CHAPTER 11: Floating Life
"Xia Chu."
She looked back and saw a tall and slender man standing under the plum tree in the distance. His face was obscured by the backlight, but his black hair, like ink, was tied up high with a hosta. He wore a crescent-white robe, spotless and elegant, with a jade wide belt around his waist. A delicate dragon-shaped jade was hung on the wide band.
Xia Chu knew instantly who it was. She smiled and happily greeted him, lifting her skirt.
The man smiled dotingly, plucked a plum blossom, and handed it to her, asking, "Do you like it?"
Xia Chu blushed shyly and said softly, "I like it."
The plum blossom then turned into a sword and pierced her heart.
The man still smiled, asking gently, "Do you still like it now?"
Xia Chu’s eyes widened in disbelief as she looked at the sword piercing her body. Blood spilt from the corner of her lips, and she screamed.
"Xiao Yanjun!" Shouting Xiao Yanjun's name, she woke up from her dream, her body still trembling slightly. She wrapped her arms around her bent legs and breathed heavily in a curled position, waiting for the black tide in her eyes to slowly recede.
Mo Xiang, outside the door, had already knocked, but only after a long moment did she hear a voice say, "Come in."
Mo Xiang pushed the door open. Upon seeing Xia Chu’s expression, she asked cautiously, "Young master, are you washing now? Master Hou is still waiting for you to eat."
Xia Chu hummed, got out of bed, and began to wash her face. When she finished, her expression was calm, as usual.
After entering the Wuwu Courtyard, Marquis had been waiting in the hall for a while. Xia Chu flashed a sweet, innocent smile as she called, "Dad."
Her father smiled lovingly and rubbed her head. Although Xia Chu didn’t have much of an appetite, she still ate well.
Marquis Xia spoke as he served the food, "The emperor will hold a family banquet in three days and has invited you to attend."
Xia Chu paused, her hand holding the vegetables, before responding with, "Okay."
In her past life, the emperor had also held a family banquet and invited her. Back then, however, she had been seated as the crown princess.
"The emperor just wants to see you, don’t be afraid," Marquis Xia reassured her.
"I’m not afraid."
Now, the enemy was in the light, while she was in the dark. Xiao Yanjun was her prey, and she was the hunter weaving the trap silently. There was nothing to fear. What if she met Xiao Yanjun as the heir of the Marquis Xia household?
Marquis Xia, seeing her calm expression, felt somewhat relieved and began explaining the palace rules in detail. Xia Chu pretended to listen attentively to the palace rules, though she was already familiar with them. She quickly finished her meal and excused herself.
Back in her yard, Xia Chu had someone bring two pieces of wood of different lengths. She retreated to her room and began folding the wood into a cross. She tied up a straw man and, after moulding it to a human form, went to the kitchen to grab some pork, tying it to the straw man to practice the strength of her flying needle technique. Over and over, she practised without tiring.
Only when the distant Zilan Mountain began to glow red in the sunset did she stop, sitting on the steps.
She looked up, admiring the blue sky with its large white clouds, now glowing fiery red from the setting sun. The earth bathed in the afterglow, and the evening breeze gently blew through, carrying the faint fragrance of flowers and trees.
She couldn’t help but relax the tight strings within herself. She let go of her worries and exhaustion for a moment, allowing herself to enjoy the beauty of the sunset.
But, as all sunsets do, it eventually set. The sky darkened.
Mo Xiang called from outside the courtyard.
Xia Chu snapped out of her trance, went to untie the pork from the straw man, and handed it to Mo Xiang to send back to the kitchen before heading to accompany her father for dinner.
After finishing the meal, she walked with her father in the garden.
The bright, colourful moonlight sprinkled softly on their figures, casting an elegant glow over Xia Chu’s face.
She walked by Marquis Xia’s side, asking about his mother’s last days. The stories were trivial things, things that only deepened Marquis Xia’s sadness.
"Dad, the wind is blowing. I’ll make you some tea when we go back," Xia Chu said softly, not wanting to dwell on the sadness.
Hou Ye raised his eyebrows, surprised. "You learned this in the mountains?"
Xia Chu shrugged.
"Bai Ruofei loves to drink tea."
Once back in the study, Xia Chu had people bring out aged ripe pu-erh and the tea set. She went through the motions, preparing the tea with precision.
Marquis Xia watched with interest as Xia Chu pried off about five grams of dry tea from the cake and placed it in the pot. After boiling, she rinsed the tea leaves, added water again, covered the pot, and let it steep slowly. When the tea was ready, the fragrance was rich and mellow. Xia Chu poured a cup and handed it to Marquis Xia. He inhaled the fragrance, which warmed his heart. He took a sip, savouring the sweetness. A look of approval crossed his face.
"The tea art is good. Mr. Bai teaches you well."
Xia Chu’s mouth twitched as she recalled Bai Ruofei’s fastidiousness.
Bai Ruofei had been very particular about the speed and angle of pouring water. He had reminded Xia Chu countless times that the speed of the water affected the temperature: pour too quickly, and the water would be too hot; pour too slowly, and it would be too cold. The angle of pouring also impacted the water’s effect on the leaves and the tumbling of the leaves in the pot.
The more chestnuts you eat, the better your tea art.
Xia Chu didn’t tell her father how miserable it had been to learn the art from Bai Ruofei, but she smiled wryly and glanced at the rows of books on the shelf. She picked up a book about the history of Xiao Guo, flipped it open, and started reading.
She realised she knew very little about Xiao Guo’s history, but she had always been interested in power schemes.
In her last life, after all, she had been just a naive girl who didn’t understand the world. Thirteen years in the mountains, and then a promised life with Xiao Yanjun. Thinking of Xiao Yanjun, her grip on the book tightened, her fingers turning white.
"Young master, Su Qian'an has returned and is waiting in your courtyard," Mo Xiang’s voice broke through her thoughts.
Marquis Xia didn’t stop her work. He simply spoke, "Go."
Xia Chu stood and left.
When Xia Chu entered the room, Su Qian'an followed her in, closing the door. He reported on the progress of the day’s tasks.
The house had been purchased, a quadrangle yard near the southern suburbs. Although slightly off the main road, the environment was quiet and peaceful.
The three-story shop had been renamed Wentian Pavilion, and the plaque was being made. The second and third floors were being renovated.
Su Qian'an had worked as the shopkeeper for the day and handed over the account book.
Xia Chu waved it away.
"You don’t need to show me this anymore. You can handle it yourself."
"Yes," Su Qian'an nodded and took the account book back.
"If you're tired, go rest."
Su Qian'an bowed and left.
Xia Chu moved to the window and stood. The wind ruffled her hair.
She tapped the window with her index finger, her beautiful brows furrowing deeply. Her gaze was fixed ahead, but not as if she were truly seeing anything.
For the next three days, Xia Chu lived lazily, waking only at three in the afternoon. After washing, she ate with her father. Then, she visited Su Yuan Courtyard to see Qianle, then returned to practice her flying needle technique, and took evening walks with her father.
After dinner, she made tea, read in the study, and Marquis Xia practised calligraphy beside her.
On the evening of the third day, Su Qian'an told her that the second floor of Wentian Pavilion had been renovated.
Xia Chu nodded, pulled on a black coat, and took Su Qian'an out of the house.
CHAPTER 12: Drink and Talk
"Where is the young master going?"
Xia Chu snapped her fingers and said chicly, "Buy wine."
They arrived at the nearest wine shop, where Xia Chu asked for four jars of Blue Bridge Fengyue. She then instructed Su Qian'an to lead the way to Yinzhi's residence.
It was late at night, and the streets were empty.
Xia Chu said to Su Qian'an, "Let's use light skills. Walking is too slow."
Su Qian'an looked at the two jars of wine she was carrying in her left and right hands and said with a sad face, " For the subordinate, it's inconvenient to take you with me..."
Xia Chu smiled.
"You fly hard, I'll follow."
Su Qian'an looked at Xia Chu's serious face and said nothing more. He took a breath and, with a quick motion, pointed his toes on the ground, propelling himself upwards and forwards.
Although he never questioned Xia Chu’s orders, he couldn’t help but feel that the young master was still young, so he exerted only five points of strength.
"Is this how fast you’re going?" a voice of disdain came from behind.
Su Qian'an’s blood began to boil, and in an instant, he increased his speed to eight points of force. He was about to glance back when another sentence reached his ears.
"But that's it."
Su Qian'an, feeling the tease, pushed himself to the limit. After a while, panting slightly, he turned back and was surprised to see that Xia Chu had vanished.
He realised he couldn’t compete with her, so he planned to descend and search for her. Just as he was about to land, he felt a hand tap his shoulder. Looking to his side, Xia Chu stood there provocatively.
"Can you hurry up?"
Su Qian'an felt aggrieved. He was a seasoned martial artist, and yet his light skills were no match for a young master barely thirteen years old. The muscles on his face twitched, but he could no longer increase his speed.
By the time they reached the courtyard of Yinzhi’s residence, Su Qian'an was sweating profusely.
Xia Chu stepped forward and knocked on the door. The door opened to reveal a surprised Yinzhi.
"Young Master, why are you here?"
He noticed the four jars of wine Su Qian'an was carrying and looked even more surprised.
"Qian'an, how can you bring four jars of wine and look so exhausted?"
Su Qian'an's face turned red, but when he looked at Xia Chu, still looking fresh and relaxed, he couldn’t help but feel embarrassed.
"Why don’t you invite me in?" Xia Chu asked with a smile.
"Please come in, please come in." Yinzhi stepped aside, inviting them in.
"I just came to drink with you, and I brought your beloved Blue Bridge Fengyue."
Yinzhi nodded and turned to fetch the utensils.
Su Qian'an, sulking, took a jar of wine and stepped outside to drink alone. He felt too ashamed to face Xia Chu now, especially after seeing her so at ease.
Xia Chu, aware that he was still frustrated, ignored him and turned to Yinzhi, beginning a conversation.
"The second floor is already finished?"
"Yes. There wasn't much to modify. I moved the goods from the warehouse, cleaned them up, added some bookshelves, and stocked up on some drinks."
"You should also consider buying a few servant girls in your leisure time. It’s inconvenient for me to send them here, and it could be risky if you’re recognised to be someone from my household. "
"I’m used to being alone. I don’t need anyone else."
"Is that so? But what about in the future? You could pick a few young ones, cultivate them slowly, and use them when needed. What others give you is never as close as what you raise yourself."
"Yes, Young Master is thoughtful."
"You should also change your name. The pseudonym Li Qiang is no longer appropriate."
"Young Master, do you have a suggestion?"
Xia Chu thought for a moment.
"Master Bingwen, how does that sound?"
"Bingwen... Helping many people, the virtue of Bingwen." Yinzhi nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you, Young Master, for the name."
"Master Bingwen is just for public purposes, but I still prefer to call you by your original name."
"Huh?"
"Your father likely wanted you to inherit the family’s legacy. Someday, you must rebuild the Ren family, bring honour to your name. You’ll be the one who restores the family’s dignity."
Xia Chu's eyes darkened, and she looked at him solemnly.
Yinzhi’s heart was stirred. He once thought that poisoning Du Hanfei was the least thing he could do for his family. However, Xia Chu’s words ignited something deep within him. Could it be that one day, he would not only take revenge but also rebuild the Ren family?
The spark of hope began to burn in his heart. He hadn’t cried when his family was destroyed, nor when he was displaced, nor when he was close to death.
At that time, his heart was full of hatred. He had told himself that this revenge would be his own to avenge. Du Hanfei could never die without paying for his crimes.
But at this moment, Yinzhi suddenly felt a surge of emotion. It was as if there was still someone who recognised his surname, someone who understood that his name was Xuanzhe, someone who saw the truth behind his words.
He stood up and bowed deeply.
Xia Chu patted him on the shoulder and helped him rise.
At that moment, Su Qian'an pushed open the door and walked in. He saw Xia Chu's hand still resting on Yinzhi’s arm, and Yinzhi’s eyes were red. He scratched his head in confusion, "Am I interrupting something?"
Xia Chu raised an eyebrow at him.
"Feeling calm now?"
Su Qian'an immediately felt a pang in his tooth and muttered with a frown, "Well... the wine’s gone."
Xia Chu laughed and poured him another glass of wine. Bingwen, jokingly, asked, "Why does Qian'an’s mood fluctuate so much?"
Su Qian'an glanced at him, drank the wine angrily, and poured himself another glass.
Xia Chu comforted him, "You don't have to worry about it, in terms of martial arts, I can’t beat you."
Bingwen, listening attentively, sighed.
"What did Qian'an lose to the Young Master?"
"Yinzhi!!" Su Qian'an’s mood, having been calmed by Xia Chu’s words, flared up once more.
Bingwen glanced at him seriously and said, "From now on, you must address me as 'Master Bingwen'"
"Ah?" Su Qian'an's mouth dropped open.
Bingwen nodded with determination.
Su Qian'an turned to Xia Chu and saw her giving a slight nod. With gritted teeth, he muttered, "I’ve seen you, Master Bingwen."
Bingwen gave a casual wave.
"It is okay, but in what did Brother Qian'an lose?"
"Yinzhi!" Su Qian'an slammed his fist onto the table and stood up.
"It’s Bingwen." Bingwen made no move.
"Bingwen!!"
"What?"
"You—" Su Qian'an was now so enraged that he grabbed the two jars of wine and yanked off the lids.
Xia Chu watched the two of them playing like children and couldn’t help but smile.
She had initially been worried about entering the palace tomorrow night, not because of Xiao Yanjun, but because of Xiao Zimu.
In her previous life, she owed a life, a kingdom, and a person who was dear to her.
Some hatreds could be repaid with her own blood, with a clear goal in mind.
But there were other debts, favours she didn’t know how to repay.
In this life, she swore to protect Xiao Zimu with everything she had and give him everything he wanted.
"Come on, let’s drink."
Su Qian'an raised his glass to Bingwen, who also raised his glass to Xia Chu.
Xia Chu smiled, her thoughts drifting to Xiao Zimu, remembering their shared past.
"If you want to buy Blue Bridge with wine, it’s not the same as the ending... But the journey will continue," Xia Chu thought, before raising her glass.
"Drink up, Master Bingwen."
They all clinked their glasses.
The cups were raised, and the sky was growing brighter. It was already the fifth watch, and it was time to go home.
Xia Chu and Su Qian'an bade their farewells. Bingwen stood to see them off, but Xia Chu waved her hand.
"It’s getting colder. No need to send me further."
After taking the lead, Su Qian'an bowed deeply and said, "Young Master, please take care."
Xia Chu nodded and left with Su Qian'an.
Su Qian'an, still feeling a bit of soreness from the flight, looked at Xia Chu and asked unwillingly, "Young Master, how much strength did you use?"
"Hmm." Xia Chu tilted her head.
"Six."
Su Qian'an wanted to smack his face. Why ask? Why bring such shame upon himself?
As they returned home, Su Qian'an left dejectedly.
Xia Chu looked at him and said seriously, "Qian'an, your obsession with swordsmanship is beyond my comparison. Don’t be too rash."
"Yes."
Xia Chu looked at Su Qian'an’s retreating figure and muttered softly, "You will be a majestic general in the future..."
CHAPTER 13: Entering the Palace
With a slightly drunken mood, Xia Chu had no dreams and slept very well. She stretched out comfortably and called for Mo Xiang to help her wash up.
After finishing lunch with Marquis Xia, she stepped forward to help him massage his shoulders.
Marquis Xia looked at her diligence and asked with a smile, “What’s the matter with you?”
Xia Chu said while massaging, “I rented a shop a few days ago. Now it has been renamed Wentian Pavilion.”
Marquis Xia snorted.
“There’s a person on the second floor now, named Bingwen Gongzi.”
“And then?”
“I want him to sell news.”
Marquis Xia raised his eyebrows.
“Just help me spread some rumours. Let everyone in the capital know there’s such a person who sells news.”
Marquis Xia smiled, “Just praise him?”
Xia Chu nodded, “That’s the reason.”
“Aren’t you afraid he won’t be able to handle it?”
“Not afraid, not afraid. He can do it.”
Marquis Xia nodded, indicating he understood.
Seeing the work was done, Xia Chu stopped massaging his shoulders and said goodbye, intending to go to Su Yuan for a look.
She was called back by Marquis Xia, who took her to pick out clothes.
As soon as she entered the room, the corners of her mouth twitched.
More than forty maids were arranged in five rows, holding clothes, trousers, shoes, belts, hairpin accessories, and more.
She looked back at Marquis Xia and saw that he was waiting for her to choose with an expectant face. Unable to disappoint him, Xia Chu glanced around and picked a set of sky-blue brocade robes with a silver belt and a silver hairpin.
“Don’t you need shoes?” Marquis Xia asked.
“No, my pair are new.”
“Why don’t you pick a jade pendant?”
“No, I’m wearing a sachet.”
“Why don’t you choose a bigger one?”
“Ouch, Daddy! The black one I had before was pretty good.”
“Okay, that’s all.”
Xia Chu breathed a sigh of relief.
“Go show me,” Marquis Xia added again.
Xia Chu ran to the door with her clothes in her arms.
“It’s all the same. Same face even after changing. I’ll change after I’m done in the afternoon.”
Marquis Xia looked at her back and shouted helplessly, “Change earlier. Someone will come pick you up if you don’t arrive at the palace by the unitary hour.”
There was a response in the distance...
At the time of Shen Shi, Xia Chu put away the silver needles from the straw figure and returned to the house to start changing.
When she took off her clothes, she sadly realized she was about to bind her chest...
In her previous life, although she had dressed as a man since childhood, she hadn’t been that old.
After descending the mountain, she resumed living as a woman. In fact, she had never bound her chest. She looked at herself. Well, it was only the beginning. But today, after all, she was entering the palace, so she decided to be cautious.
After seven or eight attempts, she finally got the hang of it. The wrapping was more even, and she began to put on her outer garments.
On normal days, she wore two belts. The inner one was thinner and narrower, filled with silver needles of various lengths that she used. The outer belt was wide and covered the inner one completely—practical and discreet.
But entering the palace was different. She worried about being searched, so she carefully pulled out the silver needles from the inner belt and from places with folds or piping on her clothes.
Once everything was ready, Mo Xiang’s voice came from outside, urging her to get in the palace carriage.
She glanced in the mirror and felt satisfied. She flicked her sleeves and walked out stylishly.
As she walked to the door, she saw Marquis Xia speaking with a eunuch. After bowing, she said, “Father.”
Marquis Xia looked at her. Dressed in a sky-blue brocade robe embroidered with white cloud motifs at the collar and cuffs, tied with a silver belt, and wearing an ivory-white sachet, she looked cold and elegant, her demeanor refined.
Marquis Xia nodded proudly and said with a hint of dissatisfaction, “This silver hairpin is still a little plain.”
“It doesn’t matter. The little marquis has an immortal-like temperament and such a handsome face—any hairpin is just icing on the cake,” said the eunuch with a smiling face.
Marquis Xia laughed heartily upon hearing that.
“Eunuch Li flatters too much.”
Xia Chu pretended not to recognize him and looked at him suspiciously.
Marquis Xia introduced, “This is Li Wei, Eunuch Li, the most trusted person by the emperor’s side. Sending him to pick you up is a great honor.”
“Thank you, Eunuch Li.”
“Don’t mention it, don’t mention it. Let’s go—the emperor is waiting.”
Eunuch Li stepped aside and gestured for her to proceed.
Marquis Xia handed Eunuch Li a reward, and Mo Xiang gave Xia Chu a pouch of coins.
Eunuch Li accepted the reward with thanks. Xia Chu bid farewell and turned to board the carriage.
The journey wasn’t overly grand, but the escort was sizeable. Pedestrians in the market were cleared from both sides, murmuring as they watched.
“Yo, this is the royal guard of honor. I wonder who’s in the carriage?”
“I’d love to see.”
“You wish.”
Whispers and chuckles passed by her ears, but Xia Chu didn’t care.
In her past life, she had entered the palace as a woman. Xiao Yanjun had personally come to pick her up, with palace maids and eunuchs playing music, honor guards front and rear, carriages lined up, flags fluttering, and the Imperial Guard in formation.
That occasion was extravagant and enviable.
Xia Chu turned the silver bracelet on her left wrist with her right hand.
Her father had said that when she was born, her mother had it specially made for her. Inside the bracelet, her mother had engraved the word “Yunyi” by hand. Originally, there had been a pair of bells attached, but after her rebirth, fearing the sound would give her away, she removed and carefully stored them.
She spun the bracelet thoughtfully.
In her past life, she had never understood why Xiao Yanjun had turned on her so completely, to the point of drawing swords. Was it because he overheard Zimu’s admiration for her? But she had refused him.
Now, she no longer cared. He had failed her, and she had trusted him in vain. In this life, she would carve a blood-red flower on the tip of her heart...
Eunuch Li’s voice called out, and the carriage stopped.
“Young Master, we’ve arrived. We’ll need to walk from here.”
Xia Chu snapped out of her thoughts and put on a wide-brimmed hat. She stepped out of the carriage and followed Eunuch Li into the palace.
They walked past pavilions, rocky paths, entered a promenade, and continued to its end. Eunuch Li announced outside the hall:
“Your Majesty, the little marquis has arrived.”
“Let him in.”
Eunuch Li pushed open the door and led Xia Chu into Qinqi Palace.
“Greetings to the Emperor.”
Xia Chu stepped forward and bowed. Eunuch Li moved to stand by the emperor.
“No need for courtesy. Raise your head and let me see you.”
Xia Chu lifted her head and offered a shallow smile, meeting the emperor’s calm gaze.
The emperor saw her dressed in a sky-blue brocade robe beneath a black coat. Her soft eyes rippled with gentle emotion, like moonlight reflecting on water. Her long lashes cast shadows under the candlelight, resting on pale cheeks that seemed delicate enough to bruise.
For a moment, the emperor was in a trance—as if he saw a girl from twenty years ago, smiling and full of hope.
Eunuch Li whispered something into the emperor’s ear, waking him from the memory.
“Come, sit next to me,” the emperor said warmly, beckoning.
“Yes.”
Xia Chu handed her hat to a maid and approached the emperor.
As she walked, the white cloud pattern at her hem swayed gracefully, like a painting in motion.
She sat beside the emperor, who looked at her and sighed softly.
“You resemble your mother’s side very much. Just now, I seemed to see the young girl from General Zhao’s residence from over twenty years ago.”
“Yes, that’s what Father always says.”
“I had hoped your mother would bear a daughter, and I was ready to make her the crown princess. But when you were born, you turned out to be a baby boy.”
“I’ve disappointed Your Majesty,” Xia Chu said.
“No matter. A son is just as good. I have many princesses—you can choose the one you like. After your coming-of-age ceremony, I’ll personally officiate the marriage.”
The emperor gestured around the hall. The princes and princesses, who had been waiting, burst into laughter upon hearing this.
“Young Master, my name is Xiao Muhong.”
A clear voice rose from the laughter.
Xia Chu looked up to see a girl about Jin Mo’s age smiling shyly at her in a fiery red dress.
“My ninth princess can’t sit still,” the emperor joked with a smile.
“Father!” Xiao Muhong stomped, her tone slightly embarrassed.
The emperor chuckled and began introducing each of his children to Xia Chu.
She already knew many of them, some more intimately. Only Xiao Muhong’s brother, Xiao Mubai—the Prince of Mo—remained unfamiliar.
In her past life, Xiao Yanjun had been extremely jealous of the Prince of Mo and spoke poorly of him, calling him scheming, heartless, and despicable. She had believed it and avoided him. Also, Xiao Yanjun had been very wary of him, so she’d only seen him a few times from afar.
Her gaze followed the introductions to Xiao Zimu. He had a polite smile, with fine features and a gentle air. His smile was like a spring breeze. Tall and refined, his clear eyes seemed like a pool of sweet spring water, touching the heart.
To Xia Chu, it felt like no time had passed—it was just like yesterday.
Finally, her eyes landed on Xiao Yanjun. He smiled and was about to speak, but Xia Chu had already turned her gaze away, smiling instead at the emperor.
“The emperor and the princes are indeed extraordinary. With such dragon-blooded heirs, it is only natural that they are magnificent and full of talent.”
“Is there a princess you like? I think Muhong is good—she’s your age,” the emperor said with increasing satisfaction.
“Well, Xia Chu is still young and not yet of age.”
Xia Chu was caught off guard. She hadn’t expected this—different time, same conversation.
“It’s fine, you can be engaged now and marry later.”
“Your Majesty, Xia Chu has always been frail and often bedridden these past ten years. It’s only this year that I’ve improved enough to come down from the mountain to visit my father. After the new year, I’ll have to return and continue recuperating.”
Xia Chu had no choice but to put on a pitiful expression.
The emperor grew thoughtful, a hint of guilt flickering in his eyes.
“You’ve suffered since childhood. Very well, no rush.”
Xia Chu nodded gratefully.
“How long do you need to continue recovering?”
“I probably won’t be able to leave the mountain until midsummer.”
“All right.” The emperor gently patted her head, his face full of care.
“If you’re free, visit the palace often. If you need anything, just ask.”
Xia Chu nodded obediently and thanked the emperor.
CHAPTER 14: The Family Feast
The emperor officially held a banquet.
For a while, the hall was filled with music and dancing, and cups were exchanged freely.
These imperial heirs were all shrewd and discerning. They knew that Xia Chu’s father was the Marquis of Xia Hou Mansion, and Xia Chu's mother was the daughter of General Zhao.
Xia Chu's mother had shared youthful ties with the emperor and had supported him all the way. Moreover, her mother had died saving the emperor, and her father had remained alone ever since. Now that Xia Chu had appeared, just as they had been seeking a way to show goodwill to the Xiahou Mansion, so they seized the opportunity.
One after another, they took turns inviting her, their hypocritical faces exhausting to deal with.
"Brother Chu, do you want to join my gathering?"
A splash of red appeared before her, and when she looked up, she saw Xiao Muhong’s cheeks tinged with crimson as her eyes gazed shyly at her.
She was just thinking of how to politely decline when the emperor said, “Go, it’s good to make friends.”
She had no choice but to rise. Xiao Muhong pulled her over and placed her between herself and Xiao Mubai to prevent her from slipping away.
Xia Chu felt a little uneasy. Xiao Muhong, on one side was fiery and enthusiastic, while Xiao Mubai, on the other, was cold and aloof.
She couldn’t help glancing at Xiao Mubai, who was bowing his head, just in time to meet his gaze. His sculpted face entered her view, and she involuntarily held her breath. She had never seen Xiao Mubai up close before. With his slanted sword-like eyebrows, eyes like frost-tipped blossoms—clearly a pair of peach blossom eyes—he still carried a detached, indifferent air. His thin lips and sharply defined jawline formed an undeniably handsome face.
"Brother Chu, will you visit the Imperial Garden later?" Xiao Muhong asked, holding her arm.
Xia Chu politely declined and subtly pulled her arm away, pretending to pour wine.
Then a warm breath with a deep voice brushed past her ear: “In such a hurry to visit the brothel?”
A tingle spread across her neck, and she was caught off guard by Xiao Mubai’s words. For a moment, she was left speechless.
Xiao Muhong pressed her arm and called out, “Brother Chu, the wine is overflowing!”
Snapping back to her senses, Xia Chu coughed awkwardly and asked a palace maid to clean it up.
She turned to look at Xiao Mubai in surprise and saw a smile playing at the corner of his lips. But that smile—it carried two parts sarcasm, three parts ridicule, and five parts detachment.
Xia Chu felt a flicker of irritation and raised her chin. With a flirtatious smile, she leaned in and whispered beside his ear, “Can’t wait…?” The last syllable lingered with a playful, pitiful tone.
Xiao Mubai’s smile stiffened for a moment, then vanished entirely.
Xia Chu thought to herself that she had seen many beautiful men in her past life.
There was Zimu—graceful, elegant, and refined.
There was Xiao Yanjun—angelic in looks and dignified in posture, unforgettable at a glance.
But Xiao Mubai was different from all of them. His smile was like a spring blossom, a summer breeze, an autumn leaf falling to its roots, or the melting of winter snow.
Perhaps his usual aura was too cold and distant, which made this smile feel… a little warm?
“Brother Chu, you’re amazing! My brother never smiles. What did you say to him?” Xiao Muhong asked excitedly.
Xiao Mubai didn’t speak. He simply raised an eyebrow at Xia Chu, waiting for her reply.
“No, I didn’t say anything,” Xia Chu replied, already feeling a slight headache coming on.
“Come on, tell me!” Xiao Muhong insisted, shaking Xia Chu’s arm persistently.
Her head throbbed. She glanced at Xiao Mubai, silently pleading with him to rein in his sister. But Xiao Mubai remained aloof, as if to say, You’re on your own.
Frustrated, Xia Chu said, “Your brother wants to visit the brothel to learn more about it. I told him I’d happily introduce him to a beautiful girl.”
“Liar!” Xiao Muhong pouted, full of disbelief.
“My brother doesn’t smile even when he sees a beauty, let alone one he hasn’t seen before. Besides, who can be more beautiful than my brother?” she said proudly. Then she glanced at Xia Chu again and added in a soft voice, “Brother Chu is naturally good-looking too, just as good-looking as my brother.”
Xia Chu couldn’t help but rub Xiao Muhong’s head. She remembered how her father always liked to rub her head—it felt like this. A feeling of deep fondness for a younger child.
In her past life, because of Xiao Mubai, she hadn’t interacted much with Xiao Muhong. But she knew that Muhong wasn’t like the other imperial heirs in the palace. She was honest, daring in love and hate. She was like Xia Chu’s past self—very much alike…
“Brother Chu, can I visit the Marquis Mansion and play with you?”
Xia Chu was lost in her memories and startled by Xiao Muhong’s voice. She looked into the girl's bright eyes, shimmering with hope. It was like looking at her past self—so innocent, because she hadn’t yet been hurt.
“Is that okay?” Xiao Muhong asked again, voice soft and unsure.
She had once asked the same question—timid, full of yearning—“Is that okay?”
Touched, Xia Chu gently replied, “Okay.”
Xiao Muhong beamed and immediately called on Xiao Mubai to witness that Xia Chu had promised and couldn’t go back on her word.
“I thought you’d say no,” Xiao Mubai remarked, a little surprised.
Xia Chu looked at him. He was holding his forehead with one hand, revealing a profile as perfect as a painting. His lowered gaze showed a trace of careless confusion. The bridge of his nose was just right—not too high, not too low—following down to a chin that completed his flawless contour.
“Ninth Princess is innocent, simple, and adorable. You’ve protected her well.”
In a palace full of scheming hearts, Xiao Muhong remained untouched. Without Xiao Mubai’s protection, that would’ve been impossible.
Xiao Mubai suddenly looked at her—sharp, deep, and unreadable…
“It’s snowing outside!”
Someone called out, and the emperor’s children ran to see. Xiao Muhong pulled both Xiao Mubai and Xia Chu toward the exit. In the crowd, Xiao Mubai protected Xiao Muhong’s left side, and Xia Chu guarded her right. Their eyes met, their hands briefly brushed—only to quickly retreat. Like a mimosa touched by the wind, shy and swift.
Xia Chu looked up at the snow falling gently like little flowers. She didn’t know when it had begun, but the bronze lion statues and palace roofs already had a thin layer.
She reached out to catch a flake, pure and white. It reminded her of Xiao Yanjun, who had once sent her back to the Marquis Mansion. He had stood outside the gate, holding an umbrella for her. Snowflakes fluttered around him—some flying, some spinning, some falling fast and straight—and gathered in his dark hair.
He stood there alone, between heaven and earth. Clad in moon-white robes with a jade dragon pendant, he had looked especially divine.
She had gazed at his stunning face and asked timidly, “Can I come visit you in the palace often?”
He had smiled gently, stars twinkling in his eyes.
“Is that okay?” she had asked, full of hope.
Snow is beautiful—but from the moment it falls, it is destined to melt. Just like the little water stain left on her palm now.
Xia Chu clenched her fist, bowed to Xiao Mubai and Xiao Muhong, then turned to take her leave from the emperor.
Seeing the snowfall and remembering her frailty, the emperor agreed and instructed Eunuch Li to escort her.
Xia Chu bowed and said, “No need to trouble Eunuch Li. I’d like to ask one of the princes to accompany me out of the palace. It’s always fun to chat along the way.”
“Very well.”
As she turned to leave, Xiao Yanjun stepped forward, wearing a sincere smile. “Little Marquis, shall I escort you?”
Xia Chu didn’t even glance at him. Without breaking stride, she walked past and headed toward Xiao Zimu. After saluting, she smiled and said, “Does His Highness the Seventh Prince have time to accompany Xia Chu out of the palace?”
Gasps echoed through Qinqi Palace. Whispering broke out.
Xiao Zimu looked stunned—then smiled, warm as spring.
“It would be my honour.” He took an umbrella from an attendant and personally held it above Xia Chu’s head.
Only after the two had disappeared from view did Xiao Muhong come back to her senses. She grabbed Xiao Mubai’s arm. “Does Brother Chu dislike Fourth Brother?”
Xiao Mubai snorted. That move had basically slapped Xiao Yanjun in the face. He looked at Xiao Yanjun, whose expression had become… colourful.
He thought Xia Chu had done it deliberately. This kind of departure sent a clear message. The Hou Mansion would now have a harder time maintaining neutrality. But… why choose Xiao Zimu?
“Brother!” Xiao Muhong tugged on his hand again.
Xiao Mubai couldn’t help rubbing her head too, and gently said, “It’s fine if he likes you.”
Xiao Muhong’s eyes sparkled, and a rosy flush spread across her face. She lowered her head, twisted her fingers together shyly, and said no more…
CHAPTER 15: Out of the Palace
The attendants followed the two masters at a distance. Xia Chu and Xiao Zimu walked side by side, and before long, their steps naturally aligned. They both noticed and exchanged a soft smile.
They had walked a long way in silence. After the quiet laughter, Xiao Zimu finally asked, “Little Marquis, why did you choose me?”
Xia Chu had countless reasons in her heart, but after many turns and pauses, she let out a soft sigh.
“If you were the emperor, it would be a blessing to the world and a blessing to the people.” Xia Chu didn’t want to lie—and this was the truth.
“Oh? And how does the Little Marquis know that’s what I want?”
“It doesn’t matter,” Xia Chu replied calmly. “If Your Highness wants it, I’ll help you get it. If Your Highness doesn’t, I’ll keep you safe for the rest of your life.”
Her tone was light, yet firm and resolute—leaving no room for doubt.
Xiao Zimu couldn’t help but stop. He turned to look at her. The young noble dressed in a blue robe and silver hairpin stood under the falling snow, his gaze carrying a depth that didn’t match his youthful age. He didn’t look arrogant, nor did he seem to be making a proposition. It was simply a vow—solemn and heartfelt.
“And what does the Little Marquis want?”
Xiao Zimu wasn’t sure what commitment Xia Chu was making, nor what she expected in return.
“What I want...” Xia Chu lifted her eyes to the snowy sky, then lowered her gaze and whispered slowly, “...I’ll earn with my own hands.”
“Then what do you need me to do?” Xiao Zimu thought perhaps he had misunderstood her, and gently probed.
Xia Chu turned toward him, her brows lifting with a gentle smile.
“What I need from Your Highness...”
Xiao Zimu leaned in slightly, frowning as he listened closely.
“...is just for you to be happy.”
With that, Xia Chu turned and continued walking.
Xiao Zimu stood still, stunned. Then he chased after her with long strides.
“What I said is true. You don’t need to worry, Zimu. The road ahead is long.”
Xia Chu seemed to understand his doubts and offered reassurance.
Hearing her sincerity, Xiao Zimu felt a faint pang of guilt. He nodded solemnly. “In that case, don’t call me ‘Your Highness’—it sounds too distant. Just call me Zimu.”
Xia Chu slowed her steps. Her head tilted down slightly, and Xiao Zimu couldn’t see the complex expression on her face. She let out a soft breath, calming the wave of emotions in her chest.
“Then... call me Xia Chu,” she said quietly.
“Xia Chu.” Xiao Zimu repeated her name with ease and cheerfulness.
That one utterance caused a flood of memories to crash over Xia Chu’s mind like a broken dam.
The palace gate in the distance blurred, and so did the snow drifting around them.
In her memories, the gentle man who stood like a jade tree under a peach blossom smiled like moonlight. The wind stirred pink petals around them as he tucked strands of hair behind her ears and said lightly, “Xia Chu. I like you—I’m not sad. I hope you’ll like me too—but I will be.”
She hadn’t even given him comfort back then. She had been pulled away by Xiao Yanjun’s strong grip. She’d rejected Zimu’s confession and left in haste.
“Xia Chu?” Xiao Zimu called softly when he noticed her dazed expression.
“Zimu...” she said at last, this name bursting out from the soul-wrenching sorrow of her past life. This was the first time in her current life she had called him that.
“Hm?” Xiao Zimu tilted his head. He could sense that this wasn’t an easy name for her to speak.
“Do you have a retainer named Xiang Xun?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Find a reason to remove him.”
Back at the palace gate, Xia Chu had scanned the group of attendants and seen Xiang Xun. She didn’t know exactly what that man had done—or how involved he had been in Xiao Yanjun’s coup. But what she did know was that Xiang Xun was Xiao Yanjun’s man—and a dangerous one.
“Did he offend you?” Zimu asked, confused. “But you’ve likely never met before…”
“He’s the Fourth Highness’s spy. If you really want to keep him, feed him some false intel from time to time.”
A trace of bitterness flickered in Xia Chu’s voice. If only I had told Zimu this earlier in the last life... would things have been different?
“But... I’ve vetted him. He’s been with me for five years—”
She cut him off with just a look—sharp, unwavering.
“I understand,” Zimu said at last, swallowing his doubts when he saw how serious she was.
“The gate is ahead. Zimu, stay behind,” Xia Chu said softly, giving him a small bow before walking forward on her own.
Zimu stood still, uncertain whether he should follow or call her back.
Only when she’d passed through the palace gate did he sigh and turn back. That’s when he saw Xiang Xun approaching with the rest of the attendants.
“Your Highness, shall we return?” Xiang Xun asked.
Xiao Zimu glanced at him expressionlessly, then answered coolly, “Let’s go back.”
Outside the palace, Su Qian’an was already waiting. Snow had piled on his shoulders—he’d clearly been standing for hours.
As soon as he saw Xia Chu emerge, he opened a luo umbrella and led the carriage forward to greet her.
“If you had an umbrella, why didn’t you use it? Are you trying to impress me with this act of loyalty? A bitter-meat ploy?” Xia Chu sighed as she stepped forward.
“No, no,” Su Qian’an said quickly, waving his hands. He fumbled to hand her a hand-warmer from the carriage.
Xia Chu touched it and raised a brow. “This isn’t very warm.”
Su Qian’an scratched his head sheepishly. “I… I didn’t time it well.”
“It’s fine.” She got into the carriage and patted his shoulder lightly in thanks.
Once she was settled inside, Su Qian’an climbed into the driver’s seat and set the carriage in motion.
“Why were you waiting there?” Xia Chu asked, cupping her hands around her breath for warmth.
“When I got home, I ran into the Marquis just as he was about to send someone to fetch you. So I volunteered instead.”
“When you return, go to the Yinzhi Nunnery and bring Bingwen to Yixianglou to meet Aunt Li. Make sure the news of Gongzi Bingwen is leaked afterwards.”
“Yes. You don’t know how sensitive Bingwen is these days. If I’m not careful, he gets so upset—like a firecracker waiting to blow!” Su Qian’an huffed.
Xia Chu remembered Bingwen as a poised and scholarly man. She’d never seen him so dramatic or emotionally volatile in her past life.
“Let him be,” she said lightly.
“Yes, yes.” Su Qian’an nodded.
Xia Chu chuckled softly. In her past life, she had never realised that Su Qian’an was such a... living treasure.
By the time they reached the Marquis’s Mansion, Su Qian’an bid her goodbye and set off to find Bingwen.
A young servant stood by the gate with a lantern to guide Xia Chu back to her residence.
Mo Xiang had been waiting outside her chambers and quickly prepared hot water for her bath.
Once the water was ready, Xia Chu dismissed the others and sank into the wooden tub, sighing in relief as the heat embraced her. Her body relaxed as she thought:
The emperor’s food really is awful. My cheeks hurt from fake-smiling all night…
The warmth quickly made her drowsy. After soaking for a bit longer, she got out before the water cooled too much, had the tub removed, and went to bed.
Lying beneath the covers, she pulled the blanket over her head.
Tomorrow, she thought, Father will probably scold me again…
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