“Now, you are the most coveted...” Yunzhi’s low, melodious voice echoed in my mind. “Piece of meat.”

“Sister.” A sudden jolt brought me out of my thoughts. “Hm?” I blinked at my sister-in-law, who looked puzzled.

“You’ve been lost in thought ever since we got into the carriage.” The radiant summer sunlight filtered through the pale curtains, casting a soft glow over her face. “You’re worldly and well-traveled, so perhaps you have reservations about these idle gatherings among women.” I quickly shook my head, about to speak, but she pressed a finger to my lips. “Let me finish. Lady Yuanwan, the hostess of this graceful society, was once the beloved concubine of Lord Pingnan, Ling Kuang. She is an extraordinary woman—clever, resourceful, and adept at navigating all manner of social intricacies.” Lowering her voice, she whispered, “Court whispers say she once shared a bond with His Majesty himself.”

I glanced at my sister-in-law in surprise. She wasn’t one to gossip—so why now?

“Sister, there’s no need to doubt me,” she said sternly, meeting my gaze. “I’m telling you this because this gathering isn’t as simple as chasing butterflies with fans or embroidering flowers on silk.” Her brows furrowed slightly as she enunciated each word: “The boudoir is also a battlefield.”

I composed myself, my heart trembling slightly. The carriage came to a halt, and a steady female voice called from outside: “Lady, Miss, we’ve arrived at Lord Pingnan’s residence.”

The curtain was lifted, and dazzling sunlight spilled over us. My sister-in-law smiled faintly at me, placing her hand on the maid Yinzhang’s arm as she stepped down gracefully.

“Miss!” Que’er stood by the carriage, mimicking the gesture, extending her hand to me with a bright smile. I gave her a brief glance, lifted my skirt, and alighted without hesitation. Looking up at the exquisite plaque above the gate, I raised my eyebrows and smiled: I’m here.

“Lady of General Fubo and her younger sister have arrived!” The long announcement accompanied us as we proceeded through the grand gates and deep courtyards. Passing through the covered walkways, the sound of soft voices grew nearer until the scene opened up before us. Bamboo shadows swayed around emerald waters; jasmine wafted its intoxicating fragrance while lotus roots chilled in the breeze. Lotus leaves adorned the courtyard like vibrant skirts, exuding a faint aroma of rouge and subtle perfume.

What a charming place. As we approached, amidst the riot of colors, a graceful beauty reclined on a low couch. Her eyes were clear and bright, like glass bottles, their pupils rippling with gentle waves.

“Lady of General Fubo and her younger sister have arrived!”

The announcement echoed through this earthly paradise, shattering its harmonious tranquility. Laughter abruptly ceased, and all eyes turned toward us—some sharp, some veiled. The expressions of the women ranged from surprise to curiosity. Sensing several probing gazes, I turned my head. Coldly, I met the eyes of a delicate beauty in pale blue ice-silk robes. Slender shoulders, a lithe figure, her ethereal presence seemed to rival the moon and shame the flowers. Her almond-shaped eyes carried a hint of mockery. Smiling brightly, I held her gaze and nodded slightly. She hesitated, then lowered her eyes and returned the gesture. Next, warmly, a pink-clad beauty stood by the lotus pond, lightly fanning herself with a small round fan. Her autumnal gaze sparkled like countless pearls. Her smile was warm, her demeanor calm. She nodded slightly, the hairpin on her head trembling delicately. With a smile, she curtsied gracefully in response. Finally, the most ambiguous glance came from the beauty on the couch. Her eyes shifted subtly, unreadable.

My sister-in-law took measured steps, partially shielding me as she bowed gracefully. “We thank Lady Yuanwan for inviting us to this gathering.” She inclined her body slowly, bending her knees with composure.

“Lady Han, no need for such formalities.” The beauty on the couch straightened herself, gazing directly at me as her maids silently arranged her hair. “Miss Han, please feel at ease. This Elegant Society exists to provide a haven for noblewomen who rarely leave their homes, allowing ladies to relax and enjoy themselves freely. So, be at ease—be casual.”

“Oh, Lady Yuanwan speaks so wisely,” chimed in a woman with a wide mouth. “Dan Nong, you’ve truly kept her hidden!” She feigned reproach, hurrying over. “Such a lovely young sister—you’ve only just introduced her to us today!” She grasped my hand enthusiastically, scrutinizing me with narrowed eyes. “Just look at her, everyone—her skin is as fair as pear blossoms, her eyes bright and expressive, her posture elegant and refined.” I forced a stiff smile, attempting to appear composed. “Could it be that General Han has been reluctant to let his precious sister marry too soon, keeping her hidden away in the countryside?”

At these words, the women murmured in agreement, and the younger ladies giggled behind their hands. The earlier coldness and hostility vanished instantly. It seemed appearances were nothing more than masks.

“Lady Wu, stop teasing my sister,” my sister-in-law said with a faint smile, not overly familiar. “Qingqing is still new to this.” She subtly retrieved my hand, pulling me closer. “Besides, our general hasn’t been hiding her. Qingqing has always been frail, sensitive to changes in climate.” Pretending to be shy, she stood quietly. “However, she’ll turn sixteen after the summer. We couldn’t delay her blooming season any longer, so we brought her to Yundu.”

“Oh~” “So what about Miss Han’s illness—” someone interjected, drawing rapt attention. Some even showed traces of excitement.

My sister-in-law scanned the crowd, her lips curling into a faint smile. “No worries.”

My ears twitched, catching faint sighs of relief. I couldn’t help but smirk inwardly—it was a silent battleground, a bloodless war of hearts.

“Enough of that,” Lady Yuanwan said, slipping on embroidered shoes and lazily arranging her hair as she walked to the center of the room. Her red lips curved upward. “In my presence, no talk of illnesses or calamities.” Her smile deepened as she firmly grasped my hand, her gaze piercing as if trying to see into my very soul. Without flinching, I met her stare calmly. After a moment, she chuckled softly, her fingers loosening their grip, a glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes. “Miss Han, may I introduce you?”

“I am honored, Lady Yuanwan,” I replied clearly, eliciting gasps of admiration.

“What a divine voice.” “Truly enchanting...”

Lady Yuanwan adjusted her collar, raising her willowy brows, her expression flirtatious. “Your maiden name? Do you have a poetic alias?”

I smiled gently, tilting my eyes. “Han Yue Xia. No alias.”

“Yue Xia? A beauty under the moon,” she mused, gesturing to the woman with the wide mouth. “This is an elder member of our society—the wife of Vice Minister Wu, known by the elegant title ‘Lady Heng Lü.’”

I bowed politely and turned to look. “Next,” Lady Yuanwan continued, motioning to a dignified woman. “Lady Lu Yin’s husband serves under General Han—Grand Marshal Liu.” So this was the wife of the Chief Military Officer, bowing respectfully without arrogance or servility.

As we followed Lady Yuanwan through the garden, I exchanged cursory greetings with the married women. “Those women are already wed, like me—they’re old-timers,” Lady Yuanwan teased, earning playful scolding from the group. Turning back, she led me to the younger crowd. “Here is where you belong, Yue Xia.” Smiling warmly, she pulled forward a girl in green robes. “This is the third daughter of Lord Shangguan Sima, known as the ‘Jade Lotus Beauty,’ Shangguan Wuyan.” The girl’s unadorned face was as pale as snow, utterly devoid of coquetry.

“Little sister greets Elder Sister Han,” she said softly, bowing her head. Her gentleness made me momentarily think of a shadowy figure from a dream... Huamei. But alas, you are not her. Collecting myself, I nodded slightly.

Lady Yuanwan glanced between us and pointed to the icy beauty in blue beneath the jasmine flowers. “This is Dong Huiru, daughter of the Left Chancellor and one of the Two Beauties of Yundu.” Leaning against the flower branches, she merely blinked before remaining still.

Unperturbed by her aloofness, I smiled brightly and nodded. Rising again, I saw a pink cloud drift toward us—a beautiful woman with a warm smile, one hand holding a fan, the other resting lightly, her steps light and tinkling with grace. Upon closer inspection, her skin was as smooth as congealed fat, her bearing refined. Surely, this was the other of the Two Beauties.

“This is Rong Ruoshui, second daughter of the Right Chancellor and counterpart to Miss Dong,” Lady Yuanwan announced.

Her features exuded scholarly elegance, truly befitting a lady of noble birth. Bowing quietly, I nodded gently. She curtsied slightly, her voice sweet and melodious. “Lady, what Two Beauties? Shouldn’t it be Three Beauties now?” Her expression serene, her smile radiant, she added, “Sister Han is so elegant and refined, far surpassing me.” Turning to the jasmine bushes, she smiled warmly. “Isn’t that right, Sister Dong?”

Dong Huiru glanced at her but did not respond. Rong Ruoshui remained unfazed, shaking her fan. The carved gold bracelet on her wrist gleamed brilliantly. “Sister Han, don’t mind her. Sister Dong has always been like this. You’ll understand once you get to know her better.”

“Enough,” Lady Yuanwan declared, waving her hand. Seven or eight maids emerged from the sides, each carrying trays of fruits and delicacies, which they placed on stone tables and tea stands. “Today is our society day. Though the late summer is cool, the lotus flowers still scent the air. But don’t think you can come here to eat, play, and admire flowers for free—I’m not hosting this gathering without purpose.”

“What a miserly person! And here you are, a first-rank consort living off the royal stipend!”

Lady Yuanwan pretended to glare at Lady Wu, who had spoken. “Someone, drag Lady Heng Lü away for eighty lashes!” Lady Wu quickly covered her mouth, feigning terror. “I’ve served you all with delicious food and drink, so do me the favor of leaving behind some calligraphy or poetry. When I’m driven to poverty by all of you, I’ll have something to sell to survive.” She took a bamboo tube from a maid, filled with flower sticks. “The usual rules apply. Starting with me, we’ll toss the ball and draw lots.”

Confused, I glanced at my sister-in-law, who signaled to Que’er behind me. Que’er leaned close, whispering, “The flower stick game is a tradition of the Elegant Society. There are forty-nine sticks—some require composing poetry, others singing songs, and still others sharing amusing anecdotes from home. And... and...” She scratched her head, thinking hard before drooping dejectedly. “I’ve forgotten the rest.”

“Sister Han,” Rong Ruoshui said, pointing her fan at the hexagonal ball beside the bamboo tube. “Each face of the colored ball represents one of six key departments: the Tai Ge, Shang Ge, and Shu Ge. White is the Tai Ge Quan Zheng Yuan, cyan the Tai Ge Bo Xiu Yuan. Red is the Shang Ge Wu Suo, blue the Shang Ge Bei Suo. Green is the Shu Ge Xing Yu Si, and orange the Shu Ge Jian Cha Yuan.” I frowned deeply—why was this tied to the official system of Qing? Rong Ruoshui smiled softly, pulling me to sit on a bamboo chair as she fanned herself gently. “Since all members of the Elegant Society are daughters of officials, this arrangement helps facilitate both entertainment and networking. Lady Yuanwan categorizes us based on family background and rank, beginning with the toss of the colored ball.”

As she explained, Lady Yuanwan tossed the six-colored ball high into the air. It landed with the orange side facing up. “Next, we determine the person,” Lady Yuanwan said, opening the white side of the ball and drawing a slip of paper. “Lady Liudan Jun.”

A lady in a lotus-patterned summer skirt slowly rose amid the group’s encouragement. “This morning, I consulted the almanac—it predicted misfortune, and indeed!” She sighed, drawing a flower stick from the bamboo tube and handing it to Lady Yuanwan.

“The fifth sign: ‘Twin Blossoms.’” Lady Yuanwan announced loudly. “‘Blessed are those joined as twin blossoms. What serves as the matchmaker?’ Whoever draws this sign must embody virtue and grace, worthy of admiration from all. Let’s raise a cup to her.” She sipped her wine, and Lady Liudan Jun’s expression softened slightly. “And next!” Lady Yuanwan flipped the stick and read, “To demonstrate her virtue, please recount one or two anecdotes about your husband or father-in-law as proof.”

Everyone perked up, curiosity written across their faces. Lady Liudan Jun sighed wistfully. “My lord is an exceedingly meticulous man. Recently, he’s been consumed by the case of Duke Dianzhou, working day and night. Every evening, I prepare tonics and bring them to his chambers, but every morning they’re returned untouched.” She shook her head. “At this rate, I fear for his health.”

“Lord He truly dedicates himself wholeheartedly.” “Not like mine—he still has time to indulge in pleasures.” “Don’t even mention mine. Just the other day, he brought another seductive concubine into the house.” The ladies began exchanging grievances, lamenting their woes.

I raised my head, thoughtfully observing the surroundings. Several women stood nearby holding wine jugs and water bottles, their ears twitching ever so slightly. This was... I lowered my gaze, deep in thought, recalling where I had seen this before. Suddenly, a flash of insight crossed my mind—it was in the Book of Unusual Martial Techniques written by my master. It described this as the “Sound Gathering Technique,” a clever method of eavesdropping.

Narrowing my eyes, I studied Lady Yuanwan, who sat smiling faintly on her seat. Who exactly are you?

After several rounds, some composed poetry, others sang songs, but most simply found ways to gossip about household matters.

This time, the red side landed face up. Rong Ruoshui beside me chuckled softly. “Sister, it’s your turn—the Military Affairs Department.”

“Lady Dan Nong.” Lady Yuanwan turned her gaze gracefully, her smile radiant. “Lady General, please proceed.”

My sister-in-law rose gently, giving me a serene smile. She drew a flower stick from the bamboo tube and read aloud: “The thirty-third sign: Osmanthus. A shallow smile brings fragrance for ten miles. Whoever draws this sign must toast three cups to those who drew signs earlier.”

“Good fortune, good fortune!” came teasing voices from all around.

My sister-in-law raised her cup, making the rounds to offer toasts, her cheeks flushed with mirth. As she approached me, her body suddenly tilted, and with a swift motion, the cup flew directly toward me. Watching the thin stream of wine spill mid-air, glistening amber, I shifted slightly, catching the empty cup deftly. With a flick of my wrist, I caught the spilled liquor back into the cup. Turning my wrist, raising my hand, I placed the now-full cup back into my sister-in-law’s hands.

The room fell silent. Turning my head, I saw everyone staring in shock, their expressions frozen. Smiling gently at them, I asked my sister-in-law, whose face had paled slightly, “Are you alright, Sister?”

She glanced down at her feet, scanned the surroundings, and furrowed her brows slightly. “It’s nothing...”

“Sister.” Rong Ruoshui covered her mouth with her fan, her beautiful eyes wide with astonishment. “What just happened?”

Lowering my gaze, I feigned shyness and smiled. “When I was younger, I learned a few grappling techniques from my brother to strengthen my body. I’ve embarrassed myself here today.”

“Elder Sister is so skilled!” Shangguan Wuyan to my left laughed brightly. “Could you teach me sometime?”

Looking at the two of them, I slowly smiled. “Sure.” Sensing a cool gaze upon me, I turned to my right. Dong Huiru’s almond-shaped eyes flickered with envy before turning cold and haughty once more.

Judging from my sister-in-law’s earlier expression, this hadn’t been an accident. Among the three people seated near me—who had tripped her? Was it her? Or her? Gently surveying the three, I couldn’t detect any unusual expressions. Keeping my lips slightly curved upward, I looked up. Lady Yuanwan was watching me intently, her delicate hand lifting a wine cup and offering me a faint smile. Picking up the jade cup in front of me, I nodded in acknowledgment.

Resting my cheek on my hand, I lazily watched the laughter and chatter unfold. After several rounds, the slightly tipsy ladies and young misses began to loosen their hair, their words flowing more freely. From household trivia to city gossip, some even started discussing political affairs. Glancing casually, I noticed the earrings of the serving women quivering subtly, their earlobes trembling faintly. So, so it was. Lifting my cup, I took a sip of the light wine. Looking across the table, I saw that though my sister-in-law’s face was slightly flushed, she remained quietly attentive, speaking little.

“Oh ho, it’s finally your turn!” Excited applause rang out from the main seat. “A new arrival—beauty under the moon!”

Startled, I felt Shangguan Wuyan nudge me awake. “Go ahead, Elder Sister Han. It’s your turn.”

Amidst several amused and eager gazes, I stepped forward, meeting Lady Yuanwan’s dazzling eyes, and drew a stick at random.

“The forty-ninth sign: Peony.” She read each word deliberately. “If married to the east wind, laugh in competition with spring; a thousand flowers and hundreds of blossoms pale in comparison.” The room fell silent, the gazes directed at me growing sharp and piercing.

“This is the first time the final sign has been drawn.” Lady Yuanwan looked at me meaningfully. “Thanks to the moonlight, let us now witness the true form of the forty-ninth sign.” Flipping the stick over, she announced clearly, “Whoever draws this sign will surely be blessed with wealth and nobility. Everyone, raise your cups in celebration!”

In the silence, one by one, cups were lifted. Beneath the smiling masks lay expressions of varying intensity. Scanning lightly, I noticed a trace of disdain cross Shangguan Wuyan’s unadorned face. Rong Ruoshui still smiled faintly, revealing two sweet dimples. The cold beauty remained aloof, glancing at me before turning away.

“But that’s not all.” Lady Yuanwan set the stick down, her smile sly. “Whoever draws this sign must grant a wish to the host.”

Sighing softly, I asked, “Please instruct me, Lady Yuanwan.”

She stared at me for a moment, leaning close to whisper, “If I ever seek your assistance in the future, I hope you won’t refuse.” Furrowing my brows, I looked at her in surprise. She grasped my hand, her icy fingertips pressing against my pulse point, her bright eyes gleaming with determination.

Meeting her gaze blankly, I clenched my fists. After a moment, I murmured softly, “Alright.”

Lady Yuanwan relaxed her brows, releasing my hand, her smile seductive. “Then thank you, Moonlight.”

As the sun dipped below the western hills, this feast of beauties finally concluded amidst a lively and reluctant farewell. Watching the noblewomen laugh and chat, their faces glowing like flowers, a wave of sorrow filled my heart.

“Han Sister.” A sweet voice called from behind. Turning my head, I saw Rong Ruoshui partially rolling up the carriage curtain. Against the backdrop of the fiery clouds in the sky, her dimpled cheeks shimmered with rosy hues. “Seven days from now, see you at the Palace Banquet of a Thousand Wonders.”

Late into the night, within the Yuhua Hall of the Qing Palace.

“Your Majesty, it’s already the second watch.” A eunuch stood in the shadows beyond the reach of the lanterns, softly reminding.

“Mm.” King Qing Ling Zhun grunted, still hunched over his desk.

A cool breeze swept through, carrying a subtle fragrance. Ling Zhun smiled faintly, setting down his imperial brush. “I knew you would come.”

A graceful figure swayed in the candlelight, a melodious voice following. “Nothing escapes Your Majesty’s notice.”

“What news do you bring today?” King Qing straightened his chest, his eyes gleaming with interest.

The beauty glided closer, her luminous eyes sparkling. “Today’s gathering yielded bountiful results.” Her crimson lips parted, revealing white teeth, her radiance dazzling. “Assistant Minister Nian of the Ministry of Revenue plans to take a concubine soon. This woman is one of the four famed beauties of Yundu’s brothels—a single night with her costs a hundred gold coins. Yet Minister Nian has spared no expense to redeem her freedom. There must be something suspicious here.”

King Qing narrowed his eyes, glancing at the report submitted by the Ministry of Revenue.

Yuanwan softly walked behind King Qing, her fingers gently massaging his slightly weary back. “Additionally, the wife of Vice Minister Gao of the Ministry of Personnel wore a pair of emerald and gold earrings today. Their design closely resembles the pair Your Majesty bestowed upon me—they appear to be tributes from Huizhou.”

“Emerald and gold earrings?” King Qing closed his eyes contentedly. “Cheng Xian!”

A soft reply came from the shadows. “Your Majesty, there were three pairs of tribute emerald and gold earrings from Huizhou. One pair went to the Empress, another to Consort Cheng, and the last remains with Lady Yuanwan.”

“Mm.” King Qing nodded approvingly. “Consort Cheng wore hers recently, so this must have come from the Empress. He slowly opened his eyes, his gaze sharp. “I originally thought the Ministry of Personnel was firmly under Huiran’s control, but it seems Little Seven’s influence has reached there as well.” After a moment’s reflection, he asked softly, “Did you extend an invitation to Little Nine’s people this time?”

“We sent the invitation, but Ninth Prince declined, saying his concubines’ status was too low to grace such grand occasions.”

“Heh~” Ling Zhun chuckled, looking at Yuanwan with satisfaction. “Little Nine is as cautious as ever. I’m sure he’s long seen through your fox disguise.”

“Surely not.” The beauty frowned.

“Not?” Ling Zhun snorted, his gaze intense. “Among my sons, Little Nine is the most inscrutable. When I sent him to You as a hostage years ago, it was both to shield him from the Empress’s purges and to test his mettle. The results far exceeded my expectations...” His tone carried both admiration and pride. “Not only did he avoid suffering, but he also secured You’s military defense maps and mineral maps, and brought me a loyal minister.”

“A loyal minister?” Yuanwan pondered for a moment, asking cautiously, “Is it General Han?”

“General Han Yuesha came after the decline of the You Court, so no.” King Qing tapped the desk lightly, glancing at the stack of reports from the Ministry of Justice, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Fortunately, Little Nine picked him up. He’s a sharp blade, indeed.”

The beauty examined the strong, elegant handwriting on the documents, still puzzled, but refrained from asking further.

“Ah, yes. What about those unmarried young ladies I asked you to observe?”

“I’ve observed them.” Yuanwan gently massaged King Qing’s shoulders. “The Two Beauties of Yundu, the Jade Lotus Beauty, and that mysterious Miss Han—correct?”

“Mm.” Ling Zhun nodded slightly.

“In my assessment, among these four, Shangguan Wuyan ranks the lowest. Though she appears plain and elegant on the surface, her heart is narrow. She harbors bold ambitions but lacks the courage to act. She would make a suitable wife for a low-ranking official.” Yuanwan analyzed shrewdly. “Dong Huiru ranks in the middle. Though she possesses integrity, she is aloof and self-assured—a fitting match for a high-ranking official’s wife. As for the other two, Rong Ruoshui is warm and amiable, with an upright character, making it difficult to find fault with her at first glance.” She tilted her head slightly, adding, “In my view, she is either genuinely virtuous and kind-hearted or exceedingly cunning. If the former, she would be well-suited as a noble consort.”

“Oh? A noble consort?” Ling Zhun interjected. “It seems she ranks highest.”

“Not quite.” Yuanwan smiled coyly. “The one I consider supreme is none other than Miss Han Yue Xia.”

Ling Zhun raised his ashen-gray eyebrows, seemingly surprised.

“This young lady possesses clear, penetrating eyes. A single steady gaze makes one instinctively want to look away. She is calm and composed, her demeanor elegant and refined. When she caught the wine cup mid-air without spilling a drop, I discreetly checked her pulse—there was no trace of internal energy. Her eyes are sharp, her hands deft; she is profoundly skilled yet deeply concealed.” Yuanwan lowered her voice. “Moreover, today she drew the peony stick—the very one Your Majesty had specially marked.”

King Qing turned his head halfway, visibly astonished.

“That stick, which no one has ever drawn before, sparked envy among the noblewomen and young misses. Yet when I observed her, she remained poised and composed, her gaze tranquil and open-minded—a truly rare gem. Your Majesty, allow me to speak out of turn.”

“Mm.”

Yuanwan knelt deeply, bowing her head in reverence. “This woman, in terms of both family background and personal qualities, is more than worthy of the position of empress.”

The grand hall fell silent. King Qing rose from his seat and walked to the map, pointing to the southwestern four provinces led by Lianzhou. “Cheng Xian, ensure that General Han’s family is seated in the front row during the Thousand Wonders Banquet.”

“Yes.”

“Miss Han Yue Xia, General Han Yuesha...” King Qing murmured softly. “Two hundred thousand elite troops, two hundred thousand.”

In the vast hall, only the sound of dripping water from the clepsydra remained.

Plop, plop, plop, plop…

A piece of fatty meat, you say? Indeed, a piece of fatty meat.