Seeing this scene, Wang Guang was the first to step forward, his expression turning cold. “Lord Pei, this servant is from your household! How do you explain this now?”
Pei Bi’s face turned deathly pale. He opened his mouth as if wanting to say something, but before he could speak, he was seized by a violent fit of coughing, coughing as if heaven and earth were collapsing, as if he might not be able to stand in the next moment.
Wang Guang furrowed his brow, unsure whether Pei Bi’s display was him contemplating a countermeasure or truly being gravely ill. Sure enough, he heard Pei Bi say in an extremely somber voice, “What does Master Wang mean by this? Are you suspecting I ordered someone to kidnap Princess Nankang? Why would I do such a thing?”
Wang Guang smiled, his expression rarely so serious. He said word by word, “The evidence is conclusive, Lord Pei—stop making excuses. Otherwise, how do you explain why your servant has the fragrance that only exists in the Princess’s chamber? The palace maids have it because they attend to her personally. The actor has it because he inevitably became contaminated during the kidnapping process. Your servant has never entered the bridal chamber nor contacted the Princess—how did he inexplicably end up with this fragrance?”
The servant had now been pulled away, and Lizi had also been led aside, but still barked ferociously and continuously at the servant. The servant’s face was deathly pale, trembling as he stood there, as if extremely frightened.
Pei Bi shouted sternly, “Why aren’t you kneeling!” The servant paused, then immediately fell to his knees with a thud. Pei Bi said coldly, “Didn’t you hear Master Wang’s accusation? He suspects you kidnapped the Princess—no, it should be said everyone here suspects I ordered you to do it. What do you have to say!”
The servant’s face showed extreme surprise as he kowtowed repeatedly. “This servant doesn’t understand why the dog pounced on me, nor do I know why they say this servant’s body has this fragrance. I haven’t seen the Princess, haven’t contacted anyone near her, and don’t know how this fragrance came to be on me. Perhaps… someone deliberately framed me.”
Hearing this, Wang Guang furrowed his brow. “Frame you? If you stayed obediently by Lord Pei’s side, who could get close to you? Whether it’s framing or your deliberate evasion isn’t hard to determine. Why don’t we all enter the capital together to face His Majesty? I believe His Majesty will definitely investigate this matter thoroughly!”
The Crown Prince had already stood up, his eyes like blades, his expression grave. “Before you have solid evidence, rashly sending Lord Pei into the palace—Father Emperor will surely be furious and blame us for handling matters poorly! In my view, we should wait until the matter is thoroughly investigated and the culprit confesses before making such a decision!” His true intention was naturally to favor Pei Bi and especially not want this matter brought before the Emperor. If Li Weiyang and the others hadn’t implicated Pei Bi, the Crown Prince would probably be the first to enter the palace to report, hoping to further provoke conflict between the Guo and Wang families. But he hadn’t expected the Guo family to discover the special incense scent on the Princess. This way, Pei Bi couldn’t escape involvement… Thinking of this, he glared at Pei Bi almost imperceptibly, blaming him for handling things poorly.
Pei Bi clutched his chest and coughed several times, then suddenly said with a dejected expression, “I came to attend this wedding feast intending to bless Princess Nankang and the Prince Consort with harmonious union and eternal devotion, never expecting such events would occur, and that I’d be falsely accused by interested parties—it’s truly disheartening…” Having said half these words, his face became even paler, his form swaying unsteadily. With a “wa” sound, he actually spat out a mouthful of black blood.
Everyone looked at him in great alarm. The guests beside him quickly supported him, saying, “Lord Pei, are you alright?” Pei Bi’s body trembled as he suddenly raised his hand, pointing at the Wang family members. “You—you actually poisoned the wine!” Hearing this, the guests were greatly shocked and quickly turned around, trying to vomit up the wine and food they had consumed. The scene was as bizarre as could be.
Li Weiyang looked at Pei Bi, mockery faintly revealed in her eyes. She wanted to speak, but in the next instant, she glanced at Wang Zijin’s ugly expression and suppressed her laughter, pretending not to see.
Pei Bi’s swaying appearance didn’t prevent him from saying with severe voice and expression, “Good, truly killing two birds with one stone! Clearly you failed to protect the Princess, yet you don’t forget to drag both the Guo and Pei families down with you. Impressive! Truly impressive!” Having finished this sentence, his face turned deathly pale as he fell backward, losing consciousness.
Wang Zijin made a signal, and the imperial physician summoned from the palace immediately stepped forward to treat Pei Bi. Everyone waited anxiously and restlessly. Soon the imperial physician stood up and said to the crowd, “Lord Pei has been poisoned, but exactly what poison, I’ll need to test his blood and the wine cup from earlier to know.”
Everyone’s expressions became extremely interesting. Today, for some unknown reason, first the Princess was kidnapped, then Madam Guo’s nanny was implicated in the affair, then a Pei family servant was involved, and now even Lord Pei had been poisoned into unconsciousness. The whole matter appeared extremely complicated. Guests who didn’t know the inside story all looked at each other in confusion—between the Guo and Wang families, who was truly the culprit? Did the Guo family harbor evil intentions, or did the Wang family fail in their protection, or was the Pei family deliberately plotting? If this were true, why would Pei Bi be inexplicably poisoned?
Li Weiyang couldn’t help but laugh coldly, immediately guessing that Pei Bi’s true purpose in doing this was to muddy the waters. If he were perfectly fine, everyone would pressure him to answer why his servant was involved in this matter. But with this collapse, everyone’s attention would shift to the Wang family. Moreover, the words he said before fainting were clearly meant to confuse the situation!
Wang Zijin’s eyes carried deep anger. There was already friction between the Guo and Wang families, so seeing Pei Bi’s actions, people would naturally suspect the Wang family of crying thief while being the thief. First they failed to frame the Guo family, now they were framing the Pei family—in short, the Wang family had become the target of all criticism. Right now, Wang Qiong and Duke Qi were discussing in the study how to resolve this matter. Yet here, they had handled things so poorly! They should have immediately arrested Pei Bi earlier, but now it was too late to say anything. Wang Zijin turned to look at Li Weiyang, seeing her eyes lively as rippling waves, her beautiful face clear as lotus, yet her expression was extremely indifferent. Clearly, Li Weiyang wasn’t prepared to help clear the Wang family of this injustice.
Wang Guang’s heart turned slightly cold. He stepped forward and said to the Crown Prince, “Your Highness, the Wang family will definitely personally face His Majesty to provide an explanation regarding today’s events. It’s just this Lord Pei, he…”
The Crown Prince pretended to be troubled. “Pei Bi has been poisoned, which shows this matter indeed has other suspicious elements. This servant and Pei Bi will both be taken back to the Crown Prince’s residence by me. I’ll interrogate them carefully. Once Pei Bi awakens, I’ll investigate this matter thoroughly! As for everyone else… you may return home first. If there are summons, we’ll decide separately!” Having finished speaking, everyone responded in agreement. He sighed and was the first to walk out of the hall. Naturally, guards supported Pei Bi and detained the servant to follow the Crown Prince. Wang Yan stepped forward wanting to stop them but was blocked by Wang Guang. Wang Ji, who had remained silent throughout, watched quietly, looking thoughtful.
Seeing this situation, the various guests also rose to take their leave. Soon the originally lively hall had emptied completely, leaving only the Guo family members.
Li Weiyang turned her head, her long elegant lashes fluttering slightly as she smiled cleverly. “Miss Wang, it’s getting late. We should also take our leave.”
Hearing this, Wang Guang’s heart filled with anxiety. He proactively stepped forward. “Miss Guo, are you just going to ignore this mess?”
Wang Ji, however, stopped Wang Guang. He said with a gentle smile, “Miss Guo has already done everything she could. The remaining matters should be resolved by the Wang family.”
Wang Zijin looked at Wang Ji’s expression and understood his meaning. Li Weiyang’s actions had been extremely benevolent and righteous—she had no obligation to help clear the Wang family of injustice. Having gone through this affair, Wang Zijin was quite dissatisfied with her own handling of matters. At the critical moment, she couldn’t compare to Li Weiyang, who excelled at observing human nature. This made her quite frustrated. At this moment, she didn’t wish to say much, only ordering someone, “First go to the study to report to Duke Qi about the progress of this matter, then go to Princess Nankang’s chamber and request Madam Guo to come out.”
Hearing Wang Zijin’s instructions, Li Weiyang merely smiled faintly, her face betraying nothing.
At this time, Yuan Lie came over proudly leading Lizi, saying spiritedly, “The effect of that meat broth was really excellent! Lizi loves the smell of meat broth most. Once it catches the scent, it completely loses control and pounces on the target regardless of anything.”
Wang Ji paused hearing this. Wang Guang suddenly widened his eyes looking at him. “Your Highness means—” Yuan Lie laughed heartily, pointing at the dog with green-glowing eyes, smiling as he said, “I instructed a maidservant to pretend to accidentally spill some meat broth on that servant. Because the action was swift, he didn’t notice. Though it was only three or four drops, my Lizi has an especially keen nose—no trace of meat broth smell can escape it. Naturally, it pounced over with great enthusiasm!”
Wang Zijin shook her head. She had been wondering in secret how Li Weiyang learned this fragrance was unusual… Turns out everyone had been fooled by her! The purpose was nothing more than to draw out the Pei family members. This way, Pei Bi’s so-called poisoning became a complete joke! He drilled into the trap himself, walked into the net of his own accord! Now their Wang family had an explanation for the Emperor. Thinking of this, she smiled slightly, looking at Li Weiyang, her voice warm and gentle. “Miss Guo’s intelligence is truly brilliant. Zijin cannot help but admire you.”
The earlier refusal to help was just to make the Wang family anxious, to let them know not everything would go smoothly as they wished. Li Weiyang’s expression remained normal, appearing nonchalant. “Miss Wang need not be so polite. I was merely clearing the Guo family of false accusations. From today onward, Her Highness the Princess will reside in your residence. Please, Miss Wang, take good care of her and ensure nothing goes wrong.”
Wang Zijin nodded, her eyes inevitably gaining three parts respect. “Miss Guo, rest assured. The Princess is my sister-in-law and of noble imperial blood. We absolutely won’t neglect her. Daily reports on her condition will be sent to the Guo residence. There definitely won’t be any mistakes.”
Li Weiyang’s eyes were clear and moving, only looking at Wang Zijin with meaningful intent and smiling, then turning to leave with Yuan Lie. Wang Zijin watched their two figures standing together—they were such a perfect match. She couldn’t help but gently shake her head and sigh deeply.
Wang Ji walked to Wang Zijin’s side, saying gently, “What are your thoughts on today’s events?”
Wang Zijin emerged from her reverie. She glanced at Wang Ji, her brows carrying a trace of dimness, though her voice was mild. “At least it’s not as simple as it appears on the surface. Have you considered why Pei Bi didn’t directly kill the Princess but went to such great lengths to take her out of the residence?”
Wang Ji smiled faintly, quite composed. “Because the Pei family now is different from before. They’re very short on money currently. If they could hold the Princess in their grasp, whether the Guo or Wang family would be very willing to pay a large ransom, absolutely resolving the Pei family’s urgent crisis!”
Wang Zijin’s eyes immediately filled with thin anger as she laughed coldly. “It seems Pei Bi truly has been forced into a corner by the Guo family. Otherwise he wouldn’t have thought of so many crooked schemes, all of them terrible moves!”
Wang Ji shook his head. “Calling them terrible moves isn’t entirely accurate. After all, he still has methods of self-preservation.”
Wang Zijin furrowed her brow, her expression somewhat uneasy. Wang Guang beside her quickly said, “As long as we report this matter to His Majesty, presumably he’ll become aware of the Pei family’s conspiracy.”
Wang Yan, who had remained silent, laughed coldly, his gaze icy. “No matter what, this was originally a conflict between the Guo and Pei families, yet we’ve been inexplicably dragged into it. It’s truly detestable!” Hearing him speak to this point, his words seemed to carry three parts resentment. Wang Zijin slightly furrowed her brow, wanting to say something, but thinking of Wang Yan’s usual volatile temperament and unwillingness to listen to advice, she knew that no matter what she said, it would only make him resent her. She merely said in a low voice, “Third Brother, you should still take good care of the Princess.”
Wang Yan, however, snorted coldly, his face full of disdain. In his view, this Princess Nankang was merely ordinary in beauty and even lowlier in birth. Were it not for having Noble Consort Guo Hui as her adoptive mother, she would only have the fate of growing old and dying in the palace. The Emperor bestowing her upon him wasn’t any great honor. Most critically, as Prince Consort Commander, he would never have the opportunity to command military power in the future, likely even dragging down other Wang family brothers! Thinking of this, he felt three parts annoyance toward Princess Nankang, let alone all the trouble caused at today’s wedding feast… Hearing his sister speak this way, his expression tensed, his manner aggressive. “Don’t worry, I know what to do!”
Watching Wang Yan leave with complete indifference, Wang Zijin and the other two showed traces of worry on their faces. Wang Zijin’s expression was serious. “I think Third Brother seems somewhat off!”
Even the good-natured Wang Guang couldn’t help but become angry. “He’s always been a confused person. Father’s discipline, our advice—he won’t listen to anyone. He only insists Father, Mother, and Uncle treat him unfairly. It’s truly infuriating!”
Wang Zijin shook her head, her eyes flashing with unclear worry. “His bad temper is secondary. What I’m most worried about now is something else.”
Hearing her speak this way, Wang Ji’s thoughts stirred. “You’re worried about Third Brother’s woman on the outside?”
Wang Zijin nodded, deliberately lowering her voice. “You’ve always known Third Brother is willful and reckless. This time, he first developed three parts aversion toward the Princess because of this matter. I’m afraid many storms will arise in the future.” The other two listening found it difficult—this marriage was personally bestowed by His Majesty, absolutely unchangeable. If Wang Yan couldn’t treat Princess Nankang well, it would only create conflict between the Wang family and Noble Consort Guo Hui, thus involving the entire Guo clan.
Wang Guang’s brow furrowed tightly. “In all princely succession struggles, there’s no right or wrong to speak of. As subjects, we’d best observe from the sidelines and not get involved.”
Wang Zijin glanced at Wang Guang but shook her head. “It’s too late.” From the moment the Emperor wanted to select her to become Prince Xu’s consort, it was already destined the Wang family couldn’t remain uninvolved in this struggle. The current situation merely forced the Wang family to choose sides earlier! She understood clearly—Empress Pei watched like a tiger, the Pei family was down but not out. This matter probably wouldn’t be easily resolved.
When Li Weiyang returned to the Guo residence, seeing Madam Guo still wore a worried expression, she smiled and said, “Mother needn’t worry. The Princess’s injuries—didn’t the imperial physician say there was no longer any danger to her life? In a few days, I’ll accompany you to the Wang residence to visit her.” Madam Guo shook her head and sighed again. “A perfectly good wedding, yet such events occurred on this joyous day. No matter what, it’s inauspicious.”
Guo Dao laughed. “Mother, why are you so superstitious? It was just a small accident. There won’t be any problems.”
Guo Dun had been holding back his anger at the Wang residence, but now finally couldn’t restrain himself. “When His Majesty learns of today’s events, he should severely punish the Pei family, right?”
Li Weiyang shook her head, her eyes carrying a jade-like dim luster, her face showing a half-smile expression. “It won’t be that simple. That Pei Bi took poison—I’m afraid he’ll turn around and falsely accuse the Wang family.”
Guo Dao deeply agreed. “Yes, I’m afraid the Wang family will have to expend considerable effort to clear themselves!”
Li Weiyang nodded. Although she had set a trap, it would still be difficult for the Wang family to prove the poison in Pei Bi’s wine cup was unrelated to them. However, this time they brought it upon themselves, willingly becoming someone else’s chess pieces—naturally they must pay a certain price. Thinking of this, Li Weiyang couldn’t help but smile. “No matter what, this matter no longer concerns the Guo family. Let’s hope the Wang family can clear themselves.”
Li Weiyang’s prediction wasn’t wrong. The subsequent developments were almost jaw-dropping. The Emperor ultimately didn’t pursue Pei Bi’s crimes because the Wang family had no solid evidence. The trap Li Weiyang set couldn’t be openly discussed. Based solely on a servant having the Princess’s fragrance, this couldn’t prove anything—perhaps the servant accidentally contacted palace maids near the Princess, or someone deliberately framed him. In circumstances of insufficient evidence, and with the Crown Prince’s protection, Pei Bi remained safe and sound. However, the poison he took that day was indeed quite severe, forcing him to lie in bed for a full month—quite a period of calm. Not only that, the Emperor also greatly consoled the Princess, bestowing many precious things, clearly believing she had suffered considerable fright.
When this news reached Li Weiyang’s ears, she merely smiled faintly. That Wang Zijin still had considerable skill—being able to handle matters to achieve such a satisfactory outcome for all parties was quite good. After all, the Princess had the incident at the Wang residence. If anything were improper, they could be accused at any time of failing to protect her.
After facing the Emperor together with her father and brothers and emerging, Wang Zijin’s steps were somewhat unsteady. Today’s events had greatly disappointed her. She had finally found evidence in the residence proving the servant had contacted the actor, yet the Emperor turned a blind eye, clearly intending to preserve the Pei family. This made her extremely nervous—why would the Emperor do this? Wang Zijin had originally thought herself a leisurely fisherman, quietly waiting for the moment when snipe and clam fought each other. But now it seemed things weren’t as simple as she thought. Who was the one pushing everything from behind? Who was the chess piece on the board, subject to others’ manipulation? She sighed softly—had coming to petition the palace on behalf of the Princess this time been a mistake?
At this moment, a palace maid came to report. “The Empress summons Miss Wang!” Wang Zijin paused, then glanced at her father and brothers. Wang Qiong sighed. “Since Her Majesty summons you, go then.” The Empress summoning female family members from ministers’ households wasn’t strange. Although Empress Pei was usually aloof and didn’t often summon court ladies and misses, such situations still occurred from time to time. Wang Zijin had no reason to refuse, so she followed the palace maid to have a private audience with the Empress.
“This subject’s daughter pays respects to the Empress!” Wang Zijin performed her courtesy calmly without raising her head to look at Empress Pei.
Empress Pei looked at her, her gaze quite gentle. “We haven’t seen each other in many years. Raise your head and let me see you!”
When Lady Wang was alive, she had brought her into the palace to pay respects to the Empress. Wang Zijin slowly raised her head, her gaze meeting the other’s. At the last banquet, Empress Pei had only seen this Miss Wang from afar, but at this moment she suddenly felt three parts interest, wanting to take a good look at this unmarried consort the Emperor had selected for Prince Xu. Empress Pei looked for quite a while, finally nodding. Even removing those complicated and grand garments, stripping away that layer of charming makeup, this young girl’s heaven-blessed beauty still moved the heart. Empress Pei sighed gently—each generation produces talented people, each leading the trends for hundreds of years. She was ultimately getting old. Unknowingly, the little girls she had once seen had all grown so large and turned out so outstanding.
Empress Pei smiled slightly. “This set of hair ornaments is a gift for you. When you’re young, you should dress up more.” Her words were extremely understated yet every word clear, her face continuously bearing a profound smile. Her long, soft jade hands seemed to carry a halo of light as they gently brushed over that set of gold-embedded ruby hair ornaments.
Empress Pei’s bestowals were definitely not ordinary objects. Wang Zijin could only lower her head in thanks. “Thank you, Empress!” In fact, Wang Zijin didn’t want any entanglement with the Empress, especially since Empress Pei was so deeply scheming and methodical. Wang Zijin could disregard anyone but couldn’t help being wary of her. Moreover, the incident with Pei Bi had occurred not long ago—who knew what Empress Pei was thinking? The other party was attempting to provoke conflict between the Guo and Wang families, so she would definitely utilize every opportunity to put on acts before her. Though somewhat wary of Miss Guo, this was mixed with some admiration, but regarding Empress Pei’s behavior, Wang Zijin felt somewhat fearful.
Empress Pei smiled faintly. “I hear Miss Wang, besides excelling in music, chess, calligraphy and painting, is also very skilled at embroidery. I wonder if you could embroider a picture for me?”
Wang Zijin smiled as usual. “I don’t know what pattern Your Majesty wishes to have embroidered?”
Empress Pei smiled and rose, actually walking step by step to Wang Zijin’s side. That suddenly approaching imposing pressure made Wang Zijin’s heart involuntarily tighten. She subconsciously wanted to retreat. She had never had such a feeling before anyone, not even martial arts grandmasters had given her such a strong sense of oppression. This Empress Pei truly lived up to her reputation! Could she really gain any advantage in her hands? She dared not think further, lowering her head even more.
Empress Pei’s eyes rippled yet didn’t diminish in majesty. “Miss Wang has always lived in the mountains, presumably never appreciating the great rivers and mountains of Yuexi. However, this doesn’t matter. I have a map of Yuexi’s mountains and rivers here. I want it embroidered into a piece, to present to His Majesty on his birthday banquet. Miss Wang should be able to help me fulfill this wish, yes?”
Wang Zijin’s heart filled with doubts. The palace naturally had an embroidery workshop—why would the Empress want her to embroider this picture? But she dared not question Empress Pei’s thoughts, much less refuse. So she merely smiled and lowered her head. “This subject’s daughter has limited skills. I fear I cannot meet Your Majesty’s requirements.”
Her head was lowered very low, faint perspiration appearing on her fair forehead.
Empress Pei opened her mouth languidly, seeming nonchalant. “No matter. I believe your abilities should satisfy me.”
“Yes, this subject’s daughter obeys!” Wang Zijin answered carefully. Empress Pei suddenly glanced at Wang Zijin’s lowered eyes, saying with a half-smile, “You must have already met Miss Guo. What do you think of her?”
“Miss Guo is naturally extremely good.” Having finished this sentence, Wang Zijin lowered her head in silence. Empress Pei looked at the hairpin on her head, set among the cloud-like black hair, making it appear even more brilliantly radiant. She stared at that hairpin, lost in thought, then suddenly asked again, “His Majesty publicly arranged your marriage at the banquet, but unfortunately it was refused by Yuan Lie. Have you thought about your future?”
Wang Zijin’s heart jumped, yet she only said in a low voice, “This subject’s daughter is foolish and doesn’t understand Your Majesty’s meaning.”
Empress Pei suddenly laughed coldly, her expression becoming even more dignified. She turned and walked step by step back toward her seat. That long skirt train dragged on the ground, her footsteps very light, yet almost treading step by step on Wang Zijin’s heart. Empress Pei’s voice drifted over faintly. “A person rejected by Prince Xu—naturally other wealthy families dare not come seeking marriage, because they don’t know whether His Majesty has abandoned the idea of making you Prince Xu’s consort… Therefore, you’ve been back in the capital so long yet no one has come calling, correct?”
Wang Zijin grew increasingly surprised, ultimately only restraining herself. “Even if I never marry for life, Zijin can still maintain the family gate. Please rest assured, Your Majesty.”
The smile on Empress Pei’s lips lessened slightly. “Look at you, silly girl. Everyone gets lonely, especially an outstanding woman like you. Aren’t you afraid of having your life delayed?” Empress Pei looked at Wang Zijin’s expression with what seemed like pity, but her eyes held another incomprehensible light. “Well then, quickly embroider this mountains and rivers map and send it to me.” Having finished speaking, she waved her hand, indicating Wang Zijin could leave.
Wang Zijin held the mountains and rivers map in her hands, her heart’s anxiety still not subsiding. As she walked out of the Empress’s palace, she saw the Crown Prince approaching head-on. She quickly lowered her head in courtesy. The Crown Prince’s gaze lingered on Wang Zijin’s face for a moment before he smiled faintly and turned to enter. Wang Zijin turned back to look at this towering palace and those cold jade steps, unable to help but shudder.
Upon leaving the palace, Wang Qiong asked Wang Zijin, “What did the Empress say to you?”
Wang Zijin presented the mountains and rivers map. Wang Qiong glanced at it and slowly unrolled the map. But when the map reached its end, something suddenly fell out, landing on the carriage carpet with a flash of cold light. Wang Qiong paused, his long arm reaching out to pick up the dagger. In the sunlight, the dagger’s cold light flashed, making one’s heart pound with fear.
The map exhausted, the dagger revealed—these four characters immediately leaped into Wang Qiong’s mind. He looked at Wang Zijin, his expression extremely complex. “What does Her Majesty mean by this? Zijin, can you guess?”
Wang Zijin looked at that dagger and fell into deep thought. What she excelled at was astronomy and geography, military formations and arrays, not understanding human hearts. If it were Miss Guo, presumably she could understand Empress Pei’s true meaning? Thinking again of seeing the Crown Prince as she left, and his expression carrying three parts strangeness, Wang Zijin couldn’t help but lower her head. Empress Pei’s sudden summons, a landscape painting and a dagger—connecting all these events together… Thinking of Pei Bi’s sudden pardon, thinking again of Empress Pei’s pair of cold beautiful eyes, Wang Zijin inevitably felt her whole body turn ice-cold even in the sunlight.
Returning to the Wang residence, she heard people from the Guo family had come. A maidservant said in a low voice, “Miss, shall we go see Madam Guo and Miss Guo now?” Wang Zijin thought for a moment but shook her head. “They came to visit Princess Nankang and surely have things to discuss. After they finish visiting and come out, report to me and I’ll see them off.”
In Princess Nankang’s bedroom, Madam Guo saw the Princess’s expression increasingly haggard, her face thinner than before. Though she could now speak, she appeared extremely worn, causing Madam Guo to say gently, “Your Highness, are you not quite accustomed to life here? Because the wedding was rushed, no princess residence was specifically built. If Your Highness finds anything unsuitable, I’ll petition Noble Consort Hui to quickly complete the princess residence so you can move out earlier.”
Madam Guo thought Princess Nankang wasn’t accustomed to life here, but hearing this, Nankang’s delicate face suddenly turned deathly pale, seeming to show traces of fear and unease. Seeing this, Madam Guo quickly grasped her hand. “Nankang, there are no outsiders here. Is there something you cannot tell me?”
Li Weiyang had already driven away all the maidservants, but Princess Nankang’s expression remained extremely uneasy, clearly fearing walls had ears. Li Weiyang glanced at Zhao Yue and instructed softly, “Guard outside the door. If anyone wants to enter, just announce it.”
Zhao Yue responded and hurried out with her sword. Nankang watched Zhao Yue’s departing figure and only then seemed to relax. Even Zhao Yue, Li Weiyang’s trusted confidant, couldn’t be easily trusted by Princess Nankang—one could see how paranoid she had become. Li Weiyang thought of those trusted palace maids who were executed last time, unable to help but pity Princess Nankang’s fate. It seemed the Emperor wasn’t prepared to seek justice for her, nor did he care at all about this daughter’s life or death. He married her to Wang Yan—once that purpose was achieved, her existence had no further meaning.
Facing Madam Guo and Li Weiyang, Princess Nankang couldn’t help but shed tears. Madam Guo quickly said, “Nankang, what exactly happened? Tell me honestly!”
Nankang said in a low voice, “It’s Wang Yan, Wang Yan he…”
Her words incomplete, Madam Guo furrowed her brow. “What about the Prince Consort?”
Princess Nankang’s voice was intermittent. “From the wedding night onward, he hasn’t stepped foot in my chamber. These days I’ve been recuperating so I didn’t pay special attention, but later I learned he already has a mistress outside, and moreover, that woman receives his complete devotion. Yesterday he already proposed to immediately bring that woman into the household as a concubine. Though I was surprised, I also felt it improper, only saying this matter couldn’t proceed immediately. Even if he wants to take a concubine, he should wait half a year.”
Li Weiyang felt Princess Nankang was right. As Her Highness the Princess, the Prince Consort taking a concubine required her consent, and there was absolutely no precedent of openly taking a concubine just one month after the new wife entered. Wang Yan was being too hasty. Moreover, Princess Nankang hadn’t flatly refused, only asking him to wait another half year—this wasn’t any major issue.
Yet she heard Princess Nankang continue mournfully, “But not only would he not agree, he said I violated proper conduct.” Madam Guo couldn’t help but furrow her brow even tighter. “What does he mean by ‘violated proper conduct’? Has he lost his mind!”
Princess Nankang’s eyes filled with shame and resentment. Li Weiyang had never seen the usually delicate and innocent Princess show such an expression. She heard her say in a low voice, “He said that day I was already kidnapped, and who knows if I’m still pure…”
Hearing this, Madam Guo flew into a rage. “That insolent wretch! To say such words—does the Wang family have such audacity! Do Wang Qiong and the others know?”
The Wang Qiong Madam Guo mentioned was naturally the General Who Pacifies the East. Princess Nankang quickly said, “You cannot tell them. These days, my sister-in-law has cared for me wholeheartedly. She’s also advised her brother many times, but unfortunately Wang Yan won’t listen to advice. Now I can only blame Father Emperor for choosing the wrong husband for me! Moreover, Wang Yan threatened me, saying if I dare tell others about this, he’ll tell everyone what kind of wife he married and how I lost his face on our wedding night!”
Princess Nankang didn’t finish—at the time, Wang Yan spoke extremely harshly, saying things like “withered flower and wilted willow,” “violating proper conduct”—whatever was ugly he said. Nankang didn’t want the imperial family’s face swept away, nor did she want Noble Consort Guo Hui shamed. She was Noble Consort Guo Hui’s adopted daughter—her every action would make people associate it with the Noble Consort. She could suffer some grievance, after all it was just choosing the wrong person to trust, but she absolutely couldn’t let people think Noble Consort Hui’s discipline was lax.
Li Weiyang had previously not particularly liked Princess Nankang because she was too naive and simple. But now seeing she had understood, yet was in such a state, she couldn’t help but sigh softly. Having chosen the wrong husband—this problem would persist until Princess Nankang’s death, an inescapable burden for her entire life.
Nankang shook her head. “Facing such a person, I can neither eat nor sleep. Had I known it would be like this, I’d rather die than suffer this torment!”
Madam Guo had always been an optimistic and cheerful person. Seeing Princess Nankang’s eyes full of despair, seeming to have thoughts of death, she said in great alarm, “Jia’er, listen to what she’s saying! If Noble Consort Hui knew, how heartbroken she would be!”
Li Weiyang said in a low voice, “Nankang, as a woman, you must understand how to think and weigh consequences. Think about it—this marriage was bestowed by His Majesty. It’s not your fault. Don’t put all the blame on yourself.”
Princess Nankang covered her face in pain. “But once this matter spreads, I’ll be disgraced.” She spoke of being kidnapped on her wedding night. At the time, those present were all court dignitaries. Afterward, the Wang family sent gifts to each household. These people, receiving unexpected wealth and knowing the Wang family’s intentions, and knowing it involved the imperial family, restrained their servants as much as possible, not allowing them to spread this matter to outsiders… Even so, there were still some rumors, but fortunately the Wang and Guo families suppressed them in time, so these rumors didn’t spread too absurdly. At least the common people didn’t know. But if Wang Yan went to teahouses and wine shops to talk about it, who knows how ugly the rumors would become…
Li Weiyang furrowed her brow, her eyes cold. “Princess Nankang, why must you wallow in sorrow? Is Wang Yan worth your pain? That kind of person has absolutely no value! You needn’t be heartbroken and disappointed for him. There are many other people who care for you and love you. Seeing you sad, they’ll be very worried. Like my mother, like Prince Jing, and Noble Consort Hui—she sends people three times a day to ask after your wellbeing. Don’t you pity her devoted heart?”
Princess Nankang raised her head to look at Li Weiyang. She didn’t know why the other could be so composed facing anything, completely fearless. She lowered her head and finally threw herself into Madam Guo’s embrace, crying aloud. Li Weiyang didn’t like seeing tears. She turned to walk out of the room and saw Wang Zijin walking this way. Li Weiyang looked at Wang Zijin, her expression cold. “Miss Wang, are you aware of your brother’s behavior?”
Wang Zijin’s face reddened. Li Weiyang immediately understood. She said indifferently, “Princess Nankang still thinks she’s kept it hidden, but you know everything. How does your Wang residence plan to handle this matter?”
Wang Zijin was extremely troubled. In any other matter she could give Li Weiyang a guarantee, but her brother was truly too incompetent. Though he was skilled in both civil and martial arts, his mind simply didn’t work well and his temperament was stubborn. She had already advised him several times but, limited by her position, couldn’t directly manage him. Father was busy with military affairs and truly couldn’t attend to this, so she could only try her best to care for Princess Nankang and prevent the matter from developing more seriously.
Li Weiyang’s eyes were like ice-cold sharp blades. “The Princess is after all of noble imperial blood. Even if His Majesty doesn’t favor her, her status remains supremely noble. If she develops thoughts of death… once someone spreads this matter as rumor, your Wang family won’t just have failed to protect her—you’ll also have the crime of driving the Princess to death!”
Wang Zijin looked at Li Weiyang, unable to help but sigh softly. “I understand Miss Guo’s meaning. I’ll report this matter to Father as quickly as possible and give the Guo family a proper resolution.”
Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “Miss Wang, you’re mistaken. Your actions aren’t to give the Guo family an explanation, but for your own sake! Master Wang’s behavior likely has interested parties manipulating things behind the scenes. I advise you to carefully watch the people around him and not let others exploit any openings!”
Wang Zijin only felt a coldness extend from the soles of her feet straight to the top of her head, gradually making her entire body turn cold. She looked at Li Weiyang. “What does Miss Guo mean by this?” Li Weiyang’s expression was as usual, gentle and tranquil. “Doesn’t Miss Wang know what the identity truly is of that mistress your brother has taken?”
Hearing this, Wang Zijin couldn’t help but furrow her brow tightly. She had inquired beforehand—that woman came from a clean family background, just a simple refined girl with nothing particularly remarkable. That was why she hadn’t interfered excessively. After all, this was her brother’s private matter, and as a younger sister, she couldn’t be too excessive. But hearing Li Weiyang speak with such implication, she said, “You mean that woman has someone behind her inciting things?”
The corners of Li Weiyang’s thin lips curved upward, revealing a mocking arc. “It seems Empress Pei has started casting her net again. Only this time, I don’t know if the fish she wants to catch is surnamed Wang or surnamed Guo?”
Their eyes collided like cold blades clashing—everything instantly became clear.
On Li Weiyang’s jade-white face, her jet-black eyes were coldly stern. Though smiling, she ultimately couldn’t conceal that killing aura. Her face appeared so young, yet her eyes were calm and steady. Wang Zijin only felt the other’s voice contained laughter, yet hearing it in her ears, it was so obviously cold. Her expression became grave. She didn’t want the Wang family to become cannon fodder in the struggle between the Guo family and Empress Pei, much less for the Wang family to become chess pieces in Empress Pei’s hands! Though she harbored thoughts of competing with Miss Guo, there was no need to place the other in mortal danger, much less commit the Wang family’s full strength… After a long while, her expression heavy, she said, “Miss Guo, rest assured. I will definitely investigate this matter thoroughly.”