maree-go-round

[maree-go-round]

Have you dropped Under The Heng Gate?

No, I haven't. It's just that my laptop is broken and unfixable. I couldn't buy a new one at the moment, so my translations have to be put on-hold.

If there's someone who want to take over my projects, whether this one or my projects on novelib, feel free to inform me. Thank you. ✨

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 50

Chapter 50 : I’ll make you see Hanhai Commandery as your true home.

The weather had cleared, and the grain shop in the city opened its door as usual to welcome customers. After sending off a few patrons, the shopkeeper suddenly noticed a group of people escorting a carriage to the entrance.

He took a careful look, then instructed his assistants to clear away idle onlookers. Then, he stood respectfully and waited by the door

Moments later, Qiushuang, who frequently came to deliver messages, walked in.

As usual, Qiushuang was dressed in a round-collared robe, disguising herself in men's attire. Upon entering, she glanced at the shopkeeper, then turned her head, folded her hands, and stepped back two paces.

Qichi walked in under a veiled hat. Her sleeves lifted slightly to reveal a green jade token.

The shopkeeper immediately stepped forward. "Master."

Qichi nodded and slowly walked around the shop, inspecting the front and back. After completing her circuit, she returned and said, "Let me see the account books."

The shopkeeper hurriedly fetched it, presenting it with both hands.

Qichi took the books, flipping through them briefly before closing them. Handing them back, she suddenly asked, "What is your name?"

The shopkeeper was stunned, surprised. "Master has never asked for my name all these years. Why suddenly..."

Qiushuang interrupted him, "Since you've been asked, just answer."

The shopkeeper quickly replied, "My name is Xie Jiu."

Qichi noted his name and said, "You did well at the tea house the other day, and your previous work has been commendable. From now on, when I'm not here, I will entrust the businesses in northern lands to your care."

Xie Jiu couldn't help but feel puzzled. "But Master, you are clearly still in the northern lands. Why do you say such things?"

"No need to ask further," she replied. "Just do as I say."

He quickly responded, "Yes, I will remember."

Qichi has inspected several large shops along the way, and this one is the last one.

She glanced around the shop one more time, organizing her thoughts before speaking slowly, "The livelihood of the people in the northern lands is just beginning to improve. Most of them are still poor. From now on, if it is related to agricultural tools or medicinal supplies, allow them to buy on credit and grant an extra ten percent discount."

Xie Jiu lowered his head. "I will follow Master’s instructions."

"Everything should proceed as usual. Do what you need to do. If anything arises that is difficult to decide, send a message to me, and I will handle it personally."

"Yes."

Qichi paused at the door, unable to think of anything else to say. She then turned and left.

Once back in the carriage, Qiushuang followed her inside, unable to resist asking, "Master, have you truly made your decision?"

Qichi removed her veiled hat, leaned back in the carriage, and gently hummed in response.

Seeing her expression, Qiushuang said no more.

"Has he gone to the military camp?" Qichi asked suddenly.

Qiushuang replied, "Yes, the Grand Protector has taken Young Lord Cui to the camp."

She nodded. "That’s good, then."

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

The carriage returned to the Protectorate.

The residence was busy with servants coming and going.

Qichi walked back to the main house, where the scene was equally busy.

Xinlu was carefully organizing the account books, stacking them neatly one by one and wrapping them up.

Sitting to the side was Li Yan, dressed in a snow-white silk robe, watching Xinlu's movements intently. When he saw Qichi enter, he glanced at her, wanting to speak but hesitating.

Qichi walked over, sat down beside him, and smiled. "Do you have something to say?"

Li Yan looked at her smiling face and finally spoke. "Aunt, are you truly happy?"

That faint smile remained on her face. "Why do you ask?"

Li Yan reached out and tugged at her sleeve. "Aunt, for all these years, you've never thought of yourself because of me. Now that you’ve finally reunited with Uncle, is there really no way out of this?"

As a member of the imperial family secretly involved in commerce, the sight of his aunt that night had made him realize the severity of the situation. He had been quietly worried for a long time.

Qichi patted the back of his hand. "Don't worry. At the very least, you still have a rich aunt. I've told you before, money is a good thing."

Li Yan frowned, unsure of what to say.

Qichi reassured him, "Alright, off you go now. You have the most to prepare. Go get ready and don't let yourself be delayed."

After speaking, she glanced at Qiushuang.

Qiushuang understood and stepped forward to help. "Young Lord, I’ll assist you in packing."

Li Yan had no choice but to get up. As he walked out, he turned back to glance at his aunt.

Qichi sat there, her gaze falling on a corner of the room, unmoving, lost in thought.

He touched the dagger at his waist.

This was given to him by his uncle, who had taught him to be a man and never hide behind women when facing challenges.

As he walked along the way, he called out to Qiushuang, "I must inform my teacher. If my aunt asks for me, please tell her to wait."

Qiushuang acknowledged, "Then, Young Lord, please be quick. Don’t miss the appointed time."

Li Yan agreed and continued to walk forward. However, instead of heading to the study where he usually took lessons, he turned and walked out.

The wind swept through the military camp as the sun began to set.

Fu Ting walked outside the training grounds. Luo Xiaoyi followed behind him, one hand rubbed at an injury that hadn’t fully healed, while the other gestured behind him, inviting the people behind to follow.

Cui Mingdu, accompanied by several officials, trailed after them.

Inside the training grounds, the soldiers were going through their drills, but there was little energy in their movements.

While others might not notice, Luo Xiaoyi knew it very well. The soldiers were merely putting on a show, an ordinary display with nothing impressive to see.

His elder brother had explained that this marquis’ heir was here in the northern lands under false pretenses, so there was no need to show him any real combat prowess. They had no reason to bring out the elite troops of Hanhai Commandery for someone from the Cui family, with whom they never had any contact with.

After surveying the grounds, Cui Mingdu turned to Fu Ting and offered his thanks. "I’ve already imposed upon the city by my presence. I am grateful that Grand Protector Fu has allowed me into the military camp to witness the soldiers' prowess."

Fu Ting gave him a glance and said, "The Protectorate is rather dull. I guess Young Lord Cui likely had no one to talk to, so why not come to the military camp?"

Hearing this, Cui Mingdu’s expression shifted slightly. He couldn’t shake the feeling that there was some hidden meaning behind the words and glanced at him.

Fu Ting's dark eyes swept over him briefly before turning away.

The Protectorate was under his control; nothing within its grounds could escape his notice.

Even under the trees after the rain, when Cui Mingdu had stood with Li Qichi for just a brief moment, he had already noticed. He hadn’t gone over to listen or expose them. After all, it was part of Li Qichi’s past, and it was only right that she handled it herself.

But that didn’t mean he was unaware.

Cui Mingdu looked out at the training grounds, offering polite praise. "No wonder these soldiers are strong enough to defend against the Turks."

He deliberately steered the conversation away.

Fu Ting didn’t respond.

Luo Xiaoyi rubbed his waist as he smiled and said, "You flatter us, Young Lord Cui."

He thought to himself, these stuffy scholarly types really know how to compliment even the most mundane things.

Suddenly, the sound of a horse's neigh broke the air. Fu Ting turned swiftly, his sharp gaze sweeping into the distance.

A rider had seemingly just arrived on horseback, tugging on the reins to slow the horse.

Fu Ting’s keen eyes recognized the rider immediately. Without waiting for a report from the guards, he strode over.

Luo Xiaoyi, noticing Fu Ting’s sudden departure, squinted in the direction he was headed. The young noble dressed in a snow-white silk robe—wasn't he the little princely heir? Why would he come all the way to the military camp?

Li Yan had been here once before, so he still remembered the way. But that last time, his uncle had accompanied him; this time, he had come alone, and it took quite some effort.

The military camp was heavily guarded, and before he could even get close, patrolling soldiers had stopped him for questioning. It wasn’t until one of his uncle’s personal guards recognized him that he was allowed to pass.

When he saw his uncle approaching from afar, Li Yan quickly dismounted.

Fu Ting stopped before him, looking him up and down. "What are you doing in the camp?"

Li Yan, still catching his breath from the ride, replied obediently, "I came specifically to find you, Uncle."

"Is something wrong?" Fu Ting asked.

Li Yan hesitated for a moment, glancing around.

Fu Ting turned and said, "Come to my tent."

Li Yan quickly followed.

Inside the tent, Fu Ting walked straight to the map stand before turning around and standing still. "Speak."

Li Yan's hand instinctively went to the dagger his uncle had given him at his waist. Summoning his courage, he asked, "Uncle, I want to ask if you despise my aunt."

Fu Ting frowned. "What?"

Li Yan lowered his head briefly before looking up again, his voice low. "I know merchants have always been looked down upon. My aunt is of noble birth, yet she chose this path. People must think she has degraded her status. I just don't know if you turned a cold shoulder to her because of this."

He only wanted to know if his uncle couldn’t tolerate his aunt because of this matter.

If that were truly the case, then there was no need for him to say anything more.

Fu Ting replied, "No."

The answer was firm, without a trace of hesitation.

Li Yan's eyes lit up immediately. "Really?"

Fu Ting nodded.

As a man who had worked his way up to where he is today step by step, the last thing he cared about was social status.

What was wrong with being a merchant? At least they didn’t have to worry about making a living. He, on the other hand, had struggled through times when even food and clothes were hard to come by. How could he possibly look down on merchants?

As for the matters between him and Li Qichi, how could he explain those to this half-grown boy? All he said was, "If you came just to ask me this, then rest assured, you can go back now."

With that, he made his way to leave the tent.

Li Yan quickly called after him. "Uncle, wait! There’s more."

Fu Ting paused, turning to look at him.

Li Yan clenched his fists, steeling himself before blurting out the truth: "My aunt… she’s leaving."

She had already asked Xinlu to count the people she had brought from Guang Prefecture, packed up her belongings, and checked on the shops in the city. All the preparations were nearly complete.

She was ready to leave.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Luo Xiaoyi was accompanying Cui Mingdu as they exited the training grounds when he suddenly noticed the large tent's curtain lift from a distance, and his third brother strode out.

Curious, Luo Xiaoyi saw Li Yan follow behind, standing there somewhat uneasy.

"Is that the princely heir of the Prince of Guang?" Cui Mingdu asked. He had seen him briefly in Gaolan Prefecture and had a slight impression of him. It was also because Li Yan’s features bore a slight resemblance to Qichi’s. Cui Mingdu wondered aloud, “He came here to find Grand Protector Fu. Could it be that the Princess of Qingliu has something to do?”

At the mention of his sister-in-law, Luo Xiaoyi laughed lightly, thinking that his third brother's relationship with his sister-in-law wasn't quite resolved yet. He didn't want another party getting involved, so he responded vaguely, "How could it be? The young lord has been practicing martial arts with me, so he’s likely here to see me."

With that, he walked toward them.

Upon arriving, he patted Li Yan’s shoulder and asked, “What’s the matter?”

Li Yan glanced around cautiously before leaning in to whisper something in his ear.

Hearing this, Luo Xiaoyi's expression changed dramatically. He quickly searched for his third brother, but all he heard was the long neigh of a warhorse. By then, the man had already galloped off on horseback and was quickly disappearing from sight.

Meanwhile, Qichi sat before her dressing table, adjusting her appearance before rising from her seat.

Xinlu approached and said, “Master, everything is ready. However, the young lord is still bidding farewell to his teacher, so there might be a slight delay.”

Qichi nodded. “Urge him to hurry. It's getting late, and we need to leave before the city gates close.”

Xinlu left to carry out the order.

Qichi stepped outside.

The corridors were quiet, with most of the servants having already completed their tasks and withdrawn.

She walked out of the rear courtyard, walking along the corridor. As she neared toward the residence gate, she abruptly stopped in her tracks.

In the fading light, a man stood at the end of the corridor.

She froze for a moment, not expecting him to return so suddenly.

Dressed in his tight military attire, Fu Ting stood tall and imposing just a few steps away from her. His eyes scanned her from head to toe.

Qichi’s hair was intricately styled, and she wore a flowing moon-white silk cloak, a clear sign that she was prepared to leave.

He had seen everything when he returned just now. The carriages were already prepared outside, and the attendants she had brought from Guang Prefecture awaited her with hands at their sides.

Li Yan hadn’t been lying, she was indeed leaving.

His voice was low and heavy as he spoke, "Were you planning to leave without saying goodbye?"

Qichi’s gaze shifted slightly. Realizing that he had already seen everything, she clasped her hands together gently and said, “I didn’t want you to think I was using my departure to pressure you."

Especially with Cui Mingdu still present, there was no need to make this matter public.

He stared at her. “So you were planning to leave quietly.”

Qichi’s lashes fluttered slightly as she lowered her gaze and responded in a faint voice, “If there was a slight possibility, I wouldn’t have chosen to leave. But we’ve reached this point because I’ve pushed too hard. Perhaps our fate as husband and wife is weak. I won’t force it anymore.”

Fu Ting’s expression darkened instantly. “Say that again.”

These words struck Qichi like a blow, and her heart seemed to shatter along with them. She lifted her head. “Our fate as husband and wife is weak. I won’t force it anymore.”

Fu Ting’s lips pressed into a thin line, his expression cold and stern, his dark eyes locked on her face.

She looked at him, pondering countless possibilities, but knowing none could be true. She walked forward to the residence gate.

As she walked past him, he remained still.

Once outside, she gracefully lifted the hem of her clothes and began to board the carriage. Just as her hand reached for the curtain, all the attendants lowered their heads in silence.

Suddenly, there was the sound of hurried footsteps behind her. A hand grabbed her arm.

She turned back, and her eyes met the man's face.

Standing on the carriage step, she was finally at eye level with him.

Fu Ting looked at her, then extended his arm and pulled her by the waist.

Startled, Qichi found herself hoisted onto his shoulder.

None of the attendants dared to look as he carried her directly back inside.

Qichi had never experienced such a situation before. With her body draped over his shoulder, she clung to his military attire. She wanted to struggle free herself, but his grip on her legs was unyielding. She was carried all the way back into the room.

He kicked the door shut behind them and pushed her down onto a chair.

As if the world were spinning around her, she sat down slightly out of breath, meeting his gaze.

"Our fate as husband and wife is weak?" He spat the words as if through gritted teeth. "Then with whom do you share a stronger fate?"

She couldn’t find the words. She stood, intending to leave.

Fu Ting grabbed her, sneering. “Leaving? You don’t want the debts I owe you anymore?”

“No, I don’t want anything anymore,” she replied with feigned indifference. As she turned to leave, her cloak slipped from her shoulders, but she didn’t care.

Fu Ting grabbed her hand with force.

He wrapped his arm around her waist from behind and pulled her close, he whispered in her ear, “Are you sure you don’t want anything?”

Her heart skipped a beat as his hand unfastened her belt.

Qichi held the Hu chair with both hands. Her back was exposed, and she shivered at the sudden coolness.

For a moment, her entire body suddenly tensed.

Fu Ting’s lips landed on her back.

Her face and body heated rapidly as his hands explored her.

She clung to the armrest of the Hu chair with both hands, biting her lip.

The buckle of the military belt behind her clicked open, and in the next moment, their bodies pressed together.

His hands and mouth were all tormenting her.

Her body was soft as water, allowing him to do as he pleased.

After some time, she tensed up to bear his entrance, and her fingers grasped the armrest tightly.

Suddenly, Fu Ting reached out, turning her face toward him. He leaned in, capturing her lips with his own.

Qichi froze for a moment, her heart racing wildly.

He kissed her fiercely, tracing every inch of her lips before his tongue slipped between her teeth.

A soft moan escaped her as her mind went blank.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

The room remained unlit, and the darkness outside deepened.

Fu Ting continued to hold her from behind, firm and unyielding.

Qichi’s body swayed like a willow as he turned her face toward him again and again to kiss her.

She was weak and powerless, forgetting why she had wanted to leave.

Until that moment when she thought she could not endure it any longer and almost collapsed, he held her tightly in his arms.

He turned her around to face him, holding her tightly with one hand, and lifting her chin with the other hand. He said in a low and hoarse voice, “One day, I’ll make you see Hanhai Commandery as your true home.”

Qichi's gaze slowly focused on his face, landing within those dark eyes. It seemed as if she had returned to her senses, yet also as if she had become more entranced than ever before. Her voice was soft and faint as she murmured, “I’ll wait…”

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 49

Chapter 49 : Moving up to kiss hiss chin.

The sky was grim, shrouded in dark clouds.

Outside the Protectorate, five or six officials, neatly dressed in their official robes, waited in silence.

u Ting walked out, followed closely by Cui Mingdu.

The officials immediately stepped forward, greeting Cui Mingdu and inviting him to inspect the inner and outer areas of the Hanhai Commandery.

This arrangement was made by Fu Ting.

Since Cui Mingdu claimed to be there on behalf of the Emperor to observe the people’s livelihood of the northern lands, Fu Ting naturally had to fulfill his wish.

A servant brought Fu Ting’s horse over. Just as he took the reins, Cui Mingdu suddenly asked, "Why doesn't Grand Protector Fu invite Princess of Qingliu to join us?"

He turned to look at him. "Does Young Lord Cui wish for my wife to accompany us?"

Cui Mingdu responded, "It's just that, back in Gaolan Prefecture, I often saw the two of you coming and going together. I assumed your relationship was close, so I thought to ask."

Fu Ting's tone grew slightly colder. "Young Lord, it seems you have taken quite an interest in our married life."

Cui Mingdu was caught off guard, then smiled. "The Princess spent thousands of gold back then, everyone present couldn’t help but pay attention to it. Naturally, I paid some attention as well."

From these words, it seemed not bringing Li Qichi along would raise suspicions.

Fu Ting's gaze swept over him, deliberately ignoring the subtle insinuation. He then commanded a servant, "Go invite Madam to join us."

Cui Mingdu offered a polite gesture. "I apologize for my impertinence."

Fu Ting gripped his whip without saying another word.

He was well aware that Cui Mingdu’s courtesy was far from genuine.

Moments later, Qichi emerged from the residence gate.

Cui Mingdu's eyes immediately turned to her.

She wore a veiled hat, her long skirt trailed on the ground, her arms draped in a flowing shawl, making it difficult to see her expression.

Cui Mingdu couldn’t tell if she was still as pale as she had been when standing at the study door.

Her two maids, Xinlu and Qiushuang, followed closely behind her. Their heads lowered out of deference to the Grand Protector, neither dared to raise their heads. They moved swiftly to put the stool in front of the carriage and then turned back to assist their master get on the carriage.

Qichi stopped in front of Fu Ting.

Xinlu and Qiushuang then withdrew.

She lifted the veil from her hat slightly and looked at him. Glancing briefly at Cui Mingdu in the distance, she spoke quietly, “If you do not wish me to go, just say so. I will stay behind.”

Still holding the reins, Fu Ting swung himself onto his horse. "I never said you couldn’t go."

Qichi lowered her gaze. When she had heard the servant come to invite her earlier, she hadn’t expected Fu Ting to take the initiative. Curious, she had asked the servant why. The servant said it was at the esteemed guest’s request, and only then did she realize it was Cui Mingdu’s doing.

Without saying another word, she stepped onto the stool and climbed into the carriage.

Fu Ting raised his leg, stepped on the stirrup and got on the horse, stealing a glance toward Cui Mingdu.

Sure enough, Cui Mingdu was watching them again.

He couldn't help sneaking a glance at the carriage. Even though he had spent years stationed in the northern lands, he was well aware of the Emperor’s favor toward the Cui family.

If Li Qichi had married Cui Mingdu instead, would she have showered him with the same affection she once showed Fu Ting? Would she have said all the words she’d once spoken to Fu Ting, but this time to Cui Mingdu?

The thought made his lips curl slightly, and he tightened his grip on the reins.

There were no "ifs".

Li Qichi has already married him.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

The group set out on the road, first traveling to the outskirts of the city to inspect the newly cultivated farmland, then making their way back toward the city.

The officials accompanying them introduced the current situation to Cui Mingdu along the way.

The Grand Protector had instructed them to make the inspection a mere formality, and so their explanations were nothing more than superficial talk.

Cui Mingdu didn’t seem particularly interested in listening. Riding on horseback, he occasionally glanced toward the carriage or ahead to Fu Ting, who was leading the way.

At one point, the carriage curtains lifted briefly, and he caught sight of Qichi’s hand gripping the fabric before she let it fall once more.

By the time they returned to the city, the dark clouds had descended even lower.

Within half an hour, rain began to fall from the sky.

Fu Ting ordered the group to seek shelter nearby.

The officials found a nearby shop and ushered the esteemed guest inside to take shelter from the rain.

Due to the rain, the shop was mostly empty, and it was soon cleared out entirely to accommodate the officials.

As Fu Ting stepped inside, his eyes were drawn to the fish-shaped trademark of the merchant house on the wall.

His gaze shifted to Qichi, who had entered shortly after. She stood facing him, hands tucked into her sleeves.

Upon reaching her shop again, no one could find anything to say.

The spring rain in the northern lands was often sudden and sharp, arriving suddenly and splattering noisily from the eaves to the ground below.

The officials accompanied Cui Mingdu to sit aside. The shop’s employees came forth to serve tea.

Cui Mingdu cast a glance toward the side room, where he could vaguely make out Qichi’s silhouette sitting quietly. His eyes drifted back toward the door, where Fu Ting stood tall without stepping into the side room.

Cui Mingdu cast another glance toward the side room.

Throughout the entire journey, the couple had exchanged barely a handful of words. Especially Qichi, who had barely spoken, just following Fu Ting silently.

He recalled the scene at the Buddhist temple and to Qichi’s pale face by the study door, the image replaying over and over in his mind.

"Young Lord Cui?" An official called him.

Cui Mingdu returned to his senses, smiling courteously. After a moment, his eyes strayed again toward the side room.

By the time the rain stopped, Fu Ting still hadn’t entered the room.

Everyone was about to leave.

Before leaving, Cui Mingdu glanced around and said to Fu Ting, "I hadn’t expected the northern lands to have such a prosperous shop. It seems trade flows smoothly here."

He had noticed earlier that the shop mostly sold goods transported from the south, which were hard to come by in the north. Without sufficient financial resources and manpower, it would be difficult to transport them from thousands of miles away.

Fu Ting said nothing, merely casting a glance at Qichi as she stepped out from the side room.

How could he know that the owner of this prosperous shop was standing right in front of him?

By the time they returned to the Protectorate, the sky was already dark.

Xinlu and Qiushuang were waiting by the carriage. Qichi removed her veil and handed it to them.

As she entered the residence, she noticed that the front courtyard, which was rarely opened, was still filled with officials.

Fu Ting must still be there.

She thought back to the journey, they had barely spoken a word.

As she walked along the corridor, making her way to the rear courtyard, a servant hurried over and bowed before her. "My lord humbly requests the Princess of Qingliu to come. He has an imperial message from the Emperor to deliver to you."

She instantly understood. "Your lord is Young Lord Cui?"

"Yes."

How could the Emperor possibly have a message for her? It was obvious that he had never paid her, a member of the imperial family, much attention.

After a brief moment of contemplation, she followed the servant.

At the corner of the front porch, there was a cluster of trees, with branches stretched out. 

As she approached, she heard a soft voice call out, "Princess."

Qichi stopped, but did not look clearly at the person. She asked, "What is the Emperor’s message?"

"My apologies, Princess." Cui Mingdu stood on the other side of the trees, his gaze fixed on her vague figure. "I know you are cautious of impropriety, so I had no choice but to take this approach. I only wanted to say a few words to you."

Qichi turned slightly toward him. "There is nothing we should have to say in private."

He seemed somewhat anxious. "Please, Princess, allow me to speak just one sentence."

She remained silent.

Several slender branches of green leaves extended before Cui Mingdu, their leaves half-concealing the delicate figure of a woman dressed in light attire and coiffed hair, as if forming a barrier between them.

He looked at her profile and spoke in a low voice, "Actually, I am not yet married."

Qichi lowered her eyes, her expression unchanging.

She recalled that back in Gaolan Prefecture, she seemed to have heard the governor mention that he went to the horse field alone every year. At that time, she assumed he was unhappy in his marriage. It turned out he had never married at all.

"Why does the Young Lord need to tell me this?"

Cui Mingdu took a step closer and whispered, "Princess, you should know what I mean. I want to tell you the truth. It wasn’t my intention to break off the engagement. I have never taken a liking to anyone else. I knew it was improper and I argued with my family for three months, but..."

But the outcome was already clear; there was no need to say more.

Qichi's tone was calm. "Then I suppose the Marquis of Heluo’s household found the declining Prince of Guang's household unsuitable."

Cui Mingdu’s voice lowered, "The reason cannot be explained in one or two sentences. I only want you to know that breaking off the engagement was not my intention."

Qichi clutched the hem of her clothing, her heart clear as a mirror.

To fabricate a reason to break off the engagement, it could only be because of the Prince of Guang household’s declining status.

When the engagement was first arranged, her parents were still alive, and her elder brother was young and outstanding. The Prince of Guang's household had a vast network of connections.

Later, her parents passed away, her sister-in-law died in childbirth, and her elder brother refused to remarry. After that, he was severely injured and bedridden, leaving only a young child, too young to take on responsibilities.

When the tree falls, the monkeys scatter; wise people know where to place their bets.

Perhaps the Marquis of Heluo fabricated the reason of his son liking someone else more suitable as a way to preserve the Prince of Guang household’s dignity.

"Thank you for telling me, Young Lord," she said, "But it no longer matters. It is nothing but a thing of the past."

She should be grateful for the broken engagement. She didn’t need a husband who couldn’t make his own decisions, nor a family that looked down on her family’s status.

She turned away without sparing him another glance, ready to leave.

Cui Mingdu took a step forward, calling out, "Princess!"

Qichi had her back to him, but did not turn around.

He recalled everything that had happened before and finally couldn't help but say, "Princess, it’s clear you are not doing well. If the Grand Protector of the North treats you poorly, it’s all my fault. I am willing to bear the responsibility."

Qichi almost thought she had heard wrong. She turned her head slowly. "Young Lord, do you know what you are saying?"

Cui Mingdu finally saw her face clearly. It was a remote place, and the lights had not been lit, but he could see clearly in the twilight. Her eyebrows were delicate as if painted, and her red lips were lightly pressed together.

A face like that should only wear a smile, not tears.

He looked at her figure, and suddenly a thought flashed in his mind: This woman should have been his wife.

He seemed startled by his own thoughts. After a long while, he finally said, "I know."

Qichi’s eyes were indifferent, her tone equally so. "The engagement is broken. I have no further ties with the Marquis of Heluo’s household anymore. There is no need for you to concern yourself with my well-being."

Even Cui Mingdu himself hadn’t expected those words to come out of his mouth.

Perhaps it was guilt, or perhaps it was regret, or perhaps, he had never forgotten that brief encounter at the horse field.

When he saw her again, there was only her pale face streaked with tears.

He asked, "Is it because of the Marquis's household that you are so resolute?"

Qichi turned her head back, "Even without the Marquis's household, it would be the same. My husband has never wronged me, so I cannot betray him. This is the most basic principle of morality. I hope you can let me be."

He frowned, "You two don’t seem to be doing well."

Her voice suddenly softened, "That is because I have let him down."

Cui Mingdu was stunned, unsure if it was true or not.

"Young Lord, don’t forget where you are and who you’re speaking to. I will pretend I didn’t hear any of these words."

Cui Mingdu seemed to come to his senses. This was the Protectorate General to Pacify the North, and the person speaking to him was the wife of the Grand Protector.

He could no longer utter another word.

Qichi's figure was no longer in sight.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Qichi walked very fast.

She didn’t want to linger for even a moment.

The corridor was damp, and she was moving too fast. She suddenly stepped on a wet spot and nearly slipped.

But then something pressed against her waist, steadying her.

There was a man’s hand around her waist, his sleeve tightly bound with a sash. She looked up and saw Fu Ting’s face.

He had come from behind her, his military attire stained with rain, dampening half of his shoulder.

Seeing that she had regained her balance, he withdrew his hand.

Qichi suddenly reached out and grabbed his hand, pressing it back against her waist, pulling herself against him.

The damp part of his attire brushed against her cheek.

She paid it no mind. She wrapped her arm around him, pulling him backwards.

Fu Ting, held tightly by her, had to bend his head and accommodate her as they walked several steps back.

Entwined, the two of them stumbled into the doorway.

The door slammed shut, and Qichi, with some inexplicable strength, held onto him with one hand tugging at his belt and the other slipping into his lapel.

Fu Ting’s face tightened. "What are you doing?"

Qichi’s heart pounded. She couldn’t explain it either.

In that moment when he tried to pull back his hand, she felt as though she were losing an opportunity.

If she didn’t seize it, she might never get another chance.

She stood on tiptoe, lifting her head to kiss his neck, moving up to his chin.

She wanted to kiss his lips, but he didn’t lower his head.

She couldn’t untie his belt, and as her hand slipped inside his lapel to his chest, he grabbed it.

His voice seemed to be squeezed out from between clenched teeth, low and hoarse, "I asked you, what are you doing!"

She looked up at him, her face flushed, panting lightly.

Not long ago, another man had shown his affection to her, but now she was only showing affection to him.

She looked at his face, his dark eyes, and her lifted foot slowly came back down. She softly said, "Yes, I forgot that you are the one who decides this matter."

Fu Ting gritted his teeth. The woman in his arms was limp against him, his hand still on her waist.

He didn’t lower his head, lest he meet her eyes or her lips.

Qichi let go of him and lowered her gaze. After a long moment, she raised her head and said, "I really wanted to live as a good husband and wife with you, whether you believe it or not."

She stepped back, smoothed her wrinkled clothing. Shewalked past him, pulling open the door and stepping out.

Fu Ting stood there for a long time before he lifted his hand to tuck in his loosened lapel.

Outside the door, Qichi felt a strange calmness.

Since she had already taken a wrong step, she would not lack the courage to bear the consequences.

Now that things have come to this point, she must look forward.

Perhaps some things were simply not meant to be.

At the entrance of the main house, Xinlu and Qiushuang were waiting.

She walked over, tidied her hair, and her rapid heartbeat gradually calmed. She softly said, "Count all the people who were brought here from Guang Prefecture with me."

Maree's corner: NOOO!! WHYY??? T___T

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 48

Chapter 48 : It was you who never intended to live as a good husband and wife with me.

Fu Ting entered the military tent, unbuckled his saber and placed it on the weapon rack. He casually draped his horsewhip over its sheath and walked over to the narrow bed in the corner and collapsed onto it.

Before he closed his eyes, he noticed the old tiger skin covering the bed.

He had hunted this tiger many years ago; the skin was now somewhat faded, with one corner flipped over beneath the pillow.

It was made the last time Qichi was here, when the two of them had squeezed onto the narrow bed for the night. He hadn’t bothered to straighten it out since.

He had returned from outside, having not slept a wink the entire night. He intended to lie down for a moment, but upon seeing this, he sat up again.

Much later, Luo Xiaoyi entered the tent and saw Fu Ting standing before the map stand.

He wore his military attire loosely, as if he had just washed. His face and neck still glistened with water droplets. He held a wine pouch and was pouring its contents into his mouth.

Luo Xiaoyi didn’t dare make a sound. He knew what was going on.

After rushing back to the city from the tea house last night, Fu Ting had immediately gone to the Protectorate. Luo Xiaoyi had arrived just in time to see his third brother striding out of the back courtyard.

He had sensed that something was off with his third brother. The way he walked out was like a lone wolf separated from its pack on the Hu grasslands.

Other than his sister-in-law, no one else could make his third brother act this way.

Fu Ting had already noticed him long ago. After taking three consecutive gulps from the wine pouch, he sealed it with the stopper and asked without lifting his head, “What's the matter?”

Luo Xiaoyi quickly plastered on a smile and said, “Didn’t Third Brother instruct me last night to handle the matter with those merchants? They have been stabilized for now.”

Last night, he had taken several officials to visit those merchants one by one and announced the Protectorate’s edict.

He had assured them that the earlier move was not intended to expel the shopkeepers of the Yuxing Merchant House but rather to commend them for their prompt and active role in handling trade with the Hu tribes. They had been summoned to receive rewards.

At least he managed to calm the merchants down and even urged each household to speed up their business dealings.

Fu Ting put down the wine pouch and casually acknowledged with a hum.

Luo Xiaoyi studied his expression and laughed dryly. “Why is Third Brother looking at the map now?”

Fu Ting replied, “To see how she operates her business in the North.”

Luo Xiaoyi knew exactly who “she” was.

His laugh turned even more dryly, his throat feeling like it was being rubbed with sand. He whispered, “Well, I’ve long known that Sister-in-law isn’t an ordinary woman.”

He had been in shock the entire night.

Thinking about the Yuxing Merchant House’s shops he had seen before, and all those stacks of flying cash, it all belonged to his sister-in-law alone. He was truly at a loss for words.

No wonder she never seemed to care about money. She was genuinely wealthy!

Hearing this, Fu Ting couldn’t help but tug at the corner of his mouth.

Indeed, Li Qichi has never been an ordinary woman.

So, he wasn’t surprised at all that she could amass such a great fortune.

Luo Xiaoyi peeked at his expression and tentatively said, “Third Brother, it's not a bad thing for Sister-in-law to be wealthy. Now we can rest assured. Should we also release those shopkeepers under her control, to avoid any further misunderstandings among the other merchants?”

When he had left the tea house yesterday, those shopkeepers were still being held there. He had no idea what had happened to them now.

Fu Ting adjusted the military attire on his body, tucking in the collar. “I’ve already released them.”

Luo Xiaoyi then remembered something. “After you left the Protectorate last night, no one saw you. Did you go to handle this matter?”

“Mm.”

Luo Xiaoyi said, “Why didn’t you let me go instead? Why did you have to go there yourself?”

“It had to be me.” Fu Ting tightened his belt and reached for the fish-shaped green jade token at his waist.

He had gone there to seal their lips.

Bringing the green jade token was a deliberate move to understand the merchant house’s business operations throughout the northern lands.

Everyone had signed a life-and-death agreement in front of him; whatever had happened at the tea house had to be forgotten.

From now on, they should just continue their business as usual. They were simply honest merchants, beneficial to the livelihoods of the northern lands, and the Protectorate would not make things difficult for them.

Thinking of this, he looked at Luo Xiaoyi. “Make sure all the troops who were involved yesterday all sign a military pledge, no word of this is to be leaked.”

Luo Xiaoyi understood immediately and responded seriously, “Yes, Third Brother is right. With Sister-in-law’s esteemed status, it mustn’t be known that she’s involved in business.”

“That’s secondary,” Fu Ting said.

Luo Xiaoyi was puzzled. “Then what’s the primary reason?”

Fu Ting fastened his sleeves and said, “She is the Grand Protector’s wife. If people find out, they’ll think all her wealth was gained through abuse of power, which would harm her reputation.”

He took out the jade token and handed it over. “Take this jade back to her.”

Luo Xiaoyi was still processing his words, looking at him in disbelief and then at the jade. He refused to take it. “Third Brother, you’ve considered even this for Sister-in-law. It’s obvious that you’re not angry at all. Then why don’t you go and return it yourself?”

Fu Ting’s voice turned cold. “Stop talking nonsense. You don’t understand.”

Luo Xiaoyi said, “What’s there not to understand? I can tell you care deeply about Sister-in-law.”

Fu Ting’s eyes turned icy. “Do you want to be flogged with a military stick?”

Luo Xiaoyi couldn't bear to see him in a state like last night, pressed on with a stiff upper lip. “Even if I get flogged with a military stick, I’ll still have to say it. You’ve been alone for so many years, and Sister-in-law is your only family now. There’s nothing wrong with caring about her!”

Fu Ting clenched his jaw, a smile tugging at his lips. “You know not a damn thing!”

Indeed, Li Qichi was his only family.

But her family was in Guang Prefecture, not here.

He put the jade back in his waistband and glanced at Luo Xiaoyi. “Speaking ill of your superiors, ten lashes of military sticks. Go take them after you’ve finished your tasks.”

Luo Xiaoyi’s eyes widened as he watched him leave the tent.

He regretted it a little. He hadn’t expected his third brother to be so harsh. Had he touched a nerve?

Not long after Fu Ting left the tent, a guard approached him and reported—

“Grand Protector, the imperial court has sent an envoy here and he has entered Hanhai Commandery.”

He asked, “Who is it?”

The guard reported the name.

He merely nodded. “Understood.”

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

In the hall of the Buddhist temple, Qichi had already risen to her feet. As she stood, she turned her head slightly and raised her sleeve to wipe her eyes. By the time she turned back, her expression had returned to normal.

She could finally see the person who had entered. She glanced up and down, not expecting him to appear here. Since they parted in Gaolan Prefecture, she had believed they would never cross paths again.

Cui Mingdu, dressed in a deep blue round-collared silk robe with a jade hairpin securing his topknot, stood at the entrance, watching her.

After a few moments, she asked calmly, “Why has the heir of the Cui family come here?”

Cui Mingdu’s gaze lingered on her face before he finally moved, bowing slightly as he spoke with a warm tone. "I am here on official duty. Before entering the city, I heard that Princess and Grand Protector Fu have been staying at the temple. So I came to look for you, and indeed, here you are."

Qichi thought it was quite a coincidence that he just happened to inquire about their whereabouts right before entering the city.

"Our stay here has ended. Since you are here for official duty, you should go see my husband." With that, she turned and began to walk towards the door.

Cui Mingdu watched as she neared, and as she was about to pass him, he couldn't help but ask, "Princess, have you been unwell?"

Qichi stopped in her tracks and looked at him.

Cui Mingdu had fine, delicate features and a fair complexion, and his bearing exuded elegance and nobility, a stark contrast to Fu Ting.

Fu Ting was strong and upright, with a high nose and deep-set eyes, his skin at least a shade darker.

She didn’t understand why looking at him made her think of that man. She responded indifferently, "I am well. I don’t understand why you would think otherwise."

Cui Mingdu gazed at her slightly reddened eyes. "Because just now, you seemed very sad."

When he had entered the temple, he had not expected much. But to his surprise, there she was, right at the edge of the Buddhist Hall.

She had been kneeling on the prayer mat, her hands resting on the ground before her, shoulders slumped, silently shedding tears. The sight had startled him so much that he had impulsively called out, "Princess!"

Qichi had no desire for him to see her like that. She turned her gaze away, her face expressionless. "Young Lord, you’ve misunderstood. This is a Buddhist temple. I was merely mourning a close relative."

Cui Mingdu glanced into the hall, his eyes tracing the rows of brightly lit Buddha lamps. It was difficult to make anything out clearly, but he knew. "Are you mourning the late Prince of Guang? May I offer my respects too?"

As if hearing some joke, Qichi walked out the door. "That won’t be necessary."

Cui Mingdu knew well that his decision to break off the engagement had deeply hurt the Prince of Guang, a guilt he had carried for a long time. Now, there was no chance to make amends. As he watched her walk away, he followed at a slow pace.

Outside the temple gate, at the foot of the stone steps, a young monk handed her the reins of a horse. She took them, then noticed the shadow of the man behind her. Turning back, she asked, "Young Lord, do you have more to say?"

Cui Mingdu walked down the steps, his eyes on her horse. "Princess, why would you come here alone without a single attendant?"

She replied, "This is the northern lands. As the wife of the Grand Protector, I can do as I please."

Cui pointed into the distance. "I have brought my retinue. Since I should also go to the Protectorate to visit the Grand Protector Fu, why don’t I escort you back?"

She smiled faintly. "That won’t be necessary."

Cui Mingdu noted the smile on her face, and he asked in a low voice, "Princess, do you still find it hard to forgive me for what happened back then? Is that why you avoid me?"

Qichi regarded him as someone she barely knew, neither loved nor hated. Forgiveness wasn’t even part of the equation. What she couldn’t forgive was how the Cui family had enraged her brother, worsening his injuries.

Towards this man, there was no resentment at all.

She said, "Since you remember what happened back then, you should know that I am now married. All past entanglements should be set aside, it is only right that we avoid any impropriety."

Cui Mingdu hesitated for a moment before saying, "If it is only for propriety’s sake, then I am relieved."

Qichi couldn't help but glance at him, sensing an undertone in his words, and suddenly recalled the letters he had sent her in the past.

"If you wish to visit the Protectorate, do as you wish. I must take my leave."

Cui Mingdu immediately stepped back half a step. "Of course. Please go ahead, Princess."

Qichi stepped into the stirrup, mounted her horse, and galloped off without a backward glance.

As Cui Mingdu watched her figure disappear into the distance, he somehow recalled the first time he had seen her, when she had descended from the platform at the horse field, the fleeting glance she had cast at him as she followed the man out.

Every time he saw her, she always left him surprised.

Whether it was on that horse field or here, crying silently in a temple.

In the military camp, Luo Xiaoyi, having just endured the pain from ten lashes of military sticks, was rubbing his sore lower back as he approached the tent. He saw someone galloping out of the camp on horseback.

Following the rider with his eyes, he realized it was none other than his third brother.

He grabbed a guard and asked, "What’s going on? Has the Grand Protector finally decided to return home?"

The guard clasped his fists and replied, "The Grand Protector received a report from the court that an esteemed guest has arrived from the capital. Naturally, he must return back."

Luo Xiaoyi clicked his tongue. So it wasn’t the ten lashes that had changed his brother’s mind after all.

"Who’s the guest?" he asked offhandedly.

The guard replied, "The heir of the Marquis of Heluo from the Eastern Capital Luoyang."

Luo Xiaoyi froze, accidentally pulling at his wound. He winced in pain and hissed through his teeth. "Why him?"

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting galloped all the way back to the Protectorate.

As soon as he dismounted from his horse, a soldier dressed in plain clothes arrived on horseback, kneeling in front of him to report that the men previously stationed to keep watch around the temple had all withdrawn. Before they left, they had seen the madam in the temple.

He asked, "Why did she return to the temple?"

"I don't know."

Fu Ting said nothing more and was about to enter the residence when the soldier added, "The esteemed guest sent by the court also entered the temple and left through the gate shortly after Madam."

Gripping his horsewhip tightly, he thought of Cui Mingdu, a cold look flashing across his eyes. "You saw nothing."

The soldier nodded and withdrew.

Fu Ting stepped through the residence gate and headed to his study, where he found Qichi.

She stood by the desk, seemingly waiting for him.

"I knew you'd come back," she said. After hearing Cui Mingdu mention his official duty, she knew Fu Ting would come back.

Fu Ting looked at her face, noticing her eyes were slightly red. He clenched his jaw, resisting the urge to ask her anything.

Reaching into his waistband with one hand, he pulled out a piece of green jade and placed it on the desk. "I'm returning this to you."

In the end, it was still he who brought it back.

Qichi looked down at the jade, then back at him. "Do you still blame me?"

He replied, "You’ve done much for the northern lands. I have no reason to blame you."

"You know that’s not what I meant." She reached out and picked up the jade, and softly asked, "If you return this to me, then may I ask if my former husband will be returned to me as well?"

Fu Ting remained silent. He wanted to laugh, but found that he couldn’t.

Qichi glanced at his chin. She knew he meticulously shaved it each day with a small knife, but today he hadn’t bothered as his stubble was beginning to show. There was a weariness in his eyes too.

She thought she would never get an answer from him. Clutching the jade in her hand, her fingers unconsciously tightened around it. "You once promised we would live as a good husband and wife. Does that promise count for nothing now?"

Lowering his head, Fu Ting finally let out a faint laugh. "It was you who never intended to live as a good husband and wife with me."

Outside the door, a servant hurriedly approached, reporting that the esteemed guest from the court had arrived.

Fu Ting turned around and walked away.

Halfway down the path, he met Cui Mingdu, who had rushed over to pay a formal visit.

"Grand Protector Fu," he greeted him.

Fu Ting returned the gesture with a clasped fist salute. "Young Lord Cui, you've come a long way. Why didn't you send word ahead?"

Cui Mingdu smiled and said, "I am merely following His Majesty’s orders to travel to the Mohe[1]. On my way, I passed through the northern lands. His Majesty has always been concerned about the livelihood of the people here, so I decided to stay for a few days and gather information to report back to him."

Fu Ting replied, "That’s very thoughtful of you, Young Lord Cui."

The Emperor had not sent anyone to the northern lands for years; his main concern had always been the Turks. To claim the Emperor had always been concerned about the livelihood of the northern people was somewhat excessive.

Still, he chose to believe this grandiose excuse for now.

Cui Mingdu’s eyes drifted past Fu Ting, where Qi Chi had emerged slowly from the study. She cast a glance in their direction, her pale face visible even from afar.

Cui Mingdu glanced at her, then again, only to confirm that her eyes were fixed on the man standing before him.

Though Fu Ting did not turn his head to look, he caught the shift in Cui Mingdu’s gaze and recalled the report he had received earlier.

He had seen how Li Qichi treated Cui Mingdu at the horse field, so he would not make groundless assumptions. However, it was uncertain whether Cui Mingdu treated Li Qichi the same way.

Notes: [1] The Mohe (靺鞨) or known as Mohe people, were a group people living in the northeast of China during the Tang Dynasty. The Tang documented the Mohe as inhabiting the land of Sushen, to the northeast of the Tang, east of the Turks, and north of Goguryeo.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 47

Chapter 47 : She allowed herself this momentary indulgence, conversing with her dearest family member.

Qichi did not respond.

She had never imagined that one day she would hear that familiar address come from her husband’s lips.

Fu Ting didn’t wait for her response, he suddenly drew the saber from behind his waist.

With a swift motion, he pointed the saber at the people kneeling before him, his voice sinking deeper. "Is the one behind the screen your master?"

The crowd dared not breathe. After a long while, one person finally stammered, "We don’t know. We only recognize the green jade token."

Qichi listened quietly.

She knew Fu Ting wouldn’t get the answers he wanted, for they were speaking the truth.

They only knew that their master was from Qingliu County, a woman of some status who never showed her face. To them, seeing the green jade token was the same as seeing their master.

If they knew that she was the wife of the Grand Protector, perhaps they wouldn’t have been so panicked today.

Fu Ting's gaze landed on one person. "You, speak."

It was the shopkeeper from the grain shop.

He raised his head slightly, then hurriedly lowered it again. "It’s true. We only recognize the green jade token, we don’t know our master."

Fu Ting pointed the saber to his face. "Tell the truth."

The shopkeeper froze.

He had once followed orders from his master to help the Princely Heir[1] of Guang deal with the Princely Heir of Yong. He had also seen his master and the Grand Protector together on several occasions. Though he had his suspicions, he had never dared to confirm them.

Besides, when his master had ordered him to deal with the Princely Heir of Yong, she had also bought his silence. Over these years, she had never treated him poorly in any way. If something happened to the master, what good would it do for him?

All he could do was brace himself and bow his head to the ground. "If the Grand Protector does not believe me, you may kill me."

Fu Ting gritted his teeth and said, "Very well. Then who was behind the screen that day?"

"It was also the master," the shopkeeper said. "I saw the green jade token, and that means it was the master."

He wasn’t lying; he had indeed seen the green jade token, though it wasn’t in the hands of the sick man lying on the bed.

"So, anyone could be the master," Fu Ting said.

"Yes," the shopkeeper said, not daring to lift his head. "Now that the green jade token is in the Grand Protector’s hands, you could be considered the master."

"How dare you!" Luo Xiaoyi immediately scolded. "What nonsense are you talking about!"

All the people kneeling in the hall didn’t dare to raise their heads, but they all said in unison, "We wouldn’t dare deceive you."

The synchronized response left Luo Xiaoyi speechless, rubbing his cheeks several times.

His third brother had slapped him with too much force earlier, and the pain still lingered.

Fu Ting looked at the green jade token in his hand, then at Qichi.

She stood behind the screen, her face slightly pale, but calm and silent, as if she were merely an observer.

"Everyone out," he suddenly said.

The people kneeling on the ground scrambled to their feet and hurried out of the room with their heads lowered.

Luo Xiaoyi glanced at his third brother’s expression and quickly said, "Third Brother, maybe it's all a misunderstanding. You heard them, they only recognize the jade token. How could this be related to Sister-in-law?"

As he spoke, he shot pleading glances toward the screen, hoping his sister-in-law would step in and explain herself.

Qichi gripped the veil in her hand, her eyes fixed on Fu Ting.

Luo Xiaoyi grew anxious. What was going on? Usually, his sister-in-law had no trouble handling his third brother.

Just then, an official rushed in from outside and greeted Fu Ting. "Grand Protector, many merchants in the city have come to the government office, asking why the shopkeepers from the Yuxing Merchant House were dismissed. They are very worried and can no longer focus on their business. What should we do?"

Fu Ting glanced at Luo Xiaoyi.

Luo Xiaoyi froze for a moment, then quickly stepped forward and whispered, "Third Brother, do you not trust me? I took care of it before dawn. The men I sent to take over were dressed in plain clothes, and I specifically ordered and threatened the shopkeepers not to leak a word in the city. Otherwise, how could they have hurried out of the city to find the master? Besides, thunder masked any sounds they made during that time, so how could the other merchants know? Unless someone deliberately informed them."

He paused, thinking to himself, could it be that someone really tipped them off?

Fu Ting sheathed his saber in his hand and looked at Qichi. "I’ll go back and deal with this later. For now, I have more important matters to do."

The official had no choice but to leave.

Qichi remained calm, thinking to herself, it seems Xinlu has successfully returned to the residence.

Originally, she had planned to use the other merchants to pressure him, hoping to dispel his doubts. But now, it seemed she had no other choice.

Fu Ting asked, "Was it you?"

She finally spoke. "Was what me?"

He stared at her face, nodding slightly. "It seems I’ll have to confirm it myself."

With that, he turned and strode out.

Qichi stood there, suddenly realizing what he meant. She hastily donned her veiled hat, lifted the hem of her clothes, and quickly followed him out

When she got outside, Fu Ting was nowhere to be seen. Only the soldiers stood guard, in layers, as if preparing for battle.

One of the soldiers who didn’t recognize her stepped forward to block her, but Luo Xiaoyi, who had followed her out, glared at the soldier, who then quickly backed off.

Qichi grabbed a horse nearby, mounted swiftly, and galloped off without saying a word.

Luo Xiaoyi wanted to shout after her, but remembering his third brother’s actions, he figured that he could not reveal his sister-in-law's identity. He kept his mouth shut and held back.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Night had fallen, but the city gates remained open.

Qichi galloped back to the residence, her mind nearly blank.

Upon arriving at the gate, she dismounted from the horse and removed her veiled hat before hurrying toward the main hall.

Just as she reached the entrance, her footsteps faltered.

Xinlu knelt outside the door. When she saw Qichi, she finally dared to rise and quickly left.

Qichi entered the room.

The room was brightly lit, yet everything was in complete disarray. Chests and cabinets had been opened, the entire place thoroughly searched.

Fu Ting stood by the table, holding a booklet in his hand.

But it wasn’t her ledger.

It was merely something she had casually written in, notes for calculating accounts. The real ledger had long been locked away, and she had ordered Xinlu to move it to a different location.

He might be able to detect some clues in this room, but he wouldn’t find any solid evidence.

Fu Ting glanced at the booklet.

The handwriting was different from what he had seen that night.

The characters on the note passed to him that night were wild and unrestrained, clearly not the handwriting of a woman.

There still wasn’t a single flaw.

He looked at her. "Are you going to tell me how you just so happened to come into possession of that jade token? Or how you ended up at that shop?"

Qichi softly asked, "If I told you, would you listen?"

"No," he replied. "Because it’s you, everything now makes perfect sense."

Resettling the refugees, buying horses with thousands of gold.

The origin of every bit of wealth was now clear.

The reason why this merchant house had gone to such great lengths to support his Protectorate also became clear as well.

Qichi's lips moved slightly before pursed gently.

Her subordinates wouldn’t betray her,and he hadn't found anything decisive. If she truly wanted to cover her tracks, there was still a way out.

All she had to do was fabricate another lie, just like last time.

But she couldn’t bring herself to speak.

Fu Ting lifted the jade. "This is your personal belonging, right?"

She was silent for a moment, then nodded. "Yes."

His face turned dark. "Then why don’t you continue lying? You could tell me this wealth was all left to you by the Prince of Guang."

She said nothing.

"Apart from the Turks, the only one who can make me mobilize troops and personally conduct a search is you," he said, nearly spitting out the words, "my wife".

Qichi responded, "Today, I could have stayed away. I could have ignored the losses. But I didn’t want the northern lands to suffer."

Fu Ting stared at her. "That’s right, I forced you."

She raised her eyes to him. "I only wanted you to know that, just like you, I too desire what is best for the northern lands."

Even if she had personal motives, hoping that the prosperity of the northern lands would benefit her as well, she still wanted northern lands to thrive.

He took two steps toward her. "Then why didn’t you show yourself and tell me directly?"

She spoke softly. "I am of noble birth, but I’ve been secretly engaging in business. It’s unbecoming of my status."

"Status?" Fu Ting sneered. "Do you think I care about status, given where I come from?"

Whether she was a covert merchant or an open one, since he married her, he would accept it. Why would he care about her status?

Li Qichi was so astute, she couldn’t have failed to realize this.

Her voice became even softer. "If you knew, it would only make things harder for you."

"Why don’t you tell the truth?" He lowered his head and stared into her eyes. "The reason you lied to me is simply that you don’t trust me."

Her eyelashes trembled, and she pressed her lips together.

Fu Ting's face was tense, his eyes dark. "You didn’t even see me when I summoned you, and you guarded yourself against me. Am I really so unworthy of your trust?"

He thought back to the woman who had smiled at him in Gaolan Prefecture.

She had said, As long as you’re Fu Ting, you’ll definitely be able to pay it back.

At the time, he thought he had found a wife who trusted and supported him, enough to help him through the harsh winter of the northern lands.

Even if later on he realized she wasn’t sincere, at least there was a truth between them.

But now, it turned out even this was a lie.

He gripped her chin, forcing her to look up at him. "You lied to me, yet still sought to manipulate me."

Her face was pale under the light.

He spoke in a cold voice. "Do you really think I, Fu Ting, am someone you can manipulate?"

He let go of her, turning to stride out the door.

Without thinking, Qichi chased after him. She caught up with him in the corridor and grabbed his hand.

Fu Ting turned his head. "Let go."

She didn't release her grip on his hand.

Fu Ting reached out to pry her fingers away.

Her heart sank as his fingers finally managed to slip away from hers.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Li Yan heard the rustle of wind and hurried to the outside of the main hall, only to see his aunt standing alone in the corridor.

He approached her, and the sight of her made him feel as though he was seeing someone entirely different. Only after several moments did he dare speak, “Aunt, what’s wrong?”

Qichi stared straight ahead, coming back to herself only now. She shook her head lightly.

Worried, Li Yan reached out to support her. “Aunt, your complexion doesn’t look well. You should go back and rest.”

Qichi allowed him to support her back to her room and sat down on the couch.

Li Yan glanced around at the disarray in the room, clearly shocked. Standing by her side, he asked gently, “Aunt, did you have an argument with Uncle? If there’s anything troubling you, please tell me.”

Qichi touched his face and smiled softly. “It’s nothing much. It’s just that he found out my greatest secret.”

Li Yan froze, then quickly caught on. "Uncle found out?"

She nodded, still smiling, yet the smile did not reach her eyes. She murmured, as if in a trance, “If one day I can no longer help you, will you be able to continue on your own?”

Li Yan was taken aback. “Why would Aunt say such a thing?”

Her eyes flickered slightly, and she let out a soft laugh. “I was only joking. Don’t overthink it.”

Li Yan breathed a sigh of relief. His aunt had always taught him to look ahead; so how could she say such a thing.

He glanced around, worried. With such a scene, who knew what condition his uncle might be in.

Xinlu brought the food in. She noticed her master sitting silently on the couch and quickly placed the dishes before her. She then started tidying up without uttering a word.

Li Yan handed Qichi the chopsticks. “Aunt, please have something to eat first.”

Qichi accepted them calmly. “You all may leave now. I’d like to be alone for a while.”

Seeing that she seemed to have regained some composure, Li Yan felt somewhat reassured. He signaled Xinlu, and they both left the main hall together.

Qichi sat there alone, the chopsticks hovering over the food. Her mind drifted back to the scene just now.

When Fu Ting had pried her fingers away, she had said: I still have something to say.

As he had looked at her, his voice low and cold: I no longer know how many of your words to me are true.

All the words she had wanted to say suddenly caught in her throat.

She had never heard him speak in such a tone, filled with utter disappointment.

The sky was just beginning to lighten when the temple gates opened.

The abbot stepped outside and was surprised to see the person standing there. He quickly clasped his hands in greeting, “Madam, you’ve already returned to your residence. Why have you come back to the temple?”

Qichi stood before the gate, her clothes fluttering in the wind. She had only one horse behind her and no attendants.

She couldn't sleep all night and had come here at the first light of dawn.

“I recall that this temple offers the lighting of Buddha lamps.”

The abbot replied “I assume Madam wishes to light one with the Grand Protector?”

She shook her head and spoke softly, “I wish to light one for the deceased. I wonder if it's okay.”

The abbot chanted the Buddha's names, “Of course. Madam, please follow me.”

Qichi followed him into the temple.

They passed through the Hall of Great Strength and entered a Buddhist hall filled with bright lanterns.

Near the door was a small table with brushes, ink, and paper.

The abbot picked up a brush and handed it to her with both hands. “Madam, please write down the name of the deceased.”

Qichi held the brush and stood before the table, her head lowered for a long time before she finally began to write on the paper.

The abbot sighed at the sight. “It seems Madam’s heart is burdened with deep sorrow.”

She finished writing and set down the brush. “Perhaps.”

The abbot chanted the Buddha's names again, “If one’s heart is burdened, it is difficult to see the true self.”

She smiled faintly. “I have never lost my true self. It has remained unchanged.”

The abbot sighed and took the paper. Seeing that the name bore the title of the Prince of Guang, he dared not delay and personally placed the paper onto the Buddha lamp.

The lotus-shaped Buddha lamp was lit, and the abbot handed it to Qichi before bowing and taking his leave.

Qichi held the lamp in her hands and placed it among the other lamps.

She knelt on the prayer mat before the lamp, staring at its flickering flame.

It was as if she could see her brother’s face, pale as he lay on the daybed, saying to her: From now on, the Prince of Guang’s household will depend on you.

And also A’Yan.

Her heart tightened little by little.

She thought of Fu Ting.

He believed she didn’t trust him.

Last night, in the corridor, she had wanted to tell him—it was not that she didn’t trust him; it was that she didn’t dare.

He was her last support. In front of him, she couldn’t afford to make a single wrong step. She couldn’t reveal her true colors until she was absolutely certain.

But how could she possibly explain all this?

If she did, what would he think?

The wealth she held was her last assurance, and it was also the foundation upon which she intended to pave the way for A’Yan. There was no room for compromise. From the moment she arrived in the northern lands, there has been no turning back.

The flames flickered, and it felt as if her brother was lying before her at this moment, every one of his instructions still ringing in her mind.

And then, another voice rang in her mind again: Do you really think I, Fu Ting, am someone you can manipulate?

Her heart ached, and her vision blurred.

Those few words repeated over and over in her mind, refusing to fade—

From now on, the Prince of Guang’s household… will depend on you.

I know, Brother, I know.

A’Yan...

I will take care of him, I promise I will take good care of him.

She pressed a hand against her chest, her hand wet with tears. She whispered softly, “Brother, I’m sorry. I'm afraid I won’t be able to fulfill your request…”

Right now, she had not yet won Fu Ting’s heart, and she had nothing left to rely on.

Instead, she had chilled his heart.

“Perhaps I was wrong. I don’t even know where I stand in his heart. I didn’t dare. Brother, do you hear me?”

“I’m sorry, Brother, I’m sorry. If it really comes to that, please don’t blame me. Don’t blame me…”

Her vision was blurred, and she didn’t know what she was saying anymore. She just wanted to find some peace of mind.

She had come this far without anyone to confide in. Only here, only now, could she allow herself a moment of weakness.

In this deserted Buddhist temple, she allowed herself this momentary indulgence, conversing with her dearest family member.

Speaking in a voice only she could hear.

She apologized to her brother over and over again.

Hoping he could forgive her.

For a long time, until she could no longer see the candlelight, she suddenly heard a voice. “Princess?”

She slowly raised her eyes and saw a blurry figure standing by the door.

Notes: [1] 世子 means an heir. It could be an heir of princes, dukes, or other nobles. I always translated it as Prince’s heir or Prince’s son, for example Li Yan would be Prince of Guang’s son. But today I came across the translation of 世子 as Princely Heir for the heir of a prince and I think it sounds good. So I’ll use it from now on. But as for addressing, I’ll still translate it as Young Lord for Li Yan since he hasn’t bestowed the hereditary title for now.

Maree's corner:

OH NOO!!! OUR COUPLE... 💔💔💔

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 46

Chapter 46 : His throat tightened as he addressed her in a low voice, “Master?”

In the dead of night, before the break of dawn, a young monk opened the gate of the mountain temple early.

In the dim light, Xinlu and Qiushuang, both dressed as men in round-collared robes, walked out one after the other.

Two squads of soldiers were dressed in plain clothes, patrolled outside the temple in shifts day and night. 

As they saw the two women leave, they paid no mind, for everyone knew these were the two maidservants of the madam. The temple was poor, and it was not uncommon for them to go out for supplies. The soldiers were accustomed to it.

Xinlu and Qiushuang left just like that.

In less than half an hour, the two maidservants returned.

The sky was still dark.

The young monk opened the gate once again, and they entered the temple with their heads lowered.

They walked quietly towards the meditation room, careful not to disturb anyone. They didn't even turn on the lights as Xinlu called out softly in the dark, "Master."

The one who returned with her was Qichi.

Knowing that Fu Ting had arranged guards around the temple, she had carefully chosen the time, instructing Xinlu and Qiushuang to pick her up. Qiushuang had to stay outside the temple for the time being, waiting to enter the next day when worshippers came, so as not to draw attention.

As Qichi removed her round-collared robe, she asked, "How is the temple?"

Xinlu answered in a low voice, "As you expected, the Grand Protector has not yet returned. Everything else is as usual, and no one knows that you left the temple. They all believe you went to bed early."

Qichi nodded.

Xinlu took advantage of the faint light from the sky and went to the basin rack to wring a wet cloth. She walked over and handed it to Qichi, whispering, "You must be utterly exhausted after tonight. You should freshen up and rest for a while."

Qichi was indeed tired. Dealing with Fu Ting was no easy task; it was like walking on thin ice.

With her robe half-open, she took the cloth and carefully wiped her face.

There was the faint sound of a horse neighing outside. It was impossible to tell where it came from, but in the moment of silence, it echoed clearly.

Qichi handed the cloth back to Xinlu, who took it along with her round-collared robe. "You should leave quickly."

She worried that Fu Ting might have already returned.

Xinlu, holding the robe, hurried out and closed the door behind her.

Qichi lay down on her bed, unable to resist replaying the questions Fu Ting had asked her earlier.

In truth, she had answered honestly.

At the age of fifteen, in order to help her brother repay the tribute owed to the court, she had been forced into the world of business, engaging in anything that promised profit, which eventually led to the numerous ventures she now controlled.

Now that she thought about it, she should have answered more in line with the fabricated identity.

But for some reason, the words she had written down were almost entirely the truth.

Suddenly, a flash of light outside was followed by a deafening crash that startled her back to her senses. She sat straight up.

Footsteps approached from outside, and then the door was pushed open.

She remained seated, watching the tall figure that entered.

"Did it wake you?" Fu Ting’s voice broke the silence.

He had just walked outside the door when he heard a faint sound in the room and decided to come in.

Qichi didn’t answer. Instead, she asked, "Was that thunder just now?"

"Yes." He walked over to the bed. "Why wasn’t the door locked?"

She replied softly, "Even if it were, you would still get in."

There seemed to be a hint of amusement in his voice. "Yeah."

Another sudden crash of thunder echoed, making Qichi’s ears buzzing. She couldn’t help but say, "How can it be so loud?"

"The northern climate is like this." Fu Ting sat on the edge of the bed. "You’re not afraid of thunder, are you?"

"Of course not," Qichi replied as she lay back down. "I’ll remember that from now on."

"The North differs from the Central Plains in many ways." He said, "You’ll learn them all in time."

"Hmm?" Qichi didn’t hear him clearly over the sound of the thunder and glanced up at his face.

The sky outside had only just begun to lighten, and against the light, she couldn't clearly see his expression.

Her fingers brushed against the edge of the bed and touched something. She felt it and realized it was his fingers. Then he grasped her hand.

Fu Ting held her hand and suddenly leaned down, pressing close to her.

Qichi could feel his face near, and for no reason, she thought of the time he had kissed her and was left speechless.

His face was close to her neck, his breath brushing against her skin, making it itch slightly. Suddenly, he asked, "Why do you smell of medicine?"

Startled, she placed a hand on his shoulder, raised her body and touched her nose to his neck. "It seems to be coming from you. Where have you been?"

Fu Ting felt her nose brush his neck and instinctively touched it, his head lowering further.

In the distance, the sound of monks chanting Buddha’s names could be heard as they began their early morning chores.

In fact, the smell was very faint, and it was hard to tell whose it was. It was likely something he had brought back from the medical clinic.

He looked at her dimly lit face and said, "I haven’t been anywhere."

His hand was still holding hers, and her hand was still resting on his shoulder.

After a moment, Qichi gently pulled her hand away. "You should leave before the monks notice you’re in my room."

He pursed his lips and let go of her hand with a smile. "The thunder has passed. Go back to sleep."

With that, he stood up and walked out, closing the door behind him. His figure was briefly illuminated by the morning light, and she noticed that he hadn’t even removed the saber from his waist.

Qichi watched him leave, then lay back down and closed her eyes.

Her heart was beating a little fast, either from his actions or the worries weighing on her mind.

She thought, If only it could all pass just like this.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

She slept deeply, not waking until past noon.

It was Xinlu who woke her up specially because she thought she should eat.

Qichi got up, changed her clothes, and carefully arranged her hair and makeup, as if it were just another day.

As she sat at the small table to eat her vegetarian meal, she thought of Fu Ting. While holding her chopsticks, she glanced toward the room next door. "Is he still resting?"

Xinlu replied, "The Grand Protector left again shortly after dawn."

Qichi furrowed her brow, thinking how he had returned so late, only to leave again so quickly. He hadn’t rested for long at all.

Could it be because of her merchant house again?

Standing by the door, Xinlu cast a glance outside. "It’s strange, several groups of worshippers have come and gone, yet Qiushuang hasn’t returned."

Qichi also looked outside.

Just then, Qiushuang walked from outside.

Xinlu couldn’t help but scold, "Why are you back so late?"

Wiping the sweat from her forehead with her sleeve, Qiushuang didn’t bother to talk to Xinlu. She rushed over to Qichi and said urgently, "Master, something has happened."

Hearing the words "something has happened", Qichi’s expression immediately grew serious. "What is it?"

Qiushuang exchanged a glance with Xinlu, signaling her to close the door first. Then, kneeling beside Qichi, she whispered in her ear:

“The Protectorate has suddenly issued an order that all merchants with fish-shaped plaques, both inside and outside Hanhai Commandery, must leave the northern lands immediately. Once the caravans of these businesses return, they are required to hand over their exit permits to the Protectorate."

"What?" Qichi was in disbelief.

In all her years of business, she had never encountered anything like this.

Qiushuang said anxiously, "I managed to find an excuse to ask General Luo secretly. He said the order came directly from the Grand Protector himself, but even he doesn’t know the exact reason. Or if he does, he isn’t saying. That’s all I could find out."

Xinlu, unable to remain silent, knelt beside Qichi as well. Her voice was full of concern. "Master, if this is true, won’t all your businesses in the northern lands be ruined?"

Qichi was silent for a moment before asking, "What about the shopkeepers?"

Qiushuang responded, "I was just about to report this matter to you. The military led the troops to give orders, and none of the shopkeepers dared to argue and could only pack up and leave. No one knows where to go, and they’re all asking for your guidance."

Qichi frowned. "It’s not convenient for me to appear in public right now."

"Exactly," Qiushuang agreed, helpless.

She couldn’t take her master’s place either. The shopkeepers were all Qichi’s trusted confidants, just as loyal to her as they were to Qiushuang. While Qiushuang could relay messages, she couldn’t issue orders without the green fish-shaped jade token held by her master herself.

Besides, this situation was too complicated for her to handle on her own.

Lowering her eyes, Qichi thought carefully.

Neither Xinlu nor Qiushuang dared to disturb her. They simply knelt on either side of her with their eyes fixed on her, awaiting her decision.

After a long pause, Qichi reached into her sleeve, rummaging through the layers of fabric until she found the fish-shaped jade token.

"Alright, have the grain shop’s shopkeeper take two men to plead the case. Make sure they seek out the Grand Protector themselves, and try to delay him as long as possible.

"There’s a new shop under my name just outside the city that hasn’t yet come to the attention of the Protectorate. Tell the other shopkeepers to wait there. I’ll go by at sunset."

"And to avoid suspicion, tell the temple that I’ve returned home for the day."

Having issued her instructions, both Xinlu and Qiushuang responded in unison, "Yes, Master."

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

By mid-afternoon, the sun cast a pale light over the city.

Fu Ting stood in front of the shop with a wine pouch in one hand, taking a swig from it.

Luo Xiaoyi walked over. Seeing him like this, he immediately knew that he was drinking to refresh himself. With a grin, he teased, "Third Brother, if you’re in such a rush to handle this matter, why bother sneaking back to the temple in the middle of the night? You barely got any rest, was it just to catch another glimpse of Sister-in-law?"

Fu Ting shot him a glance. "Less idle chatter when we’re working."

Luo Xiaoyi stopped talking and pointed to the shop in front of them. In a low voice, he said, "Third Brother, don’t you think this is a bit harsh? This merchant house is wealthy and influential, and they’re also a meritorious merchant. If not for your order forbidding us from revealing any information, this would’ve scared off every merchant from the northern lands."

Fu Ting tucked the wine pouch away. "I know what I’m doing."

His order had been for the shopkeepers to leave, but he hadn’t shut down the businesses. In fact, he had sent men to temporarily take over the shops, ensuring that everything appeared normal on the surface.

He had no intention of destroying their businesses.

A guard hurried over to report. "A shopkeeper is here to see you. He requests an audience with the Grand Protector."

Luo Xiaoyi ssaid. "Looks like they’re here to plead their case."

Fu Ting asked, "Just the shopkeeper?"

The guard replied, "One shopkeeper, accompanied by two assistants."

Luo Xiaoyi clicked his tongue. "Even in such a situation, the owner doesn’t show up. Could it be that he’s truly terminally ill?"

Fu Ting recalled the sickly, yellowed face of the man he had seen lying in the sickbed the night before. He drew the horsewhip from his waist. "Whether it is true or not, we’ll find out soon enough."

It was rare for a merchant to trouble him so much.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

As the sun set, Qichi was already seated in the shop on time.

Beside her stood Qiushuang, dressed in men’s clothing. Meanwhile Xinlu was slowly making her way back to the residence in the carriage.

In front of Qichi was a bamboo curtain. She sat behind a small desk, and the fish-shaped jade token was placed on the desk. Beyond the curtain, several shopkeepers had hurriedly gathered. Dozens upon dozens of people came, nearly filling the room.

Qiushuang, standing by the curtain, glanced outside a few times and then leaned in to report, “Nearly all of those from inside and outside the city of Hanhai Commandery have arrived.”

Qichi nodded.

These people were her most trusted confidants, specially transferred here to the northern lands. But almost no one had seen her face.

Over the years, they had tied their entire livelihoods to her, thriving when she thrived, and suffering when she suffered. Precisely because they earned her trust and were thus able to wield their talents. However, she had never elevated any one person to a position of complete trust.

Knowing that the influence of the Prince of Guang’s household had weakened, she couldn’t afford to entrust everything to just one or two people. Doing so might lead to loss of control in the future.

Because of this impartiality, she had to come forward in person today, using the jade token as a symbol of her authority as the owner.

A heavy silence filled the air, interrupted occasionally by quiet sighs.

“Master, what should we do?” Someone finally couldn't hold back and asked.

Qichi cast a glance around the new shop.

This was a tea house she had recently opened.

Initially, she had no intention of opening this shop, but after hearing about a group of refugees who had settled nearby and, after reclaiming the surrounding land, they had started growing tea in addition to grain.

When she heard about it, she decided to open this shop, benefiting both herself and the people.

Most of her new shops in the northern lands were similar, fulfilling the needs of the people's livelihood in the North.

But Fu Ting didn’t know this. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have shut down her businesses so abruptly.

She looked over at Qiushuang.

Having served her for many years, Qiushuang knew exactly what to say at a time like this. In a loud voice, Qiushuang reassured the crowd, “You’ve all followed the master for many years, and rely on her for your livelihood. Rest assured, the master will not let you lose your jobs.”

With these words, everyone felt more at ease.

After a pause, one of them expressed concern, “In all our years of doing business, we’ve never encountered a situation like this. The Grand Protector personally gave the order, and it’s unlikely the restriction will be lifted soon. Our road to the North may soon become impassable.”

Qichi finally spoke. “No, he won’t. No matter how far he’s willing to go, he wouldn’t gamble with the people's livelihood in the North.”

The man then asked, "Then what does Master plan to do?"

Qichi thought that this must be taking the firewood out from the bottom of the cauldron, a drastic measure to deal with a situation. At this time, she began to understand Fu Ting’s intentions more clearly.

He must have grown suspicious of her businesses.

Still, she had no choice but to continue. If she didn’t, how could the northern lands prosper?

This was a deadlock. The only thing she underestimated was the sharpness of that man's mind.

She straightened her thoughts and said, “I don't think it will last long. I will find a way to dispel the Protectorate's suspicions. In the meantime, there’s no need for you to leave the northern lands. You can wait at your various establishments or stay here temporarily. The restrictions will eventually be lifted.”

Everyone all voiced their agreement.

As they spoke, Qiushuang stepped outside for a moment.

She had stationed guards outside, but the door was pushed open, so she naturally went to check.

The person who came in was the shopkeeper from the grain store.

Surprised, she asked, “Weren’t you supposed to be pleading with the Grand Protector? Why have you returned?”

The shopkeeper sighed, “The Grand Protector never saw me. I waited for a long time but only heard that he had already left with his men. I came here to report to the master.”

Qichi was stunned momentarily, then asked through the curtain, “Do you know where he went?”

The shopkeeper replied, “I don’t know.”

Her eyes flickered slightly as she asked again, “When you left the city, did you encounter any soldiers?”

“I ran into a group of soldiers at the city gate. I thought they were patrolling the city, but I avoided them. It didn’t seem to be an issue.”

Qichi suddenly stood up.

Qiushuang looked at her in surprise, “Master, what’s the matter?”

“Return home,” she said firmly.

Though Qiushuang didn’t fully understand, she rushed to the back door and opened it.

Qichi, meanwhile, grabbed the jade token from the desk with one hand and her veiled hat with the other. Just as she was about to leave, she heard a scream.

It was Qiushuang.

Almost simultaneously, there was a loud crash as the front door was kicked open.

Through the curtain, Qichi could make out a group of people storming in.

It was a group of soldiers.

The guards outside had been subdued, their weapons drawn, and not a single word dared to be uttered.

At the back door, Qiushuang had also been blocked by several soldiers.

The place was surrounded.

The sound of measured footsteps followed, and everyone in the room stood up with their heads bowed, not daring to make a sound as the man entered.

Fu Ting strode into the hall with one hand resting on his saber.

His eyes fixed immediately on the curtain.

There was no need to monitor the clinic. He knew that in such a critical moment, these shopkeepers would have summoned the owner themselves.

Luo Xiaoyi had already stabilized the situation and approached to nod at him.

Fu Ting moved toward the curtain.

The figure behind it remained still.

Until he stood beside the curtain.

Luo Xiaoyi followed, and as soon as he caught a glimpse of the figure behind the curtain, his eyes widened in shock. “Sis—”

His mouth was quickly covered.

Fu Ting clamped a hand over Luo Xiaoyi’s mouth, his gaze never leaving the figure behind the curtain.

Qichi stood there, looking at them with a calm expression, though her face had turned pale.

She looked at Fu Ting, her lips parting slightly before they gently closed.

Fu Ting let go of Luo Xiaoyi and silently examined her from head to toe. He looked at her at least twice, but he was not mistaken, it was indeed her.

His gaze shifted to her hands.

She held a veiled hat in one hand, and a piece of jade token in the other, which seemed to be in the shape of a fish.

Fu Ting clenched his jaw and reached out to grab it.

He had held this hand only a few hours earlier, but now the situation was drastically different.

Qichi tried to move her hand, but couldn't break free. He pried her fingers open and took the jade token.

Her hands were now empty, and her heart sank to the bottom.

With great difficulty, Fu Ting tore his gaze away from her face, then held the jade up to his eyes.

The fish-shaped jade token matched that of the merchant house's trademark.

All at once, the people in the room moved, dropping to their knees.

He turned his head and looked at the shopkeepers kneeling on the ground in the hall.

They weren’t kneeling to him as the Grand Protector, but to the token.

Fu Ting turned his gaze back to Qichi. She stared at him and hadn't said a word until now.

His throat tightened as he addressed her in a low voice, “Master?”

Author’s Note: Fu Ting: ... Qichi: What’s wrong with you? Fu Ting: I’m preparing myself mentally.

Maree's Corner: OMG FINALLY!!! oAo Anyway... "Master" used by Xinlu and Qiushuang means master of the household, the one who hold manage the household. While "Master" used by Fu Ting in the last sentence or when the shopkeepers address Qichi, it means master of the business or the owner. I have trouble differentiating it, because calling someone "Owner! Owner!" felt strange, like there's something amiss. So, I just translated it as Master. Sorry for the trouble... :D

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 45

Chapter 45 : There was no avoiding it, she had to meet him herself.

Thus passed the third month.

At dawn, as the monks began their morning prayers, Qichi slowly rose from bed.

Xinlu approached with a damp cloth, offering it to her with both hands.

Qichi took it, wiping her fingers before pushing open the window. From a distance, she noticed that the peach trees along the courtyard wall had finally blossomed with two or three flowers.

Suddenly, a pair of long legs of a man appeared in her field of vision. She turned her gaze and saw Fu Ting walking out from the adjacent room.

He was once again dressed in his black Hu attire, the belt tightly cinched at his waist. As he tied his sleeves, he glanced over at her.

He then took a couple of steps closer, stopping right in front of the window, gazing at her. "Just woke up?"

"Hm." She glanced at his chest blocking the window, then at the sleeve he had just tied.

"The monks are all out. You might as well sleep a bit longer." He said, "There's no one here to prepare your breakfast."

It was rare for him to show concern for such trivial matters. Qichi couldn't help but glance at him again and smiled. "No problem, I have my own maid. I’ve already sent Qiushuang to handle it."

He smiled, as if realizing he had said too much, and finished tying the other sleeve.

Qichi asked softly, "Are you going out?"

"Not today," Fu Ting’s eyes landed on her once more. "Someone is coming to report something later."

She noticed that he wasn’t carrying his sword or horsewhip on his waist, and indeed it didn't seem like he was about to leave. Thinking over what he meant by ‘someone is coming to report’, she asked, "Who?"

He didn’t hide it. "Someone from that merchant house."

Qichi’s heart stirred. She had already guessed.

It was she who had ordered someone to come to the temple to deliver news to Fu Ting, so that she could make arrangements while present. She hadn’t expected it to happen so quickly.

"You’re not going to the military camp just for this?" she asked.

Fu Ting placed one hand on the windowsill, a seemingly casual gesture that nearly brushed her clothes draped over the window. He lowered his head slightly and said, "This is very important."

Qichi’s eyes moved slightly, she could understand what he meant.

Just then, Qiushuang approached from a distance and saw the Grand Protector standing by the door. She hesitated for a moment, then walked over, first respectfully greeting him before turning to Qichi. "Master, please come to eat breakfast."

Fu Ting asked, "Why not have it sent to your room?"

"I didn’t want to eat in the room." Qichi said as she stepped out, telling him, "I’ll go first and be back shortly."

As she finished speaking, she noticed Fu Ting staring at her.

Suddenly, she felt as though her words were a request for him to wait for her. She grasped the hem of her skirt and turned her head, walking away in small steps.

Qiushuang followed her, and after they turned a corner in a secluded part of the temple, she spoke in a low voice, "Master, the person has arrived. This time, it’s the shopkeeper of the grain shop himself."

The grain shop was the one that had been half-burned down.

When that shopkeeper of the store had been in charge of the pawnshop, Qichi had already noticed his reliability, which is why she entrusted him with the task of dealing with the Prince of Yong’s son.

After attending the price negotiation meeting, Fu Ting must have remembered him well, as the summons had been directly sent to his shop.

Last time, the one who came to the Hall of Great Strength to deliver a message to Qiushuang was another shopkeeper, though it was this shopkeeper who had arranged it. He had deliberately chosen someone unfamiliar to avoid being recognized by Fu Ting, indicating his careful consideration.

Upon hearing that he had come in person, Qichi felt somewhat relieved.

"Where is he?"

"In the Hall of Great Strength, waiting." Qiushuang was slightly worried, "Master, now that things have come to this, should we refuse?"

Qichi stood by the wall, thinking carefully.

She even replayed Fu Ting's words in her mind from start to finish.

He had said: This is very important.

It wasn’t until nearly the time it took to finish a meal that Qichi finally beckoned Qiushuang closer. 

Qiushuang, who had been waiting, immediately leaned in to listen.

She whispered a few words.

Qiushuang looked at her face, hesitating slightly. But seeing her calm expression, she didn’t ask further and quickly turned back to the Hall of Great Strength to pass the message.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting was still standing outside the meditation room, his military uniform neatly arranged.

A guard came over to report, "Grand Protector, the person has arrived. He was slightly delayed because he was worshipping Buddha in the Hall of Great Strength and is coming to apologize."

Not wanting to waste time, he instructed, "Bring him here directly."

The guard retreated to fetch the person.

As he looked up, he saw Qichi walking back from afar.

When she drew near, she asked him, "Someone’s here to report. Can I listen in?"

Fu Ting noticed the slight arch of her brow as she spoke, as if she had some secret thoughts on mind. He even notice these small expressions of her. Hearing her soft tone, a slight smile tugged at his lips. "You can."

Qichi returned his smile and walked back into the room. She stood by the window again, her hands tucked into her sleeves. Through the window, she saw from afar that the shopkeeper being led over by the guard.

The shopkeeper quickly reached the steps in front of the meditation room, dressed in a simple blue robe. He knelt down to greet him.

Fu Ting turned his gaze towards him, half his body blocking the window, and asked, "What do you have to say?"

The shopkeeper didn’t dare to raise his head, clasping his hands together as he replied, "Grand Protector, please forgive me. Our owner has been traveling far and wide for business and has unfortunately fallen ill. His health is failing and currently bedridden midway, unable to travel further……"

"Is that so?" He responded.

Qichi secretly glanced at his profile.

His eyes were fixed on the shopkeeper, his expression calm and unreadable, but his voice grew noticeably colder, "And where exactly is this ‘midway’? Shall I make a personal visit?"

The shopkeeper hurriedly kowtowed, respectfully explaining, "I dare not trouble you. It’s my fault for not choosing my words carefully. I was so concerned with how to phrase things that I failed to speak promptly. Please forgive me, Grand Protector."

He bowed again, then hurriedly added, "Although our owner has fallen ill, upon receiving your summons, he dared not neglect it. Despite the distance from his current location to the northern lands, he set off in haste, changing horses frequently and traveling day and night without rest. However, this continuous journey has worsened his condition, and so he sent me ahead to convey his apologies to you. As long as the Grand Protector is willing to pardon his rudeness, he will come to meet you even in the dead of night."

The tone of his words shifted, becoming sincere and fearful.

Qichi listened calmly, knowing that everything he said was according to her instructions.

She knew Fu Ting wouldn’t accept any excuses, so she had devised a strategy of retreating in order to advance. By displaying utmost sincerity, she hoped to dispel some of his suspicions.

At the very least, it could buy some time.

Fu Ting took two steps by the window. Despite the short distance, the shopkeeper’s back trembled slightly.

He glanced at him and said, "Very well, then tonight it shall be."

The shopkeeper froze, hesitantly looking up. "Grand Protector, did you say tonight?"

He nodded. "Just as your owner suggested, we will meet tonight."

The shopkeeper fell silent, not daring to glance at Qichi who stood behind the window. He hadn’t expected the Grand Protector to agree so readily, and with such an unyielding stance.

Qichi hadn’t expected this either and unconsciously bit her lip.

This man truly doesn't act according to common sense at all.

The shopkeeper was led away by the guards.

When Fu Ting turned around and looked at her, Qichi was just about to lean over to speak. From the window, her face was facing his chest and nearly pressed against.

She raised her face and saw his jaw and his lips.

He lowered his head slightly, his jaw tightened, his deep, dark eyes gazing into hers.

Strangely enough, neither of them said a word.

Fu Ting stared at the woman’s face before him, even lowering his head further. But then, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Xinlu, who had been standing silently in the meditation room, quietly turning her back to them. Only then did he speak, "I’m going out for a while."

Qichi snapped out of her thoughts, understanding what he was about to do. "Will you return tonight?"

"That depends on the owner." He pressed his hand against the windowsill before turning and walking away.

Only after he left did Xinlu dare to turn back, rushing to the window and asking in disbelief, "Master, was what the shopkeeper said true?"

Having stayed in the meditation room, she had naturally heard everything clearly.

Qiushuang hurried in from outside and answered for her, "Of course it’s true. Master gave the orders herself."

Xinlu was shocked. "Then… then how will you meet the Grand Protector?"

Qichi leaned against the window for a long time before sighing, "Prepare a set of men’s clothing for me."

Qiushuang’s eyes widened. "Master, you intend to go yourself?"

She nodded.

Things had reached this point. There was no avoiding it, she had to meet him herself.

From the time the sun set until darkness fully settled, Luo Xiaoyi led a group of men who waited by the gate of Hanhai Commandery.

Today, the city gate were kept open, with soldiers stationed there. The local citizens, assuming it was for military purposes, dared not approach.

Only the lights on the city walls remained when, under the cover of night, a group of riders approached at a gallop.

Fu Ting led a few guards and galloped all the way from the military camp, with a horsewhip in hand and a sword at his waist.

As the horses came to a halt, Luo Xiaoyi took a torch and rode forward, joking, "Third Brother, you’ve been staying at the temple for so long, it’s a wonder you’re willing to return to the city. If it weren’t for the merchant’s reply, I’d bet you’d still be reluctant to leave."

The guards around them have followed Fu Ting for many years. Although they dare not laugh directly, they are also trying to hold back their laughter.

Fu Ting ignored Luo Xiaoyi’s rambling and asked directly, "Has there been any new message from them?"

Luo Xiaoyi turned serious. "None. We’ve waited until now, but there’s no sign of any carriages or horses arriving."

Fu Ting said nothing.

Moments later, two soldiers came running up to report, "Grand Protector, the shopkeeper sent someone to report that they’ve stopped at a clinic thirty li[1] outside the city."

Luo Xiaoyi was stunned and looked at Fu Ting. "So, what now? They’re not planning to enter the city?"

Fu Ting tugged at the reins, thinking that at least they had come this far.

He urged his horse forward. "To the clinic."

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

The soldiers rode their horses swiftly as the wind, carrying torches through the darkness. In less than half an hour, they arrived at the medical clinic.

When they halted, they did so with a precision that was both orderly and silent.

Fu Ting dismounted, and the shopkeeper hurried over from the entrance to greet him.

He took in the sight before him.

The clinic was located outside the city, mostly serving travelers and local citizens. Despite this, its courtyard was surrounded by high walls, with several rooms within its compound.

He asked, "Is this also owned by your owner?"

The shopkeeper replied, "Yes. The owner fell ill and could go no further, so he had no choice but to stop here. It is a great honor that the Grand Protector has come personally; we are truly undeserving."

Fu Ting said nothing, simply waving his hand to instruct the others to wait outside. He glanced at Luo Xiaoyi, signaling for him to follow inside.

The shopkeeper led the way.

They walked through a corridor until they reached to a room at the end of the corridor, where light shone within.

The shopkeeper bowed and said, "Grand Protector, the owner is too unwell to see many visitors. We ask for your understanding."

Luo Xiaoyi sneered and said, "How could that be? This is the Grand Protector, after all. What if your owner harbors ill intentions? Someone must stand guard."

The shopkeeper was at a loss whether to laugh or cry, replied, "How could common people like us dare have such thoughts? The clinic has been cleared for the Grand Protector's visit. There is no need for such jokes, General."

Seeing the shopkeeper so scared, Luo Xiaoyi chuckled.

He knew this merchant house was known for their righteousness and wouldn’t dare commit such deeds. He was just joking around.

Fu Ting said, "Just wait by the door."

"Alright." Luo Xiaoyi stood by the door.

The shopkeeper opened the door and bowed, inviting Fu Ting inside.

Fu Ting entered, quickly scanning the room. It was enclosed on all sides, filled with the faint scent of medicine, but there was no one in sight—only a folding screen stood in the room.

The folding screen, while translucent, was backlit by the lamp, making it difficult to discern the figure behind it.

He glanced at it and asked, "What is the meaning of this?"

The shopkeeper hurriedly knelt and said, "Please forgive us, Grand Protector. The owner is seriously ill and unable to speak, nor can he show his face. But he insisted on meeting you, so we had no choice but to take this measure. That is why we previously requested your understanding."

Fu Ting recalled this and said in a low voice, "Yes, you did say that."

The shopkeeper breathed a sigh of relief, "This is what I meant by that."

Fu Ting stared at the folding screen, then lifted the hem of his robe and sat down outside it. "I only have a few questions to ask, but now it seems not even a conversation is possible."

The shopkeeper quickly served tea and then stepped back to kneel beside the screen. He took a sheet of paper, respectfully presenting it to Fu Ting, "Please ask anything you wish, Grand Protector. Though the owner cannot speak at the moment, he still has the strength to write."

Fu Ting took the paper and glanced at it. It contained words of apology.

He set the paper aside without a word, his eyes still locked on the screen.

Behind the folding screen, Qichi dressed in a round-collared robe and sat behind a small desk, her heart pounding in her chest.

She now understood why Fu Ting had requested they meet at night.

It was likely to avoid attracting attention from other merchants during the day, and the night also offered more privacy.

This arrangement was advantageous for her as well, as it was easier to conceal at night. But she remained cautious, determined not to reveal any clues.

Having chosen this place and carefully planned every detail, she could not afford to be careless.

Yet now, he remained silent outside, leaving her uncertain of his intentions.

The shopkeeper beside the screen shifted uncomfortably, until finally they heard the man’s voice asking, "How long have you been in business?"

She was startled, then picked up a brush and wrote her answer.

The shopkeeper handed it over, took a look, and replied, "Grand Protector, the owner has been in business since he was fifteen."

Fu Ting asked again, "What kind of businesses are you involved in?"

Qichi took up her brush again. Since there were too many to list, she only wrote down the general categories and passed the paper.

The shopkeeper handed over the paper.

The paper listed various business, ranging from those that provided basic necessities for the common people to highly profitable ventures such as pawnshops and even small-scale business with meager profits.

After a brief pause, he asked another question, "Why did you come to the northern lands for business?"

Qichi steadied herself and wrote her answer again.

Outside, Fu Ting received the paper and glanced at it. It read: To seek profit.

He asked, "What profit?"

Another paper was passed out, this one reading: The livelihood of the people is in need of revival; all such opportunities are profitable.

It appeared to be a flawless response.

Fu Ting was thinking over the name he had seen earlier while reviewing the documents.

This person was from Qingliu County and was middle-aged.

He had been in business since the age of fifteen, with many years of experience. Yet, it was only recently that he began vigorously expanding his business into the northern lands, as if he had been waiting for just the right moment.

Unless he had informants in the north, how could he have seized the moment so precisely?

He stood up.

The shopkeeper looked at him. "Grand Protector, you've only asked a few questions. Is there nothing more?"

No sooner had the words left his mouth than he saw the Grand Protector place a hand on the hilt of the sword at his waist.

The shopkeeper was frightened, "Grand Protector…"

In a swift motion, Fu Ting drew his sword. The shopkeeper cried out in terror as the sword flashed through the air.

The folding screen, crafted from high-quality wood and inlaid with gold threads, was exceptionally sturdy. Yet, with a single strike, it split apart and collapsed with a thunderous crash.

Even Luo Xiaoyi, who was waiting outside, pushed the door open and looked at him in surprise. "What's going on, Third Brother?"

Fu Ting strode forward, his gaze darkening.

Behind the fallen folding screen was a narrow sickbed, upon which lay a man with tightly shut eyes and a sallow complexion.

The shopkeeper crawled forward on his knees, glanced at the figure on the bed, and trembled as he bowed. "Grand Protector, please forgive us. The owner has fainted from fright."

Fu Ting’s gaze swept over the man on the bed, then over to the disordered brush and ink on a small desk beside him.

The shopkeeper cautiously eyed the sword in his hand. "Grand Protector, if there are any more questions, perhaps it would be better to ask tomorrow?"

"No need." He sheathed his sword, "I only wanted to ask those few questions."

He turned and walked out.

Luo Xiaoyi quickly followed after him.

The shopkeeper remained silent for a long time, not daring to move. Only when the sound of horses' hooves faded into the distance did he dare to turn his head and whisper, "Master, the Grand Protector only asked those few questions. It seems there’s nothing to worry about, right?"

Qichi sat crouched under the bed, hugging her knees, her heart still pounding wildly.

On the bed lay a patient who had been unconscious for several days in the clinic.

She knew that the more she tried to hide her identity, the more obvious it would be, so she kept this trick.

But unexpectedly, Fu Ting was not easily fooled.

If not for the shopkeeper had crawled over and shielded her in time, she wasn’t sure if she would have been exposed right then.

"Master?" The shopkeeper called out again.

"I don’t know." She said softly.

She had been testing his intentions this time, which was why she had been so cautious.

Could it be that he really had come just to ask those few questions?

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

In the dark of night, Fu Ting rode halfway back along the road.

Luo Xiaoyi caught up with him. "Third Brother, why did you leave after just a few questions? What was really going on in there?"

Fu Ting slowed down his horse and said, "Everything seemed reasonable."

What did he mean by ‘seemed’?

Luo Xiaoyi couldn’t make sense of it and clicked his tongue. "Should I take some men to secretly keep watch around the clinic and see what’s going on?"

He figured that since his third brother wanted to know more about that owner, this might be the simplest approach.

But Fu Ting said. "No need. That place is his own, and it’s outside the city. If he wants to avoid us, he has plenty of ways to do so."

Luo Xiaoyi asked, "Then what should we do?"

Fu Ting held the reins and said, "He still has many shops in the northern lands."

Notes: [1] Li (里) is an ancient measure of length, equivalent to 0.5 km. So, 30 li would be 15 km.

Maree’s corner: Actually, the shopkeeper never addresses the owner by she/he before, so I was a bit confused and just decided to use ‘he’ as most merchants at that time are male.

This time he addresses the owner by ‘she’ one time. But Qichi also used a sickly man as her substitute.

Also, in Chinese, ‘he’ and ‘she’ was written different but sounded the same. That’s why I still use ‘he’ for this chapter as some readers who have little knowledge of Chinese language might not know, and it would also made more sense in the flowability of the story. If I write ‘she’ and Fu Ting saw it was a man, how could he believe it easily? He might felt suspicious...

Sorry for the confusion, I hope you understand what I mean… >_<

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 44

Chapter 44 : Sanlang.

Life in the temple was dull and monotonous.

In the hall where the sutras were lectured, the abbot's voice was slow and serene. The monks sat quietly on their prayer cushions below, utterly silent.

At the very front, Qichi knelt with proper posture, listening attentively alongside them.

After the lecture ended, the abbot closed the sutra with reverence and asked, "Madam, I wonder what insights have you gained from what you have heard?"

Qichi, however, had not come to listen to the sutras in earnest. She was merely trying to maintain the appearance of a guest on a brief stay at the temple. She hadn’t paid attention to a single verse.

She pressed her palms together in a gesture of respect and returned the question, her voice gentle, "I would be grateful if the abbot would enlighten me."

The abbot recited a Buddhist phrase and said, "Buddha teaches that all the four elements are vanity[1]. With an open mind, one can transcend the mundane world."

Qichi asked, "How can one achieve such emptiness and attain an open mind?"

The abbot replied, "By letting go of attachments, one can be free of desires and demands."

Hearing this, Qichi couldn't help but smile. How many people in this world can truly let go of their attachments?

She had come all the way from Guang Prefecture, burdened by the heaviest of all attachments.

She said, "I have desires and demands, so I am but a mere human and cannot become a Buddha."

The abbot, facing this response, was at a loss for words. She was, after all, the wife of the Grand Protector of the North. He could not continue to press further with any Buddhist teachings. He simply pressed his hands together and chanted another Buddhist phrase, and said no more.

Xinlu stood by the door, peeking inside.

Seeing her, Qichi rose, bid farewell to the abbot, and left the hall.

Upon exiting the lecture hall, she led Xinlu to the Hall of Great Strength. Inside, the air was thick with incense smoke, and there were few worshippers, some of whom were kneeling in front of the Buddha statue.

Qiushuang was kneeling on a prayer cushion nearby. After a few bows, she rose as the person next to her departed. This person was one of the shopkeepers from the shop under Qichi’s name.

Qiushuang approached and whispered, "Master, General Luo has arranged for the shop to send the official letter via an eight-hundred-li courier[2]. Even though we claimed the owner is far away, they are expecting a reply soon."

Qichi felt even more certain that Fu Ting was determined to meet with her.

"As a merchant, there is no reason to refuse the official summons, especially when it comes from the Grand Protector of the North," she murmured with a light sigh.

She was still uncertain of Fu Ting's intentions, and thus dared not easily find someone to impersonate her. If things went awry, the consequences would be disastrous.

While she was deep in thought, Luo Xiaoyi strode into the hall.

Seeing him, Qichi instinctively glanced behind him, looking for Fu Ting, but he was not there. 

Luo Xiaoyi entered alone, still clad in armor, casually stepping into the temple.

Unexpectedly, Luo Xiaoyi was also there to find Fu Ting. Upon seeing her, he asked, "Sister-in-law, has Third Brother come by?"

Qichi shook her head and, after a moment's thought, said, "If he isn't in the military camp, then he may have returned to the residence. He doesn’t necessarily stay at the mountain temple every day."

"How could that be?" Luo Xiaoyi laughed, "Since Sister-in-law is here, how could Third Brother not come?"

Qichi was amused by this comment and her gaze flickered, feeling as if he was implying that Fu Ting was circling around her.

Luo Xiaoyi glanced around the hall, not noticing her expression, and took a couple of steps closer. "I should go to the residence to find Third Brother. One cannot drink wine in a temple, and there’s nothing else to do here."

Qichi smiled, "You must show more respect. How can you still think about drinking in a temple?"

"You wrong me, Sister-in-law. I’m not just thinking about drinking." He said, "It’s just that the third month is about to pass, and I still haven’t had the chance to drink a birthday wine."

She asked, "What birthday wine?"

Luo Xiaoyi looked at her and suddenly slapped his forehead, "Oh, that’s right. Sister-in-law probably doesn’t know yet."

She couldn’t help but be curious, "Know what?"

Luo Xiaoyi extended his hand, indicating that she should step aside for a private word.

Xinlu and Qiushuang stepped back, waiting on the side.

Qichi followed him a few steps, standing beside the Buddha statue, "What is it?"

Luo Xiaoyi chuckled, speaking with a hint of mystery, "Sister-in-law truly doesn’t know? Third Brother's birthday falls in the third month."

Qichi was taken aback, having not expected him to say such a thing.

"Really?"

Seeing her disbelief, Luo Xiaoyi asked, "Sister-in-law, do you remember what Third Brother's childhood nickname was?"

Fu Ting's childhood nickname...

"Sanlang," she said.

She had only heard Luo Xiaoyi mention it once, but she had remembered.

"Exactly," Luo Xiaoyi nodded. "Third Brother was given that name because he was born in the third month."

So that's why.

Just a moment ago, Qichi had been pondering her next move, but now she was unexpectedly caught off guard by this news.

"Is it today?" she asked.

Luo Xiaoyi smiled awkwardly, "Not exactly. Third Brother's parents passed away early, and he never cared about such things, so of course he wouldn't remember his birth date. Only because I served with him in the military for many years did I know about it. Every year, I find a day in the third month to drag him out for a drink, so that I could celebrate it that way."

At this point, his eyes suddenly lit up as he looked at her, "Ah yes, now that Sister-in-law is here, it should be you who celebrates with him this year!"

Qichi was stunned, momentarily speechless.

She didn’t know what to say.

Logically speaking, as his wife, she should have known about this, but it took Luo Xiaoyi’s reminder for her to find out.

Luo Xiaoyi, thinking she was too shy to speak, chuckled twice, "Well then, I’m leaving. I won’t go looking for Third Brother anymore. I’ll leave this matter in your hands, Sister-in-law."

He thought that in previous years, when his third brother had no one by his side, it was natural for him to keep him company as a brother. Now, of course, it was best for the couple to spend time together.

And with that, he quickly took his leave.

Qichi stood in silence for a moment, recalling the past few days. Fu Ting had been acting as usual; he carried on with his duties, showing no signs of anything out of the ordinary.

If Luo Xiaoyi hadn’t mentioned it just now, who would have guessed that this was actually his birth month?

She turned around and called for Xinlu and Qiushuang, heading towards the meditation room at the back together.

Qiushuang followed, thinking that her master and General Luo had been discussing the pressing matter at hand for so long. But to her surprise, Qichi suddenly asked, "When celebrating someone's birthday, what sort of gifts should one give?"

Qiushuang couldn’t help but glance at Xinlu.

Xinlu was quicker to react and replied with a smile, "With Master’s wealth, choosing a gift should be an easy task."

Qichi thought to herself, it might be easy, but it may not be appropriate. Otherwise, why would she even ask?

If she could divert his attention away from her business, then even arranging a grand celebration for him for three or five days would be no issue.

But this was Fu Ting they were talking about—it was clearly impossible.

As dusk began to fall, Fu Ting tied his horse outside the temple and entered through the mountain gate.

There were no outsiders in the temple by now; the monks were reciting their evening prayers, their chanting resonating through the air.

He walked straight to the meditation room.

Upon reaching the door, he glanced to the side. The door of the adjacent meditation room was closed.

He assumed Qichi had gone to rest early. He pushed open the door to his own meditation room and walked in, only to see the vague figure of a woman.

Qichi was standing by the window, wearing a ruqun that trailed the floor, her arm draped with a silk shawl. She was closing the window, and as it shut, she turned her head to look at him.

"Your room seems smaller than mine," she said, glancing around.

The meditation rooms in the temple naturally couldn't compare to those of the Protectorate. There wasn’t even any furniture—just a bed in the corner, a wooden rack for a basin by the door, and a small table for vegetarian meals that had been specially added for their visit.

She felt that her room was somewhat more bright and spacious than this one.

Fu Ting stood his sword by the door and threw his horsewhip to the ground, saying, "I think they’re about the same."

Qichi asked casually, "Were you busy with the merchant matters today? I thought you wouldn’t come."

He replied, "Not just that—there were many things to do."

Busy until this late hour, he had rushed here just before the city gate closed.

She asked no further questions.

Fu Ting looked at her and asked, "Why are you waiting here?"

She replied, "Xiaoyi came looking for you. He said the third month is almost over."

"Hm." He responded indifferently, "So what?"

If Luo Xiaoyi hadn’t spoken so earnestly, Qichi would have doubted whether there was any truth to it, given how casually Fu Ting was talking now.

"Xiaoyi said," she began slowly, staring at his face, "that your birthday is in the third month."

Fu Ting's eyes lingered on her for a moment before he curled his lips into a smile. "I have long forgotten."

Qichi nodded. "Xiaoyi also said that you don’t even know the exact date of your own birthday."

Fu Ting walked over to the basin, scooped up some water to wash his face, wiped away the water off his face with one hand, and straightened the collar of his military attire without saying a word.

His parents had passed away when he was just over ten years old. Growing up in poverty, he never really celebrated his birthday, and later on, there was no one left to tell him. Over the years, he naturally forgot about it.

She leaned against the window and said, "What a pity. As the Grand Protector of the North, if you celebrated your birthday every year, the gift money alone would be quite a considerable income."

He glanced at her, almost laughing. "With the North in its current state, you still expect me to extort wealth this way."

Qichi knew he wouldn’t do such a thing, she only mentioned it to tease him. After a brief laugh, she changed the topic. "After this birthday, how old will you be this year?"

He looked at her, seemingly amused. "I thought you would have known when we got married."

Qichi’s eyes flickered. The Emperor had granted their marriage, and it had been rushed. She hadn’t paid attention to such details. At that time, her mind had been preoccupied with thoughts of her brother. She could only say, "I can’t quite remember."

He said, "In two more years, I’ll be thirty."

She listened, thinking he probably didn’t remember her age either, and seized the opportunity to ask, "Then do you know how old I am?"

Fu Ting only thought for a moment before replying, "Four years younger than me."

He had seen her age when they married and still remembered it.

When they got married, they had both passed the age at which most people married.

He had been delayed for years due to the responsibilities in the North, leaving no time to think about marriage.

As for Li Qichi, he guessed it was because of her engagement to the Marquis of Heluo’s household that she hadn’t been able to marry earlier.

Qichi had nothing more to say.

She hadn’t expected him to actually know.

She looked at him, thinking that few could achieve such a high position at his age. But for most men of his age, they would have more than one child by now.

She stopped thinking about it, pointed to the small table, and changed the subject. "That’s for you."

Fu Ting glanced over and saw a lacquer box painted with colorful designs on the table.

"What is it?"

"A birthday gift for you," she said.

He barely gave it a glance before saying, "I’ve never celebrated my birthday."

Qichi left the window, walked to the small table, and knelt down behind it. She reached out to open the lacquer box. "Why don’t you take a look first?"

Fu Ting glanced at her twice before moving closer and sitting down across from her. His gaze fell on the lacquer box.

Inside the box was a bowl of noodles, still steaming with warmth.

He raised his gaze to meet hers.

Qichi held his gaze and said, "I know you don’t like it when I spend money on you, and there’s not much to spend on in this temple anyway. It’s just a simple bowl of longevity noodles. Surely you wouldn’t refuse even this, would you?"

Fu Ting pursed his lips, his eyes shifting from her face to the bowl of noodles. It was a long time before he spoke, "Did you prepare this specially?"

Qichi recalled that it was Luo Xiaoyi who had reminded her to celebrate his birthday, so it couldn’t really be considered something she had specially prepared. She chose to skirt around the issue and softly replied, "I did help make the noodles."

Fu Ting glanced at her hands—slender, fair, and delicate, likely never having touched coarse work[3].

A warmth stirred in his heart. He reached out and picked up the bowl of noodles.

Qichi watched as he took the chopsticks, lowered his head, silently scooped the noodles into his mouth.

He ate very quickly, without any hesitation.

Longevity noodles are meant to be symbolic, so there wasn’t much to begin with. He finished them in a few bites.

Qichi watched as he set down the bowl and chopsticks, studying his expression before asking softly, "How was it?"

Fu Ting pursed his lips tightly. His throat moved, his face tense. After a moment, he said, "Too salty."

She frowned. "Impossible."

She had clearly watched Xinlu make it and had added the salt herself, according to Xinlu’s instructions.

Because the temple was poor and couldn’t afford expensive fine salt, she had even asked Qiushuang to specially buy it.

She glanced at the empty bowl and said, "You obviously finished it all."

She felt that he was doing it on purpose again.

Fu Ting’s eyes shifted back to her face, tracing her features and slowly settling on her lips.

He rested one hand on the table, leaned forward, and said in a deep voice, "Open your mouth."

"Hm?" Qichi looked at him.

His other hand cupped her chin, and in an instant, he lowered his head, pressing his lips firmly against hers.

Qichi was taken aback, not expecting him to kiss her suddenly.

She almost thought he would never kiss her again.

Her lips were forced open, and she felt his tongue touch hers, which startled her. His hand touched and pressed her firmly at the back of her neck.

His eyes remained open, staring into her face as he kneaded her lips, rubbing them thoroughly.

Under the gaze of those dark eyes, her heart raced wildly, leaving her breathless.

Finally, Fu Ting fiercely sucked her lips before pulling back. "Salty?"

Breathless in front of him, Qichi pursed her lips and nodded. "Salty."

In truth, she wasn’t sure. It seemed like she had tasted it, but it seemed that he had only tangled his tongue.

He looked at her face, his Adam’s apple bobbing, and almost laughed at himself.

He had deliberately held back from kissing her for so long, only to give in now over a bowl of noodles.

A voice chanting out Buddha’s name interrupted from outside. It seemed to be a young novice monk, asking, "Where is Madam? Should I bring the vegetarian meal now?"

Xinlu replied, "In a moment."

Qichi suddenly remembered that they were still in the temple.

She glanced at him and then stood up. "I’ll go first."

Her voice was still a bit breathless as she spoke.

Fu Ting merely nodded, saying nothing.

She lifted the hem of her clothes with one hand and walked to the door. Pausing there, she looked back at him, and tentatively called out softly, "Sanlang?"

Fu Ting’s body stiffened, and he turned to look at her. "What did you call me?"

She lifted the hair by her ear with her fingers, pursing her slightly numb lips. Her gaze lowered, then lifted again to meet his. "Can’t I call you that?"

Fu Ting stared at her, his throat moving again, and he nodded. "You can."

Of course, she can.

No one had called him by that name in years, so long that he had almost forgotten it himself.

Apart from her, it seemed that no one else in the world had the right to call him by that name.

Notes: [1] 四大皆空 (Sìdà jiēkōng): A Buddhist concept meaning "the four elements (earth, water, fire, and air of which the world is made) are all empty," emphasizes the emptiness and impermanence of the physical world, leading to the liberation of the mind. [2] 八百里 (Bābǎilǐ): Refers to an express courier service capable of traveling eight hundred li (approximately 400 kilometers) in one day. [3] The sentence 沾阳春水 was likely from the sentence 十指不沾阳春水 (shí zhǐ bù zhān yángchūn shuǐ) which literally meant “One's fingers have never touched the water from a spring day”; to have never touched coarse work; to have no need to fend for oneself; to lead a pampered life.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 43

Chapter 43 : Third Brother, you truly dote on Sister-in-law.

Li Yan was practicing a set of moves that Luo Xiaoyi had taught him in the courtyard.

After executing the final move, he looked to the side and shyly asked, "Aunt, how did I do?"

Qichi had specifically come today to check on his studies. When she inquired about his martial arts training, he decided to demonstrate a set of moves for her.

She stood at the side with her hands folded, watching him with a smile. "I can't say whether it's good or bad, but you do seem stronger than before. That’s always a good thing."

Li Yan wiped the sweat from his forehead and smiled, feeling that this was already high praise.

As he walked over to her, he happened to see Qiushuang rushing into the courtyard from outside, running in a small jog. He couldn’t help but wonder, "What’s going on?"

Qichi glanced at her briefly. Those around her were usually so orderly, seldom rushing about in such a manner.

Qiushuang ran up to them and said, "Master, there’s an urgent matter."

Noticing something off about her expression, Qichi immediately asked, "What happened?"

Qiushuang whispered, "The Protectorate sent a letter, saying that the Grand Protector wishes to see the owner."

Qichi was taken aback, not immediately comprehending the situation. She even asked, "Which owner?"

Qiushuang said anxiously, "The owner of our merchant house, of course. That’s you, Master!"

Qichi’s expression stiffened as she carefully processed the information.

Why would Fu Ting want to meet with the owner of the merchant house?

"Are you sure?" She still found it hard to believe.

Qiushuang nodded repeatedly. "It's absolutely true. General Luo personally delivered the letter to our shop and ordered that it be sent to you as quickly as possible. He said the Grand Protector himself issued the order, and there must be no delay."

After the initial shock, Qichi quickly regained her composure and pondered, "Did they mention the reason?"

"They didn’t," Qiushuang replied. "They only said that the owner is summoned to meet him."

She fell silent, organizing her thoughts.

Li Yan had heard everything but hadn’t fully grasped the situation.

His aunt was the owner of the merchant house, but now his uncle wanted to meet the owner, which meant, in a roundabout way, he wanted to meet his aunt?

He knew that merchants had been looked down upon since ancient times, and he had never dared to speak of his aunt’s secret business dealings. Now, he couldn’t help but feel a bit worried. He looked at Qichi and quietly asked, "Aunt, is this serious?"

Qichi thought for a moment, then smiled at him. "Don't worry. Just keep doing what you're supposed to do. I’ll handle this matter."

Li Yan had always believed his aunt, so he obediently nodded. "I can at least keep my mouth shut for you, Aunt."

"Hm, that will suffice." After she finished speaking, she glanced at Qiushuang and began walking out of the courtyard.

Qiushuang understood and followed closely behind.

Once they were outside the courtyard, Qichi finally spoke, "We don’t know the reason yet, so let’s not panic."

At present, only Qiushuang, Xinlu, and Li Yan were aware that she had this identity in the Protectorate.

It was still unclear why Fu Ting wanted to meet her, but she couldn’t afford to lose her composure.

She thought to herself: It’s best to wait until he returns to find out more.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

At 4:45 in the afternoon, Qichi carefully put away the ledgers one by one and locked them securely in the cabinet.

Just as she sat down before her dressing table, she heard the sound of footsteps outside.

She immediately rose to her feet, and as she stepped out, she nearly collided with the figure of a man standing in the doorway.

Fu Ting halted in his tracks and looked at her. "Were you about to go out?"

"No." She stepped back to let him in.

Fu Ting glanced at her briefly before entering the room. He tossed his horsewhip aside, then turned around to take a teacup from the table.

Qichi observed him closely. He seemed to be busy again, as there was dust clinging to his Hu boots.

Seeing him lift the pitcher of cool water to pour himself a drink, she quickly walked over and poured out a cup of freshly brewed hot tea, offering it to him. "Drink this instead."

Fu Ting was about to take a sip of the cool water when he noticed the tea she was handing him. His gaze lingered on her face for a moment before he set the cool water down and took the cup of tea from her, taking a sip.

Though the tea was of high quality, it was heavily flavored and didn't quite quench his thirst. 

After taking a sip, he still picked up the cool water and drank a mouthful. He glanced at her again, somewhat pleased with her gesture.

Noticing his expression, Qichi asked, "I heard that the trade negotiations with the Hu tribes have been progressing well?"

Fu Ting hummed, taking another sip of the cool water before setting it down.

"Are those merchants reliable?" she continued.

Fu Ting’s thoughts naturally drifted to the Yuxing Merchant House. "They're acceptable."

He glanced at her and asked, "Why do you ask?"

Qichi explained, "Qiushuang went out shopping today and saw Xiaoyi leaving the Yuxing Merchant House’s shop. It looked like he had issued some kind of order, and when she returned, she told me about it. I thought there might be some issues with the negotiations, so I decided to ask." As she spoke, she slowly steered the conversation toward what she really wanted to know. "Did Xiaoyi indeed issue any orders?"

Fu Ting didn’t hide the truth from her. "Nothing significant. I just wanted to meet the owner of that merchant house."

"Why?" She finally asked the question she had been holding back.

Fu Ting looked at her once more.

She discreetly clenched her hands, saying, "I’m just curious why, as the Grand Protector, you would want to meet a mere merchant."

Fu Ting replied, "To probe his intentions."

He walked behind the screen to change his clothes.

Luo Xiaoyi had asked him the same question earlier—why he insisted on meeting the owner of a merchant house.

His answer had been: When something unusual happens, there’s always a reason behind it.

This merchant house had been assisting the Protectorate without regard for loss or gain. Once, he could attribute it to righteousness; twice, however, made him suspicious.

The owner of that merchant house wasn’t even from the northern lands and had never set foot there, yet he repeatedly abandoned the profit-driven nature of a merchant to assist the Protectorate and the people of the northern lands. It was rather strange.

Over the past few years, other Protectorates had come forward, claiming they would speak on his behalf before the Emperor, detailing the hardships of the northern lands to garner attention from the court.

He had been wary and did not say much.

In the end, it turned out they were only interested in obtaining fine horses and elite soldiers in exchange.

When they failed to get what they wanted, those Protectorates only spoke sweet words to him, without ever advocating for his Protectorate General to Pacify the North. Instead, they competed to secure funds from the court.

He has risen to his position today through his own efforts, never believing that there will be good things in the world without reason.

The court itself prioritized interests, and merchants, who were inherently profit-driven, were no different.

A merchant house that already possessed vast resources, now flourishing in the northern lands, had ties to the Protectorate, and had even integrated into the livelihood of the people.

With the northern lands finally showing signs of improvement after years of hardship, he had no choice but to be cautious.

Qichi still stood by the small table, pondering his words.

She couldn’t ask for too many details and didn’t know what exactly he was trying to uncover. This left her feeling even more uncertain.

She glanced toward the screen, noticing that Fu Ting hadn’t fully stepped behind it. Half of his body was blocked. The half of his military attire he had just unbuttoned was hanging on him as he lowered his head to loosened his sleeves.

Sensing her gaze, he turned to look at her, but his hands did not pause. He stared into her eyes. "Is there something else you want to ask?"

Qichi hesitated to inquire further about this matter, as it would be too obvious. She chose another topic instead. “Is there anywhere worth visiting in the Hanhai Commandery?”

Fu Ting, hearing this unexpected question, swept his gaze over her once more, wondering what had gotten into her today, asking such irrelevant questions.

Nevertheless, he replied, “There are many places one could visit, but the most convenient would probably be the temple.”

"What temple?" she asked.

He replied, "You’ve been there before."

Qichi recalled it—the only temple she had visited was the one outside the city. After a moment of thought, she suggested, "Why don’t we stay at the temple for a few days?"

Fu Ting looked over and asked, "Why?"

Qichi softly replied, "There’s no sense of spring here in the residence. I thought it might be better outside."

This was an excuse she made up on the spot, uncertain if he would agree.

Fu Ting pursed his lips together as he removed his military attire, thinking that this was likely the first time she had ever made a request.

Qichi was looking at him, waiting for his response.

He looked at her face and nodded. "I’ll have Xiaoyi make the arrangements."

"Alright," Qichi replied, sitting down slowly by the table, surprised that he had agreed so readily. She stole a glance at him again.

Thinking: They say he’s a brute man, but it seems this man only shows his brute nature in bed. His mind is clearly quite deep; otherwise, how would he have taken this sudden step?

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

On the morning of the second day, Luo Xiaoyi received orders from his third brother and made the necessary arrangements before rushing to the Protectorate.

A group of servants had already prepared the carriage.

He waited at the entrance for a moment until he saw his third brother emerge. He quickly approached him. “Third Brother, everything has been arranged at the temple,” Luo Xiaoyi said.

By ‘arranged’, he meant that two selected teams of soldiers, dressed in plain clothes, would be stationed outside the temple. This was Fu Ting’s order. This way, worshipers could enter without hindrance while ensuring their safety.

After he finished speaking, Luo Xiaoyi added, "But why does Sister-in-law suddenly want to stay at the temple?"

Fu Ting replied, "If she wants to go, then we go."

Luo Xiaoyi chuckled, "Third Brother, you truly dote on Sister-in-law."

He shot him a look. "Lead the way."

Luo Xiaoyi, still smiling, went ahead and mounted his horse.

Qichi stepped out of the residence, draped in a lake-blue silk cloak, and looked at Fu Ting. "I’m ready."

Fu Ting nodded, reached out to tug the reins, and mounted his horse.

Xinlu and Qiushuang, one lifting the curtain and the other setting the stool, assisted Qichi as she stepped up into the carriage.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

In the morning, the temple grounds were still quiet, with no one burning incense.

The mountain gate stood wide open, and the monks were already lined up in waiting. Upon hearing that the Grand Protector and his wife were planning a short stay at the temple, the abbot had gathered the monks to greet them at the gate.

After waiting for about half an hour, the group finally arrived at the mountain. The abbot hurried forward to greet them.

"Grand Protector, Madam, please—"

Fu Ting walked ahead, with Qichi following behind as they entered the temple alongside the abbot.

She noticed that today, he had donned a black military attire and carried a sword at his side, giving him an even more imposing and cold demeanor than usual. As they approached the main hall, she couldn’t help but tug gently at his sleeve.

Fu Ting turned around, noticing her gaze briefly land on his waist, and he understood her concern.

She was reminding him not to frighten the monks in the temple.

He unclasped his sword and tossed it to a nearby guard before continuing to follow the abbot inside.

The abbot continued to lead them, stopping in front of two meditation rooms in the rear courtyard. After reciting a Buddhist prayer, he paused and said, "Knowing that the Grand Protector and Madam would be visiting, we have specially prepared the best two meditation chambers in the temple. However, since the temple is a place for meditation, we must respectfully request that the Grand Protector and Madam stay in separate rooms."

Qichi felt somewhat uneasy at these words, glancing subconsciously at Fu Ting.

His gaze remained calm, as usual. "I understand."

The abbot thanked them and excused himself.

At that moment, he turned to look at her. "What are you looking at?"

So, he had noticed all along.

Qichi’s eyes flickered, and she averted her gaze. "Nothing."

He had a good guess of what was on her mind, and couldn’t help but suppress a smile. He then turned to inspect the meditation rooms. The two rooms were adjacent, nearly identical, except that the left one faced south, allowing in more light.

He entered the north-facing room first.

Seeing him go in, Qichi entered the one facing south.

Xinlu and Qiushuang followed her inside, quickly tidying up the room for her.

After a short while, Qiushuang quietly approached her. "Master, did you arrange to stay at the temple on purpose?"

Qichi nodded.

It wasn’t about enjoying the spring scenery. She knew Fu Ting was serious about something this time. Arranging matters within the Protectorate might be inconvenient for her, but here, it would be much easier.

Qiushuang then asked in a low voice, "Master, do you have any plans?"

She furrowed her brow and gently shook her head. "The official documents should take some time to be delivered, so let's take it one step at a time."

Qiushuang turned her head and exchanged a glance with Xinlu, neither saying another word, pretending they had come here merely to enjoy the spring.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Qichi stayed in the meditation room for a while, and when she stepped out, the sun had just risen.

The rear courtyard had a few flowers and trees planted, but since spring arrived late in the northern lands, the so-called spring scenery was less impressive than that in the Protectorate. A single branch of peach blossoms stuck out, the branch itself still bare, with only a few buds beginning to form.

She stood under the tree, not truly focused on the blossoms, but rather lost in thought over the troublesome situation she faced.

Fu Ting, who was about to leave the temple, paused as he passed by.

Qichi stood sideways to him under the tree. Perhaps because she was visiting the temple, today she wore her hair in a dignified cloud bun, adorned with no expensive jewelry. Her face bare of adornment, which made her complexion appear even fairer.

She seemed so deep in thought that she didn’t notice his presence.

He didn't say anything either, watching as a branch of peach blossoms brushed against her hair. He then looked at her again, seeing that she was still deep in thought.

He reached out and broke off the branch. He glanced at her again, holding the branch up to her hair. The thin branch adorned with budding flowers seemed like a simple ornament against her dark hair.

After looking at it for a while, he took it off.

He had no intention of teasing her, realizing that as the Grand Protector, with no extra wealth at his disposal, he couldn’t let his wife wear just a peach blossom branch as a hair ornament.

Qichi felt something brush against her hair and finally returned to her senses. She turned her head and saw him standing there, holding his horsewhip in one hand and a peach blossom branch in the other. She asked, "What’s that?"

He casually tossed it aside. "Just something I picked."

With that, he turned to leave.

"To the military camp?" she asked.

"Hm." He walked further away.

Qichi thought to herself that it was a good thing that he was going to the military camp. As she watched him leave, she suddenly felt something on her hair. She reached up to touch it and found a flower bud.

She rolled it between her fingers and examined it, wondering when it had gotten there.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 42

Chapter 42 : I want to meet their owner.

In truth, Qichi hadn't really been listening to what Luo Xiaoyi was saying. She was simply responding to his words as if she had.

Fu Ting had finished adjusting his military uniform and glanced over at her. After a brief glance, he shifted his attention to Luo Xiaoyi. "Anything else?"

Luo Xiaoyi suddenly sensed something unfriendly in that look, as if he were being blamed for intruding on their time together.

He had already felt that something was off between his third brother and sister-in-law, but he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. One was adjusting his uniform, and the other had a flushed face, yet they didn’t seem to have quarreled.

With a sheepish chuckle, he asked, "Did we perhaps interrupt something between you and Sister-in-law?"

Hearing this, Qichi's face grew even hotter, but she managed to maintain her composure, smiling calmly. "Nothing of the sort."

Luo Xiaoyi tugged at Li Yan and explained, "It's just that as soon as the young lord returned, he wanted to see you, Sister-in-law. So I followed along. We didn't mean to disturb you."

Having been thrown under the bus, Li Yan, though unsure of the situation, feared upsetting his uncle and quickly said, "I have nothing else to do. I’ll head back to my courtyard now."

Before leaving, he turned to Qichi. "Aunt, I’m going."

"Mm." Qichi responded absentmindedly.

Before leaving, Luo Xiaoyi asked, "Third Brother and Sister-in-law haven’t eaten yet, have you? Shall I arrange for us to eat together?"

Without looking at anyone, Qichi softly replied, "No need. I’ll eat in my room."

Fu Ting added, "You go have your own meal."

Luo Xiaoyi, sensing that his third brother was trying to send him away, quickly excused himself, "I’ll just eat with the young lord then."

With that, he tugged at Li Yan and left together.

Only then did Fu Ting turn to face Qichi. "Aren’t you tired?"

Hearing this, Qichi felt the heat that had just subsided on her face rise again. Before she could respond, he added, "Why did you follow me out?"

She couldn’t help but glance at him. His eyes were dark, but his expression was stern.

She looked away and softly murmured, "I wasn’t wrong, you really are mean."

Fu Ting looked at her, his voice deep. "Just because it was in broad daylight?"

Her face flushed once more, her eyes catching his, yet she said nothing.

Caught by her gaze, he took a step forward and lowered his head to say, "Didn’t I tell you, I have the final say on this matter?"

Qichi’s eyes shifted slightly as she whispered, "Is this how you act as the Grand Protector?"

Fu Ting wasn't bothered by her mild retort. He nodded, "Indeed. I have the final say in the eight commanderies and fourteen prefectures of the northern lands. And that includes you."

She thought about how today she had lost her composure as a county princess more than once. The blush that had just faded rose again, and she almost called him “brute man” again.

But as her eyes met his dark, steady gaze, she held back.

Fu Ting asked again, "Why did you come out?"

She replied, "I wanted to call someone to prepare hot water for a bath."

He pursed his lips together, holding back a laugh, knowing full well the reason.

Earlier, she had broken out in a sweat.

That image of a sweaty and weak look as if she had no bones, was still fresh in his mind. He touched his neck, savoring the memory, though he’d never admit it aloud.

Remembering that her maidservants hadn’t returned yet, he said, "Call for two maids to get it ready."

Qichi called out, “Someone, come here,” before turning and entering the room.

Fu Ting watched her go, not interfering, and headed to his study instead.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

After eating, Luo Xiaoyi spent some time teaching Li Yan before realizing it was getting late. 

Hearing from a servant that his third brother was in the study, he finally felt at ease and went to find him.

Pushing open the door, he saw Fu Ting emerging from behind a screen, dressing as if he had just washed up. He clicked his tongue, "Third Brother, what’s with all this primping in broad daylight?"

Fu Ting was dressed in casual clothes. He tucked his robe in and fastened his belt, asking, "What is it now?"

Luo Xiaoyi said, "I didn’t want to interrupt you and Sister-in-law earlier, so I didn’t say it directly."

Fu Ting replied, "Spare me the nonsense and get to the point."

Luo Xiaoyi grinned and said, "It’s good news. When I returned from the military, I specifically inquired about the trading matters with the Hu tribes. None of the other shops have made any moves yet, except for Yuxing Merchant House[1]. They’ve already started making arrangements. I figured I should come and let you know."

Fu Ting looked at him. "They moved that quickly?"

"Yes, I was surprised too. That’s why I came to tell you." Luo Xiaoyi sighed, "After all, cattle and sheep are living things. Securing supply sources, organizing manpower, and planning trade routes all take time and money. It hasn’t even been that long since the Pugu tribe left, and that merchant house has already made such progress. I can only say, they must be f*cking rich, otherwise how could they pull this off?!"

His tone was full of envy.

Fu Ting folded the cuff of his sleeve with one hand, recalling the negotiation from that day when the shopkeeper had claimed they couldn’t even keep track of how many stores they owned.

"They are all doing business, so why is their merchant house always particularly diligent?" he suddenly asked.

Luo Xiaoyi was caught off guard by the question. Scratching his nose, he thought for a moment before replying, "This merchant house has always been diligent. I suppose it’s like the Pugu tribe said, they’re a righteous merchant."

Fu Ting pondered this briefly, then said, "Come with me."

Luo Xiaoyi had no idea what had suddenly come over him, but he quickly followed him.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

When Xinlu and Qiushuang returned, the sky was getting dark.

Qichi was seated on a Hu chair, having changed into a fresh set of clothes, and was sipping a cup of tea.

The windows of the room had remained closed all day, leaving the air inside thick and filled with the lingering fragrance of the hot bath, with faint traces of other scents.

Qichi thought it was the scent of Fu Ting.

She had caught that scent more than once on his military attire, most distinctly when he held her close. It wasn't unpleasant, quite unique, perhaps exclusive to this northern man.

“Master,” Qiushuang approached, whispering in Qichi’s ear about the progress of the trade business with the Hu tribes.

Before returning, she and Qiushuang had made a brief detour to visit several shops, ensuring that everything was progressing smoothly before they hurried back.

Qichi listened intently, nodding in approval when Qiushuang finished her report. She had specifically instructed them to work as quickly as possible, and her subordinates had executed the task with remarkable efficiency.

While lighting the lamps, Xinlu commented, “The Grand Protector and General Luo seemed to have gone out together, though I don’t know where they went.”

Hearing this, Qichi set down her teacup, rose from her seat, and moved to sit on the daybed. She gestured with her hand. “Bring me the new ledgers. I might as well review them while he’s out.”

Having been distracted by Fu Ting for most of the day, she felt the need to find something to do.

Xinlu fetched the ledgers for her.

Qichi took them and added, “Stand guard outside.”

With that, Xinlu and Qiushuang left together.

As night approached, Qiushuang nudged Xinlu, whispering a reminder: “We can’t let our master keep reviewing those ledgers all night. If the Grand Protector doesn't come back, will she not take a rest?”

Xinlu entered the room again but found that her master had already fallen asleep on the daybed. She carefully removed the ledger from Qichi’s hands and set it aside.

Just as she was about to wake her, the sound of Qiushuang greeting the Grand Protector came from outside.

She hurriedly lowered her hands and left.

Fu Ting had only just returned after his errand outside.

When he entered the room, he immediately noticed Qichi reclining on the daybed.

He had been wondering why she was still awake so late, thinking perhaps she was too energetic, only to realize as he drew closer that she had already fallen asleep.

He glanced at the bed, then at her.

She always slept peacefully, rarely moving. Her long eyelashes are lightly covered by the light. She appeared so peaceful that it almost seemed unreal.

He raised his hand, only then realizing he still held his horsewhip. Setting it aside, he approached her, leaning down to slide one arm under her neck and the other under her knees.

To him, Qichi was light as a feather, easy to lift. He stepped toward the bed, his footsteps were silent on the rug covering the floor.

Just then, Qichi stirred awake.

Her first sight was of the man’s chest, dressed in a simple moon-white Hu robe. It wasn’t the one with fine silk or brocade, and it seemed somewhat old. She recognized it was his casual clothes.

She then looked up to see the man’s firm jawline and then his face.

As her drowsy mind cleared, she realized he was carrying her. Remembering that she had been reviewing ledgers earlier, she glanced at the daybed and then at the door. Noting that it was closed, she thought that Xinlu and Qiushuang had taken care of everything, feeling relieved.

Her eyes returned to Fu Ting, her gaze first landing on his lips.

His lips were thin, usually pressed into a straight line. Just a few hours ago, those same lips had been on her, making her break out in a sweat. However, he had still not kissed her on the lips.

When they reached the bed, Fu Ting gently laid her down, noticing that she was awake. He pursed his lips and tried to stand up.

Suddenly, he felt a slight tug on his robe.

He looked down at her. “Still not fully awake?”

“I’m awake.” Her voice is still a bit hoarse. Out of nowhere, she asked, “Have you ever kissed another woman?”

Fu Ting responded, “What?”

Qichi was familiar with that tone, knowing it signaled his displeasure. She shifted her gaze slightly and said slowly, “I’ve heard that you’re the heartthrob of northern women. That’s why I asked.”

He let out a scoffing laugh through his nose. “I’ve never heard of such a thing.”

With everything going on in the north, each year spent struggling against hardship, did he have time to care about whether or not he was someone else’s heartthrob? As long as the Turks weren’t after him, that was good enough.

Qichi persisted, “You didn’t answer my question at all.”

The question had sprung from nowhere, a passing thought that she blurted out, even surprising herself. She had assumed he wouldn’t answer, so she turned away and pulled the quilt over herself.

Fu Ting straightened up, looking at her downcast eyes, and glanced at her lips. He assumed she wasn’t fully awake.

He said, “No.”

Qichi turned to look at him.

Under her stare, he repeated, “I haven’t. Only you.”

The two words “only you” struck Qichi to the core, leaving her momentarily stunned, forgetting what she had asked in the first place.

Fu Ting, seeing her expression, walked behind the screen and washed his hands with cold water in the basin.

He hadn’t kissed anyone else, except her, Li Qichi.

After the departure of the Pugu tribe, the Grand Protector Residence returned to its usual tranquility, now quiet once more.

Early the next morning, Qichi awoke, thinking she had risen early, only to find the spot beside her empty.

As she sat up, Xinlu entered to assist her.

“The Grand Protector has just left the residence,” She said, preemptively answering the question her master was about to ask as she helped her dress.

“He’s gone to the military camp again?” Qichi inquired.

Yesterday, Luo Xiaoyi had mentioned that with the Pugu tribe gone, they could finally take a good rest. How was it that he was already back to being busy?

“I’m not sure, but I saw General Luo waiting outside.”

Qichi recalled that they had gone out together yesterday. Perhaps because something important had come up, so she didn’t ask any more questions.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting stood outside the residence, his military attire neatly arranged, with a sword hanging from his waist.

Luo Xiaoyi led a horse over to him. “Third Brother, didn’t you say you’d take a rest for a while? How come you’re busy again?”

Taking the reins, Fu Ting stood in front of the horse. “The North has too many matters to attend to. Will you handle them for me?”

“But you agreed with what I said yesterday.”

Fu Ting’s agreement wasn’t about himself, it was about Qichi. With the Pugu tribe gone, she could finally take a rest. But as for him, with the vast responsibilities of the North, how could he rest?

He asked, “How’s the task I assigned you?”

Luo Xiaoyi responded, “As you instructed, I’ve been keeping an eye on that merchant house. They’re truly remarkable—everything is handled swiftly and efficiently. Just last night, I checked in again, and there’s already been significant progress. I reckon it won’t be long before the Hu tribes start trading with them.”

Yesterday, he had accompanied his third brother around the city and returned at night. He checked on nearly every branch of the Yuxing Merchant House.

Since his third brother had asked him to monitor the business, he had taken the task very seriously.

He added, “This merchant house isn’t just wealthy, they’re also quick to do things. I’ve heard they’ve recently opened several more branches in the North. Given their righteous conduct, they might even help us again in the future.”

Fu Ting suddenly looked at him. “What did you just say?”

Luo Xiaoyi was stunned. “What are you asking about, Third Brother?”

“You said they’ve recently opened many new branches in the North?”

Luo Xiaoyi nodded. “Yes, I only noticed because you asked me to keep an eye on them.”

Fu Ting asked, “When did this happen?”

Luo Xiaoyi thought for a moment. “It was probably after we returned from Gaolan Prefecture. Their expansion was as rapid as spring bamboo shoots after a rain. It wasn’t just in Hanhai Commandery, but in many other places as well.”

Fu Ting thought back to the numerous shops they had visited yesterday. They weren’t ordinary scattered businesses; but rather a large merchant house with each branch under its own responsibility, organized and orderly.

He pondered for a long while before mounting his horse. “Send a letter for me.”

Luo Xiaoyi also mounted his horse, asking, “What letter?”

He said, “I want to meet their owner.”

Notes: [1] I translated it as Fish-Shaped Business before because that’s the direct translation and in line with their business logo. But I think that it seems strange, so I’ll just leave it in Chinese from now as Yuxing Merchant House.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 41

Chapter 41 : He could never get tired of seeing Li Qichi like this.

Fu Ting blew out the light and lay down immediately after.

The daybed was old and narrow. It was fine for one person, but it felt a bit cramped for two people. Given his tall stature and long legs, he could only lie on his side. Qichi lay with her back against him, as if nestled in his embrace.

Outside the tent, faint lights still shone amidst the night, and soldiers occasionally passed by during their patrol rounds.

She couldn’t sleep for a moment, her mind preoccupied with the wounds she had just seen on his body. She asked, "Where else are you injured?"

"I thought you had already seen them all." His voice sounded above her head, low and deep.

The darkness concealed the slight blush on her face as she softly replied, "I didn’t have the time to get a good look."

He seemed to chuckle.

Qichi rarely heard him laugh and was somewhat surprised.

Then, she heard him say, "One arrow wound, two knife wounds, and a cut on my side abdomen."

She added, "And the one on your neck."

He paused for a moment. "Mm."

"Is that all?" She thought he might give more details.

Fu Ting tried to recall those injuries, but none left a strong impression. He only remembered that the arrowhead had a hook, which had to be pushed three inches in to remove it, pressing down on the flesh before pulling it out; the knife wound was three inches deep, leaving the skin and flesh turned outward.

But to describe all this in front of her would seem like a man boasting about his bravery to a woman, which might scare her.

He hummed again, "That's all."

Qichi fell silent.

The man’s body was pressed against hers, her back leaning against his solid chest, with one of his legs almost draped over her.

They had been closer than this before—so close they were practically inseparable.

Yet, even in this moment, she still found herself blushing.

She collected her thoughts, stopped thinking about it, and closed her eyes.

Because they were in the military camp, Fu Ting woke up earlier than usual.

Outside, the sound of patrols continued throughout the night, with footsteps constantly echoing.

He opened his eyes and the first thing he saw was the woman nestled close to his chest. She slept soundly, barely shifting position all night, and it seemed he had held her in his arms throughout.

Supporting himself up with one hand on the bed, Fu Ting sat up silently, gazing at her profile, the strands of her black hair spread out on the daybed. He reached out, picked up a lock of her hair, twisted it gently between his fingers, and then let it go.

This simple act suddenly filled him with a newfound sense of intimacy.

He got off the daybed without making any sound, quickly dressed himself, and stepped out of the tent.

A guard approached with water, a cloth draped over his arm.

Outside the tent, the sky was not yet bright, a cool breeze blowing. He was used to it, though. Rolling up his sleeves, he washed his face with the cold water.

As he picked up a small knife to shave his chin, the sound of soldiers training in the distance began.

He paused and said, "Tell them to keep it down."

The guard acknowledged.

"Third Brother."

Fu Ting set down the knife, wiped his chin, and turned around.

Luo Xiaoyi approached, leading Pugu Jing, with Pugu Xinyun following behind.

"Grand Protector, we've already troubled you enough at your residence, and now we've come to disturb you again in the military camp. I truly feel guilty," Pugu Jing said as he greeted him.

Pugu Xinyun also lowered her head and bowed.

Fu Ting replied, "If that’s the case, then I assume the Pugu tribe must be quite busy as well. Perhaps it’s time for you to head back."

Luo Xiaoyi was taken aback by his words, glancing at his Third Brother in surprise.

The Pugu tribe had contributed significantly, and his third brother had always treated them with courtesy. This was the first time he had said something that seemed like he was sending them away.

Pugu Jing seemed ready to leave as well, and responded, "The Grand Protector is right. It is indeed time for us to return."

Pugu Xinyun quietly lifted her head and glanced at Fu Ting.

Luo Xiaoyi, trying to ease the tension, smiled and said, "Next time you visit, there will surely be new sights to see among all the tribes. For now, things are just too busy."

Pugu Xinyun suddenly spoke in a small voice, "It'll be at least two or three years before our turn comes again."

"By then, you'll be a big girl." Luo Xiaoyi teased, then added, "Isn’t that right, Third Brother?"

Fu Ting nodded, "By then, you can find yourself a brave warrior from the Pugu tribe."

Luo Xiaoyi laughed, and even Pugu Jing smiled, glancing at his granddaughter.

Pugu Xinyun lowered her head, saying nothing.

Fu Ting tightened his sleeves and nodded to them. "There’s still training in the camp. So, I'll be taking my leave."

With that, he turned and walked away.

Only then did Luo Xiaoyi catch up to him, whispering, "Third Brother, did I hear wrong? Were you just trying to send them away?"

"No need for unnecessary words."

Fu Ting was no fool. The horse’s timely stumble yesterday hadn’t escaped his notice.

A little girl he had never paid attention to didn’t even count as an acquaintance in his eyes, let alone someone he would bother with. He simply didn’t like such little tricks. It was better they left early.

That way, Li Qichi wouldn’t feel burdened by having to deal with her.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Qichi was attended to by Xinlu as she finished dressing up and had a bowl of light millet porridge.

The sun was already high in the sky outside.

Gradually, the sounds of people filled the air, accompanied by the sound of horses.

She dabbed her lips with a handkerchief and was just about to step outside when she ran into Fu Ting walking in.

“The people from the Pugu tribe are leaving,” he said.

Qichi was surprised, “So soon?”

She glanced outside and, sure enough, saw members of the Pugu tribe leading their horses.

She wondered if perhaps the words she said yesterday had been too harsh, causing the little girl to feel uncomfortable.

Guests are guests, and they should not be sent off without a proper farewell.

She said, “Then let’s see them off.”

Fu Ting had already made arrangements. Holding a horsewhip in his hand, he said, “They’re taking a shortcut through the military camp. The road isn’t easy; there’s no need for you to go.”

Qichi thought for a moment, “Then I’ll ride with you.”

Fu Ting gave her a glance, then walked out and instructed, “Bring a horse.”

Hearing this, Xinlu immediately fetched a cloak for her master.

Qichi draped it over herself, tying it as she stepped out of the tent.

The Pugu tribe had arrived with light baggage and only a small entourage, so they didn't have much to prepare. They quickly got ready.

A squad of soldiers was assigned to escort them.

As the group mounted their horses, ready to depart, they suddenly saw the Grand Protector and his wife approaching on horseback from the direction of the main tent.

Pugu Jing quickly turned his horse around to express his gratitude, “How could we trouble the Grand Protector and Madam to personally see us off?”

Fu Ting replied, “No trouble at all. Let’s go.”

Qichi followed him at a steady pace, noticing Pugu Xinyun among the group.

The little girl was dressed in a Hu robe adorned with cloud patterns and had her hair tied up in a bundle, sitting atop her horse. She looked at Qichi, then at the horse beneath her, seemingly surprised that she could ride a horse, before turning her head away.

They left the military camp without exchanging words.

It wasn't until they reached a mountain path, where the road was difficult, that the group formed a single file and began to converse.

Qichi observed the narrow path, winding like a sheep’s intestine, but it was only a short stretch. Once they passed it, the road ahead would be smooth.

She glanced around and noticed that it indeed saved a considerable distance compared to the official road.

Fu Ting looked back from the front and said, “Stay close.”

She held the reins tightly, glancing down at the slope beside the path. It wasn’t very deep, but it was still somewhat dangerous.

Looking ahead, she saw that Fu Ting's horse was walking straight, and her horse, as if following a leader, stayed right behind him without veering off course, easily making it through.

Once they reached the open road, a soft song suddenly floated through the air.

Qichi looked over and saw that it was Pugu Xinyun singing. She was singing in her native language, and the melody drifted around them.

Some of the Pugu tribe members even sang along.

Qichi caught up to Fu Ting and asked, “What song is she singing?”

Fu Ting glanced at her and said, “I don’t know.”

Qichi didn’t quite believe him. He could even speak Turkic, so how could he not understand the northern Hu tribes' language, especially since the Pugu tribe shared roots with the Turks?

She asked again, “Do you really not understand?”

He grabbed the reins and twisted them around his hands, “I don’t.”

Qichi believed him and didn’t ask further.

Of course, Fu Ting understood.

It was a love song from the northern Hu tribes, sung for a beloved.

But since it had nothing to do with him, he had no need to understand.

When the singing stopped, so did the group.

Pugu Jing turned back to bow to the Grand Protector and Madam once more, saying there was no need to see them off further; they could part ways here.

Fu Ting spurred his horse forward a step, signaling him to come closer for a private conversation.

It was to discuss matters concerning the livelihoods of the people.

Qichi turned her head on horseback to look at Pugu Xinyun.

The girl was also looking her way.

“Take care.” Qichi smiled at her, just as she had when they first met.

Pugu Xinyun returned the gesture but remained silent.

After Fu Ting finished his conversation, he returned and tugged the reins to change direction. “We’re not going back to the camp, we’re heading straight home.”

He then added, “Don’t worry, someone will send Li Yan back.”

Qichi smiled at the mention of her nephew, “He’s changed a lot since being with you, I’m not as worried anymore.”

Fu Ting said nothing.

On the road, Pugu Xinyun watched them disappear into the distance.

Pugu Jing patted her head and shook his head with a smile, saying something in their native language.

She lowered her head, silent.

Others might not see it, but how could her own grandfather not understand what was on her mind?

Pugu Jing gently advised her: The Grand Protector is the one who tamed the eight commanderies and fourteen prefectures of the northern lands. Such a man is like an eagle in the sky, untamable. Unless he has his eyes set on you, then he might fold his wings. 

But his eyes are already set on someone else.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

At the gate of Hanhai Commandery, Fu Ting sent his entourage back to the military camp and took only his close guards with him.

As soon as they entered the city, his horse began picking up speed as it trod on flat ground.

Qichi struggled to keep up and urged her horse into a trot, finally catching up to him.

"You're going too fast."

Fu Ting slowed down his horse, glancing at her. "You clearly managed to catch up."

He could tell that her horsemanship was quite good. She was merely restraining herself, mindful of her status as a county princess, maintaining decorum within the city.

Sure enough, she murmured, "Do you expect me to chase after you in the middle of the city?"

The corners of Fu Ting’s mouth twitched as he held back a smile. He glanced at the wide street ahead, bathed in sunlight, with only a few people scattered about.

Suddenly, he felt a mischievous urge to coax her out of her reserved demeanor. After all, she had let her guard down in front of him more than a few times.

He said, "Why not give it a try?"

With those words, he spurred his horse forward.

Qichi frowned, watching his figure disappear like an arrow, then glanced at the guards following closely behind. She felt slightly embarrassed to be the subject of their attention.

She pulled up the hood of her cloak, gripped the reins tightly, and galloped off.

She sped along, finally catching sight of Fu Ting’s figure as they neared the Protectorate.

And then, he vanished from sight once again.

Qichi had been teased by this man on several occasions before. She was about to give up chasing him. But since they were already close to the residence’s gate, she decided to gallop the rest of the way.

As soon as she arrived, she dismounted nimbly, handed the reins to a servant, and strode inside.

Fu Ting had already entered the residence. He was standing in the corridor, taking a sip of wine from the wine pouch in his hand, amused.

Why was he teasing her for no reason?

Turning his head, he saw Qichi walking quickly toward him.

She rarely walked so fast. The last time she had been in such a hurry was for her nephew.

Fu Ting observed her hair, loosely pinned to one side, the slight arch of her brows, and the way her lips pressed together lightly as she walked. He lowered his head, tucking the wine pouch into his robes, and straightened his legs.

As Qichi walked under the corridor, she glanced around but didn't see him. Just as she reached the main hall, a hand suddenly reached out and pulled her inside.

The door closed behind her as Fu Ting embraced her.

Startled, she tried to push him away.

It was still broad daylight.

But he had already carried her towards the bed.

As soon as he laid her down, he pressed himself on top of her.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Once again, he tormented her as he had before.

Qichi's body trembled, she held back her voice unconsciously.

Eventually, one of her arms hooked around his neck, her body melting like water. She whispered teasingly in his ear, "Why the rush?"

She soon fell silent, unable to speak any longer.

When the man above her became fierce, she found herself incapable of thinking.

Fu Ting's body tensed, her words making him clench his jaw.

It wasn't until he saw the helpless look on her face that he relented, easing up slightly.

Her face was as radiant as a blooming peach and plum flowers.

He could never get tired of seeing Li Qichi like this.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

By the time Li Yan returned, quite some time had passed.

Luo Xiaoyi had escorted him back and was going to teach him martial arts as usual. As they walked through the corridor, he saw his third brother coming out of the room and said with a smile, "The matters with the Pugu tribe are settled. Third Brother, now you can finally take a good rest."

Fu Ting adjusted the collar of his military attire and responded with a simple hum.

Luo Xiaoyi casually asked, "Where’s Sister-in-law? Didn’t she go with you to see them off?"

Qichi followed Fu Ting out, her cheeks still tinged with a lingering blush.

Li Yan called out, "Aunt."

She responded softly, her voice light and airy.

Luo Xiaoyi chuckled and rubbed his hands together, "Sister-in-law, would it be alright if I stayed for dinner today?"

"Of course." Qichi smiled at him, then glanced at Fu Ting.

He stood there, tall and imposing, and had already straightened his military attire.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 40

Chapter 40 : How did you get this injury?

Time swiftly flew by, and the third month was already halfway through.

The spring sun was growing increasingly intense, and the breeze carried a hint of warmth as it brushed against one’s face.

In the military camp, a group of people were playing jiju[1].

Among them were several Hu people from the Pugu tribe and a few new soldiers from the military, competing against each other. Both sides, mounted on horseback, vied for control of the ball with their sticks.

The horses’ hooves flew, dirt splattered, and neither side gave an inch.

Pugu Jing and Pugu Xinyun watched from the sidelines, occasionally clapping and laughing at the exciting moments.

Their tribe, originally descended from the Turks, was a warrior people who particularly enjoyed spending time in the military.

After nearly half a month in the Hanhai Commandery, they had just settled the livestock trade in the past two days, putting a major concern to rest. Thus, they often accompanied Fu Ting into the military camp.

After watching for a while, Pugu Xinyun realized they had arrived earlier today but had not yet seen the Grand Protector.

Just then, the sound of horses and carriages drew her attention. Turning to look, she saw a convoy of guards escorting a carriage.

The Grand Protector was riding beside the carriage, accompanied by General Luo and a young man Pugu Xinyun had met once at the Grand Protectorate Residence.

With a glance, she knew who was coming.

Qiushuang lifted the carriage curtain, and Qichi descended from the carriage. Xinlu immediately draped a thin cloak over her shoulders.

Qichi glanced around; the camp stretched as far as the eye could see, stretching into the distance like clusters of white flowers blooming in the northern land.

Having stayed in the residence for more than half a month, this was her first time visiting Fu Ting's military camp.

Li Yan dismounted from his horse and sighed, "Uncle’s military camp is truly vast."

She smiled when she heard it, as if she would be awed every time she saw this man's soldiers.

Fu Ting loosened the reins and looked over, "Follow me."

She followed him, "Why did you bring me here today?"

Without breaking stride, he replied, "I feared you’d get bored and run off again, needing me to rescue you once more."

She cast a sidelong glance at his back, recalling the incident when she was captured by the Turkic women, feeling a silent irritation.

After finished speaking, Fu Ting glanced back at her expression, finding it amusing.

At the central military tent, he stood at the entrance and lifted the curtain.

Oichi walked in.

The tent was simply furnished, with weapon racks and map racks on either side.

At the far end was an old daybed covered with his clothes.

At a glance, it was hard to tell this was the tent of a grand protector

Outside the tent, Luo Xiaoyi called out, “Third Brother”, and Fu Ting stepped out.

In the field, the match was intense with shouts and neighing horses.

As soon as Pugu Jing and his granddaughter saw him, they came forward to offer their greetings.

Something flew towards them; Fu Ting raised his hand and caught it—it was the jiju ball. He threw it back and clapped his hands twice.

Pugu Jing said, "Grand Protector, why don’t you join us and show your skills? This is, after all, a military exercise."

"Grandfather is right," Pugu Xinyun echoed.

Jiju was originally a training exercise for soldiers. Fu Ting was quite skilled at them, though he rarely played these days.

Just as he was about to decline, Luo Xiaoyi chimed in, "Third Brother, why not play a match? I see the young lord is eager to try."

Li Yan, who had been watching the field intently, blushed at the remark, "Uncle Xiaoyi, don’t tease me. I’m just observing the rules."

Fu Ting looked over and saw that Li Yan's brows and eyes bore a resemblance to Qichi, especially when he blushed, his expression strikingly similar. Fu Ting thought to himself that they were really a pair of aunt and nephew.

He asked, "Do you want to play?"

Li Yan replied, "I’ve never played before."

"Do you want to, or not?"

After a moment of hesitation, he nodded, "I do."

Fu Ting tightened his sleeves, "Then let’s have a match."

Luo Xiaoyi pulled out a ribbon to tie Li Yan’s sleeves, smiling, "Your uncle cares for you, doesn’t he?"

Li Yan hummed in agreement, remembering his aunt’s words to be good to his uncle so his uncle would be good to him.

Yet he felt he hadn’t done much for his uncle, and still, his uncle never treated him poorly.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Qichi sat in the tent for a while, listening to the cheers from outside before she decided to step out.

Xinlu and Qiushuang were standing on either side of the entrance, recounting the recent events to her.

"Master, the young lord has joined the jiju game."

"He was led by the Grand Protector."

Qichi walked to the edge of the field and indeed saw them in the midst of the game.

Li Yan held the jiju stick, his face flushed from the wind, cautiously dodging left and right.

Fu Ting was right behind him, his robe tucked into his belt, wielding his stick to block an opponent, then striking the ball with a swift swing.

The crowd erupted in cheers again.

Qichi found herself captivated by the scene.

Jiju was also a popular sport among the nobles. If her brother were still alive, he would certainly have started teaching Li Yan by now. But in the end, Li Yan had learned to ride a horse only in the northern lands.

She hadn’t expected Fu Ting to take him under his wing, especially after knowing about that incident. Yet, he was still willing to take him with him.

She rarely saw this side of Fu Ting—relaxed and carefree, astride a horse as if he were on solid ground, with a jiju stick in his hand, as if he wielded the weight of a thousand jun[2].

It wasn’t until she heard the sound of the girl’s voice that she snapped out of her reverie.

Qichi looked around and noticed Pugu Xinyun also on the field; she too had joined the game.

Luo Xiaoyi stood at the edge of the field, cupping his hands around his mouth and shouting to her, "Xinyun, come back! Don’t you see who you're up against today? Don’t cry if you lose!"

Everyone laughed.

She galloped her horse while swinging her stick, retorted angrily, "I’m not the sort to be so easily beaten."

Luo Xiaoyi, fearing he might truly make the little girl cry, waved his hands repeatedly, "Alright, alright, I won’t tease you anymore. Just focus on the game."

Fu Ting spurred his horse forward, leaned over, his arm swinging as he struck the ball with precision.

"Li Yan!"

Everyone thought Li Yan might miss the shot, but he reacted quickly, maneuvering his horse to the side and striking the ball with his stick.

Fu Ting intercepted the ball and sent it flying into the goal.

The crowd cheered once more.

He reined in his horse and looked at Li Yan, "Well done. Your martial training has paid off."

Li Yan, having received his first compliment from his uncle, beamed. "Thank you, Uncle."

Fu Ting turned his horse and saw Qichi outside the field.

She stood in the wind, her cloak fluttering, her eyes fell on him with a faint smile on her face.

It was a smile he was familiar with; she had smiled the same way when he taught Li Yan to ride a horse.

He lowered his head and smiled, then turned his head to call out, "Xiaoyi."

The game paused, and Luo Xiaoyi entered the field.

He tossed him his stick, "You take over."

Luo Xiaoyi caught it, "Alright, I'll take over for Third Brother."

Pugu Xinyun asked, "Grand Protector, are you not playing anymore?"

Fu Ting nodded and rode off the field.

From a distance, Qichi couldn't hear what they were saying, only noticing the pause in the game and Fu Ting leaving the field.

Suddenly, a scream rang out in the field. Pugu Xinyun’s horse suddenly raised its hoof, and she was thrown off the horse's back.

Fu Ting, closest to her, swiftly dismounted and caught her.

Others rushed to steady the horse, with Luo Xiaoyi extending a hand from his mount and even Li Yan coming to help.

Pugu Xinyun clung tightly to Fu Ting’s robe.

Fu Ting set her down, "Someone, come."

Members of the Pugu tribe hurried over.

He instructed, "Help her out."

Pugu Xinyun was stunned. He let go of her too easily, not even sparing her a glance. Her hand slowly released its grip on his robe.

Qichi watched the scene, raising an eyebrow when Fu Ting caught her, but then she turned her gaze away as he quickly let go.

Pugu Xinyun was helped away. Pugu Jing, visibly shaken, muttered a string of nonsense in Hu language, scolding her harshly for quite some time.

Fu Ting walked out of the field, taking a cloth to wipe his hands.

Qichi approached and asked, "Why did you stop playing?"

Wiping the back of his hand, he looked at her, "I couldn’t play with you watching me."

"So it's my fault?" She sighed, "I was going to say you played quite well."

Fu Ting wasn't sure if she was being sincere, but the corner of his mouth twitched slightly.

Qichi noticed his hand, "Your reflexes are impressive."

Fu Ting raised his eyes, "I was saving someone."

After saying that, he felt like he was making excuses.

She smiled, "That’s exactly what I meant."

With that, she walked past him.

"Where are you going?" he asked.

She stopped for a moment, "We’re here to entertain the Pugu tribe. Since their young lady fell off her horse, I must go check on her."

Fu Ting said nothing, watching her walk away.

Pugu Xinyun was resting on a small stool outside the tent, her eyes fixed on Fu Ting and Qichi.

Suddenly, Qichi approached her.

"Here, wipe your face. It's dirty," Qichi offered her handkerchief.

She was a little confused, taking it, "Madam, you came to see me?"

Qichi nodded.

Pugu Xinyun was silent for a moment before she whispered, "I thought Madam would be angry."

Qichi asked in return, "Why would I be angry?"

"Because… the Grand Protector just caught me."

Qichi found it amusing, "I am not so unreasonable that I can’t distinguish right from wrong. If he were close enough to save you but chose not to, disregarding the Pugu tribe and shirking his responsibility as a man, I would look down on him instead."

Pugu Xinyun was left speechless.

Earlier, in her panic as she saw the Grand Protector leaving, she had accidentally jabbed her stick somewhere, startling her horse and causing herself to fall.

She quickly decided not to pull the reins, knowing the Grand Protector was closest to her. 

Sure enough, the Grand Protector saved her, and she had thought the madam would be angry with her.

But it seemed she didn’t take it seriously at all, reminding her that it was merely an act of rescue.

"Madam must dislike me," she recalled the words she had said earlier.

She had thought no one was worthy of the Grand Protector, including the madam herself.

Qichi suddenly asked, "How old are you this year?"

"Fourteen."

"Then you’re just three years older than my nephew," she said. "I see you as I see him, just a child."

Pugu Xinyun glanced at the young man on the field, silently wiped her face, and returned the handkerchief to her.

"Thank you, Madam, but I have grown up."

Qichi took it back, "When you can confidently pursue someone you want without deceiving yourself or belittling yourself, only then will you truly have grown up."

As if she had touched her sore spot, Pugu Xinyun frowned and fell silent.

Qichi had already guessed her little feelings; after all, a little girl’s thoughts were easy to read.

She tucked the handkerchief into her sleeve and said, "Just this once. I hope you don’t fall off your horse again."

Pugu Xinyun's face stiffened and she remained silent.

It was as if all her little thoughts had been exposed under her eyes.

Qichi had already turned and left.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

By dusk, they settled down in the military camp.

Due to Pugu Xinyun's fall, the Pugu tribe had delayed their departure and had to stay the night.

Pugu Jing thanked Fu Ting several times before finally going to check on his granddaughter.

In the main tent, the lights were lit.

Qichi sat there holding chopsticks, slowly eating the simple military meal before her. The food was ordinary but included some meat, showing where Fu Ting’s money was spent.

After finishing, Xinlu brought water for her to wash. "Is A’Yan settled?" she asked.

Xinlu said, "Qiushuang is with him. The young lord wants to stay with General Luo tonight to discuss martial arts."

She nodded. Thinking of Pugu Xinyun, she said, "Go and assist the little girl. Consider it a courtesy from the Grand Protector’s residence."

Xinlu accepted the order and left.

Qichi lit up the light, sat on the old daybed[3], and looked at the maps on the rack, calculating where her caravan might be.

According to the dates, they should be nearing the border.

Fu Ting lowered his head and entered the tent, wearing only his inner garments, with water droplets still clinging to his face and neck.

Qichi, seeing he had just bathed, couldn’t help but glance at the old daybed beneath her. "Sleeping here tonight?"

Seeing her sitting there upright, Fu Ting wiped his wet neck, "Where else would I sleep?"

She whispered, "It’s unusual for a Grand Protector to stay in the camp with his wife."

He smiled, "Today is an exception."

With that, he walked over, sitting on the edge of the daybed to remove his inner garment and put on a clean one.

Qichi noticed the two scars on his back, crossing each other, visible under the light. She couldn’t help but ask, "How did you get this injury?"

He pulled on a sleeve and turned to look at her, "What?"

Qi Chi stretched out a finger, touched his back, and traced down along the scar pattern: "I'm talking about this."

Her hand was grabbed by him.

"From a knife, a machete used by the Turks."

She thought about how deep and long these wounds were; how much they must have hurt at the time.

He held her hand and stared into her eyes, his gaze darkened.

Qichi's eyes could not help but wander when he looked at her like this.

He let go of her hand, amused, "Let’s sleep."

Then he added, "People outside can hear."

Understanding his meaning, her face flushed as she lay down on the inner side of the daybed.

Notes: [1] Jiju (击鞠) is a sport which uses a stick to hit balls while riding on a horse, pretty similar to modern polo. [2] Jun (钧) is a Chinese unit of mass equivalent to 30 catties or 15 kg. So, a thousand jun would be 15,000 kg. [3] Daybed (榻) is a sitting platform used both for sitting and reclining, even sleeping on special occasions. It has no rails and side panels, it is almost exactly like a stool or kang table except for a much larger size. An end table was usually placed in the middle, so the host and guest could sit one person on each side. Image below.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 39

Chapter 39 : It was not certain who had trapped whom.

After all, this was the Protectorate, who would dare to truly cause trouble here?

The earlier commotion had now settled down, and naturally, everyone was sitting quietly once again.

Qichi returned to her spot behind the rockery.

Since she had already been discovered, she didn't mind being seen by Fu Ting again. This way, she could also observe the situation from afar.

The merchants, being of low status, dared not speak loudly in the government. Each sat more properly than the other, and anyone who spoke did so with the utmost caution—

"Of course we can't handle the government's business carelessly, but the transportation costs are very high."

"Yes, and the leaders need good young livestock."

"It's still quite difficult..."

No matter how they discussed, it was clear they wanted to raise the prices.

Qichi felt that they knew people's livelihood in the north were currently in a period of recovery, and the Protectorate valued this greatly. They wanted to seize this opportunity to make some profit, cautiously testing the bottom line of the government.

Pugu Jing's voice had a tinge of anger: "These are all excuses! If it were like before, before the northern lands suffered disasters, would you even have the chance to sit here and negotiate with us?"

He was here as the representative of the Hu tribes, bearing responsibility and could not afford to yield.

The herdsmen were the first to suffer from the plague, and it had only started to improve in recent years. They couldn't even pay their taxes, let alone afford high prices. If not for the sake of the recovery of people's livelihood in the north, he would rather not deal with these cunning merchants.

Luo Xiaoyi gave a dry cough, reminding the old man not to get angry. The current times were different from the past. Since his third brother had decided to use private merchants, he still has to give him some face.

Pugu Jing stroked his gray beard a couple of times, held back his anger, and looked at the Grand Protector.

Fu Ting was pacing slowly in the courtyard and suddenly asked, "Who here owns more than one shop?"

Nearly ten people immediately stood up.

He glanced around and then asked again, "Who owns more than five shops?"

A few sat down, leaving six or seven standing.

"More than ten shops?"

Only three or four remained standing.

"More than twenty shops?"

Only one person remained.

Fu Ting looked over. It was a middle-aged man of medium build with a short beard and a fair face. He recognized him as the shopkeeper of the store that had been burned down earlier.

"Are you representing your master?" He remembered that their master was not in the northern lands.

The shopkeeper nodded.

"How many shops does your master own?" he asked.

The shopkeeper thought for a moment and replied, "About... more than a hundred."

Luo Xiaoyi exclaimed, "Damn, that many!"

The shopkeeper hung his head in embarrassment, "This humble one cannot say for certain. Our master does business across the nation, not confined to one place. Each place has an appointed person in charge, so this humble one himself is not clear on the exact number."

Luo Xiaoyi remembered, "Oh yes, your Fish-Shaped Business, I recall. You indeed have businesses everywhere."

Fu Ting said, "Then you name a price."

The shopkeeper was taken aback.

Luo Xiaoyi, being sharp, understood his third brother's intention and immediately chimed in, "Exactly, you are the largest business here. If you set a price, what can the others say? If they are dissatisfied, we will let your business handle this business exclusively!"

Hearing this, the other merchants' faces changed, and they all looked at the shopkeeper.

Qiushuang suddenly walked over with small steps, lowered her head and whispered, "Grand Protector, Master requests a word with you."

Fu Ting glanced towards the rockery and indeed saw the looming figure.

He looked around and said, "You continue."

Qiushuang excused herself and glanced at the shopkeeper.

The shopkeeper took the opportunity to excuse himself, saying he needed to use the restroom.

Luo Xiaoyi called a servant to accompany him and meanwhile discussed a few things with Pugu Jing.

Pugu Xinyun watched Fu Ting's back until he was out of sight and could no longer be seen.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

On the other side, Fu Ting lowered his head as he walked towards the rockery.

This rockery was built after Qichi arrived. It was built in the southern style, very low, so he almost bumped his head as he entered. He had to keep his head down, looking at the woman in front of him.

"What do you want to say?"

The space was narrow on both sides, and Qichi was almost pressed against him. She whispered softly, "It's nothing much, just that I shouldn't have argued with you in the corridor earlier."

Fu Ting remembered that she had said he could be mean enough sometimes.

"That's it?"

"Yeah."

He felt like laughing, but he couldn't see her expression. He lifted her chin with his hand, raising her face. "Are you teasing me on purpose?"

She had called him here at this time just to say this.

Qichi didn’t expect him to suddenly lift her chin. When their faces suddenly met, her heart skipped a beat.

His face was even more striking up close—deep-set eyes, a prominent nose. She thought to herself, no wonder the little girl couldn't forget about him.

Fu Ting also paused when their faces met. He instinctively glanced at her lips.

For a moment, neither of them said anything.

"So what?" Qichi hesitated for a moment, then steadied herself and smiled. "You and I are husband and wife, can’t I tease you a bit?"

He seemed amused and nodded a couple of times. "You can."

After saying that, he lowered his head and turned to leave.

Qichi watched him walk away, slowly leaning against the rockery. She touched her earlobe, wanting to laugh again.

How many times has it been? They were already husband and wife, yet she still felt shy.

Qiushuang returned and whispered, "Master, it has been delivered."

Qichi nodded and walked out from behind the rockery.

Just now, she had been observing for a long time. After calculating the costs, she had estimated a price and asked Qiushuang to find a way to deliver it to the shopkeeper.

Since it had already been delivered, there was no need to stay any longer.

She had done what she could; the rest would be up to Fu Ting.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting returned to the hall just as the shopkeeper hurried back, handing over a piece of paper with the proposed price written on it.

Luo Xiaoyi took it, glanced at it, and handed it to Fu Ting, exclaiming, "Finally, someone serious about negotiations. This price is worth discussing."

Fu Ting handed the paper to Pugu Jing.

The old man's eyes lit up when he saw it, and he even stood up, saying, "With this price, it shows that among merchants, there are still those who value righteousness. May I ask your business' name? From now on, you shall forever be friends of the Pugu tribe."

The shopkeeper quickly stood up and presented a fish-shaped wooden plaque, saying, "Leader, your praise is too kind. This is our master's business plaque."

Fu Ting glanced at the Fish-Shaped Business' plaque.

They had recently been targeted by the Turks and had half their shop burned down, yet they offered such a sincere price, seemingly disregarding their losses.

He suddenly felt that the owner of this business seemed too aligned with his Protectorate.

The Pugu tribe, however, was delighted. Pugu Xinyun also smiled, speaking on behalf of her grandfather, "Your owner must be a righteous person. If you ever visit our tribe, we will treat you with our utmost respect."

Pugu Jing nodded in agreement.

The shopkeeper repeatedly expressed his gratitude.

In the distance, Qichi walked while smiling.

She had heard what Pugu Xinyun said.

The righteous owner in question was right before them, a Central Plains woman who had robbed their northern heartthrob.

As dusk fell, the commotion in the front courtyard finally subsided, indicating that the merchants were gradually taking their leave.

The negotiations had lasted several hours.

Qichi closed the ledger she had just reviewed and stood by the window, adding oil to the lamp.

Suddenly, she heard Luo Xiaoyi's voice from outside, "Thanks to that business, things went so smoothly today. We should celebrate."

Pugu Jing replied, "They can be considered the righteous merchants of the northern lands."

Pugu Xinyun followed with a smile, "Grandfather, did you see the other merchants' faces? They were resentful but helpless. Who can compare with such a large and prosperous business?"

A few laughs followed in agreement.

Qichi heard this and a faint smile appeared on her lips.

In this world, there are no good things that come out of nowhere. As the Grand Protector's wife, she had appraised the price and even reduced it by ten percent, offering a concession to the various Hu tribes.

As long as the livestock were fattened next year, the Protectorate would collect taxes, and they would break even. Besides, they also had earned a good reputation.

It was also a great benefit to the people's livelihood.

This kind of business, with immense profit, was worth doing.

Suddenly, a figure appeared before her. She looked up to see Fu Ting had returned, holding the sword he had just unbuckled.

She turned her head to glance out the window, "You didn't join them for the celebration?"

"No," he had left it to Luo Xiaoyi.

Qichi turned her head to close the window and suddenly heard Pugu Xinyun's voice asking why the Grand Protector hadn't joined them.

She looked at Fu Ting, "She’s calling for you again."

Fu Ting glanced out the window but remained silent. He walked over to her and pulled the window shut.

Qichi thought to herself, didn't he say he heard it before? Why didn't he say it this time?

She leaned her arm against his and asked softly, "If the Emperor hadn't bestowed our marriage, would you have married her?"

He laughed as if he had heard a joke, "What?"

Qichi brushed a strand of hair behind her ear, "They say there's no harm in a bit of fun between husband and wife." Looking at him, she asked, as if joking and testing, "Could you really take such a little girl?"

Fu Ting truly laughed, though he was angry with the question but found it laughable.

To him, she was just a child. If Pugu Jing hadn't brought her, he would have forgotten her existence.

She didn't mind bringing it up, not to joke, but to test his boundaries.

He undid his belt and tossed it aside, then picked her up by the waist, lowering his head and whispering in her ear—

"I can't lay a hand on her, but I can on you."

Qichi found herself lifted into his arms.

The feeling was familiar, and she suddenly recalled the scene when she was drunk. He had held her like this then too.

But being sober was different from being drunk, and her heart began to race.

"The door," she whispered softly.

The door was still open.

Fu Ting's arm tightened, carrying her directly to the door. He closed the door with his foot and pressed her against it.

Qichi's clothes were already being stripped away.

From outside, Xinlu's voice suddenly called out, "Is Master not here?"

Qichi's heart tightened. She bit her lips hard, afraid of making any noise that might be heard.

Fu Ting's hands did not stop.

Qichi suddenly felt his lips on her neck, making her freeze for a moment. He kissed her neck again.

But it didn't stop there.

She opened her mouth but quickly bit down again to stifle any sound.

He continued kissing down her body...

He had touched everywhere he should, except for her lips.

Her heart was beating like crazy, her entire body felt like it was submerged in boiling water. 

He was deliberately tormenting her, making her feel helpless for the first time.

The prolonged touch felt like an eternity. Only when her body began to tremble slightly did he seem willing to let her go, finally lifting her and carrying her to the bed.

Throughout the entire process, Fu Ting seemed to be punishing her.

Seeing her biting her lip, he used his fingers to pry it away.

Qichi let out a sound, and he whispered in a low voice, "I'm a brute man. You don't need to maintain the decorum of a princess in front of me."

He wanted her to make noise.

She reached out to grab something, her hand ending up pressed against his chest.

After the prolonged torment, each touch became more unbearable agony.

Fu Ting finally saw helplessness on her face. Holding the hand pressed against his chest, he clenched his teeth and asked in her ear, "Is this what you want?"

She reached out blankly, as if coming to her senses, then reached out again, her voice breaking, "Will you give it to me?"

He chuckled deeply.

Her current expression made him feel that it was not certain who had trapped whom.

It was already dawn.

Qichi opened her eyes and looked at the person beside her.

Fu Ting was lying there with his eyes closed, his face stern even in sleep.

She couldn't help but turn sideways and stare at his face.

Normally, he would have already gotten up and left by now, but today he was still here.

She couldn't help but think of the night before, almost forgetting when it had ended.

She had no coherent thoughts left.

Just a moment of blankness, her hand unconsciously grasping at him.

Her ears grew warm, and she quietly got up, trying not to think about it anymore.

No one had disturbed them the previous night.

Even Xinlu and Qiushuang hadn't come to call them for dinner.

She guessed they must have known what was happening in the room. As she sat in front of the mirror with her clothes on, her face turned red.

She thought to herself, why had she tested him with those words?

It was just a little girl. As long as he didn't care, it was not worth her attention.

Sitting in front of the mirror, she suddenly saw Fu Ting getting up from the bed.

He had put on his Hu pants but was bare-chested, looking over at her.

Qichi's fingers hooked open the drawer of the dressing table, pretending to carefully choose accessories.

He suddenly walked over, leaned down, took a hairpin from the drawer, and held it in front of her eyes. "I'll help you choose one this time."

She was startled, looking at him through the mirror.

For a moment, she almost thought she had misheard him.

The dim bronze mirror reflected their faces.

He, too, stared at her through the mirror.

He then said, "Wearing this should make you look better than that little girl."

Qichi frowned slightly, realizing he had done it on purpose.

His mouth moved as if he was about to smile, then he stood up and went to put on his military attire.

Author's Note: The Grand Protector declared, "It's time to show off my true skills." Qichi was speechless…

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 38

Chapter 38 : Does it bother you or not?

When the banquet ended, it was already late at night.

Fu Ting emerged from the hall, followed closely by Luo Xiaoyi.

"Third Brother, do you have a plan for the Hu tribe's matter?"

He nodded.

Luo Xiaoyi turned and smiled at Pugu Jing, who had followed them to the door. "I told you, Third Brother already has a plan. Leader of the Pugu tribe, you can rest assured. When it comes to the livelihood of the people in the north, Third Brother will never ignore it."

Pugu Jing hurriedly expressed his gratitude.

Luo Xiaoyi noticed Pugu Xinyun behind them still glancing their way and teased, "What is little Xinyun looking at? Go and rest with your grandfather."

Embarrassed by Luo Xiaoyi's words, Pugu Xinyun lowered her head. When she looked up again, the Grand Protector's figure was already out of sight.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting walked into the main house.

The room was still lit. He thought Qichi might still be awake. Entering the room, he saw her lying on the bed, already laid down. He took off his belt with one hand and gently pressed it on the table.

Approaching the bedside, he noticed her lying on her side, her breathing even and her cheeks slightly red—a picture of drunkenness.

He reached out and brushed aside her collar, noticing the blood spots on her neck left by the Turkic woman's iron hook had faded.

Perhaps feeling disturbed, she stirred slightly.

Fu Ting grinned, loosened his grip, and turned to wash up.

After drinking, Qichi felt uncomfortable and had been attended to by Xinlu and Qiushuang back to the room before resting.

Suddenly, she woke up slowly, feeling thirsty. Without opening her eyes, she called out, "Xinlu, water."

Footsteps approached the bed, and a hand lifted the back of her neck as a cup was pressed to her lips. She took a few sips and opened her eyes to see a man sitting on the edge of the bed.

Fu Ting turned to put the cup down, but his arm was grabbed.

"Let go," he said, turning around.

Qichi, still drunk and couldn’t distinguish between dream and reality, reached out without thinking. When she heard him say let go, she frowned, abruptly got off the bed, and walked toward him.

Fu Ting saw the haziness in her eyes, indicating she was still half asleep, clearly not yet sober. As expected, she stumbled forward a step.

With one hand still holding the cup, he used the other to steady her. "What are you doing?"

Her arm hooked around his neck as if she hadn't heard his question. "Why do you want me to let go?"

Fu Ting found it amusing. Everyone has their drunken behaviors, and this was the first time he saw Li Qichi's drunken behavior.

He simply tightened his arm, half-carrying, half-dragging her to the table where he finally set the cup down.

With her waist leaned against the edge of the table and was hugged by his arm, Qichi clung to his neck tightly, refusing to give in, "Why do you want me to let go? Just because of that little girl?"

Fu Ting paused, realizing who she meant. "You mean little Xinyun?"

Her drunken face frowned slightly. "What did you call her?"

He stared at the redness on her cheeks, lowered his head and leaned closer. "Does it bother you?"

Qichi narrowed her eyes as if thinking, then shook her head gently, loosened her hand.

Fu Ting's expression darkened, then he clasped her arms and lifted her up, pressing her against the table. In a low voice, he asked, "Does it bother you or not?"

Qichi, now sitting on the table, almost wrapped her legs around his waist, subconsciously hooking her arms around him again. The man held her firmly, pressing his body against her. Feeling restrained, she lifted her pointed chin and said, "She’s not easy to deal with."

Fu Ting's eyes grew even darker.

All that mattered to her was whether the girl was easy to deal with or not.

In Qichi's eyes, the man's face remained blurry. She felt sleepy again and pushed him away. "You’re pressing me too hard."

Fu Ting pressed his body against her, clenched his jaws as he sniffed at the faint scent of alcohol lingering on her.

The next moment, the arms hooked around his neck suddenly loosened. Her eyes were closed and her head tilted to one side as she fell asleep again.

Holding her soft body, he relaxed his jaw, tugging the corner of his mouth.

She didn't seem to mind.

Upon waking after a bout of drunkenness, she seemed to remember nothing.

Qichi stood by the window, looking out at the faint spring sun. She rubbed her temple with her fingers, always feeling like she had forgotten something.

There was only a vague impression left behind, as if Fu Ting had pinned her against the table.

She glanced back at the table, thinking about the scene, and couldn’t help but feel a bit hot in the ears.

"Master." Qiushuang approached, whispering in her ear.

After listening, Qichi was surprised. "Really?"

Qiushuang nodded, taking a letter from her sleeve. "I heard about it when I went out to the shop today. It's an official document from the Protectorate."

Qichi took it.

Last night at the banquet, she heard Pugu Jing mention that the Hu tribe needed a large number of young livestock but had no way to trade for them. She hadn't expected the Protectorate to issue an order today, allowing private merchants to handle it.

The northern lands lacked sufficient young livestock, but in such a vast world, other places had them, even beyond the borders. With private merchants involved, circulation in various places would be much faster.

That man was more resourceful than she thought, decisively involving private merchants.

She opened the letter, it was a document from the Protectorate inviting the owners of major businesses under its jurisdiction to negotiate prices.

It bore the seal of the Protectorate, personally approved by Fu Ting himself.

Qiushuang whispered, "Master, it's inconvenient for you to come. Our shop had stated that the owner is not in the north anyway, maybe we should just ignore it."

Qichi pondered for a while. "This is no small business; there's much profit to be had. Besides, the Protectorate inviting people to negotiate prices is to stabilize prices and take care of the various Hu tribes, which concerns the people’s livelihood in the north. We can't just ignore it."

Qiushuang understood that if private merchants accepted such business without supervision, they would surely each set their own prices, raising them up with the tide. The various Hu tribes would definitely not be able to afford it, so the Protectorate would negotiate prices in advance.

It seemed her master intended to use the business in her hands to help stabilize prices.

"Then let's send someone from the shop to come."

Qichi handed her the letter, nodding. "Proceed as usual."

Qiushuang agreed.

"By the way," Qichi asked again, "When did he leave today?"

Qiushuang replied, "The Grand Protector left before dawn, likely for this matter. He’s now taking the Pugu tribe to the military camp. I think he will return after the merchants come."

Qichi thought, surely Pugu Xinyun went with him as well.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

The gate of the Grand Protectorate Residence stood wide open.

A group of people returned from the military camp.

"Third Brother, you certainly are bold. How dare you use private merchants? Didn’t you say before that merchants are driven by profit?" Luo Xiaoyi dismounted from his horse and looked at his brother with admiration.

Fu Ting had just dismounted and threw his horse’s reins. "If it’s for the livelihood of the people, what is there that we cannot use? I’m leveraging their profit-driven nature for our benefit."

Luo Xiaoyi clicked his tongue, glancing inside. "I suppose everyone must have arrived by now."

He assumed that with the summons from the Protectorate, no merchant would dare delay. 

Within and around the city, all the nearby merchants who had received the letters were capable of handling large transactions. Their numbers were limited, so naturally, they responded promptly to the summons.

Once the main merchants were stabilized, the rest of the merchants in the north wishing to engage in this trade would have to follow the established rules, alleviating any concerns.

Just as Fu Ting was about to enter the gate, he suddenly heard a horse neigh. Turning back, he saw Pugu Xinyun timidly retracting her hand from his horse’s back.

The young girl, who was about ten years old, had her hair in Hu braids and wore a patterned Hu robe. She stood barely taller than his horse. If the horse had raised its hoof, it could have hurt her.

He warned her, "Don’t touch it. No one but my wife and I can handle it."

With that, he walked through the gate.

Pugu Xinyun was stunned, but his words were clear. She hadn’t misheard.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

In the front courtyard, an open-air seating area was set up as a place for discussion.

A dozen merchants were led into the garden and seated in an orderly manner.

Soldiers guarded every entrance, making everyone anxious, no one dared to say much.

Qichi stood behind a rockery, watching the scene.

Qiushuang followed behind her, whispering, "Only these people were invited. Although those merchants are wealthy, they only do local business in the north, unlike you who have businesses all over the country. In terms of financial resources and materials, they are not as good as you."

Qichi responded with a soft ‘hm’, just as she saw Fu Ting striding over, followed by Luo Xiaoyi and the people from the Pugu tribe.

The merchants all rose to greet him, not daring to be negligent.

After everyone was seated, Luo Xiaoyi formally read aloud a letter from the Protectorate. 

The main point was that this matter concerned the livelihood of the people in the north, and that's why the Protectorate allowed private merchants to be involved. They were asked to consider the bigger picture and not just focus on small profits in front of them. The Protectorate would also pay more attention to business matters.

Qichi looked at Fu Ting. He remained standing, dressed in Hu attire tight around his body, with his sword hanging diagonally against his leg. She worried he might notice her, so she stepped back a bit.

She glanced at Pugu Xinyun, who was predictably staring at Fu Ting again.

She thought, based on looks alone, this man had the charm to captivate the young girl, not to mention their past connection.

In the courtyard, the servants brought out pens and ink, asking the merchants to write down their proposed prices.

Each person looked around but didn't discuss it, instead, they picked up the pen and started writing.

The servants collected the papers and handed them to Fu Ting for review.

He examined them one by one and then passed them to the servants, who gave them to Pugu Jing for further inspection.

After several rounds, many proposals were discarded until a few prices were selected.

Fu Ting asked Pugu Jing, "What do you think?"

Pugu Jing frowned, looking displeased. "Still too high."

Qichi felt that it would take a long time before they reached a satisfactory agreement, so she instructed Qiushuang to keep an eye on the situation while she quietly left to avoid being seen.

As she walked along the corridor, she heard shouts from the other side.

Qiushuang ran over, reporting that a Pugu tribesman was dissatisfied with the situation and almost drew his curved knife, feeling the merchants were daring to oppress their Hu tribes. 

The merchants, being of low status and only chasing profits, had never seen such a display and caused a commotion.

Qichi wanted to go back and check, but as she turned the corner, she saw Fu Ting standing there, seemingly waiting for her.

"What are you doing here?"

She tucked her hands into her sleeves, glancing around. "Just walking by."

Fu Ting had noticed her behind the rockery earlier and had deliberately kept silent, only coming over when they were a commotion.

He said, "Still haven't sobered up from the wine and lost your way?"

Hearing him mention the drunken incident reminded Qichi of being pinned against the table by him. She muttered, "Sometimes you can be mean enough."

His eyes locked onto hers. "What?"

She gave him a faint look. "Mean."

To deliberately mention her drunken behavior—what else could it be but mean?

Fu Ting stared at her intently, thinking she probably had never seen real meanness.

Before he could speak, a voice interrupted, "Grand Protector."

He looked over to see Pugu Xinyun standing one zhang[1] away, with her head down, saying. "The matter has been resolved. It was my recklessness. Please return to continue the discussion, Grand Protector."

Qichi glanced at her and whispered, "She’s calling you."

He turned back, remembering her words from the previous night. He gave a deep chuckle. "I heard it."

With that, he strode away.

Pugu Xinyun followed after him.

Qichi watched them leave, suddenly remembering something.

Had she mentioned this girl when she was drunk?

Notes: [1] 丈 is a measure words unit of length equal to 3.3 meters.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 37

Chapter 37 : This heartthrob of the northern lands who no one is worthy of him is now my husband.

Li Yan went to the corridor to ask Luo Xiaoyi for a bow.

Qichi walked away from under the tree, reminiscing about how playing with the snow like this used to be something she did as a child.

It rarely snows in Guang Prefecture, and even when it did, it was very light. She recalled the few times she played in the snow with her brother. Each time, he was the one who took action while she stood by on the side, fearing she would freeze her hands.

She opened her palm, where a few tiny flecks of snow still lingered. She brushed them off with her fingers, thinking quietly: After so many years, she is no longer the little girl who was still spoiled by her brother.

Unknowingly, she had come to a stop and realized that the only ones left in the garden were herself and Pugu Xinyun, who was sitting nearby.

They were only a few steps apart. Pugu Xinyun stood up holding her bow, feeling that it would be disrespectful to remain seated in front of Qichi.

Qichi smiled at her.

She stood there, smiling back, just as she had when they first met.

After a while, she glanced toward the tree upon which the snow had fallen earlier and said, “Seeing Madam happy with the falling snow, I would also like to offer a few shots for you. If you are pleased, perhaps you would speak with me for a while?”

Qichi chuckled at her words, “Why do you say that?”

Pugu Xinyun fiddled with her bowstring, “I heard from my grandfather that Madam is of royal descent, a noble county princess. I dare not offend you.”

Only then did Qichi understand why the girl had been sitting there all the time, not approaching her. She smiled and said, “Even if I come from the royal family, I am still an ordinary person. You need not be so formal. Just say whatever you want to say.”

Pugu Xinyun raised her eyes to look at Qichi, then lowered them several times before finally speaking, “Why has Madam only come now?”

Qichi had not expected this question. She looked at her round cheeks, still youthful and not fully matured, she felt as if she were looking at a child. “There are certain reasons. But why do you ask?”

“Because…” She seemed to think for a moment before saying, “I can’t imagine anyone marrying the Grand Protector and still being willing to stay away from him.”

Qichi felt a stir in her heart, “Is that what you think?”

Pugu Xinyun was taken aback and quickly replied, “The Grand Protector is a hero of the northern lands, a heartthrob of northern women. That is why I think so.”

Her tone was urgent, as if trying to explain.

“Is that so?” Qichi raised an eyebrow with a light laugh, “I didn’t know he was the heartthrob of northern women.”

Pugu Xinyun, thinking Qichi didn’t believe her, explained further, “The northern lands are different from the Central Plains. Women in the Central Plains love scholars and poets, but northern women only love those brave warriors, just like the Grand Protector.”

Qichi nodded, looking at her, “What about you?”

Pugu Xinyun was stunned, “Me?”

Realizing what she meant, she lowered her voice, “No one is worthy of the Grand Protector. I wouldn't dare even think about it.”

Qichi suddenly remembered what Cao Yulin had once said, that he couldn't imagine anyone being worthy of Fu Ting.

At the time, she hadn’t paid attention. But now, hearing these words uttered by another person, they finally sank into her ears.

With a faint, half-smiling expression, she said, “I dared to think it, and now, this heartthrob of the northern lands who no one is worthy of him is now my husband.”

Pugu Xinyun was struck silent by her words, her hands unconsciously pulling at the bowstring, her face tense and speechless.

She was still young after all, and she had already realized that her words were not comprehensive.

Saying that no one was worthy of the Grand Protector, doesn't it also include the madam in front of her?

Yet this madam's response rendered her speechless.

“Do you have anything else to say to me?” Qichi looked at her.

She shook her head, noticing someone approaching and stepped back, pretending she had never spoken.

Li Yan returned with a new bow in his hand, “Aunt, do you still want to play?”

Qichi shook her head, “No, I’m going back.”

Li Yan seemed a bit disappointed, “I just asked Uncle Xiaoyi and found the trick to it.”

Qichi smiled, “You go ahead and play.”

As she walked along the corridor, she stopped by a pillar, lifting a hand to tuck stray strands of hair behind her ear as she contemplated what she had just said, finding it rather amusing.

She hadn't expected herself to say such things to a child.

She was just a little girl, not someone easily brushed off with money like Du Xinnu.

She could tell that the girl’s humbleness was only for Fu Ting, not for her.

Perhaps, she was just a woman of status from the Central Plains who had stolen the heartthrob of the northern lands.

In the evening, the residence prepared a banquet to entertain the guests.

Xinlu entered the room, where Qichi was sitting, going over a new ledger.

She knew that her master took the chance to review the ledger while the Grand Protector was away. After waiting for a moment, she asked, “Master, are you going to the banquet? The Grand Protector is hosting the leader of the Pugu tribe in the front hall.”

Qichi closed the ledger and nodded, “Go.”

As the madam of the Grand Protector Residence, how could she not go?

Xinlu was about to help her change clothes when Qichi thought of the girl in the garden and smiled, “Do my makeup again too.”

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting entered the hall, where the servants had already prepared the banquet.

Each person took their seats, and Pugu Jing followed him in, sitting to the left on the lower side.

Dishes were served one after another. As Pugu Jing watched these exquisite dishes being brought out, he stroked his beard with surprise and remarked, "The last time I was here was a few years ago. I remember the residence being quite modest. The Grand Protector has endured many hardships in the northern lands, but now the household has improved greatly."

Pugu Xinyun, sitting beside her grandfather, whispered, "Thanks to the Grand Protector's generosity."

She assumed the lavishness was due to the Grand Protector’s high regard for them.

Fu Ting took his seat at the head, wiping his hands with a cloth, and said, "If you must thank someone, thank my wife. She manages the household."

Luo Xiaoyi laughed from across the table. "Indeed, Sister-in-law is the great contributor behind my third brother."

Pugu Xinyun secretly glanced at Fu Ting. His expression was calm, seemingly acknowledging the statement.

Pugu Jing grew even more impressed. "I never expected the Grand Protector’s wife to be so adept at managing the household. Despite the ongoing difficulties, she has turned this place around."

Fu Ting's mouth twitched slightly, nearly laughing. He was afraid he might have misunderstood, knowing that the improvements were not due to Li Qichi's frugality.

Pugu Jing suddenly recalled something and turned to look at his granddaughter, his eyes crinkling into a smile, causing several wrinkles to form on his forehead. "I'm glad it wasn't this silly girl who married into the household back then, or she would have been incapable."

Luo Xiaoyi laughed along, even slapping the table, "Yes, I remember you once said you wanted to betroth little Xinyun to my third brother. How old was she then, just this high?" He gestured with his hand.

Pugu Xinyun lowered her head, blushing, and said nothing.

Seeing her reaction, Luo Xiaoyi teased her further, "Little Xinyun is still shy. You were just a child then, and no one took it seriously. Did you think my third brother would actually marry a child?"

She frowned and raised her head, muttering, "Who's a child?"

Luo Xiaoyi quickly waved his hand, "Alright, alright, you've grown up."

Despite his words, he laughed even harder, glancing at his third brother.

Fu Ting loosened his sleeves with both hands, listening to their laughter as if it were about someone else.

Luo Xiaoyi wasn’t surprised; after all, these events happened years ago. His third brother had likely forgotten them.

Back then, when they were fighting the Turks, they stayed with the Pugu tribe for a while. Impressed by Fu Ting's valor in battle, Pugu Jing wanted to betroth his precious granddaughter to him.

However, Pugu Xinyun was still young at that time, and everyone just treated it as a joke. Fu Ting only had the war in his mind and didn't take it seriously at all.

After the war settled, within two years, the Emperor arranged a marriage for him.

Naturally, no one mentioned this matter again. If Pugu Jing hadn’t brought it up today, no one would remember.

Pugu Jing smiled and said a few words. Seeing his granddaughter getting annoyed, he stroked her head lovingly, and then asked, "By the way, why haven't we seen the madam yet?"

Before he finished speaking, two maids stood at the door, respectful and well-mannered, displaying the etiquette of Central Plains nobility, a rare sight among their Hu tribes.

Then the madam who had greeted them walked in from beyond the doorway, dressed elegantly, nodding lightly as she said, "Sorry to keep you waiting."

Fu Ting looked up to see Qichi walking toward him.

Her dress trailed the ground, cinched high at the waist, and her hair was tied high. As she took her seat beside him, her long lashes fluttered, revealing her clear black and white eyes.

After a couple of glances at her, he said, "Let's begin."

Qichi had actually arrived earlier. At the door, she just happened to overhear the joke and signaled the people around her to stay silent so she could listen to the whole thing.

She didn’t look at Pugu Xinyun, but thought: No wonder she has a special feeling for Fu Ting; it turns out there’s a history.

Pugu Xinyun, however, was looking at her.

At her age, she was sensitive about appearances. Qichi’s flawless complexion, delicate brows and captivating eyes, with graceful figure. She exuded a charm that Pugu Xinyun didn’t have at her age.

She had to admit, this madam was born with a beautiful appearance.

The Grand Protector was a man of great stature, and now he had this delicate woman by his side. She lowered her gaze, no longer looking.

Pugu Jing, however, wasn’t stingy with his praise. He first complimented the madam for her beauty and then her ability to manage the household before picking up the chopsticks.

Qichi smiled and said, "My husband entrusted me with the household, so I dare to manage it freely."

Pugu Jing laughed and said, "It’s a good thing that the Grand Protector and Madam are very affectionate."

She glanced to her side, and Fu Ting’s dark eyes met hers briefly before both looking away.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

As the banquet progressed, the conversation shifted to serious matters.

Qichi held her chopsticks, unable to converse with Fu Ting due to the formal occasion, so she could only listen.

Pugu Jing had come bearing an urgent matter to the residence.

The various Hu tribes in the northern lands were nomadic, and livestock was vital to their livelihood.

This winter's heavy snow is not necessarily a bad thing, though harsh, it promised lush pastures come spring. Seeing this opportunity, the leaders of each tribe wanted to acquire young livestock to expand their pastures. They had selected Pugu Jing to come to the Hanhai Commandery and discuss this with the Grand Protector.

However, with so many Hu tribes needing livestock, it was no small task to find a suitable supplier to buy it at once. Moreover, the northern lands had suffered disasters for years and were just beginning to recover, so prices were also a concern.

Only now did Qichi realize why Fu Ting had not returned home the previous night; he had been preoccupied with this matter.

Luo Xiaoyi joked in the middle, "We've been discussing this all day. Third Brother has his plans. Let's enjoy the meal first; there are still ladies present."

Pugu Jing, understanding, raised his wine cup with a smile and toasted Qichi, "My apologies for the dull conversation. Madam, with the onset of midwinter, I must offer a toast. This is a gesture of respect from the Pugu tribe."

Qichi intended to decline, but hearing his last sentence, she had no choice but to raise her cup.

Fu Ting watched her take a small sip and whispered, "You'll regret it."

Startled, she softly asked, "Why?"

Just as the question left her lips, Pugu Jing said, "Madam, since you have accepted this drink, it is equivalent to accepting our tribe's blessings. You must drink the entire cup for it to get all the blessings. Leaving it unfinished is inauspicious."

She frowned, understanding now why Fu Ting had warned her. She thought, perhaps it would've been better to admit outright that she couldn't drink.

Luo Xiaoyi chuckled from his seat. "Sister-in-law has no choice but to drink. Third Brother can't help you with this one."

Fu Ting placed one hand on the table, watched her, his lips pursed.

Knowing that she couldn't drink, he should’ve reminded Pugu Jing beforehand; not all women are good at drinking like the Hu women.

Qichi had no choice but to comply, "Very well, I shall accept the hospitality of the Pugu tribe."

With that, she lowered her head and drank the entire cup.

Pugu Jing laughed heartily, "Madam is so generous!"

He even considered offering another toast, hand already reaching for the wine jug, when he suddenly caught sight of the Grand Protector’s gaze above him. He smiled and set the cup aside.

The wine in the north was strong. After drinking so much at once, Qichi soon felt the effects.

Yet, she maintained her composure, sitting upright despite her growing fatigue.

When Fu Ting looked over again, he saw her cheeks were slightly red. She was already slightly drunk, her eyes were drooping. He almost laughed.

As she swayed slightly, his hand reached out from under the table to support her waist.

Feeling the sudden pressure on her waist, Qichi regained her senses and glanced at him.

He said softly, "Go back."

She nodded, knowing she couldn't hold on much longer without losing her composure. She called softly, "Xinlu."

Xinlu and Qiushuang came in to assist her in getting up.

Pugu Xinyun watched as Qichi walked away from the table, still dignified. She then looked at Fu Ting and saw that his eyes were fixed on her.

She wondered if she was mistaken, but in the eyes of that wolf-like, eagle-eyed man, there seemed to be a hint of tenderness.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 36

Chapter 36 : The young girl’s feelings toward Fu Ting were unusual.

As the morning sun rose, a convoy of light cavalry escorted the carriage into Hanhai Commandery.

Leading the way was Luo Xiaoyi. As soon as they reached the city, soldiers who had been pre-arranged to await their arrival approached, and one of them reported the situation in the city to Luo Xiaoyi as he rode alongside.

Luo Xiaoyi turned his horse back and approached Fu Ting: "Third Brother, there's a situation."

After hearing the report, Fu Ting pulled his reins and said, "Let's go take a look."

Upon hearing this, Qichi lifted the curtain of the carriage and saw them change direction. After a moment, she realized they seemed to be heading towards her shop.

After about three quarters of an hour, the convoy arrived and stopped at the location.

Qichi lifted the curtain and saw that it was indeed the shop where she had encountered trouble.

The main entrance was still intact, but one of the side rooms had been burned down, revealing charred walls and half-collapsed bricks and tiles. The fire had long been extinguished, leaving only a lingering smoke that had not yet dissipated.

A guard entered the shop, and the shopkeeper, upon hearing the news, came out to greet them.

Fu Ting dismounted and asked, "What happened?"

The shopkeeper lowered his head and replied, "Reporting to the Grand Protector, two days ago, a few Hu people disguised as merchants came to discuss business but they set the shop on fire and injured some people."

Qichi, still partially lifting the curtain, did not expect that the danger she encountered that day had led to such an incident.

Naturally, the shopkeeper did not mention a word about her kidnapping.

Fu Ting glanced at the shop entrance, then walked back to the carriage, resting one hand on her window frame, and asked in a low voice, "Where exactly were you kidnapped that day?"

She thought for a moment, "Nearby."

He turned to the shopkeeper and said, "You are being targeted."

Qichi also guessed it. No wonder the Turkic woman came straight to her when there was nothing going on in the city.

But she couldn't abandon the northern lands either; this calamity seemed unavoidable.

Luo Xiaoyi had already checked the side room and reported back, "Fortunately, the fire was extinguished in time and only this room was burned."

Fu Ting glanced at him.

Understanding the meaning, Luo Xiaoyi conveyed to the shopkeeper, "Your shop has done a great service to the northern lands. The Protectorate will not let you suffer losses in vain. You can report to the authorities if you encounter any problems in the future. Also, report all the losses this time."

Qichi raised her hand, covering her lips, and coughed lightly.

Fu Ting looked at her, "What's wrong?"

She gently rubbed her throat. "Choked by the smoke."

The shopkeeper, having received the hint, replied, "There isn't much loss. The shop's staff only suffered minor injuries and are fine now. We just hope to continue our business peacefully in the future. So, I will not report the losses."

Fu Ting instructed Luo Xiaoyi. "Remember this."

Luo Xiaoyi nodded. "Got it."

Such a cooperative shop was rare and naturally deserved to be remembered and given extra care in the future.

Qichi took another look at the shop, feeling relieved that there was no major incident.

Suddenly, the sound of hoofbeats was heard on the road. Several swift horses galloped up and abruptly reined in.

She thought her carriage was blocking their way and turned to look, only to see the riders dismount and walk towards them.

"Grand Protector, I didn't expect to meet you here." The speaker was an old man with a white beard, a high nose, and deep-set eyes. He dressed in patterned Hu clothes with a jade button on his belt. He saluted Fu Ting.

Beside him was a young girl with the same big eyes and high nose, appearing to be only in her teens.

Having just escaped from people with similar appearances, Qichi couldn't help but take a closer look at them.

They were all Hu people.

She remembered that only Hu people of status could wear jade buttons on their belts.

Fu Ting's gaze swept over them: "Just arrived?"

"Indeed," the old man replied, then turned to greet Luo Xiaoyi.

Luo Xiaoyi chatted with them in a familiar way briefly and laughed, "Third Brother and I have been so busy lately that we forgot it’s already the third month. Is it your Pugu tribe's turn to discuss matters at Hanhai Commandery this year?"

The old man laughed twice, "Yes, it's our turn this year."

Luo Xiaoyi then looked at the young girl behind him and teased, "Oh, Little Xinyun has grown up so much."

The girl smiled shyly, her eyes glancing at Fu Ting before turning towards the carriage.

Qichi, being stared at, was unsure what the young girl was looking at but responded with a smile.

The young girl seemed momentarily stunned, then smiled back and turned her head away.

Fu Ting mounted his horse. "We'll talk later. I need to escort someone back to the residence first."

The old man acknowledged.

Then came a young girl's voice: "Take care, Grand Protector."

Fu Ting didn't respond and spurred his horse away.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Li Yan hurried to the rear courtyard, where he saw his uncle had just left. Without time for pleasantries, he dashed towards the main house.

Upon entering, he found his aunt sitting in a chair and sighed in relief. "Aunt, are you injured?"

Qichi had only just returned, having washed and changed into new clothes. She was seated in a chair with a cup of hot tea in her hand.

Xinlu, standing beside her, spoke up, "Young lord was terribly worried. After we reported to the authorities, he led the maids around the city searching for you until the officials assured us that the Grand Protector had everything under control and there was no need to worry. Only then did we return to the residence."

Qichi noticed the dark circles under Li Yan's eyes, realizing he hadn't slept well in the past two days. She reassured him, "Don't worry, I'm fine. The northern lands aren't as stable as the Central Plains. You and I must get used to it."

Li Yan understood, but his aunt was his only family; how could he not be concerned?

"Thankfully Uncle was there," he said, still shaken.

Qichi reflected on the perilous journey and indeed felt grateful for Fu Ting's presence. Her thoughts drifted to the scene upon their return to the city.

Setting down her tea cup, she turned to Xinlu. "Were you injured that day?"

Xinlu, who had been pulled from the carriage and sustained minor injuries, had recovered well after two days of rest. She shook her head and said, "I deserved to die for not protecting you, Master. How can you worry about me?"

"Don't speak nonsense," Qichi lightly scolded. "They came prepared, there was no way to avoid such encounters."

Xinlu, knowing that she never looked down on her subordinates, felt even more guilty. She turned her head and looked at Qiushuang beside her, both hearts filled with lingering fear. If anything were to happen to their master, it would really be the end of the world.

Qichi called Qiushuang over and gave her a few detailed instructions.

Having brought some personnel from Guang Prefecture, she told Qiushuang to put them to use and to have the shops hire additional guards.

Since her marriage, she had been busy managing the Prince of Guang Residence and hadn't personally handled business affairs. She only directs things from behind the scenes. 

Now, dealing with the business in the north herself, she unexpectedly encountered trouble with the Turks right at the start.

Fu Ting had not returned that night.

Qichi realized this when she woke up in the morning.

He left after sending her back to the residence yesterday and hadn't returned since.

Probably to let her have a good rest, neither Xinlu nor Qiushuang entered to rouse her this morning.

She turned over and lay on the pillow, her fingers twirling strands of her hair as she tried to recall if there was anything else regarding the business she had neglected to arrange before.

Suddenly, she caught a glimpse of a pair of men's legs approaching the bed. Looking up, she saw Fu Ting had returned and walked up to the bed.

"Did you go to see that old man yesterday?" she asked.

"Yeah." His gaze sweeping over her before he turned to retrieve his military attire from the rack to change.

"Just him?"

Fu Ting glanced at her. "He's the leader of the Pugu tribe."

She somewhat wanted to laugh; sometimes men and women spoke on entirely different wavelengths. She asked if he had seen anyone else, and he responded by highlighting the old man's importance.

She had heard of the Pugu tribe, one of the nine Tiele tribes in the northern lands. They were skilled in horseback and archery. They had once been part of the Turks but later pledged allegiance to the imperial family, becoming a tribe under the jurisdiction of the Protectorate General to Pacify the North.

No wonder the old man from yesterday seemed significant. It turned out he was the leader.

Fu Ting began changing into his military attire, fastening his belt around his waist as he said, "Come with me."

Qichi knew they were likely to meet them. She got out of bed barefoot and knelt before the dressing table, pulling open a drawer with her fingers. She turned to look back at Fu Ting. "Help me choose one?"

Fu Ting looked at her body wrapped in thin undergarments. Her arms gently extended and half of her neck exposed, facing him with the languid air of someone just woken.

He didn't glance at the drawer, only at her. "Whatever you want."

Hearing this, she turned her head, but didn’t see his gaze, for Fu Ting had already left the room.

Xinlu and Qiushuang were waiting by the door. Upon seeing the Grand Protector left the room, they hurried inside to help their master wash and dress.

Fu Ting didn't go far either, waiting in the corridor with a wine pouch in his hand.

He took a couple of sips to refresh himself. When he saw Qichi approaching, he corked the wine pouch. His gaze fell upon her hair, neatly tied but without any adornments.

He wondered if it was because he hadn't chosen one for her.

Qichi walked up to him, suddenly hearing a burst of laughter. Following the sound, she saw Luo Xiaoyi in the garden behind them, along with the old man and the young girl she had met yesterday, each holding a bow.

“What are they doing?” she asked.

“Shooting the snow,” Fu Ting pointed to the top of a tree. “They aim to shoot down the remaining snow from the branches. It's a game from the Pugu tribe.”

She glanced at him, “This is the first time I’ve seen you hosting guests at your residence.”

Fu Ting replied, “The Pugu tribe is different. Since their defection from the Turks, they have greatly contributed to the Protectorate. They hold a high status among the Hu people in the eight commanderies and fourteen prefectures.”

His words implied that he valued them highly.

During their conversation, the young girl approached with her bow, saluting with one hand over her chest as she greeted Fu Ting according to the custom of the Hu people. “Grand Protector, would you like to join us?”

“No.” Fu Ting declined directly.

The young girl seemed at a loss for words, standing there with her bow just as Luo Xiaoyi arrived with the old man.

Fu Ting stepped aside, “This is my wife.”

The old man immediately saluted. “I, Pugu Jing, greet Madam.” After saying that, he pulled the young girl beside him, “This is my granddaughter, Pugu Xinyun.”

The young girl followed suit and saluted, looking up at Qichi.

Luo Xiaoyi, noticing Qichi’s unfamiliarity, smiled and said, “Sister-in-law, every third month, various Hu tribes send their leaders to Hanhai Commandery for discussions. This year, it's the Pugu tribe, and this is their leader.”

Qichi nodded. No wonder she heard him say that the third month had arrived yesterday.

As he was talking, Li Yan approached. Luo Xiaoyi spotted him and waved, “Young lord, you’ve come at the right time. We were about to teach you martial arts. Come and join us.”

Li Yan, clueless, was pulled into the garden by Luo Xiaoyi.

The group started a new round of the game, with Luo Xiaoyi first teaching Li Yan the trick to playing it.

To prevent injuries, they used wooden arrows, which were harder to shoot accurately.

Pugu Jing, however, excused himself to speak with Fu Ting privately.

Qichi walked slowly into the garden and stood under a tree to watch.

The third month is already the height of spring in the Central Plains, and by the fourth month, the flowers would be wilted. But in the northern lands, one could only catch a glimpse of spring.

The garden was spacious, planted with hardy trees from the north that had just started to sprout green leaves. Some branches still held a bit of lingering snow, becoming the last source of amusement for the players.

As Fu Ting and Pugu Jing talked in the distance, Pugu Xinyun found a place to sit. She appeared to be resting, though her face was turned toward their direction. She watched from a distance with her bow untouched beside her.

Women seemed to have a natural intuition. From the first glance, Qichi sensed that the young girl’s feelings toward Fu Ting were unusual.

Unlike konghou player Du Xinnu, this feeling was not one of attachment.

She watched silently for a moment before shifting her gaze to Li Yan.

Li Yan finally managed to draw the bow and shoot, hitting a treetop near her. The snow on the branch shook and fell onto her.

Feeling the cold touch her face, she was momentarily lost in thought but then smiled and brushed it off with her hand.

Seeing her smile, Li Yan became more enthusiastic and said to Luo Xiaoyi, “Uncle Xiaoyi, teach me to shoot another arrow.”

Luo Xiaoyi, intrigued, asked, “What sparked your sudden interest?”

Li Yan replied, “My aunt finally smiled after returning from a fright this time. I want to make her happy.”

Luo Xiaoyi clicked his tongue, surprised to find this young fellow more attentive than even a lady. “Alright, fetch the wooden arrows, and I’ll find you a good bow.”

As he hurried to the corridor, he saw his third brother had finished his conversation and was standing by the pillar, looking at the garden.

Luo Xiaoyi followed his gaze and saw his sister-in-law’s smiling face. Approaching, he teased, “Third Brother, what are you looking at? Didn’t I invite you to play, but you didn't want to?”

Fu Ting suddenly extended his hand, “Give me the bow.”

As Qichi helped Li Yan fetch the wooden arrows, a flurry of snow suddenly fell on her head.

She brushed them off with one hand and shielded her face with the other, looking up at the tree. The branches were still shaking, causing more snow to fall, tickling and cooling her face.

She laughed, thinking it was Li Yan again, but saw he was already beside her, brushing off the snow from his own clothes.

“Aunt, it's been many days since it last snowed, but now it feels like it’s snowing again,” he laughed along.

Before Qichi could respond, the branches above shook again, sending more snow cascading down. She took a few steps back, shielding her eyes with her hand as she watched the flurry of snow falling like rain.

She found it incredible, her smile still lingering as she noticed several wooden arrows on the ground beneath the branches. She pulled her collar and looked around. She saw Pugu Xinyun watching them from afar and Luo Xiaoyi standing in the corridor.

Thinking that someone had pranked her, she stifled her smile.

Luo Xiaoyi, seeing his sister-in-law’s laughter, also smiled and turned to see his third brother emerging from behind a tree, tossing the bow to him.

“Third Brother hasn't played these little tricks in years. What a rare good mood today.”

Fu Ting glanced back, smiled, and said nothing.

[maree-go-round]

Under the Heng Gate - Chapter 35

Chapter 35 : The man you married is a brute.

Qichi slowly began to recover as she finished speaking.

Fu Ting stood beside her, his eyes fixed on the direction of the forest. When she followed his gaze, she saw people gradually emerging from within.

Leading the group was Luo Xiaoyi, who cursed, “Damn it! That Turkic woman died too easily!”

Several guards followed him, carrying the body of the Turkic woman. Qichi turned her face away, avoiding the sight.

Luo Xiaoyi quickly approached her, “Sister-in-law, you've suffered quite a fright. Are you okay?”

She touched her neck, which still ached from where the Turkic woman had pressed a hook against it, but she replied, “I’m fine.”

Luo Xiaoyi then looked at Fu Ting, “Third Brother, should we deal with it the usual way?”

Fu Ting nodded, “Search her body and then dispose of it.”

Qichi knew they were referring to the Turkic woman’s body. Upon hearing the word ‘search’, she suddenly remembered something and swiftly turned back.

Luo Xiaoyi clasped his fists and accepted the order, and was about to deal with the body.

Qichi took a step forward and said, “Wait.”

Fu Ting looked at her, “What is it?”

She replied, “She has something of mine. I need to get it back.”

Her fish-shaped jade pendant was still on the Turkic woman.

Fu Ting remembered seeing the Turkic woman snatch her belongings while they were hiding. He pulled up his sleeve and walked towards the body.

Qichi followed him a few steps and grabbed his sleeve, “I’ll do it myself.”

He turned back, “I can retrieve it for you.”

How could a noble lady like her be willing to touch a corpse? He could do it instead; it wasn’t a big deal.

Qichi thought for a moment and said softly, “It’s a personal item. I don’t want anyone else to see it.”

Luo Xiaoyi saw her holding his third brother and couldn't help laughing. He thought to himself, she must be desperate because it’s something a woman wouldn’t want others to see. He then waved his arms to signal the guards to turn away, “Listen to the madam, don’t look around.”

Fu Ting, however, found her behavior odd and looked at her hand holding his, “What kind of personal item is it?”

Even if others couldn’t see it, surely as her husband, he should be able to.

Qichi had no choice but to go along with it and say, “It’s something my brother left me. He said it was for my memories and didn’t want anyone else to see it.”

After saying that, she apologized to her brother in her heart for using his name.

Hearing her mention Prince of Guang, Fu Ting wasn’t surprised. He recalled her tearful eyes and Li Yan’s sorrowful look under the tree, knowing how much she valued her brother.

He withdrew his hand, “As you wish.”

Qichi watched him withdraw his hand and step aside. She approached and squatted down beside the corpse. The fatal arrow had pierced the Turkic woman’s forehead. She didn’t know where Fu Ting got the strength, but the arrow had penetrated halfway in, and the woman died with her eyes wide open.

Qichi only glanced at the bloody wound and the bulging eyes before quickly averting her gaze. Suppressing her discomfort, she reached into the corpse's chest.

Seeing her struggle, Fu Ting knew she was forcing herself. Suddenly, the corpse twitched, and she immediately withdrew her hand.

He almost laughed but held back and said, “She’s dead.”

It’s normal; she just hadn’t seen it before.

Qichi really thought the Turkic woman wasn’t dead just now. Hearing his reassurance, she reached out again.

She didn’t look at the corpse much and couldn’t find the right place at first. After a while, she still hadn’t found it.

Seeing her slow movements, Fu Ting walked over, squatted down, and guided her arm in.

Qichi stopped, and saw him glance at the corpse. “Feel around, I can’t reach it.”

Her hand was in the corpse’s chest, and his hand was on her arm, indeed unable to touch anything.

Relieved, Qichi let him guide her hand. Feeling around the corpse’s cold body, she finally reached the waist

She grasped it tightly in her palm, then hid her hand in her sleeve when she took it out. “Done.”

Fu Ting really didn’t look, letting go of her arm and standing up. He called out, “Xiaoyi.”

Luo Xiaoyi came over with two men to search the Turkic woman’s body.

Qichi stepped back, turned around, and hid the fish-shaped jade pendant in her sleeve properly. When she turned back, they had already searched the Turkic woman from head to toe.

Luo Xiaoyi handed a few items to Fu Ting. One was a rolled-up sheepskin scroll containing information they had gathered.

Fu Ting unrolled it and scanned the contents. It was written in Turkic, detailing the recovery of Hanhai Commandery's livelihood, the defense status of each city gate, and several maps, including some near his military camp.

Their military's investigation didn't penetrate too deeply, so there wasn't much to discover.

Luo Xiaoyi held up a round bead pendant and showed it to Fu Ting, “Third Brother, look at this. This is what we found on the Turkic woman, which helped us ascertain her identity. She’s from the household of the Turkic Right General, probably a favored concubine and such.”

Having fought the Turks for many years, they were fairly familiar with how things worked there. They had learned to deduce identities from such items.

He said irritably, “Maybe they’ll come for revenge later.”

Fu Ting tossed the sheepskin scroll back, “They’ll find any excuse they need.”

Luo Xiaoyi caught it with both hands and laughed, “True.”

It was always those Turkic dogs causing trouble without needing any reason.

Several guards went to dispose of the Turkic woman’s body.

Fu Ting glanced at Qichi.

Ever since she had retrieved her belongings, she had been very well-behaved.

He waved his hand to call a nearby guard and whispered a few instructions.

Shortly after, the guard brought Qichi's carriage forward. They had been hiding nearby, tracking the carriage's wheel marks. Although the carriage's curtain had been torn, it was still functional.

Qichi went into the carriage to wait for them. She carefully adjusted the curtain and finally had the chance to take out the jade pendant from her sleeve. Relieved it wasn’t lost, she tucked it back safely into her sleeve.

After a day and a night, they were already near Hanhai Commandery.

By the time they reached the outskirts of the city, it was nearly dark, and the city gates had long since closed.

Luo Xiaoyi rode his horse around to scout the area, then returned to ask. "Third Brother, there's a guesthouse nearby. Should we continue to go into the city or rest nearby?"

Entering the city would take another hour or so, which was fine for them, but Luo Xiaoyi was asking on behalf of his sister-in-law.

Fu Ting glanced at the carriage. She hadn’t slept or rested since they left, yet she hadn’t uttered a word of complaint.

"We’ll rest nearby."

Qichi had been trying to stay alert in the carriage, suddenly feeling the carriage come to a stop. She lifted the curtain and found herself looking out upon a courtyard surrounded by the dim yellow lanterns illuminating the interior. It’s a guesthouse.

She glanced around, thinking how coincidental this was. Not only did it happen to be the guesthouse under her name, but it was also the very same one where she'd stayed when first arriving at Hanhai Commandery.

Luo Xiaoyi, who was tying his horse, also remembered and turned to her with a smile, "Ah right, this is where I first welcomed Sister-in-law to the protectorate."

Qichi had thought he might have forgotten. She glanced at the man standing before her, "Yes, and someone once pointed a sword at me here before."

Fu Ting, unbuckling his sword, looked over at her. He recalled how he had once lifted her veil with the tip of his sword.

He raised the corner of his lips, said nothing, and stepped forward to the guesthouse’s entrance to watch her.

Qichi’s skirt was torn in several places, and without her veil, her hair was likely disheveled. She didn’t wish for such a sight to be borne by strangers' eyes, so she stepped closer to him, following him inside.

Fu Ting shielded her as they entered, with guards on both sides surrounding her, so no one dared to approach.

The guesthouse could not afford to neglect their honored guest, sending an old woman to attend to Qichi.

Qichi was sent to a room and washed her hands and face before eating something. The food, though unappetizing, was enough to quell her hunger.

After the old woman left, she carefully combed her hair before examining her neck in the mirror. The iron hook from the Turkic woman had left a few blood spots but hadn’t bled through her clothes, for which she was grateful.

The men were standing guard outside.

She sat on the edge of the bed, listening to their conversation for a while. Fatigue soon overcame her, and she fell asleep with her head resting on a pillow.

When Fu Ting pushed the door open, he saw her lying still on the bed, clearly asleep.

He leaned against the door, suddenly thinking about what would have happened if he hadn't met her this time—that perhaps disaster truly would have befallen her.

He wiped his mouth and laughed at himself, wondering where his imagination had run off to.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Qichi suddenly woke up, unsure of how long she had slept. For a moment, she thought she was back in her room at the Grand Protectorate Residence. The simple furnishings lit by dim light brought back memories of the past events.

There was no movement outside; it must have been past midnight already.

She didn't see Fu Ting, so she followed the light to a corner where a screen stood against the wall. The light shone from behind, casting a shadow on the other side.

She got up and walked over, turning the screen aside, only to see a man nearly naked, using a towel to wipe his body.

A large expanse of his back was exposed to her eyes—strong shoulders and a firm back, with several scars winding across them, neatly framed by a strip of cloth wrapped low around his waist, yet it seemed to cover nothing.

The hazy glow of the light enveloped him. His hand paused, then he turned his head.

Qichi quickly turned away and walked briskly to stand by the table, only to find that his heart was beating fast.

There were a couple of noises behind her, then silence once again.

She turned around.

When she turned around, she was facing the man's chest.

Fu Ting was already behind her.

He placed the oil lamp on the table. In a deep voice, he asked, "What are you hiding for?"

Qichi was startled, realizing he was right. Why should she hide, she was his wife, it was not like she had never seen him before.

But somehow, just now, something seemed to stir within her, prompting her to unconsciously dodge away from him.

"Nothing, I just didn’t want to disturb you," she said softly, her eyes swept across his chest.

A bruise marred his chest, likely from their earlier encounter, and she realized he might have been tending to that minor injury just now.

Going down, his lean waist and abdomen were sculpted with ravine-like lines.

She averted her gaze and intended to move away, only to feel his chest draw closer to hers instead.

Fu Ting looked down at her, "Have you had enough rest?"

Qichi looked up at him, momentarily dazed. "Hm?"

His eyes were dark. Without a word, he bent down and lifted her into his arms.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

(18+ scene, skip if you're underage)

Qichi lay on the bed, her carefully arranged hair becoming disheveled once more.

She bit her lip to stifle any sounds, all her thoughts drowned by the sensations from the man riding her.

Fu Ting touched her lower back with one hand, observing her expression but saw no sign of pain.

Sensing his intentions, she thought he wanted to press her down again, and instinctively pushed him away with one hand.

He let out a laugh, "Still got strength, I see."

Qichi bit her lip immediately, knowing he was about to get rough again.

Fu Ting pried her lips open with his hand, preventing her from biting down.

She let out a soft moan she couldn't contain, feeling a surge of embarrassment. She clenched her teeth shut to bear it, staring at his chin. Suddenly, she realized he hadn’t kissed her.

It seemed he hadn’t kissed her in a long time.

With great effort, she extended her arm and hooked her arm around his neck.

Fu Ting gazed into her earnest eyes, needing no words; her eyes spoke volumes.

He pursed his lips tightly, as if he wanted to shatter that look in her eyes. He caressed her neck, lifted her chin, and lowered his head.

A warm sensation spread across Qichi's neck as his lips touched the place where she had endured the iron hook, a blend of kissing and nibbling. It was slightly painful and numb. She couldn't help but arched her neck.

Yet she furrowed her brow slightly, thinking that he still hadn't kissed her.

(18+ scene over)

　　　　　　　　　　　　　※

Fu Ting opened his eyes as usual.

The sky had yet to lighten as he sat up and glanced toward the side of his bed.

Qichi was still asleep, nestled quietly on her side like a soft ball of cotton wool.

He laughed at himself inwardly, realizing he had overestimated his self-control. He hadn’t intended to touch her again so soon, but last night he couldn’t resist.

By the time he was fully dressed, Luo Xiaoyi was already outside rousing the others.

He took a swig of cold water from the table and buckled his sword before heading out.

"Third Brother, are we heading back to the city right away?" Luo Xiaoyi asked as he approached.

"Hm."

Everyone promptly began preparing.

He was about to return to the room when the door opened and Qichi, already dressed, stepped out.

She stood in front of him, looking at him for a moment before murmuring, "Brute."

Hearing this word, he turned to her with a chuckle, "Indeed, the man you married is a brute."

Qichi blushed, recalling the events of the night.

Though still a brute, he seemed to have been gentler than the last time.