Pei Ye finally understood the game being played within the Imperial City, knowing that being a supervised student at the National University or a sword disciple at the Sword Academy would never grant him such a clear perspective. The winter night was tranquil, and he too became silent for a while.
He glanced inadvertently at Xu Chuo a couple of times. This woman still possessed a beauty that stood unparalleled in the world, presenting a regal composure mingled with the frailty of a scholar, enhanced by her gentle elegance—truly a beauty that could easily fascinate.
However, Pei Ye did not consider himself that kind of person. What he felt now was a different kind of allure—he had always heard that Xu Chuo was busy, and only now did he understand what she was busy with. He perceived this woman as a chess player of this vast empire, her belly perhaps still concealing many astonishing long-term strategies, and many lines already laid out.
