Lost You Forever Season 2 – Yang Zi, Zhang Wanyi, Deng Wei, Tan Jianci

In the Purple Gold Palace, in the Great Bright Hall, Chang Xuan and Xiao Yao were drinking together. Xiao Yao congratulated Chang Xuan on becoming the King of Xi Yan. She also took this opportunity to return the Ruo Mu flower that Chang Xuan had given her last night.

Xiao Yao knew very well that this flower was something Chang Xuan’s fourth aunt had left him before she passed away, meant to be given to the girl he loved in the future. Xiao Yao expressed that she didn't dare to accept it. Little did she know, Chang Xuan had indeed given the flower to the girl he loved, but Xiao Yao didn't understand. She had always regarded Chang Xuan as her elder brother without any other thoughts.

Chang Xuan ultimately did not break this delicate balance, expressing his gratitude to Xiao Yao. However, Xiao Yao felt that they were like one life, and there was no need to express gratitude in such a distant manner. Chenrong Xinyue admired Chang Xuan and was the undisputed queen at that time. However, her feelings seemed to be unreciprocated by Chang Xuan. She sent a letter to Chang Xuan, but even after seven days, there was no reply.

Xinyue felt anxious and didn't understand why Chang Xuan wouldn't respond. At this time, she overheard the maids whispering, saying that many people were eyeing the queen's position, and it was uncertain who would ultimately hold that position. The maid reprimanded the others for gossiping, worried about her mistress. Xinyue listened to the maid's words and fell into deep thought. After ascending the throne, Chang Xuan remained in the Central Plains.

Xi Yan City was the capital, so ministers suggested relocating the capital to the Central Plains. However, opinions varied, with some believing that the capital should not be moved hastily. Both sides held firm in their arguments. Chang Xuan felt that relocating the capital was a significant matter that required careful consideration. After court, Shun Shuhui prepared fine wine and delicacies in the palace and invited Chang Xuan for a meal.

However, his subordinates informed him that Xinyue was also in Shuhui's palace, and Chang Xuan didn't want to meet her. He used the excuse of having political matters to discuss with his grandfather to decline the invitation. Xinyue was very disappointed when she heard the news. Chang Xuan arrived at his grandfather’s palace and saw Hao Lingyi and Xiao Yao playing chess with their grandfather, all enjoying themselves.

A smile of contentment and happiness appeared on his face; this was the meaning of protecting the world for him. Chang Xuan told his grandfather that he intended to marry a girl from the Shang Yang family. His words left Hao Lingyi feeling disappointed, but Xiao Yao supported her brother's decision. Later, Hao Lingyi drank to drown her sorrows and, in her drunken state, confided in her grandfather.

She expressed her love for Chang Xuan and her desire to marry him, hoping her grandfather would help her. Her grandfather agreed, moved by the child before him. Hao Lingyi was overjoyed, thinking that with her grandfather's help, she might achieve her wish. Her grandfather believed that Xiao Yao should be like Hao Lingyi, more willful and carefree.

However, Xiao Yao felt that she and Chang Xuan had missions to shoulder and had no right to be willful and indulgent, so there was no need to deceive themselves. The Five Kings and others opposed relocating the capital, hoping the old King of Xi Yan would help them. However, the old King of Xi Yan refused, citing his poor health. To appease those who opposed the move, Chang Xuan married a girl from the Shang Yang family.

Xinyue was heartbroken and angry when she heard the news and sought to target Xiao Yao. She invited Xiao Yao and Hao Lingyi to her home, and the three went out to play together. Xiao Yao accidentally spilled some Gansong incense on the ground. Tushan Jing saw this and came to help, offering to have his assistant prepare another portion, but Xiao Yao politely declined.

After meeting Tushan Jing, Xiao Yao felt very unhappy and went alone to the gambling hall to play. Tushan Jing saw Xiao Yao but didn't dare to approach her, so he watched from afar. At this time, Xiang Liu also arrived and suggested a bet with Xiao Yao. The loser would have to answer a question from the winner. Hao Lingyi eagerly agreed. In the first round, Xiao Yao lost, and Xiang Liu asked her who she liked.

Xiao Yao answered evasively. In the second round, the situation reversed, and Xiao Yao won. She asked Xiang Liu if he would choose the same path again if given another chance. Xiang Liu replied that he would because he met someone very important on this path. Xiao Yao thought he was referring to his adoptive father and found it boring, so she left. Xiang Liu followed her, sarcastically congratulating her on her engagement.

Xiao Yao felt very sad and told Xiang Liu that once she got married, she could no longer make pills for him and wanted to dissolve the bond between them. Xiang Liu felt very bitter but still agreed to Xiao Yao's request.

Chang Xuan personally cooked Xi Yan cuisine for the ministers and sincerely explained his reasons for deciding to relocate the capital. The ministers were moved by Chang Xuan's sincerity and changed their minds, starting to support him. When the Five Kings heard the news, they decided to make a desperate move and planned to ally with the old Xi Yan clan, who opposed the relocation, to return to Xi Yan and establish themselves as kings.

Xiang Liu agreed to Xiao Yao's request to remove the gu worm, but he hoped they could have a meal together. Xiao Yao agreed. As soon as they sat down, they encountered Tushan Jing and Li Rongchang. After sitting down, Li Rongchang earnestly tried to persuade Hao Lingyi to let go of her obsession with Fangfeng Yi Ying and consider his brother, Tushan Jing, instead.

However, Hao Lingyi was very displeased with Li Rongchang's derogatory remarks about Xiang Liu and interrupted him, stating that she had already betrothed to Chishui Fenglong. Hearing this, Li Rongchang was stunned, realizing she was the esteemed Hao Ling Princess. He was momentarily at a loss for words and fell silent. At this moment, an old man nearby suddenly began singing a melodious folk song, filled with nostalgia and admiration for Chi Chen.

Li Rongchang hurriedly tried to stop him, fearing that the song might bring up unpleasant memories. However, Hao Lingyi said that once she left this place, she would forget everything. She didn't want to be entangled in past grievances and only wanted to cherish the people around her. Then, she and Xiang Liu left together.

Xiang Liu told her that the old man was actually Li Rongchang's uncle, a brave general under Chi Chen's command who lost his arm in the fierce battle of Ji Zhou. After hearing this, Hao Lingyi felt a complex mix of emotions. She understood the weight of history and the brutality of war and empathized with the old man's suffering. She advised Xiang Liu to be careful and not put himself in danger.

Xiang Liu gently responded, telling her to take care of herself and not always worry about others. They exchanged a smile and walked out of the room together, ready to face the challenges and uncertainties ahead. Hao Lingyi gazed at Xiang Liu with a hint of uncertainty in her voice, asking if he thought she shouldn't marry Chishui Fenglong. Xiang Liu gently shook his head, indicating he had no such intention.

Hao Lingyi's eyes sparkled as she tentatively asked, if not Chishui Fenglong, then who should she marry? Xiang Liu remained silent for a moment, not giving a direct answer. Hao Lingyi continued, saying that whoever it was, he couldn't have a family or be an enemy of her brother. At this moment, Hao Lingyi's voice called from afar. Xiang Liu smiled bitterly and walked away with a sense of loss.

In the court, the ministers were all convinced by Xi Yan's Chang Xuan, and none attended the Five Kings' banquet. The relocation of the capital proceeded smoothly. The Five Kings, reluctantly complying, decided to retire and return to Xi Yan City. Chenrong Xinyue came to visit Chang Xuan. Remembering that he might need her family's support in the future, Chang Xuan did not ignore her. The old King of Xi Yan hoped Chang Xuan could persuade Xiang Liu to surrender.

Chang Xuan sent a friend of Xiang Liu to convince him, but Xiang Liu firmly refused. Xiang Liu then visited the one-armed old man, who asked if Xiao Yao was the one who planted the gu worm in him. Xiang Liu admitted it openly. The old man advised them to go to the Bai Li tribe to find the Wu King to remove the gu. Xiang Liu was puzzled, knowing the Bai Li people were eccentric and wouldn't help outsiders.

The old man revealed that as long as the Wu King saw Xiao Yao, he would agree. Xiang Liu sensed something unusual and asked about the relationship between Xiao Yao and Chi Chen. The old man was silent for a moment and only said that their positions were different, and there was no hope for them.

He warned Xiang Liu not to end up like the great general, who sincerely gave his heart but ultimately faced a life-and-death battle on the battlefield. Xiang Liu, shocked and disappointed, shook his head bitterly and assured the old man that he knew Xiao Yao's heart belonged to someone else. He picked up a wine bottle and drank to drown his sorrows. Recently, Xiao Yao had been staying indoors, losing interest in everything.

Chang Xuan noticed her change and came to check on her. Xiao Yao confessed that she kept thinking about the days in Qingshui Town and Chaoyun Palace, reminiscing about those beautiful times. She didn't want to dwell on the past but couldn't help missing Shiqi. She hated her current weakness and inability. Chang Xuan comforted her with heartache, hoping someone could heal the wounds Tushan Jing had caused her, making her feel valued, cherished, and loved.

This was something she must not give up. Xiao Yao smiled bitterly, saying she had been unlucky since childhood and dared not hope for such things. Chang Xuan gently reassured her, but inside, he was full of regret. If he had known she would cry for Tushan Jing, he would never have allowed him near Xiao Yao. Now, seeing Xiao Yao in pain, he hated Tushan Jing and himself.

Tushan Jing had something on his mind and had not rested even though it was late. The maid, Jing Ye, came to remind him to rest. Tushan Jing noticed that Jing Ye had been crying and asked her why. He then remembered that today was the death anniversary of his sister-in-law, Lan Mei. Tushan Jing recalled that Jing Ye and Lan Mei had entered the household together, along with Lu Cong and Lan Xiang.

The four of them had shared meals and grown up together, as close as sisters. Later, Lan Mei and Lu Cong served the eldest master, while Jing Ye and Lan Xiang served Tushan Jing. Now, Lan Mei and Lu Cong were dead, and Lan Xiang had left, leaving only Jing Ye. Tushan Jing was surprised to learn that Lu Cong had also died.

Jing Ye told him that Lu Cong had blamed herself for Lan Mei's death, became depressed, and passed away shortly after returning to her hometown. Tushan Jing found Lan Mei's death to be unexpected. As he talked with Jing Ye, he recalled that during his mother's funeral, Lan Mei had secretly told him she had something to discuss. However, before they could meet, Lan Mei passed away.

Reflecting on the significant events of that time, aside from his mother's death, another major event was that he had a child. Tushan Jing began to doubt the child's identity and decided to return to Qingqiu the next day. Tushan Jing obtained his son Tushan Zhen's blood and conducted a blood test, but it only confirmed that they were close relatives. It couldn't verify whether they were father and son, brothers, or uncle and nephew.

When it came time to choose a queen for Chang Xuan, he had always wanted Xiao Yao to be his queen, but he didn't want to force her. In discussing this matter with Xiao Yao and his grandfather, his grandfather believed that Chenrong Xinyue was the best choice for queen. He reasoned that only by marrying into the Chenrong clan could Xi Yan grow stronger.

His grandfather considered the bigger picture, as Xi Yan, now ruling, needed the support of the central plains clans. Only through intermarriage could Xi Yan's rule be stabilized, making Chenrong Xinyue the undisputed best choice for queen. However, Xiao Yao disagreed. For a moment, Chang Xuan felt happy, thinking Xiao Yao shared his feelings, but she was actually speaking up for A Nian. Xiao Yao knew A Nian had always liked Chang Xuan. Seeing this, Chang Xuan didn't think further.

Since he had become emperor, he had to bear the responsibilities that came with it. Feeling very sad, he stated that it didn't matter to him who they chose as queen. A Nian was very upset upon hearing that Chenrong Xinyue would become queen. However, she had a secret with her grandfather, so she believed he would handle it for her.

Knowing she could no longer stay in the Zijin Palace, she decided to return to Wushen Mountain and hoped Xiao Yao would go with her. Xiao Yao also wanted to return and spend time with her father. After bidding farewell to the old King of Xi Yan, she prepared to leave. Chang Xuan chased after her and asked when she would return. Xiao Yao didn't give a clear answer.

Chang Xuan said that thirteen months later, he would send someone to fetch her or even go himself. Xiao Yao replied that he should focus on his duties and that she knew the way, so he didn't need to send anyone for her. Then she turned and left, leaving Chang Xuan heartbroken as he watched her departure. Chenrong Xinyue became queen as she wished.

She wanted to be a model for the world and also sought love, but she had hoped for too much. On their wedding night, Chang Xuan preferred to walk in the Phoenix Forest rather than go to Chenrong Xinyue's bedchamber. Knowing this was intentional, Chenrong Xinyue was furious and wanted to throw away Chang Xuan's gifts. Fortunately, a maid advised her against it, warning that other concubines would laugh at her.

If they believed the queen and Chang Xuan were at odds, Chenrong Xinyue's future in the palace would become even more difficult. Chenrong Xinyue couldn't let the other women in the harem laugh at her.

Xiao Yao and A Nian opened a pharmacy in Yingzhou. Xiang Liu came to get medicine, but in reality, he wanted to see Xiao Yao. Xiao Yao said she was in a bad mood and hadn't made the pills properly. Hearing this, Xiang Liu became very worried but didn't want to show his feelings, emphasizing that he just didn't want to delay his treatment.

Xiao Yao started playing the zither, and Xiang Liu suggested she could stop if she didn't feel like it. Then, he demonstrated his zither skills in front of Xiao Yao. Since Xiao Yao left, Chang Xuan had been writing letters to her, but Xiao Yao felt they should keep their distance and avoid trouble, so she didn't reply. Unexpectedly, Chang Xuan came to see Xiao Yao in person the next day.

Startled, Xiao Yao accidentally cut her hand with a knife. Chang Xuan was very anxious and hurried to treat her wound. Xiao Yao felt that Chang Xuan's actions were too reckless. Since ancient times, kings did not visit other kings, and as a monarch, how could Chang Xuan privately travel to another country? However, Chang Xuan missed Xiao Yao and wanted her to return to Xi Yan as soon as possible, which is why he came personally.

Chang Xuan declared that he would be wherever Xiao Yao was. If she wanted to stay in the common world, he would give up being the King of Xi Yan. In the end, Xiao Yao had to compromise and decided to go back with Chang Xuan, but she made it clear that she was not doing it willingly. After returning to Xi Yan, Chang Xuan arranged for Xiao Yao to stay at Xiaoyue Peak because her grandfather lived there.

He didn't like Zijin Palace and guessed that Xiao Yao would want to be close to her grandfather, so he arranged for her to stay there. Xiao Yao remained gloomy, and Chang Xuan patiently tried to cheer her up. He had no other choice now but to keep Xiao Yao by his side.

Sitting together on a swing, Chang Xuan told Xiao Yao not to think about leaving him anymore because no matter where she went, he would find her and bring her back. When her grandfather saw that Xiao Yao had returned, he was very happy, but he got angry when he saw that Chang Xuan was still there.

He told Chang Xuan to hurry back to Zijin Palace, saying that although Xiao Xiao was covering for him, none of the women in his harem were fools. The next day, Chenrong Xinyue came with people to visit her grandfather and took the opportunity to see Xiao Yao. Xiao Yao greeted the queen politely, and Chenrong Xinyue still hoped they could get along as before. However, Xiao Yao felt that in front of outsiders, they should observe basic etiquette.

Since her grandfather was not at Xiaoyue Peak, Chenrong Xinyue prepared to leave after meeting Xiao Yao. Seeing a phoenix tree there reminded her of Chang Xuan going to the Phoenix Forest on their wedding night. Xiao Yao explained that the phoenix tree and the swing were part of Chang Xuan's childhood memories. Chenrong Xinyue felt a pang of sadness and coldly said that His Majesty was nostalgic before leaving.

Tushan Jing wanted to recover his memories, especially of the night he had skin-to-skin contact with Fangfeng Yiying. He needed to know what happened that night since avoiding it wouldn't solve anything. However, revisiting the past could severely harm his heart and life. His uncle Li Rong disagreed with Tushan Jing recovering his memory, saying that what was gone was gone and one shouldn't hold onto the past.

But Tushan Jing was very determined and willing to risk his life to try. In the end, his uncle Li Rong agreed. Uncle Li Rong took out the Lamp of Time, using Tushan Jing's hair as the wick, his blood as the oil, and his life as the flame. Tushan Jing didn't hesitate because he was willing to give up his life to find out the truth for Xiao Yao.

His heart was so small it could only hold Xiao Yao. After the ritual, Tushan Jing was left with only half his life and needed to recuperate. However, he only remembered Fangfeng Yiying disguising herself as Xiao Yao to seduce him, but he couldn't recall what happened afterward. Xiao Yao agreed to Chishui Fenglong's proposal and decided to marry him soon, which made Chang Xuan very sad. After Fenglong left, Chang Xuan kept urging Xiao Yao to think carefully. He wanted to confess his feelings to her, but his grandfather stopped him, telling him to let go and not hurt more people because of his emotions.

Xiao Yao sent a message via carrier pigeon to her father, informing him of her upcoming marriage to Chishui Fenglong. Her father arranged for a disciple to escort her back to Wushen Mountain to wait for the wedding. Knowing she was about to get married, Xiao Yao prepared more pills for Xiang Liu. While walking on the street, Xiao Yao encountered Tushan Jing and shared her marriage news with him.

Since Tushan Jing was a friend of Fenglong, she hoped he would attend the wedding. After Xiao Yao left, Tushan Jing coughed up blood. Before returning to Wushen Mountain to wait for her wedding, Xiao Yao prepared a sumptuous meal to have dinner with Chang Xuan. The two of them drank together and got drunk.

Taking advantage of the alcohol, Chang Xuan finally confessed his feelings, expressing that he liked Xiao Yao and hoped she would marry him and become the Queen of Xi Yan. The old King of Xi Yan, seeing them both drunk, quickly ordered his men to take Chang Xuan away and instructed the guards to stay by Chang Xuan's side all night. Anyone who heard Chang Xuan speak was to be killed.

He then arranged for the news that Chi Chen would marry Princess Haoling to be spread the next day. After Xiao Yao returned to Wushen Mountain, the King of Haoling decided to give her seven days to think about her decision. He told her that if she didn't want to get married, she could say so at any time, and as her father, he would support her. However, Xiao Yao felt it was unnecessary.

The King of Haoling insisted, knowing the importance of marriage, and didn't want his daughter to regret it one day. If Xiao Yao was truly determined, waiting seven days wouldn't be an issue. Xiao Yao, seeing her father's determination, had no choice but to comply. Chang Xuan was furious when he saw the decree of Xiao Yao's marriage.

Taizun told Chang Xuan that Xiao Yao was the only remaining bloodline left by A Heng and that he only wished for Xiao Yao to live a peaceful and stable life. Chang Xuan argued that Xiao Yao didn't even like Fenglong and that she didn't know what she truly wanted. Taizun countered by asking what Chang Xuan thought Xiao Yao wanted.

Did she want to always follow Chang Xuan, constantly entangled in court and harem politics, always cautious and balancing choices? Though both Xiao Yao and Chang Xuan grew up on Chaoyun Peak, Xiao Yao had changed since she wandered in the mortal world. She now preferred a carefree life. Chang Xuan argued that he could give Xiao Yao what she wanted, but he needed time. However, when Taizun asked how long, Chang Xuan couldn't answer.

Taizun told Chang Xuan that as long as he sat on the throne, he would always need to be cautious and balance his decisions. Taizun explained to Chang Xuan that being an emperor meant gaining everything but also losing everything. But Chang Xuan was different from his grandfather; he didn't necessarily want to be emperor. He just wanted to protect what little he had left.

However, when he finally had the power to protect, he lost the one person he wanted to protect the most. Chang Xuan stated that he wouldn't stop Xiao Yao from getting married. If he wanted, he could issue an imperial decree or send countless assassins, but he did nothing because he didn't want to destroy what Xiao Yao wanted. After seven days, Xiao Yao still decided to marry Fenglong, but she wasn't happy.

When A Nian asked if she truly liked Fenglong, Xiao Yao didn't know how to answer. She deflected, saying that Fenglong had a good family background, good character, and good looks, and many women in the wilderness liked him. But A Nian only cared if Xiao Yao liked him. Before Xiao Yao could answer, the boat arrived at Chishui. The maids hurriedly dressed her in her wedding attire, as Fenglong eagerly awaited her arrival.

At the critical moment of Xiao Yao and Chishui Fenglong's wedding, Tushan Jing hid in the shadows, tears silently streaming down his face, feeling as if his heart was being torn apart. Just as the bride and groom were about to bow and complete the ceremony, the urgent sound of footsteps broke the silence. Xiang Liu burst in like a storm, directly asking Xiao Yao to abandon the wedding.

A trace of struggle flashed in Xiao Yao's eyes, but she ultimately shook her head firmly and asked Xiang Liu to leave immediately. Xiang Liu did not give up. He reminded Xiao Yao in a heavy tone if she remembered the solemn vow she once made. This statement struck her like a bolt of lightning, causing her face to turn pale instantly. She closed her eyes in pain, as if reliving that moment.

Seeing this, Xiang Liu pleaded with her again to leave with him, promising to protect her from all harm. However, Xiao Yao questioned why he had to intervene in her life in such a near-insulting manner, putting her in a difficult position. Xiang Liu remained silent, his eyes showing a complex emotion. He knew his actions might cause Xiao Yao irreparable harm, but he couldn't just stand by and watch her enter what he believed to be a wrong marriage.

Xiang Liu insisted once more, demanding that Xiao Yao go with him, his tone revealing an undeniable resolve. After a fierce inner struggle, Xiao Yao finally made her decision. She apologized to Chishui Fenglong and resolutely chose to follow Xiang Liu. Disappointment and sadness were written all over Chishui Fenglong's face, but he held back his tears and signaled his men to let them leave. The news quickly spread across the continent.

Chang Xuan of Xi Yan secretly rejoiced upon hearing it, while Chenrong Xinyue was furious. She couldn't understand how someone could be so bold as to ruin a meticulously planned wedding. Xiang Liu gazed at Xiao Yao, his eyes full of complex emotions, worried that she would hate him for ruining her wedding. Xiao Yao gave a bitter smile, a hint of exhaustion in her eyes: "Hate or not, what difference does it make?

Between him and me, there is an unresolved debt of emotion. " She then asked Xiang Liu when he found out about her wedding. Xiang Liu replied that he had known before she decided to leave Haoling. Hearing this, Xiao Yao became emotional and questioned Xiang Liu: "You had enough time to stop all this. Why did you choose to do it at the wedding, making me the target of everyone's ire?

You have caused enmity between me, the Chishui clan, and the Chenrong clan. You have damaged Haoling's prestige, ruined my reputation, and made me a laughingstock in the wilderness. Why do you treat me this way? " Xiang Liu remained silent, a trace of indescribable bitterness flashing in his eyes. Seeing this, Xiao Yao felt nothing but disappointment and helplessness. She sighed softly: "Perhaps this is my destiny, to be tossed about in the storm.

" She felt an unprecedented fatigue and told Xiang Liu: "I'm tired, you should leave. " Xiang Liu silently nodded, turned, and left, leaving Xiao Yao standing there, tears silently falling. Not long after, the old King of Xi Yan unexpectedly stepped forward to annul Xiao Yao's engagement to Chishui Fenglong. This news brought Xiao Yao a sense of relief, but also filled her with uncertainty about the future.

Chang Xuan, upon learning of this, immediately sent people to search for Xiao Yao. In Haoling, the ministers were hostile towards Fangfeng Bei (Xiang Liu's alias), fearing that his presence would threaten Haoling. Some even suggested that the King of Haoling should execute him. However, the King of Haoling admired Fangfeng Bei greatly. Instead of listening to his ministers, he even considered having Fangfeng Bei marry Xiao Yao. This decision placed Xiao Yao in a difficult position once again.

Xiao Yao looked at Xiang Liu with worry and softly asked: "Fangfeng Bei has committed such a grave mistake. How will he deal with it in the future? " Xiang Liu's answer was firm and cold: "He will naturally have to atone for it with his life. " Xiao Yao felt as if her heart was being torn apart. She held back her tears and angrily said: "Xiang Liu and Fangfeng Bei, you are indeed different.

When that day comes, I will not shed a single tear for him. " Although Xiang Liu's heart was turbulent, he maintained a facade of indifference and distance. The two of them, separated by a door, seemed as if they were separated by mountains and rivers, each immersed in their own endless sorrow. Meanwhile, Jing Ye entered Tushan Jing's residence with a bowl of medicine in hand.

Seeing him still busy with work despite his injuries not yet healed, she felt heartache and advised: "Young Master, your health is important. Please drink the medicine first. " Tushan Jing smiled and declined, saying he would drink it later. Seeing his insistence, Jing Ye grew anxious and snatched the letter from his hand, inadvertently glimpsing the words "Chenrong rebels.

" She was shocked and worried about Tushan Jing's safety, advising him not to get involved to avoid bringing trouble upon himself. Tushan Jing, however, remained resolute, stating that he must personally handle the matter to ensure its success. Jing Ye did not understand and asked for his reasons, but Tushan Jing only smiled faintly without further explanation.

At this time, Xiao Yao, though back in Qingshui Town, found that the warmth and bustle of the past were gone, replaced by a desolate loneliness. She had no desire to go out and only wished to drink away her sorrows with Xiang Liu. Seeing this, Xiang Liu felt pity and used his magic to try to uncover her true feelings. He asked her if she wanted to marry Chishui Fenglong. Xiao Yao shook her head in denial.

He then asked if she wanted to marry Ye Shiqi (Tushan Jing). She nodded in agreement. When Xiang Liu further asked whom she most wanted to spend her life with, Xiao Yao fell silent, her head aching, unable to answer. Seeing this, Xiang Liu quickly withdrew his magic and gently held the unconscious Xiao Yao, comforting her: "Sleep well, and when you wake up, you will forget everything.

"The next morning, Xiao Yao strolled through the streets and unexpectedly encountered her old friend, Tianer. Although she recognized Tianer, she did not dare to acknowledge her and only listened silently. From Tianer, she learned that Lao Mu, Ma Zi, Chun Tao, and other old friends had all passed away, which made her feel sorrowful.

Tianer also mentioned that before Lao Mu's death, Ye Shiqi had returned to visit and fulfilled his wishes, allowing him to pass away with a smile. Furthermore, Ye Shiqi often returned to visit them, treating them like family. These words warmed Xiao Yao's heart and confirmed her deep feelings for Ye Shiqi. Li Rongchang reported Xiao Yao's disappearance urgently, but Tushan Jing remained unusually calm, only asking about Fenglong's condition.

He gave Li Rongchang something to accompany Fenglong, but refused to search for Xiao Yao himself. Previously, Tushan Jing had taken advantage of Xiao Yao's soft heart. Now, he wanted to give her the freedom to choose. With a small fox by his side, Tushan Jing thought of Xiao Yao and prayed for her safety.

Xiao Yao chatted with the elderly Sang Tianer. Through Sang Tianer's words, Xiao Yao wondered if the situation between her and Tushan Jing was her fault. Xiao Yao got up to leave, gently pinched Sang Tianer's face, and told her she did well; Chuan Zi would regret marrying her, and that both she and Lao Mu were very happy. Sang Tianer looked at Xiao Yao, very shocked, and quietly asked who she was.

Xiao Yao did not answer but turned and left with Xiang Liu. Watching Xiao Yao's back, Sang Tianer realized it was Sixth Brother, choked up, and knelt to kowtow. Xiao Yao didn't understand why Xiang Liu interrupted the wedding. Later, Xiang Liu explained that Tushan Jing had hired him, but Xiang Liu did not want money. He only required Tushan Jing to promise to provide 37 years of supplies to the Chenrong militia.

Tushan Jing hoped Xiang Liu would complete the task before the wedding to minimize damage. However, Xiang Liu stated that he did not need Tushan Jing to worry; how he completed the task was his business. Xiang Liu agreed to let Xiao Yao leave and told her not to reveal that he was Fangfeng Bei, or she would die of heartbreak, as the gu was still within her. He then demonstrated, causing Xiao Yao to collapse in pain.

Only then did Xiao Yao understand why Xiang Liu refused to remove the gu. Xiang Liu explained no further, only saying that he was inherently such a person before leaving Xiao Yao alone. Xiao Yao found Yu Xin and asked him to take her to Qingqiu to find Tushan Jing. Yu Xin saw Xiao Yao's extraordinary demeanor and decided to take her. Xiang Liu watched Xiao Yao leave, showing a gratified expression.

Fangfeng Bei was dead, and he would return someone to accompany Xiao Yao for the long term. Hao Ling Jiuyao unexpectedly visited Tushan Mansion. Jing Ye quickly informed Tushan Jing. Upon learning of Jiuyao's arrival, Tushan Jing felt indescribable joy and hastily tidied himself to greet her. However, as Hao Ling Jiuyao entered the mansion, a complex mix of emotions surged within her. Feeling nervous, she regretted her impulsiveness and wanted to leave.

She tried to sneak away through a window but tripped, and at that critical moment, Tushan Jing arrived just in time to catch her. Hao Ling Jiuyao hastily explained that she came impulsively due to anger over Xiang Liu. However, Tushan Jing seemed not to fully listen to her explanation, gazing at her with tenderness and concern.

He cleverly invited her to stay overnight, using the late hour as a reason, and conjured a sudden snowstorm, making it seem as though the world was celebrating their reunion. Faced with this scene, Hao Ling Jiuyao agreed to stay, having much to say to Tushan Jing. She quietly told him she had things to share, and Tushan Jing, smiling warmly, replied he also had much to tell her.

Thus, on that snowy night, their hearts drew closer, ready for an intimate conversation. Chang Xuan's subordinates noticed frequent carriage traffic at Tushan Mansion, leading Chang Xuan to deduce that Hao Ling Jiuyao was likely there and had been staying in Qingshui Town recently. He immediately dispatched trusted men to Tushan Mansion to bring her back and sent another team to investigate her recent activities in Qingshui Town. In Tushan Mansion, Hao Ling Jiuyao opened her heart to Tushan Jing.

She admitted that she had been silently watching over him for years and revealed the true nature of Fangfeng Yiying, pointing out her deceitful and manipulative nature. Feeling guilty, she apologized to Tushan Jing, regretting her inaction and shifting all blame onto him. She recalled how they could have faced challenges together, but her mistrust led to him fighting alone and falling into a trap.

Hao Ling Jiuyao's tears flowed as Tushan Jing comforted her, saying it was not her fault but his for failing to keep his promise. While past mistakes couldn't be undone, they finally resolved their misunderstandings. Suddenly, Tushan Jing started coughing violently, even spitting blood, which terrified Hao Ling Jiuyao. She quickly took his pulse, finding his injuries much worse than expected. Jing Ye explained that it was due to Tushan Jing's long-term yearning for Hao Ling Jiuyao.

Tushan Jing stopped Jing Ye from further explanation, dismissing everyone but Hao Ling Jiuyao. Heartbroken and guilty, Hao Ling Jiuyao held Tushan Jing and decided to create a prescription for him to rest. Tushan Jing gratefully accepted her help and gave her a precious fish dan as a consultation fee. Amid their emotional exchange, Chang Xuan's men arrived. Hao Ling Jiuyao accepted the fish dan, feeling a mix of emotions.

Despite his reluctance, Tushan Jing smiled as he watched her leave with the men. Meanwhile, Xiang Liu's adoptive father was inspecting the grain supplies and curiously asked about their source. Xiang Liu, evasive in his answers, only hinted that the West Yan might take action soon and advised preparation. His adoptive father, sensing Xiang Liu's reluctance to share more, did not press further. Upon returning home, Hao Ling Jiuyao faced her furious grandfather, who questioned her about Fangfeng Bei.

She calmly replied that Fangfeng Bei was dead and refused to discuss further. Chang Xuan skillfully intervened, providing a plausible reason for Hao Ling Jiuyao's escape from marriage, calming her grandfather's anger. In private, they both tacitly understood the mystery of Fangfeng Bei and Xiang Liu, having known it all along but choosing to remain silent. Alone, Hao Ling Jiuyao felt uneasy, grateful for Chang Xuan's help yet uncertain about the future. However, she knew that as a daughter of the Hao Ling family, she had to face all challenges bravely.

Tai Zun told Chang Xuan not to worry, that Xiao Yao was different from A Nian. Xiao Yao always prioritized Chang Xuan, so what he was concerned about would not happen. After leaving Tai Zun, Chang Xuan went to find Xiao Yao. In fact, he was happy that Xiao Yao had escaped from the wedding.

Xiao Yao was worried about how to explain it to Chishui Fenglong, but Chang Xuan reassured her that he would compensate him, so she need not worry. To avoid suspicion, Tushan Jing always instructed his servants to prepare two bowls of medicine, one to drink and one to discard. His method proved effective because Fangfeng Yiying was indeed trying to harm him.

This time, she did not want to consult with Tushan Hou and intended to act first and report later, as she could no longer wait and wanted Tushan Jing to die quickly. Xiao Yao returned to the Five Gods Mountain to see her father, realizing that she had caused significant trouble for her family. However, no one blamed her. Hao Ling Wang had always told her that she could do whatever she wanted, and he would support her.

Xiao Yao returned this time to ask for her father's help, wanting the key to his private treasury to find the treasures hidden there. Her father knew she was going to make medicine again, but this time it was to save lives. Reflecting on past events, Xiao Yao recalled when Tushan Hou obtained the red fish dan. Chenrong Xinyue wanted it badly, but Hou refused, saying he had a use for it.

At that time, only Fangfeng Yiying did not show interest in the red fish dan, which now seemed like she was confident Hou would give it to her. Hao Ling Wang saw the killing intent in Xiao Yao's eyes. Xiao Yao admitted she wanted to kill two people, but death wouldn't solve the problem; only the truth could. Hao Ling Wang told Xiao Yao that revealing the truth had always been difficult.

Xiao Yao stated she did not want to be manipulated and wanted to uncover the truth. She told her father she was returning to Zhongyuan, and Hao Ling Wang agreed, as he always supported Xiao Yao. Tushan Jing found out that the one poisoning him was Fangfeng Yiying’s maid, Xuan Zhou. Tushan Jing summoned the two, and Xuan Zhou, to protect her mistress’s reputation, claimed she acted alone to avenge her mistress’s abuse.

She begged Tushan Jing not to harm her family and then committed suicide in front of everyone. Fangfeng Yiying escaped punishment this time, which annoyed Jing Ye, but Tushan Jing remained calm. He was waiting for the right moment and news from Xiao Yao. Soon, he received a letter from Xiao Yao, asking to meet in Zhiyi City. Tushan Jing immediately instructed Jing Ye to pack their belongings and set off to meet her.

Chang Xuan and Chishui Fenglong were in a meeting when someone reported that Xiao Yao had returned. Chang Xuan took the opportunity to formally apologize to Chishui Fenglong, promising proper compensation. Chishui Fenglong, too, had thought about his relationship with Xiao Yao after the wedding. He realized he didn’t have deep feelings for her; it was more about face and male pride. Chang Xuan went to find Xiao Yao and found her embroidering a sachet for Tushan Jing.

Jealous, he demanded that Xiao Yao embroider one for him first. They ended up drawing together and playing. Tai Zun and Zhou Shan, outside the room, heard their laughter. Zhou Shan sighed, noting that Chang Xuan was only this happy when with Xiao Yao. Tai Zun understood this but acknowledged that some things were inherently difficult to balance.

Jing Ye met with Xiao Yao, confirming that Tushan Hou was trying to prove his superiority over Tushan Jing by conquering Tushan Jing’s women. Xiao Yao asked Jing Ye to deliver two items to Tushan Jing: a sachet with medicine and a letter advising Tushan Jing to trust her unconditionally. She told him she wouldn’t meet with him for a while and hoped he would focus on recovering.

She also advised him to close his eyes and listen to his heart whenever he saw something distressing. Xiao Yao requested Chang Xuan to hold a banquet. Xiao Yao suggested having Consort Shang Yang host the banquet and specified four must-attend guests. Upon hearing about the banquet, Chenrong Xinyue, wanting to assert her queenly authority, decided to attend and deliberately mocked Xiao Yao in front of everyone. Chang Xuan arrived just in time, frightening Chenrong Xinyue.

To embarrass Chenrong Xinyue, Chang Xuan whispered to Consort Shang Yang, making Chenrong Xinyue look very upset. Chang Xuan ignored Chenrong Xinyue and left with Xiao Yao.