At the Ye Family’s Main Gate
Before Ye Li could leave, she saw Ye Ying approaching gracefully, surrounded by her maids, with Ye Lin and Ye Shan following behind, their faces bright with joy. It seemed the matter of the Hundred Flowers Gathering invitations had been resolved. Ye Li wasn’t particularly close to these two younger sisters, so even when they occasionally tried to trip her up to please Madam Wang, she generally chose not to fuss about it unless they truly provoked her. After all, she had never fulfilled her duties as an elder sister, so naturally, she couldn’t expect them to show sisterly affection toward her. Seeing Ye Li, Ye Lin, and Ye Shan reluctantly came forward to pay their respects.
“Greetings, Third Sister.”
Ye Li nodded, “Fourth Sister, Fifth Sister, Sixth Sister.”
Ye Ying wore a snow-white wide-sleeved silk dress, decorated with scattered pink cherry blossom petals. Her dark hair was arranged in a simple bun, adorned with a golden butterfly hairpin where paired butterflies seemed to dance—their delicate wings appearing to quiver lifelike with her every movement. Ye Ying was undoubtedly skilled at adorning herself. Though all the Ye sisters were attractive, even with their fine attire, Ye Lin and Ye Shan became the mere backdrop in Ye Ying’s presence. The cherry blossom petals painted between her brows gave her an otherworldly air. A subtle floral fragrance wafted through the air, detectable even from afar.
The Minister’s mansion had recently risen to prominence in the capital—one daughter was appointed as Noble Consort and carrying the imperial heir, while two daughters were betrothed to the Prince Li and the Prince of First Rank respectively. Their carriages drew attention as soon as they arrived at the entrance. While people admired the beauty of the capital’s most renowned beauty, more sympathetic (or perhaps pitying?) glances were cast toward the carriage in front. Thus, when Ye Shan emerged from the carriage, the pretend-casual onlookers were momentarily stunned. They then saw a pretty maid-like girl step down, followed by a quiet young lady of refined beauty as she lifted the curtain to exit.
So this was the future Princess of First Rank?
The crowd wasn’t sure whether to feel surprised or disappointed. This Third Miss Ye was not as ugly or unrefined as they had imagined. Her graceful and elegant bearing showed excellent breeding, reminding people of her maternal grandfather’s family—the centuries-old Xu clan known for their literary tradition. Looking at Fourth Miss Ye beside her, who appeared as delicate as a heavenly maiden, it was evident that Third Miss Ye’s beautiful appearance, proper demeanor, and dignified bearing made her more suitable to be the primary lady of a household. Perhaps out of jealousy toward Ye Ying, many young ladies present began to question their beloved Prince Li’s judgment while feeling more confident about themselves.
The Peony Garden was indeed in full bloom, with butterflies fluttering among the flowers, while the young ladies wandering through added their vibrant beauty to the scene. They walked in small groups with their close friends, sharing quiet laughs and whispered conversations—a picture of peaceful prosperity.
When Ye Li’s group reached the central gathering area in the Peony Garden, many people had already arrived. Young ladies gathered in various spots—some playing zithers, others engaged in chess matches, some painting, and others composing poetry. The Princess’s maids moved seamlessly among them, perfectly attending to these noble young ladies.
“Ying’er…”
As soon as Ye Ying approached, someone called out to her. Several girls her age came forward to greet her, clearly close friends. Others also smiled welcomingly at Ye Ying.
“Ying’er, you’re finally here! We haven’t seen you since your betrothal to Prince Li,” a young lady in colorful clothes said happily, holding Ye Ying’s hand.
Ye Ying smiled, her beautiful face tinged with a blush, “Mother had me stay at home, but I’ve missed everyone so much.”
After the crowd finished congratulating Ye Ying, the colorfully dressed young lady asked, “Ying’er, is this… Third Miss Ye?”
“I am Ye Li. Greetings to all the young ladies,” Ye Li said with a smile.
The young ladies exchanged glances, finding this Third Miss Ye not nearly as inadequate as rumors suggested. Moreover, she was the future Princess of First Rank, the Minister’s true legitimate daughter, and the granddaughter of Master Xu. Soon, some began showing friendliness toward Ye Li.
“Greetings, Miss Ye. I am Qin Zheng, the second daughter of Inspector Qin.”
“I am Murong Ting, daughter of the Distinguished General.”
“…”
“Hmph! Who did I expect to see? So it’s Third Miss Ye, the one Brother Jingli broke off the engagement with.”