I’ve read the three cases described in the Thirty-Six Stratagems’ ‘Beauty Trap’—the one about the beauty from the Snow Country earning merit, Wang Yun presenting Diao Chan, and Hong Chengchou being taken in by the ploy. I originally intended to skip the third story to avoid setting a poor example for Ma Xiaoda, but then I thought: in a world where their weaponry is primitive, and they lack absolute military or economic advantage, victory hinges entirely on whose cunning is superior. Deception, intrigue, and even the sacrifice of loved ones become necessities; otherwise, they are destined to become slaves to others. Those who achieve greatness disregard trivialities. Whether Ma Xiaoda can manage such ruthlessness is beyond my control, but personally, I’d rather win the beauty than wear the green hat like the Qing Emperor Taizong. Of course, Hong Chengchou’s story is likely apocryphal; I am merely telling tales, not researching history, so that point needn't be dwelt upon.

“You men are so despicable!” This was the Sixteenth Princess Ma Xiaorui’s immediate reaction upon hearing the three stories. Though her voice was soft, it was clear and distinct enough for the five people in the study to hear perfectly.

Ma Xiaowei, while frowning in distaste for the stories, still defended her younger sister’s frankness: “Xiaorui, it’s just a story, why take it so seriously? Don’t anger Father Emperor and your Imperial Brother.”

Ma Xiaorui stuck out her tongue. Hadn’t her single utterance of ‘men’ also included the Emperor and the Crown Prince?

Ma Da remarked, “Intrigue is the true face of politics, but using one’s own Empress to subdue an enemy, as Scholar Zhao described, is certainly not the act of a wise ruler.”

I replied, “Your Majesty speaks rightly, which is why the Qing Dynasty ultimately fell. However, the principle I intend to convey is that those who seek success must be unscrupulous. The ‘Beauty Trap’ is merely an application aimed at the opponent’s weakness. If the enemy’s army is strong, attack the general; if the general is wise, attack his emotions. When the general loses spirit and the troops morale sinks, the enemy force will naturally wither. Utilize the enemy’s weakness to secure oneself and preserve the situation. This passage means if the enemy forces are powerful, one must strike at their commanding officers; if the enemy officers are resourceful, one must shatter their resolve. When the enemy general’s fighting spirit wanes and the soldiers’ morale drops, the army's combat effectiveness dissolves. By exploiting the enemy’s vulnerabilities for control and division, one can preserve oneself and turn the tide.”

Ma Da nodded slightly. “There is truth in that. When two nations clash, one misstep means the lives of countless subjects. What is one Empress to risk for that? Sometimes, as a sovereign, one must make decisions unimaginable to ordinary people. Do you comprehend this, Xiaoda?”

Ma Xiaoda’s eyes darted around shrewdly. “Father Emperor, I understand. Governing a nation and subduing an enemy state is no trifling matter. Sometimes, out of necessity, even the most cunning, shameless, or desperate measures must be taken by a ruler.”

Ma Da sighed. “Yet, Father Emperor prefers not to see you resort to such means unless absolutely unavoidable. You possess a kind nature, but if the state faces peril, extraordinary measures may be necessary. Scholar Zhao’s intent in this stratagem wasn't solely about the beauty. The method of weakening the general and demoralizing the troops is not exclusive to the beauty ploy; it depends on how you interpret this strategy.”

Ma Xiaowei nodded slightly at Ma Da’s words. Ma Xiaorui interjected, “Father Emperor, the stories you tell about the ‘Beauty Trap’ are much better! This Scholar Zhao is morally corrupt; I suggest we expel him from the inner city. It’s a disgrace that the palace servants were praising his supposed cleverness in outwitting the Three Scholars yesterday; it turns out he’s all smoke and no fire.”

Little girl, I speak my mind on the ‘Beauty Trap’; what business is it of yours? I didn't invite you to listen. Do you imagine war and politics are gentle matters? There are countless secrets hidden beneath the surface.

Ma Da admonished his daughter, “Xiaorui, be respectful! What Scholar Zhao says is profoundly true. The hardships of a ruler extend beyond the loss of an Empress. This Thirty-Six Stratagems must be a compilation gathered from the wisdom of emperors across generations; every word is a pearl of wisdom, truly the ultimate in military strategy. I am fortunate to have secured a talent like Scholar Zhao; it is a blessing for the court.”

I was uninterested in the little girl and equally unimpressed by Ma Da’s praise. Instead, I seized the opportunity to bring up the relocation of the Imperial Stables and the establishment of the Horse Guard. “Your Majesty, your humble servant has another matter to report.”

Ma Da said, “Speak.”

I began, “It concerns the Imperial Stables…”

Ma Da interrupted me, “The Crown Prince already informed me about the Imperial Stables earlier. The idea is excellent, but it requires discussion in the court assembly. I will reply to you then.”

So, Ma Xiaoda had already mentioned it. That settles it; I don't need to press further. I continued, “Your Majesty, incidentally, the Crown Prince’s lessons for today are concluded. Your humble servant wishes to visit Princess Xu Chen on the way and test a treatment method I devised these past few days.”

Ma Da nodded. “That is very good. Scholar Zhao, as the Imperial Physician, the welfare of Princess Xu Chen is entrusted to you.”

The matter of Princess Xu Chen was something even the Sixteenth Princess Ma Xiaorui—known throughout the palace as the little loudspeaker—had not known about. Now that Ma Da revealed it, Ma Xiaorui insisted on seeing this adopted elder sister, dragging Ma Xiaowei along as well. Ma Xiaoda agreed, “Very well, let’s go together. I also need to pay my respects to this adopted sister.”

I was planning to have a rendezvous with Xu Chen, so why did this entire entourage have to tag along? But a man must bow his head when under another’s roof. This was the territory of the Ma family; I had no say where they wished to go. It was quite irritating that I had to seek permission just to see my own wife.

Just as I stepped out of the Imperial Study, Ma Da suddenly called out again, “My loyal subject Zhao, handle the matter of the Imperial Stables as you see fit for now. The court… the court is currently facing difficulties, but I grant my preliminary approval.”

I didn’t fully grasp what Ma Da meant, but I turned back and bowed formally. “Your servant obeys the decree.”

Leaving the Imperial Study, Ma Xiaoda excitedly exclaimed to me, “Zhao Qian, Father Emperor has approved our establishment of the Horse Guard!”

I asked, “What does that mean? I didn't quite follow what he said.”

Ma Xiaoda explained, “That’s just how Father Emperor is. He’s always hesitant about everything, making everything sound mysterious even when agreeing to something. Oh, I forgot to tell you, establishing a Horse Guard requires approval from the court. Otherwise, raising troops privately carries the suspicion of rebellion. Now that Father Emperor has given his verbal consent, we can proceed ahead of time. We’ll figure out the land selection and funding later; solutions will always emerge.”

So that was the situation. “Very well. I’ve already sent men out to select land outside the city. As for the funding, if necessary, I can start practicing medicine publicly for a while and earn a few thousand iron coins to tide us over.”

Ma Xiaoda cheered, “Yes! Why did I forget about your skills? Earning money must be a trifle for you! Hmph, Father Emperor constantly cries poverty and won't give us money, so we’ll find our own way.”

Ma Xiaorui caught up from behind, “Hey, what are you two whispering about so secretively?”

Ma Xiaoda waved her off. “Go on, go on. Children shouldn't meddle in adult affairs.”

Ma Xiaorui ignored him and grabbed the Crown Prince’s ear. “What did you say, Ma Xiaoda? Who’s a child?”

Ma Xiaoda quickly shielded his ears. “Ouch, I was wrong, I was wrong! You are my sister, I am the child.”

Ma Xiaowei hurried forward, “Xiaorui! Have some manners. Imperial Brother is the Crown Prince; what kind of decorum is that?”

When entering the study earlier, I had glanced at Ma Xiaowei a couple of extra times, and then I told a story that shouldn't have been told, resulting in these two sisters bearing no goodwill toward me. Now that the two beautiful girls stood before me, I deliberately treated them as if they were air. I have plenty of wives at home; no matter how beautiful they are, I won't be tempted.

Ma Xiaorui reluctantly let go of Ma Xiaoda, mumbling, “What about the Crown Prince? He’s my younger brother too.” She glanced at me, ignoring them coldly, and suddenly said, “Hey, you! Why didn't you kneel before my father Emperor and the Crown Prince just now? And why did you tell the Crown Prince such indecent things? For an Empress to instruct her subject to commit adultery—is that even possible? It insults royal decorum! I say he should be executed.”

I absolutely refuse to believe Ma Xiaoda is not Ma Da’s biological son, but I am absolutely convinced that Ma Xiaorui is not Ma Da’s biological daughter. She’s wilder than a feral girl. However, since the Princess addressed me, I couldn't pretend not to hear.

“Replying to the Sixteenth Princess, in my homeland, we do not practice the custom of kneeling. I ask for the understanding of the Crown Prince and the Princess.”

Ma Xiaoda, having heard many stories about Earth from me, and having previously discussed modern civilization to justify my avoidance of the kowtow, covered for me: “Yes, Sixteenth Sister, Scholar Zhao’s true home is very, very far from here. He is following his local custom, which is acceptable. I will find an opportunity to explain this to Father Emperor so he doesn't become angry.”

Ma Xiaorui remained unconvinced. “Doesn't he understand conforming to local customs? I say chop off his head.”

This little girl will pay for this sooner or later. Ma Xiaoda’s face darkened. “Uh… Am I the Crown Prince, or are you the Crown Prince?”

Seeing her brother genuinely angry, Ma Xiaorui dared not cause further trouble. She could bully this brother however she liked when he was in West City, but since he turned ten and gained authority in East City, his prestige grew daily. A little mischief was usually fine, but if he adopted the stern demeanor of the Crown Prince, Ma Xiaorui dared not play around.

Ma Xiaoda, having subdued his unruly sister, paid her no more mind, pulling me along in front. “Zhao Qian, let’s start planning. First, we need to recruit soldiers, and we must make full use of those eighty-one Imperial Horses. I suggest we first form a cavalry unit.”

I replied, “It’s not impossible, but there aren't many people here who can ride, and even fewer who are skilled horsemen. In short, don't imagine things are too simple.”

We happened to pass a guard camp of the Central Guard. Seeing the soldiers uniformly equipped, Ma Xiaoda swallowed nervously and whispered to me, “I’m envious now. These soldiers are called the Royal Guards, but in reality, I can't command them. We agreed beforehand: you must assign me at least a General's rank in your Horse Guard, or I won't participate.”

I laughed. “His Highness the Crown Prince jokes too much. Forget General; you should be the Commander-in-Chief! Have you forgotten my true mission? I only ask that you help me find the people. I will help you raise the troops to slaughter… to deal with that old thief. We cooperate perfectly until the people are found, and then I leave.”

Ma Xiaoda grew anxious. “Don't leave! Without you, I have no direction. By the way, what is a Commander-in-Chief? How about you be the Left Commander and I be the Right Commander? We brothers can charge into battle together.”

I vetoed that. “No. Charging into the fray is the duty of the soldiers. A true commander preserves his own life to lead the army. Otherwise, even the most formidable unit will collapse when its leader falls.”

Ma Xiaoda rubbed his hands together. “So profound, so profound! Being by your side, Scholar Zhao, is truly beneficial—much more interesting than listening to those old men recite dusty texts.”

“Your servant Zhang Guan pays respects to His Highness the Crown Prince and Her Highness the Princesses,” a voice called out from behind as someone caught up and formally bowed.

I turned around and saw that young man indeed. He was carrying a birdcage with two personal guards, also heading in the direction of Princess Xu Chen’s chambers.

“Rise,” the three royal siblings said. “General Zhang, where are you going?”

Zhang Guan replied, “Replying to His Highness the Crown Prince, this humble servant is going to see Princess Xu Chen. Recently, Princess Xu Chen has been melancholic. I captured a spirit bird outside the city that can speak human words. I plan to present it to Princess Xu Chen to lift her spirits.”

Ma Xiaorui, who had been quiet for less than three minutes, immediately widened her eyes upon hearing about a bird that spoke human language. “What? A bird speaks human language? Hurry, make it speak for me!”

Zhang Guan instantly regretted opening his mouth. Why did he have to run into the playful and mischievous Sixteenth Princess? And why was she so favored by the Emperor? Why did he have to blurt out something he shouldn’t have? Presenting this talking bird to an adopted princess instead of the Sixteenth Princess—wasn’t that just asking for trouble?

Zhang Guan made a swift decision and presented the birdcage forward. “Since the Sixteenth Princess fancies it, this servant shall present it to the Sixteenth Princess.”

Ma Xiaorui paused, then laughed heartily. “You servant are quite clever. But since it’s already decided for my unseen elder sister, never mind. One does not snatch a beauty from another’s love. Let’s go in together, listen a bit, and enjoy the novelty.”

One does not snatch a beauty from another’s love? I scoffed inwardly. I had to admit, the little girl had the potential for beauty. Grown up, she wouldn't be inferior to her quiet and delicate sister, Ma Xiaowei. While Ma Xiaowei possessed the charm of a mature maiden compared to Ma Xiaorui, when truly compared to Xu Chen, her mature allure fell far short. However, her bosom was significantly fuller than Xu Chen's. If the two could somehow merge into one, that would be perfection.

Fearing the two princesses would level further charges of lechery against me, I quickly averted my gaze. The critical issue here was Zhang Guan. Setting aside whether this fellow belonged to the Pang Faction, he was currently my romantic rival, requiring cautious and serious attention.

A eunuch had already rushed ahead to Princess Xu Chen’s chambers. The Crown Prince’s visit was no small matter. Although Xu Chen didn’t fully grasp court etiquette, her palace maids certainly did. Thus, Xu Chen came out to greet them at the entrance of her quarters.

After exchanging formal greetings, Ma Xiaoda seemed slightly embarrassed. “Elder Sister, it’s not that your younger brother failed to pay respects promptly, but Father Emperor only informed us of your situation today. Please forgive your brother, Elder Sister.”

Ma Xiaoda showed great respect to Xu Chen primarily because of the power behind her, but Xu Chen was unaware of this fact. She had learned some basic court rules from her maids, so the Crown Prince’s extreme courtesy surprised her.

“My Imperial Brother is too kind; it is I who should be paying respects to the Crown Prince. However, Father Emperor commanded that I must not leave the palace until my memory returns, to prevent any further incidents.”

Ma Xiaorui chimed in, “Oh, right! Didn't Scholar Zhao also take up the post of Imperial Physician? And he is here today under Imperial command to treat Elder Sister. Let us witness the skills of this so-called peerless genius.”

Zhang Guan quickly interrupted, “Sixteenth Princess, might this humble servant present this spirit bird first?”

Ma Xiaorui slapped her head. “Oh, that fellow made me forget! Hurry and demonstrate for everyone—how does the bird talk?”

I had already realized Zhang Guan was holding a parrot. Judging by the species characteristics from Earth, a talking parrot is hardly strange. Perhaps the level of civilization here is relatively primitive, making such a bird rare and hard to capture, hence the novelty.

Zhang Guan stepped forward with the cage and presented it to Xu Chen. Seeing it was merely a bird and not gold or silver, Xu Chen accepted it gladly. “Thank you, Elder Brother Zhang. I am truly grateful for your companionship during this time; otherwise, I don’t know how I would have endured it. You… you have been too kind to me.”

Zhang Guan was overwhelmed with flattered surprise. “Princess, this is what your subordinate should do. I would die without regret for you.”

Ma Xiaorui babbled ceaselessly, “You two being so intimate is nauseatingly sweet. Since you have affection and I have goodwill, why not ask Father Emperor to decree your marriage? Elder Sister Xu Chen is long past the age for marriage, and General Zhang is heroic and wise…”

“Scholar Zhao, Scholar Zhao, why are you crying?” Ma Xiaoda patted my shoulder. I wiped my eyes. “It’s nothing, just a minor ailment in my eyes.”

Ma Xiaoda, seeing his elder sister, who was two years his senior, still chattering on, became furious. “Ma Xiaorui, shut up!”

This Crown Prince brother had never scolded her so severely. Ma Xiaorui was terrified into tears, stopping the matchmaking words she intended to say. Ma Xiaowei admonished her sister, “Royal marriages are not a matter for child’s play, Xiaorui. Do not anger your Imperial Brother again.”

Zhang Guan also understood that securing an Imperial marriage decree was no simple feat; otherwise, he wouldn’t have settled for this alternative. He might not win the Emperor’s biological daughter, but surely he could win the Emperor’s adopted daughter? Furthermore, what Zhang Guan truly desired was the person, not her status. He genuinely liked Princess Xu Chen. Ever since he was ordered by the Emperor to find her, he had fallen for her in his heart. Ma Xiaorui’s words now made him ecstatic; he wished he could bow twice to the Sixteenth Princess in gratitude.

Ma Xiaoda quickly grasped the reason for my distress. I had shown him photos of the eight people I was looking for, and he had witnessed my intimacy with the three women during our stay in Hulucun. Seeing me in this state, he knew my relationship with this adopted sister was far from ordinary. How could Ma Xiaorui’s flippant match-making during Xu Chen’s amnesia not wound me?

Ma Xiaoda glared resentfully at Ma Xiaorui. Ma Xiaorui, consoled by Ma Xiaowei, saw her brother’s fierce glare and was on the verge of tears again. Zhang Guan, seeing this, hurriedly took out some birdseed to tempt the parrot. As expected, it squawked cheerfully twice: ‘Hello, hello!’ This delighted Ma Xiaorui and Ma Xiaowei, who stared in awe. Ma Xiaorui snatched the birdseed to feed the parrot and quickly forgot her earlier displeasure.

Zhang Guan wiped the sweat from his brow. They say accompanying a ruler is like accompanying a tiger; it’s true. Fortunately, those words hadn't come from his mouth. If he had proposed the marriage to the Emperor himself, who knew what the reaction would have been? Better to have his father ask Grand Tutor Pang to intervene. With him speaking, even if the Emperor was unwilling, he wouldn't shout him down.

Ma Xiaorui’s remarks had also made Xu Chen deeply uncomfortable. While she was grateful to Zhang Guan, she had never considered marrying him. She felt she must belong to another world; why then were the memories of that other world so vague? When would she ever know her true self?

Despite her confusion, Xu Chen was delighted by the bird that spoke human language. But seeing Ma Xiaorui beside her practically bugging her eyes out, and remembering that the princess had been scolded by the Crown Prince for her sake, Xu Chen had a sudden idea. She carried the birdcage to Ma Xiaorui. “Imperial Sister, I am older now and shouldn’t play with toys like this. I’ll transfer it to you.”

“Really… truly? You… you can bear to part with it?” Ma Xiaorui sounded disbelieving but eagerly took the cage, clutching it tightly as if afraid someone might snatch it back.

Xu Chen smiled. “Why shouldn't I? It’s just a bird. Besides, I am merely lending flowers to present to the Buddha. Having met both Imperial Sisters today, I should be offering gifts, but…”

Ma Xiaorui interrupted, “No need, no need. This bird is wonderful! My Fifteenth Sister and I thank you first.”

Ma Xiaowei realized this adopted sister might not have any personal possessions to give. She unclasped a strangely shimmering jewel from her waist. “Elder Sister, then let us give you a jewel in return. This was bestowed upon this humble sister by Father Emperor; I now pass it on to you.”

While the young ladies were exchanging gifts, Ma Xiaoda grew impatient. “I say, sisters, Scholar Zhao is here to treat an illness, not to watch you exchange New Year’s greetings and red envelopes.”

Ma Xiaoda’s reminder brought everyone back to the main objective, and they remembered the Imperial Physician standing forgotten in the corner, wearing an expression of pure grievance. He looked gloomier than an overcast sky, as if he had just been kicked.

Xu Chen assumed her illness had worsened and asked with concern, “Imperial Physician Zhao, is my amnesia still treatable?”

Regardless of Zhang Guan, I knew this wasn't Xu Chen’s fault. Since she no longer remembered me, she wouldn't spare a glance for Zhang Guan, even if he captured the entire flock of birds. My Xu Chen would never be fickle toward me.

I composed myself and restored my expression. “Replying to Her Highness the Princess, that is difficult to say. It can only be confirmed after an examination.”

“Oh, an examination? Then please proceed with your treatment, Imperial Physician Zhao,” Xu Chen said, seeing a glimmer of hope.

I glanced at the assembled company. “I have a rule when treating illnesses: the environment must be quiet, and no one should be allowed to disturb the procedure.”

Ma Xiaoda was exceedingly sharp. "No problem. We’ll wait outside; I’m not interested in this healing business anyway."

Ma Xiaorui was a bit unwilling, sighing at me, "I don't know why you’re always so much. We wanted to see if you actually have any skill. Don't tell me you're afraid we’ll expose your ghost tricks right in front of you."

Fearing her younger sister would further upset her younger brother, Ma Xiaowei pulled Ma Xiaorui out before she could finish speaking. Zhang Guan, though reluctant to leave, dared not stop the Crown Prince, so he followed them out as well.

Seeing only the two of us left in the room, Xu Chen turned to me and asked, "I don't know what miraculous method you, Imperial Physician Zhao, possess, but please do your utmost to help me. That kind of pain of losing oneself is truly not something one can speak of to outsiders."

I thought to myself, Chenchen, you are in pain, but I am in greater pain! If I were to call you heartless and fickle, this situation wasn't your doing, but you expressed affection for another man right in front of your husband—how can I bear that? I want to tell you the truth, but would you believe it? If you don't believe my words now, how will I ever gain your trust later? If you lose faith in me, will you ever return to my embrace?

I offered a wry smile and refrained from explaining everything to Xu Chen. From my sleeve, I produced the tow-rope drawing I had labored over all night and handed it to her. "Your Highness the Princess, please look at this painting carefully. You must examine it with all your heart and mind. Everything now hinges on this."

Treating an illness with a painting was unheard of. Xu Chen accepted the drawing, bewildered. She placed it on the table and unfolded it. "Hmm, why is this young woman so familiar? Haha, isn't this tow-rope puller Imperial Physician Zhao? What—what does this mean? Treating illness with a picture—Imperial Physician Zhao must be the first person to attempt such a feat!"

The crucial moment had arrived. The reason I had sent everyone out was precisely to make it convenient for me to sing. After all, the crude singing attempts by Ah San and A Si earlier were still echoing in my ears, and I certainly didn't want to be laughed at again. No matter how much anguish churned inside me, today I was resolved to restore Xu Chen's memory. Sing, sing boldly, and sing with every ounce of emotion!

"Little sister, you sit at the bow of the boat, brother walks along the shore; loving each other, the tow-rope swings gently..."

I dared not sing too loudly, fearing a sudden shout might startle Xu Chen, so I began to chant in a low voice.

Xu Chen’s initially playful expression slowly grew serious. "This... this tune sounds so familiar. It seems, it seems I have heard it somewhere before."

Aha! It’s working! My heart was pounding so hard it felt like it would leap out. I continued, injecting more feeling into the delivery. "Only wishing the sun would drop down behind the western hills, so I can kiss you to my heart’s content, oh, oh, oh..."

Xu Chen’s face darkened further. She did not react with anger, despite my singing vulgar lyrics and the persistent "ohs." Instead, she clutched her forehead, groaning in pain. "What is happening? I can’t remember, I can’t remember! My head hurts so much!"

Oh no! This is bad. She must have remembered something that touched upon the wound in her brain. I always kept a life-saving divine needle in my pocket, but I have no idea if it works on brain memory cells. Should I just stab her with it casually?

Thump! Xu Chen collapsed onto the floor. Bang! The door was thrown open. Zhang Guan burst in first, roughly pulling me aside. "Your Highness the Princess! Your Highness the Princess! Quickly, send for the Imperial Physicians!"

Ma Xiaoda followed him into the room. "The best Imperial Physician is standing right before your eyes! Why are you shouting?"

Zhang Guan dared not disrespect the Crown Prince, so he took a breath and tried to explain. "Crown Prince, how can he be considered an Imperial Physician? The Princess was perfectly fine just a moment ago, how could the treatment make her worse? This man is clearly a charlatan and a fraud, Your Highness must see clearly! However, saving Princess Xu Chen is the priority right now."

This fellow cares more about my wife than I do! If he had rushed in with his needle, I wouldn’t have needed to sing at all. Just as he was speaking, Ma Xiaorui and Ma Xiaowei entered the room. With their support, Xu Chen had already woken up and stood again.

I didn't want to explain anything to Zhang Guan; frankly, my own mind was a mess. It seemed my pictorial therapy was effective, but perhaps Xu Chen couldn't handle such a strong stimulus right now. Forcibly awakening her sealed memories might injure her if I wasn't careful. It was best to pause for a while.

Ma Xiaoda ignored Zhang Guan and asked me with concern, "How is it? Was there an accident during the treatment?"

I nodded. "Princess Xu Chen seems to have recalled some things, but her brain cannot withstand strong stimulation right now. I think we should pause for a period before trying again."

Ma Xiaoda nodded. "You are right. Let's go out and let the Empress Sister rest on her own."

Xu Chen spoke up. "Thank you all for your concern. I am fine. Please, sit down. It's boring for everyone to stay silent alone. Since you’re here, stay a while longer."

For some reason, the sisters Ma Xiaorui and Ma Xiaowei took an immediate liking to this adopted elder sister they had just met, perhaps due to Xu Chen’s tender, delicate aura that reminded them of Ma Xiaowei. But now, this Royal Sister they were concerned about had fainted on the floor due to someone's treatment, causing the two princesses to look at the supposedly learned Imperial Physician with a new, skeptical eye.

Ma Xiaorui said in a frigid tone, "A certain Divine Healer claimed he could perform surgery to deliver a child, yet now he’s managed to knock the patient to the floor. What a divine healer indeed."

I offered Ma Xiaorui no explanation, just as I hadn't with Zhang Guan. Instead, Xu Chen defended me. "Little Rui, thank you for caring so much about your sister. Actually, this has nothing to do with Imperial Physician Zhao. On the contrary, his song helped me recall many things. You could say Imperial Physician Zhao's method is effective, but I was just too useless, thinking so much until my head ached and I collapsed."

Ma Xiaorui eagerly pressed, "Did you remember anything? Has your amnesia recovered?"

Xu Chen shook her head. "No, but I think I recalled some things. The problem is, I don’t know what those things are, which is why I felt dizzy and unwell."

Ma Xiaowei felt somewhat relieved after Xu Chen’s explanation; she had actually misunderstood the doctor just now. She gently picked up the tow-rope drawing from the table. "So, Imperial Physician Zhao is using poetry paired with paintings to treat the Empress Sister. I’ve never heard of such a method before. 'Little sister, you sit at the bow of the boat, brother walks along the shore, loving each other...'"

Ma Xiaowei couldn't continue reading, as she realized this didn't sound like a particularly proper poem. Ma Xiaorui chimed in, "Oh yes, I think I heard someone singing outside just now. Was it this song?"

Xu Chen confirmed, "Yes, Imperial Physician Zhao sang it personally for me. It was this song that made me recall many vague memories."

Ma Xiaowei saw the accompanying text near the painting, which contained words like ‘kiss’ and ‘love,’ causing her cheeks to flush crimson. Her momentary relief dissolved back into disdain. Yet, seeing that Xu Chen didn't seem to be joking, she conceded that using a 'risqué' song as medicine might indeed be a method. Could it be that this Royal Sister lost her memory due to love troubles, and this chaotic jumble of what appeared to be a love song managed to stir her memories? Could this Imperial Physician truly be a genius?

Ma Xiaorui cared nothing for whether it was a love song or a vulgar song; as long as there was entertainment, she was satisfied. "I say, Imperial Physician Zhao, since this song worked, please sing it again for the Empress Sister. Perhaps this time it will make her remember everything completely."

I wanted to decline, firstly fearing Xu Chen couldn't withstand another shock, and secondly, I didn't want to sing in front of them. But not only did Ma Xiaoda agree, even Xu Chen was willing to undergo treatment again, eager to try.

I was being forced into this corner—I had to sing whether I liked it or not. But this wasn't like singing karaoke; having all those eyes staring at me was torture. As a result, I faltered and went off-key after singing only a couple of lines. The atmosphere now was different; Xu Chen didn't return to her previous state after hearing a few lines, and Ma Xiaorui felt awkward hearing the lyrics, so she was the first to call for me to stop.

"It doesn't sound good! It doesn't sound good! It's not as good as the story Zhang Guan just told us. Ask Zhang Guan to tell the Empress Sister the story again! It was very moving."

My temper is much better controlled now than before. I must preserve my strength to better strike the 'enemy.' If I gave them the Thirty-Six Stratagems myself, why would I directly confront a powerful opponent without any supernatural abilities? So, hearing Ma Xiaorui say that, I closed my mouth and sat aside, saying no more. Ma Xiaoda looked apologetic, but I smiled and signaled him not to worry.

Zhang Guan was thrilled to tell his carefully prepared story again. This story was originally meant for Xu Chen, but he had told it earlier out of boredom while they waited outside, hoping to please the Princess. Now, seeing Princess Ma Xiaorui support him, he began to narrate with great enthusiasm.

Zhang Guan told a famous love story cherished throughout the Dual Star Kingdom. It was about an extraordinary woman in ancient times who disguised herself as a man and endured countless hardships to save her beloved, ultimately moving the reigning Emperor and achieving a perfect union. Zhang Guan told it vividly, gesturing and even spitting with emotion, moving even Ma Xiaorui and Ma Xiaowei, who were hearing it for the second time, to the verge of tears. Xu Chen also nodded along as she listened.

I sat aside, utterly bored. At this moment, I had no interest in listening to stories. I was cursing that damned wormhole. If it weren't for the wormhole, my life back on Earth would surely be wonderful, but now I was stuck watching clowns perform here in the wretched Gemini system.

"Imperial Physician Zhao, you don't seem interested in the story," Ma Xiaoda suddenly noticed my distraction and asked. He was just a child and certainly enjoyed hearing stories himself.

I replied with a chuckle, "Haha, Your Highness the Crown Prince, please understand. I am an adult; how can I listen to these children’s stories?"

"What did you say!" Ma Xiaorui was instantly displeased. "Are you saying we are all children?" She had thrown a tantrum earlier on the way to Xu Chen’s palace just because Ma Xiaoda called her young.

I countered, "Replying to Your Highness the Princess, this humble subject did not say you were a child; I merely said this story is more suitable for children."

Ma Xiaorui huffed indignantly. "Fine! If you have the nerve, tell us a story for big kids! Tell it! If you can’t, I'll have my Royal Brother punish you for it."

Ma Xiaoda added, "Yes, Imperial Physician Zhao, I also love hearing you tell stories."

I sighed reluctantly. "It is better to obey than to refuse. Then this humble subject shall tell a story for adults."

This was no longer just about storytelling; it was a silent battle between Zhang Guan and me. Although that boy didn't view me as a romantic rival yet, because Xu Chen paid me no attention, I could not afford to let my guard down. He needed to be listed as Enemy Number One. Didn't I hear that little eunuch last time say he was a major blight on society? So, even if it was abusing my authority, I absolutely had to find a way to deal with him later. But the most urgent task now was to eclipse him in Xu Chen’s eyes first.

I paused for a moment, then selected the most beautiful story from Earth's treasury. Compared to Zhang Guan, I had the backing of several millennia of accumulated civilization. Playing this game with me? He was no match for your future First Class Scholar! Today, I would tell them the story of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai. With a story that had moved the entire world, surely it could move these few people before me?

"A long, long time ago, by the banks of the Yu River, there lived the daughter of Officer Zhu, Yingtai..." I began to speak in a low male voice.

Yingtai, eager for learning, disguised herself as a man to seek a worthy teacher. En route, Yingtai encountered the scholar Liang Shanbo. They felt an instant kinship and enjoyed each other’s company immensely. At the Grass Bridge Pavilion, they consecrated their brotherhood with earth and incense. Soon, they entered the Wansong Academy together to study under the same master, becoming inseparable classmates.

Liang and Zhu studied together for three years, their bond deep as the sea. Yingtai loved Shanbo deeply, but Shanbo remained unaware that she was a woman, cherishing only their brotherhood and feeling nothing more. Zhu’s father urged his daughter to return home urgently. Yingtai had no choice but to rush back. When Liang and Zhu parted, they were reluctant to leave. During the eighteen-mile journey, Yingtai constantly used objects to express her feelings, hinting at her love. Shanbo, honest and simple, failed to grasp her meaning. Yingtai was forced to lie, claiming she had a ninth sister at home whose appearance was identical to hers, whom she wished to offer to Shanbo in marriage. However, Liang Shanbo was poor and could not arrive as planned. When Shanbo finally went to the Zhu residence to propose, he discovered that Officer Zhu had already betrothed Yingtai to Ma Wencai, the son of Governor Ma. Their perfect union had vanished like smoke. The two met at the tower, gazing at each other tearfully, before parting sorrowfully. Before parting, they vowed: If we cannot share a marriage bed in life, we will share a tomb in death! Liang Shanbo was later appointed a county magistrate by the court, but consumed by melancholy, he soon passed away. Upon hearing the sad news of Shanbo’s death, Yingtai vowed to follow him in death. When Yingtai was forced to marry, she diverted her path to mourn at Liang Shanbo’s grave. Moved by Yingtai’s profound grief, storms erupted with wind and thunder, and the grave split open. Yingtai leaped gracefully into the tomb. The grave closed, the wind and rain ceased, and a rainbow hung high in the sky. Liang and Zhu transformed into butterflies, dancing gracefully in the mortal world.

The story ended. I felt as if I had been telling stories my whole life, but today’s narrative was the most deeply felt, perhaps due to my current mood. Thinking of the mountains separating me from Xu Chen, the feeling of a parting like the eighteen-mile farewell—a sorrow as vast as the sea—arose naturally, and I unconsciously began to hum a song.

"Green grass is lush and flowers bloom, colored butterflies linger in pairs for long; a love celebrated through ages, Shanbo eternally loves Zhu Yingtai: we studied together for three years, shoulder to shoulder, innocent of deception; the eighteen-mile farewell filled with longing, who knew separation would come at the tower; at the tower, separation brought sorrow like the sea, tears stained their wings as they transformed into butterflies dancing among the flowers; through countless trials, true love remains; forever together, never to be separated."

My greatest wish now was to endure trials alongside Xu Chen so that our true love might remain, and we could be together forever. I hummed this song with intense dedication. Though my voice was soft, the deep affection for Xu Chen contained within it was overwhelming.

The story was finished, and the impromptu little tune I added had been sung, yet the five people before me remained silent—a frightening silence. I wondered if I had narrated something incorrectly, but that seemed impossible. They were all hearing this story for the first time, including the amnesiac Xu Chen. Even if there were errors, they wouldn't be able to detect them, and my memory was sharp; I couldn't have possibly mixed up the details due to a clouded mind.

While I was puzzling over it, I suddenly heard a few soft sobs, followed by Ma Xiaorui’s exaggerated wails. "You wicked Imperial Physician, your story was too moving! Sister, I can’t take it! Such a moving thing can’t possibly exist in this world, can it? That Officer Zhu deserves death, and Governor Ma deserves death too! Royal Brother, sentence them to death!"

Ma Xiaoda wiped away a tear and stood up. "Sixteenth Sister, that happened a very, very long time ago. How am I supposed to punish people from the past? I wish I could, but I was born in the wrong era. Otherwise, I would have definitely helped Liang and Zhu!"

Ma Xiaorui began to act spoiled. "I don’t care! I must make Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai end up together! That Liang Shanbo is even denser than a blockhead! He—he slept in the same room with a girl for three years and didn't realize she was a woman! Idiot! Fool! It makes me furious!"

Ma Xiaowei was not as reckless as her sister, but at this moment, she too was deeply immersed in the beautiful, sorrowful tale. She had been repulsed by that vulgar song earlier, and the singer's off-key voice was unbearable. But now, as 'Green grass is lush and flowers bloom' emerged, she was captivated. She remained lost in the emotion until the very last line, 'forever together, never to be separated,' and only then did she begin humming the lyrics to herself twice to confirm she hadn't misremembered before addressing her sister's antics.

Ma Xiaoda turned to me. "Imperial Physician Zhao, your story was wonderful, but the ending is bad. I think you should heed everyone's request and change it. Make it so Shanbo and Yingtai live happily together in the end."

I replied to Ma Xiaoda, "I apologize, Your Highness the Crown Prince, but the story has always ended that way. I cannot change it. Furthermore, the moving part of this play is the transformation into butterflies. If people live happily together, where would the butterflies come from? In fact, regret is the most beautiful thing, don't you agree?"

Although Ma Xiaoda was mature for his age and possessed some cunning, his understanding of the concept that 'regret is the most beautiful' was still lacking. In contrast, Xu Chen and Ma Xiaowei felt a shock in their hearts. Yes, without regret, how could there be beauty? Usually, the most beautiful stories end with regret, and it is precisely this profound sense of loss that allows the story to be passed down for millennia.

Xu Chen thought of her own amnesia. Perhaps she would never remember her past, but so what? People forget things; you cannot keep every single detail in your head forever. Should one dwell in the pain of memory loss every day, or should one rally and seek out a beautiful new life? This question began to resonate in Xu Chen’s heart. Suddenly, she felt an inexplicable good feeling toward this Imperial Physician Zhao, perhaps simply because the story he told was exceptionally moving.

Ma Xiaowei had never left the Dual City since birth. The farthest she had traveled was to the home of a high court official in the Central City. She was knowledgeable, respectful of her father, and fond of her younger brother, never vying for favor with her other Royal Sisters. Day after day, this monotonous life had aged the sixteen-year-old girl prematurely. Her only hope was that after the mourning period next year, her Imperial Father would select a suitable consort for her, and her life would then settle. But now, this story inexplicably ignited a fire in Ma Xiaowei’s heart. She suddenly wished she could emulate Yingtai, to disguise herself as a man and study alongside the man she loved. Yet, she didn't want such a tragic ending. She wished she could stay with Shanbo forever, even if they were poor or suffered hardship, as long as the man was the one she loved, she would give up anything.

The more she thought, the greater the happiness and anticipation swelled in Ma Xiaowei’s heart. Her fondness for the Liang Zhu story made her shed the hostility she felt toward the storyteller. Instead, she found him to be far more honest and simple than Zhang Guan. Moreover, he didn't seem ignorant as her sister suggested; he must be full of talent. It seemed the rumors in the palace yesterday were true: the three veteran Scholars of the Imperial Academy had been defeated by this one man with a single story and a single lesson. Judging by the Strategy of the Beautiful Woman he recounted yesterday, this man would certainly become a pillar of support for the Royal Brother in the future. Although the three beauties he mentioned were somewhat hard to accept, and the 'risqué' song he used to treat his Royal Sister was questionable, great achievers disregard trivialities. Moreover, talented people often behave unusually. If an opportunity arose, she should advise her young Royal Brother to recruit this man.

Ma Xiaoda and Ma Xiaorui could hardly grasp the notion that regret is the most beautiful. Ma Xiaorui refused to accept it outright. "Imperial Physician Zhao, Scholar Zhao, can't I beg you? If you don't let those two live happily together, I won't be able to sleep tonight! Quickly change the ending!"

I responded, "Sixteenth Princess, isn't that ending already very happy? Two butterflies dancing in the sky—from now on, they can be free and unrestrained. What more do you want?"

Ma Xiaorui insisted, "I don't want butterflies! I want them to live out their lives!"

I sighed helplessly. "Alright. At the end of the story, Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai crawled out of the grave. Then the two married happily and had a bunch of children. The end."

Ma Xiaorui was not appeased. She rushed forward and started hitting me with her small fists. "No deal! No deal! You bastard, I’m going to tell Father Emperor on you! How could they crawl out of a grave? And how do you know they definitely had a bunch of children? Tell it again! Tell it again!"

Compared to the delicate Linglong, Ma Xiaorui was simply unreasonable and utterly intolerable.

Seeing me cornered by Ma Xiaorui’s relentless demands, a look of triumph finally spread across Zhang Guan's face. He had been enchanted by that beautiful story just moments ago, but when he realized how captivated the three princesses were, he snapped back to reality: Danger! A romantic rival has appeared! He needed to be extremely cautious of this newly emerged Imperial Physician.

Everyone had their own agenda. Seeing Ma Xiaorui making a scene, Ma Xiaoda stepped forward to separate them. "Enough, Xiaorui, quiet down. The story is finished, and today's treatment for the Imperial Sister concludes here. Those who wish to stay can keep her company for a while longer. I need to head to the Imperial Stables with Imperial Physician Zhao to take a look."

Although Ma Xiaoda was not currently managing court affairs, as the Crown Prince and future leader of the nation, he held the authority to access certain governmental matters. Ma Xiaorui dared not delay her younger brother's business and could only glare at me resentfully.

Xu Chen invited the two princesses to stay for lunch; since the girls were often bored, they could play here a while longer after eating. She agreed. As the three princesses were being escorted to the palace gate, Ma Xiaowei suddenly leaned toward me when no one was looking: "Scholar Zhao, may I copy down the story you told today?"

I was momentarily taken aback. "Why wouldn't you be able to? If you have any questions, feel free to ask me."

Ma Xiaowei smiled. "Very well, thank you first, Scholar Zhao."

I was puzzled. Why thank me for telling a story? This princess was overly polite. Ma Xiaoda, noticing Zhang Guan trailing behind us, said to him, "General Zhang, are you perhaps too idle these days? If you have too much free time, I can suggest to Father Emperor that you be sent to guard the border. I hear there's plenty to do there every day."

Upon hearing the Crown Prince might recommend him for border duty, Zhang Guan was so terrified he nearly wet himself. Setting aside the distance, rumor had it that the horse bandits there sometimes sliced off men's manhood to serve with wine, claiming it was an aphrodisiac. Though he was a general, he had never led troops in battle. If he were actually castrated, wouldn't that be tragic?

"Your Highness, please don't! I cannot bear to leave you and His Majesty. Protecting your safety is my lifelong duty and aspiration. I am willing to dedicate my youth and life to the great cause of guarding the Twin Cities. I cannot go to the borderlands; there are so many matters awaiting my attention here!"

Ma Xiaoda chuckled. "Then hurry up and get to work! Why are you trailing behind us, hoping for a free meal?"

Zhang Guan finally realized the Crown Prince found him an eyesore lingering in the rear. He sprang forward, and in an instant, his figure vanished. Ma Xiaoda muttered, "Is this dog-servant attempting to eavesdrop on our affairs?"

I replied, "Probably not. The matter of the Imperial Stables hasn't even been brought up for court discussion yet."

Ma Xiaoda countered, "Precisely because it hasn't reached the court yet that I feel we must hasten. We should aim to move the Imperial Stables out of the Central City today, and ideally have a strong Horse Guard unit established by tomorrow. Otherwise, the Pang Faction will surely step forward to object, and by then, the dust will have settled, and what can he do?"

I had to admit he had a point. When it came to politics, the Crown Prince, with his inherited imperial bloodline, clearly thought further ahead. However, I doubted his competence in military strategy; he still dreamed of being a general, a mere eleven-year-old kid—he might even struggle to lift a spear.

I conceded, "Since speed is crucial, let's go inspect the potential sites at the Imperial Stables first, and then we can address the funding issue."