Li Weiyang couldn’t help but freeze, raising her eyes to look at Li Xiaoran. She had thought Li Xiaoran would at least beat around the bush a bit, not expecting him to be so direct. Did this mean her attitude toward Fourth Concubine made him uneasy?

Li Xiaoran’s face was full of gloom—clearly, his mood wasn’t very good. Changxi had gone mad, Changle had been publicly humiliated, Changxiao was useless. Now among the daughters by his side, only Li Weiyang remained. Now the Jiang family suddenly proposed this marriage—from his heart, he wasn’t very willing.

“Since your mother died, our two families have inevitably grown distant. But after all, we’re still one family. If we can restore old ties, that would be a good thing. You’ve met that boy Jiang Nan—young and martial, intelligent and decisive. Although His Majesty stripped him of his military merit, the Jiang family remains…”

Li Weiyang looked at him coldly, interrupting Li Xiaoran’s words for the first time: “Father, what do you mean!”

She had never detested this man so much before.

Back when she was in the countryside and he paid her no attention—she had never blamed him. All these years, he naturally had beautiful wives and concubines, children in abundance. No one would think of a daughter who might very well bring him misfortune—this was human nature. Li Weiyang had no feelings for him, so naturally she wouldn’t be sad, simply treating him as someone dispensable. But since her return, though he couldn’t be called good to her, he also couldn’t be called bad. Sometimes, though lacking in fairness, he hadn’t rejected or framed her like the Grand Madam. In Li Weiyang’s view, this already counted as harmonious coexistence. She thought father and daughter at least had some affection between them.

But today, she suddenly realized Li Xiaoran was completely cold-blooded. He could feel guilt, unease, and compassion—but for his position, for his power, daughters and wives were all his stepping stones.

Indeed, he detested the Jiang family. But since he currently lacked confidence to deliver them a fatal blow, he prepared to first use her as a sacrifice, sending her to appease the Jiang family. When the opportunity came in the future, he would still mercilessly eliminate his enemies—only by then, she would probably be a pile of white bones. Though Li Weiyang didn’t think those Jiang family people could do anything to her, she also didn’t plan to use herself for revenge. Such behavior was utterly foolish—she wouldn’t do it!

Li Weiyang carefully examined Li Xiaoran’s expression. After a moment, she sneered coldly.

“Father, have you forgotten how the new madam entered the door? The Jiang family is using the same old trick again—you’re willing to accept it so sweetly?”

“Li Weiyang!” Touched on his sore spot, Li Xiaoran raised his teacup, almost about to smash it to the ground. But seeing Li Weiyang’s half-smiling expression, he realized the forceful approach wouldn’t work.

“Girl, you’re my own daughter. Of course Father hopes you can find a good match. Do you think agreeing to this marriage doesn’t pain me? But if you think everything can be done according to your temperament, then I’ve completely misjudged you. I know the Jiang family wants you to come with no good intentions, but Father believes with your abilities, you can definitely control your husband, preventing him from acting recklessly. Moreover, your marriage will be arranged by His Majesty—no one can refuse. They’ll have to show you respect then. How can they do anything to you?” He lowered his voice again. “Father will also support you. I won’t let anyone bully you. As long as I remain in this Premier’s position for one day, they won’t dare touch you for one day!”

Seeing Li Weiyang’s indifferent expression, thinking she had softened, he continued persuading: “I know you still remember your mother’s matters. But people are already dead—why hold grudges? You’re a smart girl. You should understand the relationship between the Li and Jiang families—even breaking bones, the tendons remain connected. At that banquet, if I hadn’t pleaded for them, everyone would point at my back, saying I’m ungrateful, forgetting Duke Jiang’s kindness in promoting me years ago… Such good relations between two families—if they became estranged over one Jiang Rou, no one would want to see it. Taking this opportunity to restore old ties benefits us both. Do you think they’re marrying you to torment you? That would underestimate Jiang Xu too much. He’s merely using you to show goodwill toward us, to bow to me…”

Li Weiyang’s gaze coldly observed him, but inwardly she despised him more and more. Things had reached this point, yet he still didn’t want to turn against the Jiang family. In his heart, everything truly came after political interests… Indeed, Li Xiaoran’s few words at the banquet might have made Jiang Xu realize Li Xiaoran’s influence in the Emperor’s heart remained strong. And the Emperor’s punishment of the Jiang family made Li Xiaoran understand he couldn’t immediately do anything to them. So these two men both prepared to bow and show goodwill to each other. Li Weiyang sneered coldly. So Fourth Concubine’s visit wasn’t a test—Li Xiaoran had her reveal the bottom line. Of course Fourth Concubine also wanted to use such news to curry favor with her. Men thought this was a mutually compromising marriage to restore old ties. Women thought it was a declaration of war. Ha—truly completely different understandings.

Li Weiyang smiled faintly: “Father, let’s not discuss court matters for now. Mother was after all the Jiang family’s legitimate daughter. The Jiang family already blames me for her death. Now they’re rushing to have me marry over—perhaps Uncle is trying to restore old ties, but for the Duke’s wife, losing her own daughter and now seeking a concubine-born one—if it’s not deliberate revenge, truly no one would believe it.” Her tone was clear and calm. “How does Father think sacrificing just me will make the grudges between our two families vanish into thin air?”

Li Xiaoran’s brow twitched. He trembled slightly with anger, the muscles by his mouth also twitching. “Weiyang, why are you so unreasonable! Father has wasted so much breath on you—isn’t it because I value you! If they fancied Changxiao, I would send her immediately!”

Li Weiyang just smiled without speaking. The angrier Li Xiaoran became, trembling all over, the more composed her smile grew.

Looking at Li Weiyang’s calm face, Li Xiaoran suddenly felt fear in his heart.

If they truly fell out and brought up the past again, the losses might outweigh the gains. Li Weiyang’s temperament—he wasn’t completely ignorant of it. A girl who dared request rewards before the Emperor—expecting her to bow to you was simply fantasy. Even the Emperor privately said this girl dared to think and act, was extraordinary. How much more so for himself?

Unfortunately, Weiyang wasn’t a son. Otherwise, such a child in official circles, with his guidance, could definitely accomplish great things. Li Xiaoran couldn’t help softening: “The Jiang family also mentioned something else—the Duke’s wife is seriously ill, unknown if she can pull through. Though Jiang Nan ranks fourth, his older brothers will all remain at their posts in the future, taking their wives and children with them, not staying in the capital. After you complete one year of mourning, the Jiang family will marry you in. By then, as long as you handle things properly, the Jiang family will be yours.”

Li Weiyang almost laughed aloud. What did the Jiang family mean by this? Oh, handing it to her to manage—even if the old madam died, there was still the Grand Madam. Would she tolerate a concubine-born person like herself commanding the wind and rain in the Jiang family? Such thinking was simply fantasy.

“This marriage involves the face of everyone in the Li family. Seeking maximum political benefit for the Li family is every Li family member’s duty. Regardless of how you think, I’ve already agreed to this marriage. These days His Majesty is angry. After a few days when his anger subsides, I’ll enter the palace to request the marriage. One year after you complete mourning, you’ll immediately marry. I believe with your methods, you’ll definitely know how to live well.” Li Xiaoran’s tone was firm, his words containing no room for negotiation. Though his tone sounded gentle, in reality it was cold and sharp as ice.

Li Weiyang showed neither arrogance nor impatience. She merely leisurely sipped her tea, smiling faintly: “Father, in this world, there’s no such thing as a free lunch.”

Li Xiaoran’s expression froze.

“Of course I can understand Father’s decision. But I still refuse—”

Li Xiaoran looked at her: “Because you’re afraid?”

“Afraid? No, Father probably doesn’t know—when I was sent to the countryside I wasn’t afraid, when beaten by village women I wasn’t afraid, when hungry and freezing I wasn’t afraid, when my legitimate mother made things difficult and my legitimate sister persecuted me I wasn’t afraid. Even when fire burned to my eyebrows, I wasn’t afraid in the slightest. One Jiang family—even if the entire household were wolves, I’m fearless! Only, the Jiang family’s timing for proposing marriage is quite subtle.” Li Weiyang’s smile was like a thin layer of ice on a lake surface, whooshing out cold air. “Logically, having just been rebuked by the Emperor, they should be closing doors to reflect. Yet they immediately had someone propose marriage—truly rather illogical.”

Li Xiaoran was struck by the doubt in his heart. Originally, he had also been suspicious. To propose marriage—when couldn’t they come? Early or late, but specifically at this time…

“Those who don’t know might think the Li family is audacious, even cozying up to people His Majesty wants to punish.” Li Weiyang murmured in continuation.

Li Xiaoran’s expression immediately changed.

“Now His Majesty often cultivates Taoism in the palace. Many matters are managed by the Crown Prince. The Jiang family previously relied on military merit, deep-rooted—no one wanted to ally with them. But now things are very different. Having just suffered setbacks, they urgently need someone who can speak before His Majesty, or rather, need someone who can become Emperor in the future. Now they want to marry into our family—the implications are subtle enough to frighten people!”

Allying with princes was a common trick of aristocratic families. That the Li family didn’t favor the Crown Prince was something Li Weiyang knew very clearly. Li Xiaoran believed more that the Emperor would pass the throne to the Seventh Prince. However, for the Jiang family, if they went to Tuoba Yu’s camp, they couldn’t suppress Tuoba Yu’s staunch supporter Duke Luo. If Tuoba Yu ascended the throne, the Duke Luo household weren’t civil officials—Tuoba Yu would definitely hand all military authority to them! The Jiang family would have nowhere to stand! But the Crown Prince was different. The Crown Prince’s camp greatly lacked established aristocrats like the Jiang family.

Now the Emperor had demoted the Jiang family. They wanted to defect, joining the Crown Prince’s camp—this wasn’t strange. Li Xiaoran grew more alarmed the more he thought. Reasoning from this angle, everything seemed to have a reasonable explanation. Why did the Jiang family want to strengthen marriage ties? Already having one marriage arrangement yet feeling it insufficient, adding another—in outsiders’ eyes, even before the Emperor: the Li family was also tied to the Crown Prince’s ship. By then, if the Emperor wanted the Seventh Prince to replace him, he’d have to think carefully!

Li Xiaoran’s heart couldn’t help but run cold: Li Weiyang was right. This time the one speaking for the Jiang family was Duke Min from the Crown Prince’s inner circle, the He family—that was the Crown Princess’s maternal family! Looking at it this way, the Jiang family indeed had intentions of allying with the Crown Prince, at least on the surface! Of course, even more terrifying was that the Jiang family also prepared to bind him onto the ship… But even he could see the Crown Prince wasn’t Emperor material. The person in His Majesty’s heart to inherit the throne wouldn’t be him either. Could the Jiang family not see this? What exactly were they plotting? Or were they building plank roads openly while secretly crossing at Chencang…

His face grave as water, he lowered his head in contemplation for a long while before slowly saying: “Forget it. There’s still a year anyway—no rush. You may go first. I’ll think it over carefully.”

Earlier he said he’d request the marriage in a few days. Now he wasn’t rushed—he must want to carefully ponder the intentions behind this marriage proposal. Truly an old fox. Li Weiyang looked at her father with ice-cold eyes. The smile on her face was full of mockery. Her voice was exceptionally calm: “This daughter takes her leave.”

Upon entering Hexiang Courtyard, the Old Madam’s attitude was different. She leaned against the kang, had Li Weiyang sit beside her, and was straightforward.

“I absolutely won’t agree to you marrying over there.”

Compared to Li Xiaoran, the Old Madam was direct—not half a wasted word.

“What, your father lectured you?”

Li Weiyang knew the Old Madam disliked anyone too sharp, so she displayed a momentarily hesitant appearance, as if not knowing how to answer.

The Old Madam looked at her and revealed a genuine smile. She patted her hand.

“This isn’t a good marriage. I’ll persuade him to refuse it.”

Li Weiyang smiled: “I fear… Father won’t easily change his mind.” Ultimately, Li Xiaoran didn’t care about this daughter. Though relations with the Jiang family had soured, he still wanted to send her over as a favor.

The Old Madam immediately smiled: “This matter isn’t urgent. In any case, you haven’t completed mourning—plenty of excuses to refuse.”

That the Old Madam clearly supported her was somewhat unexpected for Li Weiyang.

“Rest assured. I know your father’s temperament very well.” Seeing her lost in thought, the Old Madam couldn’t help feeling a trace of pity and comforted her: “This person values face more than heaven itself. He won’t truly force you!”

Li Weiyang smiled: “What the Old Madam says is true! This granddaughter only worries that with undercurrents surging among the princes, the Jiang family proposing marriage has a meaning of ‘the drunkard’s heart lies not in wine’…”

The Old Madam’s eyes flashed: Though Li Weiyang’s performance had repeatedly surprised her, regarding political situations, this child’s rare clearheadedness still made her especially appreciative.

If this girl were legitimate-born, why would her son necessarily have to sacrifice her? She feared after much thought, he’d still marry her off in the end… The Old Madam gave her a meaningful smile: “In my view, if you want to completely extinguish your father’s hopes, you need the Seventh Prince to propose marriage soon.”

Li Weiyang froze. With her intelligence, how could she not understand the Old Madam’s meaning? The Old Madam could see she didn’t want to marry into the Jiang family. For a concubine-born daughter to gain foothold in the Jiang family required more than just a strong maternal family and personal cleverness—she’d still need to please her husband’s family. But the Duke’s wife already detested her thoroughly. Not flaying her alive would be good enough. As for the Grand Madam there, she probably had no favorable feelings toward her either. But to refuse this marriage, Li Xiaoran needed to see Li Weiyang’s value. If she could become the Seventh Prince’s consort—even a secondary consort—it would be enough for Li Xiaoran to take a gamble. Only this kind of thing… wasn’t something she could accomplish just by wanting to.

Though Li Weiyang wasn’t naively overestimating her importance, she absolutely didn’t want to sell herself in an extremely awkward situation. Moreover, sell herself to Tuoba Yu.

In her heart, Tuoba Yu was just a friend, an ally—not someone she could entrust her life to. Especially with Noble Consort Zhang watching like a tiger eyeing prey. The Seventh Prince had delayed taking a consort precisely because Noble Consort Zhang was extremely picky. Never mind that the principal consort must be nobly born and able to help her son—even a secondary consort must definitely be chosen as perfect in every way. She didn’t like her as a daughter-in-law. Even as a secondary consort, she felt unqualified. This matter was truly vexing.

Li Weiyang lowered her eyes and accepted the Old Madam’s hint: “This granddaughter knows what to do.” Seeming to agree, but actually agreeing to nothing—the most diplomatic answer.

Coming out of the room, Li Weiyang smiled at Nanny Luo: “Nanny Luo, Mother just came, didn’t she?”

Originally Nanny Luo never took anyone’s side. But these past two years with the Old Madam’s poor health, Nanny Luo had clearly wavered somewhat. Especially after the new madam entered… Li Weiyang’s smile deepened.

Looking at the smile on Li Weiyang’s face, Nanny Luo’s heart tightened. Though the master had never doted on the Third Miss like he doted on the eldest miss, the Third Miss’s current days were incomparable to the eldest miss’s. Though her marriage currently had obstacles, the Third Miss’s wings had already grown full—no longer that newly arrived young girl who had to be polite even to her! She raised her head: “What the Third Miss says is true! The madam did just come.” An appearance of wanting to speak but hesitating.

Li Weiyang smiled: “Whatever you want to say, just say it. Why are you being so distant with me too, Nanny?”

“Third Miss, the madam came to persuade the Old Madam to agree to this marriage…” Nanny Luo said slowly, with slight hesitation.

Jiang Yuelan had finally begun to act.

Since marrying into this family, she had never done anything for the Jiang family. This time, she must show them some loyalty. Otherwise, her father’s days at court wouldn’t be easy. Though already married, she should still win glory for her maternal family. Logically, this thinking couldn’t be called wrong. Only now in this household, for this matter, all sorts of demons and monsters had mobilized—truly not a good sign.

Nanny Luo smiled: “Actually in this servant’s view, a talent like the Third Miss could live well anywhere. They’re too anxious.”

Li Weiyang glanced at her, casually saying: “This water is truly getting muddier. However, the livelier it gets, the more interesting. Don’t you agree, Nanny…”

Nanny Luo’s heart turned cold.

These years serving by the Old Madam’s side, things she should know and shouldn’t know—more or less she had vague understandings. Especially regarding Li Weiyang’s matters, Nanny Luo saw very clearly… The Third Miss’s enemies fell one after another. The Grand Madam lost her life. The eldest miss, fifth miss—these people were suppressed so thoroughly they could never rise again… Who would believe that before their eyes, this soft, weak, beautiful young girl privately had such ruthless methods?

Every time it seemed an inescapable crisis, ultimately the unlucky ones were always others…

“What the Third Miss says is true! From now on, whatever orders you have, this servant will face ten thousand deaths without regret.” Nanny Luo immediately adjusted her expression, displaying complete heartfelt submission.

“Of course, on the Old Madam’s side, I’ll still need Nanny Luo to look after things.” Li Weiyang’s smile was very humble.

But Nanny Luo’s heart grew more uneasy. Thinking of the gold ingots the madam had sent over, she involuntarily felt she should temporarily not incite the Old Madam. For now, just observe—see whether the new madam was more capable or the Third Miss stood longer… The struggles between masters—she’d just watch. If she insisted on getting involved, she might not even keep her whole corpse. The Grand Madam’s lesson—Nanny Luo had taken it to heart as a warning.

Returning from Hexiang Courtyard, it was already time for the midday meal. Li Weiyang glanced at the table with over ten kinds of hot dishes, all placed in plain porcelain plates, complete with color, aroma, and taste—very appetizing. There were also three or four kinds of soups and broths in soup containers not yet taken out. Of course there were also several plates of snacks. She couldn’t help freezing: “Why so many dishes prepared today?” The meals in each courtyard were generally prepared by the main kitchen according to standard, then each place sent people to fetch them. But those with money would have small kitchens in their courtyards for impromptu needs. Li Weiyang naturally also had a small kitchen—besides the Old Madam’s kitchen, the best one. The hired master was also first-rate, skilled at refined, delicate foods. But today she had clearly instructed preparing just three or four dishes would suffice. Yet a whole table was laid out lavishly. Had the chef gone mad?

The curtain lifted, and in walked a brocade-clothed, handsome young gentleman.

Mo Zhu held the curtain for him then withdrew to the side. Seeing Li Minde’s profile was extremely handsome, her heart skipped a beat. Clearly this was an utterly familiar appearance, yet just looking a few more times gave her a wildly pounding heart. She felt such a wonderful, elegant person—she’d never met before and never would again. Only, thinking this person’s exterior was handsome but interior unfathomable, she involuntarily lowered her head. Besides toward Li Weiyang, she’d never seen the Third Young Master smile at anyone. She didn’t dare harbor any foolish fantasies.

Li Weiyang smiled: “You’re here to mooch food at my place, so you had the kitchen prepare extra things?”

Li Minde just smiled. Bai Zhi had already prepared chopsticks. After washing his hands, he smiled somewhat roguishly: “Food from other places isn’t as fragrant as here. What, you don’t welcome me?”

Not unwelcoming—just not knowing what attitude to face you with. Li Weiyang sighed inwardly: “Of course you’re welcome. Others couldn’t be invited even if I tried!”

During the meal, neither spoke. Li Weiyang suddenly raised her head: “Minde, you keep watching me. Do you want to tell me something?”

Li Minde froze. He hadn’t realized his gaze had remained on Li Weiyang, unable to move away. Unprepared for her sudden question, he felt greatly embarrassed. Seeing her watching him, her eyes seemingly containing mist—truly enough to throw one’s mind into chaos. His heart heated. The thought in his mind slipped out: “I heard—the Jiang family sent someone to propose.”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly, suddenly pointing at Zhao Yue: “This little traitor—you should take her away quickly. Whatever news I have here, she can’t wait to tell you.”

Zhao Yue quickly knelt. Li Minde smiled: “Afraid I’d know? You really want to marry over there?”

Li Weiyang coughed lightly, glancing at him sideways: “Who said I wanted to marry over!”

Naturally knowing you wouldn’t agree—otherwise he wouldn’t be sitting here so calmly either. Li Minde just smiled: “So… have you thought of a method?”

Li Weiyang froze, only then smiling: “It happened so suddenly. I still need to think more.”

Li Minde’s eyes, flowing with radiant light, turned on Li Weiyang. His expression between smile and non-smile: “Weiyang, I have a method—”

This was the first time he called her name. Once spoken, Li Weiyang was stunned. Previously he always called her “elder sister.” But thinking carefully, he seemed to have stopped calling her elder sister for fully half a year… That’s right—his actual age wasn’t younger than hers. Today his words were even more casual, as if a very ordinary matter, making it hard for her to refuse. However, now wasn’t the time to think about this. She couldn’t help frowning: “What idea do you have?”

Li Minde’s smile contained a trace of mischief: “If they want to marry you, naturally they must pay a price. Only, whether they can bear this price is unknown.”

Li Weiyang, seeing him speak so confidently, knew he had everything planned. However, she still felt somewhat uneasy: “The key to the problem isn’t the Jiang family, but Father.”

Li Minde smiled, asking: “So how do you view this person now?”

Li Weiyang answered coldly: “Since he doesn’t see me as his daughter, naturally I won’t respect him either. Everyone just avoid making things difficult for each other and live well.”

Li Minde smiled: “Girls don’t live their whole lives with their fathers anyway. Whether he’s good or bad doesn’t matter.”

Li Weiyang sighed: “In the Li family, I seem to have lived an entire lifetime—and an utterly miserable lifetime at that.” What she said actually referred to her previous life, having already lived through a miserable lifetime. But coming to her senses, she realized she’d said the wrong thing.

But Li Minde kept his head lowered, as if he hadn’t heard what she said. Li Weiyang breathed a sigh of relief.

After a moment, Li Minde raised his head again, his face smiling. He extended his chopsticks to pick up food for her: “Those people don’t matter. A lifetime is still very long. I’ll be with you—we’ll take our time.”

Li Weiyang froze. Thinking carefully, though she didn’t understand the meaning of these words, she also felt greatly comforted: “Let’s get back to the main topic. My marriage depends on you—absolutely don’t botch it.”

Li Minde felt both shocked and amused: “Alright, naturally I’ll arrange everything. You needn’t worry.”

Li Weiyang smiled: “No, let me participate. Personally watching Jiang Nan suffer misfortune makes me happy.”

Li Minde: “…” Actually he felt quite sympathetic toward Fourth Young Master Jiang. Everyone liked pretty wives. One this formidable—Jiang Nan probably couldn’t handle her.

At dusk, Jiang Wu limped into the courtyard, tiptoeing as if trying to return to his room. But suddenly he saw a figure standing under a tree, eyes like an ancient well watching him with a half-smile.

Jiang Wu glanced at his bedraggled appearance, subconsciously wiping his face. Finding his disguise still intact, he breathed a sigh of relief and smiled: “What, the County Princess is also here? Are you unwell somewhere?”

Since Li Changle’s injury, Physician Lu had been living in this courtyard. Li Weiyang vaguely felt something was wrong. If Li Changle had truly recovered, would she still need Physician Lu? Only Physician Lu used the excuse that the eldest miss’s injuries hadn’t healed and required recuperation to stay here. Others couldn’t say anything.

Li Weiyang smiled broadly: “Physician Lu left early this morning and hasn’t eaten yet, have you?”

Jiang Wu hadn’t eaten a single bite all day. Only now did he discover he was famished. But naturally he wouldn’t believe Li Weiyang would kindly care whether he’d eaten: “I’m not hungry.”

Just as he finished speaking, his stomach gurgled and rumbled. Jiang Wu was glad he wore a mask so Li Weiyang couldn’t see his face had turned completely red. How embarrassing! Following her into the room, he involuntarily punched his stomach hard.

Jiang Wu buried his head eating while Li Weiyang sat leisurely to the side watching him devour everything.

“Physician Lu, eat slowly!” Bai Zhi kindly handed him a cup of tea.

Jiang Wu took it and drank it down in one gulp.

“Physician Lu,” Li Weiyang smiled at him, “what, the household you visited today didn’t prepare food, leaving you hungry while treating patients?” Each time Physician Lu went out, he used treating patients as an excuse. Fortunately the Li household was magnanimous and didn’t mind. On the contrary, some familiar high officials and nobles, knowing there was a formidable physician here, often sent people seeking treatment. Li Xiaoran felt having a miracle doctor at home was very face-giving.

Jiang Wu put down his chopsticks, straightening his expression: “I treat poor families—I don’t even collect consultation fees!”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly: “Oh, is that so?”

Jiang Wu naturally knew he was making things up. He’d just left when Uncle Jiang Xu caught him and dragged him home, then scolded him. The family even forced him to return to the military camp. He secretly escaped but was caught and punished to kneel in the ancestral hall all day. He finally managed to sneak out. Fortunately only Jiang Nan knew he lived at the Li household—otherwise even here wouldn’t be safe.

He said somewhat guiltily: “Uh… of course!”

Li Weiyang smiled sweetly, pushing the dishes forward: “Still, finish eating first!”

Having been hungry all day, Jiang Wu ate three bowls of rice before filling his stomach.

A maid presented a cup of tea. Jiang Wu sipped it, then suddenly said to Li Weiyang: “Speak—what does the County Princess want from me…”

“Nothing much really.” She said, her expression calm, revealing no anxiety.

“County Princess, let’s be direct—if there’s something, just say it.”

Li Weiyang lowered her thick lashes slightly, eyes deeply contained: “I’m hoping you can help with a favor.”

Jiang Wu couldn’t help being puzzled: “Have me help? Help with what?”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly: “My family arranged a marriage for me. I’m unwilling, so I want to fall ill. Physician Lu—you should have suitable medicine, right?”

What?! Jiang Wu suddenly recalled what his mother said today: Don’t look at your fourth brother being so wild—now he’s someone about to take a wife. At the time he curiously asked whose family’s daughter. His mother’s expression was very strange: The Third Miss from Premier Li’s household.

At the time he thought his mother was overthinking. But now hearing this, it was actually true! Oh heaven—Li Weiyang marrying Jiang Nan? If these two collided, they’d probably overturn the entire Jiang household! Thinking of how much Jiang Nan currently detested Li Weiyang, Jiang Wu involuntarily shook his head. If Li Weiyang married over, she probably wouldn’t survive three days—no wonder she came seeking him.

He frowned, his voice unconsciously stern: “Foolish! You want to feign illness to escape marriage! This won’t do. One misstep ruins the Li family’s century of pure reputation. I advise you to think clearly!”

Li Weiyang found it quite laughable but didn’t show this emotion. She just smiled helplessly: “If I marry over, I fear I won’t survive a few days…”

This was true… Jiang Wu deeply agreed. Only, he didn’t plan to help Li Weiyang. Ultimately, he wished nothing more than to see this girl suffer. Moreover, if he acted and Jiang Nan found out, wouldn’t he flay him alive? He wasn’t that stupid!

But Li Weiyang clapped her hands. Soon, Bai Zhi handed over a box. Jiang Wu opened it to see—actually full of jewels. He froze. This was using money to bribe him—he reconsidered. If he didn’t help her, she’d go find someone else. Then more problems would arise. Better to stall her and tell Jiang Nan! Thinking this, he looked up. Seeing her smile, he felt unable to bear it. His expression sheepish: “I’m returning soon. Moreover, preparing medicine requires time. How about this—five days from now, come to my residence to collect it.”

Li Weiyang smiled: “Then many thanks.”

Coming out from Physician Lu’s courtyard, Bai Zhi said softly: “Miss, what should we do next?”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly: “Quietly follow him. Be careful not to let him discover you.”

Bai Zhi lowered her head: “Yes, this servant will arrange it immediately.”

Li Weiyang had long suspected Physician Lu. If no accident occurred, she might keep him nearby to slowly probe his background. But given current circumstances, she must advance her investigation of his background—even turn things around to use him for herself.

Late at night, before the Jiang household gates, the servant guarding the back door was suddenly startled by a galloping horse. Seeing clearly who rode it, they gaped in unison. Then they rushed toward the inner residence, joyfully shouting: “Fifth Young Master has returned—Fifth Young Master has returned!” Jiang Tian dismounted, casually tossing his riding crop to a servant. Lips tightly pressed, he strode inside with large steps. Everyone made way.

The Second Madam stood on the steps, her features plain without makeup yet naturally graceful as jade. Seeing him, she immediately ran over, grasping his hand: “You’ve returned at just the right time! Shortly after you left this afternoon, your grandmother’s condition worsened! Quickly go see her!”

Jiang Tian was shocked and hurried into the room, only to find it surrounded by people. His eldest brother Jiang Hai and Han Shi, fourth brother Jiang Nan, standing by the bed stroking his beard with worried brows was Uncle Jiang Xu. Waiting at his side was his aunt, the Grand Madam, now with reddened eyes from exhaustion. The Duke’s wife lay pale-faced on the bed, breathing faintly.

Seeing him, Jiang Xu’s rebuke almost burst through his throat. But turning several times, he ultimately suppressed it, saying coldly and indifferently: “Good that you’re back.”

The Duke’s wife called out: “Rou’er.” She had already opened her eyes.

Jiang Tian didn’t dare say more, quickly stepping forward, grasping the Duke’s wife’s hand dry as dead wood. At a glance, seeing his originally vigorous grandmother now with full white hair and withered appearance—nothing like her former self—his voice trembled slightly.

The Duke’s wife nodded repeatedly with difficulty, unable to speak a complete sentence. She could only emit several incomprehensible sounds from her throat. Jiang Tian quickly wiped his tears, leaning close to the old lady’s mouth. He only heard her stammering, trembling, repeating just this one phrase: “Rou’er…” That originally numb hand suddenly tightened at this moment, clutching Jiang Tian’s hand with deathly force: “Rou’er—” Just finishing these words, suddenly cold sweat covered her forehead. Eyes open, they closed. Everyone present immediately bustled about. Jiang Tian quickly took her pulse: “Grandmother just fainted—nothing serious!” Saying this, he immediately ordered his medicine box brought. Using needles like flying, he exerted full effort in rescue. With great difficulty, he made the Duke’s wife catch her breath. Her complexion gradually returned, showing weak breathing. Only then did the whole family relax.

Why does Grandmother keep calling Eldest Aunt’s name… Jiang Tian glanced at everyone, seeing the whole family wore gloomy, miserable expressions. The Grand Madam pulled out her handkerchief and began weeping quietly. The rest also wore sorrowful faces. Only Jiang Nan’s face was full of fury.

“Tian’er, how is your grandmother really?”

Jiang Tian shook his head. The Duke’s wife was like a candle in the wind—probably could only endure another year or so.

Jiang Xu shouted angrily: “Evil creature! Did you hear that! You’ve harmed your grandmother into this state!”

Jiang Tian was shocked, thinking he meant himself. Just about to kneel, he heard Jiang Nan say furiously: “Father, I just don’t want to marry that lowly woman! What wrong have I committed! If you want revenge, use whatever method—must you sacrifice my entire life?!”

The Grand Madam quickly pulled him back, advising in a low voice: “Who asked you to live a lifetime with her! The Old Madam only wants her life. When the time comes, we’ll select a beautiful wife to properly compensate you—”

“You’ve all gone mad!” Jiang Nan turned and left.

Jiang Xu sighed repeatedly. The Grand Madam gently advised: “Master, this method is truly too absurd. How can we joke with Nan’er’s lifelong happiness?”

Jiang Xu shook his head: “Mother’s command—what can I do?” He also felt this was utterly unreasonable. How could they use their son’s marriage as a tool for revenge? But the Duke’s wife insisted on this. He didn’t know what to do! Such matters were truly unheard of! One could only say Mother had always brooded over her daughter’s death, absolutely had to personally witness Li Weiyang’s death! However, allying with the Li family also had great benefits… Of course, this was his ultimate reason for nodding agreement.

Therefore, this marriage was imperative.

On the covered walkway, evening wind rustling, the entire courtyard shrouded in darkness, Jiang Nan’s voice carried three parts coldness: “Why did you suddenly return?”

“Naturally for urgent matters.” Jiang Tian sighed: “It seems you’re unwilling to marry Li Weiyang.”

Jiang Nan sneered coldly. Yet in his mind floated that refined face. But he quickly thought of Noble Consort Wu’s death that day. Obviously Li Weiyang had tampered with things. As for the later assassination—he didn’t think Li Weiyang had the ability to plan such a large operation. But it was somewhat related to her. Because that matter clearly wasn’t to assassinate the Emperor but to topple the Jiang family. Of course, over these years the Jiang family had many enemies. But Jiang Nan’s intuition told him Li Weiyang definitely had something to do with it.

Regarding this matter, Jiang Nan’s intuition was very sharp.

“On this point you’re somewhat alike—at minimum, both unwilling to marry.” Jiang Tian muttered.

Jiang Nan whipped his head around: “What did you say?”

At this moment, Jiang Tian saw Jiang Nan’s man-eating gaze. He was startled, stammering: “I came today precisely to discuss this matter. She asked me for medicine that makes people appear seriously ill. This way she can use contracting a terrible disease as an excuse to refuse this marriage. This is actually good—you don’t want to marry her anyway!”

Jiang Nan’s expression was uncertain. Jiang Tian felt very strange. Looking at his fourth brother’s appearance, he truly didn’t want to marry Li Weiyang. But now that he mentioned this method—Li Weiyang willing to damage her reputation rather than marry him—he should be perfectly pleased. Why did he wear an insulted expression? Could it be his fourth brother actually fancied her, only couldn’t save face? Jiang Tian was very clever—he immediately guessed the key.

Ha, this was getting interesting!

“Fourth Brother, should I give her this medicine?” Jiang Tian asked probingly.

Jiang Nan sneered: “Give it! Why not give it! She refuses the gift—then I’ll make it so she can’t even be a concubine!” There had only ever been him not wanting Li Weiyang—absolutely no woman could refuse him! Li Weiyang truly had audacity eating bear hearts and leopard gall. Since she didn’t want to marry him as principal wife, he’d make her regret it bitterly! In Jiang Nan’s heart, thoughts spun rapidly. Soon, his lips revealed an extremely cold smile.