Unyielding Spring Mountains - Chapter 1: Caught in the Act

The sun set behind the western mountains, crows flurried in disarray, and golden light seeped through the clouds, dyeing half the sky.

Within the palace courtyard, Wei Zhen lay half-slumped over the bedside, her clothing in disarray, slowly waking from unconsciousness.

Dappled light and shadows flickered into her eyes. She squinted slightly and saw a pool of blood before her— a man lay collapsed within it.

Blood streamed endlessly from his body, gathering into a small rivulet that trickled toward the hem of her pale blue skirt.

The lingering scent of an anesthetic drug still hung in the air. Wei Zhen held her throbbing forehead and recalled what had happened just an incense stick’s time ago—

She had accidentally killed the man before her.

Jing Ke, the sixth son of the reigning emperor.

The Empress Dowager’s birthday was approaching, and today, all the civil and military officials, along with the royal princes and grandsons, had gathered at the detached palace to celebrate in advance. Wei Zhen, having drunk too much at the banquet, stepped out alone to dispel the alcohol’s effects. She had not expected that someone had tampered with the incense in the warm chamber. The moment she entered, she felt her limbs turn weak, her vision darken, and then she lost consciousness.

By the time her awareness returned, Jing Ke was already by her side.

Half a month ago, he had intercepted her within the palace, deliberately seeking her favor. Jing Ke was infamous for his debauchery, his scandalous reputation well-known. Unwilling to entangle herself with him, Wei Zhen had merely reminded him that she was the crown prince’s fiancée.

She had thought that would be enough to deter him, yet today, at such a solemn occasion, he dared attempt such an outrage against her.

In their struggle, Wei Zhen had pulled out the hairpin from her head and stabbed it into his neck.

The air was thick with the stench of blood. The man lying on the floor was motionless, his body a bloody mess, appearing utterly lifeless.

Wei Zhen grabbed a relatively clean piece of clothing nearby to cover her exposed shoulder.

She had seen this scene in a dream before.

That dream had been strange— fragmented, without beginning or end— yet the blood-drenched images had been so vivid that she still remembered them clearly even after waking in terror.

The room’s furnishings, the man lying on the ground— all were exactly as they had been in her dream.

How could a dream turn into reality? The thought was too absurd for her to contemplate.

What mattered now was leaving this place.

Jing Ke was the youngest son of the King of Chu. Over the years, he had increasingly gained the emperor’s favor, his political influence growing so much that he could rival even the crown prince. Since early spring, the King of Chu had been gravely ill, his vitality waning. In response, he had begun making drastic shifts in his political stance. Rumors had already spread in court about replacing the crown prince and naming Jing Ke as heir instead.

If the truth about Jing Ke’s murder were exposed, the King of Chu would never let it go easily.

The drug’s effects had yet to fully fade. That overwhelming drowsiness struck once more, making her limbs weak as she nearly collapsed forward.

She steadied herself against the table, forcing herself upright, and looked toward the bronze mirror upon the dressing table.

Amidst the crimson pool of blood in the hall, a woman’s strikingly beautiful face was reflected.

Her hair was half-unbound, her clothing disheveled, and her exposed neck and shoulders were dotted with tiny blood droplets. Clear red strangulation marks were also visible.

Fatigue washed over her again. Wei Zhen’s long eyelashes trembled violently, her vision fading in and out, nearly succumbing to unconsciousness.

Before her awareness slipped away completely, she lifted her hand, pulled out the dangling hair ornament from her locks, and stabbed it fiercely into her own arm.

Pain surged instantly through her body, dispelling the fog in her mind.

Bright red blood trailed down her arm, dripping onto the dressing table with rhythmic plip-plop sounds.

She barely felt the pain. Picking up the scattered garments on the floor, she draped them over herself.

This was no time for panic. Even when solving a case, evidence and murder weapons were necessary. She had to clean up, erase all traces of her presence, and escape before anyone discovered the body.

Wei Zhen calmed herself, crouched down, and searched for the murder weapon.

She found the bloodstained hairpin and tucked it back into her sleeve. Using fabric, she wiped away the blood at her feet, straightened her clothing and hair, and swiftly made her way toward the rear hall.

The guards outside had been dismissed by Jing Ke earlier— no one was keeping watch now.

Just beyond the palace wall, footsteps approached. Palace attendants seemed to be heading this way.

Wei Zhen pushed open the side chamber’s rear door and ran out.

The sky had darkened. Ink-black clouds swallowed the heavens as torrential rain poured down.

Before long, commotion erupted from the palace halls— the body had been found. Wei Zhen dared not look back, only quickening her pace.

The Zhanghua Detached Palace was vast, with thousands of grand halls and winding corridors. A lone figure darted through the maze, rain and mud splattering against the hem of her flying skirts.

The inner garments she wore were stained with blood and couldn’t be seen by others. The outer robe, which Jing Ke had thrown aside earlier, was clean— it could be used as a disguise. She adjusted the shape of her attire and re-pinned her hair, tying it up with a simple ribbon to let it hang loosely behind her, imitating the look of an ordinary palace maid.

If someone got too close, they would surely notice something amiss, but in these circumstances, there was no other choice.

She moved through secluded paths, avoiding any approaching figures. Several times, she nearly got caught.

The further she ran, the darker it became. Heavy rain poured in sheets, mist rising all around, blurring her vision.

Reaching a rock garden, she peered through a crevice to observe ahead.

The nobles’ residential quarters were nearby— she remembered they should be just around this area.

On the main road, chaos reigned. Palace attendants scurried about, shouting frantically and pointing eastward, as if spreading some urgent news. Words like “assassin” could be vaguely heard among their cries.

By dusk, news of an assassin infiltrating the palace had already spread. Panic gripped the palace, nobles and servants alike rushing back to their quarters.

Fear swept through the crowd, throwing everything into turmoil.

Wei Zhen clenched her hand inside her sleeve, preparing to slip away amidst the disorder. But just then, sounds of a search party came from the forest behind her.

From the northeast, torches flared, slicing through the darkness.

The clanking of weapons echoed like rolling thunder as footsteps surged forward.

The noise grew closer and closer—

Rain poured relentlessly as the night wind carried the shouts of the imperial guards—

“Stop right there!”

“Everyone halt! Anyone who disobeys will be executed!”

The imperial guards stormed in, bellowing at the terrified crowd to stand still.

Someone ignored the order— the commander immediately unsheathed his sword, striding forward to strike.

A moment ago, that eunuch had still been alive. Now, he collapsed in a heap of flesh and bone, his severed head rolling to the ground, blood spurting like a fountain.

The commander wiped his blade clean, his hawk-like eyes scanning the crowd. “An assassin infiltrated the palace at dusk and remains at large. His Majesty commands us to capture the culprit at once! Anyone who hinders the search or spreads panic will be executed on the spot!”

Silence. Nobles and servants alike collapsed in fear, not daring to breathe too loudly.

The commander sheathed his sword and ordered his men to continue searching. The guards fanned out like a massive net, sweeping through the palace grounds.

Beyond the rock garden, footsteps scrambled chaotically. Wei Zhen remained hidden, watching the unfolding scene.

Suddenly, another cluster of torches appeared in the distance. A new group emerged from the end of the road.

Leading them was a man astride a tall horse, his silhouette blurred by the rain, yet his imposing figure unmistakable.

As he neared, torchlight illuminated a strikingly handsome face.

Recognizing the rider, the imperial guards halted and saluted—

“Young General.”

The soldiers conducting the search also stopped. Wei Zhen seized this moment and quickly retreated further into the rock garden.

She heard the sound of flowing water and followed it to a small pond that led outside. Lifting the hem of her skirt, she waded into the water and exited through a cave.

Meanwhile, the commander of the imperial guards bowed to the approaching man. “Young General, why have you come? I have already searched this area thoroughly and found no trace of the assassin. The rain is heavy—perhaps you should return first while I continue the search.”

The commander’s tone was unfriendly, signaling his men to follow his lead.

Yet, while he dared to act this way, the others behind him did not.

It was clear the commander did not want this newcomer interfering with the search.

The young man on horseback cast a glance over. “This is the Zhanghua Terrace Palace, under the Empress Dowager’s jurisdiction. I am here by her order to capture the assassin. Does Commander Zhuang have any objections?”

His voice carried a chill, filled with displeasure.

Amid the downpour, the young man’s presence was striking. He urged his horse forward step by step, the armor on his body gleaming coldly in the firelight.

He was tall, and even seated, he exuded an invisible pressure.

Commander Zhuang Liang looked up, meeting the young man’s deep, obsidian-like gaze.

The young man spoke. “The Zhuang family and the Qi family have long been at odds, opposing each other in court. Tonight, you have been tasked with capturing the assassin, yet you do not wish to share the merit, so you seek to drive me away. But if this delay results in failure, will you be ready to offer your head as compensation?”

As he spoke, his hand lightly rested on the hilt of his sword.

Zhuang Liang’s expression changed.

A subordinate whispered behind him, “The Qi family is powerful, Commander, do not act recklessly.”

Indeed, the Qi family’s influence was vast, and their young master was even more formidable. Despite his youth, he had already entered the battlefield, commanding troops with an undefeated record. His name alone struck fear across the northern frontier.

The three hundred thousand elite soldiers of the northern army were under the control of the Qi father and son—far beyond what the Zhuang family could contend with.

The suffocating standoff finally ended as Zhuang Liang, unable to withstand the pressure, raised a hand and said, “Young General Qi jests. The matter of the assassin is of great importance—how could I dare to claim all the credit? My earlier words were spoken in haste. I hope the General does not take them to heart.”

Zhuang Liang stepped back, bowing respectfully, his tone sincere.

The man on horseback tugged at the reins, turning his steed forward.

A cold wind swept by, and Zhuang Liang felt the sweat on his back soak through his clothes. He took a long breath before signaling his men to move on.

**

The rain raged on, dark clouds churning.

Wei Zhen rushed into the sleeping quarters and slammed the palace doors shut.

Outside, the Wei family guards called out with concern. Wei Zhen said, “Do not let any outsiders in. If the soldiers come to search, just brush them off with a few words and send them away.”

She hurried to her younger brother’s room. This was the sleeping quarters of Lord Wei. As his eldest sister and the future crown princess of Chu, the imperial guards would surely not dare to intrude recklessly upon hearing of her presence.

No sooner had she spoken than a commotion arose outside the courtyard—soldiers had arrived to conduct the search.

A deep and gruff voice rang out: “His Majesty has ordered us to search for the assassin. No one may obstruct us. Open the palace doors at once!”

The soldiers stepped over the threshold, surrounding the residence. A few of them strode toward the main hall, their footsteps drawing ever closer.

The Wei family guards stationed at the door, remembering Wei Zhen’s instructions, stepped forward to block their way.

The argument outside escalated. Wei Zhen knew she could not stall them any longer, so she rose and approached the door.

“Commander Zhuang—”

Her voice was clear and gentle, like the sound of jade fragments clinking together.

The dispute outside fell silent in an instant.

Zhuang Liang stepped onto the terrace, his hand resting on the doorframe.

In the dim candlelight, the silhouette of a graceful woman was cast against the wooden doors.

“Commander Zhuang, I had a bit too much to drink at the banquet tonight. I came out to clear my head and happened to stop by my younger brother’s quarters to retrieve something for him. No assassins have been here during this time, and the guards have been keeping watch outside. In that case, there is no need to trouble the soldiers with another search.”

Zhuang Liang lowered his voice, his tone respectful. “I am merely following orders. His Majesty has commanded a thorough search—no corner of Zhanghua Palace is to be overlooked. If I let the assassin slip away due to negligence, not even ten heads of mine would be enough to atone for the mistake.”

Wei Zhen’s fingers lightly curled against the doorframe.

She knew she had no valid reason to refuse.

“Commander Zhuang, it is not my intention to make things difficult. It is just that a rainstorm came in the evening, and after being exposed to the wind, I caught a chill. I am feeling unwell now, with a slight headache. If the soldiers come in and search for a long while, bringing in the damp air, I fear I will fall ill tomorrow and be bedridden.”

Her voice carried a faint rasp, and a low cough escaped her throat.

A hint of hesitation appeared on Zhuang Liang’s face.

After a pause, the voice from inside continued, “However, if Commander Zhuang insists on searching, then come in and search.”

She granted permission, but her tone had noticeably cooled.

Zhuang Liang stepped aside. A subordinate beside him shook his head.

The young lady of the Wei family held a noble status. She was from one of the Six Ministers of Chu, the distinguished Wei clan, and in just one month, she would be married into the Eastern Palace as the crown princess.

Now the crown princess—soon to be the queen of Chu.

How could they afford to offend her?

After weighing the consequences, Zhuang Liang spoke, “In that case, please take care of your health. I shall not intrude further.”

With that, he gestured to his men. “We’re leaving!”

Hearing the retreat outside, Wei Zhen let out a small sigh of relief. Just as she turned to leave, another voice rang out.

“Wait—”

The voice was elegant and refined, clear and striking like the collision of gold and jade.

Silence fell over the courtyard.

“Pardon the offense, Lady Wei, but this hall must be searched tonight. Otherwise, how are we to know whether an assassin has already entered and taken you hostage, forbidding anyone from coming inside?”

The torrential rain poured outside as a handsome young man dismounted from his horse.

Under the wavering moonlight, the rain pooled into luminous reflections on the ground. His figure was tall and graceful, and with an air of composure, he lightly rested his hand on the hilt of his sword as he strode towards the hall.

Countless eyes followed him. Everyone knew that the young general, Qi Yan, was on good terms with Lord Wei. If anyone dared to offend Lord Wei’s eldest sister tonight, it would be him.

The guards at the entrance hesitated. “Young General…”

Qi Yan paid them no heed and lightly tapped on the door. “Lady Wei?”

There was no response.

He knocked again, but the silence remained.

With a resounding “bang,” Qi Yan kicked the palace doors open and stepped inside alone, his sword in hand.

A frigid gust rushed into the hall, sending the plain silk curtains fluttering. No one was in sight, but a slight movement came from behind the drapes.

Wei Zhen retreated behind the veil, watching as he entered.

She had thought he would begin searching the outer hall first, but in the blink of an eye, he was already upon her.

With a flick of his sword, he lifted the curtain between them. The hilt bore intricate carvings of coiling dragons and serpents, and the blade’s sharp edge gleamed with an icy brilliance.

As the sword rotated slightly, its mirror-like surface reflected dazzling light, illuminating his strikingly handsome eyes.

When he lifted his gaze, it was as if a radiant glow burst from his pupils, leaving no room to hide.

For an instant, their eyes met. Wei Zhen instinctively turned her face away, her body shifting to conceal the bloodstains on her clothes.

Her spring robe was thin and clung to her damp skin, outlining her form. She was undoubtedly in a disheveled state.

He seemed to hesitate only for a brief moment as he lifted the curtain, before bypassing her and continuing further into the room.

Wei Zhen moved behind a folding screen, listening to the rustling sounds of the search outside. The whisper of rummaging, interwoven with the patter of rain, made for an agonizingly long wait.

Though Qi Yan and her younger brother were close friends, she was not particularly familiar with him.

As she pondered this, her eyes lowered—and she noticed a small pool of blood forming at the hem of her dress.

Bright red droplets trickled down the fabric, falling onto the polished floor tiles like blooming crimson lotuses.

Wei Zhen hastily lifted her skirt to cover the incriminating stain, but before she could move, footsteps sounded behind her.

“Lady Wei, this cabinet hasn’t been checked yet.”

A tall shadow fell beside her. The fresh scent of a man, crisp and clean, drifted toward her, shattering the fragile boundary she had maintained.

Wei Zhen had nowhere left to retreat. Her scalp tingled.

He stepped closer. She remained frozen, unable to evade in time, and the distance between them shrank in an instant.

There was a faint trace of blood in the air.

A metallic scent, laced with the lingering fragrance of her perfume, twined subtly around his robes.

Wei Zhen’s heart pounded. Just as she tried to turn away, Qi Yan suddenly grabbed her shoulder and pushed her back against the screen. Her long hair tumbled over her shoulders, and she now faced him directly.

Naturally, he saw the large, spreading bloodstains on her garments.

Wei Zhen’s lips parted slightly, as if to explain.

Qi Yan arched a slender brow, his gaze lifting to meet hers. “Lady Wei, you killed someone.”

His lazy drawl carried an undeniable edge of danger.

Wei Zhen met his clear, penetrating eyes and felt a single drop of cold sweat slide down her back, disappearing into her robes.