Chapter 44

Chapter 44

The host of the Flower Folding Feast naturally referred to Sheng Chengxing. But Rong Tang currently had a pressing question needing an answer, and with the person in question not present, he couldn’t confirm his suspicions, causing him to feel inexplicably anxious. Hearing Sheng Chengxing’s voice only added to his irritation.

Ke Hongxue enrolled in Lingyuan Academy due to the wishes of Taifu Ke Wenrui, not his own desire.

But after studying at the academy for many years and never once considering participating in the imperial examinations, how could he wait until twenty-four to take the exams for the first time and instantly become the third-ranked scholar?

Emperor Ren Shou launched a coup in the late summer of the 25th year of Yuanxing, which lasted three months until the former emperor and his old party were completely eradicated. Afterwards, he spent some time compiling a list of false and violent acts attributed to the former emperor, officially holding his enthronement ceremony and changing the dynasty name to Qingzheng after the following spring festival.

The first year of Qingzheng marked the new emperor's first expansive granting of imperial examinations. With the transition of dynasties, the court urgently needed people. Thus, that year's exam papers were relatively easy, aiming to recruit talented individuals to serve the emperor and alleviate his worries.

At that time, Ke Hongxue was eighteen, in the prime of his youth and talent. If he had wanted an official position, participating in that year’s imperial examinations could have possibly landed him the top honor of Zhuangyuan (top scholar).

But as Rong Tang well knew, Ke Hongxue had no desire for an official position.

According to Lu Jiaxi, it wasn’t until Mu Jingxu enrolled and decided to participate in the imperial examinations that Ke Hongxue accompanied him to the Gongyuan (imperial examination hall) for the exams.

"Could it be that Ke Hongxue aspired to be an official back then? Rong Tang thought not."

"He leaned more towards the idea that Ke Hongxue was purely there to accompany Mu Jingshu."

"But this led him to wonder if, aside from their stance on Sheng Chengli, Ke Hongxue, and even the entire Ke family, were essentially following Mu Jingshu’s lead."

"Why was this? What was special about Mu Jingshu?"

"Rong Tang understood the reason behind Su Huaijing’s question to Lu Jiaxi; he wanted to assess if Ke Hongxue had always intended to join the imperial court, using his precise birth time to test Ke Hongxue, who then tested back. If Su Huaijing further confirmed that Ke Hongxue inherently had no desire to serve under Emperor Renshou, then it was very likely he could draw Ke Hongxue to their side."

"But Rong Tang began to ponder and even question every move made by Mu Jingshu."

"He found himself at ease, his eyes and eyebrows curving more with joy."

"Common folk use familiar terms to express closeness, but his school brother does so when angry, annoyed, or wanting to distance himself…"

"Rong Tang had originally mentioned it casually, intending to inform Su Huaijing of Ke Hongxue's prestigious background, not expecting the conversation to turn into praise for his school brother."

"Rong Tang looked over and saw Sheng Chengxing and others leaning against the railing, each holding a wine cup or fan, dressed in long-sleeved scholar's robes, watching the play with an air of old-time scholarly elegance."

"But having seen the traces left by the former Third Prince in Song Garden, Rong Tang could only think of one phrase when looking at Sheng Chengxing: 'Imitating Dong Shi.'"

"Dong Shi noticed him emerging from the private room, his eyes initially indifferent, then suddenly warming up."

"—An act. That was Rong Tang's conclusion."

"Sheng Chengxing approached, considerately asking, 'Cousin, are you feeling better? I heard you fell ill the day after your visit here, and I was worried. One brother is already recuperating under my care, I don’t know how I’d explain to our father if you fell ill too. If you were sick as well, I wouldn’t have the face to even greet our mother.'"

"His words sounded earnest and caring, but to the person concerned, they felt insincere. Rong Tang, followed by two others, greeted Sheng Chengxing and replied indifferently, 'Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. It was nothing serious, just a minor chronic illness from childhood. Although the garden lacks doctors, fortunately, the Second Prince sent many medicinal herbs and supplements. A long-term illness makes one a doctor; after drinking a few decoctions, I’ve already recovered.'"

"As he finished speaking, the area around Lanyue Pavilion fell into silence, with Sheng Chengxing’s entourage curiously observing Rong Yuan, who, confused at first, then realized and stepped in to shield Sheng Chengxing."

Rong Yuan stepped forward, remembering the previous lesson, first greeting his brother and sister-in-law: "It's a relief that my brother has recovered."

Then turning to the Third Prince, he feigned politeness: "My brother has always been the most mannered at home, probably didn't want to trouble everyone with his illness, hence the lack of notice. Otherwise, how could we not know about Your Highness specially inviting dozens of famous physicians to reside in the garden for the Peony Festival, just in case of emergencies? We hope Your Highness won't blame him, and understand my brother's good intentions."

Sheng Chengxing’s expression lightened slightly, about to brush off the matter lightly, intending to throw the blame back to Rong Tang, but he heard the usually inconspicuous Prince Consort chuckle lightly, saying, "Third Brother is indeed clever and astute, not only aware of Your Highness's arrangements but also the residing physicians in the garden. Since that's the case—"

His words turned, lips curling with a smile, eyes coldly fixed on Rong Yuan: "When away from home, with Tangtang's poor health, father specially instructed you and Second Brother to take care of the eldest. Second Brother indeed sent medicinal herbs and supplements to our residence, but have you, Third Brother, ever visited or greeted your elder brother once these days? If you had come, how could you not know of Prince Consort’s relapse? Why didn’t you personally seek medical help, instead spending your days drinking and watching operas in the Lan Yue Pavilion?"

Su Huaijing’s face gradually became stern, exuding an intimidating presence: "Now you plead for Tangtang's forgiveness to His Highness, but I was unaware that the crown prince appointed by the Emperor, the eldest grandchild of the Duke of Endi, deserved blame for silently enduring illness without wishing to trouble others."

Plead for forgiveness? You’re crying at the wrong grave!

"Su Huaijing's presence was commanding. Since he joined the Flower Folding Society, except for his private moments with Ke Mu, whenever outsiders saw the couple from the Ningxuan King's Mansion, they mostly saw the crown prince's wife, standing or sitting gently by Rong Tang's side, pouring tea, ladling soup, and serving dishes. Su was always seen with a slight bow of the head, a smile on his lips, preparing snacks or fruits for Rong Tang, or walking by his side, always mindful of the path to prevent any mishap to his fragile husband."

"Who had ever seen Su Huaijing in such a manner?"

"Even Rong Yuan, who had limited private interactions with Su since his arrival, had only regarded him as a man serving a doomed soul, not capable of much. Unexpectedly, before Rong Tang even spoke, this elder sister-in-law dared to challenge him publicly?"

"Rong Yuan's eyes widened in disbelief as he scrutinized Su Huaijing for the first time."

"The crowd fell silent for a moment, not daring to speak, their eyes covertly glancing towards Sheng Chengxing."

"It was Sheng Chengxing who, in his thoughtlessness, wanted to show concern for his brother—even his cousin—yet without full commitment. While he voiced concern, he didn't think to consult a doctor for Rong Tang's illness. His fine words were sharply rebutted by Rong Tang on the spot, even dragging the Second Prince into the fray, causing discomfort."

"Rong Yuan was clever, quickly redirecting any potential conflict between the princes back onto his elder brother, earning him a good reputation. He then made a superficial apology, saving face for the Third Prince and himself, which should have pleased everyone except for the slight grievance of Rong Tang."

"Unexpectedly, the wife of the Crown Prince of Ningxuan intervened."

"This was truly…"

"The crowd was at a loss for words, looking around at each other, wishing they had never come, with only the loud opera music from downstairs piercing the air."

"Su Huaijing paid no attention to Sheng Chengxing, focusing solely on Rong Yuan. He used his authority as an elder sister-in-law to dominate the situation. After a long while, which felt like only a moment, laughter broke from behind, bold and joyful, as if relieved from a burden, yet restrained, loudly saying, 'It's a blessing that my cousin has recovered. The medicinal herbs were a gift from our father, and their best use is in their effectiveness, regardless of who gave them.'"

"Everyone looked back to see Sheng Chengming ascending the stairs, smiling warmly, not even glancing at Sheng Chengxing, and walking up to Rong Tang and Su Huaijing, he said with a smile, 'Cousin, have you finished the medicine? I have some left; if you don't mind, I can have Jingzhi fetch it and send it over.'"

"Rong Tang had been on guard for any sudden move from Sheng Chengxing against Su Huaijing, subtly moving in front to protect him. Seeing Sheng Chengming, he relaxed his guard, stepped aside, cleared his throat, and said, 'Your Highness, thank you for your concern. We still have some medicine left, but Huaijing and I will be returning home soon and won't need so much precious medicine.'"

Sheng Chengming nodded and turned to Sheng Chengxing.

His gaze briefly flickered over Rong Yuan, dismissive as if looking at an ant, then said to the Third Prince: "Third Brother, if you have time, why not visit Tuolan Temple and seek guidance from Master Huimian. Ask if you're cursed because just after leaving the palace and holding a festival, there’s been death and illness. Is it due to your wrongdoing or disrespect, thus punished by the ancestral spirits enshrined in the garden?"

Lingyuan, once a royal garden, had seen emperors and concubines throughout history, naturally possessing shrines for ancestral spirits.

Sheng Chengming’s words were clearly insinuating that Sheng Chengxing’s arrangement of the Peony Festival with themes of peonies and chrysanthemums was dubious. Those who understood didn’t dare to respond, while the oblivious didn’t dare to join the princes’ dispute.

An official who had seen Sheng Chengming in the court was surprised, noticing that he had become much more articulate compared to his initial days in court, even managing to insult without using a single foul word.

Rong Tang stayed inconspicuous, Su Huaijing leaning close to him, sneakily slipping his hand into Rong Tang's sleeve, boldly taking his hand amidst the crowd.

Rong Tang raised his eyebrows, looking at his consort.

He remained silent, unsure if Su Huaijing understood his gaze but knowing the antagonist’s nature, he probably wouldn’t tell the truth.

Rong Tang was just surprised at Sheng Chengming repeatedly trying to ingratiate himself; was he too eager?

Did he really have no strategists behind him, to trust Su Huaijing so blindly?

…Or perhaps, if the antagonist wished to invest some effort and time, anyone would trust him unreservedly.

"Even with the plot in his grasp, wasn’t he also charmed by Su Huaijing, given houses and carriages?"

"And while giving those gifts, the antagonist didn’t even flatter him much."

"Thinking about it, Rong Tang felt an inexplicable sourness, clenching his hands. With the two princes arguing ahead, Rong Tang lowered his gaze, squeezing Su Huaijing’s hand, unclear whether it was out of frustration."

"Su Huaijing, pinched by him, smiled instead, turning his head to look at Rong Tang with a compliant and clever expression, devoid of the sharpness he had shown towards Rong Yuan earlier."

"If put into words, it was somewhat like a guard dog raised at home, showing nothing but affection to its master, its whole being exuding the scent of belonging to its owner."

"Rong Tang, overwhelmed by Su Huaijing’s beautiful eyes staring at him for a few seconds, gave in with a soft sigh, shifting his gaze away and gently caressing the spot on Su Huaijing’s skin where he had pinched."

"Su Huaijing couldn’t hide his amusement, his eyes and brows brimming with warmth."

"Despite the private discord between Sheng Chengxing and Sheng Chengming, being in a public setting, they refrained from letting others see any strife between imperial heirs. After a few exchanges, they amicably resolved their disagreement, with Sheng Chengxing approaching Rong Tang and bowing slightly, 'I was thoughtless. It’s rare for my cousin to venture out, and I failed to ensure your enjoyment. I shall visit and formally apologize once we return to the capital.'"

"Rong Tang's eyes lit up, secretly signaling ‘two’ with his fingers to Su Huaijing while maintaining a dignified demeanor, 'Your Highness, I dare not accept your apology. It is merely my own frailty; please, no more such talk, lest it shorten my life.'"

"Having just been outmaneuvered by Sheng Chengming, Sheng Chengxing was wary to agree. After several polite refusals, it was settled that upon returning to the capital, he would send valuable medicinal herbs and treasures to Ningxuan Wang's residence as compensation."

"The onlookers breathed a sigh of relief. Rong Tang, along with Su Huaijing, returned to their private room, joyfully gesturing ‘two’ with his hand."

"Su Huaijing found it amusing but indulged him, feigning ignorance, 'What does this mean, Tang Tang brother?'"

"Rong Tang replied, 'Two apologies! Huaijing, we’ve managed to gain two apologies on this outing!'"

"Delighted, Su Huaijing’s mood also lifted, correcting with a smile, 'Actually, it's four.'"

"Rong Tang blinked in surprise."

"Su Huaijing counted on his fingers, 'Qin Pengxuan, the Third Prince, Rong Zheng, and the apology just mentioned by the Second Prince.'"

"Rong Tang queried, 'Aren’t we refusing Sheng Chengming’s apology?'"

"Su Huaijing smiled, 'He will give it.'"

"As he spoke, there was a light knock at the entrance of the screen. Sheng Chengming called from outside, 'Cousin, may I come in?'"

"Rong Tang and Su Huaijing exchanged glances, with the latter going to open the screen for Sheng Chengming."

"The noble and unparalleled Second Prince stood outside the screen, his face showing a moment of panic when he saw who opened it for him, quickly replaced by a look of startled favor."

Sheng Chengming unconsciously leaned forward, then remembered the protocol and shifted to the side, saying, "Thank you... sister-in-law."

Rong Tang noticed a momentary hesitation in his address, finding it somewhat amusing. These two surely had other terms of endearment in private, but now had to feign unfamiliarity in front of him, which must be somewhat exhausting.

Rong Tang stood up and asked, "Does the Second Prince have something to instruct?"

Sheng Chengming entered the room, and the screen closed behind him, isolating their small world. He quickly said, "It's nothing like that. Just now, there were too many people outside, and it seemed improper to be seen pulling you aside. I wanted to say that I have many precious tonics at my place. If you find it troublesome to carry so many things from Songyuan back to the palace, I will have my servants pack them up and send them to you after I return."

Before Rong Tang could refuse, Sheng Chengming hastily added, "Please don't decline again, cousin. Your grandmother has made indelible contributions to the Dayu royal family, and you are the direct nephew of the Empress Dowager. If you don't take care of your health, it would sadden the elders, and even I would feel heartbroken."

Rong Tang thought to himself: What a way to call for reinforcements.

His brow slightly furrowed, "Even so—"

Before he could finish, Sheng Chengming, as if fearing another rejection, quickly said, "Even if not for the Empress Dowager and grandmother, Ning Xuanwang is a hero of Dayu. He followed the Emperor in battles from the south to the north in his early years. As the prince of Ning Xuanwang, you will shoulder the responsibilities of the mansion in the future. How can you manage without taking care of your health? Those medicinal herbs and tonics are of no use to me. If you don't accept them, they'll just end up neglected in my house, which would be a real waste."

He spoke with genuine concern, but Rong Tang's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't help but glance at Su Huaijing, who showed no reaction, even calmly pouring him another cup of warm tea, as if he hadn't heard Sheng Chengming's mention of 'Ning Xuanwang fighting alongside Emperor Renshou.'

He had gotten along with Su Huaijing so harmoniously that he almost forgot about the tragic end of the previous Emperor's family, in which his biological father played a significant role. Emperor Renshou was the instigator, and Rong Mingyu was the executioner's knife.

The bit of good mood Rong Tang had just lifted plummeted again, feeling a bitter taste in his heart. Fearing Sheng Chengming might say something more unsettling, he coughed lightly to interrupt his thoughts and replied, "Then I shall gratefully accept, thank you, Second Prince."

Sheng Chengming breathed a sigh of relief, his gaze turning more sincerely towards Su Huaijing, "After the Flower Folding Festival ends, I will arrange it. Please take good care of my cousin back at the mansion, sister-in-law, and make sure he takes the tonics. Strengthening the body is always beneficial."

Su Huaijing smiled and thanked him, "Thank you, Second Prince. I will certainly take good care of Rong Tang."

Subconsciously wanting to return the courtesy, Sheng Chengming began to bow but stopped himself mid-way, instead gently supporting Su Huaijing's arm, "Cousin-in-law, there's no need for such formality, we are all family."

The fourth person in the elegant room, Lu Jiaxi, watched in astonishment. From the moment Sheng Chengming entered, he had wanted to greet him, but the Second Prince rattled on like a one-man show, presenting a slew of gifts. This demeanor hardly seemed like that of a haughty prince.

This made him question the rumors he had heard about the royal family at the academy.

Rong Tang, noticing his awkwardness, led everyone to sit. Su Huaijing also sat next to Rong Tang. Sheng Chengming, not wanting to leave, looked between Rong Tang and Su Huaijing, skillfully picked the decision-maker, and familiarly pulled out a chair to sit opposite Rong Tang, starting a conversation, "I heard from Jingzhi that cousin has been strolling in the garden these days, reluctant to go out. What brings you to Lan Yue Pavilion today?"

Rong Tang thought he might be in the way, considering leaving with Lu Jiaxi to let them discuss their important matters. But Su Huaijing, silently by his side, began peeling nuts for him, leaving Rong Tang no choice but to reply, "I heard this morning that Zi Yu class has arranged a new play, not yet performed publicly. Curiosity got the better of me, so I dragged Huaijing along."

"Ah... I see," Sheng Chengming replied, slightly disappointed, his facial expression uncontrollably stiffening for a moment. But catching sight of Su Huaijing's endearingly obedient demeanor, he couldn't help but introduce them to Rong Tang.

"It's not really an impressive script. Though it's new, it was hastily composed by the troupe leader to flatter my third brother. The real performance is in the evening – that's when it gets good."

Rong Tang knew what the play was about and understood the implication of Sheng Chengming's words. However, he pretended ignorance, showing just the right amount of confusion and interest, "What do you mean?"

Sheng Chengming asked, "Does cousin remember my fifth brother?"

Rong Tang sneered internally, thinking how the conversation inevitably circled back to the main character of this royal drama. Su Huaijing, upon hearing Sheng Chengming mention Sheng Chengli, frowned displeasedly, glancing up at him.

Sheng Chengming paused, unusually perceptive of the subtle shift in mood of the gentleman he admired under the moonlight, unsure if he had upset him or something else, he hesitated to speak.

With the conversation halted, Sheng Chengming looked around carefully and asked cautiously, "Does peeling these almonds hurt your hands?"

Before Su Huaijing could respond, Sheng Chengming loudly called, "Someone, come here."

A young eunuch, bending at the waist, quickly entered from behind the screen, "Your Highness."

With a grand gesture, Sheng Chengming pointed to the nuts on the Eight Treasures Plate on the table, "Go, peel these nuts and bring them back. Also, prepare some well-arranged fruits and pastries. My third brother really is careless, only providing troublesome snacks."

Glancing at the teapot on the table, he eagerly asked Rong Tang, "Cousin, is this tea to your liking? I have some excellent pre-rain Longjing tea from Jiangnan, freshly tribute, perfect for this season. This seems like an excellent idea," he continued without waiting for Rong Tang's reply, "You, go peel the seeds and fruits, and let Xiaoshun fetch two jars of tea from my courtyard. Use the brought mountain spring water for brewing and make sure it's warm, not too hot or cold, as the patient can't drink those."

"Yes," the young eunuch respectfully responded and carefully picked up the plate of dry fruits in front of Su Huaijing.

Sheng Chengming performed his actions with such fluidity that Rong Tang was left gaping in awe, glancing at his own innocent child, he couldn't help but wake up the system from its dormant state, asking, "Why did he choose someone like this?"

Rong Tang was almost roaring, "How is this fair!!!"

Su Huaijing, serving as a prince's aide, might be clumsy, but he was observant enough to take care of not only Sheng Chengming's preferences but also his family.

Why then, when it came to Rong Tang, despite his utmost dedication to his tasks and strategic maneuvering, he ended up being fatally stabbed by Sheng Chengli?

At this moment, Rong Tang's sense of injustice peaked, and he complained to the system.

The system, after a long silence, responded, "[No wonder he was only exiled.]"

Rong Tang was momentarily stunned, then quickly regained his composure.

In the ending tracked by the system, those associated with Su Huaijing suffered dire fates. The Emperor Ren Shou was made into a human pig, stuffed into a barrel, and daily carried by eunuchs from inside to outside the palace, hung on the walls of Yu Jing City for display.

— Every citizen entering the imperial capital could see their once revered Emperor, now limbless and disfigured, hanging ignominiously on the city walls, watching the bustling crowds.

The entire family of the Duke of Wu Kang, 128 people, perished. Qin Pengxun was sent to a brothel's secret chambers, developing an addiction and nightly serving others with his body.

Sheng Chengli was hunted nationwide, each time meeting a gruesome death, whether by dismemberment or quartering. Su Huaijing used nearly every torture method recorded in history on him, treating him as if he were the mastermind behind his own family's murder.

Even those currently enjoying the Shehua Meeting, drinking wine, chatting, and writing poetry, most would meet a grisly end.

Su Huaijing was a tyrant. After his ascension, more blood flowed in the imperial capital than during the Ren Shou Emperor's rebellion, according to the system's mainframe data.

Yet uniquely, Sheng Chengming, the first prince Su Huaijing used upon entering the capital, was merely stripped of his title and exiled by Emperor Ren Shou, sent to a remote area to live as a commoner before the fight for succession in the capital escalated.

But even as a commoner, a prince could enjoy a lifetime of luxury and envy from ordinary people.

The system's inherent stance made it impossible for it to feel even a shred of sympathy for Su Huaijing. Ignoring the villain's actions due to Rong Tang's thoughts was already a violation of its mission. But witnessing this scene today, its data-driven mind suddenly struggled to understand.

Emperor Ren Shou was Su Huaijing's enemy, his offspring taking away all the glory and affection that should have been Su Huaijing's and his siblings'. According to the villain's level of depravity by the end, he should have mercilessly exterminated any unborn children of Ren Shou upon hearing of their existence.

Yet, he spared Sheng Chengming.

"He spared Sheng Chengming? Is this the kind of character a villain is supposed to have?"

After a long silence following its statement, the system finally spoke, and Rong Tang understood its meaning, then said, "Even if he turned evil, at his core, he's not really bad."

"He simply sought revenge for the wrongs done to him."

"He was forced by fate to become the ultimate villain."

Moved by a sudden impulse, Rong Tang took out a handkerchief from his sleeve, dampened it with water, and returned to gently hold his dear child's hand.

Su Huaijing's eyes widened slightly, a mix of happiness and anxiety in his voice, "Tang Tang?"

Rong Tang bowed his head, his voice slightly muffled, "You always hate being dirty, let me clean it for you."

The handkerchief slid over his fingertips, wiping away the nut crumbs, revealing a pair of clean, beautiful, and fair hands, which could even be used as a model in modern times.

Su Huaijing remained silent, his heart beating rapidly in his chest. When Rong Tang removed the handkerchief, he obediently and sweetly said, "Thank you, Brother Tang Tang."

His voice was pleasing and clear, silencing the other two in the room, who unconsciously exchanged glances, both seeming to think 'Should I even be here?'

Fortunately, Rong Tang quickly regained his composure, clearing his throat and proactively addressing the topic he already knew the answer to, "Is this play related to the Fifth Prince?"

At these words, Su Huaijing frowned, his earlier joy from Rong Tang wiping his hands dissipating somewhat, casting a displeased and resentful glance at him, feeding Rong Tang the nuts he had peeled, trying to suppress the irritation rising in his heart.

Sheng Chengming looked at them, sensing the conversation could continue, cleared his throat and said, "The Zi Yu Troupe from Jiangnan is well-known. When they came to the capital a few years ago, their opera was gentler and more subtle compared to the popular ones in the capital, and some of their plays..."

He paused, sneaking a glance at Su Huaijing, then whispered very softly and quickly, almost inaudibly, "Some of their plays are quite bold."

Rong Tang: "?"

The system coldly and mercilessly reminded, "[Dirty things.]"

Rong Tang: "..."

He coughed, remaining silent, guiltily glancing at Su Huaijing, only to find the latter seemed not to understand the implication of his and Sheng Chengming's words, blinking in confusion at their frequent looks.

Rong Tang: "..." Forget it, don't corrupt the child.

System: "[Hmph!]"

Sheng Chengming, seizing the opportunity, continued, "That's why many officials and nobles in the capital, along with young masters and misses, enjoy their plays. It's like a snowball effect, becoming more and more popular."

Rong Tang: "Does Your Highness also watch them?"

Sheng Chengming paused, slightly embarrassed, "Occasionally, I go with friends."

Going to gatherings and even visiting the Fengyue Building, attending a play seemed quite normal.

Thinking this, Rong Tang couldn’t help but advise, "Rong Zheng is still young."

The others were momentarily puzzled. Su Huaijing was the first to react, letting out an involuntary laugh. Just then, the screen was knocked, and the eunuch who had taken the fruit platter earlier returned, neatly arranging the nuts and fruits on the table, "The Longjing tea is on its way. Please, Your Highness and Young Master, have a little patience and wait a moment longer."

Rong Tang thought they were quite efficient, raising an eyebrow, "Thank you."

The eunuch was startled, his eyes widening in disbelief at Rong Tang, then quickly retreating under Su Huaijing's cool gaze.

Lu Jiaxi's eyes sparkled even more as he looked at Rong Tang.

It was then that Sheng Chengming finally understood the implication of Rong Tang's words, his ears turning red as he said, "This younger brother will remember."

Rong Tang: "..."

Well, now that 'younger brother' was mentioned, he couldn't presume to be his real brother.

He picked up two orange segments, offering one to Su Huaijing, and while eating, listened to Sheng Chengming continue, "Zi Yu Troupe premieres new plays regularly. Though tickets for opening night are hard to come by, those who are willing to wait can always see them. Honestly, most dramas are repetitive, but Zi Yu's popularity stems partly from their bold performances, and partly because they have several popular actors who draw in the crowds."

"The focus of today's play isn't really on the plot, which is just about the typical strife over family wealth in a rich household," Sheng Chengming said lightly, causing Rong Tang's eyes to flicker in confusion as he glanced at him.

Isn't that the main point? Aren't you and Sheng Chengxing "rich family" members fighting over inheritance?

But then he added, "The twist is about a courtesan taken in by a master, who then bears him a son. She harbors malicious intentions, committing heinous acts, and ultimately meets a dire fate at the Western Hills."

Rong Tang sipped his tea, thinking that it was indeed so.

No matter how many changes occur or how much the story deviates, it always circles back to the male lead.

In the original story and the previous two lives, when Sheng Chengxing hired a troupe to perform, the actress playing the courtesan-turned-mistress was stunningly beautiful. Her light-colored eyes exuded an exotic charm, and every smile and gesture was enchanting, captivating everyone present.

But only a few in the palace knew the real story.

The reason being, that woman bore a striking resemblance to the late Consort Shu.

In the original storyline, this was Sheng Chengming's moment to shine. Despite Sheng Chengxing garnering attention, he was inwardly harboring a deep-seated resentment.

Choosing someone for retribution was tricky; he couldn't directly confront Sheng Chengming. The Sixth Prince was his own brother, the Seventh Prince was too young, and the Fourth Prince, who was close to Sheng Chengming, was under house arrest by Emperor Ren Shou for his misdeeds.

After much deliberation, the choice naturally fell on Sheng Chengli.

— Although Rong Tang felt all these reasons were just to add more plot twists and harem intrigue for Sheng Chengli.

The actress resembling Consort Shu was named Su Lian'er, related to the Consort. Without makeup, she might not look the same, but once in costume, especially with her eyes partly covered by a handkerchief, her tender, affectionate eyes were the spitting image of Consort Shu's, not to mention a faint teardrop mole at the corner of her left eye.

In the early parts of "The Emperor's Conquest," Su Lian'er was once thought to be the female lead by readers.

She successfully captured the male lead's heart from her first appearance, thanks to her resemblance to Consort Shu.

Watching Sheng Chengxing use Su Lian'er to mock him, Sheng Chengli thought how pitiful this woman was, her life as insignificant as a drifting weed, similar to his own difficult upbringing in the cold palace.

Thus, despite being mocked and ridiculed, he gave Su Lian'er a token before the end of the Shehua Meeting, promising to find a way to free her from her lowly status and arrange a good marriage for her once he left the palace.

Naturally, that marriage was intended for himself.

As Sheng Chengming said, what Zi Yu Troupe in the capital lacked least were noble patrons, making Su Lian'er's role clear — an intelligence agent.

The author really made full use of the harem members being pawns in this power-up novel.

Rong Tang thought emotionlessly, then heard Sheng Chengming lower his voice, "That actress just happens to resemble Consort Shu, and Sheng Chengxing wants to embarrass the Fifth Prince."

In the original plot, Sheng Chengli left the cold palace because the Fourth Prince, who was close to the Second Prince, bullied him, and Emperor Ren Shou, remembering he had a son neglected in the cold palace, summoned him out while confining the Fourth Prince and indirectly reprimanding the Second Prince.

Knowing Sheng Chengxing's intentions, Sheng Chengming wouldn't intervene but rather watch with a detached amusement.

This time, he had intended to impede Sheng Chengxing's plans, as the more trouble Sheng Chengxing caused, the better it suited his purposes, so Sheng Chengming naturally wouldn't interfere.

In the previous two lives, Rong Tang, with the script, not only helped Sheng Chengli avoid this difficulty but even turned the tables on Sheng Chengxing. This time, he hoped that with Mu Jingxu and Ke Hongxue around, even if they couldn't foresee it, they wouldn't let Sheng Chengli get into trouble. However, they were too lazy to even come to the Lan Yue Pavilion today, clearly uninterested in meddling.

Hearing about the royal scandal, Lu Jiaxi was somewhat flustered but, being young and fearless, cautiously asked, "But isn't the Fifth Prince recuperating? He hasn't attended any of the poetry gatherings these days."

Rong Tang was wondering how Sheng Chengming would react to Lu Jiaxi's interruption when he saw him respond as if he had seen a carrot, not only not blaming Lu Jiaxi for interrupting but even showing a kind of tender affection in his eyes, reminiscent of a teacher encouraging students to think during a lesson.

Rong Tang got goosebumps all over, turning his head to glance at Su Huaijing, increasingly curious about what kind of potion he had fed Sheng Chengming.

Sheng Chengming said, "The Fifth Prince is indeed recuperating, but Sheng Chengxing, as the host of the Shehua Meeting and his third brother, hasn't joined us for a single meal since he moved into Song Garden. It's unreasonable. If the eunuchs there gossip, they might say he disregards his brother. Moreover, since Sheng Chengxing personally invited him, he would have to come even if he didn’t want to."

After saying this, he seemed to suddenly remember something and looked uneasily at Rong Tang, "Cousin, could you help the Fifth Prince?"

Rong Tang, annoyed at the mention of Sheng Chengli's name, said, "Royal affairs are not my place to interfere. If I do, my father will punish me upon my return. Even if I wanted to, I can’t." And I don’t want to.

Sheng Chengming struggled to understand his words, unsure of their meaning, he glanced worriedly at Su Huaijing.

Su Huaijing smiled, "Tang Tang should just focus on me. If you share your attention with others, I’ll get jealous."

Sheng Chengming immediately understood! His eyes brightened, "That’s right, why bother with their affairs? Since we’re here to have fun, let’s just enjoy ourselves."

He didn't care that he, too, as the second brother, might be scolded by their father for letting the third brother bully the fifth. If he interfered, Su Huaijing would be unhappy, and it wasn’t worth it.

Sheng Chengming’s usually dense mind was exceptionally clear on this matter.

Rong Tang found it amusing. After chatting for a while, tasting Longjing tea, and having a meal together, Su Huaijing took him back to their room for a nap. As dusk fell, Ke Hongxue and Mu Jingxu had gone off to some corner of Song Garden to play, and Rong Tang asked Su Huaijing, "Shall we go to Lan Yue Pavilion?"

Su Huaijing, brewing medicine, frowned unhappily, "Why does Tang Tang want to go there?"

Sensing his displeasure, Rong Tang quickly appeased, "To watch a play."

Su Huaijing: "?"

Rong Tang: "Didn’t the Second Prince say tonight’s play is going to be spectacular? I think it’d be a shame not to see it."

Su Huaijing stood still, looking at him intently for a long time, as if confirming whether he was lying, "Wait until I finish brewing this medicine."

Rong Tang’s entire face scrunched up, tasting bitterness in his mouth, he tentatively suggested, "Can we skip the medicine tonight?"

Su Huaijing was unyielding, "No, the doctor said this medicine must be taken continuously for seven days without interruption for it to work."

Rong Tang looked particularly disheartened, sniffing the medicinal aroma in the air, feeling a sourness in his stomach, and muttered softly, "But the medicine you brew is so bitter."

Su Huaijing was momentarily taken aback, almost thinking he was hearing things, "What?"

Rong Tang murmured quietly, "You definitely didn’t follow the doctor's prescription when brewing the medicine."

Su Huaijing: "…?"

Rong Tang even felt he had proof, "The medicine I had at home wasn't this bitter. They were all prescribed by Doctor Chen, how can there be such a big difference? Huaijing, did you remember it wrong?"

He hesitated, then suggested, "Huaijing, everyone has their expertise, and you're not skilled in medicine. Why don't we wait until we're back at the mansion and have Doctor Chen prescribe a new formula?"

Su Huaijing sat on a small stool, fanning the flames under the medicine pot. After hearing Rong Tang’s words and seeing his hopeful, shining eyes, he was silent for a long while before smiling.

Everyone has their expertise?

Not skilled in medicine?

The brewed medicine is bitter?

Young Master, do you think there’s a reason you haven’t been fainting lately?

Su Huaijing gently fanned the medicine pot, always tender and considerate, as if he would agree to anything Rong Tang asked, "Then we’ll get a new prescription when we return. But for today, you still have to drink this medicine. If you want to go to Lan Yue Pavilion, you must finish it, or I won’t accompany you."

When we get back, I’ll make you pills! The size of a fist!

Making a fuss over the medicine and even questioning the doctor’s skills, do you have no conscience?