"Fuma, our daughter seems to be reluctant to go out lately," Princess Shunan expressed her concerns, "Could it be that she was frightened by the incident with the bandits last time?"
Yao Fuma, who was playing with crickets, jokingly replied, "There are many candidates coming to the capital recently to participate in the upcoming Spring Examinations, so it's fine for her to stay at home."
Princess Shunan glared at him and slammed the teacup heavily on the table, "I knew you were playing with crickets! Believe it or not, I will expose that 'General' you've been raising..."
"Hush," Yao Fuma quickly straightened his posture and nervously said, "Don't speak nonsense. I've already changed the name of that cricket."
The couple's eyes met in the air, seemingly recalling something, and they both avoided mentioning the three words "General" again.
"Princess, Fuma -- Fushou Junzhu has sent an invitation card, inviting our Junzhu for a meeting," a maidservant entered with a card in hand.
Princess Shunan took the invitation card and glanced at it, then said without hesitation, "Go and invite Junzhu, tell her that Fushou Junzhu wants to meet her."
"Who invited me?" Jiamin Junzhu took the invitation card and glanced at it. Immediately, she tossed it aside with a trembling hand, "Tell her I'm busy and won't go."
"Junzhu, this is the Princess's intention," the maidservant looked hesitant while delivering the message.
Jiamin Junzhu grabbed the invitation card and walked quickly to the front hall, "Mother, didn't you tell me to stay away from Hua Liuli?" she asked, "Now she's inviting me."
"It is correct that I told you to keep your distance from her, but she's the one inviting you now," Princess Shunan avoided her daughter's angry gaze, "So, you should go."
"I'm not going," Jiamin Junzhu felt embarrassed to tell her parents that she couldn't help but feel scared when she saw Hua Liuli. So, she chose to ignore her to avoid any trouble.
"Daughter, things are different today. Your hero, General Wei, has returned to the capital. It would be better for you to go and please her daughter," Princess Shunan stood up, "Besides, Fushou Junzhu is different from her mother. She's a delicate and gentle person. What's the harm in playing with her?"
"General Wei's return is a good thing, but it doesn't mean I have to please her daughter," Jiamin Junzhu shook her head vigorously, "I'm not going."
"Behave," Princess Shunan grabbed a stack of silver bills and handed them to her daughter, then turned and walked towards the door, "The kitchen won't prepare your favorite dishes for lunch. Have a good time with Fushou Junzhu."
"Mother..."
"Father, what does mother mean?" Jiamin Junzhu turned her head and asked her father, hoping her mother would change her mind, "I really don't want to go out."
"Youth doesn't understand the value of fate until they're old and filled with regret," Yao Fuma sighed, "My good daughter, listen to your mother and have a good time with Fushou Junzhu. If the money is not enough, I have more."
After saying that, he also handed a handful of silver bills to Jiamin Junzhu and quickly left with the cage of crickets.
Clutching the stack of silver bills, Jiamin Junzhu's face kept changing. In the end, she gritted her teeth and headed towards the main gate.
As soon as she reached the entrance, she saw Hua Liuli, who was wearing a light-colored waist-bound dress, her slender waist as soft as a willow branch. Suddenly, Jiamin Junzhu remembered a line from a poem that said, "Gently held, boneless as if nothing, the fluttering sleeves dance like butterflies in the wind."
But when she thought of this seemingly delicate woman who could wield a sword and kill dozens of men, allowing their corpses to be dragged away by fierce beasts, all Jiamin Junzhu could think of was the phrase "appearances can be deceptive", which kept repeating in her mind.
"Sister Jiamin," seeing Jiamin Junzhu coming out, Hua Liuli smiled sweetly and spoke softly, her voice like water and smoke, making one's bones go weak.
Jiamin Junzhu walked briskly to Hua Liuli's side and asked softly, "What do you want with me?"
"Sister Jiamin, I just came to play with you. Don't be so nervous," Hua Liuli blinked her eyes, "Didn't you want to see me, sister?"
Seeing Hua Liuli's teary-eyed appearance, Jiamin Junzhu took a deep breath, "You don't need to test me. I haven't told anyone about your secret."
"I know Junzhu keeps her promises," Hua Liuli reached out and held Jiamin Junzhu's wrist, gently pulling her, "But we are sisters bound by life and death. Talking about these things would only hurt our feelings. Come, let's walk and play."
In despair, Jiamin Junzhu glanced back at the gates of the Princess Estate. She didn't know if she would be able to return to the estate unscathed after this.
"Young Miss, it seems that Jiamin Junzhu and Fushou Junzhu just passed by our carriage."
Upon hearing the maid's words, Du Xiuying lifted the curtain of the carriage and took a glance. She saw Jiamin Junzhu holding Hua Liuli's arm and walking towards a teahouse. Their maids followed behind, their expressions unclear.
Putting down the curtain, Du Xiuying turned a page in her book, but she couldn't concentrate on reading.
Many people in the capital knew that General Hua's daughter was delicate and prone to illness. Jiamin Junzhu, who had practiced martial arts since childhood and had a proud personality, was incompatible with Hua Liuli. What did she want by bringing Hua Liuli to the teahouse?
"A true gentleman values righteousness over personal gain..." Du Xiuying put down the book and spoke, "Coachman, turn around and head to the teahouse we just passed by."
If she hadn't seen it, it would have been fine. But if she witnessed something unjust and refused to stand up, wouldn't she be no different from a petty person?
Hua Liuli brought Jiamin Junzhu to the most popular teahouse the noble ladies visit in the capital. She extended her finger and poked Jiamin Junzhu's arm, saying, "Sister Jiamin, which private room do you usually prefer to stay in?"
Jiamin Junzhu brushed off her hand and said to the clean female attendant, "The usual one."
"Junzhu, please follow me," the female attendant smiled and led the two upstairs, "We recently acquired some spring tea in the shop. Would you like to try it, esteemed ladies?"
After Jiamin Junzhu nodded, the female attendant quickly made arrangements and respectfully led them to a private room before quietly leaving.
"Junzhu, have you forgotten? I don't drink tea," Hua Liuli asked the attendant to replace the tea with plain boiled water and picked at the fruits on the table, "It's been a while, Junzhu. How have you been?"
"What do you really want?" Jiamin Junzhu looked at Hua Liuli suspiciously. She couldn't believe that Hua Liuli was genuinely concerned about her.
"I don't have many friends in the capital, so I just wanted to spend some time with you, sister," Hua Liuli placed two peanuts in front of Jiamin Junzhu, "I don't mean anything else."
Hua Liuli glanced out of the window and found the position interesting. She could see the pedestrians passing by on the street. The opposite side of the street seemed familiar. It was where Tian Ruidong and the Young Master of the Chen family had a conflict. Tian Ruidong was almost killed by a servant with a dagger last time.
She even wondered if the true mastermind behind the scenes was sitting in this teahouse, coldly watching everything unfold.
Her sudden appearance not only disrupted that person's plans but also affected the person's enjoyment of the spectacle.
So, he hated her for disrupting his plans and wanted to capture her alive, torturing her to death slowly. Unfortunately, after the incident with Tian Ruidong, the court began investigating suspicious individuals, so he had to leave the capital in advance and leave the assassins behind to execute his plan.
If everything went as she imagined, then the mastermind was an extremely arrogant person. He believed that his plan was flawless and foolproof.
Feeling disgusted by her own thoughts, Hua Liuli turned her head to look at Jiamin Junzhu, who was sitting obediently in her seat, "Jiamin Junzhu, I heard that the Flower Festival in the capital is particularly lively. Is there anything I need to take care of?"
Upon hearing the words "Flower Festival", Jiamin Junzhu's scalp couldn't help but tingle, and she felt anxious inside. Did Hua Liuli already know about her previous plan to embarrass her during the Flower Festival? Is she deliberately bringing it up now to probe for the truth?
But she had long given up on embarrassing Hua Liuli. Would Hua Liuli believe it if she revealed the truth?
"Well... there's nothing specific to be careful of. On that day, many young gentlemen will come out for an outing, some will even compose poems and paint. Just make yourself look beautiful," Jiamin Junzhu picked up her teacup and took a sip, concealing her uneasiness, "Why are you asking about this?"
"Just asking casually." Hua Liuli got up and sat next to Jiamin Junzhu, "Actually, there's another small matter I want to inquire about."
"If you want to ask, go ahead. Why are you getting so close?" Hua Liuli's proximity made Jiamin Junzhu tense up. She moved aside slightly, "Hua Liuli, let me tell you, don't go too far. I am a member of the imperial family."
"I know, I know. If you weren't a member of the imperial family, I wouldn't bother asking you," Hua Liuli grabbed Jiamin Junzhu, who was trying to move away, and pulled her back, "I'm just bored. I want to hear some gossip about the capital from you."
"What gossip?" Jiamin Junzhu turned her head. "As a Junzhu, how could I gossip like a common woman?"
"I see," Hua Liuli let go of Jiamin Junzhu, "I heard some news about Ying Wang, but if you're not interested, then forget it."
"You have news about Ying Wang?" Jiamin Junzhu looked at Hua Liuli suspiciously.
"Aiyah, nevermind, nevermind," Hua Liuli waved her hand, "Since you're not interested, it doesn't matter."
"If you insist on telling me, I can reluctantly listen," Jiamin Junzhu grabbed Hua Liuli, "Tell me."
"I don't want to."
"Are you doing this on purpose, Hua Liuli, you..."
"Jiamin Junzhu, stop making a scene," The door of the private room opened, and a young lady, who was taking deep breaths, stood at the entrance, her eyes fixed on Jiamin Junzhu.
"Sister?" Although Jiamin Junzhu didn't particularly like her cousin, she didn't want Hua Liuli to witness her create a scene. She waved her hand to dismiss the guards who had caught up, "Why did you suddenly come?"
Du Xiuying ignored her and walked to Hua Liuli's side, pushing away Jiamin Junzhu's hand on Hua Liuli's arm, "Jiamin Junzhu, stop causing trouble."
"What trouble am I causing?" Jiamin Junzhu couldn't believe her eyes when she saw Du Xiuying hiding Hua Liuli behind her, "Who is causing trouble for whom here?!"
She had been perfectly fine at home, but Hua Liuli forcefully dragged her out, and now her own cousin saw her as the villain.
She had never been treated like this before in her life.
"Junzhu, are you okay?" Du Xiuying disregarded Jiamin Junzhu's protests. Jiamin Junzhu had bullied countless people throughout her life and had become even more impulsive and inconsiderate as she grew up, so Du Xiuying no longer believed in her excuses.
"I'm fine," Hua Liuli nodded obediently.
"That's good," Du Xiuying supported her arm, "It's getting late. I'll escort you back."
Hua Liuli glanced at Du Xiuying, then at Jiamin Junzhu, and didn't refuse the offer.
"Junzhu, you may not be familiar with me," Du Xiuying noticed that Hua Liuli didn't enter the carriage, so she supported her and sat in the same carriage, "My surname is Du, and my given name is Xiuying. I'm Jiamin Junzhu's cousin. You can just call me by my name."
"Hello, Sister Xiuying."
"Don't be so formal," Du Xiuying bowed, "Junzhu, you are a noble young lady with a title bestowed by His Majesty. It's not appropriate for you to address me as 'sister'."
Seeing Du Xiuying's serious demeanor, Hua Liuli recalled the female teacher who had taught her etiquette in her childhood.
"Although Jiamin Junzhu has an impulsive personality, she is not inherently bad. If she has offended you in any way, I hope Junzhu can forgive her," Du Xiuying bowed deeply to Hua Liuli.
"Young Lady Du, please don't be like this," receiving such a formal bow, Hua Liuli quickly reached out to help her up, "Today, I came out with Jiamin Junzhu just to ask about the Flower Festival. It has nothing to do with her."
Du Xiuying glanced deeply at Hua Liuli and slightly lowered her head, "I see."
The girl from the Hua family was truly kind-hearted. When she entered, she clearly saw Jiamin Junzhu grabbing Hua Liuli's arm. It seemed as if she forcing her to say something, yet she still didn't want to speak ill of Jiamin Junzhu in front of her.
With such a personality, how could she not suffer when she was with Jiamin Junzhu?
"If there's anything the Junzhu wants to know, feel free to ask me," Du Xiuying sighed in her heart as she took the cloak handed to her by the maidservant and draped it over Hua Liuli's shoulders.
This frail girl sitting there alone couldn't help but make people worry.
"Thank you, Young Lady Du," Hua Liuli felt grateful towards Du Xiuying and smiled at her.
"Junzhu, no need to be so polite," Du Xiuying looked at Hua Liuli's fair face and couldn't help but feel like she wanted to cover her with another layer of clothing.
Perhaps this was... the feeling of a grandmother doting on her granddaughter. She always felt that the girl wasn't dressed warmly enough.
Du Xiuying found her own mindset somewhat strange. Could it be that her own siblings were not as good-looking as Hua Liuli?
After sending Hua Liuli back to the mansion, Du Xiuying returned home. She saw her parents and older brother present and stepped forward to greet them.
"Xiuying, there's no need to be so formal with your own family," Father Du said helplessly.
"Father, one should always show respect. It's what a daughter should do," Du Xiuying still completed the greeting.
Father Du helplessly raised his hand to his forehead. It seemed that he had no way to deal with this scholarly daughter of his.
Eldest Brother Du had long been accustomed to his sister's personality and didn't take these things to heart. Instead, he said, "Father, Mother, I heard something very interesting today."
"What is it?" Father Du asked with interest. When he turned his head and saw that his daughter was still there, he straightened his posture.
As a child, one shouldn't criticize their parents, so Du Xiuying stood up and prepared to go back to her study.
"Yesterday, the Crown Prince and General Wei's daughter appeared together at a Taoist temple on the outskirts of the capital."
Du Xiuying's steps paused and didn't walk out.
"The Crown Prince goes to the temple every year on the 16th day of the first month to light a lamp for the late Empress Gonghui. General Wei just returned to the capital and probably didn't know about the Crown Prince's habit. It's normal for them to accidentally meet each other," Upon hearing that it involved the Crown Prince, Father Du instantly lost interest. There were too many rumors about the Crown Prince circulating throughout the capital and it had long become uninteresting.
Everyone believed that with the Crown Prince's behavior, it was only a matter of time before the Emperor stripped him of his status.
If he wasn't deposed today, then it would be tomorrow, or some other day in the future.
Eldest Brother Du said, "Perhaps the Crown Prince intends to marry Fushou Junzhu to increase his chances of inheriting the throne?"
"If the Crown Prince has any sense or reason, he would know better to stay away from the Hua family," Father Du sighed. "Hua Yingting and Wei Mingyue have achieved remarkable military feats. They not only have high prestige in the military but also enjoy great popularity among the people. If you were the Emperor, what would you think?"
"Admire my own discernment for selecting two capable generals?" Eldest Brother Du hesitated, "But don't people say that the Emperor is the incarnation of the Purple Star1"Zǐ wēi xīng" (紫微星) refers to the Purple Microstar or Purple Star in Chinese astrology. It is one of the 28 mansions or constellations in traditional Chinese astronomy and astrology. In Chinese culture, each mansion is associated with a specific star or group of stars that are believed to have astrological significance. The Purple Star is considered a highly auspicious and influential star in Chinese astrology. It is associated with power, authority, and the emperor. In ancient times, it was believed that the Purple Microstar represented the essence of the emperor's power and divine mandate. It was often associated with the ruler's destiny, fortune, and governance., and General Hua Yingting is the Wenqu Star2文曲星 (Wén qǔ xīng), being the Literary Star, holds a complementary role to 紫微星 (Zǐ wēi xīng). It represents intellectual pursuits, wisdom, and literary talent.?"
"Shallow thinking," Father Du looked disappointed at his son, "If you had half the insight of your sister, I would be much more relieved."
Eldest Brother Du thought to himself that his father complained about his daughter studying too much and becoming a bookworm. But now he also complained that his son didn't study enough and lacked knowledge. It wasn't easy to please their parents these days.
"At first, the Emperor might think that way, but over time, he will suspect whether the Hua family harbors any intentions of rebellion and whether they pose a threat to the imperial power based on popular support. If the Crown Prince gets closer to the Hua family, it will only make matters worse. The Emperor will suspect that the Crown Prince is impatient to ascend the throne and replace him."
"If the Crown Prince had even a shred of reason, he wouldn't get too close to the Hua family. He can marry any woman in the world, except for that Junzhu from the Hua family," Father Du stated with certainty, "Moreover, Fushou Junzhu is frail and often ill. It may not be conducive to bearing children. How can such a girl marry into the imperial family?"
"I see," Eldest Brother Du suddenly realized, "Could this be a deliberate plot by someone?"
"The other princes are already of age, so it's hard to say," Father Du stroked his beard and turned to look at Du Xiuying, who was still standing at the door, "The point is, it's a good thing that Xiuying doesn't marry the Crown Prince."
"Father, yesterday I went to pay respects to Grandfather, it seemed that he had a great appreciation for the Fourth Prince," Eldest Brother Du whispered, "Could it be that he's considering..."
"Don't overthink it," Father Du frowned. He knew that his father didn't particularly like the Crown Prince, but he didn't want to use his children's marriages as political bargaining chips.
The Fourth Prince?
Du Xiuying turned around expressionless. In her opinion, golden houses existed in books, there were also beauties as captivating as jade within them. Whether it was the Crown Prince or the princes, they were not as interesting as those books.
"You have quite a temper, little sister," Hua Changkong said, "You went to play with Jiamin Junzhu in the morning, and in the afternoon, you had Young Lady Du bring you back. Among the young girls in the capital, who haven't you provoked?"
"There are too many," Hua Luli said, "Today, I inquired from Young Lady Du and found out that there is a temple nearby dedicated to the Wenqu Star. It's said to be very effective. I'll go and pay my respects there tomorrow."
"Don't be superstitious," Hua Changkong said.
"Just a little belief won't hurt," Hua Luli patted Hua Changkong's shoulder, "Third Brother, don't put too much pressure on yourself. There are only three days left until the Spring Examination, you won't be able to read much in such a short time. Why not relax a bit? I believe you will definitely pass the exam. Even if you don't, it's okay. The most important thing is for you to be happy."
She didn't tell Hua Changkong that today she also inquired about the imperial examinations from Du Xiuying. She learned that some candidates suddenly went mad or fell ill during the examination, so she was worried that her handsome Third Brother would also lose his mind in the examination hall.
"Don't worry, Third Brother will pay attention," Hua Changkong smiled and rubbed Hua Luli's head. After Hua Luli had subtly expressed her concerns, he understood that she was worried about him being under too much pressure and harming his health, "Little girls shouldn't worry about such trivial matters."
"Then you should go to bed early tonight," Hua Luli closed the book on the table, "You can read these books during the day tomorrow."
"Okay, okay," Hua Changkong, supervised by Hua Luli, returned to his own courtyard. When Hua Luli returned to her own small courtyard, she saw her father and mother enjoying wine and the moon outside. Afraid of disturbing their pleasant moment, she immediately tiptoed along the wall and slipped into her courtyard.
"Your Royal Highness, should this be kept under the pillow?" a palace maid who was changing the bedding found a bunch of grass under the pillow. Not daring to make a decision on her own, she held it in both hands and presented it to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince got up and personally put the Grass-Woven Butterfly back under the pillow and said to the palace maid, "Leave it there."
"Yes," the palace maids finished tidying up the bedding and quietly left.
"Your Royal Highness, the news of your meeting with Fushou Junzhu at the Taoist Temple yesterday was spread by Consort Xian," a eunuch dressed in blue robes hurriedly came in and whispered, "It seems that Consort Xian doesn't want you to marry the Young Lady from the Du family."
"Heh," the Crown Prince wasn't surprised by the discovery. Spreading rumors about each other was a tactic almost all the imperial consorts used, and Consort Xian, who had been in the palace for so many years, hadn't made much progress in her methods.
"Your Highness," a eunuch who had served by the Crown Prince's side for many years couldn't help but speak up, "Perhaps... in the future, you should keep some distance from Fushou Junzhu."
"Is Benwang the kind of person who would sacrifice Benwang's own interests due to rumors?" the Crown Prince flicked the golden beads on the table, and as one fell to the ground and rolled into the bottom of a cabinet, he didn't even furrow his brows. "The Flower Festival is approaching, and Benwang remembers there's a box of pearl hairpins in the private treasury. Tomorrow, Benwang will have someone send them to Fushou Junzhu."
"Your Highness, those hairpins are rare treasures. Why not keep them for the future Crown Princess..."
"Benwang thinks those jewels are more suitable for Fushou Junzhu," the Crown Prince lazily stood up "Benwang is tired. All of you can leave."
"Yes."
The next day, after the morning court, the Crown Prince went to the Emperor's study in Chengyang Palace.
Seeing his son so proactively coming to the study, Emperor Changlong put down the papers in his hand, "Speak up. What help do you need from your Father Emperor?"
When his son suddenly became diligent and obedient, it usually meant he had something to ask for.
"There's nothing, Erchen just wants to report to Father Emperor that certain consorts in the palace have been spreading gossip about Erchen and a certain young lady," the Crown Prince sat dejectedly in the chair, his head lowered, "Erchen is not very happy about it, so Erchen can only come to Father Emperor and vent my frustrations."
"Who is it again?" Emperor Changlong felt a headache coming on. He had elevated the Crown Prince's status so high, hoping that they would understand that the future Emperor of Great Jin could only be Yuansu and no one else.
Unfortunately, it seemed that several women in the palace still didn't understand his intentions.
"That's not important. What's important is that in order to make it up to that young lady, Erchen sent her the jewelry that was prepared for future the Crown Princess," the Crown Prince said, "So for the jewels that will be offered this year, Father Emperor can let Erchen choose first and let me accumulate some wealth."
"Do you still lack these things?"
"Father Emperor, it's a thousand-year tradition for a father to save up wealth for his son's marriage. If Erchen can't come to find Father Emperor, who else can Erchen turn to?" as the most privileged heir of the Great Jin, the Crown Prince felt justified in relying on his father.
"Fine, fine. Since all fathers in the world love to support their sons, you can pick whatever you like," Emperor Changlong's favoritism knew no bounds when facing the Crown Prince.
"Erchen thanks Father Emperor's grace."
The Crown Prince turned to go to the Emperor's private treasury. He asked the attendant, Zhao Sancai, who accompanied him, "Chief Eunuch Zhao, what kind of jewelry does Consort Xian usually like?"
Zhao Sancai: "..."
Your Royal Highness, can't you be a little less obvious about it?
Krish728
Author's Note:
Question: How do you retaliate against a woman?
Jiamin Junzhu: I feel like I'm already being retaliated against.
Crown Prince: Thank you for inviting Benwang. Benwang just came out of the imperial treasury. There are many ways, but the simplest and most direct is to snatch away whatever she likes.
"Fuma, our daughter seems to be reluctant to go out lately," Princess Shunan expressed her concerns, "Could it be that she was frightened by the incident with the bandits last time?"
Yao Fuma, who was playing with crickets, jokingly replied, "There are many candidates coming to the capital recently to participate in the upcoming Spring Examinations, so it's fine for her to stay at home."
Princess Shunan glared at him and slammed the teacup heavily on the table, "I knew you were playing with crickets! Believe it or not, I will expose that 'General' you've been raising..."
"Hush," Yao Fuma quickly straightened his posture and nervously said, "Don't speak nonsense. I've already changed the name of that cricket."
The couple's eyes met in the air, seemingly recalling something, and they both avoided mentioning the three words "General" again.
"Princess, Fuma -- Fushou Junzhu has sent an invitation card, inviting our Junzhu for a meeting," a maidservant entered with a card in hand.
Princess Shunan took the invitation card and glanced at it, then said without hesitation, "Go and invite Junzhu, tell her that Fushou Junzhu wants to meet her."
"Who invited me?" Jiamin Junzhu took the invitation card and glanced at it. Immediately, she tossed it aside with a trembling hand, "Tell her I'm busy and won't go."
"Junzhu, this is the Princess's intention," the maidservant looked hesitant while delivering the message.
Jiamin Junzhu grabbed the invitation card and walked quickly to the front hall, "Mother, didn't you tell me to stay away from Hua Liuli?" she asked, "Now she's inviting me."
"It is correct that I told you to keep your distance from her, but she's the one inviting you now," Princess Shunan avoided her daughter's angry gaze, "So, you should go."
"I'm not going," Jiamin Junzhu felt embarrassed to tell her parents that she couldn't help but feel scared when she saw Hua Liuli. So, she chose to ignore her to avoid any trouble.
"Daughter, things are different today. Your hero, General Wei, has returned to the capital. It would be better for you to go and please her daughter," Princess Shunan stood up, "Besides, Fushou Junzhu is different from her mother. She's a delicate and gentle person. What's the harm in playing with her?"
"General Wei's return is a good thing, but it doesn't mean I have to please her daughter," Jiamin Junzhu shook her head vigorously, "I'm not going."
"Behave," Princess Shunan grabbed a stack of silver bills and handed them to her daughter, then turned and walked towards the door, "The kitchen won't prepare your favorite dishes for lunch. Have a good time with Fushou Junzhu."
"Mother..."
"Father, what does mother mean?" Jiamin Junzhu turned her head and asked her father, hoping her mother would change her mind, "I really don't want to go out."
"Youth doesn't understand the value of fate until they're old and filled with regret," Yao Fuma sighed, "My good daughter, listen to your mother and have a good time with Fushou Junzhu. If the money is not enough, I have more."
After saying that, he also handed a handful of silver bills to Jiamin Junzhu and quickly left with the cage of crickets.
Clutching the stack of silver bills, Jiamin Junzhu's face kept changing. In the end, she gritted her teeth and headed towards the main gate.
As soon as she reached the entrance, she saw Hua Liuli, who was wearing a light-colored waist-bound dress, her slender waist as soft as a willow branch. Suddenly, Jiamin Junzhu remembered a line from a poem that said, "Gently held, boneless as if nothing, the fluttering sleeves dance like butterflies in the wind."
But when she thought of this seemingly delicate woman who could wield a sword and kill dozens of men, allowing their corpses to be dragged away by fierce beasts, all Jiamin Junzhu could think of was the phrase "appearances can be deceptive", which kept repeating in her mind.
"Sister Jiamin," seeing Jiamin Junzhu coming out, Hua Liuli smiled sweetly and spoke softly, her voice like water and smoke, making one's bones go weak.
Jiamin Junzhu walked briskly to Hua Liuli's side and asked softly, "What do you want with me?"
"Sister Jiamin, I just came to play with you. Don't be so nervous," Hua Liuli blinked her eyes, "Didn't you want to see me, sister?"
Seeing Hua Liuli's teary-eyed appearance, Jiamin Junzhu took a deep breath, "You don't need to test me. I haven't told anyone about your secret."
"I know Junzhu keeps her promises," Hua Liuli reached out and held Jiamin Junzhu's wrist, gently pulling her, "But we are sisters bound by life and death. Talking about these things would only hurt our feelings. Come, let's walk and play."
In despair, Jiamin Junzhu glanced back at the gates of the Princess Estate. She didn't know if she would be able to return to the estate unscathed after this.
"Young Miss, it seems that Jiamin Junzhu and Fushou Junzhu just passed by our carriage."
Upon hearing the maid's words, Du Xiuying lifted the curtain of the carriage and took a glance. She saw Jiamin Junzhu holding Hua Liuli's arm and walking towards a teahouse. Their maids followed behind, their expressions unclear.
Putting down the curtain, Du Xiuying turned a page in her book, but she couldn't concentrate on reading.
Many people in the capital knew that General Hua's daughter was delicate and prone to illness. Jiamin Junzhu, who had practiced martial arts since childhood and had a proud personality, was incompatible with Hua Liuli. What did she want by bringing Hua Liuli to the teahouse?
"A true gentleman values righteousness over personal gain..." Du Xiuying put down the book and spoke, "Coachman, turn around and head to the teahouse we just passed by."
If she hadn't seen it, it would have been fine. But if she witnessed something unjust and refused to stand up, wouldn't she be no different from a petty person?
Hua Liuli brought Jiamin Junzhu to the most popular teahouse the noble ladies visit in the capital. She extended her finger and poked Jiamin Junzhu's arm, saying, "Sister Jiamin, which private room do you usually prefer to stay in?"
Jiamin Junzhu brushed off her hand and said to the clean female attendant, "The usual one."
"Junzhu, please follow me," the female attendant smiled and led the two upstairs, "We recently acquired some spring tea in the shop. Would you like to try it, esteemed ladies?"
After Jiamin Junzhu nodded, the female attendant quickly made arrangements and respectfully led them to a private room before quietly leaving.
"Junzhu, have you forgotten? I don't drink tea," Hua Liuli asked the attendant to replace the tea with plain boiled water and picked at the fruits on the table, "It's been a while, Junzhu. How have you been?"
"What do you really want?" Jiamin Junzhu looked at Hua Liuli suspiciously. She couldn't believe that Hua Liuli was genuinely concerned about her.
"I don't have many friends in the capital, so I just wanted to spend some time with you, sister," Hua Liuli placed two peanuts in front of Jiamin Junzhu, "I don't mean anything else."
Hua Liuli glanced out of the window and found the position interesting. She could see the pedestrians passing by on the street. The opposite side of the street seemed familiar. It was where Tian Ruidong and the Young Master of the Chen family had a conflict. Tian Ruidong was almost killed by a servant with a dagger last time.
She even wondered if the true mastermind behind the scenes was sitting in this teahouse, coldly watching everything unfold.
Her sudden appearance not only disrupted that person's plans but also affected the person's enjoyment of the spectacle.
So, he hated her for disrupting his plans and wanted to capture her alive, torturing her to death slowly. Unfortunately, after the incident with Tian Ruidong, the court began investigating suspicious individuals, so he had to leave the capital in advance and leave the assassins behind to execute his plan.
If everything went as she imagined, then the mastermind was an extremely arrogant person. He believed that his plan was flawless and foolproof.
Feeling disgusted by her own thoughts, Hua Liuli turned her head to look at Jiamin Junzhu, who was sitting obediently in her seat, "Jiamin Junzhu, I heard that the Flower Festival in the capital is particularly lively. Is there anything I need to take care of?"
Upon hearing the words "Flower Festival", Jiamin Junzhu's scalp couldn't help but tingle, and she felt anxious inside. Did Hua Liuli already know about her previous plan to embarrass her during the Flower Festival? Is she deliberately bringing it up now to probe for the truth?
But she had long given up on embarrassing Hua Liuli. Would Hua Liuli believe it if she revealed the truth?
"Well... there's nothing specific to be careful of. On that day, many young gentlemen will come out for an outing, some will even compose poems and paint. Just make yourself look beautiful," Jiamin Junzhu picked up her teacup and took a sip, concealing her uneasiness, "Why are you asking about this?"
"Just asking casually." Hua Liuli got up and sat next to Jiamin Junzhu, "Actually, there's another small matter I want to inquire about."
"If you want to ask, go ahead. Why are you getting so close?" Hua Liuli's proximity made Jiamin Junzhu tense up. She moved aside slightly, "Hua Liuli, let me tell you, don't go too far. I am a member of the imperial family."
"I know, I know. If you weren't a member of the imperial family, I wouldn't bother asking you," Hua Liuli grabbed Jiamin Junzhu, who was trying to move away, and pulled her back, "I'm just bored. I want to hear some gossip about the capital from you."
"What gossip?" Jiamin Junzhu turned her head. "As a Junzhu, how could I gossip like a common woman?"
"I see," Hua Liuli let go of Jiamin Junzhu, "I heard some news about Ying Wang, but if you're not interested, then forget it."
"You have news about Ying Wang?" Jiamin Junzhu looked at Hua Liuli suspiciously.
"Aiyah, nevermind, nevermind," Hua Liuli waved her hand, "Since you're not interested, it doesn't matter."
"If you insist on telling me, I can reluctantly listen," Jiamin Junzhu grabbed Hua Liuli, "Tell me."
"I don't want to."
"Are you doing this on purpose, Hua Liuli, you..."
"Jiamin Junzhu, stop making a scene," The door of the private room opened, and a young lady, who was taking deep breaths, stood at the entrance, her eyes fixed on Jiamin Junzhu.
"Sister?" Although Jiamin Junzhu didn't particularly like her cousin, she didn't want Hua Liuli to witness her create a scene. She waved her hand to dismiss the guards who had caught up, "Why did you suddenly come?"
Du Xiuying ignored her and walked to Hua Liuli's side, pushing away Jiamin Junzhu's hand on Hua Liuli's arm, "Jiamin Junzhu, stop causing trouble."
"What trouble am I causing?" Jiamin Junzhu couldn't believe her eyes when she saw Du Xiuying hiding Hua Liuli behind her, "Who is causing trouble for whom here?!"
She had been perfectly fine at home, but Hua Liuli forcefully dragged her out, and now her own cousin saw her as the villain.
She had never been treated like this before in her life.
"Junzhu, are you okay?" Du Xiuying disregarded Jiamin Junzhu's protests. Jiamin Junzhu had bullied countless people throughout her life and had become even more impulsive and inconsiderate as she grew up, so Du Xiuying no longer believed in her excuses.
"I'm fine," Hua Liuli nodded obediently.
"That's good," Du Xiuying supported her arm, "It's getting late. I'll escort you back."
Hua Liuli glanced at Du Xiuying, then at Jiamin Junzhu, and didn't refuse the offer.
"Junzhu, you may not be familiar with me," Du Xiuying noticed that Hua Liuli didn't enter the carriage, so she supported her and sat in the same carriage, "My surname is Du, and my given name is Xiuying. I'm Jiamin Junzhu's cousin. You can just call me by my name."
"Hello, Sister Xiuying."
"Don't be so formal," Du Xiuying bowed, "Junzhu, you are a noble young lady with a title bestowed by His Majesty. It's not appropriate for you to address me as 'sister'."
Seeing Du Xiuying's serious demeanor, Hua Liuli recalled the female teacher who had taught her etiquette in her childhood.
"Although Jiamin Junzhu has an impulsive personality, she is not inherently bad. If she has offended you in any way, I hope Junzhu can forgive her," Du Xiuying bowed deeply to Hua Liuli.
"Young Lady Du, please don't be like this," receiving such a formal bow, Hua Liuli quickly reached out to help her up, "Today, I came out with Jiamin Junzhu just to ask about the Flower Festival. It has nothing to do with her."
Du Xiuying glanced deeply at Hua Liuli and slightly lowered her head, "I see."
The girl from the Hua family was truly kind-hearted. When she entered, she clearly saw Jiamin Junzhu grabbing Hua Liuli's arm. It seemed as if she forcing her to say something, yet she still didn't want to speak ill of Jiamin Junzhu in front of her.
With such a personality, how could she not suffer when she was with Jiamin Junzhu?
"If there's anything the Junzhu wants to know, feel free to ask me," Du Xiuying sighed in her heart as she took the cloak handed to her by the maidservant and draped it over Hua Liuli's shoulders.
This frail girl sitting there alone couldn't help but make people worry.
"Thank you, Young Lady Du," Hua Liuli felt grateful towards Du Xiuying and smiled at her.
"Junzhu, no need to be so polite," Du Xiuying looked at Hua Liuli's fair face and couldn't help but feel like she wanted to cover her with another layer of clothing.
Perhaps this was... the feeling of a grandmother doting on her granddaughter. She always felt that the girl wasn't dressed warmly enough.
Du Xiuying found her own mindset somewhat strange. Could it be that her own siblings were not as good-looking as Hua Liuli?
After sending Hua Liuli back to the mansion, Du Xiuying returned home. She saw her parents and older brother present and stepped forward to greet them.
"Xiuying, there's no need to be so formal with your own family," Father Du said helplessly.
"Father, one should always show respect. It's what a daughter should do," Du Xiuying still completed the greeting.
Father Du helplessly raised his hand to his forehead. It seemed that he had no way to deal with this scholarly daughter of his.
Eldest Brother Du had long been accustomed to his sister's personality and didn't take these things to heart. Instead, he said, "Father, Mother, I heard something very interesting today."
"What is it?" Father Du asked with interest. When he turned his head and saw that his daughter was still there, he straightened his posture.
As a child, one shouldn't criticize their parents, so Du Xiuying stood up and prepared to go back to her study.
"Yesterday, the Crown Prince and General Wei's daughter appeared together at a Taoist temple on the outskirts of the capital."
Du Xiuying's steps paused and didn't walk out.
"The Crown Prince goes to the temple every year on the 16th day of the first month to light a lamp for the late Empress Gonghui. General Wei just returned to the capital and probably didn't know about the Crown Prince's habit. It's normal for them to accidentally meet each other," Upon hearing that it involved the Crown Prince, Father Du instantly lost interest. There were too many rumors about the Crown Prince circulating throughout the capital and it had long become uninteresting.
Everyone believed that with the Crown Prince's behavior, it was only a matter of time before the Emperor stripped him of his status.
If he wasn't deposed today, then it would be tomorrow, or some other day in the future.
Eldest Brother Du said, "Perhaps the Crown Prince intends to marry Fushou Junzhu to increase his chances of inheriting the throne?"
"If the Crown Prince has any sense or reason, he would know better to stay away from the Hua family," Father Du sighed. "Hua Yingting and Wei Mingyue have achieved remarkable military feats. They not only have high prestige in the military but also enjoy great popularity among the people. If you were the Emperor, what would you think?"
"Admire my own discernment for selecting two capable generals?" Eldest Brother Du hesitated, "But don't people say that the Emperor is the incarnation of the Purple Star1"Zǐ wēi xīng" (紫微星) refers to the Purple Microstar or Purple Star in Chinese astrology. It is one of the 28 mansions or constellations in traditional Chinese astronomy and astrology. In Chinese culture, each mansion is associated with a specific star or group of stars that are believed to have astrological significance. The Purple Star is considered a highly auspicious and influential star in Chinese astrology. It is associated with power, authority, and the emperor. In ancient times, it was believed that the Purple Microstar represented the essence of the emperor's power and divine mandate. It was often associated with the ruler's destiny, fortune, and governance., and General Hua Yingting is the Wenqu Star2文曲星 (Wén qǔ xīng), being the Literary Star, holds a complementary role to 紫微星 (Zǐ wēi xīng). It represents intellectual pursuits, wisdom, and literary talent.?"
"Shallow thinking," Father Du looked disappointed at his son, "If you had half the insight of your sister, I would be much more relieved."
Eldest Brother Du thought to himself that his father complained about his daughter studying too much and becoming a bookworm. But now he also complained that his son didn't study enough and lacked knowledge. It wasn't easy to please their parents these days.
"At first, the Emperor might think that way, but over time, he will suspect whether the Hua family harbors any intentions of rebellion and whether they pose a threat to the imperial power based on popular support. If the Crown Prince gets closer to the Hua family, it will only make matters worse. The Emperor will suspect that the Crown Prince is impatient to ascend the throne and replace him."
"If the Crown Prince had even a shred of reason, he wouldn't get too close to the Hua family. He can marry any woman in the world, except for that Junzhu from the Hua family," Father Du stated with certainty, "Moreover, Fushou Junzhu is frail and often ill. It may not be conducive to bearing children. How can such a girl marry into the imperial family?"
"I see," Eldest Brother Du suddenly realized, "Could this be a deliberate plot by someone?"
"The other princes are already of age, so it's hard to say," Father Du stroked his beard and turned to look at Du Xiuying, who was still standing at the door, "The point is, it's a good thing that Xiuying doesn't marry the Crown Prince."
"Father, yesterday I went to pay respects to Grandfather, it seemed that he had a great appreciation for the Fourth Prince," Eldest Brother Du whispered, "Could it be that he's considering..."
"Don't overthink it," Father Du frowned. He knew that his father didn't particularly like the Crown Prince, but he didn't want to use his children's marriages as political bargaining chips.
The Fourth Prince?
Du Xiuying turned around expressionless. In her opinion, golden houses existed in books, there were also beauties as captivating as jade within them. Whether it was the Crown Prince or the princes, they were not as interesting as those books.
"You have quite a temper, little sister," Hua Changkong said, "You went to play with Jiamin Junzhu in the morning, and in the afternoon, you had Young Lady Du bring you back. Among the young girls in the capital, who haven't you provoked?"
"There are too many," Hua Luli said, "Today, I inquired from Young Lady Du and found out that there is a temple nearby dedicated to the Wenqu Star. It's said to be very effective. I'll go and pay my respects there tomorrow."
"Don't be superstitious," Hua Changkong said.
"Just a little belief won't hurt," Hua Luli patted Hua Changkong's shoulder, "Third Brother, don't put too much pressure on yourself. There are only three days left until the Spring Examination, you won't be able to read much in such a short time. Why not relax a bit? I believe you will definitely pass the exam. Even if you don't, it's okay. The most important thing is for you to be happy."
She didn't tell Hua Changkong that today she also inquired about the imperial examinations from Du Xiuying. She learned that some candidates suddenly went mad or fell ill during the examination, so she was worried that her handsome Third Brother would also lose his mind in the examination hall.
"Don't worry, Third Brother will pay attention," Hua Changkong smiled and rubbed Hua Luli's head. After Hua Luli had subtly expressed her concerns, he understood that she was worried about him being under too much pressure and harming his health, "Little girls shouldn't worry about such trivial matters."
"Then you should go to bed early tonight," Hua Luli closed the book on the table, "You can read these books during the day tomorrow."
"Okay, okay," Hua Changkong, supervised by Hua Luli, returned to his own courtyard. When Hua Luli returned to her own small courtyard, she saw her father and mother enjoying wine and the moon outside. Afraid of disturbing their pleasant moment, she immediately tiptoed along the wall and slipped into her courtyard.
"Your Royal Highness, should this be kept under the pillow?" a palace maid who was changing the bedding found a bunch of grass under the pillow. Not daring to make a decision on her own, she held it in both hands and presented it to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince got up and personally put the Grass-Woven Butterfly back under the pillow and said to the palace maid, "Leave it there."
"Yes," the palace maids finished tidying up the bedding and quietly left.
"Your Royal Highness, the news of your meeting with Fushou Junzhu at the Taoist Temple yesterday was spread by Consort Xian," a eunuch dressed in blue robes hurriedly came in and whispered, "It seems that Consort Xian doesn't want you to marry the Young Lady from the Du family."
"Heh," the Crown Prince wasn't surprised by the discovery. Spreading rumors about each other was a tactic almost all the imperial consorts used, and Consort Xian, who had been in the palace for so many years, hadn't made much progress in her methods.
"Your Highness," a eunuch who had served by the Crown Prince's side for many years couldn't help but speak up, "Perhaps... in the future, you should keep some distance from Fushou Junzhu."
"Is Benwang the kind of person who would sacrifice Benwang's own interests due to rumors?" the Crown Prince flicked the golden beads on the table, and as one fell to the ground and rolled into the bottom of a cabinet, he didn't even furrow his brows. "The Flower Festival is approaching, and Benwang remembers there's a box of pearl hairpins in the private treasury. Tomorrow, Benwang will have someone send them to Fushou Junzhu."
"Your Highness, those hairpins are rare treasures. Why not keep them for the future Crown Princess..."
"Benwang thinks those jewels are more suitable for Fushou Junzhu," the Crown Prince lazily stood up "Benwang is tired. All of you can leave."
"Yes."
The next day, after the morning court, the Crown Prince went to the Emperor's study in Chengyang Palace.
Seeing his son so proactively coming to the study, Emperor Changlong put down the papers in his hand, "Speak up. What help do you need from your Father Emperor?"
When his son suddenly became diligent and obedient, it usually meant he had something to ask for.
"There's nothing, Erchen just wants to report to Father Emperor that certain consorts in the palace have been spreading gossip about Erchen and a certain young lady," the Crown Prince sat dejectedly in the chair, his head lowered, "Erchen is not very happy about it, so Erchen can only come to Father Emperor and vent my frustrations."
"Who is it again?" Emperor Changlong felt a headache coming on. He had elevated the Crown Prince's status so high, hoping that they would understand that the future Emperor of Great Jin could only be Yuansu and no one else.
Unfortunately, it seemed that several women in the palace still didn't understand his intentions.
"That's not important. What's important is that in order to make it up to that young lady, Erchen sent her the jewelry that was prepared for future the Crown Princess," the Crown Prince said, "So for the jewels that will be offered this year, Father Emperor can let Erchen choose first and let me accumulate some wealth."
"Do you still lack these things?"
"Father Emperor, it's a thousand-year tradition for a father to save up wealth for his son's marriage. If Erchen can't come to find Father Emperor, who else can Erchen turn to?" as the most privileged heir of the Great Jin, the Crown Prince felt justified in relying on his father.
"Fine, fine. Since all fathers in the world love to support their sons, you can pick whatever you like," Emperor Changlong's favoritism knew no bounds when facing the Crown Prince.
"Erchen thanks Father Emperor's grace."
The Crown Prince turned to go to the Emperor's private treasury. He asked the attendant, Zhao Sancai, who accompanied him, "Chief Eunuch Zhao, what kind of jewelry does Consort Xian usually like?"
Zhao Sancai: "..."
Your Royal Highness, can't you be a little less obvious about it?
Krish728
Author's Note:
Question: How do you retaliate against a woman?
Jiamin Junzhu: I feel like I'm already being retaliated against.
Crown Prince: Thank you for inviting Benwang. Benwang just came out of the imperial treasury. There are many ways, but the simplest and most direct is to snatch away whatever she likes.
