Chapter 66 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

Translating Chinese Historical Dramas for your enjoyment... and mine! :)

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 66:

She Is A Beautiful Woman, But She Has No Heart

Everyone knew that the Prince of Lu, Xiao Jianli, was a cheerful young man who had never felt so down before. But at that moment, he stood aside, watching as someone else took away the girl he fancied halfway through and took her to play chess. He felt like crying but had no tears to shed. If it had been someone else, he would certainly not have accepted such a loss, but the person before him was someone he couldn't afford to offend. He could only adjust his facial expression gracefully, displaying the dignified and tolerant demeanor of a prince.

At that moment, Prince Ming suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Standing in front of Ouyang Nuan, he scrutinized her for a long time before finally calmly inviting her, "Please, would you play a game of chess with me?" His demeanor was akin to that of a benevolent king bestowing favor upon his subject.

No sooner had the servants and guards been startled by his unexpected move, than Ouyang Nuan herself was also taken aback. After a moment of hesitation, she nodded her consent.

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At that moment, Xiao Jianli wanted to speak up to stop this morally questionable act of intercepting halfway, but Prince Ming glanced at him and gave a faint smile, his gaze cold and aloof. There was a subtle threat in his eyes, which immediately made Xiao Jianli realize that this was a man who played by his own rules, without any regard for reason.

In that instant, Xiao Jianli could almost feel the tense nerves of Xiao Qinghan behind him. Almost simultaneously, he laughed heartily, rising to his feet and gesturing to give way. "Please, Prince Ming."

Looking back now, he couldn't believe how easily he had backed down. Xiao Jianli felt that from then on, he wouldn't be able to hold his head up in front of others; it was truly embarrassing. But then he thought again, Prince Ming was after all a military commander who had seen battle. Losing face to him in terms of momentum wasn't too disgraceful, it was just a bit frustrating in front of a beautiful woman.

While his mind wandered elsewhere, the game on this side had already begun. Prince Ming, Xiao Chonghua, held a white piece, seemingly nonchalantly remarking, "Miss, your skill in playing the qin is unparalleled. It's not easy at such a young age."

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, replying, "Prince Ming is too kind." Countless nightmares had woken her up in the dead of night, facing the infinite darkness outside the window. Each move in this game called life was nerve-wracking, with winter's touch on her fingers making them stiff and cold as she played the qin, and summer's heat causing sweat to dampen her back as she sat in silence. The scrolls of ancient books, the steps of etiquette, the endless pursuit of knowledge and refinement—day after day, night after night. For the sake of revenge, she had been cruel to herself more than anyone else... What did mere qin skill matter in comparison?

Prince Ming's eyes were as deep as the sea as he placed a white piece on the board, murmuring softly, "Whether it's baseless praise or not, Miss knows best in her heart."

A thousand thoughts raced through her mind. Ouyang Nuan gently placed a black piece on the board and casually asked, "Nuan'er wonders what Prince Ming means by these words?"

There was a fleeting glint in Prince Ming's eyes, gone in an instant, as he replied, "Miss Ouyang is perceptive, but harboring resentment may not be wise."

Aside from Hongyu, who observed with keen insight, those nearby listened to the exchange with confusion. Ouyang Nuan pondered the pieces in her hand for a moment before decisively placing one on the board. Then, with a hint of surprise, she exclaimed, "Harboring resentment? However could you tell?"

Beneath the peach blossoms, a gentle breeze wafted, filling the air with fragrance. Among the clamor of the world, the faint aroma of tea could be discerned. Amidst the interplay of black and white on the chessboard, there was also the joy of human affairs. As Ouyang Nuan maintained her smiling demeanor, Prince Ming detected a hint of coldness in her eyes. He smiled inwardly. This young girl appeared amiable on the surface, but who would have thought she harbored such resentment deep within, capable of expressing it through a seemingly carefree tune on the qin.

"To possess talent and yet maintain composure is a sign of great talent; to be intelligent and yet possess harmony is a sign of great wisdom." Prince Ming made his move and remarked lightly, "Talent without restraint often leads to calamity, and intelligence without harmony harms both oneself and others. Miss Ouyang, a good piece of music should reflect a good state of mind. Do not let this springtime go to waste."

Between the Prince's few words, was he really trying to persuade her to let go of her hatred? He was truly an outsider. But what could he possibly know from just listening to her music? Did she not already understand that hatred harms both oneself and others? However, in this world, even if you treat others kindly, they may still wish you harm. You may show mercy, but others may not reciprocate. Ouyang Nuan placed a black piece on the board, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

"Do you not agree, Miss?" Prince Ming seemed to understand her thoughts.

"Mountains may not move, but minds can change. Sometimes, it's not that I can't let go, but that others refuse to. Moreover, everyone's suffering is different. How can you, Prince, understand my thoughts?" Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, her tone light.

A flicker of regret passed through Prince Ming's deep eyes, while Ouyang Nuan remained expressionless, as if unaffected.

"Sister!" Ouyang Jue hurried over from a distance, seeming to have searched for quite some time. Beads of sweat dotted his forehead. When he saw Prince Ming, he appeared slightly surprised, immediately performing a respectful salute before swiftly standing beside Ouyang Nuan.

Ouyang Nuan looked at him and said to Prince Ming, "This is my younger brother, Ouyang Jue. He has long admired Your Highness."

Prince Ming had already seen Ouyang Jue earlier. Now he raised his gaze to scrutinize him. Ouyang Jue stood up straight, resembling a young officer being inspected. Ouyang Nuan smiled and continued, "He admires Your Highness's achievements on the battlefield and says he wants to emulate you in the future. I laugh at his dreams, but he doesn't listen to me. Jue, ask His Highness if he's willing to take you under his wing."

Ouyang Jue immediately fixed his gaze on Prince Ming. Despite the prince wearing a jade crown and luxurious attire, his demeanor was remarkably plain, as if he belonged in the midst of tranquil forests and flowing streams, devoid of any trace of the fierce battlefield commander he once was. Ouyang Jue couldn't help but wonder if this Prince Ming before him was truly the same formidable general who had subdued the barbarian tribes in the south.

With his right hand resting on his collar, Prince Ming pondered for a moment, then glanced at Ouyang Jue before making another move on the chessboard. He asked, "Do you understand military strategy?"

Ouyang Jue hesitated for a moment before replying, "I do not."

"Engagement in combat?"

"Don't understand."

"Tactical maneuvers?"

"Don't understand."

"Military strategies?"

"Don't understand."

"Formation deployment?"

"Um..."

"Five elements and eight trigrams?"

"Just..."

"Espionage?"

"Prince Ming," Ouyang Jue straightforwardly replied, "No."

Xiao Qinghan couldn't bear to see this and interjected, "Brother Zhonghua, you shouldn't say it like that. Nobody is born knowing everything, right? Everyone can learn slowly."

"On the battlefield, there's no time for slow learning. Even if the prince is willing to give him the chance, would the enemy offer such an opportunity?" Ouyang Nuan lightly chuckled, casting a glance at her younger brother Ouyang Jue's flushed face. Despite her hope for him to face reality, seeing him distressed made her sigh inwardly. So, with a smile that contained seven parts amusement and three parts tenderness, she gently made her move on the board and softly asked, "If one day in the future, Jue achieves what you just mentioned, would you accept him?"

Ouyang Jue, who moments ago felt utterly embarrassed with a flushed face, now had his eyes shining brightly as he stared at Prince Ming. Prince Ming glanced at him, remained silent for a while, and finally said, "It's possible."

The smile on Ouyang Nuan's face became even more ethereal and carefree as she turned to Ouyang Jue and said, "You haven't thanked the prince yet!"

Ouyang Jue immediately got up and bowed, then happily stood up. Xiao Qinghan glanced at him and thought to himself that there are people in this world even more foolish than himself. Prince Ming had extremely high standards and strict management. Satisfying him was as difficult as reaching the heavens. Why invite trouble upon himself? Little did he know, Ouyang Nuan's gesture was not just to make Ouyang Jue commit to hard work and improvement but also to coax a promise from Prince Ming.

Given his status and position, once he made a promise to accept Ouyang Jue once he met his requirements, he wouldn't easily break it. In truth, Ouyang Nuan didn't necessarily see Prince Ming as the best choice, but since Ouyang Jue admired him so much, she had to comply with his wishes.

At that moment, a guard came to report to Xiao Qinghan that the Crown Prince was looking for him everywhere. Xiao Qinghan was taken aback. He bid farewell to Ouyang Nuan and, as he left, made sure to take a glance at Xiao Jianli, who had been staring blankly all this time. In Xiao Qinghan's mind, Xiao Jianli was a formidable rival, and he couldn't let him stay by the beauty's side and ingratiate himself.

Xiao Jianli left reluctantly, casting longing glances at Ouyang Nuan. Her profile was exquisite, her slender neck revealing a graceful curve when she lowered her head. Despite her young age, her figure seemed slightly slender, but this delicateness complemented her graceful and charming demeanor. She was as clear and beautiful as spring water, and even her attire, like the clear sky after rain, added a subtle charm to her.

After they left, Ouyang Nuan subtly glanced at Ouyang Jue and said, "Jue'er, have you not yet greeted Aunt and the others today?"

In just a moment, Ouyang Jue understood her meaning. He turned and bowed to Prince Ming, saying, "I'll take my leave first. Please forgive me, Your Highness."

Prince Ming nodded, and Ouyang Nuan watched as Ouyang Jue departed. Her brother's figure receded into the distance, but her eyes remained gentle. It was only when she regained her senses that she noticed Prince Ming looking at her. She smiled faintly, delicately picking up a chess piece with her slender fingers, so clear and refined. Prince Ming, momentarily distracted, reached out to make his move, saying coldly, "Were you plotting against me just now?" With that, he placed a white piece on the chessboard, his move aggressive.

Ouyang Nuan took a black stone chess piece from the chess box and pressed it down with a sigh, saying, "Ouyang Nuan is just a mere woman. Why does the prince bother to argue like this?"

Prince Ming took a white chess piece and replied, "You, who seek revenge at every slight, accuse me of arguing?"

Ouyang Nuan smiled. "There is an ancient saying: 'Women and villains are hard to raise.' Hasn't the prince heard of it?"

Prince Ming raised a slight smile. Since the first time he saw her in the book store, he had thought of her as clever and capable, with a world of her own hidden in her heart. But seeing her now, planning and calculating at every step, he couldn't help but notice a sense of weariness and indifference about her. He had seen many people plotting against each other, but he couldn't help but feel puzzled.

How could such a young girl have such cold eyes? It reminded him of the portrait in his father's secret chamber, a face so similar yet with a completely different personality. He had heard of the renowned beauty of the daughter of the Marquis of Zhenguo, once famous in the capital, yet she seemed to possess such a proud and aloof temperament. How could such a daughter be born? It was truly baffling.

Ouyang Nuan had a smile on her face as she pressed down the last black piece on the chessboard. What was once a closely contested match, with even a slight advantage for the white pieces, immediately turned into a complete defeat. The white pieces were routed, with no hope left.

This victory was swift and decisive. Hongyu glanced at the chessboard and then at the expression on Prince Ming's face. She couldn't help but wonder why Miss treated the Duke of Lu's heir with some restraint, allowing him some face, yet she showed no mercy to Prince Ming.

Meeting Prince Ming's ambiguous gaze, Ouyang Nuan stood up gracefully with a smile. "The prince himself said I seek revenge at every slight. Naturally, I couldn't let him win even half a point in this game. Excuse me." With that, she turned and left, with Hongyu and Changpu exchanging a glance before hurrying after her.

"Your Highness, this..." Jin Liang stood by, looking somewhat stunned and dumbfounded.

Xiao Zhonghua tapped the chessboard three times with the white piece that he hadn't had the chance to place. He sighed, "Why is it that the most beautiful ones are often the most indifferent?"

In Ouyang Nuan's world, everything seemed too distant, too ethereal, too elusive. Even if others spent their whole lives, they might not grasp a glimpse of her inner world. Her current demeanor made him wonder if her true tenderness only surfaced in the presence of Ouyang Jue.

Just as they passed by the artificial mountain, a person suddenly emerged, startling Ouyang Nuan.

"Don't be afraid, Miss! It's me, Cao Rong!" Ouyang Nuan glanced at the newcomer, feeling unfamiliar. He was young and handsome, but his eyes were too intense, and there was a hint of infatuation on his face. He was dressed in fine silk, adorned with several accessories hanging from a meticulously crafted belt—jade pendants, gemstones, and a scented sachet. He even wore a large emerald thumb ring, exuding an air of wealth.

"Don't leave, Miss! Ah... don't be afraid, I'm not a bad person!" Seeing that Ouyang Nuan didn't stop, he hurriedly stepped forward to block her path.

"Would a bad person admit to being bad?" Changpu rushed forward to shield Miss.

"This... " Cao Rong felt a bit embarrassed, Ouyang Nuan watched his face flush red. He couldn't find the words to speak for a moment.

"Changpu, don't be rude. Cao is not a bad person." Ouyang Nuan's eyes sparkled with agility, captivating Cao Rong's gaze, making it hard for him to look away.

"I... I... I..." Cao Rong stuttered for a while, unable to muster his usual slickness in dealing with women, fearing he might scare the beauty in front of him. She was different from the other women. He was at a loss.

This Cao Rong was the younger brother of the most favored concubine of the emperor. When it came to the Cao family, everyone in the capital knew them. Originally, Cao Gang was just a minor official, but he had an exceptionally beautiful daughter.

By the age of fourteen, she had blossomed into a flower. Although the palace had four noble consorts besides the empress, along with nine concubines, twenty-seven attendants, and eighty-one maids for the emperor's pleasure, this favored concubine, skilled in singing and dancing, with some political acumen, had risen above the ranks to become the emperor's recent favorite. A mere talented girl was ennobled as the Jade Concubine, and the Cao family had experienced the joy of ascending to the heavens, transforming from ordinary officials to the nation's grandeur.

As for the concubine's brother, Cao Rong, Ouyang Nuan found him somewhat familiar. In her previous life, it was he who had relentlessly pursued Ouyang Ke, causing her to seek refuge in the Su family, leading to a series of subsequent troubles. Looking at Cao Rong now, Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but feel a mixture of amusement and irony.

Unexpectedly, Cao Rong suddenly knelt down with a thud. "Miss, Cao Rong is deeply infatuated with you at first sight. I have decided that I cannot marry anyone but you in this lifetime. I implore Miss to fulfill my heartfelt wish. I swear to the heavens, if I marry you, I will never again frequent the pleasure quarters, nor will I seek dalliances elsewhere... From now on, I will be devoted to you wholeheartedly."

Although she was aware of his penchant for beauty, Ouyang Nuan was still slightly stunned. In her impression, this person was nothing more than a spoiled scion who bullied men and women alike. Who would have thought he would be like this? It was said that Cao Gang cherished his son greatly, demanding the stars and fearing to not give him the moon, which led to this audacious behavior. The upbringing in the Cao family was indeed as incredulous as the rumors circulating in the capital.

Hongyu and Changpu were even more dumbfounded. They had seen many dignitaries at today's banquet, but even the Prince of Lu's heir only dared to invite Miss for a game of chess, not daring to utter a word of admiration. Could there really be such impudence in this world, like that of Cao Rong?

A faint smile played at the corner of Ouyang Nuan's lips as she asked, "Does Master Cao find Ouyang Nuan beautiful?"

Cao Rong nodded repeatedly, saying, "Miss Ouyang is naturally beautiful, and Cao Rong admires her greatly."

Ouyang Nuan smiled again. Her smile seemed to dispel layers of clouds, revealing a clarity akin to a gentle breeze, yet with a hint of coldness. However, Cao Rong, who was so close at hand, could not perceive it at all, only showing a more infatuated expression on his face.

"If Master Cao finds me so pleasing, then wouldn't he be even more delighted to meet my sister?" Ouyang Nuan spoke softly, with a tone of sighing and lament.

"Your sister?" Cao Rong was startled, his eyes shining brightly.

"Yes, I have a sister as beautiful as a flower and as delicate as jade, even more beautiful than me, but she is a bit frail. She couldn't make it this time." The peach blossoms glowed like fire, illuminating Ouyang Nuan's eyes, adding a touch of soft beauty and charm to her lovely face.

Cao Rong stared blankly, murmuring, "Even more beautiful than you..."

"Of course. Next time, I will introduce her to you." Ouyang Nuan smiled gracefully, but no one knew the anger and frustration burning within her upon seeing Cao Rong at this moment.

"Alright, alright! Miss, please don't forget your words today. You must introduce your sister to me!" Cao Rong said with a joyful smile, eagerly reaching out to hold Ouyang Nuan's hand.

Ouyang Nuan took a small step back, when suddenly—

"I didn't expect Young Master Cao to be so passionate, couldn't wait at the banquet like this," a voice sounded from behind.

"Who dares to meddle in my affairs!" Cao Rong's words had just finished when he saw the face of the person who spoke. His face turned pale instantly. The elegantly dressed man before him was none other than Xiao Tianye.

Cao Rong, bold as he was, dared not offend the royal family, especially not the powerful Prince Qin Mansion. The Yu Fei[1] had warned him repeatedly that he could provoke anyone but not Prince Yan Mansion or Qin Mansion. However, in front of a beauty, he didn't want to show any signs of cowardice.

Caught in a dilemma here, he didn't know what to do.

Xiao Tianye smiled lightly, "Young Master Cao, last time you went to the palace to see the Yu Fei, didn't you say the same thing to Princess Rong? How did the Empress Dowager reprimand you? Said you were indulgent and behaved improperly! Ordered you to reflect on your actions for a hundred days. How come you're back to your old ways?" He glanced subtly at Ouyang Nuan, as if implying that she was the troublemaker.

Ouyang Nuan showed a faint smile on her face and turned away. As she left, Cao Rong wiped the sweat from his forehead and quickly took his leave, fearing that Xiao Tianye would change his mind and accuse him of insulting the royal family.

Ouyang Nuan quickened her pace, but it was no match for the stride of Xiao Tianye. Soon he stood in front of her. She raised her eyebrows at him. In her eyes, Cao Rong was merely a wastrel, while Xiao Tianye was downright detestable.

"What's the meaning of this, Prince Qin?" she asked.

"Tsk tsk. Someone compliments your beauty, and you want to drag your sister into it. Is this goodwill or ill will?" Xiao Tianye's lips curved in a smile, but his tone carried a hint of mockery.

"We are just strangers who happened to meet. Prince Qin, why inquire further?" she replied coolly.

At this retort, Xiao Tianye's smile remained, but his eyes darkened.

"Strangers who happened to meet?" he echoed.

"Isn't that so? I've already said it. Just pretend that we never met on the hunting grounds that day. That way, you can rest assured, and so can I."

Xiao Tianye's expression shifted slightly as he leaned in. "Ouyang Nuan, what was the purpose of your words to Cao Rong just now?"

Ouyang Nuan responded icily, "Even if I had a purpose, what does it have to do with you, Prince Qin?"

"Does it matter?" Xiao Tianye's gaze flickered, but he suddenly sighed. "I've heard that Miss Ouyang is knowledgeable and wise, beautiful and intelligent. But how would outsiders know that you're actually a cunning little fox, lurking in the shadows and waiting for your chance? I guess you intentionally provoked Cao Rong's interest in your sister. It seems that Madam Ouyang is not your birth mother, is she?"

Ouyang Nuan immediately stopped in her tracks. She looked around and saw that there was no one nearby, feeling a slight sense of relief. She turned back to look at Xiao Tianye, a faint and indifferent smile playing at the corners of her lips. She spoke softly, "Listening to Prince Qin's words, one might think that you have some special connection with my stepmother and sister. Why else would you care about them so much? I'll convey your regards to them when I return. I believe my sister will be very pleased. Perhaps she'll even visit you in person to express her gratitude."

"You—" Xiao Tianye was momentarily choked with anger. He didn't know anyone else in the Ouyang family, nor did he care. All he cared about was how to make Ouyang Nuan bow her head. Hearing her words now, he couldn't help but sneer, "Master Ouyang is a political opportunist in the court. Miss Ouyang lost her freedom with the passing of her mother, and now she has a domineering stepmother and a clever sister. Life must be difficult for you at home, isn't it?"

Ouyang Nuan asked curiously, "You're not me, so how do you know if my life is difficult? Maybe I'm enjoying it." Her voice was cheerful, her smile was enchanting. At this moment, it seemed that everything in her life was going smoothly. Glancing at Xiao Tianye's expression, her smile became even brighter as she continued, "I've heard that the prince has another half-brother. I assume your relationship must be very harmonious and loving."

Harmonious? The discord between him and Xiao Tiande was no secret in the capital. Ouyang Nuan hit the nail on the head, sarcastically implying that he was meddling in her affairs despite having troubles of his own. Xiao Tianye didn't get angry; instead, he chuckled and replied, "In that case, our situations do have some similarities."

The concubine of the Grand Prince of Qin, Lady Zhang, coveted the position of heir for her eldest son.

When the Grand Prince's consort gave birth to Xiao Tianye, she passed away due to difficult childbirth. Madam Zhang seized the opportunity to question Xiao Tianye's right to inherit the position of the heir, claiming that he had no right to it.

However, Xiao Tianye overcame numerous obstacles and managed to secure the position, displaying his resolute character. Understanding this, Ouyang Nuan deliberately pointed out this matter in front of him. Seeing his eyes flicker with uncertainty and what seemed like an infinite coldness, Ouyang Nuan showed no fear.

Instead, she coldly remarked, "Since the Prince understands this point, why bother tormenting me? Do you still hold a grudge against me for what happened in the past? If the Prince of Qin is such a narrow-minded person, how can he be worthy of wielding the great power of the Qin Mansion?"

Xiao Tianye looked coldly at Ouyang Nuan. In his father's eyes, he was the culprit who caused the death of his mother. Xiao Tianye regarded himself as nothing more than a joke in this world, and all the luxury and wealth were just a glamorous ice cellar to him.

He was like a scorpion, deriving pleasure from tormenting others and revealing their vulnerabilities. He thought that with his keen insight, he could easily see through others' thoughts and expose their weaknesses, leaving Ouyang Nuan feeling utterly defeated.

However, the situation had completely changed. The one who openly mocked him turned out to be a young girl. He sneered, "Ouyang Nuan, you truly have some nerve."

Ouyang Nuan looked innocent, "I was merely speaking the truth. The Prince had promised not to pursue the past, yet today he goes back on his word. If you know I am not a good person, then you should keep your distance from me instead of trying to provoke me. Let's each mind our own business. Wouldn't that be better for everyone?"

Xiao Tianye stared at Ouyang Nuan in silence, his heart filled with indescribable emotions. It was jealousy, pure and simple. He envied Ouyang Jue for having someone to protect him. Both of them lived in difficult circumstances, but everything Xiao Tianye touched turned dark and secretive—conspiracies and bloodshed, slowly pushing him towards madness, turning him into a creature of the night. Only

Ouyang Jue was like a bright ray of sunshine on a spring day, oblivious to all the darkness around him. He couldn't stand seeing Ouyang Jue so happy! Why should he be allowed to be happy?

A thin smile, tinged with both warmth and coldness, played at the corners of his lips. "No, because I enjoy watching others suffer, being humiliated. I want to see them wallow in self-pity and despair after losing happiness and joy. I delight in seeing families torn apart, left without parents, destined for a lifetime of misery! The closer you and Ouyang Jue become, the more comfortable your lives become. And the more it annoys me, the more it bothers me. Is that not allowed?"

This remark was sharp and ruthless, to the point of sounding disturbing to most people. However, Ouyang Nuan responded with a knowing smile. "You're mistaken, Prince Qin. Neither Jue nor I have the protection of a biological mother, nor do we possess the power of the Qin Palace, let alone your scheming and influence. We merely endure our meager existence; there's no question of prosperity. You've chosen the wrong targets."

She gestured delicately towards a distant flower garden. "Those young masters and misses there have been pampered since childhood, leading lives of unparalleled comfort. They know nothing of worldly suffering, much less true pain. If you seek trouble, perhaps you should look in their direction."

Xiao Tianye chuckled lightly. "My thoughts, they wouldn't understand, Ouyang Nuan. But you understand me, don't you?"

Ouyang Nuan took a step back, her smile now tinged with coldness. "No, while our situations may be similar, our mindsets are different. The Prince has no one to care for, but Jue is more important to me than my own life. I cannot comprehend the Prince, and the Prince cannot understand me."

Xiao Tianye stood still, his expression changing constantly. Just as he was about to speak, he heard Hongyu suddenly interrupt, "Miss, Tao Mama seems to be looking for you."

Ouyang Nuan glanced into the distance and indeed saw Tao Mama walking towards them with a smile. Upon seeing Xiao Tianye's slight pause, she smiled at Ouyang Nuan and said, "Miss Ouyang, there you are. The princess has been looking for you for a while. Please come and chat with the ladies and the princess."

Ouyang Nuan nodded. "Thank you for your trouble, Tao Mama." She turned back to Xiao Tianye, whose expression had already returned to normal, and said, "Forgive me, Prince, for leaving you."

After speaking, she followed Tao Mama and turned to leave. Xiao Tianye's sinister gaze lingered on her, making her feel as if there were thorns at her back. In the midst of such a gaze, Ouyang Nuan deeply realized that Xiao Tianye would not easily let her go from now on.

His capriciousness, cruelty, seemed to be common traits of those who grew up in loveless environments. The more lacking in love a person is, the more they enjoy bullying others, especially those who are happier than themselves. Perhaps Xiao Tianye was pursuing a kind of cruel satisfaction, but in the process of venting, he couldn't hide his own bitterness. Such a person, neither lovable nor hateable.

Ouyang Nuan sighed softly, attracting Tao Mama's gaze as she turned back to look at her. "What's wrong, Miss?"

Ouyang Nuan replied softly, "It's nothing. Tao Mama, please lead the way."

The location of the Grand Princess's banquet was in the Small Flower Hall. Along the way, the corridors were adorned with precious peonies. Upon entering the hall, the floor was paved with mirror-smooth gold bricks. Colorful decorations adorned the ceiling, while beautiful palace lamps hung elegantly.

On the right side of the Small Flower Hall stood a multicolored shelf, displaying copper enamel-inlaid jade vases, green-ground pink flower vases, cloisonné plum vases, white jade double-necked drum vases... Each vase was exquisitely carved, holding different varieties of colorful flowers, their long stems cut and immersed in water. On the left side was a sandalwood-edged ivory 500 Arhats screen, shining brightly with embedded jade and gemstones, exuding a luxurious air that was almost suffocating.

The Grand Princess sat at the head of the table, with the other ladies sitting beside her. The Marquis of Zhenguo's Mansion, the Madam Shen, Madam Jiang, the Doctor Xu of Nan'an Gong Mansion, Madam Zhou of Weibei Marquis Mansion, Madam Cui of Hanlin Mansion, and others were all present. The young ladies from each mansion sat and conversed at separate Eight Immortals tables on the other side.

Seeing Ouyang Nuan, Lin Yuanxin greeted her with a smile, "Nuan'er, I was just thinking of finding you."

Compared to Lin Yuanxin's enthusiasm, Lin Yuanrou was more reserved, offering only a faint smile.

Princess Rong also smiled and said, "We were just talking about how talented Miss Ouyang is in calligraphy and painting. It's fortunate that you've arrived."

Ouyang Nuan's face carried a humble smile as she replied, "Princess, you flatter me. I've merely learned calligraphy by observing my grandfather's practice since childhood and tried to emulate it. It's just a matter of picking up a few things from others. Compared to Your Highness, who is naturally gifted and brilliant, I am far behind."

Upon hearing this, Princess Rong's smile became even warmer.

Chen Lanxin from the Wu State Duke's Residence smiled gracefully, her features gentle and alluring. While her looks were above average, her smile added a touch of tenderness that made her particularly charming. She said, "Speaking of which, I truly admire Miss Ouyang."

Everyone looked at her with confusion, wondering why she suddenly made such a remark.

"You dared to play chess with Prince Ming. That takes real courage. You must know that ordinary young ladies would faint at the mere sight of him."

As soon as those words were uttered, the expressions of several young ladies present changed. Clearly, except for Chen Lanxin, few knew about Ouyang Nuan's chess match with Prince Ming. Ouyang Nuan subconsciously didn't want to bring it up in front of others, but Chen Lanxin seemed intent on revealing the matter to everyone. With her remark, the other girls were all surprised and bombarded Ouyang Nuan with questions about what happened and how she ended up playing chess with Prince Ming.

Princess Rong narrowed her eyes slightly and chuckled softly, "Prince Ming has never liked the delicate demeanor of young ladies and has never played chess with women."

Lin Yuanrou smirked knowingly. Everyone knew that the Empress Dowager intended to betroth Princess Rong to Prince Ming. Yet here Princess Rong was, and Ouyang Nuan dared to play chess with Prince Ming. Wasn't this asking for trouble with the princess?

With this in mind, Lin Yuanrou smiled slyly and recounted Prince Ming's illustrious deeds in detail. For example, his strong aversion to being around women and how he outright rejected any gifts from young ladies, showing no mercy in public.

The more she spoke, the more unpleasant the expressions of the young ladies present became. Several of them glared at Ouyang Nuan from head to toe, and Princess Rong's expression was inscrutable, neither smiling nor frowning.

Seeing Lin Yuanxin's displeasure, Ouyang Nuan glanced at Lin Yuanrou as if trying to stop her from continuing. However, Lin Yuanrou consciously avoided her gaze and enthusiastically continued talking with Chen Lanxin. Miss Xu Mingxi had a pair of sparkling eyes, complemented by a delicate jade nose. When she glanced sideways, it seemed as if endless spring water was rippling. She lifted her handkerchief to pat her fair chin and chuckled lightly, "Miss Ouyang is indeed outstanding. Prince Ming treats you differently."

Lin Yuanrou chimed in, "Miss Mingxi is right. Prince Ming is really good to Nuan'er. He never speaks much to women on ordinary days. I heard he doesn't even spare a glance for Princess Rong." As she finished speaking, she hastily covered her mouth, as if realizing she had said too much, and showed a slight but well-placed unease.

Listening to this, Lin Yuanxin couldn't help but furrow her brow.

Ouyang Nuan knew that Lin Yuanrou was playing tricks. They had never gotten along with each other in the Marquis Mansion, so it was inevitable that Lin Yuanrou would try to trip her up. As for the attitudes of Chen Lanxin and Xu Mingxi, they were also worth pondering. What hidden agenda could be behind all of this? But no matter what, judging by their current attitudes, it didn't seem like a good sign.

Princess Rong held a teacup but didn't drink from it. Her complexion seemed a bit hazy amidst the tea fragrance, but she gazed over through the steam with her beautiful eyes.

Surprisingly, Ouyang Nuan remained unfazed, smiling as she spoke, "I apologize for any inconvenience caused to my sisters. It was all because of my brother. He pestered the prince to let him join the army. The prince said if he could win a game, he would agree. But my brother is not good at chess, so he came to beg me to play in his place. Unfortunately, the prince left halfway through the game. Now that I've heard your stories, I understand. It turns out he just can't stand playing chess with women."

With this explanation, the tension among the people present eased somewhat.

Lin Yuanrou sneered, but Ouyang Nuan wanted to distance herself completely from the situation, as if she had nothing to do with it. How could Lin Yanrou let her get away with it? She followed up with a question, "So did the prince agree to accept my cousin?" Then, adjusting the pearl flower at her temple, she pretended to be affectionate as she said, "You're all not strangers, so there's no need to be shy."

The girls all looked at Ouyang Nuan in unison, their expressions unreadable.

Ouyang Nuan glanced at Lin Yuanrou and smiled faintly. "I have nothing to be embarrassed about," she said calmly. "My brother is too young. The prince only agreed to play with him out of respect for our grandfather. But unfortunately, I'm not skilled in chess, so I had no chance of winning. Naturally, my brother's wish couldn't be fulfilled either." She didn't believe Lin Yuanrou would dare to confront the prince directly.

For a moment, Lin Yuanrou couldn't find any words to refute.

Ouyang Nuan then turned to Chen Lanxin with a smile. "During the game, the prince mentioned that among the young ladies of the capital, Miss Lanxin is renowned for her chess skills. However, as an elder sister, you must have already moved past such interests. As a young lady who will be entering society in a couple of years, it might be less inconvenient for me to play with him, wouldn't it?"

"Did he really say that?" Chen Lanxin's eyes lit up as she blurted out, but as soon as the words left her mouth, she realized she had spoken out of turn. Her face changed, feeling the gaze of Princess Rong on her, and she couldn't help but feel nervous.

When Ouyang Nuan said these words, it had three layers of meaning. First, she deliberately elevated the other party's status. Second, she hinted at her own age, suggesting that the mature Prince Ming might choose her over the already-marriageable Princess Rong. And third, it was a jab at Chen Lanxin, who was already of marriageable age and still unmarried...

For a moment, everyone's gaze turned to Ouyang Nuan, feeling that although she was exceptionally beautiful, there was a hint of innocence in her expression at the moment, as if she were still a young girl who didn't understand jealousy. It was clear that Chen Lanxin's intention in deliberately bringing up this matter was not lost on them...

Lin Yuanrou thought about it and couldn't help but ask again, unwillingly, "Is it really like that? I also heard that you two were laughing and joking together. I thought the Prince Ming had a special fondness for you, little cousin."

Ouyang Nuan became even more surprised. "Oh? Then why did the Prince Ming leave halfway through without saying a word to me, except for mentioning Sister Chen? You must have misunderstood. Besides, the Prince Yun and the Prince Lu were both present, and they both said that Prince Ming is too serious and difficult to approach! It made me quite nervous, and I was thinking that if all of you sisters were present, the atmosphere might have been more relaxed."

"So the Prince Yun and the Prince Lu were also present?" Cui Youruo, the daughter of the Cui family, dressed in a simple pink dress, with her hair styled in a simple bun, adorned with a gold hairpin set with a dark red agate, appeared even more delicate and graceful like a willow swaying in the wind. She softly interjected, her face wearing a smile that seemed both genuine and elusive.

Lin Yuanrou was taken aback. Ouyang Nuan continued to earnestly inquire, "Yes, but besides them, there was no one else nearby. Yuanrou, who told you this?"

Lin Yuanrou hesitated for a moment before speaking, "It was... my maid, Biwang, who happened to see it."

Lin Yuanxin naturally sided with Ouyang Nuan. She looked at Lin Yuanrou with sympathetic eyes and said, "Rou'er, your maid is really confused. Even if she wanted to play a trick, she should have thought about whether it makes sense or not. Fortunately, both Prince Yun and the Prince Lu were present, otherwise, it would have been a huge misunderstanding if it spread out."

Upon hearing this, everyone chuckled silently. Lin Yuanrou looked even more confused. However, her persistence in questioning Ouyang Nuan's story puzzled everyone. No one was a fool, and everyone had their own thoughts, it was just that no one voiced them out loud.

Lin Yuanxin quietly asked Ouyang Nuan, "Did you offend that Miss Chen Lanxin? Why do I feel like her words today seem to carry ill intentions?" Ouyang Nuan smiled and replied, "I rarely leave home and have never had any grievances with anyone. How could I have provoked her? Besides, today is the first time I've met her."

According to Ouyang Nuan's personality, it was indeed unlikely for her to have enemies. Lin Yuanxin nodded and said, "Then it must be jealousy in her heart. Your performance today unavoidably attracts envious eyes. She may not be accustomed to seeing you being favored by everyone. She is the daughter of the Duke of Wu, with a reputation for talent and proficiency in calligraphy. Today, you've overshadowed her, and she's probably feeling uneasy about it. That's the only reason I can think of." This was the only possibility Lin Yuanxin could think of.

However, Ouyang Nuan didn't agree. Chen Lanxin had a reputation for talent and was from a noble family. She wouldn't openly provoke or trouble others over trivial matters. The only possibility was... the Prince. It seemed that none of the young ladies present were simple-minded. Ouyang Nuan shook her head inwardly. She didn't intend to compete for a man's favor. It seemed that this Prince Ming, like Xiao Tianye, was a troublesome figure...

As Lin Yuanrou's gaze swept over Ouyang Nuan, there was a hint of disdain and resentment in her eyes. Thinking of her constant setbacks, she couldn't help but tighten the handkerchief in her hand, her eyes flashing with a hint of malice...

•••

[1] Yu Fei 玉妃: refers to a concubine or consort in the imperial harem during ancient China, particularly during the era of imperial dynasties such as the Qing Dynasty. The term "Yu" (玉) means "jade," which symbolizes beauty and purity, while "Fei" (妃) means "concubine" or "consort." The title "Yu Fei" would typically be bestowed upon a woman who held a position as a concubine of high status in the imperial court, often chosen for her exceptional beauty, intelligence, or other desirable qualities.

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