Chapter 35: Palace Intrigues and Romantic Tangles

Chapter 35

Despite the sweltering heat of the third nine-day cycle of summer, Lady Xun felt as if she were in an icy chamber, her lips turning slightly blue.

Standing by, the elderly maid gave her a sharp pinch and whispered a reminder,

"The birth dates are different. She can't possibly determine anything based on that alone."

Lady Xun breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, when Xun Yu changed his name, he also altered his birth date. Otherwise, with the same surname Xun, both hailing from Jingzhou, and sharing the same birth date, it was likely that Madam Zhang would have come to confront them with accusations.

She was genuinely curious. Xun Yunhe clearly held his wife and daughter dear to his heart. How could he have severed all ties with his past so decisively back then?

Madam Xun forced herself to calm down, gradually forming a smile on her face. "Hurry and welcome the guest in."

The ladies present also noticed the discomfort in Lady Xun's demeanor, assuming that it was due to her aversion to Madam Xu, the wife of Pei Musheng. Little did they suspect any other underlying reasons.

"What kind of family would allow their daughter to study medicine?" a lady couldn't help but mock.

Only those of humble origins would engage in such shameless acts.

Madam Xun hastily intervened, "The guest is here to be welcomed, let us not dwell on such matters."

She thought to herself that Xu Yunqi was, after all, the legitimate daughter of the Xun family, and Xun Yunqi's memorial tablet still rested in the family shrine.

Everyone praised Madam Xun for her broad-mindedness.

The Xun family's residence wasn't spacious, so the main courtyard couldn't accommodate so many people. Thus, Madam Xun decorated the flower hall and led the guests there for entertainment. Green vines hung from the surrounding walls, with ice buckets placed in corners. Servant girls stood by, fanning the air with large palm-leaf fans, making the hall pleasantly cool.

No one noticed the narrowness of the Xun estate; instead, they admired Xun Yunhe's incorruptibility, appreciating the unique charm of the scenery.

It was at this moment that Xu Yunqi and her mother, Lady Zhang, entered the flower hall. Everyone's attention shifted to the mother and daughter. Lady Li, who was present, promptly rose to greet them, pointing to a spot beside her.

"Third Sister-in-law, I've saved a place for you and Lady Xu."

Madam Xun couldn't help but scrutinize Lady Zhang's face. This was her first encounter with the woman. In the midst of the raging fire years ago, she had only seen a young matron rush out of the house, dashing towards the child with silver bracelets. Naturally, she assumed it was Lady Zhang and Xu Yunqi. Little did she know, fate had played a cruel trick, and she had tragically mistaken her target.

Lady Zhang's face was undeniably beautiful, with soft eyebrows giving her a delicate, refined charm. In terms of appearance and demeanor, she couldn't compare to Xun Yunhe's breathtaking allure. Born in the countryside, she likely lacked talent as well. Madam Xun wondered why Xun Yunhe held such a woman so deeply in his heart. Believing herself superior to Lady Zhang in every way, she straightened her back with pride.

As for Xu Yunqi, she inherited the best features from both her parents, making her appearance even more captivating due to her resemblance to her father.

Before Lady Zhang could approach, Lady Xun took the initiative to bow slightly towards the two of them. "I am truly ashamed to have disturbed the Duchess and Lady Xu. Please be seated."

Lady Xun's gesture was seen by others as graceful and dignified.

Lady Zhang still resented the fact that Lady Xun's daughter had her sights set on her son-in-law, so she didn't show much interest and simply returned the courtesy before sitting down.

Recently, Lady Li had been very close to Xu Yunqi, even showing concern for Lady Zhang. It wasn't until Lady Li was called away by her friends that Lady Zhang finally had a chance to chat with Xu Yunqi.

"Your birthday is on the 15th of next month. Does the palace plan to celebrate it?" she asked.

Xu Yunqi shook her head. "I don't intend to celebrate it."

Assuming that the palace was neglecting her daughter, Lady Zhang wore a look of discontent. "If your father were still alive... your birthdays would surely have been grand celebrations together..."

On the day Xu Yunqi was born, it was also Xun Yu's birthday. He had always regarded his daughter as the best gift from heaven, cherishing her like a precious pearl or jade. He spent three days reading poetry and books to find the perfect name for her, "Yunqi," hoping she would soar like an eagle in the vast sky. He couldn't bear to call her by her full name, constantly addressing her as "Nan Nan," as if he was afraid she might melt in his mouth or slip from his hands. This upbringing had nurtured Xu Yunqi's fearless nature.

Looking at her now, calm and composed as if nothing mattered, Lady Zhang's eyes turned red with emotion.

After a moment, Lady Xun welcomed more distinguished guests – the Duchess of Wen and her daughter, Wen Ruyu. Despite being married into the Chengguo Duke's household, Wen Ruyu often accompanied her mother on outings.

Her presence enlivened the gathering even more, engaging in conversation with almost everyone, including Xu Yunqi, to whom she asked casually, "Why hasn't Shan Shan come?"

In the world, Empress Yan, Wen Ruyu, and Pei Mushan were often regarded as the three most renowned young ladies of their respective generations, known for their exceptional beauty and similar dispositions. Each was a standout among peers. Empress Yan favored Wen Ruyu the most among the younger generation, while Wen Ruyu held a special affection for Pei Mushan. Thus, Wen Ruyu felt a certain loss of enthusiasm when Pei Mushan was absent.

Xu Yunqi didn't respond, but Lady Li took the initiative to answer, "The Xiao family also has a banquet today. Shan Shan has gone there."

Wen Ruyu instantly understood the situation.

On the other side, Lady Xun was on edge, instructing her servants to guard the ornate gate diligently, ensuring that Xun Yunhe would not have the chance to encounter Madam Zhang or Xu Yunqi.

For a moment, they chatted leisurely. Suddenly, they heard unusual commotion coming from beyond the ornate double doors. Wen Ruyu faintly recognized her husband's voice, and suspicion arose within her. At that moment, an anxious maid rushed into the hall and approached Wen Ruyu.

"Madam, when Duke Wen arrived to offer his birthday congratulations just now, he was accosted by a woman. She is currently causing a scene in front of the residence."

Wen Ruyu's heart tightened, and her face paled. "Who is she?"

Beside her, Lady Wen, understanding the gravity of the situation, signaled with her eyes for Wen Ruyu to remain calm.

Wen Ruyu was one of the most well-born young women in the capital. Unfortunately, her marriage hadn't been as fortunate. The late Duke Cheng and Wen Duke had been sworn brothers, and their children's marriage had been arranged since childhood. A few years ago, the old Duke Cheng passed away, and his son inherited the title. However, this nearly thirty-year-old Duke Cheng was known for his debaucherous lifestyle and often dallied with other women.

Born into an influential family, Wen Ruyu was a fiery and strong-willed woman. She would never tolerate such indifference in their marriage, and they had long drifted apart like strangers. However, for their conflict to escalate to a public spectacle at someone else's birthday banquet was an unprecedented humiliation, leaving Wen Ruyu filled with both shame and anger.

Madam Wen, evidently accustomed to handling crises with grace, asked the servant woman calmly, "What exactly is the situation?"

The old woman huffed, "It sounds like one of Lord Duke's concubines from outside is causing a scene. She claims she's pregnant and is demanding official recognition from Lord Duke."

As those words faded, the sound of a woman could be heard rushing in from the ornate floral gate.

"Since you cannot make the decision, I shall ask her. She is the legitimate eldest daughter of the prestigious Wen Duke, how could she bear to see her husband's offspring wandering outside?"

Fortunately, two robust matrons intervened promptly to prevent any further escalation.

This woman had clearly seized the opportunity to use the child as leverage against Wen Ruyu and her husband, hoping to secure her status.

Wen Ruyu was so enraged that she rose abruptly, her long sleeves flaring as she prepared to rebuke the intruder. However, Lady Wen stopped her, smoothing her sleeves calmly and issuing a composed directive, "Let her in." She then bowed slightly with Lady Xun, who said,

"I apologize for disrupting your esteemed residence's birthday celebration. I take full responsibility for this mishap."

Both Lady Wen and Duke Wen held great prestige, with the latter being a prominent military figure. For the elderly lady to attend the banquet was already a significant gesture of respect. Lady Xun dared not harbor any resentment and hurriedly responded, "It was my lack of preparation that caused the disturbance to your honored guests. The apology should come from me."

Madam Wen nodded gratefully.

Madam Xun then instructed, "Let her in alone. The other male guests should withdraw."

The servant, having received the order, released his grip and allowed the woman to enter the courtyard.

Everyone looked on with curiosity, only to see a young maiden dressed in a peach-pink attire, her eyes brimming with tears as she approached timidly with fear written all over her face. She wore her hair in a fallen horse bun, and though her clothes were not particularly luxurious, they were brightly colored, giving away the impression that she came from the lively and somewhat disreputable streets outside.

Anyone who saw her appearance would feel pity, but upon closer inspection, there was no real fear hidden deep in her eyes. It was clear that she was a woman well-versed in the ways of various social classes, with a deeply scheming mind.

Madam Wen saw through her facade, remaining calm as she asked, "Who are you, and what is your purpose? Speak it all."

The woman knelt in the center of the ornate hall, first paying respects with several kowtows to Madam Wen before beginning to weep as she recounted her story,

"My surname is Liu, originally from Taiyuan. Later, I followed my uncle to the capital for business. Unfortunately, I crossed paths with Duke Cheng. At that time, I had no idea of his identity. A bully was harassing me on the street, and he intervened to teach him a lesson. When my uncle's business faced trouble, he offered assistance. On several occasions, he mentioned to my uncle that he wished to marry me. I knew he already had a wife and absolutely refused. Little did I expect that one day, I would be..."

At this point, she broke down in tears.

Seeing this, Madam Wen immediately scolded, "This is the banquet celebrating the Prime Minister's birthday, and you dare to weep here! I'll have you taken to the Jingshao Prefecture to face justice right now."

Madam Liu trembled in fear, hastily stifling her sobs. "I was drugged by someone and happened upon him. Before I knew it, he took advantage of me. Unfortunately, he only cared about deceiving my body and had no intention of taking me into his household. I thought I could just consider it repaying him, but who would have thought I'd become pregnant? I had no choice but to resort to this desperate measure. Please, Madam, have mercy on me and give me a place to stay. In the future, I'll work tirelessly to repay your kindness."

Wen Ruyu scoffed in anger.

"You're not a victim of a scheme; you're the one crying wolf."

Upon hearing this, Madam Xun's hand under her sleeve trembled involuntarily, and beads of sweat trickled down her forehead.

Madam Liu didn't refute her, instead speaking softly, "Now that I've lost my virtue, I can't stop whatever accusations you may throw at me. All I ask is that you consider the child in my womb and spare me a chance to live. I've consulted an expert who confirmed that this child is a boy. Once he's born, I'll entrust him to you for upbringing, and I promise never to see him again."

A mouthful of blood rose to Wen Ruyu's throat.

She had only given birth to two daughters, and the lack of a male heir had always been a source of criticism.

Madam Liu's words hit her where it hurt most, revealing that she had come prepared.

With matters escalating to this point, a solution had to be found. A supportive sister-in-arms immediately offered advice,

"Sister Wen, since the person is already here, you can't simply dismiss the Cheng family's lineage. In my opinion, why not bring her back to the mansion and gradually teach her the ways of propriety?"

The implication was clear: once she entered, her fate would be out of her control.

At the Prime Minister's banquet, it was not appropriate to resort to violence. Lady Wen furrowed her brow, sharing this sentiment, and was about to seek her daughter's opinion when a soft voice echoed nearby.

"How long have you been with child?"

Upon hearing Xu Yunqi's question, Lady Wen and her daughter exchanged a wary glance.

Madam Liu followed the sound of the voice and saw a young lady dressed in a moon-white robe, looking gentle and approachable. She relaxed her guard and softly replied, "About a month or so..."

Xu Yunqi stepped forward with a smile, extending her hand kindly. "I sense that your complexion is off. I'm afraid it might affect your pregnancy. Please extend your hand, let me take your pulse."

Hearing this, Madam Liu's expression changed, her throat suddenly tight as she stared at Xu Yunqi as if she were a ghost.

Wen Ruyu immediately sensed something amiss and sneered. "I think your pregnancy is a ruse, and coercion is your true intention. Bring her forward, let's have her pulse checked."

The Wen family's attendants rushed forward to restrain Madam Liu, who struggled in vain. She was no match for the servants and was soon pinned down. With a fierce glare at Xu Yunqi, she asked,

"Who are you?"

Xu Yunqi smiled lightly, her voice cold as if it had drifted from the depths of hell, sending shivers down one's spine. "I, you see, am a divine spirit who hunts ghosts."

Madam Xun gasped in astonishment.

Xu Yunqi quickly examined the woman's pulse and confirmed that she was not pregnant but had consumed medicines to simulate pregnancy. Wen Ruyu felt a wave of relief wash over her as she expressed her gratitude to Xu Yunqi. She then instructed her servants to take the woman away for further handling.

Wen Ruyu bowed respectfully to Xu Yunqi, "Thank you, Sister, for your keen eyesight. Otherwise, I would have fallen into her trap."

Madam Wen pondered for a moment before responding, "You truly owe a great deal to the Duchess. Not only did she help you, but she also saved you. Think about it, that woman wasn't pregnant. If she had entered the household, her deceit would have been exposed sooner or later. She would have certainly found a way to frame you, leaving you with no escape."

Realizing the severity of the situation, Wen Ruyu broke out in a cold sweat. She bowed once more to Xu Yunqi, who waved it off, indicating that she didn't mind.

After Madam Liu left, the other main wives in the reception hall continued their discussion in indignation,

"Women from outside are sly and cunning, never to be trifled with."

"How can there be women willing to be concubines? It's a degradation of their own worth."

"Don't forget, some concubines have wicked hearts and harm the main wives, even attempting to take their place."

"Good heavens, it's unbelievable. Such people deserve divine punishment...!"

Hearing the ladies' condemnations, Lady Xun felt as if a whip were lashing her cheeks, turning her stiff as wax. When she lifted her gaze, she met Xu Yunqi's reproachful eyes. Xu Yunqi blinked innocently, and in that moment, Lady Xun almost suffocated.

"Lady, Lady, what's wrong with you...?"

The old nurse, aware of her distress, pinched her sharply to bring her back to reality.

Lady Xun's vision was hazy as she gasped for air, lifting her hand. "Begin the banquet...".

Upon finishing the feast, Wen Ruyu didn't even have time to drink tea before rushing out to confront her husband.

Madame Zhang also didn't wish to stay longer, so Xu Yunqi accompanied her to the door.

Watching her mother and daughter disappear into the distance, Lady Xun held on until the guests gradually dispersed. Eventually, she couldn't withstand the dizziness and fainted in the nurse's arms.

Xun Yunhe returned hastily, apologizing with wine to each guest during the banquet. Today, Emperor had sent Prince Twelve, Pei Xun, to their residence to congratulate Lady Xun on her birthday, granting Xun Yunhe great honor. After the banquet, Xun Yunhe personally saw Prince Twelve off.

A strong wind swept from the depths of the alley, fluttering the corners of his crimson robe. He flicked his sleeves and stood with his hands behind his back by the screen wall, watching Prince Twelve's carriage fade into the distance.

Amidst the bustling carriages and throngs of people, guests successively bowed in farewell, to which Xun Yunhe returned their smiles with grace. Suddenly, he heard someone call his name from behind. Turning his head, at that very moment, a graceful figure caught the corner of his eye from a distant alleyway. A faint memory tugged at the depths of his mind. Focusing sharply, he saw the green silhouette vanish at the end of the lane.

Xun Yunhe instinctively took large strides to follow.

That was the green dress Qingniang adored, adorned with delicate yellow flowers, like a charming beauty wandering through a forest.

Closer and closer, the dress seemed identical, even the slender shoulders beneath it were strikingly similar. Just as he was about to grasp the edge of the skirt, the person slipped into a carriage, vanishing from sight like a fish darting out of reach.

Xun Yunhe's steps froze. As he was about to pursue further, a figure emerged from behind a wall, blocking his path.

"Lord Xun."

Xu Yunqi stood before him with clasped hands, a cheerful smile on her face.

Xun Yunhe paid no attention to Xu Yunqi, his gaze eagerly searching for the departing carriage. It moved slowly away into the fading light. Only then did he divert his eyes back to Xu Yunqi, asking, "Why do you block my way, Miss?"

Xu Yunqi looked at him curiously. "What were you chasing after, Lord?"

Xun Yunhe didn't respond to her, instead folding his hands behind his back and inquiring, "Who was that lady just now?"

"A distant cousin of mine."

Xun Yunhe's expression paused. If she was this young maiden's cousin, then she must be an extremely young woman. Presumably, it was only her silhouette that resembled someone he knew. Xun Yunhe rubbed his forehead, revealing a touch of embarrassment that came too late. "My apologies, her figure just now resembled an old acquaintance of mine."

Xu Yunqi smiled without saying a word.

When Xun Yunhe turned to leave, Xu Yunqi climbed into a carriage, heading swiftly for the southern part of the city.

This time, she didn't go to the clinic but went to the tailor's shop next door.

Xiu Niang was already waiting anxiously inside. Upon seeing her enter, she hurried over, eager to ask, "How was it? Did he recognize you?"

Xu Yunqi looked at her with a complicated expression. "He recognized your figure."

Xiu Niang patted her chest in relief. "That's great. All these past two weeks haven't been in vain."

*

The sky wasn't favorable that day. By the time it reached the late afternoon, the daylight had completely faded, replaced by a blanket of dark clouds, indicating an impending downpour.

Xun Yunhe had to return to his office at night, so he had an early and light meal before making his way to the ancestral shrine.

With a creak, he pushed open the heavy door.

The wind swept in, causing the ninety-nine candles inside to flicker with alternating brightness.

As usual, he stepped over the threshold, checking for any dust on the floor before slowly pacing forward.

In the northernmost alcove, ancestral tablets of the Xun family's generations were displayed, with two prominent brown plaques at the edges. One was dedicated to his late legitimate wife, Lady Zhang, while the other honored his beloved daughter, Yunqi.

Xun Yunhe took the damp handkerchief offered by the butler and skillfully wiped clean the memorial tablets of his mother and daughter. Then, he moved to the center of the room and lit a stick of incense in reverence.

Footsteps echoed from behind.

Xun Yunhe made no attempt to turn his head, instead inserting the incense into the small tripod. At that moment, a gust of wind swirled into the shrine, stirring up dust that infiltrated his eyelids. Squinting slightly, he took a step back and watched them in silence.

A faint shadow fell gently at his heels, accompanied by a raspy voice that echoed softly.

Every time I step into this shrine, I can't help but wonder, if Sister Zhang were still alive, how would you have treated me? Madam Xun gazed fixedly at the tablet bearing Zhang's name, her heart filled with indescribable turmoil.

Xun Yunhe found her question inexplicable, yet he replied without hesitation, "She is the wife, and you are the concubine. That is beyond doubt."

The word "concubine" pierced Madam Xun's heart like a sharp needle. Gazing at the slender and resolute man before her, the backbone that she had stubbornly upheld for seventeen long years nearly crumbled in that very moment.

"The daughter of a prominent Vice Director of the Hanlin Academy, me, am to be your concubine? Xun Yunhe, how could you be so ruthless? Can you face my father with a clear conscience?"

Xun Yunhe thought of his wise and discerning mentor, and he closed his eyes deeply. "She is my lawfully wedded wife, as dictated by propriety and tradition. Unless you do not wish to be with me, it shall remain thus."

For over a decade, she believed that the answer from those early days would have faded with time, but to her surprise, he remained steadfast. It was only at this moment that she realized she had been nothing but a jest all along. For years, they supported each other, she managed his household and entertained official relatives, her efforts were both meritorious and laborious. Yet, she could never shake Zhang's position in his heart, nor erase the marks of Confucian propriety ingrained in his very bones.

Had he shown even a moment of hesitation, she wouldn't have suffered so deeply.

In that case, Xun Yunhe, don't blame me for being relentless.

*

A sudden storm lashed through the night, and the days quietly slipped into June. The brief respite from the heat was swiftly replaced by another wave of scorching warmth.

Princess Xi's neck felt significantly more relaxed after several days of applying the medicinal oil. Not only did she no longer wake up in pain, but even the occasional afternoon discomfort was fleeting. Her spirits visibly lifted.

Of course, all this was thanks to Xu Yunqi.

Princess Xi did not wish to owe anyone a favor, so she discussed with Nurse Hao about how to repay Xu Yunqi.

Nurse Hao chuckled. "You might not know this, but this month marks Young Lady's birthday. It's her first significant occasion since she married in. According to propriety, we can't neglect it."

Princess Xi nodded thoughtfully. "We should indeed hold a celebration for her. Pass my words along to Madam Xie and ask her to take charge of the arrangements."

Nurse Hao acknowledged with an 'aye' and promptly headed to the conference hall to find Eldest Missus Xie. She conveyed Princess Xi's intentions.

Madam Xie immediately stood up. "I understand."

Once Nurse Hao left, Madam Xie closed the ledger in her hand and handed it to her maid. "Put this away and bring the ginseng my mother sent over the other day. We're going to Qinghui Garden."

The maid was surprised. "Young Lady, aren't you usually not very close to Third Missus?"

Madam Xie, like Princess Xi, inherently looked down on Xu Yunqi's background. More importantly, Pei Muheng had recently been conferred the title of a prince, stealing the limelight from her husband, who seemed worthless in comparison. The heir to the prince's palace had yet to be officially designated, and it was uncertain whose child would inherit the title. Madam Xie harbored some apprehension towards the third branch.

"I've been entrusted with this matter by my mother-in-law, so I must handle it well. Let's consult Third Sister-in-law about her thoughts."

The maid did not suspect anything amiss.

The maid and her mistress tidied themselves up before arriving at Qinghui Garden.

This was Xu Yunqi's first visit to the garden, and he was somewhat surprised. He had originally intended to tend to the herbs in the flower house, but now found himself reluctantly putting aside his plans to welcome Madam Xie for a conversation.

Yunqi was in the small apothecary, concocting a medicinal solution, while Madam Xie's maid couldn't resist peering over. Only Chen Momo remained to serve tea to the two ladies.

Madam Xie smiled and asked, "In a few days, it will be Third Sister-in-law's birthday. Mother is planning a grand celebration and has sent me to inquire if you have any preferences?"

Xu Yunqi firmly declined, "There's no need for a celebration."

Madam Xie politely responded, "I'm afraid that won't do."

"Really, there's no need," Xu Yunqi's face revealed a rare hint of impatience. "Please, Sister-in-law, help me decline Mother's offer."

Xu Yunqi's determination was unprecedented, leaving Madam Xie puzzled. "Third Sister-in-law, I'm not trying to force you, but this is your first birthday after joining our family. Not having a celebration would seem disrespectful to the palace."

Xu Yunqi chuckled, "Don't worry, I have everything under control and won't put the palace in a difficult position."

Uncle Zhou had just informed him that Lady Xun had taken advantage of the sunny weather to venture out. It seemed she was headed to Qingshan Temple outside the city. Surely, she must be planning something significant soon. Xu Yunqi simply didn't have the time to devote to a birthday celebration.

Madam Xie was not particularly close to Xu Yunqi and thus did not dare to press the matter further. "I'll mention it to Mother first, but for such an important matter, I believe she would still want to hear it from you personally."

Xu Yunqi nodded, remaining silent.

In her estimation, Madam Xie should be taking her leave soon. Feeling somewhat awkward, Madam Xie glanced at the gift box she had brought and gave Chen Momo a subtle signal. Understanding that they needed privacy, Chen Momo quietly excused herself, dismissing the servants and maids outside the corridor as well.

Xu Yunqi had a hunch about the purpose of Madam Xie's visit and sipped her tea slowly.

Madam Xie had no intention of beating around the bush either. She pushed the ginseng box directly in front of Yunqi.

"Sister-in-law, let's speak frankly. I believe you're aware of my husband's condition. Doctor Fan has prescribed some remedies, which initially showed some improvement, but now they seem ineffective. He's suffering, and I'm worried. Could you possibly think of a solution, Sister-in-law?"

Maintaining her calm and unhurried tone, Xu Yunqi replied, "I would need to take his pulse and apply acupuncture. Would he be willing?"

Madam Xie immediately found herself in a dilemma. How could such matters be handled openly, especially with her own sister-in-law present? The mere thought made her feel embarrassed on her husband's behalf. "Is there no other way?"

Xu Yunqi smiled and shrugged. "None that I know of."

The situation had reached an impasse.

Xu Yunqi, sipping his tea, perceived her dilemma and said, "I've treated no fewer than twenty patients with similar conditions."

Madam Xie: "…"

She had unwavering faith in Xu Yunqi's medical skills.

"I wish I could, but I'm afraid he wouldn't consent."

Silent, Xu Yunqi shifted his gaze to the direction of the small pharmacy. The two young maidservants seemed to be engrossed in some activity, conducting themselves quite professionally. Uncommonly patient, Xingyao was teaching them, which piqued Xu Yunqi's curiosity.

Although her request was unfulfilled, Madam Xie still generously opened the box, "Sister-in-law, since you've been at our residence for so long without my being able to visit, consider this a small token of apology."

Xu Yunqi glanced at the box, "That won't be necessary."

Madam Xie took her refusal as mere politeness, "This ginseng was purchased at great expense by my family. Please don't think less of it, Sister-in-law."

Xu Yunqi said helplessly, "It's not that I don't want it, but this ginseng isn't of good quality."

Madam Xie's cheeks flushed, assuming Xu Yunqi was refusing out of disrespect. Xu Yunqi earnestly explained,

"Look, although this ginseng has a strong medicinal aroma, it's actually been soaked in medicine water. Genuine ginseng is rare on the market these days, and high-quality ones are even harder to find."

"I see," Madam Xie replied, feeling extremely embarrassed. She quickly closed the box and said with a look of guilt, "I had no idea. My apologies."

Only now did she realize that Xu Yunqi's character was different from what she had imagined. Madam Li was cunning and exhausting to talk to, but Xu Yunqi was sincere and straightforward.

Madam Xie felt a slight relief in her heart,

"Sister-in-law, I'll try to persuade my husband again later. If I can convince him, I'll ask you to come out of retirement."

Xu Yunqi nodded and saw her out.

Ever since Yan Ping left the cabinet, Prince Qin's side had become like a monkey with its tail on fire – anxious and restless. The officials beneath him, sensing the unfavorable situation, were less obedient. To regain control, Prince Qin made many behind-the-scenes moves.

In an effort to bring down Prince Qin, Pei Muheng had to plan secretly, leaving early and returning late every day. Xu Yunqi did the same, working at the clinic during the day and returning home at night. Most of the time, the couple could only meet in their bed.

Xu Yunqi kept a watchful eye on the movements within the Xun Estate.

Finally, on the tenth day of the sixth month, she received the news she had been waiting for.

"Sister, Master Mingyuan from Qingshan Temple has returned to the capital. It's said he'll set up an altar on the full moon day to read fortunes, and the ladies in the city often seek him for advice on love and marriage. I plan to ask him for a protective amulet," Xu Yunqi playfully pinched Pei Mushan's cheek with a smile. "Whose protection are you seeking?"

Pei Mushan blushed for a moment before openly admitting, "Yan Shaoling's."

The imperial edict for their marriage had already been issued; her union with Yan Shaoling was as good as settled. Now, they only awaited his recovery before the betrothal ceremony.

"By the way, that day happens to be your birthday. Let's first visit the temple to pay our respects to Buddha, then we can go to the cosmetics shop. Sister, Feng'er and I have a special gift for you."

Pei Mushan cupped her cheeks, leaning closer with a radiant smile that lit up her eyes.

Xu Yunqi gazed at her vivacious sister-in-law with a profound expression, eventually responding, "Alright."

As evening fell, the family gathered in the Jinhua Hall for dinner. The Empress Dowager of Xi also mentioned this matter.

"I won't insist if you don't want to celebrate your birthday. It's said that praying for blessings on one's birthday is especially efficacious. You've been married for quite some time without any good news. Your father and I are worried. Why not let Heng-ge accompany you to the temple on the 15th to seek a child-giving talisman?"

Upon hearing this, Xu Yunqi felt a bit awkward.

As a couple, they were diligent in their duties, and the timing was right. Unfortunately, there had been no signs of pregnancy.

Pei Muheng was momentarily lost in thought. If not for his mother's reminder, he wouldn't have known that Xu Yunqi's birthday was on the 15th. A wave of guilt washed over him, and he immediately reached out to hold her delicate hand, responding to Duchess Huixi,

"Having children is a matter of fate, and my wife and I understand this. Mother, you don't need to worry about it anymore. As for the 15th..." Pei Muheng turned his gaze towards Xu Yunqi,

"If you don't wish for a grand celebration, we can host a family dinner at home and invite your parents to share a light meal. That would also be a form of celebration."

He didn't want to disappoint his wife.

Xu Yunqi quickly shook her head. "I want to pray to Buddha." Her eyes held an unprecedented determination.

Pei Muheng, hearing his wife's resolute tone, felt a sense of reassurance. Her willingness to have a child indicated her heart was with him. "Alright, but I'll be on duty on the 15th. Can I come to fetch you in the evening?"

Xu Yunqi was actually not keen on him going along.

"Third Master should attend to your official duties. If you're here, I'll be in disarray, but without you, I can enjoy myself with my sister freely."

Pei Muheng pondered when she had ever been flustered before. It seemed she truly didn't want his company. This was Xu Yunqi's first birthday since marrying him, and as her husband, he ought to make some gesture.

The next day, the Xu family also sent a servant to inquire,

"The Lady asks if there will be a birthday celebration at the palace on the 15th. If not, she suggests that Grand Aunt accompany her on a visit to Green Mountain Temple. It is said that praying for blessings on one's birthday is especially efficacious. Grand Aunt has been in the family for half a year now, but there's still no news. The Lady plans to accompany you to seek a child-bearing talisman."

Her words were identical to those of Princess Xi.

It appeared that Lady Xun had put in much effort to lure both her and her mother into a trap.

Xu Yunqi smiled and replied, "Tell Mother that I will come to the Xu residence early in the morning on the 15th to fetch her."

Despite this, on the 14th, Xu Yunqi returned to the Xu residence in the afternoon. Zhang wore a simple dress and knelt before the Guanyin statue, burning incense and praying. Xu Yunqi entered and greeted her,

"What are you doing, Mother?"

Zhang turned and saw her, surprised. "Why are you here? Aren't we seeing each other tomorrow? Is something amiss?"

"Don't read too much into it, there's nothing to worry about." Xu Yunqi stepped forward to help her sit down, pouring tea for her personally with a smile as he replied,

"I suddenly remembered how effective Mother was when praying for blessings. Back then, you wrote his birthdate and zodiac in person to seek divine favor, and eventually, he became the top student in the county school. So I thought of asking Mother to write one for me as well."

This was the first time Xu Yunqi had initiated a conversation about Xun Yu. Lady Zhang was taken aback for a moment before she responded, lost in thought, "Yes, that's right."

The memory was so distant that she almost couldn't recall his appearance.

"When I returned from seeking the talisman, you found a seashell somewhere. Your father placed the talisman inside and wore it, and indeed, he came back as the champion of the exams," Lady Zhang reminisced.

Xu Yunqi wasn't here to delve into the past. She prepared the writing materials and handed her the inked wolf-hair brush, saying, "Mother, tomorrow is my birthday, as well as his. Please write our birthdays on both sides of the paper, so I can get an amulet for peace and safety."

Lady Zhang promptly wrote Xu Yunqi's birthdate, but when it came to Xun Yunhe, she hesitated, unable to put pen to paper. "Why do you suddenly want to pray for him? Are you thinking of him?"

Seeing others enjoy the warmth of parents' love and protection, while she didn't, she must have secretly yearned for it in her heart.

A sourness welled up in Lady Zhang's heart.

Xu Yunqi fell silent for a moment before he chuckled softly to himself, "Perhaps so."

With tears in her eyes, Madam Zhang meticulously wrote down Xun Yunhe's birthdate and astrological signs.

Xu Yunqi barely gave it a glance before setting it aside to dry. Without waiting for Madam Zhang to invite him to stay for dinner, he grasped the slip of paper and left the house.

That day, Pei Muheng had a day off and returned early to the rear courtyard for his meal.

"I'll be on duty later. I won't be coming back tonight," he informed Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi, confused, asked, "Aren't you on duty tomorrow night?"

She didn't wish for Pei Muheng to be involved in this matter.

Pei Muheng gazed at his wife and said softly, "I've swapped shifts with someone. I'll be on duty tonight and come to fetch you earlier tomorrow evening, so we can visit the marketplace together."

For as long as Xu Yunqi had been married to him, he had never accompanied her outside. He intended to break this precedent the following night.

Seeing that he had made up his mind, Xu Yunqi didn't press further but changed the subject instead.

"By the way, I'll be going out tomorrow. Could Third Master lend me a bodyguard?"

Pei Muheng was taken aback. "I already arranged for Huang Yan to escort you. Didn't you forget? He was the one who accompanied you to the clinic that first time."

Xu Yunqi recalled the young man's obedient and respectful demeanor, not prying into his master's whereabouts. She appreciated such loyalty.

"Is he trustworthy?"

Pei Muheng's heart stirred. He gazed at her intently for a moment. The shadow guard he had carefully selected was indeed reliable. Xu Yunqi's question implied whether she personally trusted him or not.

It was clear that Xu Yunqi had some matters she didn't wish to disclose to him.

Without reason to restrict her freedom, Pei Muheng replied, "I'll instruct him later that from now on, he'll be under your command. I won't meddle in anything."

Xu Yunqi's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Third Master."

Her husband effortlessly guessed her intentions, a rare level of understanding between them.

As the sky darkened, Pei Muheng left.

Xu Yunqi watched his figure vanish into the night, then quietly fetched a circular chair and sat in the center of the courtyard.

Ginkgo loved swinging on a swing, and wherever she went, she would always set up a bamboo swing in the courtyard. This was no exception.

In the stillness of the night, with the grass and trees lush and vibrant, Ginkgo's song was carried by the breeze into one's ears.

Xu Yunqi sat in a round-backed chair, dressed in a snowy white gown. Her left hand held a piece of paper motionless, while her right hand supported her forehead, resting on the backrest with her eyes closed, conserving her energy.

Her melody, like the trill of a golden oriole, meandered through the courtyard. Attracted by the sound, a bird circled overhead before landing on the wall to listen.

All servants had been dismissed. Not a single lamp was lit in the Qinghui Garden, inside or out. Only moonlight, like a gentle stream, spilled across the ground, enveloping her in a silvery glow. The fluttering white dress accentuated her ethereal presence, making her appear like a captivating ghostly apparition.

"My little darling is the most well-behaved. When Father comes back next time, he will surely bring you some sweet sugar-coated hawthorn skewers!"

"When you were born, your father held you in his arms all night, too overjoyed to sleep. He vowed to pass the imperial examinations and go to the capital to become an important official, so that you could be the most dazzling jewel in the world."

"All your toys were made by his own hands."

"He couldn't bear for anyone else to be more colorful than you. During the day, he worked with you on his back, and at night, he copied books under the lantern light to earn silver for your clothes."

"Do you still remember your silver bracelet? Your father wore his hands raw to get that precious treasure for you..."

"Annie, my love for you is but a fraction of your father's," the woman whispered.

Silent winds swept past Xu Yunqi's ears, whistling through the trees with a rustling melody.

Lifting her gaze, Xu Yunqi's eyes seemed veiled in a frosty mist as she stared blankly into the void before her. Her heart alternated between feeling like an unfathomable abyss and an empty, boundless sky.

After singing for a while, Yingxing's voice grew weary, so she asked Xu Yunqi, "Miss, something as significant as this, shouldn't you inform your husband? With his assistance, we might ensure our success."

Xu Yunqi shook her head. "There's no need. He holds his mentor in high regard; he would be too conflicted to take action."

Xu Yunqi didn't mention her own concerns that Pei Muheng might foil her plans.

The moon ascended stealthily into the sky, then hid behind a veil of dark clouds. Time passed, and Yingxing's singing, like a stream flowing into the sea, gradually faded into silence. The moonlight around them receded, casting a gloom that slowly engulfed the white figure seated in the armchair in the depths of the night.

The mistress and servant sat together through the long night.

As the first bird's chirp sliced through the dawn, Xu Yunqi opened her eyes. Her hazy gaze slowly cleared, and the icy mist in her pupils dissipated. Rising to her feet, dewdrops slid from the hem of her dress, landing on the tip of her embroidered shoes.

Daybreak arrived.

It was time to depart.

Xu Yunqi, who had spent the entire night clutching a note, sealed it into an envelope and made his way to the slanted corridor between Qinghui Garden and the study. He summoned his covert guard, Huang Yan.

Huang Yan, having received instructions from Pei Muhang the previous night, now knew that his new master was Xu Yunqi. As such, he knelt down and performed a grand salute.

Xu Yunqi gazed at him silently for a few breaths before handing him the letter. His expression indifferent, he instructed, "By the time the sun sets today, deliver this item into the hands of the Chief State Councillor... Xun Yunhe."