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At the edge of the floating duckweed, beneath the algae-covered platform. A mandarin duck plays in the water, two lovebirds wag their tails.
When they stop, they couple; when they fly, they form pairs. The ways of heaven change, but human affairs are unpredictable.
Ah, truly unpredictable human affairs...
Under the corridor eaves, Zhuque watched the two “lovebirds,” one sitting and one standing, his body involuntarily shivering: cold, so very cold.
Half a moon hung bright, the warm breeze of late spring meandered through the air.
A red figure leaned against the flower railing, the soft peach-blossom eyes slightly raised, the sharp gaze accompanied by the apricot-yellow moonlight falling outside the railing. Gazing at that arrogant night view, he couldn’t help but recall the conversation in the imperial study a few days ago...
“Step, step, step.” The hem of the bright yellow robe fluttered before his eyes, almost audible murmurs emanating from the chest embroidered with flying dragons. Should he be glad that his father no longer concealed his illness from him?
“Good... good...” He lifted his astonished gaze to meet his father's sparkling eyes. “Is Lord Ding also on your side? Little Nine?”
Upon hearing this, he slightly narrowed his peach-blossom eyes in annoyance, instantly understanding.
“Hmph! Still pretending? Lord Ding’s bravery is celebrated by the righteous army that has surrendered; do you think I’m blind and can't see anything?” Ling Zhun gave him a sidelong glance, seemingly angry yet not, his gray beard slightly trembling. “Yiran, what other cards do you have hidden? Father is very curious.”
The sourness in his chest rushed up to his cheeks, nearly destroying his mask. “Then please, Father, calmly observe the situation.” With each breath, he smiled, smiled, and smiled again...
The March wind kissed the fragrant flower lips, the warm air heating the sourness in his chest.
Ugh, forced to cover for the man who cuckolded him, how could he not feel nauseous?
Not only nauseous, but almost wanting to vomit blood!
At this thought, the fermenting sourness burst forth: “Lord Ding, my actions were not for you.”
Ye Jinglan’s sturdy figure slightly turned, the cold phoenix eyes spilling out icy light.
That gaze clearly conveyed four words: mutual understanding. Ai ai, even if Lord Ding is sparing with words, what needed to be said was obvious even to an outsider like him. Was he too clever, or were these two just too straightforward? Yan Lü leaned against the pillar, continuously rubbing his temples. That vixen inside was truly bewitching.
Speaking of which, why did the vixen go silent while washing?
Yan Lü stealthily glanced toward the master bedroom in the south, the smoke-green gauze window revealing an ambiguous orange glow. Ah, that mandarin duck, how many ripples of spring water had it stirred?
“A... choo...” A delicate sneeze broke the eerie atmosphere of alternating warmth and chill in the courtyard.
Her? Ye Jinglan swept away his cold demeanor, his gaze softened as he looked towards the nearby bedroom, his eyes shimmering like a clear spring under the moon, quietly brimming over.
“Miss, how could you fall asleep!” came the reproachful tone of Granny Zhang from inside the room.
“Mmm...” This sound was somewhat muffled, carrying a sweet and endearing flavor. “So cold...”
“Hurry up and get up, the water is getting cold!”
The gentle sound of water broke the intoxicating spring night, shallow ripples spreading in circles into their hearts.
“Heh”
“...”
Two pairs of smiling eyes unexpectedly met, reflecting each other's emotions, this awkward encounter...
“Hmph!” In perfect unison, they turned away, exhaling identically.
Cold mist swirled up, enveloping the entire courtyard in a chilling embrace.
“Achoo!” A thunderous sound erupted from Yan Lü's nose and mouth, and he rubbed his nose, delightedly looking towards the corner of the corridor. Great! Someone to shiver with had arrived. “Yan Qiu! Hey, what are you holding?” Speak, let him hear some human voices; standing here for so long made him feel like he was descending into hell.
“Medicine.” Yan Qiu stood still, looking curiously around the courtyard.
Yan Lü sniffed the slightly bitter scent of the medicine: “Isn't the poison already neutralized?”
Only Lord Ding could neutralize the Taotie Worm Poison in the world, using one venom to counter another, implanting the fiercely competitive Yaoci Worm. Once both were weakened, a purgative would draw the venomous insects out of the body. It was truly miraculous that this young man hadn't died midway.
“This bowl is for Master.”
After answering, Yan Qiu took a step forward but was stopped by Yan Lü: “When did that guy get sick? Why didn't I know?”
“It's... it's...”
The mask flushed faintly; since returning from Qing, Yan Qiu had forsaken his true face. Even if Yan Qiu didn’t mention it, both he and the master understood that the exquisitely beautiful, feminine face had become a heart-knot for Yan Qiu.
“It’s medicine given by Lord Ding.” Those enchanting eyes darted about, the vivid red earlobes betraying Yan Qiu’s embarrassment. He stammered softly, “Mm... it's Master's monthly cycle...”
In an instant, Yan Lü’s face turned as red as Guan Yu’s. He feigned nonchalance, waving his arm: “Mm, mm, hurry along!”
Yan Qiu bowed his head and quickly walked past, knocking on the door and carefully handing the medicine bowl inside. Through the crack of the door, an old woman’s figure appeared, whispering a few words. He nodded slightly, turned to look at the courtyard, his eyes unwavering without a hint of retreat: “My master is going to sleep, please leave, Lords.”
Oh, oh, incredible, this child sure has guts. Yan Lü clung to the corridor pillar, unable to stop stealing glances. Their faces were darker than the sky, enduring the night wind, gnashing teeth and sucking blood at their rivals, waiting eagerly only to be interrupted now. As they heard the sound of lotus emerging from the water, at the height of desire, they were called to a halt. Torture, this was absolute torture.
“In Qingzhou for a month, my master was constantly vigilant, unable to sleep night after night. Please forgive us, Lords.” Yan Qiu performed a respectful bow without arrogance or subservience. “Please leave.”
Night after sleepless night, a continuous flow of pity and affection streamed from the hazy peach-blossom eyes. Qingqing, when you faced the blood feud, were you ecstatic or deeply sorrowful?
Painful to this extent? The bitter taste surged in Ye Jinglan's chest, but he should also be grateful; in Di Ling, Qingqing finally opened her heart completely to him.
Almost simultaneously, the red and black brocade robes subtly retreated, creating slight ripples.
Sleep, his (his) girl.
Suddenly, the two handsome gazes met again, sharp eyes penetrating each other’s thoughts.
One day...
I will kill him.
While the entire Divine Kun was choosing sides, they chose the same side under this crescent moon.
Watching the two “lovebirds” part ways east and west, Yan Lü let out a long sigh: “Where did you get the courage? Not bad!”
Yan Qiu's frail shoulders were heavily slapped, collapsing momentarily. He barely steadied himself, his voice soft yet firm: “Quietly, Master is sleeping.”
Yan Lü's hand, about to rise again, instantly dropped. He wiped the joking expression off his face, crossing his arms to watch: “Remember what I said, don't fall for her.”
“I remember.” Yan Qiu turned his head, those bewitching flirtatious eyes full of determination, convincing enough to sway anyone. “She said I am her younger brother, and I will never forget that.”
With that, he strode away, leaving Yan Lü stunned in the corner of the corridor.
Younger brother... He raised his head to look at the moon, his eyes brimming with sorrow. When he returned from risking his life, meeting with trepidation, that person had also said:
“Alu, I'm sorry for that night. Would you still acknowledge me as your senior brother?”
Senior brother? Senior brother? He didn’t want to be siblings; he wanted...
“Actually, I already have a beloved maiden.”
What?! A thunderclap in broad daylight struck his vital point.
“She is of noble birth, someone we could never dare to dream of. But, I still can't help but hope.”
“Does she like you?” He heard his own hoarse voice asking.
“Yes, we are mutually fond of each other.”
Mutual affection! Mutual affection! His heart was shredded into thousands of pieces by these four words. It was always him hoping. He had been watching, staring at the originally empty waist where now hung a pale pink tassel, the swaying tassels mocking his foolish dreams.
“We have exchanged tokens of affection, and in the future, when you see that gourd jade pendant, you'll understand.”
Gourd jade pendant, the family heirloom of that person. Was it forced? Forcing that person to have a mutually affectionate lover within a month? He opened his mouth to ask, but that person preemptively spoke with a smile.
“I have found my happiness, little brother, are you happy for me?”
He looked up, only to find no trace of himself in that person’s eyes, never there from the start. It turned out, that night was just a gorgeous dream.
“Congratulations, senior brother.” He heard the sound of his heart breaking, very softly, very softly...
Climbing out of bitter memories, Yan Lü raised the lamp ladle, extinguishing the candle flame in the palace lamp.
Vixen, ah vixen, why isn’t it you I fell in love with? A bitter smile lingered on his lips, Yan Lü raised his arm again.
One lamp, two lamps...
The flickering candle flames wavered in the warm spring night, wavered in the desolate tears.
...
Mid-March, the spring rain drizzled for several more days, the dripping sounds sticky on the heart. Damp, like a hundred insects crawling through the bones, making one extremely uncomfortable.
Under the carved wooden window, Lord Rong, Ling Chelan, slowly closed the memorial scroll. His usually gentle countenance during the day now piled up with coldness: “It’s decided?”
Everyone knew the ranking of the metropolitan examination was crucial for the palace examination. Unless something unexpected happened, the top three honors—Zhuangyuan, Tanhua, and Bangyan—were merely changes among the first three ranks of the metropolitan examination.
Prime Minister Rong Kexun observed his current lord and son-in-law, nodding slightly: “It’s decided. Today, Feng Shaochu, along with the two other deputy examiners, invited us—the top officials—and Yuanyuan Zhong to the Fengzao Academy.” His tone carried disdain, quite cold.
Ling Chelan glanced at him, immediately understanding that his father-in-law still resented being sidelined and losing power to Yu Ning.
“Seeing the top three ranks of the metropolitan examination, I was so angry I threw the book.” Rong Kexun pointed to the names on the silk scroll, fuming, “Forget the top scorer, none of the top five in the second rank are from noble families. This is clearly forming cliques!” He breathed heavily, gulping down a cup of lukewarm tea. “But that Feng Shaochu said that this spring examination used anonymous marking. The candidates' papers were collected with names and origins hidden, then transcribed by the National University scribes. They read the uniformly written copies, making it impossible to fake.”
“So anonymous marking means this. It seems this Feng Shaochu had plans early on...” Ling Chelan paced a few steps. “At such a young age, he has such depth; no wonder Father intends to promote him to the next Left Chancellor.”
“A beardless youth climbing too fast might snap his waist?” Rong Kexun slammed the porcelain cup down, tea spilling across the table corner. One Feng Shaochu, one Yuanyuan Zhong—just seeing these two young talents made him feel powerless, a fatigue he hadn’t felt even in twenty years of wrestling with Dong Jianlin.
Ling Chelan halted his steps, turning back to look: “If Your Excellency allies with those few, this matter probably won’t succeed either, right?”
“Alas!” Rong Kexun sighed deeply. “Among those four top officials, only the opportunistic flatterer Shangguan Mi is truly on our side.” Sad, lamentable, how did it come to this?
Hm, ever since the royal-bestowed red plum and the king’s clear intentions, Shangguan Mi severed ties with Third Brother, wholeheartedly returning to our side. Ling Chelan pondered for a moment, then asked: “What about Grand Minister Luo?”
Rong Kexun waved his hand irritably: “Although Luo Wuju stands with us, he is meticulous and doesn’t take a stance until the last moment.” (Luo Yin, courtesy name Wuj.)
Ling Chelan slowly approached a beechwood flower stand, an ostentatious silver bottle intricately carved with the symbolically significant red plum inside. To ensure the red plum never withers, each bud was coated with a thin layer of wax. Truly viewing flowers through wax, somewhat pretentious and artificial.
“The remaining two.” He touched a wax flower, slightly parting his thin lips. “Inspector He Yushi is upright and incorruptible, naturally siding with justice.” At this, his hand trembled slightly, and with a crisp sound, the wax flower fell. “So, Feng Shaochu didn’t cheat?”
Rong Kexun twisted his beard, reluctantly opening his mouth: “Later, they brought out the original scrolls. After He Yan, that hard stone, examined them, he said the sixth place in the second rank should go to a lower-ranked commoner, not Tu Lancheng under my tutelage.”
“Speaking of Marshal Xiao from the Military Affairs Office, he comes from the most conservative lineage in Luochuan. He should have strongly opposed it, right?” Ling Chelan murmured.
“Has Your Highness forgotten? The Xiao family and the Dong clan have been in-laws for three generations.”
Upon hearing this, Ling Chelan was slightly stunned. Everything had been predetermined when Dong Jianlin and others were executed at Caishi Kou. The remnants of Lie Hou’s faction had nowhere else to stand but opposite him. But why did he have the feeling of taking the blame for someone else? His puzzled eyes fixed on the wax-coated red plum, his heart somewhat uneasy. Was it really just an illusion?
Looking at the flickering candlelight, Rong Kexun gained some insight. Rather than feeling powerless against those two, it was more that he couldn’t exert influence over the current political situation. Fatigue was rooted here.
“On one side, Third Prince still holds fierce ambitions, while on the other, Ninth Prince spreads his wings. Your Highness, the road to the crown prince is still long.” Rong Kexun leaned back in his chair, weakly saying, “Even if Third Prince is incompetent, he still has an elder brother. Although Second Prince was exiled to the border, he hasn’t been idle in the northwest and still commands around twenty thousand elite troops. Moreover, Feng Shaochu not only survived this western expedition but also recruited five thousand righteous soldiers. Plus, Han Yuesha appreciates him greatly, making things even more complicated.”
Troops, troops, what Ling Chelan lacked was military power. Without a sharp weapon in hand, the imperial throne couldn’t be held securely. If he had Han Yuesha, if he had the Han family’s hundred thousand heavenly soldiers, then...
Thinking of this, Ling Chelan’s warm gaze turned somber, lifting his robe to sit down: “Why not kill two birds with one stone?”
“One stone, two birds?” Rong Kexun widened his eyes.
“First, make the Han family of Jiao City turn against Feng Shaochu, then bring Han Yuesha under my command!”
Pop, the gauze lantern burst with a candle spark, illuminating the venom in his warm eyes.
Outside the window, the drizzling spring rain continued to fall...
...
The spring metropolitan examination of the Chou year settled amidst this murmuring drizzle.
As usual, the “Three Top Scholars” of the Jinshi degree were indeed the top three of the metropolitan examination. However, contrary to everyone's expectations, none of the Jinshi-born second rank were from noble families, and this was directly due to Ling Zhun's personal choice.
Four days after the rain cleared, the triennial Qionglin Banquet was held as scheduled at the Qionglin Garden south of the Qing Palace. Coincidentally, it was the Si Festival day, and at the suggestion of the Empress, a separate “Qu Shui Liu Shang” banquet for men and women was also held.
Spring filled the secluded chambers of Yundu, the tender hearts of maidens quietly budding with longing.
Long awaited joy, they didn’t love a single lotus stem but cherished the united heart of a lotus root.
The spring breeze understood the master’s wishes, unfolding willow eyes, painting flower lips, gently rolling up the obstructive curtain dividing yin and yang in the Qionglin Garden. Graceful willow waists, affectionate flower lips occasionally swayed at the curtain edges, more enticing to men’s hearts than the intoxicating spring breeze.
A rare sentimental day, the secluded young ladies from prominent families cast aside their reserve, capturing the figures of their beloved through the curtains, and then...
“Left Chancellor!” A soft low call, tinged with a hint of shyness, “Please accept this from me.”
Between the overlapping silk curtains, a tender white arm extended, even more delicate with the gold bracelet adorning the wrist.
Feng Yunqing bit her lip, contemplating how to politely decline without hurting the maiden’s heart, when she heard a deep voice calling from nearby: “Hey! Shaoru!”
The woman behind the curtain, startled like a frightened rabbit, instantly dropped the embroidered handkerchief from her fingers. The beauty left with a mix of irritation, shyness, and unease in her steps.
“What? I saved you again!” Lei Lifeng bared his white teeth, unable to hide his pirate nature.
“Thanks, thanks.” Feng Yunqing clasped her hands and bowed, her face full of relief.
Lei Lifeng stretched his long arm, bending down to pick up the embroidered handkerchief. On the pink silk was embroidered a pair of playful mandarin ducks: “Is your heart like this?” He shifted his gaze, scrutinizing Feng Yunqing thoroughly, his honey-colored face full of confusion.
“What’s wrong?” Feng Yunqing looked down at her crimson official robe, the color of the first rank. “Is there something amiss?”
Lei Lifeng didn’t respond, just flat-palmed over Feng Yunqing’s head, then placed it against his shoulder: “Comparing heights, you’re just this tall.” Facing the spring sunlight, Lei Lifeng gestured in the air to indicate her build, “In terms of physique, you seem to be blown over by a puff of wind.”
“And then?” Feng Yunqing raised an eyebrow, half-smiling.
“How do all the girls in Yundu like you? By my count, there were six, wasn’t it?” He held the handkerchief, still full of puzzlement. “Not only the unmarried maidens, even older women with children drool over you. Yesterday, Xue’er told me you, along with Secretaries Yu, Lord Ning, and Lord Ding, are the four juicy targets in the eyes of Yundu matchmakers.” Lei Lifeng stroked his chin, adding with a laugh, “Oh yes, the bored folks have even given you a title: the Four Seasons Gentlemen.”
Feng Yunqing's pretty face slightly stiffened. Four Seasons Gentlemen? More like string beans...
“They say you are the tender spring willow moon, whose smile can topple a nation. Lord Ning is the mighty summer southern wind, red yet light in color. Secretary Yu is...” He rubbed his forehead, thought for a while, then angrily cursed, “Who on earth came up with this? Matchmaking and playing literary games!”
“Secretary Yu is the faint autumn scenery, clear and refreshing as sparse rain. Lord Ding is the solemn winter mountain snow, foreboding cold from afar.” Lu Wen, newly promoted to Vice Minister of Rites, casually picked up the silk handkerchief, leading the group past them like a mother hen, while the newly minted Jinshi scholars bowed to Feng Yunqing one after another.
“These four lords are all handsome, hold high positions, and have empty places for their main wives.” Lu Wen looked back, his eyes full of mischief. “As far as I know, our Left Chancellor surpasses the other three and tops the official matchmaker’s list!”
The Jinshi scholars behind him dared not laugh, their faces turning the color of pig liver.
“Oh?” Feng Yunqing neither angry nor upset, smirked mischievously. “Maocai, where do you find the leisure to study matchmaking books? Could it be that you’ve set your sights on some young maiden?”
Upon hearing this, Lu Wen's body trembled slightly, his steps faltering.
“You should understand without me saying much more; the owner of that handkerchief is...” Feng Yunqing raised her voice melodiously, piquing everyone's curiosity.
Lu Wen stumbled over his own feet, nearly falling. He straightened his official hat and turned back with a fawning smile. “The banquet is about to start, sir, please take your seat early.”
“Alright.” Feng Yunqing smiled brilliantly, unconsciously filling the scene with spring radiance, making the young scholars' hearts flutter. When they finally snapped out of it, each frantically recited the “Book of Rites,” embarrassed and flustered.
They narrowly avoided falling into an irredeemable situation. The hearts initially seeking beauties suddenly cooled, and the Jinshi scholars fled following Lu Wen.
“Liyue didn't fall for you, truly...” Lei Lifeng retracted his dazed gaze and grinned, “Truly my luck.”
“Then treat her well.” Feng Yunqing straightened her painted fan, tapping lightly on Lei Lifeng's sturdy chest. “If I find out she’s been wronged, I won’t hesitate to step in.” She opened her fan elegantly, a hint of spring blooming at the corners of her lips. “After all, it's quite easy to fall in love with me.”
“You! You! You!” Lei Lifeng stepped back two steps in disbelief, his honey-colored face flushing with anger. “Never!”
“Mm, hope so.” Her tone carried a sense of insincerity, successfully stirring even stronger vigilance in Lei Lifeng.
“After sending off your senior brother and sister, Liyue and I will get married!” Lei Lifeng stared intently at his territory like a fierce tiger.
“Oh? Did Liyue agree?” She blinked knowingly, revealing the truth in one sentence.
Tsk tsk, just a few days ago, elder sister said she was enjoying the pirate's advances. Marriage might just be this bandit leader's one-sided enthusiasm.
“Hmph!” Lei Lifeng disdainfully glanced at Feng Yunqing's small frame. “There are many ways, it depends on your ability.”
“Ability? What ability?” Feng Yunqing fanned the spring breeze, her soft black hair gently flying.
“Wu Yu, he has ability!” Lei Lifeng clenched his fist and hit his palm, envy flashing in his eyes. “In seven more months, he’ll become a father. No way, I, Lei Lifeng, can’t fall behind!” With that, he glared at the little Guan Gong beside him with flushed cheeks. “What nonsense are you muttering? If you're a man, don't hesitate. Which man doesn’t want a taste of spring? A young brat like you wants to compete with me for a woman? Wait ten more years!”
With these words, he laughed heartily and left, leaving the newly appointed Left Chancellor stunned in place.
A taste of spring, huh? She lowered her eyes, thinking, unfolding the painted fan layer by layer.
On the fan surface, a crescent moon hung, amidst fallen petals under the night sky. Her delicate fingers brushed against the inscription: The Night Moon Should Have Its Time.
Her painting, his calligraphy—whose thoughts?
Plop plop, small bubbles rose in her heart lake, floating up one by one, finally bursting open under the spring sun, spreading an intoxicating fragrance.
She raised her head, only to see her beloved approaching with a smile. She pressed her chest, seemingly able to hear only her own vigorous heartbeat, endless spring colors spreading to the corners of her eyes.
“Qingqing.” Ye Jinglan silently parted his lips, transmitting the sound to her ear.
Feng Yunqing's face flushed hot, as if her thoughts had been seen through. “Xiuyuan...”
Under the spring sunlight, the two walked side by side, their intertwined shadows cast on the smoke-dyed curtains, outlining the most beautiful spring scenery.
One glance, two glances, Feng Yunqing sneakily peeked at Ye Jinglan's fluttering wide sleeves. She wondered how many girls had shown interest in Xiuyuan today. Looking at his sleeve pocket, it didn’t seem very full. Just as she was about to cast a confirming third glance, she was firmly caught by those phoenix eyes.
“Does Qingqing want to see?” Ye Jinglan lifted his sleeve, a touch of warmth coloring his naturally cold handsome face.
“Mm, mm.” Feng Yunqing cleared her throat. “No, how could I?” Her mouth argued, but her eyes couldn’t help but steal glances.
Ye Jinglan looked at her meaningfully, silently untying his sleeve pocket.
Ah, there really was a silk handkerchief! Feng Yunqing puffed up her cheeks, glaring angrily. How could this man smile so contentedly, how could he!
She snatched the handkerchief, her fingers feeling no embroidery. Humph, unable to sew and still trying to give gifts. Sniffing cold air through her nostrils, she lowered her gaze again. As she looked at the plain handkerchief, a sense of familiarity arose—it was...
It was hers.
The black brocade robe with gold edges covered the crimson official robe. Under the sleeves, long fingers held her delicate white hand tightly, along with the handkerchief, firmly gripping them together.
The east wind skillfully rolled the brocade clothes, blowing down more falling flowers. From a distance, it seemed they were just walking side by side, but no one knew of the entanglement beneath their clothes.
“Master!” A light call came from behind the curtain, a woman following along the winding smoke-colored silk curtain like a shadow.
Feng Yunqing raised her blushing face, eyebrows slightly furrowed. Another admirer of hers?
“Left Chancellor!” This voice was not the coquettish tone of a maiden but carried a mature charm.
Which lady was so enthusiastic? Feng Yunqing tilted her head, pondering, missing the slightly gloomy look in Ye Jinglan’s eyes.
“Lord Feng!” A soft hand extended from behind the curtain, tightly grasping the corner of Feng Yunqing’s robe. “Please, sir, stay a moment.”
This voice sounded familiar, as if...
“I am Yuan Wan, and I have a request.” The slender fingers trembled slightly, carrying a strong plea.
“Lady Yuan Wan?” Feng Yunqing raised her eyes to look at her side, where Ye Jinglan coldly stared at that hand, unmoving.
“Xiuyuan...” Feng Yunqing mimed with her lips, rarely showing such coy charm pleasing to someone. The ten interwoven fingers gradually loosened, and Ye Jinglan took a step forward, casting a resentful glance before leaving.
“Please, madam, let go.” Feng Yunqing tugged at her sleeve. The soft hand hesitated for a moment, then slowly released. “Now that no one is around, please speak frankly, madam.” She already owed Yuan Wan a wish, wanting to settle this matter quickly.
“I heard that master has a...a favored servant named Yan Qiu, is that correct?” The voice behind the curtain was extremely low, as if restraining something, filled with pain.
“No.” Feng Yunqing tightened her grip on the painted fan, speaking seriously. “I have no favored servants.”
“Then Yan Qiu...”
“He is my book boy.”
Book boy? Such a change of name, she had seen it many times before. Yuan Wan felt a surge of bitterness in her heart and spoke again: “Yuan Wan shamelessly requests Left Chancellor to part with him.”
“Madam, forgive me for...”
“Master!” Yuan Wan interrupted the reluctant tone behind the curtain. “If Master agrees to part with him, I will fully assist in Ninth Prince’s affairs.” Her heart beat anxiously. Even if the King knows, what does it matter? She is a mother, how she longs to embrace her son once more. Crystal tears blurred everything before her eyes, the wind whispering in her ears as she quietly hoped. No, it was certainty—the allure of power, who could resist?
“I’m sorry.”
These three gentle words shattered all of Yuan Wan’s fantasies. How could it be? Wasn’t her promise enough?
“Madam.” The person behind the curtain spoke again. “Yan Qiu has already been removed from the courtesan registry; he is free. So, how can we talk about parting with him?”
Removed from the courtesan registry? Just over a month ago, she checked, and Yan Qiu’s name was still prominently listed in the official courtesan register. How did he get removed? Yuan Wan raised her head, examining carefully the figure printed on the curtain for the first time. Did Feng Shaoru do this? Why?
“Master...” She opened her mouth to ask, realizing how weak her voice sounded.
“I regard Yan Qiu as my younger brother. Madam, if you persist further, you would be disgracing me.” Feng Shaoru suddenly changed her self-reference, her tone severe.
Younger brother? How could it be? Yuan Wan stood dumbfounded, unsure whether the surging emotions in her chest were sadness or joy.
The crimson official robe flowed like clouds beneath the curtain. Seeing the person about to leave, Yuan Wan disregarded everything, lifting the curtain and grabbing the fluttering wide sleeve.
“Madam?” Feng Yunqing widened her eyes in surprise at the intruder.
“Master...” The charming beauty’s pupils brimmed with tears. “He was originally surnamed Zhang, born on the 17th day of the 12th month, Year 9 of Tianzhong, at the beginning of the Weishi hour.”
Her words struck Feng Yunqing’s heart like a sob.
“Left Chancellor! The banquet is about to start!” A distant loud call startled Yuan Wan back behind the curtain.
Yunqing collected herself and moved slowly towards the source of the voice. Suddenly, she saw the lotus-colored spring gown trailing on the ground beneath the curtain, Yuan Wan kneeling and looking up, her glassy eyes full of sorrow: “Please, master, take good care of him.”
Such an expression—she had seen it before, on her mother’s face many years ago...
Yunqing’s throat felt blocked. She bowed deeply, her wide robe brushing against the small wild chrysanthemums at her feet: “Madam, please rest assured.”
With that, she turned and walked forward, hearing the muffled female voice behind her.
“Thank you...”
Still laughing in the spring breeze, the grass and trees shed tears...
The water broke through the duckweed, playing with flower leaves, cups flowing past as wine was shared and beauties admired. By the clear stream, elegant scholars sat together, a stretch of green water flowing slowly. Tracing upstream, the swaying curtains hung across the middle of the water, blocking the men's eager gazes. By the stream, flourishing apricot blossoms climbed over the curtains, petals falling thickly in dazzling splendor. Intermittent giggles rode the falling petals, floating downstream.
Suddenly, a touch of crimson approached. The top scholar led the way, standing up and leading over thirty Jinshi scholars to bow deeply to the newcomer: “Honored teacher.”
Feng Yunqing looked at the scholars bowing respectfully, yet older than her by several years, and felt somewhat embarrassed: “Everyone, please be seated.”
“Yes.”
She flicked her sleeves and sat down, facing Ling Yiran’s smiling eyes filled with amusement. Knowing this person had noticed her embarrassment, Feng Yunqing averted her gaze: “Today in Qionglin, we celebrate spring with the Jinshi scholars. The Qu Shui Liu Shang will become a fine tale.”
After speaking, she gestured with her hand. The newly appointed Tanhua Lang galloped on horseback like a gust of clear wind, swiftly rolling up light gauze. Before the cries from behind the curtain subsided, the Tanhua Lang plucked an apricot blossom and presented it to Feng Yunqing’s palm.
The Qionglin Tanhua plucking spring apricots—extremely elegant.
“Gentlemen Jinshi scholars.” Feng Yunqing held the apricot blossom, sitting with bent knees. “Today, whoever excels in poetry gets the apricot, and also fortune, and may present this flower to their beloved. We shall not object.” With that, under everyone’s watchful eyes, she placed the radiant flower branch in a brocade box and clapped her hands: “Let the feast begin!”
A clear voice carried away with the wind, flying over the curtain corners.
“Princess Consort, the banquet has begun.”
Amidst the deep apricot blossoms sat a beautiful woman. Princess Consort Rong, Rong Ruoshui, took up her jade chopsticks and sampled the dishes lightly.
“Why isn’t there any sparrow tongue on my table?” Across the stream, Princess Consort Lie, Princess Tianjiao Yan Qi, pointed at Ruoshui’s dining table, furious.
Just as she spoke, the female officer serving the dishes knelt near with the plate of sparrow tongues: “Princess Consort...”
“Hmph! You lowly dogs looking down on people!” Yan Qi slapped the officer, sending her tumbling to the ground. The fried sparrow tongues fell into the water, instantly forming an oily layer. After a moment, Yan Qi turned her eyes sharply, glaring fiercely across the stream, shouting ostentatiously, “As long as I have a breath left, I won’t tolerate anyone climbing over my head.”
Ruoshui stopped the female attendant about to speak, smiling softly and sweetly: “Court officials and scholars are composing poetry downstream. Elder Sister-in-law surely knows this, right?”
Upon hearing this, Yan Qi immediately fell silent, only her fierce eyes expressing dissatisfaction.
“Hmph, a fallen phoenix is worse than a chicken.” A maid from the Rong Hou Mansion muttered while serving dishes.
“That’s enough, Axiu.” Ruoshui’s voice was sweet, carrying a sticky softness. “Don’t forget the important matters.”
“Yes.” The maid named Axiu received several jade cups from the palace attendants, half-filled with fragrant wine. “My Lady.”
Almond-shaped eyes reflected in the cup, Ruoshui smiled faintly, her lips curling.
Which cup would be lucky enough to enter that lord’s mouth? Even if someone else mistakenly drank it, it wouldn’t matter, for only the combination of food and drink revealed the effect.
Ruoshui smiled, gathering her spring sleeves, her slender fingers delicately picking up the jade cups, placing them one by one on the stream.
One cup, two cups, three cups… spinning in the water, circles upon circles, drifting downstream with the floating cups of the ladies. Passing under the curtain, the spring breeze shook down apricot rain, a thin petal landing on the green jade, rippling bashfully, utterly charming.
“How fortunate to have apricots?” Ruoshui’s sweet voice called, leaning to drink with the crowd of beauties.
The scent of apricot blossoms was still faint, clear stream water carrying down jade cups. If a jade cup lingered before them, it must be lifted, drunk, and thanked with poetry.
Seeing everyone had received a jade cup, across the stream, Ye Jinglan and Han Yuesha drank successively, including Ling Yiran and Yu Ning beside her, drinking more than one cup, yet she hadn’t received any.
“Heaven pities me. If our esteemed teacher receives a cup from the winding stream, the poetry champion will surely be taken by our teacher, how can we others still receive apricots?” The jocular words of the Tanhua Lang made everyone burst into laughter.
At this moment, a transparent jade cup was carried by the clear stream, stopping perfectly before Feng Yunqing’s seat.
“Ah, this time heaven is blind indeed.”
Amidst the urging of her students, Feng Yunqing lifted the jade cup from the water, cool stream water sliding down her fingers. The jade cup exuded a fragrant aroma, apricot petals shyly covering the clear light. She tasted a sip, its flavor akin to nectar, rich and refined. Smiling broadly, she raised her cup in a toast across the stream, clinking glasses with Han Yuesha who had also received wine.
Their tacit understanding made Ling Chelan, Marquis Rong, involuntarily narrow his eyes. He must succeed, Ruoshui, he prayed silently. Watching Feng Yunqing toss back the luminous nectar, he heard her clear voice recite:
“The cup falls at the pavilion, do you know, sir? Last night’s drizzle washed away the spring sorrow. Once in the deep waves of the river’s heart, the crescent moon was forged into a battle hook. Beating the railings, laughing at the old man in the sky, achieving success over ten thousand miles to seek ennoblement? Only wishing to trample the four seas in peace, sleeping among flowers and resting with the moon through the seasons.”
Ling Chelan listened to the continuous applause of the crowd, drinking bitter wine sip by sip. Such a person, now can only be destroyed. His warm eyes half-closed, watching Feng Yunqing sit down with bent knees, then tasting the specially prepared dish as he wished. Very good, very good, both wine and food consumed, now just wait. He had just breathed a sigh of relief when he saw two pairs of eyes warily observing him.
Ninth Brother, just wait for this good show.
He raised his cup in a distant toast, first to Ling Yiran, then to Ye Jinglan.
Lord Ding, after today's disgraceful incident, you should understand who you can truly work with.
His smile was as warm as jade, exuding warmth.
Just then, the young Left Chancellor, with his refreshing demeanor, furrowed his brows slightly and beckoned a palace attendant behind him. After whispering for a moment, Feng Yunqing stood up and followed the attendant out of the garden.
Let it begin here, leading to the blood-stained Caishi Kou. Ling Chelan sipped his fine wine gently, watching the stream where endless spring flowers bloomed...
...
The burning sensation in her abdomen grew more intense, an unprecedented restlessness coursing through Feng Yunqing’s body. She leaned against the palace wall, feeling as if she were intoxicated by the spring scenery, her vision blurry: “Eunuch, why aren't we there yet?” Did relieving herself require such a long walk?
The eunuch, holding a dust whisk, bowed deeply: “Replying to Your Excellency, today men and women are feasting together, so the closer privies have been given to the female guests, hence we must walk further.”
“Oh...” Her head felt dizzy, possibly from the alcohol rising to her head.
Turning past red walls upon red walls, the vast palace seemed like a maze. She gazed at the sky, feeling as though she were a prisoner unable to escape. Step by step, she moved forward, eventually driven only by instinct, like a blinded donkey walking aimlessly.
Suddenly, a cold gust of wind at the corner of the wall made her realize her consciousness was slipping away.
Something was amiss. Though she couldn’t claim to be a thousand-cup drinker, she could still hold her liquor. How could just one cup today make her feel so disoriented? Could there be a trick in the wine?
No, no. She shook her head lightly, trying to drive away the drunken bugs in her brain. In the Qu Shui Liu Shang, tampering with cups was easy, but how could one manipulate the flow of the clear stream? Her thoughts tangled like knots, clogging somewhere, unable to flow smoothly.
Her body’s instincts were faster than her thoughts; she stopped immediately.
“Master?” The eunuch’s heart trembled, turning back to look, “We’re almost there, what is it?”
Feng Yunqing swayed slightly, looking around. The red walls were adorned with carved beams and painted rafters, clearly not ordinary palace chambers. Her eyes darkened, and she sternly commanded: “Bold palace servant! What do you intend? Where do you plan to take me?” She drew the soft sword from her waist, her raven hair solemnly fluttering.
“No... no...” The eunuch backed away, and after a few steps, broke into a frantic run.
She snorted coldly, about to leap lightly when she heard the palace door behind her open softly. Turning back, locking eyes, the palace maid who opened the door was dumbfounded: “You, you, you!” The palace maid, rarely seeing men due to living deep within the palace, momentarily lost her ability to speak. As she turned to scream, she felt a delicate white palm cover her mouth.
“Siyàn, it’s me.” The man behind her spoke in a feminine voice, the tone somewhat familiar, “It’s me, Han Yue Xia.”
Siyàn’s rigid body suddenly relaxed. She pushed away the overly delicate fingers covering her lips and turned back in surprise: “The newly appointed Left Chancellor?” This bright crimson robe of the first rank, this spring-like smile—this person must be her master’s cross-dressing niece who entered politics, absolutely unmistakable.
Realizing this, Siyàn quickly closed the palace gate: “Miss, how did you end up here?”
“Where is this?” Feng Yunqing leaned weakly against the wall, feeling the heat in her abdomen intensify even more.
“This is the Mo Xiang Palace!”
What? She had entered the inner palace? Officials were forbidden from entering the harem, violators would be executed at the palace gates. She walked and thought, untangling the knots in her mind bit by bit. So, she began to understand, realizing she had walked into a conspiracy.
“Qingqing!” A cry of alarm sounded; without realizing it, she had been brought by Siyàn into the backyard of the Mo Xiang Palace.
“Auntie?” She looked at the pale, sickly beauty before her, her nearly closed eyes suddenly widening, “Isn’t your illness cured?”
“Cough... cough...” Nong Mo tearfully shook her head, excitedly pulling her close to examine her again and again, “Isn’t today the Qiong Lin Feast? Why are you here?”
“I...” At the moment of skin contact, the burning in her abdomen seemed to turn into a fireball. Feng Yunqing could barely control her body's impulses. Alarm bells rang in her head, realizing she had been drugged!
“What's wrong?” Nong Mo held her tightly, “Speak, Qingqing.”
“Auntie.” She reached out to catch the clear tears on Nong Mo's eyelashes, forcing a faint smile, “Quickly send someone to inform Yun Zhi. Have Zhu Que pretend to be Feng Yunqing, drunk and collapsed outside the palace gates. It will be too late otherwise...”
“Let Siyàn escort you back secretly to the feast.” Nong Mo’s cool hand touched her neck, shocked by the scorching heat of her skin.
“If they managed to lure me here, they might expect my return. If I’m caught leaving the inner palace, it would be impossible to explain.” With that, her slightly confused eyes sparkled sharply. She lifted her mask, revealing her elegant and youthful face.
“The clouds part and the moon emerges, this time they won’t expect...”
...
The same person, the same scheme, but the act of catching adulterers had already gone awry.
“She’s Feng Shaoru?” Ling Zhun sat on the eight-treasure couch in the Mo Xiang Palace, his dragon eyes glaring slightly at those beside him.
“Yo... Yo... Yo... Your Majesty!” The accusing eunuch’s legs went limp, instantly falling to the ground. He shifted his eyes, stealing glances at the kneeling beauty beside him. Despite fleeing for his life, he still responsibly glanced back, clearly seeing the Left Chancellor enter the Mo Xiang Palace. How had it now become Miss Han?
“Cough... cough...” Nong Mo covered her mouth with a handkerchief, coughing violently, her made-up face full of sorrow, “Your Majesty... cough... cough... It’s all my fault, nothing to do with Qingqing.”
Ling Zhun sighed inwardly, stopping her from falling like a willow: “The floor is cold, beloved concubine, come sit closer and tell me slowly.”
“Yes.” Nong Mo suppressed her heavy breathing, her beautiful eyes filled with water, truly pitiful to behold. “Your Majesty, this frail body of mine probably won’t last through this summer.”
Ling Zhun’s beard twitched slightly, wanting to comfort her but finding it hard to speak. He gently massaged Nong Mo’s pale, tender hands, stroke by stroke, extremely gentle.
“My greatest regret in life is not bearing Your Majesty a single child.” She lowered her eyes, laughing bitterly, unsure whether she was acting or confessing, “People say aunt and niece share a special bond. Since childhood, Qingqing has lived and eaten with me. Privately, I’ve long regarded her as my own daughter.” She pressed her chest, suppressing the slight itch in her throat, “I miss her dearly, with a piercing ache. So I sent for her from Jiao City, taking advantage of today’s Qu Shui Liu Shang where men and women feast together, secretly guiding her into the inner court to ease my longing for my daughter.”
Tears covered her face, ruining her makeup, but that trace of melancholy beauty deeply engraved itself in the King’s heart.
“Beloved concubine, don’t worry.” Ling Zhun pulled her into his arms, awkwardly soothing her breath, “I understand, I won’t punish anyone.”
“Your Majesty...” Nong Mo breathed in the ambergris scent on him, feeling blissful as if in a dream.
“Someone!” Ling Zhun’s eyes turned cold, glaring at the already frightened eunuch, “Beat this person to death outside the palace and display the body!”
“Ahh!” The eunuch trembled as he was lifted, shrieking in a high-pitched voice, “Unjust, Your Majesty! This humble servant saw it clearly, saw the Left Chancellor enter the Mo Xiang Palace! No lies, Your Majesty!”
He opened his mouth to defend himself further when a soft report came from outside the hall: “Reporting to Your Majesty, the Left Chancellor has collapsed drunk outside the southern palace gate and has been taken home by servants.”
How could it be? Upon hearing this, the eunuch gave up struggling, allowing himself to be dragged away in despair. How could it be...
“Lift your head.” Ling Zhun looked at the black-haired figure below him, commanding.
Under the haze of consciousness, Yue Xia clenched her fists, using her nails to pierce her palms to stay alert. She struggled to compose herself, slowly raising her head.
At the moment their eyes met, Ling Zhun’s chest tightened, and he immediately stood up.
The distinct pupils of her eyes were open and honest, the beautiful eye contours outlining a strong stubbornness. Her black pupils sparkled with sharp intelligence, resembling the radiant moonlight in the sky, possessing a charm that both repels and attracts at first sight.
Such unique eyes, he had only seen them on one person. No mistake, absolutely no mistake!
Ling Zhun stepped down from the eight-treasure couch, circling Yue Xia again and again.
This explained everything. Little Nine, your hidden cards truly shock your father. To think so! To think like this!
But! My Left Chancellor, one of the twin stars of the court I groomed as my successor, how could she be a woman? How could she be the daughter-in-law I had long decided upon?
Heaven, are you saying I’m not sick enough, wanting me to die vomiting?
He clutched his chest, unable to stop coughing heavily. The piercing noise fell into Yue Xia’s ears, making her uneasy yet unable to speak.
After a while, Ling Zhun relaxed his eyebrows, bursting into laughter: “Good, good.”
“Your Majesty...” Nong Mo looked up in confusion, only to see the king pluck an unopened white peony and personally place it in Yue Xia’s shiny black hair.
Han Yue Xia froze in place, raising her eyes in disbelief, meeting Ling Zhun’s sharp dragon eyes.
“If married to the east wind, laughing to compete with spring, a thousand flowers and a hundred herbs can't help but lose their bloom.” The king lightly parted his lips, his eyes full of smiles, “This is the forty-ninth fortune from the Wan Ruo Society’s fortune-telling tube, Peony.”
Yue Xia’s eyelids twitched, recalling the social gathering half a year ago.
“Miss Han.”
A faint call pulled her back from her thoughts. The vigilance deep within her bones overcame the heat in her abdomen. She regained her lost will, humbly lowering her eyes.
“What is meant for you is yours, everything is predestined.” He arrogantly announced, as if this destiny was himself.
She widened her eyes, raising her head, only to see the resolute whirl of the bright yellow dragon robe. The king laughed loudly as he left: “Good, good!” His loud voice, dyed with vibrant spring hues, echoed atop the towering blue sky.
Exhaling deeply, she collapsed onto the ground, realizing her back was already drenched in cold sweat. But before she could embrace and laugh with Nong Mo, she saw the chief eunuch Dexian bow deeply: “By royal command, I respectfully escort Miss out of the palace.”
She stood up, her light green palace dress drifting gracefully, her rain-green skirt seemingly painting landscapes. Green on her spring attire, transforming intensity into subtlety, dazzling yet not blinding, reserved yet vivid. Like rising mist, water flowing into a secluded forest, extending the charm of ink wash painting.
“Auntie.” She held Nong Mo’s thin hands, her beautiful eyes slightly intoxicated, “I’ll ask him to come and treat your illness.”
“No need.” Nong Mo gently stroked her cloud-like hair, lovingly squinting her eyes, “This is a heart ailment, incurable.”
“Auntie, don’t give up! You can’t give up...” She panicked, her fragile will once again invaded.
Nong Mo clasped her delicate white hands, smiling with reluctance: “Go, don’t end up like me.”
Her focus blurred again. Yue Xia embraced the blurry figure before her, whispering softly yet firmly in her ear: “Wait a little longer, I definitely, definitely can save you out.”
“Qingqing...” Silly child, can a person escape their own heart? And that king is her heart.
Leaning against the palace gate, Nong Mo watched her child leave, a bitter smile like a bubbling spring welling out from the corners of her lips. On this day of Chun Si, she gazed endlessly at the palace path, standing alone for a long, long time. Until the evening glow consumed the sky, she took a step back, retreating into that dark cage, returning to that humble heart.
...
The Qu Shui Liu Shang banquet concluded, lingering spring sentiments swirling around the forest and curtain corners, watching young men and women inscribe their feelings everywhere.
Busy with matters of the heart, the crowd failed to notice that a few powerful figures still sat by the stream, thoughtfully drinking wine, their eyes wandering with intent.
Finally, a figure flashed through the moon gate. Upon recognizing the newcomer, their hopes were instantly dashed. Only Ling Chelan perked up, eagerly leaning in to listen. Upon hearing the eunuch’s whispered words, his warm smile immediately turned ashen: “Are you sure?”
“This humble servant wouldn’t dare to lie.”
Ling Chelan pushed aside the dining table, his movements betraying anger: “Ninth Brother, Lord Ding, General Han, please continue eating. This palace shall take his leave first.” He hastily bowed, departing without ceremony.
Seeing this, the three tense individuals finally put their hearts at ease.
It seems Qingqing managed to safely avoid trouble.
“Huh? Who is that?” A coquettish cry from behind the curtains aroused everyone’s curiosity.
Rolling clouds at the edges, spring grass welcoming, beneath the smoke-colored curtains drifted boundless green, brimming with poetic and picturesque sentiment.
With spring light as a brush, the elegant figure was painted onto the curtains. Watching from behind the screen ignited a desire to see her face. Three figures stood by the stream, two pairs of handsome eyes following the shadow.
Yin Ning, who had won the poetry contest, paused his conversation, startling everyone with his abrupt departure.
He walked along the curtains, chasing the beautiful shadow. Yunqing, is that you? Who exactly are you? Which family’s daughter?
Two pairs of beautifully shaped eyes simultaneously narrowed dangerously. Almost simultaneously, Ling Yiran and Ye Jinglan disappeared into the crowd. Before they could approach, they saw Yin Ning wave his sleeve and pull down a section of the curtain, revealing a white peony to everyone's eyes.
Only light and shadow remained in her vision. Han Yue Xia’s gaze was hazy as she looked towards the brightness, who? An unusual burning sensation surged like waves, crashing against her consciousness repeatedly. Her palms were already marked with lines of blood from her nails. Watching the shadow tremblingly approach, she tilted her head, her earnest expression endearing.
Gazing at the longed-for beautiful face, Yin Ning couldn’t hide his emotions. He carefully approached, afraid of startling the beauty: “It’s me, Yuan Zhong.”
Yuan Zhong? Her thoughts and expressions were a bit slow, even blinking revealed a touch of innocence. Her dense black eyelashes fluttered lightly, veiling her eyes in a mist, slightly hazy.
“Please accept this branch of spring apricot.” Yin Ning, like an awkward youth, looked at her expectantly.
Spring apricot... She raised her hand, lightly touching the peony in her hair, unconsciously revealing a spring-like smile: “But I already have a flower in my hair.”
The crowd gasped, feeling that all the fragrant blossoms of spring were concentrated here. Drunken green leaves and peach blossoms couldn’t match the beauty of her smile. Yet, two hearts were silently bursting with sour bubbles.
She smiled...
Damn her smile...
No, as they reined in their jealousy and looked again, they realized the sluggishness in the beauty’s movements. What had happened?
Before the two could act, they saw Han Yuesha push through the crowd, sternly calling out: “Qingqing!”
“Hmm?” Yue Xia lightly furrowed her willow eyebrows, swaying slightly as she walked towards the sound, “Brother...”
“Qingqing?” Han Yuesha shielded her from prying eyes, his tall figure enveloping her completely, “What’s wrong with you?”
“Brother...” Yue Xia bit her lip, desperately enduring the strange sensations in her body, “I feel so terrible, so terrible.” She helplessly clutched at Han Yuesha’s robe, “I want to go home, brother, take me home.”
“Alright.” Han Yuesha removed his outer robe, covering her completely. Amidst sighs of regret, he scooped his sister up horizontally and quickly walked out of everyone’s view.
“Brother?” Yin Ning stared at the red apricot in his hand, unable to snap out of it for a long time. So she was General Han’s sister, no wonder she said her ancestral home was Lianzhou when they first met. The Han family from Jiao City in Lianzhou, renowned for their heavenly soldiers. His faint autumn eyes overflowed with joy as he caressed the spring apricot on the branch: Finally, I’ve found you, Yunqing...
In the crowd, Ling Yiran coldly watched Ye Jinglan chase after him. This fool, doesn't he use his brain? Leaving recklessly at this moment would only raise suspicion, bring endless trouble in the future, and destroy the hard-earned setup...
Thousands of reasons surged in his mind, unsure whether he was looking down on Ye Jinglan or trying to convince himself. He tightly closed his eyes, ultimately unable to take that step.
“Lord Ning, a few fellow scholars and I have set up a banquet at Yue Li Tower. I wonder if Your Highness will be free later?”
This was the voice of the newly minted top scholar. Upon hearing it, he opened his peach blossom eyes and casually smiled: “No matter how busy, this meal must be eaten.”
The top scholar, second placer, and Tanhua Lang were deeply honored and humbly followed the red figure.
Where the apricot stamens are fragrant, the east wind resides; a heart can be large or small...
...
As dusk fell, the Han residence was brightly lit. Lady Han, Qin Dancong, stood by the door leaning heavily on her nearly full-term belly. Her brows were furrowed into a deep frown.
“Have you found her?” Seeing her approaching husband, she urgently asked.
Han Yuesha waved his hand in distress, heavily sat down, and drank a cup of hot tea.
As soon as he entered home, Qingqing had vented her frustration by flying off, making her whereabouts difficult to trace.
“You haven't found her yet, and you've already returned?” Qin Dancong pushed her seated husband.
“Right now, the only one who can find her is probably Lord Ding.” Though reluctant to admit it, Han Yuesha had to concede that in his sister’s eyes, that man had begun to stand on equal footing with him, her brother. Although daughters grow up and leave, she was still the little sister he had protected and doted on since childhood.
“Hmm.” Qin Dancong pinched her nose and stepped back a few paces. “What a sour smell.”
Han Yuesha shot her an annoyed glance and poured another cup of hot tea, filled with resentment.
“You are nine years older than your younger sister, probably considering yourself half a father already.” Dancong placed his hand on her round belly, tenderly whispering, “Husband, when our daughter is born, will you cherish her like this too?”
“Yes.” Han Yuesha embraced his beloved wife and silently murmured in his heart.
Daughter, actually, what frustrated your father today wasn’t your auntie hiding, but that he couldn’t catch up with her speed. For a brother, this was truly a heavy blow...
...
Torches formed a line, illuminating the distant area as if it were daylight. Ye Jinglan slowly walked along the lakeside pavilion, his sharp phoenix eyes not missing any blind spots.
Passing through the dense, dark willows, he suddenly heard an almost imperceptible sigh and abruptly stopped. Holding his breath, he listened closely again.
“Mm...” A broken murmur entered his ears.
“Qingqing?” Ye Jinglan parted the dense willows and walked towards the dark corner of the lake. “Qingqing?”
He called out several times, then heard a mumble from deep within the myriad strands: “Xiuyuan...”
“Mm, it's me.” Ye Jinglan exhaled in relief, softly saying, “Come out, Qingqing.”
“No.” Her tone carried a nasal quality, and Ye Jinglan could almost visualize her current charming state.
Temporarily ignoring the surging tide of emotions in his chest, he pushed aside layers of willow branches: “It's already dark. Come back with me quickly.”
“It's dark already? So much time has passed...” Her voice was like a coo, unlike her usual clear tones.
Not only her vision, but her consciousness was unusually blurred. What had happened to her? Ye Jinglan rapidly thought, unconsciously quickening his pace and actions.
“Xiuyuan!”
“Mm, I'm here.”
“Don't come over.” Her voice carried a plea, surprising him.
“Why?” He continued forward, just more gently.
“I must look ugly right now, hmm... don't come over...”
Ugly? Ye Jinglan was bewildered again, his anxiety growing: “I don't care.” He gently coaxed her, enticing the beauty to respond again.
“Still, don't come over...”
“Mm?” Her voice grew closer, and his heartbeat became more intense.
“Do you really want me to say it? Although I've been an official for several months, I'm still a girl at heart and very conscious of my dignity...”
Listening to her coquettish tone, the emotional tide he had intentionally ignored stirred small waves, lapping against his chest. “With me, do you still need to talk about dignity?” His voice was slightly hoarse, and inadvertently, he stepped on a dry branch.
He stopped, thinking he had startled the coy beauty, but heard her slowly and softly say: “Alright, I'll tell the truth. Actually, I'm afraid I'll lose control.”
Lose control? Seeing that she didn’t realize, Ye Jinglan knew her senses were gradually failing and no longer tiptoed around. He directly pushed through the dense willows.
The delicate willow branches bathed in the clear light, like the moon's scattered hair, forming a green curtain veiling a corner of the pavilion lake. Parting the clouds to reveal the moon, behind the willow curtain emerged boundless charm.
“Before I heard your voice, I started to get restless. Now that you're here...” Her damp spring attire outlined her delicate curves. The beauty stood alone in the water, covering her face with both hands, shaking her head continuously. The white peony trembled with vibrant spring colors, truly captivating.
“Go away, go away, I'm afraid I really won't be able to resist...”
Phoenix eyes shimmered with ripples of spring, Ye Jinglan gently waded into the water and slowly approached.
After a moment, she lowered her hands, revealing her rosy beauty: “Xiuyuan?” She called, her eyes somewhat hazy.
Ye Jinglan embraced the “moon in the water,” whispering in her ear, “I'm here.”
Yue Xia trembled violently and tried to push him away: “Don't touch me.”
His eyes narrowed in doubt, surprised to discover the unusual heat emanating from her body.
“So hot, so hot.” She instinctively splashed water on herself, revealing a pale yellow chemise.
Ye Jinglan's throat tightened, then he caught her right wrist, carefully feeling her pulse: “Aphrodisiac poison?”
“Mm...” Han Yue Xia covered her face in embarrassment, sobbing, “...it was still discovered...”
“Qingqing.” He held the beauty who wanted to escape, trapping her between his arms, “Don't be afraid, don't be afraid.” He kissed the white peony, the tips of her hair, her eyebrows, cheeks, and finally her lips.
Her fine lashes caught the moonlight, her face flushed with red. Her exposed chest rose and fell dramatically, her nerves already stretched thin and unable to bear further provocation, snapping one by one. As soon as his lips touched hers, her lips and tongue tightly entwined with his.
The unprecedented passion of the beauty stirred Ye Jinglan's desires, igniting a wildfire of passion instantly. Hot currents surged between their legs, his robust body coursing with blood. A beast hidden in his heart quietly awakened. He kissed and moved, pushing the confused beauty against the lakeside rocks. With a tight grip, he pressed their heated bodies together.
“Qingqing.” He nibbled on her delicate earlobe, gently sucking, “Do you want to relieve the aphrodisiac poison?”
“Yes.” She honestly answered, her hot little hands tearing open his clothes, her naive touches stirring his passions uncontrollably.
He extended his long leg to part her knees, his hands pinning her to the rock, fervent kisses trailing from the corner of her mouth downward. They landed on her jade-like neck, her elegant collarbones, eliciting gasps from her. Each moan slid into his ears like strong liquor, fueling the fire within him. His long fingers fumbled with the thin strings of her chemise, once, twice, only to find them knotted. A flicker of impatience crossed his phoenix eyes, and amidst her cries, the ribbon was torn apart. The pale yellow fabric floated lightly on the water, swirling around the moonlit water like wisps of clouds.
Ripples spread across the lakeside, circling around the partially undressed night moon. The white peony quivered with their passion, boundless springtime quietly spreading.
Suddenly, a faint lotus fragrance wafted into his nostrils, pulling back some of Ye Jinglan's awareness.
Where did the lotus scent come from at the end of March? He wondered briefly, but his hands and lips remained fiery, his sturdy body pressed tightly against her softness, intricately intertwined.
As their passion continued, the lotus fragrance grew stronger. He sniffed carefully and realized the source was the intoxicating beauty before him. Like being doused with cold water, Ye Jinglan suddenly regained his senses. He held her close, panting uncontrollably: “Qingqing...”
“Mm?” Yue Xia wriggled restlessly, the friction intensifying the heat between his legs.
“Don't move, listen to me.” Ye Jinglan swallowed hard, barely suppressing the fierce flames of passion. He kissed the beauty's hair, like drinking poison to quench thirst: “You've been poisoned with Dark Lotus.”
“Dark Lotus?” She repeated instinctively.
“Even a sage, poisoned with this aphrodisiac, becomes like a beast, indulging until exhaustion leads to death.” He gently stroked her cheek, watching her bite her lip in restraint, sincerely sighing, “Qingqing, you've endured quite well.” Enduring until he came, she was such a good girl.
Her beautiful eyes blinked slightly, her loose black hair partially covering her fair skin, her bewitching beauty almost making him think he was the one poisoned.
“This poison has no antidote; it all depends on willpower.” Ye Jinglan reluctantly retreated, pulling back their precarious wills, “Continuing would harm you.” His beloved was right before him, but he could only watch from afar, unable to touch. What kind of torment was this? He bitterly smiled, releasing her entangled fingers, as even the slightest intimacy at this moment could consume him.
“Qingqing.” Ye Jinglan spoke in a low, raspy voice, carrying a hint of request, “Let go, Qingqing.”
“Ahh? Am I still holding you?” Yue Xia whispered softly.
“Mm.” He lowered his eyes in pain, “Your left hand.”
Lovers gazed at each other across the water, their budding hearts sighing with emotion.
“Xiuyuan...” She bit her lip, gradually increasing pressure, blood spreading at the corners of her mouth. She covered her face, sobbing lowly, “Mm... it's so unbearable... Xiuyuan... I feel so awful...”
Ye Jinglan pulled her into his arms, his words full of tenderness: “Bear with it, Qingqing.”
“Knock me out, Xiuyuan.” Her body moved against her will, making her both angry and ashamed, “My endurance isn't as good as you imagine. If this continues...”
“Alright.” Ye Jinglan kissed the corner of her eye, slowly raising his hand.
“Hit harder, if it's too light, I'm afraid...”
Her words were cut off as his hand moved first.
Ye Jinglan picked up her weakened body, gathered her clothes floating on the water, and walked towards the depths of the dense willows.
“Don't worry, I'll stay with you.”
The crescent moon tilted slightly, the sparse stars bright. Dew dripped from the lotus flowers, prolonging the spring night.
Those phoenix eyes, brimming with springtime, were like the faint lotus fragrance, drifting into dreams...
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