Chapter 26

Chapter 26

The moonlight shimmered like a silken ribbon, and the chirping of insects echoed in the corridors. Xu Yunqi's forehead rested against Pei Mushan's chest, her cheeks warming from the proximity. Now and then, a breeze would slip through, alternatingly chilling and heating her as it brushed against her back and his steady breaths fell upon her scalp and hair.

Slowly turning in his embrace, Xu Yunqi leaned her back against him. Despite his drowsiness, Pei Mushan adjusted his position, placing his hand on her slender waist, drawing them even closer together. Finding a comfortable rhythm of breath, Xu Yunqi eventually drifted off to sleep.

The consequence was that Pei Mushan didn't have a restful night.

Well before dawn, he rose and went to the front courtyard. Xu Yunqi woke up naturally when she was ready.

The summer heat was intense, and she broke out in sticky sweat upon waking. Nonetheless, Xu Yunqi persisted in performing a set of Five Animals Play before wiping herself clean and changing her clothes.

Moments later, Nurse Chen entered, lifting the curtain. Seeing Xu Yunqi grooming herself, she hurried over to take the comb and help arrange her hair.

"Madam, Miss Fifth returned last night. She has just sent word, asking you to join her for breakfast at the lakeside pavilion. She has prepared fruits and refreshments there, awaiting your arrival," Nurse Chen informed.

Xu Yunqi nodded, finishing her preparations. Leaving Xuying in the courtyard to tend to the medicine, she made her way to the lakeside pavilion alone.

Ascending a stone path and climbing a hill, she saw Pei Mushan sitting on a brocaded bench with her chin in her hand, gazing at the distant lake and mountain scenery. In her hand, she held an imperial summons, looking preoccupied. Tao Qing stood beside her, fanning her gently. Upon seeing Xu Yunqi approach, Tao Qing quietly stepped back.

Xu Yunqi approached and sat beside her, "What are you thinking about so deeply, like a fool?"

Pei Mushan snapped back to reality upon hearing her sister-in-law's voice, her face lighting up with excitement, "Sister-in-law, would you accompany me to the palace tomorrow?"

"Is there something happening?" Xu Yunqi held a bamboo fan in her hand, its surface adorned with ordinary silk, quite common. Pei Mushan began to explain, "There will be a polo match in the palace tomorrow," while examining her own bamboo fan and frowning,

"Why doesn't your fan have any embroidery on it? It would look much better with some flowers."

Xu Yunqi shook her head, "I've never touched a needle before."

Pei Mushan's face was full of surprise, "You seem so skilled, capable of making medicinal dishes and cosmetics. I thought you were also proficient in embroidery. Oh, I remember now, when Mother asked Nurse Hao about whether Third Brother's clothes were made by his chambermaids or the sewing room, it seems that you don't do that kind of work." Her tone carried a hint of teasing.

It was only then that Xu Yunqi recalled her married life and how her husband's undergarments were likely sewn by his wife. She truly had no such skills and gently touched her flushed cheeks, "Third Master's clothing is taken care of by Nurse Chen. I suppose she is the one who makes them."

Pei Mushan couldn't help but laugh at Xu Yunqi's innocent expression, gently pinching her soft cheek, "Look at you, not even bothered about my brother's affairs. But it's alright, Sister-in-law has hands meant for great deeds, not for sewing in the backyard."

Xu Yunqi laughed aloud at these words.

"Oh, by the way, when I visited my maternal grandparents last time, I gave Fu'er the rouge I made. She loved it and suggested we open a cosmetic shop to sell it on the market. We would surely make a lot of money," she shared.

"Sister-in-law, don't underestimate Fei-er just because she's young. She's quite clever and knowledgeable when it comes to business matters."

Xu Yunqi had no interest in such affairs; she didn't lack money to spend. "If you have the time, go ahead with it. I'll pass."

Pei Mushan, who was short on funds, genuinely considered the idea. "Fei-er spoke with conviction, so I'm inclined to believe her. I'll join her then. The recipe is from Sister-in-law, so I'll share the profits with you later."

A young maid poured Xu Yunqi a cup of tea, which she gently sipped while nodding casually.

"By the way, why are you going to the palace tomorrow for a polo match?"

The mention of this topic piqued Pei Mushan's interest, and she chuckled. "Sister-in-law, you might not know this, but every year on the 18th of May, our Imperial Grandfather hosts a polo tournament in the Royal Hunting Park. It's attended by the noble youth of the capital, and the ladies love to join in and watch. Over time, it's become an unofficial matchmaking event. I'm sixteen this year, and Mother is anxious. That's why she insists on accompanying me tomorrow, hoping to find a suitable husband for me."

"Heh, even if Mother doesn't come, I'd still attend. There are many handsome young men at the polo matches."

It was the first time Xu Yunqi had seen a girl so enthusiastic about matchmaking. Pei Mushan was genuine and unpretentious.

"Alright, then I'll help keep an eye out for you tomorrow."

"That would be great." Pei Mushan playfully tugged on her arm. "Sister-in-law, use Brother's standards as a reference. If you like anyone, let me know, and I'll investigate their background."

Xu Yunqi found her argument well-versed and convincing, and couldn't help but smile as he set down his teacup and teased her, "What about Young Master Yan then?"

At the mention of Yan Shaoling, Pei Mushan's cheeks flushed red, and she released his arm, looking away. "Why bring him up? That scoundrel doesn't have an ounce of refinement for someone from an official family; he's wildly untamed all day long."

Tao Qing chuckled at this and explained to Xu Yunqi, "Madam doesn't know, the other day our Miss went to visit the Xiao family, but on the way, she was stopped by Young Master Yan. He presented several boxes of cosmetics to our Miss, but of course, our Miss declined, saying she no longer uses those from outside. Young Master Yan is quite clever; he quickly guessed that our Miss makes her own cosmetics. Can you guess what he did? He went to every cosmetic shop in the city, brandishing weapons to force them to give him their recipes..."

Tao Qing couldn't hold back her laughter as she continued, "With the recipes in hand, he bought the finest fragrances in the city and sent them all to the Xi Palace yesterday."

Xu Yunqi placed a hand on his forehead.

Pei Mushan's pretty face flushed crimson. "He acts like he can do whatever he wants just because he's the son of the Prime Minister,"

"Tao Qing" smiled, pursing her lips. "But those spices were quite similar to the ones Madam had bought before. Seeing that Young Miss genuinely found them useful, the Princess accepted them and sent a few hundred taels of silver to the Yan residence. As for our Miss, she gained something without owing anyone a favor, so she's in a great mood."

Pei Mushan shot Tao Qing a glare, then cleared her throat before explaining to Xu Yunqi, "It's rare for my mother to spend money like this. Sister-in-law might not know, but apart from being generous with Third Brother, she's rather stingy towards me, Big Brother, and Father."

Xu Yunqi couldn't help but laugh heartily.

They agreed to participate in a polo match at the palace the following day. In the evening, when Pei Mushan's brother returned home, he mentioned the matter and even brought her an exquisite set of equestrian equipment. "You should also learn how to play from your younger sister."

Polo was one of the most favored pastimes among the noblewomen of Shangjing City, and it also symbolized status. His future path would be extraordinary, and he hoped that his wife could keep up with him and integrate into the elite circle.

Xu Yunqi didn't actually enjoy playing polo. She was a quiet person and disliked such boisterous activities. However, she didn't refuse her husband's kind intentions. "I'll give it a try."

Peng Muheng had held back much the previous day, so tonight couldn't escape their intimate encounter. With the lesson learned from the last time, Xu Yunqi devoted herself wholeheartedly. Peng Muheng didn't hold back either, making their lovemaking intense and satisfying. When it ended, Peng Muheng's undershirt was soaked. Gazing at his blushing wife, Xu Yunqi averted her face bashfully, lowering her gaze as if nothing had happened.

But Peng Muheng had no intention of letting her off so easily. Wrapping the undershirt around her, he pulled her close into his embrace and carried her towards the bathroom.

Xu Yunqi had been a bold and intrepid traveler in her life, but this was the first time she found herself being held like a slippery eel. She felt annoyed but was too weak to resist, ultimately becoming a captive in his arms.

Peng Muheng carried his wife to the large bed outside the bathroom, even bouncing her slightly, which infuriated Xu Yunqi. However, she knew he was teasing her and maintained her composure, only tugging on his collar without speaking.

Though it was Peng Muheng's first time carrying her considerately to the bathroom, they still bathed separately.

Peng Muheng finished quickly, but when Xu Yunqi showed no signs of finishing, he stood behind the screen and asked, "Do you need help?"

He was planning on carrying her back.

Xu Yunqi blushed again, calmly replying, "No, thank you."

This time, Xu Yunqi was truly exhausted. She emerged from the room without her usual composure, leaning on the bedpost as she walked towards the large canopy bed, not even sparing a glance at Pei Musheng.

Pei Musheng glanced at the prepared tea and then at his wife.

A lustrous lamp illuminated the dressing table, casting a warm glow. Xu Yunqi, supporting her waist, maneuvered around it. Apparently, Nanny Chen had hastily prepared the bedding, for the cushion wasn't entirely smooth. As Xu Yunqi adjusted the curtains, her lithe form bending gracefully like a hill, her slender waist swaying elegantly like a mermaid about to breach the surface, Pei Musheng's throat tightened. He strode forward, never one to be impulsive, nor had he ever asked for her twice in a day before. Tonight, however, he found himself unable to resist.

The following morning, the couple arose together. Pei Musheng went to the Board of Censors, while Xu Yunqi paid her respects at the Jinhua Hall, joining the Xi Wangfei and her daughter on their way to the palace. Having stayed up late the previous night, Xu Yunqi appeared less energetic than usual. After drinking a nourishing soup in the morning, she leaned against the carriage wall, pretending to sleep, only regaining her composure by the time they arrived.

The Imperial Forest Garden was located in the northeastern corner of the palace. Normally, an equestrian field was open there for noble children to play polo. Unlike the inner palace, security wasn't as tight, and inspections were more lenient, allowing attendants and servants from the mansions to enter with their masters.

Beyond the racetrack, however, in the direction of the imperial city, an area was enclosed by bright yellow curtains. From afar, a magnificent pavilion stood tall amidst it all. As they entered, Pei Mushan pointed at the pavilion and told Xu Yunqi,

"Grandfather the Emperor will be watching the polo match from there."

Xu Yunqi glanced over and saw the pavilion adorned with brilliant embroidery and a gilded roof that shimmered under the morning sun. He could vaguely make out rows of guards standing watch, with several officials in crimson robes rushing about.

They followed a tree-lined path across a narrow lake to reach the racetrack, which spanned about forty to fifty acres. The pavilion stood to the east, while the other three sides were surrounded by mountains and water, creating a picturesque scene. Scattered throughout the woods and waters were numerous pavilions and terraces, their intricately carved railings and flowing silk curtains swaying gently in the warm breeze. The vibrant silk curtains seemed to wrap around the dragon-embroidered columns like flowing ribbons, turning the place into an ethereal palace rather than an earthly one.

The officials' families gradually arrived. There would be both men's and women's polo matches. Pei Mushan led her maid and equestrian equipment to prepare in the pavilion first, while Xu Yunqi accompanied Princess Xi to the Welcoming Phoenix Pavilion where the officials' families were staying.

Since the incident last time, Madam Xie had remained secluded indoors. Young Master Xun had caught a cold, so Madam Li couldn't abandon her child to go and have fun in the palace. Today, only Xu Yunqi stayed by Princess Xi's side.

Normally, the two daughters-in-law attended to her every need, and Princess Xi would have someone assisting her with a mere gesture. But today was different. Looking back, she saw her young daughter-in-law following at a respectful distance, neither too close nor too far away, which made her feel a mix of emotions. Xu Yunqi knew that Princess Xi disliked her and didn't want to provoke her. In response, Princess Xi merely shook her head and stepped into the Welcoming Phoenix Pavilion first.

The spacious pavilion was already filled with people.

Princess Qin took the lead, followed by Princess Chen and Princess Qi. Below them on the left sat the wife of Duke Wen, who was accompanied by a particularly charming and lively young woman, probably in her early twenties. Upon meeting Princess Xi, she gracefully stood up to pay her respects, appearing quite friendly towards her. When her gaze fell upon Xu Yunqi, it also carried a kind inspection.

Mrs. Hao, standing beside Xu Yunqi, informed her, "This is the daughter of Duke Wen, married to the Cheng Duke's residence. She is the lady in charge there."

Xu Yunqi nodded in acknowledgment.

Below Princess Qin was the wife of the Yan Duke, the mother of Yan Shaoling, and virtually all the prominent officials' ladies were present.

Seeing the central seat empty, they guessed that the Empress herself would be arriving.

After exchanging greetings, they all took their seats one by one.

Not long after they sat down, they heard the voice of the Cheng Duke's lady, who spoke forthrightly.

"Ah, Madam Xun seems to have arrived rather late..."

Xu Yunqi lifted her gaze and saw Madam Xun ascend the steps with a smiling Xun Yunling by her side. Though Madam Xun's smile was warm, a hint of exhaustion could not be concealed in her demeanor. Upon catching sight of Xu Yunqi, her heart skipped a beat, and she grew slightly flustered.

Madam Xun's eyes shifted to the First Lady of the Chengguo Duke's mansion, replying with a smile, "I overslept today; my apologies to all the consorts." She bowed as a gesture of respect.

The consorts hurriedly returned the courtesy.

In the past, the Princess of Qin had been unhappy with Madam Xun's closeness to the Hui Princess. Now that the marriage between their two families had fallen through, she took pleasure in their misfortune and showed more amiability towards Madam Xun, saying, "We're all familiar with each other, so there's no need to be overly formal. However, it seems you've been looking a bit under the weather lately. Have you not fully recovered?"

Seated upright on an embroidered stool, Madam Xun wrapped her handkerchief around her fingers three times before answering with a smile, "Isn't it because I've been busy preparing for my husband's birthday celebration recently?" She dabbed at the perspiration on her forehead with the handkerchief.

From her recent inquiries, she was now certain that Xu Yunqi was Xun Yunhe's daughter and that her mother, Zhang Shi, was still alive. This revelation had kept Madam Xun awake at night. The mere thought of Xu Yunqi being alive was one thing, but if Zhang Shi were also well, how would Xun Yunhe react when he discovered the truth? Madam Xun dared not imagine such a scenario; these past nights had been filled with nightmares, leaving her restless.

She had initially intended to avoid appearing today, mainly out of concern that Xu Yunqi might encounter Xun Yunhe. Thus, she mustered the energy to keep an eye on the situation.

Xun Yunling stood beside Lady Xun, stealing a glance at Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi's expression was amiable and composed, and he greeted her and her mother with remarkable grace.

Swallowing hard, Xun Yunling managed to force a smile onto her face.

Today's event, on the surface a polo match, was in reality a matchmaking banquet. As the eldest daughter of the Duke's household, Xun Yunling was naturally under intense scrutiny.

During the banquet, many ladies took the initiative to steer conversations towards her.

Princess Xi, observing the bashful Xun Yunling, sighed inwardly.

Princess Qin, noticing her expression, couldn't resist the urge to provoke her. Seizing an opportunity, she whispered to the Seventh Princess next to her, "Actually, one should know contentment. Don't covet what's in another's bowl while you have food in your own. What ends up in your bowl is what's best for you, isn't that right, Seventh Sister?"

The Seventh Prince was aligned with the Prince Qin, and Princess Seventh usually followed Princess Qin's lead. She agreed promptly, "Indeed, it's often said that like attracts like. It seems that marriage is predetermined by fate."

After years of being sisters-in-law, Princess Xi could hardly be unaware of the veiled barbs in their words. Yet, for some reason, she had lost her appetite for sparring with Princess Qin today. She pretended not to have heard and continued sipping her tea with an indifferent expression. After a while, she turned to Prince Chen's consort sitting beside her and asked,

"Does Her Majesty the Empress plan to grace us with her presence today?"

Princess Chen was indeed an amiable person. She usually abstained from the intrigues among the royal sisters-in-law and simply replied, "Prince Twelve is already thirty years old, and His Majesty has been urging him. Hence, the Empress herself has taken charge. She announced that she would personally select a noble lady for Prince Twelve to be his princess consort today."

Currently, Prince Twelve is the only prince capable of rivaling Prince Qin. His marriage is a matter of great interest to the entire court. Upon hearing this, Princess Qin indeed lost her intention of competing with Princess Xi.

Princess Xi responded promptly, her voice tinged with a subtle smile as she said, "At times, one must know when to be content. One's self is ultimately one's own; forcing matters will prove futile. Of course, Prince Shiyi is in a different position. Being the legitimate son of the Empress, he has the right to choose from among the city's noblewomen."

By implication, the Twelfth Prince was the rightful crown prince, urging Prince Qin to refrain from entertaining ill-conceived ambitions.

Princess Qin's face turned livid with anger.

As the queen fought her words, the other noble ladies and young misses in attendance bowed their heads, sipping tea quietly, not daring to intervene.

Lady Marquis of Yan, witnessing the tense exchange between the two princesses, hurriedly intervened with a genial smile to change the subject, lest they strain their relationship,

"Empress Consort Xi, yesterday I happened upon Shan Shan on the street. That young lady is so charming and delicate that merely looking at her makes me fear she might melt. She's truly delightful. When it comes to raising children, Empress Consort Xi is second to none. Your son stands out among his peers, and your daughter is exceptional among thousands."

These words struck a chord with Princess Xi.

It was well-known that Yan Shaoling had a fondness for Pei Mushan. Even though Lady Yan's flattery was abundant, it didn't come across as insincere.

Princess Xi replied, "Madam overpraises me. She's merely a country lass, unworthy of your commendation."

Lady Wen Ruyu from the Duke of Cheng's residence clapped her hands and laughed. "Listen to what the Princess says. If Shan Shan is a country lass, then what am I? I was even more mischievous than Shan Shan when I was young."

Beside her, the Duchess of Wen shot her daughter a reproachful glance. "You dare compare yourself with Shan Shan? She's lively, but you're truly wild."

Madam Yan looked at Wen Ruyu and said, "When it comes to recklessness, no one can match my wayward son. Look, the Emperor hasn't arrived yet, but he's already challenging someone to a match."

All eyes turned towards the polo field without a word.

Wen Ruyu leaned forward for a better look. "Oh, just look there! Shaoling is in an argument with Shan Shan. Someone, go inquire about what's happening!"

A moment later, a maid returned. "Replying to Her Highness the Princess Consort and all the ladies, His Highness the Twelfth Prince hunted a wild deer in the woods this morning, intending it as a prize for today's competition. Both Princess Shan Shan and the young princess from the Prince Qin's palace were smitten with it. The young princess suggested they form teams to compete, asking Young Master Shaoling for his assistance. However, Young Master Shaoling refused, insisting on being on the same team as Princess Shan Shan. That's why they're arguing now."

It was clear to all that the young princess of the Qin Palace and Yan Shaoling were cousins, but Yan Shaoling had feelings for Pei Mushan. It was like trying to choose between the palm of one's hand and the back – both were equally dear.

Wen Ruyu chuckled. "We're in for an entertaining show."

Scanning the crowd with her eyes, she landed on the quiet Xu Yunqi. "Princess Consort, would you do me the honor of accompanying me to witness this?"

Xu Yunqi was also concerned about Pei Mushan and nodded promptly. "Certainly."

Upon hearing this, Madam Xun discreetly shot a glance at her daughter, and Xun Yunling quickly chirped up, "Sister Ruyu, can I come along too?"

How could Wen Ruyu refuse? Thus, she brought Xun Yunling along as well. Xun Yunling had always been a prominent figure among the palace maidens, and many followed her lead when she left.

Descending the steps, they arrived at a silk pavilion next to the riding field. Eunuchs and palace attendants had already prepared fruits, tea, and refreshments.

Wen Ruyu led the group of young ladies to take their seats.

On the field, the young princess of the Qin Palace was reduced to tears by Yan Shaoling's words.

"We're family, after all. As my cousin, you should be helping me."

A vibrant youth in black lounged nonchalantly on his horse, obediently positioning himself behind Pei Mushan. "I said I'd help her."

"Who agreed with you?" Pei Mushan turned her head and glared at him disdainfully.

Yan Shaoling straightened up. "Hey, hey, hey, when you were ten and lost that bet, what did you say? 'Big Brother Shaoling, next time, help me win it back.' Well, here I am, helping you today."

Pei Mushan gritted her teeth in frustration. As a child, she had often been deceived by Yan Shaoling's coaxing, addressing him as 'big brother' all the time. Now, remembering those days filled her with embarrassment. She took a deep breath, raised her whip, and pointed to a few young ladies and gentlemen in her group.

"Look around, is there anyone in our team who isn't attractive? Do you feel embarrassed barging in like this?"

Yan Shaoling was not convinced. He frowned and scanned the group. Pei Mushan beckoned two youths. One had fair skin and a delicate appearance like a blooming peach blossom, which he found utterly unbearable. "Tsk, with that effeminate demeanor, do you like him? Ask your big brother if he looks like that."

The other youth had a gentle air about him, but he was built solidly. Would he be able to protect a woman?

Pei Mushan's face flushed red from his words. "An effeminate man is still better than a wild leopard like you."

Yan Shaoling enjoyed this nickname, grinning instead. "I am indeed a wild leopard, little miss." Then, with a cold glance, he asked, "Which one of you will step aside?"

Though the two youths appeared weak and scholarly, they remained unswayed.

The whistle had sounded, leaving Yan Shaoling no choice but to mount his horse and retreat to the sidelines to observe.

Seeing that Xu Yunqi was unwilling to assist, the young princess of the Qin Palace had no option but to seek help from her own brother. The two teams assembled and began their match.

Initially, Yunqi believed her sister would triumph. But after two quarters of play, she realized that the young princess from the Qin Palace was no ordinary opponent. Despite being young, only about thirteen or fourteen, her equestrian skills were exceptional. She galloped across the field like a fierce little lion, nimble and agile, with a natural talent. The polo ball seemed to dance at her mallet's shadow, her movements flowing like a stream in harmony with the wind.

In the first half, the young princess of the Qin Palace held a slight advantage.

Pei Mushan was known for her frequent appearances on the polo field, surely possessing remarkable abilities.

Her skills were inherited from her father, and while she was not adept at one-on-one combat, she was proficient in strategic deployment. Her father often said that playing polo was akin to leading troops into battle, requiring either surprise attacks or indirect tactics. Pei Mushan first employed a feint, drawing the young princess's attention, thus creating an opportunity for the teams with the sharpest scoring abilities. They seized the chance, scoring the first goal and breaking the young princess's seemingly unstoppable momentum.

Seizing the momentum, she quickly rallied to even the score.

For the following fifteen minutes, the competition between the two teams was fiercely neck and neck, with Pei Mushan narrowly pulling ahead.

Prince Twelfth, Pei Xun, himself took up the drum to rally the spirits, filling the arena with a fervent atmosphere. Led by Wen Ruyu, the young maidens threw their silk handkerchiefs and cheered, while Xu Yunqi sat quietly among the crowd, sipping tea.

With only a quarter of an hour left, the young princess was as anxious as an ant on a hot pan, for her imperial grandfather was watching from the brocade pavilion. She couldn't afford to lose to Pei Mushan.

Pei Mushan and her four companions had become increasingly in sync, forming an impregnable barrier like a solid wall.

Realizing they were bound to lose, the young princess suddenly clenched her silver teeth, whipped out her riding crop, and lashed out at the back of Pei Mushan's horse's hoof.

The swift steed let out a piercing cry and surged forward, catching Pei Mushan off guard. She was jolted violently, and coincidentally, the horse's hoof stepped on a sharp rock hidden in the grass, causing it to leap into the air. In that instant, Pei Mushan was completely thrown off.

A collective gasp erupted from the spectators outside the pavilion, and Princess Xi, who was inside, panicked and leaped up from her desk,

"Sanne!"

Just as Pei Mushan was about to crash onto the ground, a dark figure shot forward like lightning. He stretched out his hand to catch her falling arm while supporting her back with the other, exerting all his strength to protect the girl he loved, causing him to crash heavily forward.

Pei Mushan had been racing along the edge of the polo field, dangerously close to the surrounding fence. When Yan Shaoling fell, his back collided forcefully with the fence. Right next to it was a colorful banner, secured to a bamboo pole. Unfortunately, for this polo match, the Royal Stables had recently replaced the poles with fresh ones. The new bamboo couldn't withstand the impact and snapped, sending sharp splinters piercing into Yan Shaoling's back.

A heart-wrenching cry of pain pierced the blue sky.

Everyone was horrified, and a flood of people rushed towards Yan Shaoling.

Pei Mushan's back hit Yan Shaoling's chest. The deafening scream almost numbed her own senses, and she barely felt her own pain. Dazed, she managed to turn around and saw the usually valiant man staring at her with a dazed expression. Blood gushed from his mouth as he muttered,

"Are you... alright...?"

"Yan Shaoling!"

Panic gripped Pei Mushan to her core. She grabbed his hand in a frenzy, her body trembling violently as she cried out to the approaching crowd,

"Someone, anyone! The royal physician, we need the royal physician... save him!"

His clothes quickly became soaked with blood. He curled up slightly, shivering gently, his mouth filled with blood as he struggled to speak but couldn't. The light in his eyes began to fade.

Everything before her became a blur, dancing within the rim of her teary eyes.

In an instant, more than ten people rushed in from both sides of the fence, followed by even more, surrounding Yan Shaoling and Pei Mushan like a tightly-knit barrier.

The shocking sight of blood sent chills down everyone's spine, leaving the Yan family servants on the verge of collapsing in fear.

Some ran to call for the royal physician, while others hurried to send word to the Water Pavilion and the Brocade Tower.

The Yan family servants wept uncontrollably, their actions disoriented and chaotic.

Pei Mushan knelt before him, her delicate hand still tightly clasping his, her empty gaze fixed on the fading Yan Shaoling. Her heart pounded in her throat, with nowhere to find solace.

He was the brightest star in the capital's sky, his eyes always shimmering like new moons, filled with spirit and vitality. Now, he lay silently here, spewing blood.

Sobs and cries merged into a chaotic symphony.

It felt as if the heavens had caved in.

In the midst of the pandemonium, a voice as calm as a tranquil spring pierced through the noise,

"Make way!"

Unfortunately, no one paid heed to her words. They wept and wailed like headless chickens.

Agitated, Yinxing slung her medical pouch over her shoulder and kicked the nearest Yan servant, shouting,

"My lady ordered you to move aside! Didn't you hear? If you don't hurry, your young master will lose his life!"

Yinxing's voice was so loud that it immediately silenced the dozens of people present.

Upon hearing that there was a chance to save their young master's life, the Yan family members immediately turned around.

Ginkgo had no time to explain to them. With all her might, she pushed aside the stunned onlookers, clearing a path for Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi's eyes never left Yan Shaoling's wound. The bamboo splinter had pierced into his back, the depth unknown, and blood gushed out from the wound. He also couldn't stop the blood from pooling in his mouth, indicating possible damage to his heart or lungs.

Under the watchful eyes of everyone, this delicate and tranquil young maiden, who was once a renowned descendant of the Thirteen Needles of the Martial World, calmly made her way through the crowd and arrived at Yan Shaoling's side.