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Chapter 4 - Shadows of the Past

In the aftermath of Consort Yue's public disgrace, whispers filled every corridor of the palace. Gossip spread quickly, painting Zhen Li as both heroine and villain, cunning strategist and ruthless manipulator. She cared little for their opinions, aware that each step forward invited more danger.

Today, however, Zhen Li allowed herself a moment of quiet solitude in the Lotus Pavilion. Surrounded by fragrant blooms and the gentle murmur of flowing water, she felt momentarily shielded from the suffocating intrigues of the court.

"Lady Zhen."

Startled from her contemplation, she turned swiftly, heart quickening. Li Tianhao stood there, elegantly dressed yet visibly troubled. The sight of him ignited memories both tender and painful, forcing her heart into turmoil despite her resolve.

"Your Highness," she greeted softly, curtsying respectfully, her eyes guarded.

He stepped closer, his gaze searching hers intently. "Zhen Li, rumors abound regarding your recent actions. You have been very busy."

She smiled calmly, unruffled by his probing words. "Your Highness, I acted only to clear my name and ensure justice. Surely such motivations are understandable."

Tianhao's expression flickered with something unreadable—a shadow of doubt, perhaps. "I worry for you. The palace is dangerous, and actions have consequences."

Her eyes flashed briefly, voice cool and steady. "Consequences, Your Highness? Yes, I know them very well."

He hesitated, clearly sensing the bitterness beneath her calm exterior. "Zhen Li, tell me honestly. Do you resent our engagement? Is that why you hesitate now?"

She paused, weighing her response carefully. "I seek only certainty, Your Highness. Marriage binds families and fates. Caution is necessary."

Tianhao sighed deeply, frustration evident in his eyes. "I understand caution, Zhen Li, but do not allow suspicion to cloud your judgment entirely."

Before she could respond, the sudden arrival of hurried footsteps drew their attention. A young palace servant approached swiftly, bowing deeply.

"Your Highness, Lady Zhen, forgive the intrusion," he said breathlessly. "General Xu Wei has urgently requested Lady Zhen's presence."

Li Tianhao's brows furrowed deeply, an unreadable emotion flickering through his gaze. "General Xu Wei? Is something amiss?"

The servant nodded hastily. "It seems urgent matters have arisen concerning the southern border conflict. The General insists Lady Zhen's presence is required immediately."

Tianhao's jaw tightened imperceptibly, clearly unsettled by the unexpected summons. "Very well. Lady Zhen, it seems duty calls."

She inclined her head gracefully, swiftly excusing herself. As she walked toward Xu Wei's quarters, curiosity and anxiety knotted tightly within her chest.

Xu Wei awaited her, his expression grave as he paced within his chambers. He stopped abruptly as she entered, his intense gaze piercing directly through her.

"Lady Zhen, thank you for coming swiftly," he began without preamble. "I fear our earlier actions have had unforeseen repercussions."

Her heart skipped slightly. "Explain, General."

"The southern rebels have advanced aggressively, bolstered by mysterious support. Imperial spies report that a powerful figure within the palace may be aiding them covertly," he stated grimly.

She frowned deeply, mind racing. "Have you identified this figure yet?"

Xu Wei shook his head slowly. "Not yet. But it is clear they possess significant influence. The supplies and reinforcements your family provided have temporarily halted their advance, but without discovering the source of their internal support, this peace will not last long."

Zhen Li considered his words carefully. "General, why call for me specifically? Surely your resources exceed mine."

Xu Wei's eyes softened slightly, rare vulnerability showing briefly. "You understand palace intrigues deeply, Lady Zhen. Few could navigate this labyrinth as deftly as you. I need your insight, your cunning."

She smiled faintly, acknowledging the truth of his words. "Very well, General. Allow me some time. I shall uncover the traitor, but I require full access to your spies and informants."

"Granted," he agreed without hesitation, respect shining clearly in his gaze. "But be cautious—whoever this traitor is, they will be dangerous."

She nodded solemnly, fully aware of the risks. "Trust that I am prepared."

Leaving Xu Wei's quarters, Zhen Li set about her task immediately, subtly deploying informants and carefully listening to whispered conversations in secluded palace corners. Gradually, threads began emerging, leading toward an unexpected source.

After days of meticulous investigation, the evidence led her to the remote quarters of Prince Jing, Li Tianhao's younger brother, known for his scholarly pursuits and seemingly gentle disposition.

Confronting Prince Jing directly could be disastrous. Instead, she opted for a subtle approach, inviting him to join her for tea within the serenity of the Lotus Pavilion.

Prince Jing arrived punctually, his scholarly elegance apparent in every refined gesture. "Lady Zhen, it is rare for you to summon me. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

She poured tea gracefully, smiling softly as she spoke. "Prince Jing, you are admired widely for your wisdom. I find myself in need of guidance."

He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Speak plainly, Lady Zhen."

"Recent events trouble me greatly," she began carefully. "The palace seems rife with hidden enemies, and whispers of internal betrayal haunt my thoughts. Yet, strangely, no one seems to suspect you."

He stiffened slightly, eyes narrowing. "What are you implying, Lady Zhen?"

Her voice remained gentle yet firm. "Merely that you understand palace intrigues deeply. Perhaps you could aid in identifying these threats?"

He hesitated, scrutinizing her carefully before relaxing slowly. "Indeed, the palace is treacherous. Yet, often, threats emerge from unexpected places."

"Indeed," she echoed softly, sipping her tea delicately. "Yet I wonder—who truly benefits from turmoil at the southern borders? The rebels—or perhaps someone within the palace who desires greater power?"

Prince Jing's eyes darkened slightly, his expression becoming guarded. "Careful, Lady Zhen. Such inquiries could lead you into dangerous territory."

"Perhaps," she conceded calmly, "but silence can be equally perilous."

He smiled faintly, though the warmth did not reach his eyes. "True enough. Yet I advise caution—accusations without proof carry severe consequences."

She met his gaze squarely, allowing a brief moment of tension to linger before softening her expression. "Of course, Prince Jing. I appreciate your counsel greatly."

He rose gracefully, offering a courteous bow. "Always at your service, Lady Zhen."

As he departed, Zhen Li watched him carefully, her suspicions deepening. Prince Jing was undoubtedly hiding something significant.

Returning to her quarters, she found Xu Wei already waiting, expression tense.

"You suspect Prince Jing?" he asked immediately.

She nodded grimly. "Indeed. He remains cautious, yet subtle cues betray his involvement. We need concrete evidence before confronting him openly."

Xu Wei's gaze hardened decisively. "We shall have it soon enough. Continue your careful observation. The moment evidence emerges, we strike swiftly."

Determination surged through her heart. "Agreed."

As night fell, Zhen Li stood alone once more beneath the blossoming cherry tree, gazing thoughtfully at the moonlit sky. The path before her remained fraught with danger and uncertainty, yet she no longer feared it. With powerful allies at her side and clarity of purpose guiding her steps, she was ready to confront whatever shadows lay ahead.

The past haunted her still, yet she had grown stronger—wise enough now to face the coming storm.

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