Chapter 21

Chapter 21

The relentless rain began on the night of April 30th and continued until the early hours of May 1st.

At that time, in the Eastern Palace, the candles flickered dimly, and the place was desolate with few people around.

The once-glorious Crown Prince still wore his imperial yellow robe as he sat idly by the window in the study of the East Wing, on a thick layer of silk carpet that had not been swept for days.

Holding something unknown in his arms, he gazed blankly at the pouring rain outside.

As the hour of Zi struck, the Crown Princess entered the palace hall with a bowl of ginseng soup in hand. Looking up, she saw her husband sitting motionless on the carpet, and she quietly stepped closer. For more than half a month since the incident, the Crown Princess had only changed into a plain white imperial robe. Her expression, though, remained much the same. She squatted down, placed the ginseng soup on a small table, and spoke to her husband in a gentle voice.

"Your Highness, please have some ginseng soup."

Despite being confined to the Eastern Palace, the Crown Prince's daily meals were not neglected by Empress Concubine Yan, who followed the usual custom and sent them to the palace.

The Crown Prince's eyes wandered vacantly, showing no particular reaction.

A single silver lamp illuminated the hall, and the open windows allowed the wind to sway the candlelight, flickering on and off. Through the flashes of lightning, the Crown Princess noticed that her husband held a book in his hand – it was a volume on "The Successes and Failures of Salt Administration." Seeing those four words, a sharp pain pierced her heart, and she called out to him again,

"First Son, take a sip of this broth," the voice quivered with emotion as it spoke these words.

The Crown Prince finally reacted. His lifeless eyes slowly turned to meet his Consort's reddened ones. Recalling the tender term "First Son," a wave of sorrow washed over him. The book in his hand fell, and he seized his wife's wrist.

"Azhen, I've wronged you."

For over three decades, he had been the Crown Prince, believing that after another year or two, he would ascend the throne and elevate the woman before him, though no longer young but still elegant, to the revered position of Empress. Alas, his efforts had come to naught.

Upon hearing this, the Crown Princess wiped away her tears and shook her head. "We share both honor and disgrace as husband and wife. I do not blame you."

It was merely a deep sense of disappointment within her heart.

The Crown Prince felt even more guilty. He thought of how their entire family would accompany him to the afterlife. Filled with regret, a surge of sorrow erupted from his chest, and he threw himself into his wife's arms, weeping uncontrollably.

"What could I have done? Prince Qin relentlessly pressed upon me. I accumulated wealth not for my own enjoyment, but to maintain a balance among officials and win the people's hearts..."

The Crown Princess embraced him, her throat constricted, unsure how to console him. At that moment, a loud cry of a newborn echoed from the western annex. The couple turned their heads in unison.

It was their newly born grandson, the legitimate heir.

The Crown Princess glanced at the time, gently soothing her husband before tidying up his clothes as usual. She spoke softly,

"Your Highness, rest early. I'll go check on our child."

The Crown Princess rose and left the eastern annex, walking down the long corridor towards the west. A dozen palace lanterns swayed above her, casting a colorful glow around her, the last trace of opulence in that deserted palace.

A figure emerged from the sliding screen door ahead.

It was the Imperial First Grandson, who had just finished visiting his child. The mother and son's eyes met,

"Mother," the Crown Prince's eldest grandson suppressed the ache in his heart and bowed to the Crown Princess.

The Crown Princess hurried to his side, engaging him in casual conversation. Then she said, "Qian'er, there are countless people outside waiting to see the fall of the Eastern Palace. But we cannot simply sit idle; we must learn to save ourselves."

Noticing the hidden meaning in his mother's words, the Crown Prince's eldest grandson's expression turned resolute. "What method do you have in mind, Mother?"

The Crown Princess patted his shoulder affectionately, her gaze passing through the window lattice towards the western annex. She saw a palace servant holding a red swaddle, soothing the child. In front of them, her daughter-in-law Ming was leaning on a cushion, looking at the child in the swaddle with boundless tenderness. The child's cries grew louder and louder, but unfortunately, the charming little face was hidden from view. The Crown Princess regretfully withdrew her gaze and fell upon her son's face.

"Take good care of your father, your wife, and your child."

The Crown Prince's expression involuntarily tensed upon hearing this. "What are you going to do, Mother?"

The Crown Princess's gaze passed through the lamp's glow and landed on the heavy rain outside. Her tone was resolute. "I'm going to beg for mercy from His Majesty."

The Crown Prince was slightly taken aback. "His Majesty has already sealed off the Eastern Palace. How will you get there? Besides, if His Majesty refuses to see Father, why would he listen to you?"

The Crown Princess didn't answer him. Instead, she called for her personal maid, draped a cloak over herself, and strode out with determination.

Seeing her resolute face and the air of a martyr, the Crown Prince's heart clenched. He hastily rushed forward and blocked her way. "Mother, I won't allow you to go. If anyone should go, it should be me."

The Crown Princess shook her head and said sternly, "You can't go. No one else can besides me. Trust me, stay in the Eastern Palace and take care of our family. Leave the rest to me."

With that, the Crown Princess didn't say another word and walked into the rain without looking back.

Tears blurred the Crown Prince's vision. He stumbled backward, colliding with the lattice window.

The palace servants who had served her for years watched her determined figure disappear. They fell to their knees, weeping loudly on the ground.

Arriving at the entrance of the Eastern Palace, the guards immediately stepped forward to intercept her. The Crown Princess remained calm as she asked them,

"Which Grand Councilor is on duty today?"

The guard, clad in armor, bowed and replied, "It's Grand Councilor Xun from the Ministry of Revenue."

The Crown Princess exhaled in relief and handed him a golden token.

"Inform him that I wish to leave the palace."

She had been meticulously planning this for days, waiting until the early hours of the fifth day of the fifth month, until tonight's torrential downpour...

The dark sky seemed to rip open, pouring rain like a cascading Milky Way. The guards at the Meridian Gate yawned under the dim lamplight, leaning against the city tower pillars, lost in thought amidst the downpour. The lights of the Heavenly Audience Gate in the distance were blurred into a haze. Suddenly, a white dot appeared in their field of vision, gradually growing larger. It turned out to be a person - a woman dressed in a white gown, with her hairpins and ornaments removed, kneeling on the white marble bridge in front of the gate.

Startled, the guard jumped into action, rushing down the tower and braving the storm to approach her.

The Crown Princess had been kneeling in the rain for over two hours. Recognizing her, the guard feared for her safety and quickly fetched an umbrella to shield her. However, it was of little use; she was thoroughly drenched and shivering from the cold. Still, she remained resolutely kneeling, her back straight, blood seeping from her knees and trickling down the stone bridge. All the guards at the Meridian Gate were deeply moved.

At the stroke of dawn, when the city gates opened, officials in various robes passed by. Amidst the rush, they couldn't help but notice the solemn voice of a woman emanating from above the white marble bridge:

"The Crown Prince may have committed wrongs, but my sins run deeper. He took me as his wife at the age of sixteen, yet I was incompetent in feminine arts, ignorant of cooking. I never sewed a single garment for him nor prepared a bowl of porridge. The Crown Prince served the emperor day and night, while as his wife, I failed to share his burdens – that is my first fault."

At twenty years of age, the Crown Prince has been assisting His Majesty in the governance of state affairs, receiving divine blessings from above and guiding the Six Ministries below. He does not claim to be exceptionally wise or accomplished, yet his dedication and industriousness are beyond question. However, having grown up within the secluded confines of the palace, he is unfamiliar with managing the nation's affairs and, in his comfort, forgets the perils that lurk. As his wife, my failure to counsel him diligently and urge his reform is my second transgression.

"..."

Every word spoken by the Crown Princess was conveyed to the Heavenly Praise Hall by the palace attendants without missing a single syllable.

At that moment, the emperor had just awoken and, upon hearing this, hastily donned his robe and stumbled down from his bedchamber. He leaned against the lattice window, gazing through the veil of rain towards the Gate of Supreme Harmony. In his mind's eye, he saw a gentle and dignified woman standing under the pouring rain, smiling softly in his direction.

The Crown Princess was neither proficient in needlework nor knowledgeable in culinary arts, whereas the late Empress Dowager had been virtuously demure, personally undertaking the task of knitting for the Emperor and personally preparing his nightly suppers without relying on others' hands. By highlighting these shortcomings in the Crown Princess, it is subtly implied that the Crown Prince lacks the tender care of a mother. One cannot help but wonder, were the benevolent, filial, and virtuous Empress Zhang Xiao Hui still alive, would the Crown Prince have been treated thus? Would the Emperor have even considered deposing him?

The prince's consort's words cut like knives into the emperor's heart. The aged monarch leaned on the long table, caressing the old garment left behind by his deceased wife, and couldn't help but shed tears.

*

A torrential downpour began at dawn and showed no sign of ceasing, causing even the Dali Temple prison to suffer the consequences. In the lower-lying areas to the south, rainwater overflowed from the drainage system, flooding a row of cells. The prisoners grumbled and caused a ruckus, while the jailors hurried to calm them down and mediate disputes. As the water level continued to rise, the head jailor had no choice but to summon the guards outside for assistance in draining the cells. After much effort, the water was finally removed. However, during the subsequent roll call, they suddenly discovered that Hu Tianyi, a crucial witness in the case involving the crown prince, had been "drowned." This was a serious matter, and the jailor promptly reported the incident to the Chief Justice of the Dali Temple, Liu Zhao.

Startled, Liu Zhao hastily conveyed the news to Prince Qin's palace and the Ministry of Punishments.

The Minister of Justice, Xiao Yu, was vexed by the lack of a starting point in the case. Upon hearing this news, he mustered all his resolve and decisively cut through the tangled web, pronouncing guilt in the Crown Prince's case.

The Crown Prince indeed bears the guilt of secretly harboring weapons, but there is no evidence of him betraying the country to the enemy. Prince Qin is furious beyond measure. Adding to this, the Crown Princess removes her hairpins at the Meridian Gate, seeking to apologize with a self-inflicted death, only to be saved by the soldiers. In light of these events, the emperor, after much reflection and pain, pronounces his judgment in court: he deposes the Crown Prince, demoting him to a commoner, and exiles his entire family to Panyu, forbidding them from ever returning to the capital.

On the day the Crown Prince left the capital, the Emperor summoned him to Yuxi Palace, where the late Empress once resided.

The morning sun was gentle, casting a diagonal beam of light across the two men.

Seated in a circular armchair, the Emperor leaned forward with his arms resting on his knees, gazing at his son and asking, "Now, you can tell me the truth."

Kneeling at the Emperor's feet, the Crown Prince wept bitterly. "Father, I confess that I did have a hand in the gunpowder trade. That merchant, Hu Tianyi, was my man. But I never intended to harm you. He betrayed me, replacing the bolts of silk and satin I requested with gunpowder, which were then transported to Ci'en Temple."

Hu Tianyi had presented the records of his tribute to the Crown Prince over the years, leaving no room for doubt about the authenticity of his confession.

Of course, the Crown Prince knew that Prince Qin must have threatened Hu Tianyi's family to bribe him into framing him. However, mentioning this now would be futile; he aimed to deny Prince Qin any satisfaction.

It was evident who had bribed Hu Tianyi.

Upon hearing this, the Emperor's dark irises narrowed slightly. He simply uttered an "oh" and said nothing more.

The Crown Prince mustered the courage to raise his gaze and look at his father, tears streaming down his face. "Father..."

The aging Emperor, startled by his son's call, was reminded of the days when the Crown Prince used to delight him as a child. He gazed at his son with a complicated expression.

"Why did I not see you before?" he asked.

The Crown Prince, overwhelmed with pain, bowed his head even lower, his words laced with bitterness. "Your Majesty believes that I am unworthy of my duties..." Hence, allowing the three offices to investigate.

There was an unspoken layer in the Crown Prince's heart: As a prince who received countless obeisances and held military power as the current Commander-in-Chief, the Emperor naturally had his reservations.

"Then, do you know why I see you today?"

The Crown Prince lifted his face abruptly, revealing a tear-stained countenance. His lips quivered as he looked at his father with reverence. "Father wants to spare my life."

Closing his eyes, the Emperor let out a long sigh. "Good that you understand. Take care of your wife in Panyu."

Though Prince Qin regretted not being able to eliminate the Crown Prince, learning that he would soon depart for Panyu, he relaxed his guard. Once he ascended the throne, it wouldn't be difficult to find an excuse to deal with the Crown Prince. At present, his most pressing concern was the Right Commander-in-Chief, Yang Kang.

Yang Kang was notorious for his fiery temper and hatred towards injustice. If left alive, he might become a constant obstacle and pose a significant threat.

Yet, on the fourth day of the fifth month, as the entire Eastern Palace was leaving the capital, that once invincible Right Supreme Commander, guarded by the Imperial Guards, was escorted in a prisoner's carriage to the outskirts of the city to bid farewell to his daughter and son-in-law. Along the way, the mournful citizens near Ci'en Temple, who had lost their loved ones, ruthlessly hurled rotten vegetables and eggs at the carriage. Yang Kang's face was covered in filth, but he remained motionless.

When the news reached the imperial study, the emperor nearly stumbled, his eyes narrowing with icy glints.

"Your Majesty, consider this: how can the once-feared Commander, who once struck fear in the hearts of all, become a despised rat, subjected to such humiliation? How will the emperor feel, and how will the officials react?"

"Yang Kang has worked tirelessly and is dearly loved by the soldiers on the border and the common folk. If he can be publicly humiliated today, who would be willing to serve His Majesty or dedicate themselves to the Great Jin tomorrow?"

"This move may seem ordinary, but it has struck directly at the emperor's heart."

The tall, young man stood immersed in the ink-like darkness, his smile profound. "With trouble befalling the Yangs, the military's morale is shaken. Watch and see, the resolution of the Yang family case will soon come to light."

After the Dragon Boat Festival, officials and merchants implicated in the crown prince's affair were gradually convicted. Some faced execution at the Meridian Gate, others were exiled to the border, while still others were dismissed, never to be reinstated. The three supreme courts failed to find evidence of the Yangs' treason. Yang Kang persistently denied any collusion with Da Wu. The emperor, therefore, issued an edict to revoke the Yang family's military power, ordering Yang Kang to retire and enjoy his twilight years.

Thus, the rebellion in the Eastern Palace finally came to a close.

*

With the crown prince gone, the emperor fell ill once more.

Pei Muhang was occupied with tending to the emperor's illness and hadn't returned home for two days.

On the seventh day of the fifth lunar month, early in the morning, Xu Yunqi was engaged in making rouge with Pei Mushan in an open pavilion. A senior maid from Jinhé Hall arrived, standing gracefully under the eaves and bowing to the two of them. "Fifth Miss, the Duchess has asked for your presence."

Pei Mushan, absorbed in her lesson, replied without turning back, "I've just come from my mother's quarters. What could be so urgent that I must go now?"

The maid glanced at Xu Yunqi uneasily and reluctantly replied, "Madam Xun and Second Miss have come to pay their respects to the Duchess. She requests your presence."

Pei Mushan turned abruptly. In the past, she had been close friends with Xun Yunling, and Madam Xun had also doted on her. It would be disrespectful not to show herself, but remembering the underlying tensions between her sister-in-law and Xun Yunling, she worried about hurting Xu Yunqi's feelings.

Xu Yunqi noticed her dilemma and waved her off with a smile. "Go quickly. It's proper to greet guests when they visit."

Pei Mushan tugged at her hand. "Will you come with me?"

Xu Yunqi glanced at the hesitant maid and answered with a smile, "I won't be joining you. I'm afraid it might make the Duchess uncomfortable."

Pei Mushan rubbed her forehead. "That's true."

In no time, Pei Mushan, accompanied by the maid, arrived at Jinhé Hall. Before entering, she could hear her mother's and Xun Yunling's laughter. The Duchess of Xi hadn't sounded this happy in a long while.

After passing through the jade screen into the main chamber, she indeed saw the Duchess hugging Xun Yunling, calling her "darling."

"Child, from this day forth, you shall be my adopted daughter. I'll take it upon myself to arrange a suitable marriage for you."

It was common knowledge that Princess Xi had secretly favored Xun Yunling as a match for Pei Musheng. In her eyes, she felt she had let down Xun Yunling, and thus carried a sense of guilt. To make amends, she intended to acknowledge Xun Yunling as her foster daughter. This would not only preserve their past affection but also establish a sibling relationship between Xun Yunling and Pei Musheng, potentially reducing gossip outside and allowing Xun Yunling to fully let go of her feelings for Pei Musheng.

The girl currently cuddling in her arms wore a hanging cloud hairdo and a pale apricot-colored jacket with a butterfly-embroidered horse-faced skirt. Her eyes were like grapes, sparkling with life, and her appearance bore a strong resemblance to Lady Xun, who sat sipping tea by the side.

Upon hearing the proposal to become her adoptive daughter, Xun Yunling blushed and smiled, "Whatever you say, madam."

Across the room, Lady Xun set down her teacup and shook her head with a smile, "Princess, please don't do this. They say distant relatives are less valuable than close neighbors. We've long treated you as family. If we were to officially become related, it would seem too deliberate. Let's just leave that matter in the past."

Seeing the close bond between mother and daughter, the princess felt even more guilty.

Madams Xie and Li sat beside them. Madam Xie, sitting below Lady Xun, engaged her in friendly conversation, while Madam Li sipped her tea, lifting the corners of her mouth slightly.

Pei Mushan entered the room and first bowed to Lady Xun before cheerfully greeting Xun Yunling,

"Yunling, you're back!"

Upon seeing Pei Mushan, Xun Yunling's face lit up instantly. She quickly rose from the princess's embrace and went to greet her.

"Shan Shan, I've been so worried about you. How have you been these past six months?"

Pei Mushan took Xun Yunling's hand, examining her carefully. "You look so radiant, it seems like you've been doing well."

Xun Yunling gently touched her cheeks, feeling somewhat embarrassed.

"Oh no..."

"Ah..." Pei Mushan leaned in for a closer look. "You're wearing quite a heavy layer of powder."

Lady Li chuckled, almost choking on her water.

Princess Xi shot her a cold glance, and Lady Li quickly wiped the corner of her mouth before apologizing.

Caught by Pei Mushan's observation, Xun Yunling's face flushed with embarrassment. She whispered an explanation, "I told you before, I've lost some weight, so I need the powder to cover it up."

"Oh, right, I brought you a set of cosmetics back..." Xun Yunling gestured to her maid, who promptly presented a small box.

Upon hearing this, Princess Xi turned to Lady Xun sitting below her and said, "You're too thoughtful."

Lady Xun's face was radiant with a warm smile. "No need, my lady. When we were at Green Mountain Temple, the queen sent us so many health tonics. I feel quite indebted to her."

"That was only proper," replied Pei Mushan.

Xun Yunling pulled Shan Shan down to sit and was about to open the gifts for her.

But Shan Shan pointed to her own cheek. "Is this what you're using on your face?"

"Indeed, it's wonderful!" exclaimed Xun Yunling.

Upon hearing this, Pei Mushan shook her head promptly. "No need, keep it for yourself. I no longer use these cosmetics."

"Ahh?" Xun Yunling's expression showed surprise, then she looked dejected. "Shan Shan, have we grown distant?"

"Oh, no, not at all. I really don't need it. Look at my face, isn't it much smoother now?" Pei Mushan placed her face in front of Xun Yunling for inspection.

Xun Yunling hadn't paid attention before, but now she examined closely. Pei Mushan's skin was indeed translucent and lustrous, seemingly several degrees better than before. "What cosmetics have you been using?"

Not only was Xun Yunling astonished, but Lady Li and Lady Xie also looked over curiously.

No woman is indifferent to her own beauty.

Pei Mushan first shot a smug glance, then teased them, "I won't tell you."

Xun Yunling gave her a reproachful look. "Just tell me where you bought it, and I'll get you a few boxes."

Seeing her kindness, Pei Mushan's tone softened. "There's no need, you can't buy this outside."

Without Xu Yunqi's permission, Pei Mushan wouldn't disclose this matter to anyone. She couldn't cause trouble for her sister-in-law.

Xun Yunling looked aggrieved.

In the past, there had been no secrets between her and Pei Mushan.

The more Xun Yunling thought about it, the redder her eyes became, on the verge of tears.

"Oh, oh, don't be sad, it's not that I don't want to tell you, but I can't...you know..." One of Pei Mushan's quirks was that she disliked seeing others cry.

Princess Xi glared at her daughter.

"Enough, it's not that big of a deal," she said, gesturing for Xun Yunling to sit beside her.

Pei Mushan shrugged, her face radiating innocence.

Princess Xi inquired about Xun Yunhe's upcoming birthday celebration, "The end of this month marks Lord Xun's fortieth birthday. Are you planning a grand event?"

Madam Xun sighed in response, "By tradition, his fortieth should be celebrated. With his current position, all eyes are on him. If we don't host a ceremony, others will offer their congratulations eagerly. It wouldn't be proper to refuse them. I've been thinking, rather than neglecting our guests, it would be better to hold a joyful feast and let everyone come and enjoy the wine. However, with the recent incident in the Eastern Palace, I'm unsure if it's appropriate."

Princess Xi replied coolly, "The affairs of the court are separate from ours. If you wish to celebrate, then do so. Our entire family will come to offer our congratulations later."

Madam Xun replied, "I'll ask my husband when he returns tonight."

Her tone was envious to hear, and Princess Xi chuckled. "There's truly no second person in the entire capital who can compare with Lord Xun in terms of fortune. Madam, you truly deserve to be called the most fortunate." Princess Xi never flattered others, and these words came from her heart. She had been neighbors with the Xun family for over a decade and had never heard of Xun Yunhe taking a concubine. Even though she and Prince Xi were considered a loving couple, there were still two secondary consorts and several concubines by his side.

Madam Xun gathered the embroidered handkerchief in her palm and smiled without responding.

Approaching noon, Madam Xun returned to her palace, while Xun Yunling stayed behind in the prince's palace to personally deliver the congratulatory gifts.

Madam Xie hailed from an scholarly family and had a keen interest in painting, so Xun Yunling prepared a box of lake brushes for her. For Madam Li, she bought a box of silk flowers.

Pei Mulan and Xun Yunling were the same age and had grown up together, sharing a close bond. Xun Yunling had gifted her a pearl hairpin, originally intending to buy a costly set of the latest cosmetics for Pei Mushan. Unfortunately, she declined, leaving Xun Yunling rather disappointed.

As they reached the ornamental gate, Pei Mushan recalled something.

"Wait a moment, you embroidered a handkerchief for me during the New Year, and I haven't returned the favor yet. I'll go pick out a gift for you right away. Just wait for me."

Xun Yunling watched her depart until she was out of sight. Then, her smile faded as she called over a servant, slipping a silver coin into their hand. "Where is Third Young Madam? Tell her I have something for her."

Xun Yunling was known for her generosity, and no one in the palace disliked her. The servant, delighted with the silver, hurried to Qinghui Garden to deliver the message.

Xu Yunqi was busy when she heard the servant's report, momentarily taken aback.

What could Xun Yunling possibly want from her?

It wouldn't be proper to turn her away. Xu Yunqi instructed,

"Invite her to Mingyu Hall. I'll be there shortly."

Mingyu Hall was located to the east of Qinghui Garden, a reception room specifically designated for the use of the third household.

Xu Yunqi set aside his current affairs, washed his hands, and applied a layer of cream before heading to Mingyu Hall accompanied by the maid Yingxiang.

It was almost noon, and the sun was blazing. Xu Yunqi didn't take the main entrance but exited Qinghui Garden through a side gate. Following a stone path through a bamboo grove, he caught sight of a young lady standing under a bright green corridor. The girl had a clear and delicate appearance, and her smile carried a touch of liveliness. Her name truly suited her – it contained the character "Ling," reflecting her nature. Xu Yunqi emerged from the bamboo grove and nodded at her with a smile from afar.

"Miss Xun, what brings you to me?"

This was Xun Yunling's first visit to Qinghui Garden. She leaned against the railing, gazing at the verdant bamboo outside the courtyard. Recalling Pei Muheng's poem "Phoenix Tail Whispering," she imagined that the scene before her was what he had described.

Upon hearing Xu Yunqi call her, she didn't immediately turn around but lifted her eyelids nonchalantly, revealing a hint of superiority.

That tall and slender figure seemed to have materialized from the bamboo grove, standing elegantly like a jade statue, a true beauty.

Xun Yunling was slightly startled. No wonder the emperor had taken a fancy to her at first glance; such a demeanor was indeed extraordinary.

What truly made her heart race was the deadly familiarity she felt towards Xu Yunqi's appearance.

As the daughter of a respected scholar, Xun Yunling quickly composed herself and gracefully bowed to Xu Yunqi. "Greetings, Third Sister-in-law. I am Xun Yunling, a young lady from the neighboring Xun family. I've often visited the palace in the past and, having recovered from a long illness, I've brought a small gift as a token of my first meeting with you."

Xun Yunling gave a subtle signal, and her maid handed over a long rectangular box.

Xu Yunqi gestured for Yinxing to accept the gift, "Many thanks for Miss Xun's kindness. I'll make it up to you with a formal visit another day."

Xun Yunling smiled, "We're neighbors, so there's no need to be so formal. Oh, right, I came to see Sister-in-law about something else, and I'd appreciate your help."

Xu Yunqi was slightly surprised but still smiled as she descended the stone path towards her, "What is it?"

Xun Yunling took a purple sandalwood box from another maid. The intricate patterns on it suggested that it had seen many years.

She presented the box to Xu Yunqi with evident seriousness,

"Sister-in-law, in the past, Qingyu used to come to our mansion to study. Father often praised him for his remarkable talent. Whenever we had doubts, we would seek his guidance. These two books were borrowed from Qingyu in the past. During my convalescence, I read them daily and gained some insights, which I've recorded within. It's time to return them to their rightful owner. As it's not convenient for me to meet Qingyu right now, I hope you can pass them on."

Xun Yunling repeatedly mentioned "Qingyu" in her speech. After listening for a while, Xu Yunqi finally realized that "Qingyu" referred to Pei Muheng.

So, Pei Muheng's courtesy name was Qingyu.

It was indeed a pleasant name.

Without hesitation, Xu Yunqi signaled for Yinxing to take the box once more, her expression unwavering.

Xu Yunqi's response was too hasty, which left Xun Yunling utterly astonished.

Could it be that this Miss Xu didn't catch the hidden meaning in her words?

On one hand, she was informing Miss Xu that she and Pei Muheng had grown up together as childhood sweethearts, with a deep bond between them. On the other, she intended to humiliate Miss Xu subtly, reminding her that both she and Pei Muheng were well-versed in literature, making Miss Xu feel inferior.

But Miss Xu showed no reaction at all.

With her ginkgo-shaped eyes wide open, her cheeks puffed up in defiance, refusing to take the gift.

Silver Apricot couldn't believe that Miss Xu hadn't perceived the provocation in Miss Xun's words.

Looking at her, Xu Yunqi said, "Just take it."

Silver Apricot decided to ignore her lady's usual compassionate nature; she knew her mistress never took things to heart. Unable to do the same, as she reached for Xun Yunling's brocaded box, she suddenly yelped, pretending to have lost her grip, causing the precious purple sandalwood box filled with rare books to crash to the ground.

There was a loud thud as the purple sandalwood box split into two halves.

Xun Yunling's delicate face changed, staring at Silver Apricot in shock. Anger initially flashed across her eyes, but soon, a hint of grievance started to surface.

"What a heavy burden you bear, daring to drop Brother Qingyu's possessions. Do you know how valuable these books are? Can you fathom the amount of effort Brother Qingyu has poured into them?"

Ginkgo placed the long box aside on the elegant armrest, her hands spread wide in an expression of innocence. "Oh dear, my apologies, Miss Xun. We're from the countryside, clumsy and unskilled. I accidentally dropped it while trying not to mix up whose belongings they were. You addressed him as 'Brother Qingyu' repeatedly just now, and I didn't understand who you meant. So, I made a mistake. As the daughter of a high-ranking official, you are known for your generosity. Surely, you won't hold this against me?"

"S-You..." Xun Yunling was left speechless by Ginkgo's words.

She held back her frustration, composed herself, and picked up the books herself, gently brushing away the dust before handing them back to Xu Yunqi.

"Regardless, please help me return these to their rightful owner, Sister-in-law."

Placing the books back on the armrest, she left with her maid.

Xu Yunqi turned to look at Ginkgo helplessly. Ginkgo stuck out her tongue at Xun Yunling's retreating figure, still feeling indignant. She huffed,

"She only came here to show off to you, Miss."

Xu Yunqi was not oblivious to Xun Yunling's intentions. In her eyes, these young misses were indeed tedious, always vying for attention and engaging in petty conflicts. It seemed exhausting.

"Giving her a few retorts would only make her more pleased. Her aim is to provoke you. Why waste your energy on her?"

Ginkgo reluctantly picked up the book and followed Xu Yunqi to Qinghui Garden. "I can't stand her arrogance. I despise those who hide their wicked intentions behind a mask of righteousness. Miss, you can't just let her get away with it. Now that she's back, she might cause trouble for you every day."

Xu Yunqi had no interest in cleaning up Pei Muheng's mess. "When Third Master returns, hand the book over to him."

Outdoor matters should be dealt with by men themselves.

Relying on women from the family to handle it would only lead to an endless cycle.

Ginkgo followed her slowly, worried.

"Miss, regardless of the situation, Sir has known Miss Xun since they were young. Haven't you thought that he might have feelings for her?"

A branch from the woods stretched across their path, and Xu Yunqi casually brushed it aside, a smile appearing on her face.

"No, there shouldn't be anyone else in his heart."

"Why?" Ginkgo hurriedly caught up with her, curious.

Xu Yunqi stopped and turned, the sun's rays filtering through the dense foliage, casting a pattern of light and shadow on her face. She chuckled and tapped Ginkgo's forehead gently,

"Foolish girl, he promised to spend his life with me from now on. That shows he doesn't have anyone else in his heart."

Yinxing found her mistress too naive and easily deceived. She couldn't accept it. "Do you really trust him that much?"

Xu Yunqi shook her head and leisurely walked through the moon gate along the wall. It wasn't trust; it was just that her relationship with Pei Muheng hadn't reached the point where he would lie for her.

Pei Muheng arrived at Qinghui Garden at the beginning of the ninth hour of the night. He entered the eastern chamber and saw Xu Yunqi mixing an herbal recipe under the lamp.

It was time to make the second batch of Rising Sun Cake for the emperor. The recipe was ready, and there was only a bit of herb left to be crushed. Yinxing's hands were sore, so Xu Yunqi rolled up her sleeves and took over.

Yinxing had been eagerly waiting for the master to return. Before Pei Muheng could sit down, she placed the broken lacquer box and the books on the table, apologizing sincerely,

"Third Master, Miss Xun from next door came to find our young madam today. She wanted to give these books to you. When I heard her call you Qingyu, I thought she had the wrong person, so I accidentally dropped the box. Please forgive me if I damaged your books."

Yinxing almost explicitly said, Your husband's name is Qingyu, but our lady only learned that from someone else's mouth.

Pei Muheng hadn't rested well for two days and was already exhausted. Hearing this, he could guess most of what had happened, and his expression darkened.

Yinxing shrank back, intimidated by his gloomy look. She secretly glanced at her mistress. Xu Yunqi truly didn't expect her maid to be so bold as to confront Pei Muheng directly. She put down the mortar and stood up.

"Lord Third, the young maid is ignorant. Please don't be angered."

She hastily dismissed the maid and turned to see her husband sitting in the round chair across the table. She poured him a cup of tea and gave him a charming smile.

"Lord Third, are you really upset with a maid?"

Pei Muheng's eyes narrowed slightly as he gazed at her silently. The word "upset" reminded him of what she had said a few days ago.

"I'm not the jealous type, I won't hold a grudge against you." At that time, he hadn't sensed anything wrong with that statement, but now he understood.

Xun Yunling had come to provoke her, yet her maid was so agitated, while Xu Yunqi remained indifferent.

Was it because her nature was too gentle and forgiving, making her unable to feel anger, or did she simply not care at all?

Pei Muheng's fingertips gently rubbed the rim of his teacup as he looked at her with profound eyes.

"Is there nothing you wish to ask me, my lady?"

Xu Yunqi sat back down behind the table, just as she picked up the mortar. Hearing his question, she gave him a subtle glance. Last time, he had inquired about the incident with Jiang Yuhe. Now, the roles were reversed, and it was her turn to ask him questions.

Therefore, she gently set the vase aside and looked at him straight in the eye. "Of course, I'm curious to know if you have feelings for Miss Xun."

The flickering candlelight cast a dim yet bright glow on her face. Her eyes were clear like still water without a ripple, gazing at him steadily with their slanted corners, soft as a delicate feather.

Pei Muheng observed her, his heart inexplicably softening. He didn't wish for any unnecessary misunderstandings between him and his wife.

"I do have a childhood friendship with Miss Xun," he began candidly, "but there's no romantic affection between us."

His gaze then swept across the books again and he asked her, "Do you wish to know the rest of the story?"

Xu Yunqi blinked. "No need, I can guess." The childhood sweethearts scenario was not unfamiliar to her. Having traveled the world, she had come across more bizarre twists and turns than the grains of salt Pei Muheng had consumed in his life.

Yet, Xu Yunqi noticed that upon her finishing, a profoundness further deepened in her husband's eyes. Pei Muheng sipped his tea with an unreadable demeanor. While Xu Yunqi could choose not to inquire, he felt compelled to clarify.

"I began studying calligraphy in the palace at the age of five, when Lord Xun was entrusted with the task of educating the royal children. Later, our two families became neighbors. Admiring Lord Xun's brilliance, I often sought his guidance."

"These volumes were transcribed by me from the Imperial Library. On one occasion, my mentor noticed me referencing a historical anecdote from them in an essay. Upon inquiry, I voluntarily handed over the books to him. Later, when Junior Sister Xun expressed interest in borrowing them, I consented. That's the whole story."

Xu Yunqi nodded, "I see now." From Xun Yunling's words, their intimacy with Pei Muheng might not be as close as it seemed.

Pei Mucheng nodded gently, his slender figure leaning back slightly. His gaze lowered slightly, landing on her delicate and lovely fingernails. All ten nails were neatly trimmed.

Following his line of sight, Xu Yunqi glanced at him, feeling slightly uneasy. She clasped her hands together, hiding her nails, and continued with her task.

Pei Mucheng's expression improved slightly,

"I apologize, my lady. I didn't tell you earlier that my courtesy name is Qingyu. It was bestowed to me by the Emperor when I came of age at eighteen."

Xu Yunqi, while busy, glanced back at him, "Mmm, it sounds nice."

"What about you? Do you have a courtesy name?"

Xu Yunqi shook her head, "No."

"Even a childhood nickname?"

Xu Yunqi's expression wavered slightly. Lowering her eyes, she shook her head again, "None."

The evening breeze rustled the window screens, and cicadas chirped from an unknown hiding spot. Pei Mucheng gazed deeply into her eyes, sensing a hint of melancholy in her tone. He asked softly, "What are the two characters of your maiden name?"

Xu Yunqi lifted her gaze, looking at him blankly for a moment before slowly smiling. "Yunqi, as in the cloud that rests, and the one who nests in a tree."

Pei Muheng pondered, "‘Ask me why I dwell on green mountains, I smile but do not answer, my heart is at ease.’ Yunqi, Nester of Clouds, it must be hoped that you live like a carefree crane in the wild, unburdened by worries. Was this name given to you by your father?"

Xu Yunqi paused in her task, her expression unchanged. After a long while, she replied, "Yes."

Finishing grinding the medicine, Xu Yunqi stood up and noticed the pile of books. Pointing at them, she said, "Third Master, please deal with these yourself."

Pei Muheng understood his wife's subtle hint and nodded. "Very well."

He then called for Huang Wei.

Huang Wei, recognizing the familiar books, softly asked, "Master, what do you plan to do with them?"

Pei Muheng rubbed his temples, considering how to maintain both families' dignity while also putting an end to Xun Yunling's provocations towards Xu Yunqi. After a moment of thought, he instructed, "Send these books and the shattered silk box to the Xun residence. Hand them over to Lord Xun."

Xun Yunhe was an upright gentleman who would know how to discipline his daughter.

The couple prepared for bed, but Xu Yunqi noticed that her husband seemed odd that night.

It's all about dragging things out and refusing to give a straightforward answer.