Peach Blossoms

Chapter 10

Under the hazy moonlight, Han Yufeng's leisurely and handsome face exuded a strange, sinister aura. He took a few steps back, looking at Lin Suyang, completely ignoring his cold expression, and laughed unrestrainedly, "I wonder if the Prince Consort is satisfied with the answer I gave in the palace? Or did the Prince Consort already know the answer?"

Han Yufeng kept his eyes fixed on him, trying to read something from his face, but Lin Suyang remained unmoved by Han Yufeng's words and coldly said, "Since Your Majesty has nothing else to say, please excuse me for taking my leave." He then turned and left.

“Just now…” Han Yufeng continued from behind, “It wasn’t a joke. You will be mine.”

Lin Suyang quickened his pace and bumped into Qin Yu, who had never retrieved the earring from the palace, as he turned the corner.

Seeing him walking away in such a hurry, Qin Yu quickly grabbed him and asked, "What's wrong? Why are you so pale?"

Lin Suyang then realized his heart was pounding. He took a deep breath to calm himself down, then waved to Qin Yu and said, "It's nothing. Did you find it? If you found it, let's go home."

He took her hand and headed towards the palace gate. Qin Yu was pulled by Lin Suyang, and he forced his head to turn and look behind him. Apart from the swaying shadows of the trees, there was only darkness.

Lin Suyang lay in bed, tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep. Hearing the breathing beside him gradually steady, he gently lifted the quilt, got out of bed, put on a thick coat, went out the door, sat down on a bench in the courtyard, and began to stare blankly.

Feng Hanyu had changed, becoming someone Lin Suyang found utterly unfamiliar and terrifying. Where had that refined and unassuming man gone? Perhaps everything before was a facade to conceal his true identity; the current Hanyu Feng was the real Feng Hanyu, or more accurately, His Majesty the Holy Emperor. Lin Suyang's joy at seeing his old friend vanished completely due to his aggressive demeanor; he never imagined that the one pressing him so relentlessly would be him.

Lin Suyang felt an unprecedented sense of crisis. He had never considered what would happen if his true gender were exposed, and now that day had come, he would be completely helpless. He thought about the consequences: not only would the Lin family, guilty of deceiving the emperor, be executed along with their entire clan, but Qin Yu would also be forever shamed and become a laughingstock of the royal family. Lin Suyang's own life was worthless, but he absolutely could not allow it to involve those he cared about.

Judging from Han Yufeng's behavior today, he doesn't seem to want to expose himself in front of others. If that's the case, what is his purpose? "You will be mine..." These words suddenly pierced Lin Suyang's mind like a sharp sword, causing him to tremble uncontrollably. If that's really the case, was today a test or a warning? Must it be a fight to the death to stop it? No, it absolutely cannot be allowed to happen.

Lin Suyang thought about it carefully. According to the plan, the people from Yanliao Kingdom would stay in Dayang for ten days. Given the current situation, it was impossible for Lin Suyang to stay until the end. How could he avoid those people, especially Han Yufeng, so as not to meet him? Just as he was racking his brains, he heard Lin Ziyan calling out, "Brother, why aren't you asleep yet? It's so late."

Lin Ziyan walked over wearing only a thin shirt. Lin Suyang said, "I couldn't sleep, so I came out to sit for a while. It's cold and the dew is heavy at night, why didn't you wear more?"

"I'm used to it," Lin Ziyan chuckled.

"Brother seems to have something on his mind? Is it that Emperor Shenghan?" Lin Ziyan's voice turned cold.

"It's nothing, I just can't sleep," Lin Suyang said hurriedly.

"It must be him. I knew he wasn't a good person. I heard he made things difficult for my brother in the Weiyi Palace and even insulted my Lin family. If the two countries go to war, I will definitely put on my armor and slaughter the Yan and Liao people without leaving a single one alive." Lin Ziyan became angrier as he spoke, his hands clenching into fists.

Lin Suyang knew that he only said such things because he felt indignant on his behalf, so he said, "Yan'er, never say such things to others. People's hearts are unpredictable, and who knows what kind of disaster it might bring you. Remember to keep it to yourself. Besides, this is a personal grudge. If it affects the negotiations between the two countries and causes war, it will ultimately be the people of both countries who suffer. Human life is precious, and the best course of action is to endure when necessary."

Seeing that he had gradually calmed down, Lin Suyang asked again, "What have you been busy with lately? You look quite tired all the time?"

Speaking of this, Lin Ziyan kept sighing and said, "It's all because of those martial arts people. Recently, for some reason, a large number of martial arts people have flocked to Yan City. I heard that some kind of martial arts conference is going to be held. If it were just a simple meeting, that would be fine, but who can guess whether they will unite to rebel against the imperial court?"

Since ancient times, the martial arts world, being a vast and diverse community, has always been a major concern for the imperial court. The court has expended considerable effort to reconcile relations with them, yet it remains constantly worried that they might rebel. Therefore, its attention to them is more like that of a nanny than a babysitter. Although the court and the martial arts world have generally maintained a low profile for the past few centuries, there have been instances in history of martial arts families assassinating emperors and seizing the throne. With such precedents, who would dare to sit comfortably on the throne without worry? It would be strange if the people here weren't worried about this gathering of martial arts masters.

"Aren't you the commander of the Imperial City Guard? Why are you getting involved in this kind of thing?" Lin Suyang asked in confusion.

"These past few days, the Yan and Liao Kingdoms have been visiting, and the Ministry of War has sent many people to protect them..."

"Protect? More like surveillance," Lin Suyang said in a low voice.

"Brother, what did you say?" Lin Ziyan didn't hear clearly.

"It's nothing, you can continue."

"The large gathering of martial arts practitioners has attracted the attention of the imperial court. After several discussions, it was decided to entrust the matter entirely to General Xin. After all, the old general has been involved in the martial arts world for decades and holds a high position among those people," Lin Ziyan said with some admiration.

"I understand. You're General Xin's disciple, so of course you'll be involved in these matters. But whatever you decide to do, I'll be the first to support you," Lin Suyang said.

"Thank you, brother."

"It's getting late, you should go back to your room and get some sleep," Lin Suyang said, then turned and walked towards his room. Just as he opened the door, a brilliant idea flashed into his mind. He immediately turned back excitedly to Lin Ziyan, who was walking away, and said, "Yan'er, thank you."

Lin Ziyan had never seen his brother so happy before. Although he didn't know what made him happy, as long as he was happy, everything was fine.

Volume Two, Fallen Dust, Chapter Twenty-Eight: Setting Off Again (Part 1)

The next morning at court, everyone seemed listless, except for Right Chancellor Wang Cheng, who was beaming with joy, as if he had found a treasure the night before. His thin face was radiant with a smile that seemed completely out of place. When he saw Lin Cheng stepping into the hall, he surprisingly greeted him first: "Minister Lin, you've arrived early today."

Lin Cheng wanted to pretend he hadn't seen it, but Wang Cheng's sly eyes were staring at him with a gleam in them, so he had no choice but to force a smile and return the greeting, "Yes, Prime Minister Wang has arrived quite early as well." After saying that, he hurriedly walked to his seat and stood up.

Wang Chengen watched his retreating figure and gave him a genuine, insincere smile. Lin Suyang kept his head down and didn't notice anything else. He mentally reviewed the plan again before confidently walking ahead.

As the morning court session began, Emperor Hong looked at the ministers below, each one listless as if they hadn't slept well. "I wonder what you all did last night, my dear ministers?" he asked in a cold voice.

Upon hearing that the tone seemed off, everyone fell silent, immediately straightening their backs and lowering their heads, not daring to move.

Lin Suyang knew why Emperor Hong was in a bad mood. Yan Liao's visit, whose intentions were unknown, had already caused him a lot of trouble since he had just ascended the throne. On top of that, there was also trouble in the martial arts world. How could he be happy?

Emperor Hong waved his hand impatiently and said, "Report what you have to say." No one answered, and the huge hall became so quiet that you could hear a pin drop.

Emperor Hong's face darkened: "You have nothing to say, but I have something to say. Recently, a large number of martial arts practitioners have gathered in Yan City. I wonder what everyone's opinion is on this matter."

Lin Suyang thought to himself: Here it comes.

Wang Cheng stepped forward first and said, "Your Majesty, in my opinion, these barbarians gathered together must have ill intentions. The court should do its utmost to stop them."

Emperor Hong glanced at him, then turned to General Xin: "What does General Xin think?"

Xin Min immediately said, "Your Majesty, for hundreds of years, the court and the martial arts world have lived in peace. This gathering may indeed be a simple martial arts conference, but we must remain vigilant. This old minister believes that the court should send someone to infiltrate the gathering and investigate the situation. Only by transmitting information at any time can we make the necessary preparations."

After hearing this, Emperor Hong nodded and said, "The old general's words make sense. Everyone else, please speak up if you have any thoughts." He glanced at the crowd, his gaze lingering on Lin Suyang for a moment.

"Your Majesty," Lin Suyang stepped forward. "I believe General Xin's words are absolutely correct. Currently, apart from some information relayed by our scouts, we don't have much in-depth knowledge of the situation. The martial arts world remains a threat to the court, yet we cannot eliminate it all at once. The best course of action now is to coexist peacefully with them. As the old general suggested, sending people in disguise to infiltrate would not only gather specific information but also prevent direct conflict between the court and them. It is truly a brilliant plan."

The other ministers nodded in agreement. Lin Cheng looked at his son, a sense of unease creeping into his heart. Was he planning something again?

Emperor Hong finally smiled: "Since all my beloved ministers agree, then I grant your request. However... regarding the selection of the person..."

Wang Cheng was dissatisfied with the statements made by Lin Suyang and Xin Min. However, Emperor Hong's words achieved exactly what he wanted. He hurriedly said, "Your Majesty, I believe that none other than Grand Tutor Lin Suyang is the most suitable candidate."

Emperor Hong frowned slightly: "Oh? What is the Right Chancellor's opinion?"

"Your Majesty, Grand Tutor Lin is known as the most talented man in our Great Central Plains. In terms of intelligence, no one can match him. Although the martial arts world may seem like a bunch of roughnecks, their martial prowess should not be underestimated. Sending someone in disguise to investigate requires exceptional intelligence to deal with them. Therefore, I believe that Grand Tutor Lin is suitable to go."

After Wang Chengyi finished speaking sternly, many people below inwardly grumbled: "Isn't this Right Chancellor blatantly pushing Grand Tutor Lin into a fire pit? Imagine, a weak scholar with no strength to even kill a chicken, trying to gather information among martial arts practitioners filled with swords and shadows—he'd probably be killed before he even got close." Lin Cheng was even more worried at this moment, while only Lin Suyang was secretly pleased: "That old fox has finally done me a great favor today."

He said to Emperor Hong, “Your Majesty, I am capable of this task. I am but a scholar with no martial arts skills, which should make it easier for me to approach them and gather information. I volunteer to go to Yan City.” He then knelt down.

Lin Cheng was so angry he felt like he wanted to die. Didn't that brat know that this was hundreds of times more dangerous than going to Shenzhou back then? Did he want him to outlive his son as soon as possible?

Emperor Hong frowned, looking at Lin Suyang, feeling somewhat annoyed. Did he really not want to stay in Yundu? Had he even considered how dangerous it was? He might lose his life before even discovering anything. But seeing his resolute expression, he couldn't bring himself to refuse. So frustrating.

At this moment, Xin Min said, "Your Majesty, I also believe that Grand Tutor Lin is suitable for this position. Grand Tutor Lin rarely leaves Yundu, so not many people know him. I believe that going in disguise will go smoothly."

Lin Suyang gave Xin Min a grateful smile. Xin Min also smiled, indicating his understanding and acceptance, his gray beard trembling slightly.

Emperor Hong recalled that Shenzhou had been locked down due to the epidemic, meaning that few people had had the opportunity to meet Lin Suyang. Looking around at his subordinates, some were too old to handle official business, while others were too young and lacked maturity. The rest were all on official duties. Sending military officers was out of the question; they were all seasoned veterans, renowned for their battlefield prowess, and well-known throughout the court. Indeed, no one was more suitable than Lin Suyang. Therefore, he said, "Since the Grand Tutor is willing, then let him go."

Lin Suyang's spirits lifted. "Thank you, Your Majesty." Finally free from Han Yufeng, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. Next, he needed to prepare for his journey. Turning back to see his father's face, dark as could be, he shuddered again, lowered his eyes, and sighed softly. There was still one more...

Unexpectedly, when he returned home and was called into the study, Lin Cheng did not scold him too much. He simply said to him, "This is your own choice, and your father will not stop you. The prefect of Yancheng is my student. I will write a letter for you to give him. Perhaps he can lend a hand if there is anything he can do to help. Take care of yourself while you are away from home."

Lin Suyang knew that his father, a high-ranking official, had a remarkable background, but he didn't know that he had people in such a remote place. If he added his other hidden strength, he wondered if he could stand up to the Right Chancellor. But when did rigid people become so open-minded?

Lin Suyang recalled that after the morning court session, General Xin pulled Lin Cheng aside to talk, and perhaps that was when he changed his attitude. He just didn't know what Xin Min said to him.

As Lin Cheng wrote the letter, he thought about what Xin Min had said: "Old friend, the child has grown up and should have his own world. Su Yang has such courage and drive, you should support and encourage him. Don't let him be a bird under your protection forever, otherwise one day he will never be able to fly again!"

He sighed, folded the letter, and handed it to Lin Suyang: "Take this and keep it safe. I'll have someone prepare what you need to take. General Xin will find his friends to protect you. I won't say more, just take good care of yourself on your journey."

Was this a farewell to life or something else? Lin Suyang was surprised to see that his father's eyes seemed to be red. He quickly said, "Dad, don't worry, I'll be careful. Just wait at home. It's just a martial arts tournament. I'll be back soon." It would be too much to make the old man cry. At this moment, Lin Suyang also felt a slight pang of sadness.

As soon as he stepped out of the room, he saw Qin Yu waiting outside.

"Are you leaving again?" I felt a bitter taste in my mouth.

“Yes, let’s go to Yan City,” Lin Suyang said.

"It will be very dangerous."

"I know."

"Who are you avoiding? Han Yufeng?" Lin Suyang paused for a moment, then nodded.

"Go," Qin Yu smiled, as bright as the spring sunshine. "I'll wait for you. Whether you live or die."

Lin Suyang gripped her hand tightly. "I will come back, whether I live or die."

On the day she left, Qin Yu was the first to get up. She sat by the bed, quietly watching Lin Suyang, touching his face, and smoothing his hair until he opened his eyes and saw her.

"Put the earrings on for me again." "Okay."

The person in the mirror was more beautiful than a flower, exuding an elegant maturity and nobility. A pair of slender hands picked out a pair of long, thin silver chains from the box, from which hung a small leaf.

"This is it." Lin Suyang took it and glanced at it. It was a birthday gift he had bought for Qin Yu last year. Although he had bought it from a street stall, he could still clearly remember how happy and joyful she was when she received the earrings.

"No one has ever given me these things before. You are the first."

Lin Suyang laughed, "So I'm always the first one."

Long, slender fingers tucked her newly grown short hair behind her ear, picked up a pendant, carefully threaded it through her ear piercing, and gently released it. The leaf swayed by her ear like a breeze. She then carefully put on the other pendant. Looking at herself in the bronze mirror, Qin Yu slightly curled her cherry-red lips, "Does it look good?"

"It looks good." Lin Suyang smiled faintly.

"I'll take you there," she said, looking at the person next to her across the street.

"good."

Volume Two, Fallen Dust, Chapter Twenty-Nine: Setting Off Again (Part Two)

Lin Suyang didn't bring anyone with him on this trip. Qiao Sheng cried and begged, "Young Master, please take me with you. It'll be good to have someone to look after you."

Lin Ziyan tapped him on the head: "You're so old and you're still crying? Are you even a man? Your young master has something very important to do this time. If you go with him, you'll only cause trouble."

Lin Suyang comforted him, "Alright, Qiao Sheng, I'll be back soon. Remember to take good care of your wife at home, okay?" Qiao Sheng wiped away his tears as he agreed.

After Lin Ziyan persuaded Qiao Sheng to calm down, he said to Lin Suyang, "Brother, once the people from Yanliao leave, I will take some men to Yancheng to find you. Leave the family matters to me; I will definitely arrange everything properly."

Lin Suyang shook his head and said, "No need. The family and the capital need you. Putting aside whether the emperor would agree, even your second aunt and father wouldn't allow it. Just stay in Yundu. Since I support you in doing what you want to do, you should support me too."

Lin Ziyan insisted in his heart, but said aloud, "Alright, brother, take care on your journey."

Lin Cheng didn't come out. Qin Yu stood at the door watching him, just like the last time he went out, standing quietly and watching. A thousand words flowed in his eyes, worry, anxiety, reluctance, indescribable feelings, and endless sadness intertwined into beams of gaze that lingered on him.

Several officials familiar with him from the court also came to see him off. Ouyang Yufeng brought a fine saddle, saying, "I had a skilled craftsman make a saddle for you a long time ago. Knowing that you were leaving today, I brought it with me. You won't be jolted too much when you sit on it."

"Thank you." Lin Suyang had told him that he would be going by horseback, but he hadn't expected that Suyang would think of this. He was truly a good friend.

Xin Min laughed heartily from behind: "Young people should endure more hardship. What's a little bump in the road? But Su Yang, being alone out here is not the same as being at home. You have to be careful in everything you do. My friends here are all seasoned veterans. It's always good to ask them questions and learn more from their experience."

Lin Suyang quickly bowed to the several unfamiliar but experienced-looking people beside him and said, "Then thank you all for taking care of me."

"Not at all, sir. You're too kind," the group replied politely.

Then Xin Min pulled him aside and whispered, "The Emperor has already sent people to follow you. You will be safe. If anything happens, use peach blossoms as a marker to contact them. Understand?" Lin Suyang nodded solemnly.

Just as he was about to mount his horse, he heard someone from the palace arrive. It was An Zhen, hurrying along. "Your Highness, wait! Oh dear! This old servant is exhausted. Luckily, I made it in time!"

Seeing An Zhen panting heavily, Lin Suyang asked in confusion, "I wonder what important matter brings you here, Father-in-law?"

"Prince Consort... this is what the Emperor gave you. The Emperor... the Emperor also instructed this old servant to tell you to be careful in everything." Saying this, he took out a small land plaque and handed it to Lin Suyang.