Chapter 40: Palace Intrigues and Amorous Tangles

Chapter 40

Xu Yunqi returned late in the evening. As she stepped over the threshold, the doorman and butler respectfully greeted her and led her in.

"Madam, Third Master is waiting for you in the study. He said he'll dine with you at the Jinhé Hall," they informed her.

Xu Yunqi was slightly surprised. Today wasn't the tenth day of the month, so it wasn't time to dine in the main residence. Perhaps there was something important. Still, she followed their instructions, walking along the slanted corridor towards Pei Muheng's study.

As the lanterns began to light up, a faint mist-like glow hovered in the night sky.

Pei Muheng stood in his study, dressed in a jade-green robe. The evening breeze brushed past him, casting a warm, yellow glow around his eyelashes, giving him an ethereal appearance.

Xu Yunqi rarely saw him in such a light-colored attire. "Third Master?"

Pei Muheng caught sight of her and a faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Come, let's go to the main residence. Your birthday celebration was interrupted yesterday, so tonight, Father and Mother will hold a banquet for you."

So that was the reason.

Xu Yunqi paused for a moment before responding, "Allow me to change my clothes first."

Pei Muheng replied, "Very nice."

He then accompanied her back to Qinghui Garden, waiting for her to change into a long, lapel jacket of Xilan color and a gauze skirt embroidered with apricot threads. A string of pearls adorned her chest, enhancing her beauty as she smiled like jade emitting a hazy glow.

Xu Yunqi's usual simplicity was strikingly different from her current dazzling appearance, which surprised Pei Muheng, leaving him unable to take his eyes off her.

With a gentle smile, Xu Yunqi asked, "Is it alright?"

Since the palace was celebrating her birthday, she had to dress up for the occasion, not wanting to disappoint their efforts.

Silent, Pei Muheng led his wife towards Jinhe Hall.

Servants they encountered along the way bowed to Xu Yunqi to wish her a happy birthday. Xu Yunqi sensed that they held her in greater respect, fear, and even cautiously tried to please her.

Feeling Pei Muheng's tight grip, Xu Yunqi's palms started to sweat, and she attempted to withdraw her hand several times. "Is Third Master staying at the palace today?"

Pei Muheng was somewhat speechless by her question.

Considering she had gone through yesterday's turmoil, he had stayed home to accompany her and help her recover emotionally. However, she had been occupied all day before returning, but judging from Xu Yunqi's demeanor, she seemed no different from usual.

"I paid a visit to the Board of Censors this noon and returned not long ago."

Xu Yunqi had no intention of interfering in the case concerning the Xun family. Hence, he returned to the Board of Censors to hand over all the documents from last night to Shi Zhuo.

Just as Xu Yunqi was about to speak, a figure ran up the stone path ahead of them, panting heavily.

"Sister-in-law, wait for me!"

Pei Mushan leaped onto the steps and, without any qualms, snatched Xu Yunqi away from Pei Musheng's grasp. She half-guided and half-dragged Xu Yunqi forward, amazed by her attire.

"Sister-in-law, is this the Suzhou embroidery I picked out for you last time? Wow, it looks fantastic on you."

Pei Musheng glanced at her still-warm palm and then at her chattering sister, feeling increasingly speechless.

Xu Yunqi felt a little awkward under her praise.

"It was also your choice of pattern."

A few days ago, Pei Mushan had carefully prepared an outfit for her birthday celebration.

Pei Mushan glanced playfully at her brother, Pei Mushan, and said, "Brother, you see, my taste is excellent, right?"

Pei Mushan maintained his composure and replied, "Your sister-in-law looks stunning in anything she wears."

His implication was that the beauty lay with Xu Yunqi, not his sister's judgment.

Upon hearing her brother's straightforward compliment, Pei Mushan's eyes sparkled. She nudged Yunqi's shoulder with enthusiasm.

"Sister-in-law, did you hear that? My brother just praised your beauty."

Xu Yunqi, already quite composed, felt her cheeks flush at Pei Mushan's candid words.

Pei Mushan remained animated, "You have no idea how difficult it is to get a compliment out of my brother. For him to lower himself to praise someone is rarer than climbing to the heavens."

Pei Mushan gave his sister a cold, warning look.

Xu Yunqi gently brushed away the blush on her cheeks and turned to smile radiantly at Pei Mushan. "Thank you."

Their gazes met, and Pei Mushan felt a pang of unease from her simple "thank you."

At this moment, Xingye, standing by the side, said nonchalantly, "Miss Xu's reputation is renowned in the pugilistic world. When she was diagnosing patients in Cangzhou, many young men would deliberately make themselves ill just to queue up for her to take their pulses."

Upon hearing this, Pei Mushan's face darkened.

Xu Yunqi gave the maid a gentle glare, and upon hearing this, Pei Mushan's curiosity was immediately piqued. She quickly pushed Xu Yunqi aside and pulled Xingye forward. "Tell me, how popular is my sister-in-law?"

Xingye began to spill the beans about all the antics of those young masters and lords to Pei Mushan.

In the past, she had been somewhat afraid of Pei Mushan, but not anymore.

Xun Yunhe lived right next door; now, if the young lady was wronged, there would be someone to stand up for her.

"First, there were those who sent flowers, and others who offered food and toys. But when they saw that Miss was indifferent, they started pretending to be ill. Oh, Fifth Miss knows, my Miss can refuse anything except treating patients," Xingye said, completely ignoring Pei Mushan's feelings.

Pei Mushan nearly burst out laughing. She adored Xingye so much.

There would be times in the future when her brother would be at a disadvantage.

Pei Mushan turned back and added fuel to the fire, "Brother, you should try pretending to be ill sometime."

Pei Musheng dismissively averted his gaze.

He wasn't that idle.

Seeing that the two of them were crossing the line, Xu Yunqi turned to her husband beside her and said, "Don't listen to their nonsense. Nothing like that happened."

However, Pei Musheng knew she was lying.

The quartet chatted and laughed all the way to Jinhe Hall.

Upon entering, the main chamber was eerily quiet, making Pei Mushan's laughter seem especially loud in contrast.

Pei Mushan, noticing the excessive silence within the hall, abruptly stopped laughing. Raising her gaze, she saw everyone in the residence seated calmly in their respective places, clearly waiting for the three of them. Everyone's eyes fell on Xu Yunqi first, before they subtly averted them without a trace.

Pei Musheng and his wife immediately went forward to apologize.

Prince Xi waved joyfully, "Please be seated promptly. It's getting late; let's commence the banquet."

The two concubines took their seats below the main seat. Elder brother Pei Muxiang and his wife, Xue Yuxi, occupied the left side, followed by their two younger sisters. Li Xuanyan and her husband, Xu Yunqi, sat on the right, alongside them.

Li Xuanyan was grateful for establishing a good rapport with Xu Yunqi early on, avoiding any enmity with this esteemed lady. As the banquet was about to begin, she presented her birthday gift ahead of time,

"I heard you're not skilled in embroidery, so I embroidered a few sachet handkerchiefs for you, around a dozen items in total. I hope you won't find them displeasing."

Madam Zhang had once forced Xu Yunqi to learn embroidery for two days, but Xu Yunqi proved utterly unskilled. She regarded embroidery as an incredibly challenging craft and felt quite embarrassed by Li Xuanyan's sincere gesture, "Thank you for your effort, Sister-in-law."

Pei Muxiang, due to the matter of her hidden illness, had been avoiding Xu Yunqi. In the past, Xu Yunting had somewhat looked down on Xu Yunqi's background, and this situation left a touch of embarrassment on both their faces.

Pei Mulan subsequently presented an embroidered piece as well. "I've sewn this orchid. Sister-in-law can choose a spot to hang it for pleasure."

Pei Mushan took the embroidery and passed it to Xu Yunqi, praising, "Sister-in-law, Fourth Sister's needlework is the finest in our household; it could even be sold outside."

Prince Xi harrumphed solemnly, "What nonsense are you talking about selling? How proper is that? Have we, the Palace, reached a point where we can't even put food on the table?"

Indeed, Pei Mulan had secretly sold a few embroidered pieces to accumulate silver coins. Faced with her father's rebuke, she lowered her head in fear.

Lady Han, fearing that her daughter might be scolded by the princess, quickly took over the conversation to present her own gift, "I prepared a pair of coral earrings for Yunqi."

Xu Yunqi had received a whole box of gifts, which she entrusted to Madam Chen and Silver Apricot to carry.

After the banquet, Pei Musheng returned to his study first. Prince Xi accompanied his other two sons and left as well. Pei Mushan pulled Xu Yunqi to sit at the Eight Immortals table in the western annex.

"Sister-in-law, according to the palace rules, whoever celebrates their birthday hosts the game. Let's play leaf cards."

"Oh, I don't know how," Xu Yunqi blinked, saying.

"We'll teach you if you don't know," Lady Li also urged her to join.

Pei Mushan then called for Pei Mulan, and the four of them gathered around the table.

Xu Yunyi was busy with household chores, while Lady Han and Lady Gao intended to join in the fun. Before leaving, they asked Princess Xi, who was washing her hands at the upper seat,

"Princess, would you like to come and watch?"

Princess Xi shook her head. Her face still hurt, and now that this layer of identity had been revealed, she felt a mix of happiness for her son and awkwardness. In her eyes, she had been very close to Lady Xun and Xun Yunling in the past. Xu Yunqi must have had some reservations about her. If she joined them, it would only spoil their enjoyment. Why bother?

"It's a rare occasion for her to have such a good time. You should accompany her."

The two concubines, both intelligent, joined the festivities in the western chamber.

Left alone in the eastern chamber on a canopied daybed, Princess Xi listened to the occasional bursts of laughter from next door, involuntarily lost in thought. Among them, Pei Mushan's voice was the loudest.

"How is the Yan family reacting? How is Yan Shaoling's injury progressing?"

Ama Hao offered her a cup of tea with a smile, replying, "I've heard that he's mostly recovered. Young Master Shaoling is eager to proceed with the betrothal ceremony, but Madam Yan has held him back."

Imitating Old Madam Yan's tone, Ama Hao continued, "Don't be careless. Though his external wounds seem healed, his internal organs still need time to recover. If not properly cared for, he might develop chronic ailments, leaving you with worries. Would your nephew have to support you during the wedding ceremony?"

Naturally, Yan Shaoling didn't wish to lose face in front of his wife and thus obediently stayed at home.

Princess Xi wasn't in any hurry at all. "It's fine if it's delayed. I'm not ready to see her leave the palace yet."

Another round of laughter echoed from the adjacent room, indicating that Xu Yunqi had lost a game. Everyone was teasing her, demanding she drink a penalty. Xu Yunqi downed two cups.

The palace hadn't seen such merriment in a long time. Ama Hao's heart swelled with warmth as she listened. Addressing the princess, she said, "The maidservants just told me how Third Lady remains the same as before, neither showing the airs of a high-born lady nor harboring resentment over past events."

"Her temperament..." The Princess Xi sighed three times. "I admit, I am no match for her."

Recalling her tragic background, the Princess Xi felt a pang of sympathy in her heart. "She is indeed a pitiful child."

Auntie Hao seized the opportunity and said, "If you show her more affection in the future, she won't be pitiful anymore."

The Princess Xi fell into a long silence.

*

The alliance between the Xi Palace and Xun Yunhe had put the Prince Qin on high alert. The next morning, he pretended to pay his respects to Empress Concubine Yan and hurriedly discussed countermeasures with his mother.

"Mother, I am now surrounded by enemies on all sides. Since Father went, the voices supporting the Twelfth Prince have grown louder. Now, there's also the Prince Xi to contend with. It seems that the throne is almost within reach, but we might just miss it."

Ever since the Crown Prince was dethroned, the Prince Qin had sensed a decline in the Emperor's favor towards him, which led to his despondent remark.

Empress Concubine Yan, however, remained calm but her expression was far from pleasant.

"The situation is indeed unfavorable for my son. But Mother believes that you have no reason to fear the Xi Palace."

The Prince Qin was taken aback. "Why?"

Empress Concubine Yan said solemnly, "His Majesty could pass the throne to anyone, but not to Prince Xi."

Prince Qin's eyes widened in astonishment. "Why is that?"

Ever since he could remember, his father had never favored Prince Xi, but the exact reason was unclear to Prince Qin.

Empress Concubine Yan sighed deeply. "This has always been a sore spot in your father's heart. No one dared to mention it. Today, I must tell you, but you must not share this with anyone else, for fear of displeasing your father."

"Do you recall Princess Mingyue?"

Prince Qin shook his head. "I'm afraid I don't have any recollection, Mother."

Empress Concubine Yan nodded and continued, "She was your father's only legitimate princess. When she was born, auspicious clouds filled the sky, and that same year, a plague of locusts struck the southeast. Miraculously, the plague subsided after her birth. Your father regarded her arrival as a blessed omen for the Great Jin Empire and cherished her like a precious gem."

"Unfortunately, shortly after her birth, she was diagnosed with a heart condition. Your father's heart ached, so he ordered the Imperial Hospital to take great care of her. She lived until the age of ten. That year, she suddenly fell ill. The chief physician of the Imperial Hospital, Doctor Liu, who was skilled in acupuncture, often achieved miraculous recoveries. But on that day, when he heard the news, he rushed to Mingyue Palace with his medical kit, only to be knocked down by Prince Xi, who was recklessly running through the imperial gardens."

Upon hearing this, Prince Qin's heart skipped a beat. "That fourth brother has always been strong. A mere collision from him could break bones."

Empress Concubine Yan's face showed regret. "Indeed. What was even more unfortunate was that Doctor Liu was thrown against a large boulder by the impact. His forehead was badly cut, and it triggered his own heart condition. Doctor Liu died on the spot, and unfortunately, the little princess couldn't be saved either. In a single day, the emperor lost both his beloved daughter and a renowned physician, nearly driven to madness with grief."

"Let me tell you the truth. Your father almost beheaded Prince Xi back then, but it was the Empress who begged for mercy on his behalf despite her frail health."

Prince Qin couldn't help but sigh after hearing the story.

Consort Yan continued, "Doctor Liu was the most renowned physician in the Imperial Hospital at that time. Not only was he skilled in medicine, but his character was impeccable as well. The entire court sang his praises. Many in the capital benefited from his expertise, including your father's chronic headache, which he treated. After Doctor Liu's death, your father suffered from his headache for half a year and harbored deep resentment towards Prince Xi."

"Thirty years have passed, and no matter how outstanding Prince Xi's military achievements were, your father never gave him a second glance. It was only recently, with Pei Muheng's rise to prominence, that your father's attitude toward Prince Xi softened. Given this incident, do you think your father could consider Prince Xi as the heir apparent?"

Understanding the full context, Prince Qin now felt some sympathy for Prince Xi. "Fourth brother is truly unlucky."

"And in your opinion, what should I do, Mother?"

Consort Yan answered decisively, "Forge an alliance with the Xi Wang Palace to counteract Prince Pei Xun of the Twelfth Rank."

*

Consort Yan's advice proved effective.

The next day, during the court session, chaos erupted in the Yangzhou salt fields. The supervising eunuch was assassinated, resulting in the deaths of many guards and eunuchs. The case sent shockwaves throughout the empire, and the court decided to send someone to investigate. Prince Qin strongly recommended Pei Muheng, knowing full well that Yangzhou was the Empress's maternal clan's stronghold and also held significance for Prince Pei Xun. By doing so, Prince Qin aimed to sow discord between Pei Muheng and Pei Xun, ultimately drawing Pei Muheng under the banner of the Qin Wang Palace.

Prince Pei Xun, the Twelfth Rank, stood in the grand hall and casually saluted the emperor.

"Your Majesty, I also recommend Young Master Qi. He is upright and experienced, capable of uncovering the truth behind this matter."

The emperor approved.

Upon hearing the news, Nurse Chen informed Xu Yunqi at the Xihua Palace, "From the sound of it, the case is urgent. Young Master will have to set off this evening. Should we start packing for him right away, my lady?"

Xu Yunqi nodded and led Nurse Chen into the inner chambers. She carefully selected several sets of Pei Muheng's clothing, folding them neatly. When Pei Muheng returned, she presented the bundle with a warm smile and asked thoughtfully, "How long will you be gone? When can we expect you back?"

Pei Muheng, undressing from his court attire, gazed intently at her face without moving. After a moment's pause, he replied, "It could take as little as ten days or up to a month before I return to the capital."

Not too long, Xu Yunqi handed him the prepared bundle, asking, "I packed four summer outfits. Will that suffice?"

Pei Muheng placed his court robe on a screen and took a black shirt from Nurse Chen, draping it over himself. He looked at Xu Yunqi calmly and inquired, "Did you only pack for me?"

Xu Yunqi was taken aback. "Who else should I pack for?"

Pei Muheng's lips curved slightly, and he spoke with a relaxed air, "You'll come with me."

Leaving this young lady alone in the estate for a month would truly unsettle him; she might cause another upheaval. It would be more secure to have her bound to his side.

Xu Yunqi's lips gaped wide as an egg, "Ah? Me? You want me to investigate with you?"

Pei Muheng was a man who adhered to rules and conventions; he had never discussed state affairs with her before. Now, he intended to bring her along on an investigation outside the capital – it was simply inconceivable.

Pei Muheng presented her with an unassailable reason, "The chief eunuch has been assaulted, and his life hangs by a thread. Grandfather Emperor has granted permission for me to take you along."

Upon hearing this, Xu Yunqi's spirits lifted, filling her with enthusiasm. Since marrying Pei Muheng, her movements had been restricted; it had been a long time since she'd traveled freely. Without hesitation, she turned and called out to the curtain,

"Silver Apricot, quickly pack our bags. We're accompanying Third Master to Yangzhou."

At the mention of going out, Silver Apricot's mood soared. "Very well, this servant will prepare our luggage immediately."

Unexpectedly, the cool voice of the male master echoed from the inner room,

"Hold on."

Xu Yunqi and Silver Apricot, who had just lifted the curtain to enter, both turned to look at him.

Pei Muheng's expression remained calm as he said, "Yunqi, it would be highly inconvenient to bring a woman along on this journey. You'll have to disguise yourself as my servant boy. Therefore, you can't bring your maid."

Xu Yunqi blinked in surprise.

Upon hearing this, Yingxin's face fell, and she pleaded tearfully, "Master, I've never been separated from Miss before. She needs me if she wants to save someone. Please let me come along, even as an extra servant boy. I'm good at pretending to be one."

Pei Muheng clearly left no room for negotiation. "That won't do. The more people there are, the higher the chances of something going wrong."

Yingxin suspected that Pei Muheng was taking out his personal grudge on her. She puffed up with anger and glared at Xu Yunqi.

After a moment's deliberation, Xu Yunqi approached Yingxin and gently stroked her maid's cheek. "Young Master Yan is still recovering from his injuries, and the queen's migraine has flared up again. It's best for you to stay in the capital in case of emergencies. Don't worry, I'll be back in a few days after I rescue the person. I won't leave you alone for too long."

Since Yingxin was saved by Xu Yunqi's grandfather years ago, she had been following Xu Yunqi for over a decade. The two of them, as mistress and servant, had never spent even half a day apart. To Xu Yunqi, her grandfather and Yingxin were the dearest family members she would never abandon.

Upon hearing the last part of Xu Yunqi's words, Pei Muheng's face darkened, his emotions unreadable.

Yingxin sniffled, packing the medical kit unhappily. "Alright then, I'll guard Qinghui Garden for you. But you must come back soon."

Xu Yunqi reassured her, "While I'm away, go find Shan Shan to play. Didn't she open a cosmetic shop on Copper Drum Street with Shao Fu? You can go take a look and buy whatever you like."

Xu Yunqi had no affection for cosmetics or powders, but Yunnqi did. The young maid's spirits lifted quickly; her brows unfurrowed as she smiled radiantly, "Alright then, I'll also bring you a fine box of blush."