CHAPTER 496: CHAPTER 272 PRINCESS ZISHUANG’S AMBITION

A moment later, she sighed lightly and said, "Gu Sheng, you always seem to see through my thoughts. Indeed, I do desire that throne. But I also understand the difficulties and risks involved."

Gu Sheng nodded and said, "Princess, the fight for the throne has always been a storm of blood and betrayal. Once defeated, it means utter annihilation. Are you truly willing to take this risk?"

Princess Zishuang remained silent for a moment, then lifted her head, her eyes shining with unwavering resolve.

She said, "Gu Sheng, I know you are capable of helping me. If you are willing to lend me your strength, I am ready to entrust the future of Liang to us both."

Gu Sheng’s heart tightened; he knew this was the princess testing and attempting to win him over.

He took a deep breath and said solemnly, "Princess, I have little interest in power.

All I wish for is to protect the peace of this land and safeguard those I hold dear. When it comes to the struggle for the throne, I’m afraid I cannot assist."

Princess Zishuang visibly revealed a trace of disappointment upon hearing this.

Yet she quickly composed herself and smiled, saying, "Gu Sheng, you are indeed a man of principles.

So be it, let me reconsider this matter. But you remain the pillar of talent for Liang that I rely on. I hope you will stay by my side and assist me in governing this kingdom."

Gu Sheng cupped his hands and said, "Rest assured, Princess. I shall certainly do my utmost to serve Liang faithfully."

They exchanged a knowing look, as if they had reached some tacit understanding.

Yet deep within Gu Sheng’s heart, he understood that matters of the kingdom were never so straightforward.

The night was as serene as water, moonlight cascading over the courtyard, adding an air of mystery to the tranquil evening.

Gu Sheng sat side by side with Shangguan Yudie at a stone table, their shadows stretching long across the ground as if they were speaking their silent musings.

Gu Sheng took a deep breath, his gaze sharp as he looked at Shangguan Yudie, as though he wanted to peer into her soul.

He remained silent for a moment before finally speaking, "Yudie, you now hold a special place in my heart, but there are things I must clarify with you."

Shangguan Yudie’s heart tightened upon hearing this, yet she maintained her composure and gently smiled:

"Please speak freely, my lord. Yudie will answer with nothing hidden and nothing withheld."

Gu Sheng nodded slightly and said gravely, "Are you a spy sent by the princess?"

His tone carried an air of seriousness and suspicion.

Upon hearing this, Shangguan Yudie’s expression changed briefly, but she quickly regained her composure.

Looking at Gu Sheng, her gaze revealed a trace of complex emotion as she said, "If I say no, will you believe me?"

Gu Sheng did not respond, merely watching her silently, as though awaiting her answer.

Seeing this, Shangguan Yudie felt a surge of undefined emotions well up within her.

She knew that only honesty could earn Gu Sheng’s trust.

So she took a deep breath and slowly said:

"My lord, I am indeed someone from the princess’s side, but I am not a spy. I follow the princess because she saved my life. Having no other way to repay her, I can only serve her to the best of my ability."

Gu Sheng felt moved upon hearing this.

Looking into Shangguan Yudie’s clear eyes, he seemed to glimpse her sincerity and resolve.

He gently held her hand and said, "Yudie, I believe you. But you must understand that in my position, I have to be cautious at all times. I trust you will understand."

Feeling the warmth of Gu Sheng’s hand, Shangguan Yudie’s heart was filled with a gentle current.

She nodded slightly and said, "Rest assured, my lord. I will prove my loyalty through my actions."

Their gazes met, and in this moment, their hearts seemed to intertwine.

Gu Sheng gently wrapped his arm around Shangguan Yudie’s shoulder and pulled her into an embrace. Shangguan Yudie leaned into his chest, feeling his heartbeat and warmth.

Under the moonlight, the two figures clung tightly to one another, a picturesque scene.

Their hearts brimmed with hope for the future and faith in each other—this connection would become their steady anchor amid future storms.

With the smoke of the anti-Chu war dissipating, Gu Xiaojiang was elevated to the rank of Great General due to his remarkable military achievements, earning widespread renown. His thoughts turned to his hometown, and accompanied by his close friend Gu Sheng, he returned to Canghe County to visit family and bask in the glory of his triumphs, drawing a wave of joyful cheers.

Outside Gu’s Manor, the ground was paved with red carpet, drums and music resounded, and the villagers had been awaiting eagerly for some time.

Gu Xiaojiang and Gu Sheng dismounted and stepped into the manor. Instantly, the place was filled with laughter and choruses of blessings.

"General Gu, Marquis Gu, you’ve returned!"

An elderly man rushed forward in excitement, tears glistening in his eyes.

Gu Xiaojiang and Gu Sheng hurried forward to steady the old man, smiling as they said, "Uncle Li, it’s been years, and you’re still so hale and hearty."

Amid the joyous tumult, the sound of hooves broke the air, and a magnificent carriage slowly approached.

The curtain lifted, and a middle-aged man in official robes stepped down—it was none other than Magistrate Liu, who had risen to the position of Prefect of Canghai.

"General Gu, Marquis Gu, it’s been too long!" Magistrate Liu approached, cupped his hands, and greeted them with a warm smile.

Gu Xiaojiang and Gu Sheng quickly returned the gesture. Gu Xiaojiang said with a smile, "Magistrate Liu, it has been years! To see you now as Prefect of Canghai is truly commendable."

Magistrate Liu waved his hand, humbly responding, "Oh, it’s nothing at all compared to General Gu’s illustrious achievements. Seeing our heroes return today is indeed Canghai Prefecture’s great fortune."

Gu Sheng chuckled and said, "Magistrate Liu flatters us. We have only done our humble duty. This visit is primarily to see our loved ones in our homeland."

Magistrate Liu nodded and smiled, "Certainly, certainly. Gu’s Manor has produced such talents—it is truly the blessing of my entire prefecture."