When the earthquake struck Western Sichuan, Long Yefang had prayed that Autumn Splendor Palace would collapse-not just its walls, but everything within it. Let it bury him alive. He was not afraid of death; he would rather die than cling to such a miserable existence. Yet although the earthquake destroyed more than half the buildings in Western Prefecture, Autumn Splendor Palace remained intact, losing only a few roof tiles.
What exactly was happening outside? Long Yefang had no way of knowing. No one around him dared tell him the truth. Anyone who ventured to say a few extra words to him inevitably ended up dead, as had been proven time and again over the past seven years. And so Long Yefang grew increasingly taciturn. He could not be bothered to speak, or to bring harm upon others.
Li Tianheng's arrival took Long Yefang quite by surprise. During his years of confinement in Autumn Splendor Palace, Li Tianheng's visits could be counted on one hand. As far as he remembered, apart from the customary New Year visits, the only other occasion had been when he was injured last time.
Li Tianheng came in plain clothes that day. As soon as he entered Long Yefang's bedchamber, a strong, pungent smell of alcohol assailed him, and he could not help frowning. He despised Long Yefang to his very bones. Had Long Yefang shown a little more backbone, he might at least have earned his respect.
Long Yefang squinted at Li Tianheng through a drunken haze and burst into wild laughter. "Well, if it isn't Commander-in-Chief Li! What... wind blew you... here today? You're just in time. Have a drink with me!" He slapped the brocade cushion beside him heavily.
Li Tianheng smiled faintly but did not sit. He remained standing, looking down at