Chapter 57

Chapter 57

In response to those words, Xu Yunqi refused to make a sound, burying herself motionless under the covers.

She was genuinely feeling quite embarrassed now.

Pei Muheng, however, thought he had offended her. How could he possibly sleep? He threw back the covers and lay down beside her, pressing his chest close to hers as he racked his brains to coax her.

"Yunqi, can you guess what I brought back from Miaojiang?"

Xu Yunqi's heart stirred, and she wanted to turn around, but inexplicably, she remained still, only responding with a low hum to signal her anticipation of his answer.

Pei Muheng reached out and gently turned her body towards him, making her look at him. Her dark, clear eyes gazed up at him obediently and submissively. Even though he knew she wasn't naturally submissive, being looked at like this stirred his heart.

"I brought you three carriages full of medicinal herbs, as well as some sachets for medicinal baths."

This truly startled Xu Yunqi.

Her embarrassment from before forgotten, she quickly peeked out from under the covers. "Really?"

The borderlands of Miao were renowned for their rare medicinal herbs, and such remedies were elusive in the marketplace.

Pei Mucheng had brought back three carts full for her, and Xu Yunqi's delight was evident on her face.

Despite the charcoal fire burning in the room, the night remained chilly. Pei Mucheng hastily pressed her down and drew her into his embrace with the blanket, "Leave the items in the courtyard. You can sort through them tomorrow, one by one."

"My Yunqi doesn't fancy elaborate clothes or gold and jewels, but she has a unique love for herbs. How could I not gather some for you? From now on, wherever I go, I'll bring you something back."

These soft words, accompanied by the ticklish sensation of his earlobe against hers, resonated in her ear.

Xu Yunqi was startled and leaned silently against his arm without a word.

Pei Mucheng preferred her silent appreciation over her previous cheerful thanks; it indicated that she truly liked the gift.

In the stillness, she closed her eyes in his embrace.

In that moment, a sense of confusion rose within her.

Just as she finished bathing, she had effortlessly withdrawn slender silver needles from her sleeves, piercing herself at several acupoints along her waist and abdomen to prevent conception. Until the truth about her maternal grandfather's matter was uncovered, she wouldn't allow herself to carry a child, unwilling to impose any constraints or entanglements on either of them.

She had no idea how far their journey together could go or where it might lead.

*

As night deepened, a breeze swept through the Imperial Garden, carrying with it the faint fragrance of late-season osmanthus.

After Empress Consort Yan had the tipsy emperor carried to the Yongshou Palace, Pei Xun personally supported his mother as they walked towards the Kunning Palace.

The Empress was frail and susceptible to the cold, so Pei Xun suggested a palanquin, but she declined.

"Xun'er, walk with me for a while. I've had some wine; a bit of cold air will help me sober up."

The quiet palace pathway was long and illuminated, surrounded by stillness. Only the road ahead was clear. Wall lanterns hung on either side of the palace walls, and occasionally, patrol guards would pass by.

The Empress's smile was evident, and she seemed content, yet the loneliness in her eyes ran deeper than the chill of autumn. It pierced Pei Xun's heart.

"Mother, please wait a little longer. Your son will make your wish come true."

The Empress understood what Pei Xun meant. If she could seize the chance to eliminate Empress Consort Yan, the entire harem would be hers. Then, the emperor and empress would rule in harmony. Suddenly, the Empress laughed bitterly, shaking her head at him.

"My lady has long since ceased to care, and has never truly mattered," she said softly.

From the moment she entered the palace, she knew she was destined to be a pawn for her family's glory, a tool for the Emperor to maintain political balance.

"Xun'er, your mother has lived a life filled with sorrow and self-imposed hardship. Yet, I always hoped that your wishes would come true. Today, the Emperor has arranged a marriage for you, but you don't seem joyful?"

Pei Xun was taken aback. "Why would you say that, Mother? You have secured Lord Zheng for me, which is precisely what I desired. How could I not be overjoyed?"

Tears shimmered in the Empress's eyes. "It was you who insisted on the position of the Crown Prince. As your mother, I had no choice but to aid you. Otherwise, in my opinion, it would have been much better for you to live as a leisurely prince, marry a loving wife, and have offspring, living a life full of love and harmony." The Empress gazed ahead, her expression wistful.

What she could never attain in her life, she always hoped her son would achieve.

Pei Xun lowered his gaze, his eyes calm and unperturbed. "Mother, one must fulfill their duties according to their position. As the legitimate son of the Empress, even if I don't strive for it, there will be no good outcome in the future. It's better to face challenges head-on than to wait passively for doom. Although Father Emperor restrains me, he is already paving the way for me. The position of the Crown Prince is already within my grasp."

The Empress listened in silence for a moment before slowly exhaling. "What do you plan to do about Prince Qin?"

Pei Xun replied indifferently, "He is now just an empty shell, not a concern. The one we should truly be wary of is the Xi Wang's palace."

"Xi Wang?" The Empress paused, looking at him, then shook her head. "That man values loyalty and friendship above all else. If not for my ailing body pleading on his behalf back then, His Majesty would have executed him without hesitation. He has always remembered that favor, and he won't oppose you."

Pei Xun felt that the Empress was being overly optimistic about the political situation, so to avoid worrying his mother, he didn't engage in further debate. Instead, he supported her as they entered the side gate of the Kunning Palace. "Mother, don't worry about my affairs. Your health is more important than anything else."

*

On the sixth day of the tenth month, Pei Mushan's wedding took place.

It could be said that Pei Mushan's luck was much better than Prince Qi's, who had mourned for a month. Yesterday marked the end of that period, and the gloom that had settled over the city's taverns for a month was lifted. Today, they were brightly lit, with drums and gongs echoing through the streets, celebrating Pei Mushan's grand wedding as if the entire city was rejoicing.

Pei Xun had been away from the capital for two months, leaving a mountain of state affairs. He returned just as the bride was about to leave, having worked tirelessly since the early hours of the previous day.

The elder sister-in-law, Madam Xie, received guests outside, while the second sister-in-law, Li Xuanyan, and the high concubine oversaw domestic matters. Inside, only Xu Yunqi, Pei Mushan, and Princess Xi's consort were in attendance.

Pei Mushan sat before the dressing table, hesitating over a box of jewelry. She wore a dark purple princess wedding dress, which she found too solemn. Thus, she tried to add some vibrant accessories, and Pei Mushan helped her choose.

When the secondary consort Han entered, she saw Princess Xi's consort weeping in the eastern annex, while laughter occasionally drifted from the inner chambers, making the princess's tears seem unnecessary.

Feeling amused yet sympathetic, the secondary consort approached the princess and said, "Look at you, why are you crying? Didn't you hear that little Shan Shan is quite happy?"

Princess Xi wiped away her tears with concern, "Isn't it precisely because of her carelessness and ignorance that I worry about her? The Yan family may dote on her now, but in the long run, a mother-in-law will always be a mother-in-law. How can they tolerate her living in a daze forever? Besides, being a mother is different..."

At this point, Princess Xi choked up, "Wait, I've forgotten something important."

Consort Han, experienced as she was, could tell from Princess Xi's expression what had happened.

Hearing the loud gongs and flutes growing closer outside, she grew anxious, "Oh, hurry, hurry! Where's the book? If you're unable to, I'll go!"

Princess Xi quickly looked at Mother Hao beside her. Mother Hao slapped her forehead, remembering that after a sleepless night of overseeing the dowry, checking guest lists, and preparing Pei Mushan's wedding dress, she had forgotten this crucial matter. She rushed into the inner chamber to search through chests and drawers, finally retrieving the prepared book.

Princess Xi hesitated for a moment and glanced at Consort Han, "Forget it, you should go instead."

Consort Han took the book, cleared her throat, and entered the inner chamber.

Pei Mushan had finally chosen a beautiful hairpin adorned with a butterfly and flowers. It added a touch of elegance, earning the approval of both Xu Yunqi and Pei Mulan.

Consort Han held the book tightly and coughed slightly, "Well, Yunqi and Lan-er, please step out for a moment. I need to speak with Shan Shan."

Xu Yunqi turned to look at Consort Han, then noticed the book in her hand. Understanding the situation, he led the way out, gently pulling Pei Mulan along, who was reluctant to leave.

Pei Mushan sat before the dressing table, glancing around in anticipation. Lady Han sat down beside her, saying softly,

"Shan Shan, today is your wedding day. Tonight, you'll consummate the marriage. Ahem, there are... certain things you must pay attention to."

Pei Mushan was not entirely naive. Hearing this, she didn't feel embarrassed but instead leaned in earnestly to examine the book.

Lady Han opened the first page... both their eyes fell on it simultaneously. After just one glance, Lady Han frowned. This Princess Xi was far too conservative; this book was of no use.

Quickly closing the book, Lady Han decided to take matters into her own hands. She whispered a few words into Pei Mushan's ear.

Pei Mushan's expression turned odd as she listened. Several times, she wanted to ask for clarification, but considering that this was an intrusion into her father's privacy, she held back.

Finally, Lady Han managed to complete her task and left.

Once Lady Han had gone, Pei Mushan opened the book to examine it herself.

Halfway through, a grand fireworks display soared into the sky. Reminded of her agreement with Yan Shaoling, she realized he had arrived. Swiftly hiding the book, she went to the window to peer outside.

"Who has Yan Shaoling brought to escort him?"

Pei Mulan returned from her inquiries, brimming with excitement as she shared the news, "Young Master Shaoling is quite impressive! He's formed a team of five, including this year's top scholar and a Langzhong of the Imperial Bodyguard—there are both civil and military officials. It's clear he's challenging our Third Brother!"

Pei Mushan's face glowed with pride at the mention of her brother. "Has Third Brother returned?"

Xu Yunqi had informed her earlier that Pei Musheng had gone to the court early in the morning, but she was unsure if he had come back yet.

With a bright smile, Xu Yunqi entered the room, saying, "He's back. He'll be receiving guests in the main hall in half an hour."

Pei Mushan felt a surge of anxiety. She knew her brother's capabilities all too well—he could single-handedly hold off an army. Yan Shaoling, on the other hand, lacked the same depth of knowledge. Worried that her brother might not spare his future son-in-law any face, causing him humiliation, she hastily urged Xu Yunqi out, "Sister-in-law, go take a look. If my brother has the upper hand, please try to mediate."

Xu Yunqi laughed heartily and was about to step out when she was met with a stern gaze from the Duchess of Xi. The Duchess was not directing her glare at Xu Yunqi, but rather at her daughter. "Are you so concerned with Yan Shaoling's dignity that you forget about the dignity of the Xi Palace? Let me tell you, your father did not ask your Third Brother to participate today!"

The Duke of Xi had two concerns: first, that Pei Musheng would be preoccupied with official duties and not in the right mindset to set a challenge, and second, that he might inadvertently embarrass Yan Shaoling, causing him to lose face. Thus, he assigned the task of blocking the door to his eldest and second sons.

Pei Muxiang, unable to excel in literature or martial arts, would certainly disgrace the Xi Palace. Thus, she sought help from several noble cousins at the Xiao residence.

The main commander for the day was the second son of the Xiao family, known as the Jade-faced Scholar, Xiao Bing.

True to his reputation, the top scholar outside had solved all three literary challenges. Pei Muxiang, frustrated, shouted over the high wall,

"Yan Shaoling, it's you who's marrying, not Cui Ning. Step forward honestly and answer one question, then you may enter!"

Yan Shaoling, dressed in his scarlet fourth-rank official robe, confidently strode up the steps,

"Jade-faced Scholar, come at me!"

Xiao Bing had even brought along 'The Nine Chapters on Mathematical Art', but Yan Shaoling, well-prepared with skilled assistance, answered five questions correctly in a row. Ultimately, Xiao Bing revealed his ultimate skill, but Yan Shaoling broke through with the phrase "An ice-cold heart in a jade vase."

The wedding feast was lavish. After kneeling before Prince Xi and toasting him, Yan Shaoling made his way to the rear courtyard, overcoming various challenges. Customs varied for a bride's departure; some were carried out by family members, others escorted to the second gate by the matchmaker for the groom to collect. Yan Shaoling, however, took an unconventional route. Faced with Xiao Bing's aggressive tactics, he leaped onto the roof beams, gliding like he was on clouds, successfully reaching Pei Mushan's chamber. He then carried the bride out.

The Xi Palace attendants chased after them in a panic.

Princess Xi, fearing for her daughter's safety, followed cautiously, only to find the second gate congested with relatives from both families.

Ginkgo loved the excitement but couldn't push her way through the crowd. Xu Yunqi led her in another direction.

"We'll return to Qinghui Garden first, then pass through the slanted corridor to the main hall. That way, we can see Shan Shan off properly."

No one dared to step foot into the third residence of the Xihua Palace, no matter how lively it was. When the pair emerged from Qinghui Garden, they indeed saw Wang Fan and other guards blocking the entrance of the slanted corridor, preventing people from entering. Xu Yunqi cheerfully led Ginkgo towards the main hall.

Finding the exit of the slanted corridor blocked, they detoured to the back of the main hall via the northern flower corridor, eventually reaching the gallery along the servant's path for serving dishes.

Pei Mushang stood in the gallery of the main hall, dressed in his dark red prince attire. Beside him stood the invited guest, Xun Yunhe.

In fact, the Xihua Palace had also sent an invitation to Madam Zhang. Considering Xun Yunhe hadn't made an appearance, she only dispatched someone to deliver congratulatory gifts.

The guests were bustling ahead. Xu Yunqi and Ginkgo remained on the platform, watching the scene unfold. Coincidentally, at that moment, Yan Shaoling had already arrived at the main hall with Pei Mushan in his arms. The young men from the Yan family swarmed around him, protecting Pei Mushan from being harmed. The Xihua Palace's people didn't dare to chase after them either.

One couldn't help but admit that Yan Shaoling's strategy of "catching the king to capture the bandits" had seized control of the entire Xihua Palace.

Seeing that Pei Mushan was about to be carried away to the bridal sedan chair, Pei Muxiang rushed over, furious.

"Hey, Yan Shaoling, put my sister down! At least let her kneel and pay respects to our father before leaving!"

Yan Shaoling truly had no shame. He stood brazenly at the entrance, asking the Duke of Xi with a hint of negotiation in his tone,

"Father-in-law, Shan Shan's skin is delicate. Could we perhaps forgo this kneeling ceremony?"

This was a tyrant who had eyes only for his wife, disregarding conventional social norms.

Across a courtyard filled with guests, the Duke of Xi stood in the pavilion, staring at him helplessly, a mix of laughter and tears in his eyes.

"You ungrateful brat, if kneeling isn't an option, at least let me taste the wine from my daughter's cup!"

Probably in response to something Pei Mushan whispered in his embrace, Yan Shaoling reluctantly set her down. When Pei Mushan attempted to return, Yan Shaoling raised his hand to intercept her, grasping his wife's wrist and continuing their arm-wrestling match with her father.

"Father-in-law, in marriage, one doesn't backtrack. I thank you for coming to partake in the wine ceremony," he said obstinately.

They had seen arrogance before, but never quite like this.

The guests laughed until their bellies ached.

This was the first time Duke Xi had ever been so speechless. However, acknowledging the logic behind Yan Shaoling's words, he chose to concede.

Not a single lady present failed to cheer for Yan Shaoling.

"In wedlock, one should seek a husband like him!"

Xun Yunhe gazed at Yan Shaoling, then glanced at her own son-in-law by her side, feeling a twinge of bitterness in her heart.

Ginkgo, watching the scene, couldn't help but well up with tears. Unlike Xu Yunqi's composed demeanor, Ginkgo was always more emotionally sensitive. Seeing her weeping uncontrollably, Xu Yunqi found it embarrassing and hastily took out a handkerchief to wipe away her tears.

"Don't worry, when you meet someone you truly love, I'll send you off with grandeur and pride."

Ginkgo took the handkerchief to dry her tears, then glared at her angrily.

"Miss, don't talk nonsense! If I were to marry, wouldn't you be all alone? I'll never marry, I'll stay by your side forever."

Xu Yunqi was slightly startled. She had spent ten years with Ginkgo, living together day and night. If Ginkgo were to be married off, she might not know how to adjust.

She gently tousled Ginkgo's hair.

"Silly girl, I can't hold you back for life."

She wished the apricot tree could find its own happiness, just as Pei Mushan was cherished by someone.

As for herself, she would deal with finding her grandfather later.

But Apricot refused and burst into tears. Her voice, always clear and recognizable, caught the attention of Xun Yunhe and Pei Mushan, who turned to see Xu Yunqi standing at the entrance of the corridor. She was dressed in a bright peony-red dress, her figure faintly visible against the intricate ceiling and the rows of red lanterns hanging all around. Behind her, a colorful array of palace lanterns swayed gently in the breeze, yet they failed to dim the brilliant glow in her brows.

It was as if she stood amidst a vibrant scene of prosperity, yet somehow remained detached from the hustle and bustle around her.

In that instant, a profound sense of sorrow overwhelmed Xun Yunhe, draining the color from his face.

How could he not envy the scene of Pei Mushan toasting Prince Xi at that moment? In his dreams, he had always yearned to personally escort Yunqi to her wedding, with a grand procession of red attire stretching for miles and all eyes on them.

Unfortunately, he had missed his chance.

Pei Musheng didn't fare much better emotionally. Every meticulous detail of today's wedding feast felt like needles piercing his heart. The more magnificent his sister's wedding was, the deeper his guilt toward Xu Yunqi weighed on him.

Yan Shaoling dared to challenge Prince Xi in public, while he himself had failed to personally greet his bride. Their wedding banquet had likely been the least attended in the entire capital city, let alone the fact that they had waited half a year before consummating their marriage, leaving her feeling neglected.

Pei Mushan gazed at his wife with a piercing ache in his chest.

From a distance, Xu Yunqi respectfully bowed towards the couple. Upon hearing the butler announce the start of the banquet, she smiled warmly and waved, then led Silver Apricot to the rear.

Her delicate figure gracefully turned and vanished from his sight. For an instant, Pei Mushan feared that she might leave just like that.

*

Despite Yan Ping's withdrawal from the cabinet, the wedding feast remained bustling with excitement.

Many of the Yan family's disciples and old associates still came to offer their congratulations. Xihuang had no power over Yan Shaoling, nor did Yan Ping. They both sent their younger son, Yan Shaoling, back to the inner courtyard early on, asking him to accompany Pei Mushan, while they themselves led their eldest son and grandson to entertain the guests with wine.

After some merriment in the newlyweds' chamber, the Yan family's female relatives and in-laws eventually left.

Yan Shaoling took the initiative to help his wife remove her phoenix crown, then guided her around their new room, allowing her to familiarize herself with the surroundings.

"I've designed everything according to your boudoir in the palace, so you won't feel unfamiliar here," he said.

Pei Mushan had nothing to say.

After a day of fasting, the newlyweds sat together at the table in the eastern secondary room to enjoy their meal.

"Look, Crystal Shrimp Dumplings from Yingfu Hall, Crystal Pork Hock from Hongfu Hall, Lotus-Wrapped Chicken from Xuchang Tower... Ten delicacies in all, symbolizing perfection in every way," Yan Shaoling beamed with pride as he presented the array. "They're all your favorites."

Pei Mushan's mouth watered at the delectable scents filling the room.

"Marriage truly is the right path," she mused.

This was a luxury she could never have dreamed of in the palace. Eagerly, she picked up her chopsticks and began to savor the feast.

"Mmm, this Apricot Blossom Village wine is exquisite!"

"Eh, this lotus leaf-wrapped chicken tastes even more authentic than before..."

The two of them exchanged cups and drank heartily, both thoroughly enjoying themselves. After a few cups of wine, Pei Mushan felt slightly dizzy, while Yan Shaoling, exhausted from the day's activities, stumbled as he supported his wife to her feet. Fortunately, the nanny was attentive, bringing water in to help the couple freshen up. Afterward, they both collapsed onto their bed.

It was unclear what time it was when they finally woke up. Groggily, Pei Mushan heard the distant crowing of a rooster. The red candles flickered outside the canopy, and dawn had yet to break. She stared blankly at the crimson curtains for a while before realizing that she was now married.

Glancing at her side, she saw Yan Shaoling sleeping soundly. She couldn't resist giving him a gentle nudge.

"Yan Shaoling, wake up, what time is it?"

Yan Shaoling didn't stir at the first tap, but the second roused him, causing him to leap up and hurriedly lift the curtains to peer outside. A modern Western clock sat on a nearby table, indicating it was already three quarters past the Tiger hour.

Staring at him blankly, Pei Mushan felt as if she had forgotten something crucial.

Both of them, with their sleep-muddled eyes, were in a hazy, drowsy state.

Slowly, his handsome face drew near to hers, his breath grazing her nose. Pei Mushan's body instantly tensed, holding her breath. Sensing her nervousness, Yan Shaoling's kiss first landed behind her ear and on her neck. His warm, moist breath quickly softened the goosebumps on her skin. Pei Mushan's waist softened as he nudged her towards the bed.

Yan Shaoling, known for his debauchery, was no stranger to such matters; no one would have thought he needed instruction. When Yan Ping simply handed him a booklet, Yan Shaoling inwardly scoffed, believing he could figure it out on his own and promptly discarded the book.

After years of longing, Yan Shaoling was undeniably excited and barely able to control himself. His strong, slender body lowered cautiously, every muscle radiating a pent-up energy. Concerned that she wouldn't be able to endure his enthusiasm for too long, Pei Mushan blushed and pushed against his solid chest, requesting softly,

"Be gentle."

A bead of sweat had already formed on the tip of Yan Shaoling's forehead as he nodded frantically.

He too wished to proceed gradually, but the scorching rush within him left him with no choice but to act impulsively.

Pei Mushan felt a sharp sting pierce deep into her bones, instinctively wanting to push him away. Recalling Lady Han's words, she held back. Right then, she noticed Yan Shaoling freeze above her. Soon, they both realized what was happening, and the couple found themselves staring at each other in surprise.

The air was thick with awkwardness.

Yan Shaoling's handsome face flushed red at first, then gradually fell into a despondent expression, leaving him utterly embarrassed.

"Shan Shan, I..."

Pei Mushan was also surprised, inevitably feeling a tinge of disappointment. Despite this, she didn't blame Yan Shaoling; instead, she hastily fixed his clothes and strained her mind to reassure him.

"Take it easy, we'll get there eventually. It's not a big deal..."

She tried to comfort him, albeit rather unconvincingly.

In her thoughts, she planned to seek Xu Yunqi's advice the following day for their return visit.