The First Jasmine - Chapter 52

Chapter 52: A Famous Sword Unsheathed

Following an extensive, long conversation, Xu Hongyu left behind a massive pile of official histories, secret records, and unofficial anecdotes, instructing Ye Li to browse through them when she possessed the leisure. He then departed alongside Xu Hongyan in a cloud of dust, leaving Minister Ye in a state of anxious unease. Meeting her father’s complex gaze, Ye Li offered a slight curtsy and unhurriedly returned to her own Qingyi Xuan to study the historical texts.

The wedding date for Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao was set for the twentieth day of the fifth lunar month, which was rumored to be the finest date within that month. It was said that Minister Ye was originally somewhat dissatisfied with this date. After all, it was not considered an exceptionally auspicious date selected by the almanac. The constant, frequent incidents surrounding Ye Ying’s wedding had already left Minister Ye intensely exasperated; if another problem arose with Ye Li’s wedding, Ye Shan and Ye Lin would likely have no hope of marrying out at all. However, the Ding King Manor, the Xu family, and Ye Li herself harbored no particular opinions regarding auspicious dates. Furthermore, if they did not select this date, the wedding would have to be postponed until at least the eighth month, as the sixth and seventh months were even less suitable for conducting a wedding. Coming right on the heels of the recent incident where Ye Li was abducted, neither the Ding King Manor nor the Xu family would ever permit a postponement of the wedding date. Consequently, Minister Ye’s minor dissatisfaction was naturally ignored by everyone.

As they entered the middle of the fifth month, Ye Li’s originally leisurely life came to a complete end. The normally quiet Qingyi Xuan also became a bustling scene of people coming and going. Every day, countless items were sent to Qingyi Xuan, and innumerable account books and inventory lists required Ye Li’s personal review. Even with the guidance and assistance of two experienced nannies, Ye Li was thoroughly exhausted. Meanwhile, upon observing that the Ye family, the Xu family, and the Ding King Manor were preparing for the wedding with absolutely no influence from the rumors, the capital's populace gradually let the half-believed rumors die down.

"I am so envious of you, Li'er! The Ding King Manor’s wedding can certainly be hailed as the most grand and magnificent wedding within the past ten years." Inside Qingyi Xuan, Murong Ting was sprawled upon a soft couch without a shred of proper decorum, hugging a bolt of top-grade, precious silk that had just been delivered as she cried out.

Ye Li, Qin Zheng, and Hua Tianxiang were organizing the account books together. Not far away, Ye Shan and Ye Lin sat quietly executing their needlework. Outside the door, the clamor of people coming and going persisted. Raising her head during a gap in reviewing the account books, Hua Tianxiang cast a glance at her and stated, "Li'er did not invite you over to feel envious, jealous, and hateful. Instead of wasting time on nonsense when you have the leisure, you might as well come over and see if there is anything you can assist with. However... what you said is not wrong."

Holding a brush to make notations and marks on an account book, Qin Zheng inquired, "Does Madam Wang truly not intend to assist you in managing the wedding affairs at all? If word of this spreads, it will not sound pleasant for her reputation either."

Ye Li smiled faintly. "The Old Madame granted quite a bit of additional dowry, so she has been feeling unwell these past two days. She claimed that Fourth Sister fell ill within the Li King Manor and she needed to go over to care for her, so she departed early this morning."

Toward this, Murong Ting displayed utter contempt. "Who has ever heard of a mother eagerly rushing over to care for her daughter when she hasn't even been married for a month? However... Ye Ying wouldn't truly be ill, would she? We haven't even seen her return to flaunt her success these past days."

Hua Tianxiang arched her brows and laughed. "She would first need to possess the capital to flaunt her success. If Prince Li treated her well, perhaps she could return to showcase her newlywed happiness or something. But currently, I hear Princess Qixia is still tangling with Prince Li every single day. It is already a blessing that she hasn't transformed into a resentful woman confined to her inner chambers."

Qin Zheng shook her head. She harbored no interest in these bits of gossip, caring far more about the substance of Ye Li’s wedding itself. "I truly know not what Madam Wang is thinking. Everyone possesses a clear understanding of exactly how much bridal gifts the Ding King Manor delivered. Even if the Ye family adds a bit more, it would not cause her a loss. By throwing such a tantrum, is she not merely discarding the Ye family’s face?"

Hua Tianxiang remarked, "It is not as though you are unaware of Madam Wang’s origins. Even though she is currently Lord Ye’s primary wife, her status is still insufficient to preside over Li'er’s wedding. When the time arrives, I am afraid Old Madame Ye will still have to personally step forward. Right, the Ding King Manor lacks any female relatives capable of taking charge on their side. Ah Li, did Prince Ding mention who will take charge within the Ding King Manor?"

Ye Li nodded. "Originally, Eldest Princess Zhaoyang possessed this intention. However, although Prince Ding addresses Princess Zhaoyang as 'Aunt,' it is said that according to generational rank, they are actually of the same generation. Therefore, Eldest Princess Zhaoyang’s intention is to invite Grand Eldest Princess Xifu instead."

"Wow..." Murong Ting let out a startled cry, nearly leaping off the soft couch. Catching the collective gaze of everyone shifting toward her, Murong Ting let out a dry laugh and stated, "Grand Eldest Princess Xifu... that is the late Emperor's aunt. Even the Prince Ding of two generations ago would have to respectfully address her as Imperial Sister. I hear Grand Eldest Princess Xifu is already seventy-five years old this year."

Qin Zheng nodded. "In fact, were it not for Li'er’s wedding this time, I would have forgotten this princess was still alive. I hear this princess distanced herself from worldly affairs as early as over twenty years ago. I truly did not expect she would actually emerge to support the wedding for Prince Ding this time."

Waving her hand, Hua Tianxiang laughed. "It is nothing extraordinary. My grandfather mentioned that among the younger generation, the Grand Eldest Princess's favorite was always Prince Ding. When Prince Ding was born, the Grand Eldest Princess even held him. I hear that when Prince Ding suffered his mishap back then and only half a life remained, it was also the Grand Eldest Princess who endured the hardship of caring for him day and night. In short, for Prince Ding to invite the Grand Eldest Princess to preside over the wedding fully displays his sincerity toward Ah Li."

Murong Ting remarked with a beaming smile, "Which is why I stated that Li'er’s wedding can probably be counted as the most grand and magnificent wedding within the past ten years. I hear the nobility and powerful figures from several other nations will also come to attend the wedding."

Ye Li furrowed her brows. "What relationship does the Ding King Manor’s wedding possess with the powerful figures of other nations?"

"Ah Li, you must not look down upon the prestige and authority of the Ding King Manor. For the Ding King Manor to establish itself for a century, it is no exaggeration to state that they swept across all four directions. Basically, every nation that borders Great Chu has had dealings with the Ding King Manor."

Ye Li nodded. "I comprehend. They are here to view a joke." The sole descendant of the gloriously majestic Ding King Manor, the current Ding King, was a disfigured cripple bound to a wheelchair. What could possibly bring more joy to the powerful figures of various nations than this? She was afraid the imperial families of various nations harbored far more interest in this wedding than in Great Chu replacing an emperor.

The crowd fell silent for a brief moment, involuntarily letting out sighs. Indeed, the consecutive arrivals of those foreign envoys were certainly not to congratulate Prince Ding on his grand wedding, but rather to see exactly what manner of wretched state the sole descendant of the Ding King Manor—which had been silent for seven long years—had fallen into, and whether he could still pose a threat to them.

"Li'er..."

Ye Li waved her hand dismissively. "It is nothing of consequence. Within Great Chu’s capital, can they possibly execute anything against me? Instead of having the leisure to worry about this, you might as well hastily assist me in organizing these items. My second maternal aunt wishes to review them tomorrow." Ye Li looked at the numerous and chaotic gift registries and account books before her eyes with a headache. Only now did she realize that Arabic numerals and double-entry bookkeeping were truly wonderful things. However, the current moment was not the time to show off; once she arrived at the Ding King Manor in the future, she would possess massive amounts of time to slowly organize everything.

Hua Tianxiang and Qin Zheng silently regarded the remaining majority of the account books, lowering their heads listlessly. Once they returned home, they must definitely follow their mothers to relearn the art of managing a household; these ghost-like items were simply far too numerous.

Ye Lin and Ye Shan listened to their idle chatter from one side, feeling both envious and sympathetic toward Ye Li. Yet they also knew they could not interject in this aspect, so they could only prick up their ears, keeping their heads lowered as they diligently executed the work in their hands.

"Eh?" The originally listless Murong Ting suddenly leaped up from the soft couch, rushing toward a half-open window. Leaning her body out to scan the area for a long while, she finally withdrew with an expression of utter bewilderment and confusion.

Looking at her, Hua Tianxiang inquired, "What is it? Is there something outside the window?"

Murong Ting shook her head, glancing at Ye Li without speaking further.

Ye Li offered a shallow smile. "I seemed to have just caught sight of a emerald-green bird flying past the window. Did Murong see it as well?"

Murong Ting blinked her eyes, stating with vexation, "Yes, I saw an exceptionally beautiful bird. Who knew that by the time I reached the window, it would already be gone."

Qin Zheng burst into a giggle, covering her lips as she remarked, "Birds fly so quickly; how can they possibly wait for you?"

Hua Tianxiang shot a sideways glance at her. "Since when did you start liking birds? If you truly like them, request your father to assist you in catching one, or simply go purchase a beautiful one. Is there any need to make such a fuss?"

"I enjoy it." Murong Ting tilted her small face upward proudly as she lay back down upon the soft couch, taking the opportunity to sweep a subtle glance at Ye Li.

Ye Li pursed her lips in a smile. She naturally knew what Murong Ting had heard. These past few days, there were invariably some strange individuals who desired to visit the Ye estate without utilizing the grand entrance, but they were all thrown out by the hidden guards Mo Xiuyao had dispatched to protect her in secret. However, for someone to barge in during broad daylight was indeed rare.

"Miss, the Crown Prince of West Ling's Prince of Zhennan has dispatched someone to deliver wedding gifts, offering congratulations on the grand wedding of the Miss and Prince Ding." Outside the door, the head steward of the Ye estate personally came forward to report.

Ye Li furrowed her brows. "The Crown Prince of West Ling's Prince of Zhennan? Should the delivery of gifts not be sent directly to the Ding King Manor?"

The head steward respectfully stated, "The Crown Prince of Zhennan stated that this gift is a special preparation from West Ling for the future Ding King Princess; therefore, it must be delivered directly into the Miss's hands to display the sincerity of West Ling."

"Where is the Crown Prince of Zhennan currently? Is father present?" Ye Li inquired.

"In the main hall. The master just returned and is currently keeping him company within the main hall," the head steward stated.

Ye Li nodded. "I comprehend. Please request father and the Crown Prince of Zhennan to wait for a brief moment. I shall step out shortly."

The head steward took his leave. Pulling at Ye Li with worry, Murong Ting remarked, "Ah Li, be a bit careful when you step out. This Crown Prince of Zhennan likely comes with ill intent."

Ye Li arched her brows. The cloistered maidens of the capital indeed understood very little regarding affairs of this nature. During her youth, Murong Ting had accompanied General Murong on campaigns outside for a long duration, so she ought to know a bit more than they did.

As Qingluan and the others attended to Ye Li’s change of attire and subtly touched up her cosmetics, Murong Ting stood to one side, muttering what she knew. "West Ling’s Prince of Zhennan is the biological younger brother of the current West Ling Emperor, and he is also a famous West Ling general. However, twenty years ago, he once suffered a defeat at the hands of Prince Ding’s imperial father, the Prince Regent Mo Liufang. At that time, my father was merely a minor captain. I heard from my dad that the Prince of Zhennan suffered a devastating defeat in that battle, even losing an arm amidst the chaotic army. Following the event, the Prince of Zhennan dispatched individuals to assassinate the Prince Regent on multiple occasions, but all failed on the verge of success. You know... the Prince Regent died long ago, so if the Prince of Zhennan holds a grudge..."

Then this debt of vengeance could only be recorded upon the persons of Mo Xiuyao and herself, who was Mo Liufang's son and daughter-in-law.

"So, the Crown Prince of Zhennan is here to find trouble?" Qin Zheng’s beautiful face turned pale, and she looked at Ye Li with unease, stating, "Should we dispatch someone to inform Prince Ding?"

Ye Li shook her head. "No need, Prince Ding ought to receive word very swiftly anyway. Furthermore, how can the Crown Prince of Zhennan possibly come to embarrass a maiden within her chambers? That would far too greatly forfeit the face of West Ling and the Prince of Zhennan. Even if he intends to find trouble, it ought to be directed toward Mo Xiuyao instead; we have not even wed yet."

Looking into the mirror to see that she was properly groomed, Ye Li stood up and stated, "I shall head over to take a look first. You all wait for me here."

Stepping forward ahead of her to stand by Ye Li’s side, Murong Ting stated resolutely, "I shall accompany you over. Tianxiang and Zheng'er will remain behind."

Ye Li was somewhat caught between tears and laughter. "Murong, I am not proceeding to a battle."

Murong Ting insisted, "I care not. Even following you quietly is fine. In the event that the Crown Prince of Zhennan harbors any untoward designs, I can easily rescue you."

Harboring untoward designs against the future Ding King Princess in broad daylight within Great Chu? Only Murong could come up with such a scenario.

Hua Tianxiang waved her hand and stated, "Forget it, Li'er, take Murong along. She simply loves to watch a commotion."

Murong Ting paid no heed to how they viewed her, happily grasping one of Ye Li’s arms. "Hurry, let us go, let us go!"

"Father." Stepping into the main hall, Ye Li discovered that the head steward’s report was truly far too imprecise. She had assumed only her father and the guest were present, completely unexpected that Mo Jingli and Ye Ying were also sitting to keep them company.

Murong Ting threw her a glance that conveyed, How is it that he is present everywhere?

Ye Li offered her a helpless smile, stepping forward to perform her greetings to Minister Ye. In front of outsiders, Minister Ye was still exceptionally willing to portray a good father who doted on his daughter, smiling at Ye Li with an expression full of benevolence. "Li'er has arrived. Miss Murong is present as well?"

Murong Ting curled the corners of her mouth and smiled. "This junior came uninvited; I beg Uncle's forgiveness."

Minister Ye laughed. "Not at all. For Li'er to possess a good friend like Miss Murong, this official feels deeply gratified. Li'er, Miss Murong, this individual is the Crown Prince of West Ling's Prince of Zhennan."

Li'er, Miss Murong, this individual is the Crown Prince of West Ling's Prince of Zhennan."

The two then turned their gazes toward the young man seated to one side. West Ling lay to the northwest of Great Chu, and its folk customs were quite dissimilar to Great Chu's. However, one rather interesting point was that within West Ling, they referred to themselves as Da Ling while calling Great Chu 'East Chu.' Conversely, Great Chu referred to the opponent as West Ling while addressing themselves as Great Chu. From the nomenclature alone, one could discern that the two nations had actually never been on particularly harmonious terms.

This Crown Prince of Zhennan possessed a tall and straight stature, with deep facial features that were as sharply defined as though carved by a knife. Ye Li very clearly observed that his pupils faintly carried a hint of dark purple. It was rumored that the West Ling imperial family all possessed brown eyes; the appearance of this Crown Prince clearly displayed that he did not possess pure West Ling bloodlines.

"Greetings to the Crown Prince." Even the normally uninhibited Murong Ting displayed the appropriate etiquette before a foreign envoy.

The Crown Prince of Zhennan’s gaze sized up the two with absolute lack of restraint. Swiftly abandoning Murong Ting, he shifted his vision completely onto Ye Li, speaking only after a long moment, "Ding King Princess, Miss Murong, there is no need for such ceremony. This individual is Lei Tengfeng."

Lei was the imperial surname of West Ling. It was excellent that there was no language barrier.

Minister Ye looked at the extraordinary aura of the Crown Prince of Zhennan before him, then looked at Ye Li, letting out a light cough as he stated, "Li'er, the Crown Prince came specially to deliver a wedding gift to you."

Ye Li nodded. "Many thanks to the Crown Prince. For the Crown Prince to endure the trouble of a special trip, I hope Great Chu can cause the Crown Prince to feel entirely at home."

Lei Tengfeng laughed heartily. "Naturally. This prince has long admired the scenery of Great Chu and shall certainly tour it thoroughly. Come, present the gift this Crown Prince prepared for the Ding King Princess."

Clapping his hands lightly, two men dressed as guards stepped inside. One of them cradled a long and narrow, carved wooden box. Observing the length and size of that box, Ye Li developed a somewhat less than beautiful sensation. This gift would likely not be any conventional item.

Lei Tengfeng made a gesture, and the other man opened the wooden box upon receiving the command, causing a wave of biting, cold aura to rush directly at them. Minister Ye’s countenance darkened, and he abruptly rose to his feet, stating in a heavy voice, "Crown Prince, exactly what is the meaning of this?"

Lei Tengfeng arched his brows, inquiring in confusion, "This is a gift personally selected for the Ding King Princess by this prince's imperial father and imperial uncle. Is there something incorrect?"

Minister Ye stated, "My daughter's grand wedding is imminent; what is the meaning of your sending a sword? A sword is a lethal weapon, completely inauspicious." Resting within the exquisite, carved wooden box was a long sword with an ancient and unadorned appearance. Even while remaining within its scabbard, one could still perceive that biting cold light and murderous intent; this was clearly an unparalleled treasure sword that had undergone the tempering of a sea of blood.

"This happens to be a gift my humble country and imperial father specially sought out to display our sincerity. Or... could it be that the various individuals present truly fail to discern the origins of this sword?" Lei Tengfeng folded his arms nonchalantly, looking at the crowd before his eyes with a half-smile.

Discerning the disdain implicitly carried within his tone, Mo Jingli’s sharp brows furrowed as he rose to look at the sword within the box. Murong Ting’s heart stirred, and she looked at Ye Li with a touch of hesitation.

"This is—Lanyun!" After a long moment, Mo Jingli spoke in a heavy voice.

Lei Tengfeng praised, "Prince Li indeed possesses discernment. Correct, this is precisely the Lanyun Sword."

The crowd was visibly moved by this. This was not an ancient sword of mythic proportions, yet the reputation of this blade was absolutely not inferior to any heirloom sword transmitted through generations. This sword shared its name with the first-generation Prince Ding, Mo Lanyun, and was precisely the personal weapon Mo Lanyun used to conquer the world under heaven. It was also the sidearm of several subsequent generations of Prince Ding. This sword had accompanied successive generations of Prince Ding as they galloped across battlefields, completely invincible. Exactly how many people's blood it had drunk was something no one could likely know. It was not until seven years ago, when the previous Prince Ding, Mo Xiuwen, perished from illness at the border pass, that this sword vanished into thin air. No matter how many individuals sought it out both overtly and covertly, its traces were never seen again. This gift was indeed of sufficient weight and sincerity.

Lei Tengfeng clapped his hands and laughed. "Ever since learning that the Lanyun Sword’s whereabouts were unknown, imperial father spent an unknown amount of effort dispatching people to search all four directions. Fortunately, effort does not betray those who are diligent; a year ago, this sword was located within Beidi. It happens to coincide with Prince Ding’s grand wedding, so it is returned to its original owner. What does the Ding King Princess deem of this?"

Minister Ye’s countenance was somewhat solemn as he rose to speak to Lei Tengfeng, "For such a massive gift, we must indeed express many thanks to the Crown Prince." To claim the Lanyun Sword as a national treasure of Great Chu was no exaggeration. For Lei Tengfeng to deliver such a gift, Minister Ye did not even possess the courage to refuse it. Within his heart, Minister Ye could not help but secretly regret why he hadn't refused this Crown Prince of Zhennan's visit.

Lei Tengfeng nodded with satisfaction, arching his brows as he smiled. "To speak without concealment, upon obtaining such a supreme treasure, this prince also once thought of keeping it for myself. It is merely that this Lanyun Sword appears to possess a spirit; this prince spent countless amounts of effort, yet was completely unable to unsheathe this sword. Ultimately, although we located a first-rate sword-crafting master of the current age to extract the treasure sword, it was regrettable that this sword completely refused to follow orders. Even the number one swordsman of West Ling was unable to master it. This prince then pondered that this Lanyun Sword likely only recognizes the personnel of the Ding King Manor; consequently, I desired to come and request the Ding King Princess to try the sword."

Minister Ye stated with displeasure, "My daughter is unversed in sword arts. Furthermore, if the Crown Prince desires to test the sword, you ought to seek out Prince Ding instead."

Lei Tengfeng looked at Ye Li and laughed. "Can it be that the Ding King Princess is not counted as a person of the Ding King Manor? It is said that a century ago, the first-generation Ding King Princess utilized this very sword to consecutively slay sixteen enemy soldiers, rescuing Prince Ding’s life. From then on, it was transmitted as a beautiful tale. It is evident that this sword does not require the bloodline of the Ding King Manor; an individual capable of matching Prince Ding's partner suffices as well. What is the Ding King Princess’s opinion?"

Before Ye Li could speak, Mo Jingli let out a cold snort and stated, "Commandery Princess Qingyun was a peerless, extraordinary woman versed in both literature and martial arts; her capability to wield the Lanyun Sword is nothing extraordinary. For the Crown Prince of Zhennan to require Ye Li to wield the Lanyun Sword, is he deliberately embarrassing my Great Chu? Who knows not that Ye Li is likely unable to even dance a single complete sword routine."

Lei Tengfeng laughed. "This prince conversely chooses to believe in the discernment of the Ding King Manor. Looking across successive generations of Ding King Princesses, every single one was a brilliant and breathtakingly talented woman."

Mo Jingli mocked, "This current generation happens to be the exception."

Murong Ting stated with indignation, "Crown Prince of Zhennan, you are requiring a woman who has never practiced martial arts to wield a sword that you yourself could not even manage to unsheathe? Does West Ling always enjoy forcing others into such difficult positions?"

"Whether it is forcing someone into a difficult position, why not inquire of the Ding King Princess? Imperial father instructed that this sword must absolutely be gifted to the Ding King Princess. Can it be... this prince can only carry it back to West Ling?" This was already a threat. Lei Tengfeng’s meaning was glaringly obvious: if the future Ding King Princess was unable to unsheathe the Lanyun Sword and master it, then do not blame him for carrying the sword back to West Ling once more. If that truly occurred, let alone face, Great Chu would lose even its inner dignity.

"Third Sister, why do you not go forward and try? Perhaps you can unsheathe it," Ye Ying spoke softly. "The West Ling Crown Prince delivered such a massive gift; if we do not accept it, would we not be impolite to our neighboring nation?" Minister Ye furrowed his brows as he glanced at Ye Ying, his mind weighing whether Ye Li’s refusal to unsheathe the sword or her failure to unsheathe it would be more embarrassing.

"Prince Ding arrives!" An announcement sounded outside the door as Mo Xiuyao appeared at the grand entrance, accompanied by Ah Jin. The various individuals present secretly let out a sigh of relief, and Murong Ting covertly blinked her eyes at Ye Li.

The originally relaxed Lei Tengfeng, who had been sitting at ease in his chair, sat straight the instant Mo Xiuyao entered, his gaze sweeping across Mo Xiuyao’s calm and gentle face like the edge of a blade. He then turned his head to look at Ye Li. Ye Li secretly laughed within her heart; this Crown Prince was likely evaluating within his mind whether the Lanyun Sword was more vital to Mo Xiuyao or if she, his fiancée, was more vital, and exactly why Mo Xiuyao had arrived.

"Greetings to the Ding King. This prince, Lei Tengfeng, has long admired you," Lei Tengfeng rose and smiled.

"The Crown Prince is too polite. During my youth, this prince was fortunate enough to catch sight of the Prince of Zhennan's elegant demeanor. Having not met for many years, I assume the Prince's demeanor remains as of old?" Mo Xiuyao nodded faintly to return the greeting.

Lei Tengfeng’s eyelid twitched, but he swiftly smiled. "Imperial father's body is robust and healthy, and he frequently mentions the King's demeanor of those years to this prince, hoping that we might emulate a fraction of it."

Mo Xiuyao’s countenance remained unchanged as he stated calmly, "The Prince flatters me. Seeing the Crown Prince this time, one can already discern that the Prince of Zhennan possesses a worthy successor."

Observing these two men conversing in a gentle and slow manner amidst this clearly stagnant and taut atmosphere, Ye Li felt a bizarre urge to laugh. She knew not who had once uttered that diplomacy was an exceptionally feminine activity.

Following the conclusion of the pleasantries, Mo Xiuyao transitioned his wheelchair to Ye Li’s side, speaking softly, "Ah Li is in an excellent mood?"

Ye Li offered a shallow smile. "The Crown Prince of West Ling delivered an exceptionally precious gift. It happens that the King has arrived as well; why not enjoy it together?"

Mo Xiuyao nodded with a smile, his gaze landing upon the Lanyun Sword within the box. His vision was calm and lacked even a ripple, as though what lay inside was truly merely a common sword. Turning back to Lei Tengfeng, he stated, "Your nation's Emperor and the Prince have expended effort. This sword has been lost for many years; I did not expect to behold it once more today."

Lei Tengfeng arched his brows. "The Lanyun Sword is a supreme treasure of Great Chu; it naturally ought to be returned to its rightful owner. It is merely unknown whether this prince can catch sight of the famous sword's demeanor?"

"Ah Jin."

Ah Jin stepped forward to receive the long sword from the West Ling guard, carefully cradling it before Mo Xiuyao. Mo Xiuyao accepted it with a single hand, raising his head to inquire, "Ah Li, how do you view it?"

Ye Li lowered her head, her hand lightly touching the ancient scabbard as she nodded. "Although I am unversed in this path, I still know it is indeed a fine sword." Ye Li was indeed unversed in the path of the sword; what she had witnessed in her past existence was likely merely the Tai Chi swords danced by elderly grandfathers and grandmothers in parks. On modern battlefields, even when utilizing cold weapons, one would not employ a sword; conversely, close-combat weapons like short knives, daggers, and Emei piercers were far more handy. Slowly grasping the hilt, Ye Li did not rush to pull it outward. If this sword was truly as difficult to unsheathe and master as Lei Tengfeng described, then there was a ninety percent chance that some mechanism existed upon the scabbard and the blade.

Mo Xiuyao covered Ye Li’s hand on the hilt with a smile, his other hand lifting the blade. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Ye Li keenly perceived that Mo Xiuyao’s hand holding her own moved minutely, and then drew outward—

A flash of cold light suddenly materialized, and in that instant, the sword let out a dragon-like cry. The entire main hall instantly seemed frozen, though it lasted for only a fleeting breath. Ye Li swiftly perceived the boundless battle intent and mountain-toppling, sea-overturning murderous aura emanating from the blade. This was a dangerous aura that only individuals who had truly been upon a battlefield could perceive.

Unbeknownst to anyone, Mo Xiuyao had already released his hand. Holding the sword in hand, Ye Li casually brandished it toward the side, causing an ancient painting upon the wall not far away to split apart at the sound. "Fine sword!" Ye Li praised. To be capable of severing an ancient painting merely by the sharp aura of the blade tip, claiming it could blow a hair against the edge to sever it was truly no exaggeration. Holding the long sword steadily in her hand, Ye Li looked calmly at Lei Tengfeng, who was staring fixedly at her from across the room.

Before the crowd could recover their senses, Mo Xiuyao had already received the Lanyun Sword from Ye Li’s hand and returned it to its scabbard. Lei Tengfeng looked at that ancient painting upon the wall that now retained only half its length. Only after a long while did he subtly exhale a breath, jarringly sighing, "It is indeed a fine sword."

As for whether Ye Li could truly master this sword, no one went to care anymore, because she had already unsheathed that treasure sword which appeared incredibly sharp within her hands. The Third Miss Ye lacked even the strength to truss a chicken; to be capable of holding and gripping that sword steadily was already entirely sufficient. To further force her to dance with the sword, even the Crown Prince of Zhennan—who had arrived harboring hostility—felt too embarrassed to voice such a request.

Facing such a scenario, Minister Ye stroked his handsome beard with satisfaction, his face overflowing with a beaming smile. A daughter of the Ye family had retrieved a long-lost precious treasure on behalf of Great Chu and would carry the Lanyun Sword as a dowry. What a massive glory this would be.

Ye Li sighed within her heart. If this sword were to be placed within the Ye estate, the roofs of the Ye family would likely be trodden flat by intruders. She absolutely did not believe Lei Tengfeng would quietly let the matter rest after delivering such a heavy gift, yet this heavy gift happened to be something they could not refuse to accept.

"Crown Prince, this sword?" Ye Li inquired with a shallow smile as she looked at the somewhat absent-minded Lei Tengfeng before her eyes.

Lei Tengfeng gazed intently at the woman before him, then looked toward Mo Xiuyao who sat by her side, laughing as he stated, "This sword is naturally a wedding gift delivered to the Ding King Princess. This prince also takes this opportunity to wish you two a harmonious union for a century, growing old together until your hair turns white."

Mo Xiuyao stated, "In that case, we accept the Crown Prince's auspicious words."

Lei Tengfeng rose to speak to the crowd, "The gift has already been delivered; this prince shall take his leave first. I shall come to disturb the King once more on the day of the grand wedding."

"Take care, I shall not see you out."

Having seen off the Crown Prince of West Ling, Murong Ting stared intently at the Lanyun Sword cradled within Ah Jin's hands, her eyes nearly popping out of her head. She also forgot herself as she tugged at Ye Li’s sleeve. "Ah Li, Ah Li... the Lanyun Sword... the genuine Lanyun Sword... may I touch it?"

Ye Li looked helplessly at her greedy expression, turning her head to look at Mo Xiuyao. Mo Xiuyao arched his brows slightly. "No matter. Since it was gifted to you, it naturally belongs to Ah Li henceforth."

Ye Li looked at him and stated, "I assumed this was an heirloom treasure transmitted through generations within the Ding King Manor. Currently, it appears to be not so vital?"

Murong Ting paid no heed to these details, letting out a cheer as she pounced forward to snatch the treasure sword from Ah Jin's hands. Holding it in her hands, she stroked it left and right.

Mo Xiuyao nodded. "Having been transmitted for so many years, it is naturally an heirloom treasure. If it can be transmitted for another thousand years, it would not be inferior to heirloom treasure swords like Ganjiang or Moye."

While lovingly stroking the treasure sword, Murong Ting remarked, "In fact, it is rumored that the military texts and treasures of the Prince Ding are concealed within the Lanyun Sword. Of course, that is not vital; what is vital is that this is a treasure sword utilized by every single generation of Prince Ding! To be capable of touching it is truly a supreme stroke of fortune. My dad will certainly be envious to death of me."

Ye Li arched her brows. It turned out that idolizing was something that existed regardless of the era. Military texts? Treasures? Was this sword truly still completely intact? West Ling ought to have dismantled it into pieces, inspecting it thoroughly from the inside out.

Mo Xiuyao cast a glance at the sword within Murong Ting’s hands, a trace of warmth flitting across the depths of his eyes as he stated serenely, "They did indeed inspect it. The sword itself did not suffer any damage."

"So?" Murong Ting forgot what manner of person stood before her eyes, widening her eyes as she awaited Mo Xiuyao to unveil the riddle.

Mo Xiuyao looked at Ye Li and laughed. "So this is simply a sword. Locating it back is naturally excellent, as it is an artifact left behind by an ancestor after all; if it could not be located back, we would simply seek out another sword-crafting master to cast another one."

"Then what about the military texts? What about the treasure?" Murong Ting inquired in disappointment.

Mo Xiuyao looked serenely at the crowd. "The Lanyun Sword was cast when the ancestor was sixteen years old, expending all the savings the ancestor possessed at that time. From where would treasures and military texts emerge?"

The crowd was left speechless. The world only remembered that the Lanyun Sword had accompanied Mo Lanyun throughout his entire life, and was also the personal sidearm that successive generations of Prince Ding never permitted to leave their persons. Thus, they surmised there must definitely be some secret contained within, yet they forgot that the Lanyun Sword was cast when Mo Lanyun was a youth. At that time, the Mo Lanyun who would be celebrated by posterity was merely a wild and unrestrained youth of a grand clan, completely incomparable to the Prince Ding who would assist his older brother to conquer the world and stabilize all four directions twenty years later. Even Minister Ye, a scholar who possessed very little understanding regarding the Lanyun Sword, could not help but feel disappointed.

"If the Lanyun Sword were truly that vital, who would carry it upon their person? And how could it possibly be lost so easily? Ah Li, I shall head back first. Shall I dispatch a few extra personnel over later?"

Ye Li nodded, receiving the Lanyun Sword from Murong Ting’s hands and tossing it to Ah Jin as she stated, "You had best carry the Lanyun Sword back to the Ding King Manor first. It is inconvenient to place it here with me." She harbored no interest in allowing others to tread her roof flat every single day.

Mo Xiuyao nodded. "That is fine as well."

Watching the Lanyun Sword vanish outside the door, Murong Ting reluctantly withdrew her gaze.

Mo Jingli stared at Ye Li suspiciously and stated, "Do you truly believe the Lanyun Sword contains no secrets?"

Ye Li nodded as a matter of course. "If I possessed military texts and treasures, I would similarly not place them within a sword." As a frequently utilized sword that required being carried upon one's person, was exceptionally famous, and furthermore, possessed a rather large volume, it was truly not a fine object to conceal secrets.

"You bunch of vulgar individuals! That is an artifact left behind by Prince Ding! An artifact..." Murong Ting resentfully despised the main hall full of vulgar individuals.