Chapter 83 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

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

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 83:

The Prince Forced a Smile

On the early morning of the first day, the Old Madam instructed several young ladies from the mansion to gather in the Rongxi Hall. Du Mama instructed the two maids, Lu Pu and Yu Shao, to first go to Lin Yuanxin's Chunfen Pavilion and Ouyang Nuan's Dream Rain Tower. Then she allowed Su Mu and Rui Xue to go elsewhere to inform.

Having served the Old Madam for so many years, Du Mama understood her intentions very well. Lin Yuanxin was the eldest granddaughter, about to marry into the Crown Prince's residence, so her status and position were naturally different. Ouyang Nuan was the daughter of Lin Wanqing, and the Old Madam also held her in high regard. Naturally, these two had to be notified first, while the others would have to wait a bit longer.

Coincidentally, Lin Yuanxin came to Dream Rain Tower early in the morning to talk to Ouyang Nuan. Yu Shao then invited both of them over together.

Seeing them enter one after the other, the Old Madam couldn't help but smile from her eyes. "Come, I have had a few sets of spring clothes made for you sisters. See which colors you both like." She instructed Du Mama to open the box first.

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Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but smile. "Old Madam, I have already made four sets at home. Let's leave these for my sister."

The Old Madam dismissed it. "These are customized by the marquis's mansion. They are different from the clothes made by the embroidery shops outside."

Lin Yuanxin pulled Ouyang Nuan and smiled. "Old Madam's kindness, Nuan'er shouldn't refuse." She winked at her, and Ouyang Nuan nodded with a smile.

There were over a dozen sets of spring clothes in the box, including vermilion, pink, silver-white, ink purple, silver-red, goose yellow, light green, and other colors. Each one was meticulously crafted with outstanding embroidery skills, unlike the clothes made in ordinary embroidery shops. Among them, the most eye-catching were the four sets placed on top: one set of sky-blue silk with flowing cloud embroidery, one set of purple satin with colorful phoenix embroidery, one set of soft satin with delicate peony embroidery, and one set of silver-red begonia spring sleepwear with embroidery.

For a while, the room was filled with dazzling colors, extraordinarily splendid.

The Old Madam saw their surprised expressions and couldn't help but smile. "These were embroidered by an old maid from the Shangyi Bureau in the palace. You won't find this kind of craftsmanship outside! You sisters can choose first."

Lin Yuanxin liked them very much. She looked at one set and then another, almost unsure of what to pick. Finally, she turned to Ouyang Nuan and said, "Can you help me decide?"

Ouyang Nuan nodded and glanced at the four sets of clothes on the top. She smiled and said, "The set of purple satin with colorful phoenix embroidery and the set of soft satin with delicate peony embroidery. They are both splendid and elegant, reserved and noble, very suitable for cousin's temperament. In my opinion, cousin should choose these two sets."

These two sets are indeed the most outstanding. What's even more rare is that Ouyang Nuan showed no intention of claiming them for herself. The Old Madam nodded repeatedly and smiled, "That's right, these two sets match Yuanxin very well. Yuanxin, take them."

Lin Yuanxin glanced at Ouyang Nuan and said with a smile, "No. Since these two sets are the most beautiful, I can't take them all by myself. Nuan'er, which set do you like?"

Ouyang Nuan looked into Lin Yuanxin's clear eyes, which were filled with sincerity. Even though she also liked these two sets of clothes, and the Old Madam had said she could take them, Lin Yuanxin was willing to let her choose. Who wouldn't like such a person? Ouyang Nuan's eyes swept over the two sets of clothes and finally settled on another set of silver-red spring clothes. She smiled and picked it up, saying, "Cousin, I like the color of this set."

"Nuan'er, you—"

"Cousin, the color of this set suits me better." The soft silver-red tones complemented Ouyang Nuan's porcelain-like face better than the bright colors. Lin Yuanxin couldn't help but nod in agreement, saying, "Then I'll take these two sets." With that, she nodded to the maid Shanju beside her, and Shanju carefully lifted the two sets of clothes.

The Old Madam, seeing this scene, nodded to Du Mama, her face filled with satisfaction. Knowing how to sincerely give way and support each other, these two children will be able to go further in the future. Lin Yuanxin and Ouyang Nuan then each picked a few more sets of spring clothes before leaving together.

The Flower Hall

Madam Jiang was sitting and talking with Lin Yuanxin. Lin Wenyuan had already hinted to Grand Prince Qin that he intended to marry Lin Yuanxin, and the Grand Prince had agreed, mentioning that they would choose another auspicious day to request the Emperor's approval for the marriage.

With this arrangement, her daughter would soon become the Crown Prince's consort. Madam Jiang was overjoyed with the thought and naturally wanted to share this good news with Lin Yuanxin.

"Is it really settled?" Lin Yuanxin asked.

Madam Jiang nodded. "Of course. If the Grand Prince has agreed, how could it be false?"

Lin Yuanxin's face couldn't help but blush slightly. She had always felt somewhat fearful of Xiao Tianhu, but he was, after all, the Crown Prince. Moreover, he was exceptionally handsome. Since the marriage was settled, as a daughter, she couldn't say anything more.

She decided to change the subject, "Why hasn't Old Madam sent Ouyang Nuan back yet, now that she's recovered? Why does she still linger in our house?"

Madam Jiang raised her eyebrows at the words, but there was a hint of coldness in the corners of her eyes. "Can't you see it yet? Why else would Old Madam bring her in if not to find her a good match?"

"Her?" Lin Yuanxin's face showed a disdainful smile. "She has her own parents. Why should our marquisate worry about her?"

"She's your deceased Aunt's flesh and blood. How could Old Madam let the Ouyang family casually arrange her marriage? Naturally, she'll be carefully chosen for," Madam Jiang retorted.

Lin Yuanxin looked full of scorn. "Just the daughter of a Ministry of Personnel official. Does she still want to climb higher?" Madam Jiang sipped her tea, unimpressed. "If she were only average in looks and talent, she would naturally have to marry into a proper official family. But now, she and Princess Rong are hailed as the twin jewels of the capital, and she has caught the eye of the Grand Princess. If the princess is willing to choose a husband for her in the future, it will be quite different!"

Lin Yuanxin seemed to recall something, her brows furrowing slightly before relaxing again, as she smiled and whispered in her mother's ear, "Isn't Second Aunt planning to marry her into the Su family?" Madam Jiang scoffed, "That woman is confused. Are you confused too? As long as Old Madam of Rongxi Hall is alive, how could she ever let her marry a mere merchant?"

Lin Yuanxin's eyes lit up with a new idea. "A mere merchant won't do. There are plenty of fallen nobles and idle heirs in the capital!" She paused for a moment before continuing, "She's living in our mansion now... Perhaps..."

Before she could finish her thought, Madam Jiang understood her implication and immediately interjected, "Don't you go meddling in this matter. If it doesn't work out, you'll only end up in trouble."

"Hmph, do you expect me to just let her marry off in grandeur, after all the trouble she's caused me?" Lin Yuanxin's expression darkened.

Seeing her dissatisfaction, Madam Jiang chuckled and patted her hand. "I'm her aunt. Originally, I didn't need to bother with her, but now it seems she's quite cunning. Instead of nurturing a tiger, it's better to turn her and her brother into assets for our main branch. But... you must wait. Let me think carefully about what to do!" In reality, given how far Ouyang Nuan had pushed Lin Wanru, Lin Wenyuan would not easily let this matter rest. This was merely a strategic move. Madam Jiang believed that before long, Ouyang Nuan would taste bitterness!

Lin Yuanxin was about to say something more, but Madam Jiang gave her a faint smile, tapping her forehead gently, and scolded, "Stop worrying about these matters. Your mother will handle everything for you. Didn't she mock you before? One day, when you become the queen, I'll have her bow and apologize to you!"

Lin Yuanxin's eyes lit up. She loathed Ouyang Nuan's arrogant demeanor. When the day came for her to become a noble, she would see how insolent Ouyang Nuan could be!

Just as she was thinking this, a maid outside announced their presence. Following her, another maid named Su Mu entered, saying that the Old Madam wanted to invite Miss Lin Yuanxin to choose some spring garments.

Lin Yuanxin furrowed her brows. "Didn't we already do this at the beginning of spring?"

Madam Jiang understood the Old Madam's intentions. She was both enhancing Lin Yuanxin's appearance and providing clothing for Ouyang Nuan. There was profound meaning behind this. She then patted Lin Yuanxin's hand and said, "Go quickly."

Lin Yuanxin glanced suspiciously at Madam Jiang, suddenly understanding the key point. Her expression darkened involuntarily.

Within the time it takes to brew a cup of tea, Ouyang Nuan and Lin Yuanxin had just arrived in the garden when they saw Lin Yuanxin hastily approaching with her maid.

When Lin Yuanxin saw them, a sneer played at the corner of her lips, and a hint of sarcasm glinted in her eyes. "Where are you two coming from?" she asked.

Lin Yuanxin glanced at her and smiled faintly. "The Old Madam asked us to choose some spring garments. We just came out."

Lin Yuanxin's gaze immediately fell on the maid, Shan Ju, beside them. Her eyes were sharp, and when she saw the colorful spring garments on the tray, they lit up. She no longer cared to exchange more words with them and hurriedly led her maid towards the Rongxi Hall.

Lin Yuanxin watched her retreating figure, furrowing her brow. "Why didn't she taunt us a bit more today?" she wondered aloud.

Ouyang Nuan's gaze was as clear as autumn water, revealing no hidden intentions. She smiled and said, "If she's not causing trouble for us, isn't that better? Sister Xin, I have a gift for you. Come with me to the Dream Rain Pavilion." Lin Yuanxin naturally had no objections and instructed Shan Ju to send the spring garments back before following Ouyang Nuan.

Inside the Rongxi Hall, Lin Yuanruo walked in happily, but the Old Madam had already retired for rest, leaving only Du Mama present. Seeing the clothes in the box, Lin Yuanruo's face lit up with joy. Without saying a word, she reached out to pick through the contents of the box herself, her expression a rare display of happiness.

For the time it takes to brew two cups of tea, she rummaged through the box, intent on selecting the most beautiful garments. After a while, she suddenly remembered, "What about the Third Miss and the others?"

She was referring to the three misses from the third branch.

Du Mama replied, "Third Madam took the young misses out. They won't be back for a while. The Old Madam instructed the young misses to choose first."

Those from the third branch naturally weren't worthy of selecting before her. Lin Yuanruo nodded with a smile, "Fourth and Fifth sisters are still young. I don't think these clothes suit them. Give me theirs too." With that, she indeed picked out four more sets of spring garments. Madam Du watched with a faint cold smile but didn't speak up to stop her.

After leaving the Rongxi Hall, she asked the maid beside her, "How do these clothes I picked look?" The maid, Xiangxiu, smiled and replied, "Miss has natural beauty, so anything she wears looks beautiful." Lin Yuanruo nodded. Another maid, Chunlan, curled her lips and said, "Miss, these are all the leftovers—"

Xiangxiu shot her a glare, but Chunlan continued, unapologetically, "It's true! I asked around just now. The most beautiful sets were taken by Second Miss and Miss Ouyang. What's left is what nobody else wanted, so they're being given to our Miss!"

Lin Yuanruo's petite face turned a shade of livid gray with anger. She reached out to grab the garments and glared fiercely at Xiangxiu. "Let's go!" Xiangxiu was startled. "Miss, where are we going?"

"To the Dream Rain Pavilion!"

At that moment, Ouyang Nuan and Lin Yuanxin were sitting in the small flower hall of the Dream Rain Pavilion, chatting.

"Nuan'er, what gift did you mention?" Lin Yuanxin held a plain white round fan in her hand, with a faint green tassel cascading down from the ivory handle, adding a layer of charm to her whole person.

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly and instructed Hongyu to bring out the gift from the inner room. When Lin Yuanxin lifted the thin veil covering the plate and saw what was inside, her eyes immediately lit up.

On the plate were a pair of embroidered shoes. The toe of the shoes was woven with red feathers, slightly curled upwards. The front and back heels were adorned with golden leaves and decorated with cloud patterns and precious gems, while the shoe body was embroidered with gold and silver threads. They gleamed like clouds at sunset, radiant with a dazzling array of colors.

"Wow, they're so beautiful!" Lin Yuanxin held the embroidered shoes in her hands, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "These embroidered shoes are truly stunning! Nuan'er, you're so skilled with your hands!"

"Last time, cousin, you mentioned that you liked the embroidered shoes I wore. So these past few days, I hurried to make them for you. Cousin, take a look and see if you like them?"

"I love them, of course! They're much better than the ones I made myself!" Lin Yuanxin's dark eyes shimmered with delight. Which girl wouldn't like delicate things? She was also skilled in embroidery herself, so she could tell that the embroidery on these shoes was exquisite. Her smile grew even brighter.

Just then, the two heard a clear voice from outside the curtain. "Nuan'er, you're so biased. You always think of Xin'er when there are nice things. Why can't you remember me?"

Lin Yuanrou walked in with a smile, though there was a hint of mockery in the corners of her eyes and eyebrows. Lixiang hurriedly followed behind, looking flustered. "Miss, I couldn't stop her."

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "It's alright. Rou'er cousin can come anytime she wants. You can leave now." Lin Yuanxin frowned, about to speak, but Ouyang Nuan gently shook her head.

Lin Yuanrou walked over, noticing the embroidered shoes in Lin Yuanxin's hands. She chuckled, "What's all the fuss about? Just a pair of shoes." Mid-sentence, she swiftly snatched them from Lin Yuanxin's hands. "But they are quite exquisite." With that, she took off her own shoes and put on the new ones. "Oh, they fit perfectly, as if they were made just for me!" Lin Yuanrou and Lin Yuanxin were of similar age and foot size, so the shoes fit her perfectly.

"You—" Lin Yuanxin couldn't bear her domineering attitude, feeling uncomfortable inside. The smile on her face faded slightly. "These were made for me by Nuan'er herself."

She emphasized the phrase "made for me," hoping Lin Yuanrou would understand. However, Lin Yuanrou acted as if she hadn't heard, not only putting on both shoes but also taking a few steps around the room. "They are indeed beautiful. Nuan'er truly has the talent of an embroiderer. If you ask me, if you weren't born into the Marquis's household, you could make a living as an embroiderer!"

Lin Yuanxin's expression grew increasingly grim. She hadn't expected someone as shameless as Lin Yuanrou in the world. Not only did she fail to understand the implications, but she also insisted on wearing shoes made by someone else and even made sarcastic comments. It was truly outrageous.

Ouyang Nuan, however, maintained a poised smile, as if she had no objections whatsoever.

Lin Yuanrou wore a smile on her face and turned back, saying, "Then I'll take these shoes for now. Nuan, you can make another pair for Yuanxin."

Lin Yuanxin's face immediately darkened, and she stepped forward, blocking Lin Yuanrou's path with a cold expression. She said, "In theory, if Sister likes them, I don't mind giving them to you. However, these shoes were intended as a gift from Nuan to me. It wouldn't be appropriate for me to give them to you casually. Please return them to me immediately!"

Lin Yuanrou's face flashed with annoyance, and she sneered, "I want what belongs to Nuan. Since she hasn't spoken, what right do you have to intervene? Why should everything be given to you first? Yuanxin, you're being too domineering!"

Lin Yuanxin looked to Ouyang Nuan, but Ouyang Nuan remained unruffled, simply smiling. "Nuan, why do you always let her have her way?" Lin Yuanxin turned back, irritated. Lin Yuanrou had been bullying her all along, and now she wanted to snatch away even the gift Ouyang Nuan had intended for her. It was simply unreasonable!

Ouyang Nuan slowly spoke up, "Sister Ruo, I've also made a pair of shoes for you. Hongyu, please bring that pair over for Sister to try on."

Hongyu nodded, "Yes."

This caught not only Lin Yuanxin off guard, but even Lin Yuanrou showed surprise on her face.

"Sister Ruo, please take off your shoes first," Ouyang Nuan smiled, "This pair is made for Sister Xin, and there's a small character 'Xin' on the top of the left shoe. It wouldn't fit you properly!"

Lin Yuanrou's smile froze for a moment, feeling a bit embarrassed, she reluctantly took off her shoes. She wasn't particularly fond of this pair anyway, but she couldn't stand how Ouyang Nuan, an outsider, seemed to win everyone's favor more than her.

When Hongyu brought out the new shoes, Lin Yuanrou's face was filled with astonishment. This pair of shoes was almost identical to Lin Yuanxin's, except for a shiny pearl embedded at the tip of the shoe and jade coins adorned on the heel. It was even more dazzling than the previous pair. She had never seen such meticulously crafted shoes before.

Ouyang Nuan smiled, "During my stay in the Marquis Mansion, both of you have been very kind to me. The Marquis Mansion has all kinds of treasures, and anything I gift from there wouldn't be valued. That's why I decided to make two pairs of embroidered shoes as a token of my gratitude. It's a small gift, but with heartfelt intentions. I hope both of you don't mind."

Lin Yuanrou was momentarily stunned. She thought to herself that using such things to win favor was futile. However, she simply replied, "Thank you then." Afterward, she smiled faintly, walked up, and whispered softly in Ouyang Nuan's ear, "Do you think you can buy my favor with these little favors? Just because you've temporarily won the favor of the Marquis doesn't mean you can climb over my head. Don't delude yourself!"

Ouyang Nuan looked at her with a smile, as if she hadn't heard a word.

Lin Yuanrou looked into Ouyang Nuan's eyes and smiled brightly. "Little sister, you are indeed thoughtful."

With that, she left with her maidservant, feeling quite pleased with herself.

Lin Yuanxin watched her depart with a muttered, "This is just outrageous!" She looked at Ouyang Nuan and said softly, "Nuan'er, you really... She's been giving you a hard time these past two months. Why did you make these shoes for her? You're too easy to be bullied!"

Ouyang Nuan responded with a smile, "Cousin, it's just a pair of shoes. It's not worth anything. Why bother caring so much?"

Thinking Ouyang Nuan was timid and afraid of trouble, Lin Yuanxin shook her head, saying, "If she bullies me, I can take it, but I won't let her bully you. If she dares to mock you again, tell me, and I'll help you vent your anger!"

Ouyang Nuan held Lin Yuanxin's hand, feeling touched, "Cousin, your concern means a lot to me. Rest assured, I won't allow anyone to bully you. Of course, I won't allow anyone to bully me either."

The melancholy on Lin Yuanxin's face slowly faded away. She unconsciously tightened her grip on Ouyang Nuan's hand. "Nuan'er," her voice trembled slightly, "Mother told me that once I enter the Prince's residence, I can't trust anyone. Others will only envy and plot against me. But I know, Nuan'er, you'll always stand by my side, won't you?"

Even the most hardened heart would be moved by Lin Yuanxin's trust. Ouyang Nuan's heart warmed up, "Cousin Yuanxin, Nuan'er will always be there for you."

"I trust you," Lin Yuanxin's voice carried a hint of vulnerability. "Between us, it's not just about the bond of growing up together; it's also about being sisters who watch out for each other. But I'm still afraid. I'm so afraid. I know I'm soft-hearted and impulsive. In a place like the Prince's residence, I... I'm sure to cause trouble..."

"Cousin Yuanxin... Some things are hard to predict and may not be avoidable, but Nuan'er hopes you understand that whether you gain the favor of the Crown Prince in the future or not, you are still a miss of the Marquis Mansion, the daughter of the Grand Madam, the younger sister of Cousin, and also my most respected and beloved cousin. This will never change. With us as your backup, you have nothing to fear."

Lin Yuanxin gazed at her quietly, tears welling up in her eyes. "Nuan'er, I understand. For the sake of your words, even if I can't earn favor, I will fight to secure a foothold, without implicating my family..."

Lin Yuanxin stayed at Dream Rain Pavilion until she finished her meal before returning.

Only after she left did Ouyang Nuan return to the inner room. Xiao Tianye lay weakly on the soft couch nearby. When he saw Ouyang Nuan enter, he sneered, "You let me stay in your chamber like this. Aren't you afraid of tarnishing your reputation if someone else sees?"

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, "If others see you, they'll just think you're a lost soul who accidentally wandered into the young lady's pavilion. It would be a light punishment even if you were publicly beaten. Would the Prince like to give it a try?"

Xiao Tianye stared at her coldly, "What exactly do you want?"

Ouyang Nuan paused for a moment, then mumbled to herself. Xiao Tianye only caught a few words and raised his eyebrows, asking sharply, "What did you say?"

Ouyang Nuan turned her head slightly, curled her lips into a smile, and replied brightly, "Nothing."

The sunlight painted her snow-white face with a rosy hue, while the peony blossoms in her jet-black hair bloomed vividly like flames. Her eyes carried a hint of amusement as she gazed straight at him. Despite harboring resentment in his heart, seeing this scene before him, Xiao Tianye couldn't help but feel a slight stir within. Yet, he maintained his composure with an icy demeanor.

"Miss, the jewelry and garments are all prepared," the curtain was lifted, accompanied by the crisp voice of Cangpu. Xiao Tianye glanced at the array of women's clothing before him, his lips twitched slightly. "Ouyang Nuan, are you planning to undress in front of me?"

Ouyang Nuan'er chuckled softly in response. "No, I'm asking Your Highness to undress in front of me." Changpu approached a few steps closer. Xiao Tianye's eyelids twitched as he caught sight of the cyan jewels and moon-white dress on display, his expression changing instantly. "What are you planning?"

Ouyang Nuan's lips curved into a beautiful arc as she repeatedly admired Xiao Tianye's smooth and jade-like face, his exceedingly handsome appearance. Her smile carried a hint of teasing. "Of course, I'm here to help you with grooming and dressing up, Your Highness."

Xiao Tianye could hardly believe his ears, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and frustration. "You want me to wear women's clothing?"

His cheeks flushed, either from embarrassment or anger, accentuating his fair complexion like white jade. Ouyang Nuan'er flashed a smile, leaned forward, and locked eyes with Xiao Tianye. "Your Highness, please bear with me. Changpu, proceed!"

"What are you doing?! Don't touch me!"

Changpu swiftly changed Xiao Tianye into a set of maid's clothing, removed his hairpin, and let down his glossy black hair, then styled it into a feminine hair bun, leaving Xiao Tianye furious. Through gritted teeth, he demanded, "Ouyang Nuan, stop her at once!"

Ouyang Nuan chuckled, then shook her head slightly. "I never imagined that His Highness would have such charm even when dressed as a woman."

Xiao Tianye, a man of extreme pride, blushed deeply, feeling a burning sensation engulfing him. A mix of shame and something else surged within him, though he couldn't quite identify the latter. At first, he lowered his head, unwilling to let Ouyang Nuan see him in women's attire. But then, he lifted his head defiantly, his words sounding like a plea yet carrying a hint of threat. "Ouyang Nuan, I admit my mistake. Please... please spare me."

Ouyang Nuan chuckled lightly but extended her hands, using the tips of her index fingers to pull his cheeks to the sides. "Don't be angry, Your Highness. When you were attempting to kill my brother, did you ever think of showing mercy? When you pointed your sword at me, did you show any mercy?"

As her fingertips touched Xiao Tianye's skin, his heart seemed to contract sharply, as if scalded. A warm current surged from his chest, spreading through his entire body in convulsive waves. His blood vessels expanded suddenly, and his heart began to beat violently. His face flushed, and he stuttered, "You... You..." But he couldn't seem to form any coherent words.

Ouyang Nuan chuckled as she released her grip, "Your Highness, you seem to be quite agitated. I advise you to calm down." With that, she turned and walked away, casually instructing Changpu, "Let me know when you're done dressing him."

"Yes!" Changpu replied confidently.

After Changpu forcibly changed Xiao Tianye's clothes, Ouyang Nuan returned from outside. She furrowed her brows when she saw Xiao Tianye before her. "It seems like the sleeves are a bit short."

Changpu happily responded, "Miss, I'll cut a piece from another dress and sew it on later."

Ouyang Nuan nodded and glanced at Xiao Tianye's face, which was flushed with anger. She sighed, "Why do I feel like something is still missing?"

Just as Hongyu, who was waiting outside, entered, she was nearly sweating bullets under Xiao Tianye's murderous gaze. However, Changpu, being thick-skinned, didn't seem to notice. After some thought, she earnestly said, "Miss, he hasn't put on makeup yet!"

Ouyang Nuan smiled approvingly, nodding at Changpu. "Changpu, you're becoming more and more capable." Then, she turned to Hongyu and said with a smile, "Hongyu, go fetch the makeup box and apply makeup for His Highness."

"Miss, I... I dare not..." Hongyu trembled, her voice quivering. There was a hint of sarcasm in Xiao Tianye's eyes.

Ouyang Nuan said, "In that case, Changpu, you go." Changpu nodded confidently, rolling up her sleeves and opening the makeup box. After a while, she turned back with a hesitant expression on her face. "Miss, Changpu doesn't know how to apply makeup! Normally, Hongyu and Lixiang are in charge of makeup. Lixiang is currently outside the courtyard, so only Changpu and Hongyu are in the room." Ouyang Nuan thought for a moment and said, "Then I'll do it myself."

A glint of light flashed in Xiao Tianye's eyes, like a shooting star across the sky, disappearing in an instant. He paused, then sighed with a bitter smile. "What are you...?"

The smile on Ouyang Nuan's face became even warmer as she said, "What's wrong? Does His Highness not trust Nuan'er?" Xiao Tianye hesitated, unable to speak.

Ouyang Nuan personally applied makeup for Xiao Tianye. Despite Xiao Tianye's complaints and curses, directed almost at Ouyang's ancestors, Ouyang Nuan remained silent, smiling and focused as she worked on his face.

After finishing drawing the eyebrows, Ouyang Nuan nodded in satisfaction and whispered, "In ancient times, there was a type of Lüzhi Dye from the country of Xiangze. Each bead was worth ten gold, and it was said that eyebrows drawn with it were exceptionally beautiful. But His Highness doesn't need such expensive ink; with just a light stroke like this, his eyebrows are already as majestic as distant mountains. Don't you agree, Hongyu?"

Hongyu's legs trembled slightly, unable to utter a word. She thought to herself, "Miss, oh, Miss. This isn't dealing with Second Miss. The person in front of us is the Prince of Qin, who doesn't hesitate to kill. How could you tease him like this?"

Ouyang Nuan finished drawing his eyebrows, applied rouge, and then dabbed a bit on his lips. Xiao Tianye's face turned almost as red as blood. "You, a young lady from a noble family, are actually so disrespectful!"

Ouyang Nuan's face showed a puzzled expression. It took her a while to realize that Xiao Tianye was implying she was casually touching a man's body. She couldn't help but smile and instructed Changpu to hand her a bronze mirror. Pointing to the beauty reflected in the mirror, she said, "Do you call someone like this a man?"

Xiao Tianye, naturally fair and handsome, always seemed to carry a faint melancholy between his brows. There was a misty light in his eyes, and his demeanor carried a kind of icy coldness that kept people at a distance. Truly ethereal and elegant, it was difficult to put into words. While he didn't feel anything unusual when wearing men's clothing, now that he was dressed as a woman, he appeared as a stunning beauty, ignoring the coldness in his eyes.

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly and said, "Compared to His Highness, what is Ouyang Nuan? What is Princess Rong? If His Highness were to walk down the street dressed like this, I wonder how many people would be captivated."

Xiao Tianye looked at himself in the mirror, his eyes almost dripping blood with anger. However, considering his current physical condition, he dared not erupt in anger. He could only take deep breaths, fearing that he might lose control and harm Ouyang Nuan.

Ouyang Nuan clapped her hands and said, "Almost done."

"What do you mean by dressing me up like this? What exactly do you want?" Xiao Tianye almost had to grit his teeth to utter each word.

Ouyang Nuan's smile was very gentle. "His Highness looks so beautiful in this attire, of course, we must take a stroll on the streets. It's almost noon," Ouyang Nuan said as she left the Marquis's residence with her maid under the pretext of buying ink and paper.

The old mama at the gate was puzzled. "I haven't seen Lixiang for a few days. How did this girl suddenly become so tall? What's going on?"

"Yeah, how did she become so sturdy? A young girl like her eating so much and getting fat, she might end up being unable to marry!"

Inside the carriage, Xiao Tianye looked at Ouyang Nuan with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Aren't you afraid I'll run away?" Ouyang Nuan ignored him and only asked Hongyu, "Are the clothes ready?"

Hongyu nodded, her face almost pale with fear, but she still stiffly brought out a bundle.

Ouyang Nuan looked at Xiao Tianye and said, "These clothes are too unworthy of you, Your Highness. I have already prepared a set of embroidered clothes that match your status. Please change into them."

Xiao Tianye glared at Changpu with eyes that seemed to want to devour her. Changpu, with a smile on her face, came up to help him change into the new clothes, which were a dazzling and eye-catching spring attire. But he frowned and said, "Ouyang Nuan, what trick are you playing?"

Ouyang Nuan chuckled, "The Prince's head is still lacking a bit of brilliance." With that, she took out a jade hairpin from the bundle and placed it on Xiao Tianye's head, examining him with satisfaction. "Now you look like a proper young lady."

Xiao Tianye snorted coldly and turned away.

Changpu, undaunted, whispered to Hongyu, "Is he shy?"

Hongyu could only respond with a hesitant, "Maybe..."

The carriage made its way to the Eastern Market, surrounded by residences of officials and nobles. The streets were lined with countless shops such as taverns, fabric stores, jewelry shops, and antique stores. Pedestrians filled the streets, and the air was filled with the sound of music, laughter, and the calls of vendors, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere.

Xiao Tianye sneered coldly. "If I were to shout loudly here, you'd be in trouble."

Ouyang Nuan nodded earnestly. "Does the Your Highness want everyone to know that you're dressed as a woman and strolling the streets? Even if you don't care about your reputation, the Grand Prince might not appreciate it."

Xiao Tianye's gaze became even more menacing, but Ouyang Nuan paid no attention. She asked Hongyu in a low voice, "Have you gathered all the information?"

"Indeed, Miss. He is here drinking and enjoying himself every day."

"Who is 'he'?" Xiao Tianye furrowed his brow, increasingly unable to understand what Ouyang Nuan was up to. Soon enough, Xiao Tianye understood, but by the time he did, it was too late.

Ouyang Nuan, veiled all the way, led him to the most luxurious tavern in the area.

As they walked through the lobby, they attracted countless gazes. However, with her face veiled, her true appearance remained hidden, sparking even more curiosity.

At a table where young dandies were reveling in food and drink, a girl playing the lute looked up, curious as she stared at Ouyang Nuan. Coincidentally, Ouyang Nuan turned her head and nodded gently in return.

Hongyu was greatly alarmed: "Oh, Miss, how could you greet such a lowly person!"

Ouyang Nuan's smile deepened as she lifted her skirts and ascended the stairs. Xiao Tianye felt utterly drained, almost being carried up by Changpu's strength alone.

The girls downstairs initially thought Ouyang Nuan, dressed in her luxurious attire, was just a wealthy girl out for a stroll, so they decided to tease her a bit. However, when she nodded at them without a hint of disdain, they were surprised and raised their eyebrows. Turning back to the men at the table, one of the girls chuckled, "There's a beautiful girl upstairs. I wonder what she really looks like."

Upon hearing this, the men drinking at the table all looked up, especially a young man dressed in chestnut-colored finery, who immediately glanced upstairs. Seeing two elegantly dressed young women, accompanied by maids, entering a private room, he quickly grabbed the singing girl and asked, "Is she beautiful?"

The girl just smiled at the man and replied, "Master Cao, why ask me? Just go up and see for yourself." Cao Rong laughed, "Do you think I'm afraid to go?"

The girl just smiled and gracefully gestured, "Please."

Cao Rong, fueled by a few drinks, got up unsteadily and declared, "Of course, I'll go! Is there any beauty in the capital that I wouldn't dare to see?" With that, he staggered his way upstairs.

Upon reaching the door of the private room, he straightened his clothes and then knocked. "Miss inside, Cao Rong requests an audience."

A voice from inside responded, and a well-groomed maid came to open the door, her smile warm and welcoming. "Master Cao, please come in. My mistress said you would definitely come!"

What! He wasn't being turned away? Cao Rong was momentarily stunned, unsure how to react to such politeness. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, he hesitated to enter. Changpu looked at him and smiled, "What's wrong, Master Cao? Are you afraid to come in?"

But he quickly composed himself and, with a flick of his robe, strode confidently into the room.

Those downstairs who had been waiting to see him embarrassed all widened their eyes in disbelief, unable to comprehend what they were witnessing.

Cao Rong walked in and was momentarily stunned when he saw Ouyang Nuan behind the pearl curtain. A look of pleasant surprise immediately spread across his face. "Miss Ouyang!"

While other young ladies often went out to buy rouge and jewelry, Ouyang Nuan rarely left home, much to his regret. How could he not be surprised and delighted to suddenly run into her like this?

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "Master Cao, please have a seat."

This only added to Cao Rong's joy. Hongyu immediately brought over a stool for him to sit on. Ouyang Nuan gestured towards the person beside her. "This is..."

"Ah! Could this be your renowned sister?" Cao Rong's eyes widened in amazement. He had thought Princess Rong and Ouyang Nuan were already rare beauties, but the lady sitting beside her was even more stunning, exuding a captivating charm. She truly deserved the title of a great beauty!

Seeing his reaction, Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but find it amusing. Despite her inner amusement, she maintained a serious expression. "No, my sister is in poor health and never leaves home. This is my cousin, Miss Lin Yuanrou, the daughter of the Minister of War."

Cao Rong was momentarily taken aback and said, "I've seen her from afar before, but I never realized she was so stunning up close..."

Ouyang Nuan thought to herself that Lin Yuanrou was proud and wouldn't let someone like Cao Rong get close to her easily. Otherwise, she wouldn't have chosen him.

Cao Rong's gaze remained fixed on Xiao Tianye. Xiao Tianye wanted nothing more than to gouge out this guy's eyes, but he couldn't speak out because Ouyang Nuan had already threatened him. If he spoke out, he would expose his cross-dressing on the spot. "If it's known that Prince Qin dresses like this, he'll be the laughingstock of the world!

For this reason, Xiao Tianye had to endure, even if his anger was about to consume him. Moreover, he always felt that Ouyang Nuan was not the kind of woman who would casually mock others; her every move must have a purpose!

While he was seething with anger, Cao Rong was overjoyed. "Miss Ouyang, why isn't Miss Lin speaking?"

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly. "My cousin has caught a cold recently, so she can't speak. Isn't that right, cousin?" She turned to Xiao Tianye, the light in her eyes almost blinding him. Reluctantly, Xiao Tianye nodded.

Cao Rong absentmindedly continued talking to Ouyang Nuan, but no matter what he said, he kept glancing at Xiao Tianye.

It was understandable, really. Xiao Tianye was originally a remarkably handsome man, and now, dressed as a woman, he was not only tall and statuesque but also breathtakingly beautiful, captivating souls.

Unbeknownst to himself, Cao Rong found himself staring at Xiao Tianye in a daze.

•••

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