Imperial Consort Guo Hui clearly didn’t take Empress Pei’s words to heart. She glanced at her niece and smiled: “Your Majesty speaks truly. However, this child of our family is both beautiful and dignified. Even if two or three more years pass, people will still be competing for her. If Your Majesty doesn’t believe it, you can wait and see.”

These words were spoken softly but carried hard bones within. If others heard them, they would surely be furious to death. But Empress Pei smiled faintly, holding her teacup and looking steadily at her: “It seems—Sister has everything under control.”

Imperial Consort Guo Hui smiled leisurely, lowering her head to look at the jade-inlaid finger guards on her hands: “Without even this much confidence, wouldn’t my Guo family daughter be looked down upon by others?”

Madam Guo and Li Weiyang exchanged glances, both maintaining gentle smiles with serene expressions.

Female Official Xin beside the Empress raised her eyelids to look at these three people across from her. Imperial Consort Guo Hui’s words carried barbs, Madam Guo’s expression was calm, and that youngest Miss Guo wore a smile—truly one more formidable than the next. As her eyes wandered, they collided with Li Weiyang’s gaze. She seemed to suddenly fall into an icy pool. Her heart jumped sharply. When she searched for that gaze again, it had already disappeared. Female Official Xin was secretly startled. How could an eighteen or nineteen-year-old girl have such cold eyes? That gaze—calling it ruthless wouldn’t be excessive.

The Empress gently sipped her tea before slowly saying: “Sister’s words naturally have merit. Guo family daughters are infinitely precious. Didn’t someone say before that Guo family women couldn’t even climb up to imperial family members? In the future, I truly wonder where Miss Guo will find such an excellent son-in-law.”

These words carried extreme weight. Even with Imperial Consort Guo Hui’s strong personality, her expression changed. In fact, the Guo family had indeed experienced its most glorious era and had indeed refused imperial marriage alliances. Precisely because of this, all these years they had been guarded against by the imperial family and major aristocratic families. To ensure the family’s long-term prosperity, this generation of Guo family members primarily kept a low profile, never taking initiative in matters. But this didn’t mean the Guo family would let themselves be bullied. So facing Empress Pei’s aggressive pressure, Imperial Consort Guo Hui naturally fought back without hesitation. But once Empress Pei’s words just now spread, who knew how others would discuss the Guo family’s overwhelming merit threatening the sovereign.

Seeing Imperial Consort Guo Hui momentarily speechless, Madam Guo smiled and said lightly: “Your Majesty truly elevates Jia’er too highly. It’s only because His Majesty sympathizes with us having just recovered our daughter that he temporarily doesn’t mention marriage matters. Whomever she’s promised to in the future will all be His Majesty’s grace. The Guo family will naturally comply gladly.”

“Oh, so that’s how it is.” Empress Pei said unhurriedly, changing the topic: “Tomorrow there’s a banquet in the palace. Madam Guo and Miss should also attend.”

Imperial Consort Guo Hui had already recovered and hearing this, her brows furrowed. But her face showed a smile: “This… I’m afraid it’s inappropriate. Jia’er just entered the palace and doesn’t yet understand palace protocols. If she accidentally offends some noble person, when Empress blames us, we truly cannot bear it.” There were often banquets in the palace—normally attending would be fine, but when Empress Pei personally mentioned it, one couldn’t help but become suspicious. She would rather offend Empress Pei than place her sister-in-law and Jia’er in danger.

Female Official Xin beside them smiled warmly: “Imperial Consort Hui, tomorrow’s banquet has invited many guests. Even Miss Pei will come. She’s been saying she hit it off with Miss Guo at first sight and insists on seeing her again.”

The Miss Pei Female Official Xin mentioned was naturally that devastatingly beautiful Pei Bao’er. Li Weiyang laughed helplessly. When had she ever hit it off with her at first sight? However, Female Official Xin’s face was gentle with a smile, appearing completely certain. If Li Weiyang didn’t already understand Pei Bao’er, she might actually believe some Miss Pei had hit it off with her at first sight.

Imperial Consort Guo Hui wanted to refuse again, but Empress Pei had already slightly darkened her face. Female Official Xin’s smile also disappeared: “Imperial Consort Hui, Empress personally invites Madam Guo and Miss—such an opportunity and honor has never occurred before.” Though her face showed no anger, her tone carried threatening meaning. The implication was: Don’t be so ungrateful—not everyone can refuse the Empress.

The Empress was after all the Empress. Even though Imperial Consort Guo Hui greatly detested her, she still had to maintain surface harmony before others. Hearing Female Official Xin’s words, Imperial Consort Guo Hui knew further refusal would be unreasonable, equivalent to giving Empress Pei an excuse to explode. She coldly glanced at Empress Pei’s exquisite face and laughed coldly inwardly. Go then—what could you do to the Guo family in public? She then smiled: “Since Empress shows such sincere hospitality, we would be rude to refuse.”

But Empress Pei didn’t care what she said. Instead, she looked at Li Weiyang, her deep black pupils calm and waveless: “Since that’s settled, I won’t disturb your family gathering.” With that, she stood up, supported by female officials beside her as she walked out. Between movements there wasn’t the slightest sound. Only the swaying of her skirt hem resembled clouds floating across the heavens, leaving behind countless glimmers of light.

Once Empress Pei completely disappeared from the courtyard, Imperial Consort Guo Hui lost interest in continuing to watch the opera. She waved for everyone to withdraw. Together with Madam Guo, she returned to the room before saying quietly: “I understand her actions less and less. Why would she suddenly hold a banquet?”

Madam Guo’s face also showed a trace of worry: “Yes, it seems aimed at Jia’er.” Li Weiyang had already mentioned Princess Anguo’s matter to her. Madam Guo understood clearly in her heart—although Princess Anguo was born incomparably charming, in her bones she was a willful, shameless woman. Given her daughter’s personality, unless the other party went too far and touched her bottom line, she wouldn’t act to discipline her. Madam Guo turned back to look at Li Weiyang: “Jia’er, what do you think?”

Li Weiyang seemed still lost in thought. Hearing Madam Guo speak, she raised her head. Seeing both their expressions somewhat uneasy, she smiled: “When soldiers come, we block them; when water comes, we dam it. If we don’t attend because of fear, wouldn’t that give the other party ammunition?”

Imperial Consort Guo Hui, seeing her young age yet speaking very logically and thinking along the same lines as herself, couldn’t help liking her more. She nodded: “Exactly. Since we’ve already agreed, we must attend—and we must dress beautifully so others won’t look down on the Guo family!”

The next day, as Imperial Consort Guo Hui had said yesterday, she brought Madam Guo and Li Weiyang to Xingchen Hall. Imperial Consort Guo Hui was displeased in her heart about Empress Pei’s actions, so that morning she dragged out bathing and changing clothes considerably. By nearly noon, they arrived at the great hall. They were already half an hour late for the actual banquet start. Close royal relatives and ministers, various princes and princesses had all arrived without exception. However, the throne showed no Emperor—only Empress Pei sat there.

In the honored guest seats, Pei Bao’er wore gorgeous clothing, her face radiant. She immediately spotted Li Weiyang and said as if naively: “Oh, isn’t that Miss Guo?”

This single voice immediately interrupted everyone’s conversations. The singing and dancing in the hall also stopped. Everyone looked toward them. Li Weiyang sneered coldly. This Miss Pei feared others wouldn’t notice her and truly made things difficult everywhere, just because of those few words she said last time? One could see her narrow-minded, foolish, selfish nature.

Imperial Consort Guo Hui smiled: “Apologies everyone, we arrived a bit late.” She then naturally walked inward, obviously not taking words from someone like Pei Bao’er to heart.

Li Weiyang followed behind her without speaking, silently observing the entire hall’s situation. This hall capable of holding a hundred people was very imposing. At this time, it had long been decorated magnificently with flowers, filled with Yuexi’s imperial family’s most noble people. Low tables for two were arranged in sequence on the east and west sides, with beautiful palace maids standing with lowered hands behind them. Li Weiyang understood clearly—the Yuan clan, this extremely honored imperial family, wasn’t most talked about for their political achievements but for the imperial family members’ appearances. Each one was extremely refined and handsome. Moreover, though they were blood brothers, each had unique charm. Now except for the Emperor’s absence, heaven’s favored sons gathered together. The entire hall was filled with brilliant light, making hearts involuntarily sing praise. Of course, that was for ordinary people. Li Weiyang paid no attention to anyone’s gaze. Her eyes only stopped momentarily when they fell on Prince Xu Yuan Lie, who was also seated.

Yuan Lie winked at her with a trace of a smile. Li Weiyang lowered her eyes as if she hadn’t seen, but the corners of her mouth slightly turned up.

A consort sitting below the Empress had willow-leaf brows, fine eyes, and a melon-seed face—an extremely charming and affectionate appearance. Her voice was even more pleasant like an oriole: “Imperial Consort Hui Sister has such airs! The Empress hosts a banquet, yet you alone arrive late. Could it be you won’t even give Her Majesty face?”

These words were truly vicious. Li Weiyang couldn’t help raising her head to carefully examine that consort’s appearance, then guessed her identity.

But Imperial Consort Guo Hui calmly performed a courtesy toward Empress Pei, then walked to her own seat and sat down. Looking down at that consort, she slowly said: “Imperial Consort Shun Sister, Empress is magnanimous and tolerant. She hasn’t blamed me at all. Since when do you represent her? Don’t you feel you’re overstepping your authority? Oh, how could I forget—Sister is mindful that your favor runs deeper than us old-timers, so you’ve forgotten yourself.”

At such banquets, everyone should maintain harmony. Yet Imperial Consort Hu Shun brought this up herself—she couldn’t blame Imperial Consort Guo Hui for not leaving her any face.

Palace attendants had already guided Madam Guo and Li Weiyang to their seats. Just as Li Weiyang sat down, she happened to hear this sentence and couldn’t help laughing. Imperial Consort Guo Hui was indeed very forceful. In two or three sentences, she first said Imperial Consort Hu Shun was overstepping her authority, second that she was arrogant due to favor—not leaving her any dignity at all.

Imperial Consort Hu Shun’s expression changed slightly, even her smile stiffening: “Imperial Consort Hui Sister is truly eloquent. However you speak, you’re in the right. Empress surely knows I absolutely didn’t mean that…”

Imperial Consort Chen was born very beautiful with a faint scholarly air. Sitting among a group of magnificently dressed consorts, she was particularly eye-catching. Hearing this, she smiled: “Imperial Consort Shun, Imperial Consort Hui merely arrived late by chance. Even Empress says nothing. Why must you nitpick? It makes you appear especially petty.”

The Guo and Chen families were already related by marriage. Imperial Consort Chen had a gentle temperament while Imperial Consort Guo Hui’s was strong. The two were poles apart yet always found common ground. In fact, when Imperial Consort Guo Hui first entered the palace, due to her stubborn personality, she suffered countless hardships. Imperial Consort Chen secretly mediated on her behalf. So over the years, they were almost inseparable. At this moment, hearing Imperial Consort Hu Shun’s sarcasm, Imperial Consort Chen naturally had to speak a few words. Imperial Consort Hu Shun couldn’t outtalk the two of them. Her heart grew even more annoyed. She unconsciously gripped the chair arm tightly. The gold thread bracelet on her hand knocked against the chair, making a crisp sound. She said angrily: “Imperial Consort Chen, you—”

Empress Pei merely smiled reservedly, glancing at everyone before interrupting: “Enough, enough. Today is just a small banquet. It’s good that Imperial Consort Hui Sister has arrived.”

Since Empress had spoken thus, she didn’t mind Imperial Consort Guo Hui’s breach of etiquette. A flash of jealous hatred crossed Imperial Consort Hu Shun’s face. She dared not speak further. In terms of power, her Hu family was merely newly risen nobility, always looked down upon by those centuries-old aristocratic families who called the Hu family nouveau riche. So in her bones, she also had a vicious mentality. She didn’t dare provoke Empress Pei who had powerful methods, but why should Imperial Consort Guo Hui also have such special status in the palace? She prided herself as the Emperor’s favored consort and had borne Prince Yuan Sheng. Of course, she felt dissatisfied and looked everywhere for opportunities to make things difficult for Imperial Consort Guo Hui.

The other consorts witnessing this scene all showed faint cold smiles. The relationships among the four great clans—Pei, Chen, Guo, and Hu—had always been extremely subtle. Such dialogues occurred several times daily, yet no one could do anything about anyone else. Whether for the country or the rear palace, this kind of balance was best.

String and wind instruments sounded again. Fifteen pairs of beautiful women danced gracefully in the center—their dance postures extremely pleasing to watch.

Li Weiyang glanced at Yuan Lie not far away. At this moment, he wore ordinary brocade robes, his gaze serene, showing incomparable leisure. Sitting quietly still, he was completely out of place with those around him. He smiled at her as if no one else existed. Though the princes were all handsome figures, not one had his peerless elegance. Just as she was lost in thought, she heard Madam Guo say softly: “You haven’t been in the capital long—you haven’t met these imperial family members yet.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Yes, though I often hear my brothers mention them, I mostly haven’t met them.” Madam Guo laughed and took advantage of others being immersed in song and dance to introduce them to Li Weiyang one by one. She first mentioned the Crown Prince. Li Weiyang was familiar with the Crown Prince, so Madam Guo only said a few sentences before turning to introduce other princes.

Madam Guo pointed to a man dressed in dark robes with a resolute face: “This is Prince Qin.”

Prince Qin Yuan Hong was born to Imperial Consort Zhou Shu. At twenty-three, his maternal uncle commanded one hundred thousand Imperial Guards. Several others from his family clan held court positions. He was one of the most powerful contenders for the throne. Li Weiyang organized information previously provided by Yuan Lie and Guo Cheng, forming a general impression of this person.

Just then, she heard Yuan Hong smile at a young man sitting below him: “Third Brother, I heard you recently brought back a beautiful concubine—peerlessly beautiful and skilled at fan dance. When will you invite me to appreciate her?”

The young man addressed was extremely good-looking with starry eyes and jade nose. At first glance, his features were like a painting. Looking again, he seemed even more extraordinary—every frown and smile displaying charm. Hearing this, he merely smiled: “Is Second Brother speaking of Tao Yao?”

Madam Guo said quietly: “That’s Prince Jin Yuan Yong, only born one month after the Second Prince—ranked third.”

Li Weiyang’s gaze swept over Prince Jin’s face. Prince Jin seemed to sense something and raised his head, glancing at her and returning a friendly smile. Li Weiyang then recalled Yuan Lie once saying this Prince Jin was of low birth—his birth mother was a songstress tributed from another country who once greatly enjoyed the Emperor’s favor but unfortunately died from serious illness later. Prince Jin didn’t enjoy power struggles. Daily he took pleasure in raising cranes, never willing to approach imperial competition. So he always had good relationships with people. Now, seeing Prince Jin’s gaze clear and light as water, that kind of indifferent look toward everything produced a strange feeling in Li Weiyang’s heart.

Prince Qin laughed loudly: “Yes, precisely Miss Tao Yao. I’m very interested in her fan dance.”

Who knew Prince Jin’s next words would be: “Tao Yao is indeed skilled at fan dancing. Since you want to watch, I’ll give her to you as a concubine. Are you willing?”

Prince Qin looked at him in shock, his voice momentarily very loud: “What? Give her to me as a concubine?” Immediately he realized his loss of composure. Looking around, everyone had heard but pretended nothing happened, appreciating the singing and dancing. He turned back, his eyes bursting with light, saying with great surprise: “Are you truly willing to part with her?”

“Naturally willing.” Prince Jin sighed lightly. Prince Qin saw his dejected expression and immediately said: “What’s this—still reluctant?”

But Prince Jin smiled: “What’s there to be reluctant about? She’s merely a songstress. How could I displease the Princess Consort for her sake?”

Prince Jin’s Princess Consort was Empress Pei’s eldest brother Pei Yuan’s only daughter Pei Mian. Counting it out, she was Pei Bao’er’s cousin. Since she was the legitimate daughter of the primary branch, naturally she received infinite doting. Marrying Prince Jin, of course she had to be worshiped. Hearing this, Li Weiyang unconsciously glanced at Empress Pei seated high above and couldn’t help smiling. She faintly sensed that behind these two brothers’ dialogue, something even deeper was hidden. Everyone present understood this in their hearts, but no one exposed it. But what exactly was it?

Madam Guo said lightly: “I heard this Miss Tao Yao is already pregnant.”

Surprise swept across Li Weiyang’s face. Pregnant? Prince Jin was giving his pregnant concubine to someone else?

Madam Guo gave a cold laugh: “I heard Prince Jin excessively doted on this minor concubine. Princess Consort Jin ran to Empress Pei to weep and complain.”

So that’s how it was… After thinking carefully for a moment, Li Weiyang understood. Empress Pei married her niece to Prince Jin, thereby completely controlling him—one could even say constantly monitoring him, forcing him to serve the Crown Prince. And Prince Jin obviously understood his situation very well. Though he clearly doted on that Tao Yao, because the Princess Consort was dissatisfied, he yielded her to Prince Qin. Most interestingly, they spoke so openly, obviously wanting Empress Pei to know. Very clearly, Prince Jin was conveying to Empress Pei a signal of respecting the Pei family.

However, men always had three wives and four concubines. In Dali, even prince consorts sometimes took concubines without guilt—this was simply beyond reproach. Yet Yuexi’s dignified Prince Jin actually feared his Princess Consort to this extent—not even daring to keep a pregnant dancing girl by his side, having to give her to Prince Qin before so many people. One could see how great Empress Pei’s power and influence had grown.

“Acting this way, isn’t he afraid of others’ mockery?” Madam Guo looked at Prince Jin’s face and sighed.

Mockery? Could mockery compare to life’s importance? Li Weiyang curved her lips. Giving away one’s beloved concubine while she was pregnant—from one perspective, this naturally resulted from the Pei family’s overwhelming power. From another perspective, Prince Jin knew the cost of sending Tao Yao away yet still acted as if nothing happened. One could see what an enduring character he had. Such a person—how was he different from Tuoba Zhen of those years? Li Weiyang looked at Prince Jin again and saw a trace of helplessness and desolation in those eyes.

No, they were clearly different. If it were Tuoba Zhen, he would definitely kill Tao Yao to please the Princess Consort and Empress Pei. What did a concubine and child matter? As long as necessary, he was this kind of person who recognized no family. But Prince Jin chose to give his beloved to someone else—for her and the child, this might not be a form of hidden protection. Thinking this way, Li Weiyang’s gaze wandered uncertainly between Prince Jin and Prince Qin. Was Prince Qin accepting so readily already a pre-planned performance? So the Yuexi imperial family was actually this complex. If this were truly the case, there would be quite a show to watch.

At this time, the Crown Prince stood up first, facing Empress Pei: “Mother Empress, your son toasts you this cup.” Empress Pei smiled and drank the wine. The various princes then also stood up one after another to toast the Empress. Seeing everyone had toasted in turn, Pei Bao’er smiled and stood up: “All the Princes went to toast—I also shouldn’t lose propriety.” As she spoke, she raised her wine cup, toasting Empress Pei from afar. Empress Pei smiled and beckoned to her.

Pei Bao’er’s face showed joy. She immediately left her seat. But passing Li Weiyang’s table, whether intentionally or accidentally, she suddenly stumbled. The wine cup actually spilled over. Madam Guo saw the wine spilling toward them and cried out in alarm. Before she could block it, she saw Li Weiyang’s gorgeous brocade robe suddenly soaked in a large patch. Madam Guo’s expression changed. She quickly used a handkerchief to wipe, turning back: “Miss Pei, what is the meaning of this!”

Pei Bao’er looked as if about to cry, appearing very apologetic as she looked at Li Weiyang, quickly explaining: “Miss Guo, I didn’t do it on purpose. Are you alright!”

Madam Guo’s voice was almost freezing: “Does she look alright to you?!” The carefully prepared banquet formal dress was completely ruined—this was extremely improper behavior. How could it be alright?! Seeing her daughter’s fine clothing all destroyed, Madam Guo felt very angry inside.

Pei Bao’er looked at Li Weiyang with tearful eyes, then looked at others: “I… I’m truly sorry, but I didn’t do it on purpose…”

Seeing this scene, the Crown Prince smiled: “It’s merely a misunderstanding. Why must Madam Guo be angry?” His expression was very natural, as if mediating a dispute. But everyone knew he and Pei Bao’er were cousins with naturally extraordinary relations. These words sounded impartial yet seemed to tell others Madam Guo was making a mountain out of a molehill.

This matter was originally Pei Bao’er’s fault. She hadn’t even fallen—she merely deliberately wanted to embarrass Li Weiyang. Though every movement in the palace required myriad proprieties, her skirt hem was long. When walking while maintaining deportment, accidentally stepping on the skirt hem was perfectly normal. So she was eager for Li Weiyang to become angry. Only then could she make everyone stand on her side… Tears rapidly accumulated in Pei Bao’er’s eyes: “Crown Prince, it’s all my fault. Please don’t blame Madam Guo—she’s just distressed for her daughter.”

These words were spoken very appropriately, immediately winning much goodwill. Prince Zhou Yuan Qi was born very gentle—the most refined among all the princes. He was also Imperial Consort Zhou Shu’s second son, blood brother to Prince Qin Yuan Hong. At this moment, seeing this scene, he couldn’t help sympathizing with the beautiful Pei Bao’er and actively spoke: “Madam Guo, it’s just a small matter. Don’t make things difficult for Miss Pei.”

Regardless of what kind of man, all had hearts that cherished beauty. They couldn’t bear seeing weak women suffer, especially when Pei Bao’er was born so beautiful. The seated men were more or less somewhat moved. Only Yuan Lie gave a cold laugh. In his eyes, Pei Bao’er was the same as Li Changle of those years—both truly femme fatales. In this lifetime, what he most detested was this kind of woman… Or rather, anyone who wasn’t harmonious with Li Weiyang, he disliked. He said coldly: “Prince Zhou, if I now ran before you and fell, spilling wine all over you, would you be happy? Moreover, this is a matter between young ladies. You needn’t speak further.”

Hearing this, everyone’s faces showed expressions between laughter and tears. Prince Xu had such a vicious tongue—was this saying Prince Zhou was effeminate, running to meddle in women’s idle matters? These words weren’t wrong. Prince Zhou was born refined with a personality completely opposite to the strong Prince Qin Yuan Hong—not at all like they were born from the same mother. Many people said behind his back he was too soft-hearted and loved meddling.

Hearing this, Prince Zhou’s entire face immediately flushed red: “Prince Xu, I merely spoke a couple words seeing injustice. What do you mean by this?!”

Yuan Ying silently watched this scene, thinking to himself—outside there were rumors saying Prince Xu fell in love with the Guo family’s young lady at first sight. He had felt it was false rumor because Prince Xu absolutely wasn’t such a superficial person. Moreover, in terms of appearance, Guo Jia couldn’t be considered peerlessly beautiful—not to the point of love at first sight making him immediately infatuated…

But graceful ladies were what gentlemen desired. Li Weiyang’s appearance was quite beautiful with a very steady personality. Add the Guo family’s power and influence—she had long been targeted by many. But looking at the current situation, everyone else quietly observed the situation’s development. Only Prince Xu spoke without concern—this was done too obviously, simply like deliberately declaring to everyone he liked Guo Jia.

This… was truly too marvelous. Yuan Ying thought this in his heart, an imperceptible smile appearing on his face.

Yuan Lie glanced at Prince Zhou, his face showing a smile that wasn’t quite a smile, his expression increasingly meaningful: “Oh? I also just saw injustice. What meaning could there be? If Prince Zhou truly cannot bear Miss Pei suffering, why not pay out of your own pocket to compensate for this dress?”

Prince Zhou couldn’t get down from this position. He looked at his second brother Yuan Hong not far away. The other party looked as if blaming him for meddling, obviously not preparing to speak up for him. He couldn’t help becoming even more annoyed, thinking to himself—Pei Bao’er, such a weak woman, was being bullied by the Guo family and Prince Xu joining forces. How could he stand by and watch?

Pei Bao’er quickly said: “No, I’m the one who wet Miss Guo’s clothing. It’s better I compensate.”

Madam Guo’s voice was almost frozen: “Do you think she looks like nothing’s wrong?!” The banquet formal dress prepared with such care was completely destroyed—this was extremely improper. How could it be nothing?! Seeing her daughter’s fine clothing all ruined, Madam Guo felt very angry inside.

Pei Bao’er’s eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at Li Weiyang, then at others: “I… I’m truly sorry, but I really didn’t do it on purpose…”

Seeing this scene, the Crown Prince smiled: “It’s merely a misunderstanding. Why must Madam Guo be angry?” His expression was very natural, as if mediating a dispute. But everyone knew he and Pei Bao’er were cousins—naturally their relationship was extraordinary. These words sounded impartial yet seemed to tell others Madam Guo was making a mountain out of a molehill.

This matter was originally Pei Bao’er’s fault. She hadn’t actually fallen—she deliberately wanted to embarrass Li Weiyang. Though in the palace every movement required perfect deportment, her skirt hem was long. Walking while maintaining composure, accidentally stepping on the skirt was completely normal. So she was just hoping Li Weiyang would get angry. Then she could make everyone stand on her side… Tears rapidly accumulated in Pei Bao’er’s eyes: “Crown Prince, it’s all my fault. Please don’t blame Madam Guo—she’s just distressed for her daughter.”

These words were spoken very appropriately, immediately winning much favor. Prince Zhou Yuan Qi was born very gentle—the most refined among all princes. He was also Imperial Consort Zhou Shu’s second son, blood brother to Prince Qin Yuan Hong. At this moment seeing this scene, he couldn’t help sympathizing with beautiful Pei Bao’er and actively spoke: “Madam Guo, it’s just a small matter. Don’t make things difficult for Miss Pei.”

Prince Zhou laughed coldly: “It’s merely one dress. What’s it worth? Tomorrow I’ll have someone send a hundred to the Guo residence.”

Yuan Lie sighed: “For Miss Pei’s sake, Prince Zhou must compensate until bankrupted. This is truly deep affection.”

Prince Zhou was baffled by his words. How could one set of clothing mean bankruptcy? Beside him, Prince Kang Yuan Song was born to Imperial Consort Ge Li with a natural baby face but very handsome features—the youngest among princes, ranked ninth. Thus he was very doted on by everyone. Hearing this, he first giggled, then took the lead saying: “Sixth Brother, Prince Xu is joking with you!”

His personality was lively with some innocence, but these words were also what everyone thought in their hearts. The Crown Prince frowned slightly. Somehow, he increasingly felt something was wrong. Because Prince Xu Yuan Lie’s personality was unpredictable, he simply couldn’t figure out what the other party’s next move would be, much less prevent it in advance.

Yuan Lie smiled slightly. His amber eyes flashed with mockery, yet his mouth was casual: “Oh, doesn’t Prince Zhou know that hanging from Miss Guo’s neck is the Guo family’s heirloom treasure?”

Everyone’s gazes immediately turned to Li Weiyang. They indeed saw a very beautiful necklace hanging from her neck. The necklace seemed ordinary but hung a jade cabbage—green leaves with white heart. On the white cabbage heart perched a fully green cricket. Beside the green cabbage leaves was also a bee. The colors matched perfectly—uniquely ingenious. Looking more carefully, this luster, this shape—these were rare treasures!

Madam Guo was startled, then understood and a cold smile appeared on her face. However, she was also very surprised in her heart. This Prince Xu had helped the Guo family not once or twice. What exactly was he after? Could he truly have fallen for Jia’er?! Madam Guo’s heart suddenly felt a trace of unease. As a mother, she would seek a stable son-in-law she understood for her daughter. Yuan Lie had no previous dealings with the Guo family. In terms of familiarity, he absolutely couldn’t compare to Yuan Ying. After all, Yuan Ying was someone she personally watched grow up—unlike Yuan Lie who was so difficult to fathom.

At this moment, Yuan Lie’s lips showed a shallow smile as he said mischievously: “This jade cabbage has been passed down in the Guo family for a hundred years. By today, a preliminary estimate values it at ten thousand taels of gold. Just now when Miss Pei spilled that cup of wine on it, the jade cabbage was certainly damaged. Since Prince Zhou is so generous, why not compensate for this necklace as well?”

Ten thousand taels of gold?! Prince Zhou’s expression immediately became very ugly—turning green then white, white then green. Struggling, he asked: “Madam Guo, Prince Xu must be joking.”

Madam Guo looked at the wine-stained jade cabbage and deliberately sighed: “This jade cabbage is a treasure my Guo family has cherished for many years. It can protect the entire family’s safety. We rarely take it out—it must be protected with the finest silk treasure box. If our ancestors knew it accidentally touched wine and other filthy things, we truly don’t know what to do…”

In fact, Madam Guo had always worn this jade cabbage close to her body. To prevent Li Weiyang from being looked down upon, she specially had her wear it. In others’ view, it had merely gotten some wine stains—what did it matter? But among the nobility, too many loved playing with jade. Many people had jade passed down from grandfather to grandson, generation after generation, with everyone keeping it close to their bodies—firstly to ward off evil, secondly to nurture the jade. One should know jade was most spiritual. The longer nurtured, the more useful. If polluted by alcohol, how could it continue protecting the Guo family? This was Madam Guo’s meaning.

Prince Zhou’s brows furrowed tightly, his eyelids seeming to carry a layer of thick gloomy shadow. Still unwilling to accept: “This… how is this possible!” Did he have to fall into an unpredictable situation for playing the hero? He now deeply regretted—if only he hadn’t been meddlesome then.

Imperial Consort Guo Hui watched from above, curving her lips. Playing the hero came with a price. And Prince Zhou obviously didn’t know whom he had offended.

At this moment, Li Weiyang, who had remained silent all along, spoke: “Prince Xu spoke incorrectly.”

Everyone looked at Li Weiyang. Prince Zhou breathed a sigh of relief—exactly! It was just a jade pendant. How could it be so expensive! Ten thousand taels of gold—what concept was that? Did they really want him to go bankrupt over a small matter?

Who knew Li Weiyang’s face was covered with a thin layer of smiling expression. That smile should have been warm yet carried barely visible apology: “Prince Zhou, I’m truly sorry. Previously someone offered one hundred thousand taels of gold to buy this jade…”

She had a gentle tender appearance, yet spoke very seriously—completely unlike joking. The meaning was clear: this jade was worth one hundred thousand taels of gold. If you want to stand up for Pei Bao’er, obediently pay compensation. But if Prince Zhou went back on his word and said he wouldn’t help, he would still lose all face.

If they hadn’t heard it with their own ears, no one would have imagined the Guo family’s young lady, silent and unspoken, was actually such a marvelous person. Clearly squeezing Prince Zhou yet with such a gentle face, pleasant voice, and earnest demeanor—making people unable to suppress laughter.

Yuan Ying burst out laughing first. Then others also followed laughing. Prince Kang Yuan Song was young—his laughter was most exaggerated, almost disregarding imperial family deportment, slapping the table as if keeping beat, gesticulating wildly. Looking at Li Weiyang, his expression was also full of novelty. In their view, such an interesting young lady was rare in this world—actually daring to publicly set a trap for Prince Zhou.

Prince Zhou’s face was iron-blue. His eyes stared blankly at Li Weiyang, unable to speak for a long while.

Pei Bao’er’s entire facial expression changed. She looked at Prince Xu in shock, looked at Madam Guo, finally her gaze falling on Li Weiyang who was earnestly lying—her heart burning with anger. These several people clearly joined together to set a trap for Prince Zhou! She immediately said: “It’s all my fault. Why must everyone be so harsh toward Prince Zhou…”

Li Weiyang suddenly stood up. Pei Bao’er was startled, thinking she was about to do something. She unconsciously stepped back—this time truly accidentally stepping on her skirt hem. She fell backward sitting on the ground in a very disheveled manner. Li Weiyang showed a shocked expression, quickly coming to help her: “What happened to Miss Pei?”

Her expression was very caring, her movements seeming to pull Pei Bao’er up. But actually she stepped on Pei Bao’er’s instep, grinding down heavily. Pei Bao’er shrieked. Empress Pei said coldly: “Making such noise in public—what propriety is this!” Clearly she was already displeased.

Sitting watching the show earlier, now only speaking when seeing Pei Bao’er suffer—where in the world were such easy matters? Li Weiyang smiled faintly: “Miss Pei, were you injured from the fall?”

Pei Bao’er’s instep hurt piercingly but she dared not make a scene in public. After being helped up by palace maids, she showed tearful eyes looking at Li Weiyang: “Miss Guo, it’s all my fault. I wet your clothing…”

But Li Weiyang’s smile was warm: “One set of clothing truly isn’t worth anything. However, the family heirloom jade is truly precious. Having this cup of wine ruin the jade’s spiritual energy is too regrettable. Since Miss Pei truly repents… it’s not difficult. You needn’t compensate with silver. I heard the Pei residence has an exquisite treasure box passed down for many years—left by Buddha himself, extremely blessed with Buddhist nature. Using it to nurture jade is most appropriate—”

Pei Bao’er’s entire face lost even half a trace of blood color. She hadn’t expected that merely wanting to embarrass Li Weiyang, conveniently performing an old trick that had never failed against those young ladies before, would at Li Weiyang’s place suddenly turn the tables! Now the other party had even set sights on her family’s treasure box. That box had been passed down for many years with fifty of the most precious gems embedded on it, plus one hundred twenty deep-sea mermaid tears. This wasn’t even the rarest part. Most importantly, the box was carved with twenty-five thousand characters of Dharani scriptures—a treasure worshiped for generations! She didn’t know how long she’d begged before Father finally agreed to give it to her as dowry…

“You… you… I… no… it can’t…” Pei Bao’er was dumbstruck, almost unable to speak.

Yuan Lie’s smile was almost impossible to hide. This Weiyang was even more ruthless than this Prince Xu! The exquisite treasure box’s value far exceeded the jade cabbage! If Pei Bao’er compensated, she would definitely not have good results going back. But if she didn’t compensate, she was being a sore loser—this would ruin her reputation… Whichever way, it was wrong. Compensating or not, both were disasters. Ha, truly vicious enough.

Li Weiyang lowered her eyes, slightly restraining her smile: “Could Miss Pei be reluctant? Since that’s the case, I have no choice. I wonder whether these one hundred thousand taels of gold should be collected tomorrow at the Pei residence or Prince Zhou’s residence?”