Chapter 63

Chapter 63

"Mmm..."

Her breath was suddenly stolen away, catching Xu Yunqi off guard. She swallowed hard and fumbled behind her back to find support.

Perceiving her movement, Pei Muheng exerted more pressure with his palms, pressing her lithe body even closer. Xu Yunqi found herself leaning against the table, finally gaining some leverage. She straightened her slim waist and instinctively pushed against his chest, feeling the heat of his skin through their clothing.

As he unexpectedly invaded her mouth, she instinctively tried to retreat, but his agile tongue ravaged her teeth and palate, forcing its way in. Their saliva mingled, creating an entirely unfamiliar sensation. Xu Yunqi's eyelashes fluttered rapidly as she stared at him, lost and vulnerable. His thick, close lashes drooped, his deep and intense gaze locked onto her with a fierce determination. He held her captive with unwavering focus and passion, forcing her to avert her eyes, her brows furrowing. In this thrilling game of chase and evasion, she was pushed into a corner, struggling to catch her breath. Whenever she managed to snatch a moment of respite, he would seize the opportunity.

He seemed to know what he was doing, sending electric currents along her tongue that traveled up to her brain. Xu Yunqi experienced a brief moment of emptiness. The hand pressed against his chest trembled slightly. He released her waist, lifted his hands to pull her arms down, and secured them behind her back. Their bodies collided, his snake-like tongue continued its pursuit, and she was trapped within his powerful embrace.

Xu Yunqi turned her chin back, attempting to break free from his grip. Her slender spine arched tautly. Pei Muheng released one hand to grasp her rounded hips, lifting her completely onto the table. With a sweeping motion, teacups and vases on the table were sent tumbling precariously to the side. At the same time, her spine was pressed against the wall. Soon, his large palm covered the nape of her neck, inching forward with fierce determination.

Having gained complete control, his aggression softened, transforming from a stormy assault to a gentle caress. The rich scent of the young man, mixed with the crisp aroma of pine, infiltrated her senses. Their noses brushed against each other, and a strange warmth slowly blossomed from within. Xu Yunqi's straightened spine seemed to melt, and her almond-shaped eyes flickered uncontrollably.

Noticing the change in her body, he adjusted his pace. Secretly releasing her hands, he supported her soft waist, freeing her from the constraint around her neck. Bending his slender back, he withdrew slowly, gently sucking on her soft lips. Xu Yunqi caught her breath, her shoulders trembling as she exhaled warm air.

He did not stop there. His tender lips soon wandered to her cheeks, kissing the blushing contours of her face. They then traveled to her lustrous, plump earlobe, which he captured between his lips. Xu Yunqi shuddered violently, instinctively clutching at his garment. Her fingers, tingling with excitement, dug into his flesh, causing a sharp pain in his solid chest. This sensation compelled her to instinctively climb upward, reaching for his shoulder blade – a sharper point of contact.

She resembled a warrior desperately fighting against all odds, refusing to yield even though there was no hope of survival. Her body still held a reservoir of strength. Pei Muheng was unperturbed, calmly observing the situation with ease. He seized an opportunity, slowly and deliberately exploiting any vulnerability. A tingle spread from the depths of her heart, causing a soft moan to escape between her trembling teeth. Unintentionally, her fingers traced the length of his slender neck, and an intense sensation of numb pleasure soon took hold of his consciousness. His lips moved swiftly, reclaiming their position, gently parting her slightly loosened teeth once more. This time, she knew there was nowhere to run and submitted obediently to him.

With eyes opened, what greeted him was her exquisite countenance, her autumnal pupils glistening with aqueous light. A tinge of unease lingered in their depths, quivering faintly like its owner under his relentless and ceaseless advances. Her raven-black lashes trembled densely, as a delicate flush gradually suffused her cheeks, emanating a subtle warmth that rose to envelop her gaze. A hazy mist of watercolors danced within her eyes, becoming increasingly disorienting. Unable to withstand it any longer, she finally closed her eyes once more.

Immersing himself in the moment, he savored the fragrant tenderness before him. With each gentle kiss, his fingertips traced a slow ascent from her waist, eventually resting upon the alabaster nape of her neck. The rough calluses on his hands were unexpectedly sensitive, sending shivers down her spine and causing a fine sheen of sweat to break out across her forehead. An inexplicable yet alluring desire pulsated through her being.

His intense presence relentlessly swept over her, transforming her pure and ethereal aura into a flush of deep crimson. Their bodies, entwined in a sticky sheen of sweat, generated a scorching heat that dispelled the chill from the air. Moving from the table to the high stool, a journey of mere five paces took them a full half-hour. The stool toppled unsteadily, tea cups shattered on the ground, leaving the entire eastern chamber in a state of utter disarray.

He pulled her close, and through the thin inner garment, she could sense the long, firm contours of his body, his upright posture, and the smooth lines that were perfectly proportioned, unparalleled in their allure. Unconsciously, she found herself clinging to him. He held her suspended, tantalizingly close, not allowing her a moment's respite or stability.

Time seemed to have lost meaning, with no distinction between dawn and dusk. Knots upon knots covered Yunqi's entire body, from her toes to the crown of her head, only to be relentlessly smoothed out by him, pushed deep within...

*

The sky darkened completely, and not a single ray of light illuminated the room. Pei Muheng held onto her without letting go, his temple still pressed against her cheek. He could hear her labored breathing, which took a long time to subside. Her delicate butterfly vertebrae trembled, and he gently soothed her. Xu Yunqi stared dazedly in the direction of the window, her consciousness blurred.

No one lit a lamp, and the courtyard was eerily silent. Despite the absence of any sound, she felt an incessant buzzing in her mind. That soft, intoxicating sensation lingered in every limb and pore, wrapping around the tip of her heart. She had never experienced such loss of self like this before. She had never known that he could exert such dominance, cleansing and possessing her with the air of a king, invading her bones and seeping into the crevices of her heart, as if he wished to carve his way into her very soul.

Xu Yunqi couldn't quite describe the emotions stirring within her; only that this man was too ruthless.

Entwined in each other's embrace, they remained like this for a long while. Eventually, Pei Muheng withdrew, gradually pulling her out of his arms. He brushed aside her damp, black tresses and gazed down at her,

"Yunqi..." The voice was hoarse, as if grated with sand.

Her rosy cheeks seemed to have been rinsed, pure and luminous like moonlight. Her long, dense eyelashes resembled a brush that artfully concealed her watery eyes. The tip of her pert nose shimmered with a delicate flush, tempting and alluring. Gently stroking her nose, Xu Yunqi lifted her gaze. Her dark, lustrous eyes still held remnants of emotion, gazing at him with an irresistible innocence. Pei Muheng's heart melted in an instant. As tenderly as he had just been assertive, he now drew a piece of cloth to softly wipe her cheeks and neck.

Dabbing away the sweat, he casually draped a robe around himself before gently cradling her in his arms. It wasn't until he rose from the bed that he noticed the entire mattress was drenched. Pei Muheng cast a discreet glance at Xu Yunqi, who pretended not to notice and averted her face within his embrace.

Pei Muhang chuckled softly and carried her towards the bathroom, while Xu Yunqi shot him a fierce glare in the shadows.

A crystal lamp glowed dimly within the bath chamber. When Pei Muheng lowered his gaze upon her once more, she had regained her customary gentle composure. Cradling her in his arms, he stepped into the wooden tub, still holding her close as he began to assist in washing her body. Xu Yunqi's bones seemed steeped in a lingering softness, rendering her pliant and acquiescent to his ministrations. Pei Muheng meticulously attended to her cleansing, his face hovering before her, undiminished in its sharpness despite the fervor of their recent intimate encounter. His chiseled cheekbones and cool, piercing eyes carried an air of aloof elegance, only enhancing his strikingly handsome and graceful demeanor.

Pei Muheng bathed her and then himself, finally wrapping them both in clean attire before carrying her back to the large bed.

Nanny Chen was meticulous and efficient, swiftly changing the bedding and sheets. The bed was now fresh and tidy, sparing Xu Yunqi any awkwardness. Weak from the intense struggle that had lasted over an hour, she immediately curled up under the covers. Her stomach empty, she felt herself drifting into sleep. Lifting her gaze, she noticed Pei Muheng fiddling with the clothes Nanny Chen had given him, seemingly searching for something. As Xu Yunqi struggled to sit up, the man who had been outside quickly turned and entered. His eyes fell on her sleeve, and without regard for her expression, he took her hands and began to examine the hem.

"What are you doing?" she asked, genuinely perplexed, her voice hoarse.

"I'm looking for your silver needles," Pei Muheng replied.

Xu Yunqi was taken aback but quickly understood, then she chuckled softly.

Pei Muheng lifted his gaze, displeased. "What are you laughing at?"

Xu Yunqi blinked. "I didn't plan on using it."

Upon hearing this, Pei Muheng's expression froze. He felt a sudden rush of happiness that he wasn't prepared for. Before he could react, she giggled and said,

"I won't need it this time."

The joy on the man's face instantly froze. His eyes gradually turned sharp, then transformed into a menacing glint. "What do you mean by that?"

Unaware of his anger, Xu Yunqi explained matter-of-factly, "My period just ended, so I can't get pregnant right now."

Pei Muheng's lips twitched fiercely. Meeting her gleaming eyes, a flush still lingered in the depths of his own, refusing to fade. After holding back for a moment, he turned away without a word. He wasn't in a hurry to conceive just yet; what infuriated him was her attitude. He yearned for a child with her, yet she seemed to care little about it.

His suppressed anger flared up again. Pei Muheng took a deep breath and asked her sideways, "Then when would be a good time?"

Xu Yunqi sat quietly, gazing at him gently, remaining silent.

Pei Muheng was amused despite the anger, and he stormed out, grabbing his outer robe as he went.

It was the first time Xu Yunqi had seen him depart like an agitated lion, and she found the sight rather amusing.

After laughing to herself for a while, she called for Chen Ma to serve dinner. Satiated, she digestion settled, and she drifted off into a comfortable sleep.

Pei Muheng's departure wasn't solely due to anger. He still had to return to the palace to report. After having a light dinner at Wenzhao Hall, he hurried to Fengtian Hall. The emperor was clearly still fuming from the day's events and didn't meet with him; only Liu Xiwen emerged to speak to him in a gentle tone,

"The emperor's intention is that there is currently no suitable candidate for the position of Minister of Revenue. His Highness the Duke is to oversee the department and keep a closer eye on its affairs."

In the past, the Minister of Revenue, Yan Fengche, had restrained Pei Musheng's actions, preventing him from fully exerting his abilities. Now, with the salt administration reform at hand, Pei Musheng could finally implement it without hindrance. He bowed outside the hall and returned to the Ministry of Revenue. With such chaos unfolding that day and Xun Yunhe not being in the capital, he dared not leave the government district for a moment.

The man who had severely wounded the Twelfth Prince and then shared an intimate moment with his wife was now filled with vigor and ambition, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to official duties.

In the late hours of the night at the Twelfth Prince's palace.

After leaving the imperial palace, Pei Xun attended to the matter concerning the Qu family at the Ministry of Punishments before finally returning to his cozy chamber to rest. Stripping off his elaborate royal attire, he donned a simple, moon-white robe and leaned against a canopied bed, adopting a relaxed yet lazy posture. The usual radiance in his smile was absent, but the room was warmed by a heated floor, and the clear glass windows were veiled with a layer of mist. He slightly bent his knees, one hand resting on his lap while the other supported his forehead on a cushion, closing his eyes to conserve energy.

Soon, the butler entered with a food box, which he opened to reveal a bowl of ginseng and goji berry porridge.

Pei Xun had no appetite for dinner. The butler, understanding his preferences, prepared a light bowl of porridge for him.

"Your Highness, please have at least a little to settle your stomach."

Pei Xun remained still. After a moment, he lifted his gaze slowly, meeting the butler's concerned eyes. A hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "I'm fine, don't worry about me."

Upon hearing this, the butler's eyes instantly welled up with tears, nearly spilling over.

Having served Pei Xun since he was fifteen and established his own household, up until this year, the butler had been by his side for a full fifteen years.

To the steward, Pei Xun was an excellent master to serve.

He was born into exalted nobility, possessing no vice or reprehensible habits. His days were occupied either by the diligent study of literature or the disciplined practice of archery. Alternatively, he would sit within his mansion's halls, yet remain acutely aware of affairs throughout the realm. To his subordinates, he never issued imperious commands nor did he lord his authority over them. He refrained from hoarding wealth, eschewed arrogance stemming from his considerable talents, and maintained a strict distance from women. His entire life's focus was singularly devoted to the arduous pursuit of securing the position of crown prince.

In the eyes of the steward, both the Crown Prince and Prince Qin were devoid of virtue. This world should belong to his master, Pei Xun.

Pei Xun had always been aware of his delicate position as the legitimate son of the Empress, a status that rendered him both awkward and vulnerable within the imperial court. Thus, from a young age, he had chosen to keep a low profile, operating outside the palace walls under the guise of an idle prince. He bided his time, patiently waiting for opportunities to arise. From overthrowing the crown prince to undermining Prince Qin, and now in orchestrating today's scheme, this was the first time his plans had met with defeat.

His long fingers tapped idly against his knee, as Pei Xun recalled the events of the day with a bitter smile. He had indeed considered that his move today was too ruthless – forging an imperial edict would undermine his credibility. But the thought of completely eliminating the Xi Palace from the game made him regard that loss of credibility as insignificant. Now, however, he had not only lost four key generals but also suffered a severe blow to his reputation among the officials.

In contrast, Pei Muheng seized the crisis to turn the tables, winning the hearts and praise of all the officials.

His aggressive approach was thoroughly understood by Pei Muheng, who, despite being in a lower position, was skilled at reading the situation and playing his cards steadily, planning three steps ahead with every move he made.

Pei Xun certainly didn't believe that he had lost his chance at the throne. In reality, he knew very well that the emperor had no other choice but him.

But compared to his previous proactive stance, he now had to adopt a passive defense. There would be no more officials openly supporting him from now on. After all, Pei Xun was not the Crown Prince or Prince Qin. When faced with setbacks, he quickly adapted, realizing that at this moment, he needed to mend the emperor's heart and reestablish his towering image among the officials. Then, he would simply wait for the emperor to grow old, awaiting the imperial edict of succession.

With these thoughts in mind, Pei Xun took the porridge bowl and sipped it calmly.

After a while, the door creaked open, and a graceful maiden entered. On this chilly autumn night, she was dressed rather thinly. Carrying a bowl of ginseng soup, she approached gracefully.

"Your Highness, your servant pays her respects."

The steward picked up the food tray and retreated at the right moment.

Pei Xun cast a glance at the woman and noticed her wearing only a thin veil in such cold weather. His brows knitted immediately.

"What are you doing?"

The woman gazed at him with a tender, watery gaze, her voice tinged with an alluring charm, "Your Highness seems troubled today. This servant wishes to attend to you."

The warmth in Pei Xun's eyes faded upon hearing this. He stared at her for a moment, his tone stern, "I took you in because of your skill in playing the pipa, to soothe Her Majesty the Empress. You were born into an honest family, why would you lower yourself to do such degrading things?"

"If I truly desired women, my estate would hardly have room for them all."

Tears instantly welled up in the woman's eyes as she clenched her teeth, protesting, "This servant fell for the Twelfth Prince at first sight and willingly serves you..."

Pei Xun looked away in disappointment, his gaze drifting out the window. For some reason, a clear and refined face flashed across his mind. That person had always been gentle yet resolute, like a graceful swallow soaring through the skies, unyielding to any winds or rains. In comparison, the woman offering herself to him held no appeal.

"With your skills, you can secure your own livelihood without having to rely on others. Moreover, this prince is on the verge of taking a wife and will not entertain any other women. Please leave and await further instructions at Ling Xiao Pavilion." Pei Xun issued his unfeeling dismissal.

The woman was filled with immense unwillingness and, after weeping bitterly for a while, she gradually discerned the hidden meaning in his words. She set down the herbal soup, straightened her attire, and retreated quietly.

Rain suddenly began to pour outside the corridor. With Xun Yunhe's return imminent, one could only imagine his reaction upon discovering that the cabinet had been thoroughly upended by his actions. No doubt, it would spark another tempestuous storm. Pei Xun let out a bitter smile and gradually leaned against his cushion, drifting off to sleep.

Two days later, Xun Yunhe raced back from Mount Tai on horseback. Upon learning about the incident at the Ancestral Land Altar, he was not overly surprised. He had anticipated Pei Xun's move when he left the capital, but he hadn't expected such ruthlessness, with the intent to utterly destroy the Xi Palace.

Xun Yunhe's abrupt departure was driven by two reasons. Firstly, if Pei Muheng proved unable to defeat Pei Xun and protect his daughter, Xun Yunhe would be forced to sever all ties between Xu Yunqi and the Xi Wangfu to safeguard his child. Secondly, since Xu Yunqi's true identity had been revealed, the emperor now harbored some reservations towards him, making him less confident in utilizing his services. By leaving now, Xun Yunhe aimed to remind the emperor that the court still relied on his presence as the prime minister.

Xun Yunhe's political acumen was exceptionally keen. This time, the upheaval involving the Palace Censorate and the Cabinet had unmistakably struck a nerve with the Emperor. Moreover, since assuming the position of Grand Secretary, Xun Yunhe had constantly pondered upon ways to eliminate malpractices in court affairs; now presented itself as the most opportune moment for such reform.

He hurried to the palace that very night to meet the emperor, engaging in a lengthy private discussion. The following morning, during the imperial council, Xun Yunhe issued an edict.

This is to establish within the Six Ministries and Nine Temples, the central bureaucratic agencies, a system of Censors-in-Residence. Each censor, holding the rank of Sixth Grade Official and being a graduate of the imperial civil service examination, shall exercise the duties of reviewing, criticizing, and cancelling imperial edicts. Specifically, every decree issued by the Emperor and the Grand Secretariat must first pass through the scrutiny of the Bureau Officials. If found in accord with regulations, it shall be accepted; if not, it shall be rejected. When an edict reaches the Six Ministries, it requires endorsement and filing by the Bureau Officials. Thereafter, a review is conducted every five days to ensure its proper execution by the respective offices. Upon completion of implementation, the record shall be cancelled at the Bureau Officials' office, serving as a significant basis for the promotion of officials.

With the presence of various Censors, the power of the Office of Communications to review and reject documents has been reinstated. This will restrain the previously unchecked Board of Censors, and more importantly, it will significantly enhance the administrative efficiency in the government offices, benefiting both the nation and its people.

Shi Zhuo immediately realized that Xun Yunhe's newly established regulations were aimed directly at him. In the past, it was only Shi Zhuo who had the authority to inspect others; now, he too found himself under the scrutiny of the civil service examinations.

You might accuse him of self-interest, but that's not the case. Every official, from the emperor to the hundred ministers, can scrutinize each other, including Xun Yunhe, the Chief State Councillor.

Yet, is there any valid ground for others to impeach Xun Yunhe? No.

Since the establishment of the Jìn dynasty, he has been the least impeached among all officials ranked fourth level or above. He is known for his incorruptibility, seasoned governance, and always prioritizing the welfare of the state over personal interests. This towering figure in the court sets an unattainable standard for others.

It's evident that Xun Yunhe skillfully uses the various Censorate officials to tightly grasp control over the Six Ministries and their Nine Bureaus, regulating the efficiency of all government affairs.

To an emperor well-versed in the art of balance, Xun Yunhe's move hits the spot. With the Censorate, the Eastern Factory, and the imperial court in harmony, his throne stands firm. As for advising the emperor, which Censorate official would casually dare to refute the emperor's decisions? Not to mention, there have been no shortage of courageous imperial censors stepping forward in recent years.

With the addition of the examination officials, the emperor gained an extra leverage to balance the power against the censors.

Indeed, when it came to governance, none in the court could surpass Xun Yunhe. The emperor silently sighed in acknowledgment.

Seizing this opportunity, Xun Yunhe undertook sweeping reforms, benefiting both the monarch and the people. Though the officials grumbled, they had no choice but to submit, even the evidently restricted Pei Xun had to yield. This time, he witnessed the far-sighted tactics of the grand chancellor himself.

While he played cunning schemes, the other side employed open strategies, pinning him down tightly.

For a fleeting moment, Pei Xun regretted not forcing the emperor to issue an imperial edict, granting a divorce between Pei Muhan and Xu Yunqi. If so, Xun Yunhe would not have been compelled to support the Xi Palace for the sake of his daughter.

With his father-in-law's return to the capital, Pei Muheng visibly relaxed, knowing that Xun Yunhe would be occupied with the recent appointments of officials and have no time to visit the mansion. Instead of immediately informing him about Elder Zhang's matter, Pei Muheng submitted a memorial to the emperor, claiming illness and requesting convalescence. The incident from the other day had left a nagging concern in the emperor's mind, so Pei Muheng decided it was best to lay low for a while.

Mentioning illness, he didn't actually intend to be genuinely "ill." However, as this thought crossed his mind, a particular phrase flashed through Pei Muheng's memory.

"Those young men, even if they're not ill, would find ways to feign sickness just to queue up for our lady's diagnosis."

"Ahh, Fifth Miss understands, my lady can refuse anything but tending to the sick..."

Recalling these words, Pei Muheng came to an abrupt halt.

This winter arrived earlier than previous years, with dense clouds and light snowfall by the end of October.

Peng Muheng stood with his hands behind his back in the slanted corridor. His dark eyes held a hint of contemplation, and the bridge of his straight nose cast a shadow under the lamplight. He gazed deeply in the direction of Qinghui Garden, his mind enticed by a persistent thought.

After a moment of silence, the refined and restrained nobleman spoke, "Huang Wei, is there any ice available in the estate?"

"Huh?" Huang Wei looked astonished. "Why do you need ice?"

Peng Muheng's expression remained calm as he replied, "Since I'm claiming to be ill, I can't pretend."

Huang Wei stared at him in surprise, blinking rapidly. "No way, Third Master. You're actually going through with it. When you say you're ill, everyone in the court understands it's just an excuse; no one will come to check. Besides, illnesses can be mild or severe. If you claim to have a headache, can the imperial physician argue that you don't? Why go to such lengths?"

Faced with Huang Wei's endless chatter, Peng Muheng simply said, "I am determined to fall ill."

With an inexplicable conviction.

This was unusual. Huang Wei had a keen sense, like a dog. His gaze circled around before settling on Qinghui Garden in the distance. He quickly understood and slapped his forehead.

"I'll get it right away, Your Servant," he said.

Summer had long passed, and all the stored ice was used up. With no snowfall yet, who could have any ice left?

By coincidence, the neighboring Xun family still had some in their cellar. Huang Wei rushed to retrieve it and placed it in the bathroom of the study.

He then witnessed his master instructing someone to prepare a bucket of cold water. Swiftly, he poured the ice from the basin into the bathtub, causing a chill to rise from within. Just the sight made Huang Wei shiver. Seeing Pei Muhang about to strip and step in, Huang Wei grabbed his arm tightly.

"Third Master, Third Master, this... this isn't a game."

Pei Muhang remained unmoved. Lately, he had been occupied with court affairs, and Xu Yunqi had ignored him completely. She had been upset when he left that day. If he returned to the rear courtyard like this, it would be as ineffective as a feather. He needed her to understand; it could take ages if he waited for her to figure it out on her own. A strategy of the heart was crucial, and thus, a drastic measure was necessary.

With determination, Pei Muhang stepped into the icy bathtub.

Instantly, goosebumps covered his body. Pei Muhang's forehead was damp with cold sweat, and Huang Wei watched anxiously, tears welling up. He wanted to rush to the rear courtyard for help, but Pei Muhang sternly stopped him.

Did she think he was simply pretending to be ill, asking her to tend to him in the front courtyard? No, this was the meticulous Pei San Gongzi. This was a trap he had set for himself.

Pei Muhang's resilience was extraordinary. Enduring such coldness, he wrapped himself in clothes and huddled by the charcoal brazier. His face turned pale, but as the saying goes, "efforts are never in vain." That night, Pei Muhang ran a high fever.

Xu Yunqi was sound asleep, holding onto the silver apricot. In the depths of the night, she was startled awake by Huang Wei's cries outside.

"Madam, hurry to the main courtyard, our Third Master is running a high fever and remains unconscious."

The words "unconscious" pricked at Xu Yunqi's nerves. As a physician, she immediately sat up with a start, akin to a leaping carp.