{"id":2759,"date":"2026-04-03T02:22:39","date_gmt":"2026-04-03T02:22:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/velvetink.xyz\/peach-blossom-overturning-the-country-the-princesss-gambit\/"},"modified":"2026-04-03T14:59:25","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T14:59:25","slug":"peach-blossom-overturning-the-country-the-princesss-gambit","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/chapter\/peach-blossom-overturning-the-country-the-princesss-gambit\/","title":{"rendered":"Peach Blossom Overturning the Country (The Princess\u2018s Gambit) 06"},"content":{"rendered":"

Chapter 6: Life or Death Matters Not to Me

    “Now about Prime Minister Shen, everything we found out earlier is true. He has no faction in the court, yet his prestige is exceptionally high, with many supporting him. However, his reputation among the common people is extremely poor\u2014he’s said to be cunning and ruthless, someone who treats human life as worthless.”

    Taking a sharp breath, Jiang Taohua widened her eyes: “Is he really that kind of person? His face doesn\u2019t look like a bad person\u2019s at all; it\u2019s actually… quite handsome.”

    Moss shook her head repeatedly: “People’s hearts are separated by their stomachs; you should still be cautious, Master. Lastly, let’s talk about the Southern Prince. He is only sixteen years old and truly naive and unfamiliar with worldly affairs. It is said that he studies under Master Qian of Great Wei, learning only humility, benevolence, and propriety. His mother passed away early, and he does not enjoy the emperor’s favor, living peacefully in a corner without striving or competing. It seems that when he was young, he and his mother were sent to the Kingdom of Wu as hostages, which is why he has a fondness for Wu’s customs and etiquette. However, this only further displeases the emperor.”

    Peach Blossom nodded: “In summary, he\u2019s a very decent but utterly unfavored young prince.”

    “Yes.”

    “Since he’s unfavored, why did Shen Zaitu deliberately ask me to explain things to him?” Peach Blossom stroked her chin, puzzled. “Could it be that he has some sort of plan involving a mere child?”

    Moss’s face darkened, and she quickly shook her head: “There are rumors outside that the Prime Minister and the Southern Prince have rarely met, but Shen holds him in great affection, treating him like a younger brother. Several times, people have tried to drag the Southern Prince into disputes, only to be blocked by the Prime Minister. Shen once remarked about the Southern Prince, ‘Such an uncarved jade is rare in the world; how can it be tarnished by mud before it is polished?’ It seems he simply wishes to protect him. They share no blood relation or other special connection.”

    So that’s how it is,” Peach Blossom nodded. “Even the craftiest people have a human side. If the Southern Prince can preserve a pure place in Shen Zaiye’s heart, he might truly be a good person. But it’s best not to meet him tomorrow, just to be safe.

    “Alright… wait, why do you want to meet the Southern Prince?” Moss widened her eyes. “You had a marriage arrangement with him first, then broke it off and married someone else. Wouldn’t meeting him again be awkward?”

    “It was the Prime Minister who asked me to help. It might be because of my actions that the Southern Prince became estranged from him, so he wants me to help mend their relationship to ensure they can continue working together,” Peach Blossom said. “But I’ve already told him that I’ll be too ill to get up tomorrow, so I can avoid this situation.”

    Too ill to get up? Moss frowned and glanced at the bathing water beside them, which was starting to grow cold. “Are you serious?”

    \u201cOf course, if you don\u2019t sacrifice the child, you can\u2019t trap the wolf. There\u2019s no other choice.\u201d Testing the water temperature with her hand, Tao Hua smiled and said to her, \u201cRemember to take good care of me tomorrow. I want pumpkin porridge.\u201d

    Qing Tai: \u201c…\u201d

    The State of Zhao had only two princesses. The eldest princess was notoriously harsh toward others, so everyone in the palace feared her. However, the second princess was famously harsh toward herself. Others might not be afraid of her, but she genuinely earned Qing Tai\u2019s admiration from the depths of her heart.

    After waiting for a long time, the maids outside had already begun asking if they needed to add more hot water. Qing Tai went out, fetched all the hot water, placed it nearby, and then watched as her princess removed her outer robe, leaving only her inner garment, and stepped into the water that had already turned cold.

    The night wind blowing in from the window carried a lingering chill, yet Jiang Taohua wore an expression of unwavering determination, staying motionless in the water.

    \u201cHow long will it take?\u201d Qingtai asked with concern.

    \u201cThree sticks of incense will do. Any longer and suspicion will surely arise.\u201d With her lips tinged slightly purple, Taohua took a deep breath and plunged her entire head into the water.

    Wenqing Pavilion.

    Shen Zaiye gazed at the moon outside the window, a jade ring twirling between his fingers, his eyes deep and contemplative.

    “Master,” Gu Qingying approached with a soft smile. “It’s getting late. We should rest.”

    “Hmm,” he acknowledged, turning to follow her toward the bed, a slight curve touching the corner of his lips.

    Gu Qingying had once been the most charming presence in the courtyard, always finding ways to please him in bed, which earned her the title of wife within just a year of entering the manor. Yet, for some reason, as he watched her seductive smile now, Shen Zaiye couldn’t help but furrow his brow.

    A seductive smile shouldn’t be so exaggerated; it should be a delicate eyebrow slightly raised, eyes filled with endless affection and temptation, gleaming faintly. The curve of the mouth isn’t large, but it’s like a small silver hook that leaves the heart itching.

    With this thought, Jiang Taohua’s features, illuminated by the moonlight, floated into his mind. Pure as a lotus unadorned, captivating to the bone without even knowing it.

    Slightly startled, Shen Zaiye frowned, instinctively stood up, and raised his hand to block Mrs. Gu’s approach, then turned and strode toward the door.

    “My lord?” Startled by his reaction, Gu Qingying panicked and hurriedly reached out to stop him. “Have I served you inadequately? Why are you leaving?”

    Today is supposed to be her night to serve. If the master leaves like this, how can she face anyone tomorrow?

    “You go to sleep first, I\u2019ll be back soon,” Shen Zaiye reassured her with a pat on the shoulder. “I left something in the courtyard and forgot to take it.”

    Gu Qingying: “…”

    Staring blankly at him as he walked away, she couldn\u2019t help but furrow her brows and murmur, “What could be so important? Yue Tao, go and take a look.”

    “Yes.” The little maid beside her responded, hitching up her skirt before following closely behind.

    Seeing that it was about enough, Jiang Taohua got up from the cold water, changed into dry clothes, and asked Qing Tai to handle the remaining items, all while sitting dizzily by the bed to dry her hair.

    The wind blew in through the wide-open door, and Taohua only felt a sudden blur before her eyes, her throat aching unbearably. To this extent, she should surely develop a high fever by tomorrow.

    \u201cNot asleep yet?\u201d Shen Zaive\u2019s voice abruptly rang out, startling Jiang Taohua into a shiver, instinctively letting out a huge sneeze: “Ah-choo\u2014”

    The sneeze came so suddenly that she didn’t have time to cover her mouth and nose, happily spraying droplets all over the newcomer’s face and body.

    Shen Zaiye closed his eyes, his brows furrowed so tightly they could tie a butterfly knot.

    “Sorry!” Recognizing the person, Jiang Taohua quickly got up and wiped him with a handkerchief. “I didn’t know the Prime Minister was here… Wait, why are you here?”

    Shouldn’t you be at Wenqing Pavilion?

    “\u2026I came back to get something.” Opening his eyes to see the person before him staring wide-eyed as if she’d seen a ghost, Shen Zaifang found it both annoying and amusing: “Even if I hadn’t come back to get something, this is still my courtyard. I can go wherever I please.”

    “No, no, please don\u2019t be angry,” Peach Blossom quickly explained: “The rules in the mansion are strict. This humble concubine was just afraid of making a mistake.”

    “The biggest rule in this mansion is me.” Taking the handkerchief from her hand, Shen Zaifang leisurely wiped the spittle off his body: “I set the rules. Do you understand?”

    “This humble concubine understands, master\u2014whatever pleases you!” Peach Blossom lifted her face, beaming at him with a silly smile.

    Pursing his lips, Shen Zaiye sniffed at his own robe, his disdain overflowing without words. Jiang Taohua, as someone with keen observation, immediately called for the maid to bring a change of clothes.

    “Let this humble one help you change, my lord?”

    Glancing at her flattering demeanor, it was impossible to reconcile it with the face he had seen at the Hefeng Dance Hall that night. Shen Zaiye let out a long sigh, lightly tapping his brow, then spread his arms, adopting the posture of a lord awaiting service.

    Taohua swiftly removed his outer robe, but perhaps her movements were too vigorous\u2014a handkerchief fell to the ground.

    For a man like Shen Zaiye who has many concubines, it’s quite normal to have a woman’s embroidered handkerchief on him. But just as Taohua bent down to pick it up, he snatched it away very nervously.

    Where’s the chivalry? Can’t you be more gentle? Rubbing her hand that was hurt by his grasp, Taohua glanced at the handkerchief, seeing Shen Zaiye treasure it as he tucked it into his sleeve. She didn’t ask further; it must belong to some woman he fancies.

    After helping the master change his clothes, he still gave her a dissatisfied glance. He then reached out, picked her up, and threw her into the bed.

    “Your hands are too cold. Keep yourself well covered tonight.”

    “Thank you for your concern, Master.” Peach Blossom smiled. “Please be careful on the road, as the night path can be slippery.”

    “Hmm.” Shen Zaixian nodded, studying her for a moment before turning and walking away.

    Qingtai was waiting outside the door. Only after watching him leave did she slip into the room. “Mistress?”

    “It\u2019s nothing. Go tidy up and get ready to rest.” Coughing twice, Peach Blossom pulled the covers aside and lay down, closing her eyes. “Come early tomorrow to serve.”

    “Yes,” Qing Tai responded hesitantly, glancing at her frail figure. She sighed and ultimately said nothing, thinking it pointless to argue since her mistress wouldn\u2019t listen anyway\u2014better save the energy.

    But… what exactly had the Prime Minister come here for just now?

    Walking along the night path, Shen Zaiye moved with an air of indifference, his eyes reflecting fragments of moonlight\u2014gentle yet shadowed. Like a snow-white serpent, elegantly flicking its tongue in the dark.

    “Master,” Zhan Lu spoke softly from behind him, “arrangements at the North Gate Pavilion are complete. If Lady Jiang hasn\u2019t recovered by the day after tomorrow, we will proceed with the second plan.”

    A gleam flickered in Shen Zaiye’s eyes as he turned to look at him, “Do you think Lady Jiang’s illness is real or feigned?”

    Zhan Lu was taken aback, frowning as he replied, “The physician in the mansion has already examined her and said she’s indeed unwell. It might be due to not adjusting well to Dawei, plus the recent weather changes\u2014falling ill is quite normal.”

    “Is that so?” Shen Zaoye let out a soft chuckle as he continued walking. “Jiang Shi seems somewhat naive, but within that naivety, there seems to be a hint of shrewdness. I can’t quite tell if she’s a rabbit or a tiger.”

    Zhanlu was somewhat surprised, “Is the master concerned about Lady Jiang?”

    “No,” Shen Zaiye shook his head, “I just fear there might be some unexpected changes the day after tomorrow.”

    Although Lady Jiang’s skills of seduction are formidable, he is immune to such tactics. The meaning of her existence is merely to raise the curtain on a great war. Once it is raised smoothly, whether she lives or dies will have nothing to do with him.

    “You can rest assured about that, master,” Zhanlu cupped his hands and said, “Your plan is meticulous, and our subordinates are extremely cautious; there will absolutely not be the slightest error!”

    “Mhm.” Dropping his gaze, Shen Zaiye said, “If things are set for the day after tomorrow, then let\u2019s see how it goes tomorrow. If Lady Jiang\u2019s illness hasn\u2019t improved, we’ll skip over Prince Nan and wait directly to meet Prince Jing.”

    “Understood.”

    Under the high-hanging moon, the deeply asleep Taohua was unaware that someone had set their sights on her life. In her dreams, she saw the magnificent landscapes of the Zhao Kingdom and the clear streams flowing beneath the palace walls, and she felt an unusual sense of peace in her heart all night long.<\/p>","protected":false},"parent":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}}},"novel":[],"class_list":["post-2759","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/chapter\/2759","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/chapter"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2759"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/chapter\/2759\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2761,"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/chapter\/2759\/revisions\/2761"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2759"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"novel","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.velvetink.xyz\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/novel?post=2759"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}