Chapter 50

fter filling a whole sheet of paper with writing, turning to Yun Qianyue who seemed dazed when looking at his handwriting.Yun Qianyue immediately snapped out of her reverie and looked up at him with a...Chapter 50

In the main house of the west wing courtyard, Rong Jing had already washed and changed into clean clothes. He was sitting at a table eating breakfast.

"Rong Jing!" Yun Qianmo stormed into the courtyard with fury before anyone could hear her voice.

Rong Jing was sipping lotus leaf porridge, his head lowered as if he hadn’t heard anything.

The door was pushed open from outside with a bang. Yun Qianmo rushed in and approached the table in just a few steps. She slammed her hand on the table furiously and shouted, "Admit it! Was it you who burned my paintings"

A clear sound echoed but the table remained still while Yun Qianmo’s hand stung from the force.

"Yes!" Rong Jing nodded.

“What right do you have to burn my paintings” Yun Qianmo glared at Rong Jing, unable to believe he would admit it so easily.

"Are you certain those are your paintings" Rong Jing raised an eyebrow.

"Of course they’re mine!" Yun Qianmo retorted.

“You painted them And the subject was Night Qingran” Rong Jing's eyebrows rose even higher.

"Of course... why do you care if I painted them or not The person in the painting is Night Qingran!" Yun Qianmo nearly admitted it but changed her mind, remembering her reputation as an illiterate and clueless girl. "Anyway, what does it matter to you"

"If they were your paintings, I would immediately send a message down the mountain to the Prince Regent of the Cloud王府 (Cloud Manor) stating that his beloved granddaughter is actually a painting genius surpassing even court painters. The prince regent will be delighted if he knows. If the emperor finds out, he’ll definitely praise her highly too." Rong Jing said.

Yun Qianmo frowned and immediately retorted, "Of course they’re not mine!"

"Hmm, if you didn’t paint them, as an unmarried girl keeping a man’s portrait is inappropriate, going against the propriety of ladies. Everyone will talk about how you admire Little Prince Qingran romantically. That would be embarrassing. But losing your reputation isn’t much trouble since it’s not good anyway. However, if news reaches Southern Frontier that you keep Night Qingran's portrait and admire him, the daughter of the chief who has deep feelings for Night Qingran will definitely get furious. If she marches into the capital, what do you think would happen"

Yun Qianmo’s anger dissipated by half but her voice still carried a bitter tone as she said, "I kept them in my room, who could know about it"

"So why did I find out There might be others!" Rong Jing pointed out.

“You sneaked into a girl’s bedroom and are now boasting about it! Don’t you feel ashamed” Yun Qianmo angrily retorted.

“As an unmarried lady, watching a man's portrait daily doesn't make you blush I merely entered your room once and didn’t do anything improper. What is there to be embarrassed about" Rong Jing raised his eyebrow with a cool tone.

“You…” Yun Qianmo glared at him, hearing the sound of her teeth grinding together. "Regardless of the reason, it was my property. You burned my things without my permission; that's wrong."

"I'm helping you. Shall we return to Prince Regent Cloud and let him judge this See if it’s more improper for me to burn Night Qingran's portrait or for you to secretly keep a man's portrait" Rong Jing asked.

Yun Qianmo was steaming, knowing that she would be in trouble with the old man. She glared at him and fiercely demanded, "What’s there to discuss It’s your fault anyway! You must compensate me for my painting!"

"No." Rong Jing lowered his head and continued drinking porridge.

Yun Qianmo glared at him, grabbed his bowl of porridge, and threatened angrily, "Admit it, will you pay or not"

Rong Jing raised an eye to look at her slowly said, “It’s said that the Southern Frontier is a place full of poison. The people there raise insects for living; almost everyone has poisonous creatures. Even more so, the descendants of the chief know a mysterious curse technique. This technique involves nurturing a tiny insect with human blood and placing it inside their opponent or enemy's body to control them. It’s hard to guard against.”

Yun Qianmo shuddered at this description which she had heard before, wondering if the Southern Frontier was the Miao tribe.

"So you think about the consequences of keeping Night Qingran's portrait being known by that girl from the Southern Frontier. You might get cursed and I can’t save you then. Even Night Qingran wouldn't rescue someone who ruined his relationship with her, leaving you close to death." Rong Jing added.

Yun Qianmo shuddered again, loosened her grip on his bowl, and looked at him doubtfully. "Could it be that serious"

"Certainly! It might even be worse than what I described." Rong Jing nodded as he continued drinking porridge.

Yun Qianmo’s anger faded as she thought about the potential danger from the people of the Southern Frontier. She didn’t want to have insects inside her body but was still heartbroken over losing such beautiful paintings. Seeing how gracefully Rong Jing drank his porridge while she had nothing in her empty stomach, she grumbled, "I’m also hungry!"

"Knowing you would come, I prepared this for you." Rong Jing pushed a pot of warm porridge towards Yun Qianmo and said warmly, “Since you were drunk yesterday without eating much, drinking some warm porridge today will help your appetite.”

Yun Qianmo noticed an empty bowl and chopsticks in front of her. She sat down and scooped a large mouthful from the pot. The taste had a medicinal scent which made her wrinkle her nose as she asked, "Is this porridge medicated"

"Aren’t you suffering from cold This will help." Rong Jing replied. “I’ve ordered medicine to be prepared for you, it’ll arrive soon. You should drink the medicine too so that you don’t feel uncomfortable.”

"Ah-choo!" Yun Qianmo sneezed upon hearing about her illness and glared at him, "Who made me catch a cold by taking my quilt"

“I covered your quilt several times but you said it was too hot so I left.” Rong Jing explained.

Yun Qianmo recalled that she had been initially sweating and later shivering, narrowing her eyes with annoyance. “You should still be responsible for treating my cold!”

"Yes, I will!" Rong Jing nodded and looked at her sympathetically as he said softly, "Take the medicine; you’ll feel better in two days."

“That’s what you’re saying! If it doesn’t work, I'll come for a reckoning!” Yun Qianmo drank porridge while talking.

"Yes, if it doesn't work, just find me." Rong Jing agreed.

Yun Qianmo stopped and began to eat quietly. She sneezed from time to time as she ate the warm porridge.

Rong Jing lowered his head and continued to drink congee, a slight smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as clear spring-like phoenix eyes held a trace of amusement.

Cai Lian had been instructed by Yun Qianyue not to follow her, but seeing her mistress storm off in search of someone to fight made her terribly anxious. She was afraid that Miss would get into a big fight with the Prince Hereditary Jing and after much hesitation followed her inside the Western Courtyard. Upon reaching the door and seeing through the open doorway her mistress sitting across from Rong Jing at the table eating breakfast, she could sense the amicable atmosphere and finally felt relieved. She turned around and walked back to where Yun Qianyue had instructed her to stay. As she walked, Cai Lian thought that she needn’t have worried so much; Miss wouldn’t fight with Prince Hereditary Jing no matter what. He was a mild-mannered person who could calm down even the most temperamental people.

Yun Qianyue had finished three bowls of congee and her stomach felt better, but her nose and head still hurt. Seeing Rong Jing put down his chopsticks long ago, she also placed hers on the table and leaned back in her chair with a lackluster appearance, continuing to pick at him, “Those two paintings depict Ye Qingran looking so handsome and dashing; why not give them to that girl in Southern Xiang then Even if they can’t be delivered there due to distance, we could wait for the right opportunity to give them to her. Why did you burn them”

"She’ll paint them herself!" Rong Jing reminded her, "No matter how good someone else’s work is, it won't compare to what she paints herself. Do you think others would want paintings from someone else"

"That's true…" Yun Qianyue looked somewhat dejected and complained, “Why did Ye Qingran start dating so early Even a painting could cause trouble. Truly…”

“What do you mean by 'dating'” Rong Jing asked.

“It means becoming intimate, promising to marry each other, but not yet marrying,” Yun Qianyue explained kindly. "Ancient people are ancient people; even kids in kindergarten nowadays understand this."

"I see," Rong Jing nodded.

"Oh, such a pity…" Yun Qianyue leaned her chin on her hand and continued complaining, “Such an amazing man is already taken. He's shutting out all other women from his life; truly a waste!”

There was a swirl in Rong Jing’s clear phoenix eyes.

"Otherwise, if those paintings were released, they would sweep the nation. Women across the land would go mad for him. Then Ye Qingran could marry as many women as he wants; why settle for just one Now not even his paintings can be kept anymore. Poor paintings and poor me," Yun Qianyue continued.

The swirl in Rong Jing's eyes deepened as he warned, “It’s said that the woman from Southern Xiang is unmatched by Qin Yuning—she’s the first beauty of Southern Xiang, skilled in music, chess, calligraphy, poetry, needlework, and martial arts. She’s a dream for all women in Southern Xiang. How can Ye Qingran not cherish her if he has won her heart Even a Miss from the Qin family cannot compare to her; how could common girls match up”

"Oh! That woman is so amazing!" Yun Qianyue exclaimed.

“Yes,” Rong Jing nodded.

"Given such a woman, it’s not a loss for Ye Qingran to give up the entire forest for one tree," Yun Qianyue praised.

"That's right. Therefore, you don't need to worry about Ye Qingran or pine after him. You are incapable in music, chess, calligraphy, poetry, needlework, and martial arts; your kung fu is mediocre too. Ye Qingran befriended you because you share similar interests with him. Don’t misunderstand his intentions, or else you'll be inviting trouble for yourself," Rong Jing said slowly.

"Yes, what you say makes sense!" Yun Qianyue agreed wholeheartedly.

The swirl in Rong Jing's eyes faded as he lifted the teacup and took a sip without saying another word.

Yun Qianyue sneezed twice more. She used her handkerchief to wipe her nose, but after using one up, she searched for another on herself. Finding none left, she looked at Rong Jing and asked, “Do you have a handkerchief Give me one!”

"I do," Rong Jing handed over his own.

Yun Qianyue took it, sniffing the delicate scent that smelled like lotus and snow. She pressed it against her nose without hesitation, mumbling, "What’s a man doing with such fragrant handkerchiefs"

"This is the fragrance of Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus. Due to my poor health, I consume its medicinal properties, which naturally permeate my body and clothes," Rong Jing said indifferently when he saw his clean handkerchief being used by Yun Qianyue.

"I can smell it; not just myself but also Ye Qingran that day could detect this fragrance on me," Yun Qianyue replied.

Rong Jing's hand holding the teacup trembled, “What did Ye Qingran say”

“He asked why I smelled like a weak beautiful man. How was I to know you would give me a precious Heavenly Mountain Snow Lotus” Yun Qianyue complained while rubbing her nose.

"Since you know it's valuable, that’s good," Rong Jing said as he continued drinking tea calmly, "I never share my valuables with others, but I am generous to you. So, remember to be generous too when you have something of value. It’s a mutual exchange, basic courtesy."

"Alright! For now, I don’t have anything valuable," Yun Qianyue nodded in agreement. "But if I do get something good later, I’ll definitely think of you first." She thought that although she had been treated badly by him since her arrival here, his kindness and generosity towards her were also numerous. The bad treatment was free and not precious; however, the favor he did for her in the palace and the food she ate from him were invaluable.

"Good, remember then!" Rong Jing looked at Yun Qianyue with satisfaction.

“Your Excellency, the medicine is ready!” String Song’s voice was heard outside at this moment.

Yun Qianyue, hearing a familiar voice, immediately stood up and turned to look. Sure enough, she saw String Song holding the medicine bowl standing in the doorway. She stared at him with shining eyes, still harboring resentment over that day when she had been tricked into drinking two bowls of congee after not finishing her lotus fish.

String Song’s body trembled; he quickly tossed the bowl of medicine inside and disappeared instantly, calling out from afar, “Your Excellency, did you catch it”

Rong Jing saw String Song throw in the medicine bowl and gently caught it with both hands.

Yun Qianyue turned around abruptly and looked at Rong Jing, "Am I that scary He ran when he saw me"

"You may not be scary, but your expression just now was a bit frightening," Rong Jing said gently to Yun Qianyue as he placed the medicine bowl down. "Here, drink it up and stop suffering."

“Run away from和尚but you can't run away from廟,” Yun Qianyue lifted the medicine bowl and pinched her nose, finishing the bowl quickly with gulps. She exhaled heavily, her small face drooping as she said, “So bitter!”

"Have a sweetmeat," Rong Jing pushed a dish of delicately prepared fruit preserves towards Yun Qianyue.

Yun Qianyue immediately pinched and ate one, the bitterness disappearing instantly. Her drooping small face lit up with a smile, “Delicious! Although you’re heartless, there’s something good about you; you know how to enjoy life!"

"Indeed," Rong Jing said. "At least my future wife won’t starve."

“Yes, she’ll be fortunate,” Yun Qianyue agreed but quickly added, “But she might die from your temper in a short time after marrying you. Good thing you’re rich; you can marry again after one dies.”

Rong Jing’s hand holding the teacup trembled slightly as tea spilled out. He looked at Yun Qianyue and said seriously, “How do you know I’ll make my future wife suffer I would cherish her to no end!” After a pause, he added indifferently, "This is none of your business anyway. Any woman who marries me will become the happiest in the world."

Yun Qianyue rolled her eyes. "Alright, I'll keep an eye on you! Let's see how that woman can survive a hundred years with your poisonous tongue and heart. Sigh, just thinking about it makes me wish to meet her right away and admire her powerful mind..."

"Rest assured, you will definitely get the chance!" Rong Jing looked at Yun Qianyue deeply.

“Hmm!” Yun Qianyue's mind was focused on the preserved fruit. She quickly finished a small plate of it. Lifting her head, she asked Rong Jing, "Are there more Give me another dish!"

"You can have some at noon when you take your medicine." Rong Jing replied.

“Alright!” Yun Qianyue started looking forward to the bitter medicinal soup at lunchtime.

Rong Jing put down his teacup and looked at Yun Qianyue's listless appearance. He asked, "Where do you want to go today"

"Nowhere!" Yun Qianyue shook her head. Her body was sprawled on the table, limp and lifeless. Thinking about last night’s Orchid Wine made her perk up slightly. "Hey, where is that good wine from yesterday Did you drink it all"

"What Do you want to drink some too" Rong Jing inquired.

"Such a fine wine should not be wasted! If you didn’t finish the bottle, give it back to me. I’ll use it to practice my tolerance for alcohol!" Yun Qianyue extended her hand towards Rong Jing.

Rong Jing looked at the delicate and fair hands that were stretched out before him and shook his head. "Of course, it won’t be wasted. After you got drunk yesterday, the Crown Prince of Southern Liang, Nan Lingrui, went up to Nanshan Mountain. He happened upon the wine and I sent it over to Venerable Lingyin’s place where he then went himself. It seems that Venerable Lingyin offered an entire bottle to him. It’s all gone!"

"What!" Yun Qianyue was in disbelief, "He drank it all"

“Yes.” Rong Jing nodded.

"Damn! There's someone with better alcohol tolerance than me! Come on, take me to see this marvel!" Yun Qianyue stood up.

"I’m afraid that even if you meet him, there won’t be much conversation. He was carried out from Venerable Lingyin’s place after getting drunk and passed out. It's likely that he will remain bedridden for ten to fifteen days." Rong Jing slowly explained. "However, since he is staying in the Holy Capital city for a while, you can still wait until he wakes up before meeting him. You don’t need to worry about missing an opportunity."

"Oh! That's how it is then! His alcohol tolerance isn't that great either! No point in seeing him!" Yun Qianyue lost interest again.

“Indeed, I think there’s no point in meeting him. You won’t be interested in him anyway. The Crown Prince of Southern Liang has a promiscuous nature and countless female admirers. Yesterday, Princess Qingwan, Miss Qin from the Chancellor's Mansion, Lady Xiaoqin from the Prince Consort Xiaoqing's Manor, as well as my second uncle’s daughter all went up to Nanshan Mountain together with him. When they came down, he carefully protected each of them. This will surely become a topic people talk about."

"Hmm… It turns out to be an even bigger peach blossom flower!" Yun Qianyue sighed.

Rong Jing nodded in agreement and gently said to Yun Qianyue, "So don’t casually apply this 'peach blossom' saying on me anymore. Compared to the Crown Prince of Southern Liang, I am leagues behind. Even compared to Ye Qingran, I’m somewhat lacking. When the Crown Prince was once infatuated with a woman who ended up loving Ye Qingran instead, he has harbored resentment ever since. In contrast to them both, in the past ten years, I have not left my estate and can be considered pure of heart."

Yun Qianyue sighed again, exclaiming, "Ye Qingran is amazing! He actually snatched someone else's love!"

"Indeed. His abilities are vast; you will gradually discover them as time goes on. Otherwise, do you think he could have returned safely after seven years of traveling Without some skill or capability, that wouldn’t be possible." Rong Jing added: "Of course, many women admire him."

Yun Qianyue nodded and her opinion of Ye Qingran escalated from 'skilled at play' to 'able to attract peach blossom flowers.'

Rong Jing fell silent. He got up and left the table, sitting on a cushioned couch with a book in hand. To Yun Qianyue who was sprawled across the table like a shrimp, he said, "Since you don’t want to go out today, rest in my room! Your courtyard had visitors all day yesterday—Prince Nanling, Fourth Prince and probably other guests today as well. You likely didn't wish to meet them."

"That stubborn Night Tianqing!" Yun Qianyue frowned upon hearing his name. She left the table and walked over to Rong Jing’s soft couch, lying down on it and pulling his blanket over her without hesitation. "Alright!"

Rong Jing remained silent, lost in his book.

Yun Qianyue felt cold and hot sensations alternating under her body; she was terribly uncomfortable and did not bother to move anymore. Her eyes closed, and soon enough, she fell into a slumber.

Indeed, people kept coming to Yun Qianyue's courtyard throughout the day: Night Tianqing, Fourth Prince Night Tianyu, as well as Yu Ning who came to apologize for yesterday’s incident in hopes of reconciliation; Qingwan Princess who visited out of concern after Yun Qianhuan learned about her drunkenness. Yet all were turned away by Mo Li under the pretense that Yun Qianyue was resting due to a headache from drinking.

Rong Jing's courtyard remained undisturbed.

After taking three doses of medicine and meals, Yun Qianyue finally felt better. In the evening, she returned to her Xi Xiang courtyard with relaxed strides.

No sooner had she arrived at the door when Cai Lian immediately came out to meet her, murmuring in displeasure, "Miss, you’ve finally come back! Our Prince has been waiting for half an hour already and has been inside your room all along. I was about to go fetch him from Lord Jingshi but he asked me not to. So, I've been here waiting for half an hour."

"My brother" Yun Qianyue’s steps paused. "What is he doing waiting for me"

“Lord Jingshi was concerned about you and brought you back after your drunken escapade on Nanshan Mountain yesterday. He naturally wanted to come check up on how well you’ve recovered." Cai Lian quickly explained.

"Oh, I see. Thank him for me," Yun Qianyue walked into the house.

“Miss, today's prayer festival ended; we’re likely about to head back to the capital tomorrow. We haven't received Lord Jingshi’s instructions to pack our things. Did you hear anything from Lord Jingshi regarding preparations for returning" Cai Lian asked.

"No! Just wait a moment. I like it here, let's stay for two more days." Yun Qianyue waved her hand dismissively.

“Yes!” Cai Lian nodded. She too thought the place was good; there were no chaotic struggles as in Cloud Manor and the vegetarian meals tasted great. Most importantly, she didn't have to follow strict etiquette rules here amidst beautiful natural scenery, so she didn’t want to leave.

Yun Qianyue pushed aside the curtain and entered the room. Sure enough, Yun Qianhan was waiting inside with a book in hand.

Before Yun Qianyue could say anything, Yun Qianhan looked up at her, his brows slightly furrowed. "You spent an entire day at Lord Jingshi’s place"

"Yes! I was avoiding trouble here. This courtyard doesn’t allow me to rest." Walking over and sitting down, Yun Qianyue said to Yun Qianhan: "Why did you come instead of accompanying your princess Be careful not to upset the Emperor by neglecting her."

Yun Qianhan’s expression darkened. "The princess is not mine."

"Alright, alright, she isn’t yours then. But sooner or later, she might be." Yun Qianyue thought that everything about him was good except his thin skin. Seeing the downturned face, she changed her words: "I am well now; you can see for yourself. Let’s leave!

"After getting drunk and losing consciousness, you then caught a cold. Is this what you call being well" Cloud Muhán raised an eyebrow, seeing Cloud Qianyue stick out her tongue, his expression softened slightly before he continued, "I've already sent word to Grandfather. Tomorrow I'll take you back to the capital."

"Tomorrow!" Cloud Qianyue was taken aback and immediately shook her head, "No return!"

"Why not go back" asked Cloud Muhán as he looked at Cloud Qianyue.

"When I first came here, Grandfather had Uncle Meng tell me that it would be fine if I wanted to stay longer. Now that I'm doing well here, why should I return No way! I still haven't had my fill!" said Cloud Qianyue.

Upon hearing this, Cloud Muhán's expression turned stern as he replied, "On the first day you nearly caused a fire while grilling fish, on the second day you got drunk and lost consciousness, and on the third day after sobering up you caught a cold. You call that doing well I think Prince Jing is too lenient with you, allowing everything to happen as you wish. How can this continue I've already informed Grandfather; tomorrow we'll be returning to the capital without Prince Jing's protection. Pack your things now! I'll come for you early in the morning."

"I said no return means no return. If Grandfather agrees with you, he isn't keeping his word to me. Besides, I haven't caused any major trouble; Xiangquan Mountain is fine and hasn't been burned down. Getting drunk affects only myself and has nothing to do with others, and my cold will definitely be gone by tomorrow. Moreover, you have to escort Princess Qingwan back as well, so there's no way I'm going back with you; seeing that woman makes me hate her for helping others bully me. No return! Firmly and decisively!" Cloud Qianyue said in one breath, only to suddenly realize that her blocked nose was now clear.

"Although she will be under my escort, we won't travel together in the same vehicle; you'll be with me instead, so naturally she won't dare bully you," said Cloud Muhán, his tone softened.

"No need, seeing her makes me annoyed!" replied Cloud Qianyue as she shook her head.

"If necessary, I won't let you see her tomorrow. How can I leave you here and rest easy Grandfather and Father are also worried," said Cloud Muhán as he put down his book and stood up, firmly stating, "No need to argue more; you must return with me tomorrow."

Cloud Qianyue's expression turned stern as she decided not to speak any further. She wondered if her refusal would work at all Human rights in ancient times were a joke!

"Since arriving here, you've only played around and didn't even go to bathe in the Buddha's voice or pay respect to the Bodhidharma Hall; it's a waste of Grandfather's efforts. It's still early today, so let's go see Master Lingyin together," said Cloud Muhán.

"What You want me to meet that fortune-teller" Cloud Qianyue suddenly stood up and moved three steps away from Cloud Muhán, shaking her head vigorously. "I'll return with you tomorrow if needed, but I'll never see that old monk!"

Cloud Muhán frowned upon seeing how agitated she was, then said gently, "Others find it hard to ask for a fortune telling from Master Lingyin; Grandfather and Master have a deep friendship. Ten years ago, when Master saved me with half of the Tian Mountain Snow Lotus, I owed him a favor. Asking Master to give you a fortune will not be difficult now. Come!"

"I said I won't go!" Cloud Qianyue was annoyed.

"You have no choice but to go!" stated Cloud Muhán firmly. "Princess Qingwan and Lady Yuling from the Chancellor's Manor, as well as Second Miss of the Rong王府 and Young Princess of the Xiaoqing王府, all failed in their attempts for a fortune telling this year; Master rejected them saying they weren't destined. Yet only you haven’t asked. So you must go!"

Oh! That’s even worse! She might be waiting just for her!

Cloud Qianyue shook her head repeatedly, determinedly stating, "I definitely am not the destined person; I'm not loyal to Buddha at all and don’t believe in Buddhism. Brother, please spare me! If I go there, that old monk might force me to become a nun here in Lingtai Temple, and that's the last thing I want."

"You're speaking nonsense," said Cloud Muhán lightly. "There are no nuns at Lingtai Temple; you won't be forced into being one by Master Lingyin."

"Regardless, I'm not going, and whatever you say won’t change that! No way am I going there!" declared Cloud Qianyue in multiple sentences to express her determination.

Seeing he couldn’t convince her, Cloud Muhán stepped forward with a resigned expression. Just as he was about to act forcefully, the sound of Stringed Song’s voice came from outside: "Is Prince Cloud here"

Cloud Muhán paused mid-motion and looked out the window, saying coolly, "What is it"

"Our prince requests your presence for urgent matters," replied Stringed Song.

Cloud Muhán frowned but didn't respond.

Cloud Qianyue heaved a huge sigh of relief; she never thought Stringed Song could be so agreeable. She immediately forgave him for tricking her into drinking three more bowls of congee that day when eating the lotus root fish soup. Cloud Muhán was simply too tough and troublesome, yet still her brother. Old sayings dictate that an older brother is like a father in ancient times; she had to listen whether she wanted to or not. Besides, no one else was as strong-willed. In her previous life, she managed others; here everyone managed her. This wasn’t comfortable at all...

"Prince Rong must have something important if he’s asking for you now. You should go quickly!" urged Cloud Qianyue when seeing that Cloud Muhán hadn't moved.

"Alright, I'll return after talking to Prince Jing," said Cloud Muhán as he retracted his hand and left the room.

Seeing Cloud Muhán leave from the Eastern Wing into the Western Wing, Cloud Qianyue hoped that Rong would keep him busy overnight so she could avoid this predicament.

Much to her relief, Stringed Song's voice came again, now with a hint of laughter. "Miss Qianyue, Prince Jing said he won't be coming back for you tonight and that you don’t need to return tomorrow; everything will be taken care of by him. You can sleep soundly."

Cloud Qianyue sighed in relief, patting her heart and waving at Stringed Song outside, "Alright then, thank you on behalf of Prince Jing for his kindness toward me. Tell him I would appreciate it if he could also arrange for my return to stop my brother from forcing me to study."

Stringed Song's face twitched as he replied and left.

Cloud Qianyue plopped herself back on the table, thinking about Cloud Muhán mentioning Master Lingyin’s final prophecy. She felt chills down her spine. It would be better to return to the capital tomorrow; that old fortune-teller wouldn't see her then, and staying here would be more dangerous. With this in mind, she shouted out loud, "Cailian, pack our things immediately! We're returning to the capital tomorrow!"

"Miss, you didn’t want to go back" asked Cailian puzzled.

"I do now; hurry and pack," replied Cloud Qianyue.

"Yes!" sighed Cailian as she thought about returning and being confined again. Still, she followed orders from her mistress: "Since Miss has changed her mind to return to the capital tomorrow, should I inform Prince Jing"

Cloud Qianyue nodded.

Cailian left.

Cloud Qianyue noticed a magnificent box on the table and opened it to find some pastries. She took a bite which was delicious, soon finishing half of them. After drinking water, Cailian returned from the Western Wing.

Pulling back the curtain, Cailian entered with a gloomy face: "Miss, Prince Jing agreed and will return tomorrow as per your wishes."

"Prince Rong is indeed considerate! Alright, hurry up and pack our things," said Cloud Qianyue.

Cai Lian lingered hesitantly by the door, saying, "Lady, I haven't gone to pray under the Auspicious Tree for my grandmother yet! Who knows when I'll be able to visit the Fragrant Springs Mountain Temple again. They say that other places' Auspicious Trees don't have the favor of Heaven and Earth's essence, so they're not as efficacious."

Qian Yun was puzzled, "You didn’t accompany me in these few days either! Why did you not go to pray"

"On the first day, I went with Ting Xue and Ting Yu to the Dharma Master's Hall to listen to Prince Jing and Venerable Ling Yin debate the Dharma. Then, when we returned, didn’t we run into the Crown Prince and Fourth Prince On the second day, I followed Lady and Prince Jing to South Mountain; halfway up the mountain, I was too tired to continue so we turned back. Where did I have the energy left to pray at the Auspicious Tree Today all day long you were in Prince Jing's room, there has been a steady stream of people coming here, my three servants and I didn’t dare leave either, that’s why I didn't go," Cai Lian said with a woeful expression.

"That makes sense!" Qian Yun nodded as she asked, "What should we do then Shouldn’t I go back tomorrow by myself to pray at the Auspicious Tree and leave you behind"

"Lady…" Cai Lian was somewhat vexed. "How can my lady not have me accompany her!"

"Then shall we go tonight Otherwise, I will have to stay here until after you finish praying," Qian Yun frowned as she thought it over. Seeing that Cai Lian was no longer speaking and looked like a wronged little wife, she waved her hand and smiled. "Alright, alright, now go pray at the Auspicious Tree, then come back and pack your things."

"Lady, it's already dark; I don’t dare to go alone," Cai Lian said hopefully as she looked up at Qian Yun.

"Fine, shall I accompany you" Qian Yun stood up and took a step outside. "I’ve slept all day long anyway so I’m not sleepy now. Let’s go take this walk together. If I let you go alone, I will feel worried. It’s said that the Auspicious Tree is in South Mountain; Rong Jing mentioned that there are often wolves around South Mountain. What if they carry you away Where would I find such a diligent maid"

"Lady is so good!" Cai Lian immediately broke into a smile.

Qian Yun stood up and pointed at the half-eaten pastries on the table and asked, "Where did this come from It’s delicious!"

"Does Lady mean that box of pastries They were brought by Princess Qing Wan when she came to visit," Cai Lian explained.

Qian Yun nodded. "Oh! This woman isn’t so bad after all." She then left the room.

Cai Lian was embarrassed; her lady had just been arguing with Prince Jing about how much she disliked Princess Qing Wan, but now a box of pastries from that princess had won her over. She quickly followed Qian Yun out and called to Ting Yu and Ting Xue outside the door, "Ting Yu, Ting Xue! Come on, Lady is accompanying us to pray at the Auspicious Tree!"

“Coming, coming! Lady is so good!” Ting Yu and Ting Xue shouted with joy as they came out of their rooms.

Qian Yun smiled at them. They were truly innocent little girls! When she was their age, buried in mountains of books and tests, her innocence had long been lost. Now seeing how happy they were made her feel content to satisfy this tiny wish of theirs with her presence even though she herself wasn’t interested in the Auspicious Tree.

As they left the eastern wing courtyard, they ran into Yun Muhuan coming from the western wing courtyard. Qian Yun was startled and looked at him strangely, “Brother, aren't you looking for Rong Jing Why did you come out so quickly”

"Where are you going" Yun Muhuan asked Qian Yun without answering.

“I’m praying at the Auspicious Tree! I have to return tomorrow; I must pray for Grandfather,” said Qian Yun, her face turning red as she spoke.

"Come with me first to Venerable Ling Yin’s place. In a moment, I'll accompany you to pray," Yun Muhuan said.

Qian Yun's face darkened slightly. String Song had said Rong Jing would deal with it; this was how he dealt with it She frowned and softly replied, "It's not necessary! I've never believed in fortune-tellers. People’s destinies are in their own hands. Moreover, even if they predict my fate, what can it do for me Can it solve any disasters or misfortunes"

"Venerable Ling Yin's divinations and lotteries differ from ordinary fortune-telling. There is no harm in going to ask," Yun Muhuan insisted as he walked over and grabbed Qian Yun, "Come on! Venerable Ling Yin is a high monk; with me here, there’s nothing to fear!"

"No need for that!" Qian Yun dodged his hand and shook her head.

“You have no choice but to go!” Yun Muhuan twisted his arm around the one she had dodged.

Despite being prepared, she still could not outrun Yun Muhuan’s speed. She was unable to avoid it; she couldn’t help feeling annoyed and angry at him. In that world, no ordinary person would be able to catch her, but now here she really became a lamb awaiting the slaughter. Every time someone appeared, they were more powerful than her. She glared at Yun Muhuan and asked angrily, "Are you my brother"

“You can ask Grandfather and King Father if I am your brother or not! I don’t wish to have a sister like you who disobeys me,” Yun Muhuan said as he pulled Qian Yun along.

She couldn’t break free from his grip, so she turned back angrily toward Prince Jing’s courtyard. If it weren't for that black-hearted fellow having said big words and promised to deal with her problem, how would she have let herself be cornered by Yun Muhuan Bad luck!

Cai Lian, Ting Yu, and Ting Xue were happy for Qian Yun; getting a divination from Venerable Ling Yin was something many people sought after but couldn’t get. They didn't understand why their Lady disliked it so much! Now that Prince Jing is here, they can also follow to listen.

Just as they had taken a few steps forward, a servant girl hurried over and shouted from far away, “Cloud Prince, you must come quickly; our princess has fallen into unconsciousness for no apparent reason…”

Qian Yun was immediately delighted. Princess Qing Wan’s falling unconscious at such an opportune moment!

Yun Muhuan stopped in his tracks and asked the servant girl as she drew closer, "Why would she fall into a coma"

"I’m not sure, Your Highness. After dinner, Princess was well until just now when I last checked on her; she was reading a book. Suddenly she collapsed and didn’t respond to my calls! You must come quickly!"

“Right, she is the emperor’s favorite princess, under your care. If something happens, it would be hard to explain to His Majesty,” Qian Yun urged urgently.

Yun Muhuan reluctantly let go of her hand and said to Qian Yun, “Then you go pray at the Auspicious Tree first. I’ll go see what happened to Princess and come back later.”

"Alright, go quickly," Qian Yun agreed readily. She only wanted him gone as soon as possible.

“Okay then, I’m going to check on her,” Yun Muhuan said to the servant girl before leaping in the direction of Princess Qing Wan’s quarters with his light-footed skills.

The young servant quickly ran back the way she came.

"Haha, finally don’t have to go see that fortune-teller. Come on, let's go pray at the Auspicious Tree," Qian Yun called out to Cai Lian and Ting Yu and Ting Xue behind her with a smile.

Cai Lian and the others were somewhat disappointed but hurriedly followed after their lady. A few steps later, Cai Lian whispered, “Lady, why would Princess Qing Wan suddenly fall unconscious Has something happened”

"Who knows! Doesn’t matter anyway; it’s not our concern," Qian Yun said indifferently.

Cai Lian shut her mouth.

A group of four headed towards Mount Nan.

It was the Blessing Festival, and most of those who came to Lingtai Temple this time were high-ranking nobles. Therefore, even at night on Fragrant Spring Mountain, there were lanterns everywhere as the streets were lit up with hanging lanterns. Occasionally, they would meet several monks patrolling the area, and everyone would respectfully make way for them.

Without any incident, the four of them arrived at Mount Nan’s entrance to bless.

Cloud Qianyue saw from a distance that there was a huge tree about five or six people could embrace standing by the gate of Mount Nan. The tree had red ribbons and sachets hanging on it, as well as colorful strips and many other small trinkets. It looked extremely luxurious, almost like a Christmas tree, though this one was much larger.

Cloud Qianyue felt that this tree was just as pitiful as her horse. She sighed: "How pitiful the poor tree! How hardworking it must be to bear the wishes of so many people. Can all their wishes really come true Even if they could, wouldn't that make them tired"

"Miss, what are you saying!" Cai Lian immediately covered Cloud Qianyue's mouth with her hand. "This Blessing Tree is sentient. You may speak nonsense usually, but now we mustn’t insult it; we need to pray sincerely for wishes to come true."

"Alright, I understand." Cloud Qianyue pushed Cai Lian’s hand away.

"Miss, this is the colored ribbon I prepared for you. Hold onto it while facing the Blessing Tree and silently make your wish. Then tie it to the tree, and the Blessing Tree will surely bless your wishes to come true." Cai Lian handed Cloud Qianyue three ribbons and continued, "I’ve prepared three ribbons for Miss. If you need more, I have many here."

While speaking, Cai Lian also distributed the ribbons to Ting Xue and Ting Yu; each received several.

"Enough!" Cloud Qianyue was speechless. How many wishes could they possibly make It didn’t matter how many wishes there were, but if this wishing tree fulfilled them all, wouldn't it be exhausted

“Miss, let’s begin!” Cai Lian clasped her hands together in front of the Blessing Tree.

Ting Xue and Ting Yu also clapped their hands before the Blessing Tree.

"Mm!" Cloud Qianyue nodded, seeing that all three were very sincere. She followed suit.

"I didn't know that Moon Sister was here to pray as well! I said that today’s blessing tree looked exceptionally radiant from afar." Jade Ning's familiar voice sounded out; as always, it was tender and gentle, as if yesterday’s unpleasantness had never happened.

Cloud Qianyue turned her head in the direction of the sound. She saw Jade Ning accompanied by two maids slowly approaching with colored ribbons in hand. Apart from the ribbons, she also held a delicate sachet embroidered with a pair of lotus flowers. Under the light, the embroidery was exquisite. The sachet depicted a white twin-lotus flower, and her pale clothes were like those of a night fairy as she moved gracefully.

Cloud Qianyue thought that this woman could still be friendly to her after yesterday's incident—what great ability! She rolled her eyes inwardly. Since the other party was amiable, she couldn’t have a cold face; instead, she smiled faintly and said, "It’s Miss Qin What a coincidence!"

"Is Sister Moon still upset over my careless words yesterday I originally planned to visit you to apologize today but didn't want to trouble you since you were bedridden after drinking heavily. So, I intended to find another time to apologize. It's fortunate that we met now, and yet, it seems that Sister Moon is so distant from me! How can Ning figure out how to act" Jade Ning spoke in a soft voice, looking at Cloud Qianyue with distressed words.

Cloud Qianyue looked at Jade Ning. She seemed to have suffered greatly. Cloud Qianyue remained silent.

"Miss Cloud, please forgive my lady! Yesterday when she returned home, she felt so upset that she couldn't even eat and didn’t sleep all night. She’s very self-reproaching today. She went early this morning to apologize at your place but found no one there and was distressed since then. Now that we've met again, if you don't forgive my lady, she will be heartbroken..." One of Jade Ning's maids immediately pleaded with Cloud Qianyue.

"Yes! Our Miss always treats you as a close sister. When someone bullied you in the past, our Miss would help whenever possible. How could you ignore her just because of one sentence" The other maid immediately said.

“Sister Moon...” Jade Ning looked at Cloud Qianyue with tears threatening to spill.

Hmph! As if she had become the unfeeling person who bullied others Cloud Qianyue remained silent.

"Miss" Cai Lian saw that Cloud Qianyue was silent for a long time and gently reminded her. Since Miss Ning came to apologize, should Miss be magnanimous too Miss Ning truly treated them well. If she didn’t forgive Miss Ning, it would seem petty.

"Does Sister Moon really not forgive me" Jade Ning lowered her head and spoke very softly.

Cloud Qianyue suddenly smiled and warmly grabbed Jade Ning’s arm. "Of course not! Don't you know me I’m the least sensitive person, like Rong Linglan and Leng Shuli who bullied me before—I don’t care about them now, so why would a single sentence from you matter The cold words yesterday were just for the Crown Prince to see. Who told her something untimely"

"Really Sister doesn't blame me" Jade Ning immediately brightened.

“I don’t blame,” Cloud Qianyue shook her head and smiled a truly insensible smile, saying to Jade Ning: "You're such a beautiful lady, and you treat me so well. How can I possibly be angry In my family, I'm not close with the other sisters; in the capital, only you are kind to me, but there's no good sister for me. Although I was annoyed at the time, thinking about what you said, it’s true—I have an identity here, so someone would say this whether you do or not. After getting angry, I’m over it. If I were still angry every day, wouldn’t that exhaust me You don't need to worry; I really didn't blame you."

"Sister Moon is truly good. Since yesterday, my heart has been uneasy until now. As long as Sister Moon doesn’t hold a grudge against me, I’m finally relieved." Jade Ning smiled through her tears.

“Alright, since I said I don't blame you, be at ease.” Cloud Qianyue let go of the arm she had been holding and looked at the colored ribbons in her hands and asked: "Is Little Miss also here to pray This pair of lotus flowers is beautifully embroidered; it seems that Little Miss wants to find a good match"

Jade Ning’s face turned red, glared at Cloud Qianyue, and whispered, “Isn't Sister doing the same”

“Me I just hope for food and sleep without worry.” Cloud Qianyue smiled while looking at the blessing tree.

"Sister is older than me. How could you not wish for a good match For women, the most important thing in life is to rely on an upright man. It's said that this blessing tree is very powerful; sister should also make a wish! However, your identity is so high, not wishing for a good match won't be any worse." Jade Ning said.

"Your status isn’t low either As the daughter of the prime minister, who would dare to marry you" Cloud Qianyue smiled.

“But I want to marry someone I like!” Jade Ning’s face dimmed, tightened her hand on the twin-lotus flower, and then smiled again. “However, I believe that heaven will understand my sincere heart and won’t let me suffer in vain. May sister also find a satisfactory match.”

Cloud Qianyue glanced at the twin-lotus flower in her hand, thinking of Rong Jing’s scent similar to lotus flowers and snow. She slightly tilted her lips without expressing any opinion: "Hope so! Who knows what will happen in the future If I get it, it's my luck; if not, it's my fate!"

Jade Ning was stunned, “Sister”

"What a perfect response: 'If I get it, it’s my luck; if not, it’s my fate.' It seems that Marquis Yun didn’t waste half a month teaching Moon Sister to read. Those cold words yesterday were just for the Crown Prince's benefit. Who told you something untimely"

“Really Does sister really not blame me” Jade Ning was delighted.

"I don't blame!" Cloud Qianyue shook her head and smiled in a truly insensible manner, saying to Jade Ning: "With such a beautiful lady like you who treats me so well, how can I possibly be angry"

“Sister Moon is great, making my heart uneasy since yesterday. As long as Sister doesn’t blame me, I’m at ease now.” Jade Ning smiled through her tears.

"Alright, if I say I don't blame you, then don't worry." Cloud Qianyue let go of the arm she had been holding and looked at the colored ribbons in her hands. “Are you also here to pray This twin-lotus flower is beautifully embroidered; are you praying for a good match”

Jade Ning blushed, glared at Cloud Qianyue, and whispered: "Isn't Sister doing so too"

“Me All I wish for is to eat well, sleep well, and be worry-free.” Cloud Qianyue smiled while looking at the blessing tree.

"Sister is older than me. How could you not pray for a good match For women, finding an upright man to rely on is most important. It's said that this tree grants wishes; sister should also make one! However, your high status means even without praying for marriage, it won't be worse." Jade Ning said.

"Your status isn’t low either As the Prime Minister’s daughter, who would dare to marry you" Cloud Qianyue smiled.

“But I want to marry someone I like!” Jade Ning’s face dimmed, tightened her hand on the twin-lotus flower, and then smiled again. “However, I believe that heaven will understand my sincere heart and won’t let me suffer in vain. May sister also find a satisfactory match.”

Cloud Qianyue glanced at the twin-lotus flower in Jade Ning’s hand, recalling Rong Jing's scent reminiscent of lotus flowers and snow. She smiled without expressing any opinion: "Hope so! Who knows what will happen If it happens, I'm lucky; if not, that's my fate."

"Sister" Jade Ning was stunned.

A familiar voice suddenly rang out, praising loudly: "How fittingly said 'If it happens, I’m fortunate; if not, it’s my destiny.' It seems Marquis Yun didn’t waste half a month teaching Moon Sister to read. Those cold words yesterday were just for the Crown Prince's benefit. Who told you something untimely"

--- Excerpt ---

Thank you all for your diamond and flower support!

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