The matter of Ninth Concubine had not yet concluded when the Old Madam fell ill.

First Madam diligently attended to her bedside, pouring tea and water, inquiring after her well-being with warm concern. Even when the Old Madam gave her cold looks, she remained dignified and attentive, exceedingly solicitous—though in everyone else’s eyes, this carried quite a different flavor.

First Madam personally watched someone go prepare the medicine. The Old Madam summoned Li Weiyang to her side and said, “What performance is she putting on now?”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. “Old Madam, please set your mind at ease. Perhaps Mother sees that eldest brother and sister have grown up now, and she’s become more understanding—she probably doesn’t want to keep quarreling with you.”

Since the witchcraft incident, the Old Madam understood very well that while her eldest daughter-in-law said nothing, she harbored deep resentment in her heart. Though she still smiled on the surface, she cursed the Old Madam to die quickly behind her back. Now with such excessive attentiveness, it involuntarily made one’s scalp tingle. Hearing Li Weiyang’s words, after thinking carefully, she realized: “I truly care for those two children, but they’re both so disappointing. Minfeng is one thing—he can be properly taught in the future and married to a good wife—but Changle is truly beyond excuse! Usually she’s so picky and critical, thinking I’m interfering, but she doesn’t consider what Changle has done. If I hadn’t worked hard to cover for her, it would have caused an uproar throughout the city long ago!”

The Old Madam coughed violently twice after saying this.

Li Weiyang quickly went to pat her back, saying unhurriedly, “Mother must be anxious. Elder sister is fifteen this year, exactly the right age for marriage discussions. If she wants to climb to the imperial family in the future, she’ll inevitably need the Old Madam’s mediation.”

With all those incidents Li Changle had caused, her reputation was already poor. According to the Old Madam’s thinking, she should just marry into an ordinary official family. With the Prime Minister’s residence backing her, no one would slight her, and she’d have good days ahead. But this mother and daughter insisted on clinging to the imperial family. The Li family was already wealthy enough—what need was there to curry favor with dragons and phoenixes? One misstep and they’d lose everything trying to catch a chicken. This mother and daughter still lacked discernment, shallow in their vision. The Old Madam felt displeased and said to Nanny Luo, “Find some way to send her away later. I don’t want to see her.”

Nanny Luo smiled placatingly. “Old Madam, calm your anger. The master will come to visit you shortly.”

The Old Madam snorted coldly. “Our Li family truly doesn’t know what malevolent star we’ve offended. Ah, a beauty bringing disaster—recently, anything involving that girl always leads to unrest!” She suddenly stopped alertly, looking somewhat awkwardly at Li Weiyang. “Oh, saying these things, you must find it tiresome. Never mind, I shouldn’t burden a child with such complaints.”

Li Weiyang picked up a bowl of porridge from the exquisite tray beside her, smiling as she said, “That doesn’t matter at all. As long as you want to talk, I’ll listen obediently. You can pour out all your troubles to me, just like a thorough cleaning—when you’re done talking, you’ll feel better and be unburdened.”

The Old Madam couldn’t help but laugh. “If only it were that simple!” Thinking further, she sighed with emotion. “At my age, I’ve weathered quite a few storms, yet matters concerning children and grandchildren leave me feeling powerless. Alas!”

Li Weiyang gently blew on the porridge, her words also cautious. “Old Madam, you hold the highest position and are the most important person in the household. Nothing matters more than your health. As long as you’re strong and healthy, your good fortune will naturally protect your children and grandchildren, like a lucky star shining bright—what need is there to worry?”

The Old Madam’s heart bloomed with joy, looking at Li Weiyang with a smile. “Look at that sweet mouth of yours!”

Elderly people naturally need to be coaxed. Even the Empress Dowager hadn’t been difficult to manage—how much less the Li family’s Old Madam? Li Weiyang handed the bowl to the Old Madam, coaxing with a bright smile, “Speaking of sweet, my mouth can’t compare to this bowl of osmanthus and red date sweet soup. Try it quickly.”

The soup was indeed fragrant and sweet. The Old Madam ate while smiling.

Just then the curtain lifted and Li Xiaoran entered. Li Weiyang quickly stood to bow to him. Li Xiaoran nodded, then said to the Old Madam, “Are you feeling better, Old Madam?”

“If that daughter-in-law of yours would stop making me sick, I’d be fine.” The Old Madam’s face darkened as she immediately set down the bowl, her tone unfriendly. Then remembering Li Weiyang was present and it wouldn’t be proper to speak too bluntly, she coughed once and said no more.

Though Li Xiaoran felt awkward, he also felt somewhat more aversion toward First Madam, but couldn’t show it. He smiled and said, “Old Madam should focus on recuperating. Your son will handle everything else.”

The Old Madam sighed, ultimately saying nothing more. Just then, First Madam personally brought in the medicine bowl, her face full of gentleness, delivering it right to the Old Madam’s bedside. Nanny Luo knew the Old Madam didn’t want to see her and quickly took it, saying, “We dare not trouble Madam.”

“As a daughter-in-law, caring for the Old Madam is my duty.” First Madam smiled, then looked at Li Xiaoran. “Master, you’ve returned.”

Li Xiaoran’s expression remained calm, showing neither joy nor anger. “Madam has worked hard.”

First Madam smiled. “This is what I should do. Master need not be so formal.”

This couple appeared no different from usual, but Li Weiyang knew that Li Xiaoran hadn’t entered First Madam’s chambers for two months. In such noble households, a master could have three wives and four concubines, countless beauties, but he absolutely couldn’t neglect his proper wife for half a month or more—that would be extremely disrespectful. For the past ten years, Li Xiaoran had consistently spent five or six days each month in First Madam’s rooms. Now this pattern had changed. On the surface it seemed like nothing, but actually… it was a very dangerous signal.

Li Weiyang lowered her long lashes as if knowing nothing.

First Madam continued, “Master, the day after tomorrow I’m going to Puji Temple to pray for the Old Madam’s blessing. I plan to take all the daughters along to refresh their spirits.”

Li Weiyang raised her eyes, glancing at First Madam, but found her expression calm, revealing nothing of her thoughts.

Praying for the Old Madam’s blessing naturally meant seeking blessings for her. First Madam’s words were reasonable enough. Li Xiaoran showed no intention of stopping her. “Who do you plan to take?”

First Madam smiled. “Changle, Weiyang, and the sisters Changxi—if Second Madam is willing to go, I’ll bring her along too. Though Puji Temple isn’t far, it’s good to have more people for mutual support.”

Generally, though noble ladies weren’t confined to the point of never leaving the house, they had few opportunities to go out, and occasions to appear in public were limited. The saying “never stepping beyond the gates” wasn’t entirely accurate, but not far from reality. However, visiting temples to offer incense was an exception—not only was it perfectly proper, it was commonplace. So First Madam’s suggestion to bring the household daughters wasn’t strange at all.

But Li Weiyang still felt something indefinably odd about it. If First Madam wanted to use this opportunity to get out and relax, bringing Li Changle would suffice—why would she suddenly be so kind as to bring her along too? Wasn’t she afraid Li Weiyang would cause trouble? Or perhaps this trip had another purpose? No, that wasn’t right. Puji Temple was a monastery built during the previous dynasty that later fell into ruin and was rebuilt by the current emperor. Since its reconstruction, incense offerings had been extremely prosperous. Not to mention passing literati, travelers, merchants, and examination candidates—even the capital’s imperial relatives and high officials frequently went to burn incense and worship Buddha. If First Madam wanted to do something, she couldn’t possibly make moves under everyone’s eyes.

Could it be she was just speaking casually, or had her conscience suddenly awakened and she decided to treat her better?

Li Weiyang found the thought absurd even as she had it.

A dog couldn’t stop eating filth—First Madam definitely had no good intentions. Thinking this, she smiled. “Mother, someone should stay to care for the Old Madam. I’ll remain behind.”

First Madam glanced at Li Weiyang and smiled. “What a filial child. Very well then.”

She didn’t insist? Li Weiyang was slightly surprised. If First Madam truly planned to do something on the road, she should have insisted on bringing her along.

But Li Xiaoran felt this wasn’t proper. If the Li family women went to offer incense and Li Weiyang alone was absent, what would others think? Wouldn’t it confirm rumors that they mistreated their concubine-born daughter, damaging the family’s reputation? He thought for a moment and said, “Others will be with the Old Madam. Weiyang, you should go with your mother to refresh yourself too.”

Li Weiyang replied softly, “Yes.”

First Madam smiled faintly, concealing the satisfaction at her lips. The Li family naturally wouldn’t let Li Weiyang stay behind alone—that would sound terrible if word got out.

The Old Madam glanced at them coolly. “Send plenty of attendants. Don’t let anything happen.”

“Yes. Puji Temple has flourishing incense offerings, and many ladies come to worship. I’ll also send more guards to prevent unrelated people from causing disturbances. Old Madam, please be at ease.”

The Old Madam nodded and said no more.

That evening, Li Weiyang heard that Second Madam had declined to go, saying she needed to return to her natal home to visit her elderly father. Then Fourth Concubine, feeling uneasy, ran to First Madam requesting to accompany them, and was naturally granted permission. With Fourth Concubine going, Li Xiaoran naturally felt he couldn’t slight the beautiful Ninth Concubine, letting her go along as well. Only Sixth Concubine, who had recently caught a chill, and unfavored Seventh Concubine couldn’t accompany them.

Until departure, Ninth Concubine behaved properly and didn’t mention that matter to Li Weiyang again. However, she kept visiting Seventh Concubine’s courtyard every few days, sometimes deliberately creating opportunities to encounter Li Weiyang. Each time was in public, so Li Weiyang remained indifferent, but secretly kept having Qiuju monitor Ninth Concubine’s movements.

On the fifteenth day, the Prime Minister’s residence gates were crowded with carriages and horses. Servants busily prepared everything the masters needed for their prayers, working themselves ragged. Before dawn, everything was ready. Soon First Madam emerged, sharing an emerald-canopied, pearl-tasseled, eight-treasure carriage with Li Changle. Li Weiyang, Li Changxi, and Li Changxiao shared a vermilion-wheeled, canopied carriage. Fourth Concubine and Ninth Concubine took the rear carriage with blue oiled canvas. Behind them, maids and nannies either followed the carriages or walked, a dark mass occupying an entire street…

People watching from afar couldn’t help but exclaim in surprise: “Whose carriages are these? Such grand display!”

“It’s Prime Minister Li’s wife bringing the young ladies to offer incense!”

“Ah? The young ladies? Does that mean we can see that incredibly beautiful eldest miss?”

“What incredibly beautiful—she’s a disaster! Last time her reckless advice caused the refugee riot. She’s practically a calamity star!”

“Exactly. Where are they going?”

“Looking at this direction, they’re heading to Puji Temple!”

In the crowd, one or two spies heard the discussion, observed the carriages’ direction, then quickly disappeared into the crowd, rushing to report to their respective masters.

Inside the carriage, Li Changxi stared coldly at Li Weiyang, saying nothing.

Li Changxiao spoke first, her voice soft and weak. “Third Sister, we haven’t seen each other in several days.”

Though they lived in the same household, Li Changxi bore resentment toward Li Weiyang, making Li Changxiao afraid to get too close to her. In her heart, she actually quite liked this third sister whose outward appearance was gentle but whose inner strength was incomparably firm. There was a universal pattern in this world—people generally disliked those similar to themselves and preferred what they lacked. Precisely because Li Changxiao was weak-natured and bullied by others, while Li Weiyang refused to bend and was extremely resolute, Li Changxiao had always admired her. Having endured First Madam’s abuse for so many years, only Li Weiyang dared to trip up First Madam and still live well to this day—this commanded her respect!

“Yes, Fourth Sister usually spends her time embroidering in the garden. In the future when you have time, feel free to visit my courtyard.”

Li Weiyang smiled warmly.

Li Changxi laughed coldly. “Forget it. We don’t want to be implicated by you.”

Her meaning was clear—when First Madam dealt with Li Weiyang later, they didn’t want to be mistaken for her allies.

Li Weiyang laughed. “Whether you’re implicated or not, I don’t know. But if not for Fourth Concubine’s desperate effort last time, Fifth Sister would have married into Duke Rongguo’s household. I thought you’d be grateful to your mother and me, but seeing you speak this way, you clearly don’t appreciate it. Don’t tell me you actually fancied that Cheng Lin?”

Li Changxi’s face paled. After returning last time, she’d learned why Fourth Concubine had risked offending First Madam to help Li Weiyang with the placenta scheme—in the end, it was merely mutual benefit. Most importantly, she could avoid marrying a wastrel son. But so what? Now her appearance had become this wretched—even though Father had promised not to marry her off casually, which noble family would want her? Thinking this, her throat felt stuffed with cotton, unable to speak a word.

Li Weiyang knew perfectly well what she was thinking, but said nothing more. Some people were forever muddled—no matter how much she said, they’d treat it as wind past the ear.

Li Changxiao looked at the calm-faced Li Weiyang, unable to help asking what she’d long wanted to ask but never had the chance: “I heard that last time, it was Seventh Prince who saved elder sister.”

This was the official story. Li Weiyang smiled. “That’s correct.”

Li Changxi raised her eyes, clearly showing a trace of jealous resentment. She truly didn’t understand why Li Weiyang had such good fortune!

Li Changxiao nodded. “I heard Princess Yongning sympathized with your fright—not only did she take you in for the night, she specially sent people to escort you home, and afterward sent many gifts to calm your nerves. Elder sister has turned misfortune into blessing. People say surviving great disaster brings future fortune—elder sister will surely have good luck ahead.”

Li Changxi snorted from her nose. “What great luck! Fourth Sister, don’t you find it suspicious? Where does all this good fortune to squander come from? Perhaps some people are born with demonic arts!”

Li Weiyang smiled, the amusement in her eyes serene as pearl radiance, gentle yet showing hidden sharpness. “Fifth Sister, I truly admire you. Since I have demonic arts, yet you rush forward to provoke me—you really aren’t afraid of death!”

Li Changxi choked with anger, retorting, “If you don’t have demonic arts, how did you trick Seventh Prince into saving you!”

Li Changxiao quickly scolded, “Don’t speak nonsense!”

Li Weiyang paid no attention, only smiling faintly. “For that, you’ll have to ask Seventh Prince.” Then she closed her eyes to rest, and no matter how Li Changxi provoked her, she wouldn’t engage in verbal sparring.

The current abbot of Puji Temple was over eighty years old. Before becoming a monk, he had been a learned scholar, well-versed in classics, brilliantly talented. However, after experiencing many hardships and a rough life, he saw through worldly affairs and took monastic vows. Now presiding over this temple, devoted to Buddha, he had become a highly respected senior monk.

Knowing the Prime Minister’s residence was coming to worship Buddha, the old abbot led the guest monks to personally greet them at the mountain gate.

First Madam descended from the carriage, supported by a maid. Looking up toward the mountain gate, she saw the abbot wearing a large red hundred-patch kasaya embroidered with gold thread, leading the monks before the gate. The display could indeed be called sufficiently grand, attracting onlookers from around Puji Temple.

Seeing First Madam approach, the abbot stepped forward, pressing palms together in salute. “Amitabha! The Prime Minister’s wife honors this mountain temple with her presence—we are most honored! This old monk was late in welcoming you. Please forgive us, Madam!”

First Madam quickly returned the courtesy. “How presumptuous! Master is an enlightened senior monk. To trouble you to greet us—we truly dare not accept such honor.”

The abbot said, “Madam has had a tiring journey. Please enter the temple for tea!”

First Madam nodded, instructing, “Have the young ladies in the rear carriages descend.”

The maids immediately came forward, lowering the steps and waiting outside the carriage doors. Li Changle, veiled, descended first. She walked with graceful lotus steps, swaying her slender waist, moving with ethereal elegance. Everyone felt their eyes brighten, wondering if a celestial maiden had descended from her lotus throne to relieve suffering and save all beings. Though they couldn’t see the young lady’s true face, based on this attire and figure alone, it drew exclamations from all. Thinking this was the Li family’s only young lady, they were surprised when another carriage produced three more veiled, gracefully-figured young ladies. For a moment, the crowd surged, all competing to glimpse the Prime Minister’s daughters. Among them were no shortage of wastrel sons from noble families who came specifically to gawk, though unfortunately the young ladies all wore veils, their features indistinct—one could only tell they were all beauties without knowing their actual appearances.

They entered the temple all the way, isolating the outside clamor. The abbot said, “We’ve prepared a courtyard for Madam and the young ladies. The buildings are quite spacious, the location secluded, separated from the small temple by walls—absolutely no idle people will disturb you.”

First Madam smiled. “Thank you for your consideration, Master.”

This prayer visit would require staying at Puji Temple for three full days, so Li Xiaoran had sent many guards to specifically surround the courtyard where the women stayed, ensuring their safety. Actually this was excessive worry—whenever noble ladies came to offer incense at Puji Temple, the temple would be closed to others. Ordinary outsiders couldn’t enter at all, so disturbance was impossible.

First Madam requested a special meditation chamber for chanting sutras, then instructed the others to rest in the courtyard first.

Li Changle smiled at Li Weiyang. “Third Sister, shall we go look at the courtyard?”

Li Weiyang quite admired this eldest sister—at this moment she could still be pleasant and harmonious. However, this also showed her enemy was growing stronger step by step. She smiled and nodded. “Eldest Sister, please go first.”

Looking at their smiling faces, Li Changxi only felt chills and quickly pulled Li Changxiao away.

The courtyard was located behind the sutra library, facing south with walls over ten feet high on all sides, completely isolating outside noise. Outside the courtyard was a large garden, surrounded by lush trees, flourishing flowers and plants, unusual rocks and artificial mountains, winding paths leading to secluded places—sufficient for nurturing the heart and spirit. Nanny Lin was directing maids to carry in the young ladies’ temporary luggage, the courtyard bustling with activity.

Seeing the young ladies enter, Nanny Lin quickly came to bow. “Eldest Miss, this courtyard has one main hall, four side rooms, plus seven or eight ear rooms. Look, naturally the main hall is for Madam. Of the four side rooms, Eldest Miss, you take one, Third Miss one. We must trouble Third Miss and Fourth Miss to share one, and Fourth Concubine and Ninth Concubine to share one.” As she spoke, her eyes glanced at Fourth Concubine.

Fourth Concubine smiled. “What trouble is that? When traveling, we shouldn’t make difficulties over small matters and trouble the abbot.”

Ninth Concubine’s expression remained calm, showing no objection either.

Li Weiyang looked up. This courtyard only received noble guests coming to worship at the temple. The old abbot had people clean it daily, so it now appeared very elegant and spotless. In the courtyard’s open area was a pebbled path paved with colored stones. Before the great hall stood two pine trees, gnarled and upright, full of vitality. Facing the entrance was the main hall. From outside the door one could see an altar table facing the door, with a hanging scroll of White-Robed Guanyin in the center. Beside it sat a rosewood incense burner, flanked by a pair of white bronze candlesticks and a three-color large vase holding a white jade-handled whisk. Before the altar lay a red felt mat with a meditation cushion—probably prepared for residents to worship Buddha.

The maids were busily organizing things inside and out. Li Changle smiled. “Then I’ll go to my room first. Everyone please feel free.” With that, she chose the best sunny-side room to stay in.

Li Changxi snorted coldly. “Fourth Sister, let’s stay in that one!” Without waiting for Li Weiyang’s response, she pulled Li Changxiao to select another room.

Fourth Concubine smiled. “Of the remaining two, one south and one north—County Princess, please choose first.”

Li Weiyang glanced at the ever-silent Ninth Concubine, saying indifferently, “You two concubines choose. I’ll take whichever remains.” Then she said to the maids, “Mozhu, after the concubines have chosen, go arrange the room. Baizhi, accompany me for a walk.”

Li Weiyang led Baizhi out of the busy courtyard. Baizhi said indignantly, “Miss, they’ve taken all the best rooms!”

Li Weiyang laughed. “They’re all side rooms with the same layout—there’s no real difference in quality. Why fuss over such trifles?”

Even now, she didn’t know what purpose First Madam had in insisting on coming to meditate and worship Buddha. So she had no mind to entangle with petty people over such matters.

Li Weiyang casually removed her veil. Unlike the others who dressed themselves elaborately, she wore homely attire—her dark hair coiled in a spiral bun, secured with an emerald jade hairpin, lightly powdered, her brows delicately drawn, wearing a light green dress that made her appear even more refined and elegant, calm as a chrysanthemum.

As she reviewed the entire situation in her mind, she left the courtyard, following the winding pebbled path. She saw spring’s lingering beauty, falling petals everywhere, peach blossoms drifting to the ground—truly an indescribably beautiful scene. Just then, Baizhi said, “Miss, that maid followed us too.”

Li Weiyang looked back to see Zhao Yue in ordinary maid’s clothing, standing not far away, eyes lowered.

Li Weiyang smiled. This maid was quite interesting. Li Minde had tasked her with protecting Li Weiyang, so she followed closely every day, watching the courtyard, fearing any mishap. However, Li Weiyang had once deliberately ordered her to serve tea and saw thick calluses on her palms—clearly this maid practiced with swords and weapons, though her actual martial arts level was unknown.

Li Weiyang was just thinking of finding an opportunity to test this maid’s skills when she suddenly heard Zhao Yue shout, “Who’s there!”

In mere moments, quick as lightning, Zhao Yue had drawn the soft sword from her waist. Normally her soft sword was coiled around her waist, appearing no different from an ordinary belt, but now drawn out, it gleamed with cold light. Without waiting for Li Weiyang’s orders, she charged straight at the newcomer.

The young man emerging from the woods clearly hadn’t expected this maid to know martial arts. His movements were also extraordinarily quick—with a turn of his folding fan, he had already avoided the fierce sword strike. Baizhi cried out in alarm, but Li Weiyang gestured for her to remain silent.

This was a perfect opportunity to see Zhao Yue’s actual abilities.

Li Weiyang watched from afar, seeing only flashing sword light and hearing several sounds cutting through air as Zhao Yue struck seven consecutive sword thrusts. These seven strikes were both rapid and swift, targeting vital points on the human body without exception. The other person actually used a fan to defend. Sword shadows and fan wind flashed back and forth like lightning—though no sound of clashing weapons could be heard, it was an intense silent battle. If the young man’s movements slowed even slightly, he would certainly suffer serious injury. Yet his evasive movements grew faster and faster, while he laughed, “The County Princess’s attendant is truly formidable!”

Baizhi watched the two fighting, truly breaking into a cold sweat. “Miss, really no need to stop them?”

Li Weiyang smiled. “It’s fine. Just watch.”

Zhao Yue, a slender girl, displayed sword techniques of unimaginable speed, her opening move immediately overwhelming like the sky and earth collapsing. Her swift sword style was quick and agile, forming its own school. Once her sword momentum deployed, it was fast as a gale, fierce as rushing thunder—almost every move was a reckless all-out attack, her imposing manner pressing forward relentlessly. But under her wave after wave of increasingly fierce attacks, the opponent displayed an ease of complete control. Li Weiyang saw very clearly—Zhao Yue’s sword had repeatedly thrust toward the young man’s vital points, all blocked by that fan. Between offense and defense, the two remained deadlocked!

“County Princess, you’re truly ungrateful!” The young man’s lips curved in a smile. He swung his sleeves, took several wrong steps, his form flowing like clouds and water. With a slight sidestep avoiding Zhao Yue’s fierce sword momentum, when both stood still, he was already behind Zhao Yue.

Zhao Yue’s expression remained unchanged as she turned to continue attacking. The young man showed no panic, his footwork ethereal. In the blink of an eye he had retreated a foot away. With a “clang,” Zhao Yue’s long sword was somehow flicked away by the light fan! Zhao Yue’s face paled. Having practiced martial arts since childhood, she had always been proud. Never had she suffered such a setback. She stood stunned, about to attack again when Li Weiyang called out, “Yue’er, don’t be rude! This is Seventh Prince!”

Zhao Yue was shocked, immediately stopping, looking uncertainly at the handsome young man before her.

This person wore blue robes, his jet-black hair bound with a purple-gold crown featuring twin dragons contending for a pearl, with an extremely rare South Sea pearl embedded in the center. His features were handsome, yet his eyes radiated a moonlight-like pure and tranquil glow. The coldness emanating from his very bones isolated him from the mortal world, bright and dazzling, almost blinding. However, the smile he wore now was unprecedented—if an outsider saw it, they would certainly be amazed that Seventh Prince could show such an expression.

“Is this how the County Princess treats guests?” Tuoba Yu walked over smiling, shaking out a tear in his sleeve.

Li Weiyang ignored this. “If Seventh Prince hadn’t been hiding and lurking, my maid wouldn’t have mistaken you for a lecherous scoundrel!” In other words, you were sneaking around watching—who else is to blame?

“Oh, so it’s my fault?” Tuoba Yu’s face showed indeterminate emotions, seeming to smile yet not smile.

If it were anyone else, they would already be kneeling in terror begging forgiveness. But Li Weiyang didn’t accept this approach. “Your Highness, you’re an imperial prince, naturally magnanimous enough to tolerate the world’s difficult matters. How could you blame us for such an unintentional mistake? Don’t you agree?”

Tuoba Yu looked at her eyes, deep as an ancient well yet full of mischief, and couldn’t help laughing at himself. “I originally came in good faith to check if the County Princess was safe. It seems I was meddling unnecessarily.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. “Speaking of this matter, I haven’t thanked you in person yet.”

Tuoba Yu clearly didn’t care. “It’s merely returning a favor. If the County Princess hadn’t helped me first, I wouldn’t have intervened.” Then he moved closer, his focused gaze asking, “Have you discovered who attacked that day?”

Li Weiyang shook her head. “The people Your Highness captured all committed suicide by poison. Minde and I fled on horseback and got lost in the woods, only finding our way out by morning. Because we looked so disheveled, I had no choice but to seek your help.”

Tuoba Yu smiled, cutting straight to the point. “County Princess, I thought we were already friends. Why won’t you tell me the truth?”

Li Weiyang raised her eyebrows. “How do you know I’m not telling the truth?”

Tuoba Yu couldn’t help quietly clenching his fist, the pain of nails digging into flesh helping him calm down slightly. He didn’t know when—perhaps from their first meeting—this seemingly docile but secretly cunning young lady had entered his field of vision. Later reuniting in the capital, perhaps out of curiosity, perhaps fondness, or perhaps simply because life was too calm and boring, his gaze had unconsciously begun following that beautiful figure. But now he realized she actually hadn’t noticed him at all. Moreover, she merely treated him as someone to be used.

One could imagine that when she first helped him, it was only mutual exploitation. This was certainly an obvious fact from the start, but Tuoba Yu still felt somewhat displeased. Perhaps because he’d been praised and flattered for too long, suddenly encountering a young lady who paid him no mind, even concealing her true reasons from him, he couldn’t help but be astonished.

Meanwhile, Tuoba Zhen had also arrived at the temple. The old abbot hastily came out to greet him. Tuoba Zhen smiled. “No need for excessive courtesy. I’ve merely come to worship Buddha—no need to disturb so many people.”

Being an imperial prince after all, the old abbot still dared not be negligent, quickly instructing someone to guide him inside.

Tuoba Zhen followed along into the temple interior. The novice guiding him said, “Your Highness, this is the Hall of Heavenly Kings.”

Tuoba Zhen looked up to see the four Heavenly Kings, glaring fiercely with terrifying expressions. On the hall pillars hung a couplet—the upper line read “Favorable Wind and Timely Rain,” the lower “Nation Prosperous and People at Peace.”

He smiled faintly, then continued walking forward. The novice said, “Ahead is the Arhat Hall.”

But Tuoba Zhen neither worshiped Buddha nor offered incense, asking as if casually, “I heard Prime Minister Li’s family members are also at the temple?”

The novice was startled, then after observing his expression, respectfully replied, “Yes. Lady Li brought several young ladies—they’re all at the temple.”

“Oh? Which young ladies?” Tuoba Zhen twisted the jade thumb ring on his hand as he asked.

The novice hadn’t expected such detailed questions, replying carefully, “This… forgive this young monk for not knowing clearly.”

Seeing his guarded expression, Tuoba Zhen couldn’t help laughing. “Don’t worry, Master. I’m old acquaintances with Prime Minister Li. Having entered the temple, there’s no reason not to pay a visit. Please lead the way—I’ll go see Lady Li.”

The novice had been worried about strange intentions, but seeing he only wanted to visit Lady Li, he relaxed. “Your Highness, this way please.” As he walked, he thought to himself—what was happening today? First Seventh Prince arrived without anyone knowing, now Third Prince had come. Were these princes gathering together or what? Suddenly remembering the cluster of flower-like young ladies from the Li family at the mountain gate earlier, the novice couldn’t help sighing—feminine charms misleading people!

Tuoba Zhen didn’t know his thoughts, maintaining a smile as he followed the novice forward.

By this time, Li Weiyang and Tuoba Yu had already left the garden, walking toward the Arhat Hall. On both sides of the Arhat Hall entrance also hung a couplet. The upper line read: “Five hundred arhats—count carefully, is it fortune or misfortune?” The lower line: “Three thousand worlds—see clearly, is it illusion or reality?” Entering to look, the five hundred arhats were arranged in perfect order, some fierce, some benevolent, each with different expressions and postures. Li Weiyang gazed at these arhats with apparent interest.

“County Princess, the gold, silver, and jewels Father Emperor bestowed on you—aside from those immovable assets, you’ve used quite a lot of the rest, haven’t you?” Tuoba Yu suddenly said.

Li Weiyang hadn’t expected him to suddenly mention this, couldn’t help turning her head, her dark eyes showing a trace of faint surprise.

Tuoba Yu smiled. “To contend with your legitimate mother, what you need most is connections, and these connections mostly require money to establish. That you could establish yourself so quickly in the Li residence—one can imagine you played the wealth-scattering child.”

Li Weiyang raised her eyebrows with a smile. “You’re right. Among what His Majesty bestowed on me, much cannot be sold as tribute gifts. The truly useful gold—I’ve already spent quite a lot.”

“Sitting idle and consuming even mountains, even mountains of gold and silver will eventually be destroyed.” Tuoba Yu said softly. “You can have trusted people go to Xiao City to purchase more goods, especially high-quality silk. The south recently has major buyers coming to collect silk—this is an extremely profitable business.”

The business opportunity Tuoba Yu revealed was extremely important. His princely residence could gain at least several tens of thousands of gold taels from silk alone this year. But Li Weiyang found it hard to feel happy. Among those close to her—there actually weren’t many she truly trusted.

Tuoba Yu saw through her thoughts, smiling. “If you trust me, I can handle the procurement on your behalf.”

Li Weiyang was somewhat puzzled. “Why are you helping me like this?”

Tuoba Yu smiled. “Consider it my thanks for the great help you gave last time.”

He should have already repaid that help long ago. Li Weiyang thought this but was about to politely decline when Tuoba Yu said, “The Great Hero Hall is ahead—let’s go take a look.”

The Great Hero Hall was built with extraordinary grandeur—white jade steps, glazed green tiles, carved beams and painted rafters, resplendent in gold and jade, extremely solemn and dignified. There were quite a few couplets on both sides, though not many worth seeing. Only two pairs at the main entrance were interesting. The pair closest to the door read: “Commit no evil, practice all good—good and evil will ultimately be repaid.”

Right here, Tuoba Yu and Li Weiyang happened to encounter Tuoba Zhen face to face.

For a moment, both parties were stunned…

Actually, even before Li Weiyang noticed Tuoba Zhen, he had already noticed her. But he saw Li Weiyang speaking gently and carefully with Tuoba Yu, seeming quite compatible. From time to time she bloomed with smiles, revealing teeth white as shells, her voice cool and clear, extremely pleasant to hear.

Yet when facing him, she always maintained an appearance of rejecting people from a thousand miles away. Tuoba Zhen appeared magnanimous on the surface but was actually extremely narrow-minded. Watching those two with their “tender affection,” his smile developed a crack. It should be him looking down on Li Weiyang, but now the other party had first abandoned him to climb a higher branch! If Li Weiyang had chosen someone else, that would be one thing, but she had chosen Tuoba Yu, whom Tuoba Zhen had always viewed as his mortal enemy. Tuoba Zhen couldn’t help but hate her along with the rest. However, he possessed deep cunning after all. Though he loathed Tuoba Yu, he forcibly extracted his soul from his body, splitting his persona in two. One filled with jealousy, the other with delighted surprise. He approached them saying, “Seventh Brother, what brings you here?”

After the last incident, Tuoba Yu had seen very clearly through Tuoba Zhen’s ambitions and would no longer be swayed by this friendly facade. He immediately smiled. “I came to offer incense on Mother Consort’s behalf and happened to encounter the County Princess.”

Tuoba Zhen’s eyes naturally fell on Li Weiyang. Li Weiyang smiled. “Did Third Prince also come to meditate?”

Tuoba Zhen of course hadn’t come to meditate. He had only come after hearing the Li family was here. But arriving here, he suddenly discovered he didn’t know whether he’d come to find Li Changle or to take the opportunity to see Li Weiyang.

Li Changle was beautiful as a bright moon, surpassing all in glamour. But the person Tuoba Zhen’s heart often dwelt on was someone else. That person’s appearance was inferior to her elder sister’s, her nature hidden and vicious like a wolf, lacking all integrity—deceiving him was as easy as drinking tea. Normally Tuoba Zhen acted with extreme measure and proportion. Only this person could easily throw his heart into chaos.

Actually, if Li Weiyang still regarded Tuoba Zhen as highly as in her previous life, making everything revolve around him, Tuoba Zhen might not have given her a second glance. But now she opposed him at every turn, even helping others instead—he couldn’t help but pay attention. This showed that fate had invisible hands stirring the clouds—no one knew where their destiny would lead.

But why was Li Weiyang walking together with Tuoba Yu! Tuoba Zhen involuntarily clenched his fists!