Chapter 48: Making Trouble

Chapter 48: Causing a Stir

"Ji Rui wants to harm me?"

Qiu Shuiyi laughed when she heard this. "No problem, let him bring it on."

Given the significant loss Ji Rui had recently suffered, Qiu Shuiyi wasn't surprised he wanted revenge.

"No."

Qiao Wanniang said urgently, tightening her grip. "Miss Qiu, you must not take this lightly."

"After your reminder last time, I kept thinking about it after I returned home, feeling I should prepare for the worst. I bribed one of Ji Rui's servants, ordering him to record Ji Rui's every move, no matter how trivial."

"Five days ago, that servant reported to me that he suddenly heard noises from Ji Rui's room in the middle of the night. He pricked up his ears to eavesdrop and heard Ji Rui discussing with a mysterious person about harming Second Miss Qiu."

"After their discussion, that mysterious person leapt out the window without making a single sound. He didn't seem like a young master from any noble family, more like someone from the martial world."

Someone from the jianghu?

Qiu Shuiyi's heart stirred.

A delicate man's face surfaced in her mind.

Was it him?

"People from the martial world aren't bound by the constraints of noble households; they largely act on impulse. Many of them employ ruthless methods. Miss Qiu, you must be careful."

Looking into Qiao Wanniang's eyes filled with concern, Qiu Shuiyi nodded solemnly. "Rest assured, Madam, I'll be careful."

Seeing she had taken it to heart, Qiao Wanniang breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. "Then I can rest easy."

...

When Qiu Shuiyi found Meng Qinruo, she was standing beneath a pear tree in full bloom.

Snow-white petals drifted down, covering the ground. With a smile on her lips, she was speaking to the person opposite her.

Petals brushed past her temples and landed on her skirt, accentuating her picturesque features, serene and graceful.

"Sister Meng!"

Qiu Shuiyi called out.

Seeing it was her, Meng Qinruo's smile deepened. "Sister Yi."

Qiu Shuiyi hurried over and looked up at the person facing Meng Qinruo.

The man's face was partially hidden behind the profusion of pear blossoms, his figure tall and straight, exceptionally handsome.

Surprise spread across Qiu Shuiyi's face. "Why is the Heir Apparent here?"

"Second Sister Qiu." Zhou Yundun rubbed the tip of his nose, his gaze shifting uneasily. "I got lost and happened to run into Miss Meng, so I chatted with her for a while."

"Now that Second Sister Qiu is here, I'll take my leave."

Zhou Yundun offered an apologetic smile.

"He... wasn't he lost?"

Qiu Shuiyi pointed at Zhou Yundun's retreating back, voicing her doubt. "He doesn't seem like it."

"He was fooling you."

Meng Qinruo chuckled. "He was being pestered by Cui Lanru. Too embarrassed to extricate himself directly, he sought my help."

Qiu Shuiyi was speechless.

*What's wrong with this male lead? If he can't even handle this, how is he supposed to win the beauty's heart?*

After this internal grumbling, Qiu Shuiyi linked arms with Meng Qinruo and returned to the banquet.

Nothing eventful happened at today's banquet.

Although she didn't manage to accumulate more lifespan, Qiu Shuiyi was in a rather good mood.

Since her return, every banquet she attended seemed to have some mishap. This was the first time she purely enjoyed herself, sipping tea and admiring flowers with a good friend.

Once she had saved enough lifespan, she thought it would be nice to host a few banquets at her own residence, inviting some young ladies to read books and paint.

...

Qiu Shuiyi took Qiao Wanniang's words to heart.

After returning to the residence, she had Xin Liu send a message to Xu Xi, instructing him to keep a close watch on Ji Rui's movements. She also had Xin Tao strictly manage the maids and matrons in her courtyard.

For the rest, she would deal with problems as they arose, meeting force with force.

No matter how much she prepared, she couldn't predict Ji Rui's exact actions.

After all, one can be a thief for a thousand days, but one cannot guard against theft for a thousand days.

Several days passed in peace and quiet.

Qiu Shuiyi then set the matter aside.

With Shen Yuchao away, she spent her days holed up in the residence reading storybooks and playing with the little maids, thoroughly enjoying herself.

Until Xin Liu hurried in, dismissed the maids in the room, and whispered nervously, "Miss, something has happened."

A rumor spread through the capital.

It was said that First Miss Qiu Lianying of the Marquis of Yun'an's residence had not gone to visit her maternal grandparents; instead, she had been murdered.

According to the rumor, while First Miss Qiu was out of the city for an excursion, her horse was startled. She was thrown from the carriage and happened to be seen by a woman.

That woman, astonished to see First Miss Qiu's identical appearance to her own, and noticing the gold hairpins in her hair and jade ornaments at her waist—clear signs of a young lady raised in wealth—was overcome with malicious intent. She impersonated First Miss Qiu and returned to the Marquis of Yun'an's residence.

As for First Miss Qiu, she was allegedly abandoned in the wilderness by that wicked woman and froze to death.

The rumor spread with vivid details, like a spark in the wilderness. Fanned by the wind, it swept through the entire capital like a wildfire.

Now, the entire city was discussing the matter.

Where exactly was First Miss Qiu?

Was she still alive?

How did they find Second Miss Qiu?

Did she harm her own sister?

"Miss..."

Xin Liu said worriedly, "The rumor has spread all over the capital. What are we going to do?"

Xin Tao's eyes turned red with anger, "Who spread this rumor? It's so vicious! Are they determined to ruin the young lady?"

She has a clear conscience, but gossip is a fearful thing, and repeated rumors become 'fact'. If this continues, people will automatically think of her as the sister who harmed her own kin.

How is she supposed to stay in the capital?

"Snap!"

Qiu Shuiyi closed the storybook, her face expressionless.

The room fell into a heavy silence, and no one dared to speak.

"Young lady!"

Xia Shuang's voice floated in from outside, urgent and breathless, "Something's happened. The Marquis's wife wants you to go to the front hall."

Qiu Shuiyi set down the storybook and put on her shoes. "Let's go."

When she arrived at the front hall, the Marquis of Yun'an sat in the seat of honor. Usually amiable, he now wore a stern expression, holding a cup of tea, turning it in his hands, lost in thought.

Lady Mei sat below him, her eyes blazing with anger. She twisted a handkerchief in her hands, her face so fierce it seemed she could kill.

"Father, Mother."

Qiu Shuiyi called softly.

The Marquis of Yun'an snapped back to attention. "Yi'er is here. Come quickly."

Qiu Shuiyi took a seat beside Lady Mei.

The Marquis of Yun'an said gravely, "Have you heard the rumors outside?"

Qiu Shuiyi nodded calmly. "I have."

Lady Mei forced a smile and squeezed her hand tightly. "Yi'er, don't be afraid. Your father and I will definitely protect you."

Qiu Shuiyi smiled faintly and slowly shook her head. "Mother, I'm not afraid."

It's just a rumor; it can't kill her.

Lady Mei's heart ached, and her eyes instantly reddened.

A flicker of pride flashed in the Marquis of Yun'an's eyes as he turned to the matter at hand.

"Yi'er, do you know who is targeting you?"

"I do," Qiu Shuiyi replied. "A few days ago, at Princess Nanqi's flower-viewing banquet, I met the wife of the Crown Prince of Huaiping. She warned me that the Crown Prince had mentioned my name during a secret nighttime meeting with a man from the jianghu."

"It's him again!"

Lady Mei wished she could tear a piece of flesh from Ji Rui. "What has my daughter ever done to offend him, that he keeps trying to harm her? Does he think our house has no one?!"

"Mother, don't be angry."

Qiu Shuiyi reached out to gently soothe Lady Mei's back.

"How can I not be angry?"

Lady Mei gritted her teeth. "He's trying to force you to your death!"

"Whatever he intends to do, our priority now is to resolve this matter."

The Marquis of Yun'an said.

"Do you have a plan, my lord?"

Lady Mei asked eagerly.

The Marquis of Yun'an lowered his gaze and remained silent.

Seeing this, Lady Mei felt a knot of frustration tighten in her chest.

This rumor has spread like wildfire throughout the entire capital. With rumors on everyone's lips, how could it possibly be silenced in such a short time!

"Marquis, Madame, something terrible has happened!"

An anxious cry rang out as a figure hurried toward the main hall.

"I'm perfectly fine. What's so terrible?!"

Lady Mei turned her head sharply, saying angrily.

Steward Qiu stopped in his tracks.

Seeing it was him, Lady Mei suppressed her anger. "My apologies, I lost my composure. What's the rush?"

Panic returned to Steward Qiu's face. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he said, trembling, "Marquis, Madame, there's trouble outside the mansion."

...

Outside the Marquis of Yun'an's mansion, it was now bustling, crowded with people.

The noise was deafening, a cacophony of voices, like a common marketplace, with none of the dignity befitting a noble house.

At the center of the crowd were a dozen or so young noblemen in fine clothes.

They varied in build and appearance, but the one thing they shared was their angry gazes fixed on the heavy, closed gates of the Marquis of Yun'an's mansion.

"Where is Miss Lianying?!"

"Is Miss Lianying still alive?"

"Did Qiu Shuiyi impersonate Miss Lianying to return to the mansion? Did she harm Miss Lianying?"

"Hand over Qiu Shuiyi! We want to see Miss Lianying!"

In the crowd, a man suddenly roared in anger, "Qiu Shuiyi, come out!"

"Qiu Shuiyi, come out!"

"Come out!"

A dozen or so gaudily dressed young noblemen bellowed in furious unison, like towering waves surging from the sea, seeming powerful enough to rip the plaque right off the Marquis of Yun'an's estate.

"Get Qiu Shuiyi out here!"

"Make Qiu Shuiyi come out!"

Inside the estate.

The Marquis of Yun'an and Lady Mei listened, their faces ashen, to the shouts outside.

"Since when is it *their* place to seek justice for Ying'er? What qualifications do they have to question my Yi'er?"

Lady Mei was so angry she could spit, stomping forward angrily.

Qiu Shuiyi hurriedly stopped her. "Mother, you mustn't go out. They're in a frenzy right now. What if they accidentally hurt you?"

"Let them try to lay a finger on me!" Lady Mei sneered coldly. "A bunch of fools."

"Madam, listen to Yi'er."

The Marquis of Yun'an admonished in a low voice.

"My Lord!"

Lady Mei protested, wanting to say more, but the Marquis had already turned to Steward Qiu.

"Which families do those outside belong to?"

Steward Qiu quickly replied, "This old servant will go see at once."

They set up a ladder, and Steward Qiu personally climbed it to get a look at the troublemakers from his high perch.

Returning to the Marquis of Yun'an's side, he whispered, "Marquis, there is the young master of Marquis Yu's household, the eldest son of Count Xianming, the third young master of the Chen family..."

All were from aristocratic families, each wealthy and well-connected.

The Marquis of Yun'an nodded, his voice cold. "Send word to these gentlemen. If they don't know how to teach their sons, I wouldn't mind teaching them a lesson myself."

Steward Qiu bowed his head. "Yes."

The racket outside hadn't died down, but Lady Mei had already calmed down.

She held Qiu Shuiyi's hand, her gaze as cold as a handful of snow from a mountain peak.

Qiu Shuiyi gently rested her head on Lady Mei's shoulder.

Like snow melting in spring, Lady Mei's expression instantly softened.

After an unknown length of time, the commotion outside the estate died down, only to be replaced by a different kind of yelling.

"You insolent dog! How dare you cross this Prince? Are you tired of living?"

"Stop using my father as an excuse! I wouldn't be afraid even if he were here! Ow, you dog slave! Let go of this Prince!"

"Get lost! I'm staying right here today!"

"Don't bother, I'm not going back!"

The young masters were dragged or hauled off by their own family members.

The onlooking commoners, seeing the spectacle was over, dispersed in twos and threes, chattering incessantly as they left.

Outside the estate gate, silence returned.

Steward Qiu ordered the guards to open the gate and peered out. "Marquis, they've left."

"Hmm," said the Marquis of Yun'an. "We should go in."

During the evening meal, none of the family of three had much appetite.

After listlessly picking at a few bites of food, Qiu Shuiyi returned to Chunhui Courtyard.

On the way, Xin Liu whispered something in her ear, then said, "Miss, he is waiting at the side gate right now."

A flicker of surprise passed through Qiu Shuiyi's eyes. "What is he doing here?"

After a moment's thought, she changed direction. "Let's go see."

Arriving at the back gate, the old woman guarding the gate opened it for Qiu Shuiyi. She stepped out and indeed saw two people standing outside.

One was Xu Xi, whom she had met once before.

The other was the steward of Prince Duansu's estate.

Steward Wang wore his usual amiable expression, hands tucked in his sleeves, smiling as he looked at her.

"Second Miss Qiu."

Qiu Shuiyi revealed a gentle, harmless smile. "Steward Wang."

"The Prince's estate has gathered some information. This old servant thought the Second Miss might need it. I came uninvited; I hope the Second Miss will forgive the intrusion."

"Not at all," Qiu Shuiyi smiled. "I'm nothing but grateful for your kindness, Steward Wang. But what exactly is this information, that it required you to make a personal trip?"

Steward Wang took a letter from his sleeve.

Qiu Shuiyi accepted it, opened it, and skimmed through the contents.

After reading, a look of bewilderment and puzzlement crossed her face.

Steward Wang sighed softly. "I originally wanted to ask the Second Miss what grievance you have with him. I never imagined that even you wouldn't know."

No, she knew.

Qiu Shuiyi shook her head with a bitter smile.

Steward Wang continued, "Rest assured, Second Miss. The Prince's people are already dealing with the rumors. Just wait a little longer; this old servant will definitely take care of this neatly for you."

Qiu Shuiyi bowed solemnly, saying gratefully, "Shui Yi thanks you, Steward Wang. However..."

She asked curiously, "Aren't you afraid that the truth might actually be as the rumors say?"

Steward Wang's brows relaxed, his smile warm, like a lake illuminated by sunlight, shimmering with ripples.

"I trust His Highness the Prince."

Qiu Shuiyi was slightly taken aback.

With the combined efforts of Prince Duansu's residence and the Marquis of Yun'an's residence, the rumors were contained.

However, those young nobles who admired Qiu Lianying showed up without fail every single day outside the Marquis's estate, yelling for Qiu Shuiyi to get lost.

The Marquis of Yun'an was utterly exasperated. He sent messengers to their respective households several times, but even when those young masters were beaten black and blue, they would still appear punctually at the Marquis of Yun'an's estate the next day.

It was like they were cursed.

After numerous incidents, the Marquis of Yun'an was at his wit's end.

He did think about having them thrashed.

One or two, no problem, but with a dozen or twenty of them together, if he took action, he'd never hear the end of it from their parents.

In the end, he had no choice but to tune them out, even sneaking out the side gate to go to court.

After all, they couldn't really cause any major trouble.

On this day, Qiu Shuiyi was discussing with Lady Mei what embroidery pattern to use on the Marquis of Yun'an's outer robe.

Lady Mei had been on edge these past few days due to the rumors. To comfort her and keep her mind off things, Qiu Shuiyi visited the main quarters daily.

As it happened, one of the Marquis of Yun'an's outer robes had been torn by a tree branch, so Qiu Shuiyi talked Lady Mei into making him a new one herself.

Lady Mei paused to think and agreed.

After settling on a design, Qiu Shuiyi picked up the needle and thread.

"Ouch..."

The sharp embroidery needle pierced the pad of her index finger, and a pea-sized drop of blood immediately welled up.

"Yi'er!"

Lady Mei grabbed her hand, crying out anxiously, "Quick, get some medicine."

"Mother."

Qiu Shuiyi was both amused and exasperated. "It's just a tiny prick, why would we need medicine?"

She stuck her index finger in her mouth, her tongue sweeping away the blood drop, and a faint metallic taste immediately spread in her throat.

Qiu Shuiyi said around her finger, "It'll stop in a second."

Feeling that it had stopped bleeding, she withdrew her index finger and wiped the moisture off with a handkerchief.

After cleaning it, she held up her finger with a bright smile. "See, Mother, isn't it fine now?"

Lady Mei gave her a reproachful glance. "You! What were you thinking about just now? When doing such delicate work, you mustn't let your mind wander. The wound may be small, but it still hurts."

"Alright, Mother, I understand."

Qiu Shuiyi whined.

Lady Mei was quite pleased, her eyes crinkling as she turned her attention back to making the robe.

Qiu Shuiyi's smile faded, she lowered her gaze, and one hand reached up to her chest, accurately grasping the prayer beads hanging around her neck through her clothes.

The day before yesterday, Xin Tao had found this bead on her bed and nearly threw it away.

Fortunately, Qiu Shuiyi caught sight of it by chance, "rescued" the bead, and had it strung on a cord.

Shen Yuchao's belongings were certainly not ordinary; they could help ward off the demons and monsters lurking in the shadows.

Suddenly, her right eye started twitching, sending a flutter of unease through her, as if a heavy stone were pressing on her chest, making it hard to breathe.

Qiu Shuiyi suddenly had a bad premonition.

The sound of hurried, panicked footsteps grew closer. She looked over to see Steward Qiu, forgetting all decorum, leaning against the doorframe while panting heavily.

"Madam, those people, those people..."

"Why are you so out of breath?" Lady Mei frowned. "What about those people?"

Steward Qiu exclaimed, "They're trying to break in!"

Qiu Shuiyi shot to her feet.

...

Outside the estate gate, a cacophony of shouts was like sparrows trapped together, chirping annoyingly.

"Young Lord Zhou, you mustn't come in, you mustn't! Our Madam and young lady are inside. Think of the fright it would give them!"

The sturdy guards blocked the leader, Zhou Qian, the young master of Ling'an. Afraid of hurting him yet unable to let him in, they were momentarily at a stalemate.

Zhou Qian snorted coldly. "If you won't let us in, then have Qiu Shuiyi come out and give us an explanation!"

"That's right, have her come out and explain clearly Miss Lianying's whereabouts!"

"Have Qiu Shuiyi come out!"

"Have her get out here!"

The shouts grew louder and louder, like rolling waves crashing down, overwhelming the guard.

"If she won't come out, then we'll break in!"

Zhou Qian shouted, "Smash the Marquis of Yun'an's estate! Today, we must know about Miss Lianying's safety!"

"Smash it!"

Over twenty young masters surged forward, kicking in unison at the main gate of the Marquis of Yun'an's estate.

"You cannot enter, you really cannot!"

The guards desperately blocked the door.

"Swish—"

A flash of silver light dazzled the eyes.

Zhou Qian swung his sword down, roaring, "Let's see who dares to stop me!"

A chilling cold pressed against the skin, followed immediately by a surge of pain.

The guard cried out in agony, clutching his right arm tightly with his left hand as blood continuously seeped through his fingers.

"Brother Huang!"

Another guard rushed to steady him.

Blood dripped along the blade onto the ground, spreading like crimson flowers.

Everyone present was shocked by Zhou Qian’s sword slash.

Yet he raised his eyebrows, a look of pure arrogance on his face.

“That’s what you get for daring to stop me!”

Zhou Qian growled, “Anyone not afraid to die, come at me! I’ll kill them one by one, or two by two!”

A fearful voice whispered from behind him, “Young lord, after all, these are people from the Marquis of Yun'an's household. Isn’t this… a bit too much?”

“Just a servant. So what if I killed one?” Zhou Qian sneered. “A hundred taels of silver should be enough, right?”

Just as she had escorted Madam Mei to the main gate, Qiu Shuiyi heard the clamor of those scoundrels outside.

Her eyes darkened slightly, a surge of anger churning in her chest, searching for an outlet like a trapped beast howling.

She let go of Madam Mei's arm and said to Steward Qiu, “Open the gate.”

Steward Qiu hesitated, “Miss, it’s not safe outside. What if you get hurt…”

“Don’t they want to see me? Let me go out and have a proper talk with them.”

She said, stressing the last two words.

“But…”

“Thud, thud—”

The sound of the gate being rammed was as dull as thunder. Qiu Shuiyi clenched her fists. “Open it.”

Steward Qiu couldn’t help but look at Madam Mei.

Madam Mei’s expression was grave. She sighed deeply, “Steward, open the gate.”

She straightened Qiu Shuiyi’s collar, her eyes gentle. “Be careful.”

Qiu Shuiyi smiled faintly, “Don’t worry, Mother. I’ll be fine.”

Steward Qiu had no choice but to order the gate opened.

The bolt was pulled back, and the marquis’s gate slowly swung open.

A figure rushed in from outside.

Qiu Shuiyi’s eyes sharpened. She lifted her foot and kicked hard at the person’s shoulder!

“Ah!”

Zhou Qian flew backward, his foot catching on the threshold, and he fell flat on his back.

Lying on the ground, he clutched his backside, crying out in pain.

“Young lord!”

“Are you all right, young lord?”

Zhou Qian’s lackeys crowded around him.

“Get away!” Ashamed, Zhou Qian drove them off, gritting his teeth as he stood up. “Who the hell kicked me?”

His lackeys exchanged glances.

No one answered. Zhou Qian glared fiercely at the gate.

A pair of lotus-embroidered shoes, pearls gracing the toes, came into view.

Qiu Shuiyi stood gracefully and asked softly, “Which young master wanted to see me?”

As soon as she finished speaking, “Whoosh—”

A chill of sword intent shot straight toward her.

“Yi’er!”

Madam Mei’s eyes went wide with horror.

“Miss!”

Xin Liu and Xin Tao rushed over.

When she kicked out, Qiu Shuiyi had noticed Zhou Qian’s sword flying away.

She didn't dare drop her guard, staying vigilant at all times.

So, when the sword lunged at her, Qiu Shuiyi reacted swiftly, pretending her legs had given way. She stumbled backward, leaning against the doorframe, narrowly avoiding the strike.

When she looked up again, a handsome youth of about eighteen or nineteen, with a neat ponytail and narrow sleeves rolled up, stood a few steps away, holding a sword.

The tip of the sword was pointed directly at her throat.

The youth snarled, “Tell me, where is Sister Lianying? Did you harm her?”

When these lunatics first came to cause trouble, Qiu Shuiyi had asked Steward Qiu to draw their portraits.

Thus, she immediately recognized the youth’s identity.

The young son of Marquis Yu, Yu Zhao.

She heard he had been caned when he returned home, but she never expected him to be so persistent.

Tears of panic still lingered in her eyes, her long lashes damp. The young woman appeared fragile and innocent, a sight that would evoke pity in anyone.

Yet these few before her remained unmoved, as steady as mountains.

Qiu Shuiyi spoke in a trembling voice, “I wonder what relationship you gentlemen have with my sister?”

Yu Zhao frowned.

Zhou Qian limped over, aggressive and imposing. “Don’t change the subject! Tell us! Where is Miss Lianying?”

Qiu Shuiyi lowered her lashes. “You gentlemen are neither relatives nor friends of my sister. I’m afraid I cannot disclose that.”

“You!”

Enraged, Zhou Qian raised his hand to strike.

His hand hung frozen in mid-air.

Zhou Qian turned his head and snapped at Yu Zhao. "Why are you stopping me? Do you actually feel sorry for this bitch?"

Yu Zhao wrenched his hand away, his voice cold. "I never strike a woman's face, and I can't stand watching others do it either."

"Yu Zhao! Are you out of your mind? Is that the point right now? The point is Miss Lianying!"

Zhou Qian flew into a rage, veins bulging on his forehead, his eyes bloodshot like a beast's, locked on Qiu Shuiyi. "Tell me Miss Lianying's whereabouts."

Qiu Shuiyi glanced at him, shook her head gently, and said softly, "You're not worthy."

"What did you say?"

Zhou Qian spat out each word through gritted teeth.

Yu Zhao suddenly turned his head, a cold light flashing in his dark eyes.

Qiu Shuiyi slowly straightened up, lifted her chin slightly, and smiled like a bright moon.

"None of you are worthy."

"You bitch!"

Zhou Qian exploded.

Before he could move, Qiu Shuiyi heaved a long sigh. "Have you two gentlemen heard a certain rumor?"

Yu Zhao frowned. "What rumor?"

The girl shrugged helplessly and recited, "'So many young masters from marquis and earl households are standing up for her. Who knows what skills this First Miss Qiu really possesses?'"

"'Do you think they've already been intimate?'"

"'With so many noble gentlemen, surely not?'"

"'Otherwise, why would they disregard their reputations to defend First Miss Qiu? I heard the young master of Marquis Yu's household was beaten so badly by the marquis that he had to crawl to the Marquis of Yun'an's residence. If you say there's nothing fishy going on, I don't believe it.'"

"Shut up!"

"What nonsense are you spouting!"

Zhou Qian and Yu Zhao roared in unison.

"You bitch, ruining Miss Lianying's reputation, you deserve to die!"

Zhou Qian's face twisted with rage.

Qiu Shuiyi's smile vanished, her expression darkening bit by bit.

"You're the ones who deserve to die."

"I merely repeated others' idle gossip. Does that count as ruining my sister's reputation?"

"You're the ones who clearly ruined her."

Qiu Shuiyi stepped forward until she stood before Zhou Qian. "Ever since you came here to cause trouble, these words have been spreading."

Now the capital is buzzing, with all sorts of rumors flying around.

The eldest Miss Qiu is flirtatious and fickle, attracting a swarm of ardent suitors who, even after falling out with their parents, are determined to seek justice for her.

The second Miss Qiu is sinister and vicious, secretly harming her own sister, stopping at nothing to climb the social ladder.

For a time, neither of the Qiu sisters had a good reputation.

Thinking of Madam Mei's increasingly haggard appearance, Qiu Shuiyi seethed with silent hatred.

These culprits not only failed to repent properly but also had the audacity to spout nonsense here?

A cold sneer curled at the corner of her lips. Qiu Shuiyi said, "You have neither a marriage contract with my sister nor any affection for her. Having tarnished her reputation, how dare you question me with such self-righteousness?"

"Why not question yourselves? Are you saving her or harming her?"

Her words, firm and resonant, struck like a hammer. The veins on Zhou Qian's neck stood out starkly. "It was clearly you who harmed Miss Lianying!"

"Shut up!"

*Slap—*

The crisp sound was like a thunderbolt from the sky. The crowd of onlookers stirred, and even the lackeys Zhou Qian brought along were shocked.

"Young lord!"

Zhou Qian touched his cheek, his eyes dark and sinister. "You dare hit me?"

"Why wouldn't I dare?"

Qiu Shuiyi shook her reddened palm.

"Who do you think you are, daring to cause trouble at my Marquis of Yun'an's residence?"

"A bunch of fools who harmed my sister over baseless rumors."

"You bitch!"

"Go ahead and hit me."

Qiu Shuiyi didn't even lift her eyelids. "If you can take half a step out of the Marquis of Yun'an's residence after that slap, I'll renounce the Qiu name."

Zhou Qian angrily withdrew his raised hand.

"Not only spineless, but also stupid." Qiu Shuiyi's gaze was mocking. "Haven't you considered? If I really harmed Qiu Lianying, would my parents tolerate me?"

Yu Zhao, who had been standing by watching, spoke up defiantly. "With Miss Lianying gone, the marquis and his wife only have you left as a daughter. Naturally, they wouldn't punish you."

Qiu Shuiyi sneered. "I am my parents' daughter, and so is my sister. Moreover, she has been with them for sixteen years. In terms of affection, it's only deeper than mine. If I harmed my own sister and my parents still cherished me like a pearl, are you questioning their sincerity towards my sister, or are you suspecting they lack integrity and are shielding a murderer?"

Yu Zhao was left speechless.

"Silver-tongued," Zhou Qian sneered coldly.

Qiu Shuiyi stared straight ahead. "Stupid as a pig."

Before Zhou Qian could erupt in anger, she stepped forward.

The surrounding playboys involuntarily made way for her.

At the foot of the stone steps stood a dense crowd of commoners, watching this grand spectacle with curiosity.

Qiu Shuiyi asked gently, "Everyone, don't you think I'm right?"

They had naturally heard her earlier words, and upon being asked this, they put their heads together and started whispering.

"That makes sense. How the Marquis's wife has treated the eldest Qiu daughter all these years, we've all seen it for ourselves."

"Exactly. Before the eldest Miss Qiu came of age, the Marquis even brought her to my stall to buy candy figures."

"The Marquis is generous, and his wife is kind. If the younger Qiu girl really killed her older sister, even as their daughter, they definitely wouldn't protect her at all."

"Then what about this rumor..."

A woman rolled her eyes, "It must have been made up by some jealous troublemaker."

Qiu Shuiyi's expression softened further, "As for the claim that my sister died, that's even more absurd. My grandmother is getting on in years and just wanted my sister to stay a while longer. Yet some people are spreading nonsense. Can you imagine how upset she'd be if she returns to the capital?"

"Exactly, she's alive and well, yet they insist she's no longer in this world. Who wouldn't be angry?"

"If I were the eldest Miss Qiu, I'd tear their mouths apart."

A woman in the crowd said indignantly and loudly.

Qiu Shuiyi sighed deeply, "Gossip is a fearsome thing. You ladies understand me, but most folks in the capital aren't as clear-headed as you all."

Upon hearing this, the woman raised her eyebrows proudly.

"Your word doesn't prove anything. Who can confirm that Miss Lianying is really just visiting relatives?"

Zhou Qian shot back.

"I can prove it."

A woman's voice rang out from inside the gate.

Madam Mei, supported by Xin Liu and Xin Tao, emerged slowly. Usually gentle and graceful, she now wore a stern expression, her eyes cold and unfriendly as she swept them over Zhou Qian and the others.

"Lady Marquis."

Zhou Qian and Yu Zhao straightened up, bowing respectfully.

The followers also lowered their heads, "Greetings, Lady Marquis."

Madam Mei lifted the corner of her eye, sneering coldly, "Save your courtesies. You've unjustly tarnished my eldest daughter's reputation and pressured my younger daughter—what exactly are you trying to do?"

Yu Zhao said awkwardly, "Madam, we just wanted to know the whereabouts of Miss Lianying."

"Mind your tongue, Young Master Yu." Madam Mei scoffed, "I only have one son, and we are not kin. Don't call my daughter 'sister'."

Yu Zhao's face flushed with humiliation.

"As for my daughter, she is naturally at my maternal family, looking after her grandmother. If you don't believe it, you can send someone to the Mei family to check for yourself."

"Yet you insist she's met with misfortune—is this you wishing an early death on her?"

At this point, Madam Mei was already filled with anger, her voice suddenly sharp.

Yu Zhao pressed his lips together.

Zhou Qian's eyes held hidden fury, but he didn't dare speak.

"Mother, don't be angry." Qiu Shuiyi turned to support Madam Mei, "Once I go for Grandmother's birthday celebration and bring my sister back safe and sound, the rumors will die a natural death."

Madam Mei raised her tear-filled eyes, her voice trembling, "Yi'er, you... what did you say?"

Qiu Shuiyi tightened her grip on Madam Mei's hand and said softly, "I'm going to bring her back."

"What if..."

"What if you're just using this as an excuse to leave the capital and flee?"

Zhou Qian blurted out.

"Enough!"

Madam Mei suddenly shouted sharply, "Who do you think you are? The family affairs of our Marquis of Yun'an's residence, the daughters of the Qiu family—what business is it of yours? Is this how the Zhou family raises its sons?"

"No," Zhou Qian explained, "I..."

"Have you no shame?"

A rough voice thundered like rolling thunder, causing Zhou Qian to flinch.

Outside the crowd, the Marquis of Yun'an's gaze was heavy.

Behind him, dozens of middle-aged men simultaneously showed angry expressions.

Under their sweeping gazes, the young masters couldn't help but lower their heads, avoiding their fathers' eyes, and uneasily shuffled backward.

The crowd instinctively split open.

The middle-aged men rushed toward their own sons.

"You little brat, can't you go a single day without stirring up trouble for your old man? Get back home now!"

"You disgrace! Get home!"

Marquis Yu dragged Yu Zhao in front of Qiu Shuiyi and kicked the back of his knees out from under him.

The long sword fell to the side.

With a thud, Yu Zhao hit the ground hard, his eyebrows furrowing in pain before quickly relaxing, betraying no sign of pain.

Marquis Yu sternly rebuked, "Apologize to Miss Qiu!"

Yu Zhao remained silent.

Seeing his stubbornness, Marquis Yu's eyes widened in anger, "Will you apologize or not?"

Yu Zhao still didn't speak.

"You little brat, if I don't teach you a proper lesson today, I'm not your father!"

"Marquis."

Qiu Shuiyi said softly, "Since he isn't sincerely apologizing, whether he speaks or not doesn't matter much."

"Exactly," Madam Mei spoke up, "Marquis Yu, you'd best take your son in hand. Today, my marquis residence's front gate has already staged a big drama; there's no need for a second act."

Holding back her anger, Madam Mei's words revealed some emotion.

Marquis Yu sensed her displeasure and, suppressing his shame and anger, said, "Madam, today it was my disgrace of a son's fault. You have my word, I will take him back and keep a close watch on him, never allowing him to harass your niece again."

Mei Shi offered a perfunctory smile. "That'd be for the best."

As he was being dragged away by Marquis Yu, Yu Zhao suddenly turned back and said to Qiu Shuiyi, "Remember your words. If you don't bring her back, you'll regret it."

"I'll make *you* pay!"

Marquis Yu slapped Yu Zhao on the back of the head, cursing and scolding all the way back to their residence.

The other playboys also trickled away.

Count Xianming immediately had his men tie up Zhou Qian and carried him off.

Zhou Qian kept ranting obscenities, and Count Xianming, annoyed, gagged him. He then apologized profusely to the Marquis of Yun'an before taking Zhou Qian away.

The crowd also scattered.

After everyone had left, the gate of the Marquis of Yun'an's residence immediately fell silent.

Mei Shi, physically and mentally exhausted, gave a weary wave. "Let's go, back inside."

Returning to their private chambers and sitting for a while, Qiu Shuiyi said, "Mother, I'll go back to pack my things and return for supper."

Mei Shi froze.

The Marquis of Yun'an stopped drinking his tea.

After a long silence, the Marquis of Yun'an sighed. "Go ahead. You haven't met your maternal grandmother yet, so it's a good time to visit her. Stay until after her birthday celebration. By then, if your sister hasn't been found... let her succumb to illness."

Mei Shi's face turned as pale as paper. She managed to say, "You can stay a few more days. Don't worry about home—I'll handle everything here."

Qiu Shuiyi pursed her lips and slowly smiled. "Alright."

After she left, Mei Shi suddenly buried herself in the Marquis of Yun'an's arms, sobbing her heart out.

"Ying'er, my Ying'er."

The Marquis of Yun'an felt a sharp pain in his heart. With tears in his eyes, he held Mei Shi tightly and said hoarsely, "This is only a last resort. Unless absolutely necessary, I would never let Ying'er 'succumb to illness.' My wife, I will do everything in my power to find our daughter."

I will.

...

Three days later, Qiu Shuiyi boarded a carriage leaving the capital, carrying gifts for her maternal grandmother.

Mei Shi, anxious, repeated her instructions over and over. Only after the Marquis of Yun'an urged her five times did she reluctantly let go of Qiu Shuiyi's hand.

"Alright, go ahead."

Mei Shi stepped back and said to Uncle Zhong, "Be careful on the road."

Uncle Zhong laughed heartily. "Don't worry, Madam."

"Father, Mother, I'm leaving."

Qiu Shuiyi waved.

"Go ahead."

The Marquis of Yun'an said softly.

As the carriage gradually moved away, Mei Shi's smile faded, and she tightly clutched the handkerchief in her hands.

If it weren't for Prince Huaiping, how could her Yi'er have been forced into such a situation?

How could Ying'er have "succumbed to illness"?

Prince Huaiping was truly bullying us beyond endurance.

The sound of clattering hooves approached from afar. A haggard-looking Qiu Jinbai stumbled out of the carriage, his face lighting up with delight when he looked up.

He had been working day and night on official duties lately, unable to return home. Finally finishing his work, he was deeply moved to see his parents waiting for him at the gate upon his return.

"Father, Mother, are you here to welcome me?"

Mei Shi shot him an annoyed glance without a word, pulling the Marquis of Yun'an as they turned and went back inside.

Leaving Qiu Jinbai utterly confused.