When Yang Si heard his cousin mention the Third-Place Scholar, he scrutinized Yan Shang, who was surrounded by others. His opinion of Yan Shang became:

First, currying favor with Princess Danyang, perhaps even offering himself willingly—who knew?

Second, having succeeded in his attempts, Princess Imperial had changed her mind once and then changed back; it seemed Mu Wanyao had taken some interest in this person.

Third, the night before the examination results were posted, he had gone to the Northern Quarter to drink with courtesans and was caught in the act.

In short, he was just a commoner’s son with a scheming mind who thought himself debonair but had long been seen through by others.

Yang Si said to Zhao Lingfei, who was staring intently at Yan Shang, “Someone like him isn’t worthy of you. Let’s go.”

Zhao Lingfei shook off Yang Si’s hand, unconcerned with her cousin’s opinion.

Yang Si watched as she abandoned her usual haughty manner, brushing her hair behind her ears and adjusting her clothes, looking down at her riding outfit with frustration.

She smacked her forehead in annoyance: “Such a refined gentleman would probably prefer a gentle and virtuous lady with fairy-like grace, wouldn’t he? Oh no, why am I wearing riding clothes? I should have worn a flowing empire-waist dress!”

Yang Si clicked his tongue in disapproval.

Before he could stop her, Zhao Lingfei deliberately approached the newly appointed Third-Place Scholar in an affected feminine manner.

Yang Si’s face darkened instantly: “Fifth Miss Zhao, come back here! If you continue to act so inappropriately, I won’t bring you out with me next time.”

But Zhao Lingfei, his cousin Fifth Miss Zhao, acted as if she hadn’t heard him at all.

Yang Si naturally wouldn’t indulge her and remained where he stood, refusing to follow.

Meanwhile, Yan Shang was handling the situation with practiced ease, having become quite adept at dealing with these servants over the past few days.

Dozens of voices circled him, and he managed to find time to respond to everyone’s words, thank everyone for their kindness, and express gratitude for each lady’s admiration. Yan Shang maintained a gentle attitude, speaking unhurriedly, able to handle so many people without neglecting anyone. Soon, the crowd around him quieted down.

One by one, they were satisfied with Yan Shang’s attention and left.

Yan Shang sighed, seeing that his surroundings had finally cleared, and took a deep breath.

Suddenly, a young woman’s laugh came from behind: “Pfft.”

Yan Shang turned around to see a young lady in riding clothes, following the latest Chang’an fashion. The young lady was hiding behind a pillar wrapped in green vines in the long corridor, her almond eyes gazing at him with a watery gleam. When he focused his gaze on her, she blushed shyly and quickly ducked behind the pillar.

Yan Shang remained silent.

He saw through people’s hearts too clearly, especially this young lady’s demeanor, which he had been facing daily these past two days. However, this lady was the boldest he had encountered—other ladies had sent servants with messages, but this one came herself.

Nevertheless, it was unfortunate.

Second Young Master Yan wasn’t particularly interested in matters of love. When he left Lingnan, his father had hoped he would marry soon, but Second Young Master Yan felt there was no need to rush. He was still young and had just arrived in Chang’an with an unstable foundation. If he were to marry right after becoming a Third-Place Scholar, it might close off future paths.

For now, he didn’t want to rely on any faction in Chang’an.

Thinking of this, Yan Shang bowed toward the direction of the pillar where the lady was hiding, then turned to leave.

Zhao Lingfei, who was peeking at him from behind the pillar, was stunned: “…”

Wasn’t he supposed to say something, following the usual routine?

Seeing Yan Shang walking away without any hesitation, Zhao Lingfei quickly jumped out and called, “Young Master!”

When he didn’t turn around, she called more directly: “Third-Place Scholar!”

Yan Shang sighed inwardly—now that she had called out so explicitly, he couldn’t pretend not to notice anymore.

He turned back to her with a smile, showing appropriate surprise: “Is the young lady calling this humble scholar?”

Zhao Lingfei watched as he turned toward her, the sunlight outlining his gentle facial features, tracing his elegant long eyebrows and his crystal-clear eyes.

He was so handsome, so dignified, completely different from the usual noble young masters she encountered.

Though Zhao Lingfei was pretending to be delicate, she was bold by nature.

Looking at such a handsome young man, she was once again mesmerized, and before she could even process her thoughts, Zhao Lingfei blurted out: “Young Master, I admire you.”

Yan Shang: “…”

He was extremely surprised, his eyelashes trembling suddenly, clearly not expecting such directness from her.

After speaking, Zhao Lingfei regretted being too direct, but since she had already said it, she became even more forthright: “Young Master, my father is the current Director of the Imperial Academy, and I am the fifth daughter of the Zhao family, named Lingfei. Young Master, I admire you and would be willing to marry you.”

Yan Shang replied gently: “However, I have no official position yet, I’m afraid I would be beneath the young lady.”

Zhao Lingfei: “My family values virtue over wealth, we wouldn’t consider it beneath us.”

Yan Shang: “I come from Lingnan, my background doesn’t match your family’s status.”

Zhao Lingfei: “My family also started from humble beginnings, not all great families are wealthy. We’re well-matched.”

Yan Shang: “Young lady doesn’t know me…”

Zhao Lingfei looked at him thoughtfully, and suddenly smiled: “Young Master, are you rejecting me?”

Yan Shang smiled slightly and said: “I am very grateful for the young lady’s affection. A lady as radiant as spring sunshine like yourself is far beyond what I, Shang, could ever deserve. I fear disappointing you, and I currently have no intention of marriage. The young lady deserves a better match.”

Zhao Lingfei stared at him.

Slowly sighing: “Even your rejections are so gentle, never hurting others’ feelings.”

She said: “I understand you a bit better now, and admire you even more. What should I do?”

Yan Shang was stunned.

He began to feel this young lady was quite persistent.

As he frowned, Zhao Lingfei watched him with interest and admiration in her eyes. Just as the two were caught in this chase and hesitation, a woman’s cold voice interrupted them: “Make way.”

They both turned to see Princess Danyang approaching, her golden dress as magnificent as the evening clouds. The maids behind her were holding up her long dress, and when they saw Second Young Master Yan, their eyes lit up wanting to greet him, but the princess walked straight past, forcing them to hurry after her.

When Yan Shang suddenly saw Mu Wanyao, his eyes contracted slightly.

Mu Wanyao walked straight ahead, not even glancing at the young couple discussing matters of the heart. But she didn’t deviate from her path either, walking so directly that she was about to collide with them. Zhao Lingfei and Yan Shang had no choice but to step aside, making way for the princess.

Mu Wanyao brushed past them, walking neither fast nor slow, her expression and bearing as languid and noble as usual, her fragrance lingering in the air.

And with this walk, she forced the potential couple to separate like the Chu and Han territories.

Yan Shang’s heart inexplicably skipped a beat.

Watching the princess pass by, Zhao Lingfei muttered: “She’s still so difficult to talk to. Who walks right between two people having a conversation without even looking at them?”

Zhao Lingfei turned back: “Young Master…”

Yan Shang gave her a brief smile, gentle but firm: “Miss Zhao, I have some matters to discuss with Her Highness. Farewell.”

“Ah…” Just as Zhao Lingfei was about to follow, Yang Si approached from behind.

Yang Si: “Can’t you see he’s trying to avoid you?”

Zhao Lingfei: “This is just a man’s nature, playing hard to get!”

Yang Si snorted, not bothering to argue with her—

“Your Highness, Your Highness…” Yan Shang caught up with Mu Wanyao in the corridor, but she acted as if she hadn’t heard him, not even waiting.

He had no choice but to reach out and grab her hand.

Mu Wanyao stopped, looked at his hand gripping her wrist, and smiled ambiguously: “Second Young Master Yan, I forgot to tell you, in Chang’an, I am a high-ranking princess. If people see you grabbing my hand, I could charge you with the crime of ‘disrespecting authority.'”

Yan Shang helplessly thought: Isn’t this because she wouldn’t wait for him?

Yan Shang released her hand, apologized, and lowered his eyes to avoid looking at her face, afraid of being distracted: “I haven’t had the chance to thank Your Highness for helping me achieve the Third-Place Scholar position. When would Your Highness have time…”

Standing in the corridor, the maids knowingly stepped back several paces to avoid disturbing Her Highness’s conversation.

Mu Wanyao turned her face to look at the lush scenery of the apricot garden, speaking carelessly: “No need. It was just a small gesture from me. You can’t help me with anything right now anyway, you can repay me when you achieve something in the future.”

Yan Shang remained silent.

He quickly glanced up at her once.

Silence pervaded.

Mu Wanyao grew impatient: “Is there anything else? If not, I’ll be leaving.”

Yan Shang said: “I have no relationship with Fifth Miss Zhao, nor will I ever have any relationship with her.”

The previously impatient Mu Wanyao suddenly looked at him, her ice-snow eyes piercing into him.

She spoke coldly, with a hint of warning: “Why are you telling me this? Do you think I care?”

Yan Shang looked at her, his voice steady and reassuring: “I just feel that since we’re on the same side, there’s no need to let unnecessary things affect the trust between Your Highness and me. I believe that if I were to marry now, it wouldn’t be of much value to Your Highness.

“To earn Your Highness’s trust, I naturally should let Your Highness know that I currently have no plans for marriage. When Your Highness discusses matters with me, you need not worry about me being influenced by other unimportant factors.”

Mu Wanyao stared at him.

Slowly, she smiled, somewhat teasingly.

She gradually leaned forward, her eyebrows lifting slightly, repeating her earlier words, no longer with threatening implications but with tender intimacy: “Why are you telling me this?”

Yan Shang stepped back, bumping into the pillar behind him, stopping his retreat.

Mu Wanyao smiled sweetly: “Very well, I’ve received your sincerity. But there are so many beautiful young ladies in Chang’an, are you not tempted? If you could marry into a good family, you might rise to prominence immediately, wouldn’t that be good?”

Yan Shang saw that their misunderstanding was cleared up and relaxed, smiling: “I never thought of using such methods to achieve success.”

Mu Wanyao gave a disdainful smile.

Mu Wanyao: “You don’t care for beauty?”

Yan Shang smiled wryly: “Didn’t I say when I was in Lingnan that this wasn’t my ambition?”

Mu Wanyao: “I don’t believe you.”

Then she suddenly playfully moved closer and said: “Hold out your hand.”

Yan Shang confusedly extended his hand.

Her long fingers, stained with bright red henna, suddenly grasped his slender hand. As their hands touched, Yan Shang trembled slightly, looking up at her with an indescribable expression.

She kept her head down, her eyelashes like wings and feathers.

While Yan Shang was stunned by the sight, he suddenly felt a tickle in his palm. She was slowly tracing a line across his palm with her finger, gossamer-light, like a feather brushing against his skin, sending tingles straight to his bones.

Yan Shang’s heart thumped again.

Unable to control his emotions, he revealed his true feelings. He instantly gripped her hand in return, but when Mu Wanyao looked at him, he quickly withdrew it.

He stepped back two paces in confusion, his voice unsteady: “Your Highness!”

Mu Wanyao covered her mouth and laughed at his flustered state.

She said: “If Fifth Miss Zhao had traced your palm like that, would you have remained so composed?”

Yan Shang looked up, ice and fire suppressed in his eyes: “Does Your Highness think I’m a philanderer?”

Mu Wanyao stopped laughing.

She snorted: “I’m just reminding you that you’re still a man, don’t try to act like a saint. Just one trace of your palm and you’re already backing away flustered. Could you remain unmoved if seventeen or eighteen beauties stood naked before you?”

Yan Shang countered: “Why couldn’t I?”

Mu Wanyao said seriously: “If you could, it would mean you’re abnormal. You might as well castrate yourself now—my household could use such a capable eunuch.”

Yan Shang endured—this was the second time she had suggested he become a eunuch.

Mu Wanyao said: “So, your experience with women is too shallow. You country bumpkin, you need more practice.”

After a long pause, Yan Shang said: “…Thank you for Your Highness’s guidance.”

Mu Wanyao replied matter-of-factly: “I taught you well, you should be grateful.”

She winked at him, playful and teasing, yet with an underlying sensuality. Then, ignoring his flushed face, she turned and walked away gracefully.

Yan Shang held back a smile, watching her characteristically irresponsible attitude—she was too mischievous. Only after her silhouette had completely disappeared did he compose himself and return to his seat—

The western side of Qujiang was the Apricot Garden, where the banquet for the First and Third Place Scholars was held; the southern side was the Lotus Garden, where the Purple Cloud Tower stood, a place reserved for imperial relatives.

After circling the Apricot Garden, Mu Wanyao heard that the imperial relatives had gone to the Lotus Garden, so she decided to pay her respects as well.

Many royal relatives had attended this year’s Qujiang banquet. Mu Wanyao went up to the Purple Cloud Tower to greet her relatives.

She chose to sit next to Princess Yuyang.

Princess Yuyang was her fourth sister, a gentle person married to Chen Shubai, the Metropolitan Governor. Princess Yuyang and the Third Prince, Prince Qin, were full siblings, and since Mu Wanyao’s relationship with Prince Qin was ordinary—or even poor—her relationship with Princess Yuyang was naturally ordinary as well.

Princess Yuyang’s husband hadn’t come today, so she sat alone. Seeing Mu Wanyao’s approach, she felt a sense of kinship and invited her to sit down.

However, Mu Wanyao, with a slight smile on her lips, sat down and propped her chin on her hand, lost in thought, not speaking to Princess Yuyang who was bored and kept stealing glances at her.

Mu Wanyao rubbed her hand, thinking of how she had traced Yan Shang’s palm earlier and scared him. She couldn’t help but feel delighted.

Serve him right!

She hated seeing Yan Shang’s calm and composed demeanor the most as if he could predict everything she said or did.

He could predict her?

He was dreaming!

How could Mu Wanyao be controlled by him?

However, when she held his palm earlier, his long fingers slightly curved, her hand resting in his palm, she had felt dazed for a moment… “Bang!” Something hit her.

It struck Mu Wanyao’s face.

Mu Wanyao: “Ouch!”

Her face stinging from the impact, she looked down to see that she had been hit by a chestnut. When she raised her head with fury in her eyes, looking past the trembling Princess Yuyang beside her, she saw Yang Si, the Third Young Master Yang, casually leaning against a pillar two tables away.

Yang Si looked at her with an ambiguous smile: “What were you thinking about, with such dreamy eyes? Did you perhaps see someone you fancy during your visit to the Apricot Garden?”

Mu Wanyao responded impatiently: “What’s it to you?”

Yang Si scoffed: “You little copycat, stealing my words. What’s it to me, you ask?”

Hearing Yang Si says she was copying his way of speaking, Mu Wanyao felt both guilty and annoyed at his directness. She looked around, grabbed a plate of chestnuts in front of her, and threw them at Yang Si.

But Yang Si’s martial skills were exceptional—as she threw them, his hand swooped out and caught one chestnut, which he bit into while raising his head to smile at her: “Quite tasty, thank you.”

Mu Wanyao: “Then why don’t you eat them all?”

She threw them rapid-fire, like a hail of bullets.

Princess Yuyang, caught in the middle: “Hey, hey, hey, stop fighting…”

The Crown Prince, Prince Qin, and Prince Jin entered together, laughing and talking. As soon as the Crown Prince entered, he saw Yang Si and Mu Wanyao throwing chestnuts at each other, while Princess Yuyang cowered in the corner like a frightened rabbit. The other royal relatives had also moved away, leaving Yang Si and Mu Wanyao to create chaos in the area.

The Crown Prince’s anger rose at the sight, nearly making him cough blood.

The Crown Prince thundered: “Third Young Master Yang, what are you doing again?!”

He had only wanted Yang Si and Mu Wanyao to get along well, but the moment he took his eyes off Yang Si, look what happened—Yang Si and Mu Wanyao were fighting again. Fighting so enthusiastically—how could this possibly lead to marriage?

Judging by Princess Danyang’s glare at Yang Si, she probably wanted to tear him apart.

The Third Young Master Yang, covered in chestnut shells thrown by the willful princess, had been playfully teasing Mu Wanyao. When the Crown Prince shouted, he froze in fright and turned his head to see the Crown Prince glaring at him angrily.

Yang Si paused, then said: “What’s wrong? I’m bonding with the Sixth Princess. Your Highness, didn’t you say that since the Princess and I haven’t seen each other in a long time, we should spend time together and bond?”

Crown Prince: “…”

Perhaps the more they “bonded,” the more likely his planned marriage would fall apart.

The Third Prince, Prince Qin, watching the Crown Prince’s expression of near-death anger, held back his wild laughter. Fortunately, he didn’t have someone like this by his side who specialized in causing trouble and couldn’t be disciplined through beating or scolding. The Crown Prince was deeply calculating and good at everything, but what could he do when he lacked power and couldn’t get rid of Third Young Master Yang?

The Third Prince, coming from a military background, said: “If someone under my command was this disobedient, I would have beaten them to death long ago.”

Yang Si, his eyes still carrying a hint of playfulness, looked at the Third Prince upon hearing this, the cold defiance in his eyes completely unconcealed…

The Crown Prince sighed: “Chengzhi, today is the Qujiang Banquet, and Father Emperor will be coming later. Could you not cause trouble for me today?”

Chengzhi was Yang Si’s courtesy name.

The Crown Prince rarely called him this, but when he did, Yang Si knew he had gone too far and the Crown Prince was reaching his limit of patience. Yang Si withdrew his unruly gaze from Prince Qin, not letting the fire ignite.

The Crown Prince helplessly beckoned to Yang Si, saying: “Clean yourself up and come with me to the Apricot Garden to meet this year’s new Imperial Scholars.”

Yang Si: “But I still need to bond with Yaoyao…”

Crown Prince: “No more bonding needed, come with me!”

Mu Wanyao watched as Third Young Master Yang was scolded away by the Crown Prince, and the other two princes also followed the Crown Prince to the Apricot Garden. She knew perfectly well they were all going to curry favor with the new Imperial Scholars, and couldn’t help but laugh.

The Crown Prince usually maintained such a mature appearance and was always scolding Mu Wanyao for being disobedient—it was quite satisfying to see him nearly driven to death by Yang Si for once…

Princess Yuyang moved back, looking at Mu Wanyao with some admiration.

She said softly: “Sixth Sister, you’re amazing. I envy you.”

Mu Wanyao was stunned.

She turned to look at this fourth sister of hers, who was always gentle and unassuming, doubting what she had heard: “What do you envy about me?”

Princess Yuyang: “When Third Young Master Yang threw chestnuts at you, you dared to throw them back. I wouldn’t dare—I’m afraid of causing trouble for my brother. But if you dare to throw them, you can be willful like that. It must be nice.”

Mu Wanyao looked at her sister in disbelief.

Princess Yuyang sighed softly: “Before your political marriage, everyone doted on you and indulged you, all treating you well; now that you’ve returned, you can still do whatever you want. You’re always free from constraints—how wonderful.”

Mu Wanyao started to speak but stopped.

Free from constraints?

If she were truly free from constraints, why didn’t she throw chestnuts at Princess Yuyang, but only at Third Young Master Yang? Wasn’t it because Princess Yuyang had Prince Qin behind her, while Yang Si’s Crown Prince was precisely the one she served, so she wasn’t afraid?

Her selective willfulness had somehow become something for Princess Yuyang to envy.

…What kind of life had her fourth sister been living all this time?—

The Crown Prince’s group went to the Apricot Garden. Yang Si tidied himself up, once again becoming the Crown Prince’s obedient follower. When the Crown Prince told him to keep quiet, Yang Si tilted his head back, planning to just go through the motions.

The Crown Prince consoled the newly appointed scholars, gathering support like a crown prince should. Everyone showed respect to the Crown Prince, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

However, how things would turn out later would be seen once they entered official positions.

The Crown Prince also knew these were all sons of noble families, each with their calculations, so nothing could be determined until they entered official service. He merely went through the formalities. However, after making a round, when he returned to Third-Place Scholar Yan Shang, his eyes flickered, and he offered another toast.

Yan Shang used tea instead of wine.

The Crown Prince directly passed over the young First-Place Scholar Wei Shu sitting next to Yan Shang. It was obvious that even if Wei Shu didn’t work for the Wei family, he would represent the Li family of Jinling—such a person couldn’t be won over, so there was no point in trying.

The Crown Prince focused on Yan Shang, thinking to himself that this was the person the Princess Imperial had struggled with all night, yet he still succeeded. He was also someone Princess Danyang had mentioned to him.

Such a person, without background but possibly capable, might be suitable to work for him.

When the Crown Prince spoke to Yan Shang, his attitude was more cordial than when facing others: “You’re Yan Suchen, right? Although you achieved Third Place, the court can’t immediately provide positions for all of you, so you might have to wait a few years. What are your plans?”

Yan Shang replied: “Just studying and continuing to take examinations. No other plans.”

The Crown Prince nodded: “Would you be willing to become an advisor in my Eastern Palace?”

The Third Young Master Yang, who had been lost in thought behind the Crown Prince, snapped back to attention and looked at Yan Shang. Yang Si frowned and bumped the Crown Prince’s arm from behind, suggesting he shouldn’t let this person into the Eastern Palace.

The Crown Prince pretended not to notice Yang Si’s interference and continued waiting warmly for Yan Shang’s answer.

Yan Shang was stunned, then showed the expression of someone both excited and cautious after hearing such an offer, trying to hide it for a while but still showing some joy as he cupped his hands: “I am willing to serve Your Highness.”

Wei Shu, standing next to Yan Shang, gave him a surprised look, feeling this didn’t sound like something Yan Shang would say.

The Crown Prince’s side was very satisfied.

The Crown Prince said with interest: “Then let me test you.”

The Crown Prince named a book and asked about one of its ancient strategies, requesting Yan Shang to explain.

Yan Shang: “…”

Yan Shang appeared somewhat embarrassed: “This… This humble scholar has just started reading that book and hasn’t reached the part Your Highness asked about. My insights would likely be crude.”

Crown Prince: “…”

The Crown Prince was stunned, turning back to look at Yang Si. Yang Si raised his eyebrows as if to say: I told you this person was unlearned, but you insisted on asking.

The Crown Prince truly hadn’t expected that someone recommended by Princess Danyang would be so lacking in talent!

Then… perhaps he was only good at poetry?

The Crown Prince lost interest in Yan Shang and perfunctorily encouraged: “When you have the chance, read this book carefully… read it more thoroughly.”

This time he didn’t warmly call him “Suchen,” nor did he mention the next step of “entering the Eastern Palace as an advisor.”

After a few perfunctory words, Yan Shang watched dejectedly as the Crown Prince’s group left.

Yan Shang sat down, and those around him rushed to console him.

After dealing with everyone’s kind intentions and pouring himself a cup of tea, Wei Shu, sitting beside him, looked at him: “Didn’t you start reading that book five days ago? You still haven’t finished it?”

Yan Shang looked up with a smile: “There have been many banquets lately, which delayed my reading.”

Wei Shu looked away, saying: “The Crown Prince isn’t a fool.”

Yan Shang replied innocently: “But I am reading that book, and I haven’t finished it. Everyone can testify that I borrowed it from you, Juyuan.”

Yan Shang smiled again: “It seems earlier when I first entered the Apricot Garden, I helped cover for you, Juyuan…”

Wei Shu said: “What books you read and how far you’ve read, how would I know? This matter has nothing to do with me, and I don’t care.”

Yan Shang smiled: “Then I trouble Juyuan to keep this hidden.”

Wei Shu gave an “mm” and dropped the subject—

His Majesty arrived, and everyone returned to the Purple Cloud Tower.

The Crown Prince and Third Young Master Yang walked separately from the others.

The Crown Prince asked Yang Si: “When Yan Suchen acted that way earlier, did you think he was putting on an act, refusing me?”

Yang Si: “I think he’s just crafty and unlearned; don’t overthink it. Your Highness, don’t you get tired of seeing conspiracies everywhere?”

The Crown Prince stared at him for a moment: “…I wish you would use your brain occasionally. What if Sixth Sister recommended this person, but he doesn’t stand with us, or if someone else is directing him from behind?”

Yang Si was silent for a while.

He said: “But he’s just a Third-Place Scholar after all.”

The Crown Prince pondered.

He said: “True. In the end, he’s just a Third-Place Scholar. Whether it’s true or false doesn’t matter right now.”

The Crown Prince set aside this matter and renewed his spirits, ascending the Purple Cloud Tower to pay respects to his father emperor. Meanwhile, in the Apricot Garden, hearing of His Majesty’s arrival, the group of scholars became extremely excited. After some discussion, they tentatively approached, hoping they might be able to ascend the tower and meet His Majesty—

Emperor His Majesty was a thin, austere middle-aged man. He carried the might of an emperor, yet his expression was listless. His visit to the Purple Cloud Tower today was mainly to see this year’s new imperial scholars.

However, at the Purple Cloud Tower, it felt more like a family gathering.

Rarely were all the children present, with all the royal relatives in attendance—Princess Imperial of Luling, Princess Danyang, Princess Yuyang, the Crown Prince, Prince Qin, Prince Jin… The Emperor sat in the highest position, his expression weary, sighing.

The Crown Prince and Prince Qin were arguing about some financial matters, but hearing the Emperor’s sigh, they stopped and looked toward him.

The Emperor said irritably: “You two fight every time you meet. Can’t you let me have some peace for a few days?”

Everyone froze.

Mu Wanyao laughed: “I’m also tired of always hearing you discuss politics, which I don’t even understand. Father Emperor, today we should make a rule—only talk about romance and poetry, no political matters. Whoever breaks the rule must drink three cups as punishment!”

The Emperor looked at his youngest daughter, his expression somewhat dazed as if seeing another person’s shadow in his young daughter. His young daughter was so graceful now, already eighteen…

The Emperor concealed the sorrow in his eyes and nodded.

Prince Qin sat nearby: “Only talk about romance? Does Sixth Sister want to discuss men with us?”

Mu Wanyao retorted: “Is that all your brain can think about?”

Prince Qin: “You’ve always been sharp-tongued…”

The Emperor held his head: “Alright, alright, you two stop arguing too… Yaoyao, I remember you used to be sweet and lovable, why have you become so temperamental?”

Mu Wanyao went still.

She smiled: “What’s wrong with being temperamental?”

The atmosphere in the hall suddenly stagnated as everyone thought about what had caused her to become this way.

The Crown Prince smoothed things over: “Yaoyao is still very sweet and obedient. Today is a family banquet, let’s not argue. Yaoyao, I remember you were exceptional with the konghou, and we haven’t heard you play for many years. Would you be willing to play a piece for everyone today?”

Mu Wanyao glanced at her father emperor, smiling slightly as she nodded—

Wei Shu, Yan Shang, and other scholars were led up the tower by eunuchs, hearing the music. The eunuchs had them stand at the entrance, not wanting to disturb anyone. Yan Shang looked in and saw that all the lamps in the hall had been extinguished, and in the darkness, moonlight poured in from outside the tower.

Only Mu Wanyao knelt alone in the shadows, her hands caressing the konghou, her beautiful eyebrows and eyes lowered.

Like a goddess, distant and elegant, extraordinarily serene in her beauty.