Wei Linxia said, “If Wang Qing knew what injuries your father suffered that night, he wouldn’t have said such things. Your grandfather pierced his chest with a sword. Your father had wounds concealed from everyone, even from me. He only showed me the injury when he declared his intention to go on a western expedition. It was a fatal wound, yet he went on the expedition to avoid showing me his suffering, wishing to leave behind some glory for us.” Her voice choked, and she added, “He never cared about this empire, but it cost him his life. So I hate your grandfather and uncles deeply.”
They made me lose my husband and you and Yaya lose your father. I can’t bring back your father’s life, but I can protect the empire he built and you—don’t disappoint him.”
“It was this son who asked inappropriate questions and made you sad, Mother—” Xi Qi knelt before her. “I swear I will protect Father’s empire and never disappoint you and him.”
“Go now, Mother is tired and needs to rest,” Wei Linxia said, not wanting her son to see her tears.
Wei Linxia did not inquire about how Xi Qi managed matters in the capital, similar to how the empress dowager was advised to “nurture her remaining years” at Qushui Yuntai. She did not attend Yaya’s grand wedding, sending her congratulations through Feng Shou. When the couple came to Yuntai to pay respects, it was the last time Wei Linxia saw Wang Ling.
Facing Wang Ling, she unexpectedly found another person, besides Xi Linxuan, who understood her intentions. Seeing Yaya happily beside Wang Ling reassured her; all parents want their children to live stable lives. Though Yaya was impetuous and not as gentle as others, entrusting her to Wang Ling put her at ease.
She could leave now but still needed to wait. In the evening, as usual, she placed a small wax figure beside her and casually said, “Qiushui, wait for me a little longer.”
I can’t let Xi Qi feel guilty towards me for his entire life… just wait a little longer for me.”
