In the year 987 of the Xia calendar, Great Xia's Four Kings stood side by side, crowned in both civil and military achievements, ushering Great Xia into its most glorious generation.
First Prince Xia Rui, Third Prince Xia Yan, Fourth Prince Xia Hua, and Fifth Prince Xia Jie—the four astonishingly gifted Imperial Princes of Great Xia—conquered south and north, striking fear into every quarter.
While the Xia Emperor took comfort in the four princes' shared restraint, he could not help but feel worried as well.
In an era, having one such prince was a blessing; having two meant Heaven's protection. But for Great Xia to produce four at once was a calamity.
For there was only one throne, and throughout the dynasties, too many brothers had turned upon one another in the struggle for succession.
"Summon Marquis Qinghe."
Within the Imperial Study, the Xia Emperor spoke with a grave expression.
A decision had to be made.
The Changsun family had been loyal and upright for generations. Whether in talent or beauty, the daughters of the Changsun family were beyond reproach—the finest candidates for the future Empress.
Southeast of the imperial city, Xia Yan returned in blue robes after quelling the rebellion. The army remained camped outside the city and did not enter.
Xia Yan galloped toward the imperial city. Suddenly, his body jolted, and he looked westward.
Beneath the setting sun, a man in white came walking toward him, holding the hand of a pretty little girl of only six or seven.
As Xia Yan looked at the man in white, the man in white looked back at him. Their gazes met, and both were startled.
"Whoa!"
Xia Yan reined in his horse. The warhorse neighed and came to a halt.
"Chengxue, stand behind Uncle."
Mu Bai pulled the little