Chapter 1952: Confrontation

Bi Zi'ang's first reaction was to quickly send someone to inform his sister, lest the Empress catch her red-handed.

However, on second thought, he immediately abandoned the idea.

Zu'an was Linglong's trusted subordinate. Although he had become successful, there was still a master-servant bond between them.

The Empress had always tried to undermine Linglong's influence. This was the perfect opportunity to let her see for herself who Zu'an truly favored.

The Empress appointing Zu'an as Regent was indeed a very generous offer.

But how could that compare to the kindness Linglong had shown Zu'an during his humble days?

A few days prior, Bi Zi'ang had actually been somewhat jealous of Zu'an. Zu'an was merely a commoner from a provincial town, yet at a young age, he had risen to the position of marquis, even surpassing Bi Zi'ang, a well-established noble from the capital.

However, after witnessing Zu'an's cultivation grow increasingly powerful, especially his imposing demeanor that night at the Meng family's residence, he completely abandoned any thought of competition.

People are like that; when the gap isn't too wide, they might still harbor feelings of rivalry and jealousy.

But when the disparity becomes despair-inducing, the desire for comparison fades.

Instead, he was glad that Linglong had shown Zu'an such favor and trust over the years. He thought, no wonder Father often said he regretted Linglong was a daughter, otherwise she would undoubtedly be more capable than himself.

Back then, he had been quite unconvinced, but now he was completely won over. Others were only now beginning to curry favor with Zu'an; how could they compare to Linglong, who had started making her moves two years ago?

Meanwhile, after the Empress's entourage arrived at the academy's back mountain, she stepped out of her carriage, surveyed the surroundings, and remarked, "Jade Spring Mountain is indeed tranquil. Little Lü, bring a few people and follow me. Everyone else, stay here, lest we disturb the gentlemen in their studies."

There was an unspoken understanding between the royal family and the old Grand Libationer: as a sign of respect, they generally avoided going up the mountain with great fanfare, even royal family members traveled lightly.

But with the new Grand Libationer, everyone wondered if this custom would continue. Seeing the Empress show such respect, the academy disciples nearby breathed a collective sigh of relief.

It seemed the new Grand Libationer's status was higher than they had imagined; the higher his standing, the more the entire academy would benefit.

Some were whispering, "What a day it is today. First the Crown Princess, and now the Empress."

"The new Grand Libationer must be capable," another replied. "Nobles and dignitaries have been visiting him non-stop these past few days."

As the few discussed, Liu Ning raised an eyebrow. She had now recovered her Grandmaster cultivation, and although their voices were low, they did not escape her ears.

"Did you say the Crown Princess also came?"

Seeing the noble Empress before them, the two academy disciples quickly bowed. "Yes, Your Majesty," they replied.

"How long has she been here, and when did she leave?" Liu Ning asked casually.

"She arrived about an hour ago and hasn't left yet," the disciple on the left replied.

"An hour?" the one on the right said uncertainly. "I feel like it's been almost two hours."

"Two hours?" Liu Ning's tone suddenly sharpened. What could the two of them possibly be talking about for so long?

Abandoning her composed demeanor, she lifted her skirt and quickly ran towards the mountaintop.

She didn't know why, but she had a persistent sense of unease.

However, thinking of Bi Linglong's usual dignified and serious nature, she surely wouldn't be like me...

After running for a while, she suddenly paused. "My cultivation has recovered," she thought. "Why am I still running?"

With a thought, she flew directly towards the mountaintop.

Her sudden flight immediately triggered the back mountain's protective enchantments. Some guards rose into the air to intercept her, but upon seeing it was the Empress, they were all startled.

"This Empress has urgent business to see the Regent. Move aside," Liu Ning said coldly.

The guards exchanged glances. Ultimately, they dared not obstruct her; after all, her identity was undeniable. Moreover, since the Grand Libationer's cultivation was profound, they weren't worried she would cause any trouble up there.

Seeing them move aside, Liu Ning's expression eased slightly. On her way, halfway up the mountain, she also saw Bi Linglong's Eastern Palace attendants.

"Indeed, they haven't left yet," she thought with a huff.

By the lotus pond on the mountaintop, Rong Mo was listlessly teasing the fish, while occasionally glancing back at the small courtyard nearby.

She thought, "It's still not over after all this time. Zu'an's stamina is truly impressive."

"Can Young Lady's delicate body handle this?"

As she thought about it, her small face inexplicably flushed.

Since she had laid everything bare with Bi Linglong, their relationship had become even closer. This time, Linglong had even specifically brought her along to stand guard outside, which was a sign of absolute trust.

She secretly rejoiced that this mountaintop was the Grand Libationer's secluded cultivation place, where usually no idlers would approach.

"But the Crown Princess is being too reckless," she thought. "How long has it been? If she doesn't come out soon, the people from the Eastern Palace will get suspicious."

While she was anxious, she saw the Empress flying towards them from afar, which nearly scared her out of her wits.

She rushed forward to meet her, loudly proclaiming, "Your humble servant greets Your Majesty the Empress!"

Since the Empress had recovered her cultivation, her majesty had grown daily. Rong Mo knew she couldn't stop her and could only hope that Young Lady inside heard her warning and prepared herself.

Liu Ning frowned. "Worthless girl, why are you shouting so loudly?" she snapped. "Is your mistress doing something disgraceful inside?"

Rong Mo grew even more flustered. "Your Majesty, please... please don't speak nonsense!"

Liu Ning couldn't be bothered to argue with her. She flashed directly to outside the small courtyard, and without a greeting, simply pushed the door open and entered.

However, she quickly froze. There were none of the scandalous scenes she had imagined. Instead, the room was filled with the scent of sandalwood, and Bi Linglong was sitting properly opposite Zu'an, who seemed to be explaining something to her.

Sensing her sudden intrusion, both looked towards her.

"What's wrong, Your Majesty?" Zu'an asked with a smile.

"Nothing much. I had something to discuss with the Regent, so I came in a bit of a hurry," Liu Ning said, wrinkling her nose as if trying to sniff out a familiar scent in the air.

However, the room was entirely filled with the scent of that special sandalwood, making it difficult to detect anything else.

She couldn't help but cast her gaze on Bi Linglong's face. Compared to her usual jade-white skin, it seemed a little too flushed today. Could it be...?

"Your Majesty is so rash today; it doesn't seem like your usual composed self," Bi Linglong said. Secretly thinking, 'Not good,' she immediately went on the offensive.

Zu'an saw her calm expression, yet her tone was subtly barbed. He couldn't help but secretly admire her. *Women are truly natural-born actresses,* he thought. *If I hadn't known what had just happened, it would be extremely difficult to suspect anything amiss with her.*

Bi Linglong also secretly rejoiced, *Fortunately, A'zu's divine sense covered a wide enough area, detecting the Empress the moment she arrived at the academy.*

That fellow still wanted to continue messing around, but she knew the Empress's temperament too well to dare continue.

She hastily got up and put on her clothes. Fortunately, she had already combed her hair beforehand.

But even so, she still almost didn't make it; the moment before the Empress entered, she was still arranging her clothes.

Her gaze fell upon the lit sandalwood incense. *What kind of incense is this?* she thought. *Its scent is so enduring, it actually managed to cover up those messy smells.*

*Humph, it seems A'zu is quite experienced in such matters!*

"Mainly, I heard Linglong has been here for several hours and hasn't come out," Liu Ning said, half-joking, half-serious. "I was worried the Regent might be bullying you."

Bi Linglong's heart skipped a beat, but she maintained her calm. "Are you insulting me or insulting the Grand Libationer?" she asked. "He is now a highly respected figure in everyone's eyes..."

"Linglong, why are you so serious? I was just joking with you," Liu Ning interrupted, turning to Zu'an. "The Regent and I are quite close; he wouldn't mind, would he, Regent?"

"That joke isn't funny," Bi Linglong snorted, then looked skeptically at Zu'an. "How exactly are Your Majesty and the Grand Libationer 'close'?"

"Ahem, ahem," Zu'an cleared his throat, seeing the "flames of war" about to engulf him. "The Crown Princess was just consulting me about some cultivation methods, which is why it took a bit longer. Your Majesty, please don't speak carelessly; it would be bad if rumors spread."

"So that's it," Liu Ning said with a smile to Bi Linglong. "I didn't realize Linglong was still so dedicated to cultivation. Coincidentally, this Empress also recovered her cultivation recently. In the future, Linglong can visit Kunning Palace more often; this Empress can help answer your questions and clear your doubts, and avoid idle gossip outside."

"Aside from Your Majesty, I doubt anyone else would have any idle gossip," Bi Linglong said coldly. "Naturally, one should seek guidance from the strongest in cultivation."

Her unspoken meaning was clear: the Empress lacked self-awareness. *Don't you know the vast difference between yourself and Zu'an? Why would I come to you?*

Liu Ning's breath caught, and she snorted as well. "Linglong, your current cultivation seems far from the Grandmaster level, doesn't it? This Empress is more than capable of guiding you. The Regent's realm is too far beyond yours; do not aim too high and neglect the basics."

Seeing the two women's eyes meet, sparks seemed to fly in the air. Zu'an quickly interjected, "Crown Princess, too much is indigestible. I've already imparted knowledge and energy to you; you should go back and thoroughly digest and absorb it first."

Bi Linglong's face flushed. She naturally understood the implication of his words and glared at him in annoyance before getting up to take her leave.

Liu Ning and Bi Linglong had always been at odds, so she naturally didn't try to keep her. Watching her walk away, she couldn't help but murmur to herself, "Linglong's walking posture seems to be becoming more feminine now."

Fearing she might notice something, Zu'an quickly asked, "Your Majesty, what urgent matter brings you here to find me?"

Liu Ning chuckled sweetly and sat directly into his embrace. "Can't I come to see you when there's nothing wrong?" she purred.

Zu'an was a little annoyed. "But just now you said you had urgent business with me."

However, with the soft, fragrant beauty in his arms, that little bit of annoyance quickly vanished.

By the way, holding Bi Linglong and Liu Ning felt entirely different.

Bi Linglong's body was lighter and more slender, while Liu Ning was more voluptuous and full... "Ahem, ahem, what are you thinking, scoundrel!" he mentally chastised himself.

"Wasn't that just to trick that girl Linglong?" Liu Ning said. "But I did come for something this time." She took out a brocade box from her bosom and handed it to him. "Here are two million taels of silver notes. Take them for now."

Zu'an: "???"

Liu Ning smiled. "Before, I heard my subordinates say you were massively purchasing medicinal ingredients and insisted on paying others. I figured you must be refining pills, and such massive consumption must mean you're very short on money now. This is a little bit of private savings I've accumulated over the years; take it to tide you over."

Zu'an: "..."