Chapter 47: Palace Intrigues and Romantic Tangles

Chapter 47

As the remaining glow of sunset faded, the sky grew dim, and before the lanterns outside the corridor could be lit, the room was veiled in a hazy light, as if shrouded by a layer of idle clouds.

His handsome face gradually loomed larger before her eyes. His dark, bottomless gaze held a swirling undercurrent, and before Xu Yunqi could ponder further, their lips met in a gentle brush.

Xu Yunqi froze for an instant. Pei Moling had never kissed her on the mouth before. She assumed he disliked such intimacy, just as she did not favor the mingling of saliva.

Sometime without her notice, his rough palm had cupped her cheek, his warm and moist palm pressing her upward. As his strength increased, Xu Yunqi was forced to stand straighter, her slender form tensing up.

Assuming he intended to remain, Xu Yunqi made no attempt to deter him. Instead, as he lightly pecked at her lips, she stole a glance at the long table with the corner of her eye and reached out to shift some of the books aside.

Perceiving her distraction, Pei Muheng found it amusing, yet displeased. Gently nipping at the softness of her lips, Xu Yunqi was startled, her eyes wide open as she stared at him. His thick eyelashes were almost within reach, his gaze radiating an intensity that seemed to penetrate through her. Xu Yunqi felt a slight irritation, though this anger held no sway over Pei Muheng. He captured her restless hands, encircling her slender waist and drew her onto his lap, seating her on the long table.

She likes it, so I indulged her.

Their proximity allowed Pei Muheng to kiss her in a most comfortable position, his palm cradling the nape of her neck as he delved deeper into her cherry lips.

A moist sensation suddenly enveloped her, stealing away her breath in the process. Xu Yunqi's eyes danced with emotion, her dense eyelashes fluttering like a flock of ravens' feathers, unsure of how to react. The air was filled with confusion, as the gentle evening breeze brushed against her cheeks. The intertwining sounds of their breathing grew increasingly heavier by the moment.

Pei Mucheng continued kissing her tenderly without letting go. Her quiet and submissive demeanor was too inviting, urging him to seek more. His tongue teased apart her soft lips, reaching for her teeth as his thin lips held hers, commanding, "Relax."

His voice was husky and intense, carrying an indistinct accent that gently reverberated in her heart. Xu Yunqi felt at a loss, responding by biting down harder and denying him with her gaze. Focusing on the present, her fingers relaxed, allowing Pei Mucheng to effortlessly encompass her hand. Her fingers were slender and delicate, as if boneless, and he gently intertwined their hands, coaxing her softly,

"Are you afraid?"

Xu Yunqi shook her head.

Pei Mucheng paused, then released her. Gazing into her innocent, pure eyes, he propped himself up on either side of her and took a deep breath before asking, "Why?"

Xu Yunqi delicately brushed away the moisture from the corner of her lips, explaining sheepishly, "It's not appropriate."

Although Pei Mucheng didn't have much experience, he had never heard such a notion before. "What do you mean?"

Clearing her throat, Xu Yunqi began to explain the reasoning behind her words,

"Intertwining saliva is actually very unhygienic; it can spread illnesses between us..."

Pei Mucheng looked at the girl who was earnestly discussing this matter with a blend of innocence and maturity, feeling quite helpless as he said,

"Do I have an illness?"

"No…" Xu Yunqi stroked her burning cheeks, realizing she couldn't clarify things with Pei Mushan.

"I meant that many illnesses start subtly, and we might not even notice them. Being this...intimate could easily pass on germs to each other..."

Pei Mushan preferred getting straight to the point rather than kissing.

It was the first time Xu Yunqi had appeared flustered, so Pei Mushan didn't tease her further. "I understand."

Xu Yunqi observed her husband's expression carefully. Seeing no signs of anger, she secretly breathed a sigh of relief and then offered an apologetic smile.

Pei Mushan had no choice but to let it go. Gently tapping her forehead, he thought to himself, What a party pooper.

As the lamps were lit, Chen Nanny stood outside the corridor to report that Princess Xi had invited them for dinner.

According to custom, Yan Shaoling was staying at the palace for dinner tonight.

After the feast, everyone sat in the main hall of Jinhao Hall, sipping tea. An attendant whispered something into Yan Shaoling's ear. Yan Shaoling glanced at Pei Mushan, and the two left the room one after another.

The princess curiously inquired, "What's causing all this excitement?"

Standing at the entrance, the steward respectfully replied, "Young Master Shaoling's attendant purchased some fireworks from the market. They claim it's a new creation by the Imperial City Bureau, designed for children to play with in their hands. Right now, our two young masters have gone outside to set them off."

The idea of fireworks that could be held and played with was indeed novel and somewhat concerning. Unable to rest easy, the couples from the first and second branches of the family rose from their seats and bid farewell to go watch their children from the estate gates.

Prince Xi also emerged with his wife, the Princess.

Pei Muheng and Xu Yunqi followed the couple to the main hall, intending to return to Qinghui Garden through the side corridor. However, as if she had eyes on her back, the Princess called out to them just in time,

"Hold on."

Both Pei Muheng and Xu Yunqi turned around simultaneously.

Princess Xi took her time to turn around, casting a glance at her son and daughter-in-law. One was refined and composed, the other gentle and indifferent. She imagined that even in the face of a calamity like a mountain collapsing, this couple would remain unperturbed. Sighing inwardly, she sternly instructed,

"Young Master Shaoling is visiting for the first time to partake in a banquet. How can we afford to be disrespectful? Both of you should accompany him; return to your chambers only after he has left."

Pei Mujing glanced at Xu Yunqi, who didn't refuse. The couple then left the palace together.

As they watched the pair stroll down the corridor, Prince Xi turned to his wife and asked, "What's going on with you?"

Prince Xi's consort pointed at the couple and said, "Look at them. One is engrossed in state affairs, while the other is devoted to medicine. Their life lacks passion; it can't continue like this forever."

Prince Xi nodded in agreement. "You're right."

He then took his wife's hand and walked out briskly.

The entrance of the palace was grand, with a spacious courtyard that echoed with the laughter of two children.

The elder son from the first wife, Sheng, was two years older than Xun, the younger son from the second wife. Sheng was also taller, clutching a bundle of fireworks tightly and refusing to share with Xun, who followed him whining and crying,

"Brother, give me some... please give me some..." He looked both endearing and pitiful.

Li Xuanyan's expression darkened upon seeing this scene. She had a strong personality, but unfortunately, her son didn't inherit that trait. The sight of her son begging like a little follower annoyed her, so she called out loudly, "Xun, come to Mother..."

Second Master Pei Mujing, aware of his wife's protectiveness, promptly stopped her. "Don't interfere with children's matters. You can shield him for a moment, but not forever."

Li Xuanyan found his reasoning sound and decided to let the matter rest.

On the other side, Madam Xie overheard the conversation between the couple and softly instructed her son,

"Sheng-ge, since you have so many fireworks, share some with your younger brother."

Sheng-ge paid no heed to her. As the eldest legitimate grandson of the household, he had been doted on by the prince and princess since birth, resulting in a lawless disposition. Instead, he leaped onto the artificial rock, standing atop it to intimidate the more simple-minded Xun-ge.

Yan Shaoling couldn't tolerate this behavior, so he swiftly caught Sheng-ge and lifted him down, pinning the squirming child's waist. "Sheng-ge, as an older brother, why aren't you being more accommodating to your younger brother? Quickly share some with him, or else Uncle will buy another bundle later and give them all to Xun-ge. What will you do then if Xun-ge doesn't let you play?"

Sheng-ge glanced at Yan Shaoling, then at his younger brother, pondered for a moment, and reluctantly separated a small amount from his palm to pass to his brother. Xun-ge, delighted, reached up to receive the fireworks and eagerly ran back to find a servant from the second branch to light them for him.

Yan Shaoling turned his head and playfully pinched Sheng-ge's cheek. "Good job."

With tender skin, Sheng-ge felt the pinch and instinctively punched Yan Shaoling's face.

"Ouch!" Yan Shaoling was hit square on and instinctively covered his forehead.

Madam Xie was startled and hurriedly rushed over to pull her son away.

"Ridiculous! Young Master Sheng, quickly apologize to Uncle Yan!"

As Pei Mushan helped Yan Shaoling up, she turned to Madam Xie and said, "Sister-in-law, it's common for children to be mischievous. Don't frighten him."

But Madam Xie refused to let it go, glaring fiercely at her son.

Young Master Sheng was not afraid at all. It was someone else who had hit him first; how could he not retaliate? So he broke free from Madam Xie's grasp and dashed after Young Master Xun, humming a tune as he ran.

This scene overlapped infinitely with the memories in Xun Yunhe's mind, causing his expression to grow distant. His gaze shifted to his daughter standing on the steps. Who would have thought that the quiet and gentle Yunqi was once such a wild child?

Xī Wang clearly noticed Xun Yunhe and promptly came over to greet him. Xun Yunhe folded his sleeves together in a salute, and Xī Wang joined him by the pavilion to watch the fireworks.

Pei Mushan glanced at Xun Yunhe in the distance before turning to look at his wife. Xu Yunqi's gaze followed the two children, a smile in her eyes.

Seeing her son running with sweat pouring down his face, Li Xuanyan was deeply concerned. "Young Master Xun, slow down. Oh, wet Nurse, quickly fetch him a handkerchief, he might catch a cold if he's exposed to the wind after sweating."

Xu Yunyi returned and tried to reassure her. "Second Sister-in-law, you're just being too cautious. It's better to let children rough it out a bit."

Two couples stood on the lowest step, constantly attending to their children amidst the hustle and bustle.

Soon, the fireworks ran out, but Yan Shaoling magically produced more, drawing the two children around him, clamoring to grab them. He shared some with his two nephews, saving a large bundle for Pei Mushan.

Sheng-ge was displeased. "Aunt is so grown up, why does she still play with fireworks?"

Yan Shaoling shot him a glance. "Who said your aunt is old? Your aunt is only sixteen. Even a sixteen-year-old aunt has the right to enjoy fireworks."

Sheng-ge was clever and pointed at Pei Mulan. "Then shouldn't Fourth Aunt also play?"

Pei Mushan divided some fireworks for Pei Mulan. At this point, Sheng-ge eagerly approached his fourth aunt, extending his hand.

"Aunt, I helped you get these. Can you share some with me, please?"

Everyone was amused by his wit.

While everyone laughed, Pei Musheng and his wife remained quiet.

Princess Xi stood in the arcade, her gaze occasionally falling on the young couple and their children on the steps before her.

Prince Xi's consort watched as Pei Muheng stood with one hand casually hanging by his side and the other behind him, his towering figure as resolute as a sword sheath amidst the vast expanse of heaven and earth. Anyone who laid eyes on him couldn't help but be awed by his demeanor. He had always been the source of her greatest pride. Next to him, Xu Yunqi wore a moon-white dress, standing quietly and gently beside her husband. Though her appearance was gentle and compliant, her back was straight and unwavering.

The two seemed to be both in the midst of the commotion and detached from it at the same time.

However, something that surprised the Prince Xi's consort happened at this moment. She noticed her son's slender fingers lightly descending, seemingly brushing against Xu Yunqi's wrist without any intention.

A subtle tremor coursed through their skin. Xu Yunqi glanced softly towards her husband, while Pei Muheng kept his gaze forward without moving. His pinky finger gently hooked around her delicate finger, and slowly, her soft hand fell entirely into his palm.

Heat transferred from his palm, reaching Xu Yunqi's earlobe, causing her cheeks to flush slightly. Yet, she remained composed and silent.

With the Prince Xi's consort standing right behind, Xu Yunqi didn't dare to be so bold. Her fingertips curled like an eel, attempting to slip away. Pei Muheng's palm turned, just as she was about to escape, his fingers interlaced, capturing her completely. The tip of his nail pressed deeply into the base of her finger. Xu Yunqi pursed her lips and let out a slow breath.

Looking up at the dark sky, the Prince Xi's consort washed her eyes and, with haste, took Old Servant Hao's arm to enter the door.

Impressed by her son's actions, she knew it was best not to stand there as an obstacle.

*

After spending the night in the corridor, the next day, the Prince Xi's consort's headache returned. This time, Old Servant Hao came unhesitantly to Qinghui Garden, asking Xu Yunqi to attend to her.

Xu Yunqi brought Xingren to Jinhetai Hall. The Prince Xi's consort was wrapped in a headband, leaning against a bolster and moaning in discomfort.

"It seems the illness strikes every day after noon and then subsides by evening. Today, however, the pain just won't stop. The medicine you gave me last time worked wonders for over half a month. Unfortunately, catching a chill has triggered it again."

Xu Yunqi nodded slowly and instructed, "Please sit comfortably. I'll take your pulse."

Princess Xi lay down and extended her arm. Xing Yin placed a cushion under it for support. Xu Yunqi sat in front of the couch with his eyes closed, feeling her pulse. After a moment, he switched to the other hand and finally examined her tongue and complexion. A frown creased his brow.

"Mother, living a life of luxury without physical activity is not beneficial. Mr. Hua Tuo passed down a set of Five Animals Play. If you're willing to learn it, your headache will likely be cured within half a year."

Princess Xi had heard of the Five Animals Play before and the mere thought made her scalp tingle. "I'm not as young as I used to be. I really can't be bothered to move around."

Xu Yunqi didn't push her. He spoke calmly, "Lie down. I'll apply acupuncture."

Mama Hao had been eagerly waiting for this day. She was overwhelmed with emotion, tears welling up in her eyes. She quickly helped Princess Xi lie down and placed a thin cushion on her abdomen. She asked Xu Yunqi how to prepare. He pointed at Princess Xi's hairline and neck, "Clean them up."

First, he applied acupuncture while she lay down, and then he did so with her lying face down. A fiery medicinal oil was applied, complementing the acupuncture. After an hour, Princess Xi felt an explosion of comfort throughout her body, and her head hanging from her neck felt lighter than ever before.

She realized just how skilled Xu Yunqi was in medicine.

Gazing softly at the serene young woman sitting beside her, she felt a different emotion stirring within her.

It was clear that her son's heart was with her, but she didn't know if she had any affection for him.

Aside from the four main matrons attending to Princess Xi, there was also an elderly nanny who had been Princess Xi's wet nurse. She had been by Princess Xi's side all these years, enjoying her retirement. Observing the scene, the elderly lady praised Xu Yunqi sincerely after she finished stitching.

"Madam Third Young Master is exceptionally skilled in acupuncture at such a young age. It's truly astonishing. May I ask, Madam, who was your master?"

Xu Yunqi handed the long needle to Silver Apricot to put away and replied with a smile, "An old physician from the jianghu."

The old nanny chuckled. "Indeed, there are many talented people in the common folk. Back then, only the late Doctor Liu from the Imperial Hospital could be considered a master of acupuncture."

Upon hearing this, a slight crease appeared between Xu Yunqi's eyebrows. "Doctor Liu?"

"Yes, unfortunately, he passed away thirty years ago."

Xu Yunqi felt a strange sensation, but she didn't rush to inquire further. When everyone left Princess Xi's eastern chamber, she watched as the little maid helped the old nanny return to her back room. Xu Yunqi followed and offered to open the door for the elder, smiling as she asked,

"You mentioned Doctor Liu just now. I'm very curious. Could you tell me more about him? If he has any descendants, I'd also like to seek their guidance."

People who studied medicine were always eager to exchange knowledge and improve. The old nanny understood this and invited Xu Yunqi in, personally pouring her a cup of tea with a warm smile,

"Madam, if you wish to hear, this old servant can't help but share the details with you."

"Mm, please do tell."

The candlelight illuminated the old woman's dark, rheumy eyes as she leaned on the small table, narrating the story slowly and gracefully,

"Thirty years ago, there were two esteemed elder physicians in the Imperial Hospital, one surnamed Fan, the other Liu. Doctor Fan was renowned for his expertise in women's ailments, while Doctor Liu was skilled in acupuncture. They were known as the dual jewels of the Imperial Hospital at that time. Unfortunately, Doctor Liu passed away suddenly from overwork, suffering a heart ailment within the palace walls. Doctor Fan, devastated by the loss of his dear friend, also tragically passed away from illness a year later in his residence."

At the mention of acupuncture, Xu Yunqi was reminded of her maternal grandfather,

"At what age did Doctor Liu pass away?"

The old nanny guessed, "He must have been around fifty or so."

The ages didn't match. Her maternal grandfather was only twenty-five or six thirty years ago.

Xu Yunqi let out a disappointed oh.

Ever since that night at Qingshan Temple when Xun Yunhe shared those words, Xu Yunqi had been pondering over them incessantly.

The person who could make Grandfather so fearful must be a significant figure.

Grandfather was an independent man, not a scion of a prominent family nor a wealthy merchant. His only notable skill was his medical expertise.

Had he offended someone due to his abilities or stumbled upon a grave secret that forced him to hide and avoid mentioning the capital?

Mother had lived in Xiushui Village since she could remember. Before that, she knew nothing about what Grandfather did for a living. However, from his intimate knowledge of medicinal resources across the Great Jin, it was likely that he had been involved in the herbal trade when he was young. That was why she sought out Shopkeeper Hu after arriving in the capital and continued to entrust him with the task of finding someone. Following this lead might just yield some clues.

Unfortunately, all her efforts were in vain.

Until today, when Xu Yunqi accidentally heard the old nanny's story about Doctor Liu. This new information sparked another possibility in Xu Yunqi's mind.

Perhaps Grandfather had some connection to the Imperial Medical Institute.

"It just so happened that Doctor Liu passed away before he could save Princess Mingyue. The Liu family, fearing repercussions from the emperor, moved the entire clan back to Xizhou."

Upon hearing "Xizhou," Xu Yunqi's heartstrings tugged once more. Grandfather's last trip outside was indeed to Xizhou.

Could it be that he had ties with the Liu family?

Xu Yunqi's heart pounded, as if she had discovered a thread in a tangled mess of yarn. "Xi Zhou?"

"Indeed, the Liu family is a renowned medical lineage from Xi Zhou. When Doctor Liu passed away, his wife was still alive. It's been so many years; I wonder if the Matriarch is still with us?"

A turbulent wave of thoughts surged within Xu Yunqi's mind. She managed to contain her emotions and asked, "Then what about Doctor Fan?"

The old nanny chuckled. "Doctor Fan was actually two years younger than Doctor Liu. He passed away in his residence a year later, which was truly regrettable. By the way, the current head of the Imperial Medical Academy is the eldest son of the late Doctor Fan, who inherited his father's medical skills and enjoys the trust of both the Emperor and Empress. His favor has not waned for all these years."

Xu Yunqi found it odd. "Then does Doctor Liu have no descendants? If the Emperor trusted Doctor Liu, why didn't he summon his descendants back to the capital?"

The old nanny shook her head. "I've heard that the two young masters of the Liu family back then did not follow in Doctor Liu's footsteps to learn acupuncture. Instead, they engaged in the pharmaceutical business. After leaving the capital, their family never returned."

"The once-renowned Thirteen Needles technique has no more inheritors."

No, there is one. There is an inheritor.

The flickering lights illuminated the entire Xi Hui Palace like a wandering dragon. Xu Yunqi followed the corridors, stepping cautiously towards Qinghui Garden.

When searching for her maternal grandfather, Xu Yunqi had visited Xi Zhou and encountered members of the Liu family at a local pharmacy. However, she was unaware then that this Liu family was the same one she was looking for. If her maternal grandfather was from the Liu family, why did he hide from the world without revealing himself? Why could the Liu family still peacefully run their pharmacy and conduct business?

Everything seemed eerily peculiar.

For a fleeting moment, it was as if she caught a glimpse of a vast abyss lying ahead, fearful that should she step into it, she might never find her way out.