Chapter 23

Chapter 23

On the tenth day of the fifth month, after two consecutive days of rain, the skies finally cleared up.

Pei Muhang had been staying in the palace for the past two days. Xu Yunqi, now free from any burdens, slept and woke up early, feeling refreshed. She practiced the Five Animals Frolic in her courtyard as she usually did, then had breakfast and changed into a dry set of clothes before heading to the small pharmacy to review medical cases.

At that moment, Chen Ma came in from outside and stood behind the pearl curtains of the eastern annex, not daring to enter. She announced,

"Madam, someone from the Duchess's residence has come for you, asking you to pay her a visit."

Duchess Xi rarely summoned her, so Xu Yunqi instinctively thought something must have happened. As they walked, she asked Chen Ma,

"Is something wrong?"

Chen Ma showed a wry smile. "Not really, it's just a minor matter. Today is Master Qi, the old director of the Hanlin Academy's seventieth birthday. Originally, it was decided that the eldest madam would pay respects, but she's fallen ill. The duchess has thus sent someone to fetch you instead."

Xu Yunqi nodded, deciding not to ask further questions.

As they reached the outer passage of Jinhe Hall, they could hear a heart-wrenching cry coming from inside. Raising her eyes, Xu Yunqi saw her sister-in-law, Li Xuanyan, standing under the eaves, frantically waving at her. Xu Yunqi quietly approached along the corridor. The two sisters-in-law stood by the pillar, listening to the chaotic noise coming from within.

Under the corridor, the servants and maids had obviously retreated, leaving only Ama Hao standing by the door. Spotting the two of them, she was at a loss whether to invite them in or chase them away, so she pretended not to see them.

Xu Yunqi had no intention of eavesdropping, so she moved slightly away. Li followed, and the two of them leaned against the corner of the corridor to chat.

"You shouldn't underestimate Elder Sister. She may put on a dignified front and act high and mighty, but she has a hard time behind closed doors."

Xu Yunqi was slightly taken aback. "Is that so?"

Seeing her interest piqued, Li adopted a more intimate posture, looping her arm through Xu's. "Indeed. Last time at the palace, Elder Brother secretly brought a maid to his study. He didn't even inform Elder Sister when he returned, and they continued their tryst in the study. This infuriated Elder Sister, who scolded the maid and sent her to the back room for laundry duty. Over this incident, Elder Brother and Elder Sister had quite a few arguments."

"Today, wasn't it arranged for Elder Sister to go out? That maid took the opportunity to seek out Elder Brother while she was away. But Elder Sister happened to return because she lost something, catching them red-handed. The maid then used the situation to create a scene, rolling around on the floor and almost causing a fight. Eventually, the Duke and Duchess were alarmed."

Xu Yunqi wore a look of astonishment, somewhat saddened by the story.

At that moment, a burst of intense crying came from the main hall of Jinhe Hall. Immediately following that, they heard the maid threatening to kill herself. Without hesitation, Li Xuanyan pulled Xu Yunqi inside. Li was so strong that Xu couldn't break free right away. By the time they entered, they saw Ama Hao and another servant lady holding the maid's arms. The maid was weeping so bitterly that she could barely catch her breath, unable to kneel despite being dragged down.

"I'm a born servant. My whole family serves in the palace. Eldest Master took my body, but now he doesn't care. If Younger Lady can't tolerate me, I have no choice but to die."

Upon seeing her two younger siblings barge in, Pei Muxiang's face turned even more embarrassed. Not wanting anyone to witness his weakness, he gritted his teeth and bowed to Duke Xi and Duchess Xi above.

"Father, Mother, I could never engage in such a fickle act. Min-er, I am determined to have her."

The prince rubbed his forehead, looking at his son with a headache.

Madam Xie stood there, her face cold and impassive.

Princess Xi, however, did not favor her son. She rebuked, "To have relations without a proper matchmaker, yet pretending deep affection. If you truly want her, why didn't you discuss it with your wife first? If she consents to this today, allowing this little courtesan her way, will anyone be able to climb into your bed in the future?"

Princess Xi, in front of her three daughters-in-law, displayed the demeanor of a proper main wife and queen.

"I make this clear: men handle external affairs while women manage the inner household. Thus, matters within the mansion are decided by women. If a wife is generous enough to allow concubines, then you must give her respect. If you cannot even acknowledge your child, let alone a broken vow, do not blame her for not recognizing them!"

With her mother-in-law's support, Madam Xie's face finally showed a hint of sorrow and grievance. She choked back tears, looking towards Princess Xi.

Madam Li glanced secretly at her mother-in-law, this was precisely why she admired Princess Xi.

Prince Xi understood that his wife was subtly criticizing him as well. He turned sternly to Pei Muxiang, "Xiang-er, you were in the wrong here. Apologize to your wife first!"

Pei Muxiang refused, casting her gaze at the maid Ming'er.

Ming'er immediately burst into tears, collapsing in fear.

"How does the queen intend to deal with this servant? My father and mother are both stewards in the household. How will you maintain authority among the others...?"

Both of Ming'er's parents served by the side of Prince Xi, holding influential positions within the estate. The situation was indeed complicated.

The Xi Wangfei glared fiercely at her son and then shot a disdainful look at her husband, her brows furrowing.

Noticing that things were not going as planned, Ming'er summoned all her strength to break free from the old woman's grip. Rushing towards the nearest pillar, she collided with Xu Yunqi, who happened to be standing there. Ming'er had no real intention of ending her life; instead, she deliberately aimed for Xu Yunqi. However, Xu Yunqi, skilled in martial arts, deftly sidestepped and reached out to grab her wrist. With a clever twist of force, the maid cried out in pain and fell to her knees. Two matrons quickly rushed over to pin her down.

Seizing the opportunity, Xu Yunqi held onto her wrist. As a doctor, he couldn't resist the urge to examine her. He casually took her pulse and studied her complexion, his brow furrowing.

"You are still a maiden!"

Upon these words, an eerie silence fell upon the room.

At first, Xu Yunqi suspected that Ming'er might be blackmailing the family. But upon further reflection, another possibility occurred to him.

She couldn't resist glancing at the eldest prince, Pei Muxiang.

Pei Muxiang was stunned by Xu Yunqi's revelation and lifted his gaze to meet his sister-in-law's eyes directly.

Xu Yunqi swiftly assessed his expression before lowering her head with a complicated mix of emotions.

The atmosphere in the room became unbearably awkward.

It was Min'er who broke the silence with a shriek, tears streaming down her face as she cried to Xu Yunqi,

"You're talking nonsense! This servant and His Highness... we... clearly..."

They had indeed engaged in that intimate act, so how could she not have lost her innocence?

By this time, Pei Muxiang was too embarrassed to lift his head. He stood stiffly, his back drenched in cold sweat, utterly ashamed.

The Duke of Xi and the Duchess observed his state, exchanging a glance that sparked a bizarre thought in their minds.

The Duchess, being more experienced, quickly grasped the situation. She initially found it hard to believe that her son, at such a young age, would... Following this, she immediately scolded Xu Yunqi to save her son's dignity.

"Nonsense!"

Xu Yunqi retreated gracefully, "I, the daughter-in-law, acknowledge my wrongdoing!"

Only Yanxi glanced deeply at Xu Yunqi, followed by a mocking smile on her lips.

Li Xuanyan was utterly confused, assuming Xu Yunqi had fabricated a lie to aid her sister-in-law, Madam Xie, without giving it much thought.

Observing his son's ashen face, the Xi Prince realized the severity of the situation and sternly commanded, "This is all your own doing. Go back and reflect on your actions. You are not to leave until I give you permission!"

"As for Min'er," the Xi Prince looked at the innocent young maid with a dilemma, consulting his wife, "Should we take her in? Your thoughts?"

Initially, the Xi Princess was against the idea, but given the change in circumstances, Min'er could no longer be allowed to leave. The princess glanced helplessly at her eldest daughter-in-law, who had turned around. The mother-in-law and daughter-in-law always shared an unspoken understanding, and with just one look, they reached an agreement. The Xi Princess finally nodded, "So be it."

Min'er was momentarily bewildered, but upon reflection, she assumed Xu Yunqi was trying to help Madam Xie avoid responsibility. Without suspicion, she joyfully bowed her head in gratitude.

Pei Muxiang left in a fit of embarrassment, her sleeves flinging behind her, while Min-er was escorted away by the servants.

Looking at Madam Xie, the Duchess of Xi comforted, "You must be exhausted today. Rest here in the estate, and I'll have your second and third sisters-in-law attend the birthday celebration on your behalf."

"It's getting late. You two go prepare yourselves and wait for me at the side gate."

After dismissing their consorts, the Duchess of Xi exchanged a surprised glance with Duke Xi. They never expected the truth to unfold in such a manner.

As the Duchess allowed her nanny to help her dress, she spoke to Duke Xi, "Let's invite a royal physician to examine Xiang'er later."

No wonder the Xie couple had yet to hear news of another grandchild since the birth of their first. She had previously blamed her daughter-in-law for being unable to conceive, but now she realized the issue lay with her son. He must have taken advantage of the young servant girl's ignorance and deceived her.

Prince Xi wiped his brow and nodded, saying, "Alright." Then he became curious. "How did Third Eldest Son's wife figure it out?"

The Princess Xi recalled the simple-minded Yunqi and sighed inwardly. "Heng'er mentioned that she was skilled in medicinal cuisine, so she probably read a few medical texts. She stumbled upon the truth by chance, like a blind cat catching a mouse. That silly girl, how could she speak of such matters openly?"

Prince Xi cared more about his son's health than how Yunqi had discovered the situation. This was no trivial matter. He was over forty and still full of vigor, which made his son's predicament all the more distressing to him.

With a gloomy mood, the Princess Xi hurried off to the Qi family residence accompanied by her two daughters-in-law.

Venerable Master Qi was the most renowned scholar in the court, a towering figure of his time. The current Cabinet Minister, Xun Yunhe, and Pei Mushan were both his disciples; it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that his pupils and former subordinates were scattered across the land.

Lady Xun fell ill, so Xun Yunling represented her mother at the event today.

The Xun family's carriage collided with the palace carriage right in front of the Qi residence's main gate.

The Princess Xi held Xun Yunling's hand, asking her about everything under the sun. As Pei Mushan had been staying at her maternal grandparents' these past two days, Xu Yunqi accompanied her second sister-in-law, Li Xuanyan.

On their way, Li Xuanyan teased her, "You were being silly just now. How does that concern you? Why did you involve yourself?"

Xu Yunqi didn't know how to respond. "I didn't mean to."

With her beautiful and gentle appearance, Li Xuanyan found Xu Yunqi to be a simple-minded beauty.

"Silly girl, but sometimes fools have their own luck," she said, referring to Xu Yunqi's fortunate marriage to a wonderful husband like Pei Mushan. Li Xuanyan affectionately pulled her into the Qi family's grand entrance.

Xun Yunling escorted the Princess Xi to the Qi residence's reception hall, Mingzheng Hall.

The wife of the elderly Marquis Qi was also alive. Princess Xi was welcomed into the residence by the Qi family's matriarch. Within, Princess Qin and Princess Chen were also present. A figure like Elder Marquis Qi, not to mention royalty, had even received gifts from the emperor and empress themselves.

The celebration was grand and impressive.

Xun Yunling waited at the entrance for Xu Yunqi and Li Xuanyan to approach. Maintaining her composure, she greeted them with a bow,

"I offer my respects to both elder sisters."

Xu Yunqi looked at her with a faint smile, handing over a prepared gift box, "I wasn't able to present a meeting gift last time, so I'm making up for it today. Please don't hold it against me."

Looking at Xun Yunling's composed face, Xu Yunqi sighed inwardly. This woman must have great skills to have forced Mu Heng to treat her this way. Smiling, she gratefully accepted the gift, "Thank you very much."

The group proceeded to pay their respects to the elderly matriarch. Recently, Pei Muheng had been granted the title of a marquis, making Xu Yunqi the marquis's wife in reality. The elderly matriarch, out of respect, couldn't accept her formal greeting and stood up to return the courtesy. The Qi family was an esteemed and upright household, with strict family values, so no one would dare look down upon Xu Yunqi's status.

In the Qingzheng Hall, seated were respected ladies who understood propriety. However, the young maidens and matrons outside were different.

With numerous guests, Xu Yunqi and Li Xuanyan stepped out together to take their seats in the flower hall. Upon arriving, they found it overcrowded, leaving them no choice but to head to the Eastern Water Pavilion.

The Qi family hailed from Jinling, and their estate's scenery replicated the beauty of a Jiangnan garden. Following the stone path along the lake to the Water Pavilion, they were surrounded by vibrant flowers and exquisite architecture, creating a delightful scene.

Passing by the waterside pavilion, Li Xuanyan spotted a concubine from the Prince Qin's palace, with whom she had always been on friendly terms. She promptly pulled Xu Yunqi to sit down beside her.

Xu Yunqi settled into a corner, gazing at the shimmering water surface in a daze. Her mind was still preoccupied with thoughts of how her grandmother would have treated Pei Muxiang's condition if she were still alive. Without being able to diagnose through pulse-taking, it was difficult to grasp the full extent of the illness. While the problem stemmed from a similar area, the causes varied: some were due to excessive indulgence in pleasure and nightlife, others rooted in internal organ issues, some resulted from incorrect medication consumption, and there were even more peculiar cases where psychological factors were the sole culprit. Xu Yunqi didn't have enough information about Pei Muxiang's specifics to jump to conclusions.

In retrospect, perhaps Elder Sister-in-law Xie's opposition to her husband taking another concubine wasn't a sign of narrow-mindedness but rather an attempt to prevent the matter from becoming public knowledge.

Not long after they sat down, familiar voices drifted over from the carved window next door.

Liu Xiangning, daughter of the Minister of Justice, sat among the crowd, leaning affectionately against Xun Yunling's side. She exclaimed,

"What makes her so extraordinary? It's merely because she married well that she has a seat of honor. Otherwise, who among us here isn't of higher status than her? She stole the opportunity that rightfully belonged to our younger sister, Xun."

Upon hearing this, Xun Yunling immediately frowned and gently pushed away Liu Xiangning.

"Please, sister, refrain from such remarks. She is the Emperor's betrothed, a legitimate match. How does it concern me?"

In the past, she would have gone with the flow, allowing others to spread rumors and tarnish Xu Yunqi's reputation.

Now, however, she dared not. Her father was due to attend the banquet shortly, and if word of her actions were to reach his ears, she might find herself in deep trouble. Her mother had repeatedly exhorted her not to act impulsively.

Xun Yunling's actions were seen by the ladies as towering virtue, an embodiment of integrity.

"It's no wonder she's the daughter of Grand Councillor Xun. Miss Xun is indeed a model of grace and tolerance for us all."

Liu Xiangning empathized with her, "You may not know, but last time at the imperial retreat, she deliberately splashed water on me, causing me pain for an entire month before I recovered. I could forgive her, but poor Xiao Qin is still bedridden to this day."

After returning to the capital, Xun Yunling had attempted to visit Xiao Qin, only to be turned away by Lady Xiao. This was the first time in her life that Xun Yunling had faced such rejection, and she couldn't understand where she had gone wrong. "Xiao Qin truly is pitiful... Have you visited her?"

Liu Xiangning shook her head, "I have, but Lady Xiao said that Xiao Qin was in a foul mood and didn't wish to see anyone. I had no choice but to return home."

Upon hearing this, Xun Yunling felt reassured, realizing it wasn't personally directed at her.

Among the guests was a princess from the Prince Qin's palace, who had always found Pei Mushan unbearable and, by association, Xu Yunqi.

"Indeed, every time I see her, my heart sinks. The thought of addressing a country girl as my sister-in-law makes my teeth ache..."

Her words were met with a scoff from beyond the waterside corridor.

"I'd say it's not your teeth aching, but your teeth souring."

Upon hearing this voice, everyone's faces revealed fear, and they all stood up promptly.

Prince Twelve, Pei Xun, strolled leisurely from the carved window, holding his feather fan. He stood at the entrance of the veranda, observing the young ladies and scolded them,

"You girls, with nothing better to do, only know how to gossip behind people's backs."

The little princess of the Qin Palace pouted and lowered her head, clearly not convinced by his words.

Turning his gaze, Prince Twelve instructed the attendants beside him, "Record their family backgrounds and report to Empress Dowager later. Issue a reprimand to each of their households, asking their parents to discipline them properly."

With that, the situation escalated.

Except for Xun Yunling, the others knelt down and bowed, seeking forgiveness.

"Your Highness, forgive us."

Once the Empress issued an imperial decree of criticism, not only would their families lose face, but it could also affect their fathers' promotions. Hence, everyone fell silent, too afraid to speak.

Prince Twelve was a man of action. With just a glance, the attendants around him diligently took note, memorizing everything in a matter of moments.

Some of the timid ones were so frightened that they started crying on the spot.

The Twelfth Prince ignored them and continued to fan himself as he headed towards the pavilion by the lake. He noticed that the adjacent water pavilion was also filled with people, and among them was Xu Yunqi.

Everyone had just heard the conversation from the neighboring pavilion and feared that the Twelfth Prince would lash out at them too. They hurriedly knelt down to pay their respects, but Xu Yunqi stood up and slightly bowed her knees in his direction.

The Twelfth Prince observed the young girl standing in the corner. She wore a light apricot-colored robe with a matching pleated skirt, holding a small fan handle in her hand. She gazed at him with a gentle smile, exuding an elegant and carefree demeanor. Her delicate features and soft expression won his heart.

Pei Xun felt a tinge of affection stir within him. He waved at Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi followed him out of the water pavilion and onto the walkway in the middle of the lake.

Before Pei Xun could speak, Xu Yunqi glanced at his leg first, "Your Highness no longer needs a cane, it seems your condition has improved."

At this point, Pei Xun couldn't help but admire Xu Yunqi's medical skills, "Your acupuncture truly transcends the ordinary. After that half-hour session, I felt much better, and with daily applications of the medicinal oil, the pain is almost gone now."

Xu Yunqi smiled, "One treatment cannot completely cure you. If Your Highness wishes for a full recovery, two more sessions are needed."

Pei Xun chuckled, glancing at the gently rippling lake. He didn't respond to her words directly but instead said, "Don't take those remarks to heart. They have shallow minds and don't deserve to upset you."

Xu Yunqi, instead of being offended, laughed heartily. "Your Highness worries too much; I do not take it to heart."

At times, she found the noblewomen of the capital utterly tedious. They were always competing over their family backgrounds or their husbands, never considering that one's focus should be on the future, on higher goals, and on self-improvement.

Pei Xun gazed at the broad-minded and radiant young lady before him, reflecting that Pei Muheng had truly married an extraordinary woman. However, amidst his admiration, he also felt a twinge of regret, though he did not dwell on its source.

"Very well, then I shall be on my way. Take good care of yourself."

Just as Pei Xun was about to turn and head for the Pavilion in the Lake, a commotion came from the lakeside.

Both of them turned their heads simultaneously, only to see several armed Jin Yi Wei in luxurious attire making their way along the water corridor towards the pavilion. Pei Xun squinted his eyes but remained motionless.

The ladies were also startled, some hiding amidst the crowd, while the younger ones, with nowhere to escape, cautiously poked their heads out for a glimpse.

There appeared the chief Jinyiwei captain, who advanced towards the foremost open pavilion within the waterside retreat. His gaze swept across the assembly with scrutiny before he inquired, "Who among you is Liu Xiangning?"

Liu Xiangning trembled in fright, "Yes, it was me..."

The Chief Eunuch of the Embroidered Uniform Guard gazed at her, his eyes chilling, evidently restraining himself out of consideration for the Grand Tutor's birthday banquet. He refrained from resorting to swords or firearms, instead issuing a frosty declaration:

"Step forward and accompany us for a journey."

Liu Xiangning's expression instantly changed, and she promptly hid behind Xun Yunling. "What do you want? I am a honored guest of the Grand Tutor's residence."

Xun Yunling sensed something amiss as well. Pushing aside her mounting panic, she composed herself and asked the Jinyi Wei officer, "May I ask, what has transpired?"

The Jinyiwei Thousand Commander gave a cold laugh, raising the arrest warrant in his hand. "Procurator-General Liu Zhao is accused of fabricating false cases and deceiving the emperor. His Majesty has ordered that the Liu family be imprisoned for a thorough investigation!"

Liu Xiangning swooned on the spot.

Xun Yunling and the others were also shaken to their cores.

The Chief Eunuch of the Embroidered Uniform Guard cast a meaningful glance, upon which two of his subordinates advanced, their countenances fierce and intimidating as they forcibly escorted Liu Xiangning and her maidservant away.

The pavilion by the water was shrouded in an eerie silence.

Pei Xun, unsurprised by the turn of events, shot a reassuring glance at Xu Yunqi before leading the way to the Water Pavilion.

Unperturbed by the commotion on this side, the noble gentlemen at the Water Pavilion were singing and drinking heartily, enjoying themselves immensely. Pei Xun was known for his respect towards scholars and humble men, and he quickly assimilated into their company. After about fifteen minutes, a group of people approached from another direction within the pavilion. These were clearly male guests from the front courtyard, dressed elegantly with high spirits and accompanied by numerous servants. Among them were Pei Muheng, the second imperial grandson, Pei Wencheng, and Pei Xiuqi, the third imperial grandson.

Prince Qin's legitimate eldest son, Pei Wencheng, had become the center of attention since the Crown Prince, Pei Renqian, was demoted. As everyone paid their respects, he took his place next to Pei Xun, saying,

"Uncle Twelve, how carefree you are! We're still being lectured in the Heavenly Mandate Hall, yet you've already started drinking."

Pei Xun leaned lazily against his armchair, closing his feather fan with a smile. "That's why I'm your Royal Uncle. Now that I'm free, it's your turn to receive the lectures."

Everyone laughed heartily.

Pei Xun moved another noble prince aside and gestured for Pei Muheng to sit down beside him. Once Pei Muheng was seated, he leaned in and said,

"Mother told me that you've been staying in the palace these past few days, Heng'er. Don't take this the wrong way, but now that you're married, you should focus on your family."

Pei Muheng wasn't bothered by the remark. He raised his wine cup with a smile and toasted to Pei Xun. "Don't worry, Twelve Uncle. My wife and I are doing just fine."

Xu Yunqi's temperament was truly gentle and submissive; she never caused any trouble and was always well-behaved. Their marriage was harmonious, and their intimate life was also in sync. Pei Muheng was content with his wife, and he had come to accept her nonchalant nature. Was he really supposed to be happier if she were more demanding? The most important thing was for the couple to maintain a peaceful relationship.

Pei Xun was unconvinced. "Let me ask you, do you know what your wife usually does or enjoys doing?"

Pei Muheng felt that Pei Xun was being a bit too intrusive today, but as the Twelfth Prince had always been caring towards the younger generation, he didn't give it much thought and replied,

"Her nature is tranquil, and she seldom ventures out of the mansion. She enjoys tending to flowers and plants, and occasionally prepares medicinal dishes to show filial piety to our elders. You must know, His Imperial Grandfather has a great fondness for her culinary skills in that regard."

Of course, Pei Xun was aware of Xu Yunqi's prowess in medicinal cuisine. However, it wasn't her pastries that won the emperor's favor but her profound knowledge of medicine, which had cured the emperor's ailments. It seemed clear to Pei Xun that both Pei Muhan and the emperor were unaware of this truth.

Then, Pei Xun continued, "I forgot to mention, I just encountered her at the pavilion by the water."

Pei Muhan's expression froze.

Observing his stunned look, Pei Xun chuckled. It was evident that the couple was engrossed in their respective duties – one in healing and saving lives, the other in governing the empire.

Pei Xun shook his head and turned away.

Pei Muhan truly hadn't expected Xu Yunqi's visit today. In his memory, on such occasions, Mother would usually send his elder sister, Madam Xie, to represent the family.

Being quick-witted, Pei Muhan immediately grasped that the twelfth prince was subtly reproaching him for neglecting his wife.

"Did something happen at the pavilion just now?"

Pei Xun glanced at him indolently. "She was subjected to some pressure, but the person responsible has been dealt with."

Fei Muheng immediately recognized that it was a member of the Liu family. Earlier, when he came from the palace, the Emperor had dismissed the Minister of Justice, Liu Zhao, and promoted the former Deputy Minister to take his place. Fei Muheng had devised a plan to transfer the Censor-in-Chief, Liu Yuqian, who had initially investigated the Tongzhou case, to the position of Deputy Minister of Justice. Liu Yuqian was his pawn, and these past few days, he had been busy with this matter, leaving early and returning late.

Without waiting for lunch, Fei Muheng discreetly instructed someone to contact Xu Yunqi. The couple met at a secluded stone path on the west bank where few people ventured.

"You're here today?" It had been two days since he last saw his wife, and under the bright sunlight, her small face glowed with radiance.

Xu Yunqi replied with a warm smile, "Big Sister is unwell, so Mother asked me and Second Sister to accompany her."

Fei Muheng understood. Recalling the incident at the pavilion earlier, his gaze turned cold, and almost instinctively, he held his wife's hand.

"I'm sorry for the trouble you've been through. Just wait a little longer."

When he held absolute power one day, everyone would bow before her, acknowledging her authority.

Xu Yunqi lowered her eyes to look at their entwined hands. This was the first time Fei Muheng had taken the initiative to hold her hand.

His palm was too warm, making her feel slightly uncomfortable.

She nodded gently, "I'm fine, don't worry about it." Instead, she comforted her husband.

Recalling Pei Xun's words earlier, Pei Muheng rubbed his forehead, rather helplessly saying, "My lady, could you inform me next time before you leave? That way, I'll know where you are."

Pei Muheng felt uncomfortable learning about his wife's whereabouts from someone else.

Xu Yunqi already guessed that the Twelfth Prince had given Pei Muheng a warning. She smiled gently, her smile carrying a touch of innocent charm. "I understand now."

Pei Muheng still held onto her hand, which was especially soft and tender. Yet, with such a delicate hand, she had confidently caught a snake. Looking at her, he said, "Next time when I go out, I'll also inform you beforehand and tell you what I'm doing."

With mutual understanding, Xu Yunqi finally felt the essence of being a wife.

"Alright then."

Across the lake, a servant was already serving the meal. It was getting late, so they had to take their seats.

Xu Yunqi tried to withdraw her hand, but Pei Muheng didn't let go at first.

Their eyes met, and Xu Yunqi blushed, staring at him blankly.

"It's time for the banquet to start."

Pei Muheng suddenly realized the impropriety of his action and promptly released her hand. His refined face was resolute as he declared, "Wait for me tonight when I return."

Xu Yunqi responded with a smile,

The couple then went their separate ways, one to the front courtyard, the other to the rear.

However, just as Yunqi was halfway through her meal in the flower hall, Xingye was summoned out. Upon her return, her expression had changed. She whispered into Xu Yunqi's ear,

"Miss, Shopkeeper Hu has sent word that a patient is suffering from incessant abdominal pain and severe bleeding. They are requesting your assistance."

Xu Yunqi's expression turned serious. The Empress of Xi was having her meal at the Qingzheng Hall, leaving only Sister-in-law Li here with him. Xu Yunqi found an excuse,

"Sister-in-law, I just received word from the Xu family that my mother is unwell. I must pay her a visit. You and the others should go back first without waiting for me."

Li didn't suspect anything and was instead quite concerned, "Is it not serious? Don't worry, take your time on the way."

Xu Yunqi had no time to spare for anything else. He rushed towards the decorated gate with Xingyin in tow.

As they journeyed, the master and servant discussed their plans, "Did we bring the medical kit?"

"It's right here with me." Ginkgo patted her waist.

Between the decorated gate and the inner courtyard stood a side gate. Beyond it to the west was a side entrance, usually used by female relatives to exit the residence. To the south of the decorated gate led to the outer courtyard.

Xu Yunqi approached from the stone path outside the flower hall, about to pass through the side gate. Suddenly, she turned to Ginkgo and asked, "If one experiences persistent abdominal pain and blood in their stool, it could be either an injury to the digestive system or a tumor in the abdomen. In such cases, a small surgical knife might be needed. Did you bring one?"

Ginkgo, confused, touched her waist and replied, "I might have. I'll check once we're on the carriage."

Xu Yunqi nodded gravely and was about to turn around when she collided full force with someone coming from the opposite direction. She stumbled backward, instinctively grabbing the door frame for support. Still unsteady on her feet, she heard a servant's panicked whisper ahead,

"Lord Xun, Lord Xun, are you alright?"