Chapter 7 Witnessed “Not sick? So you came for the banquet to see…”

Chapter 7: An Unexpected Encounter

“Not sick after all? So it was to attend this banquet, she thought…”

Yue Rongrong was not one to turn the other cheek or let bygones be bygones. If someone disliked her, she saw no reason for them to be content. Since Du Yan didn't want her there, Yue Rongrong was determined to go.

Besides, Shen Jichen had cut off her allowance, and she desperately needed money. These noble young masters were known for their generosity; perhaps she could earn a substantial sum.

Du Yan sneered, “She usually acts so aloof, but at the mention of such a banquet, she comes running.”

Yue Rongrong returned a tight-lipped smile, “Aren’t you just as eager to be here?”

The women sat in the carriage, which naturally prevented further argument. Ren Hanzhen cast a quiet glance at Yue Rongrong.

Zhong Yu pulled Yue Rongrong close and whispered, “Are you really alright not going to the Marquis’s residence today?”

Yue Rongrong nodded, “I sent someone to request leave.”

Meanwhile, at Jinxiu Lou, the embroiderer who had merely come to deliver Yue Rongrong’s message was unexpectedly questioned by the Marquis himself!

She knelt, trembling, unable to speak clearly. After much stammering, she finally managed to articulate, “Marquis, Rong Rong has caught a cold and fears passing it to you, so…”

Shen Jichen’s eyes were dark and unreadable, yet he let out a cold laugh. “She’s sick?” Was she truly ill, or was she avoiding him?

Seeing the person kneeling below shaking as if he were some terrifying beast, he instantly lost patience and waved his hand, signaling Wen Song to dismiss her.

Just then, Han Zixian arrived and found Shen Jichen deep in thought, eyes downcast. He called out twice with no response, so he stepped forward and clapped him on the shoulder. Shen Jichen looked up, startled. Han Zixian teased, “What’s got you so worried?”

Shen Jichen’s expression returned to its usual calm. “Nothing.”

Han Zixian continued, “Liang Yuanbian is hosting a banquet today, inviting a few of us to drink at Yizhan Jiangnan. Did you forget, or did you throw away the invitation? I only wanted to stay home with Yi Yi, but she found me annoying and pushed me out. Shall we go together?”

He didn’t miss the chance to flaunt his affection. Shen Jichen shot him a sidelong glance and said coldly, “I won’t go.”

“Don’t be like that,” Han Zixian persuaded. “Last time, you two had a disagreement, and he genuinely wants to apologize. We’re all in the same circle and serve at court together—we’ll see each other often. Just give the Liang family some face.” Seeing Shen Jichen unmoved, he asked, “Do you have something else to do?”

Shen Jichen remained silent for a long moment before rising and heading out with him. As they boarded the carriage, he finally called out to Wen Song, instructing him to go to Jinxiu Lou.

Han Zixian looked at him with great curiosity, “Why send him to Jinxiu Lou now?”

Shen Jichen did not answer.

**

In the elegant lakeside room of Yizhan Jiangnan, the distinguished young gentlemen were already chatting merrily.

Liang Yuanbian laughed and proposed, “Usually, our companions for drinks are just singers or dancers—it’s utterly boring. Today, let’s try something new. I’ve heard the embroiderers from Jinxiu Lou are not only beautiful but also from respectable families. Today, we’ll invite them to join us!”

The other young masters immediately perked up. “Embroiderers as companions? This is a first! How interesting! Brother Yuanbian truly knows how to have fun!”

He Minxuan and Zheng Xuchao exchanged a look, subtly revealing a hint of disdain. Usually, Liang Yuanbian, relying on his position as Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, would hire entertainers, but now he was even inviting respectable women. Though they disapproved, they wouldn't interfere.

Among the many guests, Liang Yuanbian, as the host, naturally occupied the place of honor. He cast a dismissive glance at Zheng and He, his tone slightly mocking, “Why hasn’t Piao Yao arrived yet? Could it be he’s deliberately putting on airs?”

Zheng Xuchao smiled faintly, “Piao Yao is the youngest Vice Minister of the Board of Punishments in our dynasty and highly esteemed by the Emperor. It’s only natural for him to be delayed when busy.”

Liang Yuanbian’s expression darkened, and he sneered.

Someone else added fuel to the fire, “Piao Yao has never been fond of banquets. Even if he comes, he never stays long.”

Liang Yuanbian scoffed coldly, “He’s always been so arrogant, acting reserved and disdainful of women—all just to curry favor with the Grand Empress Dowager and the Emperor.”

At the mention of the Grand Empress Dowager, those who were about to add more gossip fell silent for a moment, then raised their cups and drank heartily.

A knock sounded at the door—the manager of Jinxiu Lou had arrived with several embroiderers.

Liang Yuanbian’s eyes swept the room. Not only were the young masters excited, but even Zheng Xuchao and He Minxuan sat up straighter. He felt a surge of pride, as if he held these noble young men in the palm of his hand, experiencing a sense of power. He deliberately adopted a nonchalant demeanor, his voice tinged with a lazy charm, “Come in.”

The door opened, and everyone was taken aback. Usually, at their banquets, the entertainers they summoned would arrive amidst a wave of heavy, alluring perfume. But today, it was like fresh grass and dew on a summer day—their pure, delicate beauty brought an unexpected delight.

Liang Yuanbian was just marveling at the success of his spontaneous idea when his gaze suddenly halted, lingering on Yue Rongrong. He found her irresistibly charming yet refreshingly lovely. While the others glanced around with curiosity and shyness, she didn’t even glance up. Her aloofness only stirred a desire to conquer in the men.

“Please, have a seat. The embroidery pieces Jinxiu Lou sent the other day were greatly admired by my family’s elder madam. She specifically asked me to entertain you properly.” Liang Yuanbian rose personally to invite them to sit.

The manager bowed, overwhelmed by the honor, “You flatter us, Vice Minister. It is our privilege that the elder madam liked them. That was all Han Zhen’s work.” He gestured for Ren Hanzhen to step forward.

Ren Hanzhen smiled slightly and curtsied gracefully, “Greetings, Vice Minister.”

Liang Yuanbian nodded. The young men nearby snickered—this guy’s excuse was so absurd. How could a banquet for the women’s guests require the young masters to express gratitude? He probably didn’t even know this embroiderer.

Zheng Xuchao and He Minxuan shifted their gaze and suddenly froze! They stood up abruptly as if startled, staring in shock at Yue Rongrong in the crowd.

Someone teased, “Did you two see a ghost?”

“Nonsense, this is clearly a fairy.”

Liang Yuanbian adopted a leader’s demeanor, “Sit down, sit down. Don’t make people laugh, thinking you’ve never seen the world.”

His words greatly pleased the embroiderers. Zhen Xi even laughed so hard she nestled into Yue Rongrong’s arms, appearing very innocent.

Yue Rongrong looked up and her heart leaped—she almost stumbled!

Why were they here? It was actually them! If they were here, then he... Yue Rongrong hurriedly glanced around but didn’t see that familiar face. Her tightly wound heart relaxed slightly, though her hands resting on her knees trembled uncontrollably.

Even though they had no connection anymore, seeing people connected to him still shook her involuntarily. Just then, Liang Yuanbian had returned to his seat and raised his glass to toast them. To calm her nerves, Yue Rongrong gulped down the drink in one go.

The strong wine burned her throat, forcing her to calm down. She needed to find an excuse to leave...

Ren Hanzhen sipped demurely, barely wetting her lips, which was immediately noticed by one of the young masters, who teased her about it. Ren Hanzhen’s smile grew shyer and softer, truly hinting at unspoken words.

The banquet was in full swing. Yue Rongrong’s eyes scanned the room for exits, planning to slip away quietly. As she withdrew her gaze, she locked eyes with Zheng Xuchao. Yue Rongrong’s heart tightened, but Zheng Xuchao’s expression was even graver than hers.

“This young lady has quite the capacity for drink.” A voice remarked suddenly, drawing everyone’s attention.

Yue Rongrong was slow to realize until Zhong Yu nudged her discreetly. She then looked over and saw Liang Yuanbian smiling at her, “Might I ask the young lady’s name?”

Zheng Xuchao frowned deeply, then heard Yue Rongrong’s calm voice reply, “Xin Yue.”

He Minxuan was slightly stunned, “Xin Yue?” He whispered to Zheng Xuchao, “When did she change her name?”

Zheng Xuchao glared at him in warning.

Liang Yuanbian feigned surprise, “So it’s Miss Xin Yue. I’ve long heard of you. It’s said your skills are exceptional. Could you take a look at this embroidered handkerchief? It was a gift from the Noble Consort, but a thread has come loose.”

He Minxuan commented sarcastically, “His ability to lie with his eyes wide open has improved again.”

Zheng Xuchao ignored him.

Yue Rongrong was slightly surprised and instinctively glanced at Ren Hanzhen, who was talking to Du Yan as if she hadn’t heard. Just as Yue Rongrong was about to refuse, she saw the manager mouthing instructions at her. Reading his lips, he said, “Go on.” Yue Rongrong hesitantly stood up and stopped by Liang Yuanbian’s table.

“No need to stand on ceremony. Come sit here.” Liang Yuanbian patted the cushion beside him. Seeing the refusal in her eyes, he smiled, “This handkerchief is a treasure bestowed by the Noble Consort. If it’s ruined, I’m afraid she’ll punish me severely. Please, help me take a look. I will repay you generously.”

Yue Rongrong had a sudden thought and stepped forward.

The lively banquet had fallen silent, with only the lingering sound of music remaining. Everyone was looking at Yue Rongrong. A flash of anger showed in Zheng Xuchao's eyes, and he was about to speak when He Minxuan stopped him, whispering, "Have you forgotten what she did back then? She has nothing to do with Piao Yao anymore. Don't get involved."

Zheng Xuchao frowned tightly and saw Yue Rongrong settled cautiously onto the cushion. Liang Yuanbian indeed took out an embroidered handkerchief—it seemed he had come prepared, waiting to see which embroiderer would catch his eye today. He handed the handkerchief to Yue Rongrong.

Yue Rongrong gradually let her guard down, spread out the handkerchief, and examined it carefully. After a long while, she said, "Using the warp and weft embroidery technique might repair it so it's unnoticeable."

Liang Yuanbian put on a delighted expression. "Then I'll have to trouble Xin Yue for this. My noble sister, the Noble Consort, won't blame me either."

His sister was a Noble Consort? Yue Rongrong looked up at him, and Liang Yuanbian suddenly seemed more impressive. In the eyes of commoners, people of his status were like the distant, unattainable moon. At this moment, he felt a sense of superiority in front of Yue Rongrong and was sure she'd be impressed by him.

Thinking this, he took a wine cup, poured wine himself, and handed it to Yue Rongrong. "Please."

Just as Yue Rongrong was about to refuse and return to her seat, a servant bowed and entered. "Young Master Liang, Marquis Shen and Han Shaoqing have arrived."

The wine cup, which had just touched her hand, instantly slipped from Yue Rongrong's fingertips. She flusteredly picked it up. Liang Yuanbian hurriedly used another handkerchief to wipe Yue Rongrong's hand. The moment his palm touched her soft fingertips, Yue Rongrong jerked her hand back in alarm, but Liang Yuanbian was quicker and grabbed it.

Shen Jichen entered and saw Liang Yuanbian holding Yue Rongrong's hand. Instantly, his face darkened, his eyes icy cold.

Everyone stood up. Although the noble young men present were all of similar age and had known each other since childhood, the gap between them had become apparent since they entered officialdom. The embroiderers, who had been marveling and delighted earlier, were now frightened and at a loss by Shen Jichen's sharp, icy expression.

Yue Rongrong seized the opportunity to withdraw her hand and hide it behind her back. Without raising her head, she was about to stand up with the others but Liang Yuanbian pressed down on her shoulder.

Shen Jichen became even more stern. The music from earlier softened by several notes, as if in awe of him.

Since birth, Shen Jichen had been immensely doted on by the late emperor and the Grand Empress Dowager. When he was six, the late emperor personally held him while riding and hunting. Seeing the young boy's swift and fierce movements, the emperor was delighted and bestowed upon him the childhood name "Piao Yao." In his youth, he was bold and arrogant, praised by the late emperor as a young hero should be. Now, steady and reserved, Shen Jichen was commended by the current emperor as a pillar of the state.

Seeing Shen Jichen's elegant and refined presence, like jade trees in a precious forest, Liang Yuanbian's coldness grew. What he hated most was Shen Jichen's attitude—aloof and indifferent, yet possessing an unattainable aura, as if all noble people were unworthy in his presence!

Liang Yuanbian coldly watched the awe-filled expressions of those around him, a cold smile curling his lips. How he wished to see Shen Jichen lose his composure and fall into despair!

"Piao Yao, you're late. Punish yourself with three cups!" Liang Yuanbian said lazily, with a barely noticeable mockery.

Shen Jichen did not respond but took the three cups of wine and drank them all.

Zhen Xi whispered in Zhong Yu's ear, "He truly is exceptionally handsome! Even the way he drinks with a cold expression is so breathtaking."

Shen Jichen's seat was below Liang Yuanbian's. With a glance, he could see Yue Rongrong sitting head bowed beside Liang Yuanbian, appearing obedient and yielding. His face instantly turned icy.

Everyone sensed Shen Jichen's chilling aura, and no one dared to speak loudly anymore. The once lively and free banquet suddenly became restrained. Han Zixian also saw Yue Rongrong, in disbelief, stunned for a long moment before looking toward Zheng Xuchao, who shrugged in resignation.

Liang Yuanbian looked at Shen Jichen and smiled. "I heard that Tangsong's wedding dress was recently entrusted to Brocade Mansion. I wonder which embroiderer it was? Seize this opportunity, Piao Yao, and offer her a cup of wine to show your gratitude."

Yue Rongrong trembled with fear. At this moment, she felt like a lamb roasting over a fire, suffering and burning, with everyone ready to take a piece of her.

"Not sure." A deep, icy voice came through. Yue Rongrong's gaze froze abruptly as she heard Shen Jichen's extremely calm voice. "Not sure who it was. Tangsong simply liked it."

That cold tone, almost doting, was something Yue Rongrong had once loved most. Once, during a lantern festival, she had spotted a seven-treasure glazed lamp, radiant and extremely beautiful, but it could only be won by achieving the highest score in an archery contest.

She pleaded and coaxed Shen Jichen to participate. He Minxuan found it embarrassing, thinking that someone of their status could have as many such lamps as they wanted and needn't compete with commoners in public. Shen Jichen glanced at her, smiled helplessly, and said, "Can't be helped. Rong Rong wants it."

Sudden teasing pulled Yue Rongrong back to reality. Her ears buzzed, hearing only everyone joking about how much Shen Jichen doted on Jin Tangsong, the words nearly piercing her ear drums.

She suddenly stood up. Instantly, everyone looked at her. After a dazed moment, she forced a dry laugh. "I need to excuse myself for a moment."

Liang Yuanbian was very understanding. "Xin Yue, come back quickly."

Shen Jichen's hand gripping the wine cup tightened abruptly. Yue Rongrong looked at Liang Yuanbian's smiling face, got a chill down her spine, and ran.

The cold wind hit her face, instantly dispersing the heat from her body. She shivered, took a deep breath, and felt as if she had finally revived from nearly suffocating.

Don't care anymore. Whoever he is good to now, whoever he loves, has nothing to do with her! The most important thing for her now is money! Thinking of money, Yue Rongrong's heart ached even more—thanks to Shen Jichen, her bonus money had vanished again! Gritting her teeth, she hurried down the corridor when a cold, low voice came from the side. "It seems I interrupted Miss Xin Yue's good time."

Yue Rongrong stiffened abruptly, turned her head, and met a pair of icy phoenix eyes, dark like a bottomless ancient well. Shen Jichen stood by the corridor pillar, suppressing his anger, a cold smile curling his lips. "Weren't you ill? So it was to attend this banquet? Taken a fancy to Liang Yuanbian?"

His sarcasm was too obvious. Yue Rongrong stubbornly straightened her back, refusing to be hurt, and said lightly. "Marquis, this is my matter."

The smile on Shen Jichen's lips deepened, the anger in his eyes freezing into ice. "Angry? I merely meant to remind you—someone like Liang Yuanbian won't marry you. Half the courtesans and private entertainers in the capital are his female companions. What do you think you are? Don't think too highly of yourself."

Yue Rongrong was still stung by the mockery in his eyes. Restraining her agitation, her eyes reddened, she said stiffly, "I've never overestimated myself! I know my status! So why must you still give me advice? Every extra word you say to me will upset your fiancée."

Shen Jichen's gaze darkened. "Is it she who will be upset, or you?"

As if struck to the core, Yue Rongrong scoffed. "What does it have to do with me? Why would I be upset? Naturally, even if I fancied Liang Shaoqing, it would be none of your concern. So, Marquis, may I leave now?"

Shen Jichen's gaze halted, his face instantly pale with anger. He abruptly closed in. Yue Rongrong felt a heavy pressure on her wrist bone. She cried out in surprise, her vision blurred, and she was slammed against a cold wall. A "bang" sounded in her ears as Shen Jichen kicked the door shut, the gust of cold wind making her turn her face away.

Terrified, she looked up. Shen Jichen's astonishingly handsome face was cold and icy, as if covered in a layer of frost, his dark, furious phoenix eyes fixed intently on her.

Author's Note:

Attendant A: "Wen Song? Why are you out here? Don't you need to attend?"

Wen Song: "Oh, my marquis is in there where weapons might be drawn. I came out to hide."