Nalan Xue left in such a hurry that it left the Guo family completely bewildered. Madam Guo’s gaze fell upon Madam Jiang and Madam Chen. Her two daughters-in-law also showed expressions of incomprehension. Li Weiyang smiled faintly and said to Madam Guo, “Perhaps she really did find the wrong family.”

Madam Guo thought it over—indeed, this was the only explanation. She instructed Madam Jiang, “Your father will return shortly. Let’s prepare the evening meal early.”

Madam Jiang nodded. So Madam Guo took her two daughters-in-law toward the rear hall. Li Weiyang still stood in place. Princess Ali had originally been about to skip along with Madam Guo, but turning back and seeing Li Weiyang still standing there motionless, she couldn’t help but ask curiously, “What are you doing there?”

Li Weiyang glanced at Princess Ali’s innocent eyes and couldn’t help but smile faintly. “Just now when you saw that young lady, what was her expression?”

Ali thought carefully, tilting her head. “She bumped into me in a daze. I wanted her to apologize, but she ignored me and rushed out as if ghosts were chasing her. If I hadn’t seen her before, I definitely would have caught her as a thief.”

Li Weiyang frowned, looking at Princess Ali. “You’re saying her expression was very tense?”

Princess Ali nodded. “Yes, not only tense—her face was also very pale, as if she were sick.”

Li Weiyang carefully recalled—just moments ago when she saw Nalan Xue, she had seemed perfectly normal with nothing unusual about her. Even when seeing Madam Guo and herself, there had been a trace of joy in her eyes. But after Madam Jiang and Madam Chen walked out, Nalan Xue’s expression showed slight changes. Finally, when Madam Guo mentioned that Jiang and Chen were her two daughters-in-law, only then did Nalan Xue suddenly take her hasty leave. Wasn’t this very strange? Li Weiyang thought about it and instructed someone, “Tell Mother to eat first. I just remembered I have something to do. I’ll go out for a bit and return quickly.” With that, she hurried outside.

Seeing her like this, Princess Ali was displeased. She quickly handed the message task to a nearby maid, then also quickly followed, calling loudly, “Where are you going? Take me with you.” Since coming from the grasslands to Yuexi, Ali had no other friends. She clung to Li Weiyang all day, and Li Weiyang also liked her innocent liveliness. But this time, Li Weiyang only said softly, “I have some matters—it’s not convenient to bring you along.”

Princess Ali puffed out her cheeks but was still reasonable. “Alright then, I’ll wait for you at home. Come back early.”

Li Weiyang nodded, then quickly walked outside. She had Zhao Yue change to a very plain carriage, then inquired which direction Nalan Xue had gone. With difficulty catching up to her, she gave no indication but followed Nalan Xue all the way to the marketplace. There she saw that Nalan Xue looked haggard and pale, knocking over people’s stalls one after another. She even accidentally broke a ceramic vase belonging to an old woman selling things by the roadside, for which she took out the only broken silver she had to compensate. Li Weiyang watched from afar in the carriage, quite astonished.

Zhao Yue looked at Li Weiyang. “Miss, why are you so concerned about this young lady?”

Li Weiyang said softly, “It’s not that I’m concerned about her, but that she’s truly too strange. Why did she leave in such a hurry as soon as she saw Eldest Sister-in-law and Second Sister-in-law enter? There must be some reason for this. If I don’t clarify this matter, I’ll always feel uneasy.”

Zhao Yue understood Li Weiyang’s personality very well and said no more. She only instructed the carriage driver to follow closely behind Nalan Xue while maintaining an appropriate distance—close enough not to lose her but far enough not to be discovered.

Nalan Xue walked along the bustling street with the crowds, always appearing distracted. After most of a shichen, Li Weiyang discovered she was just aimlessly circling the city, as if not knowing where to go. Just then, she decided to have the carriage block her path and speak openly and clearly. However, in the blink of an eye, a fine horse came galloping from the end of the street. People dodged left and right. A little girl was playing in the middle of the road and couldn’t avoid it in time. The carriage driver shouted and pulled the reins just in time, but the little girl was still thrown three or four meters and fell heavily to the ground, breaking her head. The little girl burst into tears with a “wah.” Her mother immediately rushed forward, loudly calling her name. The girl’s mother was dressed as a peasant woman, her clothes very tattered. She tightly covered her daughter’s bleeding head, weeping endlessly. Seeing this, the driver tossed the woman a piece of silver, but the peasant woman shook her head and wouldn’t take it. The carriage curtain lifted, and the carriage owner stepped out—a young man in blue robes.

Li Weiyang had originally been about to descend from her carriage, but seeing this scene, she immediately stopped. The person stepping out from the carriage was very familiar—who else but Pei Hui? Zhao Yue was about to descend, but Li Weiyang made a gesture. “Don’t act rashly.”

After Pei Hui’s carriage hit someone, he showed an extremely anxious appearance, quickly stepping forward. Then from his sleeve he took out more silver. But at this time, the peasant woman began crying loudly—no amount of silver could compare to her daughter’s life. What Pei Hui produced were large bank notes, but the peasant woman pushed them aside without even looking. Pei Hui’s face seemed to show a trace of surprise. Just then, Nalan Xue quickly stepped forward, picked up the little girl, and personally began treating her. The girl’s mother was very resistant until she heard Nalan Xue say softly, “I’m a physician.”

The peasant woman’s expression changed, then she looked at her hopefully. Nalan Xue took hemostatic powder from her bundle and applied medicine to the little girl, then used bandages to wrap her forehead round and round. Only then did she say to the girl’s mother, “First secure it, then later get medicinal broth and have a doctor examine her properly. It should just be a superficial injury, nothing serious.” The peasant woman immediately broke into smiles through her tears, thanking her repeatedly. Nalan Xue only waved her hand and stood up, clearly about to turn and leave. At this moment, Pei Hui blocked her path, his expression gentle. “Miss, may I know your esteemed name?”

Nalan Xue shook her head. “This has nothing to do with you. You should send the little girl to a medicine hall quickly.”

Pei Hui ordered the carriage driver to immediately take the peasant woman and little girl to a medicine hall. There were many onlookers, but seeing this scene, they gradually dispersed. Nalan Xue said no more and also turned to leave. But Pei Hui stood before her, his smile exceptionally gentle as he bowed. “Miss, all this trouble was caused by me. Today, thanks to you, otherwise this little girl’s life would have been in danger. Please give me a chance to thank you.”

Nalan Xue appeared distracted, stepped aside, and said indifferently, “No need. I should go. I apologize.”

But Pei Hui still blocked her path. He said, “Miss helped me greatly. You must let me repay you.”

Nalan Xue ignored him and walked forward on her own. Pei Hui quickly called after her, “Miss, your medical skills are excellent. My younger sister is ill. I wonder if you could save her?”

Hearing of a patient, Nalan Xue’s departing footsteps halted. She turned back. “Your sister?”

Pei Hui nodded solemnly. “Indeed.”

Nalan Xue looked troubled. “But I’m about to leave the capital.”

Pei Hui quickly said, “No matter. My sister is in a nearby teahouse. If Miss doesn’t mind, just go upstairs to examine her. It won’t take long, and I’ll certainly reward you generously.”

Nalan Xue thought about it and nodded. Then Li Weiyang saw Pei Hui take Nalan Xue to a nearby teahouse. Zhao Yue asked softly, “Miss, this Young Master Pei, he…”

Li Weiyang sneered coldly. “Pei Hui is full of schemes. He must have seen this young lady come out of our residence and deliberately followed her, creating an opportunity to meet her. But what exactly does he want to do?”

Zhao Yue said in a low voice, “Miss, should this servant follow them to see what they’re saying?”

Li Weiyang shook her head. “Since it’s a teahouse, he can go—why can’t I? Let’s go. It’s been a long time since I had Shanghua Tower’s Premium Chrysanthemum tea. Let’s go taste some.”

Seeing Li Weiyang like this, Zhao Yue was startled. “Miss, I’m afraid this isn’t appropriate.”

Li Weiyang laughed despite herself. “Is the Pei family a gang of robbers? Can they do something to me in broad daylight? Zhao Yue, in full public view, no matter how much he hates me, he must pretend to be cultured and refined. Just watch.” Having said this, she had already descended from the carriage and headed toward the teahouse. Zhao Yue followed behind her, feeling somewhat anxious. She turned and instructed the driver, “Go report to the Guo residence that Miss is here.” Only then did she follow Li Weiyang up into the teahouse.

The teahouse owner, seeing Li Weiyang’s elegant clothing and generous spending—clearly not an ordinary wealthy young lady—led them to a private room next to Pei Hui’s. This teahouse was divided into two floors. The first floor was where ordinary people drank tea. There were quite a few common family young masters and low-ranking officials drinking tea below. The second floor had over a dozen luxurious private rooms specifically for entertaining first-class distinguished guests. Before each private room hung beautiful bead curtains, landscape paintings hung on the walls, and the tables and chairs were all made of red sandalwood—looking very elegant. Li Weiyang sat inside the private room as someone naturally served her tea.

At this moment, in the adjacent private room, Nalan Xue was treating Pei Bao’er. Pei Bao’er’s delicate voice could be heard.

“Miss Nalan, is my condition very serious?”

Nalan Xue deliberated for a moment before speaking. “Miss should be fine—you’ve just been frightened.”

Pei Bao’er seemed about to cry. “But I haven’t been able to sleep for nearly half a month. Every time I close my eyes, I see terrible scenes.” These words weren’t lies—she had personally witnessed Pei Yang’s head separated from his body. How could she not be afraid? Moreover, she always felt Li Weiyang was watching her, making her restless, which caused her excessive panic and gradual weight loss.

Nalan Xue nodded. “Heart ailments require heart medicine. Miss should just relax.” With that, she picked up a brush and wrote a prescription, handing it to Pei Hui. “This is a calming prescription. As long as Miss takes it on time and rests well without overthinking, she should recover within three months.” Having said this, she stood up. Without even asking about consultation fees, she turned to leave.

Just then, musical sounds came from the platform downstairs. A woman was plucking a pipa and singing clearly.

“Remember when you were young and handsome, I was in my blooming youth. Originally intending to stay with you forever, not to be a fleeting vision. But unexpectedly, at the height of beauty, when flowers bloom then wither, you turned and left without feeling, casually abandoning me. In this world, why such partings and meetings, in this life, what sorrow or joy? It’s merely sacrificing a lifetime’s rest for one day’s pleasure with you.”

The pipa music was very mournful, the singing voice very melodious. Dozens of tea guests fell completely silent. Even those standing outside who didn’t want tea all looked toward the teahouse. For some unknown reason, Nalan Xue suddenly stopped and said softly, “She sings so beautifully.”

Pei Hui smiled faintly. “The girl singing was once the most famous courtesan in the capital, Ye Furong. However, now old and faded with nowhere to rely on, she had no choice but to come to this teahouse as a performer. If Miss is interested, why not sit and listen?”

As Pei Hui spoke, his gaze moved, observing Nalan Xue’s expression.

Nalan Xue’s expression was somewhat strange, her eyes looking straight at Ye Furong. She heard Ye Furong continue singing this story: there was a scholar going to the capital for the imperial examination who unfortunately fell into hardship, penniless. A famous courtesan rescued him, helping him continue his studies. The two were perfectly matched, their hearts aligned. They vowed to heaven never to part. Unexpectedly, when the scholar achieved first rank in the examination, becoming a sought-after top graduate, the courtesan never saw him again. She endured countless hardships, trying every means to find him. Who knew her lover not only refused to acknowledge her but had her beaten and driven away, then married the daughter of General Yaowei’s residence, becoming a great official’s son-in-law.

The carp leaped and became a dragon, instantly abandoning his old love. Such a story was clearly very clichéd, but Ye Furong’s voice was soft and gentle, her tone sorrowful. Before the crowd, she recreated vivid scenes—sometimes the warmth of fragrant sleeves adding incense, sometimes the harsh cold of wind-knives and frost-swords… Nalan Xue listened with rapt attention.

As everyone listened with fascination, a guest from one private room suddenly stood up indignantly, quickly descended the stairs, and in a flash was about to leave the teahouse. Then a voice like ice and snow rang out: “Sir, please wait!” That person turned around and saw Ye Furong from the stage, clutching her pipa, chase after him. Her expression was very sorrowful, looking both angry and desperate. Looking at him, she smiled miserably. “Young Master Huo, are you truly this heartless?”

The one she called Young Master Huo was none other than the current top graduate, the favored son-in-law of General Yaowei’s residence—Huo Kun. He narrowed his eyes slightly and said coldly, “Who are you? I don’t know you.”

Ye Furong seemed to have anticipated this. She laughed coldly. “Young Master Huo, back then how deep your feelings were, how eloquent your tongue. How is it today you turn your back and deny me?”

Huo Kun sneered and turned to leave hurriedly without looking back. Just then, Ye Furong suddenly said, “Stop!”

Huo Kun said impatiently, “If you continue this entanglement, don’t blame me for being merciless!” Ye Furong’s face slowly showed a trace of cold condensation after despair. She said angrily, “Though I’m a courtesan, I’m not someone to be bullied at will. You’ve failed me for a lifetime. Even in the netherworld, I won’t forgive you. When your death comes, I’ll settle this account with you!” With that, she suddenly turned and threw her pipa to the ground, letting her beloved instrument break in two. Li Weiyang thought this was bad. In a flash, Ye Furong laughed harshly, then suddenly crashed into a nearby pillar. In an instant, her fragrant soul had departed.

Huo Kun was splattered with blood. His face flashed with embarrassment, yet he didn’t even glance at the body. He quickly turned and left as countless people cursed behind him.

Inside the private room, Pei Hui’s expression was half-smiling. Pei Bao’er remained silently indifferent, while Nalan Xue’s face was deathly pale—who knew what she was thinking? Pei Hui smiled faintly. “Heavenly principle cannot be destroyed, human nature cannot be insulted. Since I serve in the court, I absolutely won’t turn a blind eye to such unconscionable acts. When I return, I’ll ask Father to write a memorial to severely impeach this scoundrel. I won’t let him jump around in court!”

Pei Bao’er looked at her second brother’s expression, showing some strangeness. She thought to herself why Second Brother had suddenly become so righteous. Moreover, they’d seen too many cases of devoted women and heartless men. Previously, such trivial matters—the Pei family never bothered with them. But she always trusted Pei Hui greatly. Since he did this, he naturally had his purpose. She chimed in, “Yes, our Pei family values heavenly principle and human feeling most. Naturally we must seek justice for such a wronged person.”

She heard Pei Hui continue, “Indeed, consorting with courtesans aside, borrowing others’ support to rise to high position then abandoning them—this alone is enough to destroy his reputation. Moreover, this woman showed righteous generosity first while he showed ungrateful betrayal after, then forcibly drove her to suicide. These three crimes together—once a memorial goes up, forget being a top graduate—even a meritorious general would be finished. General Yaowei who seized this marriage also bears fault for failing to investigate, recommending such an ungrateful wretch to the court…”

But Nalan Xue said not a word, her eyes deep. Then she glanced at Pei Hui. Without saying much, she only said, “I should go.”

Pei Hui sneered. “Miss Nalan, I see your expression is very sorrowful, as if you have some grievance. If you have any injustice, I’ll help you—consider it thanks for helping me solve a difficult problem.”

Hearing these words, Nalan Xue stood frozen in place for quite a while. With difficulty suppressing the stormy waves in her heart, she raised her head and saw Pei Hui smiling at her. The smile looked very caring, yet those eyes held cold frost, cold as sharp blades, hiding endless deep meaning.

Nalan Xue stepped back two paces and said, “I have no grievance.” With that, she quickly left the private room and headed downstairs.

Pei Hui’s smile grew colder. He heard Pei Bao’er ask, “Second Brother, why would you suddenly meddle in others’ business? And who is this woman? Why did you have her treat me?” In fact, Pei Bao’er’s health wasn’t great, but it wasn’t serious enough to require a street doctor. As long as she rested quietly, there was no problem. Today she only came out for fresh air, but unexpectedly her second brother pulled over a mysterious woman and insisted she examine her. Though she cooperated, she felt surprised.

She heard Pei Hui smile faintly. “This woman came out of the Guo residence. Her expression was very particular.”

Pei Bao’er asked in surprise, “What does that prove? She went to the Guo residence—couldn’t she go to treat someone?”

Pei Hui sneered. “You’re called foolish, and you truly are foolish. After learning she entered the Guo residence, I checked the city gate entry documents. Only then did I discover this woman traveled thousands of li to reach the capital. Think about it—why would a woman come alone all the way to find the Guo family?”

Pei Bao’er thought about it and frowned. “This—how could I guess?”

Pei Hui’s gaze was cold, his voice carrying a trace of mockery. “In my view, this relates to those Guo sons.”

Pei Bao’er’s eyes brightened, then she shook her head. “No, that’s impossible. This woman appears to be of ordinary birth. How could she have any relationship with the Guo family?”

Pei Hui looked at her mockingly. “If I wasn’t certain before, now I’ve confirmed my speculation.”

Pei Bao’er couldn’t help but raise her eyebrows. “What speculation?”

Pei Hui’s gaze was profound. “Just now I deliberately chose this place to let her hear Ye Furong’s song. I didn’t expect Ye Furong would actually encounter her heartless lover and perform such a bloody scene. Did you see her expression? If Nalan Xue hadn’t experienced personal pain, why would she react so shockingly?”

Pei Bao’er carefully recalled—it was indeed so. When Nalan Xue heard Ye Furong’s lyrics, she had originally been about to leave but stopped. When she saw Ye Furong actually commit suicide on the spot, Nalan Xue’s expression was even more indignant. Within that indignation seemed to be added a portion of resentment. But this resentment definitely wasn’t directed at Ye Furong. That heartless man had no relationship with her either. This could only mean she had a similar experience. Pei Bao’er slowly stood up and smiled. “Second Brother means this woman and one of the Guo sons…”

Before she finished speaking, she heard Pei Hui say indifferently, “The other three Guo sons haven’t married, so there’s nothing to speak of regarding betrayal. Only the two eldest Guo sons are truly married. The eldest son and his wife Madam Jiang were childhood sweethearts with good feelings, leaving no room for this woman to interfere. So there’s only one possibility.”

Pei Bao’er smiled. “Only Guo Yan. I’m not too clear on other matters, but I’ve heard some gossip that the second Guo son apparently wasn’t very willing to marry Miss Chen.”

Pei Hui smiled. “Yes, youthful romance naturally attracts some women. But in the Guo family with strict family customs, this becomes very troublesome.”

Pei Bao’er thought about it and showed a thoughtful expression. “But Nalan Xue refuses to admit any of this. What should we do?”

Pei Hui laughed coldly. “She won’t admit it because she doesn’t trust us. I naturally have methods to pry open her mouth. Even if it’s just young men and women exchanging feelings, I can still charge him with being a heartless, fickle scoundrel!”

Pei Bao’er said happily, “This is perfect. Make good use of this matter—it’s enough to completely destroy the Guo family’s reputation.”

Li Weiyang naturally couldn’t hear Pei Bao’er and Pei Hui’s conversation, but she had seen that scene just now and vaguely felt something was wrong. At the same time, she saw Nalan Xue quickly descend the stairs. Zhao Yue couldn’t help but say, “Miss, should I stop that young lady?”

Li Weiyang watched Nalan Xue’s figure leave the teahouse. She gently shook her head. “Those who must leave will always leave. We cannot keep them.” She could see that Nalan Xue was a stubborn woman. Otherwise, that day she wouldn’t have insisted on not treating herself, and wouldn’t have immediately turned to leave upon seeing Guo family members. This was truly too strange. Just now’s scene made Li Weiyang’s heart float with vague thoughts. This mysterious woman’s identity was about to surface.

After dusk, Nalan Xue left the city and headed toward the outskirts. At this time, the sky had gradually darkened. There were fewer and fewer people on the main road. Nalan Xue glanced at the sky but didn’t stop, just continued walking forward. Just then, she suddenly heard hoofbeats behind her. She couldn’t help but look back and saw a brocade-robed young master with four guards riding fast horses galloping toward her. That leading brocade-robed young master was first to dismount, standing before her with a smile. Though the sky had darkened, he stood very close, startling Nalan Xue. She recognized this person—it was Pei Hui whom she’d met during the day. Pei Hui smiled faintly at her. “Miss Nalan, I remembered something I need to tell you.”

Nalan Xue was startled and said to Pei Hui, “Is it about your sister’s condition?”

Pei Hui shook his head. “No, it’s about some matters concerning the Guo family.”

Nalan Xue’s expression changed. She quickly walked past him to move forward. But Pei Hui blocked her path. “Miss Nalan, if you have grievances in your heart, why not tell me? Perhaps Pei Hui can solve your difficulties?”

Nalan Xue was shocked, then her expression changed abruptly. “I told you, this is my business and has nothing to do with anyone else.” With that, she pushed Pei Hui aside. But just then, a long sword came from behind, suddenly crossing her neck. She whirled around and shouted, “What do you want to do?”

Pei Hui smiled faintly. “Miss Nalan, since you refuse a toast only to drink forfeit wine, I can only trouble you to take this trip.”

Nalan Xue couldn’t help but say angrily, “You’re kidnapping me—what’s your purpose?” But Pei Hui didn’t speak. He clapped his hands. The four guards who had been following behind quickly rushed forward and bound Nalan Xue tightly. Nalan Xue looked at the ropes on her body and sneered coldly. “Does Young Master Pei plan to bring me into the city like this?”

Pei Hui smiled faintly. “I have a villa outside the city, most suitable for quiet recuperation. Miss Nalan, please.” As soon as he finished speaking, dozens of shadows suddenly flashed from the darkness. Pei Hui’s eyes narrowed, but he said nothing. Guo Cheng walked out from the darkness, smiling like a spring breeze. “Young Master Pei, we meet again.”

Pei Hui knew he’d fallen into a trap and sneered. “You deliberately released her to lure me?”

Guo Cheng sneered but didn’t answer. He drew his long sword and attacked Pei Hui with imposing momentum. Pei Hui felt that cold light rushing toward him and thought this was bad. Today he’d only come to deal with a weak woman—an extremely easy matter. He didn’t want to alarm others, which is why he only brought four people to pursue. Now seeing Guo Cheng’s sword light like lightning stabbing toward him, he couldn’t help but also draw his long sword. The sounds of “ding ding ding” rang out as the two exchanged several moves in an instant. Pei Hui knew he’d fallen into their trap today, and there must be many experts here. If he wasn’t careful, they’d gang up on him. So he gritted his teeth. From the start, he used killing moves, intending to make Guo Cheng fight closely with him, creating a situation where others couldn’t interfere.

Guo Cheng naturally understood his intention and instead stepped back step by step, trying to pull away from him. How could Pei Hui let him have his way? After over a hundred moves, the two were still fighting at close quarters. Guo Dao and Guo Dun stood to the side without stepping forward, only dispersing the guards to watch all around, preventing Pei Hui from escaping. Pei Hui shouted loudly, “What exactly do you want to do?” He heard a woman’s voice answer gently, “Young Master Pei went out at night and encountered a band of robbers on the main road. Accidentally losing his life—don’t you think this scenario is very interesting?”

This voice—Pei Hui would never forget it his entire life. It was Li Weiyang’s voice! It seemed the other party was here waiting for him. Pei Hui sneered, his sword technique suddenly changed, raising a burst of cold light like stones thrown into a lake splashing ripples in circles, stabbing straight toward Guo Cheng. Guo Cheng roared, leaping from the ground. His long sword descended from the air fast as lightning. Pei Hui quickly changed moves, blocking horizontally. Though his martial arts were high, he received it with great difficulty. That powerful sword energy forcibly shocked Pei Hui, making him stagger back three steps. Pei Hui’s eyes flashed. With a turn, he suddenly sidestepped, placing his long sword at Nalan Xue’s neck, shouting loudly, “Li Weiyang, do you not care about her life?”

Guo Cheng was shocked and stopped, slowly turning to look at Li Weiyang. Li Weiyang’s gaze was like water, only looking coldly at Pei Hui. The two actually locked eyes.

“Li Weiyang,” Pei Hui first smiled and said, “Miss Guo, I merely want to borrow Miss Nalan for a purpose. Why are you so nervous?”

Li Weiyang laughed coldly. “Young Master Pei performed quite a play this afternoon. The performance was excellent—even I was moved. So I followed to see if you could continue this hypocritical act. Who knew you’d resort to force tonight? This greatly lowers your standards.”

Pei Hui looked at Li Weiyang, his gaze bursting with intense hatred. “It seems I miscalculated. However, if you want my life, this Miss Nalan will have to accompany me in death.”

Li Weiyang smiled gently, then shook her head. “Young Master Pei’s heart is indeed vicious, but unfortunately you’ve targeted the wrong person. What relationship does Miss Nalan have with me? She’s merely bait to make Young Master Pei fall into the trap.”

Pei Hui’s expression changed. “What did you say?”

Li Weiyang smiled. “Didn’t Young Master Pei know that Miss Nalan and I already met in Qingzhou? This time she came to the Guo residence just to find me.”

Pei Hui stared intently at Li Weiyang, seeming to search her gaze for any clue. But Li Weiyang’s expression was very calm, letting him see nothing at all. He suddenly realized that perhaps he’d fallen into her cunning trap. Li Weiyang deliberately set a snare, making him think he was clever when he’d been fooled. The current situation clearly intended to put him to death. His long sword lightly drew across Nalan Xue’s neck. On that snow-white neck immediately appeared a wound, blood flowing continuously. Nalan Xue bit her teeth tightly, saying nothing.

Pei Hui’s action made all three Guo brothers’ expressions change. Only Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “Miss Nalan merely took people’s money to eliminate their disasters. Since she accepted my payment, even if blood is spilled on the spot, I owe her nothing. Young Master Pei, if you want to act, please proceed.”

Pei Hui couldn’t help but feel extremely angry. He hadn’t expected Li Weiyang wouldn’t care at all about Nalan Xue’s life. His thoughts raced as he shouted, “Li Weiyang, you truly act ruthlessly with superior methods. However, not everything in this world goes as you wish!” With that, he violently pushed Nalan Xue forward, then quickly retreated. Without hesitation, he killed a Guo residence guard and was about to flee. Just then, Guo Dao, who had been silent all along, suddenly stood before him. Guo Dao sneered. “Indeed, the mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind. How do you know you’re definitely that oriole?” With that, he viciously struck Pei Hui with his sword. Pei Hui hadn’t anticipated the other party would guess his plan. Taking this sword strike, he fell heavily to the ground. He looked at Guo Dao before him with splitting eyes. Was today his death day? He, Pei Hui, with his illustrious reputation, to die over such a small matter at Li Weiyang’s hands—how could this not make him grind his teeth in hatred!

Just then, everyone suddenly heard a clear voice say, “Spare him.”

Li Weiyang raised her eyes and saw a carriage stop before them. On the carriage hung two gold lanterns. The carriage curtain moved slightly. The person inside descended from the carriage, walking over with a leisurely manner. This person’s features were clearly illuminated by moonlight. He appeared twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, wearing purple robes with a slender physique. His facial features were very distinct—nose bridge straight, slightly smiling, handsome brows slanting, further emphasizing a rakish bearing. He slowly approached like flowing clouds and water, naturally graceful. At this time, Pei Hui had already called out, “Elder Brother!” His tone was very delighted.

So this person was the Pei family’s eldest son, Pei Bi—originally the eldest son of the second branch, later adopted by General Pillar of State Pei Yuan. Li Weiyang smiled faintly and said gently, “So it’s Young Master Pei. Guo Jia greets you.”

Pei Bi bowed in salute. “I’ve long heard of Miss Guo’s great name. Finally meeting you here, it truly confirms the old saying—reputation is not as good as meeting in person.”

Li Weiyang had heard of Young Master Pei Bi before, though true accounts of him were scarce because he’d been convalescing at Hot Springs Villa. But some things could be traced. Previously, if anyone dared show the slightest disrespect to Pei Yuan, Pei Yuan would try every means to put them to death. As long as he felt anyone threatened the Pei family’s power and position, he’d strike ruthlessly, whether court officials or imperial relatives—none were spared. But these past two years, Pei Yuan’s behavior differed greatly from before. On the surface, his methods seemed gentler, but after Li Weiyang analyzed his actions these past years, she felt he hadn’t become gentler but rather more cunning. All those who wronged him died at others’ hands. The Pei family bore not a trace of blood. Looking at it this way, it seemed someone was advising Pei Yuan…

Pei Bi’s voice was gentle and low, pleasant to hear. He smiled. “My younger brother was discourteous to Miss Guo. I wonder if you might spare him for my sake?”

Li Weiyang smiled. “Young Master Pei is too modest.” The other party’s manner was elegant, his expression gentle, yet somehow made one’s hair stand on end. She paused slightly and continued, “Second Young Master Pei is too stubborn about many matters. Things that are past should be past, yet he always dwells on them. However, since Young Master Pei has spoken, what fault can I not forgive?” With that, she waved her hand. Guo Dao lowered the long sword from Pei Hui’s neck.

Pei Hui stood up, angrily clutching his wound, glaring at Li Weiyang before forcing himself to walk to his elder brother’s side.

Li Weiyang’s smile was warm. Pei Bi looked at Li Weiyang’s features, his expression gentle as if very moved. “Miss Guo is in the bloom of youth, beautiful as jade. However, even the most beautiful woman cannot withstand the passage of time. Miss Guo must cherish these good times.” His words carried deep meaning, yet his attitude remained very gentle.

Li Weiyang also looked at him, her face always carrying a gentle smile, speaking in a measured manner. “I heard Young Master Pei’s health isn’t very good and he’s been convalescing away from home. This time returning to the capital, is there some matter with the Pei family?”

This woman truly loved speaking with eyes wide open telling lies. Clearly she had killed several Pei brothers, yet now looking at her, her expression was very gentle, as if completely unaware. Pei Hui wished he could take up his long sword and slash her face twice to feel satisfied, but thinking of Li Weiyang’s terrifying methods, he truly didn’t have that courage.

“Just some trivial matters, nothing worth mentioning.” Pei Bi turned to Pei Hui. “Miss Guo is magnanimous and understanding. This time she forgave you. Next time you must personally apologize to her.”

Pei Hui lowered his head but didn’t even look at Li Weiyang. For some unknown reason, his former calm composure before Pei Bi completely vanished. Li Weiyang, seeing his expression, couldn’t help but smile faintly. In her heart, however, she raised her guard. This Pei Hui was already an extremely cunning person, yet before Pei Bi he was like a child, not even daring to speak. And this Pei Bi, clearly seeing swords and blades glinting here, still chatted and laughed—clearly he was truly an extraordinary figure.

Pei Bi bowed slightly to Li Weiyang, dashingly taking Pei Hui back to the carriage. The carriage clip-clopped away into the distance.

Guo Dao beside them said, “Why let him go?”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “Do you think he really came alone?”

Guo Dao was startled, then understood. “You’re too cautious and careful. If we truly fought, we wouldn’t necessarily lose.”

Li Weiyang shook her head. “I already promised Father I wouldn’t act willfully anymore. I brought you all out—I must bring you back safely.” Having said this, it made her seem much older than them.

Guo Dao grumbled internally but said nothing more. At this time, Guo Cheng walked over and looked at Li Weiyang. “What should we do about Miss Nalan?”

By now they knew her surname was Nalan, but didn’t know her specific given name. Nalan Xue’s expression showed no change. She bent down, pulled hemostatic powder from her pack, and applied medicine to herself. Then she shouldered her bundle and turned to leave, clearly not planning to say a single word to Li Weiyang and the others.

Li Weiyang smiled faintly and said, “Miss Nalan, please wait a moment.”

Nalan Xue stopped, turned around. Those clear, deep eyes looked at her. Li Weiyang smiled at her. “Miss Nalan, did you truly not see that today’s peasant woman and little girl performed before you to draw you out?”

Nalan Xue was stunned and shook her head. If this were true, they were excellent actors. Moreover, how could they have known she could treat illnesses?

“The entry documents should have your identity. Pei Hui already knew you’re a physician.” Li Weiyang smiled mockingly. “Not just that mother and daughter—also Ye Furong at the teahouse.”

Nalan Xue was shocked, then said in surprise, “You’re saying her story was also false?”

Li Weiyang smiled and shook her head. “The story is true—but someone deliberately let you see it.”

Nalan Xue’s face gradually became desolate. Li Weiyang smiled. “So next time something like this happens, Miss Nalan had best not interfere. Being a good person isn’t easy.”

Nalan Xue looked at Li Weiyang. “Next time something like this happens, I’ll still interfere.”

“Oh?” Li Weiyang looked at her with some interest.

Nalan Xue said expressionlessly, “Not everyone in this world has ulterior motives. If I hadn’t gotten involved with the Guo family, that Young Master Pei probably wouldn’t be interested in an ordinary person like me at all. Next time if I encounter someone injured, I’ll still help. Miss Guo has perhaps seen too much killing, so you view everyone as having conspiracies. I’m different from you. I just want to live my own life well without thinking so much.” With that, she turned to leave.

But Li Weiyang sighed softly. “Where is Miss Nalan going?”

Nalan Xue didn’t turn back. “I’m leaving the capital and will never return.”

Li Weiyang smiled. “The Pei family won’t let you go.”

Nalan Xue turned to look at Li Weiyang. “Didn’t you already tell him I was arranged by you to deliberately lure him into a trap?”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly, her smile carrying a trace of coldness. “Such words can only deceive Pei Hui, not his elder brother Pei Bi. Otherwise, why would he arrive here so timely? Once they figure everything out, they’ll definitely continue looking for you. You’re just a weak woman—where can you hide? I always thought I was the oriole, but now it seems I’m merely the mantis.”

Seeing Li Weiyang’s self-mocking smile, Nalan Xue was stunned. She hesitated slightly. “I’ll leave this place as quickly as possible and won’t cause you trouble.”

Li Weiyang shook her head. “The one who may cause you trouble is perhaps us. I hope Miss Nalan can return to the Guo residence with me and explain matters clearly.”

Nalan Xue’s face turned pale. In the moonlight, her eyes seemed to have traces of tears, but she blinked sharply and the tears disappeared. Her face became cold and indifferent again. “No, I’m originally from the countryside, completely unworthy of any connection with the Guo family. I should return to where I came from. Miss Guo needn’t trouble yourself over me.”

Li Weiyang looked at her and said word by word, “You clearly know you’ll be in mortal danger, and clearly know the Pei family won’t let you go. Yet you still want to leave. Are you afraid to face us?”