After the palace banquet, the entire capital fell into an eerie calm.

Li Weiyang knew that politics were always this way—the calmer the surface, the more turbulent the undercurrents beneath. And this great wave would probably surge up very soon. Before that happened, what she needed to do was wait quietly and seek a favorable opportunity.

Layer upon layer of curtains hung low. Sunlight streamed through the window gauze, falling upon Li Weiyang’s jade-white cheeks. She held a white game piece in her hand, smiling ambiguously, “Fifth Brother, this time you have no way out.”

Li Weiyang was afraid his mood hadn’t yet recovered, so whenever she had time, she would pull him into playing chess. She didn’t know that he had long stopped caring about his martial arts and arm. However, having a beauty for company every day was still pleasing to the eye—this was one of life’s great pleasures. Guo Dao glanced at the board and sighed mournfully, “I already told you not to be so aggressive. What harm would it do to give me a three-piece handicap!”

Li Weiyang smiled, “Of the four arts—music, chess, calligraphy, and painting—only chess is presentable from me, so naturally I must practice more.”

Seeing her talking and laughing freely, Guo Dao carefully considered his words before saying, “That day at the banquet, His Majesty wanted to arrange a marriage between Prince Xu and Wang Zijin. In your heart… do you truly have no thoughts about it?”

Li Weiyang gently placed a piece down, her expression calm, “What thoughts should I have?”

Seeing that her expression truly showed no abnormality, Guo Dao couldn’t help sighing, “You really can keep your composure. Now everyone outside says that Miss Wang has suffered a great injustice. Apart from Pei Bao’er’s peerless beauty, the most prominent lady now is this daughter of the Wang family. Since the day she returned to the capital, countless infatuated men have waited along the road she takes for her monthly temple visits, hoping to catch a glimpse of her beautiful face. Eventually it developed to the point where these people would arrive a day early with their carriages to queue along her route. Even more ridiculous, some opportunists queue up two days in advance and scalp those positions for astronomical prices.”

“That said, to glimpse a beauty’s true appearance, those young masters from prestigious families still flock to it, willing to spend fortunes. Li Weiyang smiled and pointed at the board, “Fifth Brother, if you don’t make your move soon, I’ll capture all your pieces.”

Guo Dao’s expression became stern as he hastily placed a piece, “Do you know how Wang Zijin’s beautiful reputation spread?”

Li Weiyang said indifferently, “I’d like to hear the details.”

“I heard that three years ago, the ruler of the southwestern Qiang Kingdom obtained a portrait of Wang Zijin. They also heard this woman was proficient in astronomy, divination, and geography, so they used this portrait as pretext to demand Wang Zijin. But the Wang clan are all valiant warriors, and paired with Wang Zijin’s mystical arts, the Wang family forcibly pushed back the Qiang Emperor’s five hundred thousand troops over four hundred li. Thus the number of nations paying annual tribute to Yuexi increased by one. Later that portrait was brought back by the Wang family. The Eastern Garrison General looked at it once and only said one sentence: ‘Its elegance doesn’t match one-tenth of Zijin’s.’ After that statement spread, more and more people began proposing marriage to the Wang family, even breaking down their threshold.”

Li Weiyang smiled, “Besides Wang Zijin’s beauty, they also value the Wang family name, and perhaps some other things.”

Guo Dao nodded, “Indeed so. The Wang family neither participates in power struggles nor easily bows to the Pei clan—they’re a very detached existence. Their ability to have such status is inseparable from His Majesty’s support. The Guo and Chen families are deeply mired in struggle with the Pei clan, yet the Wang family stands alone among the forest. Don’t you think they’re worth paying attention to?”

Li Weiyang smiled brilliantly, “Fifth Brother, you’ve talked enough about the Wang family’s young lady. Don’t tell me you’re also interested in her?”

Guo Dao startled, then laughed heartily, “Interest? There is some, but it’s not admiration—it’s wariness. I don’t know what else she’s proficient in besides military affairs.”

Li Weiyang sighed softly, “You’ve lost.”

Guo Dao jerked in surprise, then quickly lowered his head, only to discover his black pieces had been captured without exception. He angrily tossed down his pieces, “Who can compare to you! Playing chess while talking, yet still able to multitask—I’m truly impressed.”

Li Weiyang merely extended her hand, “The stakes you promised—don’t forget.”

Guo Dao quickly pushed her hand back, “If I keep losing, I’ll go bankrupt.”

Li Weiyang only smiled without speaking. The atmosphere in the room was very warm. Guo Dao sighed. Although his feelings for Li Weiyang remained unchanged, he no longer felt the oppressive pain of before. This was a kind of love, also a kind of appreciation, even carrying an indescribable sense of kinship. One could only say he was in pain yet happy.

Just then, Guo Dun and Princess Ali ran in one after another. Their steps were synchronized, their faces showing excited expressions. Guo Dun’s hand held a gold-embossed invitation.

Li Weiyang glanced at them and suddenly realized these two were similar in age—one handsome and cheerful, the other enthusiastic and happy. They were remarkably well-matched. She smiled, “Fourth Brother, what’s worth being so happy about?”

Guo Dun immediately unfolded the invitation, “Look, the Wang family sent us an invitation.”

Complex emotions flashed through Li Weiyang’s eyes as she smiled faintly, “Did the Wang family send the invitation, or did Miss Wang send it?”

Guo Dun couldn’t help scratching his head. He didn’t know what difference there was between the two.

Li Weiyang smiled gently, “If the Wang family sent the invitation, they would naturally invite all members of the Guo family. But if Miss Wang sent it…”

Before she finished speaking, Princess Ali immediately interjected, “The invitation says it invites Miss Guo and several young masters of the Guo family… In my view, it seems more like a gathering of young people, since it doesn’t mention inviting the madam to come along.”

Li Weiyang glanced at the gold-embossed invitation. The flowing grass-style calligraphy on it was completely unlike what a sheltered daughter would write. She took the invitation from Guo Dun’s hand and examined it carefully for a moment, “Such bold calligraphy—this Miss Wang is indeed somewhat interesting.”

These words were directed at Guo Dao. Guo Dao smiled slightly, “In that case, will you go meet her?”

Of course she would meet her. The other party had specially sent an invitation. If she didn’t go, wouldn’t that arouse suspicion? After all, everyone knew that Prince Xu had refused His Majesty’s arranged marriage entirely because of his devotion to Li Weiyang. This matter was currently causing a huge commotion throughout the capital. If Li Weiyang didn’t go, it would only give people more to talk about.

The Eastern Garrison General’s residence was simple and austere. Among the magnificent mansions, it appeared very dignified and imposing.

Li Weiyang walked through the corridors and pavilions, only to discover hidden depths within—far more grand and exquisite than what could be seen from outside. All the architectural layouts were orderly, craftsmanship excellent, buildings and towers interlaced, fully embodying the perfect combination of unparalleled wealth and refined elegance.

The garden’s entrance was a white marble arched stone gate. Inside the garden, ancient trees towered, strange rocks stood in forests, mountains embraced water, pavilions and towers abounded, corridors twisted and turned. Then she saw a tall theater building with a stage fully two or three meters high. The opposite small hall was decorated fresh and elegant, with blooming purple wisteria flowers, making one feel as if watching a play beneath a wisteria trellis. On the garden’s east side was a very delicately designed small lake called Crescent Moon Lake. The lake center had a pavilion connected to the shore by a nine-bend corridor bridge, extremely refined in design. Even Li Weiyang couldn’t help casting sidelong glances at such scenery.

Guo Dao asked softly, “What is it?”

Li Weiyang didn’t linger on those beautiful scenes but pointed at the distant peach grove, “Look at those peach blossoms like fire, flower clusters on branches, shades intermingled—isn’t it beautiful?”

Guo Dao followed Li Weiyang’s gaze and couldn’t help being surprised. What season was it for peach trees? Yet across from them was indeed a peach grove—some bright red as crimson blood, some gorgeous as rouge, like spread layers of brocade, dazzling and captivating to the heart. However, Guo Dao was no ordinary person. He stared at the peach blossom grove carefully for a long while, his expression suddenly becoming stern, “This is a formation.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly, “This peach blossom formation is arranged according to the twelve earthly branches—Zi, Chou, Yin, Mao, Chen, Si, Wu, Wei, Shen, You, Xu, Hai—divided into twelve directions. Zi is north, Chou is northeast leaning north, Yin is northeast leaning east, Mao is east, Chen is southeast leaning east, Si is southeast leaning south, Wu is south, Wei is southwest leaning south, Shen is southwest leaning west, You is west, Xu is northwest leaning west, Hai is northwest leaning north. Each direction, if someone accidentally steps in, can activate the formation and alert the manor’s guards. Fifth Brother, you’re right—this Miss Wang indeed requires attention.”

Guo Dao nodded in deep agreement. Princess Ali beside them asked curiously, “What are you talking about? Why can’t I understand any of it?”

Seeing Princess Ali’s face full of confusion, Li Weiyang smiled faintly, “Look at the peach blossom grove ahead and the surrounding arrangements—they’re all laid out according to formations. One peach tree, if replaced with a person, becomes a formation.”

Hearing her say this, Princess Ali’s expression became even more astonished, “Why do I understand even less? Explain more clearly.”

Li Weiyang’s eyes held clear amusement, “The entire mansion is arranged in coordination with this peach blossom grove to form a battle array, containing infinite variations within the formation changes. Look at this artificial mountain displaying a soaring momentum, recreating the thrilling scenes of attacking cities and seizing territory in actual battle. At the four corners of the formation are four plum trees, like four great banners dancing in the wind, each leading four surrounding hundred-person banner formations, neat and uniform, displaying an intense battlefield atmosphere. The entire mansion looks very ordinary, but actually shows that the mansion’s master is proficient in the Five Elements, Eight Trigrams, and formation practice. Those who don’t know could never guess the mysteries within.”

Princess Ali stared carefully at the place Guo Dao mentioned but still couldn’t see anything. She couldn’t help exclaiming, “Jia’er, how do you understand these things… I’m truly amazed.”

Li Weiyang’s gaze was ambiguous as she remained silent. In fact, years ago when she followed Tuoba Zhen to the battlefield, matters of Five Elements and Eight Trigrams, Yin-Yang principles, and even military formations all had specialized strategists responsible for them. To please Tuoba Zhen, she had also read some books on these subjects. However, she wasn’t particularly skilled in these areas—what she excelled at most was understanding human hearts. Now it seemed this Miss Wang was truly a master of such arts. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have arranged even her residence so meticulously. If some foolhardy thieves broke in, they would probably die in this Eight Trigrams formation before even getting close.

Just then, a handsome man in magnificent robes arrived gracefully. Having just heard this exchange, he couldn’t help smiling faintly, his eyes shifting slightly, “My younger sister was right. She said among these guests, probably no more than five could discern the mysteries of this formation. Among today’s guests, Prince Jing counts as one, Young Master Pei counts as one, and the rest are Miss Guo and Young Master Guo.”

Prince Jing and Pei Bi were clear cases—they were widely read and, though not very proficient in such things, understood them. Guo Dun and Guo Dao exchanged glances but stood to the side without speaking. Li Weiyang smiled warmly, “I was just thinking that whoever arranged this mansion so exquisitely and wonderfully must be extraordinary—it turns out everything was arranged by Miss Wang.” She was deliberately asking what she already knew.

Wang Guang smiled faintly and spoke, “My younger sister loves these things most. In the past, no matter how we advised her, she wouldn’t listen. Now meeting Miss Guo, she’s probably found a kindred spirit.”

Wang Guang had a gentle temperament and excelled at chess. Last time during his chess match with Pei Bi, he had greatly admired this woman who played excellent chess. Now seeing her discern his sister’s arrangements at a glance, he was even more astonished. He bowed, “Miss Guo, please.”

Li Weiyang looked up to see the lake pavilion already set with a banquet. Thus, she and the others moved inside and took their seats.

Seated in the main position was Wang Zijin. Today she wore a goose-yellow dress that displayed her delicate refinement and dignified charm to perfection. The dark hair atop her head was swept up diagonally in a strand like a crescent moon, while the rest cascaded like a waterfall casually behind her, making her appear even more elegant and free-spirited.

Seeing Li Weiyang, Wang Zijin smiled and actively stood up, welcoming her warmly, “Miss Guo’s visit truly brings light to this humble abode. Please sit quickly.”

Seeing this scene, everyone privately discussed among themselves. That day at the grand banquet, Prince Xu had publicly refused the marriage with Miss Wang, ruthlessly slapping the Wang family’s face. Yet now Wang Zijin showed such courtesy to Li Weiyang—this was truly incomprehensible. Some couldn’t help secretly admiring that there were always higher mountains and better people—this Miss Wang’s magnanimity and grace were indeed unforgettable.

Li Weiyang only smiled faintly, as if unaware of everyone’s astonished gazes.

As soon as Guo Dao sat down, his gaze naturally fell on Prince Jing Yuan Ying not far across from him. Prince Jing raised his wine cup toward him with a slight smile. Guo Dao’s heart held other calculations.

Guo Dun was very displeased and snorted coldly, “It seems Yuan Ying is also very interested in this Miss Wang.” Yuan Ying had always been pursuing Li Weiyang, yet now seeing him also unprecedentedly accept the invitation and sit not far from Miss Wang, Guo Dun felt extremely annoyed. He hadn’t expected the other to be so opportunistic, turning around in the blink of an eye to court Wang Zijin’s favor. This was completely different from the Prince Jing Yuan Ying he used to know.

Even Princess Ali turned her face aside and gave a soft cold snort. Li Weiyang only smiled slightly, obviously not caring.

Having lived in the capital for a long time, Princess Ali and Prince Jing Yuan Ying often met. Perhaps gradually understanding the gap between him and herself, Princess Ali no longer held any expectations for him. Now seeing him here as well, talking and laughing cheerfully, Princess Ali’s heart inexplicably felt somewhat displeased. But she didn’t realize this displeasure wasn’t for herself, but for Li Weiyang. She said softly to Guo Dun, “Look, Prince Jing is also here. Does he also want to marry that Wang family lady?”

Hearing her words carry some meaning of standing up for the Guo family, Guo Dun couldn’t help saying in a low voice, “Who knows? Perhaps Prince Jing feels the Wang family would be very helpful to him.”

Li Weiyang’s lips maintained a trace of a smile. Hearing these words, she only offered a reminder, “Idle gossip about others’ rights and wrongs—Fourth Brother, be careful someone overhears you.”

Guo Dun said roughly, “I’ll say what I want to say. Who am I afraid will hear?”

Li Weiyang smiled helplessly. This Fourth Brother’s temper had never been good. Moreover, Princess Ali had once been devoted to Prince Jing Yuan Ying. Though Guo Dun didn’t say it, his heart was still jealous and minded. Now seeing him show three parts hostility toward Prince Jing, Li Weiyang couldn’t help feeling both amused and exasperated.

Guo Dao shook his head slightly, clearly disagreeing, “I think that’s not necessarily so.”

Guo Dun glanced at Guo Dao and frowned, “What do you mean? All the other princes haven’t come—only he’s sitting here alone. Isn’t that obvious enough?”

Guo Dao smiled faintly, “Showing courtesy is natural, but what schemes he’s truly plotting in his belly, no one knows.”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang’s heart jumped. She couldn’t help looking toward Prince Jing Yuan Ying across from her. Yuan Ying’s face showed complete calm, his smile warm, no different from usual. He wasn’t looking at Li Weiyang but was saying something to Wang Zijin, his expression full of gentleness, as if truly playing the role of a flower-protecting envoy.

Li Weiyang lowered her head, secretly pondering. She had always kept Prince Jing at a respectful distance—he understood this clearly. She was devoted to Yuan Lie, with no interest in him whatsoever, and Madam Guo had already made clear to Imperial Consort Guo that a marriage alliance between the two families was absolutely impossible. That being the case, Prince Jing’s shifting his target wasn’t strange, and she was happy to see it happen. Moreover, given the Wang family’s power and Wang Zijin’s outstanding talents, she would indeed be an excellent helper for Prince Jing in contending for the throne. Prince Jing now turning to pursue her—Li Weiyang felt there was nothing wrong with that. But hearing Guo Dao’s meaning, there seemed to be something not quite right…

While Prince Jing spoke to Wang Zijin, his gaze involuntarily fell on Li Weiyang across from him.

Li Weiyang was as always elegantly charming. Her hair bore no complex ornaments, only a jade-green hairpin. Her upper body wore a blue gauze dress, paired below with a pleated skirt of the same color, covered outside by a thin gauze outer garment, making that blue appear somewhat hazy, but instead adding a touch of moving color. Though her makeup was simple, the small jade earrings shone beside her ears, setting off a jade face that flowed with moving radiance. With a faint smile, it was difficult for people to look away.

Wang Zijin smiled, “I must also thank Prince Jing for sending that military treatise.”

Prince Jing turned his head, only then realizing what she had said. He smiled slightly, “As long as Miss Wang likes it—it’s just a small token.”

Wang Zijin looked at Prince Jing Yuan Ying, her expression unchanged, “Zijin thanks Prince Jing for his kind intentions.”

Yuan Ying raised his wine cup, “Then please drink this cup of wine. From now on, I can count as Miss Wang’s friend, can’t I?”

Wang Zijin’s thick lashes lowered slightly as she smiled gently, “Naturally so.”

Yuan Ying looked at Wang Zijin. Speaking of family background, the Wang and Guo families were evenly matched, even with a vaguely transcendent quality. He understood the Guo family’s power very well, but wasn’t very certain about the mysterious Wang family. As for Wang Zijin herself, besides her appearance, she was versed in astronomy above and geography below, proficient in Five Elements and Eight Trigrams, military formations—if he married her, she would absolutely be a great asset in his quest for the throne. But somehow, facing Wang Zijin, he couldn’t muster much interest. He didn’t understand why, clearly knowing Wang Zijin would equally benefit him greatly, he had never considered making her his princess consort. Perhaps it was having a preconceived notion, or perhaps he was truly deeply devoted to that person. Thinking of this, his gaze involuntarily looked toward Li Weiyang again.

Wang Zijin seemed to perceive something, smiling faintly, “Prince Jing seems to pay great attention to Miss Guo.” Her voice was extremely low. Others hearing would only think they were discussing the garden scenery, never imagining she would mention Guo Jia.

Yuan Ying’s face showed a gentle smile, but fierce light flashed in his eyes. He turned his gaze to Wang Zijin, “Oh? What makes Miss Wang say this?”

Wang Zijin’s eyes narrowed slightly as she smiled decisively, “Someone like Miss Guo with an orchid heart and refined nature, meticulous thinking, is the best choice for Princess Jing. Moreover, Prince Jing’s devotion to her is no longer any secret. The first day I entered the capital, someone already told me Prince Jing wanted to take Miss Guo as his principal consort. Only regrettably…” She didn’t finish her words, leaving half unsaid.

Prince Jing’s smile slowly faded. He gazed at the woman before him, a trace of doubt rising in his heart. Somehow, he felt Wang Zijin’s thoughts were deep and complex, in no way inferior to Li Weiyang’s, making it impossible to fathom what she was thinking. Thinking of this, he couldn’t help putting on a smile again, “A fair lady is a gentleman’s good match. Until the end, who knows who will win? Miss Wang, wouldn’t you agree?”

Wang Zijin naturally nodded, her beautiful lips revealing a smile, “Confidence is certainly good, but given Miss Guo’s cold temperament, to win the beauty’s heart, Prince Jing must work hard and not let others seize the advantage first.”

Prince Jing Yuan Ying clinked cups with her again, smiling ambiguously, “Thank you for Miss Wang’s reminder.” The two smiled at each other, both harboring their own thoughts.

Li Weiyang observed this scene, her heart growing more attentive. Though those two together also made a handsome man and beautiful woman, very well-matched, somehow it just seemed strange. Perhaps their smiles both concealed calculations, and Li Weiyang had observed those calculations, or perhaps… she preferred to think she was being oversensitive. What collaboration or collusion could there be between Wang Zijin, who had just entered the capital, and Prince Jing Yuan Ying? This was truly an unexpected matter.

At this time, Wang Zijin smiled, “Today’s banquet is hosted because Father wanted to celebrate my return to the capital and help me become familiar with everyone here. From now on, I hope everyone can treat me, Wang Zijin, as a friend, coming and going frequently. Don’t despise me for growing up in the mountains and being uncouth.”

Hearing this, everyone laughed, “Not at all, not at all. Miss Wang is too modest.”

“Indeed, Miss Zijin is talented and beautiful, precisely the first-class lady of the capital. Why be so self-deprecating?”

For a moment, countless praises came flooding forth, but Wang Zijin only maintained a faint smile, showing no trace of smugness, displaying a thoroughly poised and generous manner. After everyone finished speaking, she smiled, “In that case, please enjoy the song and dance performances.” With that, she clapped lightly. As soon as the applause faded, ancient zither music arose. Within the music, a lotus leaf slowly drifted from across the lake to the lake’s center—not too close nor too far, just right for the guests in the lake pavilion to see clearly.

Everyone was startled, almost thinking their eyes deceived them. But rubbing their eyes, they still saw atop the lotus leaf a woman in pink robes, wearing a beautiful pink dress, dancing gracefully. Her movements were gentle and flowing, like drifting clouds and flowing water, displaying feminine grace and beauty to the utmost.

Everyone felt as if personally present, involuntarily holding their breath to watch quietly.

This dancing woman had a charming appearance and gorgeous coloring, yet was slender in form with a narrow waist, her whole person exquisite, like a light swallow dancing atop that cluster of lotus leaves. Combined with her superb dancing skills, floating like wind, it was dazzling. Everyone only heard her voice from the lake center singing: “Evening makeup just finished, bright skin like snow, spring palace court ladies lined like fish. Pipes and flutes blow apart water and clouds, repeatedly pressing rainbow garments, songs pervade thoroughly. Facing wind, who more scatters fragrant petals, drunk clapping railings, feelings cut deep. Returning time, don’t release candle flowers red, waiting to step on horse hooves in clear night moon.”

Truly, delicate steps refined, exquisite beyond compare in the world.

This ingeniously crafted lotus leaf dance momentarily attracted countless gazes.

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. She had seen countless people’s dances. This performance wasn’t particularly extraordinary, but the location was most special. To dance atop lotus leaves while making rapid spinning turns required utmost flexibility of waist and footwork. Moreover, this woman’s weight was definitely beyond ordinary people’s. The more enchantingly she danced atop the lotus leaves, the more suffering she must have endured behind the scenes. Especially those jade feet—clearly bound with silk cloth, shaped into crescents, to enable dancing on lotus leaves.

When the dance finished, applause thundered. Prince Jing smiled, “Miss Wang truly knows how to keep secrets. To have such a dancing girl by your side, and such superb dancing skills—truly admirable.”

Wang Guang smiled, “Though Wutong’s dancing posture is superb, it doesn’t match my younger sister by one ten-thousandth. She merely dances on lotus leaves, but Zijin three years ago could already dance in the palm of a hand.”

Hearing this, everyone couldn’t help showing expressions of amazement.

Wang Zijin’s face reddened slightly as she only said softly, “Second Brother truly teases me. That was just childish foolishness when young.”

Everyone thought this made sense. Wang Zijin was a noble lady of a prestigious family—how could she display her tiny feet dancing before everyone? However, this dancing girl’s performance was already breathtaking. No matter what, it was hard to imagine what kind of allure Miss Wang would display if she personally danced.

Li Weiyang’s eyes shifted slightly. Inadvertently sweeping toward Pei Bi across from her, she saw him only raising his wine cup, gaze lowered, not knowing what he was thinking. Li Weiyang smiled faintly, also appearing completely oblivious.

Princess Ali pouted, “Every time attending banquets, it’s always watching songs and dances. What’s the point? Better to find some other amusement.”

Wang Zijin looked toward Princess Ali, her face smiling, “I wonder what suggestions the Princess has?”

Here, everyone knew Princess Ali came from the grasslands with a very lively disposition, so her suddenly saying such things wasn’t strange. Indeed, just sitting like this had no great meaning.

Princess Ali thought for a moment and couldn’t help saying, “How about we play pitch-pot?”

Li Weiyang held her forehead. Ever since last time when she inadvertently let Princess Ali see people playing pitch-pot for amusement, she had become obsessed with it, forcing people to compete with her every few days. So-called pitch-pot meant using a wine vessel’s mouth as target, throwing stones from a certain distance, recording wins and losses by how many entered, the loser drinking as penalty—just a way to enliven banquets with wine.

Wang Guang smiled faintly, “Playing pitch-pot easily makes wrists sore. Isn’t the Princess afraid of hand soreness?”

Princess Ali paused, thought for a moment, “It is a bit sore.” Everyone couldn’t help laughing heartily. Li Weiyang also shook her head sighing. Ali, oh Ali, you can’t even tell when someone’s teasing you.

Princess Ali refused to give up and thought again, “If pitch-pot makes wrists sore, how about shooting willows instead?”

Shooting willows meant galloping in circles on horseback, targeting willow branches that swayed with the wind—very difficult to shoot. For grassland nomadic peoples, this was the most normal competitive game, but for those present, especially these young ladies, it was clearly too difficult. Moreover, this was a garden—where would there be space for galloping horses?

Prince Jing Yuan Ying smiled, “Willow branches are small and soft. With a slight breeze, they become moving targets. At this time, there’s no need for mounted archery—just being able to shoot standing still is already extremely difficult. So we can have people bring willow branches and stick them in the ground as entertainment.”

Li Weiyang understood very well that performing willow-shooting required good psychological quality most importantly—one absolutely needed extraordinary composure to complete it.

Hearing this, everyone couldn’t help laughing, “Good! Since Prince Jing has such refined interest, we naturally should accompany him.”

Wang Yan, who had been silent all along, finally showed some interest upon hearing this. He immediately instructed people to prepare everything. The first to take the field was Princess Ali. Being from the grasslands, her archery skills were naturally extraordinary. With one pull of the bow, a long arrow shot straight out. Then, under everyone’s gaze, it actually nailed the willow branch backwards into the ground, striking right at the willow branch’s tip. Her archery was clearly extremely superb.

Everyone applauded in praise. Guo Dun whistled, “Princess, you’re truly extraordinarily formidable!”

Ali was proud and delighted, smiling broadly. She ran back to Li Weiyang’s side, proudly showing her the willow branch. Li Weiyang glanced at it but shook her head. The willow branch had been broken by Princess Ali, exposing the white section inside—actually not particularly superb archery.

The next several people all failed. Not to mention those sheltered daughters who couldn’t even lift bows and arrows—even ordinary young masters from prestigious families who could draw bows had no way to hit those thin willow branches. Everyone couldn’t help feeling very frustrated.

Seeing Wang Zijin sitting there motionless, Princess Ali couldn’t help challenging, “Miss Wang, why don’t you try? You’re the host. Are you going to avoid the game?!”

Hearing this, Wang Zijin’s gaze flashed with amusement, “Rixuan, go perform for everyone.” From behind her emerged a beautiful maid, tall in stature, cold as ice. She bowed respectfully to Wang Zijin, then walked before everyone, took up bow and arrow, and in an instant drew the bow and nocked an arrow. Before everyone could react, they only heard “whoosh whoosh whoosh” sounds—a row of five willow branches before them were all shot through the middle.

Five arrows all hit target. Everyone immediately cheered loudly. For a moment, the venue thundered with applause.

Li Weiyang smiled. This maid not only had excellent martial arts but intelligence far beyond ordinary people. This way, no matter how well others performed, they would only be following in her footsteps with nothing fresh. A small maid had successfully stolen everyone’s thunder. Wang Zijin needn’t appear personally yet had already suppressed everyone with force, even pressing down the praise Princess Ali had just received—truly killing several birds with one stone.

Ali had an open temperament. She completely didn’t realize the other’s action had suppressed her prestige. She only praised the maid called Rixuan and drank three cups continuously, saying, “I’ve lost, lost wholeheartedly. Miss Wang’s entourage truly has hidden dragons and crouching tigers—even a small maid has such skills!”

This time, not just Princess Ali, but others also cast sidelong glances. First there was the lotus dance, then followed by this hundred-pace-through-willow archer. Yet these two formidable maids were merely servants beside Wang Zijin. One could see how formidable their master must be. Wang Zijin’s action meant she needn’t personally take the field and lose status, yet successfully stole the show—truly a master indeed.

Just then, Pei Bi suddenly spoke, “Miss Guo, everyone went to try their skills. Why do you only sit in place?”

Li Weiyang looked at Pei Bi, raising her eyebrows in a smile. Under the sunlight, her bearing was like mellow wine, fragrant and alluring, “This is naturally because I’m neither successful in civil nor military pursuits. If I rashly participate, I’d become a laughingstock.”

Princess Ali immediately frowned. She thought to herself that Li Weiyang was far from unsuccessful in either civil or military pursuits. Her chess skills ranked first in Yuexi, not to mention she also knew archery. However, in this situation, if Li Weiyang herself actively stood up to personally compete, whether she won or lost, there would be no glory. After all, Wang Zijin had only sent out a maid. How could Li Weiyang lower her status to compete with the other?

Guo Dao glanced at Li Weiyang, knowing she completely didn’t care about today’s events. But… he made up his mind, looking at Zhao Yue beside him and instructing, “Since Young Master Pei has already spoken, Zhao Yue might as well take the field. Don’t bring shame to your master.”

Hearing this, Zhao Yue glanced at Li Weiyang, only to see her smile ambiguously as she looked toward Guo Dao. This time Guo Dao was very insistent. No matter what, he couldn’t let anyone look down on his sister. Li Weiyang ultimately didn’t object, so Zhao Yue swiftly flew out. With just one arrow nock, she simultaneously shot out five feathered arrows. Everyone was dumbstruck. They ran over to pick up the willow branches, almost forgetting to speak. At this time, someone presented the broken willows. Wang Zijin glanced at them and couldn’t help smiling slightly, “This young lady deserves to be today’s game’s number one. Go, bring her shot willow branches for everyone to admire.”

Seeing this, everyone didn’t quite understand. When the broken willows passed to Pei Bi’s hands, his expression became extremely ugly.

Zhao Yue had nocked her bow only once yet could simultaneously release five arrows. Rixuan could only manage one arrow at a time. Moreover, Zhao Yue had hit all the willow branch tips, while Rixuan had only hit the middle sections. The superiority and inferiority of the two were immediately clear.

Rixuan also observed this scene, her gaze couldn’t help showing three parts anger. Just as she was about to say something, she heard Wang Zijin give a light rebuke, “Accept defeat gracefully. Rixuan, you may withdraw.”

Rixuan glared at Zhao Yue even more resentfully before retreating behind Wang Zijin into the crowd of beautiful maids, disappearing from view.

Li Weiyang sighed inwardly. Guo Dao was still too proud, unable to tolerate others acting presumptuously before him. But for Li Weiyang, she had never regarded Wang Zijin as any potential opponent, so she didn’t care about any of her actions. Whether it was provocation or not, everyone knew in their hearts—why make it so obvious? She truly had no interest in competing with women. Currently, her goal was focused only on Empress Pei and Pei Bi.

Just then, no one noticed Princess Ali’s face was already flushed red from drinking. Li Weiyang couldn’t help feeling slightly surprised, “Princess Ali, before coming I already told you not to be greedy with alcohol.”

Wang Zijin said with concern, “Is Princess Ali drunk? It’s my fault. Today I used aged Phoenix Bamboo Wine. You must know that though this wine is sweet and clear, its aftereffect is extremely strong. Earlier Princess Ali drank three cups consecutively—perhaps she’s truly somewhat drunk.”

Li Weiyang’s eyes flashed with cold, harsh energy that instantly calmed. She pretended not to care. She understood Princess Ali’s alcohol tolerance very well—she could drink three jars of wine continuously without changing color. Yet today with only three cups, her face was flushed red, sitting there dizzy and light-headed. This scene was truly abnormal.

At this time, Wang Zijin said, “Someone come, help Princess Ali go rest.”

Immediately two maids stepped forward from the crowd to help Princess Ali. Li Weiyang also stood up, smiling ambiguously, “Fourth Brother and Fifth Brother, please sit here briefly. I’ll accompany Princess Ali to rest first. Later when she’s better, we’ll return together.”

By saying this, Li Weiyang refused to let Ali go alone. Wang Zijin showed no displeasure, still smiling warmly, “In that case, both of you please go.”

Originally Princess Ali being sent to the rear hall to rest only required maid accompaniment, but since Miss Guo intended to personally go, Wang Zijin naturally must also accompany her.

Princess Ali had after all left hastily. A wave of dizziness and loss of balance nearly made her fall. Li Weiyang quickly supported her. Zhao Yue beside her also pushed away the Wang Manor maids’ hands, “This servant will do it.”

After less than two steps, Princess Ali was already leaning against the railing, vomiting without regard for appearance. Li Weiyang stood behind her, gently patting her back, “Your alcohol tolerance is usually excellent. This turn of events has truly frightened us.”

Wang Zijin understood the implied meaning and called over Wutong, “Go brew some sobering soup, make it light. Earlier I noticed the Princess didn’t eat much. You must be careful.”

Wutong nodded and immediately went to arrange it. Then Wang Zijin said softly, “Miss Guo, why not have the Princess move inside to temporarily rest? After sobering up, she can return.”

Li Weiyang’s lips held a barely perceptible smile as she nodded, “Then we’ll trouble Miss Wang.”

Wang Zijin had previously felt this Miss Guo was cunning as a fox—nothing could escape her eyes. Now it seemed she was an old fox who’d achieved enlightenment.

Wang Zijin nodded slightly and led the way. She led them directly into a bedchamber. Green gauze curtains revealed an incense burner from which sandalwood smoke rose, faint wisps against white gauze—dark fragrance in waves, refreshing to the heart. Princess Ali was helped to lie down on a carved canopy bed with low-hanging curtains. Wang Zijin very carefully instructed maids to bring a brocade quilt to cover her. When maids delivered the sobering soup, she watched Princess Ali drink it spoonful by spoonful before finally breathing a sigh of relief.

Li Weiyang surveyed the surroundings. On the opposite wall hung four silk brocade panels—plum, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum, the Four Gentlemen—displaying extraordinary distinction. The room’s four corners had standing flower stands. In the center were a zither and flute. On the wall hung a pipa. Not far away, a konghou rested on a stool. The rosewood window lattice beyond was completely filled with books, arranged neatly with extremely abundant stock. On the chess board there, a game seemed only half-played… Nearby maids had already brought tea.

Wang Zijin smiled, “Miss Guo, please have tea.”

Li Weiyang’s gaze was luminous. The maids around Wang Zijin skilled in both civil and military arts, this beautiful bedchamber, even her mannerisms and deportment—all far exceeded ordinary young ladies. Not just wealthy but noble, everywhere revealing compelling intelligence and extraordinary distinction. Li Weiyang had known long ago that this Miss Wang was no ordinary sheltered lady, but didn’t know she was extraordinary to such a degree.

Wang Zijin’s eyes, like autumn moon and bright stars, shifted lightly as she looked at Li Weiyang’s calm expression, though her heart surged with waves. Though young herself, she excelled beyond others in strategic planning and military tactics. Father had always raised her as a son. When Father led troops, through several confrontations, she had used formations to help him defeat enemies multiple times, forcing opponents to retreat—her achievements were illustrious.

Nor was she entirely limited to military affairs. In music, chess, calligraphy, painting, and the classics and histories, she likewise had very unique insights. Even her elder brothers had to admire her broad knowledge. But she knew all this was prepared for a certain person, so from childhood she vaguely anticipated that person’s appearance. However, she never imagined that in the great hall, that person would publicly refuse the marriage, viciously slapping her face.

Previously, though she knew of Li Weiyang’s existence, she hadn’t regarded her highly—just an ordinary sheltered daughter. If not for the Pei family affair recently causing such commotion that made her pay attention, she still wouldn’t have particularly noticed Li Weiyang’s existence. Only later did she learn that Li Weiyang was Prince Xu Yuan Lie’s beloved. She still remembered that day when Yuan Lie’s handsome face was hidden in shadows, only saying indifferently, “Though Miss Wang is excellent, she is not a good match for me.”

Thinking of this, Wang Zijin’s face showed complex emotions. Indeed, she prided herself on peerless talent, but no matter how rich in stratagems, she was still a woman who would eventually marry. Thinking of this, her emotions surged, yet she couldn’t help staring at Li Weiyang. Inadvertently sweeping to Zhao Yue beside her, she saw this woman had beautiful features but shot forth cold light. Those palms were very broad, faintly revealing calluses—definitely someone who practiced external martial arts. Moreover, the other’s movements were completely uncontaminated, showing martial arts cultivation had reached perfection. Seeing the other faintly emanated killing energy with upright bearing, she must have been in the military.

To engage such a first-rate expert, Li Weiyang was also quite formidable. Thinking this, Wang Zijin smiled, “Miss Guo needn’t worry. The Princess will wake soon.”

Li Weiyang had just walked into this courtyard and could already vaguely sense hidden guards protecting all key positions along the way. Though no one was visible, just from this eerie quiet, she could perceive all guards’ martial arts were at least on par with Zhao Yue’s level. It seemed the Wang family’s regard for Wang Zijin was incomparable, such that even around her there were layers of guards, very strict. Though her thoughts were myriad, Li Weiyang now only sat idly, her expression peaceful.

Thinking how the Guo family had just struggled out from such a depressed environment, Wang Zijin’s heart couldn’t help admiring. Though the truth had long been hidden, she just felt the Pei family’s misfortune must be related to Li Weiyang. After all, no one was willing to expose the fierce struggles among Yuexi’s great families before others… but there were still some traces that could be found. Thinking of this, her mood had calmed, her eyes becoming even brighter and clearer, shining brilliantly, “Miss Guo honoring this humble abode today was truly beyond my expectations.”

Li Weiyang smiled, “Miss Wang invited so earnestly. If I didn’t come, wouldn’t that be too discourteous?” Saying this, she glanced at Princess Ali with an ambiguous smile. In fact, she had already guessed Wang Zijin deliberately made Princess Ali drunk precisely to create an opportunity to speak with her. However, she and Wang Zijin had no relationship. Their only connection was Yuan Lie.

Between nonchalance, the two had already exchanged moves. Wang Zijin pretended ignorance, “That night, at the great hall…” Saying this, her beautiful eyes looked at Li Weiyang, her expression revealing a trace of something unusual.

Li Weiyang’s face was plain without cosmetics, her eyes like black jade with dark luster flowing, “Miss Wang has something to say—please speak directly.”

Wang Zijin seemed to have made a decision, saying sincerely, “Actually, all these years, Father kept telling me my marriage had already been decided by His Majesty and couldn’t be casually promised to another. But only that day did I learn my betrothed was Prince Xu Yuan Lie.”

Betrothed? Hearing this, Li Weiyang’s eyebrows raised slightly. She hadn’t expected the other to be so frank, actually bringing up this marriage. Speaking of which, Yuan Lie had absolutely no intention of marrying this Miss Wang, yet hearing her words, it seemed she was certain Yuan Lie should belong to her.

On the surface Li Weiyang was cool, but in her bones she was domineeringly fierce, unrestrained and unbridled. Regardless, having her own things coveted by others—this feeling truly wasn’t good. Thinking of this, Li Weiyang’s face showed an even deeper smile. So this banquet seemed more like a demonstration toward her.