Chapter 98 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

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

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 98:

The wind ruffles the surface of the spring water, creating ripples that dance gracefully across its tranquil expanse.[1]

At the Rongxi Hall in the Marquis of Zhenguo's residence:

After finishing a bowl of lotus seed soup, the old lady asked, "Have things been peaceful in the mansion these past two days?"

Du Mama quickly bowed and replied, "Reporting to the Old Madam, everything is fine on the marquis's side, but as for the second master's side, as you know, ever since Young Master Cao Tong encountered that incident, he has been feeling uneasy, which is why he has let go of a few servants..."

The Old Madam sneered, "That's just his temperament. He won't let go of his resentment easily. Hmph. That Cao Rong kid brought it upon himself. Getting just a few dozen lashes was lenient!"

Just then, there came a rustling sound from outside. Du Mama hurried out, leaving the old lady frowning. After a while, Du Mama returned with a letter in hand, her expression less relaxed than before. The old madam took the letter and her expression changed instantly. With a cold laugh, she remarked, "That old man from the Ouyang family is scheming well, wanting to marry off my granddaughter!"

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Du Mama cautiously replied, "Old Madam, Miss Nuan just sent word that it was Madam Zhou from the Dingyuan Marquis's residence who acted as the matchmaker. Old Madam, you've always had a good relationship with her. Why didn't she inform you about this beforehand?"

The old madam closed her eyes slightly, sighed, and said, "Although we have a good relationship, we each have our own positions and schemes. If everything were done openly and honestly, no one could blame her. But what she did this time was really underhanded."

Du Mama looked at Old Madam's expression and couldn't help but offer some reassurance, "Miss Nuan is about to reach marriageable age, and she's exceptionally beautiful. It's hard to imagine others not having their eyes on her. I heard that in the past half year, whenever you sent out an invitation card, so did Old Madam Ouyang from the Ouyang family. The bottom of her incense burner in her room was filled with layers upon layers of invitation cards, but no matter who asked, she never relented. I always thought she had other plans, but why is she suddenly agreeing now?"

Old Madam suddenly opened her eyes and said coldly, "That's the strange part! In her letter, Nuan'er also asked me to test the waters. We can't delay any longer. Du Mama, take my invitation card and go invite the most renowned fortune teller in the capital. Be discreet; I have urgent matters to discuss."

"Yes," Du Mama replied briskly, then hurried off.

The news reached the residence of the Duke of Wu, and three days later, they sent someone to conduct the betrothal ceremony. According to the customs of the Dali Dynasty, after the betrothal ceremony, both sides of the marriage would invite a fortune teller to check the compatibility of the couple's astrological signs and determine if there were any other unfavorable factors in the marriage. However, this was just a formality, and unexpected incidents were rare.

The Ouyang family invited the most renowned fortune teller in the capital, known for his exceptional accuracy in predictions. It was said that it was an honor for wealthy and noble families to have him conduct their readings, as his divinations were believed to be remarkably accurate.

The fortune teller entered carrying a small bronze gong, and after being offered a cup of tea by Zhang Mama, he took a sip and smiled, "Old Madam, feel free to ask me anything, whether it's about fate or marriage. I can divine it all. But I must warn you, I do not flatter. If there are any issues, I will speak frankly, so please do not be offended."

Old Madam Li smiled and said, "That's good to hear." Then she turned to Li Yiniang and said with a smile, "You should also have your fortune read." Li Yiniang chuckled and reported her birthdate, after which the fortune teller calculated and spoke auspicious words about longevity and prosperity. Li Yiniang then reported her husband's information, and the fortune teller remarked that it indicated a prosperous marriage and offspring.

Old Madam Li couldn't stop smiling and expressed her gratitude, "Sir, today we are not here for our own fortunes, but for my granddaughter's marriage." She glanced at Yumei, who promptly brought over a small tray with a red lacquered wooden plate containing the birth information of Chen Jingrui and Ouyang Nuan.

Although Old Madam Li had already decided to marry Ouyang Nuan off, she still hoped for Chen Jingrui's bright future. Hastily, she asked, "Sir, what do you foresee for his future?"

The fortune teller carefully calculated the birth information and then cleared his throat before speaking, "Hmm, this destiny is quite excellent. With the combination of metal and water elements, there's mutual generation and harmony. Born into wealth and nobility, he will be the eldest son and heir, supported by literary talents, and destined for high-ranking positions and wealth. My divine calculations predict that he will become a high-ranking minister in the imperial court, with boundless prospects!"

Old Madam Li nodded and praised, "Sir, you are truly remarkable to discern his noble birth from just a glance!"

Li Yiniang observed the fortune teller's furrowed brow and couldn't help but ask, "Sir, do you have something else to say?"

The fortune teller sighed and said, "Ah, while his destiny is auspicious, his fate palace indicates a rigid personality. Regardless of the family he marries into, he is fated to have at least three wives."

The fortune teller's words were not yet finished, and Old Madam Li's face turned pale. She said, "Sir, please take a closer look. How could you say such a thing?"

The fortune teller responded coldly, "Old Madam, I speak directly according to the destiny. If this young man marries, mark my words, within a year and a half, the new bride is unlikely to survive. Remember what I've said. If a single word of mine proves untrue, you can come and cut off my tongue!"

Old Madam Li was enraged, her face turning livid. Even the maidservants and servants nearby were stunned, but they dared not gossip openly in front of their mistress, only exchanging furtive glances. They realized that this marriage might not come to pass.

Li Yiniang was astonished and asked, "Sir, how can you say such a thing? How can a perfectly healthy bride not survive more than a year and a half? Your words must be clear and precise!"

The fortune teller looked uneasy and said, "This is just the beginning. If this young lady's destiny is even lighter, she might not even make it to the wedding day."

Old Madam Li was taken aback, immediately recalling the tragedy of Chen Jingrui's previous fiancee who passed away at a young age. Her face darkened with concern, and she hastily gave some money to the fortune teller to send him away.

For a long while, the main hall of Shou'an Hall was filled with silence.

Li Yiniang carefully observed the expression on Old Madam Li's face and whispered, "Old Madam, it seems this marriage might not happen. Before both families formally proceed, should we not..."

Madam Li coughed heavily and forced a smile, saying, "Yue'e, you're still young. Why are you more superstitious than an old woman like me? What insight does a fortune teller have? He just talks nonsense with his mouth open. If he really had the ability to predict life and death, wouldn't people worship him as a deity? Even if it were true, the eldest son of the Wu family might have a strong destiny, but my granddaughter's destiny is noble. It will surely outweigh his! Besides, your master has already agreed to the proposal. If we back out now just because of a few words, it will only make us a laughingstock!"

Li Yiniang smiled and said, "But Old Madam, even if everything seems agreed upon, we cannot joke about Miss's life..."

"What joking about Nuan'er's life! Are you the only one who feels concerned, and I, as her grandmother, am not?" Old Madam Li suddenly became angry, feeling a slight tightness in her chest. Impatiently, she said, "That fortune teller was just speaking casually. These things are all uncertain. Have you ever thought about it? What kind of family is the Wu family? If Chen Jingrui can inherit the title, Nuan'er won't suffer by marrying there!"

Li Yiniang tried to persuade her with a few words, but deep down, she was also afraid to keep such a formidable Miss in the household. Whether Nuan'er lived or died after marrying out was none of her concern. She hastily agreed with Old Madam Li's words.

Seeing a hint of unconcealable relief on Li Yiniang's face, Old Madam Li knew exactly what she was thinking. She inwardly sneered but maintained a calm demeanor on the surface. "Go to Nuan's Pavilion later and tell Nuan'er that from now on, she shouldn't go out. It's time for her to prepare her dowry."

"Yes." At Nuan's Pavilion, Ouyang Nuan was embroidering on the veranda when Hongyu whispered softly, "Miss, I've just found out that the fortune teller has just left the residence."

Ouyang Nuan nodded and remained silent for a while before speaking softly, "Miss, will Grandmother change her mind because of this?"

Ouyang Nuan touched the peony flowers embroidered on the screen and replied with a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes, "Grandmother is the most superstitious person. She believes everything these wandering fortune tellers say. If she decides to call off this marriage, it would be for the best. Otherwise..." She didn't finish her sentence.

If not, then there might be deeper implications behind this marriage. Old Madam Li would rather risk sacrificing herself completely than call off the marriage. It could only mean that the Ouyang family had reasons beyond a simple marital alliance. What kind of reasons could make Old Madam Li willing to give up her position and connections? This was the question that Ouyang Nuan couldn't figure out.

Just then, a low report came from outside the room: "Miss, Li Yiniang is here."

Li Yiniang usually comes to Shou'an Hall to pay her respects in the morning or evening. If not summoned, she never comes to Tingnuan Pavilion. Ouyang Nuan knew that Li Yiniang had just been in Shou'an Hall, but she arrived right after the fortune teller left. Was this a coincidence or intentional? Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but wonder, but as she was pondering, Li Yiniang had already entered the courtyard.

Li Yiniang was dressed in a peach-colored blouse, with a honey-colored inner lining, and a lotus embroidered gold-thread lily skirt. There was a golden hairpin with pearls in her hair, looking quite charming. Seeing her approach with a graceful bow, Ouyang Nuan smiled and called out to Li Yiniang.

Li Yiniang hurriedly took a few steps forward and stopped in front of Ouyang Nuan, leaning forward slightly. "Oh my, these peonies are really beautiful. What did Miss embroider the butterflies on top for?"

Ouyang Nuan quickly finished her last stitch and stood up with a smile. "It's for a handkerchief."

A warm smile bloomed on Li Yiniang's face. "Miss's embroidery skills are getting better and better."

Ouyang Nuan smiled lightly. "Aunt Li, you're too kind. Back then, my embroidery skills were still guided by Aunt."

Li Yiniang smiled and said, "These days, I've been busy with household matters, and I've neglected my embroidery. I'm afraid I can't catch up with Miss now."

Ouyang Nuan replied, "I understand that you're busy with important matters in the mansion. Is there any advice you have for me today?" Li Yiniang looked deeply at Ouyang Nuan, who was wearing a coral red pleated skirt with a sapphire blue silk ribbon tied around her slender waist. The pearls on her ink-black hair shimmered, and her smile seemed to hold profound meaning. Li Yiniang felt a slight tremor in her heart, sensing that her own thoughts had been seen through by the other party. Unconsciously, she wore a more serious expression on her face.

"Miss, you are indeed a rare intelligent person," Li Yiniang began earnestly. "I might as well speak frankly. The marriage proposal from the Wu Guo Mansion has been agreed upon by the Old Madam. Today, a fortune teller was invited to match the birth charts. However, the fortune teller said that the young master of the Chen family has a strong fate that may harm his wife. If you were to marry into that family, there might be a risk to your life. In the past, the Old Madam would have likely called off this marriage after hearing such news. After all, if anything were to happen to you, even if this marriage alliance were to proceed, it would be of no use. But despite my persuasion, she insists that we cannot let outsiders accuse our mansion of being untrustworthy and refuses to cancel the marriage."

Ouyang Nuan's heart sank immediately, confirming her earlier suspicions. She feared that Madam Li was unwilling as well but was forced into it. There must be some leverage that the Ouyang family held over the Lis! However, Old Madam Li, an elderly lady who rarely left her home and had never offended anyone, couldn't possibly have any leverage in someone else's hands. Unless it was Ouyang Zhi... While she pondered this, Li Yiniang observed her expression carefully and cautiously said, "Miss, the Old Madam specifically asked me to tell you not to go out anymore and to focus on embroidering your dowry at home."

Ouyang Nuan felt a surge of annoyance but kept a composed demeanor on her face. "Thank you for your concern, Yiniang. I understand," she replied calmly.

After seeing off Li Yiniang, Hongyu whispered, "Miss, what should we do?"

With Old Madam Li and Ouyang Zhi's agreement, and with no apparent issues from the Wu Guo Mansion and Chen Jingrui, this marriage seemed beneficial from all angles. Seeking help from the Old Madam now seemed unlikely, as the current situation was highly unfavorable for her. Ouyang Nuan shook her head, a faint, invisible smirk appearing on her lips. "Let's go to Shou'an Hall," she said.

"Miss, I know you're unwilling to proceed with this marriage, but in this situation, you can't afford to be reckless!" Fang Mama, feeling anxious, disregarded the norms of etiquette and spoke out directly.

Ouyang Nuan gently patted her hand and whispered, "Marriages for girls are decided by their parents and matchmakers. I have no say in the matter. I'm not going to argue with Grandmother. Don't worry, Mama." She lowered her eyelids and didn't respond further as they approached Shou'an Hall.

Before Ouyang Nuan could enter the room, she heard voices inside. Yumei whispered softly, "Second Miss is inside."

Ouyang Nuan nodded but didn't rush to enter. At this moment, Old Madam Li was reclining in her chair with her eyes closed, resting. Ouyang Ke stood by her side, looking submissive. She wore no makeup, no jewels on her head, only a green dress that, combined with her fair complexion and helpless eyes, made her appear even more pitiable.

Ouyang Ke timidly asked, "Grandmother, I wonder if the shoes embroidered by Ke'er meet your expectations?"

Old Madam Li opened her eyes and glanced at her with a faint expression, "It seems you've put some effort into it." She didn't have any precious embroidered items in her hands, but she accepted the shoes Ouyang Ke had given her without even looking at them.

Ouyang Ke spoke softly, "Grandmother, I know my sister's embroidery skills are outstanding, and I wouldn't dare to compare mine to hers. I just wanted to show my sincerity to you. I am aware of my shortcomings in virtues, speech, and talent compared to my sister, but I am also a daughter of the Ouyang family. In the future, I will strive to earn face for you, Grandmother. Please don't look down on me."

Old Madam Li was taken aback for a moment, somewhat surprised. She replied, "I always thought you were a foolish girl, but I didn't expect you to speak like this. Well, sincerity is what matters, not anything else. As for your aspirations, I am well aware of them. Don't worry, once your sister's marriage matters are settled, I will also arrange a future for you. You don't have to worry too much. Safety and prosperity are inevitable for our family, regardless of rank."

Facing Old Madam Li's penetrating gaze, Ouyang Ke couldn't help but feel a little flustered. She stuttered, "Grandmother, your granddaughter only wants to filially serve you, and nothing else—"

"No need to say more," Old Madam Li interrupted with a smile that didn't reach her eyes. "Your foolish mother may have offended me, but I won't hold those grudges against you. You are still my granddaughter. Should I confine you to the house for the rest of your life? It would bring shame to our Ouyang family if word got out."

Ouyang Ke's eyes revealed a faint joy, but she said, "Ke'er will rely entirely on Grandmother's mercy."

Although there was a faint smile on Old Madam Li's face, there was a hint of impatience in her eyes. Ouyang Ke trying to play mind games with her was a bit naive; she lacked the skill, unlike Ouyang Nuan. She wasn't even good at hiding her emotions, let alone mastering the art of concealing joy and anger. Ouyang Ke wiped away imaginary tears from the corner of her eyes, feigning deep emotion. However, just then, she heard Yumei report, "Old Madam, Miss Nuan has come to pay her respects."

Coming to pay respects at this time? Old Madam Li's heart skipped a beat, guessing that Ouyang Nuan must be here about the marriage matter. Although displeased inwardly, her tone remained extremely gentle. "Let her in."

Ouyang Nuan approached slowly, first paying her respects to Old Madam Li before turning to Ouyang Ke with a smile. "Little sister is also here."

Ouyang Ke hurriedly smiled and said, "I made a pair of shoes for Grandmother and hurried to deliver them."

Ouyang Nuan nodded, pretending not to understand her sister's hidden intentions. She then turned to Old Madam Li with a smile and said, "Grandmother, a few days ago, Cousin Xin admired the screen I embroidered and asked me to make another one as a birthday gift for the Crown Princess. However, she doesn't want it to be as heavy as this one. She invited me to the Crown Prince's mansion tomorrow for further discussion. I wonder..."

Old Madam Li pondered for a moment before saying, "Originally, I wanted you to stay at home and focus on your embroidery work. However, it's not appropriate to decline the invitation from the Crown Prince's mansion. You may go. But remember, the sooner you leave, the sooner you should return."

Although Old Madam Li had already arranged Ouyang Nuan's marriage and knew that there was no hope of gaining favor with the royal family, she was well aware that the Crown Princess Consort, the current Emperor's eldest grandson's side consort, was Ouyang Nuan's cousin. Moreover, their relationship with the Marquis of Zhenguofu was close. This connection was not something to be severed lightly. Therefore, she didn't excessively oppose it, but she still gave some instructions.

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Ke looked pitifully at Ouyang Nuan. "Sister, are you going to the Crown Prince's mansion?" Ouyang Nuan nodded slightly and replied with a smile, "Didn't you just hear?"

Ouyang Ke's eyes lit up, and she looked expectantly at Old Madam Li, seemingly envious. "Grandmother, I wonder what the Crown Prince's mansion looks like. I really want to see it..."

The implication of her words was clear: she wanted Old Madam Li to agree to let Ouyang Nuan take her along. Old Madam Li thought to herself that in any respectable family, if there were daughters, they would naturally be taken out to broaden their horizons. However, for someone with a physical disability like Ouyang Ke, was it really necessary to embarrass herself by trying to climb the social ladder? Thinking this, she felt a surge of anger rising within her. She forced a smile and said, "It's hot outside, and your health is just recovering. It's better for you to rest at home."

Ouyang Ke was taken aback for a moment, then glanced at the maid beside her and quickly said, "Granddaughter feels stifled staying inside Pear Fragrance Courtyard. She just wants to go out for a walk."

Old Madam Li responded, "Your sister is going to meet the Crown Prince's side consort, not for leisure. What's the meaning of taking you along? Moreover, you're still not in good health. If you fall ill again, won't it worry me? Girls should not casually think about going out. It's more proper to stay at home to cultivate oneself."

Ouyang Ke listened with annoyance, almost wanting to excuse herself immediately, but she dared not. She glanced at the expression on her Mama's face and forced herself to endure it.

Ouyang Nuan sneered inwardly. Originally, Ouyang Ke was used to restrain her, but now that Old Madam Li felt she was about to marry off, Ouyang Ke's value as leverage wasn't as significant anymore.

After breakfast the next day, Ouyang Nuan said goodbye to Old Madam Li, then got into the carriage and went all the way to the prince's palace.

The Ink Lotus Pavilion was a place she was very familiar with, entering it as if it were her own home. Before she even entered, she saw Lin Yuanxin standing at the door, extending her hand toward Ouyang Nuan from afar. For some reason, Ouyang Nuan's eyes warmed up, and the heavy burden in her heart seemed to lighten a bit. She hurriedly took a few steps forward and shook Lin Yuanxin's hand.

Lin Yuanxin frowned slightly, carefully examining Ouyang Nuan before reluctantly forcing a smile. "Thank goodness. I was worried that your family's Old Madam wouldn't allow you to come. Fortunately, she still cares about the Prince's family, so she hasn't restrained you too much."

Ouyang Nuan smiled and replied, "Cousin, I'm fine. Don't worry." As they spoke, the two of them walked shoulder to shoulder into the inner room.

Just as they sat down, Shanju brought in some tea. But within moments, they saw Taotian carrying a small cup in. Lin Yuanxin was puzzled. "What's this? I didn't ask for this."

Taotian bent his knees in a strange manner and said, "This is Baoyuan Soup. The Crown Princess complained of feeling heavy and having no appetite. His Highness ordered the kitchen to specially prepare this soup to nourish her body. The Crown Princess said she couldn't finish it alone, so she distributed some to each room."

Ouyang Nuan watched as Taotian lifted the lid, and although Lin Yuanxin still had a smile on her face, there was a hint of dimness in her eyes. She whispered, "Nuan'er, this Baoyuan Soup is a secret recipe from the palace, originally made with five ingredients: mackerel, lean beef, pork trotters, bamboo shoots, and red dates. It's delicious. Would you like to try it?"

Ouyang Nuan looked at her earnestly and said softly, "Cousin, are you upset?"

Lin Yuanxin was momentarily stunned, then sighed and said, "Nuan'er, the Crown Prince hasn't stepped foot in my chamber for two months."

Ouyang Nuan was greatly surprised. "Why is that?" As soon as the words left her mouth, she understood. "Something happened, didn't it?"

Lin Yuanxin struggled to suppress her sadness and said faintly, "It's nothing. I'm fine." She said, still wearing a smile on her face, but uncontrollably, a tear fell from her eyes, landing in the steaming soup.

Shanjv, seeing her mistress shed tears, could no longer contain her indignation and said, "Miss, you don't know. Our mistress has been plotted against!"

Plotted against? Ouyang Nuan's gaze darkened. "Shanju, what happened?"

Shanju's eyes almost seemed to emit flames. "Half a month ago, our mistress felt unwell and summoned a physician for diagnosis. It turned out to be a happy pulse. Naturally, our mistress was overjoyed and immediately reported it to the Crown Princess and the Crown Prince, who were also delighted. They sent many precious gifts to nourish her, and even the Empress sent imperial physicians to check her pulse. But after diagnosis, the imperial physician declared that our mistress was not pregnant at all! At first, the Crown Princess and the Crown Prince didn't blame her excessively and even consoled her, saying it was a temporary misdiagnosis. But recently, there have been many rumors circulating in the mansion, claiming that our mistress is vying for favor with the Crown Princess. Although the Crown Prince may not believe it, he still has to show indifference to our mistress to appease others!"

Ouyang Nuan was shaken to the core upon hearing this, unable to believe her ears. "Cousin, why did neither Grandmother nor I know about this?"

Lin Yuanxin bit her lip and said, "This matter... the Crown Prince ordered that no one in the prince's mansion should mention it again. Actually, my elder brother had known about it for a long time, but Grandmother is elderly, and such matters cannot be told to her. He even kept it from you..."

Ouyang Nuan stood up abruptly, her eyes almost blazing with fire. "Cousin, someone must have deliberately made you think you were pregnant, only to expose everything and accuse you of feigning pregnancy for favor! The first one to blame is that misdiagnosing physician! He must have taken bribes to frame you!"

Lin Yuanxin couldn't help but sneer. "That physician has been trusted by the prince's mansion for many years and has never been involved in such matters. It's clear that someone put in a lot of effort behind the scenes. Now, not only does the Crown Prince suspect me, but even the Crown Princess consort in the palace will likely harbor disdain towards me. This is truly ruthless!"

At first, Ouyang Nuan also suspected Zhou Zhijun, but upon careful consideration, something seemed off. Ouyang Nuan pondered for a moment and then slowly returned to her embroidery stool. "Cousin, I don't think this is Crown Princess Zhou's doing. Think about it. Leaving aside the palace for now, let's talk about the prince's mansion. Over the years, what kind of schemes hasn't the Crown Princess seen? Feigning pregnancy is something that could easily be exposed. Given your character and status, she wouldn't need to and wouldn't dare to do such a thing that harms others without benefiting herself. I think Zhou Zhijun wouldn't be foolish enough to do something so damaging."

Lin Yuanxin was momentarily stunned by these words. After a moment of contemplation, she nodded slowly. "You're right. If it were her, it would indeed be too risky. There are many women in the mansion, and it's inevitable that there are those who harbor ill intentions behind one's back. I will investigate slowly."

Ouyang Nuan comforted, "At this point, Sister, there's no need to worry excessively. The Crown Prince and Princess Consort are both intelligent people. Right now, they're just adopting a posture to discipline you, not truly believing in this matter. When you investigate the mastermind behind the scenes, you still need to be cautious of Zhou Zhijun. Even if she didn't orchestrate this directly, she must have had a hand in exacerbating the situation..."

Before she could finish, Lin Yuanxin had already regained her composure, showing a hint of determination. "I understand. No matter who's scheming behind the scenes, it won't be easy for them to bring me down! By now, I've firmly established my position in the mansion. Even without the Crown Prince's favor, I'm still the rightful Side Consort, the most favored daughter-in-law of the Crown Prince Consort. That won't change no matter what. Nuan, you don't need to worry about me. As for your matter... Grandmother has already informed me. I know that Chen Jingrui holds a grudge against you. He definitely doesn't have good intentions this time. Rest assured, I will plead with the Crown Prince to intervene for you." Lin Yuanxin paused for a moment, gazing blankly at the lotus pond outside the window before adding softly, "I will never let you marry an unsuitable man!"

Ouyang Nuan was momentarily taken aback, then said, "In this situation, I can think of another way." Given the current circumstances, it wasn't the right time for Lin Yuanxin to plead with the Crown Prince. She would have to come up with another plan. Moreover, she had a faint feeling that this series of events were all connected, as if they had been premeditated.

However, Lin Yuanxin had already risen to her feet. "No, Prince Ming is still in the mansion. Once he leaves, I will go to see the Crown Prince."

"Prince Ming is still in the mansion?" Ouyang Nuan repeated, a sudden thought flashing through her mind. She bowed her head in contemplation for a moment before lifting it abruptly, addressing Lin Yuanxin, "Sister, I have a plan, but I need your help."

Lin Yuanxin looked at Ouyang Nuan with confusion, not understanding her intentions.

Meanwhile, in the garden, the Crown Prince and Prince Ming walked together. Suddenly, they heard the sound of a qin. Though the distance was far and the sound indistinct, its melody was ethereal, evoking a sense of transcendence.

"Who is playing the qin? Such a wonderful ambiance," the Crown Prince exclaimed, momentarily stunned, before turning to ask his attendant. The attendant hurried off and returned after a while to report, "Your Highness, the sound of the qin is coming from Ink Lotus Pavilion."

Prince Ming lifted his head, listening intently for a moment, then remarked softly, "This melody seems somewhat familiar."

At that moment, the mood of the music shifted, becoming sorrowful and poignant, infused with an indescribable sense of lingering affection and melancholy.

Exchanging a glance, the two men walked towards the direction of Ink Lotus Pavilion. As they approached, they heard a woman's gentle singing:

"Hanging the bright moon to illuminate myself,

Renting the clear night for the bridal chamber.

Plucking the elegant qin to change the tune,

Playing the sorrowful thoughts that cannot last...

Weeping bitterly and shedding tears,

Tears flowing and hearts drifting..."

The guqin emitted a faint mournful cry at this moment, as if reflecting the sorrow in its owner's heart, while the woman's singing, though not particularly melodious, was filled with genuine emotion, deeply moving those who heard it.

"Suddenly sleeping and dreaming,

Dreaming as if you were by my side.

The night is long, like the passing years,

Filled with melancholy that cannot be forgotten.

I, the humble one, lament in secret,

Through the passing years, never daring to forget."

Every word and note sung was filled with parting sorrow and lament, yet devoid of any resentment, brimming instead with tender affection.

Xiao Yan's heart skipped a beat, his face revealing a pensive expression. As he turned around the artificial mountain, he saw two women sitting in the pavilion by the Ink Lotus Pond, with Lin Yuanxin singing and Ouyang Nuan playing the qin. Xiao Yan's gaze lingered on Ouyang Nuan for a moment before swiftly shifting to Lin Yuanxin.

Despite her pale complexion and slender figure, she exuded a captivating charm that stirred his heart. She was gazing quietly at the Crown Prince, carrying a hint of anticipation in her eyes. Xiao Yan stood transfixed for a while, completely ignoring Ouyang Nuan. He walked briskly towards Lin Yuanxin and asked, "Yuan'er, how are you feeling?"

Lin Yuanxin gracefully bowed, her breath as sweet as orchids. "Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. Yuan'er is doing well."

Xiao Yan helped her up and said, "No need for such formalities." Then he turned to Ouyang Nuan and asked, "Miss Ouyang, are you here today too? Why are you both in such good spirits singing in the pavilion?"

Lin Yuanxin smiled faintly and replied, "We're just passing the time, Your Highness. We didn't expect to disturb you. By the way, today Nuan'er brought some screen samples. Would you like to take a look?"

Xiao Yan glanced at the demure Ouyang Nuan and nodded, "Sure, let's go have a look then." Lin Yuanxin nodded slightly, her eyes sparkling like autumn water. Xiao Yan couldn't help but reach out and hold her hand. "Let's go."

As they entered the main hall of the Ink Lotus Pavilion, Xiao Zhonghua remained outside the pavilion, watching Ouyang Nuan who was still standing there. There was a faint smile of indifference in his eyes as he said, "Miss Ouyang, it's been a while."

Ouyang Nuan nodded slightly at him and began to descend the steps. Suddenly, her foot slipped, and Xiao Zhonghua swiftly and gently supported her, saying with a smile, "Seems like this is the second time."

Although she had intentionally led them here, she hadn't intended to actually fall. Ouyang Nuan was startled for a moment. She tried to free herself from Xiao Zhonghua's grip using some internal force, but couldn't break free. "Prince, what do you mean by this?" she asked.

Xiao Zhonghua's voice was calm, but there was a hint of amusement in it. "Wasn't it Miss Ouyang who led me here?" he replied.

"I merely wanted to play matchmaker for my cousin and the Crown Prince. I think you may have misunderstood my intentions," Ouyang Nuan responded calmly.

As Xiao Zhonghua looked into her eyes, he felt captivated by their gem-like brilliance, black and bright like a lake with glimmers of flowing light. There was an indescribable charm about her that drew people to gaze into her eyes involuntarily.

With their eyes meeting, neither of them spoke. Under his increasingly focused gaze, Ouyang Nuan turned her face away slightly.

Xiao Zhonghua felt a subtle tingling sensation in his heart, as if it were being gently caressed by silk threads, leaving a lingering feeling that defied description. Calming his mind slightly, he asked, "What do you want?"

"I don't want to marry Chen Jingrui," Ouyang Nuan said slowly and deliberately, without any concealment.

Xiao Zhonghua was taken aback. The mention of Chen Jingrui's name made him furrow his brow slightly. "The eldest son of the Duke of Wu Guo's residence?" he said, incredulous. He looked at her and chuckled, "He actually came to propose to you?"

Ouyang Nuan raised her head abruptly, meeting Xiao Zhonghua's distant and indifferent gaze. Instantly, a smile appeared on her face as she said, "On that day, Prince, you were the one who understood everything best. You must know that his actions were far from sincere."

Xiao Zhonghua raised his brows slightly, a hint of chilliness flashing in his expression. However, it was so brief that it was almost imperceptible. "Has your family agreed?" he asked.

Ouyang Nuan nodded.

A trace of coldness flickered between Xiao Zhonghua's brows, but it vanished quickly, too quick for anyone to notice. "It seems your father has something in the other party's hands," he remarked.

Ouyang Nuan's long eyelashes quivered slightly, and there was a faint chill between her brows. "Indeed," she confirmed. Xiao Zhonghua looked at her intently and said in a cold tone, "This matter is quite troublesome."

Ouyang Nuan bowed deeply to him. "Prince, please help me."

Apologies for the mistake. Here's the corrected version:

For a long time, there was no response from Xiao Zhonghua, and even though Ouyang Nuan remained calm, her heart couldn't help but beat rapidly with anxiety. She understood that while Xiao Zhonghua was part of the royal family, it was normal for him not to want to get involved in the chaos. If that was indeed the case, then she would have to take drastic measures.

•••

[1] The wind ruffles the surface of the spring water, creating ripples that dance gracefully across its tranquil expanse: "吹皱一池春水" (chuī zhòu yī chí chūnshuǐ) is a Chinese idiom. It describes a serene scene where the wind gently blows over the surface of a pond in spring, causing small ripples to form. This idiom is often used metaphorically to depict a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. *lit. blow away a pool of spring water and wrinkle it*

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