Chapter 19: Leisure Clouds and Drunken Breeze

Chapter 19: Leisure Clouds and Drunken Breeze

“The duke, like a guest, welcomes guests within the main gate. The high-ranking officials receive guests... then bow deeply.” Drowsily gazing at the repeatedly rolled-up “Book of Rites,” I sighed inwardly: torment indeed. Why did King Qing specifically appoint me as an official of rites, and why propose an alliance at this particular time? This forced me to cram the “Three Rites” at the last minute. But even this crutch was hard to grasp—it’s too thick; I’m afraid I won’t hold on tightly enough. A grievance...

“The northern lands are cold, and snow falls in September.” A light cough came from across. In the spacious carriage, three wisps of white mist drifted.

“Second-rank Duke~” A slightly raised voice floated from my side as Yunzhi put down the recently delivered edict. “Yuan Zhong, congratulations.”

Yuan Zhong suppressed his cough and clasped his hands in a respectful gesture: “This success is primarily due to His Highness and General Han. This title leaves me with deep humility.”

“Yuan Zhong has also faced difficulties. Although escorted by Jing’s royal army, you encountered numerous ambushes along the way. The thousand-strong imperial guard sent by My Lord now remains only a hundred.” Narrow eyes half-closed, seemingly casual, “Having stayed in Jing for over a month, what impressions do you have?”

If Yunzhi were compared to a seductive poppy, Yuan Zhong would be a plain chrysanthemum, appearing somewhat pale in the snowy north. “The turmoil of the outer relatives is but a passing chill. Though the illness has passed, it simultaneously triggered its underlying chronic ailment. I have visited dozens of Jing officials whose servants number in the hundreds. Now much of Jing’s land has fallen into the hands of the powerful. Those peasants without fields are forced to sell their wives and children. Adding to Jing’s previous years of famine, such practices of selling oneself into slavery have become common.”

Hmm, indeed. Recalling those days’ sights, I couldn’t help but nod.

“In this way, the number of farmers on the official registers keeps dwindling, making grain taxes naturally hard to secure. Agriculture is the foundation of the nation; harm the root, and stability becomes difficult. Jing is merely breathing its last breath; soon it will run out of oil and extinguish. Yuan Zhong covered his mouth with a fist and lightly coughed twice, “However, under current circumstances, Jing cannot and should not perish. Jing lies at the heart of Shen Kun, intersecting with four states and one province. If Jing perishes, chaos ensues.”

Yunzhi lazily propped his cheek on his hand, tapping the table intermittently. His black eyes roiled with clouds and seas, inscrutable.

“And our country is currently in a turbulent period. Before spring comes and geese return, we must strive to maintain the current balance.” Yuan Zhong spoke tactfully, respectfully bowing his head, “That is precisely why His Highness specially supported Yuan Tengfei, to bolster the royal family.” His clear eyes slightly lifted, “Isn’t that so?”

A slight pause in my hands made the pages of the book emit a crisp sound. One was a long-unfavored noble, the other a rising court official. Their identities seemed to have a golden bell strung between them, not easily touched. During our half-month stay in Yuan City, though they cooperated seamlessly, privately their interactions remained sparse. Why today would Yuan Zhong break the trembling calm to touch the perilous golden bell?

Ding~ Yunzhi casually flicked his fingers, striking the blue porcelain cup with a crisp sound. His enchanting eyes slightly lifted, exuding a trace of brilliance: “Have you decided?”

I set aside the book, watching them gaze at each other for a long while, the whistling wind swirling outside the carriage. After a while, a solemn voice resonated in the quiet carriage: “Yes, Zhen Ning already asking means he has made up his mind.”

Crimson lips curled, stunning beauty arresting attention, Yunzhi sat upright, softly speaking: “Yuan Zhong has harbored doubts since entering office, hasn’t he? Why would this palace, which previously invited you repeatedly, delay interacting with you for so long, hmm~”

“Yes, I am dull, hoping His Highness can resolve my confusion.”

“A fine bird chooses its tree to perch upon~” His voice melodious, his tone lingering, “This palace has been waiting, waiting for Yuan Zhong to make up his mind.”

While others like Jiang Taigong fished with hooks above water, at least there was still a hook. Compared to him, this could be considered diligent. He knew Yuan Zhong’s pride and ambition, though eager for talent, he maintained a tranquil demeanor. Yuan Zhong’s meticulous thoughts naturally aroused suspicion, then appropriately revealed his nature before him. How could fine birds not come? A demon, a manipulator of hearts.

“Your Highness.” Yuan Zhong glanced at me, so fast it was hard to catch, stepping down from his soft seat, kneeling directly before Yunzhi, “Zhen Ning wishes to serve Your Highness with utmost loyalty.”

Peach blossom eyes quietly looked down, then gently turned, gazing deeply: “Having you, I am fortunate.” Suddenly shifting his gaze, staring down, “Choosing me, you are blessed. Yuan Zhong, please rise.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

Taming dragons and subduing tigers—what else could he not capture? Smiling faintly, I picked up the scroll again, knitting my brows: “The steward presents the duke with millet...” Lips twitching, my heart and mind engraved with two words: depression.

“Your Highness.” The curtain lifted, Liuyao handed over a yellow silk scroll. Cold wind sneaked in, instantly clearing my mind, “Urgent decree from Yundu.”

Urgent decree, urgent decree, none of my concern. My current task is... Steeling myself, I lowered my head to look. Each character made my scalp involuntarily numb. Painful, a human tragedy!

“Bang!” A loud noise came, startling me to turn my head. That unruffled, eloquent demon—Yunzhi, his handsome face slightly trembling, thin lips turning white, clearly enraged.

“Your Highness.” Yuan Zhong was slightly startled, closely eyeing the yellow silk scroll, “My Lord...”

Half-concealing his face, curiously blinking. Suddenly, those fiery beautiful eyes glared fiercely, shocking my heart, silently chanting: killing without a trace. Moments later, regaining awareness, glaring angrily: What does it have to do with me?

“Hmph.” Laughing strained, coldly, Yunzhi flicked his hand, passing the yellow cloth to Yuan Zhong, squeezing out a few words through clenched teeth, “Ding Hou truly knows how to calculate.”

Sigh? Putting down the “Book of Rites,” Xiu Yuan? He’s this angry because of Xiu Yuan? Craning my neck to catch a glimpse, hoping to see a word or two, but instead met stern eyes like myriad silver needles shooting towards me.

“...” Yuan Zhong set down the king’s edict, slightly tilting his head, “Mianzhou has always been mysterious; no foreign officials have entered in a hundred years. Why did Ding Hou suddenly invite envoys?”

“That’s right.” Thin lips held a smile, but black eyes were chillingly alarming, “This palace also wants to know.” Daggers flew from his eyes, piercing me with cold chills.

“This is indeed a good opportunity, but unfortunately, it coincides with this time.” Yuan Zhong lowered his eyes to examine the urgent decree again, “During this aid to Jing, Yi failed to exert itself fully. The King proposed an alliance in Yucheng. Wu Zhen of Yi was the first to agree and has already departed. Loving grandeur and achievements, he will surely travel day and night to arrive first and seize the advantage. Therefore, the King ordered His Highness and General Han to proceed directly to Yucheng to stabilize the situation.”

Big eyes stared at narrow ones, making my eyes sore. Is this guy not tired?

“Ding Hou extended an invitation; His Highness cannot possibly split himself to attend, so the King...”

Before Yuan Zhong finished, a sarcastic voice interrupted: “So, Duke Yuan Zhong and~” Beautiful eyes half-closed, “the Ministry of Rites officer Feng Yunqing shall visit Mianzhou briefly.”

Mianzhou, huh? What kind of place is it? Closing the book with a light laugh, I’m curious to know.

The carriage slowly stopped, the thick curtain lifted, and a gust of northern wind broke the eerie atmosphere inside the carriage.

“Master, tonight we can only stay in the wilderness village.” Liuyao’s round face was blown red, “Just now, the guards scouted around. There’s only one inn nearby, though dilapidated, it can still shield us from wind and snow. Please, Master and the two lords, disembark and enter the inn.”

Avoiding the “Book of Rites” like venomous snakes, I tied on my cloak, ignoring the “flame” behind me, and walked straight out of the carriage. So cold, the fierce wind blowing across the vast wilderness, dense snow covering the sky. The biting cold froze the night pitch-black; between heaven and earth, no more light colors flowed.

Inn? Snowflakes stuck to my eyelashes, looking at the lonely earthen house on the hillside: a small inn.

“Master.” The guards at the entrance had already become snowmen.

Gently nodding, I lifted the curtain and entered. Though simple, it was warm. The snow on my eyelashes melted, dripping one by one. Blurred vision caught sight of a tall figure. Rubbing my eyes to focus, a smile like spring water appeared. “Xiu Yuan.”

Two warming words...

Whooosh, a gust of cold air penetrated my spine. Turning my head, Yunzhi stood holding the heavy curtain, his handsome face tinged with anger, beautiful eyes slightly narrowed, gently lowering the thick curtain, pacing to my side: “Ding Hou.”

“Ding Hou!” Yuan Zhong, closely following, exclaimed in surprise.

“Ning Hou, Lord Yu.” A green-robed figure emerged behind Xiu Yuan; judging from his movements, it should be Song Baoyan of the twins.

“Ah, Lord Song.” Yuan Zhong looked at the tripartite standoff between me, Xiu Yuan, and Yunzhi, adopting an official tone, “Truly, life brings unexpected meetings everywhere.”

“Meeting is a bond of fate; meeting again in the snowstorm.” Not lagging behind in official tones, the little hen of the Song family naturally kept pace, “There’s nothing much in the wild countryside. Please bear with it, Your Highness and master.”

This statement sounded rather strange, as if spoken by a host. Lightly sniffing, the aroma of food filled the air. Passing by the two playing “One, Two, Three, Wooden Man” beside me, I walked directly to the table. With state lords and dukes present, how should one sit? Pondering for a while, I suddenly felt my stomach tighten. Regardless, I’ll sit first.

“Please.”

“Please.”

Yuan Zhong and Song Baoyan kept offering to each other, their smiles formulaic. Meanwhile, the other two faced each other with rigid expressions, fierce as demons.

“Hmph.”

“Hmph.”

One red, one white voice simultaneously spoke, simultaneously turning their heads—it was their trademark move when meeting. Very well, very well. Watching the two “demons” on either side, I sighed helplessly: this meal would be very “exciting”...

“People say that the fine horses of Mianzhou can travel a thousand miles in a day~” A piece of fish appeared in my bowl. Glancing covertly, Yunzhi elegantly lifted his chopsticks, a cold smile playing at his lips. “It seems now that it’s all just empty talk.”

Song Baoyan’s face twitched slightly, forcing a smile: “Why does Your Highness say so?”

Four stalks of greens, smilingly gazing at Xiu Yuan, nearly drowning in his shimmering eyes. My left foot was gently kicked; frowning, I looked to the left. Yunzhi glanced at me, speaking softly: “If I remember correctly, Lord Ding departed the city two days ahead of us, yet we meet again here. If not for the old horse’s lack of strength, how could this happen?” As he spoke, an icy glare shot past my right cheek—the breeze brushed my face. Had it been a real blade, I might have been scarred. My heart raced as I touched my cheek, digging into the clay bowl to eat.

“Your Highness misunderstands.” Song Baoyan’s face relaxed, smiling contentedly. “Our master is on official business, thus he has stopped in Chizhou.”

“Official business?” Yuan Zhong set down his spoon.

“Yes.” Song Baoyan grinned broadly at Yuan Zhong, biting into a small dish, crisp and loud. “Does Lord Yu not know? Chizhou now belongs to Mianzhou.” He chewed and chewed, quite pleased with himself.

Yuan Zhong’s fingers trembled slightly; the person on my left breathed heavily—Chizhou must indeed be strategically important.

“The name Chizhou comes from the Chi River, which originates there.” Song Baoyan flashed his white teeth, dazzling until Yuan Zhong’s face turned pale. Controlling Chizhou was akin to gripping the throats of both Yi and Qing states. Killing two birds with one stone, the biggest winner was him. Turning to look at Xiu Yuan, another stalk of greens appeared in my bowl.

“Hmph~” A cold snort came from the left, followed by another piece of fish. “Yunqing, eating too much plain food will leave a bitter taste.” Head down, eating rice, I heard nothing, saw nothing.

One stalk of greens, one piece of fish, one stalk of greens, one piece of fish...

An icy glare from the left, a warm smile from the right, a light kick to the left foot; an icy glare from the left, a warm smile from the right, a light kick to the left foot...

Thus it went in endless repetition, demons ruling the scene. By the end of the meal, my stomach felt ready to burst, my left cheek disfigured, my right cheek scorched, my left leg numb. Sigh, what karmic retribution.

Looking at the four others glaring at each other in pairs, I clasped my hands: “I won’t disturb the esteemed officials’ reunion; I’ll retire first.” Stepping over the bench, I sighed inwardly: finally safe.

“Yunqing.” A clear, cold voice halted my steps. Turning, I smiled faintly. “There are only two rooms here.”

The smile froze, my eyelid beginning to twitch.

“Two rooms?” Yuan Zhong stared wide-eyed around, waving to the innkeeper wearing a patched cotton robe, asking in disbelief, “Innkeeper, how many rooms are here?”

“Answering your lordship...” The innkeeper’s face showed fear, legs trembling slightly, “...just... just...” Yunzhi’s beautiful eyes glared, nearly causing the man to collapse. “...just two.”

“Fine, fine.” Yuan Zhong let out a long sigh, dismissing the innkeeper. “We can’t be picky while traveling.” He glanced at Xiu Yuan and Song Baoyan, then at Yunzhi and me. “We’ll have to split into two groups.”

“No.”

“No.”

One rising note, one falling note, voices simultaneous—the demons united. Narrow eyes, phoenix eyes, two icy daggers shot, making Yuan Zhong cough violently.

“Hehe“ His enchanting eyes half-closed, seemingly drunk but not, calamity incarnate.

“Yunqing.” A hint of a cold smirk appeared on his lips, the white demon emerged. “Come sleep with me.”

Right eye twitched—a disaster approached. The folk rhyme didn’t deceive me.

“Hmph, since Lord Ding doesn’t mind, Yuan Zhong, you can squeeze in together.” Yunzhi’s seductive eyes flickered mischievously. “After all, this palace and Yunqing have already shared a bed; we can both sleep soundly.”

The warm, spring-like smile vanished instantly. With a hateful glare at someone who reveled in chaos, I silently recited a poem: Northern scenery, a thousand miles of ice, ten thousand miles of snow flying...

“Bang!” The only decent oak table in the inn collapsed...

Amidst the dust, only two men glared fiercely at each other, killing intent surging around them. All the remaining living beings in the room had gathered around me. I rubbed my forehead and sighed: karma.

“Lord Ding~” A chilling tone.

Cold, piercing gaze.

“How about we talk under candlelight?” A melodious voice.

“Very well.” Two icy words.

“Phew!” Those around exhaled a deep breath.

“Lord Yu.” Song Baoyan affectionately pulled Yuan Zhong along. “I’ve heard Lord Yu is a master of classical studies. I have a few questions I don’t understand, hoping Lord Yu won’t hesitate to enlighten me.”

“Mm.” Yuan Zhong, still dazed, nodded dumbly, allowing himself to be led toward the back room.

Here for night talks, there for discussions, truly elegant. Covering my mouth with my sleeve, I yawned: sleep, sleep...

Drowsily, I felt my head grow heavy, nodding once, twice...

“Remember, you are the Ministry of Rites officer of Qing State.” The stern peach blossom eyes flashed through my mind, jolting me awake. Rubbing my sleepy eyes, that farewell day was earth-shattering, awe-inspiring, demonic energy overwhelming. Heart still pounding, I patted my chest: surviving feels good.

“Li... Master.” The carriage curtain lifted, revealing a radiant ** face. Upon entering Mianzhou, the little hen had transformed into an old hen, though Uncle Song’s white teeth were even more blinding than Song Baoyan’s. “Shuiyuejing has arrived, please disembark, Officer Feng.”

Shielding my eyes from the blinding whiteness, reluctantly crawling off the soft couch, smoothing the slightly wrinkled corners of my clothes. Lowering my head to bypass the carriage curtain, straightening up to look, momentarily stunned.

Leisure clouds rolled, intoxicated by the gentle breeze. The fragrant carriage moved quietly through hidden paths, grand pavilions layered upon each other.

Half the city shimmered with lake light, half bathed in emerald green. Shuiyuejing, tranquil and refined, fused harmoniously.

Chronicles of the Warring States records: Shuiyuejing, the city in the clouds. Within its streets, carriages and horses traverse, embodying the pinnacle of human prosperity. In the city lies Yixuan Lake, spanning over ten thousand acres, its waters rippling, a trace of azure sky reflecting the place where the disgraced Chu King took his own life. Distant waters lapped against the shore, distant mountains resembling clouds. Islands scattered across the lake, winds and tides boundless. Later, the Marquis of Mianzhou built his mansion on the crescent moon island in the center of the lake, and the state office on the Seven Stars Island within the lake, all transportation aided by flat-bottomed boats. Truly unparalleled, supremely elegant.

In days past, reading these lines, my imagination ran wild. Today, upon seeing it, I finally grasped the meaning behind the written words.

City in the clouds, earthly fairyland.

The cold wind caressed my robe, floating as if detached from the world. A slender hand extended before me; turning, I smiled at the immaculate, elegant face. His black hair flew freely, white robes fluttering like swirling snowflakes. Palms pressed together, fingers interlaced, softly speaking: “Let’s hold hands and wander as immortals.” Phoenix eyes like spring pools, rippling with enchanting waves.

“Feng, my worthy brother.” Yuan Zhong descended from another carriage, looking doubtfully at our intertwined sleeves, then gazed towards the misty expanse of the lake. “Shuiyuejing, not a grain of dust in the mortal world, surpasses even the nine heavens of the celestial realm.”

Should I be relieved that my sleeves concealed his view, or grateful that the beautiful scenery diverted his attention? Beneath the wide sleeves, there was warmth in our touch, and intertwined emotions.

A lake shrouded in cold mist, rippling waters bringing a single orchid boat. Before it reached the shore, I felt a tug on my hand. Xiu Yuan gazed at me with cotton-like eyes; we looked at each other silently. Simultaneously, we leapt, stepping across the lake.

“Brother!” A loud shout came through the misty air.

“Master Shao and Officer Feng are skilled!” Old Chicken clucked loudly, drowning out Yuan Zhong’s urgent call. “In this heavy fog, don’t get lost!”

The azure lake and sorrowful mists weren’t troubled by the wind—when feelings grow faint, they become most intense.

“Xiu Yuan.” Mist brushed against my face as I stepped lightly on the emerald surface.

His warm hand rested on my waist, his deep black eyes rippling like a pond.

Our hands intertwined beneath the sleeve; smiling, I looked at him: “Are we lost?”

His thin lips held intimacy, his bright eyes clear as water: “Mm.”

My heart skipped half a beat; this scene was dreamlike, ethereal.

Lost, bewildered by emotion.

...

Lost, confusedly staring at the colorful women’s clothing in the wardrobe: “What is this?” My fingertips brushed against silk garments, cool and slippery.

Slowly turning back, Uncle Song stood at the door, smiling peculiarly: “Tonight, Master Shao invited you to admire the flowers at Jiyue Study.”

“Mm.” These past few days have been hard for him, such a cold person accompanying me and Yuan Zhong on tours of Shuiyuejing. Yesterday he proposed flower viewing, and I agreed immediately. But? Glancing at the frozen windowpanes, were there any flowers now?

“Miss!” A mournful tone, Uncle Song’s old eyes red, on the verge of tears in moments—a masterful transformation. “You don’t know, our young master experienced family tragedy in his youth.” He gestured to shoulder height, his face grave. “Forced to bear heavy burdens, with rebels inside and enemies outside. Our young master has always been resilient, never showing difficulty even in the toughest times.” My heart softened, holding onto the silk garment.

“After these hardships, the young master became more aloof, more disdainful of worldly affairs. I often worry he might ascend to immortality alone, lonely forever.” He suddenly leaned forward, bowing deeply. “Until your appearance brought life to him. Miss...” Sobbing sounds startled me backward. He covered his face with his sleeve, voice sincere: “Do you know how grateful everyone in this mansion is to you?”

Under the weight of high praise, a drop of cold sweat trickled down: “Uncle Song flatters me.”

“Miss!” He looked at me eagerly. “Master Shao’s military campaign this time is all for you. Seizing Chizhou with money and grain is also for you.” Startled. “Master Shao is exceptionally gifted but disdains power struggles. This move, cleverly setting traps, is for the one-year agreement with King Qing, to marry you.”

Under the moonlight, what virtues do you possess, making this transcendent man descend to earthly matters for you, mingling with the mundane world?

“Sigh!” A heavy sigh. Hearing the sound, I caught Uncle Song sneaking a glance. “Although the young master doesn’t say it, I can see how much he wants to travel with you.” The word ‘miss’ emphasized. “If you care for him, please restore your beauty, give Master a memorable night under the flowers.”

Catching the cunning in his eyes, I lowered my gaze and smiled gently: “Thank you for your advice, Uncle Song.”

His previously dim eyes instantly sparkled, the downturned corners of his eyes suddenly lifting exaggeratedly, as if about to leap off his face. Suddenly, he lifted the tablecloth, revealing dozens of embroidered shoes stacked underneath. “I didn’t know which size you prefer, so I bought them all.” He smiled ingratiatingly, lowering his voice. “Miss, rest assured, to keep your disguise secret, I personally handled all these clothes and shoes. No one else knows.”

Speechless, I picked up a pair of satin-embroidered shoes, struggling to steady my twitching brows.

“Miss, you don’t know, I suffered a lot for your shoes.” Uncle Song furrowed his brow, looking aggrieved. “To avoid suspicion, I disguised myself, mingling in the market, buying one pair here, two pairs there, barely managing to gather them.”

Looking at the “Old Chicken” following behind, another drop of cold sweat slid down my forehead. Was it necessary to act like a spy?

He presented a bamboo basket, mysteriously lifting the cover, a strong fragrance assaulting my nose. “Achoo!” Covering my cheek, I sneezed heavily.

“Hehehe.” He grinned proudly. “This is the finest rouge and hair oil from Yubao Hall. To understand these, I specially consulted our maids and cooks.”

They must think you’ve set your sights on some girl, preparing for an earth-shattering “sunset romance.”

“And, and these!” He presented a treasure chest, opening a blackwood box. Wow, the glitter nearly blinded me. “**&￥……” In one ear, out the other, smiling, smiling. Uncle Song was just too enthusiastic; I’ll listen for now.

Half an hour passed…

“My short-lived wife passed away after giving birth to Baolin and Baoyan, leaving poor Old Song to be both father and mother, barely raising them. Then our unfortunate miss suddenly passed away, and Lord...” Finished talking about clothes, he moved on to family history. Uncle Song had no outlet for complaints, endure, I endure.

Another half hour passed…

Both ears buzzed, staring blankly at the moving mouth. They say endurance bears a blade; the nerve holding this blade snapped, one, two… Finally, the suspended blade fell, severing patience: “Uncle Song.” Bright and clear.

“The last time rumors spread in the city that the young master preferred male companions, it made Old Song bleed uncontrollably...”

“Uncle Song!” Raising my voice.

“Eh?” The old chicken stopped clucking, and the world finally quieted.

Politely smiling, I pointed at the half-dark sky. Moments later, a scream sounded, and he vanished in a cloud of dust: “Finished! Ruining the young master’s plans, I’ll surely freeze to death!”

Dark clouds faded, the crescent moon cleared, the cold wind sent a ray of clear light. Silver strands mingled with green water, shimmering together, reflecting each other.

Wearing a silk skirt, combing my cloud-like hair, retrieving the cherished phoenix hairpin, adorning my bun. Accompanied by the night, trailing a long sash nearly touching the ground, the white phoenix in my hair softly chirped. Passing through pavilions, stepping onto jade bridges, the warm yellow lights along the path guided me to the center of the lake.

Night, silent; moon, bright.

“Yunqing.” His voice, like clear spring water, like a gentle breeze.

Unconsciously, my lips curved upward: “Xiu Yuan, I’ve come to meet you.”

Gazing at each other for a long while, the more I looked, the more extraordinarily handsome he seemed. My heartbeat paused, breath held: Xi Shi, Xi Shi appeared. Thinking this, my cheeks flushed slightly, panic-stricken, I lowered my gaze. Until a whiff of medicinal fragrance entered my nose, until cool hands enveloped warmth, I calmed down: So Xi Shi has always lived in my heart.

The mist dissipated, clarity returned, holding hands, hearts racing: “Where are the flowers?” As soon as the words left my mouth, I realized my tone was weak, inwardly annoyed.

His thin lips curved into a smile, changing his somewhat cold appearance, laughing deeply, like a warm spring flowing through my heart. Letting him lead me into the garden. Under the pale moonlight, grass leaves more vibrant than peacock feathers, red hues like coral, flowers full of affection, spring subtly present. Surprised, I watched the fragrant path—a miracle in this cold season.

Reaching out to gently touch a vine of roses: “My mother loved roses most, resembling them most, swaying fragrantly, ready to dance lightly.” Lowering my head, closely examining the flowers, each petal bore a crimson dot.

“This flower is called Beauty’s Tear.” The sound of a clear spring. “Its root is used medicinally to treat oral ailments.”

Nodding slightly, looking again, the moonlit misty figure, rich skin like snow, gracefully amorous peony. “White peony powder alleviates women’s pain.” He pressed my pulse, lowered his gaze for a moment, then smiled. “Good, you don’t have it.” Instantly, my cheeks burned. Such ambiguous words spoken in a clear, cold voice were hard to adjust to.

The flower-scented path was especially strong, yet none compared to the medicinal fragrance beside me. Actually, Xiu Yuan suited smiling well; when he smiled, it was like a bright moon and a refreshing breeze, concealing boundless spring. Watching him, my heart itched slightly, wanting to touch his lips. Ah! Lustful thoughts, lustful thoughts. Lowering my head, averting my gaze. Admire the flowers, admire the flowers. Look, brilliant colors hide spring shades; smell, floral scents attack lightly in the breeze. Very beautiful, very beautiful, right? Right? Staring for a while, I lowered my head in frustration: Alright, I admit to being colorblind, admit to not understanding aesthetics, or perhaps tonight isn’t suitable for flower viewing.

“Yunqing.” Lifting my head, at first sight, only one line flashed in my mind: Turns out beauty lies here. Thin lips spread into a smile, radiating charm. An electric current surged from my limbs, burning hot straight to my heart, hitting the mark. Dumbfounded, I watched him bend down, pick a flower, gently placing it in my hair: “Very beautiful.” Heaven and earth lost color, stars and moon dimmed—I’m done…

“Lord Ding?” A puzzled, low call came from the right. Hastily coming to my senses, recognizing Yuan Zhong’s voice. Though my hair could vaguely conceal my right cheek, there was no guarantee he wouldn’t recognize me. Just as I was troubled, the fluttering sash was conveniently caught by long fingers, my waist gently tugged, and I fell into his intoxicating embrace. His long arms embraced me, no breeze entering, and I couldn’t help but feel intoxicated.

“What is the matter?” A slightly cold voice sounded from above.

“Ah.” A slightly awkward response. “This subordinate saw that Brother Feng wasn’t in the hall and came out to look for him, disturbing Lord Ding’s elegant gathering. Please forgive me, Lord Ding.”

“Brother Yu made me search so hard!” Peeking to the left, I saw Song Baoyan walking briskly, beaming. “Ah, Master.” He paused to bow, then enthusiastically pulled Yuan Zhong. “Didn’t I send an invitation for Brother Yu and Officer Feng to admire the moon at Lianxing Platform?”

“Hmm? I didn’t receive it.”

“It must be that little messenger boy playing around and causing trouble. Just wait till I get my hands on him later.” He growled, naturally and convincingly. “Brother Yu, we need to hurry. Officer Feng is still waiting for us at Lianxing Platform.”

“Alright, alright.” Yuan Zhong paused briefly, then spoke loudly: “This subordinate takes his leave.”

“This humble servant withdraws. Master, please enjoy yourself.” The trailing tone was rather wicked.

As the footsteps gradually faded, I looked up to see Xiu Yuan’s face covered in frost, his gaze suddenly cold, fiercely scanning to the right.

“A...” A faint, barely audible voice came from the corner.

“What’s wrong?” I frowned, looking up at him. He responded with a faint smile: “Nothing.” Still stunningly effective. Blinking, I focused and spoke earnestly: “Xiu Yuan, I know a little about your mother.”

His handsome eyes tightened slightly, a trace of pain flickering in them. I wrapped my arms tightly around his waist, pressing close to his chest, an overwhelming sense of pity welling up inside me. Gently, I recounted the conversation between Qiu Jingchen and Xie Ji’an. After a long silence, a barely audible sigh escaped: “Yunqing, thank you.”

I looked up, blinking with a light smile: “Between you and me, there’s no need for thanks.”

“Mm.” His phoenix eyes shimmered with moonlight, his thin lips curving into a dreamy springtime affection. Once again, I was dazed—beauty before my eyes, beauty indeed.

“Yunqing.” As sweet as fine wine, intoxicating me slightly.

“Mm.” A drowsy response.

“Tomorrow, accompany me to Yunyao and tell my father about this matter, alright?” His handsome face was filled with smiles; all I could see were spring blossoms dancing in the air, warmth enveloping me.

“Alright.” In truth, I didn’t even know what I had answered.

A clear, cold laugh sounded in my ear, the “spring scenery” growing ever closer.

“Is it okay?” A magnetically soft question.

A smile crept onto my lips as I closed my eyes: “Mm, it’s okay.”

The warm touch of his lips, silent communication between hearts.

Using the softest two petals to carry your endless affection.

Like listening to enchanting music, words became superfluous noise.

Like clear raindrops breaking through the serene image of water and moon.

The moon’s dream

Will break dawn

On night’s lips

Epilogue: The Price of Flowers Under the Moon

“Father.” Song Baolin gently shook Song Shenwei, who was crouching at the corner with a lewd expression. “Are you really alright? You usually treat those flowers like treasures, shedding old tears if even a single leaf falls. How can you bear to let your precious ones freeze in the cold wind today?”

Song Baoyan, whose posture mirrored his father’s, gave his brother a “you’re so dumb” look and whispered: “Without flowers, how can there be romantic moments under the moon? To facilitate Master Shao’s affair, Father painfully contributed the rare flowers and exotic grasses from the greenhouse.” He flattered, glancing to the left, “Father, you’ve truly sacrificed much.”

Unexpectedly, the old man pounded the wall heavily: “Aiya, don’t delay! Go ahead!”

“Eh?” The twin brothers exchanged glances and peeked. They saw their master gazing tenderly at the beauty admiring the flowers with her head bowed, revealing blatant threads of affection that made both brothers shiver simultaneously.

“So Master Shao isn’t a saint either.” Song Baoyan summarized tactfully.

“Hungry wolf!” This description, though somewhat blunt, was more apt.

Song Shenwei squinted his old eyes, his expression changing a thousand times, muttering incessantly: “A little to the left… press against her… hold on tight, why are you so shy! Yes… yes… just that gaze, the same one that captivated Miss back in the day… no! The next step is to lift her chin, lift it!”

“Father.” Old Song tapped his shoulder repeatedly.

“Hold on tight… Didn’t I prepare such a long sash just for you to make your move easily? Hurry up!”

“Father!” Song Baolin covered the old man’s ears, whispering urgently.

Old Song twisted his shoulder, glaring angrily: “What’s all the racket? Can’t you see I’m busy?”

Song Baolin pointed expressionlessly to the distance. Old Song snorted coldly and looked again—the orchid was quietly wilting. He froze instantly, his old eyes bulging as if struck by lightning. “My Drunken Cloud, my Drunken Cloud.” His beard trembled slightly as he instinctively clawed the wall. “Heavens, spare some wind, don’t hurt my treasure…” His voice quivered, unbearable to hear.

“Father.” Song Baolin continued to deal another blow, mercilessly pointing to another pot of roses.

In the cold wind, Old Song trembled like a dead leaf: “Freehand… Freehand, I waited three years for you to bloom… wu wu…”

“Father!” Song Baoyan excitedly waved his arms, “Look, quick, look! Master Shao has made a move!”

The pair looked in the direction he indicated and saw their young master gently plucking a hibiscus flower, affectionately placing it on the beauty’s hair.

“It’s promising, it’s promising.” Song Baoyan ecstatically turned to the side, only to see his father slumped in his older brother’s arms. “What’s wrong? Did Father pass out from excitement?”

Song Baolin shook his head: “That Yuhuarong was Father’s heart and soul, blooming once after so much effort, now… Sigh!” He let out a heavy sigh.

“Ding Hou?” An untimely voice came from afar.

Old Song immediately sprang up from his eldest son’s arms, furrowing his gray brows and dangerously narrowing his eyes: “Second Son.”

“Father.” Song Baoyan solemnly responded softly.

“Go restrain him!” The old man pounded the wall, exuding an imposing aura.

“At your command!” Song Er raised a professional smile and stepped out from the corner. “Brother Yu, you made me search so hard!”

Song Dali watched his younger brother spouting lies, nodding approvingly: “After three days apart, Second Son’s skills have improved remarkably.”

Old Song brushed off his coat, swallowing the sweet blood in his throat, laughing heroically: “So what if it blooms once every ten years? Compared to that love flower that blooms once every twenty-two years, Yuhuarong is nothing!”

“Father, Father.” Song Baolin took over the spot his brother vacated, calling out excitedly in a low voice, “Quick, look, they’ve embraced, they’ve embraced!”

Old Song frantically dove back to peek: “Mm, mm.”

Suddenly, their young master turned his head, his icy, piercing gaze freezing the father-son duo’s lips pale.

“A...” Song Baolin was about to sneeze loudly but was pinched on the nose by his father, forcing the breath back in.

“You wretched child!” The old man reproachfully poked his eldest son’s forehead. “Be careful not to expose ourselves.”

Song Baolin rolled his eyes, inwardly thinking: It’s already exposed.

“Son, son!” The old man’s breath was uneven, his eyes slightly protruding, overwhelmed with joy, unable to speak coherently. “It’s... it’s... happened, hahaha, they’ve kissed, they’ve kissed.” Suddenly turning around, he knelt heavily on the ground, gazing at the moon, tears streaming down his aged face. “Master, Miss, Master-in-law, Song Shenwei has done right by you. It hasn’t been easy for Shenwei, all these years...”

The old hen began to unleash his extraordinary ability to lament, continuing for half an hour...

“Father, Father!” Song Baolin nudged the old man who was recounting the young master’s story from seventeen years ago. “They’ve all gone, Father.”

Song Shenwei wiped away a turbid tear and sniffed: “They’ve left? How so fast?”

“The young master took the miss to Xinyue Pavilion.”

“Good!” A flash of brilliance in his old eyes, Old Song clapped and laughed heartily. “Tonight, everything that needs to be done will be completed—this way, it’ll all be perfect!”

Song Baolin wanted to say this was impossible but didn’t have the heart to shatter his father’s beautiful dream. He could only sigh and shift his attention: “Father, your ‘Qingcheng’ is about to wither.”

The old man suddenly snapped back to reality and ran desperately towards a green peony. Alas, his life’s root! Suddenly, he tripped over something, his eyes widening in disbelief as he lunged toward...

“Father!” Seeing his father unmoving for quite some time, Song Baolin anxiously rushed over. Upon nearing, he discovered that “Qingcheng” had indeed withered—it was crushed under his own father’s weight, its branches broken, its fragrance scattered. The old man rolled his eyes and fainted solidly.

The robust Song Dali scooped up the old man and sprinted across the island against the cold wind: “Second Son! Second Son! Father has crushed his own life root!”

A few days later, the second biggest rumor in Shuiyuejing emerged alongside the steaming meat buns on the streets.

“Eh? Did you know? Manager Song can’t perform anymore.”

“Not surprising, I heard his twin sons were adopted.”

“No, no, it’s said they were born from his wife’s affair.”