[Grudges from this life, forces from the previous dynasty, undercurrents in the South Sea, crisis on the northern frontier, defending home and country]
Liang An laid a hand on Hu Zhi’s already-cold face. “I will protect the realm, and you must remain a member of the Liang family for all eternity. I have already left a final edict. All the Liang troops are to set out for the northern frontier and the South Sea immediately. Hu Lu has willingly given up the position of Crown Prince and will go to the northern frontier with his uncle. The seventh prince, Hu Sheng, will inherit the throne. From now on, no Liang daughter may ever marry into the imperial family!”
“For the sake of the realm,”
“I do not regret that we met so soon.”
“The master says,” the man rasped, “the ‘cargo’ from the northern frontier will reach port in three days.”
The person opposite him heard this and lightly traced a finger along the rim of the teacup. A trail of water wound like a snake. “And the imperial city…”
“Don’t worry,” the man with a blue snake hidden in his sleeve chuckled. “A ‘noble benefactor’ will be there to meet them.”
An unsigned letter appeared on the desk. When opened, it contained only a few words: The blue snake returns, storms are coming.
There may be unrest on the northern frontier. The imperial city must stay on guard!
“Defending home and country is the Liang family’s mission.”
Who, in the end, is the true mastermind moving the pieces behind the scenes?
The imperial city… the Liang residence… Fuchun Hall… the Prince of Pingcheng’s residence.
The Empress Dowager… Liang Dui… Yang Chi… Hu Heng…
