As I stood before the gates of my maternal family's estate, the familiar grandeur of the mansion felt like a quiet reassurance. This was the home of the Royal Doctor—my grandfather, the most revered healer in the empire. His wisdom stretched far beyond our family, his knowledge even respected in the imperial court. My first uncle, a skilled doctor, worked alongside my grandfather, while my second uncle, a knowledgeable pharmacist, was equally respected for his expertise in medicines and remedies.
My aunt, who was married into a prominent family, had come to visit with her children, making it a full house for the evening. Their welcoming presence felt like a safety net—a rare and much-needed refuge after everything that had happened.
When Han and I entered the grand hall of my family's mansion, the warm greetings from my family filled the air. My grandfather and uncles greeted us with open arms, their expressions a mix of relief and concern. My aunt was also there, her eyes softening with a motherly affection when she saw my brother. It was a comforting sight—one I hadn't realized I needed so much.
After settling in and enjoying the warmth of a family meal, the time had come. I had kept silent for too long, but now the truth needed to be shared. Han's future depended on it.
The family had gathered in the main hall—my grandparents, my uncles, and even my aunt with her children. Everyone seemed to sense the gravity of the moment, and the room fell into a respectful silence as I began to speak, revealing the truth of what had happened.
"The Lee family is in crisis," I started, my voice steady but carrying the weight of the words. "The Four Devils—Konga, Ludy, Gou, and Nian Dou—have infiltrated our ranks, manipulating events to claim everything that is rightfully mine. My betrothal to Xia Shui was manipulated, and the estate has been turned upside down by their schemes."
I paused, letting the words sink in. My grandfather's expression was grim, his brow furrowed. My first uncle, calm and methodical, had a look of quiet contemplation. My second uncle, though quiet, seemed deep in thought, processing the implications of what I had just shared.
"Their influence has caused turmoil. They have betrayed not just me, but the very family that once protected them," I continued, frustration seeping into my voice. "They've torn apart the estate and manipulated those around them to further their own goals."
The room remained quiet, the weight of my words pressing down on everyone. This was not just a family matter—it was a crisis that threatened everything we had built.
"But the most pressing matter is Han," I said, turning to my younger brother. "He is still young, and if the Four Devils get their hands on him, they will use him as a pawn. I cannot let that happen. He needs to be safe, and he needs to grow without the constant scrutiny of our enemies."
My grandfather stood, his presence as commanding as always. He looked at me, his expression filled with both concern and authority. "What do you propose, Silla?" he asked, his voice steady, as though he had already been preparing for this moment.
"I want Han to stay here," I said firmly, meeting each of their gazes. "He must be removed from the immediate dangers of the Lee family and placed under your care. I want him to learn martial arts and medicine—not just from anyone, but from the best. Here, with all of you."
I turned to face my first uncle, a man of great intellect and patience. "You know the value of knowledge and discipline. I trust you to guide him in the art of healing."
I then looked to my second uncle, the pharmacist. "You have an unparalleled understanding of the intricacies of medicine. Your wisdom will be invaluable in helping him become the healer and leader he must be."
"And as for martial arts," I added, my gaze resting on my grandfather, "no one is better suited to teach him than you."
My aunt, who had been listening attentively, spoke next. "We will help you, Silla. We will protect Han as one of our own. His future matters as much as yours does."
Her words were a balm to my anxious heart. I could see the resolve in her eyes.
"We'll keep him safe," my first uncle added with a steady nod. "And if he is to be the heir, we will make sure he is equipped with the tools he needs—both in mind and body."
My second uncle, though quieter, also agreed. "Medicine and martial arts will serve him well. He will learn both, and we will ensure that no one dares to interfere with his growth."
My grandfather stood tall, his posture dignified and commanding. "I see now why you have come to us, Silla. You are wise to seek our guidance. Han will be protected here, and he will receive the education necessary to fulfill his role as the rightful heir."
Relief washed over me, and I could feel the weight lifting from my shoulders. My brother's future was now secure. This was not just about saving him; it was about ensuring that he would reclaim the Lee family legacy when the time came. With the support of my maternal family, Han would have the time and space to grow into the leader he was meant to be.
That evening, we shared a meal together, the atmosphere lighter now that the tension had dissipated. As we ate, I couldn't help but think of the road ahead. With Han in safe hands, I would return to the Lee family to confront the Four Devils head-on. But for now, at least, I knew that Han's safety and education were in the best hands possible.
The decision to place Han in my family's care wasn't just an act of safety—it was a strategy. One day, he would return stronger, both in mind and body, prepared to take his rightful place as the true heir of the Lee family.
I stood by the window that night, looking out over the family estate, the moonlight casting a soft glow over the land. My family was a fortress, and Han's safety was assured. Tomorrow, I would begin the next phase of my mission. But for now, with the love and support of my family surrounding me, I felt stronger than I had in a long time.
The journey ahead would be difficult, but with the support of my grandfather, my uncles, and my aunt, I knew I could face whatever challenges came my way. I would ensure that no one—not even the Four Devils—would stand in the way of Han's future.
That evening, as the household settled into the comfort of the warm hearth and the soft clinking of plates being cleared away, I retreated to my room to reflect on everything that had been said. The weight of the day's revelations still pressed heavily on my mind, but a small sense of relief settled in knowing that Han's future was now secured in the hands of my family.
Just as I was about to slip under the covers, a soft knock echoed at my door.
I rose to answer, and standing in the doorway were my aunt and my grandmother. Their expressions were filled with both concern and comfort. My aunt, always a pillar of strength, gave me a reassuring smile as she stepped inside, followed by my grandmother, her presence a calming force.
"You've had quite a day, Silla," my aunt said gently, closing the door behind her. "You've done well in seeking our help, and we will make sure Han grows into the leader he's destined to be."
I nodded, feeling a weight lift slightly at the sound of her voice. Her steady confidence was something I could always rely on. My grandmother, ever the quiet observer, nodded in agreement but remained silent, her eyes filled with understanding.
"I wanted to speak with you about something important," my aunt continued. "It's not only the Shen family—your mother's side—that stands behind you. The Pei family, my family, is also ready to support you. The Prime Minister, my husband, and his network are influential. They are already aware of the turmoil you face, and they will help you with whatever you need."
My heart quickened with both relief and renewed determination. The Pei family's support, with its vast political connections, could provide invaluable strength as I navigated the treacherous path ahead.
"You are not alone, Silla," my aunt added, her voice low but full of purpose. "In fact, I want you to come to visit us at our estate soon. My husband and my sons—your cousins—are eager to see you. The moment you arrive, we will make sure everything is prepared for you. You need to be safe, but you also need guidance from those who understand both the political and personal stakes at play."
I looked at her, feeling a wave of gratitude. Han was safe here with my maternal family, but knowing that the Pei family—one of the most powerful families in the empire—was behind me, ready to offer their resources and support, filled me with renewed hope. I hadn't realized just how much I needed this assurance until now.
My grandmother, who had been listening intently, spoke up in her calm, measured voice. "The Pei family's influence can provide a shield against the Four Devils. But we must act with care and caution. The Shen family and the Pei family have both agreed—together, we are stronger than any one of them."
I nodded, feeling the weight of the responsibility I now carried. The support of both families was invaluable, and it strengthened my resolve to protect Han and reclaim our future.
"Thank you," I said quietly, my voice thick with emotion. "I didn't know I could rely on so many people. It makes the road ahead seem less daunting."
My aunt smiled warmly, placing a hand on my shoulder. "You are not alone, Silla. When you are ready, we will make sure the Pei family's resources, as well as our own, are at your disposal. We will guide you through the challenges ahead."
My grandmother added, her voice a soft, steady presence. "Remember, Silla, that we are not just family by blood—we are united by our shared strength. You will never be without support."
As the two women stood before me, offering their reassurance, a sense of peace began to settle over my heart. The battle ahead would still be difficult, and the dangers we faced were far from over. But knowing that I had both the Shen family and the Pei family standing with me gave me the courage to face whatever came next.
After a few more moments of quiet conversation, my aunt and grandmother left my room, their presence lingering in the warmth of my thoughts. I lay back in bed, staring at the ceiling, feeling the comfort of knowing I wasn't alone in this fight.
Tomorrow would be a new day—a day to begin the next steps in our mission, both for Han's safety and our family's future. But tonight, for the first time in a long while, I allowed myself to rest, knowing I had the strength of two powerful families behind me.