Chapter 55 – Ancient Era: A Dance to Enchant the City—The Emperor’s Celestial Fairy (25)
Lu Feishen, the man in white, was the Martial Alliance Leader who was escorting Bai Shang home. However, this trip was not just about returning her to her family—he had fallen for Bai Shang and hoped to formally meet her parents. After all, when it came to marriage, parental consent and a matchmaker’s blessing were still ideal. He wished for their approval and blessing.
“Are they someone you know?” Lu Feishen followed Bai Shang’s gaze. With his keen eyesight as a martial artist, he caught a glimpse of Bai Tang’s profile—it bore a striking resemblance to Bai Shang, at least by four parts. Could they be family?
Although Bai Shang hadn’t seen Jiang Liangwu’s face clearly, she didn’t need to. After all, only one man in the empire could be so openly close to another man—the Emperor himself.
As she recalled her own turbulent and miserable experiences, a deep jealousy took root in her heart.
They were both children of the Bai family, yet why was Bai Tang adored by all while she had to suffer hardships?
“Yes, I know him. He’s my younger brother.” A single tear slid down Bai Shang’s delicate cheek.
A beauty crying softly, her expression saying “Don’t worry about me, it’s just my unfortunate fate,” naturally evoked even more concern—especially from a man who loved her.
Under Lu Feishen’s persistent questioning, Bai Shang wove a tale that mixed truth with lies, painting a picture of a daughter unloved by her family, forced into an arranged marriage, and left with no choice but to escape.
“Unbelievable! How could parents be so heartless? A son is their child, but isn’t a daughter one too?” Lu Feishen was furious. “Don’t worry, Shang’er—I will take care of you from now on.”
“Mm.” Bai Shang wiped away her tears, stealing one last deep glance in Bai Tang’s direction before turning away.
…
Meanwhile…
Jiang Liangwu carried the fast-asleep Bai Tang back to the palace, carefully laying him down on the bed.
Bai Tang instinctively grabbed the blanket, curling himself into a round little ball as he rolled to the farthest side of the bed, nestling against the wall in deep slumber.
Just then, Eunuch Li entered the room, speaking in hushed tones. “Your Majesty, an urgent report from the front lines.”
Jiang Liangwu lifted a hand, signaling to take the conversation to the outer hall—waking Bai Tang was absolutely out of the question.
Once outside, his gentle demeanor vanished. Without Bai Tang by his side, the cold and imposing emperor returned.
“Speak.”
“There’s movement from the Xiongnu. General Fang was ambushed, and the army is currently leaderless. Furthermore, our spies report that the deputy general seems to have suspicious ties with the Xiongnu…”
Betraying one’s country is a grave crime, no matter where.
The Yi Dynasty had only just stabilized its internal affairs, yet now it faced an external assault. If word got out that they had lost their military leadership before even engaging in battle, the empire would surely fall into chaos.
Jiang Liangwu’s expression was as dark as still water, his eyes sharp as arrows. In a low voice, he declared, “I will lead the expedition myself.”
“Your Majesty, you must not! The court cannot go even a day without its emperor!” Eunuch Li was horrified and tried to protest further, but just then, a soft, sleepy voice drifted from the inner chamber.
“Ah-Wu… Ah-Wu…”
Jiang Liangwu’s cold demeanor softened instantly. He turned to Eunuch Li and said, “No need to persuade me further.” With that, he quickly strode into the inner chamber.
Bai Tang sat on the bed, rubbing his drowsy eyes. “Ah-Wu, come to bed already.” He patted the empty space beside him, beckoning his lover over.
Jiang Liangwu removed his outer robe, and Bai Tang, as if by instinct, nuzzled into the familiar spot on Jiang Liangwu’s shoulder—it was the most comfortable place to rest his head.
After pulling the blanket over both of them, Bai Tang’s small hand absentmindedly traced over Jiang Liangwu’s abdominal muscles.
So smooth… Ah-Wu’s body is amazing. I should train too and get a nice figure… With that thought, Bai Tang drifted off to sleep again, even smacking his lips a few times in his dreams.
Jiang Liangwu gently stroked Bai Tang’s back in rhythmic motions, lost in thought—should he bring Bai Tang along to the border?
Author’s Note:
I feel guilty for always updating at midnight—it must be disturbing my little cuties’ rest. I’ll adjust the schedule and post during the daytime instead. Maybe combine two or three chapters in one update? What do you all think? (⊙x⊙;)