Ying Wang was still unaware that he had just sneaked away from under the watchful eyes of his betrothed.
He caught up to the Crown Prince and asked with a strange tone, "Crown Prince, where are you going?"
The Crown Prince glanced at the fast-moving horses behind him and the bewildered expressions that were still lingering on the faces of the commoners. He raised an eyebrow and said, "Eldest Brother hasn't been sleeping well lately?"
"What?"
"Since you're sleeping well, how could you forget that you can't gallop in the bustling city?" the Crown Prince pointed at the eunuch following behind Ying Wang with his whip and said, "You, come down and lead your master's horse."
The eunuch looked awkward, unsure whether to comply or not.
With a cold expression, Ying Wang said, "Please rest assured, Crown Prince. Benwang's riding skills are excellent and won't harm the people."
"Your Highness," Hua Liuli, who was riding a horse, greeted with folded hands, "Your Highness, your fast riding just now was quite intimidating," She coughed lightly, covering her mouth.
Ying Wang suddenly remembered that Hua Liuli was a delicate and frail girl who had been frightened into illness by a few indulgent young noblemen galloping. Afraid that Hua Liuli might suddenly collapse, he swallowed the anger surging in his chest.
"Junzhu is right, Benwang was careless," Ying Wang looked at the Crown Prince, "Where are you both planning to go for leisure? Since Benwang has nothing to do at the moment, would the Crown Prince mind having one more person accompany you?"
He had heard that the Crown Prince intended to win over the Hua family. Since he suspected that the Crown Prince wanted to rebel with their help, he wanted to observe more closely.
"Good," the Crown Prince glanced at Ying Wang with a smile that wasn't a smile, "It would be even better to have you join us, Eldest Brother."
Ying Wang didn't understand the meaning behind the Crown Prince's words, but he soon understood.
Bookstores, cloth shops, rouge stores, jewelry shops...
How could he know whether round or square was more pleasing to the eye?
How could he distinguish between good and bad poetry from the same person?
And as for the dresses, weren't they all watermelon red? What difference did it make?
But the Crown Prince seemed to have a grudge against him, helping Fushou Junzhu pick things while questioning him at the same time?
A bracelet was just a bracelet, why did he have to ask which one looked better?
"Benwang thinks they all look good, so let's buy them all," Ying Wang's emotions finally collapsed. He held the box with a fierce expression and said to the shop assistant, "Pack them all up, Benwang will pay."
"Benwang said that Benwang would buy things today to apologize to Fushou Junzhu. How can Benwang let Eldest Brother pay?" the Crown Prince smiled, "Eldest Brother, you're being too polite."
This jewelry shop was a famous high-end jewelry store in the capital city, favored by noble families. The craftsmen who made the jewelry were renowned throughout the country and the prices were jaw-dropping.
"As the Eldest Brother, it's only natural for Benwang to pay," Ying Wang forced a smile. As long as you two stop asking me which things look better, Benwang will be grateful.
The price of a box of jewelry was enough to make even Ying Wang feel a bit distressed. Why were these things that women liked so expensive?
"Junzhu, if the Crown Prince did something wrong, please don't take it to heart," Ying Wang was curious. What had the Crown Prince done wrong to apologize to Hua Liuli?
"Your Highness, it's actually not a big deal. A few days ago, when my mother took me to fulfill a vow at the Taoist temple, we happened to encounter His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince. Unexpectedly, some groundless rumors spread shortly after, but this humble servant didn't take these trivial matters to heart. Moreover, His Royal Highness is also a victim, but he insisted on apologizing to me," Hua Liuli didn't expect that when the Crown Prince mentioned taking her to stroll around the capital city, it meant going to various shops to buy things. When Ying Wang asked about it, she came up with a reason.
These princes all had their own schemes. It would be better to make things clear.
At the very least, the Crown Prince shouldn't be deceived by other princes.
"Benwang understands," Ying Wang recalled the rumors about this incident, which were related to his own mother and several other consorts who had played a part in fueling the rumors. He felt a bit embarrassed to face Hua Liuli.
He had never liked the Crown Prince very much, but because of the Crown Prince, this delicate little girl had been affected. He couldn't bear it. To express his guilt, Ying Wang bought a whole set of jewelry for Hua Liuli.
The Crown Prince didn't stop him, and even after Ying Wang pulled out a handful of silver bills to pay, he showed a gentle smile.
When the Crown Prince was about to take Hua Liuli to see the porcelain items, Ying Wang couldn't bear it any longer and took his leave.
If he stayed like this any longer, he would go bald.
As soon as Ying Wang left, the Crown Prince stopped and said, "Benwang suddenly remembered that there's nothing interesting about these porcelain pieces. Let's go somewhere else."
"Okay," Hua Liuli faintly felt that the Crown Prince had deliberately tricked Ying Wang.
But who was she? She was the gentle, kind, and weak Hua Liuli. She just needed to quietly follow him and pick up the spoils of the Crown Prince's pranks.
The Crown Prince was truly good at playing. Not only did he take her to taste delicious food, but he also took her to the lake to listen to beautiful music and watch amusing performances by monkeys. Each activity was more interesting than the last. As the night gradually fell, the Crown Prince escorted Hua Liuli back home.
"If there's a chance in the future, Benwang will take you to more places," the Crown Prince said to Hua Liuli at the Marquis Estate's main gate, "It's getting cold at night. Junzhu, go back and rest."
"Your Royal Highness, here is your horse," Hua Liuli handed the reins of the white horse to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince smiled and said, "Keep it at your estate for a few days. When Junzhu can't ride horses in winter, you can return it."
Hua Liuli was about to refuse, but she saw the Crown Prince turn his horse's head to leave.
"Your Royal Highness," Hua Liuli called out to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince turned back to look at her. Before Hua Liuli could speak, a charming smile appeared on his face, "Thank you, Junzhu, for accompanying me through an interesting Lantern Festival."
That smile was so beautiful that Hua Liuli had forgotten the name of this horse.
"Never mind," Hua Liuli stroked the horse's mane, "Come, I'll take you back."
When Wei Mingyue saw her daughter return with a horse, she carefully examined it, "This is a tribute horse from the Northern Wuhu Kingdom. It's a rare and excellent horse that only His Majesty possesses. You... " Her tone paused slightly, "Daughter, did you steal the imperial horse?"
"Mother, my mind is still working fine," Hua Liuli lovingly touched the horse, "The Crown Prince lent it to me to play with."
"Daughter, you should know that horses and beautiful women are not usually lent to others." Wei Mingyue's expression turned serious, "Tell me, what did you do to the Crown Prince? Let's see if I can protect you. If I can't, I'll inform the Ministry of Justice in advance and let them arrange a good bed for you."
"It's probably because the Crown Prince has too many good horses, so it's okay to lend me one, right?"
"Madam, this horse was truly given to Junzhu by the Crown Prince," Yuan Yi quickly said, "Since returning to the capital, Junzhu has been well-behaved and hasn't caused any trouble. Moreover, she also took care of several spoiled youngsters who were galloping on the streets. Recently, there are hardly any people daring to ride horses on the streets of the capital."
"Keep a low profile. I heard that Prince A'Wa was causing a fuss and insisted on meeting you. He was starved for a few days by the Ministry of Justice before he became obedient," Wei Mingyue said, "His Majesty is hosting a state banquet next month, inviting neighboring countries to attend. At that time, don't go outside too often. I'm afraid that if people from the Jinpo Kingdom hear about what happened with Prince A'Wa, they might ambush you."
"But that's not my fault," Hua Liuli asserted confidently, "He infiltrated our Qinghan Prefecture and tried to use his beauty to gather military intelligence from me. Of course, I could only return the favor."
"So, after capturing him, you took off all the gemstones embedded in his shoes?"
"That wasn't me, it was Yuan Yi," selling out her servant was done swiftly and cleanly.
Yuan Yi looked up at the moon in the sky, "Junzhu, look at the moon, so big and round, doesn't it look like a pot?"
"It's a crescent moon today," Hua Liuli didn't even raise her head.
Yuan Yi looked numb. Yes, although the moon wasn't full, she was carrying a big, round pot of blame.
"Yuan Yi has always been loyal to you. What has she done that wasn't your intention?" Wei Mingyue could never argue with Hua Liuli because she knows she couldn't win, "Just be more careful and don't get yourself into danger."
"You can rest assured. Who in the capital doesn't know that I am kind, gentle, delicate, and can't withstand anger or cold?" Hua Liuli reached out to hug Wei Mingyue's arm but was evaded.
"You smell like a horse, don't rub against me."
As soon as the words were spoken, Hua Liuli embraced Wu Mingyue tightly.
Seeing the Madam go from seriously reprimanding Junzhu to being coaxed into laughter by Junzhu, Yuan Yi -- who had witnessed this scene countless times -- led the horse to the stable and called for two grooms to take special care of it.
After bathing and changing clothes, Hua Liuli sat cross-legged on the bed, arranging the various jewels she had acquired today on the bed. She beckoned to Yuan Yi and Yurong, who were closest to her.
"Yuan Yi, Yurong, come here."
Yuan Yi and Yurong took a step back as their eyes were dazzled by the brilliant radiance of the jewels, but they soon approached without surprise.
"These are for you," Hua Liuli handed several pieces of jewelry to the two of them. Having followed Hua Liuli since they were young, they were accustomed to her ways and did not hesitate to accept them calmly.
The more she looked at these jewels, the more she liked them. Hua Liuli found even the Crown Prince, who gave her gifts, adorable.
No woman would complain about having too many jewelry and accessories, absolutely not!
Now that she had an estate, land, a shop, and jewelry, she could start her preparations to raise male pets.
"Yurong, Yuan Yi, go and find out which music halls and theaters in the capital are more interesting. Especially those places with beauties, we mustn't miss them."
Yurong said, "Why not look for noble young men in the capital who might suit your taste?"
"That's not appropriate. These young masters are supposed to marry young noble ladies. If those young noble ladies find out that I have meddled with their husbands, it will hurt their feelings, won't it?" Hua Liuli shook her head, "That would be too annoying. It's better to focus on raising male pets."
The night was cool, but Lin Wan couldn't sleep. She sat in the courtyard and heard her mother sigh.
The housing prices in the capital were high. Her father had been an official for many years and had always been very clean. He didn't like his family living too extravagantly. After returning to the capital, they lived in this three-courtyard estate, which was prepared for them by the Fourth Prince.
Originally, the Fourth Prince wanted to prepare a large, comfortable estate for them, but her father refused, saying that if they lived in such a good estate, the common people would suspect their integrity.
Father always said that people should not be too attached to material possessions, maintaining a good reputation was the most important. But she didn't understand why they couldn't live in the large estate that the Fourth Prince wanted to give them.
It's not like they obtained it by dishonest means. Even if they lived there, what difference would it make? They could face their conscience.
"Little Wan, why haven't you slept yet?" Madam Lin walked into the courtyard and saw her daughter sitting on the stone stool, "It's chilly at night. Go back to the house."
"Mother," Lin Wan stood up and helped her mother sit down, "I can't sleep."
"What's wrong?" Seeing her daughter's worried expression, Madam Lin asked anxiously, "Did the girls from other families bully you as soon as we arrived in the capital?"
Lin Wan forced a smile and shook her head, "It's nothing. I'm just not used to the weather in the capital yet, so I have trouble falling asleep at night."
Madam Lin didn't believe her words, "Is it because the Flower Festival is coming soon and you don't have suitable clothes and jewelry?" The Lin family had been poor in the past. It was only after Consort Lin, her sister-in-law, entered the palace as a consort and her husband became the top scholar that they could barely live a better life.
Now, her husband had been reassigned back to the capital. Originally, following the intentions of Ying Wang, her husband was supposed to be appointed as the Minister of Justice. However, after waiting for so many days, the appointment had still not come. It's unclear what exactly His Majesty's intentions were.
But Madam Lin didn't tell her daughter about these matters. She didn't want to add to her worries, "Tomorrow, Mother will accompany you to pick some nice things."
Lin Wan shook her head, "The things made last year are still good. Everything in the capital is expensive. There's no need to waste money on unnecessary things."
Madam Lin hesitated for a moment, got up, and returned to the room. After a while, she brought out a few silver bills and handed them to Lin Wan, "Mother knows you are a sensible child, take this money and spend it."
Lin Wan refused a couple of times, but thinking about those beautiful clothes and jewelry, she accepted them in the end.
It would be good once she becomes Ying Wangfei.
Everything would be fine.
After sending her mother back to the room to rest, Lin Wan looked at the several bills of different denominations in her hand and thought of Miss Yao, who spent money freely today, as well as those noble young ladies who didn't care about money at all. Her hands trembled slightly.
When she becomes Ying Wangfei, she will have everything.
If His Majesty were to forsake the Crown Prince...
That would be even better.
"Please forgive Nubi, Your Royal Highness!" suddenly, a palace maid who was tidying the bed knelt down, looking frightened.
The Crown Prince entered the inner room and saw the grass-woven butterfly scattered on the bed. He furrowed his brow. The Hua girl's skill in crafting things was not good.
"It's fine, you may leave," He turned and opened a wooden box that has the ugly clay figure in it.
Taking out the clay figure, he placed the dried grass underneath in the box and then put the clay figure back inside. After all, it was the little girl's thoughtful gift, he couldn't just throw it away.
However, that girl from the Hua family was quite interesting when they played together. She spoke when she should, remained silent when she should. She was a clever and smart girl.
He patted the head of the small clay figure and sighed.
If she were in front of him, he would really like to touch her head.
Jin Ling Garden sounded like a shop selling bells, but it was actually one of the famous pleasure gardens in the capital. It housed musicians and dancers, some of whom came from poor families and entered the performing arts out of necessity, while others were demoted nobles.
Recently, a remarkably attractive qin player emerged in this garden, attracting many noble young ladies to come and spend a fortune on him. The reputation of Jin Ling Garden soared as a result.
Jiamin Junzhu had been in a bad mood lately. Her fellow sisters knew of her interest in Ying Wang, but unfortunately, Ying Wang had been betrothed to the Young Lady of the Lin family, leaving Jiamin Junzhu feeling disheartened.
Concerned that Jiamin Junzhu's melancholy state might turn into an illness, her sisters inquired about this very attractive qin player at Jin Ling Garden and invited Jiamin Junzhu to come and enjoy the beauty.
Thinking that Hua Liuli couldn't possibly appear in Jin Ling Garden, Jiamin Junzhu readily agreed without hesitation.
The group found a visually excellent private room and sat by the railing, enjoying the dance and music downstairs.
"It's nothing special. The musicians in the palace are more entertaining," Jiamin Junzhu glanced a few times and quickly lost interest.
"The musicians in the palace may be better at playing music, but the musicians in these places have their own charm," Miss Yao said with a wink, pointing to the male dancer below who was swaying his waist, "Look at how charming he is."
Listening to the screams from below, Jiamin Junzhu took a glance and thought it was just superficial and vulgar.
Not long after, the candles around them suddenly went out, leaving only the spotlight on the stage. A qin player wearing white clothes and a demonic mask on his face emerged, holding a qin.
"He's here," one of the girls pointed out to Jiamin Junzhu.
The qin player was incredibly aloof. Even though numerous people threw jewels and hairpins onto the stage as soon as he sat down, he didn't make any inappropriate moves.
After finishing a piece, he placed his fair hand on the mask and took off the fierce and evil mask.
The ultimate exchange between the beauty and the devil caused the audience to gasp.
After a moment, the stage was already covered with abundant rewards.
"Thank you," the qin player smiled faintly, lowered his head to pick up a jade hairpin that fell on his robe, and lightly plucked the strings of the qin. He looked up with a smile at everyone.
Jiamin Junzhu couldn't help but sit up straight.
"Jiamin Junzhu, I heard that if the offer is high enough, the qin player here can come to the private room to perform exclusively for us."
"Interesting," Jiamin Junzhu beckoned to the attendants and asked them to bring the qin player up from downstairs.
The audience downstairs, upon seeing the qin player leave, instantly felt disappointed. Even the subsequent performances seemed dull and tasteless.
After waiting for a while, Jiamin Junzhu frowned and asked, "What's going on? Where is he?"
Just at that moment, the embarrassed attendant walked in with a guilty face, "Junzhu, the qin player has already been taken away."
"Taken away?" Jiamin Junzhu couldn't believe it. In the entire capital, with all the Junzhus and noble ladies combined, who would dare to snatch the qin player from her?
"Who has the audacity to compete with me? Taking someone away?" Jiamin Junzhu's face showed anger. It was not just a matter of a qin player; it was a matter of face.
Who dares to oppose her? How many people have feared Yao Jiamin since childhood?
"Didn't even inform you prior that he should be kept for us?" Miss Yao, too, became displeased, tapping the table lightly, "I would like to see who has such a big face."
The attendant smiled awkwardly, "Esteemed guests, the one who took the qin player away said she is friends with you."
"All of our good friends are here. What kind of person does she think she is, daring to associate with us?" Miss Yao nudged Jiamin Junzhu lightly with her arm, "Jiamin Junzhu, could it be that someone is using our name to deceive others?"
Another girl whispered softly, "I feel like our current behavior is quite similar to the side characters in a storybook who are about to be humiliated and sent back to being ordinary bystanders A, B, C, D."
"Shut up!" Jiamin Junzhu and Miss Yao turned their heads simultaneously, glaring at the girl who spoke.
Last time, she was the one who called them the side characters in a storybook!
It's really funny. They come from noble families, born into wealth and luxury. How could they be side characters that were about to be humiliated? Are there any such noble and beautiful side characters like them?
The group arrived outside the private room where their qin player was sent to and forcefully pushed the door open.
A young girl was reclining on a soft couch, with several beautiful maidservants massaging her legs and shoulders while feeding her fruits. She had an extremely leisurely posture.
"You're here?" When she saw them approaching, the young girl raised her delicate and slender arm, "Feel free to sit, don't be polite."
"Hua Liuli, it's actually you... mmm..." Miss Yao didn't have a chance to finish what she wanted to say before Jiamin Junzhu covered her mouth and dragged her out, "Sorry for the disturbance, please continue."
"Mmm, mmm, mmm!" Miss Yao struggled to remove Jiamin Junzhu's hand, "Jiamin Junzhu, what are you doing?"
"I just think it wouldn't sound good if this matter were to spread," Jiamin Junzhu cleared her throat, "If you still want to snatch him back, you can do it alone. I'm not going."
Miss Yao still remembered the small grievances she had with Hua Liuli, so she immediately reached out to pull the door that Jiamin Junzhu had closed.
"After all, Hua Liuli is not in good health. She might faint from provocation."
Miss Yao hesitated for a moment.
"After she faints, we can call the imperial physician."
Miss Yao's hand stopped.
"But if we call the imperial physician, Uncle and Aunt will find out that it was you who made her sick."
Miss Yao's hand retracted.
"If Uncle and Aunt get angry..."
"Forget it, it's just a musician," Miss Yao turned around and left, "There are plenty of handsome men in the world. I won't bother with her."
Jiamin Junzhu felt relieved when she saw her cousin giving up on snatching the musician. Ignorant people were truly fortunate; her cousin didn't even know what she had gone through.
Fortunately, her cousin didn't have much interaction with Hua Liuli. There shouldn't have been any conflicts between them.
Before the group could walk away, the door to the private room opened from the inside. Hua Liuli stood at the doorway, waving to them, "Why are you leaving? Come, let's enjoy it together."
Jiamin Junzhu's innermost desire was to refuse instantly, but her face displayed a stiff and polite smile, "No, there's no need..."
"That won't do. Good sisters are for a lifetime. How can we let a small matter create a rift between us?" Hua Liuli looked at Jiamin Junzhu with a smile, "Right, Sister Jiamin?"
Jiamin Junzhu said, "No, really, there's no need. I think our private room has a nice view."
"I see," Hua Liuli lowered her eyelids with a touch of sadness, "Since Sister Jiamin doesn't want to, I won't insist. I'll come to visit you tomorrow then."
Jiamin Junzhu's scalp tingled, "That's not necessary."
Hua Liuli's eyebrows furrowed lightly, "Sister Jiamin doesn't want to spend time with me?"
Miss Yao: "Who wants to..."
Jiamin Junzhu quickly covered her cousin's mouth with the fastest speed she could ever muster, "Th-then, sorry for the intrusion."
The little girl who was with Jiamin Junzhu breathed a sigh of relief, "I misspoke earlier. It turns out we are not going to be bystanders 'A, B, C, D' but rather supporting characters 'A, B, C, D'."
Miss Yao, unable to speak with her mouth covered, glared angrily at her little sister. Can't they have some dignity? Why can't they be the main characters?
Once the group of little sisters entered the private room, Miss Yao angrily looked at Jiamin Junzhu, who didn't show the slightest temper in front of Hua Liuli. She became even more furious.
"Don't say a word," Jiamin Junzhu noticed Miss Yao's expression and whispered in her ear, "I think it's good to be friends with Hua Liuli."
Because if she didn't become friends with her, she might die.
Jiamin Junzhu patted her cousin's shoulder with a world-weary expression, "Cousin, you understand me, right?"
Even Jiamin Junzhu's tone of speech had the flavor of Hua Liuli?!
Miss Yao stared at her in disbelief, as if she was looking at an unfaithful person.
Among them, a detestable traitor had emerged!
Ying Wang was still unaware that he had just sneaked away from under the watchful eyes of his betrothed.
He caught up to the Crown Prince and asked with a strange tone, "Crown Prince, where are you going?"
The Crown Prince glanced at the fast-moving horses behind him and the bewildered expressions that were still lingering on the faces of the commoners. He raised an eyebrow and said, "Eldest Brother hasn't been sleeping well lately?"
"What?"
"Since you're sleeping well, how could you forget that you can't gallop in the bustling city?" the Crown Prince pointed at the eunuch following behind Ying Wang with his whip and said, "You, come down and lead your master's horse."
The eunuch looked awkward, unsure whether to comply or not.
With a cold expression, Ying Wang said, "Please rest assured, Crown Prince. Benwang's riding skills are excellent and won't harm the people."
"Your Highness," Hua Liuli, who was riding a horse, greeted with folded hands, "Your Highness, your fast riding just now was quite intimidating," She coughed lightly, covering her mouth.
Ying Wang suddenly remembered that Hua Liuli was a delicate and frail girl who had been frightened into illness by a few indulgent young noblemen galloping. Afraid that Hua Liuli might suddenly collapse, he swallowed the anger surging in his chest.
"Junzhu is right, Benwang was careless," Ying Wang looked at the Crown Prince, "Where are you both planning to go for leisure? Since Benwang has nothing to do at the moment, would the Crown Prince mind having one more person accompany you?"
He had heard that the Crown Prince intended to win over the Hua family. Since he suspected that the Crown Prince wanted to rebel with their help, he wanted to observe more closely.
"Good," the Crown Prince glanced at Ying Wang with a smile that wasn't a smile, "It would be even better to have you join us, Eldest Brother."
Ying Wang didn't understand the meaning behind the Crown Prince's words, but he soon understood.
Bookstores, cloth shops, rouge stores, jewelry shops...
How could he know whether round or square was more pleasing to the eye?
How could he distinguish between good and bad poetry from the same person?
And as for the dresses, weren't they all watermelon red? What difference did it make?
But the Crown Prince seemed to have a grudge against him, helping Fushou Junzhu pick things while questioning him at the same time?
A bracelet was just a bracelet, why did he have to ask which one looked better?
"Benwang thinks they all look good, so let's buy them all," Ying Wang's emotions finally collapsed. He held the box with a fierce expression and said to the shop assistant, "Pack them all up, Benwang will pay."
"Benwang said that Benwang would buy things today to apologize to Fushou Junzhu. How can Benwang let Eldest Brother pay?" the Crown Prince smiled, "Eldest Brother, you're being too polite."
This jewelry shop was a famous high-end jewelry store in the capital city, favored by noble families. The craftsmen who made the jewelry were renowned throughout the country and the prices were jaw-dropping.
"As the Eldest Brother, it's only natural for Benwang to pay," Ying Wang forced a smile. As long as you two stop asking me which things look better, Benwang will be grateful.
The price of a box of jewelry was enough to make even Ying Wang feel a bit distressed. Why were these things that women liked so expensive?
"Junzhu, if the Crown Prince did something wrong, please don't take it to heart," Ying Wang was curious. What had the Crown Prince done wrong to apologize to Hua Liuli?
"Your Highness, it's actually not a big deal. A few days ago, when my mother took me to fulfill a vow at the Taoist temple, we happened to encounter His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince. Unexpectedly, some groundless rumors spread shortly after, but this humble servant didn't take these trivial matters to heart. Moreover, His Royal Highness is also a victim, but he insisted on apologizing to me," Hua Liuli didn't expect that when the Crown Prince mentioned taking her to stroll around the capital city, it meant going to various shops to buy things. When Ying Wang asked about it, she came up with a reason.
These princes all had their own schemes. It would be better to make things clear.
At the very least, the Crown Prince shouldn't be deceived by other princes.
"Benwang understands," Ying Wang recalled the rumors about this incident, which were related to his own mother and several other consorts who had played a part in fueling the rumors. He felt a bit embarrassed to face Hua Liuli.
He had never liked the Crown Prince very much, but because of the Crown Prince, this delicate little girl had been affected. He couldn't bear it. To express his guilt, Ying Wang bought a whole set of jewelry for Hua Liuli.
The Crown Prince didn't stop him, and even after Ying Wang pulled out a handful of silver bills to pay, he showed a gentle smile.
When the Crown Prince was about to take Hua Liuli to see the porcelain items, Ying Wang couldn't bear it any longer and took his leave.
If he stayed like this any longer, he would go bald.
As soon as Ying Wang left, the Crown Prince stopped and said, "Benwang suddenly remembered that there's nothing interesting about these porcelain pieces. Let's go somewhere else."
"Okay," Hua Liuli faintly felt that the Crown Prince had deliberately tricked Ying Wang.
But who was she? She was the gentle, kind, and weak Hua Liuli. She just needed to quietly follow him and pick up the spoils of the Crown Prince's pranks.
The Crown Prince was truly good at playing. Not only did he take her to taste delicious food, but he also took her to the lake to listen to beautiful music and watch amusing performances by monkeys. Each activity was more interesting than the last. As the night gradually fell, the Crown Prince escorted Hua Liuli back home.
"If there's a chance in the future, Benwang will take you to more places," the Crown Prince said to Hua Liuli at the Marquis Estate's main gate, "It's getting cold at night. Junzhu, go back and rest."
"Your Royal Highness, here is your horse," Hua Liuli handed the reins of the white horse to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince smiled and said, "Keep it at your estate for a few days. When Junzhu can't ride horses in winter, you can return it."
Hua Liuli was about to refuse, but she saw the Crown Prince turn his horse's head to leave.
"Your Royal Highness," Hua Liuli called out to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince turned back to look at her. Before Hua Liuli could speak, a charming smile appeared on his face, "Thank you, Junzhu, for accompanying me through an interesting Lantern Festival."
That smile was so beautiful that Hua Liuli had forgotten the name of this horse.
"Never mind," Hua Liuli stroked the horse's mane, "Come, I'll take you back."
When Wei Mingyue saw her daughter return with a horse, she carefully examined it, "This is a tribute horse from the Northern Wuhu Kingdom. It's a rare and excellent horse that only His Majesty possesses. You... " Her tone paused slightly, "Daughter, did you steal the imperial horse?"
"Mother, my mind is still working fine," Hua Liuli lovingly touched the horse, "The Crown Prince lent it to me to play with."
"Daughter, you should know that horses and beautiful women are not usually lent to others." Wei Mingyue's expression turned serious, "Tell me, what did you do to the Crown Prince? Let's see if I can protect you. If I can't, I'll inform the Ministry of Justice in advance and let them arrange a good bed for you."
"It's probably because the Crown Prince has too many good horses, so it's okay to lend me one, right?"
"Madam, this horse was truly given to Junzhu by the Crown Prince," Yuan Yi quickly said, "Since returning to the capital, Junzhu has been well-behaved and hasn't caused any trouble. Moreover, she also took care of several spoiled youngsters who were galloping on the streets. Recently, there are hardly any people daring to ride horses on the streets of the capital."
"Keep a low profile. I heard that Prince A'Wa was causing a fuss and insisted on meeting you. He was starved for a few days by the Ministry of Justice before he became obedient," Wei Mingyue said, "His Majesty is hosting a state banquet next month, inviting neighboring countries to attend. At that time, don't go outside too often. I'm afraid that if people from the Jinpo Kingdom hear about what happened with Prince A'Wa, they might ambush you."
"But that's not my fault," Hua Liuli asserted confidently, "He infiltrated our Qinghan Prefecture and tried to use his beauty to gather military intelligence from me. Of course, I could only return the favor."
"So, after capturing him, you took off all the gemstones embedded in his shoes?"
"That wasn't me, it was Yuan Yi," selling out her servant was done swiftly and cleanly.
Yuan Yi looked up at the moon in the sky, "Junzhu, look at the moon, so big and round, doesn't it look like a pot?"
"It's a crescent moon today," Hua Liuli didn't even raise her head.
Yuan Yi looked numb. Yes, although the moon wasn't full, she was carrying a big, round pot of blame.
"Yuan Yi has always been loyal to you. What has she done that wasn't your intention?" Wei Mingyue could never argue with Hua Liuli because she knows she couldn't win, "Just be more careful and don't get yourself into danger."
"You can rest assured. Who in the capital doesn't know that I am kind, gentle, delicate, and can't withstand anger or cold?" Hua Liuli reached out to hug Wei Mingyue's arm but was evaded.
"You smell like a horse, don't rub against me."
As soon as the words were spoken, Hua Liuli embraced Wu Mingyue tightly.
Seeing the Madam go from seriously reprimanding Junzhu to being coaxed into laughter by Junzhu, Yuan Yi -- who had witnessed this scene countless times -- led the horse to the stable and called for two grooms to take special care of it.
After bathing and changing clothes, Hua Liuli sat cross-legged on the bed, arranging the various jewels she had acquired today on the bed. She beckoned to Yuan Yi and Yurong, who were closest to her.
"Yuan Yi, Yurong, come here."
Yuan Yi and Yurong took a step back as their eyes were dazzled by the brilliant radiance of the jewels, but they soon approached without surprise.
"These are for you," Hua Liuli handed several pieces of jewelry to the two of them. Having followed Hua Liuli since they were young, they were accustomed to her ways and did not hesitate to accept them calmly.
The more she looked at these jewels, the more she liked them. Hua Liuli found even the Crown Prince, who gave her gifts, adorable.
No woman would complain about having too many jewelry and accessories, absolutely not!
Now that she had an estate, land, a shop, and jewelry, she could start her preparations to raise male pets.
"Yurong, Yuan Yi, go and find out which music halls and theaters in the capital are more interesting. Especially those places with beauties, we mustn't miss them."
Yurong said, "Why not look for noble young men in the capital who might suit your taste?"
"That's not appropriate. These young masters are supposed to marry young noble ladies. If those young noble ladies find out that I have meddled with their husbands, it will hurt their feelings, won't it?" Hua Liuli shook her head, "That would be too annoying. It's better to focus on raising male pets."
The night was cool, but Lin Wan couldn't sleep. She sat in the courtyard and heard her mother sigh.
The housing prices in the capital were high. Her father had been an official for many years and had always been very clean. He didn't like his family living too extravagantly. After returning to the capital, they lived in this three-courtyard estate, which was prepared for them by the Fourth Prince.
Originally, the Fourth Prince wanted to prepare a large, comfortable estate for them, but her father refused, saying that if they lived in such a good estate, the common people would suspect their integrity.
Father always said that people should not be too attached to material possessions, maintaining a good reputation was the most important. But she didn't understand why they couldn't live in the large estate that the Fourth Prince wanted to give them.
It's not like they obtained it by dishonest means. Even if they lived there, what difference would it make? They could face their conscience.
"Little Wan, why haven't you slept yet?" Madam Lin walked into the courtyard and saw her daughter sitting on the stone stool, "It's chilly at night. Go back to the house."
"Mother," Lin Wan stood up and helped her mother sit down, "I can't sleep."
"What's wrong?" Seeing her daughter's worried expression, Madam Lin asked anxiously, "Did the girls from other families bully you as soon as we arrived in the capital?"
Lin Wan forced a smile and shook her head, "It's nothing. I'm just not used to the weather in the capital yet, so I have trouble falling asleep at night."
Madam Lin didn't believe her words, "Is it because the Flower Festival is coming soon and you don't have suitable clothes and jewelry?" The Lin family had been poor in the past. It was only after Consort Lin, her sister-in-law, entered the palace as a consort and her husband became the top scholar that they could barely live a better life.
Now, her husband had been reassigned back to the capital. Originally, following the intentions of Ying Wang, her husband was supposed to be appointed as the Minister of Justice. However, after waiting for so many days, the appointment had still not come. It's unclear what exactly His Majesty's intentions were.
But Madam Lin didn't tell her daughter about these matters. She didn't want to add to her worries, "Tomorrow, Mother will accompany you to pick some nice things."
Lin Wan shook her head, "The things made last year are still good. Everything in the capital is expensive. There's no need to waste money on unnecessary things."
Madam Lin hesitated for a moment, got up, and returned to the room. After a while, she brought out a few silver bills and handed them to Lin Wan, "Mother knows you are a sensible child, take this money and spend it."
Lin Wan refused a couple of times, but thinking about those beautiful clothes and jewelry, she accepted them in the end.
It would be good once she becomes Ying Wangfei.
Everything would be fine.
After sending her mother back to the room to rest, Lin Wan looked at the several bills of different denominations in her hand and thought of Miss Yao, who spent money freely today, as well as those noble young ladies who didn't care about money at all. Her hands trembled slightly.
When she becomes Ying Wangfei, she will have everything.
If His Majesty were to forsake the Crown Prince...
That would be even better.
"Please forgive Nubi, Your Royal Highness!" suddenly, a palace maid who was tidying the bed knelt down, looking frightened.
The Crown Prince entered the inner room and saw the grass-woven butterfly scattered on the bed. He furrowed his brow. The Hua girl's skill in crafting things was not good.
"It's fine, you may leave," He turned and opened a wooden box that has the ugly clay figure in it.
Taking out the clay figure, he placed the dried grass underneath in the box and then put the clay figure back inside. After all, it was the little girl's thoughtful gift, he couldn't just throw it away.
However, that girl from the Hua family was quite interesting when they played together. She spoke when she should, remained silent when she should. She was a clever and smart girl.
He patted the head of the small clay figure and sighed.
If she were in front of him, he would really like to touch her head.
Jin Ling Garden sounded like a shop selling bells, but it was actually one of the famous pleasure gardens in the capital. It housed musicians and dancers, some of whom came from poor families and entered the performing arts out of necessity, while others were demoted nobles.
Recently, a remarkably attractive qin player emerged in this garden, attracting many noble young ladies to come and spend a fortune on him. The reputation of Jin Ling Garden soared as a result.
Jiamin Junzhu had been in a bad mood lately. Her fellow sisters knew of her interest in Ying Wang, but unfortunately, Ying Wang had been betrothed to the Young Lady of the Lin family, leaving Jiamin Junzhu feeling disheartened.
Concerned that Jiamin Junzhu's melancholy state might turn into an illness, her sisters inquired about this very attractive qin player at Jin Ling Garden and invited Jiamin Junzhu to come and enjoy the beauty.
Thinking that Hua Liuli couldn't possibly appear in Jin Ling Garden, Jiamin Junzhu readily agreed without hesitation.
The group found a visually excellent private room and sat by the railing, enjoying the dance and music downstairs.
"It's nothing special. The musicians in the palace are more entertaining," Jiamin Junzhu glanced a few times and quickly lost interest.
"The musicians in the palace may be better at playing music, but the musicians in these places have their own charm," Miss Yao said with a wink, pointing to the male dancer below who was swaying his waist, "Look at how charming he is."
Listening to the screams from below, Jiamin Junzhu took a glance and thought it was just superficial and vulgar.
Not long after, the candles around them suddenly went out, leaving only the spotlight on the stage. A qin player wearing white clothes and a demonic mask on his face emerged, holding a qin.
"He's here," one of the girls pointed out to Jiamin Junzhu.
The qin player was incredibly aloof. Even though numerous people threw jewels and hairpins onto the stage as soon as he sat down, he didn't make any inappropriate moves.
After finishing a piece, he placed his fair hand on the mask and took off the fierce and evil mask.
The ultimate exchange between the beauty and the devil caused the audience to gasp.
After a moment, the stage was already covered with abundant rewards.
"Thank you," the qin player smiled faintly, lowered his head to pick up a jade hairpin that fell on his robe, and lightly plucked the strings of the qin. He looked up with a smile at everyone.
Jiamin Junzhu couldn't help but sit up straight.
"Jiamin Junzhu, I heard that if the offer is high enough, the qin player here can come to the private room to perform exclusively for us."
"Interesting," Jiamin Junzhu beckoned to the attendants and asked them to bring the qin player up from downstairs.
The audience downstairs, upon seeing the qin player leave, instantly felt disappointed. Even the subsequent performances seemed dull and tasteless.
After waiting for a while, Jiamin Junzhu frowned and asked, "What's going on? Where is he?"
Just at that moment, the embarrassed attendant walked in with a guilty face, "Junzhu, the qin player has already been taken away."
"Taken away?" Jiamin Junzhu couldn't believe it. In the entire capital, with all the Junzhus and noble ladies combined, who would dare to snatch the qin player from her?
"Who has the audacity to compete with me? Taking someone away?" Jiamin Junzhu's face showed anger. It was not just a matter of a qin player; it was a matter of face.
Who dares to oppose her? How many people have feared Yao Jiamin since childhood?
"Didn't even inform you prior that he should be kept for us?" Miss Yao, too, became displeased, tapping the table lightly, "I would like to see who has such a big face."
The attendant smiled awkwardly, "Esteemed guests, the one who took the qin player away said she is friends with you."
"All of our good friends are here. What kind of person does she think she is, daring to associate with us?" Miss Yao nudged Jiamin Junzhu lightly with her arm, "Jiamin Junzhu, could it be that someone is using our name to deceive others?"
Another girl whispered softly, "I feel like our current behavior is quite similar to the side characters in a storybook who are about to be humiliated and sent back to being ordinary bystanders A, B, C, D."
"Shut up!" Jiamin Junzhu and Miss Yao turned their heads simultaneously, glaring at the girl who spoke.
Last time, she was the one who called them the side characters in a storybook!
It's really funny. They come from noble families, born into wealth and luxury. How could they be side characters that were about to be humiliated? Are there any such noble and beautiful side characters like them?
The group arrived outside the private room where their qin player was sent to and forcefully pushed the door open.
A young girl was reclining on a soft couch, with several beautiful maidservants massaging her legs and shoulders while feeding her fruits. She had an extremely leisurely posture.
"You're here?" When she saw them approaching, the young girl raised her delicate and slender arm, "Feel free to sit, don't be polite."
"Hua Liuli, it's actually you... mmm..." Miss Yao didn't have a chance to finish what she wanted to say before Jiamin Junzhu covered her mouth and dragged her out, "Sorry for the disturbance, please continue."
"Mmm, mmm, mmm!" Miss Yao struggled to remove Jiamin Junzhu's hand, "Jiamin Junzhu, what are you doing?"
"I just think it wouldn't sound good if this matter were to spread," Jiamin Junzhu cleared her throat, "If you still want to snatch him back, you can do it alone. I'm not going."
Miss Yao still remembered the small grievances she had with Hua Liuli, so she immediately reached out to pull the door that Jiamin Junzhu had closed.
"After all, Hua Liuli is not in good health. She might faint from provocation."
Miss Yao hesitated for a moment.
"After she faints, we can call the imperial physician."
Miss Yao's hand stopped.
"But if we call the imperial physician, Uncle and Aunt will find out that it was you who made her sick."
Miss Yao's hand retracted.
"If Uncle and Aunt get angry..."
"Forget it, it's just a musician," Miss Yao turned around and left, "There are plenty of handsome men in the world. I won't bother with her."
Jiamin Junzhu felt relieved when she saw her cousin giving up on snatching the musician. Ignorant people were truly fortunate; her cousin didn't even know what she had gone through.
Fortunately, her cousin didn't have much interaction with Hua Liuli. There shouldn't have been any conflicts between them.
Before the group could walk away, the door to the private room opened from the inside. Hua Liuli stood at the doorway, waving to them, "Why are you leaving? Come, let's enjoy it together."
Jiamin Junzhu's innermost desire was to refuse instantly, but her face displayed a stiff and polite smile, "No, there's no need..."
"That won't do. Good sisters are for a lifetime. How can we let a small matter create a rift between us?" Hua Liuli looked at Jiamin Junzhu with a smile, "Right, Sister Jiamin?"
Jiamin Junzhu said, "No, really, there's no need. I think our private room has a nice view."
"I see," Hua Liuli lowered her eyelids with a touch of sadness, "Since Sister Jiamin doesn't want to, I won't insist. I'll come to visit you tomorrow then."
Jiamin Junzhu's scalp tingled, "That's not necessary."
Hua Liuli's eyebrows furrowed lightly, "Sister Jiamin doesn't want to spend time with me?"
Miss Yao: "Who wants to..."
Jiamin Junzhu quickly covered her cousin's mouth with the fastest speed she could ever muster, "Th-then, sorry for the intrusion."
The little girl who was with Jiamin Junzhu breathed a sigh of relief, "I misspoke earlier. It turns out we are not going to be bystanders 'A, B, C, D' but rather supporting characters 'A, B, C, D'."
Miss Yao, unable to speak with her mouth covered, glared angrily at her little sister. Can't they have some dignity? Why can't they be the main characters?
Once the group of little sisters entered the private room, Miss Yao angrily looked at Jiamin Junzhu, who didn't show the slightest temper in front of Hua Liuli. She became even more furious.
"Don't say a word," Jiamin Junzhu noticed Miss Yao's expression and whispered in her ear, "I think it's good to be friends with Hua Liuli."
Because if she didn't become friends with her, she might die.
Jiamin Junzhu patted her cousin's shoulder with a world-weary expression, "Cousin, you understand me, right?"
Even Jiamin Junzhu's tone of speech had the flavor of Hua Liuli?!
Miss Yao stared at her in disbelief, as if she was looking at an unfaithful person.
Among them, a detestable traitor had emerged!
