Not long after Consort Guo Hui’s palace fire, she relocated to a new residence. Following proper etiquette, Madam Guo and Li Weiyang specially sent congratulatory gifts into the palace. This new residence was even larger and more luxurious than the previous one, yet Consort Guo Hui’s face showed no joy.

Li Weiyang looked around the great hall, everywhere displaying opulent furnishings, everywhere flowing with light and overflowing with color, pleasing to the eye, conspicuously showing immense wealth. She blinked and couldn’t help smiling at Consort Guo Hui. “Your Majesty, His Majesty’s compensation this time is truly generous.”

Consort Guo Hui smiled faintly, unconcerned. “It’s merely for show. He’s also hoping we won’t pursue this matter further.”

Li Weiyang nodded. Clearly her view aligned with Consort Guo Hui’s—the Emperor didn’t want them pursuing this matter further and was using this magnificent palace to silence Consort Guo Hui and the others.

Seeing Madam Guo’s grave expression, Consort Guo Hui couldn’t help smiling. “Sister-in-law need not worry about me. It’s just changing residences—what difference does it make? I’m quite accustomed to living here now, and I’ve also replaced some staff with new people.”

Hearing this, Madam Guo reminded her, “Since they’re all newly arrived, you must be cautious and careful. Find people you can trust…”

Before she finished speaking, Consort Guo Hui laughed. “After all, I’ve spent so many years in the palace. Sister-in-law, don’t treat me like when I first entered the palace and was so naive. Rest assured! I’ve investigated all these people one by one and confirmed their backgrounds are clean. Of course, among them are also a very few who are certain people’s spies. If I sent them back, they would just send more—impossible to guard against everything. Since I know about them, I’ll keep them. Perhaps they’ll prove useful in the future.”

Hearing Consort Guo Hui say this, Li Weiyang couldn’t help smiling—clearly she deeply approved of Consort Guo Hui’s approach. At this moment, she heard Consort Guo Hui sigh. “His Majesty has already decreed the marriage and had the Bureau of Astronomy select an auspicious date for the grand wedding—next month on the tenth!”

Madam Guo’s heart jumped, her face full of surprise. “So soon!”

Consort Guo Hui nodded, worry showing in her eyes. “If we miss the tenth, we’d have to wait a long time. His Majesty feels Nankang has reached marriageable age. Though the tenth of next month is rather rushed, with concentrated effort it’s not impossible to prepare.” Saying this, she turned to glance at Li Weiyang, her eyes full of sighs.

Madam Guo quickly said, “Your Majesty, you’re personally handling this wedding. Your health has only just recovered—can you manage?”

Consort Guo Hui smiled slightly. “Rest assured. For this wedding, His Majesty has already assigned someone specifically to handle it. I don’t need to worry too much, just oversee from the side. Moreover, there’s Yuan Ying. He’ll also supervise carefully from the side. No matter what, we won’t let Nankang suffer the slightest grievance.”

Madam Guo nodded, then said to Li Weiyang, “Since you’re just sitting here anyway, why not go keep Nankang company?”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang knew the two had other matters to discuss. She just smiled faintly, stood up, performed another courtesy to Consort Guo Hui, then withdrew.

Walking not far from the palace, she saw the garden had planted many flowers and trees, with colored ribbons tied on the branches. Palace maids chatted in small groups of twos and threes, all with joyful expressions—an atmosphere of complete celebration.

At this moment, Princess Nankang stood before a budding flower, eyes downcast, expression dreamy, not knowing what she was thinking. She didn’t even notice Li Weiyang quietly walking to her side. When Li Weiyang softly laughed, Princess Nankang jumped as if startled, whipping her head around. Seeing it was Li Weiyang, she breathed a slight sigh of relief and complained, “Sister Jia’er, why frighten me for no reason?”

Li Weiyang’s expression was calm, pretending ignorance. “How was I frightening you? You were the one lost in thought about something, thinking so intently.”

Princess Nankang’s cheeks inexplicably glowed brilliant as clouds, exactly the appearance of first awakening to love. Yet she also seemed like someone whose private thoughts had been exposed—unable to utter a single word.

Seeing her like this, Li Weiyang immediately guessed three parts of the truth. Her face showed a half-smile. “So Her Highness the Princess was thinking about her bridegroom.”

Princess Nankang’s heart jumped. She hadn’t expected Li Weiyang to be so direct. Actually, since His Majesty decreed the marriage last time, her behavior had been quite unusual—often sitting in a daze for no reason, lost in thought. Consort Guo Hui had already told Li Weiyang about this matter.

Seeing Princess Nankang’s expression was very abnormal, a hazy thought passed through Li Weiyang’s mind. She couldn’t help smiling and asking, “If Your Highness has something on her mind, you can tell me. I won’t tell others.”

Princess Nankang had never had playmates in the palace. Consort Guo Hui was her mother—though loving, her discipline was very strict. And Prince Jing Yuan Ying was precisely her elder brother. So hearing Li Weiyang say this, she couldn’t help saying with a red face, “If I tell you, you absolutely mustn’t tell Mother Consort!”

Li Weiyang felt the matter increasingly suspicious and couldn’t help nodding. Princess Nankang leaned close to Li Weiyang’s ear and softly said a few words. Li Weiyang couldn’t help widening her eyes, revealing an expression of disbelief.

It turned out Princess Nankang had actually secretly left the palace and met that Wang family young master Wang Yan. While reminiscing, Nankang said in a low voice, “When I saw him, he was playing chess with someone, completely concentrated—he didn’t even know when I walked to his side.”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang’s expression changed. “You just walked to his side like that? For a princess to meet her betrothed like this is far too absurd! If word got out, people would think Her Majesty disciplined you poorly… You were too hasty!”

Princess Nankang quickly waved her hands. “No! No! I wore men’s clothing. He probably just thought I was some young master from some family and could never imagine I was Princess Nankang.”

Li Weiyang sighed. A young girl’s thoughts probably couldn’t be controlled no matter what. She continued, “What happened next?”

Princess Nankang’s face flushed crimson. “Then the scholar playing chess with him lost, so I took his place and played three games with him, but I lost them all. His chess skills are very superior, and his heart is kind. When coming down the mountain, I accidentally almost fell, and he had someone escort me down.” Speaking to this point, Princess Nankang appeared increasingly enchanted.

But Li Weiyang felt the matter very suspicious and instinctively asked, “Are you certain that person was Wang Yan?”

Princess Nankang’s face bloomed with spring. “I heard them all call him Young Master Wang, and I had the palace maids by my side inquire thoroughly…”

Li Weiyang shook her head. “The Wang family has more than one young master. From what you’ve said, this person seems to love chess greatly?”

Princess Nankang nodded. “Not only does he love chess—he’s a chess fanatic! He can sit there continuously for two or three hours without moving. If you’re not paying attention, you’d think he was a wooden carving.”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang’s expression changed. She looked at Princess Nankang and said word by word, “The one who loves chess isn’t Wang Yan, but his second elder brother Wang Guang.”

Princess Nankang froze. Her originally flushed face instantly turned snow white. She looked at Li Weiyang in disbelief. “What—what are you saying? I don’t understand.”

Li Weiyang’s expression slowly became icy. “I’m guessing that the person you’re talking about who loves chess isn’t your betrothed husband, but his elder brother.”

In that instant, Princess Nankang’s expression became extremely difficult. She looked at Li Weiyang bewildered and lost her voice. “Is… is what you’re saying true?”

Li Weiyang nodded seriously. “Have I ever joked with you before?”

When Princess Nankang had seen Wang Guang that time, she was deeply attracted by his innate noble temperament, his elegant manner while playing chess, and that mature and refined air about him. She had always been cherished and protected in Consort Guo Hui’s palm—lively, cheerful, romantic and innocent. Apart from palace banquets, she had hardly attended public occasions. She had seen few men to begin with and felt none could compare with Prince Jing Yuan Ying. That day, mistakenly thinking the other party was her betrothed husband, she paid more attention. Each time she recalled it, her heart couldn’t help but flutter.

Seeing her expression, Li Weiyang immediately guessed her thoughts. She said coldly, “Your Highness, you’re too confused! How could you casually leave the palace! That’s bad enough, but you actually mistook the person!”

Princess Nankang quickly said, “Sister Jia’er, please don’t speak so loudly!”

Li Weiyang looked at her, slowly lowering her voice. “Does he know who you are?”

Nankang shook her head. Then as if suddenly thinking of something, she suddenly grabbed Li Weiyang’s arm. “Do you think I could petition His Majesty?”

Li Weiyang stared into Princess Nankang’s eyes, almost looking into her heart. Her expression slowly became cold. “Your Highness the Princess will have her grand wedding in one month. To change the groom at this time, and change him to his elder brother—do you think His Majesty would agree? This is absolutely impossible!”

Princess Nankang knew this deeply herself, but she couldn’t help saying, “That person treated me very well. My chess wasn’t good, and he personally taught me how to play…”

Li Weiyang’s expression grew even colder, her face expressionless. “Nankang! How can you be so obstinate!”

Nankang was frightened by her rare severity. Seeing her expression, Li Weiyang knew she had scared her and couldn’t help softening her tone. Taking Nankang’s hand, she said, “Your Highness, you don’t know how dangerous what you did was. Consort Guo Hui’s service to His Majesty has been like walking on thin ice. If not for the Guo family still being there, how could Empress Pei have tolerated her until now? Now that His Majesty has betrothed you to Wang Yan, this marriage is set in stone. You must not get the wrong idea. A higher match is inappropriate—don’t think about Wang Guang anymore!”

Princess Nankang stared blankly for a long time. Seeing Li Weiyang’s serious expression, she couldn’t help nodding and pleading, “Please don’t tell Mother Consort. I won’t dare again!”

Her face showed a pitiful expression. Li Weiyang sighed and nodded. Looking at Princess Nankang, Li Weiyang’s heart wasn’t without disappointment. She felt sorry for Consort Guo Hui. All these years, Consort Hui had devoted all her energy and been constantly vigilant, finally reaching this day with such difficulty. But sadly, the daughter she raised couldn’t be relied upon, couldn’t share her worries—spending all day just being a simple, carefree princess. Now she was even confused in her heart, actually thinking of petitioning His Majesty to change the groom—this was simply fantasy!

However, she also knew she couldn’t hold Princess Nankang to adult standards. She was only sixteen this year and didn’t understand anything yet. Though after the incident with Princess Daming last time she had gained some awareness, once the word “love” was involved, it made smart people foolish. Moreover, this matter was probably designed by someone with ulterior motives. She should inform Consort Hui and Prince Jing as soon as possible.

Li Weiyang looked at the other party and said quietly, “Your Highness, once you marry into the Wang family, you’ll be Wang Yan’s wife. From then on, you’ll have nothing to do with Wang Guang. No matter who you admire now, Wang Yan will become your husband. If you’re smart, you should understand your own situation, understand Consort Guo Hui’s situation, understand the Guo family’s situation, and should even more understand His Majesty’s true intention in arranging this marriage!”

Princess Nankang looked at her, inexplicably feeling a chill run through her body. “Sister Jia’er, what exactly is His Majesty’s intention in arranging this marriage?”

Li Weiyang looked at her, feeling deeply that she couldn’t let her remain so confused. So although she knew that making Princess Nankang understand everything would be unbearable for her, she still said with profound eyes, “Now the Guo family’s prominence is too great. His Majesty is displeased and wants to use the Wang family to restrain the Guo clan. Think about it—you’re Consort Hui’s adopted daughter, yet His Majesty specifically married you to Wang Yan. Last time, the Wang and Guo families already had some underlying discord because of Prince Xu’s refusal of the marriage. Now if you marry over, it’s equivalent to Consort Hui having a weakness fall into the Wang family’s hands. One can imagine what kind of result this will be.” Not everyone had the ability to refuse a marriage. Yuan Lie could take responsibility for himself—could Nankang?

Princess Nankang’s face was deathly pale, swaying unsteadily. She hadn’t imagined this marriage actually had such hidden circumstances. She couldn’t help clenching her hands. “Why didn’t Mother Consort and elder brother tell me?”

Li Weiyang’s gaze was calm. “They didn’t tell you for your own good!”

Princess Nankang shook her head. “No! This isn’t for my good—it just keeps me immersed in the joy of marriage, completely unaware of how dangerous the situation is!”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly, thinking to herself that it wasn’t too late for her to know now. She said calmly, “Your Highness, since what’s done is done and you can’t change anything, you might as well properly marry into the Wang family and become a qualified Madam Wang!”

Hearing Li Weiyang say this, Princess Nankang sighed deeply. “His Majesty married me to that Wang Yan who’s talented in both civil and military arts. I’ve also heard he’s a tiger cub from a military family. But if he becomes Imperial Son-in-Law, he can no longer hold military power. Father Emperor seems to… also have intentions of balancing the Wang family.”

Seeing her turn this corner so quickly, Li Weiyang couldn’t help praising her. “Your Highness is correct! His Majesty indeed has such intentions.” Since he wanted Yuan Lie to marry Wang Zijin, he would definitely think up some schemes to suppress the Wang family’s military power. Imagine—a Prince Xu consort holding heavy military forces would be very useful before Prince Xu ascended the throne, but after ascending? This military power would need to peacefully transition. Li Weiyang could imagine the Emperor’s true intention in doing this. This chess game, step by step behind it, he had probably already deployed long ago. Wang Zijin could become Empress, but ultimately the Wang family would inevitably suffer the consequence of having their power reduced. Thinking of this, she just said to Princess Nankang, “Your Highness knows everything, but don’t reveal it—just act as if you don’t know.”

Princess Nankang nodded with difficulty. Only now did she understand that behind this marriage were actually so many ugly things. Her face couldn’t help streaming with tears, her eyes crying red. Li Weiyang took out a handkerchief and gently wiped away her tears, saying softly, “Your Highness, don’t cry anymore. From now on, you must cherish yourself even more. Never be willful. You must make your mother consort and elder brother proud, properly be this Madam Wang, and not disappoint their deep love.”

Princess Nankang choked up, unable to speak, but ultimately just nodded.

Leaving the palace, Madam Guo sighed softly. “Jia’er, did you tell Nankang the truth?”

Li Weiyang looked at Madam Guo and just quietly nodded. “Princess Nankang isn’t a child anymore. Some things really should be made clear.”

Madam Guo’s expression grew even more worried. She looked at Li Weiyang. “Seeing Nankang’s eyes swollen like peaches, I knew. Consort Hui and Prince Jing were unwilling to tell her the truth—not only because they feared she couldn’t bear it, but more importantly they feared she’d be too impulsive and ruin things.”

Li Weiyang said quietly, “At first she may be somewhat sad, but after some days she’ll understand. The earlier she understands, the earlier she’ll grow up. Consort Hui can’t protect her forever, and Prince Jing doesn’t want to carry such a burden, right? So what we did will only benefit her, absolutely not harm her.”

Madam Guo nodded. “I don’t know why, but I always feel something will happen at the wedding banquet… But when I try to say specifically what, I can’t say anything.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly and grasped Madam Guo’s hand. “Mother need not worry excessively. My brothers and I will all attend the banquet. We’ll definitely be extra careful and protect Nankang well, not letting her have any mishaps.”

But Madam Guo shook her head. “I’m not talking about Nankang, but about you, Jia’er! That time when Prince Xu refused the marriage, Miss Wang probably harbors resentment. Going to the Wang manor this time, I fear she’ll make things difficult for you.”

Li Weiyang smiled, her expression very calm. “Mother, Wang Zijin isn’t that kind of dull, shallow person. Rest assured!” Seeing Li Weiyang so certain, Madam Guo finally nodded.

One month later, on the day of welcoming Princess Nankang, the Wang manor was decorated with lanterns and colored streamings, carved beams and painted rafters, and hung with great red silk. All the flowers and plants were freshly trimmed. Countless guests sent gifts—pearls, agates, amber, glass, jade, coral. Especially the pair of luminous cups bestowed by Empress Pei were crystal clear and beautiful, brilliantly radiant, emitting a ghostly light in the darkness, making all the other gold and silver trinkets seem vulgar.

Wang Yan wore wedding attire decorated with silk ribbons, riding a tall, handsome white horse. He looked spirited and vigorous as he led the wedding procession from the palace gate through the main street in a grand procession toward the Wang manor. According to custom, His Majesty specially bestowed a gold seal and a jade tablet. Princess Nankang sat in a brilliantly radiant sedan chair with a long train of dowry following behind—a spectacular sight.

At this time, the main street was already crowded with tens of thousands of onlookers. For this, the Capital Magistrate had to dispatch guards to maintain order. People saw the long procession stretching endlessly. The accompanying palace maids held trays in their hands—each one beautiful with graceful figures. Following this was the long dragon of dowry items. Some busybodies counted—a total of ninety-nine plus eighty-one platforms. Some of the dowry was displayed for everyone to see—Hetian jade Buddhas, gold-inlaid phoenixes, pearl necklaces, and countless silks and satins and rare treasures from all over Yuexi. The onlookers’ eyes nearly flew out. With difficulty making progress and nearly blocked, the procession returned to the Wang manor in early evening.

The Wang manor’s entrance was bustling like a marketplace, flourishing like brocade. After the solemn and dignified ceremony, the wedding banquet officially began—completely a scene of singing and dancing, grand and luxurious.

Li Weiyang sat at her seat, quietly watching the song and dance before her eyes. The melodious clear silk and bamboo music made one’s mood pleasant. The Wang family’s arranged dancing girls spread their long sleeves wide, their willow waists swaying lightly as they gracefully danced. Everyone saw wisps of smoke deliberately rising from the side—clearly intentional, yet complementing the dancers’ graceful forms. Those rainbow garments and colored wings swirled around, as if in a fairyland, almost dazzling everyone’s eyes.

Princess Ali was busy—busy eating the delicious delicacies at the banquet, praising them profusely. “Jia’er, this tastes really good! This is the first time I’ve eaten such delicious pastries!”

Li Weiyang smiled. “This is natural. The Wang family’s young lady is precious as gold and jade. The things she enjoys are all first-rate. I’ve heard her treatment in the manor surpasses even Princess Nankang’s. The Wang family pampers this daughter so—clearly she’s highly valued.”

Princess Ali said playfully, “You’re talking about others, but the Guo family pampers their daughters the most. People outside all say the two most prominent young ladies in the capital right now are you and Miss Wang.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. “Those people are just talking nonsense. In my home, I’m no different from any other young lady.”

Princess Ali sighed slightly, thinking of the magnificently luxurious decorations in Li Weiyang’s room—the crystal bead curtains, precious golden nanmu tables, transparent agate dishes and celadon cups, fragrant incense with captivating scents, exotic flowers and plants never seen before. Every time she entered, she had the illusion of entering a fairyland. These things were replaced every two months, almost never repeating. One could see how much the Guo family treasured Li Weiyang—practically taking turns thinking of new ways to send her gifts. Such a life, even though Princess Ali was born into steppe royalty, she had never enjoyed.

So she couldn’t help sighing at how wealthy these families that had accumulated wealth for hundreds of years were—saying they rivaled nations in wealth wasn’t wrong. Thinking of this, she couldn’t help saying to Li Weiyang in a low voice, “I heard the Pei family members sold their entire household to repay debts. They’ve been quite destitute recently. His Majesty is pursuing it fiercely, even having officials from the Ministry of Revenue personally sit in the Pei family hall, limiting them to hand over all debts to the national treasury within ten days. Otherwise, Pei Bi would be charged with defying the imperial decree.”

Li Weiyang said with a half-smile, “Oh! Is that so? Seems Young Master Pei isn’t having an easy time.” Thirteen million taels of silver—such embezzlement was no small matter, almost equivalent to the national treasury’s annual income. His Majesty wanted to make an example—the other Pei clan members had no recourse.

Even so, that Pei Yuan far away at the border had been slow to act, only submitting three memorials requesting punishment, never even mentioning Pei Fan’s matter. Well, sacrificing a minor piece to protect the general—anyone would know how to choose. Li Weiyang had long guessed the Pei family would cut off the damaged limb. But this money ultimately had to be repaid. Her gaze fell on Pei Bi not far across from her, seeing him just keeping his head down, not knowing what he was thinking.

Li Weiyang smiled and said to Princess Ali, “Do you think the Pei family can repay all this silver?”

Princess Ali thought about it. “I heard many Pei family shops have started transferring ownership, and those countless gold and silver treasures have also opened auction halls to be sold off. Clearly the Pei family is determined this time—they must fill this hole. But thirteen million taels is already unbearable, yet they have to triple it. I’m afraid even the Pei family with such deep pockets can’t bear it!”

Li Weiyang shook her head, her gaze profound. “In recent years, the Pei family has almost monopolized salt transport in the south. Salt transport profits reach nearly a million taels annually. One can imagine their foundation is very deep. I expect within these ten days they can still gather this silver. But from now on, the Pei family’s days won’t be easy.”

As anyone could imagine, to operate a family and support so many people, plus smooth over relationships and buy people’s hearts—without gold and silver, it was absolutely impossible. Making the Pei family compensate so much money was equivalent to cutting off half their foundation. This was truly too terrifying—for other noble houses it would simply be a catastrophic disaster. If not for Empress Pei still being there, Pei Yuan still being there, the Pei family would probably have already collapsed. Princess Ali said softly, “However, Jia’er, you must be extra careful. I think the Pei family will definitely hold you accountable for this matter.”

Li Weiyang smiled lightly. “Since I dared to do it, I dare to acknowledge it. I’d like to see what other abilities they have!” Actually, she had been waiting for Pei Bi’s next move. She really wanted to know what the other party intended to do.

Just at this moment, Yuan Lie had already raised his wine cup and sat down beside Li Weiyang with a smile.

Li Weiyang glanced at him. “You sitting here isn’t quite appropriate.”

Yuan Lie glanced around—all female family members. He smiled slightly, his expression composed. “Who dares tell me it’s inappropriate?”

Li Weiyang shook her head. Princess Ali continued stuffing pastries into her mouth but no longer disturbed the two of them.

Yuan Lie said in a low voice, “I feel today’s banquet probably won’t be peaceful. Just now I’ve already had people keep a close watch on Pei Bi. If he makes any rash moves, they’re to report immediately.”

Li Weiyang nodded. She had this same premonition. Perhaps from living in bloodshed for so long, she had long since developed a keen sense of perception. But this was after all a princess’s wedding banquet and at the Wang family’s—thinking about it, she just said softly, “Just be extra careful about everything!”

At this time, Princess Nankang sat in the bridal chamber, bored. She wanted to lift the pearl curtain, but a palace maid beside her quickly stopped her. “Your Highness, that won’t do!” Just at this moment, the door was pushed open. A middle-aged woman with proper features and ramrod-straight posture walked in. She announced in a clear voice, “The groom will come shortly to drink the nuptial wine. Are you all prepared?”

Those palace maids exchanged glances and quickly said, “Yes! All prepared!”

Hearing this voice, Princess Nankang couldn’t help being surprised. She asked the person beside her in a soft voice. Her palace maid immediately told her, “This is Nanny Song from Madam Guo’s side. She came over because she was worried.”

The palace maids’ faces all showed some surprise. This Nanny Song coming seemed somewhat improper…

Madam Guo counted as natal family. Though the palace had people managing everything, she had already found ways to send those two nagging ones to the banquet. Hearing it was Nanny Song, Princess Nankang nodded. She had seen her twice and knew this person was Madam Guo’s most trusted confidant, so she felt at ease. Nanny Song methodically inspected everything in the bridal chamber one by one. Then she took out a silk scarf from a shelf beside her and exclaimed softly in surprise, “What happened? Where are the peanuts wrapped in this?”

A palace maid who had been standing calmly to the side heard her say this and quickly walked over. “What’s wrong? Did we forget to arrange something?”

The other party held the silk scarf before the four palace maids, her expression calm. “You look…”

Before she finished speaking, those four palace maids simultaneously felt dizzy. Unable to help yawning, their bodies went soft and they all collapsed to the ground. Nanny Song smiled sinisterly, crouched down to check them, and only after seeing they had all fainted did she feel at ease. Then she stood up and walked toward Princess Nankang. Princess Nankang’s face was only veiled with a pearl curtain—she hadn’t covered her head. She clearly saw this scene and was shocked speechless. By the time she reacted, disaster had already struck! The other party had struck swift as wind, sealing her mute acupoint. Her eyes widened as she stared at the other party. She saw Nanny Song smiling, taking out a very strange porcelain bottle from her bosom, then pouring out a black pill and placing it in her palm.

Princess Nankang cried out in distress, extremely puzzled: What did this person from Madam Guo’s side intend to do? At this moment, she deeply regretted not arranging more people to guard nearby. According to common wedding etiquette, before the groom arrived, many madams would come to keep company, and there would even be boys to press the bed. But she was a princess of the Yuexi imperial house, so many rituals had to follow imperial protocols. As a result, only her personal palace maids were in this room. Even the governess had stepped out first to prepare.

Nanny Song saw fear and anger faintly revealed in her eyes and grew even more pleased, yet didn’t laugh aloud. She just pinched two fingers, held Princess Nankang’s chin, and said calmly, “Your Highness, pardon the offense.” Then with a lift of her hand, she stuffed the pill into her mouth. Princess Nankang bit down hard on the pill, refusing to swallow. The other party was obviously extremely experienced—she just smiled coldly, manipulated her jaw, and immediately made that pill roll down her throat. Princess Nankang’s eyes flashed with despair.

Nanny Song smiled lightly, bent close to her ear and said softly, “Your Highness, don’t be afraid. This medicine won’t immediately kill you. As long as you take the antidote regularly, you won’t die from the poison. But you must obediently listen. If you try to escape, this antidote… I won’t give it to you.”

Princess Nankang wasn’t a fool. Knowing the situation was wrong, she could only nod. Nanny Song said with satisfaction, “Listen carefully. Later you must do everything as I say. Otherwise, your little life won’t be preserved!” Nanny Song’s voice carried three parts ferocity and was absolutely cold and ruthless.

Nankang nodded again, indicating she would cooperate, but her heart was filled with fury—wishing she could capture this person and cut her into a thousand pieces! Nanny Song seemed to guess what was in her heart and just smiled coldly. “Don’t think about escaping. Even if you slip away, I have countless ways to catch you back.”

Princess Nankang cursed inwardly continuously, her face full of grievance as she nodded. Helplessly opening her mouth, she couldn’t utter a single word—only then realizing the other party’s medicine could actually make her mute!

Outside at the banquet, no one knew any of this had happened. Starting from sunset, carriages and horses had already crowded the Wang manor entrance—a constant stream. Following the ceremony master’s announcements, guests entered through the main gate. Servants in bright clothing stood beside them receiving gifts, leading them into the main garden. The main garden where Li Weiyang sat had fifty tables set up, plus one head table in the main hall to host imperial clan members.

At this time, chrysanthemums bloomed throughout the garden, trees flourished, people came and went with joyful smiles—a scene of wealth and prosperity filling the garden.

Yuan Lie sat beside Li Weiyang, paying no attention to others’ surprised looks. He wore a deep purple lightweight fur coat with gold-trimmed sleeves and a jade belt at his waist. His movements were leisurely and elegant, handsome and refined, his radiance more dazzling than usual.

Li Weiyang looked at the brilliantly radiant Wang Zijin not far away and smiled faintly.

Wang Zijin at this moment maintained a modest smile, returning courtesies to all the guests one by one and conversing briefly with each person.

After waiting a moment longer, the Crown Prince and Prince Jing arrived one after the other. Prince Qin and Prince Jin also entered together. These four arrived within a quarter-hour of each other. The Wang family immediately welcomed them out the main gate and led them into the main garden.

Wang Qiong bowed at the waist. “For the Crown Prince and Your Highnesses to personally attend the wedding banquet—this subject is overwhelmed!”

The Crown Prince smiled. “This Wang manor is indeed exquisite. I’ve long heard people say that among the capital’s residences, the Guo family’s and Wang family’s feng shui locations are both unparalleled. Seeing it today, it truly lives up to its reputation.” Wang Qiong was startled but just bowed and said the Crown Prince was too kind. Then the Crown Prince smiled and entered the main garden.

Seeing the Crown Prince arrive, a dark mass of people in the garden knelt down. The Crown Prince’s expression was very composed as he smiled. “Everyone rise! Today is my imperial sister’s great happy day. I came specially to celebrate. Everyone need not stand on ceremony—please sit at ease!”

Seeing the Crown Prince and the princes all personally attend the wedding and chat and laugh cheerfully, looking very pleased, people couldn’t help harboring various thoughts as they smiled and stood up.

Li Weiyang returned to her seat. She looked at Yuan Lie and said gently, “Just now Lord Wang repeatedly invited you to sit in the main hall. Why didn’t you go?”

Yuan Lie smiled coldly, his face showing mockery. “I most dislike sitting together with those people—makes me nauseous!”

Li Weiyang looked at him, feeling Yuan Lie’s smile was even more brilliant than sunshine. Even she couldn’t help being moved. Yuan Lie looked at her, his eyes smiling. “Or do you hope I’ll go deal with them insincerely?”

Yuan Lie’s words made Li Weiyang pause. Then she softly answered, “I don’t care about wealth and glory. I only care about you! I hope you can live as you please.”

Li Weiyang’s soft gentle voice and faint fragrance floated all the way into Yuan Lie’s heart. If not for everyone being present, he would have loved to grasp her hand. At this moment, he just said softly, “Yes, I certainly will.” Just then, Zhao Yue walked forward and handed over a cloak. Yuan Lie ordered, “Help your young lady put it on. Don’t let her catch cold.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly and put it on as told. Just as she was about to say something, she suddenly heard a familiar shrill voice from outside: “Imperial decree arrives!”

Everyone immediately stood up and walked out from their seats, kneeling on the ground. They saw the decree-announcing eunuch with several attendants enter the garden with broad smiles, unfurling the imperial decree in his hands and calling loudly, “The Wang family, hear the decree!”

Attendants quickly brought over an incense table. Wang Qiong knelt with a face full of reverence. “Subject Wang Qiong humbly receives the imperial decree.”

“By the will of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: Today my beloved daughter Nankang and Wang Qiong’s son Wang Yan have formed a happy union. Specially bestowed are: one gold Buddha ornament, one piece of beautiful Hetian jade, two ocean-calming coral branches, and two pairs of jade ruyi. This is decreed!”

Those present couldn’t help thinking: The Emperor seems extremely favored toward this Wang family—could there be some special intention… Wang Qiong said loudly, “This subject receives the decree and thanks His Majesty for his grace!”

Just at this moment, everyone was about to sit down again when they suddenly heard the Crown Prince, who had just finished hearing the decree, glance over with a smile. “Why is Prince Xu sitting over there?”

Yuan Lie smiled faintly, just smiling. “Crown Prince Your Highness, sitting inside is too stuffy. I prefer the outside—it’s much cooler!”

The Crown Prince’s face maintained an amiable smile. He looked at Yuan Lie. “Prince Xu should still come inside and sit with us. There happens to be a matter to discuss.”

Hearing this, Yuan Lie stood up with an attitude of indifference. He nodded slightly toward Li Weiyang before entering the main hall together with the Crown Prince and the others. Prince Jing took the initiative to stand up, holding a wine cup to fill Yuan Lie’s cup with fine wine, his face full of smiles. “Prince Xu left his seat for no reason—he must punish himself with three cups!”

He had never even sat at this table—what leaving his seat! Yuan Lie leaned back against his chair. Those amber-colored brilliant eyes were captivating as his gaze swept around. His seemingly mocking expression made everyone take a cold breath yet remain deathly silent. He said lightly, “Seems Prince Jing wants to get me drunk. Everyone knows I can’t hold my liquor!”

After saying this, everyone present couldn’t help thinking: Who doesn’t know Prince Xu Yuan Lie can drink a thousand cups without getting drunk? Once someone tried to get him drunk with ten jars of fine wine, but he drank it as if he hadn’t drunk at all—didn’t even sway when walking. Finally, he forced the other person to kneel and beg for mercy. With such a terrible personality, he still claimed he couldn’t hold his liquor.

Li Weiyang’s seat wasn’t far from the main hall. Looking through the window, she could just see Yuan Lie’s handsome and exquisite profile. When he smiled and spoke, those long lashes trembled slightly. In his amber-colored pupils flashed complex light. He laughed along with everyone, but his smile contained mockery and cold arrogance. Occasionally when his gaze swept over the Crown Prince, it revealed faint disgust. Li Weiyang seemed to see the Yuan Lie of the past—though then he was called Minde, just a stubborn youth. But in the blink of an eye, the two figures had merged into one.

Prince Qin had drunk a bit too much. He lost at a relay game and drank ten cups of wine in succession. His eyes somewhat hazy with drink, he looked at Yuan Lie. “Just now outside I heard people say this Lord Wang’s fresh flower is just waiting for Prince Xu to pluck it? Is this true?”

Because Prince Qin was somewhat loose-tongued after drinking, everyone’s faces showed alarm. But Yuan Lie just leaned to one side, the corners of his mouth curving slightly without speaking. Prince Jin quickly said, “Second Brother, you’ve drunk too much. Come, come, I’ll accompany you to sober up.”

Before Prince Qin could react, Prince Jin pulled him out. At this time, many officials came over to toast this table. Yuan Lie drank some wine and loosened his collar slightly. Under the candlelight, his face showed a faint blush, further setting off those amber-colored eyes with brilliant charm, causing most eyes in the garden to frequently glance toward his table.

The dancing had stopped. Everyone quieted down to watch the opera. On the opera stage, the performance was in full swing. The actor wore bright red opera costume with alluring makeup. The erhu’s sound was very cheerful, and the festive lyrics were very fitting. But inadvertently, Li Weiyang’s eyes met Wang Zijin’s face. Wang Zijin also looked toward Li Weiyang. The two looked at each other briefly, then calmly turned away, as if completely indifferent. Princess Ali looked at these two people—one coldly reserved, one smiling like spring breeze. She couldn’t help thinking: what kind of struggle would they stir up in the future?

At this time, the groom Wang Yan had already been forced to drink countless cups. Trembling slightly and barely able to walk, someone approached and whispered a few words in his ear. Wang Yan was shocked and suddenly raised his head. Then he tried to stand and walk out. Immediately someone unconvinced pressed down on his shoulder. “Hey! Young Master Wang, where are you going? You haven’t finished drinking and you already want to enter the bridal chamber—you’re too eager!”

The banquet immediately erupted in countless mocking laughs. But what no one expected was Wang Yan suddenly pushing that person aside, turning and walking away with large strides as if rushing to do something. Everyone looked at each other with questioning eyes toward the Wang family members. Even guests at more distant tables looked over here.

Seeing this scene, Li Weiyang’s heart suddenly flashed with something. She looked toward Pei Bi—that pale face showed a mocking smile. In his eyes burned hellfire, piercing straight into her heart. At this time, Wang Zijin also sensed something wrong. She quickly sent someone to follow Wang Yan, then turned to smile at everyone. “My elder brother drank too much just now and went to relieve himself.” Then she showed an embarrassed expression.

Everyone suddenly understood: Oh! The groom drank too much and urgently needed to urinate—this was human nature!

So those drinking drank, those chatting chatted. No one paid excessive attention to this small incident. Only Li Weiyang suddenly stood up and walked toward Wang Zijin. Seeing her walk over, Wang Zijin couldn’t help being startled. “Miss Guo, is the hospitality lacking in some way?”

Li Weiyang said in a low voice, “Miss Wang, what unexpected incident just occurred?”

Wang Zijin’s expression changed slightly. She quickly said, “No! Nothing happened! Please return to the banquet immediately, Miss Guo.”

Li Weiyang watched her, her expression more serious. “Miss Wang, why not tell me the truth before the matter becomes serious.”

Wang Zijin’s beautiful eyes revealed a trace of hesitation, then she made up her mind. “No! Nothing happened!”

Li Weiyang’s gaze flickered slightly. Seeing her so clever, Wang Zijin suddenly felt inexplicably nervous: Had the other party detected something? Thinking of this, she couldn’t help feeling cold all over.