Hi, I’m choosing this novel as my next read. Cannot ignore Meng Ziyi & Li Yunrui second big collaboration because they are my favorite in Blossom.

Novel title in Chinese is 尚公主 (shàng gōng zhǔ) means "marrying an imperial princess". In traditional Chinese history and phrasing, a commoner or aristocrat who married an Emperor's daughter was not said simply qǔ (娶) – to take a wife but use formal dynastic term shàng (尚) – meaning to honor, esteem, or be joined in imperial marriage to a superior. While gōng zhǔ (公主) means Princess.

English title for this one is “Tigers Sniff the Rose”. The origin, first come from English poet Siegfried Sassoon in first world war era.  The meaning: humanity should restrain its warlike desire, as fierce as a tiger; to savor the sweet fragrance of peace, as delicate as a rose. Second it also come from Chinese phrase by Yu Guangzhong, Xīn yǒu měnghǔ, xì xiù qiángwēi (心有猛虎，细嗅蔷薇) within the heart, a fierce tiger; yet gently sniffing the rose. The meaning: being strong and courageous like a tiger, yet gentle enough to admirer a rose’s delicate scent – emphasizing harmony between strength and subtlety.

Note: I gather this information from several website, including AI, it might be not 100% correct

This novel is not too long, 168 chapters + 8 parallel story. It has potential for drama to adapt it without cut here and there, hopefully that would happen. As my previous read, I love to write summary for my re-read, especially when the drama air. So, here it is, you may enjoy my post below if you take interest. This will be a long summary but still shorter than actual 168 chapters. English is not my first language, pardon me with bad grammar, etc. Beware Spoilers!

All credits to amazing author: Yi Ren Kui Kui

I read from this link: https://mydramanovel.com/tigers-sniff-the-rose/

Raw link : https://www.kanunu8.com/book5/shgongzhu/

First, let me start with character list. Though only character list, but you may find spoiler here

> Great Wei

Imperial Family

-          Emperor : Great Wei Emperor

-          Empress Li Nuan : Great Wei Empress, FL birth mother

-          2nd Prince : Emperor’s son with Empress, previous Crown Prince

-          6th Princess, Princess Danyang, Mu Wanyao (MWY) : Emperor’s daughter with Empress (FL)

-          1st Prince Mu Lang : Emperor’s eldest son from humble birth mother, current Crown Prince

-          Noble Consort Jiang : Prince Qin and Princess Yuyang birth mother

-          3rd Prince, Prince Qin : Emperor’s son with Noble Consort Jiang

-          4th Princess, Princess Yuyang : Emperor’s son with Noble Consort Jiang

-          Chen Subai : Princess Yuyang’s husband. Metropolitan Governor

-          Noble Consort Xian : Prince Jin birth mother

-          5th Prince, Prince Jin : Emperor’s son with Noble Consort Xian

-          Princess Luling : Emperor’s blood sister

-          Chunhua (CH) : MWY’s personal maid

-          Xiarong : MWY’s personal maid  (after Chunhua)

-          Qiusi : MWY’s personal maid (after Xiarong)

-          Fang Tong : MWY’s personal guard

Yan Family

-          Yan Zimi : Yan family head

-          Yan_____ : Yan family eldest son

-          Yan Shisheng, later Yan Shang (YS) : Yan family 2nd son, courtesy name Suchen (ML)

-          Yan Musheng (YMS) : Yan family third son

-          Yan Xiaozhou (YXZ) : Yan family little sister

-          Yunshu : YS’s right hand man after he has his own residence

Li Family of Jinling

-          Li Zhi (LZ) : MWY’s natal uncle, Empress’ brother. Nanhai County Magistrate

-          Li Gong : MWY’s grandfather

Wei Family of Luoyang

-          Wei Shu (WS) : 7th young master Wei, courtesy name Juyuan.

-          Wei Kai (WK) : Eldest young master Wei. Assistant Director of Imperial Secretariat

Other

-          Liu Wenji (LWJ) : YS’s hometown friend

-          Chun Niang : low courtesan saved by LWJ, free by YS and be famous leading courtesan

-          Han Shuxing (HSX) : MWY’s subordinate who born Wuman

-          Yang Si (YSi) : 3rd young master Yang, courtesy name Chengzhi

-          Zhao Lingfei (ZLF) : 5th young miss Zhao, Yang Si’s cousin

-          Zhao Yu: ZLF’s father, Director of the Imperial Academy

-          Feng Xiangyu : YS’s friend

-          Prime Minister Zhang (PM Zhang)

-          Prime Minister Liu (PM Liu): YS’s teacher

-          Liu Ruozhu (LRZ) : Prime Minister Liu beloved granddaughther

-          Lin Dao (LD) : Hanlin Academy scholar, courtesy name Yanzi

-          Pei Qing (PQ) : a humble scholar who will married to MWY

-          Miao Niang (MN) : an ordinary lady who will be married to YS

> Southern Barbarians

-          Wuman King

-          Meng  Zaishi (MZS) : eldest son of previous Wuman King

-          King Ale : Southern Barbarian King after 5 tribes united

-          Luo Xiu : Southern Barbarians envoy who has Great Wei lineage but heart for SB

Next will be the summary. I divided to parts by myself. Just for make it easier to track the real source

Part 3 : Chang’an Capital. New Wuman King Came as Foreign Envoy

• By the end of the year, it is Emperor birthday. Great Wei holds ceremonial events. Southern Barbarian was one of the guests and MZS is one of the envoys. What he wants from this visit is let the marriage alliance princess return, he wants MWY

• MWY indeed has some past with MZS. With her beauty she used MZS to get some power to pave her way out from Wuman, or at least they used each other. When Wuman King died and Wuman in chaos, MWY used his people to run, she schemed against MZS, left him behind almost dead in chaos. But MZS survived and now meet again in Great Wei he wants MWY, for revenge, for beauty, for the past that hasn’t finish

- Chapter 76, Year End Banquet -

• At year end banquet, everything run well until MZS bow in front of Emperor said that marriage alliance should continue and based on Wuman tradition, he as new King of Wuman should inherit previous king’s wives. Officials divided between agree and not agree. Then MWY said “Want to marry me? Then come court me, come win my heart. Does the King of Wuman dare?”

• While at Princess Residence, YS and WS prepare lantern and ornament to welcome MWY. WS suddenly ask whether YS like MWY. YS startled but then YS admit he like MWY. WS too said that he like MWY, however he knew though MWY always smile and help him but MWY like him not as like between man and woman. And if it is YS, WS feel he could accept it, because only someone like YS can truly unlock MWY’s heart knots, and make her live more happily

• After banquet, MZS stop MWY and from their argument, we get a glimpse of how ugly the past was “For two to three years in Wuman, your father king used me as a prostitute, used me to reward others. You used my body; I gave you intelligence – isn’t that enough? First, it was your father king, then your brother after your brother was killed by you, it was you… I’m just that unchanging Wuman queen consort, am I not allowed to resist, not allowed to want to leave? I want to break free from you all, am I wrong for that?”

• “The shame of staying in Wuman, the abandoned past. Father Emperor’s coldness, Mother Empress’s power plays, and the calculations between brothers. What had she done wrong, to end up with such a life? Did she have some unforgivable sin, to live so bitterly?”

• That night, she gallops with her horse, very fast until arrived at her residence alley, seeing lantern and a gentleman. Her mind blank, only after YS scream the rein, she back to her senses. However, she still stumbles on the snow. YS worriedly digging through the snow, pulling her. Before she could say any, he worriedly embraces her tight.

• Entering her mansion, she saw WS & her maids busy hanging banners, her heart gradually warmed. “What did I do right, to meet such a person, to have such a good life?”

• Later we got know YS always refuse drink wine and change it with tea. Even from kissing MWY who just drink, he would get drunk. The history is when he was a child, he accidentally falls to wine vat, nearly drowned in wine, since then he couldn’t touch alcohol at all

• YS finally know what happened that night at banquet. YS discuss with his teacher PM Liu about politics between Emperor, Empress and Li family, noble houses, and finally how Wei military is weak thus choose alliance than war over small country like Wuman, sacrificing MWY.

• From what YS investigate about Great Wei military in this short time, PM Liu continuously amazed by YS. “Because he was intelligent and thoughtful, he could piece together the scattered puzzle pieces into a complete truth; because he was humble and gentle, he would seek guidance from the wise, and could lower himself to chat with illiterate commoners and foreigners in the barbarian markets; because his interpersonal relationships were good, he easily had friends in all six ministries, and whenever he needed help from any ministry, friends would open doors for him. Such a person, only nineteen years old.”

• YS got jealous when he saw MWY rode horse with MZS at market. They argue but made up quick. Though YS knew she was not fully open up to him. “She was a rose with thorns, always extending her thorns, warily watching everyone, fearing someone would come close to hurt her. She tried hard to spread her branches and leaves, welcoming Yan Shang into her world. But after all, he was an outsider, and couldn’t expect her to completely abandon her thorns from the start and embrace him with complete trust.”

• Next, MWY invite MZS and other envoys to hunting. She planned to kill MZS. However, MZS had been prepared so MWY plan failed. MZS kidnap her, throw her to icy shallow river, hurt her. YS and Ysi come in time, save her. Ysi combat with MZS and YS shot arrow. They almost kill him before military commander under Prince Qin came. Prince Qin was at the same side with MZS and want MWY back to Wuman

• That night, for the first time after MWY get out from Wuman, she cries, cries alone, quietly, in dark room. Fortunately, YS came and embrace her

• Though Crown Prince was in MWY side but he still asks YS to apologize to MZS. MZS agrees to let go this matter and also won’t ask marriage alliance anymore with condition YS must resign from official and never marry MWY

• YS, with his diplomatic way knew, MZS didn’t want war. So, he said, let’s war. Great Wei Princess wants to kill you and you humiliate Great Wei’s Princess dignity. Since no agreement, just war. YS also knew MZS didn’t love MWY that much. So, MZS agree with other condition to help him unite Southern Barbarian rather than marriage alliance

- Chapter 89, “Because She Cannot Bear Children” -

• Not long Emperor invite MZS, questioning him why give up marriage alliance. MZS didn’t want to giving YS to Emperor because YS now is his negotiator. MZS choose to told Emperor a shocking truth. The reason is because she cannot bear children. This makes Emperor fell gravely ill

• Emperor pov : He should could finally rest easy, no longer worried that if MWY bore children, those children—carrying both Li family and imperial blood—might be used by the Li clan to stir up trouble. The Li + imperial bloodline finally ends. MWY need not return to Wuman, nor could she help the Li family rise again. But at the same time Emperor’s heart hurts for his beloved daughter

- Chapter 90, Military Exercises and Scholarly Competition” -

• Next is military exercises and scholarly competition activity between great Wei and foreign countries envoys

• In short, Great Wei win big in scholarly competition and lost beautifully in military exercise. Great Wei military supposed to be weak but with YS as commander, Ysi high martial arts ability, WS who guard rear plus ZLF, they lost with dignity and praise.

• And somehow this military exercise made a sparkle between quiet WS and chatty ZLF

- Chapter 94, Being Intimate & Making Love -

• At night after banquet MWY invite YS to her residence, to her bedchamber. That night, MWY very alluring, wearing only a thin inner dress. They kiss and embrace intimately

• YS pov : “She was always looking down on him, despising him, hitting and scolding him. Yet every time he held her, he could feel how small and fragile she truly was. Though she could jump high, the control often lay in his hands. She was so delicate. This feeling made YS uncomfortable because while he could easily overpower her, that very fact meant he must not. He couldn’t use his physical strength to subdue her or force her. She was a delicate, lovable girl who should never be bullied.”

• MWY pov : “Meeting his gaze, her heart suddenly stilled, and the previous playfulness seemed to retreat somewhat. She had always loved this gentleness of his, the way he looked at her with such eyes, kissing her so softly and carefully… it all made her heart flutter.”

• YS pov : “He had no yearning for love between men and women, his only thoughts about marriage and couples were about continuing the family line. His mind was always thinking about what more he could do for the country and countless common people. MWY broke through his narrow understanding. She made him realize that a beautiful woman full of vitality, blooming in his arms, was so brilliantly dazzling. She walked into his world. She lit up his dull, bland world like an entire spring, making his world collapse in surrender, welcoming her with open arms, welcoming this proud and beautiful Princess Her Highness.”

• MWY pov : “She loved this version of YS, both controlled and lost in passion. Both are unlike him, yet entirely him.”

• Before the dawn, YS wake up and clean everything. He wants to slip back to his residence across. While getting dress, they saw his jade pendant. It was YS family’s hereditary token of betrothal. YS’s father give it to YS for him give it to the lady he liked and wished to get engaged.

• Hearing that – marriage, MWY’s body stiffened, she got some terror. YS saw it and gently said he’ll leave for now, keep the pendant stay in his belt. MWY ask him to wait for her and YS agree

• Not long, YS awkwardly back to bring medicine to MWY. Her maid made it and ask YS to give it to MWY, a contraceptive medicine. MWY drink it in one gulp

• After YS left, MWY throw it all. MWY lay on the edge of the bed, breathing heavily, closing her eyes in dejection. “How could someone like her marry, how could she consider marriage? She could give YS nothing… would only drag him down. Yet knowing she would drag him down, she was still so willful, unwilling to let go.”

• Next, Ysi go to see Crown Prince. He asks to be sent to frontier; his ambition is at battlefield. Chang’an is drunk on luxury and not suitable for him. Before he wants to protect MWY but now he said “She has someone more suitable than me to protect her, I have indeed set my mind at ease, indeed can leave single-mindedly without worrying about her being bullied by you all. YS is far better at this than me and is better liked by MWY. In this world, things should be done by those who are good at them! Those who aren’t good at something should go find what they’re good at, don’t force each other!” How I wish drama keep Ysi like this, don’t make him has unrequited love of 2nd ML

• After that, all foreign envoy back to their country. They stepped out Great Wei after 3 months being guests

• YS got promotion from what he did with envoys. Now, he become Administrative Officer of the Ministry of Revenue. From lower 8th rank to upper 7th rank

• It’s time for YSi leave capital to frontier. He went to temple together with MWY to bid farewell. They rode horse so carefree and at ease while chatting happily. YSi advise MWY to be good to YS and agree to marry him. MWY said that her situation not that easy and finally YSi said she should tell YS whatever it is, speaking up and not wasting YS’s time. Then at city gate with YSi’s father came, they bid farewell

• MWY back to temple and found YS look for her. There is a child fell, lost his parents and has a slight fever. YS gently carry him and sent him to infirmary

Part 4 : Chang’an. Her Tragic Past. Short break up

- Chapter 100, The Sad Truth of Her Secret -

• That time, MWY think about what YSi said to her, think about how YS very tentative to the child, about her suffering in Wuman and about YS’s family back at Lingnan. She suddenly said “I can’t bear you children.”

• YS blanked and MWY told YS not to answer her immediately, to think about it carefully

• While at Palace, Crown Prince ask Emperor for his idea to let MWY marry YS. After YSi left, Crown Prince couldn’t let Li family wish for MWY marry WS come true.

• Alone in His bedchamber, Emperor pov : it didn’t matter, since He knew MWY couldn’t bear children then all good. As long as MWY liked YS, even if He had to use force, He would secure YS for MWY. But YS must not betray MWY, so He would ensure YS couldn’t have children either… couldn’t have other children threatening MWY’s position

• For many days after, they didn’t meet. YS’s heart ached for MWY and wondering if her suffering was caused by Wuman then her pain must be run far deeper than what YS had thought. On the other hand, YS also burden about thought of his family, of the three unfilial acts, having no heir is the greatest. “For the first time, he felt doubt about this relationship, felt fear, felt hesitation. Even if he could bear it, he still had to face his family disappointment. This life-long price was too great.”

• Their next meeting is at palace. MWY meet Emperor, Crown Prince come and bring YS to talk about courts matter. Later, Crown Prince casually matched them and Emperor play along said He wanted match them from long time ago. This time, MWY still refused it and run

• YS chase her to Princess Residence and they have a big big argument. But at least they said it all bare. The unspoken question, hesitation, perspective. But again, her past is too dark, her wall is too high and at the end she said “Let’s separate”. Then, they did break up.

• Weeks after, YS accidentally got badly burned in his office. MWY rush to his residence, cries a river while he unconscious. She orders imperial physician came and care him herself night after night. Her maids before had only thought MWY liked YS, only now they realized just how much MWY loved him. However, after YS wake up, she back to her residence and never see him again. She left Chang’an to Jinling secretly

• YS look for Chunhua to ask about MWY’s past

  • MWY’s coming of age ceremony at 15 was held during her journey to Wuman. They knew Wuman were primitive and barbaric, but MWY taught she will teach culture there

  • It turns out Wuman king was a middle-aged man who disliked MWY from the start

  • MWY’s most capable maid that time was Nonghua and she was the first one die in Wuman

  • Wuman women used to be shared possessions, only need to pleased men, but MWY refused that and held herself above them. Wuman king blamed MWY for not being able to break free from Great Wei constraints propriety

  • It was MZS who rescue MWY whenever she was about to breakdown

  • But still MWY forced to move between different men as people around her died one by one

  • Then MWY told Chunhua she was pregnant and she couldn’t keep the child. She chose a path of no return, tried every possible way, nearly died

  • It was MZS who sought divine herbs to bring her back. The child died, a bloody stillborn who MWY never even looked once and they buried it secretly

  • MWY didn’t shed a single tear. Since then, MWY smiles charmingly at men, become willful and unrestrained

  • CH said she never knew what was MWY thinking all that time and MWY never confide with them. CH explain it while crying a river and ask YS even if he resent MWY please don’t leave her for because she unable to bear children, please find any other reason

  • Hearing all that, YS immediately take his leave. YS hunched over on his horse, ride fast in rain. He hurt, his heart torn apart and his whole-body trembling with grief. He rushes to Princess residence only to know MWY already leave Chang’an. Then he mounts his horse again rush out Chang’an

- Chapter 105, Reconcile -

• He met her at relay post. YS said let’s reconcile and it doesn’t matter for him if they don’t have children in future. He thought it through in this month and his answer not rush and not a pity. He knew the consequence, think how to solve it and even plan about their future

• That night they reconcile and got intimate. Next day, though reluctant but MWY had to go to Jinling while YS back to capital

Part 5 : Shu Dominos Tragedy. Separation

• Next, because of politics, disaster, etc. WS left Chang’an as an envoy to various countries. YS left Chang’an for disaster relief in Shu. A month later, MWY returned from Jinling and couldn’t meet YS

• While in capital LWJ succeed controlling military power, that previously control in Prince Qin hands. LWJ position as eunuch arise and Emperor use him to balance Prince Qin power

• Meanwhile YS’s work in Shu is extremely well. This kind smooth brings eerie feeling. True, when YS investigate further about the background of grain issue; not only some people not clean but the whole system corrupt, all noble & officials involved in

• In capital Crown Prince got tip and asks MWY to soon told YS to return to capital. However, officials in Yizhou (Shu) had gathered and decide to hire wandering warriors and bandits to finish YS

• On his way to Yizhou Governor, bandits stop YS. Bandit’s second chief turns out to be Han Shuxing (MWY’s ex subordinate born in Wuman and later YS set him free). There was misunderstanding. First, they were informed about high official (YS) who want to eliminate them so they decide to strike YS. Second, they become bandits because forced by circumstances

• 2 days later, Governor of Yizhou anxious seeing not only YS still alive but he came with bandits

• In short after some negotiation, they agreed to pushed all crimes to Yizhou Governor. Court will remove Governor’s position to be punish. At the same time, letter from Chang’an arrived said MWY gravely ill and new officials sent to replace YS. YS hurried back to capital

• 10 days later heavy rains fell, ending the drought. 5 days later, real mountain bandits came down slaughtering commoners including HSX bandits’ group.

• Arrived in Chang’an, YS rush to Princess residence but MWY wasn’t there. Then he realizes, perhaps MWY had never been ill at all. It was just to trick him into returning

• YS brain was chaos. Did MWY involved in this case? Or she protecting them? Those word from MWY to ZLF that he heard; all is fake? Should he continue investigating? How deeply was she involved? Did she know this was wrong? Was the Princess MWY who had recited “The Great Rat” with him in Lingnan just his imagination, or had she wandered far away, abandoning who she was back then?

• Since YS return, MWY constantly following Emperor and they hadn’t met. Only after Emperor summoning YS, finally they met.

• Despite their longing for each other, after some small physical contact, they argue. They love and care each other deeply but stand at different ground. MWY stand on higher side with not so clean subordinate she couldn’t cut off, with power she had to fight for; while YS stand firmly with commoners

• Next, Governor of Yizhou case solved quick. He didn’t deny the fault and got exile. However not long, he been killed. It was HSX to avenge commoners’ life. HSX also almost kill YS. That time YS just know about those lost lives in Shu.

• With that YS not hesitate anymore to fight against high corrupt officials. Before personal feelings cloud him. He thinks for MWY, those officials are Crown Prince and MWY subordinate. Now he determined “Call it breaking my word, call it letting her down. But I have no regrets!”

• In short, Vice Ministry Revenue – MWY most capable supporter decide to killed himself rather than his wrongdoing exposed by YS. With no person to be interrogate and no evidence, YS should have lost.

• But then YS said he want reopen Shu case and confess about his memorials pointing Governor of Yizhou alone was at fault. He makes himself as evidence and revealing that in fact all system is corrupt. By doing this, YS make himself being first get into prison, being interrogate and tortured. After all, write false memorial is a great crime.

• Crown Prince said to MWY that Ministry of Revenue is their power base, they cannot let it ruin further. He cannot let YS alive, which MWY couldn’t said disagree

• Chaos happened on court. While to prove Ministry Revenue corruption need time, YS case is easier to be proven and officials hoped his crime would warrant immediate execution

• MWY came to dark prison, seeing YS haggard appearance after tortured, questioning him why won’t YS just bow his head though she knows he never will. And YS said “I’m the one who’s not good. I’m the one without the ability to protect you, I’m the one naive about keeping a low profile, I’m the one who has to oppose everyone… But I have no choice. I can’t get past my own conscience; I can’t do it. I can’t know that too many people have died, yet pretend not to know, only build up my own power, only endure. There’s no way to endure… this kind of thing, no matter how many years pass, as long as I come out and admit it, I would have to die. Throughout history, people like me, no matter how well-prepared, how many have survived? Just be a lofty princess, just abandon me, just forget me, just hate me.” (fyi : MWY never know about lost lives in Shu). With this, they parted. YS ask MWY to leave prison, to give him some dignity (before next batch of tortured interrogation come)

• MWY walk in market and found Liu Ruozhu (PM Liu granddaughter) and Lin Dao (scholar from Hanlin Academy who admire LRZ). LRZ is collecting words from common people about YS. Seeing MWY, she delighted and push MWY to write something

• Later they found in between many words: “To love a hero, such love is most difficult.”

• Time pass, Crown Prince position become not good. He didn’t receive MWY at eastern palace anymore as he plan to make MWY as scapegoat of this matter.

• Knowing this, MWY cried pitifully to her Emperor father, said she only love YS, beg to pardon him, she knows nothing about what Crown Prince & Minister Revenue done. She will stand with justice

• The conclusion of this matter happened just before year end. Crown Prince admit guilty and remove his crown. Emperor confined the Crown Prince to the Eastern Palace. YS released from prison. Emperor received him, clear his charge and said he will be known as ‘renowned minister of the realm’ who ‘breaks but does not bend’. Emperor sends him to be Nanyang Magistrate, not let him stay in capital. Nanyang is Prince Qin maternal base

• In this while, YS return to his residence to recuperate. MWY know but not once looking for him and YS too. Now MWY support humble scholar in imperial examination, align with what Emperor want. After all, because of YS’s blow many official seats are empty so there is more opportunity

• February next year, YS officially promoted as Rang County Magistrate of Nanyang and immediately left capital. HSX was terrified and regret after see all that YS had done. Now he insists to be YS personal guard, which YS cannot refuse

• At city gate, MWY chase YS’s carriage and jump inside. She lands a kiss; said they should have a proper ending, how it began is how it should end. YS slipped a document on her sleeve

• Then MWY jump out carriage, mounted her horse and this time truly left. She still thinks him very good. But… never to meet again.

Part 7 : Chang’an. Civil War

• Governor of Taiyuan in north being killed by rebels, shocking central government. No one willing go to Taiyuan upon hearing current chaos

• YS voluntarily request to go to Taiyuan which quickly agree. He went there as an inspector with ten thousand troops. YS succeed stabilize everything very well there

• While in capital, MWY friend Emperor to Summer Palace when Prince Qin brought troops to rebel. Emperor wasn’t unprepared. Even YS went to Taiyuan was a pretext, the true imperial order was to guard against Prince Qin rebellion. So, from Taiyuan, YS had been hiding near Summer Palace

• MWY went to Emperor’s chamber only found it empty. Emperor might be never gone to Summer Palace and only use MWY as bait

• MWY spend no time and bravely leading all minister and guards to fight Prince Qin. She said they only need to buy time, reinforcement will come. True, soon YS came with troops.

• Prince Qin couldn’t find Emperor and cornered. He extremely agitated, understood he had been played by Emperor. Emperor had known from start he would rebel, or rather, had hoped for it. He thought… was that still a father?

• But then, another reinforcement coming. This time it was Crown Prince, as he promised to cooperate with Prince Qin. YSi leading thirty thousand troops which half went to summer palace to support Prince Qin and the other half lead by himself to force entry into Chang’an

• Emperor quiet shock when he learned Crown Prince cooperate with Prince Qin for rebellion. Then, it was LWJ troops fight with YSi troops in Imperial city. LWJ sent word for YS quickly finish battle there to help Chang’an

• But Prince Qin didn’t want to retreat though cornered as if he will fight to death, as if he buy time. That time MWY & YS realize, Crown Prince has entered this rebellion. Also hidden soldiers throw rock on MWY & YS from behind cause them trapped

• On LWJ side, guard report, YS wouldn’t join soon. Then LWJ order to use civilian as shield he wanted to know whether YS will kill civilian. The way soldier force civilian made blood spilled even before YSi

• YXZ that day happened to be on market and see the chaos with soldiers capture civilians. A kind shopkeeper told YXZ to hide in the cellar with them, but YXZ hear children cries on street lost their parents. So, she politely refused and quietly persuade children to follow her. Many children and adults follow her, she led them to Princess residence

• ZLF ran from home to find WS but half way see the chaos. Chang’an had become a hell; killing, looting everywhere. Things she thought only uncivilized barbarians would do, happening here

• In summer palace, MWY wake up to YS voice in dark. They trapped under rockery and couldn’t move. MWY could smell a lot of blood as YS back injured. MWY angry as YS worried about civilians even though he was heavily injured

• YS said he also think about her and pressed his family’s heirloom jade pendant to her hand. In the dark they chat a lot while MWY realize YS indeed lost so much blood. She tried to keep herself calm until Fang Tong able to reach them

• They shock seeing large bloodstain on YS back. YS faint in MWY’s shoulder. A drop of mist clinging to her lashes but she didn’t let herself cry. As they could get out, MWY leading to capture Prince Qin alive

• While in Chang’an, YXZ leading civilian to Princess residence, they only 2 alleys away when a soldier found them and pull a child. Fortunately, the met ZLF who save the child. Soon, ZLF knew YXZ was YS’s sister and said she will come with them

• Just before Princess mansion they met a group of soldiers. It was YSi. His officer urge to catch them and don’t be soft heart. YXZ & ZLF stand firmly protect civilian. These two women, one haunted his dreams, one had grown up with him; both stood opposing him

• Despite his officer protest, he let them go, pretend not see them

• Back to Summer Palace, Prince Qin finally suffered complete defeat after Li family troops came as reinforcement in evening

• When MWY hesitated to deploy troops to Chang’an because of Prince Qin words about their cruel father, YS weak voice came. Support Chang’an immediately and as MWY didn’t oppose, all troops depart

• YS said they can’t delay because civilians are innocent. Besides, YS didn’t want MWY commit patricide, even indirectly. No matter what others do, they won’t be villains

• Just as support came to Chang’an, YSi lost. By the dawn war finished left the devastating impact

• MWY carriage enter Chang’an with YS weakly in her shoulders. After rain, muddy water mixed with blood, corpses on street. Men and women stood like walking corpses looking for their loved one. Before today, who would have imagined such things happening in Chang’an?

• MWY stunned. Only now did she begin to understand what YS wanted to protect and preserve.

• Emperor was the victor in this palace coup. With the hellish scene in Chang’an created by LWJ using ordinary people to deal with YSi, would Emperor kill LWJ? No, the dead meant nothing to Emperor

• With that, Emperor gathered his sons and daughters. Princess Luling sat far away just like spectator. MWY & YS sat quietly. Princess Yuyang kneeled crying for her brother. Prince Qin kneeled sobbing for Emperor’s mercy. Prince Jin kneeled said his brothers must be deceived, punish him instead. Crown Prince kneeled, he won’t apologize, he expressed how bad Emperor was making Emperor angry, throw a mouthful blood and collapsed

• LWJ start to approach Prince Jin, said he will speak good word for him

• Conclusion :

  • Prince Qin and sons exiled to Lingnan

  • Prince Qin wife and entire Jiang family was executed

  • CP write pages of letter, pleas for mercy for his people. For YSi, for Yang Clan, for Crown Princess and Consorts, for his childrenTrading his life for their chance to live. Ending his life with dagger

• Emperor sobbed read Crown Prince letter. Suddenly a white silk wrapped around his neck, a shadow of eunuch. Emperor has passed away. Meanwhile, Emperor’s private Eunuch Cheng An had been missing, anger LWJ

• LWJ had invite Prince Jin to palace to smooth things. Next day, Prince Jin ascends the throne. Court couldn’t do much as Prince Jin was the only legitimate heir remained

• LWJ planned to put blame on YSi who was on prison. But YS & WS defend him on court. LWJ couldn’t provide evidence so new Emperor had to compromise with YS suggestion which is Yang family should be demoted but not exterminated and YSi sent to Jiangnan frontier as forced labor

- Chapter 148, New Governance -

• After old Emperor buried, Prince Jin started his new governance. However, as he was not the person with that capability, his way was misplaced everywhere. Nothing worked well

• There is imperial edit from old Emperor to put YS as Prime Minister, but new Emperor put him on Central Secretariat. This double position made it awkward

• Then new Emperor allowed Hai clan returned to Chang’an. Hai clan had blood feud with MWY as they openly killed previous Crown Prince (MWY’s 2nd brother) and since then their clan declining

• This day was the 10th day MWY hasn’t returned. The couple has been quarrelling because YS was very busy at court while he wasn’t fully recovered yet. MWY urge him to take leave for rest, he promised to her but with high workload, it never happened. So, these days MWY stay outside, watching opera, etc

• YS became more and more busy as new Emperor use him. New Emperor gave him many tasks while not trusting him as he took YS work granted. Emperor’s control over court had greatly increased though all was YS’s work

• After a month, YS & MWY quarrelling continue and finish at bathing pool. YS said he bury himself at work because that is what he could do “If I spend all day with you, won’t you find me boring? I can’t play the zither, can’t truly appreciate antiques, can’t distinguish between fine and common tea. I’m not good at painting, and know even less about music.”

• But MWY said she like it. “I just want to play with you. Why do you always want to be a perfect person? I didn’t marry you for your vague excellence. You just feel you must be good enough for me. You think you need talent to match me, a temperament that suits me, to make yourself completely customized for me… I’ve said many times, I like you as you are now. You don’t need to be so tired. If marrying me is so tiring, I’d rather you didn’t marry me. In front of me, you don’t have to be excellent. I love you because you are Yan Shang.”

• Now, factions divide into three; nobles, common officials and palace servant (eunuch). PM Liu mumbled to YS “Tell me, is it better for the world to be in chaos while the Emperor is clear-minded, or for the Emperor to be confused while the world remains orderly?” Which YS reply “One always hopes for both the world and its rulers to be clear-minded and wise.”

• Next is some palace drama: Huo Consort miscarriage, CH (who son now is Crown Prince) accused, MWY abandoned her refuse to help, CH asked LWJ help. LWJ abandoned Hai Consort make the fall of Hai clan once more. Hai family sided with eunuch

• MWY actually not abandoned CH, she wanted took CH out of palace, give her new and free life. But, after stayed in back palace very long, CH reluctant to leave

• YS work together with MWY persuade noble families through Liu and Wei family and said after this finish he will resign and with MWY go to Lingnan to rest and recuperate. With this, 3 factions become more balance

• YS had discussed resign things with MWY, thought if MWY didn’t wish left Chang’an to small town then he will give up this idea. But MWY happy and quickly agreed

• Emperor was deeply troubled by YS’s intention to resign. He often felt YS overstepped his bounds, interfering in too many matters, leaving him with no dignity. But now that YS wanted to leave, the Emperor realized how much he relied on him

Part 8 : Foreign War

- Chapter 155, YS Resign and Transferred as Governor of Guangzhou -

• At the end, YS transferred to be Governor of Guangzhou (Lingnan was part of Guangzhou). Traveling with them was ZLF. ZLF tired with her family had become eunuch lackey. ZLF give up on marriage trying to seek more possibilities in life. She didn’t want to go to Lingnan but to Jiangnan to find YSi

• Meanwhile, Southern Barbarians had finally united under King Ale and MZS became trusted minister. Their internal conditions were not good after civil war, the only solution was foreign war – to sustain people through warfare. King Ale set his sights on prosperous Great Wei

• It turns out Cheng An manage to flee far. MZS found him, bring him to King Ale. Cheng An said LWJ kill old Emperor, new Emperor have no authority, Great Wei is nothing

• YS have a good and enjoying life with MWY in Guangzhou. YS family move nearby and YS’s health greatly improved

• In Jiangnan, YSi ask YXZ to pass massage to YS about changes situation in Southern Barbarian, to warn Chang’an

• YS got the letter and quickly passed to Chang’an, military commander and PM Liu to explain the urgency of this matter. Court agree with war.

• Some Southern Barbarian people sneak to find LWJ said they have evidence LWJ killed old Emperor as Cheng An was with them. What they want to hide this fact was prosperous Jiangnan

- Chapter 159, War Began -

• War began at Jiangnan and Hexi. Between many loose reported from Jiangnan, there is one victory from YSi but court neglected and didn’t want to promote YSi. PM Liu very frustrated

• Emperor was in bad mood because money was tight for war, he couldn’t spend for his pleasure. LWJ speak out Southern Barbarian want peace at price of Jiangnan. LWJ hesitate, but Emperor said they could give half Jiangnan, only Yizhou city the prosperous one couldn’t be given. Such an incompetent Emperor

• On court, learning Emperor had sent edict to ceased war in Jiangnan and willing to give parts of Jiangnan, Ministers scream disagree. PM Liu lecturing Emperor made him angry. Then there was war report that Hexi suffer loses, Emperor decided sent 80 years old PM Liu to oversee war in Hexi.

• Officials and Minister came to PM Liu at night said how absurd and incompetence the Emperor and will kneeled for PM Liu, but PM Liu prevent it said he still has strength left

• Next day, all minister wearing their formal robes send PM Liu, empty the court, people joined officials in escorting PM Liu. Staring the empty hall, Emperor was furious, dizzy at the same time afraid

• This made Emperor agree to send YS as commander in Jiangnan. In short, previously Jiangnan condition was dead end with soldiers had to stopped war, eunuch watched them and village in chaos as Southern Barbarians start to steal, catch and kill commoners.

• After YS came, he tactfully sent eunuch back to Chang’an. YS appoint YSi as general while YS will provide provision. Central government only agree support half provision and YS with his networking easily fill the gap

• Soon King Ale know how formidable YS was, being able to block all political attacks from central government and let generals fight freely while provide abundance provisions. Southern Barbarians face big setback as they were just very poor

• King Ale change direction to attack Guangzhou from water. MWY who stay at Guangzhou had prepare military officer in Guangzhou and oversee the war herself. Soon King Ale regretted his hasty decision. Southern Barbarian were poor at naval warfare make this battle of Guangzhou became a war of attrition

• In Hexi, condition not well. Central government keep pressing, city defense map leaked, sudden attack in snow and while they are retreating, city behind them refuse to open the city gate.

• In Guangzhou, naval battle ended as King Ale sacrifice many soldiers. MWY quickly change into scorched earth tactics. They close all gates; the siege defense began. No one could get out, not even news

• MWY prepared for long defense, to ease pressure on Jiangnan and give Central Government time. Standing on top city wall, MWY cut half her ankle long hair and vow “I will share your fate – eat the same food, and wear the same clothes. I will defend the city with you! There is no betrayal, no spies, no discord. We will guard Guangzhou together, live or die as one. If I dare abandon you and flee… may I fall into the Yellow Springs, may all I love perish, may all I hate prosper, may suffering never leave me!”

• That time, unlike her usual rich looks; her hair disheveled, clothes disarray, travel worn, yet she stood so noble and majestic. Soldiers suddenly began energized, their eyes burn, tears welling up, shouted a swear to protect Her Highness, swear not to abandon the city!

• Outside city wall, after sacrificing lives after lives, King Ale, obtained MWY jade pendant and laugh. Yeah, MWY realize she lost her love token, behind the city wall but couldn’t look for it as she already closed the gate. when there were only Fang Tong and Qiu Si, MWY sobbed for her lost like a little girl

• King Ale sent the jade pendant with a fake cut finger to negotiate with YS

• In Hexi, PM Liu with his two hundred thousand army fought to death. All perish, city after city fallen. Southern Barbarians morale soared as the capture of Chang’an seemed imminent

• In Chang’an, PM Zhang suggest to mobilize elite troops and summoned reinforcement from all province. But Emperor disagreed, blame PM Liu couldn’t hold back. PM Zhang defend PM Liu. Perhaps there were spies, perhaps someone in court collaborating with Southern Barbarians. But Emperor keeps blame them

• Then Emperor said His idea which is quickly pack and withdraw from Chang’an. The court erupted in an uproar. They stared dumbfounded at the Emperor, the absurdity leaving them in a daze, no one able to speak up

• PM Zhang was the one to speak up for Chang’an million civilians who couldn’t fast evacuate, for ancient sites and treasures. But Emperor found him too noisy and told LWJ to lock PM Zhang

• WS who had been in feud with LWJ and Emperor confined in his residence. An eunuch give him order to flee. He didn’t understand why they must flee. He explained that defending a city is different from attacking, defend need people not only soldiers. Chang’an has millions residents, abundant grain, flowing water, what are we afraid of? Sound logical, but Eunuch said flee is Emperor orders

• Emperor had ready to flee but Imperial Guards won’t follow. WS stand among them ask Emperor to returned. As long as Chang’an stands, Emperor cannot leave. Imperial Guards and all officials stand with WS. Emperor could only return knew if He refused, He might be killed

• With this, all eyes through Chang’an. Reinforcement come to support Chang’an, armies burns after PM Liu death. They don’t know about Emperor has been house arrest by WS but they united for their capital

• But this also mean no supplies and troops sent to Jiangnan anymore. Compare to Chang’an, Jiangnan gains or losses seemed insignificant. Their situation became crucial. For YSi, this meant he had to end the war quickly

• YS went out of main tent to meet the envoy who brought MWY’s jade pendant and her burnt finger. He didn’t let other knew lest other worried, only told YSi to get some rest. ZLF went out to look for mercenary.

• But YSi decisively went out again for battle, fought like possessed man though he hadn’t rested for days. That battle taking place in Great valley was between YSi and MZS. It was a 3 days nonstop battle. The result: you didn’t win and I didn’t lose. YSi dragged MZS down to die with him

• YS had been caught the envoy and interrogate them without result. He refused to withdraw and refused to aid Guangzhou though they threatened with MWY’s life. His heart broke piece by piece

• Report came, we’ve won but YSi with fifty thousand soldiers, all perished. YS spitting out a mouthful of blood, collapsed

• ZLF rushed to military camp, joyfully bring news of securing troops and supplies, but the camp atmosphere was somber with white funeral banners hanging everywhere

• Learning the truth, ZLF crying loudly, crouching the ground, scream she will never forgive her father (her father was supporting LWJ and enemy), she wanted to avenge YSi. Meanwhile, YXZ remained perfectly quiet, handed a bowl medicine to YS and said Great Wei is waiting for you to uphold justice, you cannot fall

• YS continuously coughed blood but dared not delay. He refused withdraw troops for personal feelings when YSi had exchanged his life for victory against MZS

• June next year, Jiangnan war began concluding. Loyal troops from Chang’an drove Southern Barbarians back to Hexi. Southern Barbarians were about to be defeated.

• In Chang’an. Emperor frightened, he insisted to leave, even when the only way is to abdicate the throne, He write a self-reproaching edict. LWJ thought this was a good opportunity for him to run. Emperor prepared to flee with LWJ and Northern Garrison (troops below LWJ). Just before city gates, WS & Imperial Guards stop them said Emperor may flee but not with Northern Garrison. In short moment Emperor immediately agreed and flee alone. He never knew outside was more dangerous and soon arrows flies, and just like that Emperor breath his last breath

• WS who has been corresponding with YS knew about Cheng An and LWJ crime, so WS not let LWJ flee

• In Guangzhou, they almost ran out arrows and food, unable to hold any longer. King Ale desperately listened to bad news from all directions but refused to admit defeat here though his General said what use is taking Guangzhou. There is no hope. We’ve lost, we’ll die in poverty, we never should have fought this war

• But King Ale forced troops to fight. Now, soldiers of Guangzhou had been two days without food. MWY felt despair in her heart. Until a soldier came, Jiangnan army has come to support us. The Prince Consort has come!

• YS led troops to provide support. In this long he never knew Guangzhou exact situation. He has abandoned MWY, refuse to withdraw. YS was coming to seek death, to die for the city, to give his life for her. He has no will to live, only seeking death

• However, Guangzhou situation was different from what he imagined. As soon as he entered the city, it was a crowd happily welcoming him and shouting, Governor, you finally returned! City was chaos, houses collapsed, man pour water on fires, women collecting grain; but people alive!

• YS suddenly saw MWY, sat on ground, covered in ash and dirt. Their eyes met. The first word from YS was asking about the jade pendant. MWY want to lie but couldn’t utter the word. Then tears continuously fell from his eyes, he traces her delicate jade finger, all intact

• King Ale captured easily. He wanted suicide, but stopped. He needed to be taken to Chang’an

• War quickly concluded, YS had taken control of all Great Wei military and political affairs.

Part 9 : Wrap up

• In Chang’an, LWJ use palace women and children as hostage. The current young Emperor was Empress’ son (not CH’s)

• LWJ became mad man, swung his sword, intend to kill all child but CH’s. CH son stand at front shield young Emperor. These two children grew up together was always been close

• Then suddenly bang, the gate opened. YS, MWY, WS and others came in. LWJ suddenly pushed CH’s son and trying to kill young Emperor before a general threw dagger to his arm

• Then Cheng An stepped forward spoke all LWJ crimes. But LWJ still stared blankly shouted what did he do wrong

• YS said “You were wrong to murder the emperor and blame it on the former crown prince. You were wrong to collude with enemies and conspire with foreign powers! You and the former emperor caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands of border soldiers, killed a prime minister, and killed countless loyal ministers… you brought Great Wei to decline and suffering, wrong from the very beginning with your evil intentions, wrong as you strayed further and became more vicious.”

• Then it was CH stab him with dagger “You were also wrong to have relations with a palace consort.” Then with that same dagger stab her own heart “Of all the thousands of wrongs, they were all my fault. If I hadn’t entered the prince’s residence initially… everything would have been different.”

• ZLF’s father flee in chaos only to meet ZLF who stop him. He was later publicly executed

• This day was first day young Emperor attending morning court. He promoted YS to the position of Prime Minister and WS to Right Vice Minister of Rites

• King Ale executed to appease fallen soldiers.

• ZLF decide left Chang’an wandered in Western region and YXZ decide went to Liaodong where Yang family exiled

• Liu family built a cenotaph for PM Liu at Southern Mountain, YS go to pay respect

• MWY had been unwell lately, YS invite imperial physician and confirm MWY pregnancy. Despite some risk, MWY insist no matter how difficult, she want this child

• They both surprised, perhaps MWY health improved these years, perhaps the medicine from old Emperor that YS drink was partially expelled, or perhaps LWJ had help them and change that medicine

• WS, despite become very promising on court but request to young Emperor for another diplomatic mission which granted

• Half month later in Chang’an, MWY heavily pregnant, together they sat on carriage heading back to their mansion when suddenly a young scholar chasing after them, holding a scroll. People on street thinking how could someone with high status like YS & MWY stop for ordinary scholar

• But they stop. Since becoming pregnant MWY temperament had softened considerably, as if had developed maternal love. MWY told the young scholar go ahead and recite it

– THE END –   

Another Couple Focus Story

Emperor & Empress

• The late Empress was a refined lady from the Li family, graceful and noble, born to be Empress. Not only was she cultured and elegant, but she had an extraordinary grasp of political affairs. And behind her, the Li family of Jinling who wielded immense power.

• This had violated the Emperor’s greatest taboo. The Empress had to die. For if the Empress didn’t die, perhaps… it would have been Him instead.

• Yet after the Empress’s departure, Emperor’s health declined as if His spirit had followed Her.

• When Empress was still alive, despite they love each other, they often argue about politics. After all, both are skilled in the art of rulership

• Their lowest point was when their son, 2nd Prince – previous Crown Prince died, falling from horse at age fifteen. Since then, their relationship grew distant

• Also, since then, everything changed for MWY. When 2nd Prince was still alive, he had treated MWY well. Everyone knew she is the Emperor’s most beloved daughter – a young princess raised with endless pampering

• But after 2nd Prince died The Empress changed, the Emperor changed… everyone around MWY was either using her or waiting to use her. There were no pure relationships left around her

• Later we know Emperor & Empress younger day from MWY’s grandfather

  • Empress was the only daughter in Li family, grew wild and free, dressed as a man wander around Jinling

  • Happened to meet Emperor (Prince at that time) while he was on private tour, disguise

  • They became sworn brothers only later learn they were brother and sister

  • Emperor overjoyed and come to MWY’s grandpa for marriage

  • MWY’s grandpa refused, thinking Emperor was some wild boy but Empress insisted.

  • They truly loved each other. She went on hunger strike while he kneeled

  • Later his identity as a prince revealed. Empress also has grand ambitions said together they will do great things for common people

  • MWY’s grandpa could only laugh now for what had happened. Gate of royal family shouldn’t have been entered, Empress ruined in Emperor’s hand and what Emperor loved was never common people but Great Wei

 Liu Wenji and Chun Hua

• Liu Wenji (LWJ) is YSS’s friend from Sashui Town and Chun Hua is MWY’s personal maid. Their first meeting was in Sashui Town when MWY stay in YS’s house

• LWJ fall at first sight with CH and CH also had same feeling. They promise to meet again in Chang’an when LWJ take imperial examination

• LWJ always feel superior than YS, he passes county examination first while YS failed. However, at capital, LWJ failed the exam. Next year, he met YS at capital and together take the imperial examination again. This time, YS succeed pass but he failed again. This sowing the seeds of hatred in his heart

• LWJ got drunk and speak hurtful words to CH. Since then, CH didn’t want to meet him

• One day when CH visit her family, coincidentally she met Prince Jin (MWY’s imperial brother). Prince Jin eye her, then her brother and sister-in-law betray her, give her sleep drug and they sleep together

• Next morning, they call it finish, pretend that never happened.

• After some time, LWJ & CH made up, though CH feels guilty towards LWJ

• Days passed until CH know she is pregnant. This makes CH remember of MWY fate in Wuman

• Despite she knew MWY’s experience with abortion medicine, CH still choose the same way, and she almost killed too. However, this time she saved along with their unborn. She finally enters Prince Jin household as concubine. She asks MWY to tell LWJ to forget her

• LWJ heart break, drunk every day. One time, he protects a young courtesan because he thinks CH, anger son of Minister Revenue, get beat and castrated

• MWY call imperial physician, but nothing more could be done. LWJ said he knew CH ask MWY to give him official status, he refused; to give him money, he refused. In this matter MWY ask him if he want to go back to Lingnan and she will arrange some official work to his family, but he refused too. LWJ kneel and ask for MWY arrange him to enter palace as eunuch

• Meanwhile, CH stay in Prince Jin household and give birth to son, Mu Yue. Prince Jin’s first child

• Later LWJ gradually arise. First, he become Emperor’s trusted eunuch godson then Emperor use LWJ to balance Prince Qin military power which LWJ succeed. So, now LWJ become the most influential eunuch in palace

• When palace coup happened, he fought on Emperor side against YSi. LWJ couldn’t afford loose, he used civilians as shield until Emperor side win the battle

• LWJ secretly killed Emperor and put incompetent Prince Jin on throne. CH became Consort Xian and her son is Crown Prince

• In palace, inner problem raised, MWY want to take her leave for free lives but she reluctant to go. So, inside palace, LWJ became CH only helper. As she thought she had wrecked anyway, when LWJ ask what will she pay him, she agree to the secret affair between Eunuch and Emperor’s woman 

• LWJ then working together with Southern Barbarians because his crime killed Emperor expose to Southern Barbarians

• At the end, LWJ lost. LWJ became a madman, take hostage of palace woman and children, threatening to kill young Emperor (Empress son as Emperor had died)

• It was CH who stab him then stab herself, together they died. Her last word only wished to bury them together as she didn’t want to be bury with Emperor (Prince Jin)

Feng Xianyu and Princess Luling

• Feng Xianyu (FXY) is YS’s fellow scholar who he met before his first imperial examination in capital. Princess Luling is Emperor’s blood sister who help Emperor a lot in his early days on throne.

• Since Princess Luling husband passed away, she chooses to become Daoist nun. Emperor builds luxurious temple for her to show support. But becoming Daoist nun merely a name, Princess Luling had never been short of handsome young men by her side.

• 4 years ago, when FXY first come to Chang’an for examination, he caught Princess eyes due to his youth and good look. But FXY declared himself a married man, naturally refused Princess

• After that, FXY connection to imperial examination severed. Now, 4 years passed, 4 times he failed, how many four-year periods could he waste in his life?

• Just like that, he offers himself to Princess Luling in order to pass imperial examination leading to his name replace YS name on the list though he knows this is a no way back road

• But also, that night, YS and MWY manage to catch him and threaten him with his beloved daughter. FXY actually already had wife and a daughter. His wife died last year because of starving, because all the money, he uses to socialize for connection. Now, he has sent his daughter secretly to his uncle before he come to Princess Luling. YS know it

• FXY already failed his wife, his biggest regrets. He couldn’t risk his daughter anymore. So, he agreed to come to Princess Luling again and with the reason he couldn’t ruin his friendship with YS, he asks Princess to change back the list just before the announcement

• After announcement, YS let him know, actually he does nothing to his daughter

• FXY decide to keep stay with Princess Luling. FXY and YS relationship quite good, YS respect FXY’s decision.

• FXY became the only smart and literate among many Princess Luling’s kept man and promote to be officials. Being Princess favorite make other jealous, scheming to bring him down

• Later he transferred outside Chang’an. Somehow, this put him at ease, at least he could meet his daughter again

Extra – Parallel Space

There are eight additional chapters that tell a parallel story—of a smooth and sweet life—as redemption for the past sorrow

• 17 years old MWY, the youngest and most beloved daughter of her Emperor father & Empress mother. Emperor & Empress lives in harmony

• Empress is alive and MWY’s second brother – Crown Prince also alive

• YSi was still a noble son who grew up with MWY

• MWY & YS first meeting was when MWY, first time step foot outside palace with YSi then got lost. She met YS at bookstore, love at first sight on her side. Both 17 years old

• They barely meeting 3 times when MWY plead to her brother, mother and father for YS to be her Prince Consort and they couldn’t disagree with this jewel in their heart

• YS failed on his first imperial examination but when YSi and Crown Prince chat with YS, they knew he was promising and Crown Prince ask YS to be his advisor

• MWY & YS got married at 18 years old, both very pure, naïve, awkward but love grew between them. Said it was force marriage, but their overall relationship was good, they just use good time to knew each other better

• YSi & YXZ first meeting was at MWY & YS marriage. A playful YSi stole YXZ wine, make 14 yo YXZ crying, but after he saw YXZ crying, he became afraid and give wine back to her

• WS came to Chang’an when he was 14 yo and his family ask MWY to took care of him. MWY openly said how handsome WS was make YS first feel a bit jealousy.

• But MWY always so easy & straightforward with her words, she might say WS handsome because that is the fact but her heart always pinning for YS only

• After about a year marriage, foreign envoy came. Wuman envoy was their king MZS. MZS was the only one who dream about past. He took interest on MWY but he still late when found out this Princess had been married to YS

• One time they met at North District. MZS want to approach MWY thinking her marriage with YS might be not a happy marriage. But MWY very innocently show how she like YS very much. And the reason she came to North District was to get knowledge about bedroom matters.

• MZS could only laugh that in this life he be the one who help MWY with some tips for her bedroom matter with YS

• MZS thinking, it was better this way, a cheerful MWY and maybe the best thing he could do for her was never appear in front of her anymore

• Then come the military exercise and scholarly competition. It ended with Great Wei narrow’s victory. But in the final battle, MZS used deception injured Great Wei most promising young talent, YS, YSi and WS

• 3 injured men all had nightmare, storms, fire, war, love affairs, short lives

• The first one wake up was YSi, he quicky rode horse to Lingnan. The dream’s truth hard to distinguish, but after waking he couldn’t forget

• He found YXZ at YS’s home, dust covered YSi suddenly dropped a tear and embrace YXZ

• YXZ scream to let her go, thought he mistake her for someone else

• But YSi said “Little Sister Xiaozhou, curse me, fear me, hate me. In the last life, I made you wait for me in vain. This time, let me be the one waiting. Waiting for you to grow up, waiting for your heart to open, waiting for you… to love me.”

• In Wei family mansion, WS wake and found ZLF by her bedside. ZLF actually want to see her cousin when she knew he injured but YSi already taken to Eastern Palace that time and she found WS instead

• ZLF awkwardly said she just occasionally come to look although they don’t know each other, but..

• WS softly interrupted “My name is Wei Shu, courtesy name Juyuan, seventh in my family, fifteen years old this year, half a year older than you. Let’s get to know each other again.”

• ZLF surprised, she knew people said WS didn’t like to talk but he talked to her, how wonderful!

• In Princess residence, MWY was doing her make up when she heard YS had wake up. MWY rush and they collide into an embrace

• YS lowered his head, looking at her intently. That unrestrained and romantic princess hadn’t appeared in his reality… but somehow, he was grateful. Only now did he know how precious the pure and innocent Mu Wanyao was

• He held her in his arms, saying softly: “I had a dream. In the dream, we were good that way… but in reality, we’re better this way. Yao Yao, don’t change, stay just like this. I liked Yao Yao, and I like Yao Yao too. Let’s stay together forever, alright?”

• MWY was delighted yet shy, obediently saying yes, then boldly raising her head to kiss his cheek. YS couldn’t help but smile, holding her even tighter.

• He especially cherished this MWY.

– FINISH –