The Ninth Princess’s lips reeked of alcohol, her face flushed with post-drinking redness. Her eyes suddenly brimmed with tears, as if she was about to lose composure at any moment.

Hearing her words clearly, Li Weiyang returned to her senses and couldn’t help frowning. She turned her head to instruct a nearby maid, “Go tell your princess that the Ninth Princess cannot hold her liquor and needs a place to rest.”

Seeing the situation, that maid immediately rushed off.

However, the Ninth Princess swayed as she stood up. Afraid she might do something extreme at this banquet, Li Weiyang quickly rose to support her. But she only suddenly shed tears down her cheeks, silently saying not another word.

A nearby young lady exclaimed: “Why is the Ninth Princess crying?”

Li Weiyang replied calmly: “The princess heard that disaster victims are displaced, homeless, and must endure hunger and cold. Her heart aches – she simply cannot bear it.”

Those people looked at each other while observing the Ninth Princess, truly not believing she was shedding tears for such a reason. But seeing Li Weiyang’s cold expression, they all exchanged glances, not daring to make a sound. They’d heard His Majesty was arranging a marriage for the princess, the match being Duke Luoguo’s Zhang family…

Immediately people began discussing quietly: “I heard the Ninth Princess was unwilling to marry and knelt alone at Consort Rou’s palace entrance for a long time!”

“What? Aren’t she and that person childhood sweethearts? How can she be unwilling to marry?”

“Shh – who knows! Consort Rou dotes on her so much, yet confined her in the palace for three days and nights!”

Her ears were full of gossip, but Li Weiyang turned a deaf ear, only quietly watching her cry, understanding in her heart how difficult this must be for her. The man she admired with all her heart had never been moved by her – how could she possibly feel good? But Li Weiyang felt that not being loved wasn’t the issue – the key was self-love. If even you don’t cherish yourself, why should others love you? Therefore, she truly had no sympathy for the Ninth Princess.

At this moment, Palace Lady Tao from Princess Yongning’s side personally came, smiling: “This servant will escort the princess back to her room.”

However, the Ninth Princess clutched Li Weiyang and wouldn’t let go. Palace Lady Tao looked at her awkwardly. Li Weiyang said: “I’ll accompany her as well.” This tugging and pulling at the banquet was truly unwise.

Palace Lady Tao nodded, then called over a serving maid to support the Ninth Princess. She herself personally held a red gauze lantern to light their path, saying carefully: “Both of you, watch your step.”

The rear courtyard of Princess Yongning’s residence was quiet at night. Li Weiyang accompanied the Ninth Princess all the way to a side chamber before stopping: “I should return to the banquet.”

Zhao Yue had been keeping watch from afar the whole time, obviously never feeling at ease.

Palace Lady Tao nodded: “Thank you, Princess Anping.” She was just about to order someone to help the Ninth Princess inside when unexpectedly the Ninth Princess suddenly stood up, staring fixedly at Li Weiyang without speaking. After a long while, she stepped forward two paces and raised her hand to dismiss the others: “All of you leave. I have words for the princess.”

So the Ninth Princess had been feigning drunkenness. Li Weiyang confirmed her suspicion, slightly curving her lips to ask: “Has the princess sobered up?”

The Ninth Princess’s face showed a trace of pleading. Seeing the situation was amiss, Palace Lady Tao ordered all the maids to withdraw completely, then said herself: “This servant will stand guard outside. You two may speak.”

Palace Lady Tao closed the door. The Ninth Princess looked at Li Weiyang, her gaze extremely complex, immediately saying: “Sister Weiyang, I have something to ask of you.”

Li Weiyang raised her eyebrows, thinking how familiar these lines sounded. Did the Ninth Princess think asking people for help could solve all problems?

The Ninth Princess’s eyes moistened: “Sister Weiyang, please go tell my mother consort not to make me marry that person, alright? I know mother consort trusts you very much now. She even said she wants me to learn more from you – I’m begging you, please, alright?”

Indeed, Li Weiyang and Consort Rou had grown quite close recently, but it wasn’t because their feelings were so good as the Ninth Princess believed – it was merely mutual benefit. Li Weiyang looked at her, looked at this young princess, slowly saying: “This isn’t Consort Rou’s decision – it’s His Majesty’s decision. And I cannot influence His Majesty.”

Hearing her say that even appealing to Consort Rou would be useless, the Ninth Princess’s eyes immediately reddened again, choking out: “According to this, I really must marry him? But I don’t like him at all!” Speaking, she raised her sleeve to lightly wipe her eyes. “If this is so, then I… I might as well die!”

Li Weiyang quietly watched her cry, but not even the last trace of pity remained in her heart.

In this world, countless people busied themselves for survival, desperately enduring pain for one more mouthful of rice. Yet this princess before her wanted to seek death simply over an unsatisfactory marriage – she was truly too naive, inexplicably irritating. Moreover, what the Emperor had arranged for her was her childhood companion, a handsome young man she’d grown up with – not some death-demanding demon king. If she was unwilling, at worst she could fight desperately to the Emperor – even if she failed, at least she’d fought for herself. But her loss of composure at the banquet earlier and her current crying were both so inappropriate.

The Ninth Princess suddenly raised her eyes: “Sister Weiyang, there’s one more way! If you’re willing to help me, this matter can be resolved.”

Li Weiyang froze, her brows slightly furrowing.

A spark ignited in the Ninth Princess’s eyes as she continued: “I know Third Young Master trusts you most. As long as you have him take me away! He’ll definitely listen to you!” She appeared calm, but only she herself knew how difficult these words were to say. By the end, even her voice seemed to fall into dust on the ground, so low it was barely audible. Because she herself knew how improper this request was!

Shock flashed through Li Weiyang’s eyes. She remained silent for a long while before speaking: “He won’t take you away.”

The Ninth Princess hadn’t expected her to refuse so quickly, almost unable to speak.

Li Weiyang said word by word: “If he admired you, he would naturally be willing to marry you as his wife without me needing to speak. But he doesn’t like you, yet you want me to force him. You, with your noble status as princess, have actually fallen to this point?”

The Ninth Princess’s face instantly turned deathly pale. She opened her mouth as if to speak but froze, her face alternating red and white, saying tremulously: “I… I thought… I thought you wouldn’t speak to me like this… Why are you saying the same things as mother consort!”

Li Weiyang gently shook her head: “Because you’ve forgotten your own identity! You are a princess, His Majesty’s daughter! In all these years, when has His Majesty ever forced you to do anything against your will! Why would he go against your wishes to marry you into Duke Luoguo’s household – do you understand? What kind of family is Duke Luoguo’s household? What is their relationship with the Seventh Prince? By both emotion and reason, their relationship with you and the Seventh Prince is one of deep personal affection, but only through marriage alliance can this relationship become more secure! Only then can His Majesty feel assured in entrusting more military authority to Duke Luoguo!”

The Ninth Princess listened carefully, her face turning even paler. After a long time she said: “They’re all treating me as a tool—”

Li Weiyang smiled, but her smile carried coldness: “Being useful as a tool means you have value. People without value – no one cares about them. Including why I’m standing here talking now – it’s because of your identity as Ninth Princess. If you’re unaware of this point, you might as well give up this identity, remove these fine clothes, go stand by the street and see – see without guard protection whether you, this pretty little girl, can safely walk three hundred meters! See without fine food and clothing whether you’ll starve to death in the street like those disaster victims!”

The Ninth Princess remained silent, her long lashes slightly lowered, trembling finely, her heart seemingly struggling with indecision.

“You should be grateful you’re a princess. Otherwise, with just your temperament, could you have safely lived until today? Even if you don’t value your own life, would you implicate Minde to wander homeless with you?” Li Weiyang’s voice carried a trace of cold ruthlessness. On the surface she was lecturing her, but deep in her heart a voice repeated over and over, resolutely addressing herself—

Li Weiyang, you’re truly despicable.

You don’t like the Ninth Princess getting close to Li Minde, so you frighten her like this.

You clearly know Minde’s identity is extraordinary – even if the Ninth Princess followed him, she’d still have fine clothes and food, servants in abundance.

You clearly know the Ninth Princess is naive and innocent, just a little girl, coming to you with her last shred of hope, yet you scold her so harshly.

All these years you’ve indeed helped the Ninth Princess considerably, but she’s also always protected you everywhere. Having done so many vicious things, yet which noble lady throughout the court dares look down on you? The Ninth Princess would even argue with people for your sake, even come to your door for confrontations.

You only know Zhang Feng truly admires the Ninth Princess – even if she doesn’t love him now, she’ll definitely feel happiness in the future. But she’s also human, not an emotionless tool. Because you yourself have no feelings, are you jealous of the emotions she possesses?

Li Weiyang looked at the Ninth Princess, but in the end only said softly: “Think carefully yourself about what you should do.”

Having already walked halfway down this road, how could she retreat midway?

She didn’t want to find any excuses for herself. What’s done is done, her purpose was straightforward. She was despicable because she’d never been a noble person. Things she disliked, she would prevent, even if it hurt others’ hearts, even if it trampled others’ feelings. If everything required considering others’ comfort, then Li Weiyang herself wouldn’t be comfortable! Minde didn’t like the princess – rather than giving her meaningless hope, better to speak excessively and make her give up completely! Her own actions weren’t wrong!

Not making things difficult for others meant making things difficult for herself!

Li Weiyang turned to leave when the Ninth Princess suddenly spoke: “Sister Weiyang, I’m sorry. I lost my composure…”

Li Weiyang didn’t turn back. The Ninth Princess’s eyes were bright with moisture. She pressed her lips together, as if making a firm decision, before speaking: “I’m willing to marry him.” Her words paused, her voice lowering: “Thank you.”

Li Weiyang didn’t speak, directly walking out. There was nothing to be thanked for – I wasn’t doing this for you at all.

Thinking this, she walked out with an extremely indifferent expression, saying to Palace Lady Tao outside: “The Ninth Princess needs to rest a while. Please don’t disturb her.”

Palace Lady Tao nodded: “This servant will escort the princess back to the banquet.”

Li Weiyang nodded and followed Palace Lady Tao back to the banquet. At this moment, wine cups were being exchanged freely. Princess Yongning had already collected considerable wealth and property, and her usually stern face rarely showed a smile. Seeing Li Weiyang, she nodded to her from afar. Li Weiyang said to Palace Lady Tao: “My grandmother is unwell. She already entrusted me to bring the treasures to donate. I cannot stay long and will take my leave now.”

Palace Lady Tao nodded: “Princess, rest assured, this servant will report to the princess. Please wait a moment while this servant arranges a carriage for you.”

When Li Weiyang arrived, she’d come in the Ninth Princess’s carriage, so now returning, she needed a new carriage arranged. Li Weiyang didn’t refuse this kindness, only smiling faintly: “Thank you very much.”

She glanced seemingly casually toward the liveliest area behind her, her gaze happening to meet Princess Hechang’s. Hechang was someone who appeared cheerful by nature. Among a group of noble ladies, she perfectly played the role of a lively, open, kind and innocent foreign princess full of curiosity about everything. Moreover, when donating money, she was extremely generous, appearing righteous and charitable. This both made people feel she was very approachable while displaying a pride only royalty possessed.

In that glance, Li Weiyang was certain the other party clearly made eye contact with her.

She didn’t wait long before Palace Lady Tao quickly arranged a carriage. Li Weiyang boarded the carriage, with the Zhao Nan siblings escorting her the whole way. The carriage swayed out of Princess Yongning’s residence and traveled along the street. Ordinarily at this time the night market should be in full swing, yet now it was completely silent. The night wind carried cold fragrance from some unknown source, making her somewhat dazed.

The carriage crossed a bridge. Below, the river water flowed silently. Li Weiyang lifted the carriage curtain and saw the moon’s reflection in the waves beneath the bridge.

After so long, every time she attended a banquet, she felt out of place.

Everyone was smiling, watching song and dance performances, exchanging wine cups, conversing about gossip from who knows where. She was accustomed to being alone. Every time she was in a crowded place, although always smiling, she felt even more lonely. What meaning did such liveliness have? Thinking this, she couldn’t help sighing softly.

Wind blew the carriage curtain. The carriage wheels creaked and actually stopped.

Zhao Nan spoke from outside the curtain: “Miss, someone has requested the carriage stop.”

Zhao Yue lifted the curtain. Li Weiyang clearly saw the beautiful young woman currently riding a fine horse outside the carriage, at this moment holding a long whip, smiling as she looked toward her.

Indeed she came – Princess Hechang! She’d heard that previously one of her ribs was broken, but now it seemed her recovery power was astonishing – or perhaps her endurance was astonishing. Li Weiyang silently observed her. Behind Hechang there wasn’t even a single attendant – she’d come alone on horseback. At this moment she dismounted with nimble movements, smiling broadly: “Princess, might we speak aside?”

Li Weiyang smiled and actively descended from the carriage.

The two walked onto the bridge. Night wind swept across the lake surface, creating countless ripples on the lake. Hechang drew a box from her sleeve and handed it before Li Weiyang.

Li Weiyang reached out to receive it. Opening the lid to see what was inside the box, she couldn’t help being startled. Inside the box was actually a gleaming white phoenix jade pendant, glowing faintly in the moonlight, very eye-catching.

“This is the phoenix jade.” Princess Hechang explained. “Father Emperor entrusted it to Fourth Brother to give to his future Fourth Imperial Consort – no, should say, Mobei’s future empress.”

So Li Yuanheng was already the internally designated next Mobei emperor. Li Weiyang smiled – indeed she hadn’t guessed wrong. Then this person’s visit was truly too bold!

“There’s only one phoenix jade in the world. Countless people have fought bloodily over it. For thousands of years, it’s only been passed to Mobei’s empresses. Fourth Brother presenting you with the phoenix jade – does the princess understand the meaning?” Princess Hechang asked this way.

Li Weiyang only gazed at her quietly, seeming somewhat puzzled.

Princess Hechang smiled: “Fourth Brother has four side consorts but hasn’t yet married a proper wife. This is because he’s searched for a long time without finding a woman he felt was qualified. But he’s observed you for a long time. He feels you’re not only intelligent and capable, but also calm and rational. Moreover, your conduct quite suits his intentions, so he feels giving you this phoenix jade is most appropriate.”

“His Majesty has already given Fourth Prince of Mobei a bride.” Li Weiyang answered this way, her tone not particularly pleased, showing no excitement whatsoever. Therefore a trace of surprise appeared in Princess Hechang’s eyes, but she quickly smiled: “That’s your Dali’s emperor. We don’t recognize it. We’ve already investigated that so-called bride – she’s merely a weak-charactered boudoir miss. I dare say if she reaches Mobei’s palace, she absolutely won’t survive half a year. Marrying back such a vase – Fourth Brother won’t be satisfied. The person he wants is you.”

A trace of displeasure flashed across Li Weiyang’s face but quickly disappeared. She smiled: “Princess, this phoenix jade pendant carries such significant meaning – forgive me for being unable to accept it.”

Hechang smiled: “Li Weiyang, if you remain in Dali, what will you do? You’ll just be like those incompetent women at the banquet earlier, burying your intelligence and talent. But if you come to Mobei, you can do everything you want to do. In the future you’ll become Mobei’s woman of highest status.” When saying “highest status,” a trace of greed flashed through Hechang’s eyes, but she hid this emotion very well, her face still smiling.

Become Mobei’s woman of highest status? Li Weiyang laughed coldly in her heart – where in the world were such cheap bargains?

“What kind of price would I need to pay?” Li Weiyang’s face only showed a smile.

Indeed a clever woman. Princess Hechang smiled charmingly: “The price? Well – you know, Fourth Brother still has many enemies. They’ll all rack their brains to cause trouble. You might need to properly strategize for Fourth Brother.”

Li Weiyang knew it wasn’t this simple. At minimum, Li Yuanheng must have reached some agreement with Jiang Hua to insist on having her! “That simple?” She repeated very slowly. “Just strategizing for the Fourth Prince?”

Hechang’s smile remained unchanged, but her gaze grew profound as she slowly said: “Of course not only that, but it’s not yet time to discuss these things! What you should do now is decide on this wager – will you bet, or not!”

Hechang obviously felt this was irresistible to any woman. Although marrying Mobei’s future emperor meant countless dangers and conflicts, it also meant innumerable wealth and power. This was her life’s pursuit, so she assumed Li Weiyang also couldn’t refuse.

Li Weiyang pressed her lips, smiling self-deprecatingly: “You all really think highly of me.”

“A girl who can force the Jiang family into a corner – we really must think highly of you.” In fact, if not for Jiang Hua revealing many of Li Weiyang’s actions, they wouldn’t waste so much time on her. Such a shrewd and ruthless woman was precisely what Li Yuanheng needed. Princess Hechang brushed her hair aside, smiling alluringly: “To speak frankly, for you as a girl to dare oppose the entire Jiang family is truly shocking yet also extremely formidable. I greatly admire and like you, so I very much hope you can become my sister-in-law.”

Li Weiyang gazed at her quietly, showing not a trace of reaction.

Hechang showed her an extremely friendly smile.

Li Weiyang looked at her, then returned the box containing the phoenix jade pendant to her.

Seeing Hechang’s shocked expression, Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Please tell the Fourth Prince I need to consider it.”

Hechang narrowed her eyes. Was this maidenly reserve, or polite refusal? For a moment she couldn’t discern Li Weiyang’s thoughts. Previously Li Weiyang’s attitude toward Li Yuanheng seemed intentional yet maintained distance. Even Li Yuanheng was being lifted to the heavens one moment and dropped to the ground the next. What was originally only thirty percent interest quickly became single-minded determination to obtain her. From this perspective, Li Weiyang understood men’s psychology very well – flying the kite high and far while the string remained gripped in her palm.

Originally Princess Hechang felt Li Weiyang and she were the same type of person, desperately trying to climb upward. She wouldn’t refuse this tempting proposal. Her previous refusal to marry down, even causing the Jixiang Hall incident, was merely because she couldn’t be certain of Fourth Prince of Mobei’s value. Now knowing he was the future Mobei emperor, she would definitely agree. But now she was somewhat confused.

Hechang deliberately darkened her face: “Li Weiyang, don’t refuse a toast only to drink a forfeit. Fourth Brother respects you, but if you continue like this…”

Li Weiyang suddenly turned her head, staring at her, saying in a low voice: “Has the princess become angry from embarrassment so quickly?”

Hechang involuntarily froze.

Li Weiyang said: “I only need time to consider. If the Fourth Prince lacks even this much patience and persistence, please ask him to return early.”

Li Yuanheng was an extremely persistent person – this was clear just from the jewels he sent daily. All were priceless. To be so willing to invest heavily showed he was determined to have her!

“Li Weiyang! Three days from now at the hour of the monkey, we’ll be leaving the capital.” Hechang suddenly said this behind her.

Li Weiyang’s steps didn’t pause, only saying indifferently: “Three days from now I must go to the mountain to pray for disaster victims. I apologize for not being able to see you off.”

Hechang frowned tightly, watching Li Weiyang’s carriage depart. For the first time she fell into doubt, but very quickly she laughed. Li Weiyang, oh Li Weiyang – being a person to your extent is truly extraordinary! If you truly had no interest in Mobei’s empress position, why would you tell me where you’ll be at that time?!

The carriage traveled all the way back to the Li household. Li Weiyang descended from the carriage, turning to instruct Zhao Yue to give Princess Yongning’s driver a reward, then was about to enter. But at this moment, she suddenly heard the sound of hoofbeats.

Zhao Yue excitedly called: “It’s Third Young Master!”

Li Weiyang stared unblinkingly into the distance, only to see Li Minde galloping swiftly from the north on horseback.

He hadn’t attended the banquet today, but at the banquet, Li Weiyang had been constantly hearing various young ladies discussing his name. Everyone knew his outstanding handsomeness, yet he absolutely refused to enter government service. They just didn’t know which woman in the future could capture his heart and marry through the Li household gates. Li Weiyang naturally knew his reason for refusing government service. Now she only quietly watched him ride closer, his brocade robes shining brilliantly in the night, yet none of this compared to those bright, clear eyes, that face—

Seeing her, Li Minde’s smile became extremely radiant, dazzling everyone present until their eyes blurred.

He reined in his horse and stopped, quickly dismounting, then smiled again: “Did today’s banquet go smoothly?”

Li Weiyang smiled: “Naturally it was smooth – couldn’t be smoother.” She suddenly remembered the Ninth Princess’s tearful face. After only a moment’s hesitation, she smiled: “The Ninth Princess and Zhang Feng’s marriage is settled.”

Li Minde’s expression showed a moment of surprise, then he said: “This – is it related to your plan?”

Li Weiyang’s steps stalled for an instant, then she continued as if nothing had happened: “No relation.” She originally should have told him about the Ninth Princess’s feelings, but now she felt there was no need. “Is everything prepared on that side?”

Li Minde raised a smile: “Just wait to watch the good show three days from now.”

Li Weiyang nodded: “I hope they’ll all like this generous gift.”

Three days later was precisely the tenth day of the third month, auspicious for travel. In the middle of the night Li Weiyang had already prepared by washing and dressing. At dawn she entered the palace. Today the Empress Dowager had summoned her to talk. Upon reaching the Empress Dowager’s palace, the Ninth Princess was already there. Seeing her arrive, she only nodded slightly with a smile, then turned to the Empress Dowager: “Empress Dowager, look, Sister Weiyang has arrived.”

The Empress Dowager smiled and beckoned: “Come, come quickly.” She’d always greatly appreciated Li Weiyang. Moreover, the Ninth Princess also liked her very much. Today they were selecting some trousseau items for the Ninth Princess. Consort Rou was unfortunately ill, and the Empress was also very busy. The Ninth Princess had actively mentioned wanting to invite Li Weiyang to advise. Though this didn’t follow protocol, as long as the Empress Dowager was happy, everything was fine.

The Empress Dowager nodded. The chief eunuch at her side continued reading: “One sable fur quilt, one fox fur quilt, eight brocade satin quilts, twelve pillows, one curtain frame, one canopy frame, one bed canopy, fifty taels of third-grade red gold, fifty taels of pale gold, ten thousand taels of silver, one thousand bolts of satin and silk, two thousand bolts of woolen blue cloth—”

The Ninth Princess had been dragged up early in the morning. If speaking of her trousseau, it should properly be Consort Rou advising, but the Empress Dowager insisted she select some beloved items herself. Such favor was unprecedented, so no matter how tired or impatient she was, she had to listen with a smile.

After a full half hour of reading, only a quarter was covered. The Empress Dowager finally sighed, rubbing her temples: “Listening truly gives me a headache. Weiyang, do you see anything inappropriate?”

Li Weiyang smiled: “The Empress Dowager has prepared everything meticulously – how could anything be inappropriate? It’s just that the Ninth Princess always has her own ideas. All the fabrics should probably be viewed by her personally to be sure, in case the palace’s old conventions aren’t to her liking.”

The Empress Dowager nodded. This time quite a few old fabrics were indeed taken from the storehouse. Some colors were indeed unsuitable for personal wear, yet too valuable to reward to others. Better to have the Ministry of Internal Affairs exchange them for a new batch. She nodded: “That makes sense.” Speaking, she felt her headache and pressed her temple area. Li Weiyang carefully asked: “Has the Empress Dowager’s headache not healed?”

The Ninth Princess beside her quickly showed concern: “Empress Dowager, it’s all granddaughter’s fault. Your marriage arrangements have exhausted you – this truly troubles my conscience.”

Consort Rou’s poor health and the Empress not being the Ninth Princess’s birth mother meant she was far too perfunctory about this matter. The Empress Dowager couldn’t stand watching and personally took charge. These past days just reviewing trousseau items had given her splitting headaches. She shook her head: “It’s an old ailment.”

Li Weiyang said softly: “Weiyang presumes to offer a type of mint balm that might be useful.” The Empress Dowager glanced at her, her gaze revealing a trace of warmth: “You’re so thoughtful, but this is an old problem. The palace physicians have tried many methods without effect.”

The Ninth Princess’s charming face currently showed no trace of sadness. She glanced at the Empress Dowager, acting coquettishly: “Empress Dowager, just try it!” Then she actively walked before Li Weiyang, taking the small porcelain bottle with peony patterns from her hand. Opening it for a sniff, there was immediately a nose-piercing cool mint scent. She used her ring finger to dab a bit, going over to gently massage it for the Empress Dowager, saying softly: “We must at least try…”

After a long while, the Empress Dowager lightly exhaled: “Indeed it’s very comfortable.”

Li Weiyang smiled. This mint balm was completely different from ordinary imperial physician prescriptions for treating headaches. Years ago, to curry favor with the Empress Dowager, she’d spent who knows how much effort to obtain this secret recipe. Taking it out now naturally had miraculous effects. “This subject heard from my grandmother about this secret recipe for treating headaches. Thinking the Empress Dowager also suffers from headaches, I risked trying it. If effective, excellent – even if ineffective, it won’t harm the body.”

The Empress Dowager was indeed very pleased, looking at Li Weiyang with increasingly gentle expression: “Your thoughtfulness is truly appreciated.”

The atmosphere in the hall became increasingly harmonious. The Ninth Princess smiled while personally peeling red-skinned oranges, feeding them to the Empress Dowager segment by segment. At mealtime, the Empress Dowager specially said: “Weiyang should also stay to dine.”

This was unprecedented favor. Li Weiyang smiled: “Thank you, Empress Dowager.”

Thus about ten eunuchs set up two dining tables in the center of the great hall, then joined them with a square table, placing bowls and plates covered with silver lids one by one on the tables. The carved grand armchair on the dining table’s east side was naturally for the Empress Dowager. Positions beside the dining table each had two smaller chairs for her and the Ninth Princess.

A group of well-trained eunuchs began setting out the meal. The aroma of various delicacies began spreading through the air. The food here far exceeded the Li household’s New Year feast arrangements – and this was still simplified arrangements for the special period. The eunuch knelt on the ground: “The meal is set. Please dine.”

The Ninth Princess wanted to remind Li Weiyang of dining etiquette, afraid she’d make some embarrassing mistake or commit some error that would displease the Empress Dowager. But unexpectedly, Li Weiyang very accurately walked to the chair she should sit in, first kowtowing to the Empress Dowager to thank her for the seat, then stood aside. Only after the Empress Dowager and Ninth Princess were seated did she sit down. While eating, the Ninth Princess stared at Li Weiyang with astonished eyes. She was truly amazed – she didn’t know why Li Weiyang would perform so skillfully and elegantly. That dining manner was even more dignified than hers.

Such bearing absolutely couldn’t be trained overnight. Not only the Ninth Princess – even the Empress Dowager looked at Li Weiyang twice more, also finding it somewhat strange. Only no one asked aloud. The Empress Dowager even felt this was Li Weiyang’s natural bearing.

Throughout the meal, the great hall was utterly silent. Even the usually lively Ninth Princess did not dare speak casually.

After the meal concluded, Li Weiyang withdrew together with the Ninth Princess to the screens at both ends of the hall. Eunuchs brought mouth-rinsing water and warm hand towels for them to rinse their mouths and wipe their hands. Then they presented a small silver box containing cardamom and fragrant herbal powder, which they held in their mouths—partly to aid digestion, partly to perfume their speech.

The Ninth Princess quietly observed Li Weiyang. Seeing her movements refined and noble, her bearing dignified and gracious, she couldn’t help thinking that though she’d grown up in the palace court and was completely familiar with these movements, her movement and bearing were absolutely just mechanical. Even Consort Rou had criticized her, saying she wasn’t attentive learning etiquette. She’d felt these were just daily habits – what was there to learn? But today seeing Li Weiyang’s movements flow like clouds and water, appearing even more dignified and beautiful than mother consort’s daily manner, even palace senior nannies who’d stayed in the palace many years might not compare… Her doubts only deepened, but in the Empress Dowager’s presence she didn’t dare ask.

Just then, a eunuch suddenly entered with a frightened expression, kneeling: “Empress Dowager, Dowager Consort Liu went to Puji Temple to offer incense today, but halfway there she was kidnapped! Now those female officials have returned crying their hearts out – it’s complete chaos at the palace gates!”

Dowager Consort Liu was a consort the late emperor married in his later years. Because she entered the palace very young, naive and unable to curry favor, she wasn’t favored by the late emperor, so had no children. Instead her relationship with the Empress Dowager had always been very good. As for now, she was ultimately not very old and couldn’t sit in the palace constantly like the Empress Dowager, so she regularly went to Puji Temple monthly to offer incense and pray, which also counted as relaxation. But unexpectedly, a dignified dowager consort would be kidnapped halfway!

The Empress Dowager was greatly shocked: “In broad daylight, who would dare do such a thing!” The more she thought, the more wrong it seemed. She said hatefully: “Truly ate the heart of a bear and the gall of a leopard!” As she spoke, she felt the headache that had just improved become even more severe, almost unable to sit steadily. The Ninth Princess quickly used her finger to dab some mint balm under the Empress Dowager’s nose, having her lightly inhale for a moment before the Empress Dowager felt somewhat relieved.

The Ninth Princess quickly rebuked that eunuch: “Why aren’t you speaking clearly – what exactly happened…”

The eunuch quickly said: “Everything was fine when Dowager Consort left the palace. Just after ascending the mountain, inexplicably a group of bandits rushed out, attacking people without explanation and snatching that sedan chair away!”

The Empress Dowager gasped in shock, saying in amazement: “These were imperial palace insignia. Who knew such a thing would happen – what am I to do…”

The Ninth Princess glanced at Li Weiyang, concealing the smile in her eyes while showing infinite guilt on her face: “Empress Dowager, it’s all my fault. Actually when Dowager Consort was leaving the palace today I happened to encounter her. Seeing she brought so many people with such extravagant insignia, I said that during these troubled times we really shouldn’t be so ostentatious. Dowager Consort deeply agreed and ordered people to travel light without great fanfare. If it had been according to the original circumstances, the bandits would never dare do such a thing—”

The Empress Dowager froze, then shook her head: “How can this be blamed on you! Originally after the disaster everything should be simplified, especially going to worship Buddha, and on the official road at that – who could have imagined such a thing!” Her tone turned stern, immediately saying solemnly: “Does His Majesty know?”

The eunuch quickly said: “His Majesty is unwell today and summoned an imperial physician for an audience. This servant didn’t dare report it.”

The Empress Dowager frowned: “This matter cannot be widely publicized. Quickly take my decree to the Capital Magistrate – give him until nightfall to find Dowager Consort Liu. If he fails, bring his head to see me!”

“Yes!” The eunuch hurriedly left.

The Ninth Princess saw the Empress Dowager’s face growing increasingly ashen. She quickly said: “Empress Dowager, rest assured. Dowager Consort Liu has always been benevolent. Heaven will bless her – there definitely won’t be any serious harm. Perhaps it’s a misunderstanding—”

A misunderstanding – where would such a misunderstanding occur! In over a hundred years since the dynasty’s founding, such a thing had never happened! A harem consort kidnapped – and this consort was a dowager consort – spreading this news would make people die laughing! So hearing these words, the Empress Dowager’s expression showed no relief whatsoever. Dowager Consort Liu was only fourteen when the late emperor died… These years her maintenance had been especially good, still appearing charming. Who knows whether those inexplicable bandits sought wealth or beauty. If something truly happened, she’d probably have to die for the late emperor.

The Empress Dowager’s eyelids began twitching incessantly. She truly couldn’t imagine who would bother kidnapping such a middle-aged woman. Moreover, this was going to offer incense – she hadn’t brought gold or silver treasures. What use was taking her! Simply – inconceivable! Now what should be done? Never mind not finding her – if they truly found her, it would be an even bigger trouble!

Li Weiyang glanced at the Ninth Princess, lowering her eyes, barely suppressing her smile. She knew this Dowager Consort Liu – indeed beautiful, slender figure, tall and slim. Though single-eyelided, she had phoenix eyes. Though a dowager consort unable to dress too flamboyantly, in dress and adornment she always found ways to show off within proper bounds. When the late emperor died she was very young. Later rumors even spread about her close association with a certain prince. If not for the Empress Dowager’s protection, this Dowager Consort Liu would have long been martyred – never mind still living well now.

Today’s truth was: she first had the Ninth Princess find a way to change Dowager Consort Liu’s insignia, arranging it as simply and ordinarily as possible, looking just like an ordinary wealthy household’s noble lady going out. Then she specially arranged an identical carriage insignia, deliberately parading it before people’s eyes… As for making that person think both carriage sets were identical, it depended on whether Zhao Yue, the accompanying maid, acted convincingly…

Just then, hearing the Empress Dowager cry out – a female official beside her had accidentally knocked over a teacup. The tea water scalded the Empress Dowager’s hand. The Empress Dowager, enraged to the extreme, actually raised her hand and slapped that female official. Naturally the entire hall was shocked. In these past ten-plus years, the Empress Dowager had never personally struck a palace maid! You must know, palace masters punishing people didn’t need to act personally – this showed how angry she was today—

The Ninth Princess quietly winked at Li Weiyang, who had been observing with eyes on nose, nose on heart, saying nothing more.

Li Weiyang lightly breathed a sigh of relief. Now then, it depended on whether the next move went smoothly to determine the entire plan’s success…

The Empress Dowager’s troubles naturally weren’t over. When she was drinking tea, a eunuch again hurriedly came to report: “Just now that Fourth Prince of Mobei brought people rushing northward in a panic. He happened to encounter the Crown Prince returning from a hunt and accidentally collided with the Crown Prince’s carriage and horses. He refused to identify himself, only rushing northward relentlessly. As the sky darkened, the guards under the Crown Prince couldn’t see the other party’s identity clearly. Suddenly hearing a woman’s cry for help from inside the carriage, thinking they were bandits, they rushed forward attacking and killing, seizing the carriage, only to discover Dowager Consort inside!”