《Spring Banquet》


 CH 1

    // The wretched Grand Princess of Danyang


    ¡°What are these white banners doing all over the street? Wow, even all the officials are wearing white belts?¡±


    ¡°How many days have you not been out, don¡¯t you even know about this? The Princess Protector is dead ah! The whole country is mourning!¡±


    ¡°The Princess Protector? Do you mean Princess Danyang? Isn¡¯t it a good thing that she¡¯s dead? It¡¯s time to beat the gong and beat the drums to celebrate ah.¡±


    ¡°Shhh¡­ if these words are heard by the officials, they will arrest you and throw you in prison.¡±


    The people in the teahouse sat at the table in twos and threes, looking at the paper money filling the whole sky, there were a lot of discussions.


    If you want to talk about Princess Danyang, then she is but an old moth of the Northern Wei Dynasty for twelve years, a great scourge that is terrified by the whole court. She is clearly a daughter, but regardless of shame, she has raised dozens of gigolos, hooked up with courtiers, played politics, as well as framed loyal and upright people!


    Wherever she went, corpses were everywhere, and the people were destitute. Her evil deeds are numerous, her crimes so innumerable that it¡¯s hard to count!


    If you want to write a biography for Princess Danyang, there will definitely be many officials in the central court who will jump out and add their pen, carefully using the harshest words to nail and humiliate the princess forever to the monument of history, so that she will never be able to be reincarnated!


    However, good and evil are rewarded, the grand princess who has been arrogant for many years, was finally imprisoned in Feiyun Palace for ¡®murdering an important minister¡¯, in the 8th year of Daxing. Even more so on the day the new emperor hold reign, she died of ¡®illness¡¯ in her mansion, bleeding from the seven orifices, an extremely tragic death.


    The government decently held a funeral, but the common people inwardly felt happy.


    Evil is rewarded with evil! It was good to die!


    In the midst of the cheers, snow-white paper money fell one after another, some were swept by the wind, swirled in the air, flying to the gate of an official residence next to the official road, and flew over the lacquer plaque.


    Bai Manor.


    In the wing room of the west courtyard of the mansion, someone turned over and inadvertently swept away the medicinal bowl that had been placed by the bedside.


    ¡°Pa!¡±


    With a crisp sound, Li Huaiyu suddenly woke up, her heart beating like a drum, and she broke into a cold sweat when she opened her eyes. She propped her body to sit up, her throat gasped uncontrollably, her eyelashes trembled violently, and it took a long time for her nerves to return to normal.


    Where is this?


    The simple and crude wing room is filled with old and cheap furnishings, and the light filters through the mottled carved windows, shining out the dust in the air, which is as hazy as fog.


    As she frowned and stared at the dust for a while, Huaiyu was a little dazed.


    The door was pushed open with a ¡®creak¡¯, and a servant girl with a water basin stepped in. When she saw her, she said happily, ¡°Young miss, you are finally awake!¡±


    Young miss? Li Huaiyu frowned and looked at her, thinking to herself, where did this ignorant palace girl come from? She has been called ¡®Your Royal Highness¡¯ since birth, when had she ever been called ¡®young miss¡¯?


    ¡°This time you have frightened this servant, this servant almost thought that you took your last breath!¡± The maid muttered to herself with a sigh.


    Breathe one¡¯s last? Could it be that she hasn¡¯t died and is still alive? Huaiyu was taken aback, and took a deep breath ¡ª


    She really is still breathing!


    She¡­ didn¡¯t die?


    A wave of tremors spread from the tip of her heart to all parts of her body. Li Huaiyu got up excitedly, jumped out of bed, rushed to the window sill, and pushed the wooden window open.


    The sun was shining brightly, shining down from between her fingers, and falling on her face, it was very warm. A few clumps of wildflowers bloomed just right outside, and the gentle breeze passed by, shaking the jade color.


    After looking fixedly at it for a while, she took a few deep breaths of fresh air and revealed a strange smile.


    God has eyes, she is still alive.


    She, Li Huaiyu, the Grand Princess of Danyang, is still alive!


    The little girl behind her was frightened by her actions, she gaped and stammered: ¡°Young¡­ Young Miss?¡±


    With a smile, Huaiyu looked around, turned her head inexplicably, pointed to the tip of her nose, and asked her, ¡°Are you calling me?¡±


    Lingxiu nodded and looked baffled, ¡°Of course this servant is calling for you, young miss. Don¡¯t you recognize this servant?¡±


    Huaiyu thought seriously for a while, then shook her head and said, ¡°I don¡¯t remember.¡±


    Her last memory was of Feiyun Palace, 27th of the 3rd month, where she drank the red poison given by the emperor, spat out a mouthful of blood and lay down on the soft bed.


    There was a group of people kneeling in front of her, red eyes choking and kowtow to her, and shouted in unison: ¡°Your highness ¡ª¡±


    These two words sound like flute-blowing whines, and the phantom echoes a few sounds in the hall, mixed with forbearing cries, which made people¡¯s heart feel sour.


    Then she closed her eyes and fell into darkness.


    It stands to reason that she should be dead. Even if she is not dead, she should still be in Feiyun Palace. Why is she in this strange place?


    After glancing around the surrounding in doubt, Huaiyu saw a dressing table and quickly leaned over to take a look.


    The person in the mirror is very strange, with fine eyebrows and soft eyes, pale skin as if she has never seen the sun, and black hair like clouds. With a palm-sized face, small earlobes, and a slender neck, she was dressed in a half worn dark colored cloth, with her body devoid of flesh, she feels that she could be blown away by a gust of wind.


    This is not her.


    The world knows that Princess Danyang is unruly and domineering, half relying on her royal status, and the other half because of her unparalleled martial arts. She has been practicing martial arts for many years, and her body is full of steel tendons and iron bones, how could it look like this bamboo pole?


    But when she moved, the person in the mirror also moved. When she grimaced, the delicate face in the mirror also wrinkled.


    With a sinking heart, Li Huaiyu turned her head and asked, ¡°What is the year and month of today?¡±


    Lingxiu looked at her dumbfounded and said blankly, ¡°Today is the eighth year of Daxing, the fourth day of 4th month¡­¡±


    The fourth day of the 4th month? Huaiyu¡¯s lip suddenly turned pale, ¡°Has Princess Danyang already passed away?¡±


    Lingxiu nodded, ¡°She passed away, today just happens to be the seventh day of her death, the officials are currently holding a funeral.¡±


    Li Huaiyu, ¡°¡­¡±


    Princess Danyang¡¯s funeral is already held.


    Then who is she?!


    Subconsciously shaking her head, she felt that the matter was so bizarre that her lips trembled. After turning around twice, she said, ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Lingxiu nodded her head absently, ¡°This servant will go and serve you food now!¡±


    Huaiyu nodded, and calmly watched the little girl run out. When she couldn¡¯t see the figure, she took a deep breath and lifted her skirt, and rushed out!


    Her body is at the funeral, but she could still talk and jump in another person¡¯s body, this kind of thing¡­ If she didn¡¯t see it with her own eyes, even if you beat her to death she still wouldn¡¯t believe it.


    Rushing out of the room, it seemed like a large courtyard outside, Li Huaiyu didn¡¯t have the heart to look at anything, and while avoiding people, ran all the way through the moon gate corridor to find the outermost courtyard wall. She looked left and right and seeing that there was no one, she step on the debris piled up by the wall and climb up.


    She can¡¯t do needlework embroidery, however, she is more familiar with climbing walls and hunting birds than anyone else. Although the courtyard wall is a little higher, Huaiyu still climbed up the eaves of the tile and jumped gracefully¡ª


    And then she fell down onto the ground with a ¡®bang¡¯!


    ¡°Ah!¡± letting out a painful cry, Li Huaiyu couldn¡¯t get up for a long time.


    She miscalculated. If it had been her before, it would¡¯ve been but a trivial matter. But now, her body seems to be very weak and not very obedient. Unexpectedly, she actually fell down directly, it was such a disgrace.


    But fortunately, the place where she fell was not bad, softer than the stone tile floor, so it would not hurt, but her lip was broken by her teeth, and there was a rusty taste at the tip of her tongue.


    ¡°Hiss¡ª¡± It really hurts!


    Before she could get up, a cold light flashed beside her, and a murderous killing intent came to her in an instant, ¡°Who is it!¡±


    Li Huaiyu was startled, and when she looked to the side, there was a guard in a black robe, looking at her with a frown and holding a sharp blade.


    What about it? She¡¯s just climbing over the wall, she¡¯s not assassinating anyone. Why is he so excited?


    The soft ground beneath her moved.


    Sensing that something was wrong, Li Huaiyu blinked and slowly looked down.


    There was a person wearing a blue and purple brocade soft cloud suit pressed under her body. The jade crown was still upright, and his expression was calm. A pair of ink-dyed eyes glared at her, like a black dragon breaking waves. Some of his whitened lips were dyed with a touch of bright red, like flowers blooming in the snow.


    At first glance, Huaiyu was a little surprised. This person is really out of this world ah, his appearance is really handsome and his expression is also good.


    However, at a second glance, Huaiyu recognized who this face was.


    This¡­ This person¡­


    ¡°Still not getting up?¡± He said coldly.


    Hearing this familiar voice, Huaiyu¡¯s face changed from shock to livid. Sitting on him, not only did she not get up, on the contrary, she even had the idea of wanting to crush him to death.


    Enemies really are bound to meet on a narrow road, Jiang Xuanjin!


    The paper money fell down from all over the sky. Li Huaiyu casually pinched one and looked down at the person underneath her. Her heart was filled with hatred.


    The world said that Princess Danyang was blamed by the new emperor for ¡®the murder of important ministers¡¯ and died. However, Li Huaiyu, herself knows exactly how she died.


    She was killed by this Ziyang Jun Jiang Xuanjin!


    On the 27th of the 3rd month, the eighth year of Daxing, a good day for funerals, Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s gaze was calm as he offered the red poison, and his voice was full of Buddha fragrance.


    ¡°Greetings to Your Highness.¡± He said.


    Wearing her favorite Yaochi Peony Palace Dress, Huaiyu sat on the Ruyi Hehuan couch and graciously accepted the poison, and drank it down.


    ¡°Your majesty must live a long life and be a hundred years old ah.¡± She laughed.


    This was the last thing she said to him, not in a tender and loving way, but with the resignation of having to turn into a stern ghost to take revenge, every word squeezed out from between her teeth. While saying this, she swore in her heart that as long as there is still a chance, she will definitely make Jiang Xuanjin can neither live nor die!


    Now, surprisingly, we actually met again.

 CH 2

    // Watching your own funeral


    Her hands were clenched into a fist, so tight that her knuckles had turned white. Huaiyu looked down at the man under her and unconsciously reached down and put her hand between his throat. Her five fingers were slightly open. As long as she closed them and put some force, she should be able to choke him!


    However, the guard next to her moved faster than she had thought and placed a sword across her throat, shouting angrily, ¡°What are you doing!¡±


    After a slight pause, Huaiyu suddenly snapped out of it.


    The person under her looked at her quietly with a pair of black eyes, and had no intention of resisting. It¡¯s not because he couldn¡¯t resist, but because she didn¡¯t pose any threat at all.


    Her hand was already on his neck, this action was very dangerous, and Chengxu, the person next to her, already have a dark face. If she dared to move again, his sword would slice her neck!


    The situation was not very good.


    When Huaiyu turned her eyes, she immediately softened her expression. Her five sharp claws turned into soft, delicate hands. She touched the man¡¯s neck to his chest and blinked, ¡°This young man


    is really handsome ah~¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s originally calm expression was torned apart by her shameless touch.


    His eyebrows furrowed, and there was a sharp look in his eyes. He braced himself to get up, and without mercy, threw the person on his body down.


    ¡°Aah!¡± Huaiyu fell to the ground and rolled twice, almost hitting the wall behind her.


    ¡°Gongzi is so fierce ah!¡± She stood up aggrievedly and said with her throat pinched, ¡°How can you be so rude to a delicate girl!¡±


    With this shameless appearance, you still claim to be a delicate girl? Jiang Xuanjin shook his head when he heard this. He brushed his sleeves and waved the paper money off his robe, frowning at her.


    Huaiyu looked back at him with a fake smile, but the waves in her heart were difficult to calm for a while. It¡¯s also a kind of fate to wake up and run into the person who had killed you. It¡¯s just a pity that she currently has no chance of revenge.


    Impulsiveness is recklessness, and wisdom is the best plan. Since there is no chance, let him go today, the future is still long. Huaiyu is very open-minded, patting the dust on her skirt, and generously said, ¡°If it were anyone else, I wouldn¡¯t give up, but seeing how charming gongzi is, let¡¯s forget it.¡±


    After saying that, she waved her hand at him, ¡°See you later ah.¡±


    It was clearly she who fell from the sky and smashed him, so how could this be said as if she had forgiven him for his mistakes? Jiang Xuanjin listened a little dazed, and even looked down to think about where he was wrong.


    Before he could think of a result, the person in front of him ran forward with a ¡®whoosh¡¯.


    ¡°You stop there!¡± He frowned.


    Of course, Li Huaiyu would not stop. Not only did she not stop, she also ran faster, taking three steps and two steps, and directly squeezed into the crowd on the side of the official road.


    She came out to see her coffin. How could she have so much energy to entangle with enemies who she couldn¡¯t kill?


    The funeral procession came out of the palace, and the official road was surrounded by people watching the excitement. When Huaiyu squeezed to the front, the chariot carrying the coffin happened to pass by and was just ahead.


    Tall eight pear carriage, the top side of the Nanmu coffin glowed with dark light. Knotted flowers made of white silk fluttered around the casket, and on both sides of the front of the coffin, white funeral lamps swayed around, with two big words written on them¡ª


    Danyang.


    It¡¯s not a dream, no one was playing a joking on her. The eldest princess of Danyang really had a funeral, but she somehow survived in another person¡¯s body and was watching her own funeral here.


    ¡®Dong¡ª¡¯ There was a sound coming from the ritual bronze which was carried at the front, and a handful of paper money was raised high into the sky, then flew and scattered down.


    The people around all felt unlucky. Mouthing a series of ¡®bah¡¯, they brushed the paper money away, but Huaiyu stood still and allowed a piece of paper money to land on her eyebrow. In the midst of the noise, she suddenly heard the voice of Huai Song:


    ¡°Imperial sister, you didn¡¯t kill Prime Minister Sima, did you? Zhen know that it¡¯s impossible for you to kill him!¡±


    ¡°What if it¡¯s me, and so what if it¡¯s not me?¡±


    ¡°Heavenly principle is clear, there is always right and wrong between good and evil. If it¡¯s you, zhen will not tolerate it; if it¡¯s not you, zhen will definitely protect you!¡±


    Protect her? Li Huaiyu returned to her senses and let out a low laugh.


    The affairs of the court. Huai Song was never as simple as she had thought. Look, she trusted him once and was framed to death. What a painful lesson ah!


    She just didn¡¯t know, did Huai Song thought it through, whether he can continue to support the world of the Li family after her death?


    She stared blankly, but the people around her were tucking in their sleeves and talking:


    ¡°Look at this display, it is surprisingly bigger than the funeral of Prime Minister Sima.¡±


    ¡°Bah! What¡¯s the point of making a big show? When Prime Minister Sima died, all the people knelt down to see him off. Do you see what this eldest princess has? Everyone is eating melon seeds and watching the play!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a pity that the fine golden Nanmu coffin was used to bury this filthy beast!¡±


    ¡°Prime Minister Sima¡¯s spirit in heaven should also rest in peace, the person who killed him has finally suffered retribution!¡±


    Listening to the curses in her ears, Li Huaiyu wiped her face with the paper money and followed the curses with feigned anger, ¡°Yes ah, retribution!¡±


    The common people next to her looked at her and praised one after another, ¡°This girl seems to be a person with a righteous heart.¡±


    ¡°I guess she must have been persecuted by Princess Danyang as well.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Li Huaiyu nodded heavily, ¡°She took away my freedom and ruined my reputation, causing me to work hard for eight years, it¡¯s really hateful!¡±


    So miserable? The eyes of the people looking at her were suddenly full of sympathy.


    Li Huaiyu also sympathized a little bit for herself.


    After eight years of an absurd dream, she have won the name of a fickle woman after her death ah.


    Although, her reputation will only live for a hundred generations, but the stench can last for ten thousand years. Now that she thought about it, heh! She¡¯s not at a loss!


    While grinning, Huaiyu watched the coffin passed by in front of her, but couldn¡¯t help but reached out and wave at it.


    You¡¯ve worked hard, Danyang.


    The mourning lamp was blown in a circle by the wind, and the word Danyang swayed back and forth, as if it was waving at her.


    Huaiyu¡¯s eyes were red, and she turned around wanting to leave.


    However, at this moment, in the distance there was a commotion in the crowd, and the screams exploded like a spring thunder on the flat ground¡ª ¡°Get out of the way! Out of the way!¡±


    Several huge clumps of straw were ignited and burned into fiery fireballs. They suddenly rolled down from the eaves next to the official road and pressed towards the coffin in the center of the funeral procession.


    ¡°It¡¯s on fire¡ª¡±


    There were screams everywhere, and the people on both sides of the official road hurriedly scrambled for cover. Those fire balls rolled straight down, igniting the paper money that were flying on the road, and the fire spread immediately.


    The funeral procession guards panicked. Many people in front of them pulled out their swords, and the spirit guards in the middle held the scabbards to block the fireball. However, there were paper money all around, and the fire was raging and unstoppable. They could only watch the white silk on the coffin burn.


    ¡°Put out the fire, quickly put out the fire!¡±


    The funeral procession, which was still in an orderly manner just now, became a mess in an instant. Li Huaiyu watched blankly from the side, and when she realised what was happening, she couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    How unpopular was she ah? Unexpectedly, even her funeral is not peaceful. Isn¡¯t it said that the deceased is the greatest? Are those individuals even disregarding this rule?


    Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh¡ª


    As if to confirm her thoughts, a large group of masked men leapt out from behind the eaves where the fireball had rolled down, all armed with swords and was extremely fast, swooping down on her coffin like locusts across a field.


    ¡°Protect the coffin!¡± The great general Huben Zhonglang shouted, and all the military generals on the official road sheathed their swords to meet this group of uninvited guests.


    However, they were caught off guard, where could they withstand the prepared arrival of the others?The masked group of people were divided into three teams. The two teams cut the guards in front of and behind the coffin and fought with each other. While, the middle team, brought a shovel and rushed directly onto the eight colt wooden cart, and quickly pried open her coffin with extremely fast hands and feet.


    Click!


    Huaiyu heard the dull sound. Looking at those nearly crazy masked people in front of them, she wanted to laugh, but couldn¡¯t pull the corners of her lip.


    That¡¯s right, she offended so many people when she was alive, how could these people let her be buried in peace? They must drag her body out and let it be split by the five horses!


    It¡¯s tragic to say, she was a dignified princess, yet she has never heard a few good words when she was alive. Now even when she is dead, she is not at peace. She was afraid even general Huben Zhonglang, who was sending the funeral, was looking forward to her desolate end. He didn¡¯t even try his best to stop them. He watched her coffin lid slowly lifted up by a group of people.


    Looking at the high coffin lid, Li Huaiyu¡¯s throat tightened a little, her gaze swept past the group of guards with numb expressions, her fists clenched, but she helplessly let go.


    Well, does she deserve it? If the world thinks she deserves this kind of fate, then she deserves this kind of fate, what is there to be unjust?


    Taking a deep breath, she turned her head and couldn¡¯t bear to look again.


    However, when she turned his head, there was a blue and purple coloured robe in front of her. The corners of his clothes were torn by the wind, and the water patterns embroidered on them rippled like they were alive, which dazzled her eyes.


    Li Huaiyu was taken aback and looked over at this shadow.


    The emotionless masked man was holding the lid of her coffin and was about to throw it into the street, but suddenly he felt a heavy weight on his hand, a violent force struck. Unable to resist it, he let go.


    With a bang, the lid of the coffin fell back to its original place and shook several pieces of incense ash.


    The crowd was stunned and looked up in astonishment, but saw a man falling from the coffin. His blue and white robe fluttering, and he looked like a handsome gongzi. But this young man was so powerful that when he set his foot on the coffin lid, the lid of the coffin sunk as heavy as Mount Taishan , which was difficult to pry.


    He flicked open the burning paper money, stood firmly and closed his sleeves, and rebuked with a slick look in his eyes, ¡°Insolent!¡±

 CH 3

    // Does she know him?


    The noise of the street was suppressed by his reprimand. More than twenty masked people around him looked up at him, and it took a long time before they remembered to continue to fight.


    ¡°Get out of the way!¡± The masked man closest to him stared at him, surprised and angry, ¡°Don¡¯t get in the way of us doing our duty for the heavens!¡±


    Enforcing justice on behalf of the heavens? He sneered and said, ¡°Disturbing the coffin is a great crime of dereliction of duty.¡±


    ¡°Disturbing a coffin is indeed a mortal sin, but the one in here is a beast!¡± The man said in a hateful voice, ¡°Jiang Xuanjin, you also know how guilty she is. Why are you stopping us!¡±


    How dare this group of people call him by his name? Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s eyebrows moved slightly, he stretched out his hand and pulled the white silk burning on the coffin, and swung it sideways, knocking down the two masked people who were about to move behind him. There was someone next to him who was about to climb up. He glanced towards the side and kicked a big sword next to him with the tip of his foot.


    ¡®Clang¡ª¡± The sword was awe-inspiring, splitting the blue stone stand, and the sword trembled continuously, emitting a buzz.


    Those who had initially wanted to climb up the wooden cart watched in horror, stopped and did not dare to move.


    The leader was very angry, and pointed his sword at him angrily, ¡°To refuse a gentle toast only to be forced a penalty drink!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin looked at him with a calm gaze and slowly spoke, his voice like striking jade, ¡°No matter what kind of wine you give me, if you have the ability to make me drink it, then come and try it.¡±


    The long funeral procession was cut into three sections. The front and rear sections were blocked by the masked people, so they were unable to reach to support the middle section of the coffin. The fire was raging next to him, and there were many people on the opposite side. Li Huaiyu really couldn¡¯t understand where Jiang Xuanjin had the confidence to say such things.


    There is only a Chengxu on his side ah!


    The leader who obviously also realized this snickered, ¡°You, a son of a noble family, have learned a few years of martial arts, and you want to take on a hundred of us? Since you insist on protecting this beast, don¡¯t blame us for not being polite. Go!¡±


    Just as the last words was shouted to the side, a group of masked people heard the order and rushed to the coffin without hesitation


    Li Huaiyu frowned anxiously.


    Don¡¯t get her wrong, it¡¯s impossible for her to be worried about Jiang Xuanjin. But this fight is going on next to her coffin, the wooden coffin would have to be broken, right? The nanmu wood is very rare, and it¡¯s not easy to be replaced when broken. Today is a good day for burial. If she misses it, what should she do if it affects her future fortune?


    After looking at the clothes of the group of masked people, and then looking down at the dark-coloured clothes on her body, Huaiyu had an idea. She tied her hair into a bun, tore off the corners of her clothes to cover her face, and crept into the crowd.


    Jiang Xuanjin was already fighting with the people. He slashed horizontally with a ¡®shua¡¯ on the opposite side. He flipped over and jumped out of the coffin, cleanly knocked down two people, then grabbed a long sword, and cooperated with Chengxu to get a foothold.


    There were so many people around him, yet after more than a dozen moves, no one could make him see blood.


    The leader looked at the azure figure in the encirclement in amazement, anger and in awe, ¡°My lord, you are a good person, why do you have to come and get involved in this muddy water!¡±


    ¡°The state has the national laws, and the etiquette has the rules of etiquette.¡± The tip of the sword pierced through a man¡¯s knee, and Jiang Xuanjin replied to him, ¡°Danyang has already fallen under the law, and your behavior is against the imperial court.¡±


    ¡°Is it enough that she¡¯s dead?¡± The leader said angrily, ¡°Lord Pingling was so innocent, but this woman has caused him to die without a whole body! Zhang Neishi was also a loyal slave who served the late emperor, yet she dragged him from the front hall to the entrance of the palace gates and lynched him to death! She took control of the court and disregarded the people of the seven plagued counties, treating the common people of the world like ants! Such a person, if she is not split by five horses, how can we comfort the spirits of the heroes in heaven!¡±


    Glancing at him, Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s expression moved slightly, as if he had been persuaded.


    The leader was overjoyed and hurriedly took a step closer towards him, ¡°My lord is also a pillar of the country. Princess Danyang was poisoned by the wine delivered with your own hands¡­ you¡±


    He wanted to say, you hate her too, don¡¯t you?


    However, before these words could be spoken, a long sword quickly reached his throat like a snake.


    ¡°Let them retreat.¡± Jiang Xuanjin said indifferently, ¡°If you continue to fight, you will only end up being surrounded. With me here, you can¡¯t move this coffin.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± The leader¡¯s face was livid, ¡°You don¡¯t know how to distinguish between right and wrong!¡±


    Right from wrong? Jiang Xuanjin looked at him and said, ¡°I know the difference more clearly than you.¡±


    With a sneer, the leader let him hold himself hostage and shouted angrily, ¡°Everyone go! Tear down the coffin first, don¡¯t worry about me!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± The people next to him answered, and split, with five people surrounding Jiang Xuanjin and Chengxu, while the rest ran to the other side, raising their shovel to smash the coffin.


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s expression tightened and he wanted to stop it.


    However, the leader next to him seemed to have already calculated his movements, turned his hand and pulled out the dagger in his palm, twisted his face and shouted, ¡°Since you want to protect this beast, let¡¯s go to hell together!¡±


    ¡°Jun Shang, be careful!¡±


    The murderous aura came swiftly, and Jiang Xuanjin turned around, but he was too late to dodge.


    In the blink of an eye, a person suddenly jumped out of the crowd, holding a piece of wood picked up from nowhere, and quickly and accurately hit the leader on the back of his head.


    ¡®Bang!¡¯ There was a muffled sound, and the man¡¯s dagger stopped an inch before Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s back waist. His body shook and staggered twice, looking back behind him in disbelief.


    Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback for a moment. He then raised his head slightly and saw a petite masked man staring at the leader with a pair of almond eyes. Seeing that he didn¡¯t fall, he immediately added another log.


    With a ¡®Dong¡¯, the leader finally fell to the ground.


    Li Huaiyu kicked him with some hatred the iron for not becoming steel. He was so useless. Why was he so slow? She hadn¡¯t been in a hurry to make a move. She was just thinking that she could kill two birds with one stone, but this man¡¯s short and stupid action was so clumsy that Jiang Xuanjin turned sideways to avoid his vital point. So even if he stabbed him, he couldn¡¯t kill him.


    Then it might as well be her doing him a favour.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Jiang Xuanjin looked at her suspiciously and was about to open his mouth to ask, but the shovel that was going to smash the coffin had already fallen.


    Huaiyu¡¯s pupils shrank and she reacted extremely fast. She picked up the wooden stick and threw it violently, knocking down one of the shovels, but the rest could not be helepd.


    ¡°Quickly go and stop it!¡± She pushed Jiang Xuanjin.


    Jiang Xuanjin was pushed by her and staggered two steps. Without much time to think about anything else, Jiang Xuanjin crossed over the coffin and continued to entangle with the masked men smashing the coffin.


    ¡°Jun Shang!¡± General Huben Zhonglang, who led the team ahead, finally broke through the interception and came over with support. Seeing that Jiang Xuanjin was surrounded, his face turned pale from fright, and he quickly shouted, ¡°Hurry up and save Jun Shang!¡±


    Huaiyu couldn¡¯t help rolling her eyes, thinking to herself that they should be thankful that Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s martial arts was also good. Otherwise, with their speed of saving people, if it was replaced with someone who was not capable enough, there would be another coffin.


    Seeing the situation turn around, this group of masked men were not stupid either. They immediately picked up their leader and retreated while fighting.


    ¡°Oh, hey they want to slip away and block the entrance of the alley ahead!¡± Huaiyu shouted.


    Jiang Xuanjin looked sideways at her and finally recognized the voice, ¡°It¡¯s you.¡±


    Pulling her face scarf, Huaiyu smiled and waved to him, saying, ¡°To meet you again so soon, we really do have fate.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin frowned at the thought of this person¡¯s unruly behavior just now.


    He didn¡¯t think it was fate, but he felt that the person in front of him was strange and had an indescribable look in her eyes. Saying it¡¯s hate, but she is clearly smiling, but to say it¡¯s admiring or something like that, it is definitely not like that.


    Does she¡­ know him?

 CH 4

    // A glass of green wine and a song once again


    Before he could figure it out, a man knelt down in front of him.


    ¡°Jun Shang, please forgive me!¡± General Huben Zhonglang trembled and said, ¡°This humble person is negligent in taking precautions, did not do one¡¯s best to protect the soul of the departed, and even implicated Jun Shang into danger¡­¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin returned to his senses and looked at him, ¡°There is no need to plead guilty to me. His Majesty will have his own judgment on this matter.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Zhonglang broke out into a cold sweat and said, ¡°Jun Shang¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just passing by. I have other things to do, so I¡¯ll leave it to you.¡± He brushed his sleeve, wiped off the Buddha bead that was wrapped around his wrist, and pinched it again. He was about to leave with Cheng Xu.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Huaiyu called out to him from across the coffin. ¡°Those people have all run away! Don¡¯t you need to send someone to chase after them?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin glanced at her without answering and continued walking forward. Behind him, Cheng Xu took his sword and walked over to her, arching his hand and saying, ¡°Miss, my master invites you to have a chat inside the tea house next to you.¡±


    Huaiyu was surprised, looking at Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s back and then at him, ¡°Your master hasn¡¯t even spoken up, how did you know he wanted to talk to me?¡±


    Chengxu pursed his lips and said, ¡°This is the master¡¯s intention.¡±


    When did he convey the meaning? Why didn¡¯t she hear me? Li Huaiyu was surprised and after some thought, she still carried her skirt and followed the person.


    The official road was in a mess, and the fire was gradually extinguished. In the end, the thieves were chased by no one, and they easily disappeared all over Jingdu.


    Huai Yu followed Cheng Xu up to the second floor and entered a rather quiet wing.


    Jiang Xuanjin reached out to hold the teapot and was pouring tea. When he heard the commotion, he asked without raising his head, ¡°What do you want to do?¡±


    Li Huaiyu was startled, and for a moment felt like she could barely breathe.


    Did he recognize her?


    ¡°You blocked my way into the palace, and again you helped me. If you say that you didn¡¯t have any other intentions, it would be hard to justify it.¡± Jiang Xuanjin looked up at her as he placed the poured tea in front of her. ¡°We might as well get straight to the point.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Huaiyu understood. He didn¡¯t recognize her, he just felt that she had ulterior motives.


    She breathed out a huge sigh of relief and laughed out loud. She flung her robe and sat opposite of him. Taking a cup of tea and casually taking a few sips, she wiped her mouth and said, ¡°What happened today was mostly a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°Coincidence?¡± Jiang Xuanjin had a faint smile on his face as he slowly poured himself a cup and sniffed it. His eyes were dark as he stared at her quietly, clearly not believing her words.


    Li Huaiyu¡¯s entire body went numb from his stare. Her eyes rolled and she sighed helplessly, ¡°It seems that it is not easy to deceive to you. Then I will be honest with you.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin nodded slightly and said, ¡°Say it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s like this.¡± Huaiyu said as she closed her hands and her eyes lit up with soft light, staring straight at him. ¡°I took a fancy on you.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your reaction?¡± Seeing his face suddenly froze, Huaiyu was so happy that she slapped her thigh, but her face was filled with grievance, ¡°You forced me to say it!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s forehead twitched. He lowered his eyes and suddenly felt that it was unnecessary for him to invite her up to talk. This person was shameless and there was not a single word of truth in her mouth. It¡¯s useless to ask any questions.


    Taking a deep breath, he propped himself up on the table.


    ¡°Eh?¡± Huaiyu stood up and asked, ¡°Where are you going? I haven¡¯t apologized for taking advantage of you just now.¡±


    Frivolous? What a good frivolous! This word was usually used by young masters to tease beautiful women. Who had ever seen a woman flirt with a man?


    He said in a cold voice, ¡°There¡¯s no need to compensate. We¡¯ll never see each other again!¡±


    After saying that, he lifted his foot and wanted to leave. However, the moment he took a step forward, his sleeve was pulled by someone.


    ¡°Are you stupid?¡± The person behind him grabbed his sleeve, twisted her waist, stomped her foot, and said in a coquettish voice, ¡°The lady said that she would apologize to you because she wanted to seduce you. Who cares if she needs to compensate or not?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin had been taught by a famous teacher from a young age to abide by etiquette and rules, with a sense of honesty and shame. The people around him were also well-educated and well-mannered. Even if he encountered some vulgar people, they would not dare to speak nonsense in front of him.


    He never expected to meet a completely shameless one today!


    ¡°You.¡± He couldn¡¯t believe it, looking back at her and frowned, ¡± You¡¯re a girl, why are you so shameless when you speak?¡±


    With a raised eyebrow, Huaiyu said, ¡°What is shameful? I really don¡¯t know. I just saw that you were handsome, and I took action since you were attacked on the official road just now. You were the only one in the world with a heroic demeanor, so I fell in love with you. I am pleased with you, admire you, and wanted to seduce you. Is there anything strange about that?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was stunned, and Cheng Xu, who was beside him, was also dumbfounded. The two of them stared at her blankly as if they were looking at a monster.


    ¡°What? You don¡¯t like to hear it directly?¡± Huaiyu raised her eyebrows and smiled, her eyes curved,¡± Then I¡¯ll give you a euphemism?¡±


    As she spoke, she casually pulled out the tea spoon on the table beside her and tapped on the lacquered carved flower table and sang:


    ¡°At the spring banquet, a glass of green wine and a song.¡±


    ¡°Farewell to Chen Sanyuan again:¡±


    ¡°I wish my husband a thousand years old, and I wish this concubine eternal health. I wish my third wish to be like swallows on a beam, always meeting each other year after year.¡±


    Her voice was like that of an oriole, and every ending of her sentence had a seductive little hook that tickled people¡¯s hearts. After she finished singing to the beat of the teaspoon, she turned to look at him with a charming smile.


    ¡°I want to see you every year ah.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face turned pale at the sound.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Huaiyu blinked at him as she placed the teaspoon down. ¡°Still don¡¯t like it?¡±


    Who can like her frivolous appearance? Jiang Xuanjin sneered and said, ¡°Cheng Xu, return to the mansion.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Cheng Xu responded, following him as he looked back at Huaiyu with admiration.


    There were many girls in capital who poured out their love to Ziyang Junshang. Every day, he sees one or two of them, but it was the first time he has met someone who could provoke his master like this.


    What a heroine!


    The female hero in the wing room looked at their backs with a smile. She felt that the distance was about right, so she lifted her step and followed them down from the tea house.


    As Jiang Xuanjin sped along, he noticed that someone was following him, and his expression turned even more unsightly. He waved his hand and told Cheng Xu to find a carriage, intending to shake her off.


    However, as soon as he got into the carriage, he felt the shaft of the carriage sank.


    ¡°Miss.¡± said Cheng Xu outside helplessly, ¡°You can¡¯t sit on top of this.¡±


    After moving her buttocks and sitting firmly on the shaft, Huaiyu innocently asked, ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°This is the carriage back to the Jiang family.¡±


    ¡°Coincidentally, I am also going to the Jiang family.¡±


    After enduring it again and again, Jiang Xuanjin still couldn¡¯t hold it in. He reached out to grab the curtain and looked at her coldly, ¡°Why are you going to the Jiang family?¡±


    Huaiyu turned around and smiled at him with red lips and white teeth. ¡°Going to apologize. We kissed and hugged. There has to be a¡­¡±


    ¡°What nonsense!¡± Jiang Xuanjin interrupted her with a black face. ¡°Who hugged and kissed you?¡±


    Huaiyu widened her eyes and said, ¡°You still want to renege on your debt?¡±


    When she jumped down at that time, she thought that her lips had hit a stone. But when she realized it, she realized that she had hit this person¡¯s teeth. Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s originally pale thin lips were dyed red with her blood. Wasn¡¯t this a kiss and hug?


    Jiang Xuanjin paused for a moment and frowned. He lowered his eyes, and recalling what had happened below the wall, his expression became even worse.

 CH 5

    // She became infatuated with him


    Huaiyu admired his expression with satisfaction.


    She had dealt with Jiang Xuanjin for several years and knew well that he was rigid, conservative, and dull, always sticking to his own logical reasoning.. When it came to eloquence, he was far inferior to her.


    In the past, they held differing political views and opposing positions, resulting in a confrontational atmosphere whenever they met. She had no interest in engaging in lengthy conversations with him. However, now that he had changed, she found herself teasing him a little. Hey, Jiang Xuanjin, despite his lifeless face, he does have a certain charm when he¡¯s annoyed.


    Unable to resist, she reached out and propped her chin, gazing at him.


    This face, silent for over twenty years, unchanging even in the face of significant events, finally showed signs of cracking. It turned pale, then purple, and then green, before a hint of red appeared, like the evening glow on the horizon, gently illuminating his fair cheek.


    ¡°That was a coincidence,¡± Jiang Xuanjin stiffly replied. ¡°I won¡¯t take it to heart, and you shouldn¡¯t either.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Huaiyu vigorously shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ve taken it to heart!¡±


    After saying that, she leaned down and reached out to hold onto the carriage shaft, acting like a defiant hooligan who wouldn¡¯t let go.


    Jiang Xuanjin had never dealt with someone like her before. Frowning, he looked at her and found himself at a loss for how to handle the situation.


    ¡°Young lady,¡± Cheng Xu, who was beside him, came to his rescue. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Don¡¯t you need to go home?¡±


    Home? Huaiyu was taken aback, her face filled with confusion.


    Right, from the moment she woke up until now, she hadn¡¯t figured out the identity of this body, let alone knowing who she was or where her home was.


    She drooped her head pitifully and murmured, ¡°I can¡¯t find my home.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin glanced at her askance. ¡°You¡¯re lying again. Isn¡¯t the place where you fell out from your home?¡±


    The place she fell out from? Huaiyu thought carefully and suddenly realized, ¡°Oh yeah!¡±


    That mansion was clearly an official residence, indicating that her status in this body was not low. In that case, she would still have a chance to get close to Jiang Xuanjin in the future.


    With a smile in her eyes, she said, ¡°Will you escort me home?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin forcefully pulled the curtain. ¡°Go back on your own.¡±


    ¡°My feet hurt. I twisted them when I fell, and I can¡¯t walk.¡± Huaiyu lifted the curtain, pouting and blinking at him. ¡°At the very least, you should repay me for saving your life, shouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    According to the etiquette of the Jiang family, a life-saving favor must be greatly appreciated. But this person outside the carriage¡­ Jiang Xuanjin sneered. Not only did he not owe her his life, but even if he did, he had no intention of repaying her.


    With sinister motives and ulterior motives, her intentions were impure!


    ¡°If you won¡¯t escort me, then I¡¯ll go to your house.¡± Huaiyu hummed, ¡°After all, sitting on this carriage shaft is quite comfortable.¡±


    She¡¯s just a young girl who doesn¡¯t even care about her reputation, can he really be concerned about it on her behalf? Jiang Xuanjin turned his head away and stopped looking at her. He said in a deep voice, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Cheng Xu sat on the other side of the carriage shaft and drove the carriage forward.


    Seeing that he couldn¡¯t do anything about her, Huaiyu happily let go of the curtain and sat beside Cheng Xu. Her lower legs dangled and swung along the side of the carriage shaft, displaying a lack of manners.


    Cheng Xu glanced at her from the corner of his eye and found her quite interesting. He whispered a reminder, ¡°If you truly admire our master, you should restrain yourself. He prefers knowledgeable and reasonable individuals.¡±


    ¡°Who says so?¡± Huaiyu raised an eyebrow and gestured towards the carriage, ¡°Aren¡¯t there plenty of knowledgeable and reasonable young ladies in this world? How often do you see him engaging in lengthy conversations with anyone?¡±


    Cheng Xu was taken aback, looking at her in astonishment. Upon careful consideration, he realized it was true. After so many years, no proper young lady had managed to have a conversation with Prince Ziyang (Jiang Xuanjin) that exceeded three sentences. On the other hand, this shameless person beside him had spoken more today than most people would in a year.


    However¡­ the way their master spoke was really not great.


    Feeling both amused and exasperated, Cheng Xu said, ¡°So, Miss, are you deliberately taking the opposite approach to gain our master¡¯s attention?¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Huaiyu clapped her hands together and smiled mischievously, ¡°Look, I¡¯ve succeeded! Your master is sitting in the carriage now, listening to me speak, and I guarantee he¡¯s turning purple with anger. He won¡¯t forget me for years to come!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin sat silently in the carriage, his face turning purple with anger.


    If it weren¡¯t for his upbringing, he really wanted to kick this person out of the carriage. He had encountered many shameless individuals, but someone shameless enough to be so brazen was a first. It was rare even among men, let alone a young lady.


    Who raised her?


    Today was the seventh day since Princess Danyang¡¯s passing. He was already in a complicated mood, and after being bothered by this series of events, he now felt a headache. He rubbed his temples and leaned against the carriage, intending to rest for a while.


    However, the person outside kept chattering on as if there was no end to their words.


    ¡°Hey, young man, how skilled are you in martial arts?¡±


    ¡°¡­Passable.¡±


    ¡°Your master must have offended many people, right? Are you by his side day and night, protecting him?¡±


    ¡°¡­Miss, this is classified information. I can¡¯t reveal it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just asking casually. Don¡¯t be so stingy. Oh my, you¡¯re really strong. You must have trained in martial arts for a long time. Look at these arms, they¡¯re as hard as iron. Let me touch the other one¡­¡±


    Veins bulged on Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s forehead. He opened his eyes and lifted the carriage curtain, sternly saying, ¡°If you say another word, get off the carriage!¡±


    Li Huaiyu outside was startled, turning to look at him. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your voice?¡±


    It had been fine just now, but these words sounded unusually hoarse.


    The person inside the carriage sat upright with a graceful posture, but their complexion¡­


    ¡°Are you feeling shy?¡± Li Huaiyu raised an eyebrow, sneaked into the carriage, and sat next to him, carefully observing him. ¡°Your face is so red!¡±


    ¡°Who allowed you to come in?¡± Jiang Xuanjin was annoyed, his voice hoarse. ¡°Get out!¡±


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t be so fierce.¡± Li Huaiyu reached out and held his wrist, boldly placing her hand on his forehead to feel it.


    Her touch was scorching hot.


    ¡°Oh dear, so you can get sick too.¡± Huaiyu chuckled, retracting her hand and patting him with a smile. ¡°People outside say that Prince Ziyang is as strong as iron and unyielding. He has been attending court for eight years without interruption. How come you¡¯re running a high fever?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was momentarily stunned. He reached out and touched his own forehead, furrowing his brow even tighter.


    Princess Danyang¡¯s passing and the subsequent troubles had been overwhelming. In these seven days, he had slept for less than five hours in total. It seemed that the accumulated exhaustion had taken its toll on him.


    ¡°Take advantage of the situation,¡± he called out, ¡°Change course and find a pharmacy.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Chengxu responded promptly and immediately turned the carriage around.


    He had initially thought that the headache was due to frustration, but now he realized that he was actually falling ill. His mind became even more foggy and swollen. Jiang Xuanjin clenched his fist and coldly said to the person beside him, ¡°Can you please leave?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Huaiyu shook her head and generously patted her own thigh. ¡°The carriage is shaking badly. Look at how your body is swaying. Let me lend you a soft cushion to lie down for a while!¡±


    With a darkened expression, Jiang Xuanjin said, ¡°It¡¯s not necessary.¡±


    ¡°As a girl, I don¡¯t mind. But you, a grown man, are being so fussy?¡± Huaiyu pouted and suddenly made a move, immediately hooking her arm around his neck and pulling him into her embrace.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Jiang Xuanjin was startled, trying to push her away with his hand. However, this girl had quite some strength and even knew some grappling techniques. She clasped her hands around him, leaving him weak and unable to break free for a moment.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, no one can see us.¡± Li Huaiyu smiled gleefully, provocatively looking at the red-faced person in her arms. She felt a sense of excitement, as if she were teasing a decent married woman in a street ruffian manner, inexplicably thrilled.


    The ¡®decent married woman¡¯ in her arms, however, was not at all excited. She frowned at her, gathering her strength to resist.


    ¡°Hey, let me make this clear first.¡± She said maliciously, ¡°If you dare to move, I¡¯ll scream indecent assault. Anyway, I don¡¯t care about my reputation, but it¡¯s up to you, Prince Ziyang, whether you want to protect your spotless reputation or not.¡±

 CH 6

    // The art of deceptive words


    Jiang Xuanjin was furious to the point of half-death.


    How could there be such a person? Not only does she disregard etiquette and manners, but she also refuses to listen to reason! He, a dignified man standing seven feet tall, lying in a girl¡¯s embrace, is this acceptable? Moreover, he is the honored Prince Ziyang. When others see him, they should be respectful and reverent. Where did this person find such audacity?


    ¡°Look at how feverish your body is, just like a freshly roasted sweet potato.¡± She pressed him against her chest and gave him a few pats, audacious Li Huaiyu clicked her tongue. ¡°Struggle all you want. If you struggle a bit more, your head will spin even more.¡±


    Stiff all over, Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s eyes were filled with the chill of a deep winter snowstorm as he stared at her intently.


    His gaze was practically murderous, but Li Huaiyu showed no fear, and with a smirk, she patted him. ¡°Be good, sleep for a while. We¡¯re still far from the pharmacy.¡±


    ¡°Are you an outlaw?¡± he asked coldly.


    Li Huaiyu raised an eyebrow. ¡°Why do you say that?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re not an outlaw, how could you be so audacious?¡± Jiang Xuanjin squinted his eyes. ¡°Taking advantage of my weakness and showing such disrespect, have you considered the consequences?¡±


    Li Huaiyu curled her lips. ¡°Consequences? It won¡¯t be serious at all. After all, you¡¯re known throughout the world for your adherence to decorum and self-restraint. Are you going to kill me just because I hugged you and kissed you?¡±


    Everyone in the world knows that the Jiang family upholds strict moral standards, and their offspring are all virtuous and upright, following the rules diligently. Jiang Xuanjin, in particular, is among the best, always disregarding personal grudges and focusing solely on the grand affairs of the court.


    It is precisely because of this that she dares to act so recklessly.


    Jiang Xuanjin closed his eyes and lay stiffly in her embrace.


    This person truly understands him, no wonder she has such a fearless attitude, accurately assuming that he would not use his power to oppress others.


    If it were Princess Danyang instead, encountering such a person, she would definitely have dragged him out and beheaded him, right? Villains never suffer themselves, while good people always find life burdensome.


    Letting out a heavy sigh, he coughed twice.


    The carriage was indeed jolting, and although he had initially been worried about him, the girl¡¯s embrace unexpectedly provided stability. As he lay there, his consciousness gradually blurred.


    In his daze, Jiang Xuanjin could feel the person continuously patting him gently, humming a familiar tune that sounded gentle and lingering.


    Li Huaiyu was humming the song ¡®Spring Banquet¡¯. As she hummed, she lowered her head to look at him. Seeing that he had no reaction, a fleeting glimmer flashed in her eyes.


    This might be Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s most vulnerable moment, and it was also her best opportunity to kill him.


    She reached out and felt his body, but there were no sharp objects. Searching further, it seemed that he didn¡¯t have a dagger or any similar weapon. Li Huaiyu furrowed her brow, wondering what to do. Should she use her hands to strangle him? But Cheng Xu was right outside the carriage curtain. As long as Jiang Xuanjin made a sound, he would become aware.


    Li Huaiyu regretted not picking up a knife when she was fighting on the street earlier. At the very least, even a dagger would have sufficed. How could she have left without taking anything!


    Staring at the person in her arms, she felt a bit unwilling. While patting him, she pondered earnestly if there were any other alternatives.


    Jiang Xuanjin hadn¡¯t slept well in a long time. This sleep was exceptionally peaceful, with dreams of lush grass and birdsong, a perfect springtime scene. He stepped on the thick grass and leisurely walked forward, noticing a palace dress blooming under a tall jujube tree in the distance, vibrant in color, and bathed in mesmerizing light and shadow.


    When he opened his eyes, he remained somewhat dazed.


    ¡°Awake now?¡± Someone extended a hand and waved it in front of his eyes by the bedside. ¡°Impressive, the doctor said you¡¯d sleep until tomorrow.¡±


    As soon as he heard this voice, Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s expression grew somber again. ¡°Why are you still here?¡±


    Li Huaiyu looked at him in surprise, then felt a bit wronged. ¡°I was worried about you. I accompanied you all the way to the pharmacy, afraid that Cheng Xu wouldn¡¯t take good care of you. I¡¯ve been waiting here nervously. And now that you¡¯re awake, you¡¯re being disdainful!¡±


    Pausing slightly, Jiang Xuanjin glanced around.


    It seemed to be a wing of the pharmacy. The sky outside was already dark, and the room was lit with a lamp. The girl was sitting by his bedside, while Cheng Xu stood quietly in the distance.


    Rubbing his forehead, he got up from the bed. ¡°Bring me the prescription. Let¡¯s go back to the residence.¡±


    ¡°Why are you in such a hurry!¡± Li Huaiyu pushed him back with one hand. ¡°The medicine brewed in your residence can¡¯t compare to the medicinal jars from Ji Shi Tang. The senior physician even said that your illness is aggressive, and it would be best for you to stay here for a couple of days for proper recuperation. If you return now, the residence will be in chaos!¡±


    More importantly, it wouldn¡¯t be easy to make a move on the Jiang family here. When the duck is right at your mouth, it must not be allowed to fly away!


    Her face showed sincere concern, which made Jiang Xuanjin feel doubtful.


    Could it be¡­ she genuinely cares about him?


    ¡°Master, I have already sent someone back to inform the others,¡± Cheng Xu finally spoke from the side. ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t want the old master to worry, so I said you would be busy in the palace for a few more days.¡±


    Since Cheng Xu had said so, Jiang Xuanjin fell into silence for a while and finally obediently lay back down.


    However¡­


    Even with his eyes closed, he couldn¡¯t ignore the burning gaze beside him. Annoyed, he asked, ¡°Why are you staring at me?¡±


    Li Huaiyu propped up her chin and smiled mischievously. ¡°You¡¯re good-looking.¡±


    Nonsense, how could a sick person look good? Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brows.


    ¡°Don¡¯t give me that unbelieving expression,¡± Huaiyu said. ¡°I¡¯m a person who doesn¡¯t lie.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Jiang Xuanjin burst into laughter out of anger.


    She doesn¡¯t lie? From the moment they met until now, this person hasn¡¯t spoken a single truthful word! If she doesn¡¯t lie, then there are no liars in the world!


    ¡°Ah, you finally smiled!¡± Huaiyu clapped her hands in delight. ¡°You look even better when you smile! I just love seeing you smile!¡±


    Especially when you¡¯re laughing out of anger, it¡¯s particularly satisfying.


    Jiang Xuanjin closed his eyes with a dark expression.


    Huaiyu happily watched for a while before getting up and walking towards Cheng Xu, extending her hand to him.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Cheng Xu looked puzzled.


    ¡°The prescription. Didn¡¯t the doctor say it needs to be brewed again before the end of the hour of the dog? Give me the prescription, I¡¯ll go find the apprentice pharmacist.¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡± Cheng Xu shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ll go personally.¡±


    Huaiyu widened her eyes. ¡°Why? Afraid I¡¯ll poison him?¡±


    ¡°Not at all, but as the master, anything that goes into his mouth should be overseen by me.¡±


    With a dissatisfied posture and hands on her hips, Huaiyu said, ¡°In the end, it¡¯s all because you¡¯re afraid he¡¯ll be poisoned, right? If I oversee it, wouldn¡¯t it be fine? Besides, you¡¯re the only one here. If I really wanted to harm him, wouldn¡¯t it be the same after you leave?¡±


    Cheng Xu was left dumbfounded, momentarily at a loss. He thought to himself, what she said seemed quite reasonable!


    ¡°Well¡­¡± He took out the prescription.


    Huaiyu snatched it away and held it in her hand, waving it at him before walking out.


    Jiang Xuanjin opened his eyes on the bed.


    ¡°Master?¡± Cheng Xu asked hesitantly, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I accompany you to have a look?¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Jiang Xuanjin coughed softly. ¡°I actually want to see for myself what she intends to do.¡±


    Cheng Xu scratched his head and whispered, ¡°I actually find this girl straightforward and don¡¯t think she wants to harm you. The things she said¡­¡±


    ¡°You also believed her words?¡± Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow. ¡°After following me for so many years, do you still trust these sweet words and deceitful words?¡±


    Cheng Xu paused and didn¡¯t dare to make a sound.


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face darkened as he pondered for a while, then added in a low voice, ¡°They cannot be trusted. Whoever believes them is a fool.¡±

 CH 7

    // Entangling him, trapping him!


    Li Huaiyu held the prescription tightly and wandered around until she found the medicine boy.


    ¡°This medicine needs to be boiled for half an hour,¡± the medicine boy said as he handed her the medicine and a jar. ¡°I have quite a lot on my hands. Could you help me keep an eye on it?¡±


    ¡°No problem,¡± Li Huaiyu nodded with a smile, taking the fan from his hand and bringing a stool to sit beside the small stove.


    The medicine boy hurried off to the other side, the spacious backyard filled with boiling medicine. He had no time to pay attention to her.


    Li Huaiyu glanced at the medicine jar, narrowing her eyes slightly.


    After half an hour, the well-boiled medicine was poured into a bowl and placed in front of Jiang Xuanjin.


    Jiang Xuanjin leaned halfway against the headboard, glancing at the medicine and then at her, avoiding eye contact.


    Li Huaiyu was taken aback, then sat on the edge of the bed and picked up the bowl, blowing on it. ¡°I understand, come, let me feed you personally!¡±


    Eyebrow twitching, Jiang Xuanjin said in a deep voice, ¡°I don¡¯t want to drink it.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t recover from an illness without taking medicine!¡± she stared at him, then coaxed him like a child. ¡°Look, I spent half an hour boiling this medicine, using top-quality ingredients. Even if you don¡¯t care about me, you should care about these precious herbs.¡±


    Lowering his gaze to the brown medicinal liquid, a faint gleam flickered in Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°You drink first.¡±


    Huh? Li Huaiyu was momentarily stunned, then she suppressed her smile. ¡°Do you suspect me?¡±


    Coughing twice, Jiang Xuanjin said, ¡°Anything that goes into my mouth has to be tasted by someone else first, it¡¯s a rule.¡±


    ¡°Come on, you just think I might poison you,¡± she scoffed, her expression turning cold as she looked at him. ¡°I¡¯ve been watching over this medicine for half an hour, burning my hands in the process, only to end up kindly feeding it to a donkey.¡±


    The tone sounded like genuine heartbreak.


    However, Jiang Xuanjin wasn¡¯t buying it and said calmly, ¡°You chose to boil the medicine yourself.¡±


    In other words, you brought this upon yourself, you reap what you sow, you¡¯re ruining your own enjoyment.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to, you can leave now.¡±


    Li Huaiyu listened and chuckled. She tossed the spoon from the medicine bowl onto a low stool beside her and lifted the bowl, gulping down the medicine.


    That¡¯s right, she didn¡¯t just take a sip, she drank the whole bowl in one go.


    Jiang Xuanjin still had a calm expression, but upon seeing her actions, his eyes finally showed some fluctuations. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Setting down the empty bowl, Li Huaiyu wiped her mouth. ¡°You doubted me, didn¡¯t you? Then don¡¯t drink this medicine. Let me boil it again from scratch.¡±


    After saying that, she stood up and began to walk away.


    ¡°¡­¡± Jiang Xuanjin was a bit surprised. Based on his judgment, this girl should have intended to cling to him, although he didn¡¯t know her motives, she shouldn¡¯t have any good intentions.


    But how did it turn out? Without saying a word, this person was actually about to leave?


    Li Huaiyu didn¡¯t walk quickly, and even slowed her pace quietly. Her departing figure seemed filled with anger and grievances, with her shoulders shrugging up and down.


    Just as she was about to step out of the doorstep, she finally heard a voice from behind, ¡°Wait.¡±


    Feeling delighted in her heart, Li Huaiyu maintained her expression of grievance and turned around with a resentful tone. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin let out a soft sigh. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    He was someone who responded to kindness rather than force. If someone genuinely treated him well, he should express gratitude, that was basic manners. Although this girl¡¯s gaze didn¡¯t make him feel comfortable, her actions indeed showed no intention of harming him. The medicine that had been boiled for half an hour was drunk in one go, so it must have been scalding hot.


    Considering this, he glanced at her, pursed his lips, and softened his expression a bit.


    This was the result she wanted!


    Li Huaiyu couldn¡¯t help but craft a cunning smile in her heart. This is what it means to retreat in order to advance, to give the appearance of being captured in order to win freedom. Look, she succeeded again!


    She knew very well how guarded Jiang Xuanjin was. Any underhanded tricks wouldn¡¯t work until his guard was lowered. That¡¯s why she hesitated in the courtyard for half an hour, refraining from putting anything in the medicine jar.


    As it turned out, she really understood him well!


    Grinning, she leaned back towards the bed and tilted her head, looking at him. ¡°You actually can¡¯t bear to let me go!¡±


    The face that had just softened turned dark again as he retorted, ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡±


    It was just a simple expression of gratitude!


    ¡°Alright, alright, I know you¡¯re shy. I understand, that¡¯s settled!¡± Li Huaiyu generously patted his shoulder and said, ¡°We have an unspoken understanding.¡±


    What kind of unspoken understanding? Jiang Xuanjin was so angry that he couldn¡¯t speak, and he coughed twice. Li Huaiyu clapped her head and exclaimed, ¡°Oh no! I drank your medicine, so there¡¯s nothing for you to drink today. Your condition might worsen.¡±


    ¡°¡­Who asked you to drink all the medicine in one go.¡±


    ¡°I was angry,¡± Li Huaiyu pouted. ¡°I treated someone with all my heart and soul, but what did I get in return? Suspicion. Anyone would be angry in my place.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin let out a soft snort, laid back on the bed, and closed his eyes to sleep.


    It was already midnight, and Li Huaiyu saw that he had no intention of accommodating her. So she simply sat by the bedside, one hand supporting her chin, and the other gently touching his forehead.


    Cheng Xu, who had silently hidden in the corner, saw that she didn¡¯t make any aggressive moves, so he remained silent.


    The next day, at the end of the hour of Mao, Jiang Xuanjin opened his eyes and felt that there was someone in his embrace.


    Legs sprawled across his, arms around his waist, as he turned his head, he saw a frail and slightly sickly delicate face just half an inch away from his own. The pale pink lips were slightly parted, and at the corner of those lips, transparent drool dripped down¡­


    Slightly taken aback, Jiang Xuanjin narrowed his eyes.


    Just as Cheng Xu outside was about to push the door open, a muffled bang came from inside the room.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Huaiyu woke up, tumbling on the ground for several rounds before coming to a stop. She sat up in confusion and looked at the person on the bed. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Leaning against the headboard, Jiang Xuanjin coldly replied, ¡°No shame!¡±


    Can a man¡¯s bed be climbed on so casually?


    Furious and laughing at the same time, Huaiyu pointed at Cheng Xu, who was entering through the door, and said, ¡°Ask him, ask him what you did last night!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback, turned his head towards the door, and saw Cheng Xu looking embarrassed as he placed a basin on the nearby shelf and respectfully greeted, ¡°Master.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Jiang Xuanjin was a bit bewildered.


    Cheng Xu scratched the back of his head and walked up to him, whispering, ¡°Last night, in the middle of the night, you had a high fever and were shivering. You grabbed onto this young lady¡¯s arm and refused to let go¡­ so¡­¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face turned pale, and he stared at Cheng Xu with a sharp gaze.


    Cheng Xu quickly shook his head. ¡°This subordinate is not lying!¡±


    Huaiyu sat on the ground and hummed, ¡°He acted like a hooligan first, and now he¡¯s falsely accusing me. Tell me, how are you going to compensate me?¡±


    After a moment of thought, she added, ¡°I won¡¯t accept any compensation other than you offering yourself to me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re dreaming.¡± Jiang Xuanjin coughed lightly and turned his head away, his face still flushed.


    ¡°Master,¡± Cheng Xu saw his extreme embarrassment and skillfully changed the subject, ¡°Someone just delivered a message, saying that the Chief Secretary, Li Daren, is seeking an audience.¡±


    Li Daren? Li Fengxing?


    As soon as Huaiyu heard this, she stood up.

 CH 8

    amillennium9-11 minutes 18.06.2023


    // The remnants of Princess Danyang


    Before becoming Li Fengxing, he served as the Chief Historian assisting Prime Minister Sima, and had a deep grudge against Li Huaiyu. During the period when she was imprisoned in Feiyun Palace, Li Fengxing submitted twenty memorials, each one scheming to bring about her demise. This person¡¯s goals in the court, for so many years, have only been two-fold:


    First, to make Li Huaiyu die. Second, to make everyone in Li Huaiyu¡¯s faction die!


    Now that she¡¯s dead, Li Fengxing still comes to find Jiang Xuanjin. His intentions are self-evident.


    Standing up straight, Huaiyu didn¡¯t hesitate and quickly slipped behind the pearwood screen nearby.


    Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow and glanced at her. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°What else can I do? I¡¯m here to uphold your reputation as Prince Ziyang,¡± the person behind the screen giggled. ¡°Can¡¯t have others seeing a young girl like me in your room, can we?¡±


    A young girl? Hearing these three words from her mouth, Jiang Xuanjin could only sneer.


    He stood up, tidying up his washbasin while coughing. ¡°If you want to avoid suspicion, you should go somewhere else.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Huaiyu poked her head out from behind the screen, looking earnest. ¡°I feel restless all over if I can¡¯t see you for a moment!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± Jiang Xuanjin shook his head.


    ¡°Oh dear, you still don¡¯t believe me!¡± Huaiyu stomped her foot. ¡°My genuine, heartfelt affection is being shattered and trampled on by you!¡±


    Putting down the towel he was using to wipe his face, Jiang Xuanjin turned to look at her, his eyes calm and without ripples. ¡°Do you really have feelings?¡±


    These calm and ordinary three words caused Huaiyu to tremble slightly. Subconsciously, she didn¡¯t dare to meet his gaze and just giggled, jumping out and grabbing his hand. ¡°Whether I have feelings or not, do you want to find out?¡±


    As she spoke, she pulled his hand and placed it over her heart.


    Jiang Xuanjin was startled and took two steps back, looking at her in shock. His temples throbbed. ¡°Outrageous!¡±


    He thought yesterday was already the limit of shamelessness, but it turns out today could surpass that? This thing keeps escalating?


    He wrested his hand free, and Huaiyu chuckled a couple of times without saying much. She turned around and jumped back behind the screen.


    Jiang Xuanjin stared at the screen and suddenly had the urge to kick it.


    ¡°Master, the person is outside the medicine hall,¡± taking advantage of the opportunity, the person bowed and said, ¡°It seems they are in quite a hurry.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Suppressing his anger, he sat down on the nearby chair. ¡°Please let them in.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The person left, and Jiang Xuanjin looked at the open door, muttering softly, ¡°Don¡¯t blame me for not warning you. If you hear something you shouldn¡¯t, you¡¯ll bring trouble upon yourself.¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard a saying?¡± the person behind the screen answered nonchalantly, ¡°Under the peony flowers, one dies a glorious death.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin: ¡°¡­¡±


    One day, he would sew shut this person¡¯s mouth!


    ¡°Your Highess!¡± Li Fengxing quickly walked in, his face serious. He entered and saluted, speaking directly, ¡°I heard that Your Highess captured Qingsi, the personal maid of Princess Danyang, a few days ago.¡±


    Huaiyu¡¯s expression changed behind the screen.


    Jiang Xuanjin sat upright, composed, and calmly covered his mouth with a light cough. ¡°Please have a seat, sir.¡±


    Li Fengxing took a deep breath, suppressing his impatience, and sat down at the table.


    ¡°If I recall correctly, sir, you should be busy with the examination of the court officials. Why would you come to inquire about this matter?¡± Jiang Xuanjin raised an eyebrow and looked at him calmly.


    Li Fengxing paused for a moment, then furrowed his brow. ¡°While Princess Danyang has been laid to rest, the remnants of her faction are still at large, continuing to cause trouble. How can I not be concerned? Your Highness knows the methods of Princess Danyang. I fear she will not die willingly and may leave behind retaliatory measures.¡±


    ¡°These matters have already been entrusted to me by His Majesty,¡± Jiang Xuanjin looked up, giving him a faint glance. ¡°Are you worried that I am not handling them effectively, sir?¡±


    ¡°¡­I dare not, but several days ago, Your Highness already had Qingsi in custody. Why hasn¡¯t she been imprisoned in the Ministry of Justice until now?¡± Li Fengxing hesitated, then asked.


    Jiang Xuanjin picked up the medicine next to him and took a sip, lowering his gaze to the brownish liquid without answering.


    Li Fengxing was an impatient person, but in front of Prince Ziyang, he didn¡¯t dare to act rashly. After waiting in silence for a while and seeing that he still didn¡¯t intend to answer, a sense of panic rose within him.


    ¡°What is Your Highness thinking? Han Xiao and Xu Xian, they are all waiting for Qingsi¡¯s testimony to pass judgment. As long as the remnants of Princess Danyang¡¯s faction are all captured, Your Highness¡¯s wish will be fulfilled!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin didn¡¯t even lift his head. ¡°My wish, from beginning to end, has always been the young emperor assuming power and the stability of imperial authority. What you speak of, sir, is your own personal agenda, not what I seek.¡±


    Huaiyu behind the screen listened to these words silently and coldly laughed.


    How nice it sounds, your wish is only for the young emperor to assume power and for the imperial authority to be stable? If that¡¯s truly the case, why go through all the trouble to kill her?


    Li Fengxing was choked by these words, his face slightly turning green. After a moment of silence, he eased his tone and said, ¡°Regardless, eliminating the remnants of Princess Danyang¡¯s faction does not contradict Your Highness¡¯s wish.¡±


    ¡°Remnants?¡± Jiang Xuanjin slowly chewed on these two words, sneering and looking at the person in front of him. ¡°The remnants you speak of, are they General Xu Xian, who is loyal and devoted to the country, or the eminent ministers from two dynasties, Han Xiao? Or perhaps Yun Lanqing, who just returned from a diplomatic mission to Xiliang and made significant contributions?¡±


    These individuals all had a deep relationship with Princess Danyang, but at the same time, they were pillars of the country.


    Li Fengxing couldn¡¯t find words to reply. He glanced at Jiang Xuanjin and suddenly understood that he had approached the wrong person.


    He had originally thought that Prince Ziyang would assist in killing Princess Danyang, believing that he stood on their side. However, that was not the case. This person truly only cared about preserving the monarchy, and he would lend a hand in matters that aligned with his objectives. For those with different goals, he had no interest at all.


    Clutching his fist, Li Fengxing stood up and said, ¡°I have overstepped my bounds. Your Highness should be the one to make decisions on this matter.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin nodded, exchanged a few pleasantries, and watched him leave.


    After the door opened and closed, Huaiyu walked out from behind the screen. The complex expression on her face had disappeared, and she raised her head with a mischievous smile.


    ¡°Your Highness is amazing,¡± she praised, holding her heart.


    He glanced at her askance, and Jiang Xuanjin coughed twice.


    ¡°Oh, look at this poor thing. He¡¯s sick and still has to worry about these matters.¡± She leaned against him, reaching out to pull him up from the chair. ¡°Come, let¡¯s go lie down.¡±


    ¡°Let go,¡± he frowned.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let go. Stop saying these useless words.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    With a smile, she pressed him onto the bed, covered him with the blanket, and Huaiyu supported her chin, blinking at him. ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m good at taking care of people?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was impatient with her nonsense. ¡°Get to the point.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be direct then.¡± Clapping her hands, Huaiyu smiled and said, ¡°Will you accept a maid?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Jiang Xuanjin saw through her thoughts and firmly spat out two words, leaving no room for negotiation.


    Huaiyu looked disappointed. ¡°You¡¯re so heartless. After all, we¡¯ve kissed, hugged, and slept together¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Jiang Xuanjin sat up straight, his face stern. ¡°I¡¯ll have Cheng Xu send you home right away.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Huaiyu pouted and shook her head vigorously like a drum. ¡°Either you personally escort me, or you accept me!¡±


    Taking a deep breath, Jiang Xuanjin coughed even more severely. He even started to wonder if this was a curse laid upon him when Dan Yang died. How did he end up encountering such a person?!

 CH 9

    // The little overlord of Northern Wei


    After half an hour, Huaiyu sat in the carriage with a proud smile.


    Jiang Xuanjin rested his eyes and traveled the whole way. He found his mind remarkably tranquil and couldn¡¯t help but glance at the person next to him.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Not so talkative anymore?¡±


    Huaiyu pouted with crossed arms. ¡°I can¡¯t bear to part with you like this, yet you insist on sending me away even when you¡¯re sick. I¡¯m truly pitiful!¡±


    Upon hearing her words, Jiang Xuanjin finally felt a sense of relief in his mood. He even slightly curved the corners of his lips.


    These past few days, she had been giving him a hard time. It was rare to see her angry. Prince Ziyang, who rarely smiled or spoke frivolously, thought that this was truly a happy occasion.


    ¡°Ah.¡± Huaiyu sighed while holding her head, then turned her head to look at him with her eyes. Suddenly, she reached out her hand.


    ¡°What are you doing!¡± Jiang Xuanjin was startled and quickly grabbed her hand.


    Her fingertips stopped an inch away from his waist, and she reluctantly withdrew her hand. ¡°If I go back this time, it won¡¯t be easy to see you again. Of course, I need a keepsake.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it!¡±


    ¡°Please?¡± Huaiyu pleaded, grabbing his wrist and shaking it pitifully. ¡°Even if it¡¯s not admiration, anything else will do!¡±


    What a joke! Jiang Xuanjin snorted. After finally getting rid of this person, he would be out of his mind to give her another chance to get close to him.


    ¡°You better behave.¡±


    Huaiyu became unhappy, glaring at him with resentment in her eyes, while he remained unfazed, looking straight ahead.


    After a bumpy carriage ride for nearly half an hour, they finally came to a stop.


    ¡°Master.¡± Cheng Xu anxiously lifted the carriage curtain. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± Coughing twice, Jiang Xuanjin got off the carriage with a pale face, turned around, and looked at the person inside the carriage. ¡°Come down.¡±


    Reluctantly, Huaiyu stuck her head out and glanced at the familiar courtyard wall. She pouted and said, ¡°I really feel that this place is not as good as being by your side.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin expressionlessly pulled her out of the carriage.


    She struggled for a moment, but Chengxu moved quickly and had already gone to the main entrance to deliver the invitation. After a while, a group of people rushed out of the mansion.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t know Your Highness had arrived. Please forgive us for not welcoming you from afar!¡± A noblewoman stepped forward, bowing respectfully, ¡°The Lord has gone to the palace and has not returned. If Your Highness is not in a hurry, please come inside and have a cup of tea.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin nodded and pushed the person hiding behind him forward. ¡°There is nothing else to do at this mansion. This young lady¡­ perhaps she got lost here?¡±


    The noblewoman raised her head and met Li Huaiyu¡¯s gaze.


    In an instant, Huaiyu could read astonishment, annoyance, disdain, confusion, and various other emotions in the woman¡¯s eyes. But quickly, her eyes fell, and she put on an expression of fear.


    ¡°This¡­ this is the Fourth Miss of the mansion, who has been mentally unstable for many years. She disappeared a few days ago. If there was any offense to Your Highness, please forgive us!¡±


    Mentally unstable for many years? Li Huaiyu was shocked by these words.


    The Fourth Miss of the mansion? Jiang Xuanjin was shocked by this identity.


    Both of them looked up and saw the crimson plaque hanging above the main gate, with two characters inscribed in gold ink¡ªBai Mansion.


    It was an official residence near the official road, with the surname Bai. there was no one else but the prominent Bai family of the Imperial Historian, Bai Dezho.


    The entire city of Jing knows that Bai Dezhong¡¯s fourth daughter was foolish! Huaiyu felt sorrowful. She borrowed someone else¡¯s body, and it turned out to be that of Bai Family¡¯s Fourth Young Miss! That old man, Bai Dezhong, had never gotten along with her before. Now, she had to act as his daughter and call him father?


    What a joke!


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s expression became even more unpleasant. He glanced at Li Huaiyu, as if he had realized something, and his gaze became intense.


    ¡°Your Highness seems to be feeling a bit unwell?¡± The noblewoman naturally didn¡¯t know what they were thinking. She just politely gestured, ¡°Please have a seat and rest for a while.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin had originally planned to leave after sending off the person, but now he couldn¡¯t leave.


    ¡°In that case, I will trouble you.¡± He replied.


    ¡°Master,¡± Cheng Xu followed behind him, whispering with concern, ¡°Your health¡­ you should return and rest.¡±


    Coughing lightly, Jiang Xuanjin whispered with pale lips, ¡°It¡¯s alright. There is something more important now.¡±


    Something more important? Cheng Xu was taken aback. After considering the connection between the Fourth Miss Bai and the Jiang family, he immediately understood and lowered his head without saying anything more.


    Li Huaiyu snapped out of her thoughts and was about to say something to Jiang Xuanjin again when Lady Bai, who was walking beside her, suddenly pushed her with force, causing her to stagger back a few steps.


    ¡°Hiss¡ª¡± Huaiyu looked at her in confusion.


    Bai Mengshi ignored her and simply smiled, leading Jiang Xuanjin ahead. She whispered a few words to a nearby servant.


    The obedient servant, who received the orders, rolled up his sleeves and approached Huaiyu.


    ¡°Hey? What are you doing?¡± She glared.


    Without a word, several servants covered her mouth and swiftly tried to take her away.


    If it had been the previous Fourth Miss, she might not have had the strength to resist and would have been taken away obediently. But now, who was she? She was the little overlord of Northern Wei, the Danyang Princess, whom no one in the court could handle. How could she suffer at the hands of a few servants?


    With a powerful kick, Huaiyu sent the servant who covered her mouth flying, and then she swiftly executed a shoulder throw, fiercely slamming another servant who was restraining her onto the ground.


    ¡°Thud!¡± A dull sound echoed, causing everyone to halt in their tracks.


    ¡°You think you¡¯re so capable, yet you still want to play this game with me?¡± Huaiyu stomped on the person¡¯s stomach, stood with her hands on her hips, and angrily said, ¡°You refuse to answer when asked nicely and force me to take action! Now speak up, what do you want?¡±


    The servant being stepped on foamed at the mouth, their eyes rolled back, and their body convulsed, unable to speak.


    Jiang Xuanjin glanced sideways, and Bai Mengshi also turned her head in astonishment. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re asking me what¡¯s going on? I was about to ask you too!¡± Huaiyu coldly snorted, lifted her gaze to look at Bai Mengshi, and said, ¡°My people came to your mansion as guests, but you had them forcibly taken me away. What does that mean? Are you trying to snatch my people?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, your people!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, snatch them!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin and Bai Mengshi both scolded her in unison.


    Huaiyu scratched her ear and first smiled at Jiang Xuanjin. ¡°Sweetheart, this is the truth. There¡¯s nothing to be shy about.¡± Then she turned her head, squinted at Bai Mengshi, and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to snatch them, why did you lay hands on me?¡±


    Bai Mengshi looked at her in astonishment, forgetting to be upset about her behavior. ¡°You¡­ you¡¯re not foolish anymore?¡±


    Bai Zhuji, the fourth daughter of the Bai family, had suffered a serious illness three years ago that damaged her brain. Since then, she had been half-crazy and half-foolish. This was something known throughout the entire Bai Mansion.


    But the person in front of them had Fourth Miss Bai¡¯s face, yet her consciousness was very clear. Not only was she clear-minded, but she was also very arrogant.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m not foolish.¡± She sneered at the person and then swiftly moved to Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s side, tightly gripping his sleeve.

 CH 10

    // The future daughter-in-law of the Jiang family


    Madam Bai couldn¡¯t quite grasp the situation. She knew what Bai Zhuji looked like when she went crazy, so she wanted to get her away first to avoid displeasing Prince Ziyang. But what happened? This person unexpectedly regained her sanity?


    Moreover, not only did she regain her sanity, but her temperament also changed?


    Staring at her for a while, Madam Bai finally regained some composure and, carrying the demeanor of the mistress, said, ¡°Even if you¡¯re not crazy anymore, you don¡¯t have the right to speak in front of Prince Ziyang. You should quickly step aside!¡±


    Li Huaiyu raised an eyebrow and replied, ¡°Prince Ziyang came to the Bai Mansion for me, why should I leave?¡±


    Not only did she refuse to leave, but she also held onto Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s arm tightly!


    Madam Bai was startled, glancing at her reckless action, feeling a bit anxious as she looked towards Jiang Xuanjin. Rumor has it that Prince Ziyang has a bad temper. Being offended like this, he might unleash his fury.


    However, Jiang Xuanjin remained motionless, with a calm expression. Feeling the weight on his arm, he merely glanced at her.


    ¡°Stand properly.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t!¡± Huaiyu acted stubbornly, ¡°Can¡¯t you see how fierce she is? If I let go of her, she¡¯ll definitely lock me up in the woodshed!¡±


    ¡°With your temperament, you do deserve to be locked up.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, if I suffer, won¡¯t you be the one feeling sorry?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense!¡± Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face darkened.


    Li Huaiyu hugged his arm even tighter, smiling mischievously, ¡°You better save your energy. Your face is as pale as paper. Come, let¡¯s go to the tea room.¡± With that, she half-dragged, half-supported him forward.


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s body was stiff, ¡°Let go.¡±


    ¡°I already said I won¡¯t let go. Stop saying useless things.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Madam Bai stood still in place, and all the servants were dumbfounded. It was only after the two of them had entered the tea room that she remembered and said to the person behind her, ¡°Quickly inform Master, tell him that something major has happened at home, and ask him to come back quickly!¡±


    ¡°¡®Yes!¡± the servant responded and hurried off.


    In the tea room.


    Li Huaiyu pushed Jiang Xuanjin into the grand master chair with a claw-like grip, then poured him a cup of tea and brought it to his lips with a beaming smile. ¡°Your lips are so parched, moisturize them quickly.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin didn¡¯t appreciate the gesture. ¡°I can do it myself.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly, drink properly.¡± She scolded him playfully, glancing at him with a shy expression. ¡°There are so many people watching outside!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was somewhat incredulous. ¡°You even know that people are watching?¡±


    Was it appropriate to feed him tea while being observed by others?


    Li Huaiyu sighed and forcefully put the teacup into his hand, smiling affectionately. ¡°You¡¯re really too easily embarrassed.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin: ¡°¡­¡± If only it weren¡¯t a crime to kill someone, he would immediately send her to the afterlife!


    Madam Bai followed and stepped into the tea room, hesitating as she said, ¡°Apologies for the delay, Your Highness¡­ I wonder how Your Highness ended up with Zhuji?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin replied, ¡°It was a fortunate coincidence. We ran into each other on the street.¡±


    What a lie! Just look at how familiar these two look, as if they¡¯ve known each other for several years.


    Madam Bai was full of suspicion, but she didn¡¯t dare express it on her face. Instead, she smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s truly fortunate. The mansion has been worried because Zhuji went missing. Your Majesty bringing her back is a favor to our White Mansion.¡±


    As she spoke, she knelt down and paid her respects. ¡°Please stay a while longer, Your Highness, and we will thank Master in person when he returns.¡±


    ¡°Madam Bai is too kind.¡± Holding the teacup, Jiang Xuanjin lowered his eyes slightly and said, ¡°Fourth Miss is, after all, the future daughter-in-law of the Jiang family. It is within my responsibility to bring her back.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Li Huaiyu was startled in place. ¡°What?¡±


    What future daughter-in-law of the Jiang family?


    Glancing at her, Jiang Xuanjin smiled somewhat mockingly. ¡°Fourth Miss, don¡¯t you remember? The Jiang and Bai families arranged a marriage over a decade ago. When you turn eighteen, you are to marry Jiang Yan, the eldest son of the Jiang family.¡±


    Huh? There¡¯s such a thing? Huaiyu was taken aback.


    She had heard of Jiang Yan before, the only son of the eldest brother of the Jiang family and the senior nephew of Jiang Xuanjin. It was said that he had extraordinary talent and was quite arrogant. He had always been cherished by Jiang¡¯s old lady and, at the age of only seventeen, had already held an official position in the court.


    In terms of Bai Zhuji¡¯s identity, this was indeed a remarkable marriage. But the problem was, Li Huaiyu had finally been given another chance at life. Did that mean she had to embark on the path of being a wife and mother?


    After pondering for a moment, she looked pitifully at Jiang Xuanjin and said, ¡°I really don¡¯t remember.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Jiang Xuanjin placed down the teacup, and his jawline tightened slightly as he looked at her with a hint of anger.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be angry.¡± Huaiyu hurriedly appeased him. ¡°Didn¡¯t this lady say it? I was delirious before, and now that I¡¯ve regained consciousness, I don¡¯t remember anything. In my eyes and in my heart, there is only you. Who knew there would be such a marriage with someone else?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin sneered and was about to speak when someone strode in from outside.


    ¡°Outrageous!¡±


    A furious shout that deafened the ears.


    Li Huaiyu was frightened, her legs went weak, and she almost couldn¡¯t stand. Puzzled, she turned her head and saw an old man with a white beard wearing a crimson official robe standing in front of her, and he slapped her without hesitation.


    ¡°Smack!¡±


    The action was swift, the sound was loud. Before Huaiyu could react, she felt her mind explode with a ¡®boom¡¯, her entire face went numb, and a taste of blood filled her mouth instantly.


    ¡°Official Bai.¡± Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face slightly changed as he stood up.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Highness.¡± Bai Dezhong¡¯s face turned ashen, and without even looking at Jiang Xuanjin, he bowed to him, his eyes still fixed on Huaiyu, filled with boundless anger.


    ¡°When did my Bai family produce such an insolent and shameless daughter!¡±


    Huaiyu was dazed for a moment. When she heard the voice, she spat out a mouthful of blood and looked at the person in front of her with a furrowed brow. ¡°You want to hit me without any reason or logic?¡±


    ¡°Reason?¡± Bai Dezhong was so angry that his beard trembled. ¡°You failed to observe the proper etiquette in front of His Highness, and you speak nothing but impure words! Our Bai family, a scholarly family, has accumulated our reputation for generations, and today it is all being ruined by you!¡±


    According to the kinship between the two families, Bai Zhuji would have to address Jiang Xuangin as ¡®Uncle¡¯ in the future, but what did she say? What was clearly in her eyes and heart? Thinking of those words, Bai Dezhong¡¯s anger flared up again, and he slapped her again.


    ¡°My lord!¡± Madam Bai and the surrounding servants exclaimed in shock.


    Huaiyu frowned as she looked at Bai Dezhong. She clenched her fist and then released it.


    Forget it. She was living through another person¡¯s body; she couldn¡¯t just go and hit the person¡¯s father. Bai Dezhong was such an old-fashioned person. She would consider it as filial piety on behalf of Bai Zhuji.


    Closing her eyes, she prepared herself to receive this slap.


    However, just as the palm wind was about to reach her, her arm suddenly tightened. Someone reached out and forcefully pulled her back two steps, narrowly avoiding the slap as it passed by, causing a gust of wind.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± Bai Dezhong was astonished.

 CH 11

    // Love the house and its crow


    Bai Dezhong stared at Jiang Xuanjin in astonishment. When he met Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s calm gaze, devoid of any anger, he quickly calmed down and felt somewhat surprised.


    His Highness¡­ was not angry?


    Everyone in the court knows that Prince Ziyang is a person who upholds ritual and rules. Being offended by Zhuji in such a manner should have provoked his wrath. But what happened? He seems unaffected, as if nothing happened.


    Could it be that he is just overreacting?


    ¡°What does Your Highness wish to ask?¡± Bai Dezhong withdrew his hand, feeling perplexed.


    Glancing at the person standing behind him, Jiang Xuanjin frowned. ¡°In a few days, it will be Jiang Yan¡¯s 18th birthday. According to the old master¡¯s intention, it is time for him to start a family. I wonder what plans Bai Dezhong has?¡±


    Bai Zhuji and Jiang Yan were engaged as childhood sweethearts. Three years ago, when they learned about Bai Zhuji¡¯s illness and mental impairment, the situation became awkward for both families. Jiang Yan was the most favored grandson of the Jiang family, and it was already a compromise for him to marry the daughter of an imperial official. He certainly wouldn¡¯t be willing to marry a mentally impaired girl.


    However, given the reputation of the Jiang family, they would never take the initiative to dissolve the engagement. The Bai family didn¡¯t know what they were thinking and had been avoiding the topic. Thus, the marriage matter had been delayed until now.


    Bai Dezhong sighed and clasped his hands together. ¡°To be honest, Your Highness, the Bai family has received much favor from the Jiang family. It would be inappropriate for us to send our mentally impaired fourth daughter to the Jiang residence. Regarding this marriage¡­¡±


    ¡°This marriage concerns the reputation and dignity of both families.¡± Suddenly, Bai Mengshi interjected, ¡°Considering Fourth Miss¡¯s current condition, it¡¯s clear that she cannot fulfill this role. However, there is Second Miss Xuanji in our household, who is knowledgeable, sensible, and considerate. Your Highness may consider meeting her.¡±


    As soon as these words were spoken, Bai Dezhong turned his head and glared at her.


    Madam Bai was taken aback and forced herself to stay composed. ¡°The Bai and Jiang families have been close for generations. We can¡¯t let the relationship be ruined because of one mentally impaired person. My lord should understand the relative importance.¡±


    Li Huaiyu, listening intently, raised an eyebrow and wiped off a trace of blood from the corner of her mouth. She understood what was going on.


    Originally, in her mentally impaired state, she was not eligible to marry into the Jiang family. The Bai family matriarch took this opportunity to suggest sending Second Miss of the Bai family to fulfill the marriage. That¡¯s why they wanted to take her away earlier¡ªthey saw her as an obstacle.


    If it were another family¡¯s marriage matter, she might have yielded. However, this was the Jiang family¡¯s marriage, and it provided her with a legitimate reason to approach Jiang Xuanjin and countless opportunities for revenge.


    Huaiyu felt that she couldn¡¯t let that happen.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I fulfill this role with my current appearance?¡± She curiously lowered her head and looked at herself. ¡°I¡¯m somewhat quite delicate-looking. Even though I was foolish for a few years before, I¡¯m fine now, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    Just as Bai Dezhong was about to scold Madam Bai, but upon hearing these words, his anger immediately shifted towards her. ¡°You dare to speak out of turn?¡± After roaring these words, he seemed to realize something and looked at her in astonishment. ¡°What did you just say¡­ you¡¯re fine now?¡±


    Huaiyu wore an innocent expression. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine. I don¡¯t think I resemble a fool in any way.¡±


    Dezhong was shocked and examined her from head to toe several times before looking at Madam Bai. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°I have no idea what happened either. Zhuji disappeared for two days, and when she came back, she became like this,¡± Madam Bai frowned, then added, ¡°She completely forgot about etiquette and manners. Could it be that she¡¯s been possessed?¡±


    You¡¯re the one who¡¯s been possessed, and everyone in your entire household has been possessed!


    Huaiyu bared her teeth and thought to herself, how could someone as noble as the Princess of Danyang be considered possessed? At most, she could be seen as wandering ghost!


    ¡°Your Highness,¡± Dezhong regained his composure and bowed to Jiang Xuanjin. ¡°This incident happened suddenly, and it¡¯s a family matter of the Bai family. Please forgive the inconvenience caused to Your Highness. Once I have clarified the situation, I will send someone to deliver a response to the Jiang residence.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin nodded expressionlessly. ¡°Very well, then. I won¡¯t disturb you any longer. Farewell.¡±


    Saying that, he lifted his foot and prepared to leave.


    ¡°Hey, hey, hey!¡± Huaiyu called out to him repeatedly, her eyes pleading. ¡°Are you just going to leave like this?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin didn¡¯t turn his head. ¡°Take care, Fourth Miss.¡±


    Take care? Once he left, she would no longer have a talisman protecting her. How could she possibly take care of herself? Huaiyu widened her eyes, wanting to reach out and pull him back, but when she glanced at Dezhong, whose beard was bristling, she swallowed her saliva and retracted her hand.


    Bai Dezhong bowed and made a request to Jiang Xuanjin, ¡°Allow me to escort Your Highness out of the mansion.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin nodded politely and followed him towards the exit.


    ¡°Bidding farewell to Your Highness.¡± Madam Bai smiled, knelt down, and watched them cross the threshold. Then she turned her head and instructed a servant, ¡°Take the Fourth Miss to the western courtyard.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± the servants responded in unison.


    As Jiang Xuanjin walked out of the doorway, his gaze became somewhat unfocused, and he glanced back.


    That girl was being held by someone. This time, she didn¡¯t know what she was thinking and didn¡¯t struggle or resist. The servant¡¯s hand was gripping her shoulder with all their strength, causing her fragile body to tremble.


    Furrowing his brows slightly, Jiang Xuanjin halted his steps.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± Bai Dezhong turned back and called out to him.


    Jiang Xuanjin pursed his lips and coughed twice.


    Li Huaiyu had given up on resisting. Without Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s protection, as the Fourth Miss of the Bai family, she couldn¡¯t defy her elders. The more she resisted, the more she would be beaten. So even though that damn servant¡¯s grip was painful, she didn¡¯t make a sound.


    However, upon hearing the cough, Huaiyu was stunned. She looked up and saw Jiang Xuanjin standing at the door, motionless.


    Her eyes lit up, and Huaiyu immediately shook off the servant behind her and rushed over to him. ¡°Your Highness!¡±


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Both Bai Dezhong and Madam Bai tried to stop her at the same time.


    Furrowing her brows, Huaiyu bypassed them and reached Jiang Xuanjin, supporting his arm. She turned her head and said with a serious expression, ¡°If you have the time to scold me, you might as well find a place for His Highness to rest properly. His illness hasn¡¯t healed completely, and he is very weak. If his condition worsens here, how can the Bai family justify it to the Jiang family and the court?¡±


    This was the most serious she had ever been. Jiang Xuanjin, with pale lips, coughed twice again but didn¡¯t push her away.


    Bai Dezhong glanced at Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s complexion and had no intention to argue with Huaiyu anymore. He quickly instructed Madam Bai, ¡°Prepare a guest room!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Lord Bai,¡± Cheng Xu, who was following behind, clasped his hands and said, ¡°In these past two days, His Highness¡¯s condition worsened, but thanks to the intervention of Fourth Miss of your esteemed household, he was saved. Currently, His Highness hasn¡¯t fully recovered, and the prescription is still with the Miss of your esteemed household. I have an impolite request and hope that the lord will grant it.¡±


    Cheng Xu was the most trusted person by Prince Ziyang, and his words often carried the weight of Prince Ziyang¡¯s words. Bai Dezhong naturally didn¡¯t dare to underestimate him and quickly said, ¡°Please speak.¡±


    Glancing at his own master in front of him, Cheng Xu said, ¡°His Highess¡¯s body cannot endure the fatigue of travel at the moment. He should rest here, and I hope the Fourth Miss can continue to help with brewing the medicine.¡±


    Brewing medicine? Bai Dezhong furrowed his brows, thinking, who couldn¡¯t brew the medicine? Did it have to be specifically mentioned Bai Zhuji?


    But upon further thought, he understood. Jiang Yan was Prince Ziyang¡¯s most beloved nephew, and Zhuji, as the supposed future niece-in-law, must have also gained Prince Ziyang¡¯s favor.

 CH 12

    // The restless Prince Ziyang


    At present, His Highness, Prince Ziyang, is indisposed, and Bai Dezhong dare not neglect his duty. He glanced at Bai Zhuji ahead, frowned, and thought that he would ask her what happened after His Highness left.


    ¡°If His Highness trusts Zhuji, I naturally have no objections,¡± he said.


    Seizing the opportunity, she smiled and clasped her hands. ¡°Thank you, Master Bai.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was escorted a few steps away by Huaiyu and the household servants, seemingly oblivious to the conversation. But when Bai Dezhong looked up, he tilted his head and nodded slightly.


    Was he acknowledging him? Bai Dezhong was somewhat puzzled. Upon closer observation, however, Jiang Xuanjin resumed walking forward as if nothing had happened.


    ¡°Master,¡± Madam Bai stood by his side, frowning and whispering, ¡°What kind of talk is this? Zhuji has acted out of line and should be punished according to the house rules.¡±


    Bai Dezhong glanced at her. ¡°Punished? His Highness wants Zhuji to prepare medicine for him. Are you going to punish her now?¡±


    Madam Bai was momentarily speechless, clutching her handkerchief as she looked towards the distant figure of Prince Ziyang. Still somewhat resentful, she said, ¡°His Highness should meet with our Xuanji instead. Xuanji understands the rules much better.¡±


    ¡°At Present, His Majesty, the Purple Sun Emperor, is indisposed, and Bai Dezhong dare not neglect his duty. He glanced at Bai Zhuji ahead, frowned, and thought that he would ask her what happened after His Majesty left.


    ¡°If His Majesty trusts Zhuji, I naturally have no objections,¡± he said.


    Seizing the opportunity, she smiled and clasped her hands. ¡°Thank you, Master Bai.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was escorted a few steps away by Huaiyu and the household servants, seemingly oblivious to the conversation. But when Bai Dezhong looked up, he tilted his head and nodded slightly.


    Was he acknowledging him? Bai Dezhong was somewhat puzzled. Upon closer observation, however, Jiang Xuanjin resumed walking forward as if nothing had happened.


    ¡°Master,¡± Bai Mengshi stood by his side, frowning and whispering, ¡°What kind of talk is this? Zhuji has acted out of line and should be punished according to the house rules.¡±


    Bai Dezhong glanced at her. ¡°Punished? His Majesty wants Zhuji to prepare medicine for him. Are you going to punish her now?¡±


    Bai Mengshi was momentarily speechless, clutching her handkerchief as she looked towards the distant figure of the Purple Sun Emperor. Still somewhat resentful, she said, ¡°His Majesty should meet with our Xuanji instead. Xuanji understands the rules much better.¡±


    Waving his hand, Bai Dezhong didn¡¯t want to discuss these matters with her. He turned around and went back to his room to change clothes.


    Huaiyu walked alongside Jiang Xuanjin, smiling with curved eyebrows.


    Jiang Xuanjin coughed twice and whispered, ¡°What are you laughing at?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m delighted that you care about me. You even went so far as to use the ¡®injured lamb¡¯ strategy to save me.¡± She glanced at him sideways, her eyes full of teasing. ¡°Are you so reluctant to part with me? Could it be that you like me?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin raised his sleeve to cover his lips, his eyes cold. ¡°I owe you my life, that¡¯s all. We have no further debts.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡± Huaiyu laughed merrily, covering her mouth as her almond-shaped eyes rolled mischievously on his face. ¡°I just love your tough exterior and soft heart!¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin halted his steps, his gaze threatening as he glared at her, indicating that he wanted to immediately release her from the Bai residence.


    ¡°Oh, no, I¡¯m sorry!¡± Huaiyu immediately admitted her mistake, repeatedly bowing to him. ¡°You are my benefactor now, and whatever you say goes! We have no further debts!¡±


    With a snort, Jiang Xuanjin turned his head, gathered his robes, and continued walking forward.


    Such a temper, just like a sulking child. Li Huaiyu looked at his receding figure and chuckled for quite a while. But as she laughed, a layer of confusion clouded her eyes.


    That person ahead, could it be Prince Ziyang Jiang Xuanjin, the one from the court who would keep silent until he was forced to speak, pushing her towards a dead end?


    Tilting her head, she pondered for a while, then shook her head and followed behind.


    The rooms in the eastern courtyard were tidied up, and Jiang Xuanjin leaned against the bed, closing his eyes to rest. Li Huaiyu brought a chair and sat by his bedside, propping her chin up as she looked at him.


    ¡°Miss Bai,¡± Cheng Xu whispered beside her, ¡°You can go rest for a while. I have someone here to watch over.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not tired,¡± she blinked, ¡°It¡¯s rare that your master isn¡¯t glaring at me right now. I should take this opportunity to look at him a bit more.¡±


    Cheng Xu was taken aback and glanced at her, hesitantly saying, ¡°Fourth Miss still has a marriage arrangement. It¡¯s better to avoid suspicion.¡±


    Upon mentioning this, Jiang Xuanjin, who was lying on the bed, opened his eyes and looked at Li Huaiyu with a deep gaze. ¡°When did you regain your consciousness?¡±


    Li Huaiyu honestly replied, ¡°It was on the day I ran into you.¡±


    Such a coincidence? Jiang Xuanjin scrutinized her and found that her eyes were clear and bright, but he couldn¡¯t see through her.


    With a slightly solemn expression, he said, ¡°Since you have regained your consciousness and know about your marriage arrangement, you should restrain yourself. In the future, refrain from saying inappropriate things.¡±


    ¡°Inappropriate?¡± Li Huaiyu was puzzled. ¡°What did I say that was inappropriate?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin was about to repeat her words when he closed his mouth with a darkened face.


    Li Huaiyu had a teasing smile on her face and nudged his arm with her elbow. ¡°Why don¡¯t you say it?¡±


    Ignoring her, Jiang Xuanjin said in a low voice, ¡°I will rest for two hours and then leave. Instead of wasting time here with pointless conversations, think about how you can escape punishment from the family law after I leave.¡±


    Upon mentioning this, Li Huaiyu¡¯s face fell.


    Master Bai Dezhong was not easy to deal with, and moreover, the mistress of the Bai family didn¡¯t seem to have much affection for her either. After Jiang Xuanjin left, she would probably suffer.


    Sighing, Li Huaiyu became obedient and reached out to Cheng Xu. ¡°Give me the medicine, I¡¯ll go boil it.¡±


    When she had previously reported to Lord Bai, Cheng Xu had someone bring the medicine from the carriage. Now, seeing her request, he inwardly sighed at his forgetfulness and handed her the medicine.


    Li Huaiyu carried the medicine pouch and happily left.


    Jiang Xuanjin watched her figure and his gaze turned gloomy.


    ¡°Is the master unhappy?¡± Cheng Xu asked worriedly.


    ¡°No,¡± Jiang Xuanjin replied, ¡°I¡¯m just a bit annoyed.¡±


    The person who claimed to like him was actually his future niece-in-law. Although he hadn¡¯t done anything inappropriate, he couldn¡¯t help but feel guilty towards the Jiang family rules. In the future, when he entered the family, he didn¡¯t know if this person could control her tongue. If she continued to speak so indiscreetly, it would be a mess.


    Cheng Xu was quite clever and understood his master¡¯s thoughts. Half-jokingly and half-seriously, he said, ¡°This Fourth Miss Bai might not necessarily marry Young Master.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Jiang Xuanjin frowned.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t the master notice the attitude of the Bai family just now?¡± Cheng Xu said, ¡°Aside from Lord Bai, even the Bai family¡¯s mistress and servants have never looked at Fourth Miss with respect. It seems that she is not favored in this residence. On top of that, Miss Bai¡¯s reputation for being foolish precedes her, and the young master doesn¡¯t have the slightest favorable impression of her. Considering both internal and external factors, it¡¯s possible the bride might be changed.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow. ¡°But the marriage was set by Jiang Qishi before he passed away. There¡¯s no reason to change it casually?¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°I will have a proper discussion with Lord Bai.¡±


    Cheng Xu was somewhat surprised. ¡°Does the master want Miss Bai to marry the young master?¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I want that?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Cheng Xu touched his nose and felt that it was better not to argue with his master about these things. After all, he couldn¡¯t win the argument. If he said he wanted it, then let him want it.


    Huaiyu carried the medicinal ingredients to the kitchen and, despite the burning gazes of the onlookers, calmly started boiling the medicine as if nothing was amiss. The Bai mansion¡¯s medicinal containers were subpar, so the resulting medicine would just pass muster. She didn¡¯t pay much attention to it and instead listened attentively to the gossip around her.


    ¡°Has she stopped being foolish?¡±


    ¡°It seems like it. She even knows how to brew medicine and moves quite swiftly.¡±


    ¡°She was silly for three years because of her illness, and now she suddenly recovered¡­ Ah, should we go and lend a hand?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re only thinking of flattering her now? It¡¯s a bit late, and besides, even if she¡¯s no longer foolish, so what? The madam is still the most powerful in this mansion. Whether she can rise to the top branches of the Jiang family is another story.¡±


    Chattering and gossiping continued without end.


    Huaiyu sighed as she squatted in front of the small stove, clutching her fan. It seemed that Miss Bai was quite pitiful. The servants in the mansion actually had the audacity to openly ridicule her, indicating how low her status was. If it were during her time as the Grand Princess, not to mention gossip, even the palace maids wouldn¡¯t dare to breathe loudly in her presence.


    To be oppressed like a fallen tiger being bullied by dogs, this was truly unfair!


    Once the medicine was ready, Huaiyu filtered out the dregs and poured it into a bowl, preparing to take it to the eastern courtyard. However, a hand suddenly appeared from the side, took the bowl, and placed it on a tray.

 CH 13

    // Seeking someone¡¯s help


    Huaiyu was taken aback. She looked up and saw a young lady dressed in luxurious robes with precious gems and jade ornaments, smiling at her gently. ¡°Fourth sister, you¡¯ve worked hard. I¡¯ll take this medicine to His Highess.¡±


    What? Huaiyu stood up, looking at her in confusion. ¡°It seems like I brewed this medicine.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The young lady in front of her smiled tenderly. ¡°So I appreciate your hard work.¡±


    After saying that, she turned around and walked away with the medicine.


    Huaiyu was somewhat stunned, thinking to herself, for so many years, the entire court has been scolding me for being shameless and without principles. I really thought I was the most shameless person in the world. But what¡¯s this? Someone is even more shameless than me?


    Watching the figure of the young lady, Huaiyu clapped her hands and followed her.


    The young lady walked into the Eastern Courtyard with the tray in her hands, her steps light and elegant. She arrived at the door of Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s guest room, raised her hand to tidy her hair, and let a maid go forward to knock on the door.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Cheng Xu opened the door and looked at her with a puzzled expression.


    The person outside the door kneeled down and saluted, ¡°I am Xuanji, here to serve the medicine.¡±


    This was the well-behaved Bai Xuanji mentioned by Madam Bai? Huaiyu listened from behind and suddenly understood.


    Earlier, Madam Bai had been nagging about letting the Second Miss Bai make an appearance in front of Prince Ziyang. There seemed to be no chance, but this Second Miss Bai was quite clever, even knowing to take her medicine and show her concern.


    Quite interesting.


    Cheng Xu frowned at Bai Xuanji, bowed and said, ¡°Wait a moment,¡± then went into the room to report.


    Bai Xuanji stood quietly, standing there for a while without any hurry. When she turned her head and saw Huaiyu standing at the courtyard gate, she smiled and said, ¡°Fourth sister, you¡¯re here?¡±


    Huaiyu walked over and admired her composed posture. After all, she had just snatched her medicine. To see her remain calm and composed without a hint of embarrassment, she truly lived up to being the daughter of the Bai family.


    ¡°Second sister, are you planning to¡­¡± Huaiyu glanced at the bowl of medicine on the tray and smiled. ¡°Make an appearance?¡±


    Bai Xuanji nodded, ¡°It¡¯s mother¡¯s order. I have no choice but to comply. I hope fourth sister won¡¯t mind.¡±


    ¡°If you put it that way, wouldn¡¯t I seem petty if I blamed you?¡± Huaiyu imitated her and tidied her hair, blinked, and said, ¡°I wish you success, Second sister.¡±


    After speaking, she walked straight into the guest room.


    Bai Xuanji watched her actions, stunned for a moment before shouting, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Huaiyu ignored her and walked straight into the room.


    Jiang Xuanjin was already lying down, his eyes tightly closed, and his face still pale. Cheng Xu stood by the bedside, looking somewhat at a loss.


    ¡°Fourth Miss,¡± Cheng Xu said as she entered, ¡°His Highness¡¯s condition seems to be worsening. It would be better to return to the medicine hall.¡±


    Glancing at the person on the bed, Huaiyu said, ¡°If we make him sit in a carriage for half an hour now, his condition might worsen further. If you¡¯re truly worried about him, I have an idea.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I accidentally overheard that the Lu Mansion next door has received a box of miraculous pills from Nanyan. It is said that they can cure all kinds of ailments and regulate the body¡¯s functions.¡± Huaiyu turned to look at him. ¡°Although the medicine is precious, Prince Ziyang is even more valuable. The master of the Lu Mansion is reasonable and understanding. If you go and request it, he will surely give you one.¡±


    With that miraculous medicine, Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s illness would surely be cured quickly.


    Cheng Xu¡¯s eyes brightened, but immediately dimmed again.


    ¡°The Lu Mansion next door?¡± He bitterly smiled. ¡°If someone else were to ask, the master of the Lu Mansion might really give it. But our master¡­ it¡¯s probably difficult.¡±


    Lu Jingxing, the shopkeeper of Canghai Yizhu Ge, was a close friend of the late Princess Danyang. Since their master had personally escorted Princess Danyang to her final resting place, Lu Jingxing held a grudge against him. How could he save him with the miraculous medicine?


    ¡°What¡¯s so difficult about it?¡± Huaiyu walked to the desk on the other side, picked up a hairbrush, licked the tip of the brush, and took out a sheet of letter paper to doodle casually. ¡°You just go, take this with you, and say that it¡¯s a request from Miss Bai to help her.¡±


    Puzzled, Cheng Xu received the letter paper and looked at it. His face became a tangle of wrinkles.


    He had thought she was writing some kind and polite words, but unexpectedly, it turned out to be a random drawing. This messy ink, who knows what it is. If he were to show it to Lu Jingxing, would he really not be kicked out?


    However, the Lu Mansion was adjacent to the Bai Mansion, just a short walk away. Cheng Xu thought that he might as well give it a try.


    So he clasped his hands and said, ¡°Please take care of our master for a moment, Fourth Miss.¡±


    ¡°No problem.¡± Huaiyu nodded with a beaming smile.


    When Cheng Xu went out, Bai Xuanji was still standing outside, her beautiful face filled with confusion. Seeing him coming out alone, she looked at him with a puzzled expression and glanced behind him.


    ¡°Put the medicine aside for now. His Majesty can¡¯t drink it temporarily.¡± Cheng Xu bowed to her. ¡°Miss, please leave for now.¡±


    Bai Xuanji widened her eyes slightly and pointed towards the room. ¡°But what about Zhuji¡­¡±


    ¡°Fourth Miss has two guards taking care of His Majesty inside. If Miss has no other matters, there is no need to disturb them.¡± Cheng Xu finished speaking, bowed again, and then held the letter paper as he walked away.


    Bai Xuanji stared blankly at his departing figure, her face filled with disbelief.


    ¡°Miss,¡± the maid Xiyun took the tray from her hand and frowned. ¡°What should we do? We can¡¯t even see His Highness¡¯s face.¡±


    Bai Xuanji also didn¡¯t know what to do. She had expected to at least see him once, but His Highness refused to take the medicine. Her plans had all fallen through.


    Thinking of the silly smile from Bai Zhuji just now, Bai Xuanji finally furrowed her brows.


    Cheng Xu nervously went to the Lu Mansion with the letter in his hand and presented his name card.


    Lu Jingxing was the foremost merchant in the capital, and his mansion was even more magnificent and luxurious than the official residences. However, today, the usually bustling entrance of the Lu Mansion was unusually quiet. The golden-red plaque of the Lu Mansion was adorned with a circle of white silk, hanging on both sides with flower knots.


    Cheng Xu was surprised by this sight and asked the gatekeeper, ¡°Has someone passed away in the mansion?¡±


    The gatekeeper took the name card and sighed, ¡°No.¡±


    If there was no death, why did it look like a mourning atmosphere? Cheng Xu was puzzled and pondered for a moment, feeling a sense of unease.


    Could it be¡­ they were mourning for Princess Danyang?


    Oh no, Lu Jingxing¡¯s obsession with Princess Danyang must be deep. If that¡¯s the case, he would be even less likely to give up the spirit medicine.


    Cheng Xu pursed his lips, thought for a moment, and decided to hand over the letter given by Miss Bai. ¡°Please deliver this to your master as well.¡±


    The gatekeeper accepted it and instructed someone to bring it inside. Cheng Xu almost felt hopeless, thinking that he would wait for half an hour. If Lu Jingxing didn¡¯t give a reply within that time, he would have to find a way to make the carriage move smoothly.


    However, before half an incense stick¡¯s worth of time had passed since the letter was delivered, someone came out from the mansion.


    In disarray footsteps and uneven breaths, Lu Jingxing strode over with a white jade crown slightly tilted on his head, and his gem-embellished belt loosely fastened. His complexion was haggard and pale, but his phoenix-like eyes still held a glimmer, faintly reminiscent of the charm of a debonair young gentleman.


    Cheng Xu stared at him in astonishment, only to see him approach in a few steps and inquire with a burning gaze, ¡°Where is Fourth Miss Bai?¡±

 CH 14

    // Familiar Sensations


    At that moment, Cheng Xu almost didn¡¯t recognize him.


    It was widely known that Lu Jingxing, despite being criticized by the world for colluding with Princess Danyang, had an attractive appearance. To put it bluntly, he was ¡°charming and handsome.¡± To put it more elegantly, he exuded an air of elegance and refinement, with a touch of the remnants of a dandy. In short, he possessed the charm of a Southern jade fan, showcasing countless grace and emotions in the corners of his eyes.


    However, the current Lu J¨«ngxing, let alone talking about grace, had lost even his basic appearance.


    ¡°Answer me!¡± Lu J¨«ngxing became anxious when he saw that Cheng Xu remained silent, and his eyebrows furrowed.


    Cheng Xu snapped back to his senses and quickly bowed, saying, ¡°Fourth Miss Bai is currently with our Lord in the Bai Residence.¡±


    ¡­With Jiang Xuanjin, together? Lu Jingxing¡¯s pupils contracted, his lips turned pale, and he stared at Cheng Xu for a moment. He staggered a few steps forward, ready to leave.


    ¡°Shopkeeper Lu!¡± Cheng Xu hurriedly called out to him, ¡°My Lord is seriously ill. If Shopkeeper Lu can provide a dose of the elixir¡­¡±


    With a flick of his hand, Lu Jingxing placed a small red sandalwood box in front of him and said, ¡°Take me to see her, and this is also for your Lord.¡±


    Cheng Xu was overjoyed and expressed his gratitude. He said, ¡°Please follow me.¡±


    In a chamber of the Bai Residence.


    Li Huaiyu sat by the bedside, staring blankly at Jiang Xuanjin, while two guards stood behind her, also staring blankly.


    Ah, when a person of high status is cautious, it¡¯s burdensome. After finally sending Cheng Xu away, she ended up with two guards left in the room. She couldn¡¯t even approach Jiang Xuanjin, let alone touch his neck with a knife. Just getting closer to him would result in the long swords of the two men being unsheathed from behind.


    It was really boring.


    The person on the bed coughed twice and opened his eyes.


    ¡°Hmm? Awake?¡± Huaiyu quickly put on a smiley face, approached him, and helped him sit up. She considerately placed a pillow behind his waist.


    Jiang Xuanjin had a high fever again, his face flushed, and his ink-dark eyes were hazy. He looked at her, then looked around, and asked in a hoarse voice, ¡°Where is Cheng Xu?¡±


    Huaiyu honestly replied, ¡°He has gone to fetch the elixir for you.¡±


    Elixir? Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brows, as if he didn¡¯t understand what it meant. After thinking for a moment, he closed his eyes again and asked, ¡°Why are you still here?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Huaiyu chuckled, ¡°You have a high fever again, where else should I be if not here?¡±


    Slightly annoyed, Jiang Xuanjin said, ¡°Others can take care of me too, you should keep your distance.¡±


    Slightly annoyed, Jiang Xuanjin said, ¡°Taking care of me is the same for anyone else. You should avoid suspicion.¡±


    ¡°Avoiding suspicion again and again,¡± Li Huaiyu shook her head and sighed, ¡°Just consider it as me fulfilling my filial duty to my future uncle-in-law in advance.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s face darkened, and he looked at her with a gloomy gaze.


    ¡°Hey, you have such a strange temperament. When I speak casually, you¡¯re not happy. When I speak seriously, you¡¯re still not happy?¡± Li Huaiyu shrugged, ¡°What should I do to please you?¡±


    ¡°Stay away from me,¡± Jiang Xuanjin said.


    Li Huaiyu felt wronged and said, ¡°Do you really dislike me that much?¡±


    He coldly snorted and remained silent.


    Sighing, Li Huaiyu was about to pretend to be wronged and say a few soft words when suddenly the door was pushed open with a bang.


    Startled, she turned her head to look, but before she could clearly see who it was, she felt a gust of wind rushing towards her. A streak of silver flashed before her eyes, and without any explanation, she was pulled by the waist and taken several steps back.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Li Huaiyu was startled and instinctively threw an elbow towards the person¡¯s abdomen.


    Little did she know, the person was well aware of her moves. Before she could strike, a hand had already blocked the position she was aiming for. Her elbow hit the hand directly and was caught.


    This familiar feeling¡­


    Li Huaiyu¡¯s mind stirred, and she looked up.


    In the phoenix-like eyes of Lu Jingxing, there was a dazzling light. As his gaze met hers, his expression softened, and he even smiled softly.


    ¡°You troublemaker, you truly have a skill that has been passed down for a thousand years.¡± Leaning in close to her ear, he whispered these words in a very low voice.


    The teasing tone sounded familiar as always, but the hand placed on her waist was trembling, and even the teasing tone carried a hint of tremor.


    Li Huaiyu smiled and said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve recognized me, what is there to be afraid of?¡±


    The hand holding her waist tightened slightly, and Lu Jingxing¡¯s eyes turned slightly red. ¡°What else could I be afraid of?¡±


    Of course, he was afraid¡­ This was one of his dreams.


    Dan Yang had died, and despite his best efforts, he couldn¡¯t find a way out for her. He thought that if he slept for a long time, he would surely be able to have her spirit enter his dreams, but after so many days had passed, he had never dreamt of her even once.


    Lu Jingxing felt that he was not a sentimental person, and his relationship with Dan Yang was nothing more than a friendship. But when she truly disappeared, he unexpectedly found that this bustling capital city seemed like a suffocating prison.


    When Cheng Xu came to ask for medicine, he had no intention of giving it to him. However, when he saw the letter¡­ the three characters ¡°Come see me¡± written in cursive script, only Li Huaiyu could write like that, and only Lu Jingxing could recognize it.


    A person who was already dead had written these three words for him. He didn¡¯t feel scared; instead, he felt happy. But amidst the happiness, he was also afraid. What if someone suddenly woke him up and discovered that it was just a dream? What if Dan Yang had truly passed away?


    His throat tightened, and Lu Jingxing was about to say something when suddenly a surge of killing intent rushed from behind.


    ¡°Be careful!¡± Li Huaiyu immediately


    Cheng Xu¡¯s sword didn¡¯t leave its sheath, but it still carried some force as it swung across, accompanied by a sound of breaking air, separating the two individuals.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Lu Jingxing asked with a hint of anger.


    Cheng Xu remained silent, only casting a cautious glance in the direction of the bed.


    Li Huaiyu was momentarily stunned, realizing that there were other people in the room. She inwardly cursed, quickly turning her gaze towards Jiang Xuanjin.


    Jiang Xuanjin leaned against the head of the bed, expressionless, watching them with calm eyes.


    ¡°¡­ Haha, Shopkeeper Lu arrived suddenly and forgot to pay respects to His Highness,¡± Huaiyu laughed awkwardly, pushing Lu Jingxing away.


    Lu Jingxing glanced at her and then turned his gaze to Jiang Xuanjin, his expression becoming less friendly. ¡°Indeed, it was my oversight. Prince Ziyang, who has always been influential, how did you end up in this state in the guest room of Bai Mansion?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin didn¡¯t answer but instead asked, ¡°What are you here for?¡±


    ¡°What else could I be here for? Naturally, to deliver medicine to His Highness, so that our loyal and patriotic Prince Ziyang can recover soon and continue to punish the treacherous and eliminate evil.¡± Lu Jingxing forced a smile as he handed the small box containing the spiritual medicine to Cheng Xu.


    Cheng Xu took it and felt a bit embarrassed.


    According to the rules, anything His Highness consumes should be inspected, but the medicinal pill was only as big as a thumb. He couldn¡¯t possibly break it in half and taste it first, right?


    ¡°What are you thinking? The medicine has finally arrived, and you¡¯re not going to give it to your master?¡± Huaiyu raised an eyebrow, snatched the box from his hand, and walked towards the bedside.


    Jiang Xuanjin coldly said, ¡°I don¡¯t need it.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you need it? Can¡¯t you see your own complexion?¡± Huaiyu exclaimed, ¡°Even a dead duck doesn¡¯t have a mouth as stubborn as yours. Hurry up and eat it. Here, there¡¯s tea.¡±


    The box was opened, the pill held between her fingertips, and she brought it to his lips.

 CH 15

    // Recognizing You


    Lujing had an astonished expression as he looked at her.


    He hurried over because he was afraid that something might happen between her and Prince Ziyang. After all, Prince Ziyang had previously personally delivered poison wine to her. The two of them had a deep grudge, and with Danyang¡¯s vengeful nature, she would definitely not let Jiang Xuanjin off the hook.


    And what happened? Not only did she act as if nothing had happened, but she also fed him the medicine?


    Lujing became even more suspicious if he was dreaming.


    Jiang Xuanjin glanced at the pill in front of him and said softly, ¡°If there¡¯s anyone in this world who wants me dead, it must be the person standing over there. Are you feeding me the medicine he gave you?¡±


    Li Huaiyu raised an eyebrow, ¡°Are you overthinking? Even if he wants you dead, he wouldn¡¯t directly send poison. What about the people in his mansion? Do they deserve to die too?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin fell silent, his face darkened, and he exuded a sense of resistance.


    Huaiyu found it amusing and turned to Lujing, saying, ¡°Look, doesn¡¯t our wise Prince Ziyang look like a stubborn child who refuses to take medicine?¡±


    Lujing looked at her with a complicated gaze, thought for a moment, and nodded.


    ¡°You¡¯ve just regained your consciousness, haven¡¯t you?¡± Jiang Xuanjin stared at Huaiyu with a deep gaze, ¡°How do you know him? And it seems like you¡¯re familiar and close to him.¡±


    Huaiyu smiled confidently. She had already prepared a lie when she wrote that letter, and now she confidently said, ¡°The Lu Mansion is adjacent to the Bai family. I¡¯ve known him since I was little. What¡¯s so strange about that?¡±


    Known since childhood? Jiang Xuanjin sneered. Who in the capital didn¡¯t know that Lujing was rebellious and detested everyone except for the Princess Danyang? Why would a daughter of the Bai Mansion know him?


    ¡°You really don¡¯t speak a single word of truth.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on, you don¡¯t believe me anyway,¡± Huaiyu pouted, glanced at the pill in her hand, and smiled again, ¡°Whether you believe it or not, I won¡¯t harm you. Take the medicine first, so that your condition doesn¡¯t worsen later, and Lord Bai won¡¯t come after me.¡±


    ¡°Miss Bai, about this¡­¡± a nearby attendant couldn¡¯t help but whisper, ¡°To be taken by His Highness, the medicine needs to be tested.¡±


    Tested? Huaiyu raised an eyebrow, ¡°How should we test it?¡±


    ¡°If you dare not take it, then don¡¯t take it,¡± Lujing straightened his clothes and disdainfully said, ¡°Why force yourself?¡±


    Li Huaiyu thought for a moment and realized the logic behind it, so she started retracting her hand holding the pill.


    However, halfway through, her wrist was grabbed.


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s palm was scorching hot, like a branding iron, gripping her wrist. Slowly, his other hand reached out and took the pill from her fingertips.


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Huaiyu looked at him in confusion.


    The person in front of her seemed to be in a bad mood, with an unpleasant expression. There was a glimmer of darkness in his half-closed eyes. He paused while holding the pill and pressed it directly onto her lips. His thumb pressed against the pill, gently crushing it.


    Li Huaiyu stared in astonishment, feeling the round pill rubbing against her lips, releasing a subtle fragrance.


    Instinctively, she wanted to open her mouth.


    However, just as she was about to open her mouth, Jiang Xuanjin took back the pill, looked at her with calm eyes, put it into his own mouth, and swallowed it.


    Huaiyu: ¡°¡­¡±


    Cheng Xu: ¡°¡­¡±


    Lujing: ¡°¡­¡±


    Everyone in the room was dumbfounded. Li Huaiyu stared at him with wide eyes, and even her usually thick-skinned face turned slightly red.


    ¡°What¡­ What are you doing?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s mood seemed to improve after swallowing the pill. He answered her seriously, ¡°Testing the medicine. Since you¡¯re acquainted with Shopkeeper Lu, if there¡¯s a problem with this medicine, you¡¯ll die together with me.¡±


    I see¡­ Huaiyu touched her lips and licked them with her tongue. She turned her head and asked Lujing, ¡°It¡¯s fine, right?¡±


    Lujing took a couple of steps forward, grabbed her arm, and pulled her up from the bedside. ¡°If there¡¯s a problem, I¡¯ll provide the antidote only to you. Let him die. Isn¡¯t it the same?¡±


    Cheng Xu suddenly tightened his grip on his sword hilt.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t get upset. He just likes to joke around,¡± Huaiyu quickly reassured Cheng Xu, pointing at Lujing. ¡°You see, he¡¯s stubborn on the outside but soft-hearted on the inside. This medicine must be fine!¡±


    Lujing glanced at her and didn¡¯t release his grip on her arm. ¡°Is there nothing else here?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Huaiyu nodded. She knew Lujing had many questions for her, and she had something to discuss with him as well. So she turned her head towards Jiang Xuanjin and said, ¡°Your Highness, rest well. I will take my leave.¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin remained silent, not even looking at them. With half-closed eyes, she quietly leaned against the headboard.


    Lujing pulled Huaiyu and left the guest room.


    ¡°Release your grip first.¡± As soon as they stepped outside, Huaiyu whispered, ¡°This is the Bai residence, after all.¡±


    Lujing frowned and slowly let go of her hand. He found a secluded corner and turned back, gazing at her intently.


    ¡°I have something to say, so let me go first.¡± Huaiyu leaned against the wall, looking at him incredulously. ¡°Just based on a letter, how did you determine it was me?¡±


    Her body had already been buried, and Lujing should be well aware that she was dead.


    With a light chuckle, Lujing pulled out the Nanyang jade bone fan hanging from his waist and opened it with a ¡°swish.¡± He shook it lightly. ¡°Only you can write such ugly characters, and the ink hasn¡¯t even dried yet.¡±


    Huaiyu raised an eyebrow. ¡°Based on this, you believe that I¡¯m still alive? Look at me now, in this state, and you still dare to recognize me?¡±


    Lowering his head to look at her, Lujing reached out and gently stroked her eyebrows and eyes. ¡°No matter how you change, I can still recognize you.¡±


    ¡°Heh, truly worthy of Shopkeeper Lu!¡± Huaiyu couldn¡¯t help but applaud him. ¡°Coming back from the dead is such a bizarre thing. It took me half a day to accept it myself. But you, you believed without a doubt from the very beginning.¡±


    Lujing smiled faintly, and the four characters ¡°High Mountains Yield to Reverence¡± on the fan swayed lightly, adding a touch of elegance to him.


    Casting a sidelong glance at him, Huaiyu said, ¡°Stop pretending. It¡¯s just the two of us here. Who are you putting on this appearance for?¡±


    They had known each other for four or five years and knew each other inside out. In front of others, she was the eldest princess, and he was the foremost merchant in the capital. But when it was just the two of them, they were like old friends. No one understood Lujing better than Li Huaiyu, and of course, no one understood Li Huaiyu better than Lujing.


    Closing the fan with a snap, Lujing narrowed his eyes. ¡°You think I look like I yield to reverence? Come closer! Do you see the bloodshot eyes in my eyes? I haven¡¯t had a good night¡¯s sleep for half a month!¡±


    There was no need to ask why he couldn¡¯t sleep well. Huaiyu knew it herself and chuckled in guilt.


    ¡°When did you come back to life?¡± Lujing asked impatiently.


    ¡°It happened just these past two days,¡± Huaiyu said. ¡°Considering my current identity, it wasn¡¯t appropriate for me to come and inform you directly. So I took advantage of Cheng Xu¡¯s hand and sent you a letter.¡±


    ¡°At least you have a conscience,¡± Lujing sighed. ¡°What do you plan to do next? Your current identity¡­ doesn¡¯t seem easy.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about how to live our lives later.¡± Huaiyu¡¯s expression turned serious as she looked at him. ¡°Right now, I do have a favor to ask of you.¡±

 CH 16

    // You are enough for me


    ¡°Tell me,¡± Lu Jingxing straightened his posture.


    Looking around, Huaiyu whispered, ¡°Qingsi has been captured by Jiang Xuanjin.¡±


    Slightly startled, Lu Jingxing frowned, ¡°When did this happen?¡±


    ¡°It should have been in the past couple of days.¡± Huaiyu anxiously ran her hand through her hair and said, ¡°That girl has a fiery temperament, and being in Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s hands won¡¯t end well. At the moment, I can¡¯t do anything in my current state. I can only try to find out where she is, and then you can find people to help me rescue her.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Lu Jingxing understood, ¡°So you¡¯re being so friendly to Jiang Xuanjin because you want to save Qingsi?¡±


    ¡°Otherwise?¡± She raised an eyebrow, ¡°Would I genuinely care about his illness?!¡±


    He chuckled softly, shaking his head, ¡°I thought you had changed after dying once, but it seems you¡¯re still the same.¡±


    Truly wicked yet adorable.


    Squinting his eyes, Li Huaiyu said, ¡°He showed no mercy to me, so I won¡¯t show him any righteousness. If I have the chance, I will kill him without hesitation.¡±


    Without hesitation!


    Lu Jingxing breathed a sigh of relief, ¡°I understand. Keep this item with you. When you need me, go to any shop and have someone inform me.¡±


    As he spoke, he reached out and took the keepsake from his waist and handed it to her.


    A keepsake, something that anyone with status in the capital carried with them. It had characters engraved on the front and a personal seal or a favorite pattern on the back, symbolizing their identity and serving as a token.


    On the back of Lu Jingxing¡¯s keepsake was carved ¡°Jade Mountain, Flying Snow,¡± a design Li Huaiyu was familiar with. She took it, caressing it for a moment, and smiled, saying, ¡°Good.¡±


    Looking at her, Lu Jingxing suddenly rubbed his chin and said, ¡°With your current status, can I propose a marriage at the Bai Mansion?¡±


    She rolled her eyes at him, not in a good mood, ¡°Give it a rest! There are so many things to do, and you think I have the time for marriage? Besides, do you know how formidable I am now?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Lu Jingxing asked with interest, ¡°How formidable are you?¡±


    ¡°The future Madam Jiang, how formidable is that?¡± Li Huaiyu asked.


    Madam Jiang of the Jiang family? Lu Jingxing¡¯s expression darkened, ¡°Then I should really set a date to propose.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly.¡± Huaiyu touched the keepsake and smiled sinisterly, ¡°I planned to use this status to compete with Jiang Xuanjin.¡±


    ¡°If you want revenge, I can help you without you going so far.¡± Lu Jingxing frowned, ¡°You¡¯ve never lived for yourself before, and now that you¡¯ve finally been given a second chance at life, you still want to entangle yourself in trouble?¡±


    When she was still in Danyang, she wholeheartedly planned for her younger imperial brother, enduring countless criticisms and bearing countless burdens. What was the result? Did it end well?


    She had already died once, so why did she want to throw herself into troubled waters with such fervor?


    Li Huaiyu laughed twice and looked up at him, ¡°The country is not yet stable, the throne is not secure. Even if I were truly dead, even if I turned into a ghost, I wouldn¡¯t just stand idly by.¡±


    She spoke softly, without any momentum, as if she were casually joking with him on the street.


    Her voice was light and devoid of any grandeur, as if she were casually tossing out a few playful remarks while walking birds on the street.


    However, when her determined gaze met his, Lu Jingxing¡¯s heart trembled and a sense of sorrow and indignation unexpectedly arose within him.


    ¡°Do you still remember who ordered your death?¡± he asked.


    Li Huaiyu nodded with a smile. ¡°By the decree of the Emperor.¡±


    ¡°Then why¡­¡± he started to ask.


    ¡°He is my own younger brother, and I am his older sister. I know what he was thinking very well,¡± Li Huaiyu earnestly replied. ¡°He wanted to protect me, but he couldn¡¯t.¡±


    Sima Xu, the Prime Minister of two dynasties, a man of outstanding achievements and great virtue. In a single dynasty, he died by her hands, with all the evidence and witnesses. Even an emperor couldn¡¯t protect her.


    ¡°If you want to blame someone, blame our Prince Ziyang,¡± she said. ¡°This Prince is too cunning.¡±


    She used to think that Jiang Xuanjin was different from the others in the court. Although they couldn¡¯t get along, he sincerely served the new emperor and worked to strengthen the kingdom. He was a rare good minister.


    However, when she faced death, she realized that this so-called good minister had a more ruthless heart than those cunning officials in the court. Employing imperial physicians, inviting Sima, organizing palace banquets, he plotted step by step and finally put her in a deadly situation.


    It was regrettable that she had never noticed it before!


    Her fist clenched until it turned white, then slowly relaxed. Li Huaiyu put on a smile and said to Lu Jingxing, ¡°It¡¯s about time, you should go. If the Imperial Historian happens to see us, it will only lead to more trouble.¡±


    Lu Jingxing raised an eyebrow and gracefully opened his folding fan. He said in a flirtatious manner, ¡°I¡¯ve only just arrived, and now you want me to leave? I can¡¯t bear to part with you.¡±


    If it were any other girl, she would undoubtedly be enchanted by such affectionate words and lose her bearings in all directions. However, Li Huaiyu was not fooled. She held her arms and looked at him, saying, ¡°You don¡¯t want to leave? Alright then, I¡¯ll have someone inform the Imperial Historian, and he can serve you fragrant tea and talk about merchant taxation¡­¡±


    ¡°After bothering you for so long, I apologize for any inconvenience.¡± He closed his fan, and Lu Jingxing immediately turned serious, arching his hand. ¡°I take my leave.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡± Li Huaiyu burst into laughter.


    As Lu Jingxing watched her laugh with a smug expression on her face, he couldn¡¯t help but join in with a low chuckle. Then, suddenly, he stepped forward, leaning down.


    His handsome face suddenly enlarged, startling Huaiyu. Her laughter got stuck in her throat, and her eyes widened.


    His slightly pale lips stopped an inch away from her cheek. Lu Jingxing paused and lifted his eyelids to look at her shocked expression, a hint of cunning flickering in his eyes.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you still laughing?¡± he asked.


    Her lips twitched, and Li Huaiyu replied, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll accidentally spit on your face.¡±


    ¡°Are you actually not afraid that I¡¯ll kiss you?¡± Lu Jingxing was surprised.


    Rolling her eyes, Li Huaiyu said, ¡°Is there a difference between you kissing me and kissing the back of your own hand?¡±


    They had been friends for so many years. If there were any romantic feelings between them, Lu Jingxing would definitely have pursued her. But there weren¡¯t any. She treated him like a brother, and he treated her the same way. Even several of the attendants in her residence were sent by him.


    Li Huaiyu had no ulterior motives towards Lu Jingxing, and he was surely the same.


    The person in front of her lowered his eyes, and the jade bone fan ¡°swished¡± open, covering his eyebrows and eyes.


    ¡°How boring,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t see you off.¡±


    Waving his hand, Lu Jingxing strode confidently out of the eastern courtyard.


    Huaiyu walked out from the corner, smiling as she watched his figure recede.


    When she was a princess, no other girls dared to play with her except for the court ladies. They were afraid of being criticized as ¡°vulgar¡± or ¡°improper.¡± So for a long time, Li Huaiyu felt frustrated, and at one point, she grabbed Lu Jingxing¡¯s sleeve and acted crazy while drunk.


    ¡°No one wants to be friends with me. Am I that pitiful?¡±


    ¡°Friendship is about quality, not quantity.¡± Lu Jingxing walked with her on the way back to the Feiyun Palace, carrying her on his back and smiling. ¡°Having you is enough for me.¡±

 CH 17

    // The plight of the Fourth Miss


    At that time, she didn¡¯t pay much attention, but now, looking back, Li Huaiyu felt that what Lu Jingxing said was right. When it comes to friends, having one sincere friend is enough.


    With a relieved smile, she turned around, planning to take another look at Jiang Xuanjin.


    However, as her gaze shifted, she was surprised to see someone standing at the door of the guest room.


    Startled, she jumped in place and glared at him, ¡°How did you come out?¡±


    Jiang Xuanjin adjusted the dark cloak he had taken advantage of and still had no color on his face. His gaze towards her was cold, ¡°It¡¯s time to leave.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve only taken the medicine for a short while, and now you want to leave?¡±


    Ignoring her, Jiang Xuanjin stepped out of the door, passing by her, and causing a gust of wind.


    His arrogant demeanor was consistent with the style of Prince Ziyang Jiang Xuanjin, but for some reason, Huaiyu had an intuition ¨C this person was not happy.


    ¡°Hey,¡± she called out, ¡°I even begged for the elixir for you, and I even tried it for you. Why do you still treat me like this?¡±


    He paused his steps, but didn¡¯t turn his head, ¡°Fourth Miss, restrain yourself.¡±


    Restrain herself again? She always restrained herself. What if she ended up creating a pit beneath her feet?


    About to retort with a few sarcastic remarks, Jiang Xuanjin lifted his steps and walked past her with a dignified figure.


    ¡°Thank you, Fourth Miss. Goodbye,¡± Cheng Xu followed behind, bowing to her.


    Huaiyu waved her hand, helplessly watching Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s retreating figure, thinking that this person¡¯s guard was truly heavy. She thought she had made some progress, but in the blink of an eye, he reverted back to his original state.


    It was quite difficult to handle.


    The eastern courtyard was empty, and thinking that she would send off Jiang Xuanjin later, Bai Dezhong, that old man, would definitely come to settle the score with her. Huaiyu decided to just go back to the Second Miss¡¯s yard, intending to find something to eat.


    However, when she finally found the small courtyard she had searched before, she was surprised to find that there were still people inside.


    ¡°Did the Second Miss come back?¡± Bai Xuanji smiled warmly when she saw her, beckoning affectionately, ¡°Come here quickly. Mother ordered me to bring you something.¡±


    Unable to see Purple Yang Jun as she had intended and being left with his back view, this girl still had a smile on her face. Huaiyu couldn¡¯t help but give her a thumbs up. With such grace, she could rival those smiling foxes at court.


    ¡°What is it?¡± she asked curiously, walking over.


    Bai Xuanji stepped aside, and behind her, Xiyun held a tray with a stack of clothes on it.


    ¡°In two days, it will be the young master¡¯s 18th birthday at the Jiang Residence,¡± Bai Xuanji smiled, ¡°Originally, you were not allowed to go, but since you have already regained your consciousness, you should also go out and see the world. Time is short, and there is no time to make new clothes for you. I have only worn this outfit twice. I hope the Fourth Miss doesn¡¯t mind.¡±


    Oh, so that¡¯s the case. Huaiyu nodded and picked up the clothes on the tray to take a look.


    The fabric was average, much inferior to what she used to wear, and the color¡­ it was a light pink.


    In any other occasion, this outfit would pass, but for the birthday banquet of the most favored young master of the Jiang family, as the future young mistress, this outfit appears frivolous.


    Glancing at her expression, Bai Xuanji smiled and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you like it?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to hear the truth?¡± Huaiyu turned her head to look at her.


    Bai Xuanji hesitated for a moment and then chuckled, ¡°As sisters, you can speak your mind.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be honest.¡± Huaiyu put the clothes back on the tray and smiled, ¡°I don¡¯t like it.¡±


    Bai Xuanji was taken aback, seemingly surprised by her directness. The smile on her face finally faded a bit, and she slightly frowned, ¡°In that case, I¡¯ve overstepped. Since you don¡¯t like it, you can prepare your own clothes.¡±


    As she said that, she glanced at the old dark-colored gown Huaiyu was wearing and a hint of mockery finally appeared in her eyes, ¡°Just don¡¯t regret it later.¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡± The little maid Lingxiu, who had been standing with her head lowered, couldn¡¯t hold back anymore and gently tugged at Huaiyu¡¯s sleeve.


    Huaiyu turned her head and stared at the maid for a moment, realizing that she was the one who came into the room carrying a basin of water when she first woke up.


    ¡°What is it?¡± She raised an eyebrow.


    Lingxiu anxiously whispered, ¡°You don¡¯t have any other clothes to wear. Keep this dress, it can still save face for you. Otherwise, you won¡¯t even be able to enter the Jiang Residence!¡±


    Her voice was low, but Bai Xuanji was standing nearby and could hear every word. The mockery in her eyes grew deeper, ¡°Lingxiu, don¡¯t bother. Fourth Miss doesn¡¯t like this old dress of mine.¡±


    ¡°Second Miss, please calm down. My young lady has only recently regained her senses and doesn¡¯t understand many things,¡± Lingxiu stepped forward and repeatedly bowed to Bai Xuanji, ¡°Thank you for your kind intentions. I¡¯ll take the dress for the young lady¡­¡±


    ¡°Forget it. This old dress doesn¡¯t match the future young mistress of the Jiang family,¡± Bai Xuanji interrupted her with a fake smile, then looked at Li Huaiyu out of the corner of her eye, ¡°Fourth Miss has a connection with Purple Yang Jun. Isn¡¯t it easy for her to get a nice dress? Xiyun, let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xiyun, the maid holding the tray, kneeled and followed behind Bai Xuanji as they walked away.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Lingxiu became anxious and was about to chase after them, but her wrist was grabbed by someone.


    ¡°Even if you chase after her now, she won¡¯t give you the dress,¡± Huaiyu yawned, feeling a bit tired, ¡°Save your energy.¡±


    Lingxiu didn¡¯t understand and looked at her in confusion, ¡°Second Miss came here specifically to bring you the dress. She was just upset by you earlier and couldn¡¯t face you for a while. As long as I plead with her¡­¡±


    Huaiyu chuckled lightly, ¡°If you plead with her, will she give it to you? If she really had my best interests at heart, she wouldn¡¯t have given me this kind of outfit. Aren¡¯t you being foolish?¡±


    Lingxiu was stunned, her face blushing slightly. Being called foolish by her own mistress, this was¡­


    ¡°I feel that having something is better than nothing.¡± Lingxiu pinched her handkerchief, expressing her worry, ¡°Second Miss wasn¡¯t wrong. With the limited time, there¡¯s no chance for you to make another outfit. As for the Jiang Residence¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about that for now.¡± Huaiyu grabbed her and entered the small room, then collapsed wearily onto the bed. ¡°Go find me something to eat. I¡¯ll take a nap after eating.¡±


    Lingxiu opened her mouth, glanced at the daylight outside, realizing it was already time for lunch, and hurriedly ran to the kitchen.


    She had been busy running around for the past two days, and her body was exhausted. She hadn¡¯t dared to sleep deeply by Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s side. Now, she finally had a peaceful place, and Huaiyu quickly fell into a deep sleep.


    She slept until the sun was setting.


    Struggling to break free from the chaotic dreams, Huaiyu opened her eyes and glanced around the room.


    It was quiet, and there was no food on the table. Lingxiu seemed to have not returned yet.


    She furrowed her brow in confusion, got up, rummaged through the wardrobe, found a clean old garment to change into, and then went out to find someone.


    Lanterns were already lit under the eaves of the residence, and the fragrance of food wafted in the surroundings. Li Huaiyu didn¡¯t know the way, so she randomly grabbed someone on the street and asked, ¡°Have you seen my maid?¡±

 CH 18

    // Transformed like a different person


    As the captured servant recognized her, a strange look crossed his face. He forcefully pulled back his own sleeves and smirked, saying, ¡°Lingxiu is working in the southern courtyard.¡±


    ¡°Southern courtyard? Working?¡± Huaiyu furrowed her brow, pondered for a moment, and deemed it normal. She asked for directions from the servant and started walking.


    Inside the southern courtyard, the lanterns were sparingly lit, making it difficult for Lingxiu to clearly see the patterns. She squinted her eyes and carefully embroidered the design onto the dress.


    Standing not far away were two old maids cracking melon seeds and whispering to each other.


    ¡°Our lady has been extremely kind to the Fourth Miss. They aren¡¯t even blood-related, yet she has given her such exquisite materials. She¡¯s not afraid of overshadowing the Second Miss in the Jiang residence.¡±


    ¡°No wonder she can be the mistress. Our lady is truly compassionate. But in my opinion, even if the Fourth Miss wears such clothes, she still can¡¯t compare to the dazzling Second Miss. One is the legitimate daughter of the main wife, educated and sensible. The other was a madwoman for three years, and now that she¡¯s awake, she still lacks manners. It would be good enough if she doesn¡¯t embarrass herself.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a reasonable point! You haven¡¯t seen the Fourth Miss¡¯s appearance today. She has no manners in front of His Highess. How can she be considered a noble young lady?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. The Jiang family is a family of etiquette. Does the Fourth Miss deserve it?¡±


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t!¡± Someone at the back responded cheerfully.


    Li Mama, who was cracking seeds, turned around with a smile, intending to praise the person for their insight. However, when she saw the person¡¯s face, she was so startled that she dropped the melon seeds from her hand.


    ¡°Fourth¡­ Fourth Miss?¡±


    Li Huaiyu grinned and caught a few fallen melon seeds, cracking them crisply in her mouth. She blinked and said, ¡°Why are you panicking? Everything you said is true ah.¡±


    The two maids were dumbfounded, staring at her in shock. They watched as she walked toward Lingxiu, still cracking melon seeds, and lowered her head to ask, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    As soon as she heard her mistress¡¯s voice, Lingxiu finally looked up and squeezed out a smile uglier than crying. She replied, ¡°I¡¯m helping you finish the dress, my lady.¡±


    Glancing at the object in her hand, it was a robe with a plain and unadorned silk surface. Such a robe would require a large number of intricate patterns to look good; otherwise, it would be unfit to wear. The piece Lingxiu held in her hand was only the size of a palm. If she were to embroider the entire thing, even if she didn¡¯t eat or drink, it would take at least half a month.


    Narrowing her eyes, Huaiyu asked, ¡°Are you foolish? Do you really think you can finish embroidering it?¡±


    Moving her stiff neck, Lingxiu held up the dress to show her. ¡°Look, this fabric is excellent!¡±


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s excellent, you won¡¯t be able to finish embroidering it, and I won¡¯t be able to wear it. If you have the time, why not have a meal and get some rest?¡±


    Lingxiu was taken aback and somewhat at a loss. ¡°But¡­ but you don¡¯t have any other clothes to wear. The Jiang residence¡¯s birthday banquet is very important, especially for you. If you don¡¯t manage to change people¡¯s previous impression of you, it will affect the marriage¡­¡±


    She truly was a worrying servant, foolish as she may be, but still adorable.


    Huaiyu smiled and reached out to pull her up, rubbing the back of her neck. ¡°If you insist on embroidering, I won¡¯t stop you. Go back to our room and embroider there. However, it¡¯s quite late now. Your young miss is starving, and you¡¯re not taking care of that?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Lingxiu finally remembered about eating, and her little face turned pale in an instant.


    ¡°I¡­ I forgot!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not too late to remember now. Let¡¯s go.¡± Huaiyu picked up the nearby basket of needles and thread.


    ¡°Fourth Miss!¡± The two maids finally snapped back to reality and hurriedly approached. ¡°Madam said that it¡¯s best to embroider the dress here. If it gets stained or dusty elsewhere, it won¡¯t be good.¡±


    Huaiyu smiled at them. ¡°This dress is meant to be worn by me. If I¡¯m not afraid, why should you be?¡±


    The two maids were momentarily speechless, and Huaiyu couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with them. She pulled Lingxiu along and left.


    ¡°Where is the kitchen?¡± she asked as they walked.


    Lingxiu whispered, ¡°The rules in the mansion are strict. The kitchen door is locked after the ninth hour, and we can¡¯t enter.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the rest, just show me the way,¡± Huaiyu confidently replied.


    And so, after a stick of incense, Lingxiu found herself holding four steamed buns and half a roasted chicken in her arms, staring in disbelief at the person walking ahead of her.


    ¡°Miss¡­ you¡­ you¡¯re stealing!¡±


    Not only stealing, but also climbing walls and crossing windows. If the master were to find out, he would surely beat her to death!


    Biting into her steamed bun, Li Huaiyu mumbled with her mouth full, ¡°If you don¡¯t tell, and I don¡¯t tell, who will know?¡±


    ¡°But¡­ but¡­¡± Lingxiu¡¯s mouth hung wide open in shock.


    How could the young miss behave like this? Even during her foolish moments, at most, she would babble and throw things around. Now she appeared to be normal, but her demeanor was even more carefree and unrestrained than before.


    It was as if she had become a different person.


    Stopping in her tracks, Huaiyu reached out and took the steamed bun from Lingxiu¡¯s arms, stuffing it into her mouth with a smile. Then she said, ¡°Listen carefully. Your young miss here suddenly had a revelation about the world and realized that in life, there¡¯s no need to be shackled by empty fame. When our stomachs are hungry, we eat what we have. Let¡¯s not dwell on other things, understand?¡±


    Lingxiu blinked her watery eyes, her mouth filled with the steamed bun, unable to speak.


    Huaiyu affectionately patted her head. ¡°It¡¯s good that you understand.¡±


    No, she didn¡¯t understand at all! Lingxiu shook her head. She had no idea what was going on! The Bai residence was strict with its rules, and everyone lived an honest life. How did the young miss come up with such remarks?


    The person in front of her didn¡¯t pay any attention to her shaking her head like a rattle drum. After returning to the West Courtyard, she opened the lotus leaf wrapping the roasted chicken and ate it together with Lingxiu, sharing the steamed buns. Once they were full, she lay down on the bed, seemingly ready to continue sleeping.


    ¡°Young miss,¡± Lingxiu¡¯s voice buzzed like a mosquito, ¡°May I ask where you went these past two days?¡±


    That day, the room suddenly became empty, and she had searched for a long time. She even went to ask Madam to report to the authorities, but Madam didn¡¯t pay any attention to her, leaving her sleepless all night.


    Yawning, Huaiyu said, ¡°I went out of the residence for a stroll.¡±


    Seeing how agile she was when she sneaked into the kitchen earlier, Lingxiu felt there was no need to ask her how she managed to leave. But she couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Second Miss has been coveting your engagement. She¡¯s just waiting for you to make a mistake so she can take your place. From now on, you can¡¯t be so casual in your actions.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Turning to face her, Huaiyu half-closed her eyes and chuckled. ¡°You, this little girl, talk too much.¡±


    It was completely different from Qingsi.


    Qingsi was a cold beauty who didn¡¯t like to say a word. When she was with her, Lu Jingxing teased her, saying she was like a moving ice sculpture. No matter how much he tried to make her laugh, there wouldn¡¯t be a hint of a smile on her face.


    An image of Qingsi¡¯s icy face flashed in her mind, and Huaiyu¡¯s heart tightened as she let out a long sigh.


    When she saw her, she must ask carefully. She had clearly sent her away from the capital, so why did she come back and ended up in Jiang Xuanjin¡¯s hands?