The desolate, thorn-covered road was one she had never walked even when she first arrived at Ten Li Pu. If it weren't for Yang Yichen by her side, she wouldn't have dared to tread here at all.
Surrounded by the unknown, danger lurked everywhere.
Yang Yichen walked ahead, his dagger glinting coldly as it sliced through the thorns effortlessly. With a swift motion of his left hand, the thorns fell away before them.
His right hand tightly held Liu Qingxi's left hand as they traversed this desolate wilderness along an unfamiliar path, mirroring the journey of their lives together.
He cleared the way for her!
Half an hour later, the scenery opened up before them. In the distance, towering mountains pierced the clouds, and cliffs formed by stone pillars showcased nature's masterful craftsmanship.
The lush trees on either side appeared as the most beautiful landscape.
However, what was truly astonishing was the flat land beneath their feet. Who would have thought that amidst these towering cliffs, there would be such a paradise-like beauty?
Behind them, a clear spring flowed gently down from above, creating a round platform that bore no signs of human excavation. Beside them stood an Emerald Cypress, with unknown flowers swaying lightly in the breeze.
"Do you like it here?" Yang Yichen's refreshing voice rang in Liu Qingxi's heart like the sound of a babbling brook.
The pure beauty of this place captivated Liu Qingxi, who felt utterly enchanted by the scenery.
Nodding her head, she breathed in the fresh air of nature. In this paradise-like environment, it was hard not to relax and let go of her worries.
"I bought this mountain peak for you! With just a little excavation, it could become a rare beauty."
Only someone like him would understand Liu Qingxi's needs and cater to her preferences.
Unlike others who offered gold, silver, jewels, and various luxurious gifts.
The series of policies introduced by Dugu Hao is a blessing for the common people.
He understands deeply that the success or failure of a nation relies on the common people; the talents from various professions are indispensable to a country.
The true strength of a nation lies in its countless common people. It is their existence that gives rise to various industries, forming the foundation and cornerstone of the nation.
In addition, Dugu Hao has invested heavily in funds and technology to support the construction and training of the military, ensuring that all soldiers are equipped with the best quality gear.
He even personally visited the army to oversee and encourage soldiers to strengthen their training.
Undoubtedly, Dugu Hao is an ambitious emperor. He does not possess a passive character of "not offending others if not offended," but rather has a heart aimed at unification.
This is also why he sought out Yang Yichen earlier, and later, upon learning about Yang Yichen's identity as Inorganic Gate, they reached an unprecedented agreement.
In the Imperial Study, Yang Yichen stood before the Dragon Table dressed in a black and blue patterned official robe.
Dugu Hao, clad in his Bright Yellow Five-Clawed Golden Dragon robe, had a stern face like a chiseled statue. His voice carried a cool tone as he said, "Lord Yang, I will temporarily entrust you with matters concerning the Ministry of Military Supplies."
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Although he spoke respectfully, Yang Yichen maintained a composed demeanor.
Though they were sovereign and subject, they were also partners in cooperation. He understood well the power of the weapons designed; if mass-produced for military use, neighboring countries would stand no chance against them.
For this military supply weapon production, he provided technical support. By granting him this authority, Dugu Hao effectively acknowledged his value.
Do not underestimate this so-called Military Supply Supervisor; although he is a fourth-rank official, he wields substantial power.
"I will do my utmost!"
"With Yang Aiqing handling matters, I am at ease," Dugu Hao replied coldly as always.
However, when facing Yang Yichen, this feeling involuntarily deepened, and he inexplicably felt a sense of aversion towards Yang Yichen, as if he had taken something that belonged to him.
Shaking off the chaotic thoughts in his mind, Dugu Hao ordered Yang Yichen to leave the Ministry of Works.
Aside from that uncomfortable feeling, Yang Yichen was indeed a good minister—capable, neither arrogant nor impatient, always handling matters in an orderly manner with remarkable efficiency.
What Dugu Hao did not realize was that this inexplicable aversion was closely related to the emotional void he had experienced for over twenty years.
Turning back to the court, the calls for him to expand his harem and select a Queen grew louder, as if failing to establish a Queen would be disrespectful to his ancestors and mark him as a foolish ruler.
But what did his feelings and marriage have to do with those stubborn old officials?
It was unavoidable; a man like Dugu Hao, born into royalty and holding such high power, managed to maintain his integrity. For over twenty years, aside from one or two concubines who were more like decorations, he rarely interacted with other women.
Over time, people began to think there was something wrong with him in that regard, or perhaps he was of the same sex.
In truth, it was simply that he had not encountered someone who made his heart race—a person who could illuminate his lonely path like flowers blooming in an instant.
Thus, he was unwilling to betray his own feelings. Even the Former Emperor Dugu Han could not compel him to marry and have children; how much less could those modern old officials?
So be it; he completely ignored them. How they chose to find partners had nothing to do with him. What did marrying have to do with them?
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