finest things—how could he care for my humble offering?”

Emperor Wenjing laughed, pointing at her. “You! Fine, whatever you offer, I’ll pardon you.”

The courtiers envied Princess Rongxi’s favor, surpassing even the princes.

Her gifts were conventional Buddhist rarities, symbolizing blessings. As Emperor Wenjing prepared to say “Reward,” Princess Rongxi shifted the topic to Xiao Qiling.

“If I recall, Prince Ning hasn’t offered his birthday wishes tonight.”

Xiao Qiling’s expression was cool, as if anticipating this. “Thank you, Aunt, for your concern. My gift has already been stored in the treasury.”

Princess Rongxi raised her voice playfully. “With Princess Ning’s chess victory pleasing Brother, your gift can’t compare. But I always aim to be first. Since I’ve waited this long, let Brother judge whose gift is best.”

Emperor Wenjing’s interest was piqued. “You have another gift?”

“Yes, set for the auspicious hour of 7:30 p.m., which is nearly here.”

As she spoke, a warm night breeze swept through, and the starry sky lit up with countless lanterns. A maid near the door gasped.

As more exclamations followed, Emperor Wenjing descended from his throne, followed by the courtiers. They saw lanterns rising into the night, illuminating the sky in a breathtaking display.

Princess Rongxi explained, “These are prayer lanterns from the capital’s people, made for Brother’s birthday, each inscribed with their wishes for your long life and Great Qi’s eternal prosperity.”

Emperor Wenjing exclaimed “Good” three times. Nothing pleased him more than the people’s spontaneous prayers. His throne’s legitimacy had always been questioned, as Emperor Wuxuan, the former crown prince, was beloved. These lanterns fulfilled a long-held wish.

As he returned to the hall to reward Princess Rongxi, her elegant attire swayed with her movements. The lanterns weren’t just for the emperor’s wish but also hers, tied to the West Garden affair’s resolution tonight.

Her eyes gleamed with genuine joy. “Brother, have I given your favorite gift tonight?”

“Still competing like a child?” Emperor Wenjing teased, glancing at Xiao Qiling.

By protocol, Princess Ning’s chess victory honored Great Qi, but Princess Rongxi’s lanterns brought him personal joy.

With the court watching, he had to be cautious not to disappoint either side. Rewarding one meant rewarding both, with gifts surpassing tonight’s others. Princess Rongxi’s son could receive a title, but what about Prince Ning?

Emperor Wenjing’s eyes darkened, weighing his options.

The lanterns continued to rise, but the hall’s atmosphere cooled. The courtiers exchanged glances, sensing something amiss.

Then, a soft clink echoed—a cup placed on a table.

The sound was faint but startling.

Following the sound, the courtiers saw Prince Ning, who hadn’t joined them outside, calmly sip tea and set down his cup, the porcelain’s faint sound ringing clearly.

Xiao Qiling’s actions were impeccable, her etiquette flawless, yet an invisible pressure drew all eyes to her.

Princess Rongxi reacted strongly, perhaps aware that Xiao Qiling knew of the West Garden affair, and with the lanterns falling to destroy evidence, she was hyper-aware of Xiao Qiling’s every move.

Her nails dug into her handkerchief as she instinctively sought Si Zonghe.

Xiao Qiling glanced coldly at the night sky. “Aren’t you all watching the lanterns? Why stare at me?”

She paused, and as the courtiers hesitated, she casually adjusted her sleeve. Two hurried footsteps approached from outside.

“Your Majesty, a fire!”

Two eunuchs stumbled in, and a blaze lit up the southeast corner of the sky.

“Why a fire? Where are the imperial guards?”

“Where’s the fire? The southeast corner—isn’t that the foreign envoys’ quarters?”

At this, the previously uninvolved envoys stood to investigate. Great Qi guards whispered to them, leading them outside.

The courtiers assumed it was Emperor Wenjing’s arrangement, and he thought it was a prince or Princess Rongxi’s doing. In such a moment, the envoys’ presence was indeed inconvenient, and no one minded their departure.

All eyes were on the rising smoke and flames illuminating the southeast sky.

The first group of guards returned, rushing up the steps.

Princess Rongxi, sensing something wrong upon hearing of the southeast fire, thought Si Zonghe wouldn’t confuse directions. He must have set a nearby courtyard ablaze to divert attention from the West Garden’s destruction.

Before she could relax, a sharp tap on a table sounded behind her.

Turning, she met Xiao Qiling’s gaze, her heart tightening as a guard reported:

“Your Majesty, the fire is at the Princess’s residence—Princess Rongxi’s mansion!”