Princess Lin’an returned to the great hall in a fury, her face full of anger. She smashed all the antique jade ornaments in the hall to pieces, leaving the maids nearby looking at each other helplessly—no one dared step forward to dissuade her. While smashing things, Princess Lin’an said angrily, “Li Weiyang! Once again you’ve made a monkey of me. Don’t get too smug! Just wait and see who laughs last!”

Having said this, she couldn’t help feeling her head splitting with pain from the rage. The maids beside her, seeing this situation, quickly brought calming pills and borneol, softly urging, “Your Highness, please rest a moment and calm down.” Princess Lin’an was served the calming pills by the maids and held a piece of borneol in her mouth, but the anger in her heart didn’t diminish in the slightest. Since Jiang Nan’s tragic death, she hadn’t rested day or night. Whenever she closed her eyes, she saw the handsome head of her beloved—this scene was truly too unforgettable, so that she spent all day thinking about how to put Li Weiyang to death. Originally, with Lady of Marquis Qingping’s support, approaching the Guo family was easy as turning a hand. But unexpectedly, that woman had delayed sending news. Princess Lin’an’s expression grew increasingly ugly.

Just then, someone suddenly reported, “Your Highness, just now a carriage stopped at our estate’s back gate and dumped a lady on the steps before leaving. This servant helped the lady up, only to discover it was Lady of Marquis Qingping. She’s now rested in the Princess’s estate for a moment and has regained consciousness. Does Your Highness wish to summon her now?”

Hearing this, Princess Lin’an couldn’t help raising her brows, “Lady of Marquis Qingping? Why didn’t she give advance notice?” A flash of surprise and doubt appeared on her face as she said, “Let her in.”

Soon, Lady of Marquis Qingping walked in from outside. Upon seeing Princess Lin’an, she immediately knelt on the ground, “Princess Lin’an, I failed in my task. Please forgive me, Your Highness.”

Princess Lin’an looked at her coldly, “Oh? So the plan failed?”

Hearing this, Lady of Marquis Qingping’s face couldn’t help flashing with anger, “It’s all because that shameless girl from the Guo family was too cunning. She actually discovered the tea Imperial Consort Hui offered was poisoned and knew I was hiding in the room. The matter couldn’t proceed.”

Princess Lin’an looked at her coldly and sneered, “Didn’t you assure me this matter was foolproof?”

Cold sweat rolled down Lady of Marquis Qingping’s forehead, but she couldn’t utter a single word. Princess Lin’an no longer looked at her. At this moment, a guard beside her said in a low voice, “Your Highness, the person who came left a letter at our estate gate, asking this servant to deliver it to Your Highness.” He then handed the envelope to Princess Lin’an.

Princess Lin’an took it, gently opened it, and skimmed through it. Her expression suddenly changed dramatically. She slapped the letter onto Lady of Marquis Qingping’s face with a smack: “Such audacity! You actually dared to deceive me.”

Lady of Marquis Qingping was startled. She quickly picked up the letter and read it. Her face turned deathly pale. She hadn’t expected Li Weiyang to write everything in the letter, telling Princess Lin’an that it was because of her own affair with an actor that the plan completely failed. Lady of Marquis Qingping couldn’t help feeling afraid. She knew deeply that if it was only because Li Weiyang was too cunning, Princess Lin’an might possibly forgive her. But now, it was because she herself had been incompetent and had leverage seized by the other party, ruining a perfectly good play. One could imagine Princess Lin’an would fly into a rage. Her heart grew even more afraid as she quickly said, “Your Highness, none of this is my fault—it’s all that Guo Jia, all her! I always followed your instructions, but I never expected…”

Before she could finish, Princess Lin’an’s voice suddenly rose eight octaves: “Audacious! What are you saying? What do you mean it’s unrelated to you? Clearly you made the error yourself. Having your leverage seized ruined a good play, and caused me to be made a fool of today.”

Lady of Marquis Qingping tried to argue, “Your Highness, please see clearly! This was Imperial Consort Hui and that Guo Jia joining hands to deceive me—no, to deceive Your Highness!”

Thinking of the obvious mockery in the letter just now, Princess Lin’an trembled with rage, “You fool! Fool!”

Lady of Marquis Qingping’s face was deathly pale, “I… Your Highness, you once promised me you would avenge my brothers. I’ve been serving you wholeheartedly. If it didn’t work this time, we can think of other methods.”

But it was already too late. A flash of resentment crossed Princess Lin’an’s eyes as she shouted sharply, “Guards! Drag this shameless woman out! Beat her with clubs!”

“Yes!” The guard captain waved his hand and shouted, “Come here!” Two guards immediately entered. These two guards pounced like wolves and tigers. Lady of Marquis Qingping never expected disaster would befall her. She cried loudly, “Your Highness! Your Highness, I was wrong, I was wrong! Please spare me!” Unfortunately, no matter how she struggled, it was futile. Having received the order, the guards dared not be careless.

Princess Lin’an called a maid to bring fresh tea. She sipped it, little by little. Outside came Lady of Marquis Qingping’s piercing, stone-splitting screams, mixed with curses and pleas for mercy—unclear and garbled. In this deep night, it was like a series of ghastly female ghost shrieks, making everyone in the hall—maids and guards alike—shudder with horror. Soon, the guard captain ran in, saying in a low voice, “Your Highness, after just a few blows she couldn’t take it anymore. How many should we give?”

Princess Lin’an had originally only wanted to give Lady of Marquis Qingping a small punishment and warning, but her gaze fell on that letter. Suddenly, a trace of strange smile crossed her eyes. After a moment, that smile became increasingly ferocious as she actually said to the guard captain, “Pass down the order—beat her to death. If she doesn’t die, you all die with her!”

The guard captain was shocked by this order but didn’t dare speak further. He hurriedly went out. After leaving, he naturally passed down the Princess’s order. With this command, the guards dared not think further and only focused on beating Lady of Marquis Qingping to death. Ordinary wealthy households’ clubs generally wouldn’t beat people to death, but the guards in the Princess’s estate were all like wolves and tigers. Having received such an order, they naturally used their full force in beating. Before even ten blows, flesh from Lady of Marquis Qingping’s body flew up piece by piece, spattering everywhere. Her howling nearly made the guards’ goosebumps fall to the ground. After over twenty blows, white bone was already faintly visible. Those people still didn’t release their hands but continued beating desperately. Everyone could almost hear the cracking of bones. Finally, with a huge “thud,” Lady of Marquis Qingping screamed extremely miserably, “Princess Lin’an, may you die a terrible death!” One of her legs had been beaten off, flying several feet away. Then Lady of Marquis Qingping made no more sound.

Soon, the guard captain came in to report, “Your Highness, she’s dead.”

A cold sneer crossed Princess Lin’an’s face. The guard captain said anxiously, “Your Highness, after all, she was Lady of Marquis Qingping and held an official title. If she died inexplicably in the Princess’s estate, I fear…” He said this with such worry because although Princess Lin’an had great power and backing from Empress Pei and Crown Prince Yongwen, beating to death a titled lady so easily—if word spread, it might cause huge waves. Princess Lin’an might be acting on momentary anger, but looking back, she might push all the blame onto small people like themselves. How could they bear such responsibility!

Princess Lin’an sneered, “You needn’t worry. I’ll personally take this corpse to make a trip to the Marquis of Qingping’s estate.” She said indifferently, “Go properly arrange Lady of Marquis Qingping. Make absolutely certain no one can see the wounds.”

The guard was shocked, saying in a low voice, “This… see no wounds?”

Princess Lin’an looked at him coldly, “You’ve worked in my estate so long—don’t you even have this much ability?”

The guard was stunned. He thought to himself—having beaten so severely that even the leg was broken off, how could no wounds be visible? He muttered for a long time and finally thought of an idea. Just find the estate’s tailor to stitch up the corpse, then find a way to disguise it a bit—wouldn’t it look better… He bowed, “Alright, this servant will attend to it immediately. Your Highness can rest assured.”

Half an hour later, Lady of Marquis Qingping had been rearranged and loaded into a carriage. She came alive, but left dead. Princess Lin’an personally accompanied this carriage to the Marquis of Qingping’s estate.

At this time, the Marquis of Qingping was pacing anxiously in his study. Throughout the entire day, his wife still didn’t know where she’d gone. Although this woman loved causing trouble, after all, they were husband and wife of many years. He knew her temperament, so his heart couldn’t help worrying. Moreover, he’d heard his wife had recently kept going to the Guo estate to cause trouble. He was very afraid this woman would clash with Duke of Qi Guo Su again. But the news he received said Lady of Marquis Qingping wasn’t at the Duke of Qi’s estate at all—who knew where she’d gone. Hearing this, he felt even more inexpressible anxiety.

Wen Ge saw this and gently urged, “Father needn’t worry. Mother is a sensible person—she’ll return soon.”

The Marquis of Qingping glared at her, “Soon? Look—it’s nearly dawn outside, and she’s still not back. Who knows what’s happened?”

Hearing this, a trace of coldness crossed Wen Ge’s face, “Father, Mother won’t have any problems. Perhaps she’s been delayed somewhere by some matter.” Before she finished speaking, she saw the old steward bow and report, “Master, Second Miss, Princess Lin’an personally escorted the Lady home.”

The Marquis of Qingping was stunned, then said, “Princess Lin’an? Why has she come?”

Wen Ge stood up, “Father, Mother has frequently visited Princess Lin’an’s estate recently. Perhaps she encountered something there and the Princess is escorting her back.” Though Wen Ge said this, inwardly she thought—Mother has always resented the Guo estate and tried every way to make difficulties for them. Recently, she finally connected with Princess Lin’an, often mysteriously disappearing without a trace.

Wen Ge had strong opinions about this matter. She always believed she was destined to marry into the Duke of Qi’s estate. If Mother made relations too strained with them, it did her no good. That Guo Cheng was young and handsome, refined and elegant. She was quite satisfied with this ideal husband. Moreover, the Guo family’s two eldest sons were long stationed away—if she married in, she would be the daughter-in-law in charge. Perhaps everything from the Duke of Qi would be inherited by her children. Thinking of this, she couldn’t help blaming Mother for being meddlesome. In her view, a peaceful transition was much better than making a scene at their door. She believed that with her scheming and methods, plus such beauty, she could definitely win the hearts of the Duke of Qi’s estate and Guo Cheng. When the time came, wouldn’t she have whatever she wanted? Why go through such trouble? Though she thought this, she didn’t dare reveal everything to Father. She only said gently, “Father, since Mother has returned, let’s go see.”

With Princess Lin’an arriving, the Marquis of Qingping naturally didn’t dare delay. He quickly brought Wen Ge hurriedly to the hall. Upon seeing Princess Lin’an, he immediately bowed, “Princess Lin’an gracing this humble dwelling—I failed to welcome you from afar.” Before finishing, he saw two maids behind Princess Lin’an supporting his wife, stumbling in. Then they placed her in a chair. Though Lady of Marquis Qingping had rosy complexion and neat clothing, her eyes were tightly closed, her head drooping softly, as if drunk. He couldn’t help saying angrily, “Wife, what kind of appearance is this? Won’t you get up quickly?” But Lady of Marquis Qingping seemed not to hear his words and made no movement.

The Marquis of Qingping’s heart jumped strangely. He couldn’t help striding forward and grasping Lady of Marquis Qingping’s hand. Immediately, he froze. Those icy cold fingers made his heart jump. Instinctively, he glanced at Lady of Marquis Qingping, only to see the rouge on her face was extremely strange—even somewhat frightening. With a “smack,” he dropped her hand and sharply turned to look at Princess Lin’an, “Your Highness, what has happened to my wife?” At this moment, he still hadn’t realized Lady of Marquis Qingping was already a corpse.

Princess Lin’an said coolly, “Tonight someone delivered your lady to my estate. When she arrived, she was already in this state.”

Hearing this, the Marquis of Qingping turned back and looked her up and down again. Trembling, he placed his hand under Lady of Marquis Qingping’s nose, feeling around for a long time. His face turned deathly pale as he actually retreated two steps, “Your Highness, what… what is this?”

Seeing Father in this state, Wen Ge stepped forward to support Lady of Marquis Qingping. The maids on both sides, seeing this situation, retreated a step. Lady of Marquis Qingping fell toward her daughter as if boneless. Wen Ge, unprepared, was pressed to the ground by her. Only then did she discover Mother’s condition and immediately screamed loudly.

“Silence!” Princess Lin’an glared at her coldly, then said, “I don’t know who delivered Lady of Marquis Qingping to my estate. In my view, this matter is definitely connected to that Duke of Qi’s estate.” Saying this, she shook the letter in her hand and handed it to the Marquis of Qingping.

The Marquis of Qingping took the letter, read it carefully, and said trembling, “This shameless woman actually did such things behind my back—truly too much.”

Li Weiyang had already written Lady of Marquis Qingping’s actions very clearly. The original intent was to provoke Princess Lin’an. Princess Lin’an sneered, “It seems the Duke of Qi’s estate took revenge on Lady of Marquis Qingping, causing her death.”

The Marquis of Qingping wasn’t a fool. He glanced at his wife lying to the side, then at his daughter who had finally gotten up with deathly pale face. Finally, his gaze fell on Princess Lin’an’s face, “What does Your Highness mean?”

Princess Lin’an laughed coldly, saying coolly, “I know this letter alone can’t be believed. The letter only says everything was Lady of Marquis Qingping’s doing, but no one saw the Marquis’s wife being sent out from the Duke of Qi’s estate, nor can anyone prove where she died. This way, there’s no evidence of death. Everyone will think the Marquis’s wife’s death is related to me. After all, I personally delivered her here. The Marquis wouldn’t suspect me, would he?”

Not suspect you? That would be strange. The Marquis of Qingping’s heart shook violently. He couldn’t help thinking—he understood Duke of Qi Guo Su and Imperial Consort Hui’s temperaments somewhat. They would absolutely never proactively harm Lady of Marquis Qingping. Moreover, all these years, his wife had provoked them repeatedly, yet they endured it—truly magnanimous people with no need to act now. He saw Princess Lin’an’s gaze held a crazed look. He couldn’t help retreating half a step, “Your Highness, what exactly do you want to do?” His heart already vaguely had a notion, but he didn’t dare touch upon it.

Princess Lin’an said coolly, “Nothing much. It’s just that Lady of Marquis Qingping died innocently. Since we can’t prove it was the Duke of Qi’s doing, doesn’t the Marquis of Qingping want to avenge his beloved wife?”

The Marquis of Qingping looked at Princess Lin’an, only feeling her face was beautiful but her words so vicious, making him break out in cold sweat. At this time, Wen Ge beside him barely steadied herself. Like her father, she was no fool. Seeing that though Princess Lin’an spoke quite normally, that face already showed a faint ferocious look, they both exchanged glances, both thinking of one possibility—that Princess Lin’an wanted to use Lady of Marquis Qingping’s death to make another issue. But what exactly did she want to do?

The Marquis of Qingping wiped cold sweat, “Your Highness, though my wife died mysteriously, without evidence, if you want me to accuse the Duke of Qi’s estate, I fear it won’t work.” In fact, today Lady of Marquis Qingping secretly went to the Duke of Qi’s estate. Not wanting anyone to know, she naturally wouldn’t leave any traces.

Princess Lin’an naturally knew this. She also knew Guo Jia would absolutely not give her such a reason to frame Lady of Marquis Qingping’s death on them. But she had even better methods. Thinking of this, she couldn’t help smiling faintly, “The Marquis misunderstands. That’s not my meaning. However, since Lady of Marquis Qingping died unjustly, the Marquis should hold a grand funeral for her all the more.”

The Marquis of Qingping’s heart jumped. Looking at Princess Lin’an, cold sweat soaked his back. The calmer she was, the more afraid he felt, and the less he wanted to be dragged into this. But before he could refuse, Princess Lin’an already said slowly, “If Lady of Marquis Qingping’s actions today spread, the entire Marquis of Qingping’s estate will be ruined in an instant. Does the Marquis understand this in his heart?”

This woman caused me trouble her entire life… The Marquis of Qingping thought, then sighed in dejection. His expression changed several times. Finally, he could only lower his head, “I will follow Your Highness’s instructions.”

Princess Lin’an smiled faintly, “Very good. I also need to borrow Miss Wen.”

Wen Ge’s color changed dramatically. She looked at Princess Lin’an. For some reason, her whole body began trembling.

Soon, news of the mourning spread to the Duke of Qi’s estate. Lady Guo couldn’t help feeling surprised. This morning, the whole family had just seen off Imperial Consort Hui. How could they receive news of Lady of Marquis Qingping’s death before noon? She couldn’t help saying, “My lord, what exactly is happening? Lady of Marquis Qingping’s health was very robust—never any illness or disaster. How could she suddenly die?”

The Duke of Qi also found it very strange. He even doubted whether this news was true or false. Looking at his wife, he couldn’t help shaking his head, “I’m also completely baffled—don’t know the truth, so it’s difficult to judge.”

Lady Guo looked toward Li Weiyang, “Jia’er, what do you think?”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly, saying coolly, “No matter how Lady of Marquis Qingping causes trouble, she wouldn’t fake her death. This funeral should be real. But as for why she lost her life, I don’t know.” In fact, she understood very clearly—Princess Lin’an had already reached a state of near madness. She would think of every method to deal with her. Lady of Marquis Qingping, having her weakness seized, ruined Princess Lin’an’s plan. So she knew the other party absolutely wouldn’t easily forgive Lady of Marquis Qingping. Princess Lin’an’s vengeful heart aside, she was already not a normal person. With slight provocation, she would jump out barking like mad. Such behavior wasn’t strange at all. Li Weiyang very much wanted to know—what would Princess Lin’an do next?

Princess Chenliu fingered her prayer beads, but her tone held some sorrow. She slowly said, “No matter what happened, our family should go take a look.” These words were correct. Though Lady of Marquis Qingping had always been arrogant and domineering, the family relationship between the two houses couldn’t be severed. Especially since the Duke of Qi and Marquis of Qingping had always been close.

Guo Su sighed deeply, “Elder Sister was still so young, yet she’s already gone like this. Truly the world is impermanent. I wonder if the Imperial Consort in the palace knows of this matter.”

Lady Guo looked at the Duke of Qi and said slowly, “The Imperial Consort will surely know and will certainly send people to pay respects. Our family must also prepare quickly—we mustn’t lose propriety.”

Lady Guo’s words were completely correct. No matter how much the Duke of Qi’s estate’s people detested Lady of Marquis Qingping, this trip was absolutely necessary. Setting aside that Lady of Marquis Qingping was the Duke of Qi’s eldest sister, just considering that brothers Guo Ping and Guo Teng had just died—if the Duke of Qi didn’t even attend Lady of Marquis Qingping’s funeral, who knew how much gossip would arise.

Guo Su nodded, “Alright, instruct the steward to prepare. However, Mother is advanced in years—there’s no need for you to go personally. My wife and I will take the children together.”

Princess Chenliu nodded, “Offer incense for me.” Saying this, she turned her face away. Li Weiyang saw a crystal tear roll down her aged face.

The Guo family arrived at the Marquis of Qingping’s estate. By this time, the mourning hall had already been prepared. Men and women knelt in the hall, cries rising everywhere. Especially Lady of Marquis Qingping’s second daughter Wen Ge—a pale face without cosmetics, looking pitiable—the very image of a filial daughter. Seeing Lady Guo and the Guo family, she rose, choking with emotion, “I didn’t know Aunt had arrived. Please forgive me.” As she spoke, tears rolled down—who knew how sorrowful.

Li Weiyang glanced at her, saying coolly, “Miss Wen, please accept this loss with composure.” She called her Miss Wen, not cousin—showing the distance in her tone.

Wen Ge seemed not to notice at all, only saying softly, “Thank you for your concern. I’ll take good care of myself.” Saying this, she somehow raised her head to glance at Guo Cheng.

Guo Cheng looked away, refusing even to glance at her. Li Weiyang thought to herself—now that Lady of Marquis Qingping was dead, Wen Ge would observe three years’ mourning. It seemed Han Lin’s matter wasn’t even needed—this marriage could be delayed.

Lady Guo sighed, but said, “So many guests have come to pay respects today. Miss Wen needn’t attend to us—go about your business.”

Wen Ge naturally noticed the distance on Lady Guo’s face. She said softly and submissively, very aggrieved, “Yes. Aunt and everyone, please go to the hall to sit for a moment.” She then instructed the maids nearby to show them the way.

The group walked outside. Lady Guo saw Duke of Qi Guo Su was already exchanging pleasantries with other officials and said in a low voice, “Your father is also grieving inside. I urged him for a long time, but he can’t let it go. It seems he still has some feelings for this eldest sister.”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly, “After all, they’re blood siblings. If not for the title inheritance matter causing such a scene, Lady of Marquis Qingping wouldn’t have left so early either.” When she said this, the three Guo brothers exchanged glances. Guo Cheng vaguely felt this matter was related to Li Weiyang, but seeing her so composed, truly couldn’t think of any connection.

In fact, Li Weiyang didn’t plan to tell other Guo family members what happened between Imperial Consort Hui and Lady of Marquis Qingping. In her view, the fewer people who knew about this, the safer. Since Imperial Consort Hui had already returned to the palace and her long-held wish was fulfilled, this matter should rot in their stomachs, never to be known.

Guo Dun was talking with Guo Dao when he suddenly saw a white shadow flash not far away. He couldn’t help stopping.

Guo Dao couldn’t help asking softly, “What’s wrong?”

Guo Dun shook his head, “Perhaps I saw wrong.” He continued forward but suddenly discovered that white shadow seemed to be lurking behind the artificial mountain, as if someone was spying. His heart couldn’t help feeling angry. Lowering his voice to Guo Dao, “You go with Mother to the front hall. I’ll be right there.” His figure flashed—he’d already quickly given chase.

Guo Dao was startled and hurriedly reached out to grab him, but Fourth Brother had already gone far. Feeling something suspicious, he stepped forward to tell Guo Cheng, “Fourth Brother saw someone and went toward the artificial mountain.”

Guo Cheng stopped, frowning, “What’s going on? Did you see too?”

Guo Dao frowned, shaking his head, “I didn’t see anything.” They both looked toward the artificial mountain, but there was already no one there. Clearly Guo Dun had followed that person away. An ominous premonition flashed through Guo Cheng’s heart. His frown deepened, “Though this is the outer hall, with people coming and going all around, there are quite a few female family members. Guo Dun mustn’t offend anyone.”

Guo Dao couldn’t help hesitating, “Then… what should we do?”

Guo Cheng said in a low voice, “You accompany Mother and them to the front hall. I’ll be right there.” Saying this, he’d already gone in the artificial mountain’s direction, clearly going to find Guo Dun.

At this time, Li Weiyang turned her head and happened to see this scene of Guo Cheng leaving. She couldn’t help saying, “Where did Third Brother and Fourth Brother go?”

Guo Dao smiled faintly and stepped forward, “No need to worry. They just saw familiar friends and went to say hello.” Though he said this, Li Weiyang saw a trace of unease in his eyes. She looked at Guo Dao, “Is that really so? If they met friends, why didn’t they tell Mother before leaving? Why such urgency?”

A flash of amusement crossed Guo Dao’s eyes. He knew nothing could be hidden from this sister. No—actually Li Weiyang wasn’t his sister, but now he had to accept this title. Moreover, this girl was too clever. Before her, he often felt completely exposed. Now even a lie was seen through—what could he do? He could only honestly say, “Alright, I’ll tell you everything. Just now Fourth Brother saw a white shadow flash, as if spying on us, so he went to catch the thief. Third Brother feared something would happen to him and followed.”

Li Weiyang thought for a moment, gently raising her brows. She vaguely felt this matter wasn’t so simple and couldn’t help saying, “Fourth Brother was too rash. This is the Marquis of Qingping’s estate, not the Duke of Qi’s. How can he wander around randomly?”

Guo Dao raised his brows, showing some smile, “Sister needn’t be nervous. Nothing will happen.”

True, though Guo Dun was somewhat simple and honest, he wasn’t stupid. And Guo Cheng had already gone after him. He was much cleverer than Guo Dun—with him looking after things, surely nothing would happen. But for some reason, Li Weiyang’s heart held vague unease. Perhaps Lady of Marquis Qingping’s death was too convenient. Originally, she thought Princess Lin’an would only give her a severe lesson, not expecting it to be at the cost of her life. This showed how vicious Princess Lin’an was. Taking advantage of such an opportunity, what exactly did she want to do? Li Weiyang thought through the entire matter and said in a low voice, “Fifth Brother, go ask whether Princess Lin’an came today.”

Surprise appeared on Guo Dao’s face, “What did you say? Princess Lin’an? She’s never associated with the Marquis of Qingping—why would she come to this funeral?” Saying this, his expression suddenly changed. He sharply remembered that day in the pavilion, Li Weiyang said Princess Lin’an had quite possibly already allied with Lady of Marquis Qingping. Thinking of this, his steps halted: “I’ll go find out immediately.” Saying this, he turned to leave.

Now let’s speak of Guo Dun being led by that white-clothed person to a small courtyard. He looked around, feeling this place very unfamiliar. In fact, he had been to the Marquis of Qingping’s estate before, but this seemed to be the middle courtyard. The so-called middle courtyard was the dividing courtyard between inner and outer areas. Passing through this courtyard would reach the inner residence—not somewhere he could randomly enter. Thinking of this, he stopped and prepared to turn back. But at this moment, he suddenly heard a woman’s cry for help from the small courtyard. Guo Dun was indeed simple and honest but not stupid—he just loved standing up for justice. In normal times, he might still think it over, but this time, having tracked someone here, already thinking the other party was up to no good, hearing this voice, his heart jumped. He rushed in, only to find that Zhou Kang was grasping a young woman and wouldn’t let go, holding her tightly as if about to commit impropriety. Seeing this, Guo Dun’s expression changed. He stepped forward, grabbed Zhou Kang’s collar, and with one motion flipped him over, saying sternly, “What are you doing?”

Zhou Kang was startled. Twisting around and seeing it was him, anger rose in his heart, “Guo Dun! Mind your own business!”

Guo Dun said coldly, “Business? What place is this? How dare you act so outrageously?” This was Lady of Marquis Qingping’s funeral. Who’d have thought Zhou Kang would be so bold as to molest a maid from the estate at a funeral? At this moment, Guo Dun turned back, wanting to comfort the woman, but unexpectedly, the scene before him shocked him. The person before him—wasn’t this Princess Lin’an?

Guo Dun was startled. He hadn’t expected the person Zhou Kang was holding was Princess Lin’an. Immediately, he recalled that day at the banquet when Zhou Kang showed covetous looks toward the Princess. His heart gained some understanding—probably Princess Lin’an was accidentally followed by this Zhou Kang. But that wasn’t right—the Princess’s estate had guards. How could Princess Lin’an be followed by Zhou Kang?

At this time, Zhou Kang snorted coldly, “Guo Dun, you really love meddling. Next time, be careful not to fall into my hands!” Saying this, he patted the nonexistent dust from his body, turned, and pushed open the door to leave. Seeing this situation, Guo Dun’s heart rose with an ominous premonition. He wanted to follow out. But before he could exit, he heard Princess Lin’an call out, “Young Master Guo, where are you going?”

Guo Dun turned back, saying coldly, “Since Your Highness is unharmed, I’ll go call your guards in now.” For some reason, he always felt a trace of unease and instinctively stepped toward the door.

But Princess Lin’an smiled faintly, “I haven’t yet thanked Young Master Guo for saving me. Sit down first—I have words for you.”

Seeing this scene, Guo Dun would truly be a fool to sit down. Without thinking, he bowed, “Your Highness, I apologize. Today is my aunt’s funeral—I still have much to do.” Princess Lin’an blocked his path, smiling, “No need for such haste. Don’t you hope the Guo estate and I can turn swords into plowshares? You saved me this time—perhaps I’ll forgive the Guo family for your sake.”

Guo Dun’s heart jumped. He saw Princess Lin’an’s face pale as paper, but those eyes flashed with dark light. He couldn’t help freezing inwardly. At this moment, Princess Lin’an had already taken a cup of tea from the nearby table and handed it to him, saying, “No matter what you’ve thought of me in the past, this time you saved me. I’m grateful—how could I still blame your sister? Drink this cup of tea, and our two families’ past will be written off.” Between her words and smiles, she seemed to truly mean letting bygones be bygones with a smile.

Guo Dun lowered his eyes to glance at the tea. He saw the water was jade-green—clearly fine tea. But his heart was already guarded against Princess Lin’an. He only smiled faintly, “Your Highness, if you sincerely wish to resolve our enmity, we can go outside to discuss. This place is very secluded—truly not a place for conversation.” Saying this, he wanted to place the teacup on the nearby table and turn to leave. Who knew Princess Lin’an would suddenly entangle herself, gripping his wrist tightly and refusing to let go. In the struggle, the cup was knocked over, jade-green tea splashing all over Guo Dun.

Guo Dun couldn’t help his fury. He pushed her away with one palm, “Princess Lin’an, what are you doing?”

Without a word, Princess Lin’an raised her hand and tore at her collar. The fastenings had already loosened. She quickly removed her outer garment and threw it aside, nearly half-naked as she threw herself to the ground, crying while shouting loudly, “Help! Help!”

Guo Dun hadn’t expected such a turn of events. Shocked speechless, he pointed at Princess Lin’an, “You vicious-hearted woman! What exactly are you trying to do!”

Outside, people Princess Lin’an had already arranged heard the commotion and rushed in, all wearing extremely shocked expressions. Guo Cheng, chasing halfway, was somehow blocked by a group of busy servants. With great difficulty, he finally found this place. Seeing this scene, he was struck dumb. Princess Lin’an, seeing more and more people, sat on the ground wailing loudly, “I don’t want to live! That there are such vicious people in this world! I merely spoke a few words with him, and he wanted to humiliate me. If you hadn’t come, he would have succeeded.”

Guo Dun jumped up entirely, “Bah! Slandering with blood from your mouth! Clearly you held me and wouldn’t let go, yet you accuse me of wanting to humiliate you? Who wants to humiliate you?”

But Princess Lin’an, completely contrary to her usual fierce nature, cried even more earth-shakingly. The Princess estate’s guards had already received orders. Without a word, they pounced toward Guo Dun. With his martial skills, escaping those guards wouldn’t be difficult. But at this critical moment, Guo Cheng suddenly realized something and shouted sternly, “Guo Dun! Don’t move!” If Guo Dun struggled desperately now, it would perfectly confirm his crime of attempting to rape the Princess. But if he submitted without resistance, then this matter still had room for negotiation. In that split second, Guo Cheng understood everything. He ordered Guo Dun not to move, allowing those guards to bind him tightly. By this time, the entire courtyard was already packed full of people.

The Marquis of Qingping, Wen Ge, Lady Guo, Li Weiyang, and Guo Dao, even guests the Wen family had invited—all came upon hearing the sound. Li Weiyang, seeing the current situation, how could she not understand? She stared at Princess Lin’an, only to see in those beautiful eyes a trace of ferocious cruelty. So that was it—Princess Lin’an was truly vicious! In the capital’s legal code, there were ten grave, unpardonable crimes: “treason, great transgression, plotting rebellion, depravity, wickedness, unfilial behavior, unrighteousness, incest, disharmony, and great disrespect”—all heinous crimes difficult to forgive. So-called “great disrespect” meant offending imperial dignity. Usually, stealing ritual implements for imperial sacrifices and the imperial family’s daily items, forging imperial medicines, and mistakenly violating food prohibitions all fell under great disrespect. Once violated, severe punishment followed. Especially, the most serious article in great disrespect was humiliating an imperial woman. Such a crime meant the entire household would be executed.

Thinking of this, Li Weiyang’s gaze grew cold. So Princess Lin’an attended such a funeral with this intention. She chose Guo Dun because he was most warm-hearted, inherently kind, and easiest to deceive. Li Weiyang couldn’t help clenching her fists, sneering inwardly—Good for you, Princess Lin’an! Truly cunning! It seems you’re determined to put the Guo family to death.

The Marquis of Qingping’s expression changed dramatically. He turned to look at the Duke of Qi and Lady Guo, “Brother Guo, how could your son do such a thing? And in my estate—has he gone mad?”

The Duke of Qi, seeing this scene, was even more dumbstruck. He looked at the two Guo brothers in disbelief. Guo Cheng quickly said, “Father, Fourth Brother absolutely isn’t that kind of person.”

Nonsense—of course I know he’s not that kind of person. The Duke of Qi thought inwardly. Moreover, what beautiful women hadn’t Guo Dun seen? Why would he lay hands on that shrewish Princess Lin’an, and in such a setting? Simply the world’s greatest absurdity. But being caught red-handed, there was no way to escape this charge.

At this moment, Princess Lin’an was already wailing loudly. Wen Ge quickly went up to comfort her and instructed the maids nearby to bring clothing to drape over Princess Lin’an. Princess Lin’an cried without stopping, pointing at Guo Dun and cursing, “That there are such shameless people in this world! I must bring this before the Golden Throne and ask Father Emperor to uphold justice for me!” Saying this, she’d already stood up. That radiantly beautiful face was full of resentment, indignation, and a kind of faint madness—the viciousness of wanting to put the Duke of Qi’s estate to death. She was already walking outside.

The Duke of Qi quickly blocked her, “Your Highness, this matter…”

Princess Lin’an said angrily, “Under everyone’s eyes, he dared humiliate the current Princess! Duke of Qi, let me see how you’ll shield your son!” Her smile carried a trace of ferocity.

Li Weiyang watched coldly, but her face showed a faint smile, “Your Highness, is the matter truly as you say?”