Everyone hurried to the rear courtyard. Just as they entered, they heard a miserable cry, followed by the sight of a woman with disheveled hair running out from the bridal chamber.

When everyone focused their eyes, they saw the woman wearing gorgeous new bride’s attire. The bright red color made her face appear even more bloodless. Only on her snow-white neck remained two deep blue-purple strangulation marks, clearly proclaiming to everyone what terrible abuse she had endured. She flew out like a piece of paper in the wind, as if she had just escaped from death’s door, throwing herself into the Crown Prince’s arms and sobbing uncontrollably: “Crown Prince Brother, save me! Save me!”

Everyone was shocked. Looking carefully at the woman, they saw her tearful face did not diminish her exceptional beauty. Who else could it be but Princess Shouchun?

The Crown Prince said angrily: “Shouchun, today is your joyous wedding day. What kind of appearance is this! Wipe away your tears immediately!” Princess Shouchun looked at the Crown Prince in shock and unconsciously stepped back two paces. At this moment, the princess’s wet nurse happened to enter from outside. The princess immediately shrank into the wet nurse’s arms like a small cat, trembling, moving her lips, murmuring the two words “save me,” her resentful large eyes looking at the Crown Prince in desperate sorrow, tears streaming down.

The Crown Prince saw everyone’s burning gazes and knew there was no way to cover this up, so he asked: “What exactly happened? Explain clearly!”

Shouchun pointed toward the bridal chamber and cried out sharply: “He… he suddenly went mad and lunged at me trying to strangle me!”

Seeing this situation, Pei Fan was extremely shocked and quickly knelt down saying: “The princess has been frightened. I will immediately go teach this rebellious son a lesson!” As he spoke, he had already rushed into the room. With a backhand motion, he closed the bridal chamber door, blocking everyone’s view.

Li Weiyang gave a cold laugh. Pei Fan’s purpose in doing this was fundamentally to conceal everything that happened in the bridal chamber. Unfortunately, everyone had already heard what Princess Shouchun said. What use was it to lock the stable after the horse had bolted? Wasn’t it too late?

Princess Shouchun’s hair at the temples had come loose, her hair scattered, supported by her wet nurse. Her lightly powdered cheeks were a mess from crying, tears streaming continuously, appearing extremely terrified, unable to maintain any composure at all.

Pei Yi stood quietly to one side, not looking at anyone. His eyes only fell on Li Weiyang, and in his expression seemed to be a trace of mockery. Among all the people, he was the first to realize what had actually happened and the first to react. However, he knew that at this moment he had already fallen into his opponent’s trap. The more he said, the more mistakes he would make. He could only remain inactive for now.

Li Weiyang noticed his gaze but only smiled lightly at him, not particularly concerned.

Everyone only heard Princess Shouchun crying and saying: “Crown Prince Brother, you must uphold justice for me!”

The Crown Prince saw the clear marks of five fingers on Shouchun’s snow-white cheeks and could no longer suppress his anger, saying sternly: “What exactly is going on? Where are the palace maids by your side?”

Princess Shouchun’s fingers were trembling. She said shakily: “They’re all dead, all dead! They rushed in to save me and were killed by that madman!”

At these words, everyone’s faces showed great shock. If just now they still thought Pei Hui had been disrespectful to the princess because he was drunk, now even the palace maids by the princess’s side had been killed – this was definitely not as simple as drunken rudeness! Prince Jing, Yuan Ying, stepped forward and grasped Princess Shouchun’s arm, saying: “Shouchun, what did you just say? Repeat it.”

Princess Shouchun sobbed: “I don’t know what happened either. Everything was fine just now, but he acted like he was drunk, throwing a tantrum in the bridal chamber, smashing everything. Then he suddenly lunged at me. When I saw his expression was wrong, I tried to escape, but he paid no heed and came up to viciously strangle my neck. If you don’t believe me, look!” As she spoke, Princess Shouchun revealed the wounds on her neck. In fact, even without doing this, her wounds were very obvious – no one could ignore them. “Then my palace maids heard the commotion and rushed in to save me, but he actually used a golden wine vessel to beat them to death…”

The Crown Prince’s anger surged. He couldn’t help but blame Pei Hui to the extreme. Getting drunk and making a scene on the wedding night was one thing, but injuring the princess was a grave crime, not to mention actually killing the palace maids by the princess’s side. With such charges, how could the Emperor lightly forgive him! Such audacity! Thinking of the Emperor’s usual doting on Princess Shouchun, the Crown Prince understood he must now appease her and quickly said: “Shouchun, with so many guests present, you should at least consider the bigger picture and not cry and make a scene, lest the imperial family lose face…”

What face was there to preserve when her life was almost lost! Did they still expect her to swallow her grievances and marry this madman? Princess Shouchun was completely terrified. She shook her head repeatedly: “No! I won’t marry this madman. I want to return to the palace, I want to return to the palace right now!” As she spoke, she shook off the Crown Prince’s hand, crying so hard her beauty was distorted.

Everyone looked at each other. But with imperial family matters, no one dared say much. More people cast probing glances toward the bridal chamber. Prince Jing gave a cold laugh and said: “Crown Prince, what do you mean by this? The princess has suffered such great humiliation – are you still going to force her to marry Pei Hui?”

Of course the Crown Prince knew this marriage could not proceed. The urgent matter now was to reduce Pei Hui’s charges so as not to implicate the entire Pei family. So he looked at Yuan Ying and said very calmly: “Prince Jing misunderstands. I naturally have my reasons. Everyone knows that Shouchun has always been pampered and spoiled by Father Emperor. Her temper is also very willful and cannot bear the slightest grievance. She makes a trivial matter seem enormous. Now that she’s already married over, this is just a small friction. Can she really return to the palace over this? Does she think marriage is child’s play?”

By emphasizing Princess Shouchun’s spoiled and willful nature, he could reduce Pei Hui’s charges. Otherwise, attempted murder of a princess was a crime the Pei family could not bear. The Crown Prince was trying every way to cover it up with drunken misconduct.

At this moment, Duke Qi said coldly: “Crown Prince speaks incorrectly! If what Princess Shouchun said is true, then this Young Master Pei is suspected of attempting to murder the princess. Under everyone’s watchful eyes, Crown Prince is being too partial to the Pei family!”

The Crown Princess on the side said unhurriedly in a calm tone: “Duke Qi, what do you mean by this? People often say: better to demolish ten temples than destroy one marriage! Just because you’ve always had grievances with the Pei family, you deliberately sabotage their marriage. Princess Shouchun is young and doesn’t understand matters, but you are an elder who should naturally act as a peacemaker. How can you say such serious things?”

Pei Yi only looked at Li Weiyang. In the crowd, her skin was white as snow, her gaze calm, her chin delicate, her lips slightly pressed. No matter how you looked at her, she appeared to be an ordinary noble lady. But who would have thought that everything today was related to her? Pei Yi only wanted to know – how exactly had she made her move?

Facing the Crown Princess’s questioning, Duke Qi smiled faintly and said: “I’m thinking entirely of the princess. Moreover, this marriage was bestowed by His Majesty. Now that something has happened, naturally we must report to His Majesty and ask him to make a judgment.” As he spoke, he waved his hand and said loudly: “Lord of the Capital Magistrate, please immediately invite that Young Master Pei out and question him!”

The Capital Magistrate stepped forward, but his heart was full of bitter complaints. He had come in good faith to attend a wedding banquet, who knew such a thing would happen? Moreover, this matter was no small affair and involved the current dynasty’s princess. With everyone watching him, he dared not shirk and quickly ordered: “Go to the bridal chamber and properly invite that Young Master Pei out!” He said “invite out” rather than “bind and bring out” – there was deep meaning in this. His attendant understood and immediately went forward to knock on the bridal chamber door, but it remained motionless.

After knocking three more times, the door finally opened. Pei Hui walked out with a pale face, his hair dripping wet, his wedding clothes in a disheveled state. When crossing the threshold, he even stumbled badly and nearly fell to the ground. Behind him was Pei Fan. Pei Fan’s face showed extreme shock and anger. The two walked together to the courtyard. Pei Fan suddenly kicked Pei Hui’s leg bone viciously. Pei Hui straightforwardly knelt down before Princess Shouchun.

Pei Fan loudly rebuked: “Even after drinking a few cups of wine, you shouldn’t be so presumptuous as to frighten the princess. You deserve ten thousand deaths! Why don’t you kowtow to Her Highness the Princess and beg forgiveness?”

Pei Hui’s complexion was very pale, his face still showing some unfaded flush, but his eyes had gradually become clear. Reminded by Pei Fan, he immediately understood and said loudly: “Your Highness Princess, today was all my fault. Please, please do not blame me!” As he spoke, he actually knocked his head on the ground three times with loud bangs until his forehead turned blue.

Princess Shouchun seemed to have received an enormous fright, stepping backward step by step: “No, stay away from me, stay away from me!” By the end, her voice was nearly a scream. Prince Jing quickly protected Princess Shouchun behind him. Shouchun was still trembling.

Hearing this voice, everyone couldn’t help feeling pity. Some noble ladies had already walked to the princess’s side to gently comfort her.

Pei Hui gritted his teeth, nearly going mad with hatred. He didn’t know why such a thing had happened, nor did he understand how he had suddenly lost control. If Pei Fan hadn’t rushed in just now to stop his mad behavior, he would probably have destroyed the entire bridal chamber.

Yuan Lie said lightly: “If Young Master Pei merely gave offense, why would all four palace maids by the princess’s side have been killed? What kind of offense would endanger the princess’s life? This is too terrifying.” As he spoke, everyone looked into the room. Although Pei Fan had deliberately moved the corpses to places that couldn’t be seen to prevent everyone from viewing them, the situation was urgent and he had no way to clean up everything completely. Large pools of blood still remained on the floor, clearly showing Princess Shouchun’s words were not false – those four palace maids had been beaten to death by Pei Hui while protecting her.

Seeing this situation, everyone couldn’t help glaring at the Pei family. For a groom to reach this point, this was the only case in the world. If the Pei family wasn’t audaciously lawless, then they had treasonous intentions. Otherwise, how could they lay murderous hands on a delicate princess? There were many who lost control after drinking, but no one had ever seen a groom try to kill the bride on the wedding night!

Prince Jing Yuan Ying smiled faintly and said: “Crown Prince, the facts are clearly laid out before us. Do you still say this was merely drunken misconduct? Must you personally witness Princess Shouchun’s blood splattered on the scene before you’re willing to report to Father Emperor?”

The Crown Prince looked at everyone’s gazes. Their eyes showed both terror and condemnation. If he didn’t report to the Emperor now and bring Princess Shouchun back to the palace to handle this matter prudently, it would instead implicate himself. Thinking of this, he decisively said: “Since it’s like this, please have the Capital Magistrate first detain Pei Hui in the imperial prison, then let me report to Father Emperor and await his judgment!”

Prince Jing smiled slightly: “Only thus does Crown Prince display righteousness over family ties, wisdom and valor.”

The Crown Prince’s expression didn’t change at all. He said composedly: “With such a good younger brother by my side constantly supervising me, naturally I will be impartial and completely fair.” As he spoke, he smiled with neither yin nor yang. Then with a heavy wave of his hand he said: “What are you all still looking at? Disperse!” As he spoke, he was the first to walk out.

Pei Hui was still struggling when he was kicked viciously again by Pei Fan. Pei Fan said sternly: “His Majesty will naturally give you a fair judgment. For now, go with the Capital Magistrate!” Pei Hui was stunned, then looked at his eldest brother Pei Yi. Pei Yi only nodded lightly at him. Only then did Pei Hui relax and follow the Capital Magistrate.

Princess Shouchun was still trembling in place. Prince Jing gently comforted her: “Shouchun, Imperial Brother will escort you back to the palace now. Let’s go.”

Shouchun’s face still showed a frightened appearance. When walking past the Pei family members, that resentful look was truly unforgettable. Having suffered such terror, she would rather die than agree to this marriage.

Everyone discussed for a while, all sighing endlessly. Today’s performance was truly too shocking, so much so that even now they thought it was a dream and no one had recovered. Seeing that the main characters had all left, everyone walked out. Li Weiyang fell to the rear, but heard someone beside her laugh softly and say: “Miss Guo truly has ability. But I’m very curious – how did you manage to reach into the bridal chamber?”

Without looking, Li Weiyang knew the person beside her was the Pei family’s eldest son, Pei Yi. Her voice deepened slightly, appearing somewhat cold: “That matter need not trouble the eldest young master.” Since you could make your move at the Chen family, what’s wrong with me using the Pei family and Princess Shouchun?

Pei Yi laughed lightly. A flame flickered faintly in his eyes, but his tone was very light: “Seeing Miss Guo so confident, are you certain my second brother is doomed?”

Li Weiyang smiled, her expression serene: “This matter is of great importance. I expect His Majesty will assign a three-way trial by the Crown Prince, Ministry of Justice, and Capital Magistrate. If Eldest Young Master Pei has the ability, find the flaws in this matter for the groom. Perhaps there’s still a thread of hope for survival. I advise you not to waste time on me and think carefully about how to save your second brother instead.” Her tone was very calm, yet each word was like a knife, directly striking at the heart.

Pei Yi sighed lightly: “To be honest, I had already guessed you would make your move today and knew you would use the guests offering toasts, so I made preparations early… But despite all precautions, you still succeeded. I really want to know how you did it.”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “That point I’ll leave for Eldest Young Master Pei to slowly contemplate. I should take my leave.” Under the moonlight, her eyes shone brightly, her brows carrying a trace of teasing as she turned and quickly walked out.

When Prince Xu Yuan Lie passed by Pei Yi with a smile, he turned back to look at him, his smile even warmer: “Eldest Young Master Pei, you seem to be in a bad mood. I heard this wedding banquet was arranged single-handedly by you. I wonder how you’re feeling now?” His voice was very light and cheerful, yet contained venomous sarcasm. If it were someone else, they would probably have been angered enough to cough up blood on the spot.

But Pei Yi’s expression remained unchanged: “Prince Xu is truly fond of meddling in others’ affairs. Your shadow appears in everything.”  That day at the training grounds, if not for his intervention, either Chen Hanxuan or Guo Dao would have died on the spot, and then the hatred between the Chen family and Guo family would have become enormous.

Yuan Lie smiled lightly, his smile containing endless mockery. He said slowly: “Therefore, every cause has its effect. If you hadn’t struck at Guo Dao first, why would Jia’er need to strike at you? This cycle of cause and effect, you must slowly endure.”

Pei Yi paid no heed, speaking freely: “If we returned to that time, I would still do the same, even knowing it would bring retaliation. This is each person’s fate – it can’t be blamed on others. But Prince Xu shouldn’t rejoice too early. This matter may not be without a turning point.”

Yuan Lie smiled slightly, said no more, and quickly walked out.

Li Weiyang stood before the Guo residence’s carriage. The cold wind brushed past, her sleeves fluttering slightly, her features bright and clear, with a flush of color spreading across her cheeks, exceptionally moving. Yuan Lie looked at her and couldn’t help thinking of the first time he saw her – her expression had been just as calm, as if nothing could move her heart. Even when personally eliminating her enemies, she was equally cold and emotionless. But for the Guo family, she had already been moved several times. His heart stirred slightly. He strode forward with large steps, his expression gentle as water: “Were you waiting for me?”

Li Weiyang raised her head, looked at him, and smiled: “Yes, I’ve been waiting for you.”

Yuan Lie’s smile deepened: “Is there something you need me to do?”

Li Weiyang nodded: “I heard you’ve arranged spies everywhere. Presumably in the imperial prison, you also have methods.”

Yuan Lie paused, looking at Li Weiyang: “You mean?”

Li Weiyang’s smile was warm, her voice clear yet melodious: “Today Pei Hui was imprisoned. According to custom, the three-way trial will be in ten days. At that time, the Crown Prince and Pei Yi will naturally find many flaws. The only solution is to seal Pei Hui’s mouth.”

Yuan Lie thought for a moment: “You mean to strike first in the prison and kill Pei Hui?”

Li Weiyang laughed lightly and shook her head: “Killing him – wouldn’t that be too easy on him? Moreover, if he dies in the imperial prison, it would instead raise more suspicion. So the best method is to make him confess on his own.”

Yuan Lie looked at Li Weiyang with a half-smile: “Pei Hui has such a tenacious character. How could he easily confess?”

Li Weiyang smiled with pressed lips, but her tone was very grim: “No matter how tenacious the character, there will always be weaknesses.”

Yuan Lie looked at her, his expression showing three parts interest: “Oh, you’re that confident?”

Under the moonlight, Yuan Lie’s smile appeared very brilliant, dazzling and captivating. Li Weiyang said with a smile: “Since I dared to make my move, naturally I have complete confidence.” As she spoke, she handed Yuan Lie a document, saying in a low voice: “Follow the steps written here. I guarantee he’ll say everything.”

Yuan Lie accepted the document. With a light weigh, he knew it contained only a light piece of paper. He couldn’t help but ask: “I’m also very curious – how did you make your move today? Did you tamper with the wine cups used for toasting? I noticed when Pei Hui first came out, his expression seemed somewhat off.”

Li Weiyang said lightly: “That’s right. Just before Pei Hui came out, Pei Fan had already rushed in first, presumably finding a way to restore Pei Hui to normal. In fact, I truly made my move on the young master from the Cui residence. He’s always liked wearing sachets with Burning Clear incense. Once this fragrance meets Night-Blooming Jasmine pollen, it causes violent hallucinations—”

Yuan Lie listened, his expression showing some surprise: “Cui Shiyun?”

Li Weiyang nodded, but her face carried a trace of cold mockery: “That’s right, that Young Master Cui. If there truly are any flaws, the Cui family should be held responsible, not our Guo residence. Does only Pei Yi know how to use others as a blade? Can’t I do the same?”

Yuan Lie looked at her in surprise: “Then… where was the Night-Blooming Jasmine pollen?”

“For this, we must thank Princess Shouchun for her cooperation.” As Li Weiyang spoke, her smile deepened. Yuan Lie was an extremely clever person and immediately understood, saying softly: “So that’s how it is.”

Of course, without Princess Shouchun’s cooperation, how could this matter have been so simple? However, Princess Shouchun wasn’t helping Li Weiyang – it was because her object of affection was Zhan Qiu, who had lost for no reason. The young girl’s feelings – even the Emperor had probably seen through them. Otherwise, how could he have allowed Zhan Qiu to enter the game? Li Weiyang had merely asked Consort Hui to sigh in front of the princess about life’s impermanence, how youth quickly fades, expressing a word of pity and a phrase of compassion, and everything naturally fell into place… But this also depended on Princess Shouchun, though fearful of Empress Pei, being deeply loved by the Emperor. If not for this, she would never have engaged in such outward compliance but inward opposition.

Anyone who bore even a few resemblances to that person from the past, the Emperor would unhesitatingly grant them compassion – this was a marvelous transference of affection. Princess Shouchun’s actions were merely to fight for her own life’s happiness.

Yuan Lie smiled lightly, turned and mounted his horse, waving at Li Weiyang: “Don’t worry.” Under the moonlight, his smile deepened, his features clear and handsome, causing even Li Weiyang to be momentarily dazed. When she returned to the carriage, she was met face-to-face with Madam Guo’s surprised expression.

Li Weiyang smiled lightly: “Mother, please don’t blame me. I’m avenging Fifth Brother.”

Naturally Madam Guo understood her meaning. She was just somewhat worried: “I’m only afraid the Crown Prince will find every way to help Pei Hui recant.”

Li Weiyang’s face carried three parts mockery: “Mother, rest assured. I guarantee Pei Hui will confess on his own.”

Hearing this, Madam Guo couldn’t help feeling very strange. She truly couldn’t understand how Li Weiyang would make someone like Pei Hui actively confess. But no matter how she pressed, Li Weiyang only shook her head mysteriously, unwilling to easily reveal anything.

The Capital Magistrate brought Pei Hui back, his heart full of apprehension, when suddenly someone reported: “The Crown Prince’s Attendant wishes to see you, my lord.”

The Capital Magistrate was startled and quickly said: “Quick, please show him in.”

The Crown Prince’s Attendant, named Ruan Xiaoshan, was a tall, handsome-looking civil official. He quickly entered the study, then bowed to the Capital Magistrate: “Lord Hua.”

Capital Magistrate Hua Cheng quickly came forward: “Lord Ruan, forgive my poor reception. Please sit.”

The Crown Prince’s Attendant smiled slightly: “The purpose of my visit today, I’m sure Lord Hua understands well. The Crown Prince’s meaning is…” Before he finished speaking, the Capital Magistrate was already saying repeatedly: “The Crown Prince’s meaning, this official naturally understands. I will certainly handle this matter impartially and will never favor Princess Shouchun.” This statement actually had deep meaning. Not favoring Princess Shouchun meant favoring Pei Hui instead. Favoring the Pei family equaled favoring the Crown Prince.

The Crown Prince’s Attendant nodded: “Lord Hua is indeed a clever person. These gifts are a small token from the Crown Prince. Please accept them.” As he spoke, he waved his hand. Two heavy large chests were already being carried in through the doorway. The Capital Magistrate’s heart jumped at the sight and he immediately said: “The Crown Prince’s kind intention, this official appreciates, but these things, this official truly dares not accept.”

The Crown Prince’s Attendant smiled lightly: “Lord Hua need not be so polite. This is just a small token from the Crown Prince, not any gold, silver, or jewels, merely some ancient texts that Lord Hua most enjoys. They’re not worth much at all. Even if outsiders see them, they won’t say Lord Hua is accepting bribes. Young Master Pei in prison – please take good care of him and don’t let him suffer any hardship.”

The Capital Magistrate quickly said: “Yes, yes, yes, this official understands.”

Having finally sent off the Crown Prince’s Attendant, the Capital Magistrate became worried. But now at this critical juncture, whatever he did would be wrong. Whether the imperial family or the Pei family, he could afford to offend neither. Now there was also the Crown Prince to contend with – what should he do? So he sat in his study for half the night without daring to close his eyes. Just at this moment, he suddenly heard someone outside the door laugh softly: “The Capital Magistrate truly knows how to navigate all sides. Having accepted the Crown Prince’s gifts, who knows how the Pei family will thank you next?”

Outside the door, a young nobleman in fine clothes slowly walked in. On that handsome face, his eyes gleamed brilliantly, as if bringing in the bright moonlight from outside. The Capital Magistrate was suddenly shocked and jumped up from his chair, crying out: “Prince Xu!”

Prince Xu Yuan Lie glanced at those two red lacquered wooden chests and smiled slightly. He directly sat in a chair to the side, his tone leisurely: “The Crown Prince wants you to make this major matter minor and the minor matter disappear. But in my view, I’m afraid it won’t be that easy.”

The Capital Magistrate saw that Prince Xu didn’t pursue the matter of the chests. His old face turned red as he asked: “Forgive this official’s ignorance – what does Your Highness Prince Xu mean?”

Yuan Lie’s gaze was very cold yet carried three parts mockery: “Princess Shouchun is His Majesty’s beloved daughter. Now that she has returned to the palace, she will certainly complain bitterly about that Pei Hui before His Majesty. Tsk tsk, pitiful how her little neck is covered in blue and purple marks. If we had arrived half a step later, she might have met an untimely death. This marriage clearly cannot proceed. If you privately release Pei Hui, imagine what His Majesty will think of you.”

The Capital Magistrate was shocked, cold sweat soaking his back. He forced himself to remain calm: “Your Highness shouldn’t tease me. This matter indeed has many suspicious points. Perhaps after careful questioning, this Young Master Pei truly is wronged?”  As he spoke, he carefully observed Yuan Lie’s expression. What did this matter have to do with Prince Xu? Why was he so concerned? But before he could continue questioning, he saw Yuan Lie pull something from his sleeve and toss it down: “The Crown Prince has so many ancient books to give you. I’ll use this item to exchange for your loyalty.”

The Capital Magistrate’s gaze fell on the object thrown on the desk. He then took it up to examine with half-belief and doubt. His whole person became as if struck by lightning – he was instantly stunned. What Prince Xu Yuan Lie had produced was none other than a card the Capital Magistrate had hidden away ten days ago while playing mahjong. The Capital Magistrate’s heart was shocked beyond measure. He completely hadn’t expected that the card he had unintentionally hidden would actually fall into Prince Xu Yuan Lie’s hands. He remembered clearly bringing the card back home, but when he reached the residence gates, the card had disappeared… He smiled bitterly: “It seems Your Highness has been having people watch me all along. This small official position truly isn’t secure.”

Yuan Lie’s smile was very warm: “The Capital Magistrate’s responsibilities are weighty. Naturally I must watch on His Majesty’s behalf.”

The Capital Magistrate’s whole body trembled. He stared at Prince Xu before him, frightened almost speechless. Thinking of the rumors about the deep affection between Prince Xu and His Majesty, could Prince Xu Yuan Lie be monitoring him under the Emperor’s orders? He fell to the ground with a thud: “Prince Xu, spare my life! Prince Xu, spare my life! Today these things – the Crown Prince’s Attendant insisted on leaving them at my residence. It absolutely wasn’t that I deliberately wanted to accept them! Rest assured, I will certainly act according to His Majesty’s wishes!”

Yuan Lie smiled lightly: “I don’t know what His Majesty’s wishes are.”

The Capital Magistrate was already drenched in sweat. He thought of His Majesty’s murderous manner when in a rage – far more ruthless than the Crown Prince. After all, he had served in court for many years and had developed certain views on people and matters. Though Empress Pei was formidable, what he feared even more was the unfathomable Emperor. He gripped that card tightly in his hand and said: “Even if His Majesty doesn’t say it, this official already understands everything. I leave everything to Your Highness Prince Xu’s disposal.”

Yuan Lie was satisfied and took a sip of tea: “In that case, I’ll borrow your yamen.”

The Capital Magistrate looked at Yuan Lie, not knowing what he meant by this. But before he could inquire further, Yuan Lie had already stood up: “Let’s go. We’ll properly interrogate that Young Master Pei.”

Yuan Lie walked slowly along the pebbled path. Dewdrops had fallen on his shoulders, crystal clear and translucent. With his steps, they slid down one after another. All along this leisurely walk was like taking a stroll, instead frightening the Capital Magistrate into following step by step, not daring to make a sound. Soon they reached the imperial prison. The Capital Magistrate gathered his courage and stepped forward: “Guards.” Immediately a bailiff came forward: “Present.”

“Open the prison gates for me immediately.”

“Yes.”

The bailiff immediately rushed through the side door to open the main gate. The guarding soldiers and gatekeepers naturally dared not obstruct. With a creak, the two black lacquered gates opened wide before their eyes. The Capital Magistrate respectfully accompanied Prince Xu Yuan Lie into the prison. In fact, just moments ago, he still had some doubts about Yuan Lie acting on the Emperor’s behalf. But when he saw the gold medallion at Yuan Lie’s waist, he said no more. This was personally bestowed by His Majesty to Yuan Lie. Seeing him was like seeing the Emperor in person. Since this was so, if the Capital Magistrate dared say another word, his head would likely roll.

Yuan Lie spoke lazily, seemingly casual: “Go invite that Young Master Pei out.”

Soon bailiffs brought Pei Hui out. Though Pei Hui’s spirit was haggard, his proud expression remained unchanged. He glanced at the scene and couldn’t help giving a cold laugh: “Yuan Lie, are you setting up a private torture chamber?”

Yuan Lie smiled slightly, his gaze leisurely: “Young Master Pei is truly clever. You can even guess such a difficult question. It’s really not easy.” As he said this, his eyes showed indescribable mockery.

Pei Hui couldn’t help sneering: “I am not guilty.”

Yuan Lie sat down at his leisure. Naturally someone brought tea. Holding the tea cup, his face full of smiles, he said: “Young Master Pei, you should know I’m not deliberately making things difficult for you. As long as you confess, admit to attempting to murder the princess, then sign and seal the confession, I can guarantee your Pei family won’t be implicated in this matter.”

Pei Hui’s expression suddenly changed. He said angrily: “Absurd! Why would I kill the princess?” His attitude was firm, while Yuan Lie’s smile became even colder. He enjoyed watching Pei Hui struggle in death throes, like prey falling into a trap while completely unaware. He said leisurely: “Young Master Pei, you should think clearly. I’m not requesting this of you – I’m ordering you! Can’t you see how the situation has changed? Do you still think you can easily walk out of this prison?”

But Pei Hui clearly didn’t trust Yuan Lie. He said coldly: “You’re merely a prince. What authority do you have to interrogate me? Don’t think I’m a fool! I won’t sign and seal anything. Don’t even think about it! You’d better spend this time continuing to chase after women!”

This was mocking him for always running after Li Weiyang. Yuan Lie wasn’t angry, because Pei Hui wasn’t wrong. He did love Li Weiyang and chasing after her – what was shameful about that? What did pride matter? Ridiculous! He only smiled: “I’ll ask one more time. Will you confess or not?”

Pei Hui spoke righteously: “An innocent person – what is there to confess!”

Yuan Lie smiled lightly and said slowly: “Since it’s like this, don’t blame me for being merciless.” As he spoke, he waved his hand. Immediately several burly jailers entered, all with fierce faces, advancing directly toward Pei Hui. Pei Hui frowned and glared angrily: “I am a young master of the Pei family. Who dares lay hands on me without interrogation?!”

The jailer then looked toward the Capital Magistrate, but the Capital Magistrate kept his head lowered from beginning to end, not even glancing at Pei Hui.

Yuan Lie blew on his tea leaves: “The Pei family may indeed be brilliant and unreachable, but a dignified young master of the Pei family became a prisoner overnight. Do you still think your status is so noble? Here there is no young master of the Pei family – only a criminal who attempted to murder a princess.”

Hearing Yuan Lie say this, the jailers’ confidence surged. One jailer holding a curved bone knife stood before him. Another person held a rope with a rusty iron hook hanging from it. Pei Hui thought they were going to disembowel him and was terrified out of his wits, nearly struggling with all his might. But his martial arts were useless here. Pressed down firmly by four jailers, he screamed loudly: “Yuan Lie, such audacity!”

The knife flashed. A bailiff hooked the iron hook into his stomach. Not knowing what technique he used, Pei Hui only felt excruciating abdominal pain. The other person laughed coldly. The iron hook actually pierced through his clothing and hooked into his navel. This kind of pain was truly unbearable. He screamed once. Before he could react, the jailer had already lifted him like a chicken onto a long bench and brought a pot of chili water. Like a teahouse waiter, he held it high and poured it fiercely down on him, drenching him until tears and mucus flowed, coughing uncontrollably.

Yuan Lie asked with a smile: “Young Master Pei, how does the prison taste?”

Pei Hui gritted his teeth. At this moment, he wished he could tear Prince Xu Yuan Lie apart alive to dissolve his hatred. He couldn’t help roaring angrily: “Do you think I’ll confess under duress with this?! Stop daydreaming!”

Yuan Lie looked at him. Those amber eyes were tinged with killing intent. Instead, he laughed heartily. “You and I have no grievances or enmity. I have no wish to make things difficult for you either. Unfortunately, your Pei family has always been overbearing, bullying others far too much. Anyone who makes her unhappy, I cannot easily let go of. Thus, I can only wrong you.”

As he spoke, he glanced at the Capital Magistrate. “Lord Hua, is this all your prison has to offer?”

The Capital Magistrate was covered in sweat. He straightened his neck and ordered those bailiffs sternly: “Use some strength! Haven’t you eaten?”

Those bailiffs were all genuine experts, knowing how to make someone unable to live or die, without even leaving a trace. Moreover, with Prince Xu and the Capital Magistrate both watching, they could only work even harder.

Pei Hui said sternly: “A scholar can be killed but not humiliated. Yuan Lie, you dog…” Before he finished speaking, a jailer slapped him across the face. He staggered and fell, tumbling from the bench. He spat a mouthful of bloody water on the ground, along with two teeth. His features twisted, he stared at these bailiffs: “You dogs with such gall…” Before he could finish, those wolf-like bailiffs pounced on him, placing a pair of redwood sticks between his fingers and began tightening the rope.

Yuan Lie smiled: “What is this? Isn’t this torture used on female prisoners? How did it get used on him?”

The Capital Magistrate smiled obsequiously: “This torture naturally has its merits. After modification, even if fingers are crushed, the exterior shows no wounds. Your Highness can rest assured.” Sure enough, once the rope tightened, Pei Hui immediately let out screams. Yuan Lie lowered his head to drink tea, his long lashes dropping down. His quiet and gentle appearance made it impossible to imagine he was watching an interrogation. The Capital Magistrate looked at Prince Xu’s handsome profile, his heart breaking into a cold sweat. Today he helped Prince Xu cruelly interrogate Pei Hui – he didn’t know if this was the right move. Just then, Pei Hui’s voice suddenly stopped. He had fainted from pain.

Someone reported: “The prisoner’s ring finger, index finger, and little finger have all been crushed.”

Yuan Lie didn’t speak but smiled toward the Capital Magistrate. The Capital Magistrate trembled at that gaze and angrily shouted: “Wake him up!”

The jailer immediately poured a basin of water over him. Pei Hui lay on the ground, unable to get up. The Capital Magistrate gave an order and he was immediately stuffed into a large burlap sack, the opening tied tight. Then someone carried over a six-foot-square wooden board and placed it on the ground, its surface covered with needle points fine as ox hair. Four people grabbed the four corners of the sack, shouting slogans as they tossed the sack toward the sky, then let it fall heavily onto the nail board. Pei Hui screamed from within the sack. With these several tosses, the needle points were all bloody, and even the sack turned bright red.

In the prison there was no heavenly principle, no law, not even humanity. These bailiffs’ purpose was only to extract confessions. No matter how firm Pei Hui was or how unwilling to confess, he was still ultimately a mortal man. He would still bleed, still scream. Each blow fell solidly upon him, leaving its mark. No matter how formidable, he had no way to endure such cruel torture. When Yuan Lie ordered people to release him from the sack, his entire body was covered in wounds. The slightest movement brought unbearable pain, tears streaming down. Yet the needle points were fine as ox hair – once the blood dried in the wind, not the slightest wound could be seen on his body. He could have refused to confess to the death, holding out to the end. But he was unwilling. He knew that as long as he survived this ordeal, when the Emperor and Crown Prince personally interrogated him, he would have a chance to recant. So he gritted his teeth and shouted loudly: “I’m willing to confess!”

Yuan Lie smiled lightly and had someone bring paper and brush.

Pei Hui struggled to get up, hooking the brush with one index finger, writing character by character on the confession. Each movement pulled at his wounds, causing cold sweat to pour down, nearly making him faint. Under severe torture, few could endure the pain. But Pei Hui was a person of very firm will. His tolerance for pain far exceeded ordinary people. His reason for agreeing to confess was fundamentally to wait until the Crown Prince was present to recant for himself. At that time, he would naturally reveal everything and accuse Prince Xu of what he had done to him.

The Capital Magistrate accompanied Prince Xu out of the prison, then said softly: “Your Highness, are you satisfied today?” He looked at Yuan Lie with his eyes, thinking this Prince Xu was too naive. During the joint trial, Pei Hui would recant. But he didn’t plan to remind the other party. Who told Prince Xu to try to threaten him? When the time came, he would only need to say Prince Xu had forced him with power and authority, and naturally could push all responsibility clean away.

Prince Xu looked at him and smiled. Under the moonlight, that handsome face carried a trace of mockery. He casually picked a peony flower from the side and played with it in his hand: “I heard that in a few days the Crown Prince will come for a retrial. If Pei Hui recants then, refusing to admit murdering the princess, perhaps he could even turn the tables – this would also bring many troubles. In Lord Capital Magistrate’s view, how should this be resolved?”

The Capital Magistrate was shocked. He smiled bitterly: “Your Highness, don’t make things difficult for me. Since you’ve done this today, you must have anticipated the day he recants. If that truly happens, I also have no solution!” His meaning was: Don’t make things difficult for me anymore. I don’t know how to handle this. You handle it yourself.

Yuan Lie turned lightly. The flower in his hand had already been crushed to mud. He said gently: “This isn’t difficult to handle. Just follow what I say.” As he spoke, he whispered two sentences in the other’s ear. The Capital Magistrate heard Yuan Lie’s instructions and was stunned. He thought: What a Prince Xu – so young, yet with such vicious schemes. But his face showed no surprise at all, saying repeatedly: “Prince Xu, excellent strategy, excellent strategy!”

Yuan Lie raised his hand. The flower mud scattered with the wind. His tone was gentle: “Why aren’t you going to do it?”

“Yes! Yes!” The Capital Magistrate hurried off.

Seven days later, the Crown Prince personally brought the Emperor’s decree into the prison for a joint trial. Accompanying him were the Minister of Justice and several imperial clan members personally appointed by the Emperor to preside. But the Crown Prince hadn’t expected that when Pei Hui was brought up, before he could ask anything, Pei Hui was already shouting like he had lost his mind: “I did it! I attempted to murder the princess! It was all me!”

The Crown Prince was shocked and quickly examined Pei Hui carefully, then said sternly: “Who ordered you to torture him?”

The Capital Magistrate quickly said: “Crown Prince, ordinary criminals entering the prison must suffer a bit. But following Crown Prince’s instructions, this official didn’t apply severe torture. If you don’t believe it, Crown Prince can thoroughly examine him.”

In fact, after Yuan Lie left, they had already found someone to carefully examine Pei Hui’s wounds. The needles on the iron board were fine as ox hair – piercing the human body only caused pain without wounds. Especially once the blood dried, there were no traces at all. And Pei Hui’s fingers, though broken before, they had already sent someone to reset the bones. Now if the Crown Prince checked, he couldn’t find anything amiss either.

The Crown Prince looked at the Capital Magistrate angrily: “Pei Hui, if you have any grievances, tell us!” But no matter how he pressed, Pei Hui only had three words – “I am guilty! I am guilty!”

The Minister of Justice frowned: “Pei Hui, do you mean you confess?”

Pei Hui acted mad throughout. The Crown Prince, seeing this situation, was completely stunned. He hadn’t expected that in just a few short days, Pei Hui had already admitted his crimes and even seemed to have… gone mad? The Capital Magistrate placed the signed and sealed confession before the Crown Prince, respectfully saying: “Crown Prince, this is the written evidence Pei Hui personally wrote.”

The Crown Prince glanced at it. On it in black and white was written clearly – because he was drunk and temporarily lost control, he nearly killed the princess. Item by item, matter by matter, Pei Hui had acknowledged everything. The Crown Prince’s expression became extremely ugly. He couldn’t understand at all – had Pei Hui gone mad? He still wanted to have him recall everything that happened that night to help him recant. But what should he do now?

In the Guo residence’s garden, the young masters of the Guo family sat in the pavilion drinking tea. In the distance, Princess Ali was pestering Zhao Yue to teach her swordsmanship, pestering quite energetically.

In the pavilion, Guo Dao looked at Li Weiyang and asked with a light laugh: “How can you guarantee Pei Hui won’t recant?”

Li Weiyang’s thin lips curved up, revealing a mocking arc: “I had someone disguise themselves as an imperial censor sent by the Crown Prince to re-interrogate Pei Hui. That false censor dismissed others and told Pei Hui it was on the Crown Prince’s orders to have him truthfully tell his grievances. Of course Pei Hui was extremely excited. These days of endurance had made him very fragile and also credulous. He had no doubts at all but grasped him as his life-saving straw, holding tight and unwilling to let go. So he cried out his injustice and told what happened that day once through. But when the ‘censor’ left, the Capital Magistrate immediately ordered jailers to enter and apply that day’s torture to him again. Pei Hui couldn’t withstand such a lesson and naturally became cautious and careful.”

Guo Dao listened, his face showing an expression of disbelief. Li Weiyang’s eyes glanced slightly: “The next day, we again sent someone disguised as the Crown Prince’s messenger, claiming to be investigating this matter under orders. Pei Hui still didn’t wake up and again tearfully told this person he was wronged. That messenger showed great sympathy but was helpless. After he left, the jailers entered again, adding another round of torture. Within these three days, over ten people used different methods and identities to gain Pei Hui’s trust. Though Pei Hui knew there was deception, he was unwilling to give up hope. In his caution and care, he still wrongly trusted four or five of them. So that in the end he couldn’t distinguish true from false. Every time he recanted, he would invariably receive a round of torture. Therefore, he now has a conditioned reflex. As long as he recants, he must suffer torture. When false seems true, truth also seems false. By the time the Crown Prince truly came, he had already been tortured to madness. Of course, even if not mad, he had no way to convince himself that the other party was truly the Crown Prince.”

Guo Dao was shocked to the extreme. He looked at Li Weiyang: “You mean among those ten-plus people you sent, some even impersonated the Crown Prince?”

Li Weiyang smiled lightly: “This also isn’t difficult. Just find someone with similar build and voice. The prison is dim – naturally Pei Hui couldn’t see clearly. As long as the impersonation was convincing, naturally it could seem real. This is merely creating confusion between false and true, true and false, making Pei Hui’s eyes spin, unable to distinguish authenticity. We can only blame Pei Hui himself – his will wasn’t firm enough, too desperately wanting to escape with his life.”

Li Weiyang’s black eyes were cold and severe, her features carrying a murderous air. Her voice was even more slow and measured, speaking leisurely. Those present all felt chills – such scheming was truly frightening.

Guo Cheng had been holding his tea until it went cold without remembering to drink. After a long while, he sighed: “This Pei Hui can be said to have died as he deserved.”

Li Weiyang’s eyes held a smile, quiet and composed: “That confession stated Pei Hui lost control due to drunkenness, attempted but failed to kill the princess, yet killed four palace maids. With Empress Pei maneuvering behind the scenes, he still won’t receive a death sentence. However, though the death penalty can be avoided, punishment is inescapable. His sentence won’t be light.”

Ten days later, Pei Hui’s judgment came down. The charge of great disrespect to the imperial family was removed with great difficulty by Empress Pei. But the Emperor still gave an expected punishment – Pei Hui’s kneecaps were gouged out and he received facial tattooing. This meant Pei Hui could never stand again, and moreover, the character for “criminal” would be tattooed on his face. Wherever he went, he would only be a convict. For a noble young master, this was more painful than killing him.

Hearing this news, Li Weiyang only smiled faintly: “Pei Yi, you took my Fifth Brother’s arm. I took your brother’s two legs. By calculation, I haven’t suffered a loss either.” Not killing Pei Hui was to make you watch daily, think of it constantly, heartbroken and anguished, never at peace for all eternity.