Chapter 42

Chapter 42

Hooves thundered like drums, shattering the tranquility of the mountain pass.

Amidst the dense forest, the howling mountain breeze swept through, sending a flurry of blossoms swirling through the sky.

Flecks of pollen brushed against her face, forcing Xu Yunqi to close her eyes and lean tightly against his back.

Since the previous night, Pei Muheng had continued to serve tea and prepare meals, but not a single word had passed between them. His gaze never lingered on her, save for a fleeting, cold glance from the corner of his eye.

Xu Yunqi, with a belated realization, became cautious and refrained from embracing him as she mounted her horse. Pei Muheng reached out to gently grasp her hesitant wrists, pulling them to his waist before they galloped southward.

By noon, they arrived at Dongchang Prefecture and halted at an inn situated at a mountain fork.

The further south they traveled, the more scorching the weather became. As the afternoon progressed, the sky darkened, and soon, a dense drizzle began to fall, shrouding the mountain path in a veil of mist, offering some respite to travelers who huddled under shelters, catching their breath.

After finishing his meal, Pei Muheng intended to serve Xu Yunqi some soup but, upon noticing it was a bowl of wild vegetable soup, he discreetly withdrew his hand.

They sat side by side at a square table. After Xu Yunqi finished a sesame cake, she caught a glimpse of Pei Muheng's indifference towards the simple fare. Understanding his disdain for the humble meal, she took the initiative to ladle herself a bowl, sipping it slowly and gracefully.

Pei Muhang observed Xu Yunqi savoring her drink with delight, and out of curiosity, he poured himself a bowl as well. Taking a light sip, he unexpectedly detected a subtle sweetness. Setting down the bowl, he noticed his wife casting him a fleeting, yet captivating glance. As their eyes met, she quickly averted her dark, limpid gaze, causing Pei Muhang to smile inwardly. Recalling the events of the previous night, he couldn't help but rub his temples; he should have anticipated this.

That indescribable surge of anger quietly dissipated.

The rain grew heavier, making the mountain roads too treacherous for a comfortable horse ride. The covert guards thus decided to rent a boat near the Grand Canal, and the group proceeded with their journey by waterway.

Two days later, the vessel arrived at a ferry dock on the outskirts of Yangzhou.

On the verge of entering the city, Pei Muheng encountered an undercover agent from the Xi Palace who had been stationed in Yangzhou. The agent divulged the details of the situation to him.

"The matter originated from the grain-for-salt permit exchange. The Ministry of Revenue assigned ten thousand tons of grain and the same amount of raw silk to Yangzhou. The allocation was in the hands of the provincial government, so merchants with raw silk tried every means to secure their quota. Those with connections had already divided up the quota for the ten thousand tons of raw silk. The remaining merchants, who had to transport grain to the border for salt permits, were greatly discontented.

"Coincidentally, there was a flood in the Jiangnan region this year, causing grain prices to soar. In the past, they could use silver to directly exchange for salt permits at the same price. But this year, they had to pay extra for equivalent grain. The merchants were unwilling to accept this and, taking advantage of the recent cabinet reshuffle, they caused a ruckus at the provincial government office.

"The Governor of Yangzhou was under the twelfth prince's influence and had been in power for many years, exerting great authority. He suppressed the unrest with an iron hand, but unfortunately, the soldiers were not cautious enough, resulting in the accidental death of two people. This stirred up trouble; the merchants went on strike, and some even protested at the salt fields.

"Yangzhou's salt fields are the largest in our great Jin dynasty, and most merchants within the territory obtain salt from there. They blocked the entrance to the salt fields, preventing other merchants from exchanging for salt. It was chaos, and some vagrants opportunistically followed, intent on causing trouble. After the incident at the provincial government office, the commander of the salt field guards was hesitant to take severe action. As a result, some vagrants managed to break into the salt field administration office. It's unclear who secretly plotted the attack, but they attempted to assassinate Eunuch Xu, who was from the Office of Ceremonial. When people realized the severity of the situation, they all retreated."

Upon hearing this, Pei Muheng's expression turned grave.

The Salt Yard's Chief Eunuch Xu Rong was the adopted son of Liu Xiwen, the Director of the Imperial Household. In essence, Xu Rong was an informant planted by the emperor and the Director in Yangzhou. It would be foolish for anyone to attempt an assassination on him unless Xu Rong had terrible luck or someone was deliberately plotting against him. With the unstable political situation in the court and several upheavals in the cabinet, it wasn't unimaginable that someone might seize this opportunity to stir up trouble.

He had proposed the grain-for-licenses exchange himself. If Xun Yunhe were to fall and this matter not be handled properly, he would have a difficult time accounting for it upon his return to the capital.

"Have they been caught?"

The spy replied, "All the vagrants have been apprehended and are now detained in the Governor's office. Young Master, should we interrogate them through the night?"

Pei Muhang shook his head.

"The imperial edict from the capital will soon reach Yangzhou. Take advantage of these few days to continue monitoring the situation. I want to see who is behind these sinister maneuvers," he said to Xu Yunqi, who stood by his side.

"The local officials in Yangzhou have entangled relationships with influential tycoons and merchants. Rushing into an investigation might only lead us into their trap. The best course of action is to save Xu Rong's life first and then extract information from him. That way, we'll have a clear target."

The Salt Transportation Department was not under the jurisdiction of the local government but directly answered to the Ministry of Revenue. Besides the resident officials from the Ministry, it was also supervised by the Imperial Censorate and the eunuchs from the Office of Ceremonial. Among them, the leading eunuch held significant power. A portion of the salt revenue went straight to the palace, while some was siphoned off by various individuals; the rest went to the national treasury.

The couple disguised themselves again before entering the city. As night fell, they arrived at the Salt Transportation Department. Pei Muheng posed as a doctor, while Xu Yunqi carried a medical case, pretending to be his attendant. After some effort, they finally gained access to the inner compound and found the critically ill Xu Rong.

A eunuch greeted the two as they entered, with another standing guard at the entrance. Xu Yunqi carried his medical case into the room, which was an exquisitely spacious bedroom adorned with pearl curtains and silk canopies. The scent of the incense burning filled the air with an opulent aroma. As he moved past a screen, he heard a few pained moans. Peering ahead, he saw a heavily pregnant man, dressed in a white robe, lying on a couch. His face was pale, and his breathing was unstable, indicating severe injuries.

Xu Rong had served in the Office of Ceremonial before being sent out of the capital three years ago, so he recognized Pei Muheng. Upon seeing him, his eyes welled up with tears.

"Third Young Master..."

Pei Muheng, disguised, had entered the office discreetly. He sat down on a brocaded stool in front of Xu Rong and whispered, "Are the people around you trustworthy?"

Xu Rong glanced at the two eunuchs in the room and nodded. "They're all loyal servants whom I personally promoted."

Pei Muheng didn't press further and gestured for Xu Yunqi to approach, vacating his seat.

Observing Xu Yunqi's attire, Xu Rong assumed he was a young court physician brought by Pei Muheng, and thus didn't seem entirely convinced. In the past few days, the most renowned physicians in Yangzhou had already examined the patient and prescribed numerous medications, yet there was no noticeable improvement.

However, he couldn't afford to disregard Pei Muheng's request. Thus, Xu Rong decided to undress to allow Xu Yunqi to examine the wounds.

Pei Muhang watched his actions and instinctively stopped him, "Wait."

Xu Rong and Xu Yunqi looked up at him simultaneously.

Xu Yunqi had already rolled up her sleeves, laying out the medical kit on the small table before her, ready to examine the wound.

With a complicated mood, Pei Muhang explained to Xu Rong, "She is my wife."

Xu Rong was so startled that his jaw almost dropped.

He had also heard in Yangzhou that the emperor had arranged a marriage for Pei Muhang, which seemed less than satisfactory. Now he finally understood just how dissatisfying it was. He couldn't imagine that Pei Muhang would bring her along and even allow her to treat him. Without thinking too much, Xu Rong struggled to kneel before Xu Yunqi,

"How could I dare to trouble the Duchess...?"

Worried that Xu Rong might underestimate Xu Yunqi, Pei Muhang added,

"She is the eldest daughter of Minister Xun, the Grand Censor."

At this point, Xu Rong didn't dare to say anything else. He looked at Xu Yunqi in difficulty, stammering, "This... this..."

Xu Yunqi smiled and said, "In front of me, you are a patient, and at this moment, I am merely your physician."

The statement seemed to reassure Xu Rong while also addressing Pei Muheng. It was already a significant step that Pei Muheng had taken the initiative to bring her out of the capital for treatment. She didn't expect him to fully accept the situation overnight.

Without waiting for Xu Rong's response, she asked, "Where is the injury?"

Xu Rong pointed to his side. "I was stabbed here."

Xu Yunqi nodded, having already noticed the blood seeping through the bandages in that area.

When it came to treating a patient, their life took precedence over everything else. She couldn't afford to worry about Pei Muheng's feelings.

"Stay still and lie down. I'll examine the wound."

Using scissors, Xu Yunqi cut open the clothing at the site, revealing a white bandage. She then carefully cut away and removed the bindings, exposing the raw state of the injury. The wound was still inflamed and purplish, indicating signs of infection.

After a thorough inspection, Xu Yunqi furrowed her brow and said, "The injury has affected your kidneys, and the wound hasn't been treated properly, which is why it's not healing."

Immediately, Xu Rong's attendant assisted, administering a numbing powder called Mafeisan through a sip of wine to make Xu Rong drowsy. Once he was deeply asleep, they began to readdress the wound, clearing the blood clots within his body.

Pei Musheng sat quietly by, observing his wife. When Xu Yunqi was engrossed in healing, she transformed into an entirely different person. Her gentle and frail demeanor faded, replaced by an extraordinary calmness and decisive actions. Her brows would furrow and then smooth out, like a sharp sword concealed in its sheath.

He couldn't help but wonder if, had he not intervened, she wouldn't have cared. Or perhaps, she had already seen much of this during her medical practice outside the palace...

Recalling what Xingye had said, a wave of jealousy surged within Pei Musheng, filling him with anxiety. But then, he realized it was too late for regrets or schemes.

Fortunately, Xu Rong's pregnancy made him visibly round-bellied. The knife wound, though damaging his kidneys, wasn't excessively deep. After draining the pooled blood, cleaning the wound, applying a layer of healing powder, and stitching it up, there would be no further complications.

The two had entered the inner chambers at dusk and only finished their work by the late hour of the night. Pei Musheng personally handed Xu Yunqi a handkerchief as she washed her hands. She instructed the attendants,

"The cut doesn't need to be bound with a bandage. Just apply the remaining medicine powder morning and evening. Avoid water, and ensure the ice is continually replenished in the room."

When Xu Rong woke up, only Pei Musheng remained. He could feel the coldness on his waist, which brought immense comfort. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he wept towards Pei Musheng, "Thank you, Your Highness the Duke and Duchess... for saving my life..."

Pei Musheng quickly stopped him, "Don't move to avoid reopening the wound."

Xu Yunqi mustn't be overexerted.

Xu Rong lay obediently still. Then, Pei Musheng inquired about the salt fields. With the debt of saving his life, Xu Rong held nothing back and revealed almost everything.

Pei Muheng realized that while formulating national policies was straightforward, implementing them was a herculean task.

This trip had proven to be worthwhile after all. The Huaihai salt fields were the largest, and Yangzhou's salt merchants were the most numerous in the country. If the policy could be successfully enforced in Yangzhou, the rest of the borders would be secure.

Next, Pei Muheng began investigating the case.

He spent three days with Xu Yunqi in Yangzhou, engaging in leisurely activities. By the time the imperial edict arrived, he entered the local justice department with the decree to oversee the trial.

The case proceeded unexpectedly smoothly, and it was soon discovered that the so-called refugees were not genuine. They had been disguised by someone. As they reviewed the case, the head official of the justice department handed Pei Muheng an arrow stained with blood.

"Your Highness, take a look at this arrow. It has a symbol on it that resembles the fish-shaped arrow of the naval office."

A loud explosion echoed in Pei Muheng's mind as everything fell into place.

The naval office stationed in Yangzhou was under the jurisdiction of Qu Weizhen, the Viceroy of Two Rivers. Qu Weizhen, who resided in Jinling just across the river, was Yan Ping's trusted confidant and, on the surface, served Prince Qin.

However, Qu Weizhen was known for his tranquil and refined demeanor. He had repeatedly repelled pirates, restoring peace to the seas, earning him the title of a pillar of the nation by the people of Jiangnan. In the court, there was even a saying, "Jiangnan cannot do without Qu Weizhen for a single day." It was clear that Qu Weizhen's long-term presence in Jiangnan had disrupted certain plans.

As for who that person was, it was evident without further mention.

Prince Qin naively thought he could use Huang Wei to cause trouble for his twelfth uncle, unaware that he himself had fallen into someone else's trap. By implicating Qu Weizhen in the case, Prince Qin indirectly offended the Chief Eunuch of the Office of Ceremonial, Liu Xiwen, and simultaneously paved the way for his own people to take positions of power. It was a brilliant strategy that hit three targets with one arrow.

Truly, the older the ginger, the spicier it is.

Pei Muheng chuckled to himself and stroked the confession before him. Suddenly, he looked wearily at the officials from the Board of Punishments.

"Lord Chen, this prince is still new here and not quite acclimated. I request your indulgence for a day's rest. We can resume the interrogation tomorrow."

The Yangzhou Prefecture arranged for Pei Muheng to stay in the Yangzhou palace annex. When he returned, Xu Yunqi was entering the courtyard with numerous bags of medicinal herbs, clearly in a good mood.

"Third Master, I just bought a lot of marine medicines from the market. You wouldn't believe it, but some Western remedies work wonders on wounds. When my grandfather and I were in Fanyu, we met a Western physician who taught me how to perform Cesarean sections."

Xu Yunqi's face lit up with joy, and Pei Muheng observed many new facets of her personality during this journey. She indeed was not suited for the confines of a household.

Huang Wei, who had arrived with the imperial edict, eagerly took over Xu Yunqi's bundles and led the couple to the adjacent dining hall.

After sipping some mouthwash tea, Xu Yunqi noticed the worry still etched on Pei Muheng's face and instinctively asked, "Third Master, are you troubled by something?"

In the past, she would never have asked him about such matters, as court affairs had always been irrelevant to her. Today, however, the question slipped out without forethought.

He was willing to bring her along on his outings, disregarding societal prejudices and allowing her to treat patients and discuss state affairs openly with him. This trust had, unknowingly, made Xu Yunqi guard herself less around him.

This guard wasn't deliberate; it was an inherent aloofness etched into her bones since childhood.

Pei Muheng replied, "The investigation has hit a roadblock; I can't proceed any further."

If even Pei Muheng found the case insurmountable, it must involve influential officials in the court. Xu Yunqi decided not to pry further. Right then, Huang Wei arrived with the servants to serve their meal, and the two of them resumed their conversation while dining.

After the meal, Xu Yunqi retreated to the inner quarters for grooming and changed clothes. Pei Muheng, in the meantime, entered the study.

There, he stood alone by the window, deep in thought.

With Yan Ping out of the picture, Qu Weizhen was now Prince Qin's last trump card. If Qu Weizhen were to fall, Prince Qin would lose all hope of ascending the throne. Pei Muheng was naturally pleased by this prospect, but there was still a hurdle he couldn't overcome.

Why?

Qu Weizhen wasn't just a member of Prince Qin's faction; he was also the guardian of millions of people in the fourteen southern provinces. These people were now subjects of the emperor and would eventually become his own subjects.

Qu Weizhen must be protected at all costs.

Navigating the delicate balance between the Office of Ceremonial, Uncle Twelve, the Prefecture, and His Majesty would prove challenging.

After a moment of careful deliberation, Pei Muheng formulated a plan.

The officials from the Prefecture likely sensed something amiss, as they did not hold court the following morning. Instead, they sent the skillful Deputy Governor to invite Pei Muheng for a drink.

"The Duke's magnanimity is rare, especially since you've taken the time to visit Yangzhou City. Today, I would like to invite Your Highness to witness an entertaining event."

"Oh, what kind of entertainment?" Pei Muheng asked with a smile.

The Deputy Governor gestured towards the Jinshui River.

"Our Governor is known for his filial piety. Today happens to be his elderly father's seventieth birthday. He has invited all the senior citizens in Yangzhou City who share the same age to join in the celebration. The feast will be held at the Mingyu Pavilion by the Jinshui River, where distinguished figures from all walks of life in Yangzhou, both young and old, will attend. It would be an honor if Your Highness graced us with your presence."

Pei Muheng saw no reason to decline. "Please give me a moment, Deputy Governor. I'll change my clothes and be right out."

Xu Yunqi could have chosen to attend or not, but Pei Muheng wished for his wife to join in the festivities. He returned to the backyard and extended an invitation to Xu Yunqi. In her mischievous past, she had accompanied him to watch acrobatic performances on Silver Apricot Street. Thus, Xu Yunqi set aside her herbal medicine work, changed into a servant's attire, and accompanied Pei Muheng on their outing.

The group arrived at the Jade and Gold Pavilion precisely at the first hour of noon. The three-story circular tower was fully occupied on all levels, with two staircases leading to the second floor. Banners of vibrant colors fluttered between the floors, adding to the grandeur and splendor. At the entrance, the Deputy Governor stood with enthusiasm, pointing upward and saying,

"In the eighth year of Chengkang, His Majesty made his first southern tour and reached Yangzhou. The provincial government built this Jade and Gold Pavilion in his honor, and the Emperor personally inscribed its name and hung it there. Do you, Your Highness, know who funded the construction of this building?"

Pei Muheng gazed at the magnificent structure and shook his head. "I am unaware."

"The wealthiest man in Yangzhou, Jia Huailian."

Pei Muheng smiled slightly upon hearing the name. He was familiar with it; his imperial grandfather had mentioned Jia Huailian during a family banquet, recounting how the man had spent half his fortune to construct a dragon boat palace for his tour, filling the route with prosperity and beauty. His grandfather had been deeply moved by the people's wealth and well-being.

Judging from today's grand spectacle, it seemed that Jia Huailian intended to repeat his gesture.

Pei Muheng brushed his sleeves and began walking forward. "Then I shall witness the prosperity of Yangzhou myself."

The lower two floors were already filled with elderly men over seventy and respected figures of the city. On the top floor resided the Yangzhou officials and notables.

Accompanied by Xu Yunqi and Huang Wei, Pei Muheng climbed the stairs. As they ascended, the officials, led by the Governor of Yangzhou, prostrated themselves in respect. After exchanging greetings, they finally took their seats.

Pei Muheng, like a refined orchid or elegant pine, commanded attention with his mere presence. As he sat down, ladies upstairs and downstairs couldn't help but crane their necks to catch a glimpse of him.

"I wish to see what the princes in the capital are like. Are they as handsome as Prince Twelfth?"

"Could anyone possibly surpass His Highness Prince Twelfth?"

Pei Xun had accompanied the emperor on his southern tours and had visited Yangzhou several times to pay respects to his maternal ancestors. The people of Yangzhou were familiar with him, and many noble ladies still held him in high regard as their ideal partner.

"Who in this world could compare to His Highness Prince Twelfth?"

"Hmm, not necessarily. One day, when my father was holding court, I disguised myself as a servant and sneaked a peek. This Prince Zhao Ming is even more charming in person than his reputation suggests – he's like Pan An reincarnated."

This comment stirred a commotion among the women's seating area.

Meanwhile, at the main table, toasts were being made and cups were being exchanged. The Governor of Yangzhou led his subordinates in offering wine to Pei Muheng, who politely responded with tea. Some bold officials expressed their dissatisfaction, but Huang Wei stepped forward with his sleeves folded and explained,

"Gentlemen, you may not know that our prince has been unable to drink alcohol since he was young. He breaks out in rashes whenever he does. The emperor is aware of this condition. Not only would others refrain from urging him to drink, but even His Majesty himself would never press my prince to do so."

No one dared to defy the emperor, so they all reluctantly dropped the matter.

How dull a feast without wine, so the guests shifted their attention to Huang Wei, urging him to drink. As Huang Wei grew tipsy, the Deputy Governor's sharp gaze turned towards Xu Yunqi.

She saw this young eunuch sitting demurely beside Pei Muheng, strikingly handsome, solely focused on his meal, seemingly indifferent to everything around him. How did the Duke bring such a character to the banquet?

"Esteemed Lord, why not join me for a cup?" the guest proposed.

Pei Muheng's brows knitted together. "Lord He, she comes from the inner court and cannot hold her liquor well. If you desire a drink, this Duke will accompany you with a cup of tea."

Xu Yunqi secretly glanced at her husband. Pei Muheng's public defense of a lowly eunuch might draw unwanted attention. Socializing was a common part of life, especially when they were out. She had socialized before, so with a graceful gesture, she lifted the wine cup in front of her, ready to meet his challenge.

"I shall accompany you in this toast."

Pei Muhang looked at Xu Yunqi with surprise, gently taking her wrist and giving it a firm press as a signal to stop.

Xu Yunqi offered him a charming smile. "Just a few cups of wine," she said, her tone as light as the breeze and as serene as a cloud.

Hearing the eunuch's admirable composure, He Tongzhi grew even more agitated. "Very well, very well. May I ask your esteemed name, sir? This humble official will have a drink with you."

Xu Yunqi lifted his cup in a graceful gesture and said with a clear voice, "My surname is Xu."

Amidst the crowd, they addressed her with phrases like "Eunuch Xu" on the left and "Eunuch Xu" on the right, surrounding her with great enthusiasm.

It was not unusual for Pei Muheng to be accompanied by a eunuch. However, his obvious favoritism and specifying that Xu Yunqi came from the palace made everyone assume she was either from the Office of Ceremonial Supervision, sent by the emperor to keep an eye on Pei Muheng, or had been dispatched out of the capital for training. In any case, this person seemed destined for great success.

A prince of the realm held a high position in the court, someone unreachable on ordinary days. The eunuchs of the Office of Ceremonial Supervision had their tentacles spread across the land, and no one dared to offend them.

Not to mention Deputy Magistrate He, even the Governor himself rose to offer a toast.

Pei Muheng watched his wife effortlessly charm everyone around, drinking cup after cup of yellow wine without so much as a change in expression.

By her composed demeanor, it was clear this was not her first time. Pei Muheng was both speechless and amazed.

Knowing that excessive drinking could harm the body, Xu Yunqi stopped after five small cups.

Unfortunately, she underestimated the seasoned officials. "Eunuch Xu has accepted Lord Liu's wine but refuses mine. Does this mean you look down on me? Earlier, Eunuch Xu mentioned being from Jingzhou; I too am from Jiangxia in Jingzhou. As fellow townsfolk, Eunuch Xu, you must drink two cups from me..."

Half an hour later, Pei Muheng carried Xu Yunqi into the carriage.

Xu Yunqi had imbibed rather heavily and leaned quietly against one side, closing her eyes to rest.

Furious, Pei Muheng turned her around and held her slender shoulders, forcing her to look at him.

"Xu Yunqi, you actually dared to drink alcohol! Do you know that those officials are all seasoned politicians, not easy to deal with? You just downed more than ten cups!"

Xu Yunqi's cheeks were flushed with a rosy glow. She waved it off casually, her eyes curving gently as she smiled. "I'm fine."

Before leaving, she had prepared a few hangover pills, originally for Pei Muheng's use, but now she found herself needing them first. She had secretly taken one before drinking, so there was no major issue.

Pei Muheng saw through her. "You're quite skilled at drinking?"

"Mmm..." Her voice was soft and nasally as she raised her delicate arm, brushing her slightly swollen forehead. "When I traveled with my grandfather, we often met like-minded people. He couldn't resist a drink, so naturally, I'd join in. Oh, yes, Xingye also drinks..."

"And you?" Her brows furrowed slightly, and her bright eyes seemed veiled with a mist, losing some of their usual calmness and composure. "You can't handle alcohol?"

Pei Muheng detected the hint of disdain and laughed despite his anger. "I truly couldn't when I was young, but it's better now." More importantly, he didn't enjoy drinking; he avoided it unless absolutely necessary. He disliked losing control.

Xu Yunqi's lips curled into a smile, and she chuckled softly. Her waist felt weak, like a fish ready to dart away at any moment. Pei Muheng had to exert some effort to hold her close.

The carriage jolted suddenly, and Pei Muheng leaned in, their faces inches apart. His rich, compelling scent filled the air. Xu Yunqi, not wanting to be outdone, playfully blew a puff of alcohol-scented air towards him. Afterward, she covered her face and giggled secretly.

When had Pei Muheng seen her like this? It was as if something had fiercely brushed against his heart.

"Yunqi, are you drunk?" he asked.

Xu Yunqi shook her head very slowly. "I'm not drunk."

A flush of red lingered at the corners of her brows and eyes, making this fleeting moment of captivating charm all the more rare.

Pei Muheng suppressed his racing heartbeat and asked her calmly, "You're really not drunk? Then call me 'husband' and let me hear it."

Xu Yunqi stared at him blankly, her eyes devoid of expression and no response coming from her.

Pei Muheng's lips curled in disappointment.

Now he believed she was truly not drunk.

*

In the Drunken Rain Pavilion in the capital.

Compared to the bright sunshine in Yangzhou, the capital was experiencing a light drizzle that day.

As autumn was drawing near, Lady Zhang prepared autumn clothing for her daughter Xu Ruo. Unfortunately, the seamstresses in their household were of mediocre skill, and Xu Ruo was not satisfied, insisting on having her clothes tailored outside. Thus, Lady Zhang took her youngest son and daughter to the market.

More than ten days had passed since that incident, and the court seemed peaceful. Hearing that Xun Yunhe had been working day and night as if he had forgotten about it, Lady Zhang sighed with relief, knowing that the matter had finally subsided.

At the tailor's shop, Lady Zhang and her children were being measured for new clothes. Passing by Drunken Rain Pavilion, they caught sight of a vast expanse of lotus leaves by the riverbank. Xu Ruo insisted on going to play there, so Lady Zhang sent her son to supervise his sister while she took shelter from the rain in Drunken Rain Pavilion.

The rain fell gently, droplets rolling back and forth on the leaves before sliding off into the water with the slightest breeze.

Just then, a cry came from the cobblestone path on the other side of the pond.

"Sweet sugar-coated hawthorn skewers for sale! Sweet sugar-coated hawthorn skewers!" A man in his fifties, wearing a straw hat, leisurely peddled his wares from door to door.

Lady Zhang's expression froze for a moment, and she suddenly instructed her maid, "Go buy a few skewers from the other side."

The maid obeyed and left, leaving only the old lady who had pounded the drums at the Imperial Complaint Pavilion that day by Lady Zhang's side.

The pitter-patter of rain grew louder, and footsteps echoed from the steps behind her. Before Lady Zhang could discern who it was, she turned around abruptly, "You're back..."

A tall and slender figure stood with his hands clasped behind his back at the pillar of the veranda. His well-tailored, dark-blue robe accentuated his well-preserved physique. The youthful radiance in his eyes had given way to a maturity and composure forged by life's trials and tribulations.

Xun Yunhe's profound eyes locked onto her, his voice strained as he uttered, "Qingniang."

Lady Zhang clutched her embroidered handkerchief in fear, abruptly standing up. She looked at him with a mix of astonishment and shock, her lips trembling as she struggled to form words. Her gaze inadvertently glanced at the children in the distance, tears almost spilling from the corners of her eyes.

"What... What are you doing here?" she stammered.

Xun Yunhe's gaze was too intense, and she dared not meet it directly, tears streaming down her cheeks as she bit her lip.

Looking at her in this state, an indescribable annoyance swelled within Xun Yunhe's chest.

"You tell me, why am I here?" he growled, enunciating each word with clenched teeth.