12th of June, Huainan Province.

Bai Su held an oil paper umbrella, followed by shadow guard Shi’er ^[1]Twelve and the chief eunuch of the temporary imperial residence as she made her way into Huainan City.

It had been raining continuously in Huainan for the past few days, so everyone had set up many small “stoves” along the streets every few steps to keep the mugwort burning despite the wet conditions. As a result, the environment that was already misty looked even more smoky with the addition of the smoke and fire.

Bai Su didn’t lie in the letter. She had avoided going out of the residence ever since she arrived. This time, after listening to Elder Sun’s assessment that the situation in Huainan was under control, she finally decided to enter the city.

She originally expected the city gate’s guards would interrogate her, but when she approached, she noticed several people standing there.

In the center was an elderly man with gray hair, standing straight despite being supported by his disciples. To his left were three people. One in an official robe, looked a little bloated, most likely an official temporarily transferred over to take over Huainan. As for the other two, one with a carefree posture, and the other was as straight as a pine tree. They were this year’s top graduates, Zhuang Yuan and Bang Yan.

On the right stood the General and his deputy stationed outside of Huainan.

After Bai Su entered the city, everyone knelt in unison, “Welcome, Miss Bai!”

In Huainan City, it was inconvenient for Bai Su to come with her real identity, so they called her ‘Miss Bai’.

Elder Sun was not the only one. As Bai Su followed them back to the yamen, groups of two or three commoners opened their doors and bowed to her through their courtyard gate.

Only then did she know that under Elder Sun’s persistent efforts, every household in Huainan knew that of a miraculous ‘Miss Bai’. Not only did she preside over the pandemic, but she also contributed many methods to prevent the pandemic. Even the medicinal prescription was formulated under her guidance.

Along the way, Lin Qing and Old Sun explained the situations of some families.

“In this family, the husband came into contact with the infected person, so we isolated him alone at home and had the disciples check on him regularly. They’re a family of four and live together in this house. So, we relocated his wife, child, and an eighty-year-old mother to live elsewhere. The husband fell ill two days later, but now has fully recovered, and the family has moved back. Two days ago, they were so grateful that they wanted to kowtow to us, saying that without the government, their whole family would have been buried.”

“This household’s child accidentally came into contact with things outside, so we taught them what to pay attention to on a daily basis and let them take care of their child at home. The three of them were confined to their small courtyard and were not allowed to go out. Later, the child didn’t survive, but the couple didn’t contract the disease and are very grateful to us. Sigh … Although we’ve achieved great success in controlling this plague, many people have died as well.”

Bai Su listened to the stories one by one. Some were good, and some were bad. Some people survived, while others unfortunately passed away.

Bai Su listened attentively and nodded at the people who opened the door to greet her. Occasionally, she would return a slight curtsy.

“Surviving this calamity is a blessing, but we also have to pay attention to the follow-up matters of the people. If the family loses its pillar of support and has no food to eat, we should provide something they can do and give them a job to fill their stomachs. Women, being physically weaker, can’t do much farm work, but we offer them jobs like bookkeeping or cleaning. This should be a joint effort between the government and local businesses. In many areas of Datong, women do not typically work outside the home. After this epidemic, if families have lost their men, how will they survive? From a long-term perspective, this approach is necessary.”

As soon as she finished speaking, everyone immediately looked at the only local official with a rank here.

That person nodded repeatedly, “Yes, this official will do it right away!”

Bai Su nodded slightly and talked about other things, “Not only their livelihoods but also their emotional well-being needs attention. Some people suddenly lose their loved ones and may not be able to think straight. These need someone to enlighten them.”

“Enlighten …? How? Should we have them recite scriptures and listen to sermons from the abbots outside the city? Please guide us, Your … Miss Bai.”

Only then did Bai Su remember that although there were no psychologists in ancient times, there were some people with similar roles, monks in the temple and nuns in the nunnery. Of course, some literary figures could also help, but these people were not so easy to invite.

Therefore, she only pondered for a moment before coming up with a plan, “Every three days or so, invite respected monks and nuns to come over. Set up a small pavilion or private area where people can seek counseling if needed.”

“Yes, this official will arrange it today.”

With these instructions given, they arrived at the yamen.

The accompanying officials dispersed, leaving only Elder Sun and Lin Qing with Bai Su.

Bai Su personally poured tea for the two of them, then spoke softly, “The pandemic this time was contained thanks to your efforts. On behalf of His Majesty in Shengjing and the people of Huainan and all of Datong, this consort extends her gratitude.”

Elder Sun hurriedly took the teacup, “Your Highness is too kind. This old man merely doing his duty.”

Lin Qing, on the other hand, was completely stunned, only recovering after Elder Sun finished speaking, bowing his head, “This official is also doing his duty.”

“This consort met with you this time because there are two things to discuss with you. Both of you are trusted by His Majesty, so this consort will not hide anything. In the capital, His Majesty is in the early stages of restoring power. The recent corruption case and pandemic control in Huainan are credits to His Majesty for the people … Although the situation in Huainan has been settled, we must remain vigilant. Anyone who comes and goes to Huainan must be strictly interrogated and not be used by people with ulterior motives.”

At this point, the two people’s expressions turned serious.

“Your Highness means …”

“This consort fears some black-hearted people, to take credit for curing the plague, will deliberately reignite the pandemic that was already under control in Huainan and even expand the scope. Creating problems only to solve them and steal the glory.”

As her voice fell, The two exchanged complex glances.

Of the two of them, one relied on the title of a divine doctor to smoothly and magnanimously reach the ranks as a revered physician in Imperial Hospital, but later retired early to enjoy the rest of his life. The other had only joined the imperial court, but still carried a scholarly air. Naturally, he had never come into contact with such sinister tactics.

Seeing their tense expressions, Bai Su smiled reassuringly, “This is only this consort’s hypothesis. It might not really happen, so there’s no need to worry for the time being. But one should never intend to harm others, and should always guard against the harm others might do to him … There will always be bad people in this world, without scruples or conscience. Especially now, with the court’s power struggles, it’s important to be prepared.”

Lin Qing quickly placed his hands on his chest and bowed, “This student understands.”

Elder Sun also hurriedly replied, “Alright. I will also inform the general to stay vigilant.”

“Mm, thank you for your hard work.”

–

The conversation didn’t last long. After covering all necessary points, Bai Su asked to speak with Lin Qing alone and sent Elder Sun out.

With the elder gone, only Bai Su and Lin Qing were left in the room. Just now, there was a third person present, so it wasn’t obvious. Now that only the two of them, the atmosphere instantly became awkward.

Bai Su was the first to speak, dispelling all the subtleties, “Official Lin has changed a lot compared to before.”

She said “Official Lin” and not “you”. Her tone was also light and casual. Compared to “old lover”, her tone was more like that of a superior who had a clear hierarchy and was expressing condolences to a subordinate.

It was also this sentence that snapped the Zhuang Yuan immediately back to reality and hurriedly, respectfully replied, “Yes. The last time this student saw Your Highness and His Majesty was at the banquet in the Prime Minister’s residence. Your Highness’ words then enlightened this student and I thought about it a lot after returned.”

“The person has passed away, please accept my condolences.”

Bai Su knew it was too cruel to say such words while wearing the face that the other party yearned for day and night.

However, harsh truths were necessary to dispel any fantasies the youth had about her … and then he would truly believe that the person he loved was truly gone.

Lin Qing understood this point as well.

After a long time, he finally said with difficulty, “Thank you, Your Highness, for your consolation.”

Bai Su nodded, then moved on to the main topic, “I also have some things to discuss. Currently, the situation in the court seems to be a struggle between His Majesty and the Regent, with Minister Bai allied with the Regent, but in reality, it is still a game between the three parties. His Majesty and this consort intend to pull Minister Bai to our side and break his alliance with the Regent.”

“Like how Qin conquered the six states?”

Bai Su nodded in appreciation, “Like how Qin conquered the six states.”

When Qin unified the six states, it initially instigated a war between Yan and Zhao. Then, under the pretext of aiding Yan, they attacked Zhao together, eventually leading to Zhao’s downfall.

They’re also using a similar strategy this time.

“Are you planning to take down Prime Minister Bai as well after defeating the Regent?” Lin Qing asks.

The woman shakes her head, “Both Prime Minister Bai and the Regent hold significant power, and their influence in the court is also complicated. If the two are forcibly brought to justice, it will inevitably cause turmoil in the court. The enemy countries have always been waiting for an opportunity and might take advantage of our internal dispute. This could lead to great chaos in our country. This is also what I want to tell you. His Majesty intends not to deal with Minister Bai for the time being after this power struggle.”

As soon as those words came out of her mouth … Caused the composed person just a moment ago to waver.

The distinguished scholar of the court, usually so poised, could hardly hold his teacup steady at this moment.

Looking at her in disbelief, “Not … punished? Bai Yanyuan, doesn’t he deserve to die? Even a vicious tiger won’t eat its own cubs, but Bai Yanyuan forced his own daughter to death, doesn’t he deserve to die?”

But the woman just looked at him quietly, her long eyelashes didn’t even tremble as she spat out two words, “He does.”

Lin Qing was even more perplexed.

“Susu … Your Highness. This student won’t talk personal grievances with you, after all, those are my personal grudges. But considering Prime Minister Bai’s years as an official in Datong, hasn’t he made any mistakes? As the prime minister of the country, have you and His Majesty not considered what he has done? A wise ruler must employ virtuous and capable officials. I believe that at the very least, they should have the moral integrity to match their positions. People like Elder Sun, who assists the weak and upholds justice, or Lord Zheng of the Hanlin Academy, who is kind and honest—only such people are worthy of such high positions, right? This student doesn’t understand, Prime Minister Bai holds such an important position and even aims to rise to glory in the future, what is he relying on? Isn’t His Majesty a wise king and benevolent ruler, always thinking for his people? Didn’t he have the corrupt officials in Huainan executed and hung on the city walls to console the people? Why would he allow a great villain like Bai Yanyuan to remain in such a significant position in the court?!”

Indeed, he was worthy of being the top scholar in the imperial court. His words were forceful and resonant, each sentence striking with weight.

Facing such questions was indeed challenging. It was like that classic phrase ‘Someone stabbed you, and before you’ve even wiped the blood off, others urge you to be magnanimous’.

In fact, she had discussed this with Duan Changchuan before. Using benefits to win over Bai Xiang, the best strategy was to recruit him for their own use … just like the late emperor’s plan when he was on his deathbed.

Otherwise, if a rebellion arose, it would be the common people who suffered the most.

That day, the young man was deeply worried and said, “I don’t know how to explain this to Lin Qing.”

Lin Qing was this time’s top scholar. He was exceptionally talented and upright. Given time, he would definitely become the pillar of the imperial court. Duan Changchuan feared that such a decision would dishearten Lin Qing’s heart.

However, Bai Su couldn’t bear to leave such a difficult task to the young man, so she took the initiative and told Lin Qing first.

The woman who had been sitting upright sighed softly, “Lin Qing, Bai Yanyuan is indeed a great villain, but he and the Regent have been operating in the court for many years. If we uproot them entirely, it would destabilize the nation’s foundation. Rebellions would arise, and many common people would suffer. His Majesty does not intend for Bai Yanyuan to remain as Prime Minister indefinitely. This is a temporary compromise. There are very few capable people under His Majesty who can take on such heavy responsibilities. Once we have cultivated someone suitable, we will replace him.”

After saying that, she looked deeply into the youth’s eyes and said word by word, “In fact, That capable person could even be you. Both the emperor and I have read your essays; you have the talent to govern. Why not give it a try?”

The youth was silent.

After a long time, he finally spoke in a low and hoarse voice, “This student is just unwilling to accept such an evil person can enjoy wealth and comfort life until his old age …”

“I can promise you if you have the ability to dig up his past crimes in the future, His Majesty and I will not stop you from punishing him for any crimes. This is my promise to you as the Empress. Lin Qing, I believe you have the ability and can personally bring justice to your enemy. You should also believe in yourself. Prime Minister Bai will never enjoy a luxurious life until his old age.”

At this point, the plain-clothed scholar finally stood up and bowed deeply to her.

“Thank you, Your Highness, for your guidance, and thank His Majesty for his appreciation. Lin Qing will not disappoint His Majesty.”

“It’s good that you have thought it through.”

By the time the two finished their discussion, it was still raining outside.

Holding an oil paper umbrella, the woman left step by step under the pitter-patter of the rain.

The servant beside her respectfully escorted her into the carriage, “Your Highness, please be careful.”

However, Bai Su suddenly stopped in her tracks and turned around, looking at the youth following her.

“Lin Qing, I shouldn’t say much about the matter between you and her. But I still want to tell you one thing. She said, ‘Rather than seeing you again when she’s already somebody’s wife … it’s better to never see you again in this life. That way, she can still love you until death’. Perhaps this is the last thing she could leave for you.”

“Zhuang Yuan, please accept my condolences.”