Chapter 48

Chapter 48

Master and servant, both heavily burdened with thoughts, returned to the Clear Radiance Garden. Today, Xu Yunqi's spirit was somewhat fatigued, so she instructed Ginkgo to prepare a medicinal bath for her. The water was boiled with mugwort and warm ginger, further enriched by the addition of several herbs such as Cyathulae Radix and Cloves. Once the water was ready, a handful of rose petals were delicately scattered upon its surface. Yunqi immersed herself entirely from the neck down, while Ginkgo knelt behind her, skillfully kneading away tension and weariness. Her fair skin took on a rosy hue under the influence of the fragrant steam, rising like smoke from a jade brazier.

Xu Yunqi's eyes were closed, his body still and motionless, as if he were asleep.

Ginkgo leaned close to her ear and whispered,

"Miss, shall I inform your husband this time?"

Xu Yunqi abruptly opened her eyes, a hint of hesitation flickering in their depths. "It's not a matter of distrust; I just fear implicating him."

She had no idea whom her maternal grandfather had offended. The person could be a high-ranking official in the court, a noble within the palace, or even Prince Xi himself. Until she had any leads, Xu Yunqi dared not act rashly.

"We should first lure the snake out of its hole and identify who it is before seeking help from Third Master," she decided. As long as it didn't conflict with the interests of the Xi Palace, she would not hesitate to ask Pei Muling for assistance.

"A sensible plan!" Silver Apricot inquired again, "And what about Lord Xun?"

With a full mouth comes flattery. The Xun family frequently sent delicious treats, which Silver Apricot eagerly devoured. Unable to bring herself to address him as "Lord Xun," she settled for "Master Xun."

As for Xun Yunhe, Xu Yunqi had no intention of acknowledging him as her father but also didn't want to involve him. "We'll see."

"How do we lure the snake out of its hole then?"

Xu Yunqi didn't have a clear plan. She sighed and said, "I'm thinking of visiting the Imperial Hospital." To be precise, she wanted to work there. The person who was now closest to uncovering the truth might be Doctor Fan, and she intended to test his depth.

Xu Yunqi tossed and turned all night. When Pei Muheng returned, she was still awake.

With autumn's arrival, the night breeze was no longer scorching. Pei Muheng tucked the curtains in place and lay down beside Xu Yunqi, stretching his arm in her direction, inviting her to snuggle closer. Xu Yunqi indeed moved toward him, and Pei Muheng reached out to hold her in his embrace.

"Why aren't you asleep?"

Xu Yunqi replied softly, "I can't seem to fall asleep."

If something could keep Xu Yunqi from sleeping, it was surely no trivial matter. Pei Muheng turned to face her. "What happened?"

She asked him softly, "Can I work at the Imperial Hospital?"

Pei Muheng's eyebrows lifted slightly, and he fell silent.

After a moment, he asked, "Why do you want to go?"

Xu Yunqi laid on her back against his arm and looked up at the canopy as she replied, "I get a bit bored at home. I'd like to visit the Imperial Medical Bureau and learn from the imperial physicians there to improve my medical skills."

Pei Muheng had initially wanted to suggest that if she was bored, she could go out for a stroll or even learn about managing the household affairs. However, his wife was clearly different from other women; she wasn't someone confined to the inner courtyard, and she had no interest in domestic matters or managing the family's finances. Pei Muheng rubbed his temples in frustration. "I'll think of something."

This was the first time Xu Yunqi had made a request of him, and he couldn't refuse.

Turning her face toward him, Xu Yunqi offered a radiant smile. "Thank you, Third Master."

In Pei Muheng's eyes, this smile seemed rather carefree.

He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead and whispered, "How will you thank me?"

Xu Yunqi blinked, not expecting him to bargain with her. "What do you want me to do?"

Pei Muheng brushed aside her stray hair, revealing her fair and flawless face. At that moment, a crescent moon rose, casting a faint moonlight into the room. The white dress spread around her, and her clear eyes were undoubtedly pure and innocent, like a celestial maiden who didn't partake in mortal affairs. It made one unable to resist the urge to pull her down to earth. Pei Muheng's fingers playfully brushed her earlobe as he said with a meaningful tone, "What do you think?"

Xu Yunqi met his deep, mysterious gaze, guessing his intentions, causing a gentle flush to rise on her cheeks.

"I'll give it a try." Her whisper was so soft that it was quickly swept away by the tender night breeze.

The garment draped over her slender and supple back, occasionally slipping down. His eyes, like a bottomless pool holding hidden currents, gazed intently at her, making Xu Yunqi feel uneasy. She leaned back, allowing the clothing to cover her shoulders again. With lips pressed together, she lowered her eyes, and a drop of sweat trickled down her graceful jawline, landing on his chest.

She felt like a tiny boat swaying in the sea breeze,

"Is it... alright now?" She was utterly exhausted.

The man didn't respond, only his breathing grew heavier.

Xu Yunqi couldn't help but protest, pushing against his broad shoulder. "Such tasks truly shouldn't always burden men. Eventually, it would weaken their constitution, leaving them to merely reap the rewards."

Pei Muheng found her words amusing.

Unconsciously, their interactions had taken on the playful banter of an ordinary husband and wife.

In a dizzying whirl, they switched positions. Their breaths intertwined, lingering in the enclosed canopy for a long while, indulging in a moment of bliss.

The following morning, the clear autumn sun illuminated the windows with its warm glow early on. Birds chirped incessantly, filling the air with their melodies.

Xu Yunqi gently rubbed her temples as she gradually awoke, stretching lazily. As she did so, her arm accidentally bumped into something, causing a gasp of pain beside her. Pei Mucheng slowly roused himself from the bed.

Their eyes met in a tender gaze.

Pei Mucheng looked at her quietly, his eyes softening with a hint of a smile.

Xu Yunqi was well aware of what he was thinking and allowed him to inspect her calmly.

After all, they were just fulfilling their spousal duties – ancient medical texts never shied away from such matters. She likely knew more about it than he did, understanding the boundaries and what was appropriate.

Her gentle and composed demeanor, coupled with her refined elegance, made their actions from the previous night even more perplexing.

Pei Mucheng had expected her to be bashful, but instead, she wore an open and honest expression.

At that very moment, Pei Mucheng realized that he wasn't quite the gentleman he appeared to be. He wanted to tease her, to see her lose her composure, even lose control for him.

Outside, Chen Ma's voice echoed as she came to pay respects. Normally, neither Pei Mucheng nor Xu Yunqi would be hurried out of bed. However, it was already late in the morning, and Chen Ma, fearing that she might delay her masters' important affairs, reluctantly reminded them.

Xu Yunqi glanced at her husband and called out, "Come in."

Beyond the canopy, shadows shifted as Mother Chen led Silver Apricot and another young maid in, each holding copper basins and handkerchiefs. Before they even reached her side, Xu Yunqi felt a fleeting touch on her lips – a gentle peck – before he stepped down from the bed and left.

His demeanor was leisurely yet refined, his tall figure standing silently by the dressing table, dignified and resolute. He meticulously smoothed out his undergarment and donned a dark red official robe, adjusting his hat and attire.

The lingering sensation of his touch remained on her cheek, leaving Xu Yunqi staring blankly at the composed man for a long while without a word.

After Pei Muheng left for court, Xu Yunqi visited the clinic. Busy until mid-afternoon, she finally awaited the return of Manager Hu, who entered the room with a dust-covered appearance. Heading straight to a high table by the window, he poured himself a cup of tea.

"Junior Sister went to Yangzhou, did you meet Young Master Lin Shanshan? While I was still purchasing medicine in Shouchun, he sent a message saying he wants to send an apprentice to the capital to learn acupuncture from you."

With her hands resting on the table, Xu Yunqi replied calmly, "Are you acquainted with him?"

Manager Hu sipped his tea, then sat on a brocaded stool in front of her, smiling. "Not exactly close, but we occasionally help each other out and introduce people, securing supply channels."

Xu Yunqi dismissed it from her mind and asked after a moment's silence, "Has there been any news about my maternal grandfather?"

This time, Manager Hu had no solution. He apologized to her directly,

"Junior Sister, I've truly exhausted all possibilities. Every place that could be searched has been searched, but there's still no trace of Master. In my opinion, either Master has ascended to the heavens or has fallen into the hands of some influential figure. Think carefully, Junior Sister, has Master offended anyone?"

Xu Yunqi's brows knitted together.

After a moment of silence, she said, "From this instant on, you needn't concern yourself with my grandfather's affairs anymore, nor should you mention the Thirteen Needles to outsiders."

Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper Hu's expression immediately turned serious as he leaned forward and asked her, "Have you discovered something?"

Xu Yunqi shook her head. "Don't ask. If anyone else inquires, just say you know nothing."

Shopkeeper Hu was a seasoned individual who knew how to weigh his words. He had only intended to dissuade Xu Yunqi, but now feared that his words had come true – the old master might have offended a powerful individual.

A cold sweat broke out on his forehead, which he wiped away.

"Yunqi, be careful," he warned.

Xu Yunqi understood Shopkeeper Hu's concerns. "Don't worry, I won't implicate you."

Without waiting for nightfall, Xu Yunqi returned to her residence. Upon arriving at the entrance, the gatekeeper handed her an invitation.

"The Duke of Wen is hosting a flower-appreciation banquet. You're invited to join in the revelry and watch the performances tomorrow."

Soon after, Pei Mushan came to find her, holding the invitation and explaining,

"Jiejie Ruyu mentioned that she owes you a debt of gratitude for your support at Duke Xun's birthday celebration. She's been asking about you since you went to Yangzhou. Upon learning that you've returned, she immediately sent this invitation."

Xu Yunqi didn't decline. "Shan Shan, would you like to accompany me tomorrow?"

Before Pei Mushan could respond, the maid Tao Qing giggled. "Madam Third Young Master, I'm afraid Miss won't be able to join you. Young Master Yan has asked for a team to play polo, and he's invited Miss to participate."

Xu Yunqi frowned. "He hasn't fully recovered yet! How can he risk injury?"

Pei Mushan hurriedly reassured her, "Don't worry, it's not like that. He's organizing the game for me, and he won't be playing. If he were reckless with his life, I'd be the first to hold him accountable."

Xu Yunqi nodded, dropping the subject.

That night, Pei Musheng was on duty and didn't return home, allowing Xu Yunqi to enjoy a peaceful sleep. The next morning, she woke up early, accompanied by Yinxing, with a gift prepared for the celebration at the Duke of Wen's residence.

Upon arriving at the Duke of Wen's mansion, Wen Ruyu personally greeted her at the gate, eagerly pulling Xu Yunqi inside.

"Finally, you've arrived. I was about to invite you to the feast, but you ended up going to Yangzhou," Xu Yunqi said as they strolled down the long corridor towards the main courtyard, encountering only a few guests along the way. "Isn't this a flower viewing banquet?"

Wen Ruyu replied with a smile, "You're a quiet person who doesn't enjoy crowds. Although I mentioned inviting you for a feast and performance, it's really just a gathering of close friends – no outsiders. Don't worry."

She continued, "I should have invited you to the Chengguo Duke's residence, but I've been finding that scoundrel unpleasant lately. I'm afraid he might disturb your peace, so I decided to host the event at the Wen residence. I hope you don't mind."

Xu Yunqi chuckled. "The guest follows the host's wishes."

In a moment, Wen Ruyu led her into the inner courtyard. Lady Wen sat in the highest seat, surrounded by only five or six others – likely relatives and old acquaintances of the Wens. Xu Yunqi didn't recognize most of them, except for Shao Fu.

Bouncing over to greet her, Shao Fu exclaimed, "Sister Yunqi!"

Xu Yunqi asked, "Why aren't you accompanying Shan Shan to play polo?"

Shao Fu's lips pouted upon hearing this. "Forget it. Now she has her niece to keep her company, so she doesn't need her cousin anymore."

Xu Yunqi burst into laughter. With Pei Mushan's marriage to the Yan family, Yan Youhe would surely prioritize her aunt, leaving Shao Fu in the shadows. After laughing, Shao Fu wrapped her arms around Xu Yunqi's arm and whispered softly, "Shan Shan was worried you might feel uncomfortable here at the Wens, so she sent me to accompany you."

Wen Ruyu gazed on with wide eyes. "It's only appropriate for Yunqi and me, as married women, to have our private conversations. Young maidens like you should amuse yourselves elsewhere."

Xu Yunqi approached to pay her respects to Lady Wen, who engaged her in a lengthy conversation. The luncheon was held early and with a small gathering, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal leisurely. After the feast, the restless Shao Fu pulled along the Wen family's young lady and several cousins to play in the courtyard. This left Lady Wen, Wen Ruyu, and Wen Ruyu's aunt to accompany Xu Yunqi in conversation.

Xu Yunqi inquired about the outcome of the previous incident involving the Lady Liu. Wen Ruyu sighed and replied, "Her heart was far too cruel for me to tolerate. I sent her to the authorities, and they subsequently returned her to her place of origin."

Though Lady Liu's actions were detestable, the one who set the wheels in motion was her own husband. Wen Ruyu could not lay the blame on anyone else.

As Wen Ruyu and the other whispereds secrets to each other, over there, Madam Wen inquired about her sister-in-law, "Her anniversary is almost here, isn't it? If you're visiting Green Mountain Temple, do remember to burn a bundle of joss money for her on my behalf."

Miss Zhen Chenchen, the niece of Lady Wen, was once the betrothed wife of the Twelfth Prince – a childhood match made only three days before she tragically drowned, earning the prince a reputation for being a wife-killer. From then on, both the Zhen and Wen families fell out of favor with the Empress.

Apparently, Lady Zhen was not keen on revisiting that past event. Instead, she inquired about Lady Wen, "What about Jiaojiao?"

Wen Jiaojiao was the Wen Duke's legitimate granddaughter, and the Emperor, showing his trust in the Wen family, intended to marry her to the Twelfth Prince as his princess. However, the Empress disagreed, later taking a liking to Xun Yunhe's daughter, Xun Yunling. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances arose within the Xun family, putting the marriage plans for the Twelfth Prince on hold.

Lady Wen quickly waved her hand, "I have already arranged a suitable match for Jiaojiao – she is to be married into the Li family, the Governor-General of Sichuan. The two children met recently and were quite pleased with each other. The betrothal will be formalized in a few days."

Upon hearing this, Lady Zhen was delighted, "Excellent. Our Wen family has always kept away from court intrigues. For years, we have remained loyal solely to His Majesty. We must not involve ourselves in the contentious struggle for the throne."

Madam Wen wore a bitter smile upon hearing this. The Wen family was not favored by the Empress. If the Twelfth Prince were to ascend the throne, it was uncertain if the Wens could maintain their position as the top military family.

It was precisely because of this that Prince Qin had been secretly visiting the residence of Duke Wen. Since Yan Ping resigned from his post, Governor Qu Weizhen of the Two Rivers Province also chose to distance himself for self-preservation. Lately, it seemed that Prince Qin was experiencing one misfortune after another, leading him to set his sights on Duke Wen.

Madam Wen was deeply troubled by this. On one hand, she did not wish for the Twelfth Prince to take the throne, and on the other, she feared that getting involved might bring calamity upon her family.

"Sincerely," Madam Wen sighed. She noticed Wen Ruyu and Xu Yunqi whispering to each other and asked, "What secrets are you two sharing?"

Wen Ruyu glanced at her aunt, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "It's just women's talk. Yunqi is a doctor, so I sought her advice."

Wen Ruyu had always yearned for a male heir, but unfortunately, her husband, Duke Cheng, spent his days indulging in debauchery and was unfaithful. She found herself caught between a rock and a hard place.

Recalling the plight of women she had encountered in her travels, Xu Yunqi worried, "Let me examine your pulse."

Many girls were forced into prostitution, eventually contracting illnesses that shortened their lives. Concerned, she offered her assistance.

Upon hearing this, Madam Wen grew anxious. "Very well, Yunqi, I have no worries except for her health. Please give her a thorough examination."

Afraid that she might disturb Xu Yunqi's medical consultation, Madam Zhen stood up. "I'll go check on the children in the courtyard."

Madam Wen led Wen Ruyu and Xu Yunqi into an inner chamber. Leaning on a canopied daybed, Wen Ruyu allowed Xu Yunqi to take her pulse.

After examining one wrist and closely observing her countenance, Xu Yunqi paused.

"You mentioned earlier that you experience itching down there, sometimes to the point of insomnia?"

Wen Ruyu wore a pained expression. "Yes, is it treatable?"

Xu Yunqi continued, "Does bleeding occur during intimate relations?"

Wen Ruyu's face darkened, and she fell silent for a while.

Seeing this, Madam Wen grew anxious and scolded, "What more do you have to hide from Yunqi in front of her? Speak up!"

Wen Ruyu wasn't trying to conceal anything from Xu Yunqi; she simply didn't want her mother to worry. With tears in her eyes, she replied, "It happened once."

A weight settled in Xu Yunqi's heart, but her expression remained unchanged. "No need to worry, I will heal you."

Wen Ruyu held onto Xu Yunqi's slender arm, eager to ask, "Truly? To be honest, I dare not seek treatment for such a condition outside. I..." Here, Wen Ruyu covered her mouth with a handkerchief, sobbing softly.

Xu Yunqi, accustomed to such sights, consoled her, "I understand."

Countless women in their chambers, constrained by their reputations, dared not seek medical help nor allow male doctors to diagnose them.

That was precisely why she insisted on being a female physician; she could not bear to see these beautiful maidens wither away.

"I'll perform fire therapy on you, but I need time to prepare the medicine. Come to my residence tomorrow for your treatment."

Wen Ruyu and Lady Wen expressed their heartfelt gratitude as they saw her off.

Once Xu Yunqi had left, Wen Ruyu burst into tears in Lady Wen's arms.

"Mother, what kind of fate do I have? Born into wealth and privilege, with a father holding high office and a mother from an esteemed family, and the two of you so deeply in love... Everything should have been perfect, yet I ended up with such a scoundrel!"

At the mention of "deeply in love," Lady Wen's lips twitched. She then comforted her daughter,

"Silly child, you should learn from Yunqi. Look at her – who does she rely on? Her father is the chief state councilor, but she rejects him. Her husband is a prince, yet she doesn't value him. All she needs is her skill with silver needles, and she fears no one, wandering the world with confidence. If only you possessed her abilities, I'd be willing to die content."

Wen Ruyu wiped away her tears and composed herself. "I must strive to be like Yunqi, not placing my hopes on men."

The following morning, Xu Yunqi arrived promptly with an array of medicinal herbs in hand.

First, she helped Wen Ruyu remove her clothes and laid her on a soft couch. On her back, Silver Apricot placed a long cushion filled with an abundance of wormwood powder. A few pounds of ginger paste and various other herbal ingredients were added before everything was ignited.

For over two hours, Xu Yunqi diligently adjusted the position and temperature. Wen Ruyu sweated profusely.

"If it gets too hot anywhere, just let me know..."

"It's alright, I'm fine..." Wen Ruyu felt as if a furnace was blazing behind her and dared not move.

After the heat therapy, Xu Yunqi dressed her again and proceeded to perform acupuncture. The session lasted a full two hours. When it ended, Wen Ruyu was startled to notice a discharge of impurities. Xu Yunqi reassured her, "It's a good sign that the toxins are coming out."

From the side, Madam Wen marveled at Xu Yunqi's miraculous healing skills.

"Yunqi, meeting you is truly a blessing for my daughter and me."

Xu Yunqi smiled but remained silent. Silver Apricot chimed in, "If only our Empress of Xihua had your dedication."

Madam Wen chuckled. "If she lacks such commitment, then let her suffer."

Xu Yunqi shot a glare at the maid before explaining to Madam Wen, "That's not true. I've been treating the Princess with acupuncture lately, and she's very grateful."

Otherwise, she wouldn't send bird's nest to me every day.

Madam Wen sighed. "No wonder Elder Lady Yan wanted to snatch a daughter-in-law back then. It's a shame we don't have a suitable child, or we would have done the same."

Wen Ruyu, having retreated behind the screen to clean up, emerged feeling more relaxed than ever before. "Yunqi, am I already cured?"

Xu Yunqi shook her head while putting away the silver needles. "Not yet. I'll prescribe you a formula later. Take it for a month, and I'll come back to perform acupuncture in seven days."

After a moment, Xu Yunqi sat down to write a prescription. Upon completion, she handed it to Wen Ruyu and instructed,

"Don't share a room with him anymore."

"Ahh…" Wen Ruyu was taken aback. "I… I still want to have a child."

Xu Yunqi's expression turned stern. "Choose between your life and a son."

Wen Ruyu instantly shivered.

Duke Wen's wife approached her side and spoke earnestly, "Think about it. If anything were to truly happen to you, no one in the Cheng State Duke's residence would pity you. Even if you left behind a child, another woman would take your place, letting your child call her mother and enjoy the wealth and glory that should have been yours."

A fierce flame ignited in Wen Ruyu's eyes. She clenched her teeth and said, "You're right. I can't ruin my life for a man. Forget it, I could always adopt or even invite a son-in-law!"

After a moment of silence, Wen Ruyu thought of something and timidly asked Yunqi, "Oh, Yunqi, can you treat him?"

Xu Yunqi sat calmly, sipping tea without responding.

But Silver Apricot, with a grin, tied her medical pouch around her waist and chirped brightly,

"My lady doesn't treat every illness. Men's venereal diseases are not on the list!"

Wen Ruyu had just undergone fire therapy and couldn't be exposed to wind. Duchess Wen personally accompanied Xu Yunqi to the door, "I've troubled you so much. I would feel rude to mention a consultation fee. Yunqi, consider us family. Don't hesitate to make any requests."

Compared to Duke Wen's favor, a mere consultation fee was insignificant. Though Xu Yunqi was indifferent to fame and fortune, she wouldn't refuse to establish this good relationship.

"You are too kind, ma'am."

As they reached the main gate, they noticed a spacious carriage halt nearby.

The carriage's curtains were lifted, and a servant respectfully helped an elderly man down.

It was none other than the Wen Duke, dressed in a grayish-white robe. At fifty-five years old, his hair was peppered with white, and his posture wasn't particularly straight. He appeared no different from any ordinary elder, making it hard to envision that he was the pillar of the military, likened to the renowned strategist Zhang Liang of his time. Xu Yunqi bowed to him, coincidentally meeting the duke's gaze. In his face, Xu Yunqi perceived a world-weary sternness born of countless battles.

Then, another figure emerged from the carriage – it was Pei Muheng, dressed in the attire of a prince.

Xu Yunqi was slightly surprised. Meanwhile, Lady Wen, neglecting to greet her husband, hurriedly bowed to Pei Muheng.

"I, an old woman, have the honor of meeting Your Highness, the Prince."

Pei Muheng returned the courtesy with a slight raise of his hand, then turned his attention to Xu Yunqi.

"I had just left the Imperial Study with the Wen Duke when we heard you were here. We came to escort you back home."

Pei Muheng took Xu Yunqi's hand and led her down the steps. Lady Wen watched the couple's retreating figures, couldn't help but sigh in admiration.

"No wonder His Majesty decided on their betrothal at first sight. They truly are a match made in heaven."

The Wen Duke adjusted his sleeves and glanced back, laughing softly. "Prince Xi is indeed fortunate."

Lady Wen had never seen eye to eye with her husband, so she replied tartly, "Why envy Prince Xi? You should envy Xun Yunhe for having such an excellent son-in-law, Wen Yinchang. You should also take care of your own daughter's husband!"

Wen Duke rubbed his forehead and followed her inside, acquiescing smoothly, "Very well, I'll deal with him soon."

As Xu Yunqi was getting into the carriage with Pei Muheng, she noticed an invitation on a small table. She glanced at it but quickly looked away.

Pei Muheng, noticing her awareness, opened it and explained, "The weather has been pleasant lately. Uncle Twelve has arranged a polo match and archery session in the Upper Garden. Yunqi, if you have nothing else to do, would you like to join me tomorrow?"

Xu Yunqi, who was indeed keen on some exercise, agreed.