Among the Three Kingdoms, when it comes to military might – be it infantry, cavalry, or archers – Beiyuan undoubtedly takes the lead. However, in most conflicts between two nations, the true battle is fought with military provisions, funds, weaponry, and the support of the people. On this level, neither Beiyuan nor Dongling can match Nanjing.

Beiyuan, having expended its entire national strength to conquer Western Xia, urgently needs to recuperate and secure its internal affairs. Their primary goals are to locate the Western Xia treasures hidden by Gu Ruzhang and to completely eliminate the hidden dangers posed by the Imperial City Division. No matter how much Emperor Yuan wishes to support his son, it’s impossible for him to send troops to Dongling at this time.

But Nanjing can.

Over the years, Nanjing has quietly become the hegemon of the four nations. Now, with its people prosperous and its coffers full, they have both the confidence and the strength to deal with a mere Dongling.

Once a nation of etiquette becomes overbearing and tyrannical, it is no less formidable than the barbarians. Dongling, with a territory only three or four tenths that of Nanjing, clearly cannot withstand the oppressive force of Nanjing’s one hundred thousand elite soldiers.

They do not want to fight, and even less can they afford to.

Within Dongling’s cabinet, officials advocating for peace have strongly outweighed the warmongers. In their view, it’s better to proactively seek peace talks now to minimize losses, rather than suffer defeats, lose cities, and beg for mercy later. Otherwise, Dongling could very likely become the next Western Xia.

Peace talks are an urgent matter; a day’s delay could mean thousands more soldiers dying on the battlefield, another city lost, and even steeper demands from Nanjing during negotiations.

So, who should be sent for the peace talks?

Lu Wang quickly decided on the candidate: Jia Huai, Dongling’s former Grand Secretary of the Eastern Pavilion.

Nanjing values culture, and has always treated scholars like Jia Huai with great respect. Sixteen years ago, Rong Tang, Grand Tutor Rong, a member of Nanjing’s envoy, visited the capital and formed a bond with Jia Huai over poetry and songs, and was even invited to the wedding banquet of Jia Huai’s youngest son.

Given this connection, Jia Huai was unquestionably the most suitable candidate.

Regarding that wedding banquet sixteen years ago, Zhao Mian had also personally asked Rong Tang if anything unusual had happened then.

After careful recollection, Rong Tang said, “No.”

Zhao Mian then asked, “Did you, Teacher, see Gu Ruzhang and Wan Huameng at the wedding banquet?”

Rong Tang replied, “I did not see Wan Huameng, but I did have a brief encounter with Gu Ruzhang in his youth.”

“Teacher, what kind of person do you think Gu Ruzhang is?”

“As graceful as an orchid, as noble as jade, gentle, kind, respectful, and frugal.”

Zhao Mian was quite surprised. To receive such high praise from his teacher, Gu Ruzhang must be… a gentle person?

Yet, it was this very Grand Tutor Gu, described as “graceful as an orchid, noble as jade, gentle, kind, respectful, and frugal,” who secured at least five more years of existence for Western Xia, and even outmaneuvered the arrogant young prince of Beiyuan at the time of Western Xia’s collapse.

It seems gentleness was merely Gu Ruzhang’s facade. The actions he took, and the secret seeds he left for Western Xia, are sufficient proof of his inner resilience.

“Like jade, like a gem”—Gu Ruzhang.

Zhao Mian felt little for Western Xia, but he was quite intrigued by Grand Tutor Gu. If the opportunity arose, he’d also wish to make his acquaintance.

Two days later, Jia Huai was entrusted with the urgent mission. Carrying several boxes of generous gifts, he personally visited Nanjing to discern their stance.

Dongling’s move was within Nanjing’s expectations. Nanjing’s military pressure on Dongling initially served as a deterrent and warning. If Dongling still failed to understand the gravity of the situation, the one hundred thousand elite troops would cross the southeastern border and point their swords directly at the capital.

This was the final trump card the Prime Minister left for Zhao Mian—he had given him all of Nanjing.

Zhao Mian recalled Emperor Yuan’s contingency plan for Wei Zhengfeng. A mere hostage, who was either a nephew or an illegitimate son. Would Lu Wang, a calamitous beauty, even care about such a person?

It’s laughable.

Without comparison, there’s no realization of the disparity; it’s immediately obvious who is the cherished gem in their parents’ hands.

The seventy-year-old Jia Huai paid his visit. Although Rong Tang claimed illness and did not appear, Zhao Mian still showed some respect, personally receiving him and treating him courteously.

The two first discussed a few new essays written by Jia Huai. Zhao Mian did not hesitate to give them extremely high praise, stating that Nanjing’s scholars could all recite them by heart and were filled with admiration, and that he eagerly awaited Elder Jia’s new works.

Jia Huai, however, looked ashamed: “It’s shameful to say, but Dongling is currently facing internal and external troubles. My state of mind is not what it used to be, and I’m afraid I no longer have the strength to wield a brush.”

Zhao Mian then knew that the formalities were over, and it was time to get down to business.

As expected, Jia Huai smoothly brought up Dongling’s intention to hold peace talks. His words were sincere, quoting classics, and finally invoking the name of “thinking for the common people of the world”

“I ask Lord Xiao to consider the innocent people of Dongling, cease military action, and allow our two nations to restore friendly relations.”

Zhao Mian put on a troubled expression: “This… allow me to consider it carefully.”

Zhao Mian’s “consideration” lasted for an hour. While Jia Huai and the others were waiting anxiously outside, he returned to his study, pretending to discuss with his advisors, but in reality, he had already made up his mind. He took the time to write a letter home to his Imperial Father and the Prime Minister, before leisurely returning to the front hall.

Upon seeing him, Jia Huai, who had been sitting and waiting, immediately stood up and asked, “Lord Xiao, have you made a decision?”

“Not quite a decision,” Zhao Mian said mildly. “It’s just that after our simple discussion, we hope Dongling can show sincerity and agree to Nanjing’s three conditions.”

Jia Huai quickly said, “Please speak, Lord Xiao.”

“First, I want Wan Huameng.”

This condition was reasonable. The war between the two nations began because of Wan Huameng, and he, as the culprit, was naturally responsible.

Jia Huai cautiously asked, “Does Lord Xiao wish to…?”

Zhao Mian grasped Jia Huai’s implication: “It won’t go so far as to take his life.”

Aside from Wan Huameng’s unparalleled medical and Gu refining skills, it would be a pity to kill him directly. He was also a key clue to finding the Western Xia treasures, and keeping him alive would surely be useful.

Jia Huai was somewhat disappointed. In his opinion, Wan Huameng had harmed Dongling to this extent and deserved death; sparing his life would only lead to endless trouble. However, he had no standing to criticize Nanjing’s decision, so he asked, “What about the second?”

“Second, Dongling needs to compensate Nanjing for all military provisions and grain costs incurred in this expedition, and at the same time, reduce tariffs for Nanjing merchants trading between the two nations. The specific amount will be decided after Nanjing’s Ministry of Revenue deliberates.”

This was a common tactic used by victorious nations against defeated ones throughout history. Only demanding reparations and not territorial cession was already considered lenient. Yet, Jia Huai still looked troubled: “This… I dare not say much. I will report Lord Xiao’s exact words to the Empress Dowager.”

Zhao Mian nodded: “That is natural.”

Jia Huai looked at the young man before him, who was no older than his own grandson, yet could handle himself with ease and composure in his presence. How could he not feel a sense of melancholy and emotion?

Jia Huai gazed at the young man before him, who was no older than his own grandson, yet this youth could effortlessly and calmly hold his own in Jia Huai’s presence. How could one not sigh with rueful admiration at such a sight?

The weak have no voice.

Unable to vent his full heart of sorrow, Jia Huai could only sigh and ask, “May I ask, Lord Xiao, what is the last condition?”

Zhao Mian said, “Third, it concerns the male and female Gu. Has Dongling informed Beiyuan of the antidote formula for the Gu?”

Jia Huai answered carefully, “As far as I know, they have not yet informed them.”

“Good.” Zhao Mian nodded in satisfaction. “Then, you need not inform them in the future either. Just inform Nanjing directly.”

Jia Huai was startled, quickly understanding—what a brilliant move, killing two birds with one stone.

On one hand, it could further stir up disputes between Dongling and Beiyuan. On the other hand, it could hold Beiyuan’s weakness, making Beiyuan constrained by Nanjing, forcing them into the entanglement between the southeastern nations, and preventing them from standing by and reaping the benefits.

In such cold weather, Jia Huai was drenched in sweat: “But Lord Xiao, it’s the young prince of Beiyuan who is poisoned. If Dongling refuses to hand over the antidote formula, how will Beiyuan let us off?”

Zhao Mian smiled slightly: “That is your country’s business with Beiyuan. What does it have to do with Nanjing?”

Jia Huai was speechless.

Marquis Anyuan, who had been listening in the side hall, couldn’t help but exclaim, “Our Crown Prince is truly becoming more and more like Prime Minister Xiao.”

Rong Tang, however, disagreed: “But deep down, he is still most like His Majesty.” He thought for a moment, then added, “After Beiyuan learns of this, given the young prince’s personality, he might directly come to demand an explanation. Please be extra careful, Old Marquis, and don’t let him disturb His Highness.”

Marquis Anyuan stroked his beard and smiled: “Don’t worry, Grand Tutor Rong. With me and that boy from the Shen family here, not even a fly from Beiyuan will get in.”

The day before the winter solstice, a heavy snow indeed fell in the capital.

By dawn, the skies cleared, leaving the courtyards blanketed in white—snow like plum blossoms, blossoms like snow. Zhou Huairang set up a chessboard in the courtyard, playing chess with His Highness in the snow.

A faint scent of medicine wafted from not far away; it was Bai Yu preparing the antidote for the male and female Gu for Zhao Mian. She had already obtained the antidote formula and medicinal ingredients from Dongling, and her primary task for the next three months was to refine the antidote.

Zhou Huairang noticed His Highness was somewhat distracted and asked, “‘On festive occasions, one thinks more of one’s loved ones.’ Is Your Highness homesick?”

Zhao Mian hummed. After the winter solstice, it would be New Year’s Eve. He hadn’t gone home for the Mid-Autumn Festival, and he wondered if he would be able to spend this New Year’s Eve with his family.

He lowered his gaze to his wrist. At the very least, he didn’t want to return to Nanjing with Dongling’s poison still in him.

Marquis Anyuan, clad in armor and with a sword, was drinking a small cup of wine to warm himself when Shen Buqi entered and said, “Your Highness, Old Marquis, Prince Wei of Beiyuan and Minister Yi are here.”

Marquis An Yuan immediately drew his sword and shouted, “Where is this Young Prince of the neighboring country?!”

Shen Buqi said, “He said he came to request an audience.”

This was unexpected for Marquis Anyuan. So “demanding an explanation” could also be a request for an audience? He asked Zhao Mian, “Your Highness, do you wish to see him?”

Zhao Mian didn’t hesitate: “Summon Wei Zhenfeng. Minister Yi is to remain in the front hall for tea.”

Even if he didn’t see Wei Zhenfeng now, Wei Zhenfeng had many ways to find him. He didn’t distrust Marquis Anyuan and Shen Buqi; he just knew Wei Zhenfeng too well.

Thus, Wei Zhenfeng was “summoned” to the courtyard.

On his own territory, Zhao Mian was not disguised. He wore his own face, a magnificent vermilion robe, with a snow-white fox fur draped over him. He held a hand warmer in one hand and a black chess piece in the other, exuding an air of elegance and nobility. Shen Buqi and Marquis Anyuan stood to his left and right, casting watchful glances at Wei Zhenfeng.

Wei Zhenfeng had arrived with displeasure, and upon smelling the scent of medicine. His eyes darkened further; his face filled with irritation.

Zhou Huairang spoke for His Highness: “Young Prince, is there something important you wish to discuss on this snowy day?”

Wei Zhenfeng didn’t mince words and went straight to the point: “Zhao Mian, you truly play a good game.”

Zhou Huairang angrily said, “How dare you call the Crown Prince by his given name!”

Wei Zhenfeng sneered, “Your Crown Prince calls me by my given name just as frequently.”

Zhou Huairang said, “How can you be compared to His Highness?”

“Indeed, I cannot,” Wei Zhenfeng’s voice was slightly cold. “I’m not as ruthless as he is.”

Faced with Wei Zhenfeng’s sarcasm, Zhao Mian remained remarkably calm. He had seen Wei Zhenfeng truly angry before, and the current Wei Zhenfeng was far from that point. He didn’t have that suffocating sense of pressure, at most, just a bit of irritation from being suppressed.

Such a Wei Zhenfeng was not frightening.

Zhao Mian said to Zhou Huairang and the others, “You may withdraw for now.”

“But…”

“Don’t worry,” Zhao Mian looked at Wei Zhenfeng. “He wouldn’t dare do anything to me.”

After everyone had withdrawn, Wei Zhenfeng had no more reservations. He sat opposite Zhao Mian and spoke plainly: “Zhao Mian, do you want me to beg you? Beg you to bestow the antidote upon me?”

Zhao Mian retorted, “What do you think?”

Wei Zhenfeng chuckled, “If you want me to beg you, you can just tell me directly, Your Highness. I’ve knelt before you more than once or twice, what’s one more time?”

Zhao Mian feigned ignorance: “If you want the antidote, you can pressure Dongling and see if they give it to you.”

“Heh, cut the act.” Wei Zhenfeng casually picked up a white piece, thought for a moment, and continued Zhou Huairang’s game, “Nanjing’s one hundred thousand elite troops are still pressing down on the southeastern border. If you don’t relent, they wouldn’t dare even fart.”

Zhao Mian looked at the chessboard, surprised to find that Wei Zhenfeng had made an excellent move, seeing through the trap he had set earlier with a single glance.

He hadn’t expected that the young prince, who had spent years among military officials, would have such decent chess skills.

“What are your terms? Just say them directly,” Wei Zhenfeng said straightforwardly. “What do you want me to do? Kneel to you, acknowledge you as my elder brother, or perform a fish-killing demonstration for you?”

Zhao Mian frowned: “Who wants to watch you kill fish?”

He had just thought Wei Zhenfeng was good at refined matters, but then the “elder brother” and “killing fish” showed his true colors again.

Wei Zhenfeng smiled: “Don’t you like eating fish very much?”

“Can’t you see? You’re suffering the consequences of your own actions.” Zhao Mian said indifferently.

Wei Zhenfeng raised an eyebrow: “I would like to hear more.”

Zhao Mian unhurriedly dropped the chess pieces into the box, slowly parted his lips, and spoke of another matter: “On the fifteenth, we did it twice.”

Wei Zhenfeng was startled, not understanding why Zhao Mian suddenly brought this up: “So what?”

“One time is enough to remove the Gu,” Zhao Mian suddenly looked up, aggressively questioning, “What was going on with you sleeping with me a second time?”

Wei Zhenfeng was so flustered he stammered: “You… I… you didn’t seem to push me away at the time either?”

Zhao Mian was expressionless: “I didn’t push because I had no strength to push, but when you entered, I said ‘no,’ and you ignored me.”

Wei Zhenfeng sincerely apologized: “Sorry, I didn’t hear.”

Zhao Mian cut to the chase: “If you had heard, would you have stopped?”

Wei Zhenfeng was speechless. After a long while, he finally said, “I’m a man too.”

Even if he could remain unaffected by desire and maintain his composure, it was Zhao Mian in his arms at that moment.

Please, he was already inside. Wouldn’t saying no then be a bit late?

“I don’t care what you are. In any case, preparing the antidote only takes three months. Just sleep with me three more times. After three months, whether Your Highness lives or dies is your own problem.”

Zhao Mian believed he had come to terms with it. Sleeping once was sleeping, sleeping twice was sleeping, and sleeping five times was still sleeping. Instead of continuing to dwell on it, it was better to accept it generously. It was so cold; as long as Wei Zhenfeng wasn’t a dark-skinned person like Li Er, he’d just consider him a temporary bed warmer.

He enjoyed Wei Zhenfeng’s conflicted expression, feeling much better: “That’s all there is to say. Your Highness, take care of yourself—no need to see you out.”

Wei Zhenfeng: “.”

In the front hall, Yi Qian paced back and forth anxiously, finally waiting for the young prince to come out. He quickly went up to him: “Young Prince, how are things?”

Wei Zhenfeng shook his head, looking up at the sky and sighing, “Lust is a knife to the head; the ancients truly did not deceive me.”

Yi Qian was almost dying of anxiety: “Oh, please stop with the suspense, what did Nanjing say?”

Yi Qian was an old minister who had watched Wei Zhenfeng grow up, and Wei Zhenfeng was a free-spirited person, so their private conversations were always casual.

Wei Zhenfeng then told Yi Qian about how Zhao Mian used the male and female Gu antidote to control him, and even Beiyuan. Of course, he omitted details like “twice,” only saying that he lost control and took some disrespectful actions towards Nanjing’s Crown Prince, which led to the other party’s clear-headed and rational retaliation.

After listening, Yi Qian sighed deeply, then sighed again, and finally couldn’t help but say, “Young Prince, you… why did you have to provoke him, really?”

Wei Zhenfeng had a pained expression, and after much contemplation, said, “In short, from now on, this prince will certainly be pure-hearted and desireless, stay far from beauty, prioritize national affairs above all else, and if I look at him one more time— I lose. Please, Minister Yi, supervise me closely.”