On the second day after Imperial Consort Guo Hui returned to the Guo family, Princess Chenliu held a grand banquet for her. Li Weiyang watched, understanding very clearly in her heart. This banquet served two purposes: first, to celebrate Imperial Consort Hui’s homecoming visit, and second, to demonstrate an attitude to everyone. What kind of attitude was this? Very simple—brothers Guo Ping and Guo Teng had met with consecutive disasters. One died, one was exiled, both receiving unpardonable punishments. Everyone saw this, and though they said nothing aloud, they all wondered about it inwardly. Through this banquet, the Duke of Qi’s estate would explain to everyone that those two men’s actions brought their fate upon themselves and would not affect the Duke’s estate’s position and influence at court.

Indeed, on this day, all the great noble families sent representatives to attend. The entire banquet presented a scene of perfect harmony—no one mentioned brothers Guo Ping and Guo Teng at all. Of course, there was one exception: Lady of Marquis Qingping, her face full of cold frost. This time, she brought her daughter Wen Ge to sit beside her, wearing an expression of finding fault with everything, displeased with whatever she saw. Even when Lady Guo exchanged pleasantries with her, her face remained ice-cold and expressionless. In contrast, Wen Ge beside her displayed particular gentleness, gazing at Guo Cheng with tender affection.

That water-like gaze made Guo Cheng break out in goosebumps all over. While exchanging glances with Guo Dao, he thought of ways to excuse himself, claiming he couldn’t hold his liquor well, and withdrew from the banquet. In reality, he was following Li Weiyang’s instructions to go find Han Lin in the plum grove. In his view, Cousin Han Lin was much more lovable than that fake Wen Ge. At the very least, she wouldn’t speak to you with smiles and laughter one moment, then turn around and viciously beat her maids the next. Just from Lady of Marquis Qingping’s temperament alone, he could imagine what kind of hell he would fall into if he married Wen Ge. Since this was the case, he should make his decision early and marry Han Lin as soon as possible. Seeing Guo Cheng make excuses and slip away, Guo Dun and Guo Dao could no longer sit still either. The two of them stood up one after another and went to chat with familiar young nobles nearby.

Throughout the entire banquet, Lady Guo was busy with social obligations and had no time to attend to Li Weiyang. Li Weiyang sat contentedly by herself. From time to time, ladies and young misses came to greet her, and she responded with perfect courtesy—neither too cold nor too warm, displaying the demeanor of a young lady from a great family. Over there, Imperial Consort Guo had already been surrounded by countless people—some fawning, some flattering, and some with ulterior motives. Li Weiyang watched this and smiled quietly to herself.

Just then, a young man appeared before Li Weiyang’s eyes, probably twenty-three or twenty-four years old. He had delicate, refined features with an elegant complexion, and his manner carried a transcendent air. Though young and noble, his smile bore not a trace of arrogance, making people feel favorably disposed toward him at first sight.

Li Weiyang had seen this person once before—he was Chen Bingbing’s younger brother, Chen Xuanhua. Speaking of which, the two families were related by marriage. Moreover, in the palace, Imperial Consort Guo and Imperial Consort Chen had a very friendly relationship, so the Guo and Chen families had always been quite close. Chen Xuanhua’s appearance here wasn’t strange at all.

Li Weiyang had long understood the court situation very clearly. Though the Chen family was also distinguished, everyone in the family were primarily civil officials—a truly refined scholarly family. Though Imperial Consort Chen held the rank of Noble Consort in the palace, seemingly even higher than Imperial Consort Hui, in reality, the Chen family’s influence at court couldn’t compare to the Guos who cultivated both civil and martial abilities. Combined with years of deliberate suppression and suspicion from the Pei family toward the Chens, the Chen clan had to seek powerful external allies, and the Guo family was the best choice. Therefore, the marriage alliance between the Chen and Guo families prevented the Peis from acting rashly and made all the great families very wary of these two families. This was a union of strength with strength, as well as a necessity.

Chen Xuanhua had seen Li Weiyang sitting at the table from afar earlier and had wanted to come speak with her all along. Especially seeing her composed and calm manner, warm yet tinged with indifference—this quality involuntarily made him feel drawn to approach her. He came forward and bowed, saying, “Miss Guo, it’s been a long time.”

Li Weiyang’s expression shifted slightly. This Young Master Chen was as modest as his appearance suggested. She returned the courtesy, “Young Master Chen, it’s indeed been many days since we last parted. Second Sister-in-law mentioned last time that she wanted to bring me to visit the Chen family, but we hadn’t yet made the trip when we met again like this.”

Chen Xuanhua felt a trace of pleasant surprise. He understood very well that though Li Weiyang’s tone held some warmth, it was only for the sake of her second sister-in-law Chen Bingbing. Even so, he was already quite content. Guo Cheng had warned him long ago that the Guo family would never again use Li Weiyang’s marriage as a bargaining chip. But in his heart, this gentle and beautiful woman had left a deep impression, especially her faint smile, which made him unable to forget. So he couldn’t help but draw closer. Chen Xuanhua smiled and said, “Miss Guo hasn’t been back in the capital long. Are you accustomed to life here?”

Li Weiyang smiled, “Though Guo Jia has been away from home for a long time, this is still my homeland after all. There’s nothing to be unaccustomed to. Moreover, everyone has been very caring toward me, so naturally everything goes smoothly. Thank you for your concern, Young Master.”

Chen Xuanhua nodded, “As long as Miss is comfortable. However, the scenery of the capital is also quite wonderful. If there’s an opportunity, Xuanhua would be willing to serve as a guide and take Miss to tour all the streets and alleys, to see the local customs and culture.”

Soon, they were conversing back and forth, you say one thing, I say another. This Young Master Chen was originally accomplished in both civil and martial arts, a refined and elegant talent. Combined with his deliberate effort to please Li Weiyang, their conversation was quite congenial.

Just then, someone suddenly walked over from the side and gave a cold laugh: “I’ve long heard that Miss Guo is warm and approachable, popular with everyone. Looking now, it’s truly comprehensive—not missing a single person.”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang turned her head to see a young man standing before her, very young and quite handsome. He had a tall, slender figure, elegant as jade, but his face was ice-cold. His entire appearance looked as refined as if carved from ice.

Seeing Li Weiyang stunned, Chen Xuanhua couldn’t help but say, “I imagine Miss Guo doesn’t know him yet. This is the young master of the Marquis of Xiangyang’s estate. He just returned from outside and rarely attends such banquets, so Miss Guo probably doesn’t recognize him.”

You Qingfeng smiled slightly and said coolly, “Brother Chen, though I don’t know Miss Guo, her reputation has spread throughout the capital. She’s quite famous now. I just didn’t expect that even someone as clever as you would become one of her admirers!”

These words were even more pointed, carrying heavy sarcasm. Even the usually refined Chen Xuanhua’s expression changed. He looked at the other party and said, “Brother You, what do you mean by this? Why are your words so aggressive? If Miss Guo has offended you in some way, you might as well speak directly. Why slander her like this?! The phrase ‘admirer’ isn’t something to be used casually!”

You Qingfeng looked coldly at Li Weiyang and said, “Miss Guo never leaves her home, and we’re complete strangers to each other. How could she have offended me? Young Master Chen is overthinking!” Having said this, he turned and left.

Chen Xuanhua’s expression became very unpleasant, but with so many people watching, he couldn’t very well stop the other party to demand an explanation. He looked nervously at Li Weiyang and couldn’t help saying, “Miss Guo, please don’t be angry. He was speaking nonsense…”

Li Weiyang remained composed, saying coolly, “Young Master Chen needn’t mind. Young Master You is a guest—I won’t take it to heart.”

Chen Xuanhua was stunned, “Though You Qingfeng is usually aloof, he’s not the type to mock and slander a young lady so casually. Something must have gone wrong.” He thought for a moment and couldn’t help explaining on the other’s behalf, “Perhaps it’s because Marquis of Xiangyang has been seriously ill recently that his mood is so terrible. Speaking carelessly in his anxiety does happen. But judging from his expression, I’m afraid the Marquis’s illness is quite serious this time.”

Li Weiyang glanced at You Qingfeng’s retreating figure, saying thoughtfully, “You just said this Young Master You is the adopted son of Marquis of Xiangyang?”

Chen Xuanhua nodded, “That’s right. The Marquis of Xiangyang has been busy with state affairs and never married his entire life—he’s quite worthy of respect.”

Li Weiyang couldn’t help but raise her eyebrows: “Never married his entire life?”

Chen Xuanhua nodded, “When the Marquis of Xiangyang was young, he was accomplished in both civil and martial arts, talented and brilliant, a famous handsome man in the capital. However, he seemed to have already fallen in love with someone. When he was preparing to marry, his fiancée inexplicably fell ill and died. He then vowed to remain faithful to his beloved and never discussed marriage again. In the blink of an eye, so many years have passed. With no heir, and no one to inherit his title, he somehow adopted this Young Master You from somewhere, personally raising him, teaching him literature, training him in martial arts, and later sending him to the battlefield to establish merit and build his career. Now the Marquis of Xiangyang’s title has long been confirmed—one day it will be inherited by You Qingfeng. So everyone privately calls him Young Marquis.”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang smiled, “Guo Jia returned to the capital not long ago and still doesn’t understand these matters very well.”

In fact, she had seen information about the Marquis of Xiangyang before, but hadn’t paid it particular attention. All these years, the Marquis of Xiangyang’s health had never been very good. He constantly claimed illness and stayed home, rarely even going to court. This so-called being busy with state affairs and having no mind for marriage was probably for the sake of that fiancée who had passed away. She hadn’t expected there would still be such devoted men in this world.

Li Weiyang couldn’t help but glance at You Qingfeng again, only to see his gaze fixed somewhere, his eyes seemingly holding faint resentment and anger. Li Weiyang followed his gaze and saw he was looking toward Imperial Consort Hui’s direction. Her heart jumped, and an inexplicable thought floated unbidden into her mind.

Chen Xuanhua looked at Li Weiyang and said, “What is it? Is Miss Guo still thinking about Young Master You’s rudeness toward you earlier?”

Li Weiyang came back to herself and glanced at Chen Xuanhua, “Young Master Chen, please don’t misunderstand. I’m not so narrow-minded. I just deeply admire the Marquis of Xiangyang’s devotion. If there’s an opportunity, I truly would like to meet this senior.”

Chen Xuanhua sighed, “He is devoted, but his devotion has gone too far. Worrying himself into illness, bedridden for so long—I heard that in just a month or two, the Young Marquis will inherit the title.”

Hearing this, Li Weiyang glanced at You Qingfeng again. His gaze had turned away. He simply lowered his head, gripping a wine cup in his hand, wearing a gloomy expression that didn’t match his appearance as a noble young master at all. After exchanging a few more polite words with Chen Xuanhua, Li Weiyang walked over to Yuan Lie, who had been eyeing her like a tiger watching its prey: “The intelligence you gave me seems to say very little about the Marquis of Xiangyang.”

Yuan Lie had been watching her talk with Chen Xuanhua the whole time. Hearing this, he couldn’t help but darken his handsome face, as if slightly displeased: “You were busy talking with that man—why bother with me now?”

Li Weiyang saw his pair of eyes flashing brightly but looking very dissatisfied, and couldn’t help but smile, “When someone comes to talk with me, should I just ignore them? I’m the host here. Where does this temper of yours come from? Alright, stop making trouble. Answer me honestly—regarding the Marquis of Xiangyang, why is there so little information?”

Yuan Lie, seeing she had explained clearly, wasn’t particularly bothered. That Chen Xuanhua wasn’t worth considering at all. He smiled slightly now and said, “An old fool who retired home sick long ago—why should I pay him any mind?”

Li Weiyang thought for a moment and said in a low voice, “For some reason, I feel that You Qingfeng has some hostility toward me, toward the Guo family. Have you noticed?”

Yuan Lie thought for a moment, saying thoughtfully, “Princess Lin’an has many admirers. Perhaps You Qingfeng is also one pursuing her, so he resents you?” His smile was very charming, as if deliberately teasing Li Weiyang.

Li Weiyang, across the table, secretly stepped on his foot under it: “Don’t talk nonsense! You Qingfeng is somewhat younger than Princess Lin’an, and he’s been in the military all along. How could they be involved? In my view, this matter likely has other hidden reasons. Help me pay attention to why exactly he would be dissatisfied with the Guo family.”

Yuan Lie glanced at You Qingfeng and sneered inwardly: “What’s there to pay attention to with such a rash person?” He was obviously jealous.

Li Weiyang smiled, “It’s not for him—it’s for Imperial Consort Hui, and of course for the Guo family. I’m now the Guo family’s daughter. If something happens to the Guo family, can I escape? Taking precautions before trouble arises is how one remains invincible forever. You understand this principle. Collect as much as you can—the more the better. But not just about him—information about that Marquis of Xiangyang also needs to be investigated thoroughly as soon as possible.”

Yuan Lie couldn’t help but feel puzzled: “The Marquis of Xiangyang? Why are you suddenly concerned about him? He’s been sick at home for so many years, not participating in any struggles. Surely he has no connection to the Guo family.”

Li Weiyang shook her head, “You Qingfeng is hostile toward the Guo family, but at his age, he couldn’t possibly have a feud with them. He’s the Marquis of Xiangyang’s adopted son. Could it be that the Marquis had some grievance with the Guo family years ago?” The more she thought about it, the more possible it seemed.

Yuan Lie couldn’t help but laugh. Playing with the wine cup in his hand, his sharp eyes had already swept toward You Qingfeng’s direction: “If the Marquis of Xiangyang truly had a feud with the Guo family, why has he claimed illness and not attended court all these years, holding back and making no move? He couldn’t possibly be relying on his son to take revenge for him.”

Li Weiyang smiled, “Perhaps I’m overthinking it, or perhaps he just finds me unpleasant. Both are possible.” In her heart, she preferred that the other party simply found her unpleasant. Otherwise, this matter might become complicated.

You Qingfeng sat alone, looking distracted. He kept holding his wine cup but hadn’t taken a single sip. His gaze fell on Li Weiyang, and he gave a cold laugh. That woman sat there quietly, as if all the light gathered on her. She didn’t have particularly outstanding looks or imposing bearing, yet miraculously, she left a deep impression in people’s hearts. She existed like green mountains and clear waters—no matter how dazzling others’ brilliance, it couldn’t obscure her unique temperament. Perhaps it was with this bearing that she seduced Prince Xu and Prince Jing.

Soon, his gaze shifted from Li Weiyang to Imperial Consort Hui, who was surrounded by people, and he sneered inwardly. That woman was putting on an act again.

At this moment, Guo Dao beside him slowly walked over: “When did Brother You return to the capital? Why didn’t you say anything? I could have welcomed you properly.”

Guo Dao and You Qingfeng had been classmates years ago, so they had some friendship. In the past, though You Qingfeng ignored the Guo family members, he was at least willing to say a few words to Guo Dao. But today, he only looked at Guo Dao coolly and said, “I’m just visiting the capital temporarily. I won’t be staying many days—no need for Brother Guo to trouble himself.” His words carried a coldness that kept people at a thousand miles’ distance.

Hearing this, Guo Dao couldn’t help but feel surprised. In his view, though this Young Master You, the future Marquis of Xiangyang, was aloof and somewhat rigid in personality, he was truly an upright good person. So he didn’t resist becoming close to him. However, with his silver tongue that could create warmth everywhere, Guo Dao repeatedly hit walls with You Qingfeng. Especially whenever he mentioned Guo family matters, You Qingfeng would look at him with very cold eyes, making him suspicious. He was a very clever person—if it were someone else, he would have long stopped trying to befriend You Qingfeng. But the more the other party treated him rudely, the more he wanted to figure out what was going on.

Thinking of this, he smiled and said, “Doesn’t Brother You feel bored sitting here alone? Shall I introduce you to some friends?”

His attitude was very warm, but You Qingfeng only said coolly, “I’m used to coming and going alone. No need to trouble yourself—you should go attend to other guests.” He looked completely ungrateful.

Guo Dao’s smile grew wider as he slowly said, “Brother You is my classmate and my good friend. Of course I should do my utmost to care for you and make you feel happy and at home. How about this—I’ll keep you company for a drink.” Saying this, he proactively poured the other party a cup of wine: “Brother You, please.”

You Qingfeng glanced at him. He couldn’t very well refuse excessively, so he casually drank it and then showed the empty cup: “I’ve finished drinking. Brother Guo, you should go. No need to sit here accompanying this unsociable person.”

Guo Dao felt even more puzzled. He didn’t know what You Qingfeng was like in the military, but though he treated others coldly, he had never shown this keep-away attitude. Why was this? Guo Dao’s heart held a faint sense of strangeness, but he couldn’t say where this strangeness came from. He glanced at You Qingfeng and turned to leave. Pressing his warm face against someone’s cold backside—this job really wasn’t pleasant. If not for the fact that though the Marquis of Xiangyang didn’t concern himself with worldly affairs at court, the You clan still held significant weight there, he couldn’t be bothered with him.

At this moment, You Qingfeng watched Guo Dao leave, then continued sitting there, his gaze coldly fixed on Imperial Consort Hui. In his view, if not for Imperial Consort Hui’s cold heartlessness back then, his father wouldn’t have been hurt so deeply. No—if she hadn’t clung to his father’s heart so tightly, he wouldn’t have remained alone all these years, and wouldn’t have fallen seriously ill at just over forty. Thinking of what the imperial physician said—that within less than a month, his father would likely pass away—You Qingfeng’s heart ached slightly. His gaze toward Imperial Consort Hui filled even more with hatred!

After his father fell ill, he had sent people into the palace multiple times with messages, hoping Imperial Consort Hui could find an opportunity to leave the palace and see his father one last time. But beyond You Qingfeng’s expectations, what came back was a bucket of cold water—Imperial Consort Hui refused! And she refused sternly!

You Qingfeng couldn’t describe his feelings at that moment. Previously, though he had complaints about that goddess-like woman in his father’s mouth, he hadn’t felt hatred. But after Imperial Consort Hui refused his request, his heart filled with loathing for this person. Back then, it was this woman who abandoned his father and entered the palace. His father’s heart ached as if dying, yet he clung to a last hope, constantly waiting for her. All these years, alone, never marrying. Even when the clan desperately pressured him to continue the family line, he only adopted himself as his son to inherit his title. Such a good man, yet that woman didn’t cherish him at all—she only thought of the palace’s glory and wealth!

You Qingfeng’s grip on his wine cup tightened, with such force that he nearly crushed it! He deeply hated Imperial Consort Hui, and in his transferred anger, he even hated the Guo family members. Thinking of that day when he heard about the Guo family’s internal strife implicating Guo Ping and Guo Teng, resulting in their deaths—he couldn’t help laughing loudly, clapping his hands and saying the Guo family members were like dogs biting dogs, deserving this fate. Who knew that his usually gentle and refined father would become angry for the first time. Even now, he still remembered the Marquis of Xiangyang’s iron-blue face scolding him. He knew deeply that his father wasn’t complaining for the Guo family, but for Imperial Consort Hui. He didn’t want him criticizing the Guo family—the fundamental reason was that he still deeply loved that woman.

When he received the Guo estate’s invitation today, he originally didn’t want to come. He could have made some random excuse to decline. But when he learned that Imperial Consort Hui was also returning home to visit, he changed his mind. He wanted to see this woman. He wanted to know what this woman who could make his father so infatuated, haunting his dreams for so many years, actually looked like. What kind of person was she?

But when he saw her, he felt she was nothing special. Indeed, Imperial Consort Hui’s appearance wasn’t particularly beautiful—at most, she was attractive. He really didn’t understand what about this woman was worth his father’s constant remembrance.

Listening to people around him discussing how Imperial Consort Hui was now so respected in the palace, how Prince Jing Yuan Ying was so talented and refined, You Qingfeng’s heart grew more annoyed. That woman lived so gloriously now, returning home to visit but unwilling to see his father one last time. She was clearly a heartless, conscienceless, disloyal, and utterly vicious woman! The more he thought, the angrier he became. The more he thought, the more unwilling he felt. Suddenly he stood up and walked toward Imperial Consort Hui.

Just then, a figure blocked his path. You Qingfeng looked at her coldly: “What instruction does Miss Guo have for me?”

Li Weiyang’s smile was very warm. When she saw You Qingfeng walking toward Imperial Consort Hui, she instinctively stepped out and blocked his way. Now seeing him ask this, she couldn’t help but smile slightly: “Young Master You looks furious. Where are you going? Did the servants fail to attend to you properly and anger you?”

Though she didn’t know what entanglement existed between him and Imperial Consort Hui, at such an occasion, she absolutely couldn’t let him cause any trouble. So she stepped forward to stop him.

You Qingfeng’s gaze was ice-cold, looking at her with contempt as he said coolly, “This is my business. Miss Guo should stand aside to avoid me accidentally offending you.”

Li Weiyang hadn’t yet spoken when she heard someone beside her laugh: “Oh? How exactly does the Young Marquis plan to ‘offend’ her?”

You Qingfeng looked over to see Prince Xu Yuan Lie standing to one side, his bearing like jade. His brilliance seemed to suppress everyone at the banquet at once. You Qingfeng sneered, “To have Prince Xu Yuan Lie speak up for you—no wonder people say Miss Guo has great charm! But I don’t believe it. Without some hint from you, how could you drive men crazy? This doesn’t match the conduct of a refined young lady. In my view, Miss Guo should restrain herself a bit. Don’t be like your aunt—attracting bees and butterflies, shameless.”

Yuan Lie looked at him coldly, suppressing his anger: “You Qingfeng, do you know who you’re talking to?!”

Though the Marquis of Xiangyang held a marquis title, in Yuan Lie’s eyes, it meant nothing. This You Qingfeng relied on his military achievements and dared to be rude before him—he could turn around and find ways to deal with him, leaving him unable to speak of his grievances.

Li Weiyang smiled, however, “Prince Xu needn’t be angry. Young Master You has believed those slanderous words—it’s not so strange. People are often like this, frequently unable to discern the truth. But no matter how Young Master You thinks of me, today this is the Guo family’s banquet. I absolutely won’t allow anyone to cause trouble at this banquet. If Young Master You has some matter, please come another day.”

You Qingfeng looked at her, not expecting Li Weiyang to see through his intention to cause trouble. That’s right—he had just wanted to question Imperial Consort Hui. He wanted to publicly expose her false face, to ask her why, when she and the Marquis of Xiangyang were so compatible back then, she turned around and forgot about his father. Even when his father was critically ill, she refused to go see him. Was she truly so heartless? One could imagine that if he did this, Imperial Consort Hui would be extremely embarrassed, and the old story between her and the Marquis of Xiangyang would spread to everyone. You Qingfeng was only angry for a moment, but being interrupted by Li Weiyang, he suddenly came to his senses.

Indeed, he couldn’t do this—not for Imperial Consort Hui, but for his own father, the Marquis of Xiangyang. He had lived a life of integrity, respected by all. If he acted impulsively and revealed those old matters, even his father’s reputation would be affected. Moreover, this matter now had better use value—it could take revenge on the Guo family without endangering the Marquis of Xiangyang’s estate. Thinking this far, he looked at Li Weiyang coldly: “Miss Guo is right. Your family’s grand banquet surely wouldn’t welcome an uninvited guest like me.” Saying this, he was about to turn and leave.

But he heard Prince Xu Yuan Lie slowly say behind him, “Young Marquis.”

You Qingfeng turned his head and glanced at him, only to hear Yuan Lie’s gaze ice-cold, those eyes seeming deep enough to devour someone: “Things in this world can’t be resolved by the word ‘impulse’ alone. If you have some difficulty, you might as well speak directly—I can help you solve it. But if next time you see Jia’er and are still this rude! Don’t blame me for being impolite to you.”

When he said this, he wore a trace of cold smile that, set against that handsome face, made him even more captivating. You Qingfeng’s heart jumped—he couldn’t help but be awed by the cold light in Yuan Lie’s eyes. However, having been tempered on battlefields for so long, he didn’t lose his composure on the spot. His gaze wandered over Li Weiyang and Yuan Lie’s faces for a moment, then he lowered his eyes and turned to leave.

Li Weiyang watched his retreating figure, her expression showing more doubt. What exactly had he wanted to do just now? Why did he walk toward Imperial Consort Hui so angrily, as if he had something to announce publicly?

Yuan Lie, however, said coolly from the side, “Imperial Consort Hui has been in the palace for many years. Surely she wouldn’t have any entanglement with this young man. This matter must still involve the Marquis of Xiangyang. Weiyang, you were right—it seems I really need to thoroughly investigate this father and son.”

Li Weiyang nodded, saying softly, “Don’t attract attention.” Having said this, she returned to her seat and picked up a teacup, tasting a sip of the finest cloud-mist tea. This was the best of tribute teas—even Imperial Consort Hui only had a few ounces, yet she had specially divided half to give her. This tea tasted very refreshing and pleasant, with a mouth full of fragrance. But in the rising mist, Li Weiyang fell into contemplation. Her gaze involuntarily fell on Imperial Consort Hui again. What exactly was going on here? The Marquis of Xiangyang, Imperial Consort Hui, and that You Qingfeng—what entanglement existed between these three people?

Imperial Consort Hui finally managed to dismiss the people around her. She had just sat down to drink some tea when she saw her elder sister, that always domineering Lady of Marquis Qingping, walking toward her. Imperial Consort Hui frowned faintly but still sat in place without moving.

Lady of Marquis Qingping smiled and sat beside Imperial Consort Hui: “Your Ladyship doesn’t mind reminiscing about old times, does she?”

Imperial Consort Hui looked at her, coldness showing in the depths of her eyes as she said coolly, “What instruction does Lady of Marquis Qingping have for me?”

She called her “Lady” rather than “elder sister,” clearly being very distant. In her view, she had only one elder brother—Guo Su. Those Guo Ping and Guo Teng, and this Lady of Marquis Qingping before her, had no connection whatsoever to her Guo family.

Lady of Marquis Qingping smiled faintly, “I’m merely here to reminisce. Why must Your Ladyship keep people at such a distance?”

“Reminisce? What old times do you and I have to reminisce about?” Imperial Consort Hui’s gaze was ice-cold.

Who knew that Lady of Marquis Qingping would suddenly laugh: “Today at this banquet, there’s another young master who has attracted much attention—the adopted son of Marquis of Xiangyang. Does Your Ladyship still remember? Ah, how could I forget—no matter how forgetful Your Ladyship is, you surely wouldn’t forget the Marquis of Xiangyang, would you?” When she said the three words “Marquis of Xiangyang,” she deliberately raised her volume, as if wanting people around to hear. Fortunately, voices were loud all around with everyone busy talking and networking, so no one noticed what they were actually saying.

Imperial Consort Hui’s expression changed slightly. She suddenly turned her head and stared at Lady of Marquis Qingping, saying in a low voice, “What exactly are you trying to say?”

Lady of Marquis Qingping gave a faint smile, her expression carrying an inexplicable mockery: “Why should Your Ladyship panic? I was merely joking, reminiscing about old acquaintances. Isn’t that something people our age often do? Back then, that Marquis of Xiangyang was accomplished in both civil and martial arts, extraordinarily handsome—any woman would be attracted to him. Moreover, though his character and appearance were outstanding, he was self-disciplined with no romantic scandals. It’s not strange that Your Ladyship would fall in love with him.”

How could Lady of Marquis Qingping know about this— Imperial Consort Hui’s expression remained only faint: “I don’t understand what you’re saying.”

On Lady of Marquis Qingping’s elegant face appeared a trace of elusive cold smile, along with a kind of authority characteristic of Guo family members. She sighed with seeming casualness: “How can Your Ladyship be so hardhearted? Even if you don’t cherish old feelings, you should think about how the Marquis of Xiangyang has remained faithful to you all these years, devoted, even refusing to continue the family line, unwilling to marry a wife or take concubines, single-mindedly suffering while waiting for you. I heard he doesn’t have many days left. Doesn’t Your Ladyship plan to see him once?”

Imperial Consort Hui’s hands slowly clenched, her dark eyebrows furrowing: “You’ve been spying on me in secret all along. What exactly is your purpose?”

The other party smiled faintly, as if completely unconcerned: “Your Ladyship needn’t be nervous. I have no other meaning—I’m just kindly reminding you not to forget old feelings.” Saying this, she drew a handkerchief from her sleeve and symbolically covered the corner of her mouth.

From the moment that handkerchief appeared, Imperial Consort Hui’s gaze could no longer leave it. She couldn’t help saying in a low, angry voice, “How did this handkerchief come to be in your hands!”

Lady of Marquis Qingping laughed leisurely: “I’ve always loved poetry and prose. Some days ago, I was fortunate enough to obtain a poem by the Marquis of Xiangyang. Coincidentally, it was written on this handkerchief. There’s a saying that poetry expresses one’s aspirations. Doesn’t Your Ladyship want to know what’s written on this handkerchief?”

Imperial Consort Hui’s heart stirred, but with so many people around, she couldn’t inquire too deeply or raise her voice. She only looked at the other party with ice-cold eyes: “What does it say?”

Lady of Marquis Qingping’s smile was meaningful, “Of course it expresses his devotion to Your Ladyship. Oh, I forgot—the poem even contains Your Ladyship’s private name. Would Your Ladyship like to see it with your own eyes?”

Imperial Consort Hui instinctively wanted to look at the handkerchief. The other party glanced at her: “If Your Ladyship wants to see it, I naturally offer it with both hands.” Saying this, she actually handed the handkerchief to Imperial Consort Hui. Imperial Consort Hui lowered her head for a glance—it was indeed that familiar handwriting. Her heart skipped a beat, pounding even harder. Immediately, she sharply raised her eyes to look at the other party: “Do you know what crime falsely accusing an Imperial Consort carries?! Where exactly did you get this handkerchief?”

Lady of Marquis Qingping smiled even more triumphantly: “The Marquis of Xiangyang is talented in literature, but these years bedridden, truly few poems circulate, and handwritten items are even rarer. So I spent a great sum to obtain this handkerchief. The poetry on it is so deeply affectionate—even I, an outsider, feel a faint sadness washing over me when reading it. The poem is elegant and timeless, truly displaying unparalleled talent. Your Ladyship truly regrets abandoning this devoted lover back then.”

Imperial Consort Hui gripped the handkerchief tightly. Lady of Marquis Qingping seemed completely unconcerned: “If Your Ladyship likes it, consider this handkerchief a gift. However, I have other things there. Is Your Ladyship interested?”

With these words spoken, Imperial Consort Hui’s heart shook violently. She already understood—the other party’s hands surely held more evidence of her past with the Marquis of Xiangyang. That’s right—she indeed had old feelings with him, but that was before she entered the palace. Back then, she was just a teenage girl, innocent and carefree. What was strange about falling in love with the accomplished and devoted Marquis of Xiangyang? Only for the sake of her family, she ultimately gave up this person and buried her own feelings. She never imagined that after so many years, this matter would become leverage, falling into Lady of Marquis Qingping’s hands. Though her heart had reached the extreme of anger, Imperial Consort Hui’s expression remained unchanged as she said coolly, “What exactly is your purpose? You might as well speak directly.”

The other party smiled even more triumphantly, obviously satisfied and confident that Imperial Consort Hui would agree. She looked at Li Weiyang’s gentle face in the distance, a flash of cruelty passing through her eyes. She lowered her head close to Imperial Consort Hui’s ear. To others, she was just intimately talking with her younger sister. In reality, she transmitted that sentence into Imperial Consort Hui’s ear in an ice-cold tone: “I want Li Weiyang’s life!”

Imperial Consort Hui’s color changed dramatically. She looked at the other party with extreme anger: “No, this is absolutely impossible!”

Lady of Marquis Qingping smiled at her leisure: “Imperial Consort, I think you should know the consequences of refusing me. That girl is just a wild child brought back from outside. Even if she truly is Lady Guo’s biological daughter, so what? Back then, you sacrificed a romance for the Guo family, even sacrificed your own lifetime happiness. Now, sacrificing another girl’s life for the Guo family—what of it? Between an entire family and a daughter who was lost outside for many years, which is most important? Surely Your Ladyship knows?”

“Why should I believe you! After I do as you say, will you hand over the evidence?”

“Of course. I have no need to lie and deceive you. Otherwise, I could announce this matter immediately! I’m merely presenting conditions on someone’s behalf. Who’s behind this—I imagine we both understand in our hearts. So whether you believe me or not, you have no choice.” Lady of Marquis Qingping said coolly. In fact, in her view, publicizing this matter would be even better. Though the Guo family was very powerful and the Emperor wouldn’t take their lives over this, it could still plunge the entire Duke of Qi’s estate into great disaster. Imperial Consort Hui would also lose all foothold in the harem. But clearly, Princess Lin’an wasn’t satisfied with just this. Simply damaging the Guo family’s reputation—she felt it was far from enough! What she wanted was precisely Li Weiyang’s life.

Imperial Consort Hui looked at her, her gaze revealing intense hatred. Her hand had already clenched tightly into a fist, her nails digging into her palm with blood faintly dripping.

Lady of Marquis Qingping gently stood up and patted the nonexistent dust from her skirt hem. Her smile appeared very beautiful and noble: “I’ve said what needed to be said. How Your Ladyship chooses still depends on you. However, I’m only giving you one day. If after one day I don’t see Li Weiyang’s head, then I’ll have to be sorry to the Guo family. Also, my daughter Wen Ge’s marriage to Guo Cheng ends here too. I won’t let my daughter marry into such a family with corrupt morals! Farewell!”

Originally, Lady of Marquis Qingping had been determined to have Wen Ge marry Guo Cheng—the greatest purpose was to scheme against the Duke of Qi’s estate. But looking now, the Guo family would fall sooner or later, so Wen Ge needn’t marry over. Of course, because Wen Ge had been thinking of Guo Cheng all these years, she hadn’t revealed this matter to Wen Ge previously. After returning, she must give her some guidance so she’d stop thinking about marrying Guo Cheng. Thinking of this, she sneered coldly and swept away.

Imperial Consort Hui stared blankly at her retreating figure, speechless. In her chest, a fierce flame rushed straight to her throat—she couldn’t utter a single word! Lady of Marquis Qingping had such a vicious heart! She had seized her vital weakness to threaten her! That’s right—back then she could sacrifice herself for the Guo family. Now she had no choice but to sacrifice Li Weiyang for the Guo family! This logic seemed very clear, but thinking of Li Weiyang’s gentle face, Imperial Consort Hui’s heart was struck by wave after wave of unbearable feelings. Her sister-in-law had finally found this daughter and cherished her like her own heart. How could she possibly harm her for her own sake? But Lady of Marquis Qingping’s threats still rang in her ears. If she didn’t do as told, the entire Guo family would fall into danger—not just damage to reputation, but possible complete ruin, even the entire family declining from this point forward… For a centuries-old great family, what a tremendous blow this would be.

“Your Ladyship, do you have something troubling you?” Just then, a gentle female voice suddenly sounded. Imperial Consort Hui started violently and looked up—it was Li Weiyang’s concerned face.

She hurriedly smiled to cover it up: “Nothing, nothing. I’m just a bit tired.”

Li Weiyang looked at Imperial Consort Hui and smiled slightly: “If Your Ladyship is tired, please rest early. Mother and I are here—nothing will go wrong.”

Imperial Consort Hui looked at that beautiful face, the gentle temperament, but her heart sank like falling into an endless abyss, never finding ground again.